HANDS: Proverbs 22:26

Do not be one who shakes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts;

The urge to skip over this Proverb is STRONG. Shake hands? Debts? What even? Neeeeext! But as is often the case, to get the wisdom from this Proverb, a deeper look is required.

Could it be that this Proverb is saying something to us that we’ve all heard time and time again? MIND YA OWN BUSINESS! Don’t involve yourself in other people’s business. There’s an idea in healthy living called boundaries. Having boundaries means you understand what’s your responsibility and what’s someone else's.

In the Christian world, it’s always good to keep an eye out for people who could use your help. But even helping has to be balanced with wisdom! What if someone asked you to help them with their homework? What if someone wanted you to give them your homework to copy? That’s helping, right? Think again! Sometimes helping too much actually hurts. And this Proverb reminds us that helping is awesome, but you have to be WISE.

If you aren’t sure, ask yourself these questions:

Is it W.I.S.E.?

WORD… Does it reflect the heart of God’s Word?

INTEGRITY… Does it reflect the godly character that you want to have in all settings?

SEEK… Have you sought the Lord for His guidance?

ENCOURAGING… Does it help spur those around you to do good works?

Pray: Ask God to help you grow in discernment when helping others.

Discuss: What’s a time when you asked for help but you should have just done it yourself?

Do: Make up a skit about someone asking you to do something that’s really their responsibility. How would you handle it?