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Proverbs 31 - My bride

This chapter paints a beautiful picture of my bride. She truly is God's gift to me. I will not post its entirety. However, if you'd like to some insight as to who she is, read it for yourself in The Message version of the bible.

The closing few verses of this book echo my thoughts and those of her children.

Proverbs 30:28-31 Her children respect and bless her; her husband joins in with words of praise: "Many women have done wonderful things, but you've outclassed them all!" Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades. The woman to be admired and praised is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God. Give her everything she deserves! Festoon her life with praises!

There are certainly times that we fail to bless her, fail to praise her, and fail to encourage her. But, our pattern for life is to do those things for her because she is truly deserving of them. It is natural and instinctive to do so, because she is so worthy. Those who come to know her desire her friendship and company, for she intentionally lives in the fear of God. Which shows in who she is and in all that she does.

So, it is with great joy and pride that I say, in the words of King Lemuel; Pam, my bride, my gift from the Lord; many women have done wonderful things, but you've outclassed them all! You truly are a blessing in our lives.

Thank You Father for my bride, for entrusting me with this daughter of Yours, for allowing this warrior priestess to minister in our home, for revealing so much of Your character to me and the boys through her. We are blessed. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Selah. Jan
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Proverbs 30 - Just enough

I've always liked this particular proverb. It is the picture of balance.

Proverbs 30:8-9 Keep me from lying and being dishonest. And don't make me either rich or poor; just give me enough food for each day. If I have too much, I might reject you and say, 'I don't know the Lord.' If I am poor, I might steal and disgrace the name of my God.

Lord, give me enough to meet my needs, but not so much that I think that I've gotten or done it myself and forget You. Thank You for Your blessing in my life. Thank You that You do supply all of my and my family's needs. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ecclesiastes 9:7-10a So go ahead. Eat your food and drink your wine with a happy heart, for God approves of this! Wear fine clothes, with a dash of cologne! Live happily with the woman you love through all the meaningless days of life that God has given you in this world. The wife God gives you is your reward for all your earthly toil. Whatever you do, do well.

The dour preacher from Ecclesiastes understood the value of this proverb. In fact he might be the same author. What he is saying is; Live, truly live, and enjoy that which God has give you. In short, be satisfied with what you have.

You are blessed. Jan
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Proverbs 29 - Debilitating

I've been in a leadership position numerous times in my Christian walk. One thing is very difficult for me, but also very necessary. I must be willing to do what I know is right despite opposition. If I look for a consensus or majority decision, often nothing will be the result. A leader must lead.

Proverbs 29:25 The fear of human opinion disables; trusting in God protects you from that.

I'm sorry to say that I have been in the position of wanting affirmation, of wanting opinion to be favorable. The result is debilitating inaction. If the direction or course of action is God given or biblically correct, and I believe that it is correct. Then I must be willing to move in that direction in the face of opposing opinion. To do any less would violate the calling that God has placed on me. As the maxim says, "Lead, follow, or get out of the way." And I'll add, "but don't just sit there."

Trust God! Jan
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Proverbs 28 – Hidden things

In 1981 I spent three months vacationing with relatives in Europe. Part of that time was in Italy. My relatives went to visit friends of theirs in the city of Padua, a small town on the Adriatic Sea, near Venice. We stayed with them for what I remember as being several weeks. I think it was their summer vacation. The family we stayed with owned a pharmacy. It was situated on the first floor of their home, with the second floor being their living quarters. Behind their home was a high walled courtyard that contained many beautiful plants, flowers, and one cat named “Gato” meaning cat, and a small wiry dog named Bill, or as they said it “Beeel”. Just to the North of their home was a Catholic church surrounded by a high wall.

One night there was a tremendous thunderstorm, during which, a lightning bolt hit so close to the home that everything shook. The next morning I rose for what had become my customary walk, preceded by playing with their dog Bill. As I left their courtyard I noticed that the wall surrounding the church had been the recipient of the lightning strike the night before. Rocks and skeleton parts were strewn all about the street below the wall. That which had been carefully concealed many years before was now plain and evident for all to see.

Proverbs 28:13 People who cover their sins will not prosper. But if they confess and forsake them, they will receive mercy.

1 Corinthians 4:5 So be careful not to jump to conclusions before the Lord returns as to whether or not someone is faithful. When the Lord comes, he will bring our deepest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives. And then God will give to everyone whatever praise is due.

If we try to hide something, it will eventually be brought into the light. Sometimes it is good and proper to hide away that which is dead and needs to be buried. However, our sins, our faults, and our failures before God should never be hidden away. He certainly knows what they are and will eventually bring them to the light. It is much better if we do it in advance, at the time of the offense, so that we may live a clean life and receive mercy and forgiveness.

Confess early, confess often. Jan
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Proverbs 27 – Face time

I remember reading a story about Abraham Lincoln that relates to something from today’s reading. President Lincoln had just concluded interviewing a man for a job in his presidential cabinet. The man had impeccable credentials, went to the right schools, knew the right answers and presented himself as quite capable. However President Lincoln didn’t hire the man. When questioned by one of his aides about his decision not to hire the man, President Lincoln replied, “I didn’t like his face.” The aide taken aback by this responded, “That is unfair sir. He can’t help how he looks.” The President wisely replied, “Any man over thirty years old is responsible for his face.”

Proverbs 27:19 As a face is reflected in water, so a person is reflected by his heart.

