Archive for the ‘Encourgement’ Category

Proverbs 19:13 Wisdom for the Soul

Posted: February 19, 2015 in Acceptance, Bible Study, Codependent Children, Contentious, Contentious women, Dear Woman, Disrespectful Children, Encourgement, Fathers and Sons, Foolish Son / Daughter, fools, Inspiration, Irritating wife, Odious woman, Personal Growth, Proverbs, Quarrelsome Wife, Spiritual Training, trust in the Lord with all your heart, Uncategorized, Under Gods Command, virtuous women
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Under Gods Command

Proverbs 19:13 A foolish son is his father’s ruin, and a quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping. 

Two horrible things can happen to a man. He can marry an odious woman, or he can have foolish children. Both are disasters and make marriage and children very sober matters. The persons and relationships that should be for help and pleasure become like enemies. It is wisdom to carefully consider these potential threats and avoid them at all costs.

This proverb is priceless. The two matters at stake are very serious – an unhappy marriage or shameful children. Either one tortures and destroys a man over many years. A man enduring both faces daily pain hard to describe in words. But God gave this proverb by King Solomon to save you from both evils, and He reduced it down to one single, simple rule. Glorious wisdom! Incredible mercy and kindness! Keep reading!

Contentious women know how to get a man, a foolish man. They decorate the outside, their physical appearance, by many means, to capture his eyes. They hide and disguise what is inside, their character defects and faults, by a show of grace, respect, submission, and love. These efforts are made until the wedding is over. Then the odious wife makes her appearance (Pr 30:21-23)! And what a hideous and ugly sight she is! Poor fool!

The careless man now has a disease worse than cancer – he has fallen into the torments of hell on earth – he has fallen under a curse worse than death (Eccl 7:26). He must go home to this wretch every day for the rest of his life, and he has to sleep with her! He quickly learns to work extra hours, take up hobbies like hunting, or build a detached workshop to get away from the noise of this nagging and brawling creature (Pr 21:9,19; 25:24).

In public he tries to hide her, but how can he? She is as obvious as a huge sow attached to a small piece of gold jewelry (Pr 11:22). The poor man cannot avoid his great shame, for everyone sees he has married a repugnant and revolting corruption of the fairer sex (Pr 27:15-16). He knows both friends and enemies whisper about his horrible life at home.

A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband, but the woman here is rottenness in his bones (Pr 12:4). So bitter is the pain of the wrong woman that Solomon thought it worse than death (Eccl 7:26). And he listed an irritating wife as one of the great curses of earthly life (Pr 30:21-23). The poor husband cries, “O precious death, take me from her!”

A contentious wife will question, discuss, debate, or oppose most anything. She presumes her ideas are at least as good as his. She constantly talks back. She is proud, stubborn, and self-righteous. She cannot follow; she must lead. She asks too many questions, makes too many suggestions, and does not cheerfully obey. She loves to correct her husband, who never gets facts just right. But she will seldom accept correction herself. She always has a reason why tonight is not a good night! Or why the next morning is not night!

The continual dropping here is a very rainy day (Pr 27:15). You cannot stop it; it keeps on dropping. You cannot stop her noise and resistance. These are not pleasant raindrops on a secure roof; they are the irritating drops of a leaking roof that destroy tranquility and peace. Any man who has tried to sleep near a leaking faucet understands perfectly. She is torture! The foolish son may be cast out; the contentious wife must be endured. The foolish son is in his room; the contentious wife is in your bed! O take me, precious death!

Therefore, let every man take great care how he marries and how his sons marry. Young fools do not know how to judge women, so fathers must help them, lest they are consigned to fifty years with this woman. Fathers, by the very nature of the relationship, you have more experience in marriage to a woman than your son has in the ignorance and folly of childhood and youth. You have been married longer than he has been alive!

It is a shame this rebellious generation thinks they can make this far-reaching decision on their own. So there is an epidemic of dysfunctional marriages, divorces, and adultery. Young man, it is far better to be lonely and frustrated in your own house and bed than to marry an odious woman and have to live and sleep with her for your entire future. There is something worse than being single and lonely – being married to the wrong woman!

If you have married poorly, dear man, repent of your folly and allow no more. Marriage must be managed by the divine rule of subjection, and if you compromise here, the dropping will continue (Gen 3:16; I Cor 11:3,8-12; 14:34-35; Eph 5:22-24,33; Col 3:18; Tit 2:5). If she professes any fear of God, bring her to her Creator’s throne and show her both His wise design and sentence of judgment (I Tim 2:13-14). If this fails, Christian husband, bring her to the church by the Lord’s prescription (Matt 18:15-17; I Cor 6:1-8).

Every man who has a virtuous wife (Pr 31:10-31), gracious and kind, meek and quiet, should first thank his Father in heaven for such protective mercy and then take the good woman out for a meal and praise her a few times. She deserves it. You owe it. God has saved you from a life of soul-sapping, heart-rending, mood-altering, body-denying agony.

Let every woman examine herself in the only honest and true mirror in the world – the Bible (Jas 1:21-26; Ps 19:7-14). After seeing your blemishes and defects, make the required changes for the reward. Reject the foolish fantasies of society and your selfish thoughts about yourself (Ps 119:128; Is 8:20). Read God’s opinion, as you just have. Then prove your own work and rejoice in yourself (Pr 14:14; Gal 6:4-5; I Pet 3:1-6).

