Proverbs Day 273 (KJV):
Proverbs 25:17 (KJV): Withdraw thy foot from thy neighbour's house; lest he be weary of thee, and so hate thee.
Proverbs 25:17 (AMP): Let your foot seldom be in your neighbor's house, lest he become tired of you and hate you.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs warns that people can over-extend their visits, and by doing so, can destroy a friendship because too much visiting can turn into invasion of privacy. Some people who are guilty of this are also guilty of being gossipers, busy-bodies and lazy. When I was young I had a neighbor who was like that. She would bring her children over to my house when she came for a visit and at first it was enjoyable, but then she started dropping by every day, just wanting to talk. Her children were undisciplined and soon I was to find out she too, was undisciplined. Her children would mess up my house, while their mother was oblivious to what they were doing. She was just intent on telling me the next thing that was on her mind. Eventually, I had to ask her to limit her visits as she and her children were interfering with me being able to get my domestic duties done. However, she just ignored my request to limit her visits and soon I was praying about how to deal with her intrusion into my life. If I had not had the Lord, I could have ended up disliking her immensely.
There is another scripture in the New Testament that addresses the same problem speaking of widows and single women:
1 Timothy 5:12: (AMP): Moreover, as they go about from house to house, they learn to be idlers, and not only idlers, but gossips and busybodies, saying what they should not say and talking of things they should not mention.
A "busybody" is someone who is busy butting into other people's affairs. This friend of mine began to fall in this category, and since she couldn't come to my house all the time, she found other women who would entertain her, and she would make the rounds, becoming a gossip. I invited her to attend church with me, but she found it too difficult to get up on Sundays and dress her children, and go with me. Her house was never clean and her husband finally grew tired of a dirty house, a wandering wife, neglected children and meals not cooked on time. Sadly, their marriage ended in a divorce. Not only did she lose her husband, but she lost many other friends because she imposed upon them by her endless chatter.
The Bible admonishes us the way to avoid becoming disorderly and a busybody is to learn to work and take care of our own houses and our own businesses.
2 Thessalonians 3:7-12: 7 For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you;8 Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you:9 Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.10 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.11 For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.12 Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.
If we take care of our own homes and businesses, it shuts the door for the devil having opportunity to lead us astray. Many silly women have been led into lust and sin by some man who seemed godly, but was full of deceit and only used them. The Bible says the way to avoid this is to turn away from such people. Over the years I have known many women who were deceived, and through yielding to their lust, lost good husbands. Later they wished they had not gone down the path of sin and had their husbands back.
2 Timothy 3:5-6: 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.6 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I pray that You would deliver Your people from the sin of gossip and being busy-bodies. Lord, may we help those who are engaged in this activity by speaking the truth in love to them. Lord, may we also have the courage to refuse a listening ear to any gossip. Father, give me strength to take care of my duties and not be negligent in anything that is my responsibility. Lord, also help me to speak edifying things that uplift and help people and deliver me from any form of gossip. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 272 (KJV):
Proverbs 25:16 (KJV): Hast thou found honey? eat so much as is sufficient for thee, lest thou be filled therewith, and vomit it.
Proverbs 25:16 (AMP): Have you found (pleasure sweet like) honey? Eat only as much as is sufficient for you, lest being filled with it, you vomit it.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs teaches us to eat honey, and things like it that are sweet and pleasurable, in moderation, or we will become ill by overindulgence. The Bible teaches moderation in all things, because overindulgence opens the door to lust, and in the area of food, to the sin of gluttony.
Philippians 4:5: Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.
The world has set the standard when it comes to eating, rather than the Word of God. Here is another area where we need to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit's guidance. First, we need to make sure that we are receiving proper spiritual food; however, the Lord is also emphasizing to His people that they need to make changes in their physical diets and receive the proper natural foods. Most of God's people have experienced His healing hand in their bodies, but one problem that seems to be prevalent is that after receiving healing, the devil comes to rob them of God's gift of healing. If we exercise our faith and rebuke the enemy in the name of Jesus, he will flee. If, however, you have done this and are still experiencing illness, perhaps the problem is one of maintaining the gift God has given you. By this I mean we must not only obey and keep spiritual laws, but also we must keep physical laws if we expect to walk in God's blessings.
Our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, and many of our temples are filled with trash and garbage. Yet, we expect the Holy Spirit to abide there, too. Instead of eating according to the present mode, we need to eat according to God's Word. The Bible has much to say about diet and eating. Of course, the extreme we should avoid here is to become so "food-minded" that we allow cooking and diet to absorb too much of our time. The Lord wants us to learn self-discipline and temperance in all things. In and of ourselves, we may not be able to overcome our old eating habits, but through prayer, with the Lord's help we can do it.
Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
With so much emphasis on proper eating and physical exercise here in America, it has caused many to examine their lifestyles. Many people have now become imbalanced by putting too much emphasis on the physical man, while neglecting the spiritual man. The Lord desires this area also to be in balance as our physical condition, if it is not properly cared for, affects our spiritual condition.
The spiritual man should always be given top priority as its influence over the physical man is greater than the physical man's influence over it. "For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come"(I Timothy 4:8). We need proper balance between neglecting our bodies and giving them too much attention.
Obesity has become such a problem for so many people in the U.S.A. and one of the greatest sins is gluttony. Food has become the god of millions. Jesus has never been made "Lord of the Fork." The Word of God has much to say about man's eating habits. Many sicknesses that are plaguing mankind stem directly from unhealthy eating habits. How should Christians eat? Are all the so-called health foods the answer to our diet problem? The Word of God has the answer to our questions as to what is healthy for us to eat.
So many have been eating according to the tradition of men, instead of seeing what God's Word says about this subject. If we do not eat by the Word of God, our eating habits will probably be dictated by the patterns of the country in which we were born. Today's study tells us about eating honey, but what about other foods besides honey? A good guideline would be to eat "living foods." The natural, living foods that God created are fresh vegetables, fruits, grains, beans, and dairy products. The "dead foods" are those that are highly refined. They not only are expensive, but also in most instances do little to nourish. Many people are tired, run down and sick because a large part of their diets are made up of dead junk foods. God's guidelines for meats are in Leviticus 11.
If we seek God on this important subject, He will direct us as to the solution we need to help in correcting our eating problems. Diet can help, but ultimately it will be our faith and obedience to God that will give us victory. I like the title of a book I read years ago on dieting --"More of Jesus, Less of Me." God wants us to enjoy the good things he created for us to eat, but not to over-indulge and become ill.