What this verse is saying is that what comes out from within the person will be shown on the person. It takes time for this to happen. I suspect the thirty year timeframe is quite valid. A lifetime of joy shows on a person’s face. You can see the laugh lines permanently etched into their faces. Conversely if a person is dour, and has a foul spirit, you can quickly spot that on them also. Which kind of person would you want around you?

Reflect the joy of the Lord! Jan
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Proverbs 26 – Simple

I’ve always wondered about this verse. It just doesn’t make sense in the traditional translations.

Proverbs 26:4,5 Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will be like him yourself. Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes. (NIV)

See what I mean? Don’t answer him, then Do answer him. The Message version makes so much more sense and I believe extracts the author’s intent.

Proverbs 26:4,5 Don’t respond to the stupidity of a fool; you’ll only look foolish yourself. Answer a fool in simple terms so he doesn’t get a swelled head.

Sometimes it takes a bit of digging to extract the meaning of a verse. But the end result is a true jewel.

Thank You Father for this advice in dealing with fools. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Keep it simple… Jan
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Proverbs 25 - Painful

The most excruciating pain that I can remember is when I had an abscessed tooth. The pain was so horrendous that I think I would have drilled it myself if I had not gotten help quickly. The only thing that gave me momentary relief was holding some cold water in my mouth, directly over the affected spot. I could not concentrate; I could not properly do my job due to the extreme distraction that the pain was causing.

Proverbs 25:19 Putting confidence in an unreliable person is like chewing with a toothache or walking on a broken foot.

I can fully understand what the author was saying here. It is excruciating to ask someone to do something and have them not do it. Once upon a time I worked for a company where I was responsible for the night shift computer operator. His job was to ensure that the computer systems were functioning, run the batch processes, print and distribute reports, and backup the systems to tape. However, this person found some way to make a mistake in his job at least once per week. I would receive a telephone call from him at about three in the morning. It was always some unearthly hour of the morning when he called! I started to answer the phone at night with, “Hello Dennis.” The most frustrating part was that he would call with the same questions, over and over again. He was just plain unsuited to this task – he was unreliable. Eventually he moved on to a different job, and someone with a much better memory took the position. My nights finally became my own again.

May you place your trust in The One that will never fail you. Jesus is fully reliable and will give you peace instead of pain.

Blessings to you, Jan
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Proverbs 24 - Homebuilding

I work for a homebuilding company. It amazes me that something that starts out as a sketch on a piece of tracing-paper can turn into a seven million dollar mansion. It takes quite a bit of talent and the hard work of many skilled individuals, working as a team, to bring it to pass. But the end result can be spectacular.

In Proverbs 24 I see this about homebuilding.

Proverbs 24:3-4 By wisdom is a house built. And by understanding it is established. And by knowledge the inner parts are filled with all precious and pleasant wealth.

Just like with the mansions that my company builds, the builders of this home in Proverbs need wisdom. Without it they will not know the business of homebuilding. They need understanding so that they do not make grave mistakes and the structure is sound and stable. And they need knowledge so that the right materials are used that the prices are properly set to sell the home and make a profit.

May our spiritual homes command as much attention and reap such results.

Thank You Father that Your Son Jesus is the cornerstone on which we can build, knowing that He is a sure foundation that will enable us to succeed. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Proverbs 23 - Hope

Today the Young's Literal Interpretation phrased something a bit different than most translations.

Proverbs 23:18 For, is there a posterity? Then thy hope is not cut off.

Young put the first part as a rhetorical question with an implied, resounding, "Yes!" as the answer. Is there a future? Are you dead yet? If not, then you still have hope.

Roman statesman Marcus Tullius Cicero (106 BC - 43 BC) stated this axiom like thusly. "While there is life, there is hope." In doing a famous quotation search, I see that he was not unique in this quotation. One of his own country men - Terrance (170 BC - 159 BC) is attributed with the exact same verbiage. However, I doubt plagiarism. Truth is universal. And the universal truth here is obvious. We should never give up.

In the famous words of Winston Churchill,

"Never give in - never, never, never, never, in nothing great or small, large or petty, never give in except to convictions of honor and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.''

So in your life, no matter what you are facing, never never never give in. While you have breath, there is hope. And we who know Christ, have more reason to hope than most men.

Blessings to you, Jan
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Proverbs 22 - The End

At the start of Proverbs I saw that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Today I saw this verse.

Proverbs 22:4 The end of humility is the fear of the Lord, riches, honor, and life.

So as a result of humility or meekness, I am automatically showing or demonstrating by my lifestyle, fear or respect of the Lord. And since I am, He rewards with riches, honor and life.

Cool!
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Proverbs 21 - Pursuing

I've really been enjoying reading some of the Proverbs in Young's Literal Translation. In today's reading I see this.

Proverbs 21:21 Whoso is pursuing righteousness and kindness, Finds life, righteousness, and honor.

I like this! If I am pursuing, chasing after, wanting to posses, righteousness and kindness, then I will find more that I even hoped for. What a great promise!

Thank you Lord!
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Proverbs 20 - Crime and Justice

It is plain to see from the news that our society is getting worse and worse. I suspect part of the reason is that justice is no longer swift nor is it sure.

