A Surprising Context

(2Ch 7:14 KJV)  If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

(Proverbs 31 also read)

As I was contemplating this verse this morning I spent a bit more time on the context that usual.  To be honest, I was surprised.  I have always heard this referred to as a verse for the hard times, when things are going south.  I pretty much accepted that because it fits and it works for that but imagine my shock that this was a promise given to Israel in one of their most exciting moments of spiritual triumph.  You can look it up or take my word for it.  

Solomon has just finished the temple and gone through the glory of its dedication.  At the beginning of this chapter God appears to Him and accepts the gift of a house of worship for Him.  Then suddenly He shifts gears and says that if He is ever forced to send bad times on them then....  This verse was given in good times to be tucked away for bad times.

So?  Compared to the rest of the world and the sweep of history we are still in good times.  Compared to the times I was raised in we are at a new low.  Take your pick but tuck away the promise of God and remember that the promise is based on repentance and prayer. 

Say the Name

(Pro 30:4 KJV)  Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in his fists? who hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? what is his name, and what is his son's name, if thou canst tell?

The author of this Psalm is flabbergasted.  He can’t believe that you don’t understand.  The NASB says it better here.  The KJV has “if” (3588) but this is the third most common usage, 166x, behind “because” (460x) and “when” (245x).  It is much stronger than the older translation lets on, thus “surely” is spot on.  

As we come to the end of another year it might be a good time to double down on what you know and why you know it.  Notice that the “name” (8034) of the Creator’s son is something that even the Jews were supposed to know.  We have less excuse than they did.  Jesus.  Jesus.  Jesus.

So?  Let the year end with the name of Jesus on your lips.  Let the new year begin the same way.

Get His Grip

(Pro 29:25 KJV)  The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.

What does it mean to be “exalted” (7682)?  Again we see the KJV and NASB taking different reads on the message.  While the NASB says “exalted” the KJV says “safe”.  If you put them together you get the idea of being lifted above the fray.  In a world of chaos we need to have a firm grasp of Providence.

If you are worried and want to stay out of the disruptions going on all around us then there are a couple of things you can do.  Don’t go to big cities after dark.  Don’t walk down dark alleys.  Lock your doors.  You know the litany.  Then comes the big part, “trust” (982) the Lord.  God has His own way of working things out and has a divine eye’s view of what it means to be secure.  I think of the games I play with my grandchildren when they are small enough for me to dangle them.  I will hold them up just out of reach of a bouncing dog.  They squeal.  The dog barks.  I laugh.  We all have a good time.  At no time are the grandchildren in danger of being licked to death.  They may wonder but in their hearts they know grandpa will make sure they come out alive.

So?  For reasons we don’t understand God may allow us to be exposed to all kinds of bad things.  Our assurance is in the trust we have in him.  Let Him lift you above it all.  It is going to be an interesting year in the sense of the Chinese curse.  Act like you are hanging on with the awareness that it is His grip that is important. 

The Biblical 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.

You got to love the KJV.  This verse is one reason that modern, fitness conscious suburbanites are not in love with the KJV.  The old English insisted on giving a literal translation.  It may have fit their culture but it offends modern minds.  To be “made fat” (KJV) (1878) is to “prosper” (NASB).  

This calls to question our modern assumptions.  I just read a book about the controversy over eating fat and it health consequences.  The general feel of the book was that we would be healthier eating fat and lard than we are with hydrogenated oils and trans fat.  I found it interesting that such an idea could be verified Biblically.  The modern phobia is not really about fat, it is about beef.

So?  Might I suggest that you consider the Bible as you contemplate your diet.  What foods are mentioned in the Bible?  Which are forbidden and which are presented in a positive light?  I am not a doctor nor do I give medical advice, but I do like to make people think.

Let Anticipation Trump Dread

(Pro 1:33 KJV)  But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.

(Proverbs 27 also read)

Are you thinking yet about New Year’s resolutions?  Maybe you don’t bother, which is a wise position to take.  Yet resolutions have the ability to remind us of things we should keep in mind and don’t.  This verse is like that.  We get so worried about what we see and hear in the headlines and the society around us.  Perhaps you are attending a church that is going woke and are concerned.  You might read this whole last part of Proverbs 1 but the verse I am reflecting on is the last one.

Our world contains a lot to “fear” (6343).  We lock our doors and have security cameras installed.  We look both ways before crossing a street.  All of that is good practice and common sense.  What we are not supposed to do is elevate that fear to a level that overcomes us.  We are to fear God, not man.  The point given here is that paying attention to God and His words will put us in a position to overcome the wrong kinds of fear.

So?  Make a resolution to pay attention to your resolutions.  Live in joy, not fear.  Live in hope, not despair.  Live in anticipation, not dread.  Look forward to the New Year.  God is there waiting for us. 

Why or What

(Pro 26:25 KJV)  When he speaketh fair, believe him not: for there are seven abominations in his heart.

Solomon was a king.  He had been given the gift of wisdom by God and for a time he exhibited that gift.  One of the painful parts of that wisdom was the realization that just because people talked nice to you it did not mean they were sincere.  It also did not mean that their compliments were justified.  I think we like to believe compliments because we want them to be true.  Solomon is saying to walk carefully.

We have just celebrated Christmas.  One of the songs that I have tried to delete from my Christmas music is one entitled “I’m Getting Nothing for Christmas.”  “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” has the same weakness.  People tend to be on their best behavior because they think there will be a payoff.  We aware.  Don’t be one of them.

So?  It is a good time of year to look at how we have been acting.  Are we looking for a payoff or are we seeking to really be different.  Why is often more important that what.

The News Is Good

(Pro 25:25 KJV)  As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.

What a great day to read this verse.  They say that the Thanksgiving-New Year holiday period is a time of great depression and high levels of suicide.  Why is that?  Mainly because people are refusing to hear the “good” (2896a) “news” (8052).  Or I guess they may hear it and not believe it.  Either way can be a disaster.  

The good news is that on the first Christmas, God started the process leading to the cross and the resurrection.  The manger gives us anticipation because it introduces the key player.  It points toward the cross which offers forgiveness and all the restoration that comes with it.  Following that is the resurrection which gives us hope.

So?  Merry Christmas.  If you are inclined toward being a bit down, spend some time thinking about the real meaning of this day of celebration.  Hint:  It isn’t decorations, gatherings or gifts. 

Unexpected Prophecy

(Pro 24:24 KJV)  He that saith unto the wicked, Thou art righteous; him shall the people curse, nations shall abhor him:

It seems like this should be found in book of prophecy rather than wisdom.  This does not reflect what we see in our world.  What does that say about our world?  Keep in mind that what we experience is the norm, that is why I mention prophecy.  Think about the birth of Jesus.  For most of the people in the story it was a time of joy and wonder.  To those in power it was a time of fear and desperate measures:  Herod ordered the killing of the babies.  Think about the life of Jesus.  When He raised Lazarus from the dead some of those who saw it happen went off to plan a way to kill Him.

So?  One way we can tell if leaders are evil is whether they lie about what is evil.  We need to keep the standard clear in our lives and declarations.  Merry Christmas.  Rejoice in the incarnation. 

Moderation Is Key

(Pro 23:20 KJV)  Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh:

Recently I went in for my annual physical.  I don’t know how it is for you younger people but for the elderly this has become a bit of a joke.  I can remember when the doctors took the contact seriously.  They would poke and probe, look down my throat, listen to my heart and breathing and even check my reflexes.  It was an annual exam.  Today all they do, if you let them, is test to see if you need the government to come in and take care of you.  Since I insist, the doctor runs a series of blood tests.  I have tried to get him to do more but he seems to forget between visits.

I think I have one of the more competent young doctors around.  He seems to have the knowledge.  Unfortunately he is part of the generation where everything has to be on the computer.  So, my numbers showed a bit high in LDH.  He advised I eat less meat.  We are going to check it again in six months.  Since I don’t eat much red meat anyway the advice fell of deaf ears.

So?  I am reminded that God designed my hardware.  I take this verse seriously.  It does not say, “Don’t eat meat.”  It says don’t overdo it.  That is good advice for everything we are doing in this Christmas season.  Celebrate and overdo the joy but make my doctor happy and avoid the steaks.

Prophecy To Come

(Isa 9:7 KJV)  Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

(Proverbs 22 also read)

One of the elements of prophecy that people who have charts and graphs like to forget is that the same prophecy can relate to multiple events.  When the Hebrews heard this I am sure they were thinking of the next generation of kings.  The previous verse speaks about a son being given, which brings to mind Christmas.  Now we have predictions of what is still future to us.

