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Our wisdom for today is taken from Proverbs 19:2.
“Even zeal is no good without knowledge, and he who hurries his footsteps misses the mark.”

Passion is a powerful force, capable of driving great change and inspiring others. However, as Proverbs 19 reminds us, enthusiasm or zeal without knowledge can lead us astray. This truth is powerfully illustrated in the story of Moses and the Egyptian. Witnessing injustice, Moses acted on his passionate impulse to defend the oppressed. Yet his zeal, unchecked by wisdom, resulted in a hasty action with painful consequences.

Like a car without a skilled driver, our passions need the guidance of knowledge to reach their full potential. Moses’ experience teaches us that even well-intentioned actions, when not tempered by understanding, can lead to terrible outcomes. To truly make a lasting impact, we must harness our enthusiasm with the compass of wisdom, allowing our zeal to be directed by knowledge and discernment.

Imagine how different our lives could be if we paused to seek understanding before acting on our impulses. By allowing wisdom to guide our passions, we can ensure that our efforts lead to positive and lasting change.

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

Our wisdom for today is taken from Proverbs 15:10.

“Discipline is harsh for him who leaves the path; he who hates correction will die.”

Here is a quick paraphrase of this verse: “Do the wrong thing, face the tough consequences; despise correction, face disaster.”

Discipline often feels uncomfortable, maybe even painful, but it’s essential to see it as a wise friend. Think of discipline as a guide that sometimes uses stern measures to steer us back to a better path. It’s not about punishment; it’s about protection and guidance. Embracing discipline means accepting that sometimes we need correction to grow and stay on the right track.

John Wooden, a 12-time national champion coach, wisely said, “Discipline yourself, and others won’t need to.” This highlights the value of self-discipline, which prevents the need for external correction. By embracing discipline, we open ourselves to growth and wisdom and may avoid the severe consequences of ignoring guidance. Remember, discipline is not an enemy but a friend helping us navigate life’s journey.

My own favorite quote about pain and discipline is, “No pain is wasted, as long as we learn the lesson from the pain.”

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

Our wisdom for today is taken from Proverbs 11:10

“When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices; when the wicked perish, there is jubilation.”

I think this verse is related to the famous statement, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

This proverb reveals a profound truth about human nature and social dynamics. It tells us that the character of individuals significantly impacts the emotional climate of their community. The righteous, through their integrity and positive influence, bring joy and prosperity that uplifts the entire city. Their presence is a source of celebration and comfort.

On the other hand, the wicked, with their negative influence, create an atmosphere of tension and unease. Their departure brings relief and jubilation to the community. This verse reminds us that our conduct and character have far-reaching effects beyond our immediate circle.

It challenges us to consider: Are we the kind of people whose presence brings joy and prosperity to our communities? Or do we contribute to the collective sigh of relief when we’re gone?

Another writer put it this way: All men bring joy, some when they arrive and some when they leave. By striving for righteousness, we will bring joy when we arrive.

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

Our wisdom today comes from Proverbs 10:7.

“The memory of the righteous is a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot.”

We all leave a legacy! A legacy is not about money or things. It is the enduring impact and memories you leave behind that continue to influence others long after you are gone.

All men and women leave a legacy, either for good or for bad. Most of us have walked through cemeteries and read, “Gone but not forgotten.” Very few will be remembered for 100 years, but for three or four generations, our legacy will still be shaping someone. If our legacy is good, then it will be a blessing. If it is wicked, then it will still be leading some to rotten actions.

In Numbers 14:18, the Bible talks about the iniquity of the fathers coming to bear upon the third and fourth generations. This doesn’t mean that God will grab our children and punish them. It means that the memory of the good or the evil you have done will still be influencing children for generations.

500 years before Jesus came to earth, Pericles wrote, “What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.”

Your legacy is the echo of your life!

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

Our wisdom for today is taken from Proverbs 18: verse 1.

“He who isolates himself pursues selfish desires; he rebels against all sound judgment.”

This proverb emphasizes the value of being part of a community. Just like a tree needs sunlight, water, and soil to thrive, we need the presence of others to grow and flourish. Don’t let selfish desires cut you off from the nurturing environment of shared wisdom and support.

Consider the story of Jonah. His selfish desire to avoid preaching to Nineveh resulted in a series of disastrous events. Jonah’s rebellion against sound judgment led to a storm that endangered everyone on the ship, and he ended up in the belly of a great fish. It is only when Jonah acknowledged his need for God’s guidance and the importance of his mission to others that he found redemption and success. Jonah’s isolation and selfish motives led to unnecessary suffering.