Proverbs 20:30 Hard punishment will get rid of evil, and whippings can change an evil heart. (NCV)

Proverbs 20:30 Physical punishment cleanses away evil; such discipline purifies the heart. (NLT)

I don't know about you, but pain is a really good motivator for me. If something hurts me, I typically don't want to do that again. Why do you not put your hand on a hot stove? Because it hurts! Proverbs is quite plain when it talks about the value of physical punishment.

Proverbs 22:15 Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child; The rod of correction will drive it far from him.

Proverbs 23:13 Do not withhold correction from a child, For if you beat him with a rod, he will not die.

Proverbs 29:15 The rod and rebuke give wisdom, But a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.

These verses do not advocate child abuse - it is measured discipline. As a child ages and matures, there comes a time when you can reason with him and a rod becomes unnecessary. But at no time, while they are under your control, should they not experience punishment for wrongdoing. Otherwise the result will be ruin.

Proverbs 19:18 Discipline your children while there is hope. If you don't, you will ruin their lives.

I suspect that if our legal system meted out a bit more "frontier style justice" that the crime rate in this country would go down.

When I want to purchase something, I must want it more than I want my money (representing my labor) that it costs. In the same way, the consequence for a crime should be far in excess of any perceived reward.

So what is the answer? I believe that this verse is the key.

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

My job is to work with the ones that I have control over, while they are in my control. Any one else, I must pray for, so that perhaps they will come to know Christ and allow Him to create in them a clean heart.

Peace, Jan
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Proverbs 19 - Backlash

Parenting is often a very difficult job at best. Yet, there are times when it is pure joy - times like when your child brings home a good report-card from school. Other times are sheer terror. This would be times when they are screaming out of control over some item that was withheld from them by a sibling, or because of a perceived injustice.

Proverbs 19:18 Discipline your children while you still have the chance; indulging them destroys them.

There are some parents that allow their child to get away with nearly anything, and then wonder why their "little angel" is being featured on "America's Most Wanted". It is because their lack of discipline destroyed their child. However, If I see that my child is out of control or needs correction I must determine if I am the one that should be doing the correcting.

Proverbs 19:2 Zeal without knowledge is not good; a person who moves too quickly may go the wrong way.

Proverbs 19:15 A lazy person sleeps soundly – and goes hungry.

Proverbs 19:19
Let angry people endure the backlash of their own anger; if you try to make it better, you'll only make it worse. (The Message)

Short-tempered people must pay their own penalty. If you rescue them once, you will have to do it again. (NLT)

As I can see from the verses above, and I'm sure I could cite many more examples, natural consequences are sometimes much more effective teachers than I could ever hope to be. In fact if I try to intervene, I may be short-circuiting something that God is trying to do in the person's life. It is not easy, in fact it is probably painful, to watch any person, much less your own child, suffer the consequences of their actions, but hopefully they will learn from the experience and grow wiser.

Heavenly Father, please grant me wisdom to know when to act and when to step back and let nature take its course. I admit that I have no idea what I'm doing as a parent, but with Your guidance and forgiveness, I can do all things, because You strengthen me. In Jesus' name, amen.

Blessings to you, Jan
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Proverbs 18 - Rumor Mill

Today's reading reminded me of a song that I remember from years ago. It is entitled Rumor Mill.

Rumor Mill
Words and music: Jon Mohr © 1982 Jonathan Mark Music (ASCAP) Lead: Paul Kennamer, Jr.

Lyrics:
Let me tell you a story about a local enterprise There's one in every town, no matter what its size It doesn't turn a profit, or bring in any revenue It's good for one thing and that's the damage it'll do

It's called...

Chorus: The rumor mill Oh yeah, the rumor mill If it can be twisted, you can be sure that it will 'Cause there ain't nothing sacred, none at all At the rumor mill, the rumor mill

The people that work there are all volunteers The only qualification is a mouth and two big ears If the story's not clear enough, well that's ok They'll just doctor it up and then send it on its way It doesn't matter who's involved or who it is gonna hurt As long as folks are listenin' they'll keep shovlin' dirt at

Repeat Chorus
The rumor mill, manufacturing lies The rumor mill, where the truth is disguised The rumor mill, where reputations are crushed The rumor mill, and where nothing is hushed If it can be twisted, you can be sure that it will 'Cause there ain't nothing sacred, none at all At the rumor mill, oh yeah, the rumor mill

Now you listen my children to this warning I make You've got a lot to lose, there's a lot here at stake The Bible plainly states "You're gonna reap what you sow" And "You'll be shown mercy by the mercy you show" So shut your mouth and ask your friends to kindly do the same (So shut your mouth and ask your friends to kindly do the same) Or you'll wind up a victim with no one else to blame

Repeat Chorus

Oh yeah, the rumor mill (x3) At the rumor mill.

It is amazing how true this is. Proverbs 18 describes rumors and gossip like this.

Proverbs 18:8 What dainty morsels rumors are – but they sink deep into one's heart.

That doesn't really say much other than that we like them. However, I think The Message version brings up a more understandable interpretation.

Proverbs 18:8 Listening to gossip is like eating cheap candy; do you really want junk like that in your belly?

Cheap candy might taste great going down, but the result is going to be painful. Perhaps not now, but if I keep eating a steady diet of junk my heart will get clogged and will no longer function correctly. If I apply this concept spiritually, then the rumors will cause me to view others as worse than myself - causing me to sin. My spiritual heart will no longer work correctly.

Philippians 2:3 Don't do anything from selfish ambition or from a cheap desire to boast, but be humble toward one another, always considering others better than yourselves.

