Marriage's Missing Link

 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
Proverbs 31:11

Proverbs 31 is known for describing the perfect wife. I believe this verse describes the perfect marriage. The first part of the verse describes that the husband's heart safely trusts in his wife. Trust is a mutual relationship between two people. Much like love, trust is a two-way street. In order for either love or trust to exist, there must be unimpeded flow between the two that is not hampered by doubt, envy or anger. The adjective of "safely" implies there has been no history to cause doubt about the validity of the trust. As a result, the wife can equally trust the husband.

Trust requires open and honest communication that is void of deception, secrets or hidden agendas. The two freely share their opinions and emotions without fear of retribution. Each understands and respects the other - both their features and their faults. And neither hampers their love and trust of the other.

The relationship between husband and wife is compared to that between Jesus and the church (Ephesians 5:25). What a better example of a perfect relationship. In order for us to be close to Christ and safely trust Him, we must have the relationship of open and honest communication.

Do you have such a relationship with your spouse? If so, give them an extra hug tonight and thank them for such a wonderful blessing. If not, take the first steps in building such a relationship by following the example of Jesus. I don't know of a better example of a perfect relationship!

 

Do You Know Him?

Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in his fists? who hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? what is his name, and what is his son's name, if thou canst tell?                                         Proverbs 30:4

When I look at the question posed by Agur in the verse above, I have often smirked at how easy the answer would be for a third grade Sunday School class. But let's look a little closer at the question. While we readily know the answer, when was the last time you recognized the attributes of your Savior? Who else has the power to descend and ascend to heaven? Can you tame the wind? He used it as a fierce force to get the attention of Elijah and his disciples but then calmed the winds and seas for both Jonah and his disciples. Who else controls the reaches of the water? And then allows his servants to part it for His glory?

We often fail to view God's power on such a macroscopic scale but rather confine his abilities to our simple problems. We are so focused on our own petty issues that we fail to recognize his abilities to impact not only our lives but our community, country and the world. He made it all and is in control of it all.

So pause for a moment and reflect on His awesome power! Did you notice the turning of the leaves and the beautiful music of the birds? Take a peek at the night sky and recognize that He created each and every star. It kind of takes your breath away to recognize that we serve such a magnificent master!

Oh, and those problems in your life? They look a lot smaller now when you recognize who is on your side!

 

Hated By The World

An unjust man is an abomination to the just: and he that is upright in the way is abomination to the wicked.        Proverbs 29:27

We often wonder why the world can not accept us as Christians. Even within a country that was based upon religious freedoms, we are challenged daily in the courts, the press and our personal relationships with others. When was the last time that you observed people praying over their meal in public? Were they comfortable in their actions or were they aware that others around them may not approve? Have you personally felt peer pressure for your Christian actions? The answer is yes, we are all aware that our Christian actions are not accepted by the majority of our fellow citizens. Why?

Solomon explains above that we are viewed as an abomination by the wicked. Always have been, always will. We need to recognize the situation and accept it at face value. Perhaps this will minimize our desire to be "accepted" by the main-stream media and our peers in the community. When Jesus prayed for us in John 17, he recognized the evil against us due to us being "in the world but not of the world" (John 17:14-17). He has recognized the challenge, shouldn't we? We are not here to please the world but rather please our Father in heaven!

Have you been hated by the world today? Was it for following His will? Rejoice in knowing that there are two in heaven who love you dearly for your actions (John 17:26).

 

Goose Bumps In The Dark

 The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.    Proverbs 28:1

As a child, I was terrified of the dark. We had a freezer in the garage that required going out of the house to access. When it was my turn to get an item from the freezer after dark, I would stall and hunt for a flashlight to chase away the evil creatures that may be lurking in the dark. And to have two older brothers that just loved to scare me, the odds of me making it to and from the freezer without goose bumps or a scream was highly unlikely. Finally, I found my Dad's huge fishing light that used one of those heavy nine volt batteries. It would shine a beam of light to the end of the block! It didn't rid me of the pesky older brothers, but it definitely got rid of the dark!

Isn't life the same way? When we have strayed from following God's rules for our life, we get "jumpy". Whether it is a real or imagined menace, we flee at the drop of a hat! Guilt has a way of working on our heart that causes us to recognize the significance of our sins. And yet, we are too ashamed to come to Christ and ask for forgiveness. We had rather walk around beating ourselves up and jumping emotionally then simply asking for His forgiveness.

