Destroying the Idols ~ Raul Ries

“For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.”
1 Thessalonians 1:9

When Mahmud of Ghanzi invaded India, his conquering forces entered a celebrated temple to destroy it. Mahmud was entreated by a priest to spare a certain idol, but he refused. Instead, he rained repeated blows upon it. Suddenly the image burst open, and a stream of precious stones cascaded from its hollow interior. In the same way, for each idol the Christian destroys in his life, he gains more than he loses! Every idol that is demolished brings him new treasures of grace and removes another hindrance to a powerful life of prayer.

Thought for the Day:

Have you destroyed the idols in your life, or are they destroying you?

The Power of the Gospel and the Predicament of the Unrighteous ~ WOW the Bible in 7 minutes a day

The Power of the Gospel and the Predicament of the Unrighteous

Romans 1:1-2:11; Psalm 123:1,3-4; Proverbs 23:13-14

Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God which He promised before through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures, concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh, and declared to be the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead. Through Him we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith among all nations for His name, among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ;

To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints:
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers, making request if, by some means, now at last I may find a way in the will of God to come to you. For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established-that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.

Now I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that I often planned to come to you (but was hindered until now), that I might have some fruit among you also, just as among the other Gentiles. I am a debtor both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to wise and to unwise. So, as much as is in me, I am ready to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome also.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, "The just shall live by faith."

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man-and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.

Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.

For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.

And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.

Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. But we know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practice such things. And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God? Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? But in accordance with your hardness and your impenitent heart you are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, who "will render to each one according to his deeds": eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality; but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness-indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek; but glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For there is no partiality with God.

Romans 1:1-2:11

WORSHIP

Unto You I lift up my eyes,
O You who dwell in the heavens.
Have mercy on us, O LORD, have mercy on us!
For we are exceedingly filled with contempt.
Our soul is exceedingly filled
With the scorn of those who are at ease,
With the contempt of the proud.
Psalm 123:1, 3-4

WISDOM

Do not withhold correction from a child,
For if you beat him with a rod, he will not die.
You shall beat him with a rod,
And deliver his soul from hell.
Proverbs 23:13-14

Grateful exchange ~ Mike MacIntosh

Now Jesus sat opposite the treasury and saw how the people put money into the treasury. And many who were rich put in much. Then one poor widow came and threw in two mites, which make a quadrans. So He called His disciples to Himself and said to them, "Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood." Mark 12:41-44

Giving really shows what type of a person someone is. It reveals our character and what we think of the Lord. Here's a lady who gave two mites, which is equal to a fourth of a penny. This was her life's savings, and she gave it all. By contrast, the rich were piling huge amounts of wealth into the treasury boxes to look impressive; they wanted to be honored by the people. Some historians even suggest that many rich people back then piled up money for one full year before giving it at the temple. And you can imagine how heavy that money would have been as they poured it into those boxes. But the poor widow gave from a heart of worship, and Jesus looked at that as something to be honored. You see, when we give, God weighs our motivation, not the amount. Her offering far outweighed any amount that the others gave.


According to the laws of that day, it would have been acceptable for the widow to give one mite for temple service and to keep the other mite for personal use and livelihood. But instead of "getting by" with what the law said, she gave according to what God said. She gave from her whole heart. It's as if she said, "God, I love you and I trust you with my life. I am giving all that I have to You because You first loved me. If there is anything that I have in this world that is holding me back from loving You, I want to give it to You right now. I want You to know that when I turn my back on this temple and walk away, and go to my little home, that I will still love You. I give everything I have to You."


Are you giving a lot of money for the wrong reasons? Are you giving very little out of selfish motivations, trying to keep it all for yourself? Both ends of the spectrum are sinful and wrong. God is looking for people with hearts to give generously no matter how much--or how little--it is. Give with all your heart to the Lord, not out of any selfish ambition, but out of a heart expecting to see God's work advanced in supernatural ways.

The Hiding Place ~ Mark Balmer

Based on “Get People to Jesus” by Pastor Mark Balmer; 11/14-15/09,

Message #MB396; Daily Devotional #3 - “The Hiding Place”

Preparing the Soil (Introduction): He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. (Psalm 91:1) From time to time, we all love to take a break. It could be a break from work, a family vacation, or just a time to ‘get away’. The human soul benefits from proper rest. Everybody needs a time to slow down and lay everything down, while the world continues in its fast pace. Just as a ship needs an anchor to help it stop and stay in place, we also need a sort of “pacesetter” to keep our lives in good order and give us peace. Jesus came so that we can have peace and rest. He is our peace (Ephesians 2:14).

Planting and Watering the Seed (Growth): So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. (Luke 11:9-10) Three wise men set off from the Far East to seek the newborn King Jesus; they had seen His star and wanted to worship Him (Matthew 2:1-2). At that time, these men did not know everything God’s Word tells us about Jesus, but they knew enough to lay everything down for a divine purpose. They must have travelled for weeks following the star until it stopped over the place where the child was, and they were overjoyed (Matthew 2:9-10). An event had taken place which was to change the course of history. God’s plan for mankind from the foundation of the world was unfolding. It was the appointed time. Note that, from that point onward, the world has sought after the King of Kings, either to try to destroy Him (Matthew 2:16-18) or to worship Him. Jesus came so we can be adopted into God’s family and have everlasting life. Wise men and women still seek Jesus as Lord of their lives.

Harvesting the Crop (Action/Response): For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority. (Colossians 2:9) Jesus is the answer for all our needs and for the world today. In Him alone we are complete; we can find purpose in life and be joyful in every situation. Are you weak and heavy laden? Can you see people around you crying out for help, just by the way they live? Embrace Jesus in His entirety, and you will have what it takes to help those around you. Jesus said “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

Cultivating (Additional Reading): Matthew 1; 1 Peter 5:7

The sweetness of adversity ~ Jon Courson

For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil. - 1 Peter 3:12

As one who knew the Word, Peter continues quoting another who experienced brutal days ...

What man is he that desireth life, and loveth many days, that he may see good? Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile. Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace and pursue it. The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry. The face of the Lord is against them that do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth. Psalm 34:12-16

With Saul out to kill him, David found himself seeking refuge in the Philistine city of Gath. But when he realized that he was recognized in the city as the one who had slain Goliath, David knew he was again in danger. So in order to make it out of Gath alive, he clawed at the gates of the city, ranting and raving like a lunatic as he feigned insanity. When the king heard there was a crazy man within his gates, David was allowed to go his way.

Psalm 34 was written while David was in Gath, running for his life, and yet what does he say? The Psalm begins, ‘I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth, for I have tasted and seen in the midst of this difficulty that the Lord is good.’

Who will love life and see good days? Society says it’s the one who can make his life problem-free, who insulates himself from difficulty, who escapes adversity. But David says just the opposite. He says it’s when you’re wondering how the next bill will be paid, or if the marriage will work out that the Lord makes Himself most real to you. He says it’s when you’re trapped in Gath that suddenly you see God.

