The Proverbs Challenge - Day 20

Hi Woman of God

Happy Friday! I’m so glad to see the weekend. Today was one of my favourite chapters so far - it was packed with so much wisdom on a variety of topics. Let's dive straight in.

SCRIPTURE

Proverbs Chapter 20, with a focus on verses 1, 3, 4, 17, and 22.

OBSERVATION

Proverbs 20 continues to offer guiding principles and keys across many areas of life, touching on topics like discipline, relationships, and spiritual discernment. Here are my main takeaways from selected verses:

1. Verse 1 – The Danger of Intoxication
   “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.”
   This verse warns us about the dangers of overindulgence in alcohol. It shows how alcohol can lead to reckless behavior and foolish decisions. This serves as a call to exercise self-control and avoid anything that clouds our judgment or leads us into sin.

2. Verse 3 – Avoiding Quarrels
   “It is honorable for a man to stop striving, since any fool can start a quarrel.”
   This verse highlights the wisdom in walking away from unnecessary conflict. It reminded me of a recent experience while booking a salon appointment. When I called to confirm, the hairdresser had accidentally double-booked me and initially denied it. Instead of arguing, I decided to end the call and look for another hairdresser. Moments later, she called back and found a slot for me. Clearly, she was overwhelmed with holiday bookings, and avoiding an argument helped both of us resolve the issue peacefully. This verse shows how restraint and choosing not to escalate a situation reflect honour and wisdom.

3. Verse 4 – Diligence and Laziness
   “The lazy man will not plow because of winter; he will beg during harvest and have nothing.”
   This verse speaks to the consequences of laziness. It reminded me of the concept of “choosing your hard.” Being diligent and working even in unfavourable conditions is hard, but not enjoying the fruits of your labour later is even harder. Laziness leads to lack, while diligence brings rewards. God, help us to embrace the discipline needed to persevere through tough seasons.

4. Verse 17 – Deceptive Gains
   “Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man, but afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel.”
   This verse reminds us that while dishonest gains may feel rewarding initially, it ultimately leads to regret and destruction. Temporary satisfaction is not worth the long-term consequences of deceit. Choosing integrity is always the better path.

5. Verse 22 – Trusting in God’s Justice
   “Do not say, ‘I will recompense evil’; wait for the Lord, and He will save you.”
   This verse calls us to resist the urge to seek revenge and instead trust in God’s justice. When wronged, it is natural to want to retaliate, but we are reminded to leave vengeance in God’s hands. Patience and faith in His timing bring peace and deliverance.

APPLICATION

• Verse 1: I will exercise self-control and avoid substances, like alcohol, that cloud my judgment or lead me into situations that dishonour God.

• Verse 3: I will strive to be a peacemaker, walking away from unnecessary arguments and choosing to honour God with my restraint.

• Verse 4: I will be diligent, working hard even when circumstances are difficult, knowing that perseverance brings rewards.

• Verse 17: I will choose honesty and integrity over temporary gains, knowing that deceit only leads to regret and destruction.

• Verse 22: I will trust in God’s justice and resist the temptation to take revenge, waiting on Him to deliver and save me.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, thank You for the wisdom in Your word. Help me to exercise self-control, avoid quarrels, and work diligently in all that I do. Teach me to walk in honesty and integrity, choosing righteousness over deceitful gain. When I am wronged, Lord, give me the patience to trust in Your justice and to leave vengeance in Your hands. May my life reflect Your wisdom and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See you tomorrow for Day 21 sister ✨

With my love

Tochi
creatortochi.com
IG @creatortochi