A foolish son is also a horrible thing in a man’s life. It can steal the joy and life out of your soul, knowing that you generated and trained an idiot. The Preacher saw foolish sons, for he had foolish brothers, and his son Rehoboam was a fool. Read his pain and learn the sober lesson (Pr 10:1; 15:20; 17:21,25; 23:15-16,24-25; 29:3,15). It is wisdom to learn from the mistakes and pain of others – so pay attention and grasp this lesson.

A calamity is very grievous affliction or adversity; it is deep distress, trouble, and misery. It is a painful disaster. It is the turning of things upside down. It is a catastrophe and tragedy that bleeds the vitality from a father’s heart. This does not overstate the grief caused by a foolish son, for a son instead should be the joy of his father’s heart. And where a father could be thankful and honored, he is instead bewildered and despised.

Fathers! Train the foolishness out of your son, while there is hope (Pr 22:15; 19:18). Here is a calamity you can avoid (Pr 29:17). Save your son! Save yourself! If you neglect his training, he will default to foolishness (Pr 29:15). His training is a commandment (Pr 22:6; Eph 6:4), and the Preacher tells you what will work – the rod and reproof (Pr 29:15; 23:13-14). A loving father will train his son, and he will start early; a hateful father will neglect him to the hurt of them both in the long run (Pr 13:24; 8:33-36).

If you are too busy, too tired, too reserved, too slothful, too interested in other things, or use any other excuse to avoid training him, you will bear your burden. Calamity and shame will come, unless you repent and beg for God’s mercy and the recovery of lost years when you should have done your simple duty (Pr 29:15; 13:15; Gal 6:5; Joel 2:25).

If you have a foolish son, repent and beg God to help you recover him (Joel 2:23-27). Bring your authoritative and loving instruction to bear by whatever means you have. Further compromise will bring greater pain in the future, as with Eli (I Sam 2:29; 3:13). If your son fears God, bring him before his Creator and remind him of his duties (Eph 6:1-3). If he persists and is a church member, bring him before the church (Matt 18:15-17).

Every man who has wise and noble sons should first thank God his Father for such protective and kind mercy and then praise and honor his sons for their faithfulness. There is nothing that should open a father’s wallet as quickly and as wide as a wise and obedient son. Being overbearing all the time will discourage them (Col 3:21; Eph 6:4).

Let every son, of any age, examine himself in the only honest mirror – the word of God (Jas 1:21-26). Are you a joy to your father? Or are there things you know you should be doing better? Correct them! Reject the insolent notions of your wicked generation and your rebellious thoughts of folly. Read God’s opinion about young men, as Proverbs clearly declares. Then prove your own work and rejoice in yourself (Pr 14:14; Gal 6:4-5).

Both dangers to your happiness and success, an odious wife or a foolish son, are solved by one simple rule – the fear of the LORD. If you marry a woman that truly fears the LORD, you will have a jewel for life (Pr 31:30; I Pet 3:1-6). If you teach your son the same fear from early days, he will rejoice your heart (Ps 34:11; Eccl 12:13-14). It is this simple, and the only wise God and history’s wisest king wrote it down for you. Priceless!

Dear Christian reader, what kind of a wife and son are you to your Husband and Father in heaven? Does your Bridegroom rejoice in your constant fidelity, passionate love, and joyful submission? Or are you an odious stench in His house? Is your Heavenly Father pleased with the blessing of adopting you? Or are you a son that needs to be chastened often? Let every reader examine himself to fulfill his Husband’s and Father’s desires.

And further, dear reader, the proverb teaches the disappointment of this world’s greatest privileges and pleasures, even though ordained by a perfect Creator. The very things prized very highly, marriage and children, can so easily bring the greatest miseries. Without His grace, all is vanity and vexation of spirit! Here is the great lesson that God alone must be the portion and the treasure of your soul (Ps 73:25-26; Matt 6:19-21).

Spiritual Training 18 February 2015

Posted: February 18, 2015 in 2 Corinthians, Acceptance, Bible Study, Encourgement, Inspiration, Personal Growth, Proverbs, Spiritual Training, trust in the Lord with all your heart, Uncategorized, Under Gods Command
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Under Gods Command

2 Corinthians 12:11-15 1I have made a fool of myself, but you drove me to it. I ought to have been commended by you, for I am not in the least inferior to the “super-apostles,” even though I am nothing. 12I persevered in demonstrating among you the marks of a true apostle, including signs, wonders and miracles. 13How were you inferior to the other churches, except that I was never a burden to you? Forgive me this wrong!   14Now I am ready to visit you for the third time, and I will not be a burden to you, because what I want is not your possessions but you. After all, children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children. 15So I will very gladly spend for you everything I have and expend myself as well. If I love you more, will you love me less?

Paul was not merely revealing his feelings; he was defending his authority as an apostle of Jesus Christ. Paul was hurt that the church in Corinth doubted and questioned him, so he defended himself for the cause of the gospel, not to satisfy his ego.

Paul explained that the only thing he did in the other churches that he didn’t do in Corinth was to become a burden—to ask the believers to feed and house him. When he said, “Forgive me this wrong,” he was clearly being sarcastic. He actually did more for the Corinthians than for any other church, but still they misunderstood him.

Paul had founded the church in Corinth on his first visit there (Acts 18:1). He subsequently made a second visit (2:1). He was planning what would be his third visit (see also 13:1). Paul explained that, as before, he didn’t want to be paid, fed, or housed; he only wanted the believers to be nourished with the spiritual food he would feed them.

