A gracious woman gains respect,

    but ruthless men gain only wealth.

Your kindness will reward you,

    but your cruelty will destroy you.

Proverbs 11:16-17 (NLT)

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Getting up early in the quiet, and often dark, part of the morning has become a cherished routine. I gather my devotionals, journal, and Bible and settle into my couch. Since GRACE is my word for 2015, I’ve collected a few books with that theme and am gaining insight as to what grace really looks like.

But it occurred to me that I was doing a lot of reading of everything but the Bible. I know God wants to speak to me directly and His word is the best source. Devotionals are wonderful but the meat is in the Word.

I love the Psalms and have worked my way through them a couple of times, however, I wanted something different. Proverbs came to mind since it was the first of the month and there are 31 chapters.

I’m using my iPad these days because of my vision. I can increase the font so it is much easier to read. I can also highlight with a simple click.

As I reread Proverbs 11, a theme emerged. Several character qualities were listed: discretion, generosity, graciousness, kindness, honesty, integrity, godliness, and humility.

Thought provoking. Where am I on the scale?

Proverbs is known as a book on wisdom. I’m praying that God will teach me and prod me in areas that need work.

Wise words bring many benefits,

    and hard work brings rewards.

Proverbs 12:14 (NLT)