July 20 - Proverbs Chapter 20

Here we are in Chapter 20 !  Thanks for hanging in there! 

I hate to hit you with the tough stuff first, but here is a top verse in Proverbs 20:

Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise. - Proverbs 20:1

I can say no more.  You decide what to do with this, but, as the daughter of an alcoholic, I ask you to please pray about your relationship with alcohol. 

As a parent, what behavior are you patterning?  Remember the saying:  "A leader always leads by example....whether he wants to or not."

 It is to one’s honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.  - Proverbs 20:3

Here's another blow to my anger and impatience.  Sorry, Lord.  I will try to breath and not act so quickly.

A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much. -- Proverbs 20:19

These gossip and mouth verses in Proverbs really hit home.  I want to live with Proverbs as my gatekeeper.  If my words don't line up with Proverbs' guidelines....it's better I be silent! 


An inheritance claimed too soon will not be blessed at the end.  -- Proverbs 20:21

I focus on this verse for all you parents who think you need to give their children everything.   Slow down.  Give according to the maturity of the child.  Wait to give until they have suffered a bit , actually learned to struggle on their own.  You will see your child grow wiser with money management only when you don't bail them out of every tight financial situation.

A person’s steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand their own way? --Proverbs 20:24

Here is a fun one to share with your child.  Trace around their feet and cut out LOTS of footprints.  You can print "Follow Jesus" on the footprints and make a path to follow.  Think of a clever destination -- like the kitchen -- where you will make cupcakes for a friend in need. 

Explain that you are following Jesus when you care about others.  It might be easier to play or watch TV, but today, we will follow Jesus and do something nice for others!

The human spirit is[a] the lamp of the LORD that sheds light on one’s inmost being.
-Proverbs 20:27

Proverbs has talked in the past about avoiding crushing the spirit.  Deep inside of everyone is the beautiful recess touched by the finger of God.  When we give our lives to Jesus, He fills this void with the Holy Spirit, our "gift".

We often pile many many "things" on top of the Holy Spirit.  As Jesus noted, it's hard to shine a lamp which is hidden under a bushel basket of whining, busy-ness, and worry (my paraphrase!). 

I love Proverbs 20:27.  It reminds me to let the Lord's lamp shine.  Keep on shining HIS light!