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Our wisdom for today is taken from Proverbs 6:6-8.

“Go to the ant, you sluggard; observe its ways and become wise. Without a commander, without an overseer or ruler, it prepares its provisions in summer; it gathers its food at harvest.”

Winston Churchill must have known this verse when he said, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”

In life, we often admire tales of extraordinary courage and achievement, like David facing Goliath. Yet, behind such feats lies a profound lesson in self-motivation. David, a shepherd boy, took on a giant not because someone told him to, but because he saw a challenge that demanded courage and faith in God. Similarly, the ant in Proverbs diligently prepares for the future without external prodding, teaching us the power of initiative and foresight.

Self-motivation, as exemplified by David and the ant, is the fuel that propels us beyond mere existence to meaningful accomplishment. It’s about seeing beyond the present, taking responsibility for our goals, and persisting despite obstacles. Like the ant storing food for winter, our actions today shape our future.

I’m Lonnie Davis
And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Our wisdom for today is taken from Proverbs 18: verse 2.

“A fool does not delight in understanding, but only in airing his opinions.”

This text reminds me of Plato’s remark, “Wise men speak because they have something to say; fools because they have to say something.”

In the Book of Job, we see a powerful example of this. When Job faced unimaginable suffering, his friends arrived not to comfort him but to straighten him out with their words. They were convinced that Job’s plight must be a direct result of his own sins. Without true understanding of God’s ways or Job’s innocence, they offered lengthy, misguided advice. They were completely wrong, but never in doubt.

Their folly is revealed when God Himself rebukes them in Job 42, stating, “You have not spoken of me what is right.” Job’s friends were more concerned with expressing their own opinions than seeking truth.

We should try to listen and understand rather than rushing to voice our opinions. True wisdom seeks understanding and compassion rather than just being heard. We must reflect on how we can be better listeners and more compassionate friends, taking a step back to seek true understanding before speaking.

I’m Lonnie Davis
And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Our wisdom for today is from Proverbs 3:9.

“Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” 

The principle of this proverb is illustrated in the story of the widow’s offering. (Mark 12:41-44). Jesus observes a poor widow placing two small coins into the temple treasury. Despite her poverty, she gives all she has, showing her devotion to God over her own financial security.

This act of sacrificial giving highlights the importance of putting God first in our finances. The widow’s offering, though small in monetary value, was immense in spiritual significance. It demonstrated her unwavering trust in God’s provision and her commitment to honor Him above all else. By giving from her poverty, she exemplified the true essence of generosity and faith.

This proverb challenges us to reflect on our own financial priorities. Do we give out of abundance or from a place of true sacrifice? The widow’s example encourages us to place God at the forefront of our financial decisions, trusting that He will provide for our needs as we honor Him with our wealth. 

God is not requiring that we be destitute because of our giving. He is teaching that we must have a heart that shares the good things that he gives to us. God never praises a stingy heart.

Remember, “Giving to God is a recognition that He is the source of all we have.” (Rick Warren).

I’m Lonnie Davis

And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Our wisdom for today is from Proverbs 3:9.

“Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” 

The principle of this proverb is illustrated in the story of the widow’s offering. (Mark 12:41-44). Jesus observes a poor widow placing two small coins into the temple treasury. Despite her poverty, she gives all she has, showing her devotion to God over her own financial security.

This act of sacrificial giving highlights the importance of putting God first in our finances. The widow’s offering, though small in monetary value, was immense in spiritual significance. It demonstrated her unwavering trust in God’s provision and her commitment to honor Him above all else. By giving from her poverty, she exemplified the true essence of generosity and faith.

This proverb challenges us to reflect on our own financial priorities. Do we give out of abundance or from a place of true sacrifice? The widow’s example encourages us to place God at the forefront of our financial decisions, trusting that He will provide for our needs as we honor Him with our wealth. 

Remember, “Giving to God is a recognition that He is the source of all we have.” (Rick Warren).

I’m Lonnie Davis

And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Our wisdom for today is taken from Proverbs 18:6.

“The lips of fools bring them strife, and their mouths invite a beating.

Here are words which say the same thing but in a different way – “A fool’s words stir up trouble and invite a fight.”