Psalm 103:5: Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I am thankful for all of the good foods that You created for our pleasure. They have been a blessing and I have enjoyed them. Lord, help me not to over-indulge and put too much emphasis on food. Give me a desire to eat things that are good for me and deliver me from those things that are not healthy for me. Since You created our bodies, I trust Your wisdom to know what things are best for me to eat. Forgive me for any lust for food, and may I eat those things that will cause me to have a healthy body so that I can serve You without illness and lack of energy. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 25:16 (KJV): Hast thou found honey? eat so much as is sufficient for thee, lest thou be filled therewith, and vomit it.
Proverbs 25:16 (AMP): Have you found (pleasure sweet like) honey? Eat only as much as is sufficient for you, lest being filled with it, you vomit it.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs teaches us to eat honey, and things like it that are sweet and pleasurable, in moderation, or we will become ill by overindulgence. The Bible teaches moderation in all things, because overindulgence opens the door to lust, and in the area of food, to the sin of gluttony.
Philippians 4:5: Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.
The world has set the standard when it comes to eating, rather than the Word of God. Here is another area where we need to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit's guidance. First, we need to make sure that we are receiving proper spiritual food; however, the Lord is also emphasizing to His people that they need to make changes in their physical diets and receive the proper natural foods. Most of God's people have experienced His healing hand in their bodies, but one problem that seems to be prevalent is that after receiving healing, the devil comes to rob them of God's gift of healing. If we exercise our faith and rebuke the enemy in the name of Jesus, he will flee. If, however, you have done this and are still experiencing illness, perhaps the problem is one of maintaining the gift God has given you. By this I mean we must not only obey and keep spiritual laws, but also we must keep physical laws if we expect to walk in God's blessings.
Our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, and many of our temples are filled with trash and garbage. Yet, we expect the Holy Spirit to abide there, too. Instead of eating according to the present mode, we need to eat according to God's Word. The Bible has much to say about diet and eating. Of course, the extreme we should avoid here is to become so "food-minded" that we allow cooking and diet to absorb too much of our time. The Lord wants us to learn self-discipline and temperance in all things. In and of ourselves, we may not be able to overcome our old eating habits, but through prayer, with the Lord's help we can do it.
Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
With so much emphasis on proper eating and physical exercise here in America, it has caused many to examine their lifestyles. Many people have now become imbalanced by putting too much emphasis on the physical man, while neglecting the spiritual man. The Lord desires this area also to be in balance as our physical condition, if it is not properly cared for, affects our spiritual condition.
The spiritual man should always be given top priority as its influence over the physical man is greater than the physical man's influence over it. "For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come"(I Timothy 4:8). We need proper balance between neglecting our bodies and giving them too much attention.
Obesity has become such a problem for so many people in the U.S.A. and one of the greatest sins is gluttony. Food has become the god of millions. Jesus has never been made "Lord of the Fork." The Word of God has much to say about man's eating habits. Many sicknesses that are plaguing mankind stem directly from unhealthy eating habits. How should Christians eat? Are all the so-called health foods the answer to our diet problem? The Word of God has the answer to our questions as to what is healthy for us to eat.
So many have been eating according to the tradition of men, instead of seeing what God's Word says about this subject. If we do not eat by the Word of God, our eating habits will probably be dictated by the patterns of the country in which we were born. Today's study tells us about eating honey, but what about other foods besides honey? A good guideline would be to eat "living foods." The natural, living foods that God created are fresh vegetables, fruits, grains, beans, and dairy products. The "dead foods" are those that are highly refined. They not only are expensive, but also in most instances do little to nourish. Many people are tired, run down and sick because a large part of their diets are made up of dead junk foods. God's guidelines for meats are in Leviticus 11.
If we seek God on this important subject, He will direct us as to the solution we need to help in correcting our eating problems. Diet can help, but ultimately it will be our faith and obedience to God that will give us victory. I like the title of a book I read years ago on dieting --"More of Jesus, Less of Me." God wants us to enjoy the good things he created for us to eat, but not to over-indulge and become ill.
Psalm 103:5: Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I am thankful for all of the good foods that You created for our pleasure. They have been a blessing and I have enjoyed them. Lord, help me not to over-indulge and put too much emphasis on food. Give me a desire to eat things that are good for me and deliver me from those things that are not healthy for me. Since You created our bodies, I trust Your wisdom to know what things are best for me to eat. Forgive me for any lust for food, and may I eat those things that will cause me to have a healthy body so that I can serve You without illness and lack of energy. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Friday, September 25, 2009
P.S.
If you praise God through all circumstances I mean even through the pain watch him give you a peace that passes all understanding. Give it a try I dare you.
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 268 (KJV):
Proverbs 25:12 (KJV):12 As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.
Proverbs 25:12 (NIV):12 Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a wise man's rebuke to a listening ear.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs uses an illustration as to how a gold earring becomes an ornament on an ear, so are the wise man's words of reproof, when someone has a listening ear and will obey. Obedience is a necessary ingredient in the Christian walk.
We must obey when God speaks to us and not try to get God to accept our way of doing things. His ways are higher than our ways. Our precious Lord would never ask us to do anything that would not bring a blessing to our lives. Sometimes that blessing is not immediately seen; yet if we hold fast and continue to follow in His ways, we will discover He has a most beautiful plan for our lives. We must let the Lord work His patient nature into our lives and not always expect instant answers. This is difficult for us as we are living in an age in which everything is instant: instant coffee, instant tea, instant mashed potatoes, etc.
One of the things that must accompany our faith is obedience, which Abel was an example of in Genesis 4. Cain and Abel were brothers and both of them brought an offering to God. However, Cain's sacrifice was rejected of God, while Abel's was accepted. The reason for this was Abel obeyed God's rule and brought a blood sacrifice, while Cain brought the fruit of the ground as his offering. Abel obeyed and did it God's way, coming in faith and obedience, while Cain disobeyed by bringing an offering he determined would be accepted.
Hebrews 11:4: By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.
James 2:17-18: Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works; shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
The works mentioned refer to the works of the Spirit, not works of the flesh. We can do many so-called good works and still not be pleasing to God, for He looks upon the heart and not upon the outward appearance. We must obey from the heart and do those things that are pleasing to God. Faith and works go together; the one is not complete without the other. We know that faith without works is dead.
Cain approached God with a sacrifice that was not acceptable because rebellion was in his heart; he didn't do the things God required, as Abel did. Many times we pray for God to do certain things, but we are not willing to be the vessels that He uses to bring them about.