Now, if we really embraced what Peter is saying, what David is declaring and what James is saying when he declares, ‘Count it all joy when you fall into various trials' (James 1:2), we would not try to make our life easier. Instead, we would be those who say, ‘It’s in the day of difficulty, in the years that are hard for me that I’m going to have the opportunity to taste and see that the Lord is good.’

We all know people who are insulated from problems, who don’t have challenges and who have succeeded in making their lives as easy as they possibly can. But the easier it gets for them, the less joy there is within them.

Peter says something which is absolutely shocking — at least in the ears of our culture — when he says, ‘In the midst of sufferings, difficulties and challenges, don’t seek to fix the problems. Don’t seek to make it easier. Choose instead to do good and to seek peace. Don’t murmur, don’t complain — and you’ll find that you love life because God will meet you in the midst of your difficulties.’

The measure of a life well lived ~ Jack Graham

… looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith…
-- Hebrews 12:2

It’s natural for people to make plans for their life. Even in our later years, we tend to make plans for decades to come. But none of us knows when this race will be over… when our lives will end.

We might hope to live to be 80, 90 or 100, and then one day gather our family around us, lay down in our bed, speak a few well-chosen words of blessing, then close our eyes and die. But we know it doesn’t always happen that way!

Some of us will run shorter courses than others, and some longer. That’s why it’s so important that we be running passionately and aggressively to pursue the prize while we’re on the track!

I like to say that our lives are not measured by duration, but by donation. It isn’t how many years you live that matters, but how much of your life you gave to Jesus, loving him and loving others in his name. That’s the measure of a life well lived.

So don’t waste a moment of this gift called life. Get in your lane and run the race in the power of Christ Jesus! Give it everything you have until the final step.

IT ISN’T HOW MANY YEARS YOU LIVE THAT MATTERS, BUT HOW MUCH OF YOUR LIFE YOU GAVE TO JESUS.

Quench the thirst in others ~ David McGee

John 4:15

"Please, sir," the woman said, "give me some of that water! Then I'll never be thirsty again, and I won't have to come here to haul water."
NLT

Life Lesson

We should be pouring out to the world what God has poured into us.

The Israelites and Samaritans lived in a dry, thirsty land; in a desert. It is hard for many of us to imagine how valuable water is in such a desperate place. Yet, we live in a spiritually dry and thirsty land; we are often oblivious to the lack. I wonder how many times a day someone tells us they are thirsty. Perhaps not, 'please give me some of that water' but they put it another way. When they speak of problems with their children, troubles in their marriage, trials in their life, they are really saying, "I am thirsty." When they are short tempered, worn out and angry they are saying they don't know how to quench their thirst. I also wonder how many times we don't really understand their plea and their thirst. How many times we walk past opportunities to minister to them. Be filled up this morning and go give it away. Look for the thirsty and look for the dry. Hear their cries and offer them living water.

Dear Father, Thank You for loving me so much that You allow me to serve You. Lord, I lift this land up to You and ask You to raise up workers for the harvest. You offer the water that completely quenches our need and You offer it abundantly and freely. Open the hearts of this world to Your gift and allow me to play a part in the quenching of this thirsty world. I thank You that the results are in Your almighty hands. I pray this in Jesus' name. Amen

Do you apply wisdom to avert crisis? (96-2) ~ Barry Werner

Do you apply wisdom to avert crisis? (96-2)

November 17th, 2009 in 2 Samuel, Conflict Management, Old Testament, Proverbs, Wisdom | leave a response

In the Bible, the book of Proverbs reads like a manual for dealing with people. It should be on every leaders list of “must read” material every year. I recommend that you pick a month with 31 days and read a chapter a day each day that month. As the Proverbs unfold, among other great advice, leaders will find a recurring theme, they should pray for growth in wisdom, common sense, good judgment, knowledge and understanding. Today our study shows the application of wisdom by a leader that we can all learn from. Read 2 Samuel 20:14-22.

As the people were re-establishing David as king following the defeat of his son’s attempted overthrow of his government, “…a troublemaker named Sheba son of Bicri, a Benjamite, happened to be there. He sounded the trumpet and shouted, ‘We have no share in David, no part in Jesse’s son! Every man to his tent, O Israel!’ So all the men of Israel deserted David to follow Sheba son of Bicri” (20:1-2a). David knew a split in the nation between his tribe, Judah, and his predecessor Saul’s tribe of Benjamin would do more harm than the rebellion of his own son so when David returned to the palace in Jerusalem he summoned the commander of the army and sent him after Sheba to put down this revolt with force.

David’s army pursued Sheba and finally trapped him in the city Abel Beth Maacah. They built a siege ramp against the city wall and were bringing in battering rams to break through when a city leader referred to only as “…a wise woman” called out to the troops and got an audience with David’s general. This woman knew that if the city resisted David’s army a lot more people would die than Sheba, in fact the army could make an example of the city so other cities would think twice before harboring revolutionary leaders.

This wise leader gives a perfect example of astute damage control. She saved the city by dealing judiciously and rationally with Joab to discover the reason for the siege. She helped Joab to see the value of the city, to understand their rich history as part of the nation of Israel and requested a chance to deal with Sheba now that they knew all the facts concerning what he had done to anger the king. Having convinced Joab to delay his attack, she persuaded her people to hand Sheba over to Joab and thus averted a disaster.

Is there an area under your leadership that has an impending crisis that needs to be averted – now? Effective wise leaders head off crisis by getting all the facts from the proper sources, arm their team with the right information to make good decisions and then take the necessary actions.

Proverbs 18:13-15 (TLB) says, “What a shame – yes, how stupid! – to decide before knowing the facts. A man’s courage can sustain his broken body, but when courage dies, what hope is left? The intelligent man is always open to new ideas. In fact, he looks for them.”

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Tags: Crisis, Damage Control

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Self-Pity ~ Chuck Swindoll

1 Kings 19

A severe case of ingrown eyeballs strikes all of us every once in a while. In both dramatic and subtle ways, the stubborn enemy of our souls whispers sweet little nothings in our ears. He reminds us of how unappreciated and ill-treated we are . . . how important yet overlooked . . . how gifted yet ignored . . . how capable yet unrecognized . . . how bright yet eclipsed . . . how valuable yet unrewarded.

But the most damaging impact of self-pity is its ultimate end. A frown will replace your smile. A pungent criticism will replace a pleasant, “I understand.” Suspicion and resentment will submerge you like a tidal wave, and you will soon discover that this sea of self-pity has brought with it urchins of doubt, despair . . . and even the desire to die.

An exaggeration? If you think so, sit with me awhile beneath the shade of a juniper tree located at 19 First Kings, the address of a prophet named Elijah.

Elijah had just won a great victory over Ahab and his Baal-worshiping pawns. In fact, God stamped His approval upon Elijah in such a way that all Israel knew he was God’s mouthpiece. As a result, Jezebel, Ahab’s spouse (he was her mouse), declared and predicted Elijah’s death within twenty-four hours.

