Dave's Diary

Daily Readings: Proverbs 30 and Psalm 145

Proverbs 30 contains the “Sayings of Agur”. We’re not too sure who Agur was, but he starts his chapter with a declaration of his own unworthiness and limitations, making sure to place God in His rightful place. He then poetically rejoices in who God is; namely, the omnipotent Creator who gathers the wind in the hollow of His hand, wraps the water in His cloak and establishes the ends of the earth. God’s every word is flawless, and He is a shield of protection to everyone who takes refuge in Him, says Agur. It is striking that he also asks the question: “What is his name, and what is the name of his son?” This recognition of the person of the Son of God is clearly a Spirit-inspired revelation.

After starting in praise of God, he goes on to reflect on the state of the world and his human community, particularly in order to point out what is displeasing to God. Falsehood, discontent, slander, cursing, self-righteousness, injustice towards the poor, disobedience, adultery, unfaithfulness and lovelessness all come under his microscope.

The chapter ends with him marvelling at the mystery of creation and its creatures, great and small. Trul, we live in a magnificent world of beauty, reflecting the majesty of God.

While our reflections will naturally be very different to his, given our vastly different context, I think we could gain great value from following Agur’s example in relecting on God and God’s world. Today I invite you to join me in reflecting deliberately on the goodness of God which we have seen in 2022. Before we leave this year behind, let’s be deliberate about looking back in order to notice the hand of God. Where has God been active in my life? What has God graciously done for me? What has God graciously done in me? What has God graciously done through me? What have I discovered about God’s character and nature during 2022? How have the events of 2022 grown my understanding of God or my appreciation of God?

Heavenly Father, help me as I reflect today. Guide me in remembering all that You have done in my life this year, and help me to recognise and recall what I have discovered about You and Your glory. You have done great things for me, and my hear tis filled with joy at Who You are!! Amen.