(Pro 30:8 KJV) Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me:
If you compare translations you see a different English word used to describe the Hebrew when it comes to “vanity” (7723) in the KJV and “deception” in the NASB. The difficulty is that the word has a lot of nuances and any of them will work. It is even better to try for the whole spectrum. That probably can’t be done in English.
The definition includes emptiness, nothingness, vanity, lying, worthless conduct. You can see why a righteous seeker would want to stay away from these things, or as the verse says, have them stay away from him. The secular culture uses words like integrity and moral but does not mean them. That is a constant battle we have gotten used to. We also need to be alert to the drift in the church to embrace the secular concepts and reject the Biblical standards.
So? This is a good daily prayer. It was good in Solomon’s day. It is vital today.
Monday, September 30, 2019
Sunday, September 29, 2019
Trap Map
(Pro 29:18 KJV) Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.
We have a lot of confusion when it comes to the “law” (8451) [torah]. We tend to think of the law as restraint. Laws are to keep us from having fun. Laws are confining. In a sense that is true but when we talk about the laws of God we need to understand that they are written to make our lives complete. When the government make laws I tend to have a picture of some little man who hates chocolate making up rules against eating chocolate. We all know people who get their jollies from controlling others. God is not like that.
In the New Testament it is explained that the purpose of the law is to show us where the quicksand is. Picture being told to cross a swamp without that knowledge. When the law says, “Don’t” there is a reason.
So? The greatest happiness comes from knowing where the traps are. The amazing thing is that if we follow the law we don’t even know the tragedy that we are avoiding. Sounds like good news to me.
We have a lot of confusion when it comes to the “law” (8451) [torah]. We tend to think of the law as restraint. Laws are to keep us from having fun. Laws are confining. In a sense that is true but when we talk about the laws of God we need to understand that they are written to make our lives complete. When the government make laws I tend to have a picture of some little man who hates chocolate making up rules against eating chocolate. We all know people who get their jollies from controlling others. God is not like that.
In the New Testament it is explained that the purpose of the law is to show us where the quicksand is. Picture being told to cross a swamp without that knowledge. When the law says, “Don’t” there is a reason.
So? The greatest happiness comes from knowing where the traps are. The amazing thing is that if we follow the law we don’t even know the tragedy that we are avoiding. Sounds like good news to me.
Saturday, September 28, 2019
Trust Diet
(Pro 28:25 KJV) He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the LORD shall be made fat.
Notice that the KJV says we will be “made fat” (1878) while the NASB has “prosper”. The KJV says literally what the Hebrew says while the NASB tries to adjust to our culture where being fat is a bad thing. Modern Americans don’t understand that historically being fat was a sign of wealth. Most people worked long hours on a subsistence diet. All you need to do to get this point is to look at their art and its ideas of beauty.
So fat is good. To get the point here you might think about the roles fat has in the human body. It stores up energy for times of need. It insulates from cold. It cushions the bones. If you think about it those are good things that could be applied spiritually.
So? Don’t go on a trust diet in the sense of limiting trust but do so by focusing on it. Allow God to energize, insulate and cushion you on the road of life.
Notice that the KJV says we will be “made fat” (1878) while the NASB has “prosper”. The KJV says literally what the Hebrew says while the NASB tries to adjust to our culture where being fat is a bad thing. Modern Americans don’t understand that historically being fat was a sign of wealth. Most people worked long hours on a subsistence diet. All you need to do to get this point is to look at their art and its ideas of beauty.
So fat is good. To get the point here you might think about the roles fat has in the human body. It stores up energy for times of need. It insulates from cold. It cushions the bones. If you think about it those are good things that could be applied spiritually.
So? Don’t go on a trust diet in the sense of limiting trust but do so by focusing on it. Allow God to energize, insulate and cushion you on the road of life.
Friday, September 27, 2019
Wanders of the World
(Pro 27:8 KJV) As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place.
I have a nice view of a mini-forest out my window plus one of the trees in my yard. I enjoy watching the wind whip the branches and the vultures circling in the sky. This morning I saw four deer making halting progress along the edge of the trees. I enjoy the view but it does not give me much knowledge about nests.
On the other hand, the birds that I can see are not sitting on their eggs, keeping them warm. Wandering seems to take a lot of different forms. For some it involves sitting on the telephone line instead of the chicks. For others it is flitting around with the buddies or chasing other women. For a few it is soaring high in the air looking cool and leisurely. In the same way I guess we can “wander” (5074) in different ways. Some of it brings instant condemnation. Other types of wandering can be done with a very spiritual aura about it. Drunks are easy to pick out but the pastor who is ignoring his family may be getting a lot of praise.
So? As always we need to focus on ourselves, not the other guy. Keep in mind that the sermon last Sunday was intended for you not the guy over there.
I have a nice view of a mini-forest out my window plus one of the trees in my yard. I enjoy watching the wind whip the branches and the vultures circling in the sky. This morning I saw four deer making halting progress along the edge of the trees. I enjoy the view but it does not give me much knowledge about nests.
On the other hand, the birds that I can see are not sitting on their eggs, keeping them warm. Wandering seems to take a lot of different forms. For some it involves sitting on the telephone line instead of the chicks. For others it is flitting around with the buddies or chasing other women. For a few it is soaring high in the air looking cool and leisurely. In the same way I guess we can “wander” (5074) in different ways. Some of it brings instant condemnation. Other types of wandering can be done with a very spiritual aura about it. Drunks are easy to pick out but the pastor who is ignoring his family may be getting a lot of praise.
So? As always we need to focus on ourselves, not the other guy. Keep in mind that the sermon last Sunday was intended for you not the guy over there.
