(Pro 31:1 KJV) The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.
I find it interesting that this chapter in Proverbs comes from a woman. One of the issues that we face today involves the place of women in society. I come from a denomination that has always ordained women to preach. Last week I attended a large church that would call that heretical. Here we see a clear statement that a woman, although she did not do the writing, is the source of a chapter in the Bible. If you do a word search on “prophetess” you will find a number of places that women served in this role both in the OT and NT. One of the judges was a woman.
This content is “taught” (3256) to this king by his mother. This should give reinforcement to the place of women in influencing the next generation and the impact they have on society.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
Don't Write Your Own Bible
(Proverbs 30:6 KJV) Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.
A word of caution to preachers, teachers and apologists. How often do we “add” (3254) to the “words” (1697) of God? This could also point toward the Revelation:
Revelation 22:18-19 I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God shall add to him the plagues which are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the tree of life and from the holy city, which are written in this book. (NASB)
We used to have a way of reporting statistics. After we would give some numbers we would add, “Ministerially speaking.” This would let people know that it might not be absolutely accurate. In preaching a lot of sermons contain ideas that are not firmly based in the word of God. They are our interpretations. Sometimes that is what preaching is all about, but there is a fine line sometimes. Pastors sometimes throw in their own opinions as if it were scripture. Beware of this.
Some books are offering their advice as if it is the word and it is really modern pop-psychology. I remember a big push for reconciliation. It was presented as our Biblical obligation. It was usually presented in the context of racial reconciliation. The only problem is that the word is usually used in the Bible to discuss reconciliation between God and man. Be careful that what you are pushing is consistently grounded in scripture.
This would also be a caution to those who publish paraphrases of the Bible. Sometimes the “modern” equivalent of the Greek and Hebrew is in your imagination, not the text. Beware. Too much license in proclaiming truth will cause God to “reprove” (3198) us.
Recently I read The Sermon on the Mount by D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones. In the passage about turning the other cheek, etc., he goes into great detail how the scholars of Israel had been adding the traditions of the elders to the Word of God. Jesus works on clarifying the difference. He says they were adding to the words of God. Let’s not make the same mistake.
A word of caution to preachers, teachers and apologists. How often do we “add” (3254) to the “words” (1697) of God? This could also point toward the Revelation:
Revelation 22:18-19 I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God shall add to him the plagues which are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the tree of life and from the holy city, which are written in this book. (NASB)
We used to have a way of reporting statistics. After we would give some numbers we would add, “Ministerially speaking.” This would let people know that it might not be absolutely accurate. In preaching a lot of sermons contain ideas that are not firmly based in the word of God. They are our interpretations. Sometimes that is what preaching is all about, but there is a fine line sometimes. Pastors sometimes throw in their own opinions as if it were scripture. Beware of this.
Some books are offering their advice as if it is the word and it is really modern pop-psychology. I remember a big push for reconciliation. It was presented as our Biblical obligation. It was usually presented in the context of racial reconciliation. The only problem is that the word is usually used in the Bible to discuss reconciliation between God and man. Be careful that what you are pushing is consistently grounded in scripture.
This would also be a caution to those who publish paraphrases of the Bible. Sometimes the “modern” equivalent of the Greek and Hebrew is in your imagination, not the text. Beware. Too much license in proclaiming truth will cause God to “reprove” (3198) us.
Recently I read The Sermon on the Mount by D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones. In the passage about turning the other cheek, etc., he goes into great detail how the scholars of Israel had been adding the traditions of the elders to the Word of God. Jesus works on clarifying the difference. He says they were adding to the words of God. Let’s not make the same mistake.
Monday, July 26, 2010
If the Shoe Fits
(Pro 26:1 KJV) As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest, so honour is not seemly for a fool.
My first reading shows three targets of the proverbs in this chapter. Later readings show more than three. The first is the “fool” (3684) {end}. The fool is the sole target of verses 1-12. Later we will come upon those wise in their own eyes (verse 12), the sluggard (verse 13), the deceiver (verse 19), the contentious (verse 21), whisperer (verse 22), the hater (verse 24) and the liar (verse 28).
It is not “seemly" (fitting NASB (5000) that we “honor” (3519b) the fool. How often do we violate this in our public meetings? How often do we praise people who do not deserve praise? All of us have been to meetings where someone is introduced with fawning. It can get embarrassing to everyone involved. We know what is said is not true and yet it continues to happen. When I am at a secular event I can make allowances, but why does it happen in the church? It is not fitting or proper. Because of this I would even be willing to lump it with sin.
Look at the categories listed above that are covered in this chapter. Recognize them for what they are. That does not mean we are supposed to insult them with the truth, but we are to avoid honoring them for what they are not.
My first reading shows three targets of the proverbs in this chapter. Later readings show more than three. The first is the “fool” (3684) {end}. The fool is the sole target of verses 1-12. Later we will come upon those wise in their own eyes (verse 12), the sluggard (verse 13), the deceiver (verse 19), the contentious (verse 21), whisperer (verse 22), the hater (verse 24) and the liar (verse 28).
It is not “seemly" (fitting NASB (5000) that we “honor” (3519b) the fool. How often do we violate this in our public meetings? How often do we praise people who do not deserve praise? All of us have been to meetings where someone is introduced with fawning. It can get embarrassing to everyone involved. We know what is said is not true and yet it continues to happen. When I am at a secular event I can make allowances, but why does it happen in the church? It is not fitting or proper. Because of this I would even be willing to lump it with sin.
Look at the categories listed above that are covered in this chapter. Recognize them for what they are. That does not mean we are supposed to insult them with the truth, but we are to avoid honoring them for what they are not.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Removing the Dross
(Pro 25:4 KJV) Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel for the finer.
