Daily Devotional
               Betty Miller shares her daily devotionals which are based on the book of Proverbs in the Bible.   

  The Wisdom of God

Verses for the Day:

Proverbs 14:6-9(KJV): 
6 A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.
7 Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge.
8 The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit.
9 Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour.

Proverbs 14:6-9(AMP):
6 A scoffer seeks Wisdom in vain (for his very attitude blinds and deafens him to it), but knowledge is easy to him who (being teachable) understands.
7 Go from the presence of a foolish and self-confident man, for you will not find knowledge in his lips.
8 The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way, but the folly of (self-confident) fools is to deceive.
9 Fools make a mock at sin, and sin mocks the fools (who are its victims) -- a sin offering made by them only mocks them (bringing them disappointment and disfavor); but among the upright there is the favor of God.

Thoughts for the Day:

Throughout the book of Proverbs we are encouraged to seek the wisdom of God. Verse 6 tells us that those who are teachable will have an understanding of God's ways, while those that scorn the things of God cannot find the answers to their questions. God wants to give us understanding; however, to receive it, we must come to Him with an humble attitude and not a haughty one. The Bible tells us that we must approach God with a "child-like" attitude if we desire to know the secrets of the kingdom of God. Those who are defiant toward God cannot know Him or His ways.  We must have a humble heart if we are to draw close to God.

Luke 18:17: "Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein."

James 4:8: "Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded."

Verse 7 of Proverbs 14 admonishes us to depart from the foolish and self-confident man, as they have no answers and it is the wrong place to seek knowledge. The things that the foolish and rebellious man utters will not contain the truth. It is important to seek godly counsel when we have problems, as the only way we can overcome is to know and apply what the Bible says about our problems. Applying the Word of God to our adverse circumstances is what is needed if we are to have the victory. Verse 8 says the prudent man will understand the way he is to pursue, while the self-confident fool will deceive others, as well as himself.

Verse 9 goes on to say that the fool will mock at sin; however, ultimately sin will mock the fool.  He will not be able to find eternal life, nor can a fool find the permanent answers to his problems.  He may find temporary relief; however, the only answer to life's problems is found in the acceptance of Jesus Christ as one's Saviour. Men, in this life, will reap what they sow and the only escape from eternal damnation is found in Christ. When we repent of our sins and turn from our wicked ways, our faith in Jesus Christ will deliver us from the destruction that we deserve.

Those who follow Christ will find God's favor. What is God's favor?   It is something that money cannot buy. God's favor is when we find His peace in our storms. It is daily provision for everything we face in this life. It is finding His strength when we are weary; His healing when we are sick; His protection when we are threatened; His love when we are lonely and all of His promises when we need them. We are most blessed as the children of God to have access to His favor.

Prayer for the Day:

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your favor in my life.  I do not ever want to take it for granted.  You have provided abundantly and I am thankful for all of my blessings.  Lord, I desire to keep a "child-like" attitude so that I can learn more about You and Your kingdom.   Thank You for love and strength for each new day.  I know that You will make a way for me to walk in victory this day.  I do appreciate Your goodness and grace toward me and those that I am praying for.  Bless my friends, family and all of my loved ones.  I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.