Thursday, September 26, 2019
Screening for Fools
(Pro 26:5 KJV) Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.
One difficulty I have applying this verse is the matter of judgement. Who am I to determine if the person speaking is a fool? Actually, there is no one better. I would hope that you would fit into that category too. A foolish man is the opposite of a wise man. A foolish man is the opposite of an insightful man. Both wisdom and understanding begin in a fear of the Lord. We have a ready made screen for identifying a fool.
We may not be able to know the mind of heart of a person. We can observe their position on issues based on morality. This is getting easier in many ways because our culture, which has paid lip service to God’s standards in the past, is taking increasingly more blatant stands in opposition to Biblical ethics.
So? To know what the Bible’s standards are you need to read the Bible. It is getting more iffy to accept anyone else’s word for it because more and more pastors and teachers are falling in line with Satan and our culture. Don’t join the fools.
One difficulty I have applying this verse is the matter of judgement. Who am I to determine if the person speaking is a fool? Actually, there is no one better. I would hope that you would fit into that category too. A foolish man is the opposite of a wise man. A foolish man is the opposite of an insightful man. Both wisdom and understanding begin in a fear of the Lord. We have a ready made screen for identifying a fool.
We may not be able to know the mind of heart of a person. We can observe their position on issues based on morality. This is getting easier in many ways because our culture, which has paid lip service to God’s standards in the past, is taking increasingly more blatant stands in opposition to Biblical ethics.
So? To know what the Bible’s standards are you need to read the Bible. It is getting more iffy to accept anyone else’s word for it because more and more pastors and teachers are falling in line with Satan and our culture. Don’t join the fools.
Wednesday, September 25, 2019
A Righteous Sewer Commissioner
(Pro 25:5 KJV) Take away the wicked from before the king, and his throne shall be established in righteousness.
In ancient times the average person would have nothing to say about what happened in the halls of power. Most people were peasant farmers. Probably the next largest group would be slaves. In some cultures the slaves would outnumber the free farmers. There was little short of insurrection that could change anything. The principle still is true but we have more ways to make it happen than any time in history.
Keep in mind that in our system the president nominates but it is the Senate the confirms. As citizens we have something to say about who becomes a senator. We also have increasing influence as we move down the hierarchy of power. When you get to city council you really have a voice.
So? Apply your voice. You may only be voting for a mayor or Sewer Commissioner but those people may eventually be running for the Senate. Go for righteousness. Plant the seed. Do today what you can do. God will then bless the culture.
In ancient times the average person would have nothing to say about what happened in the halls of power. Most people were peasant farmers. Probably the next largest group would be slaves. In some cultures the slaves would outnumber the free farmers. There was little short of insurrection that could change anything. The principle still is true but we have more ways to make it happen than any time in history.
Keep in mind that in our system the president nominates but it is the Senate the confirms. As citizens we have something to say about who becomes a senator. We also have increasing influence as we move down the hierarchy of power. When you get to city council you really have a voice.
So? Apply your voice. You may only be voting for a mayor or Sewer Commissioner but those people may eventually be running for the Senate. Go for righteousness. Plant the seed. Do today what you can do. God will then bless the culture.
Tuesday, September 24, 2019
Domino’s Effect
(Pro 24:34 KJV) So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man.
Cause and effect are Biblical truths. Yes, there are times of miracles. Yes, we accept the right of God to work outside of natural law. At the same time the Bible is generally an if/then kind of document. Here we are assured of a result that is not a promise or a threat but an observation. It is endorsing the result of sloth: “Poverty” (7369). You don’t need to seek it out, it will “come” 935) to you. It is the ultimate of the Domino’s Effect. Your pizza will come to you with double sloth and a side of bread lines. All you have to do is take another nap.
Okay. I accept that one extra nap won’t send you to the poor house unless it is the straw that breaks the camel’s back.
So? Get up and get on with life and don’t tell me you will after your nap.
Cause and effect are Biblical truths. Yes, there are times of miracles. Yes, we accept the right of God to work outside of natural law. At the same time the Bible is generally an if/then kind of document. Here we are assured of a result that is not a promise or a threat but an observation. It is endorsing the result of sloth: “Poverty” (7369). You don’t need to seek it out, it will “come” 935) to you. It is the ultimate of the Domino’s Effect. Your pizza will come to you with double sloth and a side of bread lines. All you have to do is take another nap.
Okay. I accept that one extra nap won’t send you to the poor house unless it is the straw that breaks the camel’s back.
So? Get up and get on with life and don’t tell me you will after your nap.
Monday, September 23, 2019
Party Animals
(Pro 23:8 KJV) The morsel which thou hast eaten shalt thou vomit up, and lose thy sweet words.
The Romans were not around when Solomon was writing but I wonder if one of their dining habits was a part of other pagan cultures. According to popular history the decadent upper class would eat to discomfort, throw up and go back to eating. The serious historians all seem to say it didn’t happen but I kept finding qualifiers that “most” did not do it. Either way it is a reminder that we are to be balanced in our living.
Of course the warning here would be more in the way of being careful of what invitations we accept. In traditional culture a meal together was a bonding experience. In much of our current culture it is just a way to find a way to take advantage.
So? Be moderate and be careful who you hang with.
The Romans were not around when Solomon was writing but I wonder if one of their dining habits was a part of other pagan cultures. According to popular history the decadent upper class would eat to discomfort, throw up and go back to eating. The serious historians all seem to say it didn’t happen but I kept finding qualifiers that “most” did not do it. Either way it is a reminder that we are to be balanced in our living.
Of course the warning here would be more in the way of being careful of what invitations we accept. In traditional culture a meal together was a bonding experience. In much of our current culture it is just a way to find a way to take advantage.
