Monday, August 31, 2009
P.S.
To be carnal minded is death but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Keep you thoughts on the Lord and remember God is with you at all times and you will have life and peace everyday.
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 243 (KJV):
Proverbs 23:29-35 (KJV):29 Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?30 They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.31 Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.32 At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.33 Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things.34 Yea, thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the sea, or as he that lieth upon the top of a mast.35 They have stricken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick; they have beaten me, and I felt it not: when shall I awake? I will seek it yet again.
Proverbs 23:29-35 (AMP):29 Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaining? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness and dimness of eyes?30 Those who tarry long at the wine, those who go to seek and try mixed wine.31 Do not look at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the wineglass, when it goes down smoothly.32 At the last it bites like a serpent and stings like an adder.33 [Under the influence of wine] your eyes will behold strange things [and loose women] and your mind will utter things turned the wrong way [untrue, incorrect, and petulant].34 Yes, you will be [as unsteady] as he who lies down in the midst of the sea, and [as open to disaster] as he who lies upon the top of a mast.35 You will say, They struck me, but I was not hurt! They beat me [as with a hammer], but I did not feel it! When shall I awake? I will crave and seek more wine again [and escape reality].
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs paint a picture of what addiction to alcohol will produce in one's life. The questions are asked, "Who has woe, sorrow, strife, complaining, wounds, and redness and dimness of eyes?" Anyone who has seen an alcoholic the morning after they have been on a binge, will definitely agree that all these things are present. Drunks with hang-overs are usually moaning and complaining about how they feel. Since alcohol is a form of poison, the body is trying to recover from ingesting it. It truly bites its victim like a serpent, and has a sting like an adder. Those who are alcoholics have been tarrying over their wine and mixed drinks too long.
In verse 31, we are told not to even look at wine, as that is where the temptation starts with the "lust of the eyes."
1 John 2:15-16:15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
Alcoholism is a sin, not a sickness; however, it is a sin that produces sickness, as do some other sins. Alcoholism is an addiction to a drug, and is the same sin as the sin of drug addiction. The addiction to alcohol and drugs has its roots in lust, rebellion, irresponsibility, escapism and over-indulgence (which is excess). The Bible calls these things sin. The cure for sin is repentance and turning one's life over to Christ and obeying Him. When we call alcoholism a sickness, we do an injustice to those seeking deliverance. They must see and recognize their sin and seek God's way to be free of it. Their sickness will leave when they depart from their sin. Certainly we need to be compassionate toward those who struggle with alcoholism, but they do not need our human sympathy. Only God's compassion and mercy will permanently free them.
We praise God for all of the rehabilitation programs available for alcoholics and drug addicts, as they have helped many people. However, some of the programs that help alcoholics, will also tell them they will always be an alcoholic. Certainly these programs help many people, but a permanent cure can only be found through the power of God. When God sets us free, we are free indeed. The alcoholic that comes to Christ will not be an alcoholic for life, as God tells us that when we are "born again," we become new creatures in Him. Old things are passed away and all things are made new.
2 Corinthians 5:17: Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
Verses 33-35 in today's study tell us that under the influence of alcohol, men will see, hear, say, and do strange things. The mind is so affected that everything is distorted. These scriptures give us an illustration, comparing the drunk man to that of one who lies down in the midst of the ocean (one's head literally swims when they are drunk) and are as open to disaster as if they were on top of the ship's mast. When they wake up the next day, they will feel as if they had been struck with a hammer, yet they do not remember who hit them. Even with all of the pain they experience because of the alcohol, they will return to it again, as they crave more of it. That is the nature of sin, the more you indulge, the more you want of it until a person is finally destroyed by it.
Christians who are caught in this evil can find deliverance. There is a way out and that is through the Lord, Jesus Christ. If we come to Him with our whole heart, He will hear us and deliver us.
Romans 7:15-25a: 15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.16 If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.17 Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, So many people are caught up in the evil of alcoholism today, I want to pray for them. Lord, deliver those who are in bondage to alcohol. Father, forgive them, and touch them with Your Hand of mercy and grace. Lord, go deep in their souls and heal the wounds and remove the desire for this addiction. Let them feel Your love and set them free from the dependency of alcohol. May they depend on You to overcome the things that have brought them to this place. Cause their family and friends to be merciful to them and help them in the right way. May they experience Your touch this very moment. I ask this in the powerful name of Jesus! Amen.
Proverbs 23:29-35 (KJV):29 Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?30 They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.31 Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.32 At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.33 Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things.34 Yea, thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the sea, or as he that lieth upon the top of a mast.35 They have stricken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick; they have beaten me, and I felt it not: when shall I awake? I will seek it yet again.
Proverbs 23:29-35 (AMP):29 Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaining? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness and dimness of eyes?30 Those who tarry long at the wine, those who go to seek and try mixed wine.31 Do not look at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the wineglass, when it goes down smoothly.32 At the last it bites like a serpent and stings like an adder.33 [Under the influence of wine] your eyes will behold strange things [and loose women] and your mind will utter things turned the wrong way [untrue, incorrect, and petulant].34 Yes, you will be [as unsteady] as he who lies down in the midst of the sea, and [as open to disaster] as he who lies upon the top of a mast.35 You will say, They struck me, but I was not hurt! They beat me [as with a hammer], but I did not feel it! When shall I awake? I will crave and seek more wine again [and escape reality].
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs paint a picture of what addiction to alcohol will produce in one's life. The questions are asked, "Who has woe, sorrow, strife, complaining, wounds, and redness and dimness of eyes?" Anyone who has seen an alcoholic the morning after they have been on a binge, will definitely agree that all these things are present. Drunks with hang-overs are usually moaning and complaining about how they feel. Since alcohol is a form of poison, the body is trying to recover from ingesting it. It truly bites its victim like a serpent, and has a sting like an adder. Those who are alcoholics have been tarrying over their wine and mixed drinks too long.
In verse 31, we are told not to even look at wine, as that is where the temptation starts with the "lust of the eyes."
1 John 2:15-16:15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
Alcoholism is a sin, not a sickness; however, it is a sin that produces sickness, as do some other sins. Alcoholism is an addiction to a drug, and is the same sin as the sin of drug addiction. The addiction to alcohol and drugs has its roots in lust, rebellion, irresponsibility, escapism and over-indulgence (which is excess). The Bible calls these things sin. The cure for sin is repentance and turning one's life over to Christ and obeying Him. When we call alcoholism a sickness, we do an injustice to those seeking deliverance. They must see and recognize their sin and seek God's way to be free of it. Their sickness will leave when they depart from their sin. Certainly we need to be compassionate toward those who struggle with alcoholism, but they do not need our human sympathy. Only God's compassion and mercy will permanently free them.
We praise God for all of the rehabilitation programs available for alcoholics and drug addicts, as they have helped many people. However, some of the programs that help alcoholics, will also tell them they will always be an alcoholic. Certainly these programs help many people, but a permanent cure can only be found through the power of God. When God sets us free, we are free indeed. The alcoholic that comes to Christ will not be an alcoholic for life, as God tells us that when we are "born again," we become new creatures in Him. Old things are passed away and all things are made new.
2 Corinthians 5:17: Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
Verses 33-35 in today's study tell us that under the influence of alcohol, men will see, hear, say, and do strange things. The mind is so affected that everything is distorted. These scriptures give us an illustration, comparing the drunk man to that of one who lies down in the midst of the ocean (one's head literally swims when they are drunk) and are as open to disaster as if they were on top of the ship's mast. When they wake up the next day, they will feel as if they had been struck with a hammer, yet they do not remember who hit them. Even with all of the pain they experience because of the alcohol, they will return to it again, as they crave more of it. That is the nature of sin, the more you indulge, the more you want of it until a person is finally destroyed by it.
Christians who are caught in this evil can find deliverance. There is a way out and that is through the Lord, Jesus Christ. If we come to Him with our whole heart, He will hear us and deliver us.
Romans 7:15-25a: 15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.16 If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.17 Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, So many people are caught up in the evil of alcoholism today, I want to pray for them. Lord, deliver those who are in bondage to alcohol. Father, forgive them, and touch them with Your Hand of mercy and grace. Lord, go deep in their souls and heal the wounds and remove the desire for this addiction. Let them feel Your love and set them free from the dependency of alcohol. May they depend on You to overcome the things that have brought them to this place. Cause their family and friends to be merciful to them and help them in the right way. May they experience Your touch this very moment. I ask this in the powerful name of Jesus! Amen.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 240 (KJV):
Proverbs 23:24-25 (KJV):24 The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.25 Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice.