If I am participating in spreading information about someone, that the person would not want shared, then I am in serious danger of it being rumor or gossip. The usual result is that I feel superior to the person that I'm gossiping about - a superior smug attitude develops. However, as I can plainly see from the verse above, that is wrong.

Proverbs 18:20 Words satisfy the soul as food satisfies the stomach; the right words on a person's lips bring satisfaction.

Heavenly Father, please help me to refrain from gossip. Let my words be ones that satisfy, not harm. As a friend recently told me, "Gossip is like having someone barf in your ear." I certainly don't want that on my head or coming out of my mouth. Please forgive my all-too-often haughty attitude and cleanse my heart of the gunk that has built up over the years. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Say away from the mill. Jan
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Proverbs 17 - Don't Gloat - Pray

There is a verse here that shows me just how far I still need to grow in my Christian walk.

Proverbs 17:5b ...whoever gloats over disaster will not go unpunished.

I'm finding that I don't like this. I want to rejoice or gloat over an enemy's problems. I want to see them crash and burn. It is part of my nature, perhaps human nature in general, to want to see someone get what is coming to them. A little later in Proverbs I find something ironic.

Proverbs 24:17-18 Don't be glad when your enemies meet disaster, and don't rejoice when they stumble. The Lord will know if you are gloating, and he will not like it; and then maybe he won't punish them.

OK, so if I don't gloat, God will keep punishing them? If I base my beliefs about this matter on these three verses alone then I have forgotten what I've been saved from. God wants me to view people in an entirely different way. He wants me to see them through His eyes.

King David got it right in this Psalm.

Psalms 35:11-14 Ruthless witnesses come forward; they question me on things I know nothing about. They repay me evil for good and leave my soul forlorn. Yet when they were ill, I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting. When my prayers returned to me unanswered, I went about mourning as though for my friend or brother. I bowed my head in grief as though weeping for my mother.

He is being lied about, persecuted. So how does he treat these ruthless people? He prays for them, he mourns for them as if grieving for his own friend, relative or mother. Wow!

Jesus raised the bar even further in the Olivet discourse. He tells us to love our enemies.

Matthew 5:43-48 "You have heard that the law of Moses says, 'Love your neighbor' and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and on the unjust, too. If you love only those who love you, what good is that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect.

Peter tells us a bit more about why this should be done.

1 Peter 2:23 When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.

I am to respond as my Lord would respond because Jesus Himself is my example. God certainly knows what is in the hearts of all men. He will judge them appropriately, it is not my job. I must entrust my situation to God.

Paul wrote this in Romans about those that would be our enemies.

Romans 12:20 On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."

Cool - coals of fire on his head! That should be quite painful and he will suffer right?

Wrong. I suspect that the "Coals of Fire" statement has more to do with causing shame and embarrassment to develop in the offender than it does with punishment or pain - the result of which would hopefully be repentance.

Isaiah 6:6-7 Then one of the seraphs flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, "See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for."

As the coal from God's altar purified Isaiah's lips, I believe that the coal reference in Romans is intended to evoke this same cleansing image.

Finally, I find this directive. It is quite plain.

1 Peter 3:9-12 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. For, "Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech. He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."

Why am I to not rejoice over my enemy's calamity? Why should I do good when I'm paid with evil? "Because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing." I want blessing from the Lord. Don't you?

Hebrews 13:15-16 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise - the fruit of lips that confess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.

Praying for, and doing good to, someone that is intent on doing you harm is not an easy thing to do. Therefore it is truly a sacrifice. And as I can see, that type of sacrifice pleases God.

Heavenly Father, please forgive my immaturity of spirit. Please give me eyes of a different kind. I want to see others the way that You see them - as Your creation in need of a savior. May I bless, pray for, and not gloat over, those that intend me harm. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Bless, and curse not. Jan
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Proverbs 16 - Wise Teachers

In high school I somehow found my self in Advanced Placement History (AP History). It was a unique teaching model. Two teachers taught the class. They would trade off on some days, and some days they would present together. It worked amazingly well.

During this time, I was somewhat of the quiet rebel. Every few weeks I would sneak into the classroom prior to the teachers and other students arriving and write something on the blackboard. It would be something like "Mrs. Stallo used to drive a VW bus with flowers on it!", or "Free Willie!".

However on one occasion I wrote, "Question Authority!". I thought I was being clever. I quickly learned that true wisdom is much more than a sound-bite. One of the teachers came in, saw the usual graffiti on the board, didn't say a word, turned to the blackboard and began writing. When he stepped away, I read the words, "When it answers, will you listen?" I don't believe that I ever desecrated their blackboard again.

Proverbs 16:21-24
The person who is truly wise is called understanding, and speaking sweetly helps others learn. Understanding is a fountain of life to the one who has it, but stubborn fools punish themselves with their stupidity. A wise person's heart controls his speech, and what he says helps others learn. Pleasant words are like honey from a honeycomb-- sweet to the spirit and healthy for the body.

Those two teachers knew how to teach. Their wise handling of their students and speech helped us to learn. They effectively transferred their knowledge and enthusiasm for History and this nation's form of government. They did their job so well that I was able to skip one of my required courses in college because of what I had learned from them.

I can only hope and pray that I have matured through the years and have learned understanding, pleasant words, and controlled speech. My desire is to have the contents of my heart come out as something sweet to the spirit and healthy to the body so that others may learn.