Now, the seasoned prophet had surely been criticized before. But this threat somehow found the chink in his armor.

So Elijah ran for his life. Then, beneath the tree, overwhelmed with self-pity, he said, “I’ve had enough . . . take away my life. . . . I've worked very hard for the Lord God of the heavens; but the people of Israel have broken their covenant with you and torn down your altars and killed your prophets, and only I am left; and now they are trying to kill me, too” (1 Kings 19:4, 10, TLB).

Yet God didn’t rebuke His man, nor strike him dead. He encouraged him to take a rest, enjoy a catered meal or two . . . and get his eyes off himself and his situation so that they might get back on the Lord. God even gave him a close friend, a fella named Elisha, with whom he might share his life and his load.

Feeling sorry for yourself today? Why not try God’s remedy: Take a break, stop trying to work things out yourself. And take a long, loving look at your Savior in His Word . . . and then spend some time with a friend. You’ll be amazed at the outcome.

Self-pity is the smog that pollutes and obscures the light of the Son.

Running the Race of Faith ~ Charles Stanley

Hebrews 12:1-3

The runners in a marathon must all follow a clearly marked course. Suppose one of the athletes decides to pick his own path. He keeps to the 26-mile race standard and sets his finish line in the same spot as the official one, but he runs through neighborhoods with fewer hills and across less crowded parks. His plan seems excellent to him, but when he crosses the finish line, there will be no medal or ribbon waiting.

What a silly thing for a person to do! Yet, believers fall into this very trap when they decide the course for their life instead of running the race God sets. By submitting to His will—doing what He says and going where He leads—we remain on the right path. But the moment we revert to our old habits and start making decisions based on our own wisdom, we go far afield.

For believers, the finish line is the same whether they run the race God’s way or their own way—namely, heaven. However, the difference is what we have to show for all the energy expended getting there. No one wants to look back and say, “I didn’t really accomplish anything of value.” Regardless of how grand a legacy someone leaves, the only truly lasting and worthwhile deeds are those done for the Lord and in the power of His Spirit.

Thankfully, no matter how far off course we veer, the Holy Spirit is still present. He reminds us of the right path—as well as the power available to get back on it and persevere. Your route is set; your choice clear. Run the race set before you and finish well (Acts 20:24).

The "Much More" Grace of God ~ Bob Hoekstra

For if by the one man's offense death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:17)

The grace of God here is connected with the phrase "much more." What a grand description of His grace—the "much more" grace of God! God's grace is "much more" than forgiveness. It is "much more" than new birth. It is "much more" than we have yet understood. It is "much more" than we have ever yet experienced. Here, we see it is "much more" than sufficient to deal with the devastating effects of sin in the lives of the children of Adam.

Due to sin, humankind begins its existence separated from the Lord. We all began "dead in trespasses and sins" (Ephesians 2:1). Additionally, each person's individual experience can be decimated by the effects of sin. Selfishness, dishonesty, brutality, fear, disloyalty, deception, and the like, can leave individuals in miserable bondage and paralyzing defeat. These devastations come from being under the rule of death: "For if by the one man's offense death reigned through the one." When Adam fell into sin and rebellion, the enemy of men's souls gained authority over Adam and his seed. This cruel dictator rules over everyone who is related to Adam through natural birth (and not yet related to Jesus by new birth). Elsewhere, Jesus described the sole intention of our enemy's interest in us. "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy" (John 10:10a).

God's remedy for escaping the reign of death is two-fold: "those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ." First, the "gift of righteousness"standing in heaven before a holy, righteous God. "But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed…even the righteousness of God which is through faith in Jesus Christ to all and on all who believe" (Romans 3:21-22). Second, "abundance of grace" provides the continual spiritual resources that are necessary for the development of a godly, victorious walk for the glory of God in the midst of humanity here on earth. Both of these wondrous provisions ("abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness") are ours because of the relationship we have by faith with Jesus Christ: "through the One, Jesus Christ." provides an acceptable

Heavenly Father, I realize that Your grace is much more than I have yet understood or experienced. I also see that it is much more than sufficient to reverse the effects of sin that may have impacted my life. So, I humbly reach out to You to receive from Your abundance of grace, that I might walk more victoriously, through Christ, Amen.

Trick Question ~ Bob Coy

"The baptism of John; was it from heaven or from men?" Luke 20:4 (NKJV)

It's difficult for us to understand the uncontested authority the Pharisees enjoyed and employed within Jewish culture. As long as anyone could remember, it was a given that these men were the custodians of truth. That is, until Jesus came along. "Radical" doesn't even begin to describe His stance towards the Pharisees. He repeatedly called them out and exposed them for their lack of true spiritual authority.

As it became clear the Pharisees were starting to lose ground in the hearts of the Jewish people, they launched their counter-attack. "What gives you the right to challenge us? By what authority do you say these things?" He could have answered their charge by simply declaring who He was, God in human flesh. But He asked them a question instead. "The baptism of John; was it from heaven or from men?"

This was actually a trick question on Christ's part that was designed to demonstrate they were the ones whose authority was lacking. It was a question they couldn't answer because if they said John was heaven-sent, people would wonder why they didn't accept Jesus the same way John did, On the other hand, they didn't dare deny John as being God-sent because the Jewish people were convinced of this. They feared offending the masses because they lacked true spiritual authority. So they were stuck.

They finally confessed, "We don't know!" So Jesus responded, "Well if you won't answer Me, I won't answer you." His point was to show them they had no business questioning Him since they couldn't even answer an obvious question about John. He put them in their place.

The truth we can take away from this exchange is simply this: The authority of Jesus is something we are to embrace and rejoice in, not challenge.

Discuss the authority of Jesus. In what area of your life have you seen the most significant change since you have recognized the authority of Jesus in your life?

Dig into Luke 20. What do you think the Pharisees were hoping for by questioning Jesus? How did His response silence his critics? What does this passage remind you of as you consider your own faith?

Decide to pray for those who are questioning the authority of Jesus. Ask God to give them a life-changing understanding of who He truly is.

Eliminating Prejudice ~ Joyce Meyer

God shows no partiality and is no respecter of persons.
— Acts 10:34

Jesus dealt with dividing walls in His day. The Jews felt contempt for the Gentiles, whom they called dogs. Many men saw women as inferior and, as a result of their wrong attitude, sometimes women were mistreated. As a woman I could look back and decide to hate all men because my female ancestors were treated unfairly.

In the same way, Jews could spend their lives hating Germans because of a crazy, demon-possessed man named Adolf Hitler. Americans could hate the Japanese because they bombed Pearl Harbor and thrust the United States into World War II. African-Americans could spend their lives hating white people because of slavery.

None of us can go back and undo the past. No matter how much we would like to, it is not possible. We cannot even pay people back for what they did to us or failed to do for us in the past. Only God can do that. Our only peaceful option is to forget what lies behind and press on to what lies ahead (See Philippians 3:13-14).

