Love Covers All Sins

O. T. #1455  "Love Covers All Sins"
May 31, 2019
Proverbs 10

LET IT GLOW

Solomon is contrasting the ways of the wise and foolish in this chapter. Each verse has a message of its own. You will be relieved to know that I am not going to focus on every one.
When we are a wise person, we are living by the principles of God there are many benefits and  results:

• A father is made glad whenever his son is wise (verse 1)
• Right living can save your life. v.2
• The godly will not go hungry. v.3
• Hard workers get rich. v.4
• He gathers in the summer. v.5
• The godly are showered with blessings. v.6
• Memories of the just are happy. v.7
• The wise are glad to be instructed. v.8
• People with integrity walk safely. v.9
• The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life, a life-giving fountain. v. 11

This is only a portion of this chapter's wisdom. We will continue it next time. Aren't these words of encouragement, though? I can use some happiness, filling, and safety.
Jesus is a well of living water that never runs dry. When our soul is thirsty, we can be filled when we come to Him.

LET IT GROW

Verse 12 says, Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins. (KJV)
NLT says it this way, Hatred stirs up quarrels, but love makes up for all offenses.

I have heard it that love covers a multitude of sins. At any rate, all is more than multitude.
Does that come under the category of loving your neighbor as yourself? So when there is an ill-intended action or hatred shown to us, we are to turn the cheek, forgive, and love them in spite of their ways.
I like how Matthew Henry put it: blowing up the sparks of contention; be a peacemaker.

Well, there is my challenge for the weekend-let love cover all sins.


LET IT GO

Live right. Walk with integrity. Watch my mouth. Let love cover all sins.

A Banquet You Will Not Want to Miss

O. T. #1454  "A Banquet You Will Not Want to Miss"
May 30, 2019
Proverbs 9

LET IT GLOW

I pray everyone is staying safe during the storms lately. My state seems to be getting an abundance of rain, resulting in flooding. Yesterday, a very strong wind and hail came through. I figure it was a twister causing it all. Hail was hitting against windows on 3 sides of the house and on the roof. We have an attic, so it was so unusual to hear it there. Our porch swing was beat up as it banged against the roof of the porch. An empty water tank for the cows was moved off its concrete foundation. No house damage, though. No trees were uprooted here, but the next town had it happen. Well, I kept telling my granddaughter to not be afraid, God was with us, in spite of my being scared out of my wits. So glad I know the Master of the wind and the rain.
This morning, calves got out of their field, due to the gap in the fence. So I helped my son with his cowboy duties. Now to settle down into the Word.

Who doesn't like to go to a fancy banquet? I have attended a few in my time. They make me feel special. We get all dressed up and cleaned up in our best, then remember our manners. Look at these banquets mentioned in this chapter.

Both Wisdom and folly are portrayed as young of women preparing a feast, banquet, inviting people. We read of a contrast of the two:
Wisdom has a responsible character; has servants preparing food; appeals to the mind first; her satisfaction lasts forever.
Folly is a prostitute serving stolen food; appeals to the senses; her pleasures are temporary.

Which banquet would we prefer to attend?
Who is Wisdom inviting?
Verses 4-6 tells us the inexperienced, simple (foolish) are invited to Wisdom's banquet. What is she inviting them to do?

Leave inexperience (foolish) behind, and you will live; pursue the way of understanding.

LET IT GROW

This banquet has some similarities with the one Jesus described in one of His parables found in Luke 14:15-24:
Many intend to go, but they never make it because they get sidetracked by other activities that seem more important at the time. Excuses included: buying land, oxen, and getting married. So the master of the house instructed his servants to go into the streets and invite the poor, maimed, and blind to his feast.
Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.

Jesus is telling His children to do the same. His gracious invitation is to the banqueting table of the marriage supper of the Lamb in heaven, which is to come. It will be a banquet that you will not want to miss. The church is the servant. It is God our Father who is preparing the feast for us.
Are we inviting others to become one of God's children?

LET IT GO

Search the Scriptures in search for Wisdom.
Remember, the best is yet to come.
Invite others to join us at the banqueting table of Jesus, through His salvation.

