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#AdaWisdomChallenge

READ Proverbs 12 (listen). WRITE out one verse and SHARE with someone.

Proverbs 12 is part of the proverbs of Solomon (Proverbs 10-22). These proverbs are typically two contrasting lines, giving instruction on how to live out wisdom in all of life. Proverbs 12 includes themes geared toward public opinion and the healing power of words.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred. Proverbs 15:17

Read: Proverbs 15:17

Listen: Proverbs 15

TODAY’S MESSAGE

Feasts with a fattened calf involved a massive, colorful spread of all the best foods. This wasn’t for just any occasion, but for the extra special event.

In Jesus’ parable of the Prodigal Son, the father kills the fattened calf and throws a massive celebratory feast to show his love for the wayward son who had returned home. The older brother refuses to go inside, feeling his brother unworthy of such an opulent celebration. The father loved his sons and wanted to draw them both close. Yet hatred filled the older son’s heart, pushing his brother away (see Luke 15:11-31).

Solomon shares the truth that what’s for dinner isn’t so much about the food we serve, but the attitudes we dish up. Love lets people know they’re valued and desired. Hatred tells people they’re in the way, not wanted and should just go away. We show God’s love by welcoming people into our circle of conversation, responding with patience to children who interrupt our work, acknowledging text messages and welcoming a person’s ideas and suggestions.

It matters how we respond to someone who rubs us the wrong way, inconveniences us or just plain annoys us. Today’s The Wisdom Challenge reading reminds us that “The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing” (Proverbs 12:18). We bring God’s love and healing as we respond to people well.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Who needs to know that you love them? Ask God to reveal if your actions have been showing love or hatred. Ask God to help you share His love with that person this week.

Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.