When we finally come to our senses and fall at His feet in humble submission and ask forgiveness, what a relief! It is like that old lantern that drives away the dark - we are no longer worried about what is around the next corner. For we know who protects us.

Are you having goose bumps and startled at every noise in life? Turn to the One who chases away the fears of darkness and gives us peace. You will become bold as the lion - for he cares for you!

 

Inherited Salvation

For riches are not for ever: and doth the crown endure to every generation?  Proverbs 27:24

Solomon warns us that riches and authority do not necessarily pass down from generation to generation. While our parents may be wealthy or powerful, there is no guarantee that we will inherit such blessings. The same is true for our salvation. Many when challenged about their personal relationship with Christ will immediately start a lengthy dissertation on their long lineage of service to God. I have heard such boastings of "My great-great-grandparents helped found this very church" or "My father and my grandfather were evangelists that were responsible for hundreds coming to know Christ".

Unfortunately, salvation is not inherited. It is a personal relationship with Jesus. No matter how great (or how bad) your parents may have been, it will not referenced when Jesus looks at you on judgement day. (Matthew 25:31-32). Paul warns us in Romans 14:12 that each must give an account of himself to God. How will you answer?

Accept Him as your personal savior and be assured that your riches and crown await you in heaven! (2 Timothy 4:8)

 

Foolish Entertainment

Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.      Proverbs 26:5

As a Christian, one of my biggest peeves is trying to defend the Bible to a fool. Before you close the door in my face, please allow me to explain. There is no greater satisfaction than teaching or showing someone something new in the Bible. Their expression is one of wonder and excitement as they read the verses for themselves and soak in the knowledge. There is visible appreciation in helping them find something they were looking for.

No so for a fool. You know the ones I am talking about - the one who wants nothing more than to argue his point and try to prove you wrong. It is a worthless cause - much like wrestling a pig. You get muddy and the pig enjoys it! Their motive is clearly evident that they have no desire to study the Bible, simply to argue its contents. I often struggled how to handle such a situation. Was it arrogant or un-Christian-like to refuse to discuss the Bible with such people? Thankfully, Jesus provides guidance on these situations as well!

In Matthew 16:1-4, the Pharisees and Sadducees tempted Jesus asking for a sign from heaven. He refused to provide a sign to a "wicked and adulterous generation". Later in Matthew 21:23-27, the chief priests and elders challenged his authority. Ultimately, he refused to tell them by what authority he performed his miracles. In both situations, Jesus refused to lower himself to their challenges. Likewise, when we lower ourselves to the challenges of a fool, we end up providing foolish answers to foolish questions. (Proverbs 26:4) I continue to pray for discernment from God so that I do not make a fool of myself in answering their foolish questions.

Join me in refraining from wasting our time on fools and their questions. We have an abundance of opportunities of sharing and showing God's love to those who are receptive. Let's make our every effort beneficial to our Lord and Savior, not for a fool's enjoyment.

 

Words Of Gold

 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.    Proverbs 25:11

I have chewed on my toes too many times! I have the uncanny ability to stick my foot in my mouth at the most sensitive times. Have you had the pleasure of such embarrassment? You feel so low that you wish you could shrink and slide under the door to escape the situation.

On the flip side, we have all experienced uplifting words from our friends at just the right moment. Whether it be words of encouragement, rebuke or advice, they are just what you needed when you needed it! What a blessing these words can be! They are like the words described above. You wish you could graphically display such strengthening words. I have often pondered, just how they could be so wise or caring at just the right moment?

Jesus gives us the answer: But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you. (Matthew 10:19-20) Ahh! It is not us speaking but the Holy Spirit! Doesn't the Comforter always know what words are needed at just the right time?

Do you have friends, like mine, that need encouragement? Are you aching for just the right words to say? You so desperately want to say the right thing and help not hurt their situation. If so, we need to focus on getting our hearts attuned to the Holy Spirit vice worrying about the words we will say. God will guide us in what to say and do - if we will only listen before we speak!

 

Dust Off Your Pants

 For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.                    Proverbs 24:16

Does your life feel like a tackling dummy? Every time you get your two feet under you, another unanticipated blow knocks you down and leaves you gasping for breath. Regardless of the challenge - financial, relationships, addiction, death or employment, you just can't seem to withstand the repeated blows. It is almost enough to cause you to abandon any hope of overcoming the challenge.