Words are powerful tools, capable of building up or tearing down, healing or even hurting. Just as we exercise caution when handling fire, we must be equally mindful of our speech. Reckless words can ignite conflicts and lead to serious trouble, much like a spark in dry grass.

The Bible provides numerous examples of the consequences of careless speech. One striking instance is found in Numbers 14. The Israelites’ constant grumbling and complaining against Moses and God in the wilderness led to severe repercussions. Their lack of faith and negative words, resulted in an entire generation perishing in the desert.

This example serves as a reminder of the impact our words can have, not only on ourselves but on those around us. It shows the importance of cultivating a tongue that speaks words of faith, encouragement, and wisdom, rather than doubt, criticism, and foolishness.

Let me leave you with this great thought from Carl Sandburg, “Be careful with your words, Once they are said, they can be only forgiven, not forgotten.”

I’m Lonnie Davis
And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Our wisdom for today is taken from Proverbs 17:5.

“He who mocks the poor insults their Maker; whoever gloats over calamity will not go unpunished.”

From this text, notice especially the phrase, “whoever rejoices in calamity will not go unpunished.” It seems so human to rejoice when your enemy suffers. Why does God forbid this? This injunction speaks to the importance of compassion and empathy with others. Rejoicing in someone else’s misfortune reflects a hardened heart, one that finds pleasure in the suffering of others. This attitude not only damages our relationships with those around us but also distances us from God. 

When we find joy in others’ hardships, we are essentially ignoring the call to love and support one another. The Bible repeatedly urges us to bear each other’s burdens (Galatians 6:2) and to show kindness and mercy. Rejoicing in other’s pain is a direct contradiction to these teachings. It leads to a spiritual and moral downfall. This verse warns that such behavior will not go unpunished. 

Instead of finding satisfaction in others’ struggles, we should strive to be sources of encouragement and comfort, reflecting God’s love in our actions. 

I’m Lonnie Davis
And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Our wisdom for today is from Proverbs 17:13.

“If anyone returns evil for good, evil will never leave his house.”

One of the most ignorant things anyone ever says is, “It’s my life. I’m not hurting anyone but myself.” Look at today’s reading again. It does not say that your offense will affect only you. It says it affects your entire house.

Of course, there are personal consequences. The person who returns evil for good begins to develop a hardened heart, becoming more prone to bitterness and anger. This negative mindset affects an outlook on life, leading to the perpetuation of harmful behaviors.

There are also family consequences. The immediate family of the person committing these negative actions is directly impacted. Children, spouses, and other household members are exposed to an atmosphere of negativity and conflict. This environment can lead to emotional stress, anxiety, and a lack of peace within the home.

Children and younger family members often emulate the behaviors they observe. When they see a family member responding to kindness with malice, they may begin to adopt similar behaviors.

One writer put it best when he said, “Each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children.”

I’m Lonnie Davis
And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Our wisdom today comes from Proverbs 4:26.

“Make a level path for your feet, and all your ways will be sure.”

Everybody expects wisdom from a wise man who lives in a holy place. However, wisdom often comes from children and others. Some of my favorite pieces of wisdom came from my wife. I gained some wisdom that I still quote to others.

One of my favorite ones was, “Sometimes we make things harder than God intended for them to be.” I recall this now because it says something about today’s proverb. It calls on us to “make a level path” for our feet. Well, duh! Any of us would do that.

You might think so, but it is not always so.

We know we need to put back a little money for a rainy day, but then we spend all we earn.
We know we need to eat healthy foods, but then we fry everything.
We know we need to be kind to others, but then we snap at other folks.
We know…

Well, you can finish your own lists.

Make and walk the level path. It is the most beneficial.
Above all, don’t make things harder than God ever intended for them to be.

I’m Lonnie Davis
And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Today’s wisdom comes from Proverbs 16:28.

“A perverse man spreads dissension, and a gossip divides close friends.”

The verse highlights two destructive behaviors: spreading dissension and dividing close friends. A perverse person, driven by ill intentions, enjoys creating chaos and conflict. He thrives on seeing others at odds. On the other hand, a gossip subtly erodes the bonds of friendship and community. Gossip works like a poison, infiltrating relationships that once stood strong.