Life is too short to spend it hating. Examine yourself in this area. Be honest with yourself concerning whether or not you are prejudiced. Even if you find only a little bit of prejudice, repent of it, and pray sincerely that it will be removed from your heart. Say to yourself, "I am no better than anyone else; we are all equal in God's eyes. Every person is God's creation, and He stated that everything He made was good."

Just Doing Our Duty ~ Greg Laurie

And yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We all are formed by your hand.

— Isaiah 64:8

In Luke 17, Jesus told a parable about servants who were given a task to fulfill. At the end of the story, Jesus said, "And does the master thank the servant for doing what he was told to do? Of course not. In the same way, when you obey me you should say, 'We are unworthy servants who have simply done our duty' " (verses 9–10).

You see, true servants of Jesus want to do what God wants them to do. We are just doing our duty. And as God's servants, we need to remember that everything we have is on loan from Him: our lives, our health, our careers, our ministries, our possessions, our families, and our future. It all belongs to God.

So the idea is not finding out how God can bless our dreams and ambitions and goals. Rather, our objective is to discover His goals, His purposes, and then align ourselves with them. Why? Because we are His servants.

Some people just want Jesus along for the ride. But God does not want to be our copilot. He is the Master, and we are the servants. He is the Potter, and we are the clay. When you put your faith in Jesus Christ, you become His: "You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body" (1 Corinthians 6:19–20).

We like the fringe benefits, if you will, of being a follower of Jesus. But our Master, the one we are following, is not only a Friend who loves us, but a Potter who is molding us. And the more we know of Him and His plan and purpose, the more willing we will be to do what He wants us to do.

Restoring Relationships: Talk to God ~ Rick Warren

“What causes fights and quarrels among you? … You want something but don't get it .… You do not have, because you do not ask God” (James 4:1-2 NIV).

The first biblical step toward restoring a relationship is to talk to God before talking to the person.

Discuss the problem with God. If you pray about the conflict first instead of gossiping to a friend, you’ll often discover that God either changes your heart or he changes the other person without your help.

All your relationships would go smoother if you would just pray more about them. As David did with his Psalms, use prayer to ventilate vertically. Tell God your frustrations. Cry out to him. He’s never surprised or upset by your anger, hurt, insecurity, or any other emotions. So tell him exactly how you feel.

Most conflict is rooted in unmet needs. Some of these needs can only be met by God. When you expect anyone - a friend, spouse, another pastor, or family member - to meet a need that only God can fulfill, you are setting yourself up for disappointment and bitterness. No one can meet all of your needs except God.

The apostle James noted that many of our conflicts are caused by prayerlessness (James 4:1-2 NIV).

Instead of looking to God, we look to others to make us happy and then get angry when they fail us. God says, "Why don't you come to me first?"

As The Lord Lives, Who… ~ Kay Arthur

Jeremiah, Part 1 (Return To Me)

Program 43 – As The Lord Lives, Who…

Have you ever wondered where America is in prophecy? Where is America mentioned in the end times? Precious One, it is not mentioned in the end times, not unless you distort the Scriptures. And if you distort the Scriptures it’s to your own destruction. What do we see? We see the importance of godly leadership. We’ll talk about it today.

Let’s look at what the Scriptures have to say. Now as a tease, I used the fact that America was not mentioned in the end times. It’s not mentioned in prophecy. What happens to America? Well I believe, because of ungodly leadership in America, that God is just going to let America reap the consequences of their sin.

I believe very much that it is your responsibility and my responsibility as children of God to have knowledge of the Word of God, to have understanding of God’s ways and to stand and live righteously ―…in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation….‖ (Philippians 2:15)

I believe that we’re coming to the days when we are going to see our Christianity tried and tested. And I believe more and more you’re going to see our culture wanting to shut our mouths. They already want to do it, but they don’t want any part of us. They’re going to despise us, and they’re going to disdain us. And the question is: Will you stand when all that happens? The other question is: Will the prophets stand? Will those that are speaking for God, will those that are opening the Word of God, stand true to the Word of God? I want you to know as long as I have breath, as long as I’m in my right mind, and I pray, even if I lose my mind, I will still stand for the Lord.

Let’s look at Jeremiah. We’re looking at shepherds, and I want us to look at Jeremiah chapter 10. In Jeremiah chapter 10, this is what He says in verse 19. ―Woe is me, because of my injury! My wound is incurable. But I said, ‗Truly this is a sickness, and I must bear it.‘ My tent is destroyed, and all my ropes are broken….‖ (Jeremiah 10:19-20) Everything is collapsing around me. ―…My sons [are] gone from me and are no more….‖ I’ve lost my children. ―…There is no one to stretch out my tent again….‖ There’s no child to help me get this tent up. ―…Or to set up my curtains.‖ (Jeremiah 10:20) Why this horrible situation in Judah? He says, ―For the shepherds have become stupid and have not sought the LORD….‖ (Jeremiah 10:21)

When we have rulers in our country that do not seek the Lord, that do not hold to the Word of God because it is popular just to embrace every belief, it may be popular with the culture but it sure isn’t popular with God. Then he says, ―…Therefore they have not prospered and all their flock is scattered.‖ (Jeremiah 10:21) They haven’t prospered.

And could this be why America, and this is talking to Israel. I’m just applying. Could it be that the same principles and standards of justice and righteousness and the fear of God tell us that this is why America is in trouble?

In chapter 12, verse 10 he talks about shepherds again. He says, ―‗Many shepherds have ruined My vineyard, they have trampled down My field; they have made My pleasant field a desolate wilderness.‘‖ (Jeremiah 12:10) The shepherds remember, are the rulers. They are the ones, they are the political figures. They are the ones that set the standard for a nation. This is what’s happened in Israel.

In Jeremiah chapter 22, now we’re leading right up to 23. In Jeremiah chapter 22, in verse 22, He says, ―‗The wind will sweep away…your shepherds….‘‖ He says, ―‗…Your lovers will go into captivity; [and there] you will…be ashamed and humiliated because of all your wickedness.‘‖ (Jeremiah 22:22)

So He has brought us right up to Jeremiah chapter 23. And this is what He’s saying. ―‗Woe to the shepherds who are destroying and scattering the sheep of My pasture…!‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:1) He says in the end of verse 2, because I’ve read this to you before, ―‗…I am about to attend to you for [all] the evil of your deeds,‘ declares the LORD.‖ (Jeremiah 23:2) Shepherds are held accountable.

He says, ―‗Then I Myself will gather the remnant of My flock….‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:3) See the shepherds have scattered God’s flock. And He says, “I Myself,” and remember He’s ―…the great Shepherd….‖ (Hebrews 13:20) Jesus is called the great Shepherd. He’s called ―…the Chief Shepherd….‖ (1 Peter 5:4) He’s called ―…the Good Shepherd….‖ (John 10:11) The true ruler.