Look at the verse above, Solomon did not promise the just would be protected in a bubble suit and never be challenged. No, he promised we would get knocked down. But he also gave us hope - for we will rise again. God gives us strength to get up, dust off our pants and go at the challenge again, and again, and again. It didn't say we would win but it did say we would rise again. David shared our challenges in Psalms 31 but he closes with this encouragement: Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD. (Psalms 31:24)

Are you having a rough day, week or year? Get up, dust off your pants and place your hope in the Lord. Though we may be knocked down, we will continue to rise again until finally, one day, we will rise to meet Him!

 

Envious Pursuit

Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the LORD all the day long.       Proverbs 23:17

Have you ever been envious of others? While it may not be something dramatic as wealth, looks or popularity, we at times envy others for even the smallest of things. And while it may start out as a simple notice of the enticement, before long it is all-consuming. Your thoughts become obsessed with trying to figure out how to obtain the elusive goal. And your actions mimic those of the lucky one that possesses the elusive goal.  Eventually (I hope), we get beyond the desire of the item and move on.

But look closely at your actions when you are consumed with envy - your thoughts and actions are focused on the item of desire. What a shame that we can not dedicate such effort to loving the Lord! We often only give a token nod toward God in the morning during our prayer and, if He is lucky, a quick devotional. Why can we not be consumed with Him all day? He desires the focus of our attention all the day long. And the reward is everlasting - not a short-lived gratification from a passing fancy of our dreams. His reward is life everlasting - what a better object to become obsessed with!

 

The Fire Triangle

 Cast out the scorner, and contention shall go out; yea, strife and reproach shall cease.                   Proverbs 22:10

We all know that in order for a fire to exist, all three legs of the Fire Triangle must exist: fuel, heat and oxygen. Remove one and the fire goes out. Solomon provides a reverse type of triangle above: with a scorner present, you will experience contention, strife and reproach. Remove the scorner and you will remove the triangle of pain and frustration.

While we try to include everyone and show compassion to all, there comes a time when we need to recognize the benefits of an individual are not more valuable than the benefits of the group. While we strive to share God's message to everyone, it is obvious when a scorner doesn't believe. Nothing you can do or say will change their mind. The only solution is to walk away from the contention. Remove yourself and the strife will cease

 

Camping On The Roof

 It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.     Proverbs 21:9

I enjoy going camping and roughing it in the woods. But the mental image described in this verse of living on the roof top is almost preposterous. Where would you cook? Or take a bath? And I am sure, changing into pajamas would be quite a challenge on a sloping roof. It just doesn't make sense, does it?

Neither does quarreling with your spouse. Neither one invokes comfort or something you look forward to coming home to after a long day at work. I took the liberty of educating myself from the bible dictionary of the definition of brawling: a quarrelsome manner or to dispute violently or loud and aggressively.

While disagreements are expected between two people, brawls or quarrels are not. They do not resolve the situation, but simply increase the anger and frustration experienced by both sides. And violent arguments set a perfect example to our children on how not to behave! As Solomon points out, no house is big enough for the two of you when you are angry with one another!

Paul provides us admonitions on Christian living in Colossians 3:12-25 with special guidance to spouses in verses 18 and 19. Paul describes this love by the husband similar to that of Jesus loving the church. If we are Christians and we strive to follow his Word, it is difficult for a disagreement to erupt into a quarrel! Look closely at Colossians 3:13 - Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. Nothing my wife could ever do can compare to the magnitude of sins that Jesus forgave me. How can I not forgive the disagreements over the color of a new sofa, dinner guest lists or finances? They pale in comparison to the forgiveness that Christ has shown for me.

If you are tempted to elevate your disagreement to a full-blown WWF event, pause and think what are the results of your efforts? I do not desire to sleep on the roof! Instead, sincerely say three little words that will guarantee you will sleep in the bed and not on the roof: "I forgive you"

 

No Higher Honor

 It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.  Proverbs 20:3

As a U.S. Navy retiree, the term "honor" is held as one of the Navy's core values. It is defined as: "to conduct ourselves in the highest ethical manner in all relationships with peers, superiors and subordinates; Be honest and truthful in our dealings with each other, and with those outside the Navy." The old World War II movies invoke such an images of honor, courage and commitment. But has those values disappeared along with the old black and white movies? With today's tabloid exposure of inappropriate behavior in our military, government and public officials, it causes one to wonder if any true heroes still exist.

