Proverbs Day 303 (KJV):
Proverbs 27:8 (KJV): As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place.
Proverbs 27:8 (AMP): Like a bird that wanders from her nest, so is a man who strays from his home.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs tells us that a man who wanders from his home and wife, is like a bird that has wandered from its nest. Men that wander from home expose themselves to temptations, and can yield to many different kinds of sins, the main one being unfaithfulness to their wives. Men who just drop by the local bar or pub on their way home to see their buddies, often do not make it home before committing a sin, whether it be boozing, flirting, lying or unfaithfulness. Many a marriage has failed because the man did not come home to his wife and family and spend time with them, instead of time with "the boys." Of course, there is nothing wrong with getting together with your buddies occasionally, if one doesn't neglect the family and end up spending more time away from home, than at home.
God created the family unit and the Bible gives instructions to both husbands and wives as to how they are to love one another, so that the home will be a safe haven and a place of comfort for the whole family.
Colossians 3:18-21: 18 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.19 Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.
Ephesians 5:21-25: 21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.
If husbands and wives followed these instructions, there would not be any divorces. Divorce is rampant in our world and it breaks the heart of God when His own children cannot live together in harmony. In today's society divorce is the way out of an unpleasant situation, so instead of suffering on behalf of a mate who is out of God's will, even many Christians are taking this easy way out. This sin has even taken place in the lives of ministers. Those parties who seek divorce instead of sacrifice cannot expect God to bless their ministries. He cannot continue to anoint ministers who have no grief in their hearts for their mates. They actually are destroying their own flesh. Of course, there are many innocent mates who do not desire their marriages dissolved, but at their mates' insistence, God's Word says they must release them. "But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace" (I Corinthians 7:15).
There is a rampant spirit of division in the earth today that is seeking to destroy not only marriages, but all of our relationships. We must recognize this attack of the enemy and resist it. One way to resist it is to work at keeping your home in peace and harmony by avoiding quarrelling.
I Peter 3:7-12:7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:9 Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.10 For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:11 Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.
In today's study, another thing that is pointed out is to avoid wandering away from home. A man's home should be his castle where everyone in the home is loved and cherished, and he should have no desire to wander as a bird.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I pray for all Christians to keep focused on You as the center of their homes. May Your love reign in every home. Lord, deliver Your people from the spirit of division so that harmony and peace may be in the midst of Your people. Lord, give us grace to prefer one another and not compete with each other. May You be Lord in every home, as wives submit to their husbands, and husbands love and cherish their wives. Heal our land from the sin of divorce so that our children can be raised by both of their parents in the same home. I ask this in the name of the Lord Jesus. Amen.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 302 (KJV):
Proverbs 27:7 (KJV): The full soul loatheth an honeycomb; but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.
Proverbs 27:7 (AMP): He who is satiated (with sensual pleasures) loathes and treads underfoot a honeycomb, but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs tells us that a person who has an abundance of food will not care for an honeycomb; while a person who is hungry, even food that is bitter is sweet to them. Many people who are rich are also wasteful. They never think about the crumbs from their table that could feed others. They simply throw away things that they do not want even things that are still good and would be a help to someone who had nothing. Western societies like ours, who have so much abundance compared to the rest of the world, can be insensitive to the needs of those who are suffering in other parts of the world. I believe we commit a great sin when we keep indulging our own desires, while turning away from the cries of the poor and hungry of the world. If every Christian gave to the poor and the needy, we could reduce hunger in the world substantially. Jesus went about doing good and ministering to the poor and we, as His followers, should do likewise. Jesus demonstrated His compassion for the poor, and also His frugality, in the story of His feeding of the five thousand.
Matthew 14:14-21:14 And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.15 And when it was evening, his disciples came to him, saying, This is a desert place, and the time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves victuals.16 But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat.17 And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes.18 He said, Bring them hither to me.19 And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.20 And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full.21 And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children.
This miracle of the feeding of the five thousand demonstrates a principle in the Word of God. That principle is how God uses small things to bring about big miracles. People who feel small and inadequate sometimes wonder how God could use them. God delights in using the insignificant things in this world to confound the wise of this world. The world has despised and called many of God's servants "foolish." God takes His weak people and uses them to demonstrate His power. I have a plaque hanging on my office wall with the following words on it to remind me of this principle - "God Never Asks About Our Ability or Our Inability, but About Our Availability."
1 Corinthians 1:27-29: 27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;28 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:29 That no flesh should glory in his presence.
In today's study, we can see where abundance could cause us to not be as frugal, where we would trample a honeycomb underfoot, as it would be too much trouble to get the honey out of it. Whereas if we were poor or hungry, it would not be trouble for us, but rather a blessing. In fact, if we were hungry, even the blandest soup would taste good. Although Jesus fed the five thousand, He instructed His disciples to gather up the fragments that remained and not waste them. There was even an abundance of leftovers in God's kitchen. His disciples gathered up twelve baskets full for a later time!
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I appreciate the fact that You are a Miracle Worker! That brings great comfort to me as I know, if, and when, I ever need a miracle, that I can call on You. Lord, You have blessed me so much compared to many in the world and may I be sensitive to the needs of the poor. Lord, I do not want to be guilty of turning a deaf ear to the cries of those who are hungry. Direct my giving, and create a heart of generosity within me, so that I can be used as an instrument of blessing to the many needy in this world. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 27:7 (KJV): The full soul loatheth an honeycomb; but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.
Proverbs 27:7 (AMP): He who is satiated (with sensual pleasures) loathes and treads underfoot a honeycomb, but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs tells us that a person who has an abundance of food will not care for an honeycomb; while a person who is hungry, even food that is bitter is sweet to them. Many people who are rich are also wasteful. They never think about the crumbs from their table that could feed others. They simply throw away things that they do not want even things that are still good and would be a help to someone who had nothing. Western societies like ours, who have so much abundance compared to the rest of the world, can be insensitive to the needs of those who are suffering in other parts of the world. I believe we commit a great sin when we keep indulging our own desires, while turning away from the cries of the poor and hungry of the world. If every Christian gave to the poor and the needy, we could reduce hunger in the world substantially. Jesus went about doing good and ministering to the poor and we, as His followers, should do likewise. Jesus demonstrated His compassion for the poor, and also His frugality, in the story of His feeding of the five thousand.
Matthew 14:14-21:14 And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.15 And when it was evening, his disciples came to him, saying, This is a desert place, and the time is now past; send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages, and buy themselves victuals.16 But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat.17 And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes.18 He said, Bring them hither to me.19 And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.20 And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full.21 And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children.
This miracle of the feeding of the five thousand demonstrates a principle in the Word of God. That principle is how God uses small things to bring about big miracles. People who feel small and inadequate sometimes wonder how God could use them. God delights in using the insignificant things in this world to confound the wise of this world. The world has despised and called many of God's servants "foolish." God takes His weak people and uses them to demonstrate His power. I have a plaque hanging on my office wall with the following words on it to remind me of this principle - "God Never Asks About Our Ability or Our Inability, but About Our Availability."
1 Corinthians 1:27-29: 27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;28 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:29 That no flesh should glory in his presence.
In today's study, we can see where abundance could cause us to not be as frugal, where we would trample a honeycomb underfoot, as it would be too much trouble to get the honey out of it. Whereas if we were poor or hungry, it would not be trouble for us, but rather a blessing. In fact, if we were hungry, even the blandest soup would taste good. Although Jesus fed the five thousand, He instructed His disciples to gather up the fragments that remained and not waste them. There was even an abundance of leftovers in God's kitchen. His disciples gathered up twelve baskets full for a later time!
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I appreciate the fact that You are a Miracle Worker! That brings great comfort to me as I know, if, and when, I ever need a miracle, that I can call on You. Lord, You have blessed me so much compared to many in the world and may I be sensitive to the needs of the poor. Lord, I do not want to be guilty of turning a deaf ear to the cries of those who are hungry. Direct my giving, and create a heart of generosity within me, so that I can be used as an instrument of blessing to the many needy in this world. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 301 (KJV):
Proverbs 27:5-6 (KJV): 5 Open rebuke is better than secret love.6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.
Proverbs 27:5-6 (AMP):5 Open rebuke is better than love that is hidden.6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are lavish and deceitful.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us that true friendship includes honest rebuke when needed, and states that it is better than insincere compliments from an enemy. Even though a friend's words of correction may wound us, it is an act of love, if it spares us from future trouble and pain. Friends who are close to us know us better than others who are just acquaintances. Because of this, they see both our good and our bad sides. Friends are a gift from God and it is important to maintain our friendships. A true friendship requires time spent together. It is during those times that we see into the souls of those whom we count as friends. If we truly love our friends, we will always want the very best for them. Christian friendships have an added element that makes them even more blessed. That ingredient is having the presence of the Lord Jesus involved in the midst of our relationships. Friendships in Christ are one of the most blessed gifts we can experience.
Proverbs 17:17: A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
A true friend will love us at all times, even those times when we are not so lovely. They will even be to us as a brother who will stand with us when we go through adversity. That kind of friend will also be the kind that will speak the truth to us in love, when we are doing something that is wrong. Speaking the truth when we need to hear it is a kindness to us, as it can prevent us from going astray. It also can help us to mature in Christ. The Bible tells us that it is one of the ways that will help us grow up.
Ephesians 4:15: But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.
Proverbs 18:24: A man that hath friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
For us to have friends, we must reach out and be a friend to others. We also must nurture those friendships by demonstrating kindness to others. The Bible also tells us that there is a friend that will stick to us closer than a brother, and that friend is Jesus. Even if our friends in this world fail us or let us down, Jesus will never fail us and will always be there for us. He truly is a friend that sticks closer to us than a brother. Friendships, in the natural, have limitations; however, our friendship with Jesus has no constraints. He will always be there for us.
Every Christian has an opportunity to cultivate a relationship with Jesus where He becomes our dearest friend. There was a man in the Bible who was known as a friend of God. How wonderful it would be to be known as God's friend. There is only one way to become a friend of God, and that is to spend time with Him through prayer and reading His Word. And the most important thing that cements a friendship with God is the keeping of His Word, as this demonstrates our commitment to Him. This is why Abraham was known as a friend of God.
James 2:23-24: 23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for being such a good Friend to me. Lord, I desire to also be a good friend to those You have put in my life. May I be the kind of friend who will not shy away from speaking the truth in love when the occasion calls for it. May I also be mindful to encourage my friends, to speak well of them, and to always be there for them when they need me. Also, Lord, may I not neglect my friendships and take the time necessary to nurture them, and may You always be in the middle of them. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 27:5-6 (KJV): 5 Open rebuke is better than secret love.6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.
Proverbs 27:5-6 (AMP):5 Open rebuke is better than love that is hidden.6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are lavish and deceitful.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us that true friendship includes honest rebuke when needed, and states that it is better than insincere compliments from an enemy. Even though a friend's words of correction may wound us, it is an act of love, if it spares us from future trouble and pain. Friends who are close to us know us better than others who are just acquaintances. Because of this, they see both our good and our bad sides. Friends are a gift from God and it is important to maintain our friendships. A true friendship requires time spent together. It is during those times that we see into the souls of those whom we count as friends. If we truly love our friends, we will always want the very best for them. Christian friendships have an added element that makes them even more blessed. That ingredient is having the presence of the Lord Jesus involved in the midst of our relationships. Friendships in Christ are one of the most blessed gifts we can experience.
Proverbs 17:17: A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
A true friend will love us at all times, even those times when we are not so lovely. They will even be to us as a brother who will stand with us when we go through adversity. That kind of friend will also be the kind that will speak the truth to us in love, when we are doing something that is wrong. Speaking the truth when we need to hear it is a kindness to us, as it can prevent us from going astray. It also can help us to mature in Christ. The Bible tells us that it is one of the ways that will help us grow up.
Ephesians 4:15: But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.
Proverbs 18:24: A man that hath friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
For us to have friends, we must reach out and be a friend to others. We also must nurture those friendships by demonstrating kindness to others. The Bible also tells us that there is a friend that will stick to us closer than a brother, and that friend is Jesus. Even if our friends in this world fail us or let us down, Jesus will never fail us and will always be there for us. He truly is a friend that sticks closer to us than a brother. Friendships, in the natural, have limitations; however, our friendship with Jesus has no constraints. He will always be there for us.
Every Christian has an opportunity to cultivate a relationship with Jesus where He becomes our dearest friend. There was a man in the Bible who was known as a friend of God. How wonderful it would be to be known as God's friend. There is only one way to become a friend of God, and that is to spend time with Him through prayer and reading His Word. And the most important thing that cements a friendship with God is the keeping of His Word, as this demonstrates our commitment to Him. This is why Abraham was known as a friend of God.
James 2:23-24: 23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for being such a good Friend to me. Lord, I desire to also be a good friend to those You have put in my life. May I be the kind of friend who will not shy away from speaking the truth in love when the occasion calls for it. May I also be mindful to encourage my friends, to speak well of them, and to always be there for them when they need me. Also, Lord, may I not neglect my friendships and take the time necessary to nurture them, and may You always be in the middle of them. I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 300 (KJV):
Proverbs 27:3-4 (KJV): 3 A stone is heavy, and the sand weighty; but a fool's wrath is heavier than them both.4 Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?