And whether you and I have godly rulers or not, there is One that we are to obey and not disobey under any circumstances and that is God Almighty, even if it costs us our life. So God is saying, ―‗…I Myself will gather the remnant of My flock out of all the countries where I have driven them….‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:3)

And when you go back to our time chart, and you look at Zedekiah up here this is the final scattering under Jehoiachin they are taken into the captivity in 597 B.C. In 586 B.C. you have the ultimate destruction of Jerusalem. All right, and they are scattered. They come back to the land. They live in the land, and we see them in the days of Christ, and we see them worshiping in the second temple that is built under Ezra, that is refurbished under Herod. And so we see them worshiping, and we see Jesus going up to the temple.

But Jesus, in His public ministry, says the temple is going to be destroyed. (See Luke 21:5-6) Daniel prophesies about it. (See Daniel 9:26) And then they’re going to be scattered. And now they have been gathered back to the land. We’re living, I believe, in the last of the last days.

But watch what He says. ―‗[When I] bring them back….they will be fruitful and [they will] multiply. I will…raise up shepherds over them and they [the shepherds] will tend them….‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:3-4) It says they, the shepherds will be shepherding them. These are good shepherds. And He says, ―‗…and they will not be afraid any longer, nor…terrified, nor will any be missing….‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:4) Not one of the sheep will be missing. He says, ―‗Behold, the days are coming….‘‖ I love this. ―‗…[The days are coming,’] declares the LORD, ‗When I will raise up for David a righteous Branch….‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:5)

Now remember God promised David, who was the shepherd of Israel that he would have someone that would sit on his throne forever. And it was pointing to the Messiah. And so He says, ―‗…I will raise up for David a righteous Branch…He will reign as king and act wisely [He will] do justice and righteousness in the land.‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:5)

What is he talking about? He’s talking about the second coming of Jesus Christ when He returns in judgment and a [sword comes out of His mouth with which He smites the nations and then all Israel will be gathered to Him.] (PARAPHRASE, Revelation 19:15) You can read about it in Matthew 24 and 25. And then He will rule on the face of this earth for a thousand years. He will gather all the nations before Him. He will separate them as the sheep are separated from the goats. And when He does that He will judge them for the way they treated His people Israel. (See Matthew 25:31-46)

So here is a prophecy of Jesus. Now listen, ―‗In His days…,‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:6) in the days of Jesus Christ when He comes back to rule as King of kings, ―‗…Judah will be saved…Israel will dwell securely; and this is [the] name by which He will be called….‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:6) I love this. This is the name of the Shepherd of shepherds, “Jehovah-Tsidkenu” ―‗…―The LORD our righteousness.‖‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:6) God expects us to be righteous even as He is righteous, to be righteous even as Jesus Christ is righteous. (See 1 Peter 1:16)

What is righteous? Righteous is doing what God says is right. So any congressman, any senator, any president that is not following the Word of God, but inventing His own right and wrong is going against the righteousness of God. And there is a day of reckoning coming. This is what we need to understand.

Now I want to show you something. The other day I was just sitting and I was reading 1 Peter chapter 1. And I want you to go to 1 Peter chapter 1 because I want to show you something about prophecy. In verse 10, it says this. It’s talking about the salvation that Jesus brings.

And it says, ―As to this salvation, the prophets who prophesied of the grace that would come to you made careful searches and inquiries, seeking to know what person or time the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating as He predicted the sufferings of Christ [first coming] and the glories [that would] follow [second coming.] It was revealed to them…,‖ (1 Peter 1:10-12) to these Old Testament prophets, to Isaiah and Jeremiah and Ezekiel and Daniel and Joel and Amos and Obadiah. ―It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves, but you, in these things which now have been announced to you through those who preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven—things in which angels long to look.‖ (1 Peter 1:10-12) We’ll look at it with the angels in just a minute.

Can you imagine those Old Testament prophets, and they’re writing these things? Jeremiah is writing this about this righteous Branch that is going to be raised up and how He’s going to judge righteously and he’s wanting to know when, what is the time and everything. (See Jeremiah 23:5) And God is saying to him, “Look, it’s not for you to know now. It’s just for you to speak for Me.”

We’re going to move in this segment of the program from righteous shepherds to prophets who are supposed to speak truth and the “woes” that come upon those that do not speak truth. Let’s go to Jeremiah chapter 23.

He tells us that God is going to raise up a righteous Branch. He’s talking about Messiah. And then in verse 7 it says, ―‗Therefore behold, the days are coming,‘ declares the LORD, ‗when they will no longer say ―As the LORD lives, who brought up the sons…from the land of Egypt…,‖‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:7) He was known as hey, hey this is the God that ―‗―…brought up the sons of Israel from the land of Egypt.‖‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:7) This is the One that parted the Red Sea. This is the One that drowned Pharaoh and his army in that Red Sea. (See Exodus 14:21, 28) And he says this, ―‗But [they will say] ―As the LORD lives, who brought up and led back the descendants of the house…of Israel from the north….‖‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:8)

Now remember, you go north and you go east to Babylon. And then it says, ―‗―…And led back the descendants of the household of Israel from the north land and from all the countries where I had driven them….‖‘‖ And then He makes this statement that takes us still to the future. ―‗…Then they will live on their own soil.‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:8)

Now God is going to bring them back after the days of Zedekiah. We’re going to study this when we look at Jeremiah chapter 25. We’re gonna look at how long they’re going to be in captivity. And He is going to bring them back to the land, but then they are going to be dispersed in 70 A.D. So, they’re going to be scattered all around the world.

But you and I are living in a time of the fulfillment of portions of Ezekiel when they’re being brought back to the land. And eventually Israel will live on its own soil and that’s where it is now. But they will never be driven out again.

Now, verse 9, ―As for the prophets: My heart is broken within me….‖ (Jeremiah 23:9) Jeremiah’s saying, “Let’s talk about the prophets now. We’ve talked about the shepherds. Let me talk about the prophets.” ―…My heart is broken within me, all my bones tremble….‖ (Jeremiah 23:9)

Now that word “tremble” is used for the first time in Genesis chapter 1, verse 2, when it talks about the Spirit of God moving over the face of the waters. (See Genesis 1:2) It’s trembling. And it used again in Deuteronomy 32, verse 11. (See Deuteronomy 32:11)

But he says, ―…I [am] like a drunken man, [I’m reeling] even like a man overcome with wine, because of the LORD and because of His holy words.‖ (Jeremiah 23:9) Here is Jeremiah who has a fear of God, a reverence of God, the trust of God and knowing that God, as He said to Jeremiah in chapter 1, ―…I [watch] over My word to perform it.‖ (Jeremiah 1:12) If I say it’s going to happen it’s going to happen. If I say it’s wrong, it’s wrong. If I say it’s right, it’s right. If I say don’t you shouldn’t, if I say do you better, that’s what He’s saying. And He says I am trembling ―…because of the LORD and because of His holy words.‖ (Jeremiah 23:9) Why?