I hesitate on how to interpret this verse for today. I see the need to “take away” (1898) the “dross” (5509) of our lives, both spiritual and temporal. There are many applications to that. We sometimes focus only on the spiritual life and the sin in our hearts. Without taking away from that, I think it may also be a reminder to remove the activities that keep us from being pure. Those activities may be a natural part of our life, just as silver has natural impurities. They may be artificial. They must be removed.There is a quote that was attributed to John Wesley but I have not been able to verify. At this point I can only paraphrase it anyway. It went something like this: Whatever takes away from your ability to live right, whatever dulls your sense of spiritual awareness, whatever makes it hard for you to act in liberty, etc.; for you, that is a sin.
How many TV shows or movies fit into those categories? What books, magazines and even cartoons bring this result? What leisure activities contribute to these failures? By themselves they may be harmless, but if they keep us from being what God wants us to be, they are sins.
Silver was one of the first metals to be used by man because it was found in a relatively pure state and could be beaten into shapes. Silver can be found to make into jewelry and such but it is not pure silver, thus it has different characteristics and less value than smelted silver.
This type of silver does not have the “dross” (5509) removed. To be useful to God we must be cleansed of the sin and habits that impregnate our personalities and nature. The root word has the idea of backsliding. Fight it.
I hesitate on how to interpret this verse for today. I see the need to “take away” (1898) the “dross” (5509) of our lives, both spiritual and temporal. There are many applications to that. We sometimes focus only on the spiritual life and the sin in our hearts. Without taking away from that, I think it may also be a reminder to remove the activities that keep us from being pure. Those activities may be a natural part of our life, just as silver has natural impurities. They may be artificial. They must be removed.There is a quote that was attributed to John Wesley but I have not been able to verify. At this point I can only paraphrase it anyway. It went something like this: Whatever takes away from your ability to live right, whatever dulls your sense of spiritual awareness, whatever makes it hard for you to act in liberty, etc.; for you, that is a sin.
How many TV shows or movies fit into those categories? What books, magazines and even cartoons bring this result? What leisure activities contribute to these failures? By themselves they may be harmless, but if they keep us from being what God wants us to be, they are sins.
Silver was one of the first metals to be used by man because it was found in a relatively pure state and could be beaten into shapes. Silver can be found to make into jewelry and such but it is not pure silver, thus it has different characteristics and less value than smelted silver.
This type of silver does not have the “dross” (5509) removed. To be useful to God we must be cleansed of the sin and habits that impregnate our personalities and nature. The root word has the idea of backsliding. Fight it.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Envy of Evil
(Pro 24:1 KJV) Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.
When we see a command in the Bible, it is in response to an existing condition of need. We would not have any of the letters of Paul if he were not responding to specific issues in the early church. In the same way, commands like this are not hypothetical shots in the dark. They are not God guessing at what might be helpful in some situations. They are universal principles that reflect on the human condition and our need for knowledge of the truth.
We don’t like to admit it, but we are “envious” (7065) of people around us. It doesn’t always run away and control us. It doesn’t drive us to robbing banks and stealing from the poor. Yet there is something in our heart when we are in a house that has central air when we have window air conditioners. There is something about getting a ride in someone’s new car when ours has broken down again. There is something about watching people give orders and seeing them obeyed. If these people are not serving Jesus, then they are serving the enemy. We fall into the trap of envy or covetousness.
“Evil” (7463a) exists. It is brought up frequently in Proverbs. We don’t like to admit it. Too often we are consumed with the lives and activities of the evil of the world. I read a blog recently that stated that a major world event received 20 seconds of mention on only one network and the arrest of a teen age celebrity was covered widely and by over 20 minutes on that same network. Why? Because people like us watch it. We are attracted to it. We become consumers of evil. What would happen if Christians would totally stop watching some of these programs? What would happen if all Christians would cancel their subscriptions to magazines and cable that were offensive? One thing is sure: We would have a lot of Christians who might get bored enough to actually start reading their Bibles again.
Update: I made a typo change in the last paragraph.
When we see a command in the Bible, it is in response to an existing condition of need. We would not have any of the letters of Paul if he were not responding to specific issues in the early church. In the same way, commands like this are not hypothetical shots in the dark. They are not God guessing at what might be helpful in some situations. They are universal principles that reflect on the human condition and our need for knowledge of the truth.
We don’t like to admit it, but we are “envious” (7065) of people around us. It doesn’t always run away and control us. It doesn’t drive us to robbing banks and stealing from the poor. Yet there is something in our heart when we are in a house that has central air when we have window air conditioners. There is something about getting a ride in someone’s new car when ours has broken down again. There is something about watching people give orders and seeing them obeyed. If these people are not serving Jesus, then they are serving the enemy. We fall into the trap of envy or covetousness.
“Evil” (7463a) exists. It is brought up frequently in Proverbs. We don’t like to admit it. Too often we are consumed with the lives and activities of the evil of the world. I read a blog recently that stated that a major world event received 20 seconds of mention on only one network and the arrest of a teen age celebrity was covered widely and by over 20 minutes on that same network. Why? Because people like us watch it. We are attracted to it. We become consumers of evil. What would happen if Christians would totally stop watching some of these programs? What would happen if all Christians would cancel their subscriptions to magazines and cable that were offensive? One thing is sure: We would have a lot of Christians who might get bored enough to actually start reading their Bibles again.
Update: I made a typo change in the last paragraph.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Do justice
(Pro 21:3 KJV) To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.
This is another theme that is often repeated in the Word. It is summarized well in Micah 6:6-8. If you don’t know that passage, it might be a good one to memorize at least verse 8.
