MAY 13 - True Wisdom, Genuine Faith, and Steadfast Service

3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 15:33; Psalm 53; 1 Corinthians 16

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“The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor.” —Proverbs 15:33

“The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God.’ They are corrupt, doing abominable iniquity; there is none who does good.” —Psalm 53:1

“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.” —1 Corinthians 16:13-14

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Have you ever met someone who seems to have everything figured out, but they just can’t seem to make wise choices? Or someone who rejects God and insists on going their own way? Proverbs 15:33 reminds us that true wisdom comes from the fear of the Lord—a deep respect and reverence for God. This wisdom leads us to humility and honor, but without that foundation, we’re left wandering aimlessly, just like the person described in Psalm 53.

Psalm 53 warns us about the foolishness of denying God’s existence. The world may say there is no God, but for those who know Him, we recognize that denying Him leads to emptiness and moral failure. The psalmist points out that those who turn away from God fall into sin and corruption. It’s a reminder that without God, we have no true guide for our lives.

Then, in 1 Corinthians 16, Paul gives instructions to the church to be steadfast in faith, to be strong, and to act with love in all things. It’s a call to stand firm, to not be swayed by the distractions or pressures of the world. This ties in perfectly with the wisdom we gain from Proverbs: when we fear the Lord, we build our lives on a solid foundation that helps us remain strong, act honorably, and be courageous in following God’s ways.

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THINK ABOUT IT

1. The Foundation of Wisdom: Proverbs tells us that wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord. What does it look like in your life to "fear the Lord"? How can you make God the foundation of your decisions, actions, and relationships?

2. Foolishness of Denying God: Psalm 53 warns about the foolishness of those who say there is no God. How does this challenge you in a world that often denies God’s existence? How can you stand firm in your faith and point others toward God’s truth?

3. Steadfast Faith in Action: In 1 Corinthians 16, Paul encourages believers to be strong and act with love. How can you apply this to your life as a teen? Are there areas where you need to stand firm in your faith, even when it’s difficult or unpopular? How can you show God’s love in the way you act and speak?

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BOTTOM LINE

True wisdom starts with honoring God and trusting Him, giving us the strength, courage, and love to boldly live out our faith.

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PRAYER

Heavenly Father, Thank You for the wisdom You offer through Your Word. Help me to grow in my fear and respect for You, so that I can make wise choices in my life. Strengthen my faith and help me stand firm in You, even when the world around me tries to pull me away. May all that I do be done in love, and may my life reflect Your honor and truth. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.