Getting Good Things

O. T. #1453  "Getting Good Things"
May 29, 2019
Proverbs 8
For whoever finds Me finds life and receives favor from the LORD. Proverbs 8:35

LET IT GLOW

Abundant life is what I want. Enough of living under these problems. Living above these circumstances is what I need in order to survive. Enough of this worrying myself sick. Finding God's will and doing it is what brings joy in life. Hope comes from Him, not things. Even at my age, I need wisdom. I want some good things while living here. How do I get them? Are you with me? Solomon had the answer. Read on, friend.

As Solomon imparts unique wisdom which God gave to him, he speaks of divine wisdom giving good things to us:

• good heads (verse 12) Understanding and knowledge help us every area of life, even guiding the invention of new things and creativity. We can look around us and see the creativity of Jesus in creation.
• good hearts (verse 13) Salvation results in love spread to all within our world.
• good influence (verse 14) Public life can result in a good or bad influence according to the way we live, so may it be good..
• happiness (verse 17) When our eternal destination is sealed, and Christ is walking daily with us, happiness results in the grace of God being present. [Matthew Henry's Commentary]

Isn't it amazing to think that God would speak to us, the One who is all-powerful in making everything, and all wise? So why don't we ask for this wisdom?

LET IT GROW

Wisdom is personified in Christ. He is speaking in verses 20-36. He existed before the creation of the earth, mountains, oceans, springs, fields, dirt, the heavens, clouds, and the human family. What are we instructed to do as children of God?

• listen to Him (verse 32)
• follow Him and joy will be found (verse 32)
• be wise (verse 33)
• don't ignore His instruction (verse 33)
• watch at His gates daily (verse 34)
• wait for Him outside our home (verse 34)

We do those things, what will result? Read our key verse again for the answers-life and favor from the Lord. Can it get any better than that?


LET IT GO

Ask for a good head, heart, influence, and happiness.
Listen to Jesus, follow Him and His instructions, watch where He is working, and wait for Him.
Fill me with joy today so I can pass it on to others.
Grow my faith.

The Willing Center

O. T. #1452  "The Willing Center"
May 28, 2019
Proverbs 7-Part 2
Don't let your hearts stray away toward her. Don't wander down her wayward path.  Proverbs 7:25 NLT

LET IT GLOW

I came across this question in my readings-What are you relying on? I ask myself if I am relying on my loving God or myself. Especially when problems are not being solved, nor answers coming. Only "wait" and "trust Me" seems to be it. My impatience is so strong. My will is trying to take over as I surrender to God's will and timing. My heart wants to jump in and fix this, and right now. Ok, I know that is wrong. It is hard. My heart tells me God has this, but there are days that my mind just can't wrap itself around this. Anyone with me?

In the last part of this chapter, Solomon is again warning us to not stray away from Jesus, who is portrayed as wisdom. Straying away is a heart matter. It maybe a gradual thing or a decision. Spiritual adultery is committed against the One True Living God when we turn away from Him to idols. Oh, we may not be bowing down to a statue, but flattering cults and the false religions (isms), along with materialism, can draw us away from Jesus. They teach that we can work our way to heaven, that it is through baptism or keeping of the Law of Moses that we make it. Friends, I agree with J. Vernon McGee, who stated, "Faith plus noting equals salvation."

If our heart does decline to following the false religions and not the Truth of Jesus, what can result?  Our life can be destroyed and our soul send down to hell. We must not be seduced away with the attraction, alluring, and sinful stranger.




LET IT GROW

Liberty Bible Commentary says:

Wisdom instruction is addressed to the heart (mind and will) of man because the basic decisions which control the  flow of man's life are made in this willing center. The optimism of the text resides in the emphasis on man's ability to make the right decision.

Strong men have been ruined by the simple ones (verse 7). Are we warning and teaching our young people about their dedication to Jesus? Are we grounding them in Biblical principles now while we have the opportunity? Are we an example of a strong faith and prayer life, as well as daily Bible readings? Oh the joy of spending time with our Savior in His Word and prayer.
How is your willing center?

LET IT GO

Surrender my will in this matter to God.
Surrender my heart and mind to God.
Wait and trust Him-one more time, one more day.

