The book of Proverbs is clear that pride precedes total ruin. It leads inevitably to stumbling and conflict, while humility is the mark of the wise, as it comes from seeking God.

Guest speaker Gerry Breshears brought us a message that presented an approach to thinking about God's sovereignty with respect to the problem of evil.

In Proverbs 8 and 9, we see the contrast between wisdom and folly, represented by two characters, ladies who call out in the same manner to passersby, but with totally different intents, and leading to unequal ends.

On Resurrection Sunday, we look at Psalm 22 and how the reality of the risen Christ affects our understanding of human suffering.

While sexual sin always seems appealing, it is counter to godly wisdom, and as a result, leads inevitably to death. God's design for sex, on the other hand, leads to life more abundant.

In this message from Proverbs 18, we see that the Bible addresses being a know-it-all, using words to bully, spreading gossip, and carelessness with our speech, all under the category of the choice between wisdom and death.

A jars of clay ministry, as described in 2 Corinthians 4, is characterized by integrity in method and message, endurance in trials and tribulations, and confidence in resurrection and renewal.

The heart is the source of our words, our vision, and our actions, so the heart is the first consideration, ahead of mere behavior modification.

In Proverbs 3, wisdom is presented as a choice that leads to life; a choice to walk in integrity, and to listen and surrender all to God, who is faithful.

Proverbs 2 characterizes wisdom as an active pursuit (not an automatic attainment of age) that prioritizes seeking after God, who graciously gives wisdom, and safeguards the wise.