Heavenly Father, please grant me wisdom, and pleasant words as I attempt to teach those in my life that you have placed there for that purpose. In Jesus' name, Amen.

What's in your heart? Jan
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Proverbs 15 - Gentleness

As I'm writing this I am sitting, literally, in a closet in my home, listening to the soothing sounds of Gregorian Chant.  The closet is rather large, so we have converted it into a closet/library and study. It is lined with clothing racks on two walls (which beautifully absorb sound) and books cases full of books on the other wall. The fourth wall is the entryway. With the dark wooden-louvered door closed, it takes on the feel of a monk's sanctum. I am finding that here I can truly find solitude for my thoughts. This adytum is the perfect peaceful place for getting alone with God.

Matthew 6:6 But you, when you pray, go into your closet, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father which is in secret; and your Father which sees in secret will reward you openly.

I may be taking this verse a bit too literally, but hey, it's working!

However, unless I intend to join a monastic order and hide from real life, this peaceful isolation is very transitory. As a very visual reminder of that, about 30 seconds ago, my bride and one of my children came to the sanctum's door, knocked and had questions for me. In real life there are interruptions, and there are sometimes very unpleasant circumstances and people that quickly disrupt our contemplative atmosphere and peace. How do we respond? Is it with annoyance, or is it with wisdom?

Proverbs 15:1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger.

My mother has told me on several occasions that she never heard her parents raise their voices in anger at each other. She is not unrealistic. She knows that they had disagreements, but they never were manifested before the children. They strove to present a peaceful Christian home. This attitude however was not a first-generation one with them. My mother's Uncle, has often spoken to me of his parents. Nearly always it is with tears of love in his eyes when he does. He relates that they were like "two turtle doves" together, never a harsh word. They, like my mother's parents, were Christians that truly lived a life that exhibited the fruit of the Spirit.

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

I have heard it said that when someone is raising their voice to you, respond gently and half as loud as you intended to. With each response lower the volume some more. Eventually one of two things will happen, the wrath will cease, or they will no longer be able to hear you and will give up.

Jesus told us to be "as gentle as doves." (Matt 10:16) Have you ever heard of a loud and boisterous dove?

Be the dove! Jan
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Proverbs 14 - Leave the fool behind

The teaching that I'm focusing on in this chaper is rather harsh, but incredibly accurate.

Proverbs 14:7
Leave the presence of a fool, Or you will not discern words of knowledge. (NASB)

Go from before a foolish man, Or thou hast not known the lips of knowledge. (Young's Literal Translation)

If you stay in the presence of a fool you will start to lose the ability to discern between wisdom and stupidity. Stay long enough and you will become like him.

Stay away from the fool! Jan
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Proverbs 13 - Refusing to love

God must be dealing with my natural reticence to conflict. As I mentioned in an earlier dBrag, I hate having to discipline my children. But I need to do so on occasion to ensure that they stay on the proper path. This verse really hits home.

Proverbs 13:24 A refusal to correct is a refusal to love; love your children by disciplining them.

It couldn't be clearer than that. If I truly love them, I must discipline them. There is a verse above this one that also applies to this teaching.

Proverbs 13:18 Refuse discipline and end up homeless; embrace correction and live an honored life.

In order for them to become the men God intends them to become, I must teach them early in life how to accept discipline while it is being given. Otherwise they will grow up and refuse it when it is needed.

Father, please give me wisdom in applying discipline. Do not let me embitter my children, nor let me be too lax. Only with Your guidance can I succeed. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Love them! Jan
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Proverbs 12 - Advice

I think a mark of maturity is displayed in the way that we handle advise or counsel. There are people that bristle like a hedgehog at the very thought of listening to anyone else. They make it quickly apparent that they are a fool.

Another variant, and perhaps worse, are those that do whatever someone else tells them. They are a fool headed for a huge fall because they lack any discernment.

But there is a happy medium. It is if the person that listens, truly listens, then makes a decision only after evaluating the counsel that was given.

Proverbs 12:5-6 The plans of the godly are just; the advice of the wicked is treacherous. The words of the wicked are like a murderous ambush, but the words of the godly save lives.

Proverbs 12:15 Fools think they need no advice, but the wise listen to others.

Proverbs 12:18 Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.

Proverbs 12:20 Deceit fills hearts that are plotting evil; joy fills hearts that are planning peace!

Proverbs 12:26 The godly give good advice to their friends; the wicked lead them astray.

As the verses above show there is good advice and bad advice. So how do you tell the difference? It is through the same three things that anything gets done here on this earth. You discern truth from error, wisdom from foolishness, by listening to the Word of God, the Spirit of God, and the people of God. Of course to be able to hear the Word of God, you must be familiar with it and read it. To hear the Spirit of God, you must be intimately acquainted with Him. And you must have fellowship with other believers on a regular basis so that you know who is wise and who is not.

Heavenly Father, please give us the gift of Godly people in our lives that will point us to Your words and ways. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Wise up. Jan
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Proverbs 11 - Kindness

Kindness is its own reward.

Proverbs 11:17 Your own soul is nourished when you are kind, but you destroy yourself when you are cruel.

Thank You Father for the ability to be kind to others. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Do unto others... Jan
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Proverbs 10 - Light is faster than sound

I have undeniable proof that light is faster than sound.

