Proverbs 11:16-31
Reflect
One of the challenges of reading the Bible is that we do so through the lens of our culture and context. It’s not that God’s Word doesn’t speak directly to us today – it does! – but we can place our expectations on a passage that was written with an entirely different worldview. Take for instance our passage today. The righteous person “reaps a sure reward,” “attains life,” and “will prosper.” In our culture, a prosperity gospel message would interpret this as the righteous person has material riches, excellent health, and significantly large bank accounts. However, placing Proverbs in light of the Old Testament, the righteous person is one who is obedient to God and so receives blessing in the form of needs being met, generous mercy, and justice where there is oppression. The righteous live and contribute to a vibrant community where they love their neighbours as themselves. Considering our passage today, read and reflect on the experience of the early church in Acts 4:32-35.
In what ways is God inviting you into righteous living? Perhaps it’s honesty in your taxes or in the number of hours you work. Perhaps it’s learning to give generously of your resources. Or, how might you have a role in helping an individual receive justice and care? Whatever the Holy Spirit brings to mind, will you commit to following through?
Pastor Melissa
Pray
- Pray through the prayer section in our program.
- Pray for our Congregational Life Pastor, Mike Bartusek and his family.
- Pray for Dave Schneider, our Youth and Worship Pastor and Erin Gibbard, Youth Ministry Associate.
- Pray for our Hospitality Coordinator, Irene Dickau.