I find it interesting that we are to “do” (6213a) “justice" (righteousness NASB) (6666) and “judgment" (justice NASB) (4941). The KJV word "justice" is the Hebrew word for righteousness. I have just been listening to a sermon by a Calvinist brother who claimed that we cannot do righteousness. There seems to be a misunderstanding somewhere. Might I suggest a reading of Proverbs instead of the Institutes?
We have elevated “sacrifice” (2077) to the level of idol. We do not sacrifice animals any more but we do other things that make us feel like we are giving to God. The problem is that we begin to substitute rituals for obedience. One reason God is telling them sacrifice is not the end of all ends is because the Perfect Lamb of God is going to take care of the need for altar sacrifice. He will do it on the cross. It is like trying to mow the lawn with a pair of scissors, one blade at a time, just before the professional gardener arrives with his power mower.
God is still expecting more that reading the Four Spiritual Laws or praying a prayer. He wants us to live in righteousness and justice. That is hard because it demands a full time commitment to following Jesus. We hide behind ritual, tithes, witnessing and other activities that release us from the demands of godliness. It is much easier to meet the demands of legalism and ritualistic religion than walking the Highway of Holiness.
This is another theme that is often repeated in the Word. It is summarized well in Micah 6:6-8. If you don’t know that passage, it might be a good one to memorize at least verse 8.
I find it interesting that we are to “do” (6213a) “justice" (righteousness NASB) (6666) and “judgment" (justice NASB) (4941). The KJV word "justice" is the Hebrew word for righteousness. I have just been listening to a sermon by a Calvinist brother who claimed that we cannot do righteousness. There seems to be a misunderstanding somewhere. Might I suggest a reading of Proverbs instead of the Institutes?
We have elevated “sacrifice” (2077) to the level of idol. We do not sacrifice animals any more but we do other things that make us feel like we are giving to God. The problem is that we begin to substitute rituals for obedience. One reason God is telling them sacrifice is not the end of all ends is because the Perfect Lamb of God is going to take care of the need for altar sacrifice. He will do it on the cross. It is like trying to mow the lawn with a pair of scissors, one blade at a time, just before the professional gardener arrives with his power mower.
God is still expecting more that reading the Four Spiritual Laws or praying a prayer. He wants us to live in righteousness and justice. That is hard because it demands a full time commitment to following Jesus. We hide behind ritual, tithes, witnessing and other activities that release us from the demands of godliness. It is much easier to meet the demands of legalism and ritualistic religion than walking the Highway of Holiness.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Being a Loner
(Pro 18:1 KJV) Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.
This is a place where I think the NASB is much more clear. Let me include that translation here:
PRO 18:1 He who separates himself seeks {his own} desire, #He quarrels against all sound wisdom. (NASB)
Are you a joiner or a loner? Some people seek to be part of a group. Some seek to have time alone. A pastor once shared an idea which I am sure was not original: Extroverts get energy from being with people, introverts are drained by it. I am more of an introvert, a loner. I can enjoy people but I have no problem being by myself. This verse and the next have some wisdom I need to be reminded of. They speak against being an isolated guru. I am one who “separates” (6504) myself. I don’t think of it as setting myself above others as much as just preferring peace and quiet.
On the positive side, I spend much of the time for worship and prayer. Part of this experience is listening and it is hard to listen when others keep distracting you. At least I find that true.
On the negative side I face the danger of thinking I have all the answers.
The world “seeks” (1245) its own “desire” (8378). We have the free will to decide what we will seek. Jesus told us to seek first the kingdom of God. Jesus said seek and you will find. There is a lot of leeway to determine the direction of our energy. It is used fairly frequently in Proverbs.
What is your “desire” (8378)? We need to think seriously about the things Jesus said and Paul wrote. As saints, we are to have died to our own personal desires. We are supposed to be living for Jesus. How often we rationalize our way into calling our will God’s will. John Wesley made an interesting observation in his journals:
“...doubtless a pious man, but a thorough enthusiast; guided, in all his steps, not by the written word, but by his own imagination; which he calls the Spirit.”1
Too often in our Christian walk we confuse the Spirit with our desires.
1 Wesley, John. The Works of John Wesley, Volume IV, Third Edition.
Kansas City: Beacon Hill Press of Kansas City, 1979, p. 50.
This is a place where I think the NASB is much more clear. Let me include that translation here:
PRO 18:1 He who separates himself seeks {his own} desire, #He quarrels against all sound wisdom. (NASB)
Are you a joiner or a loner? Some people seek to be part of a group. Some seek to have time alone. A pastor once shared an idea which I am sure was not original: Extroverts get energy from being with people, introverts are drained by it. I am more of an introvert, a loner. I can enjoy people but I have no problem being by myself. This verse and the next have some wisdom I need to be reminded of. They speak against being an isolated guru. I am one who “separates” (6504) myself. I don’t think of it as setting myself above others as much as just preferring peace and quiet.
On the positive side, I spend much of the time for worship and prayer. Part of this experience is listening and it is hard to listen when others keep distracting you. At least I find that true.
On the negative side I face the danger of thinking I have all the answers.
The world “seeks” (1245) its own “desire” (8378). We have the free will to decide what we will seek. Jesus told us to seek first the kingdom of God. Jesus said seek and you will find. There is a lot of leeway to determine the direction of our energy. It is used fairly frequently in Proverbs.
What is your “desire” (8378)? We need to think seriously about the things Jesus said and Paul wrote. As saints, we are to have died to our own personal desires. We are supposed to be living for Jesus. How often we rationalize our way into calling our will God’s will. John Wesley made an interesting observation in his journals:
“...doubtless a pious man, but a thorough enthusiast; guided, in all his steps, not by the written word, but by his own imagination; which he calls the Spirit.”1
Too often in our Christian walk we confuse the Spirit with our desires.