For example, we pray and ask God to save our relatives, yet we want the Lord to send someone else to them with the salvation message. We must be willing to be the one God uses to tell them of His love. In fact, for every prayer we pray, we must be willing to be the vessel that God uses to answer that prayer. The Lord may not always require it of us, but we must be willing. If we are praying that God meets someone's financial needs, then we must be willing to be the one who does it. If we are praying for God to provide a place for someone to stay, then we must be ready to open our house to that person. Whatever we pray, if it is possible for us to be the answer, then we must be willing for the Lord to use us. We must obey God, even if our flesh is resisting what the Lord would have us do. We must determine to follow and obey God regardless of the cost.
We can pray long hours, fast, and sacrifice in many ways; yet if we do not obey, it will all be in vain. That is why many do not see the answers to their prayers. They refuse to obey the things the Lord speaks to them. Obedience and faith go "hand in hand." They will not work separately. Works of the Spirit are those that are commissioned by God. All works of the flesh are futile. When the Bible speaks of faith without works being dead, it is speaking of those spiritual works inspired by God. They are the outcome of our faith and walk with God. When we walk with God, we will do those works that are pleasing to Him.
I Samuel 15:22: ...Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for all of the things You are doing in my life. Lord, I do want to have a listening and obedient ear to all You are speaking to me. Lord, help me to obey quickly when You speak to me to do something. Lord, I do want to overcome my flesh and walk in the spirit and always have faith and trust in You. I choose to do it Your way and not mine, no matter what the cost, as I want to go all the way with You. Remove anything from my heart that would hinder my walk in You. I ask this in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Proverbs 25:12 (KJV):12 As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.
Proverbs 25:12 (NIV):12 Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a wise man's rebuke to a listening ear.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs uses an illustration as to how a gold earring becomes an ornament on an ear, so are the wise man's words of reproof, when someone has a listening ear and will obey. Obedience is a necessary ingredient in the Christian walk.
We must obey when God speaks to us and not try to get God to accept our way of doing things. His ways are higher than our ways. Our precious Lord would never ask us to do anything that would not bring a blessing to our lives. Sometimes that blessing is not immediately seen; yet if we hold fast and continue to follow in His ways, we will discover He has a most beautiful plan for our lives. We must let the Lord work His patient nature into our lives and not always expect instant answers. This is difficult for us as we are living in an age in which everything is instant: instant coffee, instant tea, instant mashed potatoes, etc.
One of the things that must accompany our faith is obedience, which Abel was an example of in Genesis 4. Cain and Abel were brothers and both of them brought an offering to God. However, Cain's sacrifice was rejected of God, while Abel's was accepted. The reason for this was Abel obeyed God's rule and brought a blood sacrifice, while Cain brought the fruit of the ground as his offering. Abel obeyed and did it God's way, coming in faith and obedience, while Cain disobeyed by bringing an offering he determined would be accepted.
Hebrews 11:4: By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.
James 2:17-18: Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works; shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
The works mentioned refer to the works of the Spirit, not works of the flesh. We can do many so-called good works and still not be pleasing to God, for He looks upon the heart and not upon the outward appearance. We must obey from the heart and do those things that are pleasing to God. Faith and works go together; the one is not complete without the other. We know that faith without works is dead.
Cain approached God with a sacrifice that was not acceptable because rebellion was in his heart; he didn't do the things God required, as Abel did. Many times we pray for God to do certain things, but we are not willing to be the vessels that He uses to bring them about.
For example, we pray and ask God to save our relatives, yet we want the Lord to send someone else to them with the salvation message. We must be willing to be the one God uses to tell them of His love. In fact, for every prayer we pray, we must be willing to be the vessel that God uses to answer that prayer. The Lord may not always require it of us, but we must be willing. If we are praying that God meets someone's financial needs, then we must be willing to be the one who does it. If we are praying for God to provide a place for someone to stay, then we must be ready to open our house to that person. Whatever we pray, if it is possible for us to be the answer, then we must be willing for the Lord to use us. We must obey God, even if our flesh is resisting what the Lord would have us do. We must determine to follow and obey God regardless of the cost.
We can pray long hours, fast, and sacrifice in many ways; yet if we do not obey, it will all be in vain. That is why many do not see the answers to their prayers. They refuse to obey the things the Lord speaks to them. Obedience and faith go "hand in hand." They will not work separately. Works of the Spirit are those that are commissioned by God. All works of the flesh are futile. When the Bible speaks of faith without works being dead, it is speaking of those spiritual works inspired by God. They are the outcome of our faith and walk with God. When we walk with God, we will do those works that are pleasing to Him.
I Samuel 15:22: ...Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for all of the things You are doing in my life. Lord, I do want to have a listening and obedient ear to all You are speaking to me. Lord, help me to obey quickly when You speak to me to do something. Lord, I do want to overcome my flesh and walk in the spirit and always have faith and trust in You. I choose to do it Your way and not mine, no matter what the cost, as I want to go all the way with You. Remove anything from my heart that would hinder my walk in You. I ask this in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 267 (KJV):
Proverbs 25:11 (KJV):11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.
Proverbs 25:11 (AMP):11 A word fitly spoken and in due season is like apples of gold in settings of silver.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs paints a picture of how a word that is spoken wisely appears to others. This kind of word is like golden apples displayed in a setting of silver. The Bible tells us to guard our mouths and to be careful about anything we say. If we are to speak words that are a blessing and that edify others, then we must line up our words with the Word of God. It is very important to control our conversation. We will ultimately receive the things that we speak. If we speak the Word of God in faith, it will come to pass. The opposite is also true; if we speak evil long enough, it too will come to pass, as there is power in words.
Psalm 50:23: "Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God."
Proverbs 18:20-21: "A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled. Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof."
We will eat the fruit of our spoken words; therefore, we must learn to speak or confess the Word of God and we must also have faith in it, if we want to reap good things in our lives. We must not confess lack, as the Heavenly Father has given us everything we need. We must not confess defeat, as God has made us more than conquerors. We must not confess doubt, as God has given us His faith. We are to speak the things that the Word of God declares as truth. We easily quote what men have to say on a subject, and many times we believe them despite what the Word of God has to say about it. Yet, we are often hesitant to quote what God says because the devil tells us we would be lying. He causes us to look at our circumstances rather than the Word. Circumstances are subject to change, and one of the things that can cause them to do so is the confession of God's Word over a particular situation.
