SCRIPTURE: Proverbs 15:1-17

OBSERVATION/APPLICATION

1. A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. [1] This is just common sense. But its not easy. I have sat through times when I was being ‘attacked’ (my perception), and I wanted to respond with my own harsh word. The truth is, all we do is add fuel to the fire. When people lash out at us in anger, our lack of anger will actually throw them off balance, and hopefully get them to rethink their own attitude. Jesus models this “gentle answer” approach, and although it got Him killed, it was also a part of what vindicated Him in the end.
2. The LORD detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the prayer of the upright pleases him. [8] God is not interested in religious performance or practices. God knows and welcomes the open, honest, humble heart. He sees and knows everything, also the heart. This is what He longs for, an open, honest, humble relationship with Him. This is what pleases Him. Is this what we are seeking?
3. Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great wealth with turmoil. [16] Jesus asked what the use of gaining the world and losing the soul. A poor person with a rich relationship wit the Lord is better off than a rich person with a poor relationship with the Lord. Although it is not impossible for a rich person to have a rich relationship with the Lord, it is VERY HARD (in fact, this is where Jesus said the thing about the camel through the eye of a needle). So am I rich or poor, from God’s point of view?

PRAYER:
Lord, You look at the heart. And You are working to change my heart. I admit it, I am a slow learner. But please do not give up on me. Help me to be rich in my relationship with You!