My answer is yes. However, you may have to turn off the Internet and television to find them. Many are sitting in the pew next to you each week. While they are not proclaimed on the news, there are still many Christians who follow Jesus's advice. Jesus defines how we should treat others in Matthew 5:38-48.

Living honorably is not for the faint-hearted. The temptation to "get even" burns within each of us and is human nature opposing God's will. And we can not do it alone. While many of us can withstand some of the strife in our life, none of us can endure all of the strife without His assistance.

But when we follow His will and turn away from strife - not only the individual taunting you but others around will see a hero. While many may call it intestinal fortitude, we all know that is comes from the Lord. And David sums it up so well in Psalms 29:11 - The LORD will give strength unto his people; the LORD will bless his people with peace. Not only does he give us strength to turn away from strife but He will bless us with peace!

 

The Price Of Idle Chatter

 A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape.  Proverbs 19:5

We enjoy seeing people get punished. How often have you heard, "He got what was coming to him"? It makes us feel good when the evil get repaid for their dastardly deeds. And the verse above gives us a reason to swell in pride as we shake our bony finger at those who lie and connive to cheat others.

Before we get too carried away, perhaps we should see what Jesus has to say - But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. (Matthew 12:36-37)  Notice, Jesus didn't require evil intentions for us to be responsible for our words. Any words, intentional or idle, will be accountable on the day of judgment.

We need to renew our focus on our words and deeds. Even if they are idle, they are a reflection of our heart. Are we reflecting human nature or God's love? We will be held accountable, so let's assure our actions reflect the One who lives within us.

 

Bully Protection

The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.     Proverbs 18:10

No one likes a bully. They intimidate and strike unsuspecting people with no regards to the individual's situation. As a kid, I remember our school bully well. Clearly he had a "growth spurt" well beyond our years since he outweighed the rest of us guys by almost 2 to 1! While he was huge, he wasn't fast or agile. Our only security on the playground was the round cage of monkey bars - as long as you were inside, swinging from bar to bar, you were assured that he could not catch and pummel you. And the joy of the whistle signaling the end of recess! A quick dash got you in line under the teacher's watchful eye for protection.

Isn't life much like the bully? It has no regard for our situation but lashes out when we least suspect it. Financially (glasses for the kids), emotionally (losing a close friend) or career (guess who didn't get a raise) all reinforce the adage that "Life isn't fair". While we may recognize the truth in the adage, much like the little kid, there are times when we just can't take it any more. We have had enough. Every way we turn, there are new challenges and frustrations that seem insurmountable. We long for the whistle signaling the end of recess!

While there is no whistle for life, there is an escape. As Solomon points out above, when we run to Jesus, he is our protection. We are safe in his arms! Life continues to rage but we are protected by the Almighty. Are you tired of dodging the blows of life? Run to God and he will give you protection from the bully's of life!

 

Medicine For The Heart

 A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.     Proverbs 17:22

As a child, I hated taking medicine. Unfortunately, I am no better as an adult. But we all are knowledgeable of the benefits of today's medical breakthroughs and the benefits of properly taking prescribed medications. They can prevent or cure a myriad of aches, pains and diseases. It is almost miraculous the effects of just a few doses.

Such is the case of the merry heart: it can overcome life's challenges in a miraculous way. Solomon compares it to deathly, dried-up bones of a broken spirit. We have all experienced both ends of the spectrum. When we are broken, nothing seems to matter and blessings are not recognized. However, when our hearts are bursting with happiness, all seems well within the world and nothing can seem to keep us down. For me, I choose the latter! However, wishing for a merry heart is not enough - it takes daily effort to achieve such a phenomenal experience.

David gives us excellent advice on how to keep a merry heart in Psalms 16: 8-11: I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

One of the key concepts of David is that he keeps the Lord before him always. Similar to taking medication daily, it is with continual presence before God that we obtain the merry heart and rejoice in hope. It is not from the pleasure drugs of the world but from God's presence, that our spirits are lifted and we are filled with hope. Are you short on hope and long on despair today? Seek the One who has the perfect medicine for the heart!