Proverbs 27:3-4 (AMP):3 Stone is heavy and sand weighty, but a fool's (unreasoning) wrath is heavier and more intolerable than both of them.4 Wrath is cruel and anger is an overwhelming flood, but who is able to stand before jealousy?
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us that jealousy and envy are greater burdens than the heavy weights of the cruelty of wrath and anger. Wrath and anger are many times vented quickly, whereas envy and jealousy are like a pot that heats slowly to the boiling point. This causes the one who is jealous to seethe within, and the envy they feel will gnaw at them over a long period of time. The dictionary definition of "jealousy" means resentfully suspicious of a rival or a rival's influence or resentfully envious of another.
In Song of Solomon, we read that jealousy is as cruel as death and it causes a burning flame of torment for those who embrace this evil. Some even go into what we term as a "jealous rage."
Song of Solomon 8:6: Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame.
Envy and jealousy are so wicked that it also causes sickness in the physical body. Doctors have discovered that many physical ailments are due to problems in the soul and spirit of a man, and when negative attitudes are changed and replaced with positive ones, the patient recovers dramatically. Those who harbor envy, jealousy, anger and unforgiveness will find their bodies expressing these attitudes as diseases. On the positive side, when we walk in love, faith and forgiveness, our bodies will respond with health and peace of mind. When we yield to anger and jealousy, we drain our bodies of energy that we could use for productive purposes.
Proverbs 14:30: A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.
Romans 1:28-32:28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
Envy is in this list of evils that people embrace when they reject God. These attitudes will ultimately bring the judgment of God upon those who practice them. However, through the sacrifice of Jesus, we can repent and receive forgiveness for our sins. We can be saved from judgment and hell and receive eternal life. It is not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to the mercy of God that He has saved us and washed us clean. We can be free from wrath, anger, envy and jealousy and be filled with the love of God through the Holy Spirit.
Titus 3:3-7: 3 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your gift of the Holy Spirit so that we have the power to overcome anger, wrath, envy and jealousy. Lord, give us the grace not to yield to these things when we are tempted. May we exhibit Your love in situations that the devil designs to be used against us, in order to provoke us to anger. Help me not to react in an ungodly way in those kinds of circumstances. May I rejoice in the promotion of others and not yield to a spirit of envy or jealousy. I ask this is the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 27:3-4 (KJV): 3 A stone is heavy, and the sand weighty; but a fool's wrath is heavier than them both.4 Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?
Proverbs 27:3-4 (AMP):3 Stone is heavy and sand weighty, but a fool's (unreasoning) wrath is heavier and more intolerable than both of them.4 Wrath is cruel and anger is an overwhelming flood, but who is able to stand before jealousy?
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us that jealousy and envy are greater burdens than the heavy weights of the cruelty of wrath and anger. Wrath and anger are many times vented quickly, whereas envy and jealousy are like a pot that heats slowly to the boiling point. This causes the one who is jealous to seethe within, and the envy they feel will gnaw at them over a long period of time. The dictionary definition of "jealousy" means resentfully suspicious of a rival or a rival's influence or resentfully envious of another.
In Song of Solomon, we read that jealousy is as cruel as death and it causes a burning flame of torment for those who embrace this evil. Some even go into what we term as a "jealous rage."
Song of Solomon 8:6: Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame.
Envy and jealousy are so wicked that it also causes sickness in the physical body. Doctors have discovered that many physical ailments are due to problems in the soul and spirit of a man, and when negative attitudes are changed and replaced with positive ones, the patient recovers dramatically. Those who harbor envy, jealousy, anger and unforgiveness will find their bodies expressing these attitudes as diseases. On the positive side, when we walk in love, faith and forgiveness, our bodies will respond with health and peace of mind. When we yield to anger and jealousy, we drain our bodies of energy that we could use for productive purposes.
Proverbs 14:30: A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.
Romans 1:28-32:28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
Envy is in this list of evils that people embrace when they reject God. These attitudes will ultimately bring the judgment of God upon those who practice them. However, through the sacrifice of Jesus, we can repent and receive forgiveness for our sins. We can be saved from judgment and hell and receive eternal life. It is not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to the mercy of God that He has saved us and washed us clean. We can be free from wrath, anger, envy and jealousy and be filled with the love of God through the Holy Spirit.
Titus 3:3-7: 3 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.4 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;7 That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your gift of the Holy Spirit so that we have the power to overcome anger, wrath, envy and jealousy. Lord, give us the grace not to yield to these things when we are tempted. May we exhibit Your love in situations that the devil designs to be used against us, in order to provoke us to anger. Help me not to react in an ungodly way in those kinds of circumstances. May I rejoice in the promotion of others and not yield to a spirit of envy or jealousy. I ask this is the name of Jesus. Amen.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 296 (KJV):
Proverbs 26:27 (KJV): Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him.
Proverbs 26:27 (AMP): Whoever digs a pit (for another man's feet) shall fall into it himself, and he who rolls a stone (up a height to do mischief), it will return upon him.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs tells us those who try to trap or destroy others will find their own devices will trap and destroy them. This is based on the spiritual law of sowing and reaping.
Galatians 6:7-8: 7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
The Bible teaches that we reap the kind of seed that we sow in the ground. In the natural, if we plant a tomato seed and water it, it will produce a tomato plant. Whatever kind of seed we sow, it will always produce that kind of fruit. If we plant a cucumber, we will not get a watermelon. Watermelon seeds produce watermelons. Good seed sown produces good fruit, weed seeds will produce weeds with thorns and thistles. This particular principle runs throughout the entire Bible, starting in Genesis, the first book of the Bible. Everything will produce fruit after its kind.
Genesis 1:11: And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
In the beginning, everything God created for man was blessed and was good. However, when Adam and Eve sinned, the earth came under a curse, and now the ground would also produce things that brought pain to mankind.
Genesis 3:17-18:17 And unto Adam he (God) said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life;18 Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field.
Now man was responsible for dealing with the things that were cursed, and planting the things that would bring blessing. This law is still working in the earth today in the natural, as well as the spirit. We now have been given a choice as to which law we will choose -- the law of life in Christ, or the law of sin and death.
Romans 8:1-2: 1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.
Spiritually, we are free from the law of sin and death, when we accept Jesus as our Savior. The devil can no longer exact his case against us, as Jesus stripped him of his power when He went to the cross. The devil no longer has any authority against us; however, we must exercise our faith in Christ and resist the devil, and then we are promised that he will flee from us.
James 4:7-10: 7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
We are told if we humble ourselves, and repent from our sins, and purify our hearts before God, that He will lift us up. How do we do this? If we cry out in prayer, with tears of sorrow before the Lord, and we sow the Word of God in prayer before Him, we will in time be able to rejoice, as we will have a harvest from our prayers.
Psalm 126:5-6: 5 They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.
However, on the negative side, if we try to trap others, or do mischief to them, according to today's study verse, we will surely reap the evil thing we intended to do to them. Many people have had a "stone" of "heaviness" or "anguish" roll over them, or they are trapped in a "pit" of "depression," "despair" or other "misery" because of sowing evil intentions towards others.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I praise You for the opportunity to sow good things in the kingdom. Lord, deliver me from any fear that would keep me from turning loose of things I need to sow into Your work. Grant me the grace to give freely of all You have given me, knowing that I will reap in like kind. If I need finances, may I obediently give support into Your works. If I need encouragement, may I take the time to sow it into the lives of those around me. May I be known, as You were known -- a person who went about doing good. Cleanse my thoughts, so that I will not even sow a bad thought in my mind toward others. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 26:27 (KJV): Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him.
Proverbs 26:27 (AMP): Whoever digs a pit (for another man's feet) shall fall into it himself, and he who rolls a stone (up a height to do mischief), it will return upon him.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs tells us those who try to trap or destroy others will find their own devices will trap and destroy them. This is based on the spiritual law of sowing and reaping.
Galatians 6:7-8: 7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
The Bible teaches that we reap the kind of seed that we sow in the ground. In the natural, if we plant a tomato seed and water it, it will produce a tomato plant. Whatever kind of seed we sow, it will always produce that kind of fruit. If we plant a cucumber, we will not get a watermelon. Watermelon seeds produce watermelons. Good seed sown produces good fruit, weed seeds will produce weeds with thorns and thistles. This particular principle runs throughout the entire Bible, starting in Genesis, the first book of the Bible. Everything will produce fruit after its kind.
Genesis 1:11: And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
In the beginning, everything God created for man was blessed and was good. However, when Adam and Eve sinned, the earth came under a curse, and now the ground would also produce things that brought pain to mankind.
Genesis 3:17-18:17 And unto Adam he (God) said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life;18 Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field.
Now man was responsible for dealing with the things that were cursed, and planting the things that would bring blessing. This law is still working in the earth today in the natural, as well as the spirit. We now have been given a choice as to which law we will choose -- the law of life in Christ, or the law of sin and death.
Romans 8:1-2: 1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.
Spiritually, we are free from the law of sin and death, when we accept Jesus as our Savior. The devil can no longer exact his case against us, as Jesus stripped him of his power when He went to the cross. The devil no longer has any authority against us; however, we must exercise our faith in Christ and resist the devil, and then we are promised that he will flee from us.
James 4:7-10: 7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
We are told if we humble ourselves, and repent from our sins, and purify our hearts before God, that He will lift us up. How do we do this? If we cry out in prayer, with tears of sorrow before the Lord, and we sow the Word of God in prayer before Him, we will in time be able to rejoice, as we will have a harvest from our prayers.
Psalm 126:5-6: 5 They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.
However, on the negative side, if we try to trap others, or do mischief to them, according to today's study verse, we will surely reap the evil thing we intended to do to them. Many people have had a "stone" of "heaviness" or "anguish" roll over them, or they are trapped in a "pit" of "depression," "despair" or other "misery" because of sowing evil intentions towards others.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I praise You for the opportunity to sow good things in the kingdom. Lord, deliver me from any fear that would keep me from turning loose of things I need to sow into Your work. Grant me the grace to give freely of all You have given me, knowing that I will reap in like kind. If I need finances, may I obediently give support into Your works. If I need encouragement, may I take the time to sow it into the lives of those around me. May I be known, as You were known -- a person who went about doing good. Cleanse my thoughts, so that I will not even sow a bad thought in my mind toward others. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 294 (KJV):
Proverbs 26:23 (KJV): Burning lips and a wicked heart are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.
Proverbs 26:23 (AMP): Burning lips (uttering insincere words of love) and a wicked heart are like an earthen vessel covered with the scum thrown off from molten silver (making it appear to be solid silver).
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs compares those who have a wicked heart and yet utter insincere words of love, with a vessel that only has a thin veneer of silver dross over an earthen pot. This means at first glance, it looks good on the surface; but upon thorough examination, it is not what it appears to be. It is hypocritical to say words of kindness that one does not really mean. Words are cheap, and it is actions that match our words that really speak to people. There is another verse in Proverbs that says that very thing.
Proverbs 20:11: Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.
Jesus called men who held to their ungodly traditions, hypocrites. He quoted what Isaiah prophesied about religious men who were not sincere. God has something to say about those who "mouth" their love for Him and yet their actions prove otherwise.
Mark 7:6-9:6 He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.8 For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.9 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.
Jesus said that people who are hypocrites worship God in vain, and are only teaching men's commandments, not God's. One of the things that keep people from a true heart relationship with God is their bondage to religious traditions that have evolved from men. Tradition is not a bad thing in itself, if you happen to be raised in a Christian environment that has its foundation in the Word of God, and your traditions line up with the Bible. However, many people are going to a certain church or believing in a certain religion only because they were raised in that tradition or religion. It is not because they have received salvation for themselves through a genuine heart change that comes only from repenting from sin and accepting Christ as our Lord and King. The only way to heaven is to be "born again" through turning our lives over to God. Many people are trusting their religion or their tradition to save them, and salvation is only found in a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Cultural traditions can lead us astray too, as some of the things that we practice are evil. If the influences in society do not line up with the Word of God, we must renounce them. Our standard is the Bible, so we should examine our lifestyles to see if what we eat, what we drink, what we wear, what we listen to, and what we do, lines up with the that standard. This includes political traditions, as well. We must vote at all levels, when possible, to elect those who oppose evils like abortion, homosexual lifestyles, and all of those things that affect our culture adversely. We will be judged as a nation for our corporate sins. No matter how popular and accepted something is in our societies, if it is against God's commandments and the Bible, then we must not partake of it. Because many of today's influences are evil, we should work toward changing them through our witness, actions and prayers.
