September 7–13: “He Shall Direct Thy Paths” Proverbs 1–4; 15–16; 22; 31; Ecclesiastes 1–3; 11–12

You might think of the book of Proverbs as a collection of wise counsel from loving parents (see Proverbs 1:8). Its main message is that if you seek wisdom—especially God’s wisdom—life will go well. But Proverbs is followed by the book of Ecclesiastes, which seems to say, “It’s not that simple.” The Preacher quoted in Ecclesiastes observed that he “gave [his] heart to know wisdom” but still found “vexation of spirit” and “much grief” (Ecclesiastes 1:17–18). In various ways, the book asks, “Can there be real meaning in a world where everything seems vain, temporary, and uncertain?”And yet, while the two books look at life from different perspectives, they teach similar truths. Ecclesiastes declares: “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man” (Ecclesiastes 12:13). This is the same principle found throughout Proverbs: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart” (Proverbs 3:5; see also verse 7). Life is always better—if not always perfect—when we trust and follow the Lord Jesus Christ.