September 19, 2021

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for September 19th: Proverbs 31:10-31, Psalm 1, James 3:13-4:3. 7-8; Mark 30:37: Theme: living in wisdom, Song: I Surrender All UMH 354 James: This will probably be the only week this year that we will look at the book of James. James continues our lesson on what it means to live in wisdom. Wisdom always comes from God. It is always in our best interest. When we live in wisdom it affects how we make decisions and how we treat other people. Wisdom is the beginning of harmony in the church. When we are in touch with the world’s wisdom, then we put ourselves and our own needs first. James says that causes us to be jealous of other people. And that causes friction. If we want to stop friction, then we should learn to be humble. Proverbs: The whole point of proverbs is for the prince to find the right wife. This story tells what a “virtuous woman” will do. She is not just a romantic partner, but she has the ability to run a household. In today’s world this is a very idealistic perspective. But it does make a very good point about planning your life. About thinking about how to sustain yourself in the future. And how important hard work is to success. Not many women aspire to be a housewife in this day and age. But a home that is happy and taken care of is important. The key to any happy home is a willingness to put God first in all things. Questions: What does it mean to be humble? How does this scripture help to deal with church conflict? How do you personally put God first? What does it mean to be a virtuous woman today?