Lets Bring it Home: When you are “put on trial,” do you think only about saving your reputation or are you more concerned about what people will think about Christ?

Proverbs 18:18 Wisdom for the Soul

Posted: February 18, 2015 in Acceptance, Bible Study, Encourgement, Inspiration, Personal Growth, Proverbs, Spiritual Training, trust in the Lord with all your heart, Uncategorized, Under Gods Command
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Under Gods Command

Proverbs 18:18 Casting the lot settles disputes and keeps strong opponents apart.

If men cannot solve a dilemma, God can! Men have faced decisions that were nearly or totally equal in their minds. In such cases, a faithful use of the lot decided it. At other times, men were not able to resolve disagreements among parties. In such cases, a faithful use of the lot peacefully ended the conflict. In both cases, God settled the confusion.

What is a lot? It is a chance event used to settle a dilemma. In this day, men might flip a coin, roll dice, or draw straws. The purpose is to let the chance event choose a solution from two or more alternatives. In Bible times, the purpose and use of the lot were the same, though the actual items used for the lot may not have been coins, dice, or straws.

If a solution could not be reached by other means, a lot would end contentions, if all parties submitted to the method and outcome of the lot. The mighty are mentioned, because rich and powerful parties are more prone to contention, are more fierce and stubborn in it, have greater assets at risk, and are more able to continue lengthy conflicts. If the lot could settle differences of great men, then surely it was sufficient for the poor.

Are there chance events in the universe? Yes, from your view! No, from God’s view! When you flip a coin, you cannot predict the result beyond probability mathematics, which is 100% ignorant and uncertain as to any specific outcome. But God has already purposed the outcome of every lot and all so-called chance events in His secret will (Deut 29:29). Just ask Ahab (I Kgs 22:28-37)! All lots are entirely disposed by God (Pr 16:33)!

There is a sovereign God in heaven, and wise men see His choices for their lives in the past and future. He did not ask if you wanted existence, or the conditions of it. And you cannot end it. Give Him glory! Wise men accept His choices in the past (Pr 22:2; Is 45:9; I Cor 4:7), and they humbly submit to His will for the future (Jas 4:13-15). They tremble before a Being with such dreadful authority and power (Job 42:1-6; Rom 9:20-21).

Pagans have used the lot from antiquity. Without Scripture to guide them through life, they needed chance events to solve difficulties. The Bible shows Persians, Mediterranean sailors, and Romans using the lot (Esther 3:7; Jonah 1:7; Matt 27:35). Of course, Jehovah used each lot to accomplish His own purpose, even though they were ignorant of Him!

Israel used the lot to find God’s will for their national life. They used it to select the scapegoat (Lev 16:8), divide Canaan to ten tribes (Num 33:54; Jos 14:2; Acts 13:19), condemn Achan (Josh 7:16-19), pick Saul as king (I Sam 10:20-24), find Jonathan guilty (I Sam 14:40-42), give cities to the Levites (I Chron 6:63), settle the courses of the priests (I Chron 24:5,31), and pick inhabitants for Jerusalem (Neh 11:1). And the apostles even used a lot to settle on Matthias as the replacement apostle for Judas (Acts 1:23-26).

However, there is no use of the lot in the New Testament after Pentecost. With completed Scriptures and the gift of the Holy Ghost, there is clearly less need for a chance event to provide direction. The word of God is able to make the man of God perfect (I Cor 13:8-12; II Tim 2:15; 3:16-17; II Pet 1:19), and the Holy Spirit can direct his mind (Ps 143:10; Rom 12:1-2; Eph 5:14-17; Phil 1:9-11; Col 1:9-17; 4:12; Heb 13:20-21).

If you face equal choices in all respects, or a dilemma you cannot solve by searching the Scriptures, seeking many counselors, or by prayer and fasting, then commit yourself to a solemn lot with a fervent prayer for God to honor it (I Sam 14:41; Ps 66:18; Acts 1:23-26; II Chr 30:18). Using the lot, even for serious matters, without these conditions opens you up to tempting the Lord and despising His inspired wisdom. Let the reader beware!

Though the Bible in both testaments endorsed the lot, it cannot be used for matters that wisdom should resolve, for doing so tempts the Lord (Pr 28:9; Matt 4:5-7). It is an evil symptom of human depravity that men would rather trust a lot than “thus saith the Lord.” God inspired written wisdom for your life, and you should heed it first (Ps 119:128). It is weak or devilish faith that requires “a fleece” to obey what has already been commanded.

Confusion where Jehovah has spoken is to reject God’s word (Dan 3:16-18; Rom 1:20-27; I Pet 3:6). Even in matters the Bible does not address, God will honor His churches (Matt 18:15-18; I Cor 6:1-5) and pastors (II Chr 19:8-10; Ezek 44:23-24; I Tim 5:17; Heb 13:7). Never let the lot replace His ordained means of wisdom. The Lord also allows you to follow your heart: He will direct your steps (Pr 16:9; Ruth 2:1-3; Jas 4:13-15).

Bible use of the lot cannot justify games of chance involving money or important matters. Only fools buy lottery tickets or gamble (Pr 1:32; 6:1-5). God ordained men should labor diligently (Pr 12:11; 13:11), avoid wasting their substance (Pr 12:27; 18:9), save money (Pr 6:6-8; 21:20), be able and ready to give to others (Eph 4:28; I Tim 6:17-19), and reject vain pursuits contrary to these goals (Pr 13:23; 28:19). Let the reader beware!