Proverbs 23:24-25 (AMP):24 The father of the (uncompromisingly) righteous (the upright, in right standing with God) shall greatly rejoice, and he who becomes the father of a wise child shall have joy in him. 25 Let your father and your mother be glad, and let her who bore you rejoice.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs continue to admonish young people to honor their parents so that they might take joy in having wise children. The actions of children will either produce great joy for the family or great distress. When children are obedient and loving, they bring happiness to all. However, when they are disobedient and rebellious, their sin can cause great heartache and misery. The Bible speaks of a generation that will cause parents much grief and it is the generation that will be on the earth right before the second coming of Christ. They are spoken of as being lawless and even degenerating to the horrible evil of murdering their own parents.
Mark 13:7-8 & 12-13: 7 And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet.8 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows.12 Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death.13 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
1 Timothy 1:8-9:8 But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully;9 Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers.
It is almost unthinkable that children could commit such an evil against their own parents; however, we are already reading in the newspapers about such crimes. Because sin and demonic activity shall abound, and lawlessness shall spread all over the globe, these times are spoken of in the Bible as "perilous times."
2 Timothy 3:1-5: 1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
This scripture speaks of a time when people will no longer have a natural affection. God created the family unit and within that unit, He instilled a natural affection in the hearts of each of them. A mother has a natural love within her that causes her to care for, and nurture her children, while the father has an in-born love and desire to provide for, and protect his family. The children will naturally look to their parents for security and love and will respond to the love of their parents. If a family walks in the commandments of God, they will all grow in love for one another, as they will overcome selfishness and the sin that would separate them. However, the opposite is also true. If any member of the family falls into sin and selfishness, soon the devil will begin his work of destruction in that home. The natural affection can turn to hate and hate to murder and other evils.
There is a current attack on the family, by the devil, as he wants to change how God structured the family. There are now attempts being made to legally approve marriage between two males or two females. This is a perverted union that will ultimately destroy what God intended for marriage and a family. Homosexuality is a sin that embraces unnatural affection. God certainly loves homosexuals; however He hates the sin of homosexuality. When men attempt to change the definition of marriage, they are also committing idolatry, as they are declaring that they are wiser than God. They are setting themselves up to change what God designed from the beginning. If any homosexual will cry out unto God to be set free from their unnatural affection, God will set them free, just as He sets us free from any other sin.
Children and young people can bring joy to the hearts of their parents by their obedience to the Word of God, just as they can cause grief by their disobedience and rebellion. Today's verses admonish us to "Let your father and mother be glad!"
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I want to not only be one who makes my parents glad, but I also want Your heart to be glad. Lord, strengthen me to be more like You, in all that I do. Lord, may my life be a good witness, so that others may see my good works, and that will bring glory to You. Deliver those who have strayed from the commandments in the Bible and are now living a perverted lifestyle, that is without natural affection. Minister mercy and grace to them, and restore the natural love and affection that You want them to walk in. Lord, we pray against the devil's plans for changing the law in our nation that would redefine marriage. Spare us, so that this unholy action will not become law, thus bringing our nation under a greater judgment. I ask this in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
Proverbs 23:24-25 (KJV):24 The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.25 Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice.
Proverbs 23:24-25 (AMP):24 The father of the (uncompromisingly) righteous (the upright, in right standing with God) shall greatly rejoice, and he who becomes the father of a wise child shall have joy in him. 25 Let your father and your mother be glad, and let her who bore you rejoice.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs continue to admonish young people to honor their parents so that they might take joy in having wise children. The actions of children will either produce great joy for the family or great distress. When children are obedient and loving, they bring happiness to all. However, when they are disobedient and rebellious, their sin can cause great heartache and misery. The Bible speaks of a generation that will cause parents much grief and it is the generation that will be on the earth right before the second coming of Christ. They are spoken of as being lawless and even degenerating to the horrible evil of murdering their own parents.
Mark 13:7-8 & 12-13: 7 And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet.8 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows.12 Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death.13 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
1 Timothy 1:8-9:8 But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully;9 Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers.
It is almost unthinkable that children could commit such an evil against their own parents; however, we are already reading in the newspapers about such crimes. Because sin and demonic activity shall abound, and lawlessness shall spread all over the globe, these times are spoken of in the Bible as "perilous times."
2 Timothy 3:1-5: 1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
This scripture speaks of a time when people will no longer have a natural affection. God created the family unit and within that unit, He instilled a natural affection in the hearts of each of them. A mother has a natural love within her that causes her to care for, and nurture her children, while the father has an in-born love and desire to provide for, and protect his family. The children will naturally look to their parents for security and love and will respond to the love of their parents. If a family walks in the commandments of God, they will all grow in love for one another, as they will overcome selfishness and the sin that would separate them. However, the opposite is also true. If any member of the family falls into sin and selfishness, soon the devil will begin his work of destruction in that home. The natural affection can turn to hate and hate to murder and other evils.
There is a current attack on the family, by the devil, as he wants to change how God structured the family. There are now attempts being made to legally approve marriage between two males or two females. This is a perverted union that will ultimately destroy what God intended for marriage and a family. Homosexuality is a sin that embraces unnatural affection. God certainly loves homosexuals; however He hates the sin of homosexuality. When men attempt to change the definition of marriage, they are also committing idolatry, as they are declaring that they are wiser than God. They are setting themselves up to change what God designed from the beginning. If any homosexual will cry out unto God to be set free from their unnatural affection, God will set them free, just as He sets us free from any other sin.
Children and young people can bring joy to the hearts of their parents by their obedience to the Word of God, just as they can cause grief by their disobedience and rebellion. Today's verses admonish us to "Let your father and mother be glad!"
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I want to not only be one who makes my parents glad, but I also want Your heart to be glad. Lord, strengthen me to be more like You, in all that I do. Lord, may my life be a good witness, so that others may see my good works, and that will bring glory to You. Deliver those who have strayed from the commandments in the Bible and are now living a perverted lifestyle, that is without natural affection. Minister mercy and grace to them, and restore the natural love and affection that You want them to walk in. Lord, we pray against the devil's plans for changing the law in our nation that would redefine marriage. Spare us, so that this unholy action will not become law, thus bringing our nation under a greater judgment. I ask this in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
P.S.
Remeber what Jesus has done for you today. Know that you are truly blessed no matter how the circumstances. If you give thanks for you have watch more blessings come to your life. God want you to have an abundant life.
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 239 (KJV):
Proverbs 23:22-23 (KJV):22 Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.23 Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.
Proverbs 23:22-23 (AMP):22 Hearken to your father, who begot you, and despise not your mother when she is old. 23 Buy the truth and sell it not; not only that, but; also get discernment and judgment, instruction and understanding.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs instruct us to honor our parents and seek truth, wisdom, instruction and understanding. One of the 10 Commandments in the Bible, instructs us with these words in:
Exodus 20:12: Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
One might think that this commandment is self-explanatory and needs no further teaching or elaboration. However, I believe as we look at this carefully, we will see something that perhaps we have not seen before.
The word for "honor" in Hebrew, is "kabed." This word is very closely related to the word that is translated as "glory" with respect to God. The literal meaning of this word is "to make weighty" or "to be heavy." Other definitions include, "to glorify or to make glorious, to honor, and to promote." To a certain extent, God wants us to treat our parents the way that we treat Him. We are to bring honor to their name, with our actions and words. The interesting thing about this commandment, is that it is the first one with a promise attached to it.
Ephesians 6:1-3: "Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth."
We will have a long life if we will respect our parents. This promise may sound vague and general, but there is an immediate application to it, especially in the lives of children. If children obey their parents, it can literally save their lives. For instance, a little child who runs across the street without looking both ways, as his parents instructed him to do, may get killed. His life can be cut short because of a simple act of disobedience. It really is true that disobedient children have a greater chance of not living long. The quality of their life may also be diminished because of rebellion. The Lord says that we must train our children to continually honor and esteem the Lord; and in doing that, they will learn to honor us as their parents.
If a child does not have a sense of respect for their parents, he or she will often have a harder time respecting other authority figures as well. I believe that this verse refers to more that just our biological parents, although it certainly is the first application we will want to make with this commandment. However, we see in Ephesians that God is saying that we must obey our "parents in the Lord." Therefore, this verse also refers to the elders within the church.
All of the Ten Commandments deal with rebellion in one way or another. Ultimately, it is rebellion that keeps us from obeying them. We will not love God with all of our heart when there is rebellion in it. No matter what the commandment is, the Lord is dealing with our attitude. He wants us to be submissive to Him, and that is why it is so important that we learn submission to our parents and elders.