For instance, if we are in need of finances, the devil will try to get us to confess such things as, "If I do not have the money to pay my rent, I will be kicked out of my apartment," or "My credit will be ruined if I can't make the house payment." Instead, we need to align our confession with the Word of God. "My God shall supply all your (my) need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19) "... seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (me)" (Matthew 6:33). (Emphasis is mine). We should confess our faith and trust in the Lord by saying, "I don't know how the Lord is going to help us meet this need, but I confess that He will, because He cares for us." Then we must ask the Lord if there is anything He would have us to do. At times, He may speak a plan to us or He may send the help through a friend or give us favor with the landlord. We may not know how the answer will come, but if we stand and confess our Lord's provision in the face of our problem and have faith in Him, He will not fail us.
We have the power to bring evil or good things forth by what we speak. Jesus referred to this in:
Matthew 12:35-37:35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
Psalm 19:14: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I first want to thank You for the wonderful promises You have given us in the Bible. Lord, I want to be a person who not only speaks the Word of God, but also one who puts those words into actions. Lord, help me to guard my mouth and speak only those things that are edifying that will bless others. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight as I offer praise unto thee. May You be glorified by all that I speak. May I never doubt Your Word and may I rely on it in everything I do. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Proverbs 25:11 (KJV):11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.
Proverbs 25:11 (AMP):11 A word fitly spoken and in due season is like apples of gold in settings of silver.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse from Proverbs paints a picture of how a word that is spoken wisely appears to others. This kind of word is like golden apples displayed in a setting of silver. The Bible tells us to guard our mouths and to be careful about anything we say. If we are to speak words that are a blessing and that edify others, then we must line up our words with the Word of God. It is very important to control our conversation. We will ultimately receive the things that we speak. If we speak the Word of God in faith, it will come to pass. The opposite is also true; if we speak evil long enough, it too will come to pass, as there is power in words.
Psalm 50:23: "Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God."
Proverbs 18:20-21: "A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled. Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof."
We will eat the fruit of our spoken words; therefore, we must learn to speak or confess the Word of God and we must also have faith in it, if we want to reap good things in our lives. We must not confess lack, as the Heavenly Father has given us everything we need. We must not confess defeat, as God has made us more than conquerors. We must not confess doubt, as God has given us His faith. We are to speak the things that the Word of God declares as truth. We easily quote what men have to say on a subject, and many times we believe them despite what the Word of God has to say about it. Yet, we are often hesitant to quote what God says because the devil tells us we would be lying. He causes us to look at our circumstances rather than the Word. Circumstances are subject to change, and one of the things that can cause them to do so is the confession of God's Word over a particular situation.
For instance, if we are in need of finances, the devil will try to get us to confess such things as, "If I do not have the money to pay my rent, I will be kicked out of my apartment," or "My credit will be ruined if I can't make the house payment." Instead, we need to align our confession with the Word of God. "My God shall supply all your (my) need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19) "... seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (me)" (Matthew 6:33). (Emphasis is mine). We should confess our faith and trust in the Lord by saying, "I don't know how the Lord is going to help us meet this need, but I confess that He will, because He cares for us." Then we must ask the Lord if there is anything He would have us to do. At times, He may speak a plan to us or He may send the help through a friend or give us favor with the landlord. We may not know how the answer will come, but if we stand and confess our Lord's provision in the face of our problem and have faith in Him, He will not fail us.
We have the power to bring evil or good things forth by what we speak. Jesus referred to this in:
Matthew 12:35-37:35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
Psalm 19:14: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I first want to thank You for the wonderful promises You have given us in the Bible. Lord, I want to be a person who not only speaks the Word of God, but also one who puts those words into actions. Lord, help me to guard my mouth and speak only those things that are edifying that will bless others. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight as I offer praise unto thee. May You be glorified by all that I speak. May I never doubt Your Word and may I rely on it in everything I do. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 266 (KJV):
Proverbs 25:8-10 (KJV):8 Go not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, when thy neighbour hath put thee to shame.9 Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another:10 Lest he that heareth it put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not away.
Proverbs 25:8-10 (AMP):8 Rush not forth soon to quarrel (before magistrates or elsewhere), lest you know not what to do in the end when your neighbor has put you to shame. 9 Argue your cause with your neighbor himself; discover not and disclose not another's secret,10 Lest he who hears you revile you and bring shame upon you and your ill repute have no end.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs warn us not to get into a public quarrel, but rather, try to settle the problem with our neighbor first privately, as he could testify against us and take us to court and they could rule in his favor and we could end up in shame. The Bible counsels us to avoid strife and court, if at all possible, as the Lord wants us to walk in peace with all men. It is much better to take an humble position and try to work out our differences with a neighbor, than to get in strife and end up in court. We are not to go and gossip about the matter, telling secrets to others, as this will only rile the neighbor more and he could cause more trouble. We have no guarantee as to the judge ruling in our favor and we may even be in the wrong to some degree. If we are proven wrong, the Bible tells us to agree with our adversary quickly, as he can deliver us to the judge and the judge can rule that we are to be given over to the officer to lock us in prison and we will not be released until we have paid our penalty in full.
Matthew 5:25-26: 25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison.26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.
God wants us to maintain a relationship with our brothers and sisters, so he gave us the procedure for dealing with those who sin against us. The first thing we are to do, is to go to that brother and tell him we feel we have been wronged by him. We are to do this alone, without involving others in the disagreement, as sometimes people will take up the offenses of others, instead of listening with an ear to hear which party is violating the Word of God. There is no room to side with people; as Christians, we are to side with the Word of God. We are to do this with others, as well as our own lives. When my actions do not line up with the Word of God, then I must side against myself and agree with God's Word against my own behavior. I must acknowledge my sin and repent to get set free. This is also true of a brother. If he acknowledges his sin against me and repents, then I have gained a brother. This is only likely to happen if I go to him humbly and with love for him.
Matthew 18:15-17: 15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as a heathen man and a publican.
If a brother does not repent of an obvious sin, then we are to take two or three more people with us and talk with the brother again, in an attempt to show him the error of his ways so our fellowship can be restored and the brother won back. However, if he fails to respond in the presence of witnesses, who are in agreement to his trespasses, then the matter is to be taken before the entire church, still giving him a last opportunity to repent. Should he fail at this point, he is to be excommunicated from the church without any privileges of the brotherhood. However, we should all avoid strife as much as possible and try to live in peace with all men.
