All the communities under the Bethesda Senior Living Communities umbrella offer faith-based living, with a selection of daily devotionals, Bible studies and Sunday worship services for residents. This gives you plenty of opportunities to discover God’s promises and blessings. Learn how you can use insights from Proverbs to grow closer with God and improve your relationships with others.
The author of most of the book of Proverbs is widely assumed to be Solomon, the king to whom God gave the gift of wisdom. Throughout the book, Solomon speaks to young men, adult men and women and rulers. He uses proverbs (short sayings or pieces of advice) to instruct us on how to live with each other and with God.
While some parts of the Old Testament are historical, recording famous men and women and their roles in history, Proverbs is a wisdom book, teaching us how to live. By adding a few verses from Proverbs to your daily devotions, you can start each day with a tip from God.
In our journey through life, we never stop learning. So, take these nine lessons to heart as you go about each day and you’ll continue to grow and mature, regardless of age.
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge…" Proverbs 1:7
People often get confused with the phrase “fear the Lord,” thinking that God loves them and wondering why should they fear him. In Proverbs, Solomon recommends fearing the Lord as a term of respect, recognizing his holiness, power and complete authority over your life. Only from this perspective can you gain a fulfilled life. Other verses in Proverbs that refer to the fear of the Lord are 9:10, 14:26-27 and 28:14.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart…" Proverbs 3:5-6
When you recognize God’s awesome power and knowledge, you’re more than willing to let him run the show. Not only does this take the pressure off you, but it calms worries about tomorrow. You know everything will work out in the end if everything is in his hands.
"For the Lord shall be thy confidence…" Proverbs 3:26
Proverbs offers some wonderful verses on how the Lord is our sanctuary and rest, echoing the comforting words of Psalm 23. We learn that God is a strong fortress (18:10) — someone we can run to in times of trouble. We also find that God is with us each and every night (3:24-26), so there’s no reason to be afraid.
"…those that seek me early shall find me." Proverbs 8:17
The word "seek" in the Bible refers to much more than simply looking around. It’s a serious pursuit, like looking for a missing child. It requires focus and determination. While any time is a great time to read and meditate on the Lord, Proverbs recommends seeking God first thing in the morning, before the cares and stresses of the day can intrude.
"A friend loveth at all times…" Proverbs 17:17
You’ll gain some wonderful friends at your assisted living community. Proverbs offers sound advice on maintaining friendships, including how to be a good friend. As a friend, you have a unique chance to encourage (12:25 and 16:24) your fellow residents with cheerful words and a kind spirit.
"He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life…" Proverbs 13:3
It can be easy to hurt someone’s feelings with your words accidentally. So, whether you’re chatting with friends about another person or talking face-to-face, think before you speak. Then, make sure you follow these three basic principles: necessary, kind and true (12:19). You can find much more on the importance of controlling your conversation in James 3:1-12.
"He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty…" Proverbs 16:32
We all have trouble cooling our tempers now and then, whether you’re a hot-headed, up-front kind of person or a quiet introvert. God’s word has much to say about letting anger get the best of you (15:17-18). Take time to meditate (God’s version of counting to 10) on scripture next time you feel yourself getting worked up.
"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine…" Proverbs 17:22
Being joyful isn’t just a choice for Christians. It’s actually a commandment repeated many times in the Psalms (Psalm 100:1-5). Proverbs also tells us to be cheerful, not only for ourselves but for those around us, comparing it to helpful medicine. Being gloomy also has consequences, as verse 22 goes on to say — "but a broken spirit drieth the bones."
"In all labor there is profit…" Proverbs 14:23
Proverbs contains many verses on the importance of working and carrying your weight (3:6-9). As a senior, you may feel your working days are over. Not so. While your career may have ended, you can still serve God, whether participating in Bible study, listening and encouraging a friend or praying for family. Don’t forget, you have a wealth of knowledge and experience to pass along.