In verse 23 of today's study we are told to "buy" truth. How does one "buy" truth? It will cost us something to get it. Truth is found by seeking God and studying His Word. Since our time is valuable, when we dedicate it to the study of God's Word, it is, in a sense, "buying" the truth. We are also told to seek discernment, judgment, instruction, and understanding, as well. Many of these things can be learned at the feet of our parents and elders. That is why the Lord tells us to honor them, and we are especially not to despise them in their old age. We will be old ourselves in time and we will reap what we sow. If we honor, respect and take care of our parents in their old age, we will be honored in ours. Honoring them begins with seeking God and His truth. We can "buy" the truth without money. We are invited to just come to the Lord and He will feed us with His spiritual bread, milk and wine.
Isaiah 55:1-2: 1 Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.2 Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for our families and may we especially be mindful to honor our parents and elders. Lord, give me a teachable spirit so that I might learn from those who are older and wiser than I am. Set me free from a prideful attitude and help me to listen to the voice of my elders. Lord, in my quest for truth, may I keep an open heart to receive those things that are of You, and give me discernment to recognize those things that are not of You. Open my understanding and instruct me in Your ways in all of the affairs of my life. I ask this in the name of my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Proverbs 23:22-23 (KJV):22 Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.23 Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.
Proverbs 23:22-23 (AMP):22 Hearken to your father, who begot you, and despise not your mother when she is old. 23 Buy the truth and sell it not; not only that, but; also get discernment and judgment, instruction and understanding.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs instruct us to honor our parents and seek truth, wisdom, instruction and understanding. One of the 10 Commandments in the Bible, instructs us with these words in:
Exodus 20:12: Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
One might think that this commandment is self-explanatory and needs no further teaching or elaboration. However, I believe as we look at this carefully, we will see something that perhaps we have not seen before.
The word for "honor" in Hebrew, is "kabed." This word is very closely related to the word that is translated as "glory" with respect to God. The literal meaning of this word is "to make weighty" or "to be heavy." Other definitions include, "to glorify or to make glorious, to honor, and to promote." To a certain extent, God wants us to treat our parents the way that we treat Him. We are to bring honor to their name, with our actions and words. The interesting thing about this commandment, is that it is the first one with a promise attached to it.
Ephesians 6:1-3: "Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth."
We will have a long life if we will respect our parents. This promise may sound vague and general, but there is an immediate application to it, especially in the lives of children. If children obey their parents, it can literally save their lives. For instance, a little child who runs across the street without looking both ways, as his parents instructed him to do, may get killed. His life can be cut short because of a simple act of disobedience. It really is true that disobedient children have a greater chance of not living long. The quality of their life may also be diminished because of rebellion. The Lord says that we must train our children to continually honor and esteem the Lord; and in doing that, they will learn to honor us as their parents.
If a child does not have a sense of respect for their parents, he or she will often have a harder time respecting other authority figures as well. I believe that this verse refers to more that just our biological parents, although it certainly is the first application we will want to make with this commandment. However, we see in Ephesians that God is saying that we must obey our "parents in the Lord." Therefore, this verse also refers to the elders within the church.
All of the Ten Commandments deal with rebellion in one way or another. Ultimately, it is rebellion that keeps us from obeying them. We will not love God with all of our heart when there is rebellion in it. No matter what the commandment is, the Lord is dealing with our attitude. He wants us to be submissive to Him, and that is why it is so important that we learn submission to our parents and elders.
In verse 23 of today's study we are told to "buy" truth. How does one "buy" truth? It will cost us something to get it. Truth is found by seeking God and studying His Word. Since our time is valuable, when we dedicate it to the study of God's Word, it is, in a sense, "buying" the truth. We are also told to seek discernment, judgment, instruction, and understanding, as well. Many of these things can be learned at the feet of our parents and elders. That is why the Lord tells us to honor them, and we are especially not to despise them in their old age. We will be old ourselves in time and we will reap what we sow. If we honor, respect and take care of our parents in their old age, we will be honored in ours. Honoring them begins with seeking God and His truth. We can "buy" the truth without money. We are invited to just come to the Lord and He will feed us with His spiritual bread, milk and wine.
Isaiah 55:1-2: 1 Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.2 Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for our families and may we especially be mindful to honor our parents and elders. Lord, give me a teachable spirit so that I might learn from those who are older and wiser than I am. Set me free from a prideful attitude and help me to listen to the voice of my elders. Lord, in my quest for truth, may I keep an open heart to receive those things that are of You, and give me discernment to recognize those things that are not of You. Open my understanding and instruct me in Your ways in all of the affairs of my life. I ask this in the name of my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Friday, August 21, 2009
P.S.
Everything comes from God so why should you let challenges stop you. You are going through things to make you stronger or you might have done some things that was against God that is causing the issue you are going through. So stop making excuses and stand strong. The Lord is your rock, stand on him. You will get through it.
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 233 (KJV):
Proverbs 23:9-11 (KJV):9 Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.10 Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless:11 For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.
Proverbs 23:9-11 (AMP):9 Speak not in the ears of a (self-confident) fool, for he will despise the [godly] Wisdom of your words.10 Remove not the ancient landmarks, and enter not into the fields of the fatherless, 11 For their Redeemer is mighty; He will plead their cause against you.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs give advice about not sharing wisdom with fools and also tell us that God defends the fatherless. Verse 9 tells us not to give wise advice to a fool because he will simply despise it. In Webster's Dictionary, we find this definition of a "fool." 1.) a person with little or no judgment, common sense, wisdom, etc.; silly or stupid person; simpleton. The Hebrew definition of a "fool," in Wilson's Old Testament Word Studies, carries the same meaning, with the added element of one who is rebellious with a will too hard for his understanding, and no reason for what he does.
Since he is a fool, he not only will not listen to reason, he will despise wisdom. A person would waste their time and breath, even if they tried to speak to them about a situation. A fool is self confident, while a wise man will listen and weigh things out according to the Word of God. That is the reason he is a wise man; he gets his wisdom from God. I use a personal expression whenever I need to see if something is of God or not. I usually say, "Let us run that through the Holy Ghost filter before we act on it." By doing that, it has saved us from many problems as the Lord filters out anything that is not of Him and if it gets through, then we can proceed with it.
Verses 10 speaks again about not removing the old landmarks. Landmarks in Bible times were boundary markers. Sometimes these were rows of stones or double furrows so that people would have their property rights established for others to see. These were to keep people from infringing on the property rights of others. Agriculture was a main business in Bible days, so many people owned fields and raised crops. The last part of this verse warns people not to enter the fields and try to steal from those who were fatherless and vulnerable, since all land was not protected by strong oversight. When this was the case, verse 11 warns that the Lord and Redeemer will plead the case against those who would dare do such a thing.
Those who do not know the Lord, might not be aware that when we come to the Lord, and He becomes our Redeemer, we now have unseen help that is not visible to the eye. Our heavenly Father sends His angels to watch over us. He especially watches over the fatherless, the weak, and the helpless, that belong to Him.
Matthew 18:10: Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.
There is a lot of fascination with angels today, with distorted information and unscriptural notions being circulated about them. However, the good angels from God are called "ministering spirits" and they are sent to help His people when they need supernatural help. There are three different kinds of angels -- messenger angels, warring angels, and worshipping angels. These angels assist God's people when they need it. God can plead the case of the fatherless by touching the hearts of people around them, through the influence of angels. Although the fatherless may find help from ordinary people, it is because God uses His angels to touch the right people to help them.
Hebrews 1:13-14:13 But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool?14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?
Psalm 27:9-10:9 Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.10 When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up.
God even takes up the children, whom their mothers and fathers have forsaken, if they call out to Him. It is the nature of God to continually reach out to the weak, the sick, and the fatherless. He is a mighty God who will plead their cause. May the Lord use us, to also plead their cause.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your wisdom and discernment in the daily affairs of my life. Lord, teach me to use wisdom, when I must deal with foolish and obstinate people. Help me keep my mouth closed and not speak, when You know that the person I am trying to reason with cannot receive what I may have to say. Also, give me grace and boldness to speak when I am supposed to share with others about the wisdom that is in Your Word. Lord, use me to help the weak and fatherless and plead their causes. May I be used as one of Your messengers in the natural, like one of Your angels, to bring a blessing to someone who needs to hear from You, or needs help from You. I ask this in the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Proverbs 23:9-11 (KJV):9 Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.10 Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless:11 For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.
Proverbs 23:9-11 (AMP):9 Speak not in the ears of a (self-confident) fool, for he will despise the [godly] Wisdom of your words.10 Remove not the ancient landmarks, and enter not into the fields of the fatherless, 11 For their Redeemer is mighty; He will plead their cause against you.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs give advice about not sharing wisdom with fools and also tell us that God defends the fatherless. Verse 9 tells us not to give wise advice to a fool because he will simply despise it. In Webster's Dictionary, we find this definition of a "fool." 1.) a person with little or no judgment, common sense, wisdom, etc.; silly or stupid person; simpleton. The Hebrew definition of a "fool," in Wilson's Old Testament Word Studies, carries the same meaning, with the added element of one who is rebellious with a will too hard for his understanding, and no reason for what he does.