 

The Stumbling Block To Sin

 Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.     Proverbs 16:3

We have often struggled with trying to determine if something is sinful or not. We often try to justify or excuse our actions based upon tolerance, social trends or interpretations. Solomon gives us an excellent tool to determine if something tips the scales in the wrong direction. If we commit our actions to the Lord, it will be readily apparent when we are going against his will!

Can you imagine praying "Lord bless me while I cheat my customers" or "Lord bless me while I humiliate my enemy today"? It is obvious God's blessing and such actions are not compatible. So is the same with all sinful actions. If we submit our every act to God's will, we will no longer have to wonder if we are sinning or not: He will establish our thoughts as promised above.

Is God pleased with your actions today? Have you committed your thoughts and deeds to Him? If so, His pleasure will be a stumbling block to sin.

 

The Feast Of Love

 Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.                      Proverbs 15:17

When many think of love, they see the commercialized vision of Valentine's Day: roses, candy, candle-lit dinner and sparkling jewelry. Unfortunately, such an image creates another thought in my mind - dollar signs! Love is not measured by the size or cost of gifts. Rather, Paul uses different metrics of measurement in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 - long suffering, kind, not envious, doesn't behave unseemly, not easily provoked, thinks no evil, rejoices in truth, bears all things, hopes all things and endures all things.

As Solomon and Paul point out, wealth or cost of gifts is not a measure of love. Rather, it is a measure of how much we give of ourselves to others. Paul's description challenges me in verse 7 with the fact that it is not a matter of convenience. Rather in ALL things, love bears, hopes and endures. What a perfect image of Christ - he loves us always, no matter what.

Can we say the same of our love for our spouses and children? Do we love them no matter what? Have we demonstrated our love in action vice gifts? So, instead of the fancy dinner tonight, why not serve up a simple meal with heaping servings of true love? Listen, share, care and prayer. Everyone will leave the table satisfied with a smile on their face!

 

Sin's Payment

There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.             Proverbs 14:12

We often try to justify our departure from being obedient to God. We have all heard and/or used the excuses of "everyone else is doing it", "I'll go but I won't participate" or "There is nothing wrong with ...". And many times, the risks seem minimal - at the beginning. It is only after getting hooked upon the act do we realize just how far we have strayed from God's will.

Jesus did not classify sin by size or severity (except one). In his teachings, sin was sin. So it is hard for us to justify how minimal an act of sin may be. Much like our relationships with our spouses, an act against them (big or small) breaks down the closeness you share in your relationship. You may try to justify your actions but the chasm is still there. There is only one way to close the gap with your spouse or your Master - forgiveness.

Why do we try to justify our actions? If we stop and recognize who is in control and ask for his assistance, he will assist us in resisting the temptations. "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."  (James 4:7). If we stop justifying your actions and start submitting ourselves to Christ, we will not have to deal with the final payment!

 

What Is Your Life Worth?

 The ransom of a man's life are his riches: but the poor heareth not rebuke.      Proverbs 13:8

I laughed when I read that our body is worth approximately $4.50 (depending on stock market prices) for the minerals contained within our body. We could almost double our value, $3.50 additional, if we were to sale our skin as leather. Wow! For less than $10, we could buy a person! It is quite staggering to realize that no matter how wealthy an individual may be, his "body value" is pretty much the same as the beggar on the street corner.

So how are our riches measured? Solomon states that the ransom is measured by a man's riches. Is he referring to the bottom line of our balance sheet?  Jesus measures our lives not against the balance sheet but how well we serve him.

And who is willing to pay such a ransom? Jesus tells us in Matthew 20:28 - Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. How do you measure the value of God's one and only son? For that is your worth. He gave his life a ransom for each and every one of us.

No matter how rich or poor we may be by earthly measure, our life's worth is measured by the death of Jesus on the cross. Paul encourages us in 1 Corinthians 6:20 - For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. Don't squander your value - use the life he has given you for his glory.

 

Foolish Groupies

He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.     Proverbs 12:11

I am often amazed to what extremes people will go in chasing after celebrities. People will squander their possessions and give their lives just to follow after some one that is famous. It is saddening to see people demean themselves to an individual who doesn't know or care about them and any brief encounter is quickly forgotten by the celebrity. I often wonder, why they can't see how foolish they look giving everything to some one that doesn't acknowledge their existence.