So? Be moderate and be careful who you hang with.
Sunday, September 22, 2019
r and R
(Pro 22:16 KJV) He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want.
How many people today are living very well under the game plan of helping the poor? I don’t know the answer to that question. I do know that one reason religious organizations do better than government agencies at helping the down and out is the question of cui bono? That is fancy Latin talk for “Who benefits?”
I will accept that there are many people serving as social workers whom sincerely want to help their clients. In today’s world they can make a habit of helping them climb out of poverty and go on their way. It does not seem to happen often. One reason is lack of genuine motivation. If you are successful as a social worker you will eventually work your way out of a job. Even if you never run out of clients the constant turn over will generate a lot more work for you.
Churches, on the other hand, benefit by lifting people out of poverty. They have a chance to add them to their fellowship where they can become part of the solution rather than part of the problem. If you want to be crass, they might also start making contributions. You benefit by lifting people from the mud. And that doesn’t even factor in the fact that God has told us to do so.
So? Each Christian has a responsibility to be a small “r” redeemer of the lost. A big part is introducing people to the big “R” Redeemer, Jesus. He is the one who will make the real difference.
How many people today are living very well under the game plan of helping the poor? I don’t know the answer to that question. I do know that one reason religious organizations do better than government agencies at helping the down and out is the question of cui bono? That is fancy Latin talk for “Who benefits?”
I will accept that there are many people serving as social workers whom sincerely want to help their clients. In today’s world they can make a habit of helping them climb out of poverty and go on their way. It does not seem to happen often. One reason is lack of genuine motivation. If you are successful as a social worker you will eventually work your way out of a job. Even if you never run out of clients the constant turn over will generate a lot more work for you.
Churches, on the other hand, benefit by lifting people out of poverty. They have a chance to add them to their fellowship where they can become part of the solution rather than part of the problem. If you want to be crass, they might also start making contributions. You benefit by lifting people from the mud. And that doesn’t even factor in the fact that God has told us to do so.
So? Each Christian has a responsibility to be a small “r” redeemer of the lost. A big part is introducing people to the big “R” Redeemer, Jesus. He is the one who will make the real difference.
Saturday, September 21, 2019
A Winning Lottery Ticket
(Pro 21:17 KJV) He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.
I think this is a principle rather than a law. It is illustrated in life by lottery winners. I have not researched it but the popular wisdom is that most people who win millions in the lottery are poor again within a short period of time. When I am on vacation punishment and forced to watch TV shows I saw one that had a real estate agent hustling lottery winners and getting them to buy extravagant homes. I don’t think there was ever a reference to how much it would take to keep the places up. I would imagine that the HOA fees on some of them were multiples of what the people were used to living on. It made for good TV for the oil and wine crowd but set my teeth on edge.
This does not mean that some who chase wealth will not achieve it. The question is, will it bring that inner satisfaction that says, “Well done.” It may in some cases but keep in mind that some people are deliberately going to hell. They joke about heaven sounding too boring.
So? We need to stop every once in awhile, not to smell the roses but to look up and see if we are still heading toward the goal we really want.
I think this is a principle rather than a law. It is illustrated in life by lottery winners. I have not researched it but the popular wisdom is that most people who win millions in the lottery are poor again within a short period of time. When I am on vacation punishment and forced to watch TV shows I saw one that had a real estate agent hustling lottery winners and getting them to buy extravagant homes. I don’t think there was ever a reference to how much it would take to keep the places up. I would imagine that the HOA fees on some of them were multiples of what the people were used to living on. It made for good TV for the oil and wine crowd but set my teeth on edge.
This does not mean that some who chase wealth will not achieve it. The question is, will it bring that inner satisfaction that says, “Well done.” It may in some cases but keep in mind that some people are deliberately going to hell. They joke about heaven sounding too boring.
So? We need to stop every once in awhile, not to smell the roses but to look up and see if we are still heading toward the goal we really want.
Friday, September 20, 2019
Disciples of Diversity
(Pro 20:23 KJV) Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance is not good.
There are times when a literal translation might be confusing to modern readers. In the Hebrew “differing weights” (68) is simply “a stone and a stone”. What we are looking at is basic honesty and justice in economic transactions. I imagine that merchants in those days used some kind of balance scale. What some had a tendency to do was use one stone when weighing your stuff and another identical stone to weigh theirs. It is like having loaded dice. They are cheating you.
Using different results for different people based on their relationship to you is unethical. For this reason I think the KJV “divers” should set of a warning bell for those in our culture who are into diversity. America has always been a diverse nation. Even the Pilgrims had a large contingent of non-Pilgrims. We have adjusted. What disciples of diversity mean by the term today is special privileges to special groups to achieve the results that the disciples want. It is like changing stones half way through the weighing.
So? Whether it is business or social programs the Bible gives a thumbs down on preferences. And keep in mind that God would have big thumbs.
There are times when a literal translation might be confusing to modern readers. In the Hebrew “differing weights” (68) is simply “a stone and a stone”. What we are looking at is basic honesty and justice in economic transactions. I imagine that merchants in those days used some kind of balance scale. What some had a tendency to do was use one stone when weighing your stuff and another identical stone to weigh theirs. It is like having loaded dice. They are cheating you.
Using different results for different people based on their relationship to you is unethical. For this reason I think the KJV “divers” should set of a warning bell for those in our culture who are into diversity. America has always been a diverse nation. Even the Pilgrims had a large contingent of non-Pilgrims. We have adjusted. What disciples of diversity mean by the term today is special privileges to special groups to achieve the results that the disciples want. It is like changing stones half way through the weighing.