Romans 12:17-18: 17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, We are grateful that we can call on You for the grace we need when others trespass against us. Help us to maintain a loving attitude when we are faced with ill will. You said, 'Blessed are the peacemakers,' so help me to be one who tries to maintain peace among my acquaintances. Lord, help me to deal with those who are trouble-makers in the proper Biblical manner, so as to see them delivered. I ask You to help me refrain from anger, resentment, and rejection and to deal with them in love and wisdom. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Proverbs 25:8-10 (KJV):8 Go not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, when thy neighbour hath put thee to shame.9 Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another:10 Lest he that heareth it put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not away.
Proverbs 25:8-10 (AMP):8 Rush not forth soon to quarrel (before magistrates or elsewhere), lest you know not what to do in the end when your neighbor has put you to shame. 9 Argue your cause with your neighbor himself; discover not and disclose not another's secret,10 Lest he who hears you revile you and bring shame upon you and your ill repute have no end.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs warn us not to get into a public quarrel, but rather, try to settle the problem with our neighbor first privately, as he could testify against us and take us to court and they could rule in his favor and we could end up in shame. The Bible counsels us to avoid strife and court, if at all possible, as the Lord wants us to walk in peace with all men. It is much better to take an humble position and try to work out our differences with a neighbor, than to get in strife and end up in court. We are not to go and gossip about the matter, telling secrets to others, as this will only rile the neighbor more and he could cause more trouble. We have no guarantee as to the judge ruling in our favor and we may even be in the wrong to some degree. If we are proven wrong, the Bible tells us to agree with our adversary quickly, as he can deliver us to the judge and the judge can rule that we are to be given over to the officer to lock us in prison and we will not be released until we have paid our penalty in full.
Matthew 5:25-26: 25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison.26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.
God wants us to maintain a relationship with our brothers and sisters, so he gave us the procedure for dealing with those who sin against us. The first thing we are to do, is to go to that brother and tell him we feel we have been wronged by him. We are to do this alone, without involving others in the disagreement, as sometimes people will take up the offenses of others, instead of listening with an ear to hear which party is violating the Word of God. There is no room to side with people; as Christians, we are to side with the Word of God. We are to do this with others, as well as our own lives. When my actions do not line up with the Word of God, then I must side against myself and agree with God's Word against my own behavior. I must acknowledge my sin and repent to get set free. This is also true of a brother. If he acknowledges his sin against me and repents, then I have gained a brother. This is only likely to happen if I go to him humbly and with love for him.
Matthew 18:15-17: 15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as a heathen man and a publican.
If a brother does not repent of an obvious sin, then we are to take two or three more people with us and talk with the brother again, in an attempt to show him the error of his ways so our fellowship can be restored and the brother won back. However, if he fails to respond in the presence of witnesses, who are in agreement to his trespasses, then the matter is to be taken before the entire church, still giving him a last opportunity to repent. Should he fail at this point, he is to be excommunicated from the church without any privileges of the brotherhood. However, we should all avoid strife as much as possible and try to live in peace with all men.
Romans 12:17-18: 17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, We are grateful that we can call on You for the grace we need when others trespass against us. Help us to maintain a loving attitude when we are faced with ill will. You said, 'Blessed are the peacemakers,' so help me to be one who tries to maintain peace among my acquaintances. Lord, help me to deal with those who are trouble-makers in the proper Biblical manner, so as to see them delivered. I ask You to help me refrain from anger, resentment, and rejection and to deal with them in love and wisdom. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 265 (KJV):
Proverbs 25:6-7 (KJV):6 Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men:7 For better it is that it be said unto thee, Come up hither; than that thou shouldest be put lower in the presence of the prince whom thine eyes have seen.
Proverbs 25:6-7 (AMP):6 Be not forward (self-assertive and boastfully ambitious) in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men;7 For better it is that it should be said to you, Come up here, than that you should be put lower in the presence of the prince, whose eyes have seen you.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs give advice not to exalt ourselves in the presence of important people, but rather to take an humble position. Humility is a virtue that we all should strive to possess. When any of us take a lofty and prideful attitude and enter in a room and seek for the better seats, because we want to be noticed, the Bible calls this sin. Certainly, as these scriptures state, if we are invited to come and sit in a special place, then it becomes an honor for us. However, to be assertive in devising a way "to get to the top" could bring embarrassment to us if we are asked to move and make room for those who are designated for the place that we coveted. Jesus spoke the same thing in a parable in the New Testament:
Luke 14:7-11: 7 And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them,8 When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him;9 And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room.10 But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.11 For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
Jesus used this parable to teach that anyone who attempts to exalt himself in front of others will eventually be "abased" or "put down." Those who are prideful and boastful in regard to anything, are setting themselves up for a fall, according to the Word of God. Men who think they do not need God are the most prideful of all. At some point all men come to the end of themselves and will face the fact that they are not in control of all of their circumstances. We all need God, as without Him, we face an eternity in hell.
Proverbs 16:18-19: 18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.19 Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.
The same scriptures that warn against exalting ourselves, tell us if we humble ourselves, in due season, we shall be exalted. The fruit of humility will be recognized by others. God sees to it, that those who are humble in His sight shall also be rewarded for their unselfishness.
James 4:10: Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
If we boast of anything, it should be our boast of what the Lord has done for us! Without Him we could do nothing.Psalm 34:2: My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You, Lord, for all of the wonderful things You have done for me! I do appreciate each and every one of them. Lord, I do want to always remain humble, not only in Your sight, but in the sight of men, as well. May I have the grace to be a servant to others and not to think of myself more highly than anyone else, as every child of God is important in Your sight. Not one of Your children is more important than another. We are all important, because we belong to You. Help us not to glory in that, but rather be humbled by that fact. I ask this in the name of Jesus, who humbled Himself to endure the cross for each of us. Amen.
Proverbs 25:6-7 (KJV):6 Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men:7 For better it is that it be said unto thee, Come up hither; than that thou shouldest be put lower in the presence of the prince whom thine eyes have seen.