We should not hold on to man's traditions, but rather ask God to show us the truth and cleanse us from all deception and unrighteousness. In our study today, we are given a picture of a man who has burning lips that is speaking good, but the Bible says these men are hypocrites with a wicked heart, even though they may appear to look good with a silver gleaming on the outside. In the New Testament, Jesus extended mercy and fully pardoned some of the most wicked sinners who came to Him. He was very kind to them when they acknowledged their sin. However, He was very harsh on all hypocrites and here are His words to them:
Matthew 23:27-28 & 33: 27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness.28 Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.33 Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I am asking that You be merciful to our nation and deliver us from evil. Father, You said in Your Word that judgment begins at the house of God, so convict Your people of their sins so that they may repent of them and return to You with their whole hearts. Lord, if You see anything in me that I am blind to, or that I have clung to, because of tradition, please show me my need to repent and change my thinking. May I always choose Your Word over all traditions of men. Create in me a clean heart. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 26:23 (KJV): Burning lips and a wicked heart are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.
Proverbs 26:23 (AMP): Burning lips (uttering insincere words of love) and a wicked heart are like an earthen vessel covered with the scum thrown off from molten silver (making it appear to be solid silver).
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs compares those who have a wicked heart and yet utter insincere words of love, with a vessel that only has a thin veneer of silver dross over an earthen pot. This means at first glance, it looks good on the surface; but upon thorough examination, it is not what it appears to be. It is hypocritical to say words of kindness that one does not really mean. Words are cheap, and it is actions that match our words that really speak to people. There is another verse in Proverbs that says that very thing.
Proverbs 20:11: Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.
Jesus called men who held to their ungodly traditions, hypocrites. He quoted what Isaiah prophesied about religious men who were not sincere. God has something to say about those who "mouth" their love for Him and yet their actions prove otherwise.
Mark 7:6-9:6 He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.7 Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.8 For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.9 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.
Jesus said that people who are hypocrites worship God in vain, and are only teaching men's commandments, not God's. One of the things that keep people from a true heart relationship with God is their bondage to religious traditions that have evolved from men. Tradition is not a bad thing in itself, if you happen to be raised in a Christian environment that has its foundation in the Word of God, and your traditions line up with the Bible. However, many people are going to a certain church or believing in a certain religion only because they were raised in that tradition or religion. It is not because they have received salvation for themselves through a genuine heart change that comes only from repenting from sin and accepting Christ as our Lord and King. The only way to heaven is to be "born again" through turning our lives over to God. Many people are trusting their religion or their tradition to save them, and salvation is only found in a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Cultural traditions can lead us astray too, as some of the things that we practice are evil. If the influences in society do not line up with the Word of God, we must renounce them. Our standard is the Bible, so we should examine our lifestyles to see if what we eat, what we drink, what we wear, what we listen to, and what we do, lines up with the that standard. This includes political traditions, as well. We must vote at all levels, when possible, to elect those who oppose evils like abortion, homosexual lifestyles, and all of those things that affect our culture adversely. We will be judged as a nation for our corporate sins. No matter how popular and accepted something is in our societies, if it is against God's commandments and the Bible, then we must not partake of it. Because many of today's influences are evil, we should work toward changing them through our witness, actions and prayers.
We should not hold on to man's traditions, but rather ask God to show us the truth and cleanse us from all deception and unrighteousness. In our study today, we are given a picture of a man who has burning lips that is speaking good, but the Bible says these men are hypocrites with a wicked heart, even though they may appear to look good with a silver gleaming on the outside. In the New Testament, Jesus extended mercy and fully pardoned some of the most wicked sinners who came to Him. He was very kind to them when they acknowledged their sin. However, He was very harsh on all hypocrites and here are His words to them:
Matthew 23:27-28 & 33: 27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness.28 Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.33 Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I am asking that You be merciful to our nation and deliver us from evil. Father, You said in Your Word that judgment begins at the house of God, so convict Your people of their sins so that they may repent of them and return to You with their whole hearts. Lord, if You see anything in me that I am blind to, or that I have clung to, because of tradition, please show me my need to repent and change my thinking. May I always choose Your Word over all traditions of men. Create in me a clean heart. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 292 (KJV):
Proverbs 26:18-19 (KJV):18 As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death,19 So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?
Proverbs 26:18-19 (AMP):18 Like a madman who casts firebrands, arrows, and death,19 So is the man who deceives his neighbor and then says, Was I not joking?
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us that a man who deceives his neighbor, and then claims it was a joke, is like a madman throwing firebrands, arrows and death. Men live and die by words (spoken and written) and all words have power to them. Truthful words, spoken in faith, will bring about good results, while evil and dishonest words, spoken in anger and deceit, will produce bad things. The Bible warns us of this over and over throughout its pages. The words that we speak will produce the kind of fruit we shall eat -- good or evil.
Proverbs 18:20-21: 20 A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.
The scripture below tells us that there are many different kinds of voices in the world, but every one of them has significance.
1 Corinthians 14:7-10: 7 And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?8 For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?9 So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air.10 There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification.If our words have significance, then we need to choose them carefully. We need to line up our words with the Word of God and agree with His idea about the matters at hand. Solomon made the supplication below to God as he was dedicating the temple to Him. By reading it, we can see that Solomon requested that God would listen, not only to the prayers of His people, but that He would also hear the cries all of the distressed and hurting.
2 Chronicles 6:28-31:28 If there be dearth in the land, if there be pestilence, if there be blasting, or mildew, locusts, or caterpillars; if their enemies besiege them in the cities of their land; whatsoever sore or whatsoever sickness there be:29 Then what prayer or what supplication soever shall be made of any man, or of all thy people Israel, when every one shall know his own sore and his own grief, and shall spread forth his hands in this house:30 Then hear thou from heaven thy dwelling place, and forgive, and render unto every man according unto all his ways, whose heart thou knowest; (for thou only knowest the hearts of the children of men:)31 That they may fear thee, to walk in thy ways, so long as they live in the land which thou gavest unto our fathers.
Below we read God's reply to Solomon's request.2 Chronicles 7:12-15: 12 And the LORD appeared to Solomon by night, and said unto him, I have heard thy prayer, and have chosen this place to myself for an house of sacrifice.13 If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people;14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.15 Now mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attent unto the prayer that is made in this place.
Notice God addressed His answer to Solomon and His people, not the sinners. Today, if we want to see our land healed from the evil that is in it, then we must follow God's instructions to humble ourselves. Then we must ask God to forgive us, and pray and seek Him with our whole hearts, and turn from our wicked ways. Only then can we see our land healed of its wickedness.
Today's verses compare a man who practices deceit against his neighbor and then tries to make light of it, to a man who is mad. There are many madmen today who are angry and dishonest and are spewing out dishonest words that are deadly. We must ask God for discernment in order to recognize those who are lying, and not believe everything we hear, lest we embrace a lie ourselves. It is very serious to accuse people and then try to lightly dismiss it. When someone lies, they should own up to it and make it right to the offended party.
Ephesians 5:1- 7: 1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, We are grateful that You are trustworthy and we want to be like You. Lord, may our words in the world, line up with Your Words in the Bible. Lord, we want to act with integrity in all of our ways. May we always be honest in our dealings with all people. Give us discernment when others are lying to us, so that we do not get trapped into any unholy alliances. Lord, let us be good and loving neighbors so that our neighbors will desire to know You by the demonstration of our lives in this world. I ask this in the precious name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 26:18-19 (KJV):18 As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death,19 So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?
Proverbs 26:18-19 (AMP):18 Like a madman who casts firebrands, arrows, and death,19 So is the man who deceives his neighbor and then says, Was I not joking?
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us that a man who deceives his neighbor, and then claims it was a joke, is like a madman throwing firebrands, arrows and death. Men live and die by words (spoken and written) and all words have power to them. Truthful words, spoken in faith, will bring about good results, while evil and dishonest words, spoken in anger and deceit, will produce bad things. The Bible warns us of this over and over throughout its pages. The words that we speak will produce the kind of fruit we shall eat -- good or evil.
Proverbs 18:20-21: 20 A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.
The scripture below tells us that there are many different kinds of voices in the world, but every one of them has significance.
1 Corinthians 14:7-10: 7 And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?8 For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?9 So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air.10 There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification.If our words have significance, then we need to choose them carefully. We need to line up our words with the Word of God and agree with His idea about the matters at hand. Solomon made the supplication below to God as he was dedicating the temple to Him. By reading it, we can see that Solomon requested that God would listen, not only to the prayers of His people, but that He would also hear the cries all of the distressed and hurting.
2 Chronicles 6:28-31:28 If there be dearth in the land, if there be pestilence, if there be blasting, or mildew, locusts, or caterpillars; if their enemies besiege them in the cities of their land; whatsoever sore or whatsoever sickness there be:29 Then what prayer or what supplication soever shall be made of any man, or of all thy people Israel, when every one shall know his own sore and his own grief, and shall spread forth his hands in this house:30 Then hear thou from heaven thy dwelling place, and forgive, and render unto every man according unto all his ways, whose heart thou knowest; (for thou only knowest the hearts of the children of men:)31 That they may fear thee, to walk in thy ways, so long as they live in the land which thou gavest unto our fathers.
Below we read God's reply to Solomon's request.2 Chronicles 7:12-15: 12 And the LORD appeared to Solomon by night, and said unto him, I have heard thy prayer, and have chosen this place to myself for an house of sacrifice.13 If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people;14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.15 Now mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attent unto the prayer that is made in this place.
Notice God addressed His answer to Solomon and His people, not the sinners. Today, if we want to see our land healed from the evil that is in it, then we must follow God's instructions to humble ourselves. Then we must ask God to forgive us, and pray and seek Him with our whole hearts, and turn from our wicked ways. Only then can we see our land healed of its wickedness.
Today's verses compare a man who practices deceit against his neighbor and then tries to make light of it, to a man who is mad. There are many madmen today who are angry and dishonest and are spewing out dishonest words that are deadly. We must ask God for discernment in order to recognize those who are lying, and not believe everything we hear, lest we embrace a lie ourselves. It is very serious to accuse people and then try to lightly dismiss it. When someone lies, they should own up to it and make it right to the offended party.
Ephesians 5:1- 7: 1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;2 And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, We are grateful that You are trustworthy and we want to be like You. Lord, may our words in the world, line up with Your Words in the Bible. Lord, we want to act with integrity in all of our ways. May we always be honest in our dealings with all people. Give us discernment when others are lying to us, so that we do not get trapped into any unholy alliances. Lord, let us be good and loving neighbors so that our neighbors will desire to know You by the demonstration of our lives in this world. I ask this in the precious name of Jesus. Amen.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 289 (KJV):
Proverbs 26:13-14 (KJV): 13 The slothful man saith, There is a lion in the way; a lion is in the streets.14 As the door turneth upon his hinges, so doth the slothful upon his bed.
Proverbs 26:13-14 (AMP):13 The sluggard says, There is a lion in the way! A lion is in the streets!14 As the door turns on its hinges, so does the lazy man (move not from his place) upon his bed.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us that a slothful and lazy person will never get anything done because of his fear of trouble and his desire to sleep away his life. The dictionary definition of the words "slothful" and "sluggard" means "one who is habitually lazy, idle, or indolent." A person who is slothful will always have an excuse for not getting his work done. The excuse the slothful man used in Verse 13 is that a lion was outside in the streets and it would be dangerous for him to go outside. This may, or may not, have been the truth, as many times lazy people will make up a story to justify why they are not going out to look for a job or go to work. Even if it was the truth, others would not have let the threat of danger keep them from their jobs. They simply would have watched out, and took measures to protect themselves from any danger as they went to their jobs.
According to Verse 14, the lazy person would rather stay at home and lie upon his bed. The comparison is made with a door that is attached to hinges that swings back and forth, to a person who is attached to his bed that turns over and over, but never leaves the bed or house. Laziness and fear keep him there. Fear is a terrible master and those who yield to it will never accomplish much. The Lord calls His people to walk in faith and trust in Him. Fear is the opposite of faith.
There is only one way we can be without fear in a world of turmoil, hatred, war, and uncertainty. The way to do this is to trust the One who told us not to be troubled or fearful. Only through Christ's power can we walk in peace and safety. We must give our lives completely to the Lord and yield to His will as to what He wants us to do, where He wants us to live, what He wants us to sell or give away and what we are to do with our time. This is a total commitment by giving God first place of our time, money, careers, family and future. The Word of God tells us that God's people do not have to be afraid of evil news if we keep our hearts and minds focused on Jesus.
Psalm 112:7: He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord.
Fear is the opposite of trust. The devil continually tries to get us to be fearful. We live in an hour in the earth that the Bible speaks of as the "last days." Because we are in the end times, we know that according to prophecy it will be a time of great tribulation and trouble.
2 Timothy 3:1: This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
Luke 21:25-28:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;26 Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.27 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.
Many people shall not overcome fear, but be overcome by it. As Christians, we are not to be fearful but are to trust in the Lord. Should Satan come against us with his lies and fear, we are to turn to God and ask that the fear be removed. People's fears are many. Some fear death, others are afraid of getting cancer, afraid of losing their loved ones, afraid of the house burning down, afraid of having car wrecks or afraid of flying in airplanes, afraid of the future. Others are tormented with the fear of the dark, fear of being molested or fear of staying alone. Fear is a horrible monster, no matter what form it takes. We can ask God to deliver us from fear, and give us the courage to overcome whatever is threatening us. Laziness or fear has no power over a Christian.