So? Whether it is business or social programs the Bible gives a thumbs down on preferences. And keep in mind that God would have big thumbs.
Thursday, September 19, 2019
The Best Laid Plans...
(Pro 19:21 KJV) There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.
I like the use of “devices” (4284) in the KJV for “plans” in NASB. It isn’t more a matter of it being accurate but because it emphasizes the weakness of our ability to scheme and manipulate. It is amazing the Rube Goldberg moments that we can produce instead of just getting on the with job at hand. I don’t know how many projects I have waiting for me to pick up a hammer or screwdriver. Until that happens, nothing happens.
And the ultimate mover will be God Himself. God seems to enjoy confounding us. Think of picking David as a teenager to confront Goliath. Picture how weak the twelve disciples were before Pentecost. Study how the worship of Jesus spread through the Roman world as a religion of slaves and women. Be amazed that the squabbling colonies of North America defeated the strongest military of its day.
So? Be prepared for what He wants to do with your day.
I like the use of “devices” (4284) in the KJV for “plans” in NASB. It isn’t more a matter of it being accurate but because it emphasizes the weakness of our ability to scheme and manipulate. It is amazing the Rube Goldberg moments that we can produce instead of just getting on the with job at hand. I don’t know how many projects I have waiting for me to pick up a hammer or screwdriver. Until that happens, nothing happens.
And the ultimate mover will be God Himself. God seems to enjoy confounding us. Think of picking David as a teenager to confront Goliath. Picture how weak the twelve disciples were before Pentecost. Study how the worship of Jesus spread through the Roman world as a religion of slaves and women. Be amazed that the squabbling colonies of North America defeated the strongest military of its day.
So? Be prepared for what He wants to do with your day.
Wednesday, September 18, 2019
Unbroken
(Pro 18:14 KJV) The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?
What is an unbroken spirit like? Sometimes you can define things by saying what it is not. An unbroken spirit is not a Pollyanna foolishness that sees everything as wonder and ignores evil. An unbroken spirit does not radiate strength and confidence. It has tremendous strength but it is not the strength that is recognized by the pagan world around it. It is an endurance runner or a construction worker carrying heavy loads all day, not a bulky weightlifter that can put massive amounts of iron over his head a few times. And there is a quiet confidence that does not go running to the basement to hide in a corner every time a car backfires on the street.
I think one of the requirements of an unbroken spirit is a constant flow of maintenance from the Holy Spirit. A bit of lubrication can keep a lock from getting sticky. A change of oil keeps an engine running in an old clunker.
So? Left to itself, you spirit will break. Kept in constant contact with the living God it will “endure” (3557). Your choice. Your spirit.
What is an unbroken spirit like? Sometimes you can define things by saying what it is not. An unbroken spirit is not a Pollyanna foolishness that sees everything as wonder and ignores evil. An unbroken spirit does not radiate strength and confidence. It has tremendous strength but it is not the strength that is recognized by the pagan world around it. It is an endurance runner or a construction worker carrying heavy loads all day, not a bulky weightlifter that can put massive amounts of iron over his head a few times. And there is a quiet confidence that does not go running to the basement to hide in a corner every time a car backfires on the street.
I think one of the requirements of an unbroken spirit is a constant flow of maintenance from the Holy Spirit. A bit of lubrication can keep a lock from getting sticky. A change of oil keeps an engine running in an old clunker.
So? Left to itself, you spirit will break. Kept in constant contact with the living God it will “endure” (3557). Your choice. Your spirit.
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
Snappy Comebacks
(Pro 17:28 KJV) Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.
It always amuses me when a certain someone tells me I always need to get the last word. It never seems to occur to them their statement becomes the last word. I will admit one of my personality flaws is the one liner. I can usually think of a snappy comeback. So you might say the criticism is justified. Justified criticism is always hard to take. I am working on it.
So? Just because you don’t like what someone says or can find a logical reason why it is nonsense does not mean that you can’t learn from it. Yes, I always like to get the last word but if I keep trying for it then we are engaged in a non-musical version of the song that never ends.
It always amuses me when a certain someone tells me I always need to get the last word. It never seems to occur to them their statement becomes the last word. I will admit one of my personality flaws is the one liner. I can usually think of a snappy comeback. So you might say the criticism is justified. Justified criticism is always hard to take. I am working on it.
So? Just because you don’t like what someone says or can find a logical reason why it is nonsense does not mean that you can’t learn from it. Yes, I always like to get the last word but if I keep trying for it then we are engaged in a non-musical version of the song that never ends.
Monday, September 16, 2019
A Hard Lesson
(Pro 16:16 KJV) How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!
I am not so sure that we believe this. We say we do. We might even say a hearty “Amen!”, but when the choice is before us we hesitate. Really, Lord? Did you mean this? After all I can use the money now but we all know that no one will listen to wisdom when we dispense it.
God does not give up. He keeps trying to speak to us. He works on us constantly to pound this in.
So? I wish I had an easy way to learn the lesson myself. If I did, I would bottle it and sell it on line and make a fortune. Of course that might not be wise.
I am not so sure that we believe this. We say we do. We might even say a hearty “Amen!”, but when the choice is before us we hesitate. Really, Lord? Did you mean this? After all I can use the money now but we all know that no one will listen to wisdom when we dispense it.
God does not give up. He keeps trying to speak to us. He works on us constantly to pound this in.
So? I wish I had an easy way to learn the lesson myself. If I did, I would bottle it and sell it on line and make a fortune. Of course that might not be wise.
Sunday, September 15, 2019
Endings
(Pro 15:11 KJV) Hell and destruction are before the LORD: how much more then the hearts of the children of men?
