Dwell | ProverbsShembull

Wrapped in Truth

Introduction

Hi, this is Viv, and welcome to Dwell.

For the next few minutes, I invite you to join me as we recenter upon the Lord by opening our hearts to hear from him through the words of Scripture.

Thanks for joining us.

Silence

As we begin, let's sit in silence for a moment, seeking to be attentive to the presence of God, the one in whom we live and move and have our being.

Passage

Proverbs 3:1-8.

My son, do not forget my teaching,

But have your heart comply with my commandments;

For length of days and years of life

And peace they will add to you.

Do not let kindness and truth leave you;

Bind them around your neck,

Write them on the tablet of your heart.

So you will find favor and a good reputation

In the sight of God and man.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart

And do not lean on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him,

And He will make your paths straight.

Do not be wise in your own eyes;

Fear the Lord and turn away from evil.

It will be healing to your body

And refreshment to your bones.(NASB)

Exhortation

Whenever someone tells you, “Don’t forget!” You know what that means? It means that you’re likely to forget! So when the scriptures remind you of something and ask you not to forget, be sure to take note!

In fact, the Jews take remembering the wisdom and beauty of scriptures so seriously that they put verses in boxes wrapped around their arm and foreheads to literally tie themselves to scripture. Maybe you want to write a favorite verse on a card and slip it in your pocket to bring your mind and heart back to a truth throughout the day, or maybe you wear a special piece of jewelry that symbolizes your faith in Christ.

No matter how you use reminders to bring your heart back to the Word of God, let’s always remember that God makes our paths straight, not our own spiritual efforts. We say yes to keeping the Lord before us, but He does the heavy lifting work of straightening out our paths.

Let’s stay open to finding as many creative ways as possible to place reminders in our lives of the goodness of God, the greatness of His love, and the depth of His grace. Let’s keep practicing and learning to trust God with all our hearts; little by little, we will notice our path taking the shape of Jesus, who is the Way! Oh, what joy it is to walk with Christ, learn His ways, and watch Him grow in our lives. Yes!

Active Response

In response, let's return to the truth from today's passage one more time and spend a moment in quiet reflection.

God encourages us to wrap ourselves in His Word and be healed by His company. Let’s trust the healing power of His truth.

Closing Prayer

Jesus, I want everything you promise: long days filled with peace — kindness, and truth as my companions. Help me to remember that only You can straighten my paths; You call me into remembering You throughout my days, reverencing Your greatness, welcoming Your presence, embracing Your truth. I want you; I choose you. My life is found in you. Yes!

Outro

Now, go in peace, and let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.