This is an indication that the linage from David is still a thing to be reckoned with.  This verse is in support of the return of the Kingdom of David and an indication of the importance of Israel.  Don’t join the masses of people that are basking in Jew hatred.  Jesus was a Jew.  The apostles were Jews.  I don’t understand it but the day of Israel will come again.

So?  Celebrate knowing that there is more to come. 

Prophecy Fulfilled

(Isa 9:6 KJV)  For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

(Proverbs 21 also read)

This is one of the great prophetic passages about the incarnation.  It has all these wonderful words describing what Jesus will be like.  It is doubly prophetic because it not only reminds of of Christmas but also of the place Jesus has through history and beyond.

The son is to be given to us.  If that doesn’t make you want to sing then you might want to get the wax out of your ears, and your soul.

So?  Rejoice!  Soon we will gather with family to celebrate God breaking into history in a way He had never done before.  Eventually we will rejoice in “He is risen!”  This time of year we shout, “The Savior has come!” 

Is It a Hammer Falling?

(Psa 60:1 KJV)  O God, thou hast cast us off, thou hast scattered us, thou hast been displeased; O turn thyself to us again.

(Proverbs 20 also read)

We have a clear statement by David that he feels “rejected” (2186a) by God.  The “us” is more than the Royal We.  Things are not going well.  I understand that during times of celebration, like Christmas, many people experience feelings like this more than they would normally.  Any time we come across a discussion of depression there is the danger of taking our experience as being the norm and thus criticizing harshly.  When it comes to depression I would fall into that trap.  So I will just reflect on my experience without casting dispersion on anyone else.

I went through a long period struggling with depression.  I could sit and stare at the wall for the entire day.  In spite of that crippling mental condition I managed to get done the things that absolutely had to be done.  Because of that I don’t know that I would fit into the category of “clinical depression”, but for me it was very real.  Eventually the Lord helped me to see that I was just sunk into pity parties and needed to “walk it off”, as they say.

There are other times when we feel things are going terribly and we feel we have done something to cause it.  That is where David is.  Israel went through a regular cycle of rejecting God.  God would put up with it for a time, maybe send a prophet, but eventually He would realize that it was time to bring the hammer down.  For David that was Edom and Moab.  For you it might be the IRS or a lightening strike.  The answer was repentance and forgiveness.

So?  If the season is getting to you it may just be a pity party.  It may also be God trying to get your attention.  I can’t decide which it is for you.  I have a hard enough time with my own situation.  Be open to the things God may be trying to communicate.  It might help to talk to someone you trust to get a different perspective.  Find a way to enjoy the season. 

Christmas and Prophecy

(Isa 7:14 KJV)  Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

(Proverbs 19 also read)

One of the miracles about the birth of Christ is what is called The Virgin Birth.  This is a show stopper for some people, even those who claim to be Christians.  For some reason they can accept that God created the universe out of nothing and we will live forever in heaven but they have trouble with a virgin birth.  For some people thinking things through is not a daily event.

This is the Old Testament prophecy.  I personally don’t think the people Isaiah was writing to understood this as a messianic prophecy.  Maybe.  Maybe not.  It is true that the word translated “virgin” (5959) could mean “young woman”.  That is the nature of prophecy.  I think it is meant to tease and confuse at the same time.  The reason Bible believing Christians should accept the Virgin Birth is not the prophecy of Isaiah but the witness of the New Testament.  Both Matthew and Luke bear witness,

(Luk 1:27 KJV)  To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.

So?  I know biology.  You know biology.  We also know God and if we can accept the awesomeness of Jesus going to the cross to pay for our sins I think the Virgin Birth is also within the range of our belief.  Merry Christmas. 

Spread the Word

(Php 2:5-7 KJV)  Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:  Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:  But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

(Proverbs 18 also read)

My granddaughter gave me a hard time the other day.  I was asking her what Christmas was all about.  I know she knew.  She knew that I knew she knew, and so forth, but she was not cooperating.  Eventually I got the answer out of her after overacting my despair.  There are things that we think people know but they don’t.  Never underestimate the ignorance of the general population or the general church member.  If you need a reminder go watch some of those on-the-street interviews where they ask questions about Pearl Harbor.  I was shocked to learn that there are people who think Hawaii is just off the coast of Alaska.  Why?  Look at most maps of the US.  Because of space they put Alaska and Hawaii in their own boxes in the corner.  Make you own ignorant conclusions.

So?  We know the miracle of Christmas.  God became man and began a life as a man.  The goal was the cross and redemption but for a moment it was all warm fuzzies and joy.  Let people know.  Celebrate the reason.  Merry Christmas.

Instrument Certification

(Pro 17:24 KJV)  Wisdom is before him that hath understanding; but the eyes of a fool are in the ends of the earth.

There are times when keeping your eyes on the horizon is the thing to do.  A pilot who is not qualified on instrument flying needs the horizon to keep his place.  When I get car sick it is better to look at the distant spot than the back of the seat in front of me.  That is not always the best case.

Take my mention of the pilot.  You had better hope that the pilot of your flight home for Christmas is not depending on the horizon to get you their safely.  Advanced pilots are required to learn to read and trust their instruments.  The inside of your head can make you think you are flying level when you are going straight down.  This is the place of wisdom.  It anchors and establishes truth.

So?  Work on your spiritual wings.  Go for wisdom instead of trusting your “heart”.  It will prevent a lot of crashes. 

Be Urgent Care

(Pro 16:24 KJV)  Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

I don’t remember if I ever wanted to be a doctor.  Cop, yes.  Fireman, sure.  Zorro, definitely.  Doctor, not really.  At this time in my life I would not be unhappy about having the gift of healing.  Maybe this verse is an indicator of how I could at least be an influence in that direction.  I could pay more attention to what I say to people.

It does not say it here but I think one of the ingredients in our “pleasant” (5278) “words” (561) would be sincerity.  People often have built in baloney detectors.  When people tell me I look good today they seem to forget that I have a mirror at home and I use it every morning.  If I were suddenly looking good I think I would know.  I would advise looking for something genuine to say.  It might be a challenge but God can help our insight and our attitude.

So?  Be someone’s urgent care for the day.  You will feel better.  They will feel better. 

Wait for It

(Gal 4:4 KJV)  But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,

(Proverbs 15 also read)

This is a good reminder that God does not run on our schedule.  That is frustrating but He unfolds history following His plans, not ours.  This past year I have seen You Tube click bait with the question of why God waited so long.  I did not bother reading theirs.  I have plenty of my own questions to ask.  

Waiting in hard.  Remember when you were a kid and you had to wait for Christmas day to open presents.  I still want to start the Christmas music early but we have a rule:  Not until after Thanksgiving dinner.  Sometimes waiting adds zest.  Sometimes it inflicts pain.

So?  Make up your mind to pray and tell God how you want things to happen but wait for Him to act.  It will come out that way anyway. 

A Reminder of the Reason for the Season

(Psa 58:3 KJV)  The wicked are estranged from the womb: they go astray as soon as they be born, speaking lies.

(Proverbs 14 also read)

I was again greeted by this verse as I began to read.  One of the problems we face that our culture is denying is the problem of evil.  The modern pagans have turned back the clock and are maintaining that the problem is society and the oppression created by the Christian framework enforced by European men.

The Bible takes a bit of a different view.  The problem is in the human heart.  Here we see a clear statement that evil starts very early in life.  That is simply a statement of the carnal nature.  What I struggle with here is that it seems that some are “wicked” (7563) from birth.  It almost seems that they have no choice.  Of course the other side of that is that some are born with a different disposition.  

So?  I don’t have any easy answers but I find this encouraging for people who are trying to do what is right.  We also know that the Holy Spirit is working hard to get through to those who started out on the wrong foot.  Pray that the Christmas spirit will move them in the right direction.  Play your Christmas music.  Proclaim “Merry Christmas”.  Be ready to give a defense of the hope that is in you.

Listen to the Cliches

(Pro 13:25 KJV)  The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soul: but the belly of the wicked shall want.

There is some good advice for dieters in this verse.  It does not come through as clearly in the NASB as the KJV.  Notice that the KJV tells us that it is the “soul” (5315) that you are to satisfy (7648).  We are not to eat to fill our bellies but to fill our souls.  As Americans we tend to overdo the physical input.  We tend to underdo the spiritual.  Maybe this is why we need to spend more time in fasting.

We are in the midst of the holidays.  That calls for feasting even in the Bible.  Don’t be a scrooge but focus on the fellowship that builds your soul not the sugar that dulls your mind.