How can a loving God send people to Hell? It is a good question and has answers but before you can be concerned about such answers you need to wrap your acceptance around something: Hell exists. There are graphic pictures throughout scripture. It isn’t important to me if you want to call the lake of fire a literary devise or a literal description. What is vital is that you wrap your mind around the teaching that after death most people will end up in Hell.
If you can’t accept that jump from Proverbs then listen to the words of Jesus,
How can a loving God send people to Hell? It is a good question and has answers but before you can be concerned about such answers you need to wrap your acceptance around something: Hell exists. There are graphic pictures throughout scripture. It isn’t important to me if you want to call the lake of fire a literary devise or a literal description. What is vital is that you wrap your mind around the teaching that after death most people will end up in Hell.
If you can’t accept that jump from Proverbs then listen to the words of Jesus,
(Mat 7:13-14 KJV) Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.So? You don’t need to dwell on it all the time but be aware that the people around you do not live stories that have happy endings. Be sensitive to chances to share the hope that is in you.
Saturday, September 14, 2019
Errors
(Pro 14:33 KJV) Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known.
Always check your sources. My NASB from 1977 uses “bosom” for the “midst” of the KJV. Both are from the Hebrew word with the Strong’s number (7130). When I checked my software which ties the numbering in the NASB Updated the word is changed to “hearts” and gives a number of (7310). The word is okay. The reference is the kind of thing that the hand copied manuscripts were supposed to be susceptible to. Someone switched the numbers in the middle.
Is this an error in the Bible? No. It is a technical problem. Could it be serious? Only if you refuse to do your homework, keep your mind in gear and trust that there are answers.
So? Be responsible for your own spiritual growth and always be willing to check things out.
Always check your sources. My NASB from 1977 uses “bosom” for the “midst” of the KJV. Both are from the Hebrew word with the Strong’s number (7130). When I checked my software which ties the numbering in the NASB Updated the word is changed to “hearts” and gives a number of (7310). The word is okay. The reference is the kind of thing that the hand copied manuscripts were supposed to be susceptible to. Someone switched the numbers in the middle.
Is this an error in the Bible? No. It is a technical problem. Could it be serious? Only if you refuse to do your homework, keep your mind in gear and trust that there are answers.
So? Be responsible for your own spiritual growth and always be willing to check things out.
Friday, September 13, 2019
Pretend Money
(Pro 13:7 KJV) There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches.
This verse is not about money. It is about attitude. The second reference “poor” (7326) is the clue. It generally means poor in the sense that we think of it but in this form of the Hebrew, called the Hithpolel, evidently means to “impoverish himself”. It is a deliberate act. That is why the translations include “pretends” in the NASB And “maketh himself” in the KJV.
I would take from this that if money is your god and you set your cap on it, the attitude will eventually ruin your life. If you use your wealth to serve others without being consumed by dollar signs, you will be blessed.
So? I am not sure how that works out in our mortgaged, car payment, college tuition world, but I think we need to do some serious thinking as Americans about what our priorities are.
This verse is not about money. It is about attitude. The second reference “poor” (7326) is the clue. It generally means poor in the sense that we think of it but in this form of the Hebrew, called the Hithpolel, evidently means to “impoverish himself”. It is a deliberate act. That is why the translations include “pretends” in the NASB And “maketh himself” in the KJV.
I would take from this that if money is your god and you set your cap on it, the attitude will eventually ruin your life. If you use your wealth to serve others without being consumed by dollar signs, you will be blessed.
So? I am not sure how that works out in our mortgaged, car payment, college tuition world, but I think we need to do some serious thinking as Americans about what our priorities are.
Thursday, September 12, 2019
It Matters
(Pro 12:2 KJV) A good man obtaineth favour of the LORD: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn.
Are these rewards temporal or spiritual? To me it is obviously both. Others might disagree. Some would write books to say that this verse does not mean what it says.
These rewards are temporal. There are plenty of places where God makes promises that are conditioned on our choices and faithfulness. Those promises may not always have dollars signs but they do have worth in the here and now.
These rewards are spiritual. They will lift us up and empower us in this life. They will also follow us into eternity.
So? It makes a difference the kind of person we are. Let it be so today.
Are these rewards temporal or spiritual? To me it is obviously both. Others might disagree. Some would write books to say that this verse does not mean what it says.
These rewards are temporal. There are plenty of places where God makes promises that are conditioned on our choices and faithfulness. Those promises may not always have dollars signs but they do have worth in the here and now.
These rewards are spiritual. They will lift us up and empower us in this life. They will also follow us into eternity.
So? It makes a difference the kind of person we are. Let it be so today.
Wednesday, September 11, 2019
Enough
(Pro 11:14 KJV) Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
How many is an “abundance” (7230)? Sometimes all we need it one and that is the danger being expressed here. Often we define wisdom as agreeing with us. If we have one person that we can trust to tell us we are right then we stop there. Counseling done. It might be a second source is sought. Children do this when mom says no. They go to dad. If that doesn’t work there is always grandma. I don’t think that is what this is talking about.
The KJV likes “multitude” for a translation. The idea is that we seek a broad scope of input. And consider your sources. If you are listening to the radio and a godless pagan gets onto something you are concerned about, his opinion might not be as well balanced as you might like.
So? Start with the word. Some things are simple. Go to the body of Christ. Above all listen to what the Holy Spirit has to say to you.
How many is an “abundance” (7230)? Sometimes all we need it one and that is the danger being expressed here. Often we define wisdom as agreeing with us. If we have one person that we can trust to tell us we are right then we stop there. Counseling done. It might be a second source is sought. Children do this when mom says no. They go to dad. If that doesn’t work there is always grandma. I don’t think that is what this is talking about.
