A few years ago, an old mentor gave me a challenge: to read a Proverb a day the rest of my life. Not only that, but to read the chapter in Proverbs that corresponded with the day of the month. For example, if today is September 23, then today I will read Proverbs 23. Proverbs conveniently contains 31 chapters, and 11 out of 12 months consist of 30 or 31 days.
I have read a lot of books in my life, both on my own time and as an undergraduate and graduate student in academia. However, none have impacted my life more than the Bible, and none, I dare say, contain as much wisdom for life as Proverbs, a book that was written thousands of years ago.
Years ago, I committed to this challenge for a few months, but since then I have not been consistent with it. I think it deserves a comeback, given the great potential it has to be a blessing.
Proverbs is especially beneficial for people trying to overcome temptations and live a life of sexual and moral integrity. Proverbs 5 and 7 famously and vividly address the theme of sexual integrity, whereas themes of contentment, honesty, generosity, hard work, prudence, and fear of God predominate throughout.
Today, consider incorporating the Proverbs challenge with me as a part of your spiritual disciplines.
To hear the truth is a blessing, but far more important is what we do with it. Let’s undertake this challenge with an eye toward application.
P.s. If you ever miss a day, just get back on track the next day.
My son, keep my words and treasure up my commandments with you; keep my commandments and live; keep my teaching as the apple of your eye; bind them on your fingers;
Proverbs 7:1-3
write them on the tablet of your heart.
For more, see the complete archive of articles on integrity.