Tie a String Around Your Finger

O. T. #1451  "Tie a String Around Your Finger"
May 27, 2019
Proverbs 7
Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye. Proverbs 7:2

LET IT GLOW

Within the first nine chapters written in Proverbs, Solomon bestows upon his son wisdom dealing with various topics. Notice the strong verbs in the first three verses:

• keep
• lay up
• live
• bind
• write
• say
• call
• keep.

What are the three words, nouns, in which these actions are involved? (words, commandments, and teachings) Those terms are associated within the Torah, and are shared by the Wisdom Literature with the Pentateuch, Prophets, and Psalms. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

So what is the point of all of this? The answer is found in our key verse. The young man is asked to keep the laws as the apple of thine eye, which literally means "as the little pupil in thine eye." The pupil is the light of the eye and very precious. If it is damaged, then one will spend their life in darkness. Likewise, wisdom is precious to our life. If we fail to apply it personally, we risk a life spent in darkness. Jesus is the Light of the World.
Isn't it better to live and walk and talk with Jesus daily than live in darkness. He lights our way, our path.

Dear one, God is not done with us yet, or else He would have taken us home already. Let Him write His story within our story. Which verbs do we need to be actively doing?

LET IT GROW

At my age, how many times do I go into a room and forget why I am there? You too?
Don't forget it now, just tie a string around your finger to remember it. That was an old remedy for lack of recall. I don't know if it works, for I haven't personally tried it. Knowing myself, I would forget why it was there and cut it off due to inconvenience.

Take a look at verse 3:
Bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart.

What is Solomon in reference to here? (commandments and law)
How did the Orthodox Jews previously carry this out? Exodus 13:9 and Deuteronomy 6:8 explained the use of verses and prayers. Scripture was copied and placed within a  leather case, and tied to forehead, and arm at the time of prayer. The phylactery for the left arm was wound around it 7 times and then again 7 times around the middle finger. (Falwell)

Do you think they remembered to pray and quote Scriptures?
Isn't it obvious that Scriptures and praying were to be important to God's child?
Are they important for us?

LET IT GO

Make God's Word important to me. Memorize it.

What Walks, Guides, and Watches Over Us?

O. T. #1450  "What Walks, Guides, and Watches Over Us?
May 24, 2019
Proverbs 6-Part 6
When you walk here and there, they will guide you; when you lie down, they will watch over you; when you wake up, they will talk to you.  Proverbs 6:22 NLT

LET IT GLOW

As children grow up, it is natural for them to become increasingly independent of their parents. We as parents hope they will lean on the teachings (commands) of their parents. Even as young adults, when struggling with decisions, seeking the advice of parents is a wise thing.

What advice does Solomon give his son concerning his teachings and commands?

• They will guide you when you walk.
• They will watch over you when you lie down.
• They will talk to you when you wake up.

The reproofs we receive in God's Word lead us to eternal life. While living here, they guide, watch over us, and talk to us, even reproof us. Haven't we found that the Word never gets old? Doesn't it have something fresh to say to us no matter the occasion, no matter how many times we have read a certain passage?


LET IT GROW

In the rest of the chapter, Solomon warns against adultery. What can result?

• Someone always gets hurt- a spouse, children.
• Disease and unwanted pregnancy may happen.
• Trust is broken and may result in becoming an untrusting person.
• Guilt of sin could stick with us.
• Disobedience to God's Word.

It is sad that our society is not taking those consequences seriously. So let us protect our thought and eyes, then warn others to do the same. Of course, there is forgiveness of sin that is available always, all the time.


LET IT GO

Jesus, help me to apply Your teachings to my heart and life.
May my thoughts remain pure.

What Are We Sowing?

O. T. #1449  "What Are We Sowing?"
May 23, 2919
Proverbs 6-Part 5
Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.  Matthew 5:9

LET IT GLOW

I sowed some flower seeds, and only one has popped up so far. I hope the rest eventually do. Looking at my life, there are some seeds that I have sown which I do not want to pop up. Look with me at the last of the seven things God hates. I don't think you will want to sow it.

Today we have the last on the hate list of God-he that soweth discord among the brethren.

We may know a person that enjoys sowing, not seeds of love, but discord. So what is discord?

According to Webster's Dictionary, discord means lack of agreement or harmony; active quarreling or conflict between persons, things, or ideas; strife; contention.