1 Wesley, John. The Works of John Wesley, Volume IV, Third Edition.
Kansas City: Beacon Hill Press of Kansas City, 1979, p. 50.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Fair Taxes
(Pro 17:26 KJV) Also to punish the just is not good, nor to strike princes for equity.
Let’s risk getting a little political. If Jesus is a part of everything in our life that includes our political opinions and actions. They say that the only things that are certain are death and taxes. So we work ourselves to death to pay our taxes. Here the Bible says we should not be punished for being successful in our hard work. Often our tax policies and redistribution of wealth go against this. When we have been good stewards and made the sacrifices needed for success some people want to “punish" (fine NASB) (6064) us for being “just" (righteous NASB) (6662).
Why do people cheat on their taxes and try to find ways around their “fair share?” Why do people deal in cash and try not to leave a paper trail? Why do people buy on the internet instead of from a local retailer? Because they feel like they have worked hard for what they have and resent the government trying to take a larger chunk away from them they do things that they will admit are not quite kosher.
Think about it next time you ask yourself, “How would Jesus want me to vote?”
Let’s risk getting a little political. If Jesus is a part of everything in our life that includes our political opinions and actions. They say that the only things that are certain are death and taxes. So we work ourselves to death to pay our taxes. Here the Bible says we should not be punished for being successful in our hard work. Often our tax policies and redistribution of wealth go against this. When we have been good stewards and made the sacrifices needed for success some people want to “punish" (fine NASB) (6064) us for being “just" (righteous NASB) (6662).
Why do people cheat on their taxes and try to find ways around their “fair share?” Why do people deal in cash and try not to leave a paper trail? Why do people buy on the internet instead of from a local retailer? Because they feel like they have worked hard for what they have and resent the government trying to take a larger chunk away from them they do things that they will admit are not quite kosher.
Think about it next time you ask yourself, “How would Jesus want me to vote?”
Friday, July 16, 2010
Divine Right of Kings
(Pro 16:12 KJV) It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness.
I teach world history. One of the themes I keep coming back to is the struggle between the crown and the plow. There have always been strong men who took power. There have always been working people who wanted to be left alone to raise their families. The elites have always tried to control the multitudes. At one point you had the idea called the Divine Right of Kings. This said that the king was appointed by God and so everyone else had to listen to him. This is a verse that the kings who believed in the Divine Right of Kings did not read or consider. This says that even kings are capable of being wrong. Abuse of power for personal pleasure is an “abomination” (8441), even when a king does it. This would be one of the verses that finally began to limit the power of kings. Even the head of state is to be under the law.
Political leaders have a responsibility before God. Here it talks about kings, but this would also apply to prime ministers and presidents. I might even apply to CEOs and police chiefs. We seem to divorce God’s values from our own. To many people define actions by leaders as “wickedness” (7562) when they are of the opposite political party instead of by the truth.
For those in positions of authority and power, heed this warning. The rest of us need to remember that our allegiance is to God and His Word.
I teach world history. One of the themes I keep coming back to is the struggle between the crown and the plow. There have always been strong men who took power. There have always been working people who wanted to be left alone to raise their families. The elites have always tried to control the multitudes. At one point you had the idea called the Divine Right of Kings. This said that the king was appointed by God and so everyone else had to listen to him. This is a verse that the kings who believed in the Divine Right of Kings did not read or consider. This says that even kings are capable of being wrong. Abuse of power for personal pleasure is an “abomination” (8441), even when a king does it. This would be one of the verses that finally began to limit the power of kings. Even the head of state is to be under the law.
Political leaders have a responsibility before God. Here it talks about kings, but this would also apply to prime ministers and presidents. I might even apply to CEOs and police chiefs. We seem to divorce God’s values from our own. To many people define actions by leaders as “wickedness” (7562) when they are of the opposite political party instead of by the truth.
For those in positions of authority and power, heed this warning. The rest of us need to remember that our allegiance is to God and His Word.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Keep Your Money
(Pro 15:8 KJV) The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.
Something I hear as I visit churches is a release from contributing to the offering that is given toward visitors. I have always thought this was a legitimate part of being “seeker friendly.” This verse gives the real reason why such a release is important. This verse puts it in OT language.
The most important reason to visit the temple was to offer a “sacrifice” (2077). This was a ritual that was intended to serve several purposes. It spoke of admitting to being a sinner and needing forgiveness. It was public. It cost money. Although it was an action, it was based on faith. Some people deny that this animal sacrifice had any real value but the OT repeatedly says that it brought atonement. Here is one example:
(Lev 5:10 KJV) And he shall offer the second for a burnt offering, according to the manner: and the priest shall make an atonement for him for his sin which he hath sinned, and it shall be forgiven him.
Notice that it clearly states that his sin will be forgiven. I would still say that this is ultimately because of the blood of Christ.
Sacrifice is not only worthless if you are a non-believer, but it is an “abomination” (8441). For the “so-called brother” who attends and gives but does not really believe I would say this is also a warning. Giving becomes a form of mocking God. I don’t know if you saw the movie “Lilies of the Field.” One scene stands out in my mind. The man who has been conned into rebuilding the chapel is talking to the owner of the bar who has said he does not believe in God. He has just made a large contribution to the rebuilding. He is asked why he donated if he did not believe. He shrugged and said, “Insurance.” God does not honor insurance from another company. There seem to be many places where the Bible points out that the goal of God is not sacrifices. Recent reading of Micah 6 leading up to verse 8 is one example.
Something I hear as I visit churches is a release from contributing to the offering that is given toward visitors. I have always thought this was a legitimate part of being “seeker friendly.” This verse gives the real reason why such a release is important. This verse puts it in OT language.