Since he is a fool, he not only will not listen to reason, he will despise wisdom. A person would waste their time and breath, even if they tried to speak to them about a situation. A fool is self confident, while a wise man will listen and weigh things out according to the Word of God. That is the reason he is a wise man; he gets his wisdom from God. I use a personal expression whenever I need to see if something is of God or not. I usually say, "Let us run that through the Holy Ghost filter before we act on it." By doing that, it has saved us from many problems as the Lord filters out anything that is not of Him and if it gets through, then we can proceed with it.
Verses 10 speaks again about not removing the old landmarks. Landmarks in Bible times were boundary markers. Sometimes these were rows of stones or double furrows so that people would have their property rights established for others to see. These were to keep people from infringing on the property rights of others. Agriculture was a main business in Bible days, so many people owned fields and raised crops. The last part of this verse warns people not to enter the fields and try to steal from those who were fatherless and vulnerable, since all land was not protected by strong oversight. When this was the case, verse 11 warns that the Lord and Redeemer will plead the case against those who would dare do such a thing.
Those who do not know the Lord, might not be aware that when we come to the Lord, and He becomes our Redeemer, we now have unseen help that is not visible to the eye. Our heavenly Father sends His angels to watch over us. He especially watches over the fatherless, the weak, and the helpless, that belong to Him.
Matthew 18:10: Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.
There is a lot of fascination with angels today, with distorted information and unscriptural notions being circulated about them. However, the good angels from God are called "ministering spirits" and they are sent to help His people when they need supernatural help. There are three different kinds of angels -- messenger angels, warring angels, and worshipping angels. These angels assist God's people when they need it. God can plead the case of the fatherless by touching the hearts of people around them, through the influence of angels. Although the fatherless may find help from ordinary people, it is because God uses His angels to touch the right people to help them.
Hebrews 1:13-14:13 But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool?14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?
Psalm 27:9-10:9 Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.10 When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up.
God even takes up the children, whom their mothers and fathers have forsaken, if they call out to Him. It is the nature of God to continually reach out to the weak, the sick, and the fatherless. He is a mighty God who will plead their cause. May the Lord use us, to also plead their cause.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your wisdom and discernment in the daily affairs of my life. Lord, teach me to use wisdom, when I must deal with foolish and obstinate people. Help me keep my mouth closed and not speak, when You know that the person I am trying to reason with cannot receive what I may have to say. Also, give me grace and boldness to speak when I am supposed to share with others about the wisdom that is in Your Word. Lord, use me to help the weak and fatherless and plead their causes. May I be used as one of Your messengers in the natural, like one of Your angels, to bring a blessing to someone who needs to hear from You, or needs help from You. I ask this in the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
P.S.
Really let God use you like never before. If you just submit to him he will show you things you have never seen. He uses all things so don't feel you are unworthy. God don't make mistakes.
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 232 (KJV):
Proverbs 23:6-8 (KJV):6 Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats:7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.8 The morsel which thou hast eaten shalt thou vomit up, and lose thy sweet words.
Proverbs 23:6-8 (AMP):6 Eat not the bread of him who has a hard, grudging, and envious eye, neither desire his dainty foods;7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. As one who reckons, he says to you, eat and drink, yet his heart is not with you (but is grudging the cost).8 The morsel which you have eaten you will vomit up, and your complimentary words will be wasted.
Thoughts for the Day
Much advice from the book of Proverbs is directed to establishing the proper relationships by avoiding evil associations. Verse 6 tells us that if we know a man who has money to buy expensive food for the purpose of manipulating and using people, we should avoid this man's company, because he is a man who has an "evil eye." This simply means the man is only interested in "eyeing" people for an evil purpose. This kind of person will use entertainment to entice people for the purpose of gaining what they want, whether it be sex, power, position, or money. A person who has an evil eye can be male or female, and the Bible warns us, not only are we not to eat with them, but we are not to desire their dainty foods either. The temptation of lusting after food and entertainment is also found in the New Testament. We are not to love the things in this world with a lustful eye and impure desire.
1 John 2:15-17: 15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
Verse 7 makes a profound statement that says, "as a man thinks in his heart, so is that man." The Words of Jesus verify this, as He told us, it is not the things that man puts in his mouth that defile him, but the things that are in his heart.
Matthew 15:16-20:16 And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding?17 Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught?18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:20 These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.
Continuing with verse 7 of our study, we are told that a person with an "evil eye" may offer you gourmet food; however, even with all the entertaining and exchange of "sweet words of compliments," this person's heart is not with you. He is only doing it for a selfish and evil motive, while actually grudging the fact that he is spending money on you.
Verse 8 then goes on to say that this kind of meal will end up making you sick, and all the seemingly "good time" and "sweet words" will have been in vain. We are warned not to get trapped into circumstances like this, that we will end up regretting.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I am grateful that You have given us so much wise advice in this amazing book of Proverbs. Lord, thank You for pointing out things that would cause problems for our lives. Give me discernment to know when someone comes into my life who has an "evil eye," so that I will not fall into a trap set by a manipulator. Lord, I will pray for them to be set free, but I do not want to keep company with this kind of person. Lord, also remove lust, and anything else in my heart that is evil, so that I do not yield to the temptation of the lust of the eyes, nor the lust of the flesh. Put Your holy and righteous desires in my heart so that I might please You. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 23:6-8 (KJV):6 Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats:7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.8 The morsel which thou hast eaten shalt thou vomit up, and lose thy sweet words.
Proverbs 23:6-8 (AMP):6 Eat not the bread of him who has a hard, grudging, and envious eye, neither desire his dainty foods;7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. As one who reckons, he says to you, eat and drink, yet his heart is not with you (but is grudging the cost).8 The morsel which you have eaten you will vomit up, and your complimentary words will be wasted.
Thoughts for the Day
Much advice from the book of Proverbs is directed to establishing the proper relationships by avoiding evil associations. Verse 6 tells us that if we know a man who has money to buy expensive food for the purpose of manipulating and using people, we should avoid this man's company, because he is a man who has an "evil eye." This simply means the man is only interested in "eyeing" people for an evil purpose. This kind of person will use entertainment to entice people for the purpose of gaining what they want, whether it be sex, power, position, or money. A person who has an evil eye can be male or female, and the Bible warns us, not only are we not to eat with them, but we are not to desire their dainty foods either. The temptation of lusting after food and entertainment is also found in the New Testament. We are not to love the things in this world with a lustful eye and impure desire.
1 John 2:15-17: 15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
Verse 7 makes a profound statement that says, "as a man thinks in his heart, so is that man." The Words of Jesus verify this, as He told us, it is not the things that man puts in his mouth that defile him, but the things that are in his heart.
Matthew 15:16-20:16 And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding?17 Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught?18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:20 These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.
Continuing with verse 7 of our study, we are told that a person with an "evil eye" may offer you gourmet food; however, even with all the entertaining and exchange of "sweet words of compliments," this person's heart is not with you. He is only doing it for a selfish and evil motive, while actually grudging the fact that he is spending money on you.
Verse 8 then goes on to say that this kind of meal will end up making you sick, and all the seemingly "good time" and "sweet words" will have been in vain. We are warned not to get trapped into circumstances like this, that we will end up regretting.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I am grateful that You have given us so much wise advice in this amazing book of Proverbs. Lord, thank You for pointing out things that would cause problems for our lives. Give me discernment to know when someone comes into my life who has an "evil eye," so that I will not fall into a trap set by a manipulator. Lord, I will pray for them to be set free, but I do not want to keep company with this kind of person. Lord, also remove lust, and anything else in my heart that is evil, so that I do not yield to the temptation of the lust of the eyes, nor the lust of the flesh. Put Your holy and righteous desires in my heart so that I might please You. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 223 (KJV):
Proverbs 22:17-18 (KJV):17 Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge.18 For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips.
Proverbs 22:17-18 (AMP):17 Listen (consent and submit) to the words of the wise, and apply your mind to my knowledge;18 For it will be pleasant if you keep them in your mind (believing them); your lips will be accustomed to (confessing) them.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs tell us that when we submit to and confess the Word of God in our lives, it will be pleasant for us. Verse 17 speaks of bowing our ear to hear the wisdom of the wise and then applying it to our hearts and lives. This simply means we are not only to listen to God's Word, but we are to submissively obey it as well. However, according to verse 18, the way we keep God's Words in our mind, and believe them is to begin "confessing" them. This is because sometimes we will encounter a battle to be able to hold on to the promises of God, and this is when we must continue to "confess" in faith what the Bible says about our problems.