I think of this person who loves spreading bad news and disagreements between people, and finds fault, always criticizing. They go behind the back of the subject of whom they are speaking. It could be a he said/she said situation. Do we really like being around them? Can we just walk away?

LET IT GROW

There we have it, the seven things God hates. Let's review:

1. a proud look
2. a lying tongue
3. hands that shed innocent blood
4. a heart that deviseth wicked imaginations
5. feet that are swift to run to mischief
6. a false witness that speaks lies
7. he that sows discord among brethren.

This list is like a mirror. We look into it and squirm because we see ourselves. It reveals the truth. Dare we take a good look at our self in conjunction with the Word of God? But that is why we study the Scriptures, right? I, for one, am always in need of improvement. So let's go to God and be honest. Do we need to confess anything? He is always ready to cleanse our heart. Then good things will happen around us.

Whew! Aren't we glad to be through with that.
Read our key verse. We are challenged to be a peacemaker today.

LET IT GO

Help me see the truth about myself, what You see.
Thank You Father for Your Word that reveals sin.
Your love never fails, it never gives up, and never runs out.
Jesus, You are loving and forgiving.

Staying Out of Mischief

O. T. #1448  "Staying Out of Mischief"
May 22, 2019
Proverbs 6-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

We have been discussing the seven things on God's hate list. Have you noticed that so far they have been dealing with the anatomy of evil and iniquity? They include the eyes (proud look), tongue (that lies), hands (that kill), and the heart (with wicked ideas). Today we include the feet. What does the feet do that God hates? Feet that race to do wrong; feet that be swift in running to mischief. (verse 18b)

The heart blazes the trail that the feet will follow. (McGee)

Isaiah 59:7 NLT says the same-Their feet run to do evil, and they rush to commit murder. They think only about sinning. Misery and destruction always follow them.

 The word mischief in Hebrew means bad or evil; calamity; harm; wretchedness.

They are up to no good. Have we heard that before? You know, if we are in God's Word daily, and associating with godly folks, then chances are good that our thoughts will not be on doing sinful things. Are we warning our children/grandchildren about the need to be friends with the right kind of people? Are we helping them keep Jesus as a part of their life, the focus on His purpose for their life? Are their neighbor kids who need to stay out of mischief this summer?

LET IT GROW

Number 6 on this list is found in verse 19a: A false witness that speaketh lies.
These people knowingly give a false testimony, witness. They do it on purpose. Oh, have we had that opened up in the public lately. We must remind those folks that that their sins will find them out. What is done in secret will be revealed by the light. Telling a lie must be taught to our children as a sin. It dishonors God and hurts our neighbors. Ultimately, it hurts our witness and what others think about us.

Jesus is The Truth, as He said in John 14:6. So we should always speak the truth no matter what.

LET IT GO
                               ...  and guard my thoughts that they be pure.
                                ... and let my feet run to do good.
                                ... and speak the truth always.

Thoughts and Actions

O. T. #1447  "Thoughts and Actions"
May 21, 2019
Proverbs 6-Part 3


LET IT GLOW

Previously, we learned of the first two things which God hates-a proud look and a lying tongue. Today, we will look at the next two on God's hate list:

3. hands that shed innocent blood

J. Vernon McGee says, "A murderer is particularly odious and objectionable both to God and to man. God says the murderer should be punished because he took that which God said is sacred-the human life. The popular idea today is completely opposite. After a man has been killed the murderer is brought to trial, then suddenly the murderer's life is considered to be precious. God says that human life is precious and that when a murderer kills a man, he is to forfeit his own life. That is the teaching of the word of God.


John 8:33, Jesus states, He (Devil) was a murderer from the beginning, a 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.

I John 3:15 warns us, Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.

Folks, we need to be careful that we are not killing a persons' witness with our tongue. Our God does forgive sins, but we are to strive to do what is right.
We need to watch what we say. People blurt out without thinking of the consequences, "I could just kill so and so." Now days, threats are taken seriously. Our children carry those attitudes with them to school and we know they can result in shooting innocent children and teachers. How sad it is.

LET IT GROW

4. A heart that deviseth wicked imaginations

These are thoughts of iniquity. We can all have evil thoughts, but it is what we do with them that is important. Do we confess and repent and receive forgiveness or do we act upon them?