So?  You know all the cliches.  Sometimes there is wisdom in a cliche.

Be the Gift the Keeps on Giving

(Pro 12:24 KJV)  The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.

This is a good reminder.  We are to apply ourselves.  My desire is not to shore up my position of power or make myself look good.  It is more a desire to be a good steward of my time and ability.  I am so blessed.  I don’t want to fall into the trap of taking God for granted.

As I write I am old and getting older.  It is easy to fall into retirement mode and figure all you have to give has been given.  Don’t you believe it.  God is keeping you around because He has something else for you to do.

So?  Look around with the right attitude and I think you will find a contribution you can make. 

Relativity

(Gen 28:2 KJV)  Arise, go to Padanaram, to the house of Bethuel thy mother's father; and take thee a wife from thence of the daughters of Laban thy mother's brother.

(Proverbs 11 also read)

Jacob was sent off to marry a cousin.  If you are reading fast and your stomach is growling, you might miss this little point.  In the culture of the day it was considered optimal to marry a cousin.  It should make you think twice about your jokes involving West Virginia.  The reason for this that I heard was that the human genome was not so corrupt in those days, which made the problem of interbreeding less.  In addition to that, you knew the genetic background of your cousin and you might not know that about some young lady that caught your eye on the street.

So?  That standard does not apply today but it helps a bit to understand the culture of the people in the Bible. 

Getting What You Deserve

(Psa 56:1 KJV)  To the chief Musician upon Jonathelemrechokim, Michtam of David, when the Philistines took him in Gath. Be merciful unto me, O God: for man would swallow me up; he fighting daily oppresseth me.

(Proverbs 10 also read)

This Psalm spoke to me today.  As I read through it I found different versions of being “swallowed” (trampled NASB) (7602b).  I had no fear of physical danger.  The attacks were all verbal but they cut deep.  Maybe I was just being oversensitive.  Maybe I misinterpreted what I was hearing.  What makes these things cut deep is my conviction that I deserve to be talked to this way.

This is where God being “merciful” (gracious NASB) (2603a) is so important.  Eventually I turn to Him and allow Him to interpret what I am hearing.  Through His filter I am able to separate the hostility from the facts.  Usually there are few facts involved and there is little I can do except take the admonition of Jesus and turn the other cheek.

And of course there are the few things that are valid.  Those need to be considered and I can do that when God helps me to respond in love instead of react in pain.

So?  We will be attacked.  Usually it is mostly undeserved.  Turn to Him and let Him help you sort it out and get on to positive living. 

Call on the Name

(Psa 54:1 KJV)  To the chief Musician on Neginoth, Maschil, A Psalm of David, when the Ziphims came and said to Saul, Doth not David hide himself with us? Save me, O God, by thy name, and judge me by thy strength.

(Proverbs 9 also read)

Yes, this is the Old Testament.  Did David believe the law was of God?  I would say yes.  Later he will talk about offering a sacrifice but it is a sacrifice of thanks.  Even the Jews immersed in the law knew that salvation came from God, or at least the ones who were paying attention.  I will not make any claims for the masses that are seeking the widest gate to go through.

Remember the words of Paul,

(Rom 10:13 KJV)  For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

So?  God is waiting for us to call upon Him.  Whether the name is Yahweh, Emmanuel or Jesus, He is waiting.  If you have not already made the call this could be a Christmas to remember. 

Leave a Rock

(Pro 8:24 KJV)  When there were no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water.

Who or what is Wisdom?  It is not clear.  Sometimes it seems to personify principles and laws of physics.  Other times it seems to point to Jesus.  We know that Jesus was involved in the creation.  We know He still holds it all together.  That is part of the awesome nature of God that blows my mind.  Every atom is maintained in its orbit by the decree of God.  As science finds ever smaller particles it remains true:  God is the divine Administrator of all creation.

So?  With that being true, why do people have trouble believing in the virgin birth?  Why are they not overcome with the miracle that the world is trying to drown with commercialism and material desires?  Focus on the miracle.  Declare the miracle.  Wish people a Merry Christmas.  If they say “Happy Holidays” look confused and ask them what holidays they mean.  As apologist Melissa Dougherty says, “Leave a rock in their shoe”. 

Time for Renewal

(Pro 7:24 KJV)  Hearken unto me now therefore, O ye children, and attend to the words of my mouth.

Sorry ladies.  If you get hung up on the cultural use of the masculine pronoun then you will need to deal with it here.  The “children” (1121) (sons NASB) of the KJV is actually the Hebrew word [ben] which means “son”.  The modern translations are more accurate in the basic meaning but the old KJV is more politically correct in using the word “children”.  In the plural, that is the understanding.

If you are sensitive, it is also Solomon who is speaking.  He is speaking as a father, for us a spiritual father, and he is saying, “Listen up.”  That is good advice for us in the Christmas season.  It is good to us to listen.  Start with your music.  Go ahead with the Christmas music but when the carols come up pay attention to the words.  There is a boatload of spiritual truth in the traditional songs of Christmas.  Our culture is working hard to dilute and exclude that truth but if you listen, it is still there.

So?  Let Christmas be a time of renewal.  The ingredients are there.  Listen wisely.

Season of the Smooth

Pro 6:24 KJV)  To keep thee from the evil woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a strange woman.

In my daily reading this verse comes up for the sixth day of the month.  What do you do with this during the Christmas season?  I guess the advice about wicked women is always on target except I don’t run into many like that and if I did they would not be trying to tempt me.  Perhaps the warning about “flattery” (2513b) (smooth NASB) is a good target.  

It is the giving season.  It is the time when individuals and organizations hit us up for gifts and contributions.  It is a time for discernment.  A good early New Year’s resolution might be to ignore anything nice someone says to you.  That might be a bit cynical.  Or not.  

So?  Let the gift giving of Christmas remind you of the Gift of God.  Let that spirit shape what you give, how much you give and to whom you give.  Merry Christmas. 

Good Is Not Historical

(Psa 5:4 KJV)  For thou art not a God that hath pleasure in wickedness: neither shall evil dwell with thee.

(Proverbs 5 also read)

It slips under our radar but this statement about the character of God sets Him totally apart from the pagan gods of history and today.  Picture all the stories you heard about the Greek gods.  They were always coming to earth and messing with people.  It could be the antics of pan or rape on innocent girls.  It was often brutal and unfeeling.  The God of the Bible rejects that.  

If you thought about the rituals surrounding the gods of Canaan and Egypt you would see orgies and torture.  Evil abounded.  You see much of the same types of things in modern Islam.  

This verse declares that God has no use for that kind of behavior.

So?  Rejoice.  God is holy and righteous.  He extends that toward us. 

Degrees of Deception

(Pro 4:24 KJV)  Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee.

Sometimes we tend to think that if we are telling a little, white lie that it doesn’t count.  If it is in the category of commenting on your wife’s new hair cut then we might have grounds for our opinion but that is not what we usually mean.  The whole concept of deceit is to get away with it.  The bigger the lie the harder to deceive.  

The point is that we are to embrace truth and truth is really not very flexible.  It may not be popular.  It may be hard to express.  It may hurt feelings.  It is still a matter of being true or not.  Perhaps this is why we are so often advised to remain silent or at least think long before we speak.

So?  Don’t even make excuses for yourself that you would make for others.  Abide by God’s expectations. 

Righteous Dreams

(Pro 3:24 KJV)  When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.

The news of the day continues to be dark and worrisome.  It is good to be alert and lock your doors.  At the same time this is a reminder that we need to keep in front of us.  God is still on the throne and He has His eye on us.  It does not really matter if you take this as a literal promise or a general principle.  If the government gestapo is sent out to round up Christians they may not be able to find your address or you might not be on their list.  If they do come for you, God promises to be with you.

I think of the Old Testament history of Israel.  They were invaded.  They were hauled away into captivity.  Keep in mind that was after many warnings and chances to repent.  I have often wondered if God directed the deportation crews around the farms and homes of the devout and righteous.  

So?  Sleep well.  Fear not.  Keep your doors locked and get your heater serviced as specified.  Be glad you don’t have to boil your water or slaughter your own cows. 

The Big If

(Pro 2:1 KJV)  My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee;

Notice the third word in this verse, “if”.  This is where you need to start on the promises of God.  I think most people want to start in verse 5 or verse 9 where it says, “Then.”  It does not work that way.  Too often we want the ice cream at the end while ignoring the vegetables on the plate.  There are conditions to the promises of God.  I know you don’t like it.  Theologians will get spiritual hernias trying to lift you over the conditions, but they are there.

