Month: June 2025

June 5, 2025 – Bible Recap Journal

Proverbs 7–9

Common Theme

The two voices of wisdom and folly call out to the simple, each offering a path—one leads to life, the other to death. Wisdom is not hidden; she is public, accessible, and rooted in the fear of the Lord.

Questions

  • What makes the call of folly so seductive even when the consequences are destructive?
  • How does Proverbs 8 deepen your understanding of wisdom as more than moral skill—perhaps even as a person?

God Shot

God delights in wisdom because it reflects His own nature—holy, pure, and eternal. In Proverbs 8, wisdom speaks as one who was with God before creation, revealing that God is not only wise but has always acted with foresight, beauty, and joy in all He does.

Speak Life: The Transforming Power of Words in Ephesians 4:29

Ephesians 4:29 – Context and Authentic Meaning

Ephesians 4:29 (ESV):
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”

Context:

Ephesians 4 is part of Paul’s appeal to believers to walk in a manner worthy of their calling (4:1). After affirming the unity and diversity of the church (vv. 1–16), Paul urges Christians to live differently than the Gentiles (unbelievers) in thought, character, and behavior (vv. 17–24). This includes putting off the “old self” and putting on the “new self” created after God’s likeness in righteousness and holiness.

Verses 25–32 give specific applications of this new life in Christ. Each instruction contrasts former sinful behaviors with righteous alternatives. Verse 29 fits into this pattern, focusing specifically on speech.

Authentic Meaning:

  • “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths”
    The Greek word translated “corrupting” (sapros) literally means rotten or foul—as used to describe spoiled food. It refers to speech that is destructive, unwholesome, or morally degrading (e.g., slander, gossip, vulgarity, insults).
  • “But only such as is good for building up”
    Christian speech should edify—that is, strengthen or constructively encourage others. Words are meant to serve others, not tear them down.
  • “As fits the occasion”
    This underscores discernment—knowing what kind of speech is appropriate and helpful in a given moment.
  • “That it may give grace to those who hear”
    Words are not neutral; they carry spiritual weight. They can be a channel of grace—bringing encouragement, healing, or truth that reflects God’s goodness.

In Summary:

Ephesians 4:29 teaches that Christian speech should be deliberately edifying, timely, and grace-giving. It contrasts with the corrupt and careless speech of the old self. It’s not just about avoiding “bad words,” but using words as tools of love, encouragement, and spiritual building.

Application:

Paul’s call challenges both the content and intent of our speech:

  • Are my words helping or harming?
  • Am I speaking to serve others or myself?
  • Does what I say reflect the grace I’ve received?

This verse is deeply communal—our speech affects the body of Christ and is a key marker of spiritual maturity.

June 4, 2025 – Bible Recap Journal

Proverbs 4–6

Common Theme

The father urges his son to seek wisdom above all else, highlighting its protective power, its moral clarity, and the consequences of ignoring it. These chapters contrast the path of wisdom with the dangers of adultery, laziness, and financial entanglements.

Reflection Questions

  • What specific steps does Proverbs 4 suggest for guarding your heart, and why is that so important?
  • How does God’s wisdom protect us from both moral failure and practical ruin?

God Shot

God is a Father who lovingly instructs His children, calling them to wisdom not just for success but for life itself. He hates deception and delights in protecting His people through truth, discipline, and righteous paths.

June 3, 2025 – Bible Recap Journal

Proverbs 1–3

Common Theme

The pursuit of wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord and leads to a life of security, discernment, and favor. God offers wisdom as a protective and guiding gift, contrasting the ruin awaiting those who reject it.

Reflection Questions

  • What does it look like to “fear the Lord” in your daily choices?
  • Where in your life are you leaning on your own understanding instead of trusting God?

God Shot

God is a generous Father who gives wisdom to those who seek it (2:6) and guards the paths of the just (2:8). He delights in drawing near to those who trust Him (3:5–6), making their paths straight. He’s not distant or passive—He is actively shaping, correcting, and protecting those He loves.

June 2, 2025 – Bible Recap Journal

Song of Solomon 1–8

Common Theme

Love that reflects the covenant: Song of Solomon poetically portrays a passionate, exclusive, and committed love between bride and groom, mirroring God’s covenantal love for His people—a love that is both deeply personal and securely faithful.

Reflection Questions

  • How does the depth of love expressed in this book challenge your view of God’s love for His people?
  • What aspects of this love story reflect God’s intention for intimacy, exclusivity, and delight in relationships?

God Shot

God is the author of pure, covenantal love. His delight in steadfast, unshakable love is seen in the way He celebrates fidelity, emotional intimacy, and the beauty of union between two hearts—just as He rejoices in His redeemed bride.

June 1, 2025 – Bible Recap Journal

2 Chronicles 1; Psalm 72

Common Theme

God’s kingdom advances through divinely granted wisdom and righteous rule. Both Solomon’s request and the psalmist’s prayer reflect a vision of leadership that blesses people and honors God.

Reflection Questions

  • What does Solomon’s prayer reveal about what God values in a leader?
  • How does Psalm 72 express hope for a kingdom that reflects God’s justice and care for the poor?

God Shot

God delights to give wisdom to those who seek Him humbly, and He exalts righteousness and justice as foundations of His reign. He is a God who listens, equips, and rules with compassion, bringing blessing and peace through His chosen king.