For years I have challenged others to use the following method for their devotional life:

1) read the chapter of Proverbs that corresponds to the date (there are 31 chapters in Proverbs)
2) read the chapter of the book of James that corresponds to the work week (5 chapters in James)

This is like a daily infusion of wisdom for your daily walk. Try it for three months and see how applicable those scriptures are to your current situations. Something will leap off the page every day. Today is the 30th and a Monday. Check out the following from Proverbs 30:

1The words of Agur son of Jakeh. The oracle.

The man declares, I am weary, O God;
I am weary, O God, and worn out.
2Surely I am too stupid to be a man.
I have not the understanding of a man.
3I have not learned wisdom,
nor have I knowledge of the Holy One.
4Who has ascended to heaven and come down?
Who has gathered the wind in his fists?
Who has wrapped up the waters in a garment?
Who has established all the ends of the earth?
What is his name, and what is his son’s name?
Surely you know!

5 Every word of God proves true;
he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.
6 Do not add to his words,
lest he rebuke you and you be found a liar. - ESV

The writers of Proverbs were Solomon and others who were professional wise guys - no, not like Tony Soprano. Seriously, these men were known for their wise assessment of problem-solving, the human condition, systems, and politics. So check out what the author is saying:

“I am tired and worn out”
Ever get there? Are you there right now? You work and work and work and work. You feel like a hamster on the wheel. “Am I really going anywhere?” “Am I accomplishing anything?” “Does what I do really matter?” Solomon said,

“2 Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher,
vanity of vanities! All is vanity.
3 What does man gain by all the toil
at which he toils under the sun?”

Students study. Athletes train. Moms take care of kids and the home. Men work hours on end. Soldiers guard. Children play. Philosophers think. Writers write. Yet through it all there is an a-ha moment: “I am a stupid man.” “I do not know the Holy One.”

What is he saying? Here is my take. Life, wisdom, toil and career do not make sense until they are aligned under the Kingship of Jesus. Note how he contrasts his wisdom and understanding to God’s power:

“4Who has ascended to heaven and come down?
Who has gathered the wind in his fists?
Who has wrapped up the waters in a garment?
Who has established all the ends of the earth?”

These are statements of concession. The wisest men and women yield to the wisdom and will of God. Wise people understand that they continue to falter, but Jesus never does. The author says, “Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you and you be found a liar.” This shows us at least two things: 1) Trust the Word of God (bible) as well as the Holy Spirit who teaches you. 2) Be careful in the way you treat the Word of God - submit to it and allow it to judge you, rather that you judging it

Another Proverb says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) So here is the deal. Let the students study, athletes train, moms take care of kids and the home, men work hours on end, soldiers guard, children play, philosophers think, and writers write. BUT, let all you find meaning in your work through submitting to the wisdom and lordship of Jesus Christ. He wants you to do all for the glory of God (1 Co 10:31). He wants you to do everything as His ambassador (Col 3:17). He wants you to present your body, thoughts, and work to Him as a sacrifice and as worship (Rom 12:1). Through doing this you are conformed to Christ and His design rather than the world and its anti-design (Rom 12:2).

Know that God is God and you are not. Know that your wisdom is ant-like compared to God’s. Know that you are called to work hard and bring the blessings of God to your city (Jer 29:7). Press into Christ, submit your wisdom and work to Him, and He will bring true purpose and meaning to your 40+ hours each week. Lean on His wisdom instead of yours.

p.s. The following section in verse four - “What is his name—and his son’s name?” - is a good one to remember when speaking to a Jewish friend. In it, the author is proclaiming that God has a Son who existed with God Himself. This is a great foundation for proclaiming the deity of Christ and His eternal nature.

__________________________
David Thew
Sojourn Pastor
Thewblog