Have you ever seen someone walking toward you that is well dressed, well groomed, and appears to be model citizen? They appear to be intelligent, that is until the open their mouths and begin to speak...

Proverbs 17:28 Even fools are thought to be wise when they keep silent; when they keep their mouths shut, they seem intelligent.

The book of Proverbs speaks about fools quite often. I noticed a pattern or common feature of a fool in this chapter. Look at these verse segments.

...violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.
...a chattering fool comes to ruin.
...a chattering fool comes to ruin.
...the mouth of a fool invites ruin.
...whoever spreads slander is a fool.

Do you see the common trait? It is the mouth. As Jesus said in Mark 12:34 and in Luke 6:45, "For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks." That which is inside comes out and then is discernable to all. James chapter three speaks of the power of the tongue. It is described as a tiny thing, yet able to do incredible good or harm. James 1:5 says that if any Christ-follower lacks wisdom (is a fool), they should ask God for wisdom and God will give it to him.

A good rule of thumb is; if in doubt, keep your mouth shut and let people think you are a fool, rather than speak and remove all doubt.

Don't be the fool. Jan
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Proverbs 9 - Two hostesses

There are two hostesses described in this chapter. The first is Lady Wisdom. Her fine home has been lavishly furnished and a wonderful meal has been prepared. Who for? It is for kings, nobles, the wealthy, or even the wise?

Proverbs 9:3b-4 Lady Wisdom goes to town, stands in a prominent place, and invites everyone within sound of her voice: "Are you confused about life, don't know what's going on? Come with me, oh come, have dinner with me!"

No, She is inviting those that are confused, those that need wisdom - in short anyone that is willing to come. She is out in the open inviting those that will listen because her house is not on the main road. You must leave the beaten path, the one trod by the mass of humanity. You must make a conscious choice to go to Lady Wisdom's house.

What is the purpose of this feast to which they are being invited? What does Lady Wisdom want her guests to do?

Proverbs 9:6,11-12a Leave your impoverished confusion and live! Walk up the street to a life with meaning... It's through me, Lady Wisdom, that your life deepens, and the years of your life ripen. Live wisely and wisdom will permeate your life.

There is another Woman anthropomorphized here. Her name is Madame Brazen Stupidity. She also invites people to her home. She doesn't need to find them, they are passing right in front of her. It requires little to no effort on their part to listen to her.

Proverbs 9:14-18 She sits on the front porch of her house on Main Street, And as people walk by minding their own business, calls out, "Are you confused about life, don't know what's going on? Steal off with me, I'll show you a good time! No one will ever know - I'll give you the time of your life." But they don't know about all the skeletons in her closet, that all her guests end up in hell.

Unfortunately the majority of humanity takes the easy path, rather than the detour to Wisdom. They say to themselves, "Why walk all that way to Lady's Wisdom's house when Madame Brazen Stupidity's house is right here?" They operate on the principle of "if it feels good do it." The end result of that type of life is emptiness, death and then hell.

Don't take the easy road. Listen to the call of Lady Wisdom and take the path less traveled. You will not regret it. The way may not be easy, but the result is well worth the effort.

If you have not guessed by now, Lady Wisdom is in the service of God the Father. She is His constant companion and advisor. Listen to her and live.

The choice is yours. Jan
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Proverbs 8 - Delight

I use many different translations when doing my dBrag studies. Often I see something I never would have if I had only read it in only one particular rendering. Today the Rotherham bible (1868-1902) version of this stood out to me.

There is a neat progression in this chapter. Wisdom, personified, is describing the relationship it has with God and men.

Proverbs 8:30-32 Then became I beside him, a firm and sure worker, then became I filled with delight, day by day, exulting before him on every occasion; exulting in the fruitful land of his earth, yea my fullness of delight was with the sons of men. Now therefore, ye sons, hearken to me, for how happy are they who, to my ways, pay regard!

Wisdom became beside Him a strong and reliable worker. I see here that there was a point in time where this began. Before that Wisdom was not actively creating. As a result of that work of creation Wisdom was filled with delight, or as other translations put it, God was filled with delight over Wisdom's work. This was a thing that brought great joy with every new creation - day by day. Now here comes the progression. God's delight in this section of scripture is in Wisdom and its work. Wisdom's delight is in the sons of men - the end result of Wisdom's creative work for God. An interesting phrase comes next, "Now therefore." It means that what was said or written before it ties into the next statement. So, because Wisdom formed the earth and the sons of men that inhabit it, and because Wisdom takes great delight in them, Wisdom's creation, the sons of men, will have happiness or blessing if they obey its voice.

Father, may I listen to Your strong and reliable worker - Wisdom. May I delight in it. Please enable me to pass on a desire, love, and respect for Wisdom to my children. For I want happiness and blessing in their lives as well as my own. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Delight in Wisdom! Jan
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Proverbs 7 - Don't even think about it!

This message could not be any clearer. Do not break God's commandment. Do not commit adultery. You damage yourself if you do allow yourself to be enticed into this sin.

Proverbs 7:22-23; 25-27 Before you know it, he's trotting behind her, like a calf led to the butcher shop, Like a stag lured into ambush and then shot with an arrow, Like a bird flying into a net not knowing that its flying life is over.

Don't fool around with a woman like that; don't even stroll through her neighborhood. Countless victims come under her spell; she's the death of many a poor man. She runs a halfway house to hell, fits you out with a shroud and a coffin.

