I read Proverbs 15 during my prayer time this morning.  Notice I called it my “prayer time” instead of my “quiet time.”  For me quiet time can involve several spiritual disciplines, whereas my prayer time is a conversation between me and God.  My favorite and most meaningful practice during these prayer times is praying the scripture.  Thus, Proverbs 15.

I prayed several prayers this morning, each one prompted by the Holy Spirit speaking to me as I read and reflected on a verse or a series of verses in Proverbs 15.  Some were prayers of repentance, while others were for guidance or help.

One verse that stood out to me was Proverbs 15:14: “The mind of the intelligent seeks knowledge, but the mouth of fools feeds on folly” (NASB).

The need to learn and grow never ceases.  At every age and station in life, we are to continually seek knowledge.  Just as important is how we seek that knowledge – who we listen to and what we read.

One of my goals while on vacation this summer, in addition to resting, is to learn and grow in my walk with Christ and my role as preacher.  Earlier this week I spent part of a day reviewing and reflecting on some notes from conferences and workshops I’d attended over the years.  I’m currently reading a book on inspirational preaching.

Don’t worry – I’m doing other stuff to have fun.  Yesterday afternoon Monieca and I saw the new “Spider-Man” movie.  I’d give it 3 stars out of 5.  This evening I hope to catch some catfish.  I cooked a pot of half-runners (real green beans) and look forward to enjoying those with some corn bread and onion before fishing tonight.

But hearing from God also renews me.  Learning and reflecting on what God is saying to me gives me energy.

I pray you have a great summer.  I also encourage you to make learning and growing as a follower of Christ part of your summer plans.

Pastor Steve Hogg