Yes, grace is a gift.  It is a gift because you can’t earn it.  You can’t save yourself.  You can’t make providential changes in your daily life.  You can’t.  At the same time there are expectations that God has of you.  So read it again.  Don’t go straight to the promises.  They are glorious.  Ask yourself, “What does God expect of me?”

So?  The Bible is full of if/then statements.  They are not there to tell you how helpless you are.  They are there to lead you on the path of righteousness. 

Spread the Merry

(Pro 1:24 KJV)  Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded;

It is Advent season.  In its attempt to muzzle the message of Emmanuel the secular world has been working overtime to remove Jesus from the Christmas story.  That is a tragedy but there is still enough evidence around to point people to the incarnation and thus to the crucifixion.  The cradle is just the first chapter leading to the cross.  The words in the carols that used to be sung everywhere for an entire month involved Joy to the World and a solution that extended “far as the curse if found.”

What is tragic is the situation in this verse:  rejection of truth.  The message of redemption is still out there but people don’t want to hear it.  We cannot make decisions for them.  What we can do is keep the message in front of them.  Get into playing and singing the hymns of the incarnation and using the words.  Do your part to give the world around you a chance.  After that it is between them and God.

So?  Merry Christmas.  Spread the reason for the Merry. 

Nicknames

(Psa 46:1 KJV)  To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

(Proverbs 30 also read)

This is a verse that tends to warm our hearts and encourage our minds.  As I was looking over the Strong’s numbers that go with it I noticed that the Hebrew word for “help” (5833) was transliterated in English as [ezrah].  Does that look familiar?  It should.  It is the root word that the name Ezra comes from.  Ezra had a name that meant “helper”.

Do you know what your name means?  One of my names means “great protector” or at least that is the version I like.  For some of us our nickname might be a better indicator of how people see us.

So?  May your nickname reflect the glory of God in some way. 

Speak Freely

(Heb 4:16 KJV)  Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

(Proverbs 29 also read)

God is holy.  Coming into His presence is intimidating.  Think of the words of Isaiah as he had a vision, which was obviously from the Lord, and thought of himself as being face to face with the Most High God,

(Isa 6:5 KJV)  Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.

This is the witness of the Old Testament.  God is holy.  We are human.  It is presumptuous to come into His presence.

While I was thinking about that this verse came to mind.  Instead of fearing the face of God it tells us that, in Jesus, we can come and pour out our hearts to Him, without fear.  That term, “confidence” (3954) in the NASB and “boldly” in the KJV seems to have the idea of speaking freely.  I can pour out my heart to Him and know His compassion.  The emphasis is not on His holiness but on our attitude as we come before Him.

So?  Rejoice.  Think of the Christmas carol that says, “O come let us adore Him.”  He waits to meet with you.

Correction

(Pro 28:23 KJV)  He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue.

I don’t like correcting others.  I also do not like being corrected.  Might I suggest that we change that kind of thinking.  We have been so brainwashed by the concept of “seeker friendly” and trying to win people by being like them that we forget we are not to be conformed to this world.  Part of that picture is rebuking, and being rebuked.  Let me respond to the second part.

We, or should I say “I”, need to learn to be thankful when someone cares enough to tell us we are wrong or misguided.  We need to practice the discipline of listening and hearing.  Take what is said and run it through some prayer time, reading and contemplation.  It may be just noise or gaslighting.  It may be a word from the Lord.

So?  Only you can decide if the word you hear is needed.  Make it a habit to seriously consider it.

Face It

(Pro 27:23 KJV)  Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.

My eyes were drawn to the marginal readings of this verse.  The word “condition” (6440) seems pretty straightforward but the margin says it literally means “face”.  We have run into this before.  

(Pro 24:23 KJV)  These things also belong to the wise. It is not good to have respect of persons (6440) in judgment.

In the other references it is a negative application.  We are not to give special preference because of class or income.  Here it is a positive instruction.  It is the personal touch in managing our life.  This might be a caution in the age of working from home, social media and attending church on zoom.  Those activities in themselves are not evil.  The caution is that we are not to lose the personal touch that is best done face to face.

So?  Keep thinking and applying God’s principles.  Stay involved with family, friends, neighbors and other contacts.

Fear the Right Things

(1Pe 3:14 KJV)  But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;

(Proverbs 26 also read)

If you are using the NASB and see all the capital letters it should tell you something:  This is an Old Testament quote.  The KJV does not make that clear.  Compare it to this,

(Isa 8:12 KJV)  Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid.

I would imagine that you are aware the world is unsettled.  The phrase “wars and rumors of wars” seems like a headline for our times.  The government wants you to panic so they can take more power away from the citizens so they can control us.  The media wants us to cower in fear so they can sell more advertising.  Even the weatherman gets into the act.

God tells us we are to fear Him not all the imagined problems we are inundated with.  

So?  Relax and rejoice.  Even if God allows you to go through some difficulty, He has this.  Rejoice in the hope that is in you.

Routine Worship

(Psa 42:4 KJV)  When I remember these things, I pour out my soul in me: for I had gone with the multitude, I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept holyday.

(Proverbs 25 also read)

Here we read the testimony of someone who not only went to worship but was a leader.  If you look at the surrounding verses you will see that in spite of this he was not up spiritually.  That is a lesson for us.  Just because we have been at a worship service we are not automatically lifted into the presence of the Lord.

It is so easy for us to get into the ritual instead of worship.  Although worship may have elements of ritual, it is really supposed to be a time where we reach out to God and listen for Him reaching out to us.  We can make substitutions but we will eventually miss what God has to say to us.

Ritual also allows us to go into automatic mode.  God is not impressed.  Your mother may get excited when you send her a card on her birthday but God would know you wife actually got it on its way.

So?  Focus.  Listen.  God will make your worship worthwhile.

Current Events

(Pro 24:23 KJV)  These things also belong to the wise. It is not good to have respect of persons in judgment.

It seems like I have reflected on this topic recently.  It would not surprise me for two reasons.  The first is that this theme is common in the Bible.  We are to be guided by truth and God’s standards, not by our feelings.

The second is that our culture is going crazy about giving people advantages based on superficial attributes from race to political party.  We need to keep reminding ourselves that God does not judge people on those qualities.  The political agenda behind such things as Critical Race Theory and Black Lives Matter have nothing to do with improving the lot of any group.  They are simply ways to try to brainwash our society away from the impartial standards of God.

So?  Be altert and do not show partiality. 

Attitude Makes a Difference

(Pro 23:23 KJV)  Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.

At my age I am not sure I know how to get “instruction” (4148).  In basic knowledge I am ahead of the curve.  I don’t know everything by a long shot.  It is more a case of ignorance in so many people’s lives.  How can someone who never opens their Bible give me instruction on Biblical “truth” (571)?  

I think most of it is a matter of attitude.  Do I have a willingness to learn?  Am I a regular listener?  Do I just write people off?  I do not like the answers I hear coming from the back of my mind.  If the sermon is “boring” then spend some time reading the text and context.  Ask yourself what you would have said in this place.  Learning and growing require our buy in.

So?  Apply yourself.  If nothing else try to learn by the mistakes of others. 

Is That a Promise or a Threat

(Pro 22:23 KJV)  For the LORD will plead their cause, and spoil the soul of those that spoiled them.

As I read this verse, Hamas is again guilty of murdering Israeli women and children.  The enemies of God are attacking the people chosen by God.  That is not to say that at this day and time the people living in Israel are great examples of living righteous lives or even acknowledging the Almighty, but they are still descendants of David and Solomon who wrote this verse.  As such, I would see reason to be concerned if I were a Muslim associated with the jihad.  

The promise of God is a bit stronger than the NASB’s “take the life”.  The KJV comes closer with “spoil (6906) the “soul” (5315) [nephesh].  The NASB margin is the most literal.  It says, “rob the soul”.  I think of a Dracula moment where the monster sucks the blood out of the victim.  There are so many ways you could take this but rest assured of two things:  It is not good, it is a promise.

So?  We could spiritualize and talk about people attacking the church but just be satisfied with the knowledge that God is watching and the outcome will not be pleasant for those who try to destroy God’s people. 

Lecture Time

(Pro 21:23 KJV)  Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.

There are times when I think that God crafted the Bible just to slap me up side the head.  This is one of those ideas that is presented so many ways that it is hard to avoid.  We still try, or at least I do.  I heard lately that I was considered a talker.  I was shocked until I considered the steps that information had gone through to get to my ears.  I suspect a bit of editing to achieve the desired aura about the original statement.  