Sadly, we do the same thing with other facets in our life without recognizing it either. Our obsessions with wealth, political stature or simply a great golf score will cause us to make foolish choices with our lives. We sometimes choose to give up what is most important in our life simply in hopes of perfecting a goal. And if, or when, that goal is achieved, was it worth it? My father often spoke of a "healthy balance" in our choices. While the object of attraction may be innocent in normal situations, if obsessed, it can become debilitating to the rest of your life. We once had a neighbor who obsessed over his lawn - while normal care of the lawn is acceptable, he foresaked almost everything to simply have the "perfect lawn". Sadly, none of these goals listed above are everlasting - they all pass with time.

Wisdom and knowledge is the key to maintaining a "healthy balance" in our choices. David tells us "What man is he that feareth the LORD? him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose." (Psalms 25:12)When we rely on God, he will direct our actions and our choices. Steer clear of following after vain people and flashy goals lest you be labeled foolish as well!

 

A Peaceful Journey

 The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness.              Proverbs 11:5

As a man, I fit the generalization that men hate to ask directions. I had rather drive an additional 25 miles than stop for directions. I know, it is a pride thing but it is just too humbling to admit I am lost! Many of us suffer the same challenge in the direction that our life is going. We are too prideful to acknowledge that we don't know where we are going in life.

As I have grown older and stronger in my walk with Christ, I am learning to follow vice trying to lead my life. When we give up our will to His will, the stress and worries fade. I am growing in the confidence that while I do not know where I will be in ten years, I can be confident that if I remain in His will for my life, it just won't matter. And the peace that comes from such trust makes it much easier on a daily basis to trust in Him. I no longer worry about being lost in my life's plan simply questioning am I following His will for my life?

Are you worried about what the future will bring? James gives us great advice in James 4:13-15. It puts our short life in a heavenly perspective. Have you truly committed your life to Him? Does Jesus have control? If so, it will truly be a peaceful journey.

 

No Strings Attached

The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.     Proverbs 10:22

I am often suspicious of "good deals". Normally, something that seems to be to-good-to-be-true is usually not true. Hidden costs and commitments result in frustrations that take away any pleasure obtained with the free goods.

The Lord's blessing are right the opposite - they are unwarranted and truly free. When I try to explain to non-believers, they feel that there is a catch. Why? Because they only have worldly experience to base their judgment on. When I explain that the biggest gift he ever gave us was His son and we only have to believe to receive, they are hesitant.

I am convinced that you must first be a believer in Christ in order to truly appreciate his blessings. David supports the theory in Psalms 34:8 - O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. It is only after trusting in God are you able to fully recognize the many blessing he bestows upon us.

How have you been blessed today? Share your joys with other believers and they too will be blessed!

 

Acknowledging Weakness

Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him,    Proverbs 9:4

Solomon describes an invitation from wisdom above. One thing that continues to strike me about the verse is that it requires us to acknowledge our weaknesses. The invitation is not for those who think they are wise and understanding. Too often, we think we have innate abilities to handle situations on our own. Unfortunately, we don't. And we fail to recognize our weakness until we have made a mess of the situation and cry out for assistance in undoing our mistakes.

When we truly commit our lives to Christ and give Him control, we should no longer try to do things our way. We have to submit to His will which requires us to acknowledge our weakness and allow Him to lead us.

We are all familiar with Psalms 23. Have you noticed the precursors to the blessings? Being led by the Lord! (Psalms 23:2-3). We can only win when we give control to God. Acknowledge your weaknesses to Him and allow Him to lead you to greater blessings!

 

Eternal Durabiliy

Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness.    Proverbs 8:18

I am terrible with keeping New Year's resolutions and diets. While my intentions are good, I lack the ability to sustain the effort for an extended period of time. I often wonder what percentage of New Year's resolutions are maintained to the next New Years? Very few, I would imagine. The same is true for many of our good intentions toward others. We become distracted, frustrated or busy with other tasks and lose focus on our intentions.

Solomon uses the term "durable" to describe the riches, honor and righteousness associated with gaining God's wisdom. He doesn't mean it will be out of style next year, wear out in a few months or lose value in years to come. These benefits are eternal, never fading or wearing out. What a comfort to know that God's gifts last beyond our life here on earth! Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:33 - "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." 