An old African Proverb wisely states, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” In your life, you need to go far, so go with someone. Don’t isolate!

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

Today’s wisdom is from Proverbs 16:23.

“The heart of the wise man instructs his mouth and adds persuasiveness to his lips.”

Wisdom begins in the heart and influences our speech. This profound truth is illustrated in many ways throughout history, but one of the most powerful examples is Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. You remember how it started: “Four score and seven years ago…”

Although Lincoln’s words were delivered during a time of great turmoil, they were not just crafted for eloquence but were born from a heart deeply moved by the values of freedom and equality.
When we speak from a heart filled with wisdom, our words carry a weight and authenticity that can persuade and uplift others.

We should consider how wisdom can influence our speech. We should reflect on the values and truths that reside in our hearts and let them guide our words. By doing so, we not only communicate more effectively but also touch the lives of those who hear us.

Here are some wise words about our words:
“Watch your thoughts, they become your words;
Watch your words, they become your actions;
Watch your actions, they become your habits;
Watch your habits, they become your character;
Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.”

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

Our wisdom today is from Proverbs 10:3.

“The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry, but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.”

This verse is a core tenet of biblical wisdom: God actively cares for those who follow His ways.

This proverb promises not luxury but sufficiency for the righteous. It reassures them that God will provide for their basic needs, fostering trust in divine provision. This encouragement to righteousness is balanced with a warning to the wicked. God will frustrate their cravings—often excessive or immoral desires.

This proverb doesn’t guarantee immediate reward or punishment but rather speaks to God’s overarching care. It challenges readers to consider the long-term consequences of their choices. By contrasting divine provision with divine opposition, it urges reflection on one’s life path.
Ultimately, this verse invites us to trust in God’s care and to pursue righteousness, knowing that such a path leads to divine support.

I love the quote by Spurgeon, “He who feeds the birds will certainly feed His children.”

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

Our wisdom for today is taken from Proverbs 18:9.

“Whoever is slack in his work is a brother to him who destroys.”

Here is the same thing said differently – “The lazier a man is, the more he plans to do tomorrow.”

Laziness is a silent destroyer, gradually eroding our potential and opportunities. Proverbs 18:9 draws a parallel between the lazy person and the actively destructive individual. The outcomes of both are equally ruinous. This proverb serves as a wake-up call to those who might underestimate the consequences of habitual procrastination and lack of diligence.

The imagery of the sluggard’s field in Proverbs 24 powerfully illustrates this principle. It shows a field overgrown with thorns, covered with nettles, and its stone wall in ruins. This neglected land stands as a testament to the owner’s laziness.

In our own lives, laziness might manifest as unfinished projects, neglected relationships, or unrealized potential. Each time we choose inaction over diligence, we allow thorns and nettles to creep into our lives. The consequences of such neglect are compounded over time.

Laziness is not a neutral state – it actively works against us. By recognizing the true cost of laziness, we can be motivated to cultivate habits of diligence and responsibility, ensuring that our fields remain productive and our walls stand strong.

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

Our wisdom for today is taken from Proverbs 6:9 -11.

“How long will you lie there, O sluggard? When will you arise from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and want like an armed man.”

Benjamin Franklin echoed this sentiment when he wrote, “Watch the little things; a small leak will sink a great ship.”

In these verses, we are reminded of the powerful impact of seemingly insignificant actions. The writer of Proverbs warns us about the consequences of small, lazy habits. A little sleep and a little slumber, while appearing harmless, can lead to a cascade of negative outcomes. Much like a minor leak can eventually sink a ship, small acts of negligence can lead to significant downfalls.

To put this in perspective, On January 28, 1986, the Challenger disaster resulted in the loss of seven people and a $3.2 billion spacecraft. On liftoff the O-rings became brittle, allowing a catastrophic explosion. The O-rings cost would have only been a few dollars to fix.

Just as the failure of a small O-ring led to a massive disaster, so too can small acts of negligence in our daily lives lead to significant downfalls. By staying vigilant and diligent, we can prevent the “robber” of poverty and want from overtaking us. It’s a call to embrace discipline and diligence in all aspects of our lives, recognizing that little things indeed mean a lot.

I’m Lonnie Davis 

And these are thoughts worth thinking.

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.