Do you recognize and submit to the sovereignty of God in the “chance events” of your life? The Most High chose your sex, parents, intelligence, nationality, appearance, and opportunities, among many other factors of life (Ps 139:16). He chose your spouse by arranging the circumstances of your romance, and He chose your job or profession by another set of circumstances. And He either gifted you for offices among men or not. Are you fully content with His perfect choices, as Israel was with the lot (Pr 16:33)?

Humble yourself before the dread sovereign of the universe and bless His glorious name for the choices He has made in your life, for He has done so by infinite wisdom for good and holy purposes (Pr 16:4; Is 57:15; 66:1-2). If you have hope of eternal life by His saving grace in Jesus Christ, then you are bound to give thanks for His choice of you to it (II Thess 2:13). Bring Him a gift of praise (Heb 13:15)! He is a great King (Mal 1:14)!

 

Proverbs 17:24 Wisdom for the Soul

Posted: February 17, 2015 in Acceptance, Bible Study, Encourgement, Inspiration, Personal Growth, Proverbs 17, Spiritual Training, trust in the Lord with all your heart, Uncategorized, Under Gods Command
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Under Gods Command

Proverbs 17:24 A discerning man keeps wisdom in view, but a fool’s eyes wander to the ends of the earth.

You have known fools. They bounce from one thing to another. They are excited with this and then that. They are always seeking happiness and success, which they never find. They love new things. They cannot focus on important matters. They are easily distracted from their duties like children. They look in strange places for answers. They dream. They talk a lot. They are not content. They are fickle, unsettled, and easily confused.

But a wise man is very different. He has understanding as the guide and rule of his conduct. He is focused on all aspects of life with the resolute purpose of keeping God’s commandments. He has not forgotten what he was taught, nor is he ignorant of the Scriptures. He searches the Bible for knowledge and wisdom, and he proves all things by it (Acts 17:11; I Thess 5:21). He is content with life and confident in most any dilemma.

Fools are often scorners – resenting correction and instruction – so they learn very little (Pr 14:6). A fool is so thrilled with foolishness that he avoids wisdom and understanding (Pr 15:14). A fool is so lazy that he never applies the diligence it takes to acquire wisdom, for he would rather enjoy and tell his own thoughts (Pr 18:1-2). Fools are often arrogant, which makes it impossible for them to identify and learn wisdom (Pr 26:12).

Wise men do not daydream or speculate. They would rather muse than be amused (Ps 143:5). They prefer meditation over imagination, instruction over recreation, and self-examination over self-actualization. They want truth, and they define it as God’s certain words in the Bible (Pr 22:17-21). They have no regard for man’s opinions (Ps 119:98-100). They do not have to look for wisdom, because they know it (Pr 14:6). They have it hid in their hearts (Ps 119:11,128), and they meditate on it day and night (Ps 1:3).

You arrived on earth knowing nothing. You are here a short time, and your whole duty is to fear God and keep His commandments (Eccl 12:13-14). Your flesh, the sinfully depraved part of your being, sees with the lust of the eyes (I John 2:15-17). Satan and the world offer many things to see (Luke 4:5-7). The fool gives in to his lusts and wastes his life chasing illusions. But David prayed to be saved from looking at vanity (Ps 119:37)!

It is foolish to spend your life craving something better, while you race toward something bitter – death! Godliness with contentment is great gain (I Tim 6:6). You cannot beat this simple rule for a successful life. Godliness is living prudently with wisdom as your great pursuit (Pr 4:5-9; 8:17). Contentment is appreciation for God being your friend and trusting Him for the things you have as being best (Heb 13:5-6). But fools must dream!

The fool is always seeking greener pastures near and far. His mind is an open sieve, receiving much froth from vain ideas and retaining nothing of value. Solomon warned of the vanity and vexation of a wandering desire (Eccl 6:9). But the fool would rather study U.N. politics, Ben Spock child training hallucinations, practice yoga, or watch lifestyles of the rich and famous on television than apply God’s word to the salvation of his family.

The fool’s mantra is, “I live life with an open mind.” His mind is so open that anything can fly in and nothing of value will stay. The world sends a steady stream of advertising, fads, public opinion, peer pressure, questions, and other forms of manipulation to bend his mind to the will of Satan, who grins with wicked glee at his foolish mantra that gives the father of lies entrance to his soul. Seal your mind with God’s word (Ps 119:128)!

There are important goals for life, and there are foolish wastes of life. Knowledge is better than ignorance, wisdom than folly, righteousness than wickedness, heaven than hell, and God than man. While Martha was worried about distracting details, Mary knew the one thing needful for her life was hearing instruction from the Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 10:38-42). Reader, how would the Saviour classify you? Like Martha? Or Mary?

In order to save you from yourself and your wandering desire, the Lord of heaven has called, prepared, and sent men to be pastors and teachers (Ps 68:18; Eccl 12:8-14; Jer 3:15; Mal 2:7; Eph 4:8-12; II Tim 3:16-17). What is their job? Not social work! Not administration! Not weddings and funerals! Not monasteries! Not stuffy theological work! Their job is to keep your eyes in your head and your heart in the truth: they will perfect you from being tossed to and fro like the fool (Eph 4:13-14; Col 1:28-29).