I am encouraged in knowing that these gifts are provided not by my ability to keep my resolutions but rather by acknowledging my weakness. When I quit trying to do things on my own and give control to God, he will take care of the rest. He empowers us when we surrender to His will. And the results are much longer lasting than any resolution of my own!

 

Family Reunion

Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister; and call understanding thy kinswoman:    Proverbs 7:4

We all have relatives that we wish we did not have to admit that we knew or, worse,  acknowledge we are related. You know the ones I am talking about - the obnoxiously loud (in voice and attire), the bum (still at 40), and the criminal (finally got caught!). Yes, we all have them. And yes, we all wish we didn't.

But there are other relatives that bring a smile to our face when we think of them. They mentor and share their knowledge and bounty with you without discretion. I still remember the camping and fishing trips, the fresh-out-of-the-oven tea cakes, driving an ancient John Deere tractor, trapping beavers and hunting arrow heads. While none of these memories involve great amounts of money, all of them show an investment. My relatives were willing to share their time (and patience) to teach me many of the items that helped shape who I became.

And the same is true with our relatives listed in the verse above. When we welcome them into our lives like our favorite relatives, wisdom and knowledge will freely share their bounty. Their insights will shape our character and guide us in Christian living. Why don't you invite them over for a visit? Spending a few hours visiting via the word of God will deliver gifts that have eternal blessings!

 

Piercing The Darkness

 For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:   Proverbs 6:23

Have you ever been home at night when the electricity goes out? It becomes eerily quite and totally dark! As you scramble around for a candle or flashlight, you bump into objects and your fingers grasp unknown items. But once you have a single candle or flashlight, what a difference it makes! Anxiety ceases, confusion is minimized and you are able to see where you are going.

The light of God's law and commandments are the same. Without Him, we struggle in life bumping and grasping at things unseen with little hope of knowing. But when we see his light through others, we are able to see distinctly the issues within our life.

Are you struggling with unseen issues? Do you seem to keep bumping against the same objects? Seek His will and he will light your path!

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.  Psalms 119:105

 

The Bitterness Of Sin

 But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two-edged sword. Proverbs 5:4

I have never tasted wormwood but it is stated to be the most bitter-tasting plant on the earth! It has been used to repel moths and other household insects and will kill any plants planted near it. Not exactly something that I would chose to eat! Solomon chose this plant for a purpose in describing the effects of sinful nature. When our sins have matured, they are painful and distasteful.

While sin may initially be appealing, exhilarating and socially accepted, the end result is the same. Painful recognition of it's true meaning doesn't occur until sometimes it is too late. Solomon paints a grim picture of the end result in Proverbs 5:3-13. While we know that our Lord is forgiving, recognition and fleeing from sin is much less painful! David provides us an excellent example of prayer in Psalms 25:

Unto thee, O LORD, do I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me. Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause. Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day. Remember, O LORD, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old. Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions: according to thy mercy remember thou me for thy goodness' sake, O LORD. Good and upright is the LORD: therefore will he teach sinners in the way. The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way. All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies. For thy name's sake, O LORD, pardon mine iniquity; for it is great. What man is he that feareth the LORD? him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose. His soul shall dwell at ease; and his seed shall inherit the earth. The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant. Mine eyes are ever toward the LORD; for he shall pluck my feet out of the net. Turn thee unto me, and have mercy upon me; for I am desolate and afflicted. The troubles of my heart are enlarged: O bring thou me out of my distresses. Look upon mine affliction and my pain; and forgive all my sins. Consider mine enemies; for they are many; and they hate me with cruel hatred. O keep my soul, and deliver me: let me not be ashamed; for I put my trust in thee. Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee. Redeem Israel, O God, out of all his troubles.

Clearly David sinned much like you and I. But his prayer above provides us a road map to prevention and repentance.

 

Crank Up The Light

 But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.     Proverbs 4:18

Solomon describes our Christina path as increasing in intensity as we proceed. And Paul describes our responsibility even better in Philippians 2:15 - That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Both clearly define our responsibility to be His light in the world.

But how do we increase our intensity that Solomon defines in the second half of the verse above? Many of us have dimmers on lights in our house. The old-style dimmers used a rudimentary variable resistor that increased the resistance and reduced the voltage to the light bulb causing it to dim. As the resistance was reduced, the voltage to the light increases and the bulb burns brighter. So it is with our Christian walk with God. As we reduce the resistance to His will, we come closer to God. The closer to God, the brighter we shine!

