Ecclesiastes 1-4

 Editor's Note:  Wearied, often pessimistic observations and life lessons shared from an anonymous author who has "been there, done that" - generally believed to be King Solomon, looking back on his journey.

Ecclesiates 1

Life is a vapor, and wears you out

You cannot affect real change, whatever you do, whatever you learn, however you apply it

Ecclesiates 2

The author has explored hedonism and empire building, the pursuit of knowledge and legacy - and found it all empty and frustrating.  Yet he learned that we can enjoy what we do, and this is a good way to live.

Ecclesiates 3

"For everything there is a season"  The LORD has purpose in what he does, and he will evaluate people on what they do, too.  Life is a gift, and we should enjoy the journey.

Ecclesiates 4

The author observed oppression, envy, ambition, and found it all disheartening.  Living in community brings value and meaning, and listening with an intent to obey the LORD is the best way to approach him.

Proverbs 30-31

Editor's Note:  Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings.  There's a lot to consider and apply here...what jumps out at you in these chapters?

Proverbs 30

Life lessons "gathered" by the son of the obedient one.  This son - King Solomon - still doesn't know enough to be one of the set-apart ones of the Most High.

Proverbs 31

Good advice given to the ruler "who belongs to God" by his mother - advice on how to lead and advocate.

He then passes along a description of the eshet chayil / woman of valor / capable wife...possibly a description handed down about his great-great-grandmother.

Proverbs 27-29

Editor's Note:  Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings.  There's a lot to consider and apply here...what jumps out at you in these chapters?

Proverbs 27

There is wisdom in a life spent taking care of what we've been given, and in being loving towards others

Proverbs 28

LIving according to the LORD's instructions is the way to wise living and success. 

Proverbs 29

Humility and Service are the way of wisdom

Proverbs 24-26

Editor's Note:  Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings.  There's a lot to consider and apply here...what jumps out at you in these chapters?

Proverbs 24

If you want to build a life that stands the test of time (and the LORD), do it God's way.  Following His instructions and working hard will bring lasting results.

Proverbs 25

Living wisely before rulers and neighbors

Proverbs 28

On dealing with fools and lazy people

Proverbs 22-23

Editor's Note:  Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings.  There's a lot to consider and apply here...what jumps out at you in these chapters?

Proverbs 22

There is a cause-and-effect reality to this world, and life turns out better when you do things according to the instructions of the Most High, who is the creator and the Sovereign of all things.

Proverbs 23

The way of wisdom is to consider what happens "down the road" and to choose well before moving forward.

Proverbs 19-21

Editor's Note:  Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings.  There's a lot to consider and apply here...what jumps out at you in these chapters?

Proverbs 19

Knowing the difference between good (righteous) and bad character and behavior will matter a great deal, rich or poor, young or old. 

Proverbs 20

The faithful life is rather different than the foolish one, and will produce far different outcomes.

Proverbs 21

The LORD is sovereign over the lives of men, but we still ave the choice to live wisely or foolishly

Proverbs 16-18

Editor's Note:  Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings.  There's a lot to consider and apply here...what jumps out at you in these chapters?

Proverbs 16

The LORD works with and through people.  The wise person will live according to God's ways. 

Proverbs 17

Wise people observe and listen - and act in ways that show love to the LORD and their fellow men.

Proverbs 18

Our words can get us into trouble, and keep us out of it, too.