Bible Study Guide for Sunday, September 19, 2021

• Proverbs 31:10-31
• Psalm 1
• James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a
• Mark 9:30-37

I think I am not alone in my annoyance at unsolicited advice. This week's readings start out on the wrong foot for a contrarian. There's almost too many instructions in Proverbs and Psalms on how to bear good fruit in the world and set yourself apart, distinguishing oneself by good behavior. It smacks of Miss Manners, not God's beneficent cosmic splendor.