Proverbs 17:1-19:29

What God said to me – Just as silver and gold are put through the fire to purify and to test them, so I will test your heart.  My testing is never to hurt you, but to purify you . . . to allow the dross to come to the surface so it can be removed.  Don’t ever think in your pride that you have made it, for at that point, you will surely fall.  Don’t stop seeking Me and listening to My instructions or you will stray from the path I intended and one day you will look up in shame at how far away you’ve gone.  Heed My warning and stay close.  Don’t be discouraged by the dross that is surfacing.  It just means that you are in the process of being purified.  Remove it and move on with Me for My path leads to life and godliness.  Listen to My words and accept My instruction and in the end you will be wise.

Proverbs 13:1-16:33

What God said to me – The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways.  Think about your life . . . about where you are going . . . about what kind of person you want to be.  Do you want to honor Me with your life?  Then you must give thoughts to your steps.  You must turn to Me and let Me guide you.  You must determine to purposefully follow Me.  You must purposefully let go of those things which keep you from being wholly devoted to Me.  Whether it’s thoughts or activities or entertainment or job or friends . . . whatever it is – you must be willing to let go of anything that impedes your walk with Me and embrace those things which please Me.  The prayer of the upright pleases Me, and I love those who pursue righteousness.  Come after Me with your whole heart.  Be wholly devoted to Me.

Proverbs 10:1-12:28

What God said to me – Words are so important – they can bring life or death, encouragement or hurt.  Be careful what you say.  Just because you know something doesn’t mean you have to say it.  Be slow to speak.  You must learn to turn to Me before you speak just as much as before you act.  Learn to hold your tongue until you have turned to Me for guidance.  A flippant, careless word, even in teasing, can do much damage.  Choose words that are encouraging and uplifting, even in joking.  Don’t be quick to join in complaining or gossiping for it’s easy to do.  Stop and think – what good thing can I say?  What words can you say that will turn the focus to Me or what is right and good?  You have the power to influence those you come in contact with just by your words.  Choose your words wisely and glorify Me in your speech.