Jesus said in Matthew 15:19, For out of the heart proceed evil thought, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies.

We need to guard our thoughts and our heart. Sin can result.
Pay back is tough. Haven't we heard of it. We aren't to pay back evil for evil, but with good. That is when we look like Jesus.

LET IT GO

Guard my thoughts and heart.
Confess wrongs.
Ask Jesus for love of that person who hurt me.

Pride andHumility, Lying and Truth

O. T. #1446  "Pride and Humility, Lying and Truth"
May 20, 2019
Proverbs 6-Part 2
These six things the LORD doth hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto Him:
A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood.  Proverbs 6:16-17

LET IT GLOW

Yep, we have all seen them-women strutting around in their pretty clothes and matching shoes, so full of pride that they would burst like a balloon if anyone touched them. Guys drive around in a waxed duly truck or a fancy little sports car. Pride is a dangerous thing. It separates people, families, friends, and God.

What displeases God? Listed in verses 16-19 is His hate list. What can we learn from it?
What is listed first? A proud look is first.

Proud, in the Hebrew language, means to rise or raise; exalt (self); lofty; promote; set up on (high).

God hates any kind of idol or anything that would take His place in our hearts. A proud look is literally eyes of loftiness. It is the attitude that overvalues self and undervalues others. This is pride. It is that thought of the heart, that little look and that turn of the face, that flash of the eye which says you are better than someone else. God says, "I hate it." It is number one on His list-He puts it ahead of murder and ahead of drunkenness. God hates the proud look. (J. Vernon McGee)

Pride is proud of itself. Nothing is more sacred than truth, nor more necessary to conversation than speaking truth. (Matthew Henry)
Now isn't that a profound statement and true?

James 4:6and 1 Peter 5:5 tell us, Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud; but giveth grace unto the humble.

So would the opposite of pride be humility? A humble person submits unto God, while a proud person lifts himself up above everyone. Don't you think? When we become independent of God, then we make our self as a god. Haven't we all been guilty of a proud look-looking down on someone?

We are always in need of more grace. That comes when we humble our self under the mighty hand of God. So pride separates us from our God, we are thinking that we are in need of nothing.
So when we pass by a scroungy looking person on the sidewalk, are we degrading or sympathetic? Are we grateful for the life God has given us?

Folks, our greatest example of humility is Jesus Christ. He showed us how to be humble when He became a servant and served others. He humbled Himself when He hung on the cross, dying in our place. He could have called 10,000 angels to His rescue, but chose not to do so. Now that is LOVE!

LET IT GROW

There are two things that get my goat-a child who shows disrespect and who lies. Even when it is a stranger, sometimes I have to butt in and correct the child. I tend to not do it so often now, but when I was a teacher, I couldn't let it go.

What is the second on God's list? A lying tongue. He is a God of Truth. (Psalm 31:5)

A lying tongue indicates a heart of deceit, which leads to shedding innocent blood. Haven't you found that one lie leads to another and a bigger one? If truth was easy to tell, we would have no problem saying it. Often times it is told so we won't look bad.

LET IT GO

Get rid of the proud look and be humble.
Be a loving servant.
Always tell the truth.

Love and Hate

O. T. #1445  "Love and Hate"
May 17, 2019
Proverbs 6-Part 2
Theses six things doeth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto Him.  Proverbs 6:16

LET IT GLOW

Don't you hate the fever when it attacks your little child which you love? What about when a dog attempts to bite your little child in your yard? It is natural for you to hate the dog because you love the child.

God is love. We know that is truth. To some folks, it is unbelievable that God could hate. They consider Him only as a God who loves. This is a deductive reasoning, according to J. Vernon McGee. Drawing a conclusion that God cannot hate anything is false. God is love and God hates evil.

Solomon lists 7 of 14 things which God hates, right here in this chapter. He hates these actions; they are an abomination, which means disgusting or abhorrence; idolatry; an idol.

So what is our conclusion here? I think it is safe to say that God hates these actions in people and considers them to be disgusting and as bad as idolatry. Right?

