JULY 17 - Walk the Walk
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 20:6–7; Luke 17
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Many a man proclaims his own steadfast love, but a faithful man who can find? The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him! — Proverbs 20:6–7
And Jesus said to his disciples, “Temptations to sin are sure to come, but woe to the one through whom they come! … Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him.” — Luke 17:1, 3
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Everyone wants to be seen as loyal, kind, and trustworthy—especially in the eyes of friends, family, and even God. But Proverbs 20:6–7 points out something important: while lots of people say they’re loyal, it’s rare to find someone who truly lives that way. Real faith shows up in our actions, not just our words.
Then in Luke 17, Jesus gets real with His disciples: life is going to bring challenges, including the temptation to mess up—and people will. That’s why He teaches us to keep an eye on our own hearts and also to practice forgiveness when others fall short. It’s not always easy, but it’s the kind of faith that makes a difference in the world and in us.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Integrity is rare: What does it mean to “walk in integrity”? How would your actions change if you thought about your example influencing others—like younger siblings, friends, or even classmates?
2. Real faith forgives: Jesus tells us to forgive those who repent—even if they mess up more than once (see the rest of Luke 17). Is there someone you’re struggling to forgive? What would it look like to offer them grace like Jesus does?
3. Watch yourself: Jesus says, “Pay attention to yourselves!” That means we have to stay alert, not just to others’ faults, but our own. What temptations or habits do you need to guard against right now?
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BOTTOM LINE
Living out your faith means walking with integrity, forgiving like Jesus, and keeping your heart in check. Words are easy—real faith shows up in how you live.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, Thank You for showing me what real faith looks like through Jesus. Help me to walk in integrity, even when no one’s watching. Give me a heart that forgives like You do, and eyes to see where I need to grow. Teach me to live in a way that reflects You to the people around me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
