Reading: Wisdom of Sirach 17, 18; Psalm 69; Proverbs 14:16·20; 2 Corinthians 10 (text and audio from the Orthodox Study Bible)
Wisdom of Sirach 17–18
God created humanity with both reason and responsibility. He calls us to repent, to recognise our weakness, and to return to Him. In daily life, this means being mindful of our actions, knowing that every decision has weight before God. Sirach also emphasises mercy, urging us to show compassion to others as we ourselves depend on divine compassion.
Psalm 69
This psalm is a cry for help in the midst of suffering. It is for anyone who feels overwhelmed, rejected, or weighed down by burdens. In today’s world, it teaches us to turn our distress into prayer, trusting that our Lord hears even when society ignores or mocks. It teaches us also to support those who are marginalised, because God does not overlook the lowly.
Proverbs 14:16–20
Here we see genuine wisdom for daily conduct. The cautious avoid danger, but fools rush in. Patience, kindness, and careful speech bring peace, while rashness and cruelty lead to harm. In modern settings—whether in the workplace, the home, or online—these verses urge us to think before we act, to be steady in our dealings, and to treat others with respect regardless of their wealth or status.
2 Corinthians 10
St. Paul explains that our struggle is not fought with worldly weapons but with spiritual strength. He warns against boasting and insists on living by the authority of Christ. For us today, this means we should not measure ourselves by comparison with others, but instead focus on faithfulness and integrity. Our true battles are against pride, temptation, and falsehood, and the victory comes by obedience to God’s will.
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