Have you searched for one of these men? Can you submit to his instruction about the true priorities of life? If you can, you will be full of understanding, and wisdom is directly before you. He will reject foolish and unlearned questions, for he wants you settled in the faith once delivered to the saints. He will work with the Spirit of God to conform your every imagination and thought to the inspired and infallible words of God (II Cor 10:4-6).

But can you stay focused for the one or two hours a week of his instruction? Most cannot. Jesus Christ described them as wayside hearers. The preaching finds no lodging place in their unprepared minds and hearts, and the devil quickly takes it away. They leave every church assembly more ignorant than before. Literally! Read it (Luke 8:12,18)!

Because fools dislike insistence on correction, instruction, reproofs, and warnings, they look for flattering teachers. They want teachers to entertain them with fables and help them explore the cesspools of human imagination and education (Is 30:8-11; I Tim 6:3-5,20-21; II Tim 4:3-4). Oh, how they love such junk! Teach me more, they cry! But God has promised to send them strong delusion to believe a lie (II Thess 2:9-12; II Tim 3:6-7).

Reader, you have a choice. It is a serious choice. You are reading one of many offers of wisdom in the Bible. God has again approached you with His word to make you wise. It is right in front of you, if you have an understanding heart. It is disgusting, if your eyes prefer the ends of the earth. Eliminate any distractions and seek wisdom (Pr 4:7; 18:1).

Spiritual Training 17 February 2015

Posted: February 17, 2015 in 2 Corinthians, Acceptance, Bible Study, Encourgement, Healing, Inspiration, Personal Growth, Spiritual Training, trust in the Lord with all your heart, Uncategorized, Under Gods Command
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Under Gods Command

2 Corinthians 12:1-10 1I must go on boasting. Although there is nothing to be gained, I will go on to visions and revelations from the Lord. 2I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven. Whether it was in the body or out of the body I do not know—God knows. 3And I know that this man—whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know, but God knows— 4was caught up to paradise and heard inexpressible things, things that no one is permitted to tell. 5I will boast about a man like that, but I will not boast about myself, except about my weaknesses. 6Even if I should choose to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will think more of me than is warranted by what I do or say, 7or because of these surpassingly great revelations. Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. 8Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. 9But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. ”Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 10That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Paul continued his “boasting” by telling about visions and revelations he had received from the Lord. “I know a man in Christ” means that Paul was speaking about himself. He explained that he didn’t know if he was taken up in his body or in his spirit, but he had been in paradise (“the third heaven,” perhaps referring to the highest part of the heavens, beyond the atmosphere and the stars, where God himself lives). This incident cannot be positively identified with a recorded event in Paul’s career, although some think this may have been when he was stoned and left for dead (Acts 14:19-20). Paul told about this incident to show that he had been uniquely touched by God.

We don’t know what Paul’s “thorn in my flesh” was because he doesn’t tell us. Some have suggested that it was malaria, epilepsy, or a disease of the eyes (see Galatians 4:13-15). Whatever the case, it was a chronic and debilitating problem, which at times kept him from working. This thorn was a hindrance to his ministry, and he prayed for its removal; but God refused. Paul was a very self-sufficient person, so this thorn must have been difficult for him.     Three times Paul prayed for healing and did not receive it. He received, however, things far greater because he received greater grace from God, a stronger character, humility, and an ability to empathize with others. In addition, it benefited those around him as they saw God at work in his life. God, according to his sovereign plan, doesn’t heal some believers of their physical ailments. We don’t know why some are spared and others aren’t. God chooses according to his divine purposes. Our task is to pray, to believe, and to trust. Paul is living proof that holy living and courageous faith do not ensure instant physical healing. When we pray for healing, we must trust our bodies to God’s care. We must recognize that nothing separates us from his love (Romans 8:35-39) and that our spiritual condition is always more important than our physical condition.

Although God did not remove Paul’s physical affliction, he promised to demonstrate his power in Paul. The fact that God’s power is displayed in our weaknesses should give us courage and hope. As we recognize our limitations, we will depend more on God for our effectiveness rather than on our own energy, effort, or talent. Our limitations and weakness not only help develop Christian character but also deepen our worship, because in admitting them, we affirm God’s strength.

Lets Bring it Home:  When we are strong in abilities or resources, we are tempted to do God’s work on our own, and that can lead to pride. When we are weak, allowing God to fill us with his power, then we are stronger than we could ever be on our own. God does not intend for us to seek to be weak, passive, or ineffective—life provides enough hindrances and setbacks without us creating them. When those obstacles come, we must depend on God. Only his power will make us effective for him and will help us do work that has lasting value.

Forgiving Others

Posted: February 13, 2015 in Acceptance, Bible Study, Encourgement, Ephesians, Forgiveness, Inspiration, Mathew, Personal Growth, Spiritual Training, trust in the Lord with all your heart, Uncategorized, Under Gods Command
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Under Gods Command

Forgiving Others

Matthew 6:14 – For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.

Why? Those who are unwilling to forgive have not become one with Christ who was willing to forgive even those who crucified him Luke 23:34 – Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. We are also denying our common ground as sinners in need of God’s forgiveness. God’s forgiveness of sin is not the direct result of our forgiving others, but it is based on our realizing what forgiveness means. We cannot live as Children of Light walking around with sin and hate towards others.

Ephesians 4:28-32 – He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands that he may have something to share with those in need. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.  

We can grieve the Holy Spirit by the way we live. Paul warns us against unwholesome language, bitterness, improper use of anger, brawling, slander, and bad attitudes toward others. Instead of acting that way, we should be forgiving, just as God has forgiven us. Are you grieving or pleasing God with your attitudes and actions? Act in love toward your brothers and sisters in Christ, just as God acted in love by sending his Son to die for our sins.