On the other hand, it is always good to listen to criticism and comments we don’t like.  We go through different stages from depressed belief to indignant rejection.  Somewhere in between is the right balance.  The Holy Spirit can’t talk to us if we don’t listen.

So?  Listen and stop talking.  Let people finish.  Think about what they say before you respond.  I know, you have heard it all before.  The lecture will help me when I am proof-reading. 

Danger of Diversity

(Pro 20:23 KJV)  Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance is not good.

I first noticed that this concept is used twice in this chapter.  On the surface it is a statement about business ethics.  Pay attention to that.  As I read it I first thought of other places where the Bible condemns partiality.  In those places it is literally regarding the face.  That made me think of what we are going through with the embracing of relative truth in the woke culture of our day.  Then when I looked at the KJV I saw that it used “diverse” instead of “different”.  

Diverse.  Diversity.  The concept here is rejected because it means looking at qualities that have nothing to do with a decision.  It means using a different measure in a place where the balance should be the same.  It is an “abomination” (8441).

So?  Be careful about using the words that the woke culture has been redefining.  When you are working on the chords of a song, diversity may be an asset.  When you are boring out the cylinders of an engine they all need to be the same.  Only discernment and a knowledge of unchanging truth will get you through our current cultural compromises. 

Is Repentance Works?

(Psa 38:18 KJV)  For I will declare mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin.

(Proverbs 19 also read)

Many people lump the Old Testament into the age of law as opposed to the age of grace.  That is a mistake in my opinion.  What troubles me even more is a friend who says that even the idea of repentance is part of the law.  Everything is grace and faith and to him repentance is an act of the law.  I can just shake my head.  Even David, a man after God’s own heart, felt it necessary to “confess” (5046) his “sin” (5771).  I have a hard time setting aside this part of life.

God wants to forgive.  The question we must answer is what are His conditions.  It is totally grace.  That is not an issue.  We cannot save ourselves any more than your car can change its own flat tire.  Faith is required but the question becomes what does that faith mean.  Remember the words of James,

(Jas 2:19 KJV)  Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

If repentance is a matter of Old Testament works to you then I suggest you spend a bit more time reading the entire Bible and see what it says.

So?  God is waiting.  God is patient.  God knows our hearts.

Pointing to the Cross

(Psa 31:5 KJV)  Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.

(Proverbs 18, also read)

I know how glorious this message is to those of us who have the benefit of the cross.  We have been “ransomed” (6299) (NASB) or as the KJV says, “redeemed”.  Our benefit is having the full picture of the incarnation and the price paid by Jesus to pay for our sins.  We know how and when.  In the days of David they also had the assurance of deliverance but they tended to get distracted by the sacrificial system.  Most probably thought the ritual had some mystical property.  They often missed the teaching that it was their faith in the Creator and His grace that brought about the salvation.  

So?  Rejoice that we live in a day and age where the Old Testament became clear and fulfilled in the New Testament.  What a time to be alive. 

Hearing Test

(Psa 17:6 KJV)  I have called upon thee, for thou wilt hear me, O God: incline thine ear unto me, and hear my speech.

(Proverbs 17 also read)

Here we are in the midst of David’s prayer time.  Notice the confidence that David has.  He believes that God will “answer” (6030a).  His confidence is not just based on the nature of God, although we find that also.  If you read the first part of the chapter you find that he has been living a life based on obedience.  In verse 3 it says that God has “tried” and “tested” his heart.  He comes to God in confidence.

We can be at that spot in our prayer life but we need to understand that God is not a fool, nor does he turn a blind eye to rebellion.  God does not play games and He does not join in when we want to be the banker.  Notice the comment in Proverbs on this,

(Pro 1:28 KJV)  Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me:

So?  God will answer.  He wants to answer.  He also knows when your cry is sincere and when it is based on an attitude of obedience. 

Read It All

(Psa 119:1 KJV)  ALEPH. Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD.

(Proverbs 16 also read)

As I read this beginning to Psalm 119 I was again reminded of the different view of the law that we have in Psalms from the writings of Paul.  It is almost like they were writing about two different things.  The reason for that is they were writing about two different things.  When David referred to the law his major focus was on the Decalogue.  When Paul is talking about the law he is living in the oral law which fills over 30 volumes of fine print, most of it was written by rabbis hundreds and thousands of years after Moses listened to God on Mount Sinai.

Take Paul’s warnings to heart.  Do not get caught up in thinking you can earn your way to heaven with empty ritual.  Also absorb David’s joy in the law.  For David it would be like a Christian meditating on a verse like

(2Co 5:21 KJV)  For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

So?  Take the Bible as a whole and let it speak to your heart and mind. 

Get a Joy Face

(Pro 15:23 KJV)  A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!

Attitude is so important.  I am sure you have noticed in others how their response can vary depending on their mood.  If we are honest we would also see the same tendency in ourselves.  It may be that the base line of the comment is the same.  If typed out and printed up both would convey the same idea.  Tone of voice and facial expression can totally block communication.

It isn’t easy to by joyful all the time, probably impossible, but we can increase the good quotient by making sure we are in contact with the Lord on a regular basis.  I know that after a time with my grandchildren I find myself smiling a lot more.  Believe it or not, God can do the same thing.

So?  Again I urge you to find a way to start your day with meaningful contact with Almighty God. 

The Sifting Comes

(Psa 28:3 KJV)  Draw me not away with the wicked, and with the workers of iniquity, which speak peace to their neighbours, but mischief is in their hearts.

(Proverbs 14 also read)

David is asking here to be left behind.  It is the second mention in three verses.  In verse one he is concerned about being sent down to the pit.  Here we see a concern about being dragged off with those that God has decided to finally deal with.  I pray for the godless heathen that seem to be trying to destroy America.  This concerns me, not because I think America is God’s chosen people but because I live here.  I want the “wicked” (7563), those who “work” (6466) “iniquity” (205), and who talk “peace” (7965) [shalom] while “evil” (7463a) in their “hearts” (3824) to be dealt with.  I don’t want to be caught in the sweep.

A good point for us here is to make sure that we don’t belong with them.  God wants righteous people.  He expects to be able to tell the sheep from the goats.  We should be able to tell where we stand also.  If we are living righteous lives and are right with Him through the blood of Jesus, we don’t need to worry about the time of winnowing.

So?  Believe.  Obey.  Rejoice. 

Joy or Bondage

(Psa 27:6 KJV)  And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.

(Proverbs 13 also read)

I am part of a men’s Bible study that is working through Galatians.  We are expected to use only the KJV.  I am cooperating.  I have a friend who loves the KJV who has been quoting Galatians to me.  What they have in common, and why I bring them up, is that they keep taking the comments of Paul about the law and using it in a way that I think insults the rest of the Bible.  Here we have a clear statement about how the Jews of David’s time, who were serious about serving the Lord, viewed the law.  

Look at the second part of this verse.  “Sacrifices” (2077) are being “offered” (2076).  The attitude is not, “O how terrible to be under the bondage of the law” but “joy” (8643) and a bursting out in song.  The two pictures seem antithetical but both are in the Bible.  Our job is to read them both and put them together into a Biblical truth.  Our job is not to ignore one because it fits our theology.

So?  Study and think for yourself.  Read widely in the Bible.  Do not confine yourself to the one book or short sections that teachers like to go over.  Be leery of isolated proof texts.  Seek truth and while you are doing it expect joy and moments of celebration to creep up on you. 

Too Many Words

(Pro 12:23 KJV)  A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.

I was informed recently that some people consider me a talker.  It was not offered as a compliment.  It surprised me.  I can talk when it is required.  I can click my inner switch from introvert to extrovert, lift my head, look people in the eye and initiate conversations.  I do it when I am out of the house but I would prefer to stay in the house and not talk to anyone.  

Still, I look at it as a rumble strip warning me about what is ahead.  Everyone does not want to hear what I have to say.  The number of people out in the cold world who need to talk outnumbers those who listen.  

So?  This is a good wake up call.  I have a fair amount of knowledge but I need to understand that usually, no one wants to hear it.  I will keep storing it up and not presume on the patience of others. 

Well?

(Jos 24:14-15 KJV)  Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD.  And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.

(Proverbs 11 also read)

If you think about it this is a strange moment.  Joshua is talking to the nation of Israel.  Forty years before they had left Egypt and followed Moses out into the desert.  They followed him around for that entire period until the elders died off.  Now they are being asked whom they will serve.  It would seem that the question had already been answered.

Maybe not.

