JANUARY 23 - Watch What You’re Building
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 6:16–19; Matthew 20
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“There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood…” — Proverbs 6:16–17
“...whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve...” — Matthew 20:26–28
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Ever played Jenga? You build a tower, piece by piece, carefully balancing each block. But one wrong move and it all comes crashing down. Life’s kind of like that. Every action, every word, every attitude is a block you add to your character.
In Proverbs 6, we’re warned about behaviors that tear down rather than build up—things God hates because they destroy community and trust. In Matthew 20, Jesus flips our idea of greatness: the best leaders aren’t those who get the spotlight, but those who humbly serve. That’s a tower worth building.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Check Your Blocks: What kind of “blocks” are you building with—pride, lies, anger… or kindness, truth, and humility? Proverbs 6 lists behaviors that God sees as harmful. Which ones do you notice in your own life or friend group?
2. Flip the Script: In Matthew 20, Jesus redefines greatness. Do you chase recognition or look for ways to serve quietly? How could you lead like Jesus in your school, home, or team?
3. Heart Check: Why do you think God cares so deeply about things like lying or stirring up conflict? How do those actions impact others—and you?
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BOTTOM LINE
God isn’t just looking at what you do—He’s looking at who you’re becoming. Build a life that honors Him by choosing humility, truth, and love.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, help me to recognize the attitudes and actions that tear others down and replace them with things that reflect Your heart. Teach me to serve like Jesus and build my life with integrity and love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