As Christians, our confession should be what we term a "Bible confession," instead of just a "positive confession." We are not talking about confessing our sins here, but rather confessing or acknowledging with our mouth the truths from God's Word. Certainly the Bible tells us to confess our sins, but that is not the only confession we need to make. We are also told to confess or speak out loud the promises of God, in faith, so we can receive them.
We need to clarify the difference between the so-called "positive confession" taught by the success propagators in the world and a "Bible confession." Many times, their confessions are directed toward "self," not toward God's Word. They build their "castles in the sky," but they are not founded on the Word of God; instead they are based on what they desire for themselves. For example, you will probably never hear them confessing the following portion of God's Word, "If we suffer, we shall also reign with him; if we deny him, he also will deny us" (2 Timothy 2:12). We must begin confessing what the Word of God has to say about our lives and circumstances, instead of what those in the world may speak about the situation.
In confessing God's Word, we must not pick out only the Scriptures we desire, but also the ones the Lord desires for us. He certainly desires to bless us, but He also desires to cleanse us. We must be as enthusiastic in our confessions to be cleansed from all that would offend the Lord, as we are in confessing the physical blessings He has promised us. We must learn to set a guard on our mouths, as it is very important to control our conversation. We will ultimately receive the things that we speak. If we speak evil long enough, it will come to pass; likewise, if we speak good.
Psalm 50:23: Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God.
Proverbs 18:20-21: A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled. Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof."
We must not only claim God's Word, but also learn to speak or "confess" His Word. We must confess our faith in God's Word. We must not confess lack, as the Heavenly Father has given us everything we need. We must not confess defeat, as God has made us more than conquerors. We must not confess doubt, as God has given us His faith. We are to speak the things that the Word of God declares as truth.
We easily quote what men have to say on a subject, and many times we believe them, despite what the Word of God has to say about it. Yet, we are often hesitant to quote what God says, because our natural thinking tells us we would be lying. The devil causes us to look at our circumstances, rather than the Word. Circumstances are subject to change, and one of the things that can cause them to do so is the confession of God's Word over a particular situation. In fact, the Word of God tells us to confess or talk about the things we are believing God to do in our lives, and He will bring them to pass.
Romans 4:20-22: He (Abraham) staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness.
Romans 4:17: (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were.
We should confess the Word of God over our problems, instead of just confessing the problem. There are some so-called "confession teachers" that say we are never to speak anything negative or anything that is wrong with us, or any problem, but this is not what the Bible teaches. We can speak out when we are sick or have a problem; but, we should always immediately speak the Word of God over that problem. This allows the Holy Spirit to bring the answer to the problem and that answer will be according to what we speak and what we believe.
For instance, if I am under an attack of sickness, there is nothing wrong with telling people that I am sick and in need of prayer. When I share, however, it might also be wise to phrase it something like this: "The doctor says I have a disease, but I am believing that according to God's promise of healing for His children, that I am healed. Would you pray and agree with me in prayer for that healing?"
If we do not know what God has to say about our problem, we need to get our Bibles and study that subject and find out what He has promised us. There are thousands of promises of blessing to God's children in the Bible, we just need to read it and find out what God has promised to do for us.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You Lord, for Your many promises of blessing to us, Your children. I want to receive everything that Jesus died for, when He went to the cross to save me. Salvation and healing are just the beginning of why You died on that cross for me, and I do not want Your death to be in vain. I want to receive all the covenant promises that You suffered for in my behalf. Lord, deliver me of doubt and unbelief and help me to guard the things I say. May I always confess what Your Word says, and not allow the devil to rob me of the blessings that are mine. I ask this in the name of Jesus, my Lord and Saviour. Amen.
Proverbs 22:17-18 (KJV):17 Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge.18 For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips.
Proverbs 22:17-18 (AMP):17 Listen (consent and submit) to the words of the wise, and apply your mind to my knowledge;18 For it will be pleasant if you keep them in your mind (believing them); your lips will be accustomed to (confessing) them.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs tell us that when we submit to and confess the Word of God in our lives, it will be pleasant for us. Verse 17 speaks of bowing our ear to hear the wisdom of the wise and then applying it to our hearts and lives. This simply means we are not only to listen to God's Word, but we are to submissively obey it as well. However, according to verse 18, the way we keep God's Words in our mind, and believe them is to begin "confessing" them. This is because sometimes we will encounter a battle to be able to hold on to the promises of God, and this is when we must continue to "confess" in faith what the Bible says about our problems.
As Christians, our confession should be what we term a "Bible confession," instead of just a "positive confession." We are not talking about confessing our sins here, but rather confessing or acknowledging with our mouth the truths from God's Word. Certainly the Bible tells us to confess our sins, but that is not the only confession we need to make. We are also told to confess or speak out loud the promises of God, in faith, so we can receive them.
We need to clarify the difference between the so-called "positive confession" taught by the success propagators in the world and a "Bible confession." Many times, their confessions are directed toward "self," not toward God's Word. They build their "castles in the sky," but they are not founded on the Word of God; instead they are based on what they desire for themselves. For example, you will probably never hear them confessing the following portion of God's Word, "If we suffer, we shall also reign with him; if we deny him, he also will deny us" (2 Timothy 2:12). We must begin confessing what the Word of God has to say about our lives and circumstances, instead of what those in the world may speak about the situation.
In confessing God's Word, we must not pick out only the Scriptures we desire, but also the ones the Lord desires for us. He certainly desires to bless us, but He also desires to cleanse us. We must be as enthusiastic in our confessions to be cleansed from all that would offend the Lord, as we are in confessing the physical blessings He has promised us. We must learn to set a guard on our mouths, as it is very important to control our conversation. We will ultimately receive the things that we speak. If we speak evil long enough, it will come to pass; likewise, if we speak good.
Psalm 50:23: Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God.
Proverbs 18:20-21: A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled. Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof."
We must not only claim God's Word, but also learn to speak or "confess" His Word. We must confess our faith in God's Word. We must not confess lack, as the Heavenly Father has given us everything we need. We must not confess defeat, as God has made us more than conquerors. We must not confess doubt, as God has given us His faith. We are to speak the things that the Word of God declares as truth.
We easily quote what men have to say on a subject, and many times we believe them, despite what the Word of God has to say about it. Yet, we are often hesitant to quote what God says, because our natural thinking tells us we would be lying. The devil causes us to look at our circumstances, rather than the Word. Circumstances are subject to change, and one of the things that can cause them to do so is the confession of God's Word over a particular situation. In fact, the Word of God tells us to confess or talk about the things we are believing God to do in our lives, and He will bring them to pass.
Romans 4:20-22: He (Abraham) staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness.
Romans 4:17: (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were.
We should confess the Word of God over our problems, instead of just confessing the problem. There are some so-called "confession teachers" that say we are never to speak anything negative or anything that is wrong with us, or any problem, but this is not what the Bible teaches. We can speak out when we are sick or have a problem; but, we should always immediately speak the Word of God over that problem. This allows the Holy Spirit to bring the answer to the problem and that answer will be according to what we speak and what we believe.
For instance, if I am under an attack of sickness, there is nothing wrong with telling people that I am sick and in need of prayer. When I share, however, it might also be wise to phrase it something like this: "The doctor says I have a disease, but I am believing that according to God's promise of healing for His children, that I am healed. Would you pray and agree with me in prayer for that healing?"
If we do not know what God has to say about our problem, we need to get our Bibles and study that subject and find out what He has promised us. There are thousands of promises of blessing to God's children in the Bible, we just need to read it and find out what God has promised to do for us.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You Lord, for Your many promises of blessing to us, Your children. I want to receive everything that Jesus died for, when He went to the cross to save me. Salvation and healing are just the beginning of why You died on that cross for me, and I do not want Your death to be in vain. I want to receive all the covenant promises that You suffered for in my behalf. Lord, deliver me of doubt and unbelief and help me to guard the things I say. May I always confess what Your Word says, and not allow the devil to rob me of the blessings that are mine. I ask this in the name of Jesus, my Lord and Saviour. Amen.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 218 (KJV):
Proverbs 22:7-8 (KJV):7 The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.8 He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity: and the rod of his anger shall fail.
Proverbs 22:7-8 (AMP):7 The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.8 He who sows iniquity will reap calamity and futility, and the rod of his wrath (with which he smites others) will fail.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs tell us how the power of wealth gives people an advantage over others, and that vanity will be reaped by those who sow iniquity. Verse 7 tells us that those who are rich will rule over those who are poor and that people who borrow money are in servitude to those who lend it. Having wealth is not sinful, as there were many people in the Bible who were very wealthy, such as David, Solomon and Abraham. All of these men had hearts toward God and God used them to bless others. However, being rich or poor in this world does not define our relationship with God. Some rich men are very poor in the eyes of God, because they do not serve Him; while some poor men in this world are very rich because they are in right standing with God and have what the Bible calls "the true riches." The true riches of God is having His love, faith, peace, joy, protection, favor, etc. However, how we use money, or mammon, is one of the ways in which God tests us, before He entrusts His kingdom riches to us.