Maybe this is an indication of how often we get into the right crowd but do not embrace their core beliefs.  Look around you at church.  How many people in the congregation actually know what the church believes?  I would guess it is a low percentage.  Many were raised in the church.  Most consider themselves Christians.  In reality they have still not made the choice of whom they will serve.

So?  I guess the question of the day is, “Whom do you serve?”  Have you made the conscious decision?  I have.  I trust you will take a moment to consider it for yourself. 

Check Your Report Card

(Pro 10:23 KJV)  It is as sport to a fool to do mischief: but a man of understanding hath wisdom.

I find that as I grow older I am less interested in “sport” (7814).  My interest has declined as I played less.  About the only sport I participate in is golf and I have never spent time watching it.  If you consider Candyland a sport then I would say I will soon be a part of the team again.  Personally I would consider that closer to the “fool” (3684) than “wisdom” (2451).  

What does take my time and focus is things that I am interesting in.  I heard a sermon once where the pastor said you could tell a persons passion by looking at their check book.  Today that would need to be revised to your monthly debit card report.  The concept applies to other areas of life.  Have you ever known someone who was too tired to get to church but was willing to go out to lunch or go shopping on the same day?  Priorities and first loves.

So?  So often it isn’t the words we use but the actions we perform that define who we are.  If our family can see it you might as well assume that God also notices. 

Fear that Is Foundational

(Pro 9:10 KJV)  The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.

I spent some time thinking about situations in life where fear has been a key to personal growth.  What situations does a proper fear improve?  The first thing that came to mind was learning to drive.  Do you remember that sense of insecurity that came the first time you got behind the wheel?  Maybe you don’t but I was very much aware of what I did not know and as the car began to move I was ever more aware.  Sometimes the fear morphs into a lack of respect.  Being drafted into the Armed Forces had that effect.  You quickly learn that there are those who are warriors and patriots and those who are looking for an easy paycheck and early retirement.  

Fearing God opens the door to worlds of wonder.  When I watch a sunrise and realize that I know the artist, the glory takes on a whole new meaning.  When I watch my grandchildren and realize that they are unique expressions of the image of God, I can only feel humbled.

So?  Take God seriously.  Fear.  And then move on to all the other doors that will open as you experience a healthy awe and reverence.  If you need a clue watch for the palette of colors used on the clouds before sunrise. 

Active Memory

(Psa 20:7 KJV)  Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.

(Proverbs 8 also read)

It is interesting that the first “boast” (trust in KJV) is not found in the Hebrew.  The warning, or limitation is not confined to one area of our life.  It isn’t just in what we say or what we do.  It is a placing of a foundation stone and repeatedly returning to it.  In the NASB you have a second “boast” (2142).  This is the only place it translates it thus.  The most common translation is what the KJV has, “remember”.  Score one for the KJV.

Don’t think boasting, which we equate with bragging.  Think faith or trust.  Think calling to mind the character and works of God.  We do this too little.  It is so easy for us to get drawn down into the current concerns.  We live in troubled times.  How easy to focus on solutions that are based on our ability or our preparation.  How easy to forget that God is still on the throne.

So?  Start in the right place if you want to arrive at the desired destination.  Start by remembering whom you serve and whom holds the whole world in His hands.

Living in Reality

(Pro 7:23 KJV)  Till a dart strike through his liver; as a bird hasteth to the snare, and knoweth not that it is for his life.

One of the great advantages that Christians have is that we see the reality of life.  One reality is that we will die and know it.  We also have no fear of it.  

Another reality is that life is not a game.  It is serious.  It has consequences.

Another reality is that we are able to discern many of the traps of life.  Even if we don’t see the traps, God has given us a road map.  If we follow the map we will be kept clear of the waiting disasters.

So?  Rejoice.  You have all the advantages.  Follow the map. 

Still the Same

(Pro 6:16 KJV)  These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him:

When I read Proverbs I can’t help but relate what I read to the world around me.  Usually each verse or couplet stands alone but here you have a passage a bit longer in order to get the seven things that kindle God’s wrath.  As I read through them I had visions of our national leaders:  Arrogance, lies, murder, evil plans, mischief, divisiveness.  It is quite a list and so modern.  Some things never change.

That should give us hope.  We are to pray for our leaders.  I would hope that much of that would be to call down God’s justice upon them.  Understand that God already has His eye on them.  If you don’t believe it, read through the list and recognize that these actions are an “abomination” (8441) to the God of the universe.  I would not want to be in their shoes.

So?  Don’t lose hope.  Also, don’t forget that the real target for this is the reader.  That is you and me.  We need to keep these things in our mind as we go through our day. 

Ready or Not, Here I Come

(Pro 5:12 KJV)  And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof;

As a parent, a grandparent and a once-upon-a-time teacher I have seen a lot of rejection.  Children can be defiant and hostile to your wisdom.  It happens.  Don’t get that confused with not being ready to learn.  There are actually measurable qualities in the minds of children that decide whether they are ready to learn.  It is true in the physical world.  I did not learn to ride a bike until I was half way through elementary school.  I was out of college and in seminary before it dawned on me what give-and-go meant in basketball.  Suddenly it all made sense.  The same can be true in spiritual matters.  

They are always ready to learn obedience.  “Because I said so” is often the only fall-back that works.  Don’t be afraid to use it.

So?  We often talk about doing an attitude check on ourselves.  Perhaps it is a good idea to apply it to the learners in our lives.  Are they having a hard time because they refuse or because they are not yet capable? 

Providence and Physics

(Pro 4:22 KJV)  For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.

We have a tendency to separate the metaphysical and the physical.  This book is about wisdom.  We think of wisdom as great thoughts and principles, situated in ivory towers, examined at our leisure.  That is all true and yet nothing could be farther from the truth.  Wisdom is not reserved for introspective examination.  It is meant to be applied.  This verse points that out.

Wisdom is for the whole “flesh” (body NASB) (1320).  It delivers results.  The results are generally summed up as “health” (4832).  Sometimes the results are pure providence.  Sometimes it is simply physics.  Either way it is still results.  Remember that Providence designed physics.

So?  Many people fit exercise into their daily schedule.  It isn’t just because they like exercise.  They also like the results.  Schedule some worship time seeking wisdom.  It pays dividends. 

The Problem with Giving Good Advice

(Pro 3:22 KJV)  So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck.

I think that Solomon would have benefitted by reading his own writings.  If you know anything about the life of Solomon, he did not finish well.  The start was powerful.  God met him and he responded with humility.  God promised him much but he was not able to handle it.  Instead of being leery of pagan wives he jumped into polygamy with both feet.  In the end, the women won.  Satan won.  Solomon turned his back on the Lord and embraced the evils of his pagan spouses.

So?  It isn’t enough to be able to quote Bible verses.  Evidently it wasn’t even enough to write Bible verses.  The promises are real.  Make sure that your heart is in tune and your ears are cleaned out. 

The Joy of Offerings

(Psa 20:3 KJV)  Remember all thy offerings, and accept thy burnt sacrifice; Selah.

(Proverbs 2 also read)

Here we have David thinking back to the many times he has offered “offerings" (meal offerings NASB) (4503) and the sacrifice of “burnt sacrifice" (burnt offerings NASB) (5930a).  This is strange to us and it should be.  We live in the age after Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice on the cross.  In the OT “atonement” is a common word for being made right with God.  The NT has words such as “justification”, “regeneration”, “adoption”.  We might meditate on the glory of the cross and the forgiveness it offers.  David would have the same awe at what was symbolized in the offering of grain or the slaughter of an animal.  

So?  Take some time to “remember” (2142).  Make it a part of your daily worship, meditation, study or however you describe it.  Join David in rejoicing what God has done for you. 

From Beginning to End

(Psa 16:2 NAS77) I said to the LORD, "Thou art my Lord; I have no good besides Thee."

(Proverbs 1 also read, note the above quote is not KJV)

One of the common teaching to all branches of Christianity is original sin.  Various words are used to describe it but the idea is that when Adam sinned in the Garden of Eden, that sin was transferred to all mankind afterward.  In fact it polluted all of creation.

Of course the answer to that is Jesus but David did not know about Calvary.  In spite of that he understood that it was only through the grace of God that any good could be in his life.  That is one of the universal truths from Genesis to Revelation.  Don’t get distracted by people who want to divide the God of the Old Testament from the God of the New Testament.  Such things as grace and faith are clear all the way through.

One of the ways in which you can identify pseudo-Christian “churches” is on this issue.  The first of course is the deity of Christ but the acceptance that mankind is born in sin is also commonly rejected.

So?  It is possible to live a righteous life.  You can’t do it on your own but with the cleansing of the blood, the filling of the Spirit and a desire to belong to Jesus, you can do it. 