The KJV likes “multitude” for a translation. The idea is that we seek a broad scope of input. And consider your sources. If you are listening to the radio and a godless pagan gets onto something you are concerned about, his opinion might not be as well balanced as you might like.
So? Start with the word. Some things are simple. Go to the body of Christ. Above all listen to what the Holy Spirit has to say to you.
Tuesday, September 10, 2019
No Peasants Allowed
(Pro 10:15 KJV) The rich man's wealth is his strong city: the destruction of the poor is their poverty.
There are at least four different Hebrew words that are translated “poverty” (7389) in the KJV. In trying to figure out the differences I began to wonder if this one has to do with the class systems of the world. Most cultures have them whether they admit it or not. It can be based on the ethnic group you belong to. It can be traced to religion. In the case of Israel it was what we might call the peasants. If you were born into it, you were it. There was almost no chance of changing.
A peasant class tends to stay “poor” (1800b) because of their attitudes as much as their lack of money. We are seeing that in our culture. We don’t actually have classes that are acknowledged. We have a small group of people that think they have the right to run the lives of others but the others tend to reject that. We do have what is becoming called an “underclass” that is getting locked into a poverty mindset.
So? As Christians we cannot embrace the concept of class. We are all children of God and the ground is level beneath the cross. That involves regarding others. For ourselves we need to make sure that we don’t fall into the peasant mind set and give up on hard work and a healthy frugality.
There are at least four different Hebrew words that are translated “poverty” (7389) in the KJV. In trying to figure out the differences I began to wonder if this one has to do with the class systems of the world. Most cultures have them whether they admit it or not. It can be based on the ethnic group you belong to. It can be traced to religion. In the case of Israel it was what we might call the peasants. If you were born into it, you were it. There was almost no chance of changing.
A peasant class tends to stay “poor” (1800b) because of their attitudes as much as their lack of money. We are seeing that in our culture. We don’t actually have classes that are acknowledged. We have a small group of people that think they have the right to run the lives of others but the others tend to reject that. We do have what is becoming called an “underclass” that is getting locked into a poverty mindset.
So? As Christians we cannot embrace the concept of class. We are all children of God and the ground is level beneath the cross. That involves regarding others. For ourselves we need to make sure that we don’t fall into the peasant mind set and give up on hard work and a healthy frugality.
Monday, September 9, 2019
Avoid Dog Food
(Pro 9:9 KJV) Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.
I just noticed when copying this verse from the KJV that “instruction” is in italics. That is true in the NASB also. This is used to indicate that the word is not in the original language but is added for clarification. The same is true of the word “man”. So what happens when you leave them out? It becomes,
“Give to wise and teach righteous”.
We have a clear declaration to “give” (5414) and “teach” (3045). We know that. What we tend to overlook is the target of our giving and our teaching. In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus gave this instruction,
So? Our first priority is to give to needy brethren and to teach those young in the faith. If we can do more, well and good but we are to go to the Body of Christ first.
I just noticed when copying this verse from the KJV that “instruction” is in italics. That is true in the NASB also. This is used to indicate that the word is not in the original language but is added for clarification. The same is true of the word “man”. So what happens when you leave them out? It becomes,
“Give to wise and teach righteous”.
We have a clear declaration to “give” (5414) and “teach” (3045). We know that. What we tend to overlook is the target of our giving and our teaching. In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus gave this instruction,
(Mat 7:6 KJV) Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.The way that Jesus used reference to dogs usually meant gentiles. We would say non-believers. There is again a clear admonition about priorities.
So? Our first priority is to give to needy brethren and to teach those young in the faith. If we can do more, well and good but we are to go to the Body of Christ first.
Sunday, September 8, 2019
A Twist of...
(Pro 8:20 KJV) I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment:
Our culture is perverted. Perversion does not exit in a vacuum. Often, if not always, it takes something that is good and perverts it. That is why we call it perversion to take the love of a parent for a child and turn it into incest or molestation. The Biblical words for perversion seem to have the idea of twisting. Our culture has done that to the concepts of “righteousness” (6666) and “judgment” (justice NASB) (4941).
The twist goes back to having no wisdom, which is what this verse is about. The lack of wisdom goes back to the statement that it starts with a fear of the Lord. The gurus of our culture hate God simply because His righteousness and His righteous demands knock us off the throne of our lives and keeps us from twisting what is good. The human condition wants to twist. It is the way we are made. It is why training children is so hard. They are little gods and want to keep ruling.
So? On one side you have the righteousness that God expects. On the other side you have the twisted version of truth that our culture embraces. In the middle is where each human being stands. The big question is which way are we going to go. Only you can make that decisions for you and remember to not decide is to decide.
Our culture is perverted. Perversion does not exit in a vacuum. Often, if not always, it takes something that is good and perverts it. That is why we call it perversion to take the love of a parent for a child and turn it into incest or molestation. The Biblical words for perversion seem to have the idea of twisting. Our culture has done that to the concepts of “righteousness” (6666) and “judgment” (justice NASB) (4941).
The twist goes back to having no wisdom, which is what this verse is about. The lack of wisdom goes back to the statement that it starts with a fear of the Lord. The gurus of our culture hate God simply because His righteousness and His righteous demands knock us off the throne of our lives and keeps us from twisting what is good. The human condition wants to twist. It is the way we are made. It is why training children is so hard. They are little gods and want to keep ruling.
So? On one side you have the righteousness that God expects. On the other side you have the twisted version of truth that our culture embraces. In the middle is where each human being stands. The big question is which way are we going to go. Only you can make that decisions for you and remember to not decide is to decide.
Saturday, September 7, 2019
Ad Antidote
(Pro 7:5 KJV) That they may keep thee from the strange woman, from the stranger which flattereth with her words.