Proverbs 25:6-7 (AMP):6 Be not forward (self-assertive and boastfully ambitious) in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men;7 For better it is that it should be said to you, Come up here, than that you should be put lower in the presence of the prince, whose eyes have seen you.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses from Proverbs give advice not to exalt ourselves in the presence of important people, but rather to take an humble position. Humility is a virtue that we all should strive to possess. When any of us take a lofty and prideful attitude and enter in a room and seek for the better seats, because we want to be noticed, the Bible calls this sin. Certainly, as these scriptures state, if we are invited to come and sit in a special place, then it becomes an honor for us. However, to be assertive in devising a way "to get to the top" could bring embarrassment to us if we are asked to move and make room for those who are designated for the place that we coveted. Jesus spoke the same thing in a parable in the New Testament:
Luke 14:7-11: 7 And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them,8 When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him;9 And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room.10 But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.11 For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
Jesus used this parable to teach that anyone who attempts to exalt himself in front of others will eventually be "abased" or "put down." Those who are prideful and boastful in regard to anything, are setting themselves up for a fall, according to the Word of God. Men who think they do not need God are the most prideful of all. At some point all men come to the end of themselves and will face the fact that they are not in control of all of their circumstances. We all need God, as without Him, we face an eternity in hell.
Proverbs 16:18-19: 18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.19 Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.
The same scriptures that warn against exalting ourselves, tell us if we humble ourselves, in due season, we shall be exalted. The fruit of humility will be recognized by others. God sees to it, that those who are humble in His sight shall also be rewarded for their unselfishness.
James 4:10: Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
If we boast of anything, it should be our boast of what the Lord has done for us! Without Him we could do nothing.Psalm 34:2: My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You, Lord, for all of the wonderful things You have done for me! I do appreciate each and every one of them. Lord, I do want to always remain humble, not only in Your sight, but in the sight of men, as well. May I have the grace to be a servant to others and not to think of myself more highly than anyone else, as every child of God is important in Your sight. Not one of Your children is more important than another. We are all important, because we belong to You. Help us not to glory in that, but rather be humbled by that fact. I ask this in the name of Jesus, who humbled Himself to endure the cross for each of us. Amen.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 264 (KJV):
Proverbs 25:4-5 (KJV):4 Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel for the finer.5 Take away the wicked from before the king, and his throne shall be established in righteousness.
Proverbs 25:4-5 (AMP):4 Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth (the material for) a vessel for the silversmith (to work up).5 Take away the wicked from before the king, and his throne will be established in righteousness (moral and spiritual rectitude in every area and relation).
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs make a comparison of how silver is refined, to that of removing wickedness from the kingdom. We know that before silver can be used to make a beautiful vessel, it must be refined by heating it up so that the "dross" or "impurities" can be removed. This "dross" is a scum that comes to the top. In these verses, we are told in order for righteousness to prevail before the king, that the wicked must be removed and this is exactly what will happen at the second coming of King Jesus when the kingdom of God is ushered in. In fact, there are many scriptures that support this, as we are told the wicked are removed from the earth in judgment, while God's righteous people are left to rule and reign with Him.
Proverbs 10:27-30: 27 The fear of the LORD prolongeth days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened.28 The hope of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish.29 The way of the LORD is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.30 The righteous shall never be removed: but the wicked shall not inhabit the earth.
The other analogy in the Bible that speaks of purifying silver is found in the New Testament. God's people are compared to vessels; some gold and silver ones, and some wood and earth ones. The silver and gold ones are precious metals that are enduring, while the wood and earth ones will eventually deteriorate. The former are called vessels of honor, while the later are called vessels of dishonor. The ones of dishonor were never purged of the iniquity in them. God wants us to ask Him to purify our hearts and obey Him so that we can be among the vessels of honor. We are to be like the silver and gold vessels that have been purged of all the dross or impurities in our lives, so that when He looks into them, there is no scum and He can see His own reflection in us.
2 Timothy 2:19-21: 19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.
To the measure we overcome in the tests and trials we go through in this life, that will determine what kind of vessel we will become. Each time we choose to obey God instead of our flesh and the devil, a little more of the "dross" is removed until we come forth as pure silver or gold. The trials of fire heat up our circumstances and if we fail to respond in faith, obedience and love, then we fail to get rid of the "dross."
Psalm 66:10: For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried.
Here is a portion of a cry of David in the book of Psalms, that is first a declaration against the wicked and then a prayer for God to help him keep God's commandments. He knew that God would remove the wicked like dross and he did not want to be among that company. David cried out to maintain his respect for the Word of God and thus, God Himself. We do not respect God unless we respect His Word. David knew this, so he chose to love the testimony of God and His statutes.
Psalm 119:115-119: 115 Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.116 Uphold me according unto thy word, that I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope.117 Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe: and I will have respect unto thy statutes continually.118 Thou hast trodden down all them that err from thy statutes: for their deceit is falsehood.119 Thou puttest away all the wicked of the earth like dross: therefore I love thy testimonies.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for the ongoing work that You are doing in my life. I do want to cry out as David did for grace and strength to keep Your commandments. May I always love and respect You and Your Word above all else. I know that when I choose to do this, that You will protect me from the enemy and keep me in a place of safety. Lord, cleanse me from every evil thing so that I will become a vessel of honor for Your glory. Purge the "dross" from my life so that I will shine for You as silver and gold. I ask this in the name of the Lord Jesus. Amen.
Proverbs 25:4-5 (KJV):4 Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel for the finer.5 Take away the wicked from before the king, and his throne shall be established in righteousness.
Proverbs 25:4-5 (AMP):4 Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth (the material for) a vessel for the silversmith (to work up).5 Take away the wicked from before the king, and his throne will be established in righteousness (moral and spiritual rectitude in every area and relation).
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs make a comparison of how silver is refined, to that of removing wickedness from the kingdom. We know that before silver can be used to make a beautiful vessel, it must be refined by heating it up so that the "dross" or "impurities" can be removed. This "dross" is a scum that comes to the top. In these verses, we are told in order for righteousness to prevail before the king, that the wicked must be removed and this is exactly what will happen at the second coming of King Jesus when the kingdom of God is ushered in. In fact, there are many scriptures that support this, as we are told the wicked are removed from the earth in judgment, while God's righteous people are left to rule and reign with Him.
Proverbs 10:27-30: 27 The fear of the LORD prolongeth days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened.28 The hope of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish.29 The way of the LORD is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.30 The righteous shall never be removed: but the wicked shall not inhabit the earth.
The other analogy in the Bible that speaks of purifying silver is found in the New Testament. God's people are compared to vessels; some gold and silver ones, and some wood and earth ones. The silver and gold ones are precious metals that are enduring, while the wood and earth ones will eventually deteriorate. The former are called vessels of honor, while the later are called vessels of dishonor. The ones of dishonor were never purged of the iniquity in them. God wants us to ask Him to purify our hearts and obey Him so that we can be among the vessels of honor. We are to be like the silver and gold vessels that have been purged of all the dross or impurities in our lives, so that when He looks into them, there is no scum and He can see His own reflection in us.
