August 21, 2023
Proverbs 11:12-20 | The Beginning of Wisdom
Relationship Basics
We need good relationships to thrive. The problem is that relationships tend to break down—they need regular maintenance and repair! In the book of Proverbs, we find some basic principles for keeping our relationships strong.
Listen to an audio version of the message
Songs for this week: Spotify
Proverbs 11:12-20
- Proverbs 11:2 says that someone who “derides” (belittles; puts down) others is foolish. What are some examples in our culture today of this going on? What impact does it have?
- Why are gossip (belittling others outwardly) and resentment (belittling others inwardly) so deadly to relationships? When have you experienced one or both of these and what was the outcome?
- Verses 14 & 15 talk about relationships in the business world and political sphere. Where have you experienced the benefit of having “many advisers” (v. 14)? Where have you witnessed the danger of a lone ranger approach?
- As you consider the relationships in your everyday life—family, classmates, friends, colleagues—where have you received kindness recently? What good things have come from you showing kindness to someone else?
- Is there a relationship in your life that needs some maintenance or repair? Where can your efforts for improvement begin? Pray for that person and your relationship today.
Share with a friend
Recent Sermons
Psalm 133 - The Psalms of Ascent were songs for the journey—worshippers sang them as they travelled together toward Jerusalem and the Temple. These Psalms give voice to the sorts of things that go through worshippers' hearts as they prepare to worship.
Psalm 104 is a song of praise that marvels at the beauty and order of God’s creation. From mountains to seas, seasons to creatures great and small, it reveals a world sustained by His power and care. This psalm invites us to stand in awe, give thanks, and consider our role as stewards of His handiwork.
Psalm 121 - We humans need help! The question is, where will we turn for it? Psalm 121 invites us to look to God for true help.
Psalm 127 - Psalm 127 reminds us that unless the Lord builds the house, our efforts are in vain. It's a call to trust—learning to rest in God's provision while recognizing that every good gift, including our work, our homes, and our children, ultimately rests in His hands.
James 5:13-20 - A life of faith is a life of prayer. It’s also a life lived with others. When we follow Jesus, we belong to Him and to one another as brothers and sisters. As a family, we care for one another in weakness, confess our sins to each other, and gently confront one another.
James 4:6-10 -James knows that the heart of the Christian message is grace. God gives us good that we couldn’t ever deserve. The truth is that we earn and deserve justice and punishment. Thankfully, Jesus took both of those for us and gave us the good he deserved. As powerful as grace is, there is one thing that can re
