Bible – Bible Society of Zimbabwe

For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.-2

School can be tough, whether you’re dealing with classes, friends, or figuring yourself out. The Bible offers timeless wisdom that can guide you through these experiences. Here are seven biblical wisdom nuggets, accompanied by scripture, to help you sail smoothly through school.

1. Seek God’s Wisdom First

Proverbs 2:6 (NIV): “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

Before diving into your studies, seek God’s wisdom. Acknowledge that true knowledge comes from Him. When you prioritize God’s wisdom, you gain insights that go beyond textbooks, helping you make better decisions in both academic and personal matters.

2. Be Diligent and Hardworking

Proverbs 13:4 (NIV): “A sluggard’s appetite is never filled, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.”

Success in school requires effort and perseverance. Laziness will lead to unfulfilled goals, but diligence brings rewards. Whether it’s studying for exams or working on projects, approach each task with a mindset of diligence, knowing that hard work pays off.

3. Practice Integrity in All Things

Proverbs 10:9 (NIV): “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.”

Integrity means being honest and having strong moral principles, even when no one is watching. Cheating on an exam or copying homework may seem like a shortcut, but it ultimately leads to trouble. Uphold integrity in your academic pursuits, and you’ll walk with confidence.

4. Surround Yourself with Wise Friends

Proverbs 13:20 (NIV): “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”

The company you keep influences your behavior and choices. Surround yourself with friends who uplift you, encourage your growth, and share your values. Wise friends will challenge you to be better and help you stay on the right path.

5. Trust in God’s Plan

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV): “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

School can be overwhelming with its uncertainties and pressures. Trust that God has a plan for your life, even when things don’t go as expected. Whether you face disappointments or setbacks, believe that God is guiding you toward a hopeful future.

6. Manage Your Time Wisely

Ephesians 5:15-16 (NIV): “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”

Time management is crucial for balancing studies, extracurricular activities, and personal time. Use your time wisely, avoiding procrastination. Prioritize tasks and make the most of every opportunity to learn and grow.

7. Pray About Everything

Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV): “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Prayer is a powerful tool in navigating school life. Whether you’re stressed about an upcoming test or unsure about your future, bring your concerns to God in prayer. Prayer brings peace and clarity, helping you stay focused and calm in all situations.

Conclusion

Applying these biblical wisdom nuggets to your school life can significantly enhance your experience. By seeking God’s wisdom, practicing diligence, maintaining integrity, surrounding yourself with wise friends, trusting in God’s plan, managing your time wisely, and praying about everything, you can navigate the challenges of school with confidence and grace. Remember, God is with you every step of the way, ready to guide and support you.

Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.-2

The season of harvest is a time of gratitude, reflection, and abundance. For farmers, it signifies the end of a season of hard work, when crops are gathered, and the fruits of labor are celebrated. Spiritually, it reminds us of God’s faithfulness and the importance of sowing seeds of righteousness in our lives. The Bible speaks of harvest not just as an agricultural event but as a symbol of spiritual growth, provision, and God’s blessings.

Here are seven Bible verses that reflect the beauty, meaning, and significance of harvest time:

1. Galatians 6:9
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Just as the harvest comes after a season of hard labor, our spiritual harvest will come if we remain steadfast in our efforts to live righteously. God’s timing is perfect, and we must trust that our diligence will bear fruit.

2. Matthew 9:37-38
“Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.’”

Here, Jesus calls on us to be workers in this field, sharing the good news of salvation and helping to bring others into the kingdom of God. Harvest time is not just about receiving but also giving — sharing God’s love with the world.

3. Psalm 126:5-6
“Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them.”

We may endure seasons of sorrow, but God promises that those who faithfully sow, even through hardship, will one day reap a harvest of joy. There is hope in the midst of trials, and the harvest will be a time of celebration.

4. Proverbs 10:5
“He who gathers crops in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.”

Just as a farmer must be attentive during the harvest to gather his crops, we must be alert and ready to seize the spiritual opportunities that God places before us. Laziness and neglect lead to missed blessings, but diligence ensures that we reap the benefits of our labor.

5. 2 Corinthians 9:10
“Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.”

God is the provider of all things, and He ensures that those who sow will have what they need to reap a harvest. Not only does He provide materially, but He also increases the harvest of righteousness in our lives, enabling us to grow in character, faith, and good works. Our trust in God’s provision is important to experiencing His abundance.

6. James 3:18
“Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.”

When we sow seeds of peace and righteousness, we reap a harvest of goodness and integrity. Just as the farmer carefully chooses what to plant, we must be mindful of the seeds we sow in our relationships and daily actions.

7. John 4:35
“Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.”

The time for action is now, not later. The fields are ripe, and God is calling us to step into His work, sharing His love and truth with those who are ready to receive it. There is an urgency in the harvest, and we are called to respond.

