“Don’t accept an invitation to eat a selfish person’s food, no matter how good it is. People like that take note of how much you eat. They say, ‘Take all you want.’ But they don’t mean it. Each bite you eat will come back up, and all your kind words will be wasted.”
Proverbs 23:6-8
Notes for Contemplation as You Use this Devotional:
- This passage from the Book of Proverbs is part of the section often titled, “True Riches.” It invites us to discern how we invest not only our money, but also our time and energy.
- The Book of Proverbs is treasured because of its universal wisdom. Use it as an ancient, “Do-This-Not-That” compendium still applicable to our 21st century lives.
- While the proverb sometimes is used to explain the Law of Attraction (or the belief that we draw particular things or experiences to us), on a deeper level, it urges great discernment and insight.
- A corollary of the Law of Attraction is the Law of Awareness, which supports our capacity of discernment. So, as we discern, we don’t waste time judging someone or something as “bad” or “good for us. We remain neutral and turn within to assess our own thoughts and feelings. Then we can determine how we’ll take care of ourselves and engage with others.
- Discernment isn’t merely making decisions.It’s a God-guided, intuitive, soulwork practice which allows us to choose what is best for us, not distinguish between what is “right” or “wrong.”
- Discernment also provides clarity, showing us our options, even if they aren’t our favorites.And since we live in a world where we can be bombarded with information and opinions, we must discern for ourselves who and what deserves our valuable attention and resources.
Contemplation Questions:
As you reflect on your life and circumstances, ask yourself:
- What decisions do I need to make now?
- List, word map, or illustrate as much as applies.
- How have I been trying to make decisions on my own, without including God?
- List, word map, or illustrate whatever applies.
- As I connect to my body and contemplate each decision, how do I feel?
- Breathe deeply and take a few minutes, if necessary, to tune into your body. Focusing on your breath and any physical sensations you experience, list, word map, or illustrate your feelings about each decision.
- When I contemplate these decisions, which would be toxic and unhealthy for my life now?
- List, word map, or illustrate all which apply.
- When I contemplate these decisions, which are life-enhancing and healthy for me now?
- List, word map, or illustrate all which apply.
- What are at least three (3) things I can do to avoid anything toxic and unhealthy?
- List, word map, or illustrate as much as you can imagine.
- What are at least three (3) things I can do to connect with whatever is life-enhancing and healthy?
- List, word map, or illustrate as much as you can imagine.
- What are at least three (3) ways I can connect more fully with God as I discern whatever I need for my life?
- List, word map, or illustrate as much as you can imagine.
Take as much time as you need with this devotional. Listen to your still, small voice and trust your inner wisdom. Know that you need not accept something just because it’s offered or rush to make a decision when you are uncertain. Especially, be assured, with God as your guide, you can discern and discover all the ways which are best for you.
© 2022 – Rev. Jennifer L. Sacks – All rights reserved.
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