May 1 (Year 1) - No Shortcuts to Wisdom

MAY 1 - No Shortcuts to Wisdom

3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 15:10–11; 1 Corinthians 1–2

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“There is severe discipline for him who forsakes the way; whoever hates reproof will die. Sheol and Abaddon lie open before the Lord; how much more the hearts of the children of man!” — Proverbs 15:10–11

“For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” — 1 Corinthians 1:18

“Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God.” — 1 Corinthians 2:12

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Ever feel like following God is harder than just going with the flow? Like when you know the right thing to do but everything inside you wants to take the shortcut? Proverbs 15 reminds us that turning away from God’s path leads to serious consequences, and avoiding correction is dangerous. But here’s the good news—God knows us deeply and offers us a better way. In 1 Corinthians 1–2, Paul reminds us that the world might see God’s ways as foolish, but to those who believe, it’s actually the key to real strength and wisdom. God doesn’t just give us a rulebook—He gives us His Spirit to help us understand and live out His truth.

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THINK ABOUT IT

1. Correction is Love: When someone points out something you need to work on, do you push back or listen? God uses correction not to shame you but to shape you.

2. God’s Wisdom Looks Different: The cross didn’t make sense to the world—but it changed everything. Are you okay with following God even when it feels countercultural or misunderstood?

3. You’re Not Alone: You’ve been given the Holy Spirit to understand God’s truth. What would change if you started asking Him to help you every day?

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BOTTOM LINE

God’s wisdom may seem upside-down to the world, but it leads to real life. Don’t run from correction—lean into it, trust the Spirit, and walk in God’s power.

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PRAYER

Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me enough to correct me and for giving me the Holy Spirit to guide me. Help me not to be stubborn or chase what the world calls “wise,” but instead to follow You with humility and courage. Teach me to listen when You speak and to trust that Your way leads to life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.