For the month of October, we are answering the challenge John Goldwater, pastor of Christ Community Church in Grenada, MS, laid out — the #DailyWisdomChallenge. Each day, we are going to read through a chapter of Proverbs corresponding to the day of the month.
This fits with what we have studied in Colossians, specifically Colossians 3:1-2, namely that we should seek “the things that are above, where Christ is” and set our minds like a thermostat “on things that are above, not on things that are on earth”. Imagine what a month meditating on God’s Word daily can do for us.
Won’t you join us on this #DailyWisdomChallenge and set your minds on Christ?
Proverbs 21:2 reminds us of how easy it is to assume our actions are good just because they feel right to us. We want to believe our choices are pleasing to God, but we often judge ourselves too favorably. Yet, while we look at our outward actions, God sees deeper. He knows our true motives and attitudes, seeing through any attempts to justify or excuse ourselves. Scripture tells us that God “weighs the heart”—a reminder that He alone discerns our intentions, even when we might not fully understand them ourselves (1 Samuel 16:7, Jeremiah 17:9).
In Proverbs 21:3, God shows us what truly pleases Him: a life lived with justice and righteousness. He values sincere obedience over empty ritual. Even in the Old Testament, God reminded His people that religious ceremonies and sacrifices weren’t enough on their own. These rituals were only meaningful when done with a heart dedicated to love, mercy, and truth (Isaiah 1:12-17, Hosea 6:6). Jesus echoed this when He criticized religious leaders who focused on appearing righteous rather than practicing true compassion. They missed the heart of worship, going through the motions while failing to love others as God commanded.
For us, this means worshiping God with our whole lives, not just through outward actions. True devotion goes beyond attending church or saying prayers; it’s about living each day with a heart that desires to honor God and serve others.
As we strive to follow Jesus, let’s invite God to examine our hearts and guide us to live in ways that reflect His love and justice. May our worship be more than words or rituals, but a genuine expression of our love for God and commitment to His ways. In living this way, we bring true honor to the Lord, fulfilling His desire for righteousness and justice in the world.
Just Keith Harris 