Reflect

Once you've listened to the podcast, take time to reflect on these questions.

1. Wisdom and understanding is gained when we live out the knowledge we have received. Think of someone who is wise. Consider an example from the Bible or from someone in your life. What do you admire about this person?
2. Before this person could display God’s wisdom, they first had to receive it. What do you think this person does to practically receive God’s wisdom?
3. When God’s wisdom becomes a lifestyle, it becomes a light to the world. How have you noticed this person show God’s wisdom to the people around them?

Go Deeper

If you would like to dive deeper, use these Scriptures and questions for personal study or small group discussion.

God gave his commands to Israel, so he could share his wisdom with all the nations. As Israel followed his commands, they would become wise with understanding. Then all the nations would see God’s wisdom displayed through them.

As followers of Jesus today, we too are called to represent God’s wisdom to the world. But this does not happen simply by saying what we believe or by having an ethical list of rules. The world sees God’s goodness by our actions and decision to follow his teachings. Our lifestyle tells the truth about what we really value. So this week, let’s meditate on the valuable wisdom in God’s ancient commands to Israel. And as we do, we can be empowered by God’s Spirit to respond in active ways that display his goodness to those around us.

Feel free to reflect on all the questions or simply a few right now. You can also reflect throughout the week by focusing on one question per day.

Message Question
How did Tim’s message challenge or encourage you today?

Read: Deuteronomy 4:5-9

1. As you review today’s passage, pay attention to the details. What word, phrase, or idea stands out to you?
2. Wisdom is gained when we live out the knowledge we have received (Deuteronomy 4:6a). Think of someone you know who is wise. How do they apply what they have learned? How have they shared God’s wisdom with the people around them?
3. Receiving and responding to God’s wisdom requires intentionality. Review verse 9 and consider the importance of diligently taking care of one’s own spiritual and emotional health. According to this verse, what can happen when people neglect this command?
4. What are some specific things people do to remember who God is and what God has taught them? What usually distracts people from regularly practicing these specific things?
5. What is one practice you’d like to establish in order to remember and respond to what God has taught you? How often would you like to embrace this practice? When will you begin?
6. Review the end of verse 9. Consider someone from a younger generation who you can encourage with God’s wisdom. Who comes to mind? Would they like to embrace the same practice (from question 5) with you?
7. Turn your reflections into a prayer. Thank God for who he is and the wisdom he provides in his commands. Be honest about the ways you have been distracted and forgetful. Ask for the Holy Spirit’s help as you seek to follow his wisdom and take care of your spiritual and emotional well-being this week.