JANUARY 31 - Whispers and Warnings
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 9:13–18; Psalm 13; Matthew 28
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“The woman Folly is loud; she is seductive and knows nothing… But he does not know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of Sheol.” — Proverbs 9:13, 18
“How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” — Psalm 13:1
“And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations… And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’” — Matthew 28:18–20
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Sometimes life feels like a tug-of-war between two voices. One is loud and tempting, promising excitement and freedom — but it never mentions the cost. The other speaks hope in whispers, sometimes hard to hear when you're overwhelmed, confused, or doubting God's presence. In Proverbs 9, “Folly” is portrayed as loud and flashy but leading straight to destruction.
Psalm 13 shows us David crying out, feeling forgotten by God — a feeling you might know too well. And yet, in Matthew 28, Jesus reminds us that He is always with us and has all authority — meaning nothing is out of His control. Even when the world’s noise drowns out God’s voice, He’s still speaking. And His way leads to life.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. What voices are you listening to? Are there influences in your life — media, people, thoughts — that are loud but empty?
2. God can handle your questions: David poured out his raw emotions in Psalm 13. You don’t have to pretend with God. Bring your doubts, your frustration, and your confusion to Him — He wants your honesty.
3. Jesus sends and stays: The Great Commission in Matthew 28 isn’t just about mission — it’s about presence. When you follow Jesus, He doesn’t send you out alone. He promises to be with you always.
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BOTTOM LINE
Even when life is noisy, confusing, or feels like God is distant, Jesus is still near — guiding you with truth and giving you strength to choose the path that leads to life.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, sometimes it’s hard to tell what’s right when everything around me is loud and distracting. Help me recognize the voice of wisdom and follow Your lead. Thank You that I can come to You with all my thoughts — even the messy ones — and that You never leave me, even when I can’t feel You. Give me courage to live out Your truth and trust Your presence every step of the way. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.