Because the prophets are doing something wrong. It says ―For the land is full of adulterers…the land mourns because of the curse….‖ (Jeremiah 23:10) And He’s talking about the end of Deuteronomy when He talks about what He’s going to do when gets into the land and He talks about the curses and He talks about the blessings, and He’s talking to Israel, the curses that come upon them because of disobedience, the blessings that come upon them if they obey. (See Deuteronomy 30:1-20) And He says this, ―…The pastures of the wilderness have dried up. Their course…is evil and their might is not right.‖ (Jeremiah 23:10)

And see if you look at somebody’s might and it is not being used according to the Word of God it’s not right. You look at Hamas, you look at the P.L.O., you look at Iran saying that they want to destroy Israel. They have might; but it is not right. You say, “But what about Israel?” Israel is commanded by God to live on that land and not give that land away.

So you look at the Scriptures. Don’t be swayed by the politicians; be swayed by the Word of God. But also watch what He says. Don’t be swayed by false prophets. He says ―‗For both prophet and priest are polluted; even in My house…,‖ in My temple, ―…I have found their wickedness,‘ declares the LORD. ‗Therefore their way will be like [a] slippery paths to them….‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:11-12) Their feet will slide right out from underneath them, and they’re gonna come down hard on their bottom. He says, ―‗…they will be driven…into the gloom and [they will] fall down in it; for I….‘‖ God is speaking. ―‗…Will bring calamity upon them, the year of their punishment….‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:12)

Now why is God going to judge Judah? Because the prophets prophesy falsely, the priests rule by their own way. The scribes don’t handle the law correctly and the rulers have transgressed against God. In other words, the whole leadership of the country is sick to the core because they do not fear God. And so God is saying, “I’m going to bring calamity.”

Now remember this America, Amos 3:8. [Does a calamity occur in a city but what the LORD has not done it?] (PARAPHRASE Amos 3:6) You see we forget that God is just. We forget that God is righteous. And so this is what He says, ―‗Moreover, among the prophets of Samaria [the Northern Kingdom] I saw an offensive thing; they prophesied by Baal and led My people…astray.‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:13) He says, ―‗Also among the prophets of Jerusalem…,‘‖ Northern Kingdom, Southern Kingdom ―‗…I have seen a horrible thing: the committing of adultery….‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:14) Here are spiritual leaders that are speaking for God and they’re committing adultery. ―‗[They’re] walking in falsehood…they strengthen the hands of evildoers, so that no one has turned back from his wickedness….‘‖ (Jeremiah 23:14)

O Beloved, how we need people that are going to warn others that God is a righteous God, that God is a just God, and that they need to fear Him. They need to bow the knee to God, and they need to acknowledge, “You are God, and You are righteous and holy and that’s what You expect of me.” He says, “I cannot let wickedness go unjudged.” (See Proverbs 11:21) O Beloved, how we need voices that will call a sin sin and draw us to righteousness.

