Day 1 | Proverbs, Better Than Fortune Cookies
Proverbs 1:1-2, “1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: 2 for attaining wisdom and discipline for understanding words of insight…”
It amazes me how silly people can be sometimes especially when it comes to superstition. Sadly but true, some people religiously read their daily horoscope hoping for guidance, others go to fortune tellers to receive insight into their love life, and still others actually take the sayings of their fortune cookie serious (as if God was going to speak to them through a random cookie).
Once I was out with another pastor at a Chinese restaurant and when the fortune cookies came he said, “Everybody read your fortunes but put at the end, ‘in the bathroom.’” One person read out loud, “You will have great success today… in the bathroom!” We all laughed hysterically and I thought to myself these things actually serve a purpose now- to make us laugh!
The book of Proverbs was written by King Solomon (the son of King David) for the purpose of giving (1) wisdom and (2) discipline to the people of Israel. The Bible records that Solomon was the wisest and richest man that Israel ever had because God blessed him greatly, 1 Kings 3:12-13. Though some of the proverbs found in the book are written by others, he is the major author.
The word proverb means, “a simple saying that is popularly known and repeated, which expresses a truth, based on common sense or the practical experience of humanity.” God gave Solomon great wisdom to rule Israel and make it a successful nation. Likewise, if we can learn from this wise king the wisdom God gave him we can be successful in all we do.
One does not change their life simply by reading a cookie, but if you read these proverbs (wise sayings) from God and apply the discipline that they give- your life will change. Of course, as in all things God is the source of your strength, but you must be willing to apply what you learn.
Start today and ask God to fill you with His wisdom as you read the book of Proverbs- they’re better than fortune cookies!
Reflection
Action
- Repent of any superstition you might have in your life, i.e., horoscopes, etc…
- Commit to God in prayer to follow whatever instruction He gives you.
- Get ready to grow in wisdom!