God hates any kind of idol or anything that would take His place in our hearts. (McGee)

Seriously, we have to take this seriously.
One day we will wake up in heaven and we will never have to be around those hateful and evil people again. We will be surrounded by God's love and His loving people. In the mean time, let us continue to love as He loves and hate those actions which He hates. May they not be found in us, His child. Greater is the One living inside of me than he who is living in the world (Satan).

LET IT GROW

Here we go. Hang onto your hat, for the wind is blowing hard. We cannot skip verses 17, 18, and 19.

1. A proud look,
2. a lying tongue,
3. hands that shed innocent blood,
4. a heart that deviseth wicked imaginations,
5. feet that be swift in running to mischief,
6. a false witness that speaketh lies,
7. he that soweth discord among brethren.

Falwell said that God hated the seventh thing worst of all.

Next week we will go into detail of each one. Meantime, let us show the love of Jesus wherever we are.

LET IT GO 

Help me to share Your love, Jesus.
Teach me Your ways.

Auntie Ant

O. T. #1444  "Auntie Ant"
May 16, 2019
Proverbs 6
Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn from their ways and become wise!
Proverbs 6:6

LET IT GLOW

Such a small teacher is the ant. Have you watched a commentary on the ant or in real life observed them? They are busy little workers. The ant is diligent in business, busy doing what is most important to her. Auntie Ant is getting food for the winter, caring for the future, and is busy about it. (J. Vernon McGee)

Of course, she snacks along the way, I think. It's like eating a few strawberries in the berry patch while you fill the basket.

Her example is one of industry, diligence, and planning and serves as a rebuke to a sluggard (a lazy person who lack self-control). (MacArthur)

Laziness and wisdom are diametrically opposed. Even an ant treats work as necessary for survival and does not need external motivation to work hard. How much more should human beings! This passage does not condemn rest altogether, but it cautions against always finding an excuse to relax and never the impetus to work. Such a lifestyle can have disastrous consequences. (David Jeremiah)

Are we like Auntie Ant?


LET IT GROW

Solomon gives us a warning concerning a worthless person in verses 12-13:

• winks the eye,
• shuffles the feet, and
• points with moving hands.

Evidently, this method of deception was common in the Near East. The deceiver spoke lies to the victim, feared detection, and hid his intentions. So he used those body parts to give signals to another who was in on the deception.

Beware of those methods used by such a person. I remember it common for salesmen in earlier years and now some politicians now to use them.

LET IT GO

Be an Auntie Ant.
Beware of the deceivers.

A Trap of Sin

O. T. #1443  "A Trap of Sin"
May 14, 2019
Proverbs 5
For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and He pondereth all his goings. Proverbs 5:21

LET IT GLOW


I don't have to tell you how our society has gone down to the pit of sin concerning sex. We see promiscuity portrayed as acceptable in movies, on television, in conversations, and in the lives of our young people. Homosexuals have come out into the open with their disgusting ways. Solomon gives us some well needed advice for everyone.

Solomon gives some wise counsel concerning unfaithfulness in marriage or sexual promiscuity. In this chapter, he describes the strange woman, adulteress, prostitute. Our sons and husbands need to be warned of the signs of temptation of sin by this means.

Life Application Study Bible  informs us of Solomon's warnings against illicit sex for several reasons:

1. A prostitute's charm is used as an example of any temptation to do wrong or to leave the pursuit of wisdom.
2. Sexual immorality of any kind was and still is extremely dangerous. It destroys family life, erodes a person's ability to love, and degrades human beings and turns them into objects. It can also lead to disease, and can result in unwanted children.
3. Sexual immorality is against God's laws. 

Such good advice. When yielded to this temptation, the results are devastating. Lives are ruined. Children suffer. The spouse is ...

We found out back in 1 Kings 11 that Solomon had accumulated 700 wives and princesses, as well as 300 concubines. His marriage to the Pharaoh's daughter, was the beginning of his polygamous household. Even though most were probably due to a political union, Solomon was in disobedience to God's laws. Those foreign women brought with them their foreign gods. Such a practice lead to public acceptance as Solomon built high places for idolatry worship in Israel. This practice continued some 300 years until Josiah reigned as king. The Lord was angry with Solomon because his heart turned away from the Lord God of Israel. (verse 9)

I am not sure, but I thought this chapter was written before the above occurred in Solomon's life. If that is so, he did not heed his own advice and God's laws.