Jesus reminds us in Matthew 5:16 - Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.  Let us be mindful that all of our actions are a direct reflection upon our Lord and Savior. Join me in striving to draw closer to God so that the world will be blinded by the light of His love!

 

Painful Love

My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.     Proverbs 3:11-12

We often view God as a kind and loving entity that is focused upon keeping us happy. It seems to give us a cozy feeling and allows us to place him in a neat little portion of our life. Unfortunately, it is not our world in which he exists. Rather, we are his children in His world.

As with our children, we are loved beyond our wildest imagination. We know that our children will not survive the dangers of life without enforced boundaries. If they disobey us or the laws of society there is a price of punishment that must be exercised. Do we punish our children because we hate them? No! Rather, because we care so much for their well-being that we must enforce the standards of safety and societal relationships.

Likewise, God knows that we can not survive without his boundaries. Why, then, do we complain when God corrects us for our wrong doing? Is He not expressing his endless love for us in protecting us from our own sinful nature? Would we not be frightened if he didn't care and allowed us to ruin our hope of eternal salvation?

As our sons have matured, nothing is more gratifying than to hear my son acknowledge my cautions with appreciation. So should we thank the Lord for his corrections! Rejoice in knowing that you are so loved by our Lord and Savior that he is willing to punish you for your wrong-doing.

 

Thrashing Temptation

To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh froward things;        Proverbs 2:12

I have often thought that as a Christian, I could resist temptation. Over the years, I have come to realize that I can't resist even a slice of cake! We often think that it is by some great human effort that we are able to resist a single temptation. And then we foolishly strut around like a proud rooster telling everyone how strong we are to resist said temptation.

Solomon, in his wisdom, extols the value of wisdom in the heart and knowledge in the soul (Proverbs 2:10) which delivers us from the temptation of evil men described above. Wisdom and knowledge comes from God (Proverbs 2:5-6), not from years with your nose buried in books! But Solomon didn't have Internet access and mass media attacking his morals on a daily basis. How can we ever resist the temptations of today?

Jesus was no stranger to temptation - he endured forty days of temptation after His baptism. He included it as His last request in the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:13). And acknowledge the weakness of the flesh in his disciples (Matthew 26:41). Jesus recognizes that we are physically unable to resist temptation but spiritually we can overcome.

Paul sums it up so well in 1 Corinthians 10:13 - There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. Paul provides much needed encouragement for people like me that think no one has ever had to endure my temptations and there is no way out. There is a way out - but how?

 God knows and is willing to show us. But to know, we must seek Him and he will give us the wisdom and knowledge to overcome each and every temptation. Before we were born, Jesus prayed to His Father for our protection from temptation (John 17:15). While our prayers may not be answered, I am most confident that God will answer the prayer of His one and only Son!

Stand fast against temptation today - for you have the promise and prayer of your Savior supporting you!

 

The Stupidity Factor

Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse:   Proverbs 1:14

Solomon describes the enticing invitations provided by sinners in Proverbs 1:10-15. In the verse above, they invite the gullible to join forces with them and gain easy wealth. My father always cautioned me as a teenager that "the stupidity factor increased proportional to the number of boys hanging out with nothing to do". He explained that while one innocent, bored young man may not get in any trouble, put him with his bored friends and the odds of something stupid and wrong occurring increased with the addition of each additional bored teen. Sadly, he was right. And sadly, I proved the theory on more than one occasion!

Aren't we the same today? Rarely will you hear one person alone criticize another. But as the group of on-lookers grows, the critical, demeaning, demoralizing comments grow in proportion. Why is that? We have a tendency to be brave in our comments and actions when the group of supporters increases. We feel embolden to speak out, as long as we are with "friends" who share our view. But have you ever been in a group wandering in the wrong direction (in actions or words) when only one person has the strength to stand up for what is right? Quite a rain on the parade! Words are stopped in their tracks, toes lazily circle making imaginary figures on the floor while each quietly ponders his actions. While someone may be brazen enough to chastise the one challenging their actions, all know within their heart that they have done wrong. Do you have the moral fortitude to stand up? Jesus did make us the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13). Are we providing the proper seasoning to our peers?  We have a purpose that should prevent us from ever being bored (Matthew 28:19-20). Stay focused on your mission and you will  reduce the stupidity factor in your group!