Luke 16:10-11: 10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?
One of our spiritual tests is how we deal with the small issues in this life. The Bible tells us that if we are not faithful over the small things, we will not be faithful over larger things. I have observed this truth over my lifetime, and it has never proven to be wrong. I have watched people's lives and when they fail to come through in the small issues, they also fail to come through on larger issues. People who say they will call right back and fail to do so, will also fail to send that check they said they would send. People who tell you they will take care of a small matter and do not do so, will not take care of a larger matter. (I am not referring to occasional oversights, of which we all fail to do at times, but am talking about habitual failings.)
I had a neighbor, when I was young, who always excused her messy apartment on the fact that it was just too small, so she couldn't keep it clean and picked up. She would always complain to her husband that if he would just get her a bigger house, she would be able to keep it clean and straight. He finally got her a nice big house, and instead of her keeping it nice and straight, as she claimed she would do, she just ended up with a bigger house and a bigger mess. If we are not faithful in little, we will not be faithful in much. I never give a big job to someone, until I first see how they will handle a small job, because I have found this scripture to be absolutely true.
This is true with our finances, as well. Some people are waiting to give their tithes and offerings when they have more money, but they will never have more money to give, until they give out of what they have. The Bible speaks of giving a "tithe" or ten percent, as our portion to the Lord. We can give this to the Lord's work, whether we have little or much. If I have a dollar that I have earned, I can give a dime to the Lord's work; or if I earn $100.00, I can give $10.00. Giving is one way that we will work our way toward getting out of debt because it releases the favor of God and man toward us. It is wise to get out of debt, because as long as we are in debt, we are servants to those who have lent us the money. It also limits us when we are in debt, in regard to heeding the call of the Lord. We must stay and discharge our debts, instead of being free to go and serve the Lord.
Verse 8 talks about the unrighteous man who is a sinner and is continually doing evil deeds. The Bible says,he will reap what he is sowing. He will come to calamity and futility. Bad things are bound to happen to people who continually use threats with angry words, to get people to do things. These kinds of people are manipulators; however, in time, their angry words will fail to get them what they want, and people will finally leave them to their own evil devices.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You, God, for Your abundant blessings! Lord, I am grateful that I am rich with Your many spiritual blessings and I also appreciate the material blessings You have given me. You take good care of me, and I am grateful. Lord, I do ask that You help all of Your people to get out of debt and stay out of debt. I pray this personally as well. I want to do what Your scripture says, in that I do not want to owe anyone anything, except the debt of love, and I will gladly pay that debt. Help me to show integrity in all my dealings in regard to money and finances. Lord, may I be generous and always give to the work of the Lord and help others as well. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 22:7-8 (KJV):7 The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.8 He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity: and the rod of his anger shall fail.
Proverbs 22:7-8 (AMP):7 The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.8 He who sows iniquity will reap calamity and futility, and the rod of his wrath (with which he smites others) will fail.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs tell us how the power of wealth gives people an advantage over others, and that vanity will be reaped by those who sow iniquity. Verse 7 tells us that those who are rich will rule over those who are poor and that people who borrow money are in servitude to those who lend it. Having wealth is not sinful, as there were many people in the Bible who were very wealthy, such as David, Solomon and Abraham. All of these men had hearts toward God and God used them to bless others. However, being rich or poor in this world does not define our relationship with God. Some rich men are very poor in the eyes of God, because they do not serve Him; while some poor men in this world are very rich because they are in right standing with God and have what the Bible calls "the true riches." The true riches of God is having His love, faith, peace, joy, protection, favor, etc. However, how we use money, or mammon, is one of the ways in which God tests us, before He entrusts His kingdom riches to us.
Luke 16:10-11: 10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?
One of our spiritual tests is how we deal with the small issues in this life. The Bible tells us that if we are not faithful over the small things, we will not be faithful over larger things. I have observed this truth over my lifetime, and it has never proven to be wrong. I have watched people's lives and when they fail to come through in the small issues, they also fail to come through on larger issues. People who say they will call right back and fail to do so, will also fail to send that check they said they would send. People who tell you they will take care of a small matter and do not do so, will not take care of a larger matter. (I am not referring to occasional oversights, of which we all fail to do at times, but am talking about habitual failings.)
I had a neighbor, when I was young, who always excused her messy apartment on the fact that it was just too small, so she couldn't keep it clean and picked up. She would always complain to her husband that if he would just get her a bigger house, she would be able to keep it clean and straight. He finally got her a nice big house, and instead of her keeping it nice and straight, as she claimed she would do, she just ended up with a bigger house and a bigger mess. If we are not faithful in little, we will not be faithful in much. I never give a big job to someone, until I first see how they will handle a small job, because I have found this scripture to be absolutely true.
This is true with our finances, as well. Some people are waiting to give their tithes and offerings when they have more money, but they will never have more money to give, until they give out of what they have. The Bible speaks of giving a "tithe" or ten percent, as our portion to the Lord. We can give this to the Lord's work, whether we have little or much. If I have a dollar that I have earned, I can give a dime to the Lord's work; or if I earn $100.00, I can give $10.00. Giving is one way that we will work our way toward getting out of debt because it releases the favor of God and man toward us. It is wise to get out of debt, because as long as we are in debt, we are servants to those who have lent us the money. It also limits us when we are in debt, in regard to heeding the call of the Lord. We must stay and discharge our debts, instead of being free to go and serve the Lord.
Verse 8 talks about the unrighteous man who is a sinner and is continually doing evil deeds. The Bible says,he will reap what he is sowing. He will come to calamity and futility. Bad things are bound to happen to people who continually use threats with angry words, to get people to do things. These kinds of people are manipulators; however, in time, their angry words will fail to get them what they want, and people will finally leave them to their own evil devices.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You, God, for Your abundant blessings! Lord, I am grateful that I am rich with Your many spiritual blessings and I also appreciate the material blessings You have given me. You take good care of me, and I am grateful. Lord, I do ask that You help all of Your people to get out of debt and stay out of debt. I pray this personally as well. I want to do what Your scripture says, in that I do not want to owe anyone anything, except the debt of love, and I will gladly pay that debt. Help me to show integrity in all my dealings in regard to money and finances. Lord, may I be generous and always give to the work of the Lord and help others as well. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
P.S.
Our goal as the church is to mirror Jesus and all his attributes. When you look in the mirror do you him. Do you see the fruits of the spirit (patience, long suffering....) operating in your life. Or do you just you doing your will. Are you accomplishing your goal today.
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 217 (KJV):
Proverbs 22:5-6 (KJV):5 Thorns and snares are in the way of the froward: he that doth keep his soul shall be far from them.6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:5-6 (AMP):5 Thorns and snares are in the way of the obstinate and willful; he who guards himself will be far from them. 6 Train up a child in the way he should go (and in keeping with his individual gift or bent), and when he is old he will not depart from it.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs speak of the fate of the rebellious, as well as instructing parents to train their children in the right way. Verse 5 clearly tells us that the froward (rebellious) person will end up on a path that is hedged in with thorns and snares. We all probably know people who stay in "hot water." Many young people, to their own hurt, will not listen to the advice of their parents and elders, and end up going down the wrong road. They just seem to take their lessons in life the hard way -- doing their own thing. However, there is a group of Christian youth, who truly love the Lord, and have respect for authority and godly advice, and they are the ones described as "keeping" or "guarding" their souls. Among those are young people who are chaste and have kept their virginity. They will escape the ravages of sexually transmitted diseases and scarred emotions, so that when they meet their mates, they can begin a life together without pain and guilt. This is not true of the rebellious youth who go down the path of sexual experimentation and then are wounded by the thorns and snares that go with that lifestyle.
Verse 6 admonishes us, as parents, to help our children find the right path and stay on it. We are told in this verse to "train" up our children in the Lord. Many parents have grief in their hearts over their grown children who have gone astray from their Christian heritage and teachings. They have wondered why their children did not walk in what they were taught. One reason for this is that many parents did not "train" their children, but only "taught" their children about the things of God. Teaching is sharing information, while training integrates that teaching into a lifestyle. As parents, we should also pray and ask the Lord to help us direct our children in the calling He has for them. We need to recognize the God given gifts they possess and encourage them along those lines.
Training is a lot more tedious and takes a committed effort on the part of parents. Training involves enforcing and reinforcing what is being taught. Lack of teaching and training our children in the standards and absolutes, as outlined in the Bible, has been the reason so many of our children are misguided. Many of our children are not receiving godly standards from their Christian parents, but are being taught by humanistic teachers in the public schools (where prayer is no longer allowed). If they do not receive their guidance there, they are getting it from baby sitters, secular movies, videos, CDs, games, books, magazines and last, but not least, their own peers. Parents have abdicated their roles as mentors, while our children get their values from our immoral society.
