Intro: (1) series recap (2) listening → 20:12, Psalm 40:6, Jesus (“he who has ears …”) (3) clappingHow to Listen1. Listen to counsel (15:22): (1) we need wise input from others (2) leadership (cf. 11:14), picking battles (cf. 20:18) (3) “guidance” = steering a ship (4) examples → Rehoboam, Jerusalem council (5) why we don’t → pride, fear, don’t know where to look, been burned (6) how to cultivate ...  Read More

Intro: (1) series recap (2) words to avoid (cf. “Christmas Story” movie)Categories1. Contentious speech (26:21): (1) words that stir up, look for opp’s to argue (2) contrarian, caring too much about non-important things, confusing fact and opinion (3) strategy → slowing down before speaking, assessing motivation, appreciating other viewpoints2. Perverse speech (4:24): (1) words that distort truth ...  Read More

Intro: (1) series recap (2) value of words (20:15) → (cf. bb cards) (3) ultimate value of loveWisdom Words1. Supportive words (31:8-9): (1) words that defend/help (cf. not present, can’t help themselves) (2) spoken to one with power/influence (3) categories → parent, boss, older, teacher, gov’t2. Healing words (12:18): (1) injury vs. healing → rash reckless anger vs. humble care and concern (2) ea...  Read More

Intro: (1) series recap (2) Proverbs 4:20-24 (3) 8 truths across 3 categories of wordsThe Power of Words1. Words stick (18:21): (1) tongue capable of very good and very bad → will produce these fruits (2) Gottman ratio, negative consumer experiences (3) id someone to encourage before leaving2. Words spread (10:10-11): (1) winking = whispering (cf. 16:27-28) → negative words like wildfire (2) don’t...  Read More

Intro: (1) series intro (2) intro to Proverbs (read v.1) → title, structure, etc. (3) “small sayings with big truths (cf. parables) → my favorites (4) “wisdom” = truth lived out practically → framework for words (4) wisdom connected to gospel (cf. Mt. 12:42, 1 Cor. 1:23-24)What Wisdom Is (2-6)1. Instruction and Understanding (v.2): (1) “instruction” → recognition that I don’t know everything and c...  Read More

Intro: (1) series recap (2) ministering = serving (3) approaching church as a waiter (cf. dad retiring)Wisdom1. Wise listening (James 1:19): (1) “quick to hear” → obstacles of busyness, screens, disinterest, disagreement (2) “slow to speak” → tendencies to interrupt, jump to conclusions, offer advice, control, get attention (cf. Proverbs 10:19) (3) “slow to anger” → what makes you angry and why, a...  Read More