Ruled by the Strength of Inner Conviction ~ Bob Caldwell

Ruled by the Strength of Inner Conviction Proverbs 25:28 Whoever has no rule over his own spirit Is like a city broken down, without walls. To master yourself is the first and most important task of life. This feat requires a recognized dependency upon God to enable us to discipline our lives to follow the wisdom of God. In this collection of proverbs, we are given a portrait of the end result of those who have disciplined themselves to follow the wisdom of God and those who by contrast live as victims of forces that doom a person to tragic failure. The discipline of hard work promises great reward for our labor. For the lazy, all we have to look forward to is poverty and shame (24:27-34, 26:13-16). For those who have come under the rule of righteousness, they will not quit even if they failed at something seven times (24:10, 16). The discipline of strengthening our character will not let us quit until God has enabled us to conquer the sins or obstacles we must overcome by His strength. In like fashion, it's the person who had authority over his tongue who not only has a rich life and also enriches all who hear him. By contrast, it is the fool whose loose tongue that leaves a trail of gossip, hurt, and trouble (25:11-12, 15; 26:18-25). You may ask, where do we get such power? The power to rule over our lives to God's glory and our ultimate benefit is found in God the Holy Spirit. It is God's Spirit within our spirit that enables us, "to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man" (Eph. 3:16). When your inner being is ruled by God's Spirit, it then becomes possible for God's Spirit within you to rule over any area of your life. God's Spirit can conquer a lazy spirit within you. God's Spirit can rule over your rebellious, hurtful tongue. Learn to yield your spirit to God's Spirit and you will have the power to rule all things. It is only those under the rule of God that will ever be truly able to rule over themselves.
Proverbs 24:1-26:28 1 Do not be envious of evil men, Nor desire to be with them; 2 For their heart devises violence, And their lips talk of troublemaking. 3 Through wisdom a house is built, And by understanding it is established; 4 By knowledge the rooms are filled With all precious and pleasant riches. 5 A wise man is strong, Yes, a man of knowledge increases strength; 6 For by wise counsel you will wage your own war, And in a multitude of counselors there is safety. 7 Wisdom is too lofty for a fool; He does not open his mouth in the gate. 8 He who plots to do evil Will be called a schemer. 9 The devising of foolishness is sin, And the scoffer is an abomination to men. 10 If you faint in the day of adversity, Your strength is small. 11 Deliver those who are drawn toward death, And hold back those stumbling to the slaughter. 12 If you say, "Surely we did not know this," Does not He who weighs the hearts consider it? He who keeps your soul, does He not know it? And will He not render to each man according to his deeds? 13 My son, eat honey because it is good, And the honeycomb which is sweet to your taste; 14 So shall the knowledge of wisdom be to your soul; If you have found it, there is a prospect, And your hope will not be cut off. 15 Do not lie in wait, O wicked man, against the dwelling of the righteous; Do not plunder his resting place; 16 For a righteous man may fall seven times And rise again, But the wicked shall fall by calamity. 17 Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, And do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles; 18 Lest the LORD see it, and it displease Him, And He turn away His wrath from him. 19 Do not fret because of evildoers, Nor be envious of the wicked; 20 For there will be no prospect for the evil man; The lamp of the wicked will be put out. 21 My son, fear the LORD and the king; Do not associate with those given to change; 22 For their calamity will rise suddenly, And who knows the ruin those two can bring? Further Sayings of the Wise 23 These things also belong to the wise: It is not good to show partiality in judgment. 24 He who says to the wicked, "You are righteous," Him the people will curse; Nations will abhor him. 25 But those who rebuke the wicked will have delight, And a good blessing will come upon them. 26 He who gives a right answer kisses the lips. 27 Prepare your outside work, Make it fit for yourself in the field; And afterward build your house. 28 Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause, For would you deceive with your lips? 29 Do not say, "I will do to him just as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work." 30 I went by the field of the lazy man, And by the vineyard of the man devoid of understanding; 31 And there it was, all overgrown with thorns; Its surface was covered with nettles; Its stone wall was broken down. 32 When I saw it, I considered it well; I looked on it and received instruction: 33 A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to rest; 34 So shall your poverty come like a prowler, And your need like an armed man. Proverbs 25Further Wise Sayings of Solomon 1 These also are proverbs of Solomon which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied: 2 It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, But the glory of kings is to search out a matter. 3 As the heavens for height and the earth for depth, So the heart of kings is unsearchable. 4 Take away the dross from silver, And it will go to the silversmith for jewelry. 5 Take away the wicked from before the king, And his throne will be established in righteousness. 6 Do not exalt yourself in the presence of the king, And do not stand in the place of the great; 7 For it is better that he say to you, "Come up here," Than that you should be put lower in the presence of the prince, Whom your eyes have seen. 8 Do not go hastily to court; For what will you do in the end, When your neighbor has put you to shame? 9 Debate your case with your neighbor, And do not disclose the secret to another; 10 Lest he who hears it expose your shame, And your reputation be ruined. 11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold In settings of silver. 12 Like an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold Is a wise rebuker to an obedient ear. 13 Like the cold of snow in time of harvest Is a faithful messenger to those who send him, For he refreshes the soul of his masters. 14 Whoever falsely boasts of giving Is like clouds and wind without rain. 15 By long forbearance a ruler is persuaded, And a gentle tongue breaks a bone. 16 Have you found honey? Eat only as much as you need, Lest you be filled with it and vomit. 17 Seldom set foot in your neighbor's house, Lest he become weary of you and hate you. 18 A man who bears false witness against his neighbor Is like a club, a sword, and a sharp arrow. 19 Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble Is like a bad tooth and a foot out of joint. 20 Like one who takes away a garment in cold weather, And like vinegar on soda, Is one who sings songs to a heavy heart. 21 If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat; And if he is thirsty, give him water to drink; 22 For so you will heap coals of fire on his head, And the LORD will reward you. 23 The north wind brings forth rain, And a backbiting tongue an angry countenance. 24 It is better to dwell in a corner of a housetop, Than in a house shared with a contentious woman. 25 As cold water to a weary soul, So is good news from a far country. 26 A righteous man who falters before the wicked Is like a murky spring and a polluted well. 27 It is not good to eat much honey; So to seek one's own glory is not glory. 28 Whoever has no rule over his own spirit Is like a city broken down, without walls. Proverbs 26 1 As snow in summer and rain in harvest, So honor is not fitting for a fool. 2 Like a flitting sparrow, like a flying swallow, So a curse without cause shall not alight. 3 A whip for the horse, A bridle for the donkey, And a rod for the fool's back. 4 Do not answer a fool according to his folly, Lest you also be like him. 5 Answer a fool according to his folly, Lest he be wise in his own eyes. 6 He who sends a message by the hand of a fool Cuts off his own feet and drinks violence. 7 Like the legs of the lame that hang limp Is a proverb in the mouth of fools. 8 Like one who binds a stone in a sling Is he who gives honor to a fool. 9 Like a thorn that goes into the hand of a drunkard Is a proverb in the mouth of fools. 10 The great God who formed everything Gives the fool his hire and the transgressor his wages. 11 As a dog returns to his own vomit, So a fool repeats his folly. 12 Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him. 13 The lazy man says, "There is a lion in the road! A fierce lion is in the streets!" 14 As a door turns on its hinges, So does the lazy man on his bed. 15 The lazy man buries his hand in the bowl; It wearies him to bring it back to his mouth. 16 The lazy man is wiser in his own eyes Than seven men who can answer sensibly. 17 He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own Is like one who takes a dog by the ears. 18 Like a madman who throws firebrands, arrows, and death, 19 Is the man who deceives his neighbor, And says, "I was only joking!" 20 Where there is no wood, the fire goes out; And where there is no talebearer, strife ceases. 21 As charcoal is to burning coals, and wood to fire, So is a contentious man to kindle strife. 22 The words of a talebearer are like tasty trifles, And they go down into the inmost body. 23 Fervent lips with a wicked heart Are like earthenware covered with silver dross. 24 He who hates, disguises it with his lips, And lays up deceit within himself; 25 When he speaks kindly, do not believe him, For there are seven abominations in his heart; 26 Though his hatred is covered by deceit, His wickedness will be revealed before the assembly. 27 Whoever digs a pit will fall into it, And he who rolls a stone will have it roll back on him. 28 A lying tongue hates those who are crushed by it, And a flattering mouth works ruin.