OT Grace

(Psa 119:149 KJV)  Hear my voice according unto thy lovingkindness: O LORD, quicken me according to thy judgment.

(Proverbs 31 also read)

The Old Testament is full of grace.  It is expressed in different ways but it is there.  All you have to do is read with your mind turned on and your heart open.

Here we have the Psalmist, no author is given for this Psalm, expecting to be heard by God.  Why?  Because of God’s “lovingkindness” (2617) [chesed].  This is one of the great words of the OT.  If David had written the Gospel of John he would have phrased John 3:16 as “For God had so much lovingkindness toward the world....”

Then you have the call to “quicken” (revive NASB) (2421a) which would easily go along with the idea of regeneration.  And it is done “according to (His) ordinances” (4942).

So?  Grace has been part of God’s plan from the beginning.  Rejoice. 

Seeing in the Dark

(Mat 6:23 KJV)  But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!

(Proverbs 30 also read)

How can “light” (5457) be in “darkness” (4655)?  The two are contrasted all through scripture.  Yet here they are together.  I think this is an attempt to investigate why there is so much evil in the world.  Everywhere you look you see people who think they are on the side of the angels.  While they think that they act like demons.  They call on feelings instead of truth.  They look at the majority in determining morality instead of the unchanging standards in the word.  They infiltrate churches, knowing that they are out to destroy the church as it exists.

And they pull out their thumb and say, “What a good boy am I.”

When you live in darkness you can’t tell shades of gray.  When you live in darkness any kind of light can be painful.  When you live in darkness you will have no tolerance for being in the presence of a holy God.

So?  Walk in the light as He is in the light. 

Now That Is Vexed

(Psa 6:2 KJV)  Have mercy upon me, O LORD; for I am weak: O LORD, heal me; for my bones are vexed.

(Proverbs 29 also read)

I hope this is poetic license.  I am not sure that I like the idea of my “bones” (6106) being “vexed" (dismayed NASB) (926).  It sounds serious.  This stood out to me because in my reading of Proverbs there are several references to bones.  There you have rottenness to the bones as well as refreshing.  It depends on the context.  

The point is that we may very well go through times when we feel like even our bones are worried.  Keep in mind that this is David writing.  He does not seem to be writing this when he was watching the sheep and worried about lions and wolves.  It wasn’t during his confrontation with Goliath.  It wasn’t even when he was hiding from Saul.  It was when he was king.  Notice the notes for the orchestra.  You don’t have those details before you are the monarch.

So?  Are you bone weary?  You are in good company.  If you read the entire Psalm you will find that David eventually trusts the Lord.  That is our goal too. 

Context and Conditions

(Psa 7:10 KJV)  My defence is of God, which saveth the upright in heart.

(Proverbs 28 also read)

This is a clear promise of God but notice the context and conditions.

The context is one of persecution.  David is going through a rough time.  Enemies are after him.  He does not seem to be sure of victory.  He is calling on God, always a good thing to do.  He is looking at God to preserve him in the bad times.  This is not just the praise of the good times but a call for deliverance.

Equally important is the condition expressed.  God “saves” (3467) [yasha].  Notice that the Hebrew is very close to the Jewish name for Jesus, Yeshua, a form of Joshua.  Notice also that this is not a promise to everyone we calls on God.  It is for the “upright” (3477).  

These two points are important to us as we look at an uncertain future politically and socially.  Unrest is more normal that we think.  We have lived in a bubble of well being.  That is largely because of the upright hearts that have been active in this country.  Those times may be over.  The promise extends to those who are faithful.  It seems to me that we will come through the rough times either untouched or unbroken.

So?  Get upright, whatever that means to you at this point.  Repentance?  Discipline?  Personal growth?  You can fill in the blanks.  God will take care of His end. 

Lay a Foundation

(Psa 11:3 KJV)  If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?

(Proverbs 27 also read)

This is an important point for us to consider.  We get so busy with life and being nice that we forget there were certain foundational concepts that produced the freedoms we enjoy today.  We know about the Declaration of Independence with its, “all men are created equal” and we know about the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.  What the general world ignores and we push aside is that the foundation for those is the Bible and God’s standards.

We should be doing all we can to maintain the “foundations” (8356).  That starts with preparing our personal foundations and then extends to imprinting those standards on our families and the neighborhood around us.

So?  We can make a difference.  We must make a difference. 

Don’t Forget

(Psa 9:17 KJV)  The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God.

(Proverbs 26 also read)

The KJV has an interesting difference from the NASB.  I am not referring to the obvious different words “Sheol” (7585) (NASB) and “hell” (KJV).  The modern translation simply does a transliteration of the Hebrew.  I am looking at the different translations of the preposition.  The NASB has “to” and the KJV has “into”.  Since the prepositions seem to be included in the verb it becomes “return to” (7725) in the NASB and “turned into” in the KJV.

The point is that evil behavior has results and the results are not pretty.  For our situation it comes down to whether we as a nation “forgot” (7913) God or not.  It would seem that if we have not entered into a memory lapse we are very close.

So?  Continue to broadcast the hope that is in you.  Do it in your life style and daily decisions.  Do it in your conversations.  The Bible is full of examples of people who have experienced revival and the deliverance that comes with it. 

A Little OCD

(Psa 5:3 KJV)  My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.

(Proverbs 25 also read)

Today I want to put in my two cents on translation.  Notice that “prayer” is in italics.  Keep in mind that when you see words in italics in either the KJV or NASB it is an indication that the word is not in the original language but is inserted for clarity.  In this case I think it adds more confusion than clarity.  I think the verse is more powerful and useful if those words were left out.

I also like the NASB use of “order” (6186a) rather than “direct” of the KJV.  The most frequent translation is “array” or “arrayed” in both translation.  The idea is not emphasizing that you are sending, or directing your prayers.  The idea is that you are organizing.  To me it is reminding us that each morning we should be looking over our day and organizing it with the will of God in mind.

So?  This is just another value in starting your day with a time of worship.  Results may vary.

The Balance of Holy Living

(Psa 92:12 KJV)  The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon.

(Proverbs 24 also read)

Once again we see that the writer of Psalms is confused.  He lives in the illusion that we can live “righteous” (6662) lives.  I guess he has not read Paul lately.  

This is one of the mysteries that occupy my mind at this stage in my walk.  As I read through the Bible I see time and time again that we are called to holiness.  We are expected to live upright lives.  We are to be straight.  We are to follow.  There are so many terms that are used but they all point to the fact that God sees how we live our lives.

At the same time we are also reminded that we can’t do it on our own.  We need God’s hand upon our lives.  That is also clear in the Old Testament.

So?  Put it all together.  God extends His grace.  We are given the gift of salvation.  Yet in some way that is expected to generate behavior and attitudes in us that reflect the character of God.  What a joyful paradox to delve into. 

Cycle of Deliverance

(Psa 107:6 KJV)  Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses.

(Proverbs 23 also read)

I didn’t notice it the first time through but this verse is repeated four times in this chapter.  I would go so far as to say it is the theme of the chapter.  I tried to place the events being described and could not but the theme is one that applies to all of Israel’s history and every day of our lives.

In the worst sense people drift into sin and rebellion and are only brought back by being backhanded by God.  That wakes them up, sometimes.  In the best sense we begin to drift on autopilot and end up hitting some kind of wall that gets us back on track.  The key is being reminded that we are dependent on God and need to keep calling out the Him.

So?  This is good thinking for today.  We feel like society is falling apart around us.  The bad news is, it is.  The good news is, people have always felt that way.  The even better news is that God continues to deliver both in our spirits and our physical world. 

Ancient Worship

(Psa 108:3 KJV)  I will praise thee, O LORD, among the people: and I will sing praises unto thee among the nations.

(Proverbs 22 also read)

Here we have the words for the chorus “Be Exalted, O God”.  This is the second time that I have noticed we see David writing this out.  The other is in Psalm 57.  I would imagine that by repeating it David is showing what a glowing testimony it is.  I would love to hear the way that David sang it.  In Psalm 57 it says it is written for the choir director.  Verse 2 gives us some clues for the accompaniment.

We sometimes think we are moving ahead with our contemporary music.  Except for the electronic amplification and distortion, most of the typical music in contemporary worship would be familiar to David.  It might be more monotonous and boring to him but it would certainly not be strange.

So?  Worship.  Rejoice in the music.  Don’t be a spectator.  Lift your voice along with David in praise.  If you can’t sing then pretend you are a rapper and speak the words.

Sunflowers or Cockroaches

(Psa 112:4 KJV)  Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.

(Proverbs 21 also read)

“Light” (216) and “darkness” (2822).  Is this talking about our situation or an inner sense?  The cure for darkness is light.  The relief for darkness in our soul is the source of all light, God Himself.  John tells us the God is light.  There are very few things that can grow or prosper in darkness.  We are no different.

We take light for granted.  Light can kill germs and speed healing.  Light is a key element in photosynthesis.  Light is necessary for us to see.  

This is a promise for the “upright” (3477).  It is a promise that only the upright would be interested in.  The rest are like the cockroaches that scramble for the shadows when you turn on the lights.  This is a promise for those who chose to follow in God’s ways.

So?  Be like a sunflower that turns to the light rather than a bug that runs from it. 

Repetition

(Pro 20:13 KJV)  Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty; open thine eyes, and thou shalt be satisfied with bread.

There is a reason this verse jumps out at me every month when I read Proverbs 20.  It is because I need to be constantly reminded, and, I would assume I am not the only one like that.  If you read Proverbs in a perpetual cycle then you begin to notice some of the themes that keep coming up.  One of my goals is to keep my mind turned on so that I don’t go into neutral mode when I read them.  

So?  Do I really need a nap?  Don’t answer that.  I can deal with that myself.  There are going to be days when that is a voice I really need to hear.  I trust I am paying attention. 

Call the Pinch Hitter

(Psa 131:1 KJV)  A Song of degrees of David. LORD, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me.

(Proverbs 19 also read)

This is another place where we can implement proof-texting and totally miss the point.  It would be easy to read this and think that we are to become simpletons with no responsibility to make decisions on the hard issues of life.  That would play right into Marx’s statement about religion being the opiate of the people.  

A couple of key words here.  One is the issue of the “proud” (1361b) “heart” (3820) [leb].  The other is how you understand what is too “difficult” (6381) for us.  I would suggest that one of the lessons we need to get from this is that there is a point where we let go.  Life is full of challenges.  Many demand that we step up to the plate and take our best swing.  Others are a time to bring in a pinch hitter.  

So?  Only you can know which is which.  I assume that I will make these moments of prayer that are preceded by a pattern of prayer.  When I know to back away I can do so with no guilt.  Last time I checked, God was still in charge. 

Worship Bold

(Psa 138:3 KJV)  In the day when I cried thou answeredst me, and strengthenedst me with strength in my soul.

(Proverbs 18, also read)

The KJV misses it here.  Compare it with the NASB,

(Psa 138:3 NAS77) On the day I called Thou didst answer me; Thou didst make me bold (7292) with strength in my soul.

The “strengthenedst” (7292) is much better translated as “make me bold”.  The Hebrew word suggests a bit of boisterous enthusiasm.  Isaiah 3:5 uses it to portray how youth tends to defy the elders in the crowd.

(Isa 3:5 KJV)  And the people shall be oppressed, every one by another, and every one by his neighbour: the child shall behave himself proudly (7292) against the ancient, and the base against the honourable.

I imagine all of us have experienced this kind of enthusiasm.  Often it will hit you during a worship service of some kind.  It might be a result of a good morning of praise to the Lord.  It is the way that God goes about strengthening us to do the hard things.  It motivates us to get through the routine.

So?  Notice that David is in the midst of worship in the first two verses.  Don’t expect God to come out of nowhere and make your day.  It does happen but it is not His common pattern.  Worship.  Praise.  Achieve boldness. 

Pleasing God

(Psa 147:11 KJV)  The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.

(Proverbs 17 also read)

God “taketh pleasure” (favors NASB) (7521) those who “fear” (3372a) Him, those who admit their need.  When I read this in the NASB I thought about Noah but this is not the word used of Noah finding favor with God.  At the same time it does tell us that God is favorably disposed towards those who are obedient.  

When we talk about grace, we are referring to many aspects of how God works among us.  One of the key questions that some people don’t want to deal with is, “What is the basis for God’s choices in extending grace.”  Some believe it is God’s business, not ours.  To me that makes God capricious and doing things on a divine whim.  It is clear that He does not award salvation to those who earn enough brownie points.  It is also clear from verses like this that God responds to hearts and lives that are yearning for him, fearing Him.

So?  Jesus did not die on the cross to see how many He could condemn to Hell.  Believe that God is aware of the yearning of your heart.  Be aware of the yearning of God’s heart also. 

Drum Roll

(Psa 150:3 KJV)  Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp.

(Proverb 16 also read)

There is at least one denomination that refuses to allow musical instruments in worship.  I have heard them sing and it is an awesome experience.  They can lift the worshipers into the heights.  If that is a matter of choice, it is well rewarded.  If it is a matter of doctrine it seems to run against this series of verses.  In this verse we see trumpets, harps and the lyre.  In following verses we see enough variety to evolve into a modern orchestra.  I would think this is a word of encouragement to the “no instrument” crowd as well as those churches that will allow nothing but piano and organs.

I notice that drums are not on this list.  Pardon me while I do a search on drums............I can find nothing for “drums” or “drum”.  I don’t know if that is enough to keep them out of worship.  

So?  Worship.  If you don’t like the style or the accompaniment then express your opinion so that the leadership can know what works for you and then get over it.  Either learn to worship where you are or, with a good attitude and no hostility, go someplace where the music speaks to you. 

Portable Zion

(Psa 135:21 KJV)  Blessed be the LORD out of Zion, which dwelleth at Jerusalem. Praise ye the LORD.

(Proverbs 15 also read)

God is continually trying to get across His majesty to Israel.  Earlier in this Psalm he is relating how He has been with them through history.  He relates how He controls all of nature.  Through what He says to them we can get a glimmer of His awesomeness.  

And yet how limited their vision was.  For some reason God chose Israel and marked out Mount Zion in Jerusalem.  That may have been for our benefit.  We cannot comprehend eternity.  We can grasp a temple built on a hill with an inner courtyard.  Don’t ever fall into the trap of thinking that defines God.  It is just a point He has chosen to touch the world and its people.  He did it through Israel.  He does it through His word.

So?  Let this be a day of rejoicing.  God dwells where He chooses.  In this day and age it seems to be in the hearts of those who believe in Jesus.  Think of yourself as a portable Zion. 

Early Decisions

(Pro 14:22 KJV)  Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.

As I meditated on this verse my thoughts went to the old issue of the chicken and the egg.  Which comes first the “devise” (2790a) or “err" (go astray NASB) (8582)?  My thoughts go to my questions about free will and grace.  There is a concept called “prevenient grace”.  My understanding of this is that it describes the working of the Holy Spirit in the unrepentant heart.  It is how God nudges or offers us chances to make decisions that nudge.  Because I believe in free will I think people make decisions before repentance that either move them toward or away from God.  Because I believe in original sin, I don’t think the natural man is capable of knowing where it will lead.  It does reflect he desire of the heart.

So?  God works on us a long time before we read the tract or hear the sermon.  I tend to think that usually our inclinations are what prompt Him to extend grace to us.  There are a lot of pitfalls down this path but it needs to be considered. 

Tax Policy?

(Pro 13:22 KJV)  A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.

The standards and values of the Bible should influence our political opinions.  That is just part of living a life of righteousness.  Everything about us is to reflect our salvation and sanctification in Christ.  The reason this hit me is I have been reading a book that touched on the issue of tax policy.  The author was convinced that the best way to achieve social equality was through inheritance and estate taxes.  The reasoning behind his position was that the children of the rich  had done nothing to earn the wealth and it would be better for them if the government made it impossible to pass it on.  He made a very compassionate and impassioned plea but, as you can see, it does not agree with what God is telling us here.

So?  This is not about a debate on tax policy.  It is a reminder that the tax policy you support as a Christian should be grounded in Biblical values not the most current form of income redistribution.  Live in righteousness. 

The Father of Lies

(Pro 12:22 KJV)  Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.

Our culture seems to have given up on telling the truth.  In fact the intellectual voices of our day would deny that there is any absolute truth.  It is not just a passing fad of a few journalists.  It is a philosophy that has taken hold.  At the heart is a rejection of the God of the Bible.  You may have heard of Satan being called the “father of lies”.  That comes from Jesus.

(Joh 8:44 KJV)  Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

Everything is not relative and open to interpretation.  Sure, we can have different opinions on what is a beautiful painting.  Some people are inspired by the sea shore, others by forests.  Yet it is clear that lying is an “abomination” (8441).  

So?  Don’t accept the world’s rejection of truth.  We are called to a different standard and we ignore it at our peril.