2 Timothy 1:7: For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Isaiah 35:3-4: 3 Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.4 Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompense; he will come and save you.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You that we can overcome the threat of fear through our faith in You. It is so wonderful to walk in peace and faith when trouble surrounds us. Lord, You have never failed me in the past and I know You will not fail me now. You are so faithful and I am grateful for Your mercy and love over and over again. Help me to overcome the lies of the devil that would try to get me to doubt Your love and provision when I am facing a need that seems overwhelming. I voice my trust in You and thank You, even before I receive the answers to my prayers. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 26:13-14 (KJV): 13 The slothful man saith, There is a lion in the way; a lion is in the streets.14 As the door turneth upon his hinges, so doth the slothful upon his bed.
Proverbs 26:13-14 (AMP):13 The sluggard says, There is a lion in the way! A lion is in the streets!14 As the door turns on its hinges, so does the lazy man (move not from his place) upon his bed.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us that a slothful and lazy person will never get anything done because of his fear of trouble and his desire to sleep away his life. The dictionary definition of the words "slothful" and "sluggard" means "one who is habitually lazy, idle, or indolent." A person who is slothful will always have an excuse for not getting his work done. The excuse the slothful man used in Verse 13 is that a lion was outside in the streets and it would be dangerous for him to go outside. This may, or may not, have been the truth, as many times lazy people will make up a story to justify why they are not going out to look for a job or go to work. Even if it was the truth, others would not have let the threat of danger keep them from their jobs. They simply would have watched out, and took measures to protect themselves from any danger as they went to their jobs.
According to Verse 14, the lazy person would rather stay at home and lie upon his bed. The comparison is made with a door that is attached to hinges that swings back and forth, to a person who is attached to his bed that turns over and over, but never leaves the bed or house. Laziness and fear keep him there. Fear is a terrible master and those who yield to it will never accomplish much. The Lord calls His people to walk in faith and trust in Him. Fear is the opposite of faith.
There is only one way we can be without fear in a world of turmoil, hatred, war, and uncertainty. The way to do this is to trust the One who told us not to be troubled or fearful. Only through Christ's power can we walk in peace and safety. We must give our lives completely to the Lord and yield to His will as to what He wants us to do, where He wants us to live, what He wants us to sell or give away and what we are to do with our time. This is a total commitment by giving God first place of our time, money, careers, family and future. The Word of God tells us that God's people do not have to be afraid of evil news if we keep our hearts and minds focused on Jesus.
Psalm 112:7: He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord.
Fear is the opposite of trust. The devil continually tries to get us to be fearful. We live in an hour in the earth that the Bible speaks of as the "last days." Because we are in the end times, we know that according to prophecy it will be a time of great tribulation and trouble.
2 Timothy 3:1: This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
Luke 21:25-28:25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;26 Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.27 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.
Many people shall not overcome fear, but be overcome by it. As Christians, we are not to be fearful but are to trust in the Lord. Should Satan come against us with his lies and fear, we are to turn to God and ask that the fear be removed. People's fears are many. Some fear death, others are afraid of getting cancer, afraid of losing their loved ones, afraid of the house burning down, afraid of having car wrecks or afraid of flying in airplanes, afraid of the future. Others are tormented with the fear of the dark, fear of being molested or fear of staying alone. Fear is a horrible monster, no matter what form it takes. We can ask God to deliver us from fear, and give us the courage to overcome whatever is threatening us. Laziness or fear has no power over a Christian.
2 Timothy 1:7: For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Isaiah 35:3-4: 3 Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.4 Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompense; he will come and save you.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You that we can overcome the threat of fear through our faith in You. It is so wonderful to walk in peace and faith when trouble surrounds us. Lord, You have never failed me in the past and I know You will not fail me now. You are so faithful and I am grateful for Your mercy and love over and over again. Help me to overcome the lies of the devil that would try to get me to doubt Your love and provision when I am facing a need that seems overwhelming. I voice my trust in You and thank You, even before I receive the answers to my prayers. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 288 (KJV):
Proverbs 26:12 (KJV): Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him.
Proverbs 26:12 (AMP): Do you see a man wise in his own eyes and conceit? There is more hope for a (self- confident) fool than for him.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs tells us that pride and conceit are more deadly sins than the sin of a self-confident fool. David, the psalmist, cries out to be delivered from all of his sins that were even hidden from his personal knowledge, and he especially asks that he remain innocent of the "great transgression." What is this "great transgression"? I believe this sin is the sin of pride.
Psalm 19:12-13:12 Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.
This reference of being "wise in one's own conceit" is the same as a person being prideful. The Bible definition of "being prideful" means one who, in his own eyes, is lifted up or exalted. They are arrogant about their own accomplishments. This boastful attitude is the opposite of the Christian virtue of humility. It is especially wicked when this pride is directed towards exalting one's self above God. Lucifer committed this great transgression. He was once an archangel in heaven; however, after his fall from heaven, he was then named Satan.
The name "Satan" comes from a Hebrew word signifying "an adversary," "an enemy," and "an accuser." In God's Word, we discover that Satan is God's enemy and is against all for which God stands. He is the archenemy of good. Surprising as it may seem to some, Satan was not always evil. In the beginning, he was an angel created in perfection and beauty. Angels were given a will with a free moral choice, and Lucifer (Satan's name before he was cast out of heaven) chose to do evil and rebelled against God. He was cast out of heaven to the earth because of his sin. His present domain is limited to the earth and hell.
Isaiah 14:12-15:12 How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!13 For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north:14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.15 Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.
Satan's sins were pride and covetousness. He desired God's throne and set his will against God's will. Five times he said, "I will" in this portion of Scripture. This is still man's sin today -- the refusal to do God's will, with the same attitude of "I will." Satan chose to rebel and it brought him down to hell. Men are making the same choice today and those who rebel will ultimately go down to the pit with the devil.
Lucifer had been gifted with beauty and had walked upon the holy mountain of God. But even with all this, he was not content with his position, and by trying to usurp God's authority, sin entered into him when he attempted to overthrow God's kingdom. We find this account recorded in Ezekiel 28:12-19.
From these verses, we see that God did not create Lucifer evil, but made him perfect. By Satan's own choice, he became evil and was cast out of heaven. The Lord never meant for evil to exist. It was simply the opposite of good, and since it takes a free will for evil to come into existence, Lucifer was the first created being to exercise his will against God. Since that time, others have followed. Satan caused a third of heaven to fall with him by influencing other angelic beings to make war against God (Revelation 12:4a). They too were cast out of heaven. They have since become evil spirits due to their own choice. They now roam the earth, with Satan as their leader and master. These invisible supernatural beings still have power, but it is directed toward evil works of darkness. Satan is still ruling in the earth today, not only over the evil spirits, but also over evil men who choose the same path of rebellion against God. He is the dark prince of this world. We can see a glimpse of his evil wisdom, strength, glitter, and his inevitable end by reading the passage in Ezekiel. We must remember that he has only limited power, but nevertheless he does have power, and those who do not recognize him and his devices inevitably become his victims.
Those who are "born again" and filled with the Spirit of God have no need to fear this evil foe as he has been defeated by our God. Jesus defeated him and stripped him of his power two thousand years ago. Jesus paid the price for our sins on the cross and then rose from the dead, bringing life to all who would follow Him. Satan's authority has been taken away from him. We now have authority over him through Jesus Christ. These are Christ's words in Revelation:
Revelation 1:18: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, We want to pray as David did, for deliverance from the great transgression of pride. Lord, show us any sin in our lives that we are blinded to seeing, so that we may repent. Set us free from those things that would keep us from becoming like You. Lord, I desire to have an humble heart before You and before others. Help me not to be condescending to others, but to prefer others and esteem them. May we all give honor to whom honor is due, and especially may we not only honor You, but also bring honor to You. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 26:12 (KJV): Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him.
Proverbs 26:12 (AMP): Do you see a man wise in his own eyes and conceit? There is more hope for a (self- confident) fool than for him.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs tells us that pride and conceit are more deadly sins than the sin of a self-confident fool. David, the psalmist, cries out to be delivered from all of his sins that were even hidden from his personal knowledge, and he especially asks that he remain innocent of the "great transgression." What is this "great transgression"? I believe this sin is the sin of pride.
Psalm 19:12-13:12 Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.
This reference of being "wise in one's own conceit" is the same as a person being prideful. The Bible definition of "being prideful" means one who, in his own eyes, is lifted up or exalted. They are arrogant about their own accomplishments. This boastful attitude is the opposite of the Christian virtue of humility. It is especially wicked when this pride is directed towards exalting one's self above God. Lucifer committed this great transgression. He was once an archangel in heaven; however, after his fall from heaven, he was then named Satan.
The name "Satan" comes from a Hebrew word signifying "an adversary," "an enemy," and "an accuser." In God's Word, we discover that Satan is God's enemy and is against all for which God stands. He is the archenemy of good. Surprising as it may seem to some, Satan was not always evil. In the beginning, he was an angel created in perfection and beauty. Angels were given a will with a free moral choice, and Lucifer (Satan's name before he was cast out of heaven) chose to do evil and rebelled against God. He was cast out of heaven to the earth because of his sin. His present domain is limited to the earth and hell.
Isaiah 14:12-15:12 How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!13 For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north:14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.15 Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.
Satan's sins were pride and covetousness. He desired God's throne and set his will against God's will. Five times he said, "I will" in this portion of Scripture. This is still man's sin today -- the refusal to do God's will, with the same attitude of "I will." Satan chose to rebel and it brought him down to hell. Men are making the same choice today and those who rebel will ultimately go down to the pit with the devil.
Lucifer had been gifted with beauty and had walked upon the holy mountain of God. But even with all this, he was not content with his position, and by trying to usurp God's authority, sin entered into him when he attempted to overthrow God's kingdom. We find this account recorded in Ezekiel 28:12-19.
From these verses, we see that God did not create Lucifer evil, but made him perfect. By Satan's own choice, he became evil and was cast out of heaven. The Lord never meant for evil to exist. It was simply the opposite of good, and since it takes a free will for evil to come into existence, Lucifer was the first created being to exercise his will against God. Since that time, others have followed. Satan caused a third of heaven to fall with him by influencing other angelic beings to make war against God (Revelation 12:4a). They too were cast out of heaven. They have since become evil spirits due to their own choice. They now roam the earth, with Satan as their leader and master. These invisible supernatural beings still have power, but it is directed toward evil works of darkness. Satan is still ruling in the earth today, not only over the evil spirits, but also over evil men who choose the same path of rebellion against God. He is the dark prince of this world. We can see a glimpse of his evil wisdom, strength, glitter, and his inevitable end by reading the passage in Ezekiel. We must remember that he has only limited power, but nevertheless he does have power, and those who do not recognize him and his devices inevitably become his victims.
Those who are "born again" and filled with the Spirit of God have no need to fear this evil foe as he has been defeated by our God. Jesus defeated him and stripped him of his power two thousand years ago. Jesus paid the price for our sins on the cross and then rose from the dead, bringing life to all who would follow Him. Satan's authority has been taken away from him. We now have authority over him through Jesus Christ. These are Christ's words in Revelation:
Revelation 1:18: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, We want to pray as David did, for deliverance from the great transgression of pride. Lord, show us any sin in our lives that we are blinded to seeing, so that we may repent. Set us free from those things that would keep us from becoming like You. Lord, I desire to have an humble heart before You and before others. Help me not to be condescending to others, but to prefer others and esteem them. May we all give honor to whom honor is due, and especially may we not only honor You, but also bring honor to You. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 287 (KJV):
Proverbs 26:10-11 (KJV): 10 The great God that formed all things both rewardeth the fool, and rewardeth transgressors.11 As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly.
Proverbs 26:10-11 (YOUNG'S):10 Great is the Former of all, And He is rewarding a fool, And is rewarding transgressors,11 As a dog hath returned to its vomit, A fool is repeating his folly.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us that since God has formed all things, He will justly reward the transgressors and also fools, as they are like dogs who return to their own vomit. Sometimes people are concerned about sinners who seemingly are not suffering for the wicked things they have done to others. Verse 10 assures us that God will deal with transgressors and fools, and because He is a just God, it will be a just and fair sentencing. Since He created the entire universe, and all mankind, He certainly is capable of dealing with the ones who rebel against Him. In fact, the Bible states God is the Judge of the whole earth and He will deal with the righteous and the wicked in a just and right manner.
Genesis 18:25: That be far from thee to do after this manner, to slay the righteous with the wicked: and that the righteous should be as the wicked, that be far from thee: Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?
As Christians, we are not to try and get even, or take vengeance upon anyone who hurts us, as we are to look to God to make sure that those who are wicked are dealt with appropriately. Because God is a great God of love, the first thing He tries to do is to reach those lost in sin. He wants His children to help in that commission by praying for them, and reaching out to them in love. In that process, we sometimes will be persecuted and suffer in God's behalf. Should wicked people not respond, after much long suffering toward them, then God allows them to reap what they have been sowing, and thus His judgment comes upon them. He is the one that will administer vengeance, not us.