Conclusion

Harvest time is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and the spiritual principles of sowing and reaping. Whether we are harvesting crops or gathering the fruits of our spiritual labor, we are called to trust in God’s provision and timing. As we reflect on these Bible verses, may we be inspired to continue sowing seeds of righteousness, peace, and faithfulness, knowing that in due season, we will reap a bountiful harvest.

Proverbs 47 - The beginning of wisdom is this Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.

Navigating the complexities of life can be challenging, especially for young people who are still finding their way. The Bible offers timeless wisdom and guidance that can help shape a fulfilling and purposeful life. Here are some key Biblical tips for young people:

1. Seek Wisdom and Understanding

Proverbs 4:7 – “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”

The pursuit of wisdom is highly valued in the Bible. Wisdom helps in making informed decisions, understanding the world better, and living a life that is pleasing to God. Young people are encouraged to seek wisdom and understanding, not only through formal education but also through life experiences and learning from others.

2. Honor Your Parents

Ephesians 6:1-3 – “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise—’so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.'”

Respecting and honoring parents is a fundamental principle in the Bible. It fosters healthy family relationships and sets a foundation for a respectful attitude towards authority and elders.

3. Guard Your Heart

Proverbs 4:23 – “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

The heart, in Biblical terms, is the center of one’s being, encompassing emotions, desires, and thoughts. Guarding your heart means being mindful of what influences you—your thoughts, feelings, and actions. It involves being cautious about the company you keep, the content you consume, and the activities you engage in.

4. Flee from Temptation

1 Corinthians 10:13 – “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”

Temptations are a part of life, but the Bible reassures that there is always a way to overcome them. Young people are encouraged to recognize their weaknesses, seek God’s strength, and make conscious efforts to avoid situations that might lead to sin.

5. Develop a Prayerful Life

Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Prayer is a powerful tool for maintaining a close relationship with God. It helps in finding peace, gaining strength, and seeking guidance. A prayerful life enables young people to stay connected to their faith and find solace in difficult times.

6. Cultivate Good Friendships

Proverbs 13:20 – “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”

The company you keep significantly influences your character and decisions. The Bible encourages surrounding yourself with wise and good-hearted individuals who uplift and encourage you to grow in faith and virtue.

7. Serve Others

Galatians 5:13 – “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”

Service to others is a core principle in Christianity. It teaches humility, compassion, and selflessness. Young people are encouraged to look beyond their own needs and contribute positively to the lives of others.

Conclusion

The Bible offers invaluable guidance for young people striving to live meaningful and virtuous lives. By seeking wisdom, honoring parents, guarding their hearts, fleeing from temptation, developing a prayerful life, cultivating good friendships, serving others, living with integrity, trusting in God’s plan, and staying humble, young people can navigate the complexities of life with faith and purpose.

Proverbs-1917-Whoever-is-generous-to-the-poor-lends-to-the-Lord-and-he-will-repay-him-for-his-deed.-2

Once upon a time in the city of Harare, a group of young friends (Tanaka, Itai and Chido) gathered in the cozy living room of Tanaka’s house. They were determined to make a difference in their community during the upcoming season of giving. As they brainstormed ideas, they stumbled upon the concept of almsgiving—a practice rooted in the Bible that encourages selfless acts of charity.

Excitement filled the room as they envisioned a unique way to spread kindness. They decided to create the “Generosity Game,” a challenge that involved performing secret acts of kindness and giving, all inspired by the teachings of the Bible.

The friends drew inspiration from the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus instructs his followers:

Matthew 6:3-4 (NIV): “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

The rules of the Generosity Game were simple: each friend would pick a random act of kindness to perform without revealing their identity. The game would last throughout the Lenten season, creating a ripple effect of generosity in their community.

The friends eagerly embraced the challenge, finding creative ways to give. Itai, inspired by the story of the Good Samaritan, anonymously left a care package on a neighbor’s doorstep where an old aged granny lived. Inside were basic toiletry items and a heartfelt note expressing care and compassion.

Luke 10:33-34 (NIV): “But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn, and took care of him.”

Chido, recalling the miracle of the loaves and fishes, organized a food drive at her school, encouraging her classmates to contribute some food items to a local food bank and which were later distributed to the children living on the streets.

John 6:12 (NIV): “When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, ‘Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.'”

As the days passed, the Generosity Game unfolded beautifully. The recipients of the acts of kindness were touched by the selfless gestures, and a spirit of community and compassion blossomed among the young friends.

On Easter Sunday, the friends gathered once more, reflecting on their experiences. Tanaka shared a Bible verse that had become their guiding light throughout the Generosity Game:

Proverbs 11:25 (NIV): “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”

The Generosity Game not only impacted their community but also transformed the hearts of these young friends. They realised that almsgiving, inspired by the teachings of the Bible, was a powerful way to make a positive difference in the lives of others and to experience the true joy of giving.

Do you also want to be refreshed during this season? How about trying this Generosity Game by almsgiving whether by yourself or as a group.

Solomon's Wise Sayings

1 Here are some proverbs

of Solomon:

Children with good sense

make their parents happy,

but foolish children

make them sad.

