Open Word

FIRST READING

Proverbs 1:1-7

Verse 1. These are the proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel, Verse 2. for gaining wisdom and discipline, for comprehending words of insight, Verse 3. and for receiving instruction in wise living and in righteousness, justice, and equity. Verse 4. To impart prudence to the simple and knowledge and discretion to the young, Verse 5. let the wise listen and gain instruction, and the discerning acquire wise counsel Verse 6. by understanding the proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. Verse 7. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

PSALM

Psalm 148

Hallelujah! Praise the LORD from the heavens; praise Him in the highest places.

Praise Him, all His angels; praise Him, all His heavenly hosts.

Praise Him, O sun and moon; praise Him, all you shining stars.

Praise Him, O highest heavens, and you waters above the skies.

Let them praise the name of the LORD, for He gave the command and they were created.

He established them forever and ever; He issued a decree that will never pass away.

Praise the LORD from the earth, all great sea creatures and ocean depths,

lightning and hail, snow and clouds, powerful wind fulfilling His word,

mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars,

wild animals and all cattle, crawling creatures and flying birds,

kings of the earth and all peoples, princes and all rulers of the earth,

young men and maidens, old and young together.

Let them praise the name of the LORD, for His name alone is exalted; His splendor is above the earth and the heavens.

He has raised up a horn for His people, the praise of all His saints, of Israel, a people near to Him. Hallelujah!

SECOND READING

James 3:13-18

Verse 13. Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good conduct, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. Verse 14. But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth. Verse 15. Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. Verse 16. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice. Verse 17. But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere. Verse 18. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap the fruit of righteousness.