Hebrews 10:30-31: 30 For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
Psalm 1:5-6:5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.6 For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.Verse 11 in today's study tells us that a rebellious fool will repeat the same sins that are making him sick over and over again, just like a dog returns to his own vomit. Another scripture in the New Testament tells us the same thing, only this is a warning to those who have been cleansed by the power of the Holy Spirit, and then they have gone back to the very sin from which God had set them free.
2 Peter 2:20-22: 20 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.22 But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.
The only way a fool can be redeemed is to turn to God and repent and ask Him to deliver them from the sins that have brought them into such a low estate as a dog or pig. God is gracious and will never turn a repentant heart away. He will help and deliver them from evil addictions that keep them wallowing in the filth of sin. God will in no way cast out a truly repentant soul.
John 6:35-37: 35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.36 But I said unto you, That ye also have seen me, and believe not.37 All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I am thankful that You are a just and fair Judge of all of us. Help me not to judge others, but to pray for those who would sin against me or others. Lord, I trust You to take care of those who persecute me and come against me. I ask You to forgive them, and bring them into the knowledge of Your dear Son. I especially pray for those who are bound in addictions and ask that You set them free so that they may serve You and find peace in their souls. I ask this in the name of Jesus, my Lord. Amen.
Proverbs 26:10-11 (KJV): 10 The great God that formed all things both rewardeth the fool, and rewardeth transgressors.11 As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly.
Proverbs 26:10-11 (YOUNG'S):10 Great is the Former of all, And He is rewarding a fool, And is rewarding transgressors,11 As a dog hath returned to its vomit, A fool is repeating his folly.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us that since God has formed all things, He will justly reward the transgressors and also fools, as they are like dogs who return to their own vomit. Sometimes people are concerned about sinners who seemingly are not suffering for the wicked things they have done to others. Verse 10 assures us that God will deal with transgressors and fools, and because He is a just God, it will be a just and fair sentencing. Since He created the entire universe, and all mankind, He certainly is capable of dealing with the ones who rebel against Him. In fact, the Bible states God is the Judge of the whole earth and He will deal with the righteous and the wicked in a just and right manner.
Genesis 18:25: That be far from thee to do after this manner, to slay the righteous with the wicked: and that the righteous should be as the wicked, that be far from thee: Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?
As Christians, we are not to try and get even, or take vengeance upon anyone who hurts us, as we are to look to God to make sure that those who are wicked are dealt with appropriately. Because God is a great God of love, the first thing He tries to do is to reach those lost in sin. He wants His children to help in that commission by praying for them, and reaching out to them in love. In that process, we sometimes will be persecuted and suffer in God's behalf. Should wicked people not respond, after much long suffering toward them, then God allows them to reap what they have been sowing, and thus His judgment comes upon them. He is the one that will administer vengeance, not us.
Hebrews 10:30-31: 30 For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
Psalm 1:5-6:5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.6 For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.Verse 11 in today's study tells us that a rebellious fool will repeat the same sins that are making him sick over and over again, just like a dog returns to his own vomit. Another scripture in the New Testament tells us the same thing, only this is a warning to those who have been cleansed by the power of the Holy Spirit, and then they have gone back to the very sin from which God had set them free.
2 Peter 2:20-22: 20 For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.21 For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.22 But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.
The only way a fool can be redeemed is to turn to God and repent and ask Him to deliver them from the sins that have brought them into such a low estate as a dog or pig. God is gracious and will never turn a repentant heart away. He will help and deliver them from evil addictions that keep them wallowing in the filth of sin. God will in no way cast out a truly repentant soul.
John 6:35-37: 35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.36 But I said unto you, That ye also have seen me, and believe not.37 All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I am thankful that You are a just and fair Judge of all of us. Help me not to judge others, but to pray for those who would sin against me or others. Lord, I trust You to take care of those who persecute me and come against me. I ask You to forgive them, and bring them into the knowledge of Your dear Son. I especially pray for those who are bound in addictions and ask that You set them free so that they may serve You and find peace in their souls. I ask this in the name of Jesus, my Lord. Amen.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 286 (KJV):
Proverbs 26:6-9 (KJV):6 He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool cutteth off the feet, and drinketh damage.7 The legs of the lame are not equal: so is a parable in the mouth of fools.8 As he that bindeth a stone in a sling, so is he that giveth honour to a fool.9 As a thorn goeth up into the hand of a drunkard, so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
Proverbs 26:6-9 (AMP):6 He who sends a message by the hand of a fool cuts off the feet (of satisfactory delivery) and drinks the damage.7 Like the legs of a lame man which hang loose, so is a parable in the mouth of a fool. 8 Like he who binds a stone in a sling, so is he who gives honor to a (self-confident) fool.9 Like a thorn that goes (without being felt) into the hand of a drunken man, so is a proverb in the mouth of a (self-confident) fool.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us the damage a fool can do if given the opportunity. According to Vine's Expository Dictionary, a "fool" is a person without reason, one who lacks mental sanity and sobriety, one who has a reckless and inconsiderate habit of mind, or the lack of commonsense perception of the reality of things, natural and spiritual. The Bible definition of a fool also includes a person who is a rebel. A fool should not be trusted with important missions or duties according to today's Proverbs.
Verse 6 says that anyone who sends a message by a fool cuts off the feet of satisfactory delivery. The message will likely not get there, or arrive late. The person that sends it, then must deal with the damage caused by it not arriving timely. I have experienced this when I gave this duty to one whom I thought would surely take care of delivering my bills to the post office for me. They were foolish and got sidetracked, and so did my mail. I had to deal with the damage and pay the price, when my creditors began phoning me about my bills being late. Although I would not call this person a fool, they had done a "foolish" thing. We all do foolish things at times, which does not make us a fool, but we should strive not to allow the enemy to cause us to be foolish in our ways.
Verse 7 says that even a parable in the mouth of a fool will not be of any use. This verse makes the comparison to one who has lame legs and cannot walk. A person who is lame must be carried about by others; they have to have help, so it is when a "fool" tries to put forth a parable -- someone else has to explain it or it cannot be understood. Foolish talk never makes sense. In the mouth of a fool, a parable becomes as useless as paralyzed legs.
Verse 8 tells us that giving honor or praise to a "fool" is like binding a stone in a sling. Our modern equivalent of this term would be "giving someone ammunition" that is faulty. It would fire in the gun or go the wrong direction. Honor given to a fool is like ammunition firing in the wrong direction. Prideful people usually put others down, while building themselves up. Honoring a rebel will backfire like a stone tied to a slingshot.
Verse 9 says that a Proverb or "word of wisdom" in the mouth of a fool will not accomplish what it is meant to point out, as the fool will misapply the illustration so that its point will no more be felt than a thorn going in the hand of a drunkard. Our modern day equivalent would be the fool would put what we call "a spin" on a thorny issue so that one does not feel the pain of the point that is trying to be made. Sometimes God's Word will bring us pain when we hear it, as we have been guilty of certain sins, and His Word will prick our hearts so that we might repent and be set free. However, in the mouth of a fool, even God's own Words can be distorted, so that no one feels any pain of conviction for their sins.
In all of these verses, we can see how a fool cannot be trusted, nor can he receive godly wisdom.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your words of wisdom in the Bible. I do want to adhere to them and avoid doing foolish things. Forgive me for the foolish things I have done in the past. Give me discernment to recognize the voice of fools, so that I am not taken in by their deceptive talk. I want to hear the truth, even if it is painful, because the truth of God's Word is what sets us free. Give me ears to hear what the Spirit of God is saying, and then give me the grace to obey His Words. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord. Amen.
Proverbs 26:6-9 (KJV):6 He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool cutteth off the feet, and drinketh damage.7 The legs of the lame are not equal: so is a parable in the mouth of fools.8 As he that bindeth a stone in a sling, so is he that giveth honour to a fool.9 As a thorn goeth up into the hand of a drunkard, so is a parable in the mouth of fools.
Proverbs 26:6-9 (AMP):6 He who sends a message by the hand of a fool cuts off the feet (of satisfactory delivery) and drinks the damage.7 Like the legs of a lame man which hang loose, so is a parable in the mouth of a fool. 8 Like he who binds a stone in a sling, so is he who gives honor to a (self-confident) fool.9 Like a thorn that goes (without being felt) into the hand of a drunken man, so is a proverb in the mouth of a (self-confident) fool.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us the damage a fool can do if given the opportunity. According to Vine's Expository Dictionary, a "fool" is a person without reason, one who lacks mental sanity and sobriety, one who has a reckless and inconsiderate habit of mind, or the lack of commonsense perception of the reality of things, natural and spiritual. The Bible definition of a fool also includes a person who is a rebel. A fool should not be trusted with important missions or duties according to today's Proverbs.
Verse 6 says that anyone who sends a message by a fool cuts off the feet of satisfactory delivery. The message will likely not get there, or arrive late. The person that sends it, then must deal with the damage caused by it not arriving timely. I have experienced this when I gave this duty to one whom I thought would surely take care of delivering my bills to the post office for me. They were foolish and got sidetracked, and so did my mail. I had to deal with the damage and pay the price, when my creditors began phoning me about my bills being late. Although I would not call this person a fool, they had done a "foolish" thing. We all do foolish things at times, which does not make us a fool, but we should strive not to allow the enemy to cause us to be foolish in our ways.
Verse 7 says that even a parable in the mouth of a fool will not be of any use. This verse makes the comparison to one who has lame legs and cannot walk. A person who is lame must be carried about by others; they have to have help, so it is when a "fool" tries to put forth a parable -- someone else has to explain it or it cannot be understood. Foolish talk never makes sense. In the mouth of a fool, a parable becomes as useless as paralyzed legs.
Verse 8 tells us that giving honor or praise to a "fool" is like binding a stone in a sling. Our modern equivalent of this term would be "giving someone ammunition" that is faulty. It would fire in the gun or go the wrong direction. Honor given to a fool is like ammunition firing in the wrong direction. Prideful people usually put others down, while building themselves up. Honoring a rebel will backfire like a stone tied to a slingshot.
Verse 9 says that a Proverb or "word of wisdom" in the mouth of a fool will not accomplish what it is meant to point out, as the fool will misapply the illustration so that its point will no more be felt than a thorn going in the hand of a drunkard. Our modern day equivalent would be the fool would put what we call "a spin" on a thorny issue so that one does not feel the pain of the point that is trying to be made. Sometimes God's Word will bring us pain when we hear it, as we have been guilty of certain sins, and His Word will prick our hearts so that we might repent and be set free. However, in the mouth of a fool, even God's own Words can be distorted, so that no one feels any pain of conviction for their sins.
In all of these verses, we can see how a fool cannot be trusted, nor can he receive godly wisdom.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your words of wisdom in the Bible. I do want to adhere to them and avoid doing foolish things. Forgive me for the foolish things I have done in the past. Give me discernment to recognize the voice of fools, so that I am not taken in by their deceptive talk. I want to hear the truth, even if it is painful, because the truth of God's Word is what sets us free. Give me ears to hear what the Spirit of God is saying, and then give me the grace to obey His Words. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord. Amen.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 282 (KJV):
Proverbs 26:1 (KJV): As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest, so honour is not seemly for a fool.
Proverbs 26:1 (AMP): Like snow in summer and like rain in harvest, so honor is not fitting for a (self confident) fool.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs tells us that honor bestowed upon a self-confident fool is not fitting. The reason this is true is because when attention and honor are given to a person who is already prideful, it only causes them to be more prideful and haughty. Just as snow is out of season in summer and not a good thing because the cold will damage the plants, so praise and honor cause a prideful person to cause damage to others.Rain in harvest-time is also unfitting, as it prevents the farmer from being able to harvest his crops. In the book of Isaiah we find a scripture that describes how a fool acts:
Isaiah 32:6: (AMP): For the fool speaks folly and his mind plans iniquity: practicing profane ungodliness and speaking error concerning the Lord, leaving the craving of the hungry unsatisfied and causing the drink of the thirsty to fail.
Someone who is prideful and a fool, is a person who is very selfish, as they only think of themselves. Not only do they practice sin, but they never reach out to the hungry and thirsty. They also will speak against the Lord because they are deceived by their own pride. Pride is the root of many sins.
Psalm 10:2-4:2 The wicked in his pride doth persecute the poor: let them be taken in the devices that they have imagined.3 For the wicked boasteth of his heart's desire, and blesseth the covetous, whom the LORD abhorreth.4 The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts.
People who are proud and self-confident have no time for God. In fact, God is not even in their thoughts. They are too busy with accomplishing their own desires, even at the expense of the poor. However, the Bible says that a wicked man will eventually be taken in their own devices. The scripture tells us that we all shall reap what we sow.