Lets Bring it Home: Is there anything that you are holding against someone right now. A friend, Mother or Father, Husband or Wife, Son or Daughter, co-worker or anybody else that you can think of? Now ask yourself this. What is God holding against me right now that He will not let go because I won’t let it go?   Is it really worth to burn in hell over for the rest of your life?Sp

Proverbs 13:21 Wisdom for the Soul

Posted: February 13, 2015 in Acceptance, Bible Study, Encourgement, Inspiration, Personal Growth, Proverbs 21, Spiritual Training, trust in the Lord with all your heart, Uncategorized, Under Gods Command
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Under Gods Command

Proverbs 13:21 Misfortune pursues the sinner, but prosperity is the reward of the righteous

Something is chasing you! Trouble chases sinners until it catches them and brings pain and misery into their lives. Blessing chases righteous men until it catches them and brings good, promotion, and rewards. Look over your shoulder! Something is chasing you right now! Which is it – evil or good? Whichever it is, it will catch you for sure.

Actions have consequences. Sin will eventually bring evil – grief, loss, pain, and trouble. “Be sure your sin will find you out” (Num 32:23)! “The way of transgressors is hard” (Pr 13:15)! “Thorns and snares are in the way of the froward” (Pr 22:5)! A course of sin will bring judgment, and it will follow your every move until it catches and punishes you.

Actions have consequences. Obedience will bring blessing – favor, prosperity, pleasure, and reward. “He that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: let him eschew evil, and do good” (I Pet 3:10-12). Doing what is right will bring good into your life (Job 36:11; Ps 19:11; Jas 1:25).

Constant sinners are fools. They think they can get away with sin (Ps 36:1-2). But a holy God in heaven is not watching from a distance. His angels are watching you read these words (Pr 15:3). He sends them to chase and persecute sinners (Ps 35:5-6). He rewards fools and transgressors (Pr 26:10). He plentifully rewards a proud doer (Ps 31:23; 32:10).

Lot watched too much Sodom television, but evil caught him, destroyed all he had, and left him with two incestuous daughters in a cave. Many Corinthians carnally partook of communion, but they were weak, sick, and died for it. Judas wanted to make some quick cash, but evil dashed his bowels across the ground. Evil pursued them and caught them.

If you repeatedly offend God, evil will chase and destroy you. To the froward, or disobedient, God will be froward, or contrary (Ps 18:26). This universal law is as sure as gravity. Joab sought safety at God’s altar, but the sword of justice caught him there (I Kgs 2:28-34). Jonah thought Tarshish would be safe, but a storm and a whale chased and caught him. Where are you cheating God? You can run, but you cannot hide. Repent!

Where do you regularly sin? If you neglect training your children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, they will destroy your life (Pr 29:15). If you neglect your spouse, God will not hear your prayers (I Pet 3:7). If you toy with pornography or sexual lusts, you will end up in death and hell (Pr 2:18; 5:5; 7:27; 9:18). Does God not see? His angels listen to your words; they check hair and submission of women (Eccl 5:6; I Cor 11:10). He may deceive you with false peace, but He is about to tear you in pieces (Ps 50:21-22).

If you seek the Lord with a committed heart, goodness will follow and bless you. Guaranteed! To the merciful and upright, God will be merciful and upright (Ps 18:25). But He laughs at lip service or church attendance. He looks for a dedicated heart and mind that are committed to holiness and righteousness (Ps 37:4; 145:19; Matt 6:33). Do not faint or be discouraged, there is a reward for the righteous (Ps 58:1-11; I Cor 15:58).

No man can live a perfect righteous life (I Jn 1:8,10), but you may generally do so, and you may cover sins by confession and God’s faithful forgiveness (I Jn 1:9). You can start over as often as you need with a clean slate in the sight of God, and while walking with God the blood of His Son Jesus will cleanse you from all sin (I Jn 1:7). No matter how terrible your sins, you can start over with God. Consider Mannaseh and Mary Magdalene.

David was one of God’s favorites, blessed abundantly in many ways, for who loved God more than him? He knew God had rewarded his righteousness (Ps 18:19-26; 7:3-9; 17:2-4; 26:1; 37:23). Though he sinned in several ways, God forgave him and blessed him still. Do not be fearful or hopeless because of your sins. Confess and forsake them, for He will abundantly pardon and restore (Is 55:6-9; 58:1-14; II Chr 33:12-13; Job 36:6-12).

You are choosing this very moment what will chase and catch you (Pr 24:20; Is 3:10-11). What should you do? Repent for any sins! “Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed” (Ps 37:3). Whatever a man sows, that shall he also reap. If you play with the flesh and sin, evil will destroy you (Gal 6:7-10). If you seek the Lord with a careful heart, He will look to bless you greatly (II Chr 16:9)!

Jesus of Nazareth loved and did righteousness. God anointed Him with the oil of gladness above all men (Heb 1:9). He endured the cross and despised its shame, for He saw the eternal joys and pleasures at God’s right hand (Ps 16:11; Heb 12:2). You are to consider Jesus and the saints who obtained the promises by faithful obedience (Heb 11:6; 12:1-3).