The passage ties the two men together: a perverse man and a gossip. Gossip is more than idle chatter; it’s harmful talk about others that can cause significant damage. It’s the act of sharing unnecessary or private information with people who don’t need to know it. When we gossip, we sow seeds of discord and division among people.

Here is a great test about whether you are gossiping. If you are telling private, hurtful information to another, then ask if the other person really needs to know it, or whether you just feel the need to tell it. If the other person is not a part of the problem or a part of the solution, then it is just gossip.

In closing, remember, “He who gossips to you, will gossip about you.”

I’m Lonnie Davis
And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Our wisdom for today comes from Proverbs 15:28.

“The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked blurts out evil.” 

This verse highlights the importance of taking time to consider our words before we speak. Thoughtful speech is not just about avoiding harm; it’s about adding value to our conversations and relationships.

When we pause to think about our responses, we create space for wisdom and kindness to guide our words. This thoughtful approach helps us communicate more effectively, ensuring that our words are aligned with our values and intentions. Impulsive speech often leads to misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and regrettable outcomes.

In a time when blurting out is the norm, the discipline of thoughtful speech becomes even more crucial. It requires patience and self-control, virtues that lead to a righteous life. Thoughtful communication reflects our inner character. It shows that we respect others enough to think before we speak and that we strive to reflect God’s love and wisdom in our interactions.

Here is one more reason to be careful with our words, as “Carl Sandburg said, “Be careful with your words. Once they are said, they can only be forgiven, not forgotten.”

I’m Lonnie Davis

And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Our wisdom for today comes from Proverbs 15:27.

“He who is greedy for unjust gain brings trouble on his household, but he who hates bribes will live.”

This passage does not say that a good income or a rich income is wrong. It warns of greed and “unjust gain.” There is nothing wrong with making the most of the talents God gives you. The harm begins when you try to build beyond the ability God gave you, when you reach for unjust gain.

The Bible is filled with examples of greed gone to ruin. Read the stories of Achan, Gehazi, or Judas Iscariot and his 30 pieces of silver.

No greedy man ever starts by believing that greed will harm the entire family, yet our proverb today says that very thing. As one wise writer said, “The legacy of a greedy man is a family left in the shadow of his sins.”

In our own time there is the example of Bernie Madoff. Bernie stole tens of billions from those who lost everything. His whole family also lost everything. He was sentenced to 150 years in prison. He had a phone available, but no one ever called him, not even a family member. He and his family suffered from the consequences of greed and unjust gain.

Indeed, “He who is greedy for unjust gain brings trouble on his household.”

I’m Lonnie Davis

And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Today’s wisdom is from Proverbs 16:25.

“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.”

Let me read that again, “THERE IS a way that seems right to a man, BUT its end is the way of death.” 

Sometimes that person who is so stubborn and frustrating to you, is not being stubborn. He thinks he is right. That is true about me too. One wise writer said, “Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”

What seems right to us may not align with God’s wisdom. This principle is vividly illustrated in the Bible when Peter rebukes Jesus. In Matthew 16, Jesus explained that He must be killed, but on the third day, He will be raised to life. Peter took Jesus aside and rebuked Him, saying, “Never, Lord! This shall never happen to you!” Peter’s reaction seemed right to him, driven by his love for Jesus and his desire to protect Him from harm.

However, Jesus responded sternly, “Get behind me, Satan!” Peter’s way SEEMED right, BUT it was not God’s plan.

This example reminds us of the importance of seeking God’s wisdom in our decisions. Our human perspective is often limited and flawed. 

What seems right to us might be wrong. 

Sometimes the HARD thing and the RIGHT thing, are the SAME thing. 

I’m Lonnie Davis

And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Today’s wisdom is from Proverbs 16:18:

“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”

In our lifetime we often witness the truth of this ancient wisdom. One striking example is the collapse of the Titanic. The ship was deemed unsinkable, a marvel of modern engineering and human ingenuity. This belief in its invincibility, however, became its greatest weakness. On that fateful night in 1912, the Titanic struck an iceberg and, despite all the assurances of its creators, sank into the icy depths of the Atlantic Ocean. Over 1,500 lives were lost, a tragic reminder of the consequences of arrogance.