LET IT GROW

We know that God's mercy can reach down into the gutter of sin and forgive such an active one in promiscuity. We parents, spouses, children, friends must continue to pray and witness to them. We are called to a life of purity, honoring our God.
Decide now ahead of time that we will not participate in forbidden actions. Learn the signs and take the advice. Warn and protect our loved ones from this trap of sin. Decide to not allow such things in my home. Stay true to the boundaries of marriage. Then we won't loose everything.

LET IT GO

Open my eyes, Jesus to the intentions of others.
Help me warn them of the results of sin.
Be an example of faithfulness to my husband and God.

Mistakes and Wisdom

O. T. #1442 "Mistakes and Wisdom"
May 14, 2019
Proverbs 4
Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. Proverbs 4:7

LET IT GLOW

Doesn't it seem that parents get wiser when the child is grown up into an adult? Mine sure did. For some young people, it is too late for this realization because their parents have passed on. Others may remain too pridefully independent and do not take advantage of that wisdom while it is available. I think that I can safely say that the wise young adult listens and refers to those wise through years of experience.

Read our key verse again. What is the urgent matter at hand? Getting wisdom and understanding.
Look at what the Life Application Study Bible has to say:

If you want wisdom, you must decide to go after it. This will take resolve-a determination not to abandon the search once your begin, no matter how difficult the road may become. This is not a once-in-a-lifetime step, but a daily process of choosing between two paths-the wicked and the righteous. Nothing else is more important or more valuable.

David taught Solomon as a young boy  that seeking God's wisdom was the most important choice he could make. Didn't he learn it well? When God offered to fulfill any request of his, Solomon chose wisdom. He didn't just keep it to himself either. He shared it with others down through the ages, with us included.

Folks, Jesus is our wisdom. Daily and hourly we need to be seeking Him. He has the answers to our questions; He is the way, truth, and the life for us.


LET IT GROW

Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. (verse 23 KJV)
Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. (NLT)

Our hearts-our feelings of love and desire-dictate to a great extent how we live, because we always find time to do what we enjoy. Make sure we concentrate on those desires that will keep us on the right path. Make sure your affections push you in the right direction. Put boundaries on your desires: don't go after everything you see. Look straight ahead, keeping your eyes fixed on your goal, and don't get sidetracked on detours that lead to sin. (Life Application Study Bible)

We all make mistakes along the road of life. But Jesus is always ready to forgive us, dust us off, and set our feet upon the right road once more. So let us go to the right places, do the right activities, and think pure thoughts, then we won't get into trouble with our wrong ways.


LET IT GO

Keep me always loving You, Jesus, and Your Word.
I seek Your wisdom in my situations.
Help me direct others in the way of Your wisdom.

Find Wisdom and Do Good

O. T. #1441  "Find Wisdom and Do Good"
May 13, 2019
Proverbs 3-Part 2
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth wisdom. Proverbs 3:13

LET IT GLOW

When wisdom is found, happiness is the result. What are some life lessons for us to learn here?
Divine wisdom yields the richest treasures described in verses 14-18:

• The wise man's condition is far superior to the one who finds silver, gold, precious rubies, or anything desired-profits;
• life-length of days, eternal life, and meaning in life;
• riches;
• honor;
• pleasantness;
• peace;
• happiness.

If we desire wisdom, it is going to require studying, effort, and time to grasp the Word of God. The work put in to obtain wisdom pays off when we receive those things above, right?

Happy is the man who findeth Christ-He is wisdom for us in our day. (McGee)

So Jesus and His Word are the key that opens the door to a room full of treasure of spiritual things.

[Resources: The MacArthur Bible Commentary; Proverbs by J. Vernon McGee; Liberty Bible Commentary]

LET IT GROW

There have been several times that we have seen our neighbor's cows out of their field, into the road. We grab a big stick and herd them back inside their fence. That is an example of verse 27:

Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.

Even something as simple as opening the door for one who has been hateful to you can fulfill this verse.

Being a good neighbor everywhere we go is showing the love of Jesus out in the world. Everyone needs a loving hand sometime.
So that is our challenge today-give good, give love away, do good deeds.