Proverbs 12:17 Wisdom for the Soul

Posted: February 12, 2015 in Acceptance, Bible Study, Encourgement, Inspiration, Personal Growth, Proverbs 12, Spiritual Training, trust in the Lord with all your heart, Truth, Uncategorized, Under Gods Command
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Under Gods Command 

Proverbs 12:17 A truthful witness gives honest testimony, but a false witness tells lies.

Truth proves a man is righteous, and he helps matters of controversy for righteousness. Therefore, a man who speaks the truth is valuable for court and friendship. A witness that misrepresents the truth has a deceitful spirit, and he affects controversies by confusing justice and righteousness (Pr 14:5,25; 19:28; 21:28). He is to be despised and avoided.

Truth and righteousness are inseparable. There can be no justice without truth, and there can be no truth without justice. Equitable relationships among men, whether private or public, require honesty and truth. If these are compromised, then righteousness is also compromised. If less than the truth is presented, then deceit has entered to that degree. From economic transactions to religious declarations, righteousness depends upon truth.

The God of the Bible, Creator of heaven and earth, is a God of truth (Deut 32:4). So much is He a God of truth, He cannot lie (Heb 6:18; Titus 1:2). His Son Jesus Christ is the Faithful and True Witness (Rev 3:14; 19:11). His written revelation, the Bible, is very sure and true in every word and all it declares (Pr 30:5; Ps 19:9; 93:5; 119:128,138).

God hates liars. They confound and overthrow righteousness in the earth, whether private or public. Their misrepresentations deceive men into believing things that are not true, which perverts decision-making, misleads people into trouble, condemns the innocent, protects the wicked, destroys His gospel, and promotes frauds and scams. Therefore, all liars shall spend an eternity of torment in the lake of fire after this life (Rev 21:8).

God hates liars. “These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him – a lying tongue – a false witness that speaketh lies” (Pr 6:16-19). Therefore, good and honest men reject liars! David said, “He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my house: he that telleth lies shall not tarry in my sight” (Ps 101:7).

God hates liars. One of the Ten Commandments condemns false witnesses (Ex 20:16). The LORD warned men to stay far away from any falsehood in trials (Ex 23:1-7). If a man perjured himself in court, he received the punishment that was being deliberated, even if it was capital punishment (Deut 19:16-21). What a way to enhance the memory!

God hates liars. And He loves to expose them. Be sure your sin will find you out. Achan lied about stealing from Jericho, but he was discovered, stoned, and burned with his family (Josh 7:1-26). Ananias and Sapphira lied about their large gift to the church, and members of the youth group buried them that day (Acts 5:1-11). What an object lesson!

God hates liars. The first liar in the universe was the devil, who lied to Eve and damned the human race to eternal death. He is the father of all lies, and there is no truth in him (John 8:44). Anyone telling a lie is following his wicked influence and showing that their heart is under his control, even ministers of the gospel (II Cor 11:1-4,13-15; Eph 2:1-3).

God hates liars. When men prefer lies over truth, the God of truth will send them lies to believe, as their just punishment (I Kgs 22:1-40; Ezek 14:6-11; II Thess 2:9-12). When men reject the obvious truth that is revealed in the created universe, he blinds their minds and leaves them to disgusting same-sex perversions (Ps 19:1-6; Is 44:9-20; Ro 1:18-27).

Therefore, let every reader tremble before the God of truth. Let every reader hate lying, exaggerating, slandering, perjuring, misrepresenting, fudging, or any other form of deceit. Let every reader prove and show his righteousness by always exalting honesty and truth, no matter the circumstances or situation. Let him be honest and open at all times.

Let every parent teach and enforce truth in the home, so that children grow up hating and avoiding lies and liars as much as their Creator. Parents should require sufficient research before opinions are declared. They should punish exaggeration. And on the hierarchical scale of offences, children should know clearly that lying is the worst sin of all.

Thankfully, the God of truth sent His Son to save some liars from their sins, which He did by paying the eternal debt of punishment for them. He then created in them a new heart that loves truth and hates lies (Eph 1:3-12; 2:1-10; 4:24). The gospel of Jesus Christ found in the Bible is the only source of truth in the world that can save a person from the devil’s deceit and destruction that is on every side (I Tim 6:3-5,20-21; II Tim 3:13).

 

Spiritual Training 12 February 2015

Posted: February 12, 2015 in 2 Corinthians, Acceptance, Bible Study, Bragging, Encourgement, Inspiration, Personal Growth, Spiritual Training, trust in the Lord with all your heart, Uncategorized, Under Gods Command
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Under Gods Command

2 Corinthians 11:16-33 I repeat: Let no one take me for a fool. But if you do, then tolerate me just as you would a fool, so that I may do a little boasting. 17In this self-confident boasting I am not talking as the Lord would, but as a fool. 18Since many are boasting in the way the world does, I too will boast. 19You gladly put up with fools since you are so wise! 20In fact, you even put up with anyone who enslaves you or exploits you or takes advantage of you or puts on airs or slaps you in the face. 21To my shame I admit that we were too weak for that! Whatever anyone else dares to boast about—I am speaking as a fool—I also dare to boast about. 22Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they Abraham’s descendants? So am I. 23Are they servants of Christ? (I am out of my mind to talk like this.) I am more. I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. 24Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. 25Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, 26I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers. 27I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. 28Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. 29Who is weak, and I do not feel weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not inwardly burn?  30If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness. 31The God and Father of the Lord Jesus, who is to be praised forever, knows that I am not lying. 32In Damascus the governor under King Aretas had the city of the Damascenes guarded in order to arrest me. 33But I was lowered in a basket from a window in the wall and slipped through his hands.

