Proverbs 14:23 - Work For Progress (Bible Journal)

"Work brings profit, but mere talk leads to poverty (Proverbs 14:23 NLT)!"

Working a job can lead to profit with income in mind, but I think Proverbs 14:23 can apply to work that doesn't involve paychecks, but is still work that brings richness to life all the same. Case in point, I want to get back into reading and writing, and I can talk about all the books I want to read, and give a synopsis for a story I'm writing, along with ideas on where I want the story to go. But if I don't put the effort in to work on hunkering down with my growing pile of books to be read, or sit down and work on writing the story I want to tell, no "profit" to my life from working on these things will happen. The same goes for my relationship with God. I can talk about how I long to grow closer to Him and feel more connected, but just talking about growing closer to Him won't make it happen. I have to make time with Him a priority through prayer, reading Scripture, and taking in teachings from those He called to teach through sermons, podcasts, books, Bible journals, etc. Quieting down and listening for what He has to tell me matters as well. He is always there and ready to connect with us, but we have to make it a priority to be there too in order to fully appreciate what a connection with God will offer.

Lord, thank You for the much needed reminder that I need to do more than just talk about wanting to get my life balanced again - I need to put some work in to get it done. Thank You for Your patience, resources, and always being ready for me whenever I start making effort. Please help me to not just speak, but work, especially when it comes to my bond with You. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.