How many of us don’t want anything to “keep” (8104) us from the “adulteress” or literally, “strange” (2114a) “woman” (802)? I imagine most people would say they believe adultery is wrong and yet the common wisdom is that sex sells. How often do I find myself taking a second look at a picture with a provocative woman in a prominent place? It happens more often than I want to admit. Satan knows our weaknesses and works them ruthlessly. How do we emerge victorious? By knowing the teachings of wisdom and following them.
So? One thing that sex will not sell is holiness and a saving status before Jesus. We have many decisions to make and it starts with reading the directions.
How many of us don’t want anything to “keep” (8104) us from the “adulteress” or literally, “strange” (2114a) “woman” (802)? I imagine most people would say they believe adultery is wrong and yet the common wisdom is that sex sells. How often do I find myself taking a second look at a picture with a provocative woman in a prominent place? It happens more often than I want to admit. Satan knows our weaknesses and works them ruthlessly. How do we emerge victorious? By knowing the teachings of wisdom and following them.
So? One thing that sex will not sell is holiness and a saving status before Jesus. We have many decisions to make and it starts with reading the directions.
Friday, September 6, 2019
The Question of Cain
(Pro 6:24 KJV) To keep thee from the evil woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a strange woman.
We need something to “keep” (8104) us from “evil” (7451b) in general, let alone away from evil “women” (802). This might bring to mind the question of Cain,
If you look back at the context you will find that what protects is an internalizing of the law. It is knowing the standards revealed in the commandments that is to be our primary defense. God has given us access, at least in modern times, to the written word and all that it contains. Yesterday I was in a doctor’s office and on every table in the waiting room there was a Gideon Bible available. I would guess that God would say that everyone who sat down to wait in that room had a chance.
So? I have a million excuses for every failure in my life. God is not interested. He has given me all that I need to avoid futility, frustration and condemnation. Now to make use of what I have.
We need something to “keep” (8104) us from “evil” (7451b) in general, let alone away from evil “women” (802). This might bring to mind the question of Cain,
(Gen 4:9 KJV) And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: Am I my brother's keeper (8104)?For Christians the answer is, “Yes.” We are to be prepared to help, exhort and support those around us. That goes double for the family of God. That is not the provision being given here.
If you look back at the context you will find that what protects is an internalizing of the law. It is knowing the standards revealed in the commandments that is to be our primary defense. God has given us access, at least in modern times, to the written word and all that it contains. Yesterday I was in a doctor’s office and on every table in the waiting room there was a Gideon Bible available. I would guess that God would say that everyone who sat down to wait in that room had a chance.
So? I have a million excuses for every failure in my life. God is not interested. He has given me all that I need to avoid futility, frustration and condemnation. Now to make use of what I have.
Thursday, September 5, 2019
Share Not
(Pro 5:16 KJV) Let thy fountains be dispersed abroad, and rivers of waters in the streets.
The word picture being drawn here is of a cistern and the use of stored water. The advice is to not throw away a valuable resources. The literal application behind the figurative speech is to keep your affection and sexual contact within the bonds of marriage and not throw them out into the general public. That seems pretty simple.
A cistern would obviously be limited in the water it will hold but I never stopped to think that even a well will run out of water if too many people are using it. Stewardship applies to our sexual facet as well as our financial. God blesses us and we are expected to use them in righteousness.
So? Don’t waste your affection on those outside of your personal covenant. Remember that water running down the street is dirty and gets dirtier as it runs.
The word picture being drawn here is of a cistern and the use of stored water. The advice is to not throw away a valuable resources. The literal application behind the figurative speech is to keep your affection and sexual contact within the bonds of marriage and not throw them out into the general public. That seems pretty simple.
A cistern would obviously be limited in the water it will hold but I never stopped to think that even a well will run out of water if too many people are using it. Stewardship applies to our sexual facet as well as our financial. God blesses us and we are expected to use them in righteousness.
So? Don’t waste your affection on those outside of your personal covenant. Remember that water running down the street is dirty and gets dirtier as it runs.
Wednesday, September 4, 2019
Activate Your Attention Span
(Pro 4:1 KJV) Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding.
It is very important that we embrace what it means to “hear” (8085). The definition given in Brown-Driver-Briggs is “to hear, to listen, to obey”. It is that last part that we like to ignore. My wife is concerned about my hearing. Putting aside her tendency to not finish sentences and change subjects with no warning, the question is often asked, “Didn’t you hear me say...?” Since I confess I was able to hear other things that she said it comes down to not paying attention.
I won’t go into all the reasons why I might not have been paying attention to my wife. You will have your own. There are times when it is perfectly appropriate to drift in our attention. I think of churches I have visited and after a few minutes of the sermon I begin to realize there is nothing there. I think of people who don’t know what they are talking about trying to tell me how to do something. I need to make sure it doesn’t happen when God or His written word are trying to talk to me.
So? I find it helps me to do an attitude check. I kick myself in the morning before I start to read Proverbs. I remind myself I am supposed to be paying attention, not just going through a habit. Sometimes it helps but it never helps if I don’t to it.
It is very important that we embrace what it means to “hear” (8085). The definition given in Brown-Driver-Briggs is “to hear, to listen, to obey”. It is that last part that we like to ignore. My wife is concerned about my hearing. Putting aside her tendency to not finish sentences and change subjects with no warning, the question is often asked, “Didn’t you hear me say...?” Since I confess I was able to hear other things that she said it comes down to not paying attention.