2 What you gain by doing evil

won't help you at all.

Obeying God is the only way

to be saved from death.

3 If you obey the Lord,

you won't go hungry;

if you are wicked,

God won't let you have

what you want.

4 Laziness leads to poverty;

hard work makes you rich.

Embracing the Season of Harvest: 7 Bible Verses for Reflection

Harvest time is a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and the spiritual principles of sowing and reaping. Whether we are harvesting crops or gathering the fruits of our spiritual labor, we are called to trust in God’s provision and timing. As we reflect on these Bible verses, may we be inspired to continue sowing seeds of righteousness, peace, and faithfulness, knowing that in due season, we will reap a bountiful harvest.

At harvest season

it's smart to work hard,

but stupid to sleep.

6 Everyone praises good people,

but evil hides behind

the words of the wicked.

7 Good people are remembered

long after they are gone,

but the wicked

are soon forgotten.

8 If you have good sense,

you will listen and obey;

if all you do is talk foolishly,

you will destroy yourself.

7 Biblical Wisdom Nuggets to Help You In School

Applying these biblical wisdom nuggets to your school life can significantly enhance your experience. By seeking God's wisdom, practicing diligence, maintaining integrity, surrounding yourself with wise friends, trusting in God’s plan, managing your time wisely, and praying about everything, you can navigate the challenges of school with confidence and grace. Remember, God is with you every step of the way, ready to guide and support you.

You will be safe,

if you always do right,

but you will get caught,

if you are dishonest.

10 Deceit causes trouble,

and foolish talk

will bring you to ruin.

11 The words of good people

are a source of life,

but evil hides behind

the words of the wicked.

12 Hatred stirs up trouble;

love overlooks the wrongs

that others do.

13 If you have good sense,

it will show when you speak.

But if you are stupid,

you will be beaten

with a stick.

14 If you have good sense,

you will learn all you can,

but foolish talk

will soon destroy you.

15 Great wealth can be a fortress,

but poverty

is no protection at all.

16 If you live right,

the reward is a good life;

if you are evil,

all you have is sin.

17 Accept correction,

and you will find life;

reject correction,

and you will miss the road.

18 You can hide your hatred

by telling lies,

but you are a fool

to spread lies.

19 You will say the wrong thing

if you talk too much—

so be sensible and watch

what you say.

20 The words of a good person

are like pure silver,

but the thoughts

of an evil person

are almost worthless.

21 Many are helped

by useful instruction,

but fools are killed

by their own stupidity.

22 When the Lord blesses you

with riches,

you have nothing to regret.

23 Fools enjoy doing wrong,

but anyone with good sense

enjoys acting wisely.

24 What evil people dread most

will happen to them,

but good people will get

what they want most.

25 Those crooks will disappear

when a storm strikes,

but God will keep safe

all who obey him.

26 Having a lazy person on the job

is like a mouth full of vinegar

or smoke in your eyes.

27 If you respect the Lord,

you will live longer;

if you keep doing wrong,

your life will be cut short.

28 If you obey the Lord,

you will be happy,

but there is no future

for the wicked.

29 The Lord protects everyone

who lives right,

but he destroys anyone

who does wrong.

30 Good people will stand firm,

but the wicked will disappear

from the land.

31 Honest people speak sensibly,

but deceitful liars

will be silenced.

32 If you obey the Lord,

you will always know

the right thing to say.

But no one will trust you

if you tell lies.

1 The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.

2 Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death. 3 The LORD will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: but he casteth away the substance of the wicked. 4 He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich. 5 He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame. 6 Blessings are upon the head of the just: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked. 7 The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot. 8 The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating fool shall fall. 9 He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that perverteth his ways shall be known. 10 He that winketh with the eye causeth sorrow: but a prating fool shall fall. 11 The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked. 12 Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins. 13 In the lips of him that hath understanding wisdom is found: but a rod is for the back of him that is void of understanding. 14 Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction. 15 The rich man’s wealth is his strong city: the destruction of the poor is their poverty. 16 The labour of the righteous tendeth to life: the fruit of the wicked to sin. 17 He is in the way of life that keepeth instruction: but he that refuseth reproof erreth. 18 He that hideth hatred with lying lips, and he that uttereth a slander, is a fool. 19 In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.

20 The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth. 21 The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom. 22 The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. 23 It is as sport to a fool to do mischief: but a man of understanding hath wisdom.

24 The fear of the wicked, it shall come upon him: but the desire of the righteous shall be granted. 25 As the whirlwind passeth, so is the wicked no more: but the righteous is an everlasting foundation. 26 As vinegar to the teeth, and as smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to them that send him.

27 The fear of the LORD prolongeth days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened. 28 The hope of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish.

29 The way of the LORD is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity. 30 The righteous shall never be removed: but the wicked shall not inhabit the earth.

31 The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom: but the froward tongue shall be cut out. 32 The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness.