JUNE 23 – A Heart That Listens, A Life That Serves
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 18:15-16; Psalm 72; Exodus 30
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“An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.” — Proverbs 18:15
“Give the king your justice, O God, and your righteousness to the royal son! May he judge your people with righteousness, and your poor with justice.” — Psalm 72:1-2
“You shall consecrate the altar with it, and make it most holy. Whatever touches the altar shall become holy.” — Exodus 30:29
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In Proverbs 18:15, we see that true wisdom begins with a heart that seeks knowledge and ears that are eager to learn. It’s not just about knowing facts but being open to God’s wisdom and listening to others. In a world that often values quick answers, it’s important to remember that true understanding takes time and intention. As you grow, you’ll realize that listening carefully can often be more important than speaking quickly.
Psalm 72 is a prayer for the king, asking God to bless him with justice and righteousness. It’s a powerful reminder that leaders, whether they are in the public eye or close to home, are called to serve with wisdom and fairness. Just like the king, we are called to lead with justice in the small, everyday decisions we make. God’s call to righteousness and justice is for everyone, not just the powerful.
In Exodus 30, we read about the consecration of the altar. The altar, a place of sacrifice and worship, was to be set apart as holy. Everything that touched it would become holy too. This is a picture of how God’s holiness transforms the things it touches, and it reminds us that, as we draw near to Him, He makes us holy as well.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Seek Knowledge: Are you actively seeking to grow in wisdom and understanding, especially in your walk with God? How can you cultivate a heart that listens and learns?
2. Serve with Justice: Whether in school, sports, or friendships, you have opportunities to serve others. How can you show justice and fairness in your actions today?
3. God’s Transforming Power: Just like the altar in Exodus was consecrated, God wants to make your life holy. How can you invite God’s transforming power into your everyday choices?
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BOTTOM LINE
True wisdom comes from a heart that listens and seeks knowledge, and God calls us to serve with justice and holiness, just as He makes us holy through His presence.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me a heart that can seek wisdom and knowledge. Help me to listen well and serve others with justice and fairness. May Your holiness transform me and make me more like You every day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.