I won’t go into all the reasons why I might not have been paying attention to my wife. You will have your own. There are times when it is perfectly appropriate to drift in our attention. I think of churches I have visited and after a few minutes of the sermon I begin to realize there is nothing there. I think of people who don’t know what they are talking about trying to tell me how to do something. I need to make sure it doesn’t happen when God or His written word are trying to talk to me.
So? I find it helps me to do an attitude check. I kick myself in the morning before I start to read Proverbs. I remind myself I am supposed to be paying attention, not just going through a habit. Sometimes it helps but it never helps if I don’t to it.
Tuesday, September 3, 2019
Messing up the Square
(Pro 3:1 KJV) My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:
We “forget” (7911) the things we do not practice. Years ago our family got involved in square dancing. It seemed a strange thing to do but we all went weekly for lessons and kept at it until we graduated. This was a real miracle because my family is not known for their sense of rhythm. It goes to show that if you pay attention you can have victory even in your areas of weakness.
Then a strange malady struck. My wife started coming up with excuses to not go to the weekly meetings of the club. What had been a lot of fun as a family activity became a partial family activity. It soon became clear that she was losing the feel for square dancing. Many of the moves are conditioned in so that you respond automatically. It goes fast enough that if you have to stop and think then you mess up. Messing up is expected for new learners. The experienced dancers took it in stride but when someone does not keep up their skills it soon becomes apparent and all they do is mess it up for the other seven people in the square.
So? One reason for us to keep up our spiritual skills is so that we don’t mess it up for others. God is patient and forgiving but the people around you may not be strong enough to stumble because you did.
We “forget” (7911) the things we do not practice. Years ago our family got involved in square dancing. It seemed a strange thing to do but we all went weekly for lessons and kept at it until we graduated. This was a real miracle because my family is not known for their sense of rhythm. It goes to show that if you pay attention you can have victory even in your areas of weakness.
Then a strange malady struck. My wife started coming up with excuses to not go to the weekly meetings of the club. What had been a lot of fun as a family activity became a partial family activity. It soon became clear that she was losing the feel for square dancing. Many of the moves are conditioned in so that you respond automatically. It goes fast enough that if you have to stop and think then you mess up. Messing up is expected for new learners. The experienced dancers took it in stride but when someone does not keep up their skills it soon becomes apparent and all they do is mess it up for the other seven people in the square.
So? One reason for us to keep up our spiritual skills is so that we don’t mess it up for others. God is patient and forgiving but the people around you may not be strong enough to stumble because you did.
Monday, September 2, 2019
Something Wicked Never Left
(Pro 2:14 KJV) Who rejoice to do evil, and delight in the frowardness of the wicked;
If you have been paying attention pedophiles are being mentioned more often lately. Currently I have been seeing that historic figures such as John Maynard Keynes seemed to be linked to sexual activity with young boys and of course we have the Island hops of Epstein. We will also probably see that this type of activity will get less and less criticism and more calls for tolerance. What the KJV calls “frowardness” (8419) is well on its way to social acceptance.
What Christians need to understand is that sexual perversion is real and it is a part of the sinful nature. Being accepted by your local public school and society at large does not make it right. It is just an indication of where people are coming from and where they will go if not countered by the grace of God.
So? Evil exists. It has been toned down by Christian culture but Christian culture is not the same as a society filled with Christians. Until we see revival it will get worse.
If you have been paying attention pedophiles are being mentioned more often lately. Currently I have been seeing that historic figures such as John Maynard Keynes seemed to be linked to sexual activity with young boys and of course we have the Island hops of Epstein. We will also probably see that this type of activity will get less and less criticism and more calls for tolerance. What the KJV calls “frowardness” (8419) is well on its way to social acceptance.
What Christians need to understand is that sexual perversion is real and it is a part of the sinful nature. Being accepted by your local public school and society at large does not make it right. It is just an indication of where people are coming from and where they will go if not countered by the grace of God.
So? Evil exists. It has been toned down by Christian culture but Christian culture is not the same as a society filled with Christians. Until we see revival it will get worse.
Sunday, September 1, 2019
We, not They
(Pro 1:30 KJV) They would none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof.
This says “they”. We should first consider if it is really saying “we” or “I”. We get into a certain mindset. I recently bought a cheap air compressor. As I was trying to figure it out I noticed that there were several pages of small print saying things like, “Don’t stick the hose up your nose” and other warnings. Generally I am one of those guys who likes to look at the directions on how something is supposed to be used but I tend to ignore the obvious stuff at the beginning.
Many times we don’t consciously think about certain points God has made. Is it because we don’t know them? In a few cases that is true but do we really need to read “Thou shall not murder” every day? The bigger question is, “Do we ‘accept’ (14) the terms of the contract”. That is generally a matter of the heart and our deep priorities than it is information.
So? Each of us has to make our own decision. We need to make it every day. In a sense we are faced with it whenever there is a fork in our road. We are walking on the Highway of Holiness not staying in the Hotel of Sanctity.
This says “they”. We should first consider if it is really saying “we” or “I”. We get into a certain mindset. I recently bought a cheap air compressor. As I was trying to figure it out I noticed that there were several pages of small print saying things like, “Don’t stick the hose up your nose” and other warnings. Generally I am one of those guys who likes to look at the directions on how something is supposed to be used but I tend to ignore the obvious stuff at the beginning.
Many times we don’t consciously think about certain points God has made. Is it because we don’t know them? In a few cases that is true but do we really need to read “Thou shall not murder” every day? The bigger question is, “Do we ‘accept’ (14) the terms of the contract”. That is generally a matter of the heart and our deep priorities than it is information.
So? Each of us has to make our own decision. We need to make it every day. In a sense we are faced with it whenever there is a fork in our road. We are walking on the Highway of Holiness not staying in the Hotel of Sanctity.
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