We must get back to training our children in the ways of the Lord. The Bible commands children to obey their parents in all things, if they want to please the Lord. (Of course, this means in all moral and right things. There are corrupt parents who would ask their children to do evil things, and a child should not obey in those things.) Parents are also told to not provoke their children to anger, and thereby discourage them. Parents are to be kind and good to their children, as the Lord is kind and good to us, His spiritual children.
Colossians 3:20-21: Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.
If we call on the Lord to help us, as parents, He will give us the wisdom, love and patience to raise our children properly, even in a wicked world; and when they are grown, they will not depart from the things that they learned from us.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for all You have done for my children and grandchildren. Lord, I am grateful that they all know You. It was Your love and grace that made that possible. Lord, I do pray that You keep each of them in Your Hand and keep them from the evil influences in this world. Help me to continue to be that mentor and model for all of them and most of all, help me to always show love to each of them. Lord, lead each of them into the ministry that You have ordained for them. May they find the right mate, so they can walk together in their life's calling. Protect them all. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 22:5-6 (KJV):5 Thorns and snares are in the way of the froward: he that doth keep his soul shall be far from them.6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:5-6 (AMP):5 Thorns and snares are in the way of the obstinate and willful; he who guards himself will be far from them. 6 Train up a child in the way he should go (and in keeping with his individual gift or bent), and when he is old he will not depart from it.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs speak of the fate of the rebellious, as well as instructing parents to train their children in the right way. Verse 5 clearly tells us that the froward (rebellious) person will end up on a path that is hedged in with thorns and snares. We all probably know people who stay in "hot water." Many young people, to their own hurt, will not listen to the advice of their parents and elders, and end up going down the wrong road. They just seem to take their lessons in life the hard way -- doing their own thing. However, there is a group of Christian youth, who truly love the Lord, and have respect for authority and godly advice, and they are the ones described as "keeping" or "guarding" their souls. Among those are young people who are chaste and have kept their virginity. They will escape the ravages of sexually transmitted diseases and scarred emotions, so that when they meet their mates, they can begin a life together without pain and guilt. This is not true of the rebellious youth who go down the path of sexual experimentation and then are wounded by the thorns and snares that go with that lifestyle.
Verse 6 admonishes us, as parents, to help our children find the right path and stay on it. We are told in this verse to "train" up our children in the Lord. Many parents have grief in their hearts over their grown children who have gone astray from their Christian heritage and teachings. They have wondered why their children did not walk in what they were taught. One reason for this is that many parents did not "train" their children, but only "taught" their children about the things of God. Teaching is sharing information, while training integrates that teaching into a lifestyle. As parents, we should also pray and ask the Lord to help us direct our children in the calling He has for them. We need to recognize the God given gifts they possess and encourage them along those lines.
Training is a lot more tedious and takes a committed effort on the part of parents. Training involves enforcing and reinforcing what is being taught. Lack of teaching and training our children in the standards and absolutes, as outlined in the Bible, has been the reason so many of our children are misguided. Many of our children are not receiving godly standards from their Christian parents, but are being taught by humanistic teachers in the public schools (where prayer is no longer allowed). If they do not receive their guidance there, they are getting it from baby sitters, secular movies, videos, CDs, games, books, magazines and last, but not least, their own peers. Parents have abdicated their roles as mentors, while our children get their values from our immoral society.
We must get back to training our children in the ways of the Lord. The Bible commands children to obey their parents in all things, if they want to please the Lord. (Of course, this means in all moral and right things. There are corrupt parents who would ask their children to do evil things, and a child should not obey in those things.) Parents are also told to not provoke their children to anger, and thereby discourage them. Parents are to be kind and good to their children, as the Lord is kind and good to us, His spiritual children.
Colossians 3:20-21: Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.
If we call on the Lord to help us, as parents, He will give us the wisdom, love and patience to raise our children properly, even in a wicked world; and when they are grown, they will not depart from the things that they learned from us.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for all You have done for my children and grandchildren. Lord, I am grateful that they all know You. It was Your love and grace that made that possible. Lord, I do pray that You keep each of them in Your Hand and keep them from the evil influences in this world. Help me to continue to be that mentor and model for all of them and most of all, help me to always show love to each of them. Lord, lead each of them into the ministry that You have ordained for them. May they find the right mate, so they can walk together in their life's calling. Protect them all. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
P.S.
God knew this challenge was coming so he made you strong enough to deal with it. It is only temporary. He is calling for you to trust him through this time. To still worship him through it all. Give him your praise instead of you complaints in prayer.
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 216 (KJV):
Proverbs 22:3-4 (KJV):3 A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.4 By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life.
Proverbs 22:3-4 (AMP):3 A prudent man sees the evil and hides himself, but the simple pass on and are punished (with suffering).4 The reward of humility and the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs tell us that if we are prudent and seek the Lord with humility, He will give us discernment so that we do not go down a destructive path. Verse 3 tells us that being prudent is a virtue that will protect us. What is the dictionary definition of the word "prudent?" According to Webster's Dictionary, it means 1.) capable of exercising sound judgment in practical matters, esp. as concerns one's own interests 2.) cautious or discreet in conduct; circumspect; not rash 3.) managing carefully and with economy.
If we walk daily with God, and obey the principles in His Word, that knowledge will keep us from falling into the traps of the devil. God will warn us when there is impending evil, so that we can avoid it. Many Christians can give testimony to this fact, as their lives have been spared just by hearing the Lord's voice warn them about a life threatening situation, that they were able to avoid. The Bible is also full of accounts where the Lord preserved the life of His children through giving them advance warning. Even the life of baby Jesus was spared through the obedience of Joseph and Mary, when the Lord warned them in a dream, to flee Bethlehem and go to Egypt.
Matthew 2:13-14:13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.14 When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt.
He warned Noah and his family of the coming flood and directed them how to prepare to survive it.
He warned Lot and his family of the coming destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah and told them to flee.
He warned Pharaoh, through Joseph, of the coming famine and used Joseph to prepare stores of food during the seven years of plenty, which saved Egypt and Joseph's family (Jacob, his eleven sons, and their families) when the famine came.
He warned the Israelites living under Egyptian slavery, that the "angel of death" would kill all the first-born of every family and that they must protect themselves and their families by placing the blood of a lamb over the doorposts, so the angel would "passover" them.
Jonah was sent to Nineveh, the capital city of Assyria to warn the people of God's coming destruction, and when they repented, he postponed the judgment for a number of years.
The Lord is still warning us today, through His Word, and the voice of His servants, to repent so that we will not be destroyed individually, as well as corporately. The Lord wants to bless us, not see us destroyed by the fruit of our own sin. In fact, verse 4 in today's study tells us that if we humble ourselves, and reverently worship and follow God, we not only will escape destruction, we shall be rewarded with riches, honor and life. God wants to bless us. The curses coming upon our nation are not from Him, but are because we have rejected Him, and sought other gods like materialism, lust, perversions and worldly pleasure. It is not too late to seek the Lord, no matter how we have fallen. He is a forgiving and loving God, Who wants to redeem us and bring us into the promised land of safety and blessing. He does not want us to suffer under the penalty of our sins.
1 Peter 5:6-11:6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your divine protection over me and my family, Lord. I am sure that You have kept me from harm many times that I was not even aware of. Lord, help me to be prudent and wise in all of my affairs, as I know I bring suffering on myself, when I fail to hear You and proceed in an unwise path. Lord, help me resist evil, and overcome the temptations in my life through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Thank You, for continued safety in these perilous times and may I hear Your warnings, when I need to take any action to avoid trouble and destruction. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 22:3-4 (KJV):3 A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.4 By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life.
Proverbs 22:3-4 (AMP):3 A prudent man sees the evil and hides himself, but the simple pass on and are punished (with suffering).4 The reward of humility and the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs tell us that if we are prudent and seek the Lord with humility, He will give us discernment so that we do not go down a destructive path. Verse 3 tells us that being prudent is a virtue that will protect us. What is the dictionary definition of the word "prudent?" According to Webster's Dictionary, it means 1.) capable of exercising sound judgment in practical matters, esp. as concerns one's own interests 2.) cautious or discreet in conduct; circumspect; not rash 3.) managing carefully and with economy.
If we walk daily with God, and obey the principles in His Word, that knowledge will keep us from falling into the traps of the devil. God will warn us when there is impending evil, so that we can avoid it. Many Christians can give testimony to this fact, as their lives have been spared just by hearing the Lord's voice warn them about a life threatening situation, that they were able to avoid. The Bible is also full of accounts where the Lord preserved the life of His children through giving them advance warning. Even the life of baby Jesus was spared through the obedience of Joseph and Mary, when the Lord warned them in a dream, to flee Bethlehem and go to Egypt.