LET IT GO

Seek wisdom in the Word and Jesus for abundant life.
Open my eyes to see ways I can do good in my world.

In Loving Memory of My Mother This Mother's Day

In Loving Memory of My Mother This Mother's Day

Good morning ya'll,
Sorry I didn't post yesterday, but I was doing the Grandmother thing. My granddaughter was in a "Moving Up to Middle School" program in early morning.

Today's post is dedicated to my Mother, since Mother's Day is this Sunday. First, here is an allegory.

It was time for you to be cut down, yet I did not know it-the old pecan tree in the backyard. My husband had contacted my nephew about it, which was all right. I just wasn't ready for it to happen so quickly. One day it was therewith green leaves and one day not. It's season was over. The tree was close to 60 years old. Several years earlier, a very strong wind split a couple of huge branched off the trunk, leaving it injured. Yet, there remained one branch which was leaning on the back fence that continued to produce pecans and provide shade for the cows in the hot summer days.

Oh tree, how you blessed my life. As a little girl, I would climb up you and stand in the middle of your branches, pretending to be in a castle, overlooking my queenly kingdom. You were shade for my family as we picnicked under you, sharing joyful times together. How many lushes pecan pies and Christmas candy did you provide for us down through the years!

There even grew a small, skinny tree out of your injured trunk. I am sad that you are soon to be gone, branches and trunk removed from our yard. However, you are in my memory-gone but not forgotten. (I did salvage a few pieces to dry for keepsake, maybe  bookends.)

Then I thought of my mother. We didn't know it was time for you to leave us, almost 22 years ago. You were a strong woman, working a job, cooking for your family, canning and freezing vegetables in preparation for the cold winters ahead. I recall the sweet shopping Saturdays and lunch at Piccadilly's, a fancy restaurant. After I grew up, my children loved coming to grandma's house. so did I. It was a shelter from the storms of life, where I found unconditional love and my burdens were lifted, preparing me to go back into the world of ministry.

Now I realized it was time for you to go to your eternal rest. Your body was tired and you were lonely for my dad's company in the evenings. How proud you would be of your 16 great grandchildren, and 2 great great grands. I see your loving ways extended down through the branches of your family. The girls are even good cooks like you, Mom. So even though you are not here to enjoy a picnic under the pecan tree, your red rose bush and snowball bush still bloom every year in your memory.

Mom was a Proverbs 31 lady.

You forever loving daughter,
Linda

Have a beautiful Mother's Day, ladies.

When Trusting is Difficult

O. T. #1440  "When Trusting is Difficult"
May 8, 2019
Proverbs 3
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.  Proverbs 3:5-6

LET IT GLOW

It is that time of year once again. I had 4 graduation cards to find at the store. Well, I looked through many choices and found one that I liked, then bought 3 of them alike. (3 were for high schoolers and 1 for college grads) Wish they had such good advice as Solomon had in this chapter.

Solomon is challenging the young man, who has left home and is making his way in the world, to an appreciation of wisdom's ability to direct his life. What is he told to do in verses 1-12?

• Remember what he has been taught as a child.
• Keep the commandments in his heart.
• Remain merciful and truthful.
• Trust in the Lord with all thine heart.
• Don't depend upon your own understanding.
• In all your ways acknowledge Him.
• Don't be impressed with your own wisdom.
• Fear God and turn from evil.
• Honor the Lord with your substance and first fruits. 
• Don't reject the Lord's discipline, nor be upset when He corrects you.

Words of wisdom, huh?

Trusting people may become a difficult thing to do when others deeply hurt you. Then, trusting God with things may be difficult, too. Dear one, God is the One who is dependable and trustworthy. Try it a step at a time. Have faith the size of a tiny mustard seed and watch it grow into a large bush.

By following this advice, what will happen?

The young man would have a long and satisfying life. (verse 1b)
Favor with God and people will be obtained, as well as a good reputation. (verse 4)
God will show you which path to take. (verse 6b)
There will be healing for the body and strength for the bones. (verse 8)
Food and drink will be provided. (verse 9)
The Lord corrects those He loves like a father corrects his son, in whom he delights. (verse 12)


LET IT GROW

My Bible pages just fell back to 2 Kings 18-20. What are the words of wisdom that the Lord is telling you and me?