Galatians 6:7-8: 7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.If we sow evil things, we shall also reap those things; however, we have a choice, and we can sow good things. If we reach out to the poor and we help others, then in our hour of need, God will send people to help us. If we are merciful to people who are unkind to us and sin against us, then God will be merciful to us when we fail Him and sin. If we give to others and the work of the Lord, then the Lord will cause our finances to be blessed. If we encourage others, when we need encouragement, others will encourage us. If we humble ourselves, then the Lord will lift us up. However, if we brag and exalt our own selves, then we shall fall. We should ask God to help us remain humble and pray for those who are walking in pride.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I love You, Lord and thank You for the many blessings You have bestowed upon me. Lord, I humble myself before You and ask You to forgive me for demonstrating any pride before men. I know that I could do nothing without You. You are the One who gives us life and breath, and health and well being. Without Your touch on my life, I could not do the things that I do every day. Lord, I bless Your name and worship You! You are a mighty God. Reach out to all of Your children and help us, as we follow in the straight and narrow path of holiness. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 26:1 (KJV): As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest, so honour is not seemly for a fool.
Proverbs 26:1 (AMP): Like snow in summer and like rain in harvest, so honor is not fitting for a (self confident) fool.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs tells us that honor bestowed upon a self-confident fool is not fitting. The reason this is true is because when attention and honor are given to a person who is already prideful, it only causes them to be more prideful and haughty. Just as snow is out of season in summer and not a good thing because the cold will damage the plants, so praise and honor cause a prideful person to cause damage to others.Rain in harvest-time is also unfitting, as it prevents the farmer from being able to harvest his crops. In the book of Isaiah we find a scripture that describes how a fool acts:
Isaiah 32:6: (AMP): For the fool speaks folly and his mind plans iniquity: practicing profane ungodliness and speaking error concerning the Lord, leaving the craving of the hungry unsatisfied and causing the drink of the thirsty to fail.
Someone who is prideful and a fool, is a person who is very selfish, as they only think of themselves. Not only do they practice sin, but they never reach out to the hungry and thirsty. They also will speak against the Lord because they are deceived by their own pride. Pride is the root of many sins.
Psalm 10:2-4:2 The wicked in his pride doth persecute the poor: let them be taken in the devices that they have imagined.3 For the wicked boasteth of his heart's desire, and blesseth the covetous, whom the LORD abhorreth.4 The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts.
People who are proud and self-confident have no time for God. In fact, God is not even in their thoughts. They are too busy with accomplishing their own desires, even at the expense of the poor. However, the Bible says that a wicked man will eventually be taken in their own devices. The scripture tells us that we all shall reap what we sow.
Galatians 6:7-8: 7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.If we sow evil things, we shall also reap those things; however, we have a choice, and we can sow good things. If we reach out to the poor and we help others, then in our hour of need, God will send people to help us. If we are merciful to people who are unkind to us and sin against us, then God will be merciful to us when we fail Him and sin. If we give to others and the work of the Lord, then the Lord will cause our finances to be blessed. If we encourage others, when we need encouragement, others will encourage us. If we humble ourselves, then the Lord will lift us up. However, if we brag and exalt our own selves, then we shall fall. We should ask God to help us remain humble and pray for those who are walking in pride.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I love You, Lord and thank You for the many blessings You have bestowed upon me. Lord, I humble myself before You and ask You to forgive me for demonstrating any pride before men. I know that I could do nothing without You. You are the One who gives us life and breath, and health and well being. Without Your touch on my life, I could not do the things that I do every day. Lord, I bless Your name and worship You! You are a mighty God. Reach out to all of Your children and help us, as we follow in the straight and narrow path of holiness. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 281 (KJV):
Proverbs 25:27-28 (KJV):27 It is not good to eat much honey: so for men to search their own glory is not glory.28 He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.
Proverbs 25:27-28 (AMP):27 It is not good to eat much honey; so for men to seek glory, their own glory, causes suffering and is not glory.28 He who has no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down and without walls.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us that it is not good to boast of one's own accomplishments, and also states that one who cannot rule their own spirit is like a broken down city. Verse 27 tells us that eating too much honey is not healthy, nor is it healthy for a person to seek ways in which to honor himself. To seek one's own glory is to seek a good opinion of one's own attributes that would bring honor or glory to himself. Obviously, this would lead a person to being prideful in their own accomplishments. The Bible has a lot to say about avoiding pride, as when a person yields to this sin, it will set them up for a fall.
Proverbs 16:18: Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.
1 John 2:16-17: 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.
Men are mortal and prone to weakness and error. If we rely on self, without the underlying foundation of faith in God, we will at some point in our life face a situation where self reliance fails us. We must all realize if we have any abilities, and are able to accomplish anything in this world, it is because God has gifted us with those abilities and gave us the health, strength and desire to be able to achieve those things. Many self-made men and women will testify to the fact that they reached a point in their lives where they were no longer able to keep on going. They faced problems they were not able to solve on their own. They were forced by their halting circumstances to call on God. Confidence in our own abilities, without God, is a false foundation and will crumble under the attack of the devil and his evil powers. Only God's power can defeat the evil attacks of Satan.
Verse 28 tells us that a person who cannot rule over his own spirit is as vulnerable to attacks as a city that is broken down and has no wall around it for defense. In Bible days, most cities had high walls around them for protection against enemies. They had gates that were open during the day for the commerce trade to come and go, but they would shut them at night so that no intruders would gain an advantage of them.
As individuals we become vulnerable to the devil's attacks if we do not have a wall around our own spirits. Our "wall" and "high tower" that gives us protection is found in our faith in Jesus. He is the one who keeps our hearts and minds steady so that we are able to resist the attacks of the enemy. He is our solid rock and we can remain steady and solid because of Him. David speaks of this in the book of Samuel.
2 Samuel 22:1-4:1 And David spake unto the LORD the words of this song in the day that the LORD had delivered him out of the hand of all his enemies, and out of the hand of Saul:2 And he said, The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer;3 The God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from violence.4 I will call on the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.
If we do not rely on Jesus to keep us, the enemy of our souls, the devil, could come in and drive us crazy. However, all Christians have the promise of God to be able to keep our minds and souls against the onslaughts of the wicked one. We are required to reinforce our cities (lives) by keeping our walls built up. We do this spiritually by reading the Word of God, praying and fellowshipping with others of like faith.
Isaiah 26:1-4: 1 In that day shall this song be sung in the land of Judah; We have a strong city; salvation will God appoint for walls and bulwarks.2 Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in.3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.4 Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I am glad that You are that High Tower that we can run into, when we need defense from the enemy of our souls. Lord, keep me from pride and deliver me from all that would offend You. I do appreciate being able to read the Bible and find strength and comfort within its pages. Lord, I acknowledge You as my God and my King. I rely on You, and You alone, and do not put my confidence in my own self, nor any other man. Thank You for protecting me from all of the attacks of the devil. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Proverbs 25:27-28 (KJV):27 It is not good to eat much honey: so for men to search their own glory is not glory.28 He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.
Proverbs 25:27-28 (AMP):27 It is not good to eat much honey; so for men to seek glory, their own glory, causes suffering and is not glory.28 He who has no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down and without walls.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us that it is not good to boast of one's own accomplishments, and also states that one who cannot rule their own spirit is like a broken down city. Verse 27 tells us that eating too much honey is not healthy, nor is it healthy for a person to seek ways in which to honor himself. To seek one's own glory is to seek a good opinion of one's own attributes that would bring honor or glory to himself. Obviously, this would lead a person to being prideful in their own accomplishments. The Bible has a lot to say about avoiding pride, as when a person yields to this sin, it will set them up for a fall.
Proverbs 16:18: Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.
1 John 2:16-17: 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.
Men are mortal and prone to weakness and error. If we rely on self, without the underlying foundation of faith in God, we will at some point in our life face a situation where self reliance fails us. We must all realize if we have any abilities, and are able to accomplish anything in this world, it is because God has gifted us with those abilities and gave us the health, strength and desire to be able to achieve those things. Many self-made men and women will testify to the fact that they reached a point in their lives where they were no longer able to keep on going. They faced problems they were not able to solve on their own. They were forced by their halting circumstances to call on God. Confidence in our own abilities, without God, is a false foundation and will crumble under the attack of the devil and his evil powers. Only God's power can defeat the evil attacks of Satan.
Verse 28 tells us that a person who cannot rule over his own spirit is as vulnerable to attacks as a city that is broken down and has no wall around it for defense. In Bible days, most cities had high walls around them for protection against enemies. They had gates that were open during the day for the commerce trade to come and go, but they would shut them at night so that no intruders would gain an advantage of them.
As individuals we become vulnerable to the devil's attacks if we do not have a wall around our own spirits. Our "wall" and "high tower" that gives us protection is found in our faith in Jesus. He is the one who keeps our hearts and minds steady so that we are able to resist the attacks of the enemy. He is our solid rock and we can remain steady and solid because of Him. David speaks of this in the book of Samuel.
2 Samuel 22:1-4:1 And David spake unto the LORD the words of this song in the day that the LORD had delivered him out of the hand of all his enemies, and out of the hand of Saul:2 And he said, The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer;3 The God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from violence.4 I will call on the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.
If we do not rely on Jesus to keep us, the enemy of our souls, the devil, could come in and drive us crazy. However, all Christians have the promise of God to be able to keep our minds and souls against the onslaughts of the wicked one. We are required to reinforce our cities (lives) by keeping our walls built up. We do this spiritually by reading the Word of God, praying and fellowshipping with others of like faith.
Isaiah 26:1-4: 1 In that day shall this song be sung in the land of Judah; We have a strong city; salvation will God appoint for walls and bulwarks.2 Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in.3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.4 Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I am glad that You are that High Tower that we can run into, when we need defense from the enemy of our souls. Lord, keep me from pride and deliver me from all that would offend You. I do appreciate being able to read the Bible and find strength and comfort within its pages. Lord, I acknowledge You as my God and my King. I rely on You, and You alone, and do not put my confidence in my own self, nor any other man. Thank You for protecting me from all of the attacks of the devil. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 280 (KJV):
Proverbs 25:26 (KJV): A righteous man falling down before the wicked is as a troubled fountain, and a corrupt spring.
Proverbs 25:26 (AMP): Like a muddied fountain and a polluted spring is a righteous man who yields, falls down, and compromises his integrity before the wicked.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs compares a righteous man who compromises, to a polluted spring. Men and women of God should be as a spring of fresh water to thirsty people. However, when a spring becomes muddied or polluted with something dead in it, then it is unfit to drink. This is how our Christian witness becomes when we yield to sin and compromise our integrity, thus allowing the wicked to mock us.
There is a story in the Old Testament about a time when Jerusalem, the city of God's people, was lying in ruins because it had been destroyed by its enemies. It is a type of the life of a Christian whose life has been wasted by the enemy. Nehemiah, who was a Jewish exile in Persia obtained permission from the King to go back to Jerusalem and rebuild the city. He was met with resistance when Sanballat, Tobiah and Geshem heard about his plans. They mocked him and even falsely accused him of rebelling against the king.
Nehemiah 2:17-20:17 Then said I unto them, Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach.18 Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me; as also the king's words that he had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands for this good work.19 But when Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, and Geshem the Arabian, heard it, they laughed us to scorn, and despised us, and said, What is this thing that ye do? will ye rebel against the king?20 Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem.
Nehemiah was a man of integrity, unlike those who had sinned in Jerusalem (and who were responsible for its destruction). Because they had lacked integrity, their city was destroyed by fire and they were taken captive and led away into exile. Nehemiah, on the other hand, was able to lead in the rebuilding of Jerusalem and its walls, because he was a man who was not given to compromise. When he was met by ridicule and anger, he resorted to prayer and vigilance, to overcome his enemies. When he met the spirit of discouragement and defeatism, by faith in His God, he likewise overcame it. He then faced greed and covetousness from within his own ranks, and through his personal example of unselfishness, during his 12 year term as governor, that too, was overcome.
If a man is not able to rule his own life, he can fall and become like a muddied spring. In fact, the Bible teaches that any man chosen for a leadership position in the church, must first know how to rule his own life. Many of those who have fallen have been novices and have been put into positions of leadership prematurely; therefore they are unable to stand up under the attacks of the devil. Being chosen for an important position caused them to be lifted in pride and the Bible says that "pride goeth before a fall." Many fall down when the pressure of the devil is applied against their lives and they yield by compromising, and therefore lose their integrity.
1 Timothy 3:5-7: 5 (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.7 Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
We are admonished in the book of James the place to start in order not to muddy or make bitter our water is to guard our mouths and watch what we say. We want to have people taste sweet water from us and not bitter water.
James 3:9-13: 9 Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.10 Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.11 Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?12 Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him show out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Fill me with the Holy Spirit so that I am one through whom sweet water can always flow forth. Lord, help me to guard my mouth and speak good things from Your Word. Deliver me from all compromise and give me the grace to always stand in integrity before men. Help Your people to be good witnesses in this world so that we do not bring any reproach on the Kingdom of God. Forgive us when we fall down and lift us back up and rebuild our walls, so that the enemy is defeated in our lives. I ask in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Proverbs 25:26 (KJV): A righteous man falling down before the wicked is as a troubled fountain, and a corrupt spring.