Proverbs 16:18 warns us that arrogance leads to significant negative consequences. The Titanic’s story illustrates how overconfidence can blind us to potential dangers and make us vulnerable to unforeseen disasters. When we believe we are invincible, we may neglect necessary precautions and ignore warnings. This verse encourages us to cultivate humility, to recognize our limitations, and to be mindful of the risks that pride can bring.

The importance of this verse can be seen in the words of a writer who said, 

“Pride must DIE IN you, or nothing of heaven can LIVE IN you.”

I’m Lonnie Davis

And these thoughts are worth thinking.

Today’s wisdom is from Proverbs 17:24.

“Wisdom is the focus of the discerning, but the eyes of a fool wander to the ends of the earth.”

“The Perils of Wandering Eyes”

In the long list of Bible stories, few characters embody the wandering eyes of a fool like Samson. His story serves as a cautionary backdrop for today’s reflection.

Samson, anointed with super-human strength, was set apart for a divine purpose. Yet, his eyes, much like those of a fool in Proverbs 17:24, roamed aimlessly, lured by desire rather than guided by wisdom. His dalliances with Delilah, driven by lust rather than discernment, ultimately led to his capture and blindness. In a literal and figurative sense, his vision had led him to the ends of the earth, far from the wisdom he was meant to uphold.

This narrative warns us of the perils that await when our focus strays from wisdom. Like Samson, we may possess great potential, but without the anchoring force of discernment, we risk squandering our gifts and veering off our intended path. The wandering eyes of a fool lead to a life scattered and fragmented, devoid of the clarity that wisdom provides.

As we consider the tale of Samson, let us fix our eyes upon wisdom, allowing it to guide our choices and our journey. Only in the pursuit of wisdom, we find the direction and purpose that folly so carelessly discards.

I’m Lonnie Davis

And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Our wisdom for today is from Proverbs 17: verse 22.

“A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.”

Just this past week I saw my little granddaughter take medicine. Her mother brought it to her and she opened her mouth and took her medicine. I was amazed because I remembered how my generation took medicine – basically kicking and screaming. We took it because we had too, but we hated it and fought it. I’ll bet many of you remember the same things.
Why the change? The answer reminds me of today’s verse. Mary Poppin sang, “A spoon full of sugar makes the medicine go down.” Those who make medicine have come to understand this.
You may not be a doctor or nurse, but you do have times when you have to deliver medicine to family or friends. Sometimes, this comes in the form of truths that may not be enjoyed.
The Apostle Paul did this in his letters. He wrote to correct people’s sins, but he almost always started off with a spoon full of sugar. He started with words of appreciation for their good things and then proceeded to the correction that needed to be made.
We would do well to remember that when we have to deliver medicine, rebukes or corrections, it is always good to start with the merry heart, a spoon full of sugar.
Our goal to is help and if all we do is hurt then the medicine will never be taken.

I’m Lonnie Davis
And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Our wisdom for today comes from Proverbs 17:17.

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”

The most overused word in the English language may be the word “friend.” How many friends do you have? Some make a long list of all their friends. Those who do confuse the word “friend” with the word “acquaintance.” Today’s verse tells us the test of a real friend. The test? A friend loves at all times.

During the good times, it’s easy to have “friends” around. But the true test of friendship comes during tough times. A real friend is someone who loves you no matter what, through thick and thin. They are there to celebrate your successes and to help you in your failures.

Perhaps this is best seen in the story of the Prodigal Son. He takes all of his inheritance and goes to a far country. With money comes friends to help him spend. But when he “wasted all his money,” and was poor, he tried to find someone to give him something to eat, but as Jesus said, no one would give him “anything.” The friends who will celebrate with you, but run from you when you need help, were never really friends, they were merely acquaintances.

Everyone needs a friend, but to find out who they are, ask yourself whether they are with you when life is against you. As Proverbs says, “A friend loves at all times.”

I’m Lonnie Davis
And these are words worth thinking.