 

Paul presented his credentials to counteract the charges that the false teachers were making against him. He felt foolish boasting like this, but his list of credentials would silence any doubts about his authority. Paul wanted to keep the Corinthians from slipping under the spell of the false teachers and turning away from the gospel. Paul also gave a list of his credentials in his letter to the Philippians (see Philippians 3:4-8).

Paul was angry that the false teachers had impressed and deceived the Corinthians (11:13-15). Therefore, he had to reestablish his credibility and authority by listing the trials he had endured in his service for Christ. Some of these trials are recorded in the book of Acts (Acts 14:19; 16:22-24). Because Paul wrote this letter during his third missionary journey (Acts 18:23–21:17), his trials weren’t over. He would experience yet further difficulties and humiliations for the cause of Christ (see Acts 21:30-33; 22:24-30). Paul was sacrificing his life for the gospel, something the false teachers would never do. The trials and hurts we experience for Christ’s sake build our character, demonstrate our faith, and prepare us for further service to the Lord.

Sea travel was not as safe as it is today. Paul had been shipwrecked three times, and he would face another accident on his voyage to Rome (see Acts 27). By this time, Paul had probably made at least eight or nine voyages. 11:28-29 Not only did Paul face beatings and dangers, he also carried the daily concern for the young churches, worrying that they were staying true to the gospel and free from false teachings and inner strife. Paul was concerned for individuals in the churches he served.

King Aretas, king of the Nabateans (Edomites) from 9 B.C. to A.D. 40, had appointed a governor to oversee the Nabatean segment of the population in Damascus. Somehow the Jews in Damascus had been able to enlist this governor to help them try to capture Paul (see Acts 9:22-25). Paul gave a “for instance” here, describing his escape from Damascus in a basket lowered from a window in the city wall. Paul recounted this incident to show what he had endured for Christ. The false teachers couldn’t make such claims.

Lets bring it Home: If God has placed you in a position of leadership and authority, treat people with Paul’s kind of empathy and concern.

Proverbs 11:01 Wisdom for the Soul

Posted: February 11, 2015 in Acceptance, Bible Study, Encourgement, Inspiration, Personal Growth, Proverbs 11, Spiritual Training, trust in the Lord with all your heart, Uncategorized, Under Gods Command
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Under Gods Command 

Proverbs 11:1 The LORD abhors dishonest scales, but accurate weights are his delight. 

God is fair and right, and He expects you to be fair and right. He is perfect, and He expects you to be perfect. He hates cheating or compromise in your dealings; He loves honesty and integrity. He will ruin you professionally, if you cheat; but He will bless you, if you are just and fair. Solomon taught this lesson more than once (Pr 16:11; 20:10,23).

Before standardized weights and measures, and a government department to enforce them, merchants were responsible for accurate scales and weights. You bought and sold most of your commodities and foodstuffs by weight. This was no small matter, as the integrity and prosperity of the nation’s economy depended on trustworthy transactions.

Business integrity is part of godliness. Jehovah counts economic cheating or compromise to be an abomination. This word means a combination of disgust and hatred; abhorrence, detestation, loathing. In the Bible it also describes God’s attitude toward child sacrifice (Deut 12:31; 18:10-12), sodomy (Lev 18:22; 20:13), and similar perverse sins.

If you want to get ahead, then be scrupulously careful in all your transactions, even making sure your motives are just and pure (Pr 11:3; 19:1; Pr 20:7,14), and looking out with special care for widows, orphans, and the poor (Pr 23:10-11; 22:9). It is far better to be generous and liberal than to be cheap and stingy (Pr 11:24-27; Eccl 11:1-6; Is 32:8).

The omniscient God, seeing and knowing all things, takes very close interest in the ounces and pounds, liters and pints, dollars and cents, of your daily life. Let every greedy and stingy thief beware! He does not watch from a distance. He closely watches you tip a waitress or sell a used car. He watches you at the time clock and filing expense reports.

You will never get ahead cheating. And only blind fools would think it for even a second. It is far better to pay and perform beyond expectations, than to cut corners or shortchange anyone. Generosity is far superior to frugality. It is a very small mind, motivated by a dead soul, which thinks stinginess is how to get ahead (Pr 11:24-26; 28:8). A large mind, directed by a loving and generous heart, is God’s delight. He will bless the righteous.

Godly men are perfectly honest. They never take advantage of others. They go beyond bare duty; they pay more than their share; they keep every term of a contract; they tip generously; they pay debts on time; they despise purloining, or small thefts; they never lay out sick, when they are well; they disclose all problems with things they sell; they do not barter down a price, then call it a great deal; they communicate promptly and openly.

The Lord avenges any defrauding (I Thes 4:6; I Cor 6:8). He measures every relationship and transaction with His holy and divine scales of perfect righteousness. Have you been found wanting? Your prayers will stop at the ceiling (Pr 15:29; Ps 66:18); He will blow against you (Pr 13:15; Ps 34:16); you will never get ahead (Pr 13:11; 20:21; Jer 17:11). If you are froward in business dealings with others, He will be froward to you (Ps 18:26).

The Lord delights in honest men (Pr 12:22; Ps 11:7; Luke 6:37-38). What a glorious blessing to have the Most High delighting in you for your daily integrity! Watch every trade! Please every man! Owe no man anything! Be void of offence before God and men! Let the pure honesty and generosity of the Lord Jesus Christ be seen in your every action.

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