NOVEMBER 9 - Wise Words and Open Hands
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 27:13–14; Deuteronomy 15–16
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3-Year Bible Devotional Book Available on Amazon
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“Take a man's garment when he has put up security for a stranger, and hold it in pledge when he puts up security for an adulteress. Whoever blesses his neighbor with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, will be counted as cursing.” — Proverbs 27:13–14
“But there will be no poor among you; for the Lord will bless you in the land that the Lord your God is giving you... You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor, in your land.” — Deuteronomy 15:4, 11
“They shall not appear before the Lord empty-handed. Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord your God that he has given you.” — Deuteronomy 16:16–17
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Have you ever had someone say something nice to you—but in the most awkward or annoying way possible? Like a way-too-early "GOOD MORNING!!" that feels more like a jump scare than a blessing? That’s kind of what Proverbs 27:14 is talking about. It reminds us that how we treat people—and when and why—matters. It’s not just about saying the right words, but about being thoughtful, genuine, and wise.
And over in Deuteronomy 15–16, God calls His people to be openhanded—generous and compassionate—especially to those in need. He didn’t want His people just following rules but living with hearts full of grace. These passages challenge us to live with both wisdom and generosity, not just for show, but because God has been so generous to us.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Motives Matter: Why do you do good things? Is it for attention, or because you truly want to help and honor God? Proverbs reminds us that even a "blessing" can be annoying if it’s not done with the right heart.
2. Open Hands, Open Heart: Deuteronomy teaches that God’s people should be generous because He blesses us. Are you someone who gives freely—of your time, your attention, your stuff?
3. Giving Isn’t Just About Money: God said, “Don’t come to Me empty-handed,” but He didn’t say everyone had to give the same thing. What do you have that you can give—your encouragement, your skills, your listening ear?
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BOTTOM LINE
God calls us to live wisely and give generously—not just out of obligation, but out of love. When we check our motives and choose to give with purpose, we reflect His heart to the world.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for being so generous to me. Help me to be wise in how I treat others, and teach me to give with a cheerful heart. Show me ways I can serve the people around me today—not to impress anyone, but to honor You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.