2 Timothy 2:19-21: 19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.
To the measure we overcome in the tests and trials we go through in this life, that will determine what kind of vessel we will become. Each time we choose to obey God instead of our flesh and the devil, a little more of the "dross" is removed until we come forth as pure silver or gold. The trials of fire heat up our circumstances and if we fail to respond in faith, obedience and love, then we fail to get rid of the "dross."
Psalm 66:10: For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried.
Here is a portion of a cry of David in the book of Psalms, that is first a declaration against the wicked and then a prayer for God to help him keep God's commandments. He knew that God would remove the wicked like dross and he did not want to be among that company. David cried out to maintain his respect for the Word of God and thus, God Himself. We do not respect God unless we respect His Word. David knew this, so he chose to love the testimony of God and His statutes.
Psalm 119:115-119: 115 Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.116 Uphold me according unto thy word, that I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope.117 Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe: and I will have respect unto thy statutes continually.118 Thou hast trodden down all them that err from thy statutes: for their deceit is falsehood.119 Thou puttest away all the wicked of the earth like dross: therefore I love thy testimonies.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for the ongoing work that You are doing in my life. I do want to cry out as David did for grace and strength to keep Your commandments. May I always love and respect You and Your Word above all else. I know that when I choose to do this, that You will protect me from the enemy and keep me in a place of safety. Lord, cleanse me from every evil thing so that I will become a vessel of honor for Your glory. Purge the "dross" from my life so that I will shine for You as silver and gold. I ask this in the name of the Lord Jesus. Amen.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 260 (KJV):
Proverbs 24:28-29 (KJV):28 Be not a witness against thy neighbour without cause; and deceive not with thy lips.29 Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.
Proverbs 24:28-29 (AMP):28 Be not a witness against your neighbor without cause, and deceive not with your lips.29 Say not, I will do to him as he has done to me; I will pay the man back for his deed.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs warn us not to bear false witness against our neighbor, nor render evil for evil. One of the Ten Commandments also tells us the same thing in Exodus 20:16: "Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour." To bear false witness is to deceive by lying about a person. The Lord knew that living in close proximity with people would also be conducive to having disagreements from time to time. Since a neighbor is right next door, this could lead to problems unless we are willing to maintain unity and extend grace to them. The Lord tells us that we should try to live in peace with all men.
Hebrews 12:14-15: 14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:15 Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.
1 Peter 3:8-12: 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.
Verse 29 of our study tells us that we are not to return evil for evil, but rather we are to bless our enemies and do good to them, even as verse 9 of 1 Peter 3 tells us to do. The Bible tells us that when we do this, we then will receive a blessing from the Lord. God will bless us when we obey His Word, even if the person we have a problem with does not acknowledge our goodness at the time. If we try to get back at someone and do something evil to them, we only alienate them, and bitterness and disunity with a neighbor is not a pleasant thing to endure. The Bible also tells us that an offended brother is harder to be won back than it would be to take a strong city.Proverbs 18:19: A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.
If we are wise, we will learn to guard our mouths and not to say things that we shall later regret. Even when we are right about certain situations, we can have a wrong attitude that will cause discord with people. If we truly want to be a servant of the Lord, we must not get into strife with others, but be gentle to all men. God will help us to do this if we ask Him for His goodness to flow through us.
2 Timothy 2:24-25: 24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.
If we try to vindicate ourselves or render evil for evil, thereby executing vengeance against someone, this is displeasing to the Lord. He tells us that vengeance belongs to Him and He will repay. He knows how to deal with every person in a fair and just manner so we can trust Him to take care of anyone who has wronged us.
Romans 12:19-21: 19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I do want to be a person who is not easily offended and also one who trusts You to deal with those who would seek to do evil against me. I know that I cannot do this within myself, so I am asking You to fill me with the Spirit so that I can honestly love my enemies and do good to them. I know this kind of love only comes from You. Lord, forgive those who plot evil against me and say evil things about me. Open their eyes to the truth. Give me the grace and patience to allow You to deal with them, as I truly want to overcome evil with good. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Proverbs 24:28-29 (KJV):28 Be not a witness against thy neighbour without cause; and deceive not with thy lips.29 Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.
Proverbs 24:28-29 (AMP):28 Be not a witness against your neighbor without cause, and deceive not with your lips.29 Say not, I will do to him as he has done to me; I will pay the man back for his deed.
Thoughts for the Day
These verses in Proverbs warn us not to bear false witness against our neighbor, nor render evil for evil. One of the Ten Commandments also tells us the same thing in Exodus 20:16: "Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour." To bear false witness is to deceive by lying about a person. The Lord knew that living in close proximity with people would also be conducive to having disagreements from time to time. Since a neighbor is right next door, this could lead to problems unless we are willing to maintain unity and extend grace to them. The Lord tells us that we should try to live in peace with all men.
Hebrews 12:14-15: 14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:15 Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.
1 Peter 3:8-12: 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.
Verse 29 of our study tells us that we are not to return evil for evil, but rather we are to bless our enemies and do good to them, even as verse 9 of 1 Peter 3 tells us to do. The Bible tells us that when we do this, we then will receive a blessing from the Lord. God will bless us when we obey His Word, even if the person we have a problem with does not acknowledge our goodness at the time. If we try to get back at someone and do something evil to them, we only alienate them, and bitterness and disunity with a neighbor is not a pleasant thing to endure. The Bible also tells us that an offended brother is harder to be won back than it would be to take a strong city.Proverbs 18:19: A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.
If we are wise, we will learn to guard our mouths and not to say things that we shall later regret. Even when we are right about certain situations, we can have a wrong attitude that will cause discord with people. If we truly want to be a servant of the Lord, we must not get into strife with others, but be gentle to all men. God will help us to do this if we ask Him for His goodness to flow through us.
2 Timothy 2:24-25: 24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.
If we try to vindicate ourselves or render evil for evil, thereby executing vengeance against someone, this is displeasing to the Lord. He tells us that vengeance belongs to Him and He will repay. He knows how to deal with every person in a fair and just manner so we can trust Him to take care of anyone who has wronged us.
