JANUARY 14 - Wise or Foolish?
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 3:35; Psalm 7; Matthew 11
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The wise will inherit honor, but fools get disgrace. — Proverbs 3:35
Oh, let the evil of the wicked come to an end, and may you establish the righteous— you who test the minds and hearts, O righteous God! — Psalm 7:9
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. — Matthew 11:28
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Have you ever made a choice you instantly regretted—like snapping at a friend, cheating on a quiz, or ignoring someone who needed help? We've all been there. The Bible doesn’t hide from those moments. In fact, Proverbs 3:35 makes a bold statement: wise people receive honor, while foolish choices lead to disgrace.
But here’s the good news—God sees our hearts, like in Psalm 7, and offers us grace and rest, like in Matthew 11:28. Even when we mess up, God doesn’t give up on us. He invites us to come to Him, learn from Him, and grow wiser day by day.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. What does it mean to be wise? Wisdom isn’t just about getting good grades or saying the right things. It’s about knowing God’s truth and applying it in everyday situations—especially when it’s hard.
2. Check your heart: God tests the minds and hearts (Psalm 7:9). That means He sees beyond your words and actions to your real intentions. Are you trying to do what’s right, or are you just going through the motions?
3. You don’t have to carry it all: Jesus says, “Come to me… and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28). Whether you’re stressed from school, friendships, or just trying to live right, Jesus offers peace when you lean on Him.
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BOTTOM LINE
Wisdom starts with trusting God, not being perfect. When you mess up, turn to Him. He gives honor to those who seek Him and rest to those who are worn out from trying to do it all on their own.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for offering wisdom, rest, and grace when I need it most. Help me to make choices that honor You, even when it’s not easy. Search my heart, guide my steps, and teach me to lean on You instead of trying to do life alone. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
