SEPTEMBER 4 – Wise Choices at the Table3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 23:1–3; 2 Samuel 4-5//3-Year Bible Devotional Book (Year Two) Available on Amazon//________________________________________“When you sit down to eat with a ruler, observe carefully what is before you, and put a knife to your throat if you are given to appetite. Do not desire his delicacies, for they are deceptive food.” — Proverbs 23:1–3 (ESV)“Then all the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, ‘Behold, we are your bone and flesh. In times past, when Saul was king over us, you were the one who led out and brought in Israel. And the Lord said to you, “You shall shepherd my people Israel, and you shall be prince over Israel.”’ So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, and David made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord.” — 2 Samuel 5:1–3 (ESV)________________________________________Life is full of moments where choices matter—even small ones. Proverbs 23 warns about being tempted by what looks good on the surface—like food, friends, or fun—but can lead to trouble if we indulge without thought. It’s about self-control and recognizing when something might be more harmful than it seems. In 2 Samuel 4–5, David demonstrates patience, wisdom, and integrity as he navigates leadership and relationships. Even when opportunities for shortcuts or revenge presented themselves, David waited on God’s timing and chose what was right.Teen life has its own “tables”—situations that test your patience, your values, or your self-control. Maybe it’s a tempting conversation, peer pressure, or choices about how you spend your time. God calls you to look beyond immediate pleasure and consider the long-term consequences. Just like David, choosing wisely, being patient, and following God’s guidance can set you on a path of purpose and blessing.________________________________________THINK ABOUT IT1. Resist Temptation: Are there areas in your life where something that seems fun or harmless could actually be harmful (Proverbs 23:1–3)? How can you practice self-control in those moments?2. Wait on God’s Timing: How does David’s patience and integrity (2 Samuel 4–5) encourage you to make decisions without rushing or taking shortcuts?3. Long-Term Perspective: What steps can you take to consider the bigger picture before acting—whether in friendships, school, or personal choices?________________________________________BOTTOM LINEWise choices require self-control, patience, and trusting God’s timing to guide you through life’s tests and temptations.________________________________________PRAYERHeavenly Father, thank You for giving me the wisdom to recognize what is truly good and harmful. Help me to exercise self-control, make wise choices, and wait on Your timing in every area of my life. Guide me to follow the path of integrity and purpose, just as David did, and let my actions honor You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.