Romans 12:19-21: 19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, I do want to be a person who is not easily offended and also one who trusts You to deal with those who would seek to do evil against me. I know that I cannot do this within myself, so I am asking You to fill me with the Spirit so that I can honestly love my enemies and do good to them. I know this kind of love only comes from You. Lord, forgive those who plot evil against me and say evil things about me. Open their eyes to the truth. Give me the grace and patience to allow You to deal with them, as I truly want to overcome evil with good. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Word Of The Day (From Bible.com)
Proverbs Day 259 (KJV):
Proverbs 24:27 (KJV):27 Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house.
Proverbs 24:27 (AMP):27 (Put first things first.) Prepare your work outside and get it ready for yourself in the field; and afterward build your house and establish a home.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse in Proverbs gives wise instruction to build your business before you build a new house. The book of Proverbs not only gives good advice in the area of relationships, it also gives some good advice in the area of finances. In fact, the entire Bible has a great deal to say about business and finance. Although much of it relates to farming and agriculture (the main businesses in that day), the principles are applicable to any business. Here we are told to put resources into the planting and harvesting of the field before using them to build a big home. Many farmers built their barns first, with small living quarters attached, until they produced enough crops to then pay for a nice house. This particular verse is one that many Jewish immigrants also implemented when they arrived in this country, and is attributed for the success of many Jewish businesses. They would build or rent a building for their business or store front, that had a small apartment upstairs and would put their funds into building up the business. Later, after successfully establishing their firms, they then would use revenue to build a nice home elsewhere.
Many young couples today are going bankrupt because of lack of knowledge in regard to good business principles, as relayed in this verse. They buy nice big homes and have such high personal overhead each month that they are not able to support their new company along with their lifestyle. If they had just rented a small place until the business was going well, then they could have that nice home they wanted later when things were not so tight financially. Those who want the American Dream, without the basics of hard work and sacrifice, usually end up losing it. The Lord wants to bless us with material blessings, but He doesn't want us to be consumed with the cares of this life to the degree that we do not take time for Him. When we do not have time to pray with our families, and read our Bibles, and fellowship with like believers, then the devil has opportunity to come and destroy our marriages, our children, our homes and our finances. We are warned about this in the Bible.
Deuteronomy 6:10-19:10 And it shall be, when the LORD thy God shall have brought thee into the land which he sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give thee great and goodly cities, which thou buildedst not,11 And houses full of all good things, which thou filledst not, and wells digged, which thou diggedst not, vineyards and olive trees, which thou plantedst not; when thou shalt have eaten and be full;12 Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.13 Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name.14 Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you;15 (For the LORD thy God is a jealous God among you) lest the anger of the LORD thy God be kindled against thee, and destroy thee from off the face of the earth.16 Ye shall not tempt the LORD your God, as ye tempted him in Massah.17 Ye shall diligently keep the commandments of the LORD your God, and his testimonies, and his statutes, which he hath commanded thee.18 And thou shalt do that which is right and good in the sight of the LORD: that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest go in and possess the good land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers,19 To cast out all thine enemies from before thee, as the LORD hath spoken.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You so much for all of Your provision for me. I do appreciate Your goodness and love to furnish all my needs each and every day. I am looking to You to guide me in the financial affairs of my life. Lord, I resist greed and materialism, and ask for contentment with the things that I own today. I know that You will bless me more and more as I learn of Your ways and follow You. Help me to be a good steward over my finances, my home and all of the things that You have given to me. I do appreciate the material blessings You have given me, but most of all, I appreciate the spiritual blessings that are mine, which money cannot buy.I ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
Proverbs 24:27 (KJV):27 Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house.
Proverbs 24:27 (AMP):27 (Put first things first.) Prepare your work outside and get it ready for yourself in the field; and afterward build your house and establish a home.
Thoughts for the Day
This verse in Proverbs gives wise instruction to build your business before you build a new house. The book of Proverbs not only gives good advice in the area of relationships, it also gives some good advice in the area of finances. In fact, the entire Bible has a great deal to say about business and finance. Although much of it relates to farming and agriculture (the main businesses in that day), the principles are applicable to any business. Here we are told to put resources into the planting and harvesting of the field before using them to build a big home. Many farmers built their barns first, with small living quarters attached, until they produced enough crops to then pay for a nice house. This particular verse is one that many Jewish immigrants also implemented when they arrived in this country, and is attributed for the success of many Jewish businesses. They would build or rent a building for their business or store front, that had a small apartment upstairs and would put their funds into building up the business. Later, after successfully establishing their firms, they then would use revenue to build a nice home elsewhere.
Many young couples today are going bankrupt because of lack of knowledge in regard to good business principles, as relayed in this verse. They buy nice big homes and have such high personal overhead each month that they are not able to support their new company along with their lifestyle. If they had just rented a small place until the business was going well, then they could have that nice home they wanted later when things were not so tight financially. Those who want the American Dream, without the basics of hard work and sacrifice, usually end up losing it. The Lord wants to bless us with material blessings, but He doesn't want us to be consumed with the cares of this life to the degree that we do not take time for Him. When we do not have time to pray with our families, and read our Bibles, and fellowship with like believers, then the devil has opportunity to come and destroy our marriages, our children, our homes and our finances. We are warned about this in the Bible.
Deuteronomy 6:10-19:10 And it shall be, when the LORD thy God shall have brought thee into the land which he sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give thee great and goodly cities, which thou buildedst not,11 And houses full of all good things, which thou filledst not, and wells digged, which thou diggedst not, vineyards and olive trees, which thou plantedst not; when thou shalt have eaten and be full;12 Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.13 Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name.14 Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you;15 (For the LORD thy God is a jealous God among you) lest the anger of the LORD thy God be kindled against thee, and destroy thee from off the face of the earth.16 Ye shall not tempt the LORD your God, as ye tempted him in Massah.17 Ye shall diligently keep the commandments of the LORD your God, and his testimonies, and his statutes, which he hath commanded thee.18 And thou shalt do that which is right and good in the sight of the LORD: that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest go in and possess the good land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers,19 To cast out all thine enemies from before thee, as the LORD hath spoken.
Prayer for the Day
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You so much for all of Your provision for me. I do appreciate Your goodness and love to furnish all my needs each and every day. I am looking to You to guide me in the financial affairs of my life. Lord, I resist greed and materialism, and ask for contentment with the things that I own today. I know that You will bless me more and more as I learn of Your ways and follow You. Help me to be a good steward over my finances, my home and all of the things that You have given to me. I do appreciate the material blessings You have given me, but most of all, I appreciate the spiritual blessings that are mine, which money cannot buy.I ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)