Matthew 2:13-14:13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.14 When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt.
He warned Noah and his family of the coming flood and directed them how to prepare to survive it.
He warned Lot and his family of the coming destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah and told them to flee.
He warned Pharaoh, through Joseph, of the coming famine and used Joseph to prepare stores of food during the seven years of plenty, which saved Egypt and Joseph's family (Jacob, his eleven sons, and their families) when the famine came.
He warned the Israelites living under Egyptian slavery, that the "angel of death" would kill all the first-born of every family and that they must protect themselves and their families by placing the blood of a lamb over the doorposts, so the angel would "passover" them.
Jonah was sent to Nineveh, the capital city of Assyria to warn the people of God's coming destruction, and when they repented, he postponed the judgment for a number of years.
The Lord is still warning us today, through His Word, and the voice of His servants, to repent so that we will not be destroyed individually, as well as corporately. The Lord wants to bless us, not see us destroyed by the fruit of our own sin. In fact, verse 4 in today's study tells us that if we humble ourselves, and reverently worship and follow God, we not only will escape destruction, we shall be rewarded with riches, honor and life. God wants to bless us. The curses coming upon our nation are not from Him, but are because we have rejected Him, and sought other gods like materialism, lust, perversions and worldly pleasure. It is not too late to seek the Lord, no matter how we have fallen. He is a forgiving and loving God, Who wants to redeem us and bring us into the promised land of safety and blessing. He does not want us to suffer under the penalty of our sins.
1 Peter 5:6-11:6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your divine protection over me and my family, Lord. I am sure that You have kept me from harm many times that I was not even aware of. Lord, help me to be prudent and wise in all of my affairs, as I know I bring suffering on myself, when I fail to hear You and proceed in an unwise path. Lord, help me resist evil, and overcome the temptations in my life through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Thank You, for continued safety in these perilous times and may I hear Your warnings, when I need to take any action to avoid trouble and destruction. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 215 (KJV):
Proverbs 22:1-2 (KJV):1 A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.2 The rich and poor meet together: the LORD is the maker of them all.
Proverbs 22:1-2 (AMP):1 A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.2 The rich and poor meet together; the Lord is the Maker of them all.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs tell us that the value of virtue in one's life is better than being wealthy, as material prosperity will mean nothing on judgment day. Verse 1 admonishes us that if we were given a choice over great riches, or a good name and loving favor, we would be wise to choose the later. King Solomon, who wrote the book of Proverbs, could certainly testify to this, as he was given a similar choice by God in a dream. Because he was unselfish, and made the right choice, God then gave him riches also. Solomon could have asked for anything, but he asked for an understanding heart to serve his people. Here is the story:
1 Kings 3:5-14:5 In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee.6 And Solomon said, Thou hast showed unto thy servant David my father great mercy, according as he walked before thee in truth, and in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with thee; and thou hast kept for him this great kindness, that thou hast given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day.7 And now, O LORD my God, thou hast made thy servant king instead of David my father: and I am but a little child: I know not how to go out or come in.8 And thy servant is in the midst of thy people which thou hast chosen, a great people, that cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude.9 Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?10 And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing.11 And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment;12 Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee.13 And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honour: so that there shall not be any among the kings like unto thee all thy days.14 And if thou wilt walk in my ways, to keep my statutes and my commandments, as thy father David did walk, then I will lengthen thy days.
Solomon certainly had the loving favor of God upon him. The "favor of God" comes in many forms, such as protection, health, blessing, provision, and it can also come by the favor we find with men. In the New Testament we find that Jesus had that favor on His life. It came as He increased in wisdom. Praying to have wisdom would be a "wise" thing to do.
Luke2:52: And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
Verse 2 in our study verses tells us that one day, the rich and the poor will meet together, as all men will have to come before the judgment seat of God and give an account for their lives. At that time, money will not do the rich men any good as they certainly will not be able to "pay off" God for a favorable report about their lives. The Bible tells us that every person will have to appear before Christ and be judged for what they have done in this life.
2 Corinthians 5:10-11a For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men...
Romans 14:10-12: 10 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.
Jesus will be a righteous judge, because He gave His life on the cross for all who would come to Him and repent of their sins and believe in Him. He told us that He came to save men, not judge them. We are judged by the Word of God and Jesus' commandments. When we violate the Word of God, that is sin, and there is only One Who can take away sin and that One is Jesus.
John 12:44-50:44 Jesus cried and said, He that believeth on me, believeth not on me, but on him that sent me.45 And he that seeth me seeth him that sent me.46 I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.47 And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.48 He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.49 For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.50 And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.
The Bible tells us that if we confess our sins, He will forgive our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. We can have life everlasting when we come to Jesus and then we will not have to dread facing Him on the day of judgment. We will be happy to see Him because He is the One Who saved us.
1 John 1:8-9: If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I am grateful that You sent Your Son to die for my sins. Thank You for saving my soul. I am happy that my name is written in the Book of Life. Lord, use me to tell others that their names can be written in that same book. Should I be forgetful about praying for the lost, please remind me to do so. I do not want to stand before You ashamed because I have failed in my witness on this earth. I want to hear those words, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." Open my eyes and give me eternal vision so that the things of eternity are more important to me than just the things I see with my natural eyes. I ask this in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
Proverbs 22:1-2 (KJV):1 A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.2 The rich and poor meet together: the LORD is the maker of them all.
Proverbs 22:1-2 (AMP):1 A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.2 The rich and poor meet together; the Lord is the Maker of them all.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs tell us that the value of virtue in one's life is better than being wealthy, as material prosperity will mean nothing on judgment day. Verse 1 admonishes us that if we were given a choice over great riches, or a good name and loving favor, we would be wise to choose the later. King Solomon, who wrote the book of Proverbs, could certainly testify to this, as he was given a similar choice by God in a dream. Because he was unselfish, and made the right choice, God then gave him riches also. Solomon could have asked for anything, but he asked for an understanding heart to serve his people. Here is the story:
1 Kings 3:5-14:5 In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee.6 And Solomon said, Thou hast showed unto thy servant David my father great mercy, according as he walked before thee in truth, and in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with thee; and thou hast kept for him this great kindness, that thou hast given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day.7 And now, O LORD my God, thou hast made thy servant king instead of David my father: and I am but a little child: I know not how to go out or come in.8 And thy servant is in the midst of thy people which thou hast chosen, a great people, that cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude.9 Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?10 And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing.11 And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment;12 Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee.13 And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honour: so that there shall not be any among the kings like unto thee all thy days.14 And if thou wilt walk in my ways, to keep my statutes and my commandments, as thy father David did walk, then I will lengthen thy days.
Solomon certainly had the loving favor of God upon him. The "favor of God" comes in many forms, such as protection, health, blessing, provision, and it can also come by the favor we find with men. In the New Testament we find that Jesus had that favor on His life. It came as He increased in wisdom. Praying to have wisdom would be a "wise" thing to do.
Luke2:52: And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
Verse 2 in our study verses tells us that one day, the rich and the poor will meet together, as all men will have to come before the judgment seat of God and give an account for their lives. At that time, money will not do the rich men any good as they certainly will not be able to "pay off" God for a favorable report about their lives. The Bible tells us that every person will have to appear before Christ and be judged for what they have done in this life.
2 Corinthians 5:10-11a For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men...
Romans 14:10-12: 10 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.
Jesus will be a righteous judge, because He gave His life on the cross for all who would come to Him and repent of their sins and believe in Him. He told us that He came to save men, not judge them. We are judged by the Word of God and Jesus' commandments. When we violate the Word of God, that is sin, and there is only One Who can take away sin and that One is Jesus.
John 12:44-50:44 Jesus cried and said, He that believeth on me, believeth not on me, but on him that sent me.45 And he that seeth me seeth him that sent me.46 I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.47 And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.48 He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.49 For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.50 And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.
The Bible tells us that if we confess our sins, He will forgive our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. We can have life everlasting when we come to Jesus and then we will not have to dread facing Him on the day of judgment. We will be happy to see Him because He is the One Who saved us.
1 John 1:8-9: If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I am grateful that You sent Your Son to die for my sins. Thank You for saving my soul. I am happy that my name is written in the Book of Life. Lord, use me to tell others that their names can be written in that same book. Should I be forgetful about praying for the lost, please remind me to do so. I do not want to stand before You ashamed because I have failed in my witness on this earth. I want to hear those words, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." Open my eyes and give me eternal vision so that the things of eternity are more important to me than just the things I see with my natural eyes. I ask this in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
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