Today’s wisdom is from Proverbs 17:2.

“A servant who deals wisely will rule over a son who acts shamefully and will share in the inheritance among brothers.”

Have you ever looked at someone’s fancy job title or wealth and just assumed they had it all figured out? Well, this proverb is a wake-up call – success isn’t about where you started, it’s about how you move through life.

It says that even a lowly servant can end up being more respected and blessed than a rich person’s reckless child. How? By making smart choices and doing the right thing. 

You see, just being born into money or privilege doesn’t make you honorable. True honor comes from your character and actions. A wise servant who works hard and lives with integrity deserves way more props than some heir who just blows through their family fortune acting foolish.

This proverb reminds us not to judge people solely based on their background or social status. We’ve all known that one person who was born with every advantage who still managed to mess it all up through bad decisions. 

At the end of the day, influence and leaving a positive legacy isn’t about your starting point in life. It’s about choosing wisdom over stupidity every single day. Make good choices, stay humble, and do the right thing – and you can go farther than anyone thought possible.

I’m Lonnie Davis

And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Our wisdom for today comes from Proverbs 17:4.

“A wicked man listens to evil lips; a liar gives ear to a destructive tongue.”

Have you ever noticed how some people seem to attract drama and conflict wherever they go?

The root issue is that they often listen to and believe gossip, rumors, and lies rather than seeking the good in others. They gravitate towards other bad influences who whisper falsehoods and stir up trouble.

It’s a vicious cycle – the more you buy into negativity and deceit, the more it clouds your judgment and draws you further into toxicity. Pretty soon, you find yourself surrounded by untrustworthy people saying untrustworthy things. Your ability to discern fact from fiction becomes impaired.

The antidote is to consciously fill your mind with what is good, true, and positive. Be skeptical of idle chatter and juicy rumors. Align yourself with those who build others up rather than tear them down. Anchor your life in honesty and integrity.
As Philippians 4:8 says, “if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things.”

When you turn a deaf ear to lies and those who peddle them, you starve that negative cycle and reclaim your peace of mind. Seek kindness in others that you can trust, and then you’ll be able to navigate life with wisdom.

I’m Lonnie Davis
And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Our wisdom for today is from Proverbs 17:3. 

“A crucible for silver and a furnace for gold, but the LORD is the tester of hearts.” 

A crucible is a melting pot is used to melt silver, and a furnace is used to purify gold. These processes use intense heat to remove impurities, leaving behind pure metal. In the same way, God uses life’s challenges to refine our hearts. Just as silver and gold are made pure through heat, our true character is revealed and improved through difficult times.

We all face moments that test our patience, honesty, and faith. These tests can feel very hard, like being in a furnace. But these tough times are actually chances for us to grow. They help strip away our flaws and make our faith stronger. God, who tests our hearts, looks beyond what we show on the outside and focuses on who we really are inside.

Think about the challenges you are facing today. Are they helping you grow? Are they making your character stronger? Embrace these moments as opportunities from God to become better and more faithful. God uses life’s tests to make you stronger and purer, just like refining silver and gold.

I’m Lonnie Davis

And these are thoughts worth thinking.

Our wisdom for today comes from Proverbs 16: verse 24.
“The path of life leads upward for the wise, that he may avoid going down to Sheol.”

We all want a life that goes upward. This verse tells us the secret to the upward path. The secret is found in living a life of wisdom. At some time in each of our lives, we have a moment of our path going in a downward trajectory. The reason for it is that we lacked wisdom in the moment.

However, those who lead lives with everything constantly falling apart are quick to find an excuse. Usually, the excuse is that they are unlucky. Yes, Luck is a part of life. Solomon said, “The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong; neither is the bread to the wise, nor the wealth to the intelligent, nor the favor to the skillful. For time and chance happen to all.” (Ecclesiastes 9:11). However, if the path of your life is always downward, the reason is not luck. The real reason is because we have acted unwisely.

Our verse today calls on us to lead a life of wisdom. Reading and reflecting on the Book of Proverbs will help you gain that wisdom.

I’m Lonnie Davis
And these are thoughts worth thinking.