Proverbs 24:1-26:28 v. 1 Do not be envious of evil men – Solomon warns against desiring the glamorous lives of worldly people. He describes their ultimate fate in v. 20. v. 3 Through wisdom a house is built – Houses are constructed using well-defined plans and experienced craftsman. Just as a house is built through wisdom, so also is the character of a person. Just as wisdom can build a strong house, it can build a strong person as well. v. 7 Wisdom is too lofty for a fool – Solomon contrasts a foolish person with a wise person in this verse. A foolish person is too self-willed to learn from anyone or anything. They even mock wisdom and understanding. v. 10 If you faint in the day of adversity – A person's spirit is tested in adversity. When adversity strikes, the true character of a person is brought to life. The person with wisdom is strong (v. 5) and will be able to stand in the face of life's trials. v. 14 So shall the knowledge of wisdom be to your soul – Wisdom is compared to honey and the honeycomb in this verse. Honey is natural and was one of the sweetest foods in the Jewish diet. Those who obtain wisdom will savor its sweetness in their souls just as a person who eats honey will savor its sweetness in his mouth. v. 16 For a righteous man may fall seven times And rise again – The righteous man possesses an inner fortitude that the wicked lack. It is important to note that a righteous man will fall at times, but they are distinguished in that they always get back up. v. 28 Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause – A person who falsely accuses another is an abomination to God (Prov. 6:19). v. 31 Its surface was covered with nettles – A nettle is a type of weed that will flourish everywhere if it is not dealt with. Solomon describes the field of a lazy man as overgrown with thorns and nettles, and with broken stone walls. The sluggard does not maintain his field and it is overcome by weeds and erosion. This illustration is used to describe the condition of a soul that has been overrun by neglect. Proverbs 25 v. 1 the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied – King Hezekiah reigned more then 200 years after Solomon. The revival experienced during his reign might explain Hezekiah's interest in compiling Solomon's proverbs. Hezekiah had court-sponsored sages who gathered and compiled wisdom sayings. v. 4 Take away the dross from silver – Dross is another term for waste. Removing the dross from silver is a picture of purification. Silversmiths would purify the silver using iron oxide and heating it to a temperature of 1,640 degrees Fahrenheit. v. 6 Do not exalt yourself in the presence of the king – Verses 6 and 7 are a warning to ambitious men who presume to be greater then they are. Solomon warns them to take a lower seat and wait to be called up, rather then taking a high seat and being asked to take a lower one. Jesus reiterates these sentiments in Luke 14:7-11. v. 11 is like apples of gold – This metaphor compares finely crafted jewelry to saying the right words at the right times. Just as the golden apple designed with a silver setting draws the eye so also a clever saying touches the mind. v. 13 Like the cold of snow in time of harvest – Harvest occurred in the late summer months in Israel. Some suggest that the workers laboring in the heat would have welcomed snow as a means to cool down. Others think this verse is referring to packaged snow or ice brought down from the mountains and used to refresh and cool down the harvesters. v. 20 like vinegar on soda – Putting vinegar on soda causes a reaction, just as taking a coat away from a person in cold weather. So also is it cruel to sing happy songs to a sad person. v. 28 Is like a city broken down, without walls – A city without walls was considered defenseless and disgraced. Proverbs 26 v. 1 Snow in summer – These descriptions show things that are out of place. Summer is not known for its snow, neither is harvest a time of rain. Likewise, honor and foolishness are not found together. v. 2 Curse without cause – The sense here is that this type of cursing (or bitterness, anger) will not have direction, just as the erratic flying of a swallow overhead will do no harm. v. 3 Whip for the horse – Stubborn animals require motivation to change their behavior. God will use any means at His disposal to influence the decision making of the foolish man (including animals, see Num. 22). v. 4 Answer a fool – There are two ways that we can respond to a fool. We can correct him in love with truth and righteousness so that he will not be "wise in his own eyes" and continue down his path of destruction. The second manner is to ignore the fool so as not to be pulled down to this level of foolishness. v. 6 Cuts off his own feet – To have a message relayed by a foolish person is asking for trouble. The messenger cannot be trusted to relay the message correctly, if at all. The damage then is done to the sender as well as the hearers. v. 7 Legs of the lame – Like the limbs of a paralyzed person that do not have any function, the wise saying is of no useful purpose when delivered by a fool. v. 8 Binds a stone in a sling – A person who gives honor to a fool is simply giving him more ammunition to carry on in his foolishness. v. 9 Thorn in the hand of a drunkard – A drunk man is generally considered to be numb to any sort of physical pain. In a sober person, a thorn in the hand would elicit a pain response. A proverb spoken by a fool would not elicit any sort of a response from anyone. v. 10 Transgressor his wages – This is a warning that everyone who rejects the saving grace of God will receive their just due. He is faithful, merciful, and just in His decisions. Each person chooses their inheritance based on their relationship with the One who formed everything. v. 11 Dog returns to his vomit – Solomon compares the filthiness of sin with the vomit of a dog. It is inevitable that a dog will venture back to investigate; likewise a foolish man will repeat his foolish acts. A sinner who has not been converted will after a time return to the sin life, forgetting how it made him sick. (see 2 Peter 2:18-22 for the apostle's commentary on this verse as applied to false teachers) v. 12 Wise in his own eyes – At the heart of man's rebellion is the pride of life. People with a high value of self often have a difficult time with faith in the saving grace of God, as He requires repentance from worldly pride and self glorification (1 John 2:16). Despite the repeated warnings against foolishness, it is easier to be delivered from folly than pride. v. 13 Lion in the streets – The lion is an imaginary one. Any excuse is used to avoid going to work. Note that the excuse worsens as it is retold when the lion becomes a fierce lion. v. 14 Door on its hinges – The swinging from side to side is used to conjure up a picture of a man with no likelihood of going anywhere other than turning over in bed. Like a door on a frame, he appears to be hung on his bed. The slothful man loves the ease of life. v. 15 Back to his mouth – The image is one that describes a man that is too lazy to even lift his hand from the bowl to feed himself. v. 16 In his own eyes – A prideful person will often not listen to reason, despite the number of witnesses to the contrary. Man will powerfully defend what he sees is right in his own eyes (Deut. 12:8, Judges 17:6). v. 17 Quarrel not his own – It is an understatement to say that grabbing a dog by the ears would be a handful of trouble, as would jumping into an argument that does not pertain to you. The idea is that by just passing by, the person involving himself would not be aware of the complicated matter of the discussion, and so would lack the facts. v. 18-19 Deceives his neighbor – Only a crazy person would scatter destruction without any regard as to the consequences. The man who deliberately deceives another and then passes it off as a practical joke has no sense of the ramifications of his actions. Such things could lead to disastrous results. On the contrary, the Lord instructs His people to love one another (Mark 12:31, Gal. 5:14). v. 20 Fire goes out – Fuel (in this case, wood) is one of the three necessary elements to fuel a fire. Once this critical element is removed, the fire ceases to exist. Once the talebearer is removed, conflict will also cease to continue. v. 21 Kindle strife – Contentious people will add conflict to a situation much like adding more combustible material onto an existing fire…it feeds the fire and keeps it alive. v. 22 Words of a talebearer – Also whisperer, gossiper. These words are readily accepted because they are pleasing to the flesh, and delicious as sweets. Mankind loves to rise above others, so as gossip tears down another, it elevates self. (See Leviticus 19:16 for law regarding talebearers.) v. 23 Covered with silver dross – A cheaper alternative to solid silver is a clay bowl covered in silver. The beauty of the outside of the vessel belies what is underneath…a cheap imitation disguised as something better. The words spoken by this person do not convey the true heart condition (Matt. 23:25-27). v. 24 Hatred is covered by deceit – A deceiver will initially not be easy to recognize, as he covers his hatred with smooth words and flattering speech (Rom. 16:17-18). Wisdom will uncover the counterfeit and he will be revealed to all. v. 27 Digs a pit – A pit was dug as a snare to catch animals that would fall into it. Large stones for building that were too heavy to carry were often rolled from quarry to building site. The irony here is that though the pit and the stone are intended for something else, they will be the destruction of the fool. Though he intends to catch his "prey" in the pit, he himself will be the one who is "caught" and judged by God (for an example, read the story of Haman in the book of Esther). v. 28 Flattering mouth works ruin – The owner of the lying tongue and flattering mouth hates the object of his lies, but does it in such a way as to disguise it (see the betrayal of Judas in Mark 14:43-45).
"Whoever has no rule over his own spirit Is like a city broken down, without walls." –Proverbs 25:28 It is a true blessing, Lord, that we no longer have to strive to observe the many commandments of the Old Testament. Thank You, God, that we have the Holy Spirit to guide us; that we now are Your Temple here on Earth. But we also see in this verse, Lord, that if we do not have that salvation, that we have no protection from the sinful things of this world that seek to destroy us.
Freedom House The Freedom House now has two residents who are learning a new way of life that is focused on their relationship with Jesus Christ. The ladies are developing healthy routines of prayer, Bible studies, church attendance, and fellowship. They also help out with the New Again Thrift Store that helps to support the house. Thanks to the wonderful crew of people who are giving the exterior of the house a fresh new coat of paint. And thanks again to everyone who has given from their hearts to this project. Prayer Points for grace for the women as their bodies, hearts, and minds heal from the ravages of addiction. Pray especially about anxiety, anger, and temptations. for staff and volunteers for more women to participate