The end result is pretty clear isn't it? But the end is not where it starts. What is the beginning?

Proverbs 6:25 Don't lustfully fantasize on her beauty, nor be taken in by her bedroom eyes.

Proverbs 5:8 Keep your distance from such a woman; absolutely stay out of her neighborhood.

Matthew 5:28 But don't think you've preserved your virtue simply by staying out of bed. Your heart can be corrupted by lust even quicker than your body. Those leering looks you think nobody notices - they also corrupt.

It is the lingering leering look, allowing your eyes to feast on something that is unlawful for you to have that brings about the sin. Look long enough and you'll end up stealing that which you have no right to. You can't avoid noticing that which is around you, but you do have a choice about remaining focused on it.

Heavenly Father, please forgive me for the times that I look longer than I should. Please help me to truly honor my bride with my mind as well as my body. Help me to fight the good fight. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Be pure in mind and body. Jan
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Proverbs 6 - Abomination

Abomination - what a powerful word! Most of us don't even know exactly what it means. But when we hear it, we know it must be bad. Here is the dictionary definition.

a·bom·i·na·tion  n.

1. Abhorrence; disgust.
2. A cause of abhorrence or disgust.
3. a person who is loathsome or disgusting
4. hate coupled with disgust [syn: abhorrence, detestation, execration, loathing, odium]
5. an action that is vicious or vile; an action that arouses disgust or abhorence; "his treatment of the children is an abomination"

I read in this chapter that there are some things that God Himself considers an abomination.

Proverbs 6:16-19 There are six things which the LORD hates, Yes, seven which are an abomination to Him: Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that run rapidly to evil, A false witness who utters lies, And one who spreads strife among brothers.

Most of the list is quite understandable. I would think that the majority of people would concur with God that; pride, lying, murder, wicked masterminds, and those that enjoy evil are disgusting. But did you catch the last item on the list? It is "one who spreads strife among brothers."

I personally experience an example of this nearly every day. The biological father of my two stepsons is always pitting one against the other. He will make comments on the telephone to the oldest such as, "It is good that you are obedient, unlike your brother." or "Your brother is in rebellion and is being deceived." The list could go on.

It is amazingly frustrating for me at times. I would love to tell the man off, or even deck him. Yet is that what Jesus would have me do? No, I must treat their father as I would want to be treated. My response must be prayer.

Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.

Galatians 6:10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

The two verses above are not optional statements, something that I can selectively do or not do. No, they are commands that speak to how I must conduct myself. And there are many more verses just like them. Is it easy? No way! Do I succeed? Sometimes yes. And, I'm sorry to say, sometimes no. But thankfully God is not finished with me yet.

Father, thank You for the trials and tests in my life. They show that You are interested in, and continuing to, develop the character of Christ in my life. Please forgive me for failing so often and help me to do better. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Do good. Jan
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Proverbs 5 - Self-Control

One of the fruits of the Spirit is self-control.

Galatians 5:22-23a But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.

I see here a description of what happens when the fruit of the Spirit is not being produced in a person's life.

Proverbs 5:21-23 The Lord sees everything you do. Wherever you go, he is watching. The sins of the wicked are a trap. They get caught in the net of their own sin. They die because they have no self-control. Their utter stupidity will send them to their graves.

If self-control is lacking, then something is amiss in your garden. Are you truly saved? (John 15:5) How about the other fruit in the Galatians 5, Ephesians 5, and Colossians 3? They are all supposed to be growing and maturing. If they are not, you need to beg the Lord of the Harvest for your soil to be tilled and fertilized. There is a great danger to you if you don't. A tree that doesn't produce the fruit it is supposed to produce will be uprooted and burned. (Matt 3:10; Matt 7:16-20)

Luke 13:6-9 Then Jesus used this illustration: "A man planted a fig tree in his garden and came again and again to see if there was any fruit on it, but he was always disappointed. Finally, he said to his gardener, 'I've waited three years, and there hasn't been a single fig! Cut it down. It's taking up space we can use for something else.' "The gardener answered, 'Give it one more chance. Leave it another year, and I'll give it special attention and plenty of fertilizer. If we get figs next year, fine. If not, you can cut it down.'"

So, as a Christian, what is your fertilizer? What is it that makes you grow? What gives you strength?

Here is a short list of some of the things that do it for me. What about you?

Fellowship with other believers.

Romans 1:10-11 One of the things I always pray for is the opportunity, God willing, to come at last to see you. For I long to visit you so I can share a spiritual blessing with you that will help you grow strong in the Lord.

Being encouraged and encouraging others.

Acts 18:23 After spending some time in Antioch, Paul went back to Galatia and Phrygia, visiting all the believers, encouraging them and helping them to grow in the Lord.

Sharing God's truth.

1 Corinthians 14:3 But when you proclaim his truth in everyday speech, you're letting others in on the truth so that they can grow and be strong and experience his presence with you.

Praying for spiritual wisdom and understanding.

1 Ephesians 15:16-17 I have never stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly, asking God, the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you might grow in your knowledge of God.

Hungering for and consuming God's word.

1 Peter 2:2 As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.

Are you producing fruit the Master can use? Are you truly His disciple? If not, fix it - fast.

John 15:8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.