Proverbs 25:26 (AMP): Like a muddied fountain and a polluted spring is a righteous man who yields, falls down, and compromises his integrity before the wicked.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs compares a righteous man who compromises, to a polluted spring. Men and women of God should be as a spring of fresh water to thirsty people. However, when a spring becomes muddied or polluted with something dead in it, then it is unfit to drink. This is how our Christian witness becomes when we yield to sin and compromise our integrity, thus allowing the wicked to mock us.
There is a story in the Old Testament about a time when Jerusalem, the city of God's people, was lying in ruins because it had been destroyed by its enemies. It is a type of the life of a Christian whose life has been wasted by the enemy. Nehemiah, who was a Jewish exile in Persia obtained permission from the King to go back to Jerusalem and rebuild the city. He was met with resistance when Sanballat, Tobiah and Geshem heard about his plans. They mocked him and even falsely accused him of rebelling against the king.
Nehemiah 2:17-20:17 Then said I unto them, Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach.18 Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me; as also the king's words that he had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands for this good work.19 But when Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, and Geshem the Arabian, heard it, they laughed us to scorn, and despised us, and said, What is this thing that ye do? will ye rebel against the king?20 Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem.
Nehemiah was a man of integrity, unlike those who had sinned in Jerusalem (and who were responsible for its destruction). Because they had lacked integrity, their city was destroyed by fire and they were taken captive and led away into exile. Nehemiah, on the other hand, was able to lead in the rebuilding of Jerusalem and its walls, because he was a man who was not given to compromise. When he was met by ridicule and anger, he resorted to prayer and vigilance, to overcome his enemies. When he met the spirit of discouragement and defeatism, by faith in His God, he likewise overcame it. He then faced greed and covetousness from within his own ranks, and through his personal example of unselfishness, during his 12 year term as governor, that too, was overcome.
If a man is not able to rule his own life, he can fall and become like a muddied spring. In fact, the Bible teaches that any man chosen for a leadership position in the church, must first know how to rule his own life. Many of those who have fallen have been novices and have been put into positions of leadership prematurely; therefore they are unable to stand up under the attacks of the devil. Being chosen for an important position caused them to be lifted in pride and the Bible says that "pride goeth before a fall." Many fall down when the pressure of the devil is applied against their lives and they yield by compromising, and therefore lose their integrity.
1 Timothy 3:5-7: 5 (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.7 Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
We are admonished in the book of James the place to start in order not to muddy or make bitter our water is to guard our mouths and watch what we say. We want to have people taste sweet water from us and not bitter water.
James 3:9-13: 9 Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.10 Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.11 Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?12 Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him show out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Fill me with the Holy Spirit so that I am one through whom sweet water can always flow forth. Lord, help me to guard my mouth and speak good things from Your Word. Deliver me from all compromise and give me the grace to always stand in integrity before men. Help Your people to be good witnesses in this world so that we do not bring any reproach on the Kingdom of God. Forgive us when we fall down and lift us back up and rebuild our walls, so that the enemy is defeated in our lives. I ask in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 279 (KJV):
Proverbs 25:25 (KJV):25 As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.Proverbs 25:25 (AMP):25 Like cold water to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far (home) country.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs makes a comparison between hearing good news, and drinking cold water when one is thirsty. When we are far from home and we hear good news, it is like a drink of cold water when one is thirsty. The Bible uses many allegories, parables and examples that use "water" to describe spiritual principles and truths. One of the greatest ones is that Jesus, Himself, is described as being "living water." There is a story in the New Testament about Jesus giving this "living water" to a woman he met at a water well.
John 4:7-15: 7 There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink.8 (For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.)9 Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.11 The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water?12 Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle?13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again:14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.15 The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.
When we receive Jesus into our hearts and make Him Lord and Saviour, it truly is like receiving "living water." We then have access to all that we will ever need, and we can truly drink from a well that never runs dry. Many of our Christian songs have expressions about coming to Jesus when we are "thirsty and dry" and receiving that wonderful drink of water that quenches our spiritual thirst. When we ask for this water, like this woman at the well did, we will find that cold drink of water, and that well that never runs dry, and it is the good news of the gospel.
The Holy Spirit is also symbolically referred to as water (as well as wind and fire). When we receive Jesus in our hearts, we receive the cleansing water of salvation. We can also ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit and that spiritual water will then bubble out of us. When we are baptized in the Holy Spirit, that water will also flow out of us, as those rivers of living water spoken about in John 7.
John 7:37-39:37 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
We are also commanded to be baptized in water once we have repented from our sins and have received Christ into our hearts, just as John the Baptist baptized those who came to him and confessed their sins. However, John also spoke of another baptism -- the baptism of the Holy Ghost (Holy Spirit). He said Jesus would baptize us in the Holy Spirit.
Mark 1:8: I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost.
Many people have been "born again" and have the Holy Spirit working in their lives, but have never received the "Baptism in the Holy Ghost" which equips them for service and gives them the power needed to overcome in Christ. This is a gift of God that is available if we ask for it.
Luke 11:13: If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?
Acts 1:5 & 8: 5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence...8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
If you, as a Christian, have not known the power of God in being able to overcome sin, to witness, and to know God in His fullness, then you need to ask God for the baptism in the Holy Ghost. There were also Christians in Paul's day who did not know about the power that was available to them. We find this recorded in:
Acts 19:2-6:2 He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.3 And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism.4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for the wonderful gift of the Holy Spirit. Truly, Your spiritual water has quenched my thirsty soul. May I be like one who brings good news from a far land, as I testify and witness to those around me who do not know about the Living Water found in Christ. Lord, fill me daily with the Holy Spirit so that I may overflow with those living waters and minister life to others. Lord, speak to Your children who do not have this gift, and reveal to them their need to receive the baptism in the Holy Spirit. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Proverbs 25:25 (KJV):25 As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.Proverbs 25:25 (AMP):25 Like cold water to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far (home) country.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs makes a comparison between hearing good news, and drinking cold water when one is thirsty. When we are far from home and we hear good news, it is like a drink of cold water when one is thirsty. The Bible uses many allegories, parables and examples that use "water" to describe spiritual principles and truths. One of the greatest ones is that Jesus, Himself, is described as being "living water." There is a story in the New Testament about Jesus giving this "living water" to a woman he met at a water well.
John 4:7-15: 7 There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink.8 (For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.)9 Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.11 The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water?12 Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle?13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again:14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.15 The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.
When we receive Jesus into our hearts and make Him Lord and Saviour, it truly is like receiving "living water." We then have access to all that we will ever need, and we can truly drink from a well that never runs dry. Many of our Christian songs have expressions about coming to Jesus when we are "thirsty and dry" and receiving that wonderful drink of water that quenches our spiritual thirst. When we ask for this water, like this woman at the well did, we will find that cold drink of water, and that well that never runs dry, and it is the good news of the gospel.
The Holy Spirit is also symbolically referred to as water (as well as wind and fire). When we receive Jesus in our hearts, we receive the cleansing water of salvation. We can also ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit and that spiritual water will then bubble out of us. When we are baptized in the Holy Spirit, that water will also flow out of us, as those rivers of living water spoken about in John 7.
John 7:37-39:37 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
We are also commanded to be baptized in water once we have repented from our sins and have received Christ into our hearts, just as John the Baptist baptized those who came to him and confessed their sins. However, John also spoke of another baptism -- the baptism of the Holy Ghost (Holy Spirit). He said Jesus would baptize us in the Holy Spirit.
Mark 1:8: I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost.
Many people have been "born again" and have the Holy Spirit working in their lives, but have never received the "Baptism in the Holy Ghost" which equips them for service and gives them the power needed to overcome in Christ. This is a gift of God that is available if we ask for it.
Luke 11:13: If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?
Acts 1:5 & 8: 5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence...8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
If you, as a Christian, have not known the power of God in being able to overcome sin, to witness, and to know God in His fullness, then you need to ask God for the baptism in the Holy Ghost. There were also Christians in Paul's day who did not know about the power that was available to them. We find this recorded in:
Acts 19:2-6:2 He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.3 And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism.4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for the wonderful gift of the Holy Spirit. Truly, Your spiritual water has quenched my thirsty soul. May I be like one who brings good news from a far land, as I testify and witness to those around me who do not know about the Living Water found in Christ. Lord, fill me daily with the Holy Spirit so that I may overflow with those living waters and minister life to others. Lord, speak to Your children who do not have this gift, and reveal to them their need to receive the baptism in the Holy Spirit. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 278 (KJV):
Proverbs 25:23-24 (KJV):23 The north wind driveth away rain: so doth an angry countenance a backbiting tongue.24 It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman and in a wide house.
Proverbs 25:23-24 (AMP):23 The north wind brings forth rain; so does a backbiting tongue bring forth an angry countenance.24 It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop than to share a house with a disagreeing, quarrelsome, and scolding woman.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us that someone who has a backbiting tongue and a woman who is quarrelsome will cause others to be angry with them. Verse 23 is comparing a north wind that produces a driving rain to someone who is "bad mouthing" a person behind their back. When they find out about it, it will surely produce an angry look from them. Anyone who finds himself outside in a cold, blasting north wind that is accompanied by a driving rain, knows that it is something they want to get out of as quickly as possible.
The same is true about being around anyone who talks about others behind their backs. No one wants to be around them. If they will talk about others behind their backs, they will also talk about you. That is one reason we should not give an ear to people like that. However, the main reason we should avoid gossip and backbiting is because it will drive us from God's presence. David wrote in Psalms, that those who would be able to abide in God's presence would only be those who walked uprightly and did not backbite with their tongues.
Psalm 15:1-3: 1 A Psalm of David. LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?2 He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.3 He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.
Verse 24 in today's study, warns that a man should be careful about choosing a woman for a wife who is a brawler. The Amplified translation expands on the definition of a brawler as one who is disagreeing, quarrelsome, and scolding (nagging).This scripture states that even if the woman owned a big house, it would not be enough to compensate for the continual nagging and quarreling that she would direct at her husband. It goes on to say that dwelling in a corner of the housetop (outside on the flat roof, exposed to all kinds of weather) would be a better fate than living with a woman who is a brawler.
This also is an admonition to everyone to be careful of any relationships that we might forge, whether it is a marriage relationship or a friendship. People with bad dispositions are not pleasant to be around. Those that are always scolding others or nagging people usually, in time, lose their friends, and even their marriages. We must guard what we say, and also guard what we give an ear to.
Psalm 34:12-16: 12 What man is he that desireth life, and loveth many days, that he may see good?13 Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.14 Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.15 The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry.16 The face of the LORD is against them that do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for the wisdom that is found in Your Word. Lord, I desire to take heed to the things that You have written in the Bible. Give me the grace to speak righteous and good things and to avoid listening to those who would "bad mouth" others. Lord, help me not to be one who would yield to nagging nor belittling others. Lord, guide me in my choice of friends and let me be a faithful and loyal friend at all times. I give You my heart and mouth and may they both agree with Your Word and be pleasing to You. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 25:23-24 (KJV):23 The north wind driveth away rain: so doth an angry countenance a backbiting tongue.24 It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman and in a wide house.
Proverbs 25:23-24 (AMP):23 The north wind brings forth rain; so does a backbiting tongue bring forth an angry countenance.24 It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop than to share a house with a disagreeing, quarrelsome, and scolding woman.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs tell us that someone who has a backbiting tongue and a woman who is quarrelsome will cause others to be angry with them. Verse 23 is comparing a north wind that produces a driving rain to someone who is "bad mouthing" a person behind their back. When they find out about it, it will surely produce an angry look from them. Anyone who finds himself outside in a cold, blasting north wind that is accompanied by a driving rain, knows that it is something they want to get out of as quickly as possible.
The same is true about being around anyone who talks about others behind their backs. No one wants to be around them. If they will talk about others behind their backs, they will also talk about you. That is one reason we should not give an ear to people like that. However, the main reason we should avoid gossip and backbiting is because it will drive us from God's presence. David wrote in Psalms, that those who would be able to abide in God's presence would only be those who walked uprightly and did not backbite with their tongues.
Psalm 15:1-3: 1 A Psalm of David. LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?2 He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.3 He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.
Verse 24 in today's study, warns that a man should be careful about choosing a woman for a wife who is a brawler. The Amplified translation expands on the definition of a brawler as one who is disagreeing, quarrelsome, and scolding (nagging).This scripture states that even if the woman owned a big house, it would not be enough to compensate for the continual nagging and quarreling that she would direct at her husband. It goes on to say that dwelling in a corner of the housetop (outside on the flat roof, exposed to all kinds of weather) would be a better fate than living with a woman who is a brawler.
This also is an admonition to everyone to be careful of any relationships that we might forge, whether it is a marriage relationship or a friendship. People with bad dispositions are not pleasant to be around. Those that are always scolding others or nagging people usually, in time, lose their friends, and even their marriages. We must guard what we say, and also guard what we give an ear to.
