The Proverbs Challenge Reflections

One of the reasons I did the Proverbs Challenge was because I’d never seen it done in the blog world. In the blog world, there are all sorts of challenges – no makeup for 7 days, a different hairstyle every day, eating with no sugar, reading a book a month, body toning exercises, etc. – so I thought, why not a daily Bible reading challenge?

A challenge on its face seems hard, but by its very nature is also doable. It’s called a challenge because it requires some discipline and thought on the individual’s part – it won’t happen by itself. The definition of challenge is a test of one's abilities or resources in a demanding but stimulating undertaking. At the end of a challenge, there’s the satisfaction of completion (this may be the only reward), but there’s also knowledge gained about yourself or the process, and a feeling of accomplishment.

Here’s what I gained from doing the Proverbs Challenge:

·        God’s word has our best interests at heart; we fight it because we think we know better, but when you get right down to it if we choose to live the way outlined in the Bible, we’d be better for it, happier and wiser.

·        The Bible guides all the interactions in my life. We saw practical application for dealing with all of our relationships, our vices, our mindsets, and so much more. There is no situation that is outside of the purview of God’s word.

·        Humility before honor – it seems like we all want to be lauded, without putting in the hard work. No one wants to submit to authority, rules, and principles. Everyone wants to do it their way. Surprisingly it is those that are truly humble that are exalted. It is counter to worldly wisdom but it works.

·        Now that I’ve done it, I can encourage others to attempt it. Oftentimes, we are able to help another down the same path because we have gone that way before. This works for trials and successes – we can encourage and help each other. We can bear each other’s burdens.

·        It provided focus – This challenge provided something to look forward to on a daily basis. As a result, my time with God each day became special.

·        God is faithful – He always comes through. I never knew what I would write until I actually started typing. I typically pray before I read, asking God to make his word clear to me; to keep it in my memory; and for opportunities throughout the day to use what I’ve read. Every day He came through for me.

·        It gave me a new thirst for God’s Word – The Bible is an amazing book. I may have read it a thousand times, but each time it’s as if I’m reading something new. It’s because I’m not the same person I was in the past, combined with the fact that God’s Word is powerful and contains everything we need. God’s Word will always edify.

·        Use the gifts that you are given – I’ve always loved reading and writing and this challenge was another way to do both.

·        Gaining a heavenly perspective – this challenge refined my focus by allowing me to look at things through my father’s eyes. Have you ever heard this song?

·        Wisdom is available – all you have to do is ask for it and it’s available in boundless supply. As Proverbs wisely states, wisdom is the principal thing therefore with all thy getting, get understanding. Proverbs 4:7

·        Women are special and have more influence than we are aware of. As a wife, we are a good thing. We can be odious, and contemptible and drive those we live with far from us, or we can be virtuous and wise and reap priceless rewards. This theme was repeated often throughout the book of Proverbs.

Did you participate in this challenge? How did this challenge help you?