Glorify the Father! Jan
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Proverbs 4 - Choices

In Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade, there is a scene where the villain, Donovan, must make a choice. From a room full of cups, chalices, and goblets, he must choose the one that he believes was the cup Jesus used at the last supper. His assistant chooses one that is ornamental, gilded and hands it to him. Donovan states, "Oh, yes. It's more beautiful than I'd ever imagined. This certainly is the cup of the King of Kings." He rushes to the well, fills it with water and drinks. Immediately a change happens to Donovan, causing him to age rapidly and disintegrate into dust. Sir Percival, the grail's ancient guardian knight calmly intones, "He chose... poorly."

Which choices are you making? The choices of the righteous or the choices of the wicked?

Proverbs 4:10-13 My son, listen and accept my words, and they will multiply the years of your life. I have taught you the way of wisdom. I have guided you along decent paths. When you walk, your stride will not be hampered. Even if you run, you will not stumble. Cling to discipline. Do not relax your grip on it. Keep it because it is your life.

We have a choice. We can choose to do right. We can choose to gain knowledge - then apply it, gaining wisdom. We can be disciplined and choose to avoid evil, or we can choose poorly and walk the dark road of wickedness, stumbling because of things in our path, ultimately meeting an untimely end.

If we do not learn and then diligently apply that knowledge, then we will be like the villain from the movie. But if we do study to show ourselves approved, our hearts will be transformed by God himself and we will grow wise.

After Donovan's demise, the time comes for Indiana Jones to choose. He looks around at all of the beautiful vessels and spies one that is out of place. It is made from ordinary wood, just large enough to fit in the palm of your hand. He states, "That's the cup of a carpenter." He too dips it into the water and drinks. A strange sensation overcomes him, a feeling of peace and contentment...and we see his wounds begin to heal. Sir Percival calmly states, "You have chosen wisely."

Read, study, and meditate on God's word. It is life.

John 6:68 Simon Peter replied, "Lord, to whom would we go? You alone have the words that give eternal life."

Choose wisely, choose life. Jan
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Proverbs 3 - Discipline

Having children certainly is teaching me more about my relationship with God than I ever imagined. I hate having to punish them. It truly grates my spirit. I now understand what parents mean when they say, "This hurts me more than it does you." I love my boys and do not want to do anything that will cause them distress. Yet if I am to bring them up to make the right choices in life, sometimes I have no choice. When those times come, and I need to punish either of our sons, it leaves me an emotional wreck for some time afterwards.

This verse is an encouragement to me, but it does not make it any easier.

Proverbs 3:11-12 My child, don't ignore it when the LORD disciplines you, and don't be discouraged when he corrects you. For the LORD corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.

I truly do delight in the boys. They teach me things about life that I would never have seen on my own. But I must also teach them and this often involves correction. In Hebrews there is a little more insight as to how God treats us as His children - how He teaches us.

Hebrews 12:5-11 ..."My child, don't ignore it when the Lord disciplines you, and don't be discouraged when he corrects you. For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes those he accepts as his children." As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Whoever heard of a child who was never disciplined? If God doesn't discipline you as he does all of his children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really his children after all. Since we respect our earthly fathers who disciplined us, should we not all the more cheerfully submit to the discipline of our heavenly Father and live forever? For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God's discipline is always right and good for us because it means we will share in his holiness. No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening – it is painful! But afterward there will be a quiet harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.

What is significant to me here is that if we are not being disciplined by God, then we are not really His children. After all, you don't discipline children that you are not responsible for do you? If we learn our lessons, which are painful and not pleasant, we will learn how to live right. I think that I need to go over this section of scripture with the boys on a regular basis so that they truly understand that in order for me to love them correctly, I must discipline them.

Father, thank You that You are my Father. For You are perfect and know exactly what I need. Thank You for disciplining me as You see fit. And also thank You for the times that all I receive is a word of correction rather than the rod. You truly are merciful. Please continue to teach me so that I may in turn pass that on to those in my life that You would have me teach. In Jesus' name, Amen.

If you are disciplined, you are loved! Jan
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Proverbs 2 - And then...

Proverbs 2:5 Then you will understand the fear of the Lord, And find the knowledge of God.

I have often asked myself. "If the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, what is next? What is the end of wisdom?" I guess the question should really be, "What truly is the fear of the Lord?"

In order to answer that question - to understand the conditional then... posed by Proverbs 2:5, I need to go to what just came before it.

Proverbs 2:1-4 My son, if you receive my words, And treasure my commands within you, So that you incline your ear to wisdom, And apply your heart to understanding; Yes, if you cry out for discernment, And lift up your voice for understanding, If you seek her as silver, And search for her as for hidden treasures

I need to receive wise words, treasure or guard the commands I'm given, apply, seek and search for this hidden treasure of wisdom. These things must be done first, and then I will understand the fear of the Lord.

Father, please help me to be a doer and not a hearer only. Thank You for the wisdom of your word and for the promise of  James 1:5 "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." In Jesus' name, Amen.

Peace, Jan
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Proverbs 1 - Limits

I like how this "How to think" instruction manual begins. Immediately after the purpose statement we get this verse.

Proverbs 1:7 Start with God - the first step in learning is bowing down to God; only fools thumb their noses at such wisdom and learning.

As Dirty Harry said in the 1973 movie, Magnum Force, "A man's got to know his limitations." We must acknowledge our creator, for everything comes from Him. If we don't recognize that limitation, then we are true fools.

Be wise, bow to God. Jan
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