Psalm 34:12-16: 12 What man is he that desireth life, and loveth many days, that he may see good?13 Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.14 Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.15 The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry.16 The face of the LORD is against them that do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for the wisdom that is found in Your Word. Lord, I desire to take heed to the things that You have written in the Bible. Give me the grace to speak righteous and good things and to avoid listening to those who would "bad mouth" others. Lord, help me not to be one who would yield to nagging nor belittling others. Lord, guide me in my choice of friends and let me be a faithful and loyal friend at all times. I give You my heart and mouth and may they both agree with Your Word and be pleasing to You. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 275 (KJV):
Proverbs 25:19 (KJV): Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.
Proverbs 25:19 (AMP): Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth or a foot out of joint.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs states that when anyone puts their confidence in someone who is unfaithful in a time of trouble, they will have a painful experience. A broken tooth or a foot our of joint, is not a pleasant condition. We need to be careful where we place our confidence. If a man has been proven to be an unfaithful person, we should never expect to depend on them when trouble comes our way. We need to develop our friendships with faithful people who will not fail us in our hour of need. How do we know if a person will be faithful or not? The Bible teaches us that one way is to observe the things they do. Even children are known by their actions.
Proverbs 20:11: Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.
Jesus also outlines in the New Testament some criteria for testing to see if someone is faithful or not.
Luke 16:10-12: 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?12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?There are three things listed in these verses that determine if a person is faithful or not. The first one is to see how they deal in the small matters of life. Secondly, we can observe how they handle their money and lastly, how they take care of another person's property.
From our experience in pastoring for many years, my husband and I noticed that the people who never gave to help the church or to help others (with the excuse that they just didn't have enough money), never gave when they did have more. They never gave when they got a raise, or sold something, or came into some money. On the other hand, those who gave out of their small incomes, would always continue giving when God blessed them with more and because they did, they would continue to be blessed more and more. Eventually, many of those who never gave ended up in worse condition than those who were poor. The Lord outlined in the Bible a pattern of giving 10% (a tithe) of our income to be used in the work of the Lord; therefore, if one is poor or rich, everyone can give proportionately which is not burdensome for anyone.
How people handle their money in other ways will also reveal if they are a faithful person or not, for instance, paying bills timely. The Bible says if we are not faithful with unrighteous mammon (deceitful riches, money and possessions), we will not be faithful with the things of God. Also, if we do not take care of things that belong to another and abuse them instead, then we will not take care of our own things. However, if we are faithful stewards over other people's property, then we will be given our own. If we work for someone and we do not do a good job for them, then we will not do a good job, even if we had our own business.
According to today's verse, it would be wise not to trust in those who are unfaithful, and especially not to call on them when you are in trouble, unless you want further pain. Choose a faithful friend instead. God is the best, faithful friend anyone can have and He will stand with us even if all others forsake us. We also need to be good and faithful people, as His children, so that others can come to us in their time of need and we will be there to help them.
1 Thessalonians 5:23-24: 23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your faithfulness to me.Lord, I have failed You many times in my life; however, You have never failed me. I am grateful for Your love and mercy to me when I have fallen down. I appreciate all the times You have picked me up and helped me to keep on walking on the straight and narrow path of Your will. Lord, strengthen me to be a faithful witness for You. Help me not to put my confidence in men, but rather to lean on You and trust You to help me. I am thankful You have used many people over the years to help me, but I know it was You who gave me favor with them. Thank you. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 25:19 (KJV): Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.
Proverbs 25:19 (AMP): Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth or a foot out of joint.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs states that when anyone puts their confidence in someone who is unfaithful in a time of trouble, they will have a painful experience. A broken tooth or a foot our of joint, is not a pleasant condition. We need to be careful where we place our confidence. If a man has been proven to be an unfaithful person, we should never expect to depend on them when trouble comes our way. We need to develop our friendships with faithful people who will not fail us in our hour of need. How do we know if a person will be faithful or not? The Bible teaches us that one way is to observe the things they do. Even children are known by their actions.
Proverbs 20:11: Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.
Jesus also outlines in the New Testament some criteria for testing to see if someone is faithful or not.
Luke 16:10-12: 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?12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?There are three things listed in these verses that determine if a person is faithful or not. The first one is to see how they deal in the small matters of life. Secondly, we can observe how they handle their money and lastly, how they take care of another person's property.
From our experience in pastoring for many years, my husband and I noticed that the people who never gave to help the church or to help others (with the excuse that they just didn't have enough money), never gave when they did have more. They never gave when they got a raise, or sold something, or came into some money. On the other hand, those who gave out of their small incomes, would always continue giving when God blessed them with more and because they did, they would continue to be blessed more and more. Eventually, many of those who never gave ended up in worse condition than those who were poor. The Lord outlined in the Bible a pattern of giving 10% (a tithe) of our income to be used in the work of the Lord; therefore, if one is poor or rich, everyone can give proportionately which is not burdensome for anyone.
How people handle their money in other ways will also reveal if they are a faithful person or not, for instance, paying bills timely. The Bible says if we are not faithful with unrighteous mammon (deceitful riches, money and possessions), we will not be faithful with the things of God. Also, if we do not take care of things that belong to another and abuse them instead, then we will not take care of our own things. However, if we are faithful stewards over other people's property, then we will be given our own. If we work for someone and we do not do a good job for them, then we will not do a good job, even if we had our own business.
According to today's verse, it would be wise not to trust in those who are unfaithful, and especially not to call on them when you are in trouble, unless you want further pain. Choose a faithful friend instead. God is the best, faithful friend anyone can have and He will stand with us even if all others forsake us. We also need to be good and faithful people, as His children, so that others can come to us in their time of need and we will be there to help them.
1 Thessalonians 5:23-24: 23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your faithfulness to me.Lord, I have failed You many times in my life; however, You have never failed me. I am grateful for Your love and mercy to me when I have fallen down. I appreciate all the times You have picked me up and helped me to keep on walking on the straight and narrow path of Your will. Lord, strengthen me to be a faithful witness for You. Help me not to put my confidence in men, but rather to lean on You and trust You to help me. I am thankful You have used many people over the years to help me, but I know it was You who gave me favor with them. Thank you. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 274 (KJV):
Proverbs 25:18 (KJV): A man that beareth false witness against his neighbour is a maul, and a sword, and a sharp arrow.
Proverbs 25:18 (AMP): A man who bears false witness against his neighbor is like a heavy sledgehammer and a sword and a sharp arrow.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs describes how a person who is a false witness affects another -- it is like a sharp and heavy blow against them. God commanded us not to bear false witness against anyone, and it is the ninth commandment in the list of the Ten Commandments in the Old Testament.
Exodus 20:16: Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.
The definition of a "false witness" is someone who lies about his neighbor or anyone else. Bearing false witness is telling a lie or witnessing with a false report. But this commandment has a deeper meaning than just lying. The Bible makes some very strong statements about how we speak and how we "witness" with our mouths - both positive and negative. Now, bearing false witness would include gossiping, slander, lying, deceitfulness and cheating. When we gossip about anybody, we are lying about them and bearing false witness about them. This is a very serious thing before God. According to this verse in Proverbs, it is like beating someone with a heavy sledgehammer or hitting them with a sword or an arrow.
We may not think gossiping is a very serious offense, but with God, it is a very serious because it is distorting the truth against our neighbor or someone else, and God will not hold us guiltless for this. I remember years and years ago when I made a commitment to God and totally surrendered to Him, the very first thing the Lord dealt with me about was the sin of gossiping. The Lord revealed to me that my mouth was causing destruction in my own life, as well as the lives of others by my critical words. When the Holy Spirit comes in, it is His responsibility to cleanse us from all unrighteousness and remove those things in us that do not look like Jesus, so God began to deal with my tongue right away. He started convicting me about the things that I was saying that did not agree with the Word of God and the things that were sinful that I was speaking. There is a lot in Scripture that refers to the tongue. We are to guard our tongue, the fruit we produce out of our mouth will either make us or break us, will either give us victory or destroy us, because there is life and death in the power of the tongue according to the Word of God.
Proverbs 18:20-21: 20 A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.
When we lie or gossip we are using our tongue against our neighbor in the wrong way. God wants us to watch this little member of our body, as it can be very destructive. David cried out to God to come and save him from men who were like lions with teeth that were as spears and arrows, and their tongues were like a sharp sword.
Psalm 57:3-4: 3 He shall send from heaven, and save me from the reproach of him that would swallow me up. Selah. God shall send forth his mercy and his truth.4 My soul is among lions: and I lie even among them that are set on fire, even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword.
There is an old saying that says: "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me." After studying the Bible, I see this old adage is not true. Using unkind names or words against people is harmful. It is harmful to the one who uses them, as well as to the one it is being spoken against. Words are very powerful. Think about this, lawyers use words to build their cases. Our nation's laws are made up of volumes of words. Our national treaties are words written on documents. Words announce the daily news. Words are tools that are used to communicate with one another. In the beginning God used words to create the earth by speaking everything into existence. In the New Testament, Jesus Himself, is referred to as the living Word. The Bible is also known as the Word of God. Words are powerful - both good and evil words.
That is why when someone bears false witness against another, it is very painful to them. While on the positive side when we pray, our mouth is forming words in the spirit dimension that go out and they produce good things. And so we have to guard our mouth and watch that we do not let the wrong things come out, because on the negative side our words also produce things in the spirit realm that can be damaging and bring wounds to others.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for forgiving me of all the things that I have said that have not agreed with Your Word. Father, please cancel all of the negative words that I have spoken against anyone. Lord, I truly want to use my tongue in a godly manner by speaking those things that will bless and edify others. Teach me how to pray correctly and may my lips now speak Your Word. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 25:18 (KJV): A man that beareth false witness against his neighbour is a maul, and a sword, and a sharp arrow.
Proverbs 25:18 (AMP): A man who bears false witness against his neighbor is like a heavy sledgehammer and a sword and a sharp arrow.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs describes how a person who is a false witness affects another -- it is like a sharp and heavy blow against them. God commanded us not to bear false witness against anyone, and it is the ninth commandment in the list of the Ten Commandments in the Old Testament.
Exodus 20:16: Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.
The definition of a "false witness" is someone who lies about his neighbor or anyone else. Bearing false witness is telling a lie or witnessing with a false report. But this commandment has a deeper meaning than just lying. The Bible makes some very strong statements about how we speak and how we "witness" with our mouths - both positive and negative. Now, bearing false witness would include gossiping, slander, lying, deceitfulness and cheating. When we gossip about anybody, we are lying about them and bearing false witness about them. This is a very serious thing before God. According to this verse in Proverbs, it is like beating someone with a heavy sledgehammer or hitting them with a sword or an arrow.
We may not think gossiping is a very serious offense, but with God, it is a very serious because it is distorting the truth against our neighbor or someone else, and God will not hold us guiltless for this. I remember years and years ago when I made a commitment to God and totally surrendered to Him, the very first thing the Lord dealt with me about was the sin of gossiping. The Lord revealed to me that my mouth was causing destruction in my own life, as well as the lives of others by my critical words. When the Holy Spirit comes in, it is His responsibility to cleanse us from all unrighteousness and remove those things in us that do not look like Jesus, so God began to deal with my tongue right away. He started convicting me about the things that I was saying that did not agree with the Word of God and the things that were sinful that I was speaking. There is a lot in Scripture that refers to the tongue. We are to guard our tongue, the fruit we produce out of our mouth will either make us or break us, will either give us victory or destroy us, because there is life and death in the power of the tongue according to the Word of God.
Proverbs 18:20-21: 20 A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.
When we lie or gossip we are using our tongue against our neighbor in the wrong way. God wants us to watch this little member of our body, as it can be very destructive. David cried out to God to come and save him from men who were like lions with teeth that were as spears and arrows, and their tongues were like a sharp sword.
Psalm 57:3-4: 3 He shall send from heaven, and save me from the reproach of him that would swallow me up. Selah. God shall send forth his mercy and his truth.4 My soul is among lions: and I lie even among them that are set on fire, even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword.
There is an old saying that says: "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me." After studying the Bible, I see this old adage is not true. Using unkind names or words against people is harmful. It is harmful to the one who uses them, as well as to the one it is being spoken against. Words are very powerful. Think about this, lawyers use words to build their cases. Our nation's laws are made up of volumes of words. Our national treaties are words written on documents. Words announce the daily news. Words are tools that are used to communicate with one another. In the beginning God used words to create the earth by speaking everything into existence. In the New Testament, Jesus Himself, is referred to as the living Word. The Bible is also known as the Word of God. Words are powerful - both good and evil words.
That is why when someone bears false witness against another, it is very painful to them. While on the positive side when we pray, our mouth is forming words in the spirit dimension that go out and they produce good things. And so we have to guard our mouth and watch that we do not let the wrong things come out, because on the negative side our words also produce things in the spirit realm that can be damaging and bring wounds to others.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for forgiving me of all the things that I have said that have not agreed with Your Word. Father, please cancel all of the negative words that I have spoken against anyone. Lord, I truly want to use my tongue in a godly manner by speaking those things that will bless and edify others. Teach me how to pray correctly and may my lips now speak Your Word. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)