The most important reason to visit the temple was to offer a “sacrifice” (2077). This was a ritual that was intended to serve several purposes. It spoke of admitting to being a sinner and needing forgiveness. It was public. It cost money. Although it was an action, it was based on faith. Some people deny that this animal sacrifice had any real value but the OT repeatedly says that it brought atonement. Here is one example:
(Lev 5:10 KJV) And he shall offer the second for a burnt offering, according to the manner: and the priest shall make an atonement for him for his sin which he hath sinned, and it shall be forgiven him.
Notice that it clearly states that his sin will be forgiven. I would still say that this is ultimately because of the blood of Christ.
Sacrifice is not only worthless if you are a non-believer, but it is an “abomination” (8441). For the “so-called brother” who attends and gives but does not really believe I would say this is also a warning. Giving becomes a form of mocking God. I don’t know if you saw the movie “Lilies of the Field.” One scene stands out in my mind. The man who has been conned into rebuilding the chapel is talking to the owner of the bar who has said he does not believe in God. He has just made a large contribution to the rebuilding. He is asked why he donated if he did not believe. He shrugged and said, “Insurance.” God does not honor insurance from another company. There seem to be many places where the Bible points out that the goal of God is not sacrifices. Recent reading of Micah 6 leading up to verse 8 is one example.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Upright Fear
(Pro 14:2 KJV) He that walketh in his uprightness feareth the LORD: but he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him.
Here we see a different approach to the fear of the Lord. We don’t just talk, we show. We show by the choices we make and the paths we follow. A person chooses how he “walks” (1980). Sometimes we have no choice. Unfortunately life is like that. Usually we make choices. It can be the tone of voice we use. It can be the restaurants we pick to frequent, the books we read, the style of close we wear. The list could go on. Many of them seem like minor issues but they reflect what is going on in our heart. Do we dress modestly or to make a statement? What is the statement?
Many of our choices show our “uprightness” (3476). Or not. Take a simple choice like a T-shirt. I have discovered Shaka and Pro-Club. I discovered them because they have features I want. (I almost said need). They are heavy cotton. They have a tight neck. They are long. They are made in USA. They also have a feature I don’t like: They are expensive. I made the choice to buy them. I did not understand this would make me a celebrity at school. I have had kids say, “Is that a Shaka?” When I say yes they start telling all their friends that I am wearing a Shaka. For me it is a choice made on utility. For them it is a status symbol. I can wear them and be upright. They can’t. This is a silly example, but a real one. If it was a choice of a great T-shirt or paying my tithe, I would wear the “5 for $10" shirts. If it were a matter of paying off my credit card, I would go without a T-shirt. Uprightness is important to me. Righteousness should color every decision I make. It is all a part of fearing the Lord.
Here we see a different approach to the fear of the Lord. We don’t just talk, we show. We show by the choices we make and the paths we follow. A person chooses how he “walks” (1980). Sometimes we have no choice. Unfortunately life is like that. Usually we make choices. It can be the tone of voice we use. It can be the restaurants we pick to frequent, the books we read, the style of close we wear. The list could go on. Many of them seem like minor issues but they reflect what is going on in our heart. Do we dress modestly or to make a statement? What is the statement?
Many of our choices show our “uprightness” (3476). Or not. Take a simple choice like a T-shirt. I have discovered Shaka and Pro-Club. I discovered them because they have features I want. (I almost said need). They are heavy cotton. They have a tight neck. They are long. They are made in USA. They also have a feature I don’t like: They are expensive. I made the choice to buy them. I did not understand this would make me a celebrity at school. I have had kids say, “Is that a Shaka?” When I say yes they start telling all their friends that I am wearing a Shaka. For me it is a choice made on utility. For them it is a status symbol. I can wear them and be upright. They can’t. This is a silly example, but a real one. If it was a choice of a great T-shirt or paying my tithe, I would wear the “5 for $10" shirts. If it were a matter of paying off my credit card, I would go without a T-shirt. Uprightness is important to me. Righteousness should color every decision I make. It is all a part of fearing the Lord.
Monday, July 12, 2010
No Pain, No Gain
(Pro 12:1 KJV) Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.
The idea that learning must be fun comes from the devil. We see repeated references in Proverbs that “instruction" (discipline NASB) (4148) is the way to “knowledge” (1847). The word for “instruction" (4148) is defined as “discipline, chastening, correction.” It is translated as “discipline” fifteen times in the NASB and as “instruction” fourteen times. Whether we talk about discipline as a verb meaning correction or a noun meaning a course of study of self control, it still is not something that comes easy. It is work. One of the reason so many children are coming out of school with no skills is that the educators have been sold the bill of goods that all learning is fun.
Proverbs is certainly not politically correct. We continue to see then when people are called “brutish" {stupid NASB” (1198). It seems to mean “like an animal.” The KJV seems to get it closer to the mark. Notice that this accusation can be applied to both the person who receives “reproof” (8433b) and the person doing the reproving. Today few adults are willing to accept the burden of being the giver of discipline. We are see the result on the streets.
The idea that learning must be fun comes from the devil. We see repeated references in Proverbs that “instruction" (discipline NASB) (4148) is the way to “knowledge” (1847). The word for “instruction" (4148) is defined as “discipline, chastening, correction.” It is translated as “discipline” fifteen times in the NASB and as “instruction” fourteen times. Whether we talk about discipline as a verb meaning correction or a noun meaning a course of study of self control, it still is not something that comes easy. It is work. One of the reason so many children are coming out of school with no skills is that the educators have been sold the bill of goods that all learning is fun.
Proverbs is certainly not politically correct. We continue to see then when people are called “brutish" {stupid NASB” (1198). It seems to mean “like an animal.” The KJV seems to get it closer to the mark. Notice that this accusation can be applied to both the person who receives “reproof” (8433b) and the person doing the reproving. Today few adults are willing to accept the burden of being the giver of discipline. We are see the result on the streets.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
In a Pig's Nose
(Pro 11:22 KJV) As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion.
I have to love this.
I wonder what this would say if it were written by a woman.
The desired quality is not outward appearance but “discretion” (2940). I think we can assume that this is a concept that cuts across sexual lines. Outward adornment is not to be our focus. I don’t know if you ever shop in big malls, but I do it once in awhile to remind myself of why I don’t. I can do a very large mall in about 20 minutes. One thing I notice is that most of the stores are focused on snout decorations. I may be shoes and it may be health food but it is all designed to decorate the pig in us. God wants us to exercise inner beauty in things such as discretion.
I have to love this.
I wonder what this would say if it were written by a woman.
The desired quality is not outward appearance but “discretion” (2940). I think we can assume that this is a concept that cuts across sexual lines. Outward adornment is not to be our focus. I don’t know if you ever shop in big malls, but I do it once in awhile to remind myself of why I don’t. I can do a very large mall in about 20 minutes. One thing I notice is that most of the stores are focused on snout decorations. I may be shoes and it may be health food but it is all designed to decorate the pig in us. God wants us to exercise inner beauty in things such as discretion.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Hatred's Results
(Pro 10:12 KJV) Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.
I see “hatred” (8135) causing all sorts of problems. I see it in politics. People are willing to destroy the country because they hate a certain person. On the international scene I see this. Americans have no concept of real hate. In the Middle East generations are being taught to hate. I had a conversation with a young man who’s family came from Lebanon. He was born here and was one of the nicest guys you would ever want to meet. One day the conversation led to Israel and he made a calm statement that they all needed to be killed. The women had babies and the babies grew up to be soldiers. They all needed to be killed. He was totally serious and saw no problem with the statement. I repeat, he was a great guy. He was the kind of guy you would bring home to meet your daughter, except when it came to Jews.
This is how the world hates. We in America have been so saturated with the gospel that we don’t understand this. We think the world looks at things like we do. Not so.
This attitude “stireth” (5782) “strifes” (4090). When a person is motivated by hate instead of love it causes no end of problems.
I see “hatred” (8135) causing all sorts of problems. I see it in politics. People are willing to destroy the country because they hate a certain person. On the international scene I see this. Americans have no concept of real hate. In the Middle East generations are being taught to hate. I had a conversation with a young man who’s family came from Lebanon. He was born here and was one of the nicest guys you would ever want to meet. One day the conversation led to Israel and he made a calm statement that they all needed to be killed. The women had babies and the babies grew up to be soldiers. They all needed to be killed. He was totally serious and saw no problem with the statement. I repeat, he was a great guy. He was the kind of guy you would bring home to meet your daughter, except when it came to Jews.
This is how the world hates. We in America have been so saturated with the gospel that we don’t understand this. We think the world looks at things like we do. Not so.
This attitude “stireth” (5782) “strifes” (4090). When a person is motivated by hate instead of love it causes no end of problems.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Fear Is the Beginning
(Pro 9:10 KJV) The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
This is the verse people remember when they hear “the fear of the Lord.” It is one of many in Proverbs. Each one seems to have a different focus.
“Fear” (3374) is like many other conditions and actions. It is not the emotion itself, but its target, that determines if it is right or wrong. In many situations fear causes our body to ramp up and helps in self-preservation. In some cases fear keeps us from doing something stupid. When it comes to God we need to start with a healthy foundation of fear. That means we have begun to see who God is and what His character is. At least we have enough fear to move ahead.
This is the verse people remember when they hear “the fear of the Lord.” It is one of many in Proverbs. Each one seems to have a different focus.
“Fear” (3374) is like many other conditions and actions. It is not the emotion itself, but its target, that determines if it is right or wrong. In many situations fear causes our body to ramp up and helps in self-preservation. In some cases fear keeps us from doing something stupid. When it comes to God we need to start with a healthy foundation of fear. That means we have begun to see who God is and what His character is. At least we have enough fear to move ahead.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Hating
(Pro 8:13 KJV) The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.
Most people are familiar with Proverbs 9:10.
(Pro 9:10 KJV) The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
We have another definition of what it is to “fear” (3374) the Lord. Too often we have Mercy Christians who want to understand and support rather than judge. If that is done with our eyes open it is possible to do it spiritually. It is exercising the spiritual gift of mercy. But if we refuse to see evil as evil, we have a problem.
One of the repeated truths in Proverbs is the recognition of evil. We are to “hate” (8130) “evil” (7451b). In order to hate it, you have to recognize and acknowledge it as evil. Too often I hear people claiming to be believers who don’t want to call evil by its name.
Evil is defined. It is not just some general value that might be out there somewhere. Evil is ever present in the people around us and possibly in ourselves. We can see it, and, if we have the courage, identify it. This is important in dealing with other people. It helps us know who to trust and cooperate with. This is important in ourselves. It helps us to see the seeds of behavior that can be weeded out. I think this infers we can see evil and do something about it.
Evil is “pride” (1344). Evil is “arrogance” (1344). Notice this is the same word. Strange.
There is an evil “way” (1870). When you see these characteristics, recognize it as a way of life, not a temporary quirk. It is not cute or needing understanding, it is evil.
Evil is a “perverted” (8419) “mouth” (6310).
Proverbs will continue to define evil. It exists.
Most people are familiar with Proverbs 9:10.
(Pro 9:10 KJV) The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
We have another definition of what it is to “fear” (3374) the Lord. Too often we have Mercy Christians who want to understand and support rather than judge. If that is done with our eyes open it is possible to do it spiritually. It is exercising the spiritual gift of mercy. But if we refuse to see evil as evil, we have a problem.
One of the repeated truths in Proverbs is the recognition of evil. We are to “hate” (8130) “evil” (7451b). In order to hate it, you have to recognize and acknowledge it as evil. Too often I hear people claiming to be believers who don’t want to call evil by its name.
Evil is defined. It is not just some general value that might be out there somewhere. Evil is ever present in the people around us and possibly in ourselves. We can see it, and, if we have the courage, identify it. This is important in dealing with other people. It helps us know who to trust and cooperate with. This is important in ourselves. It helps us to see the seeds of behavior that can be weeded out. I think this infers we can see evil and do something about it.
Evil is “pride” (1344). Evil is “arrogance” (1344). Notice this is the same word. Strange.
There is an evil “way” (1870). When you see these characteristics, recognize it as a way of life, not a temporary quirk. It is not cute or needing understanding, it is evil.
Evil is a “perverted” (8419) “mouth” (6310).
Proverbs will continue to define evil. It exists.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Commandments and Life
(Pro 7:2 KJV) Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye.
This is another verse that tells me to be an Arminian, not a Calvinist. It is very clear that we are to “keep” (8104) the “commandments” (4687). I don’t care how you want to define that. You can limit it to the Ten Commandments. You can make it the law of love. Whatever you want to put in as the commandments, we are still told that we must obey them. That means that, if I want to “live” (2421a), I must respond. We are saved by grace, through faith. No believer questions that because it is a simple statement out of the word. My assertion is that statement of theological truth does not rule out the demand for obedience.
Why do Christians have such a hard time accepting the importance of the “commandments” (4687) of God? Maybe real Christians don’t. Maybe the ones who have trouble are the unrepentant. Commandments mean rules and standards. Rules and standards put limitations on our freedom. We don’t want that. We want the benefits of grace but not the limitations of holiness.
We are to focus our attention on the commandments of God. There is a reward: we will “live” (2421a). It would follow that if we don’t, we will die. Makes sense to me.
This is another verse that tells me to be an Arminian, not a Calvinist. It is very clear that we are to “keep” (8104) the “commandments” (4687). I don’t care how you want to define that. You can limit it to the Ten Commandments. You can make it the law of love. Whatever you want to put in as the commandments, we are still told that we must obey them. That means that, if I want to “live” (2421a), I must respond. We are saved by grace, through faith. No believer questions that because it is a simple statement out of the word. My assertion is that statement of theological truth does not rule out the demand for obedience.
Why do Christians have such a hard time accepting the importance of the “commandments” (4687) of God? Maybe real Christians don’t. Maybe the ones who have trouble are the unrepentant. Commandments mean rules and standards. Rules and standards put limitations on our freedom. We don’t want that. We want the benefits of grace but not the limitations of holiness.
We are to focus our attention on the commandments of God. There is a reward: we will “live” (2421a). It would follow that if we don’t, we will die. Makes sense to me.
Literal or Figurative
(Pro 7:1 KJV) My son, keep my words, and lay up my commandments with thee.
This entire proverb at first seems to be a warning against sexual immorality. Literally that is the case, but when you compare the second part with the first, I wonder. The literal part is easy for us to accept: rejecting adultery is a given for believers, or at least it should be. The figurative applications hit closer to home for most of us because we are so good at making excuses and exceptions for ourselves.
This entire proverb at first seems to be a warning against sexual immorality. Literally that is the case, but when you compare the second part with the first, I wonder. The literal part is easy for us to accept: rejecting adultery is a given for believers, or at least it should be. The figurative applications hit closer to home for most of us because we are so good at making excuses and exceptions for ourselves.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Nap Time
(Pro 6:9-11 KJV) How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep? Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man.
Proverbs deals with the causes of “poverty” (7389) repeatedly. Today’s popular reason for poverty is always oppression; the rich capitalist has stolen his money from the sweat and pain of the working classes. That is classic Marxist propaganda. The reason it takes hold is that it is ideological, so facts don’t matter, and there is are occasions in which it is true. Proverbs deals with oppression in a different place. Oppression happens. But that is not the cause of poverty being presented here.
We are talking about the sluggard. The sluggard faces poverty because he is lazy. See comments in verse 6. One tendency that the sluggard has is to spend too much time in bed. These verses cover sleeping in and taking naps. We are talking about a basic tendency to avoid work. Remember this is a farm culture. On a farm there are always things to do and the difference between a prosperous farm and a poverty farm can be the amount of work that goes into the property.
If oppression is the problem, by the rich and the politically powerful, that is an issue to be dealt with. If laziness is the problem, it must also be dealt with. It won’t go away by blaming other people for your poverty.
Proverbs deals with the causes of “poverty” (7389) repeatedly. Today’s popular reason for poverty is always oppression; the rich capitalist has stolen his money from the sweat and pain of the working classes. That is classic Marxist propaganda. The reason it takes hold is that it is ideological, so facts don’t matter, and there is are occasions in which it is true. Proverbs deals with oppression in a different place. Oppression happens. But that is not the cause of poverty being presented here.
We are talking about the sluggard. The sluggard faces poverty because he is lazy. See comments in verse 6. One tendency that the sluggard has is to spend too much time in bed. These verses cover sleeping in and taking naps. We are talking about a basic tendency to avoid work. Remember this is a farm culture. On a farm there are always things to do and the difference between a prosperous farm and a poverty farm can be the amount of work that goes into the property.
If oppression is the problem, by the rich and the politically powerful, that is an issue to be dealt with. If laziness is the problem, it must also be dealt with. It won’t go away by blaming other people for your poverty.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Learning to Lean
(Pro 5:1 KJV) My son, attend unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my understanding:
What good is “wisdom” (2451) if no one will “attend" (give attention NASB) (7181)? There may be a picture in Hebrew that does not come through in English. To “attend” (7181) has the idea of inclining your ears. Picture thinking you hear a sound and turning your head to get the best angle for hearing.
Our thinking must “bow" (incline NASB) (5186) toward hearing and “understanding” (8394). I think this says we have to prepare ourselves to listen. Think of this a leaning toward. This is the second part of the picture.
Body language says a lot about people and their attitude. People lean to show how they feel about someone.
One of the key points here is that the person in authority has something to share and it is worth listening to what they have to say. We live in an individualistic culture. We want to do our own thing and make our own decisions . That is not an automatic problem, but we must make those decisions based on the wisdom given to us by God and the godly people He has put in authority.
Even more important is our willingness to bow toward the Word and what it offers us.
What good is “wisdom” (2451) if no one will “attend" (give attention NASB) (7181)? There may be a picture in Hebrew that does not come through in English. To “attend” (7181) has the idea of inclining your ears. Picture thinking you hear a sound and turning your head to get the best angle for hearing.
Our thinking must “bow" (incline NASB) (5186) toward hearing and “understanding” (8394). I think this says we have to prepare ourselves to listen. Think of this a leaning toward. This is the second part of the picture.
Body language says a lot about people and their attitude. People lean to show how they feel about someone.
One of the key points here is that the person in authority has something to share and it is worth listening to what they have to say. We live in an individualistic culture. We want to do our own thing and make our own decisions . That is not an automatic problem, but we must make those decisions based on the wisdom given to us by God and the godly people He has put in authority.
Even more important is our willingness to bow toward the Word and what it offers us.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Self Serve
(Pro 4:7 KJV) Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
Here is an interesting, but obvious, truth. In order to get something, begin getting it.
Start small. Start seeking. Above all, start. We have lost the art of life long learning. We want everything in a convenient package. And we want it now. Think of the labeling of packages. “Complete” and “Everything you need to...” are on the labels. “Ready in minutes.” “Just heat and eat.” “No assembly required.” We want it and we want it now.
At the same time we know that you get better food at a real restaurant than at a fast food drive-through. Places that want to attack us say “Home cooking.” There is something in us that knows it takes time to produce quality.
I don’t drink but I know that the most expensive alcoholic beverages are aged the longest. The best cheeses are aged. Bacon is better when it is cooked long and slow. You get the idea.
The same applies in our spiritual lives. We need to get started. We need to take the time. We need to pay attention. We need to begin and keep at it until it is done. And for us is will not be done until Jesus brings out the trumpets.
After time “acquiring” (7075) will bring “understanding” (998).
Here is an interesting, but obvious, truth. In order to get something, begin getting it.
Start small. Start seeking. Above all, start. We have lost the art of life long learning. We want everything in a convenient package. And we want it now. Think of the labeling of packages. “Complete” and “Everything you need to...” are on the labels. “Ready in minutes.” “Just heat and eat.” “No assembly required.” We want it and we want it now.
At the same time we know that you get better food at a real restaurant than at a fast food drive-through. Places that want to attack us say “Home cooking.” There is something in us that knows it takes time to produce quality.
I don’t drink but I know that the most expensive alcoholic beverages are aged the longest. The best cheeses are aged. Bacon is better when it is cooked long and slow. You get the idea.
The same applies in our spiritual lives. We need to get started. We need to take the time. We need to pay attention. We need to begin and keep at it until it is done. And for us is will not be done until Jesus brings out the trumpets.
After time “acquiring” (7075) will bring “understanding” (998).
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Smelly Christians
(Pro 3:4 KJV) So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.
This brings to mind a description of Jesus:
(Luk 2:52 KJV) And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
One of our goals is to be like Jesus. Jesus did not automatically turn people off. He drew people to Himself. We are to model that type of behavior. When you look at things like the fruit of the Spirit and descriptions of love in the Bible you find people that are very easy to like and be with. An obnoxious Christian is an oxymoron. You are either one or the other.
Having said that, we are not to be conformed to this world as Paul warned in Romans 12:2. We also have Paul pointing out that we will be the aroma (savour) of death to people who are spiritually dying.
(2Co 2:14-16 KJV) Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?
The natural man has an aversion to the things of God. We have the Holy Spirit. There is a natural aversion to us and to what we have become. This is true even if we are not trying to push out way of believing off onto others. When we are at a party and don’t drink, people are offended. When we are at work, and don’t cheat, people are offended. In numerous ways that are natural to us, people are offended. Jesus offended when He healed on the Sabbath. He offended when He pointed out simple truth from the OT. Wear the smell with courage.
This brings to mind a description of Jesus:
(Luk 2:52 KJV) And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
One of our goals is to be like Jesus. Jesus did not automatically turn people off. He drew people to Himself. We are to model that type of behavior. When you look at things like the fruit of the Spirit and descriptions of love in the Bible you find people that are very easy to like and be with. An obnoxious Christian is an oxymoron. You are either one or the other.
Having said that, we are not to be conformed to this world as Paul warned in Romans 12:2. We also have Paul pointing out that we will be the aroma (savour) of death to people who are spiritually dying.
(2Co 2:14-16 KJV) Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?
The natural man has an aversion to the things of God. We have the Holy Spirit. There is a natural aversion to us and to what we have become. This is true even if we are not trying to push out way of believing off onto others. When we are at a party and don’t drink, people are offended. When we are at work, and don’t cheat, people are offended. In numerous ways that are natural to us, people are offended. Jesus offended when He healed on the Sabbath. He offended when He pointed out simple truth from the OT. Wear the smell with courage.
WiFi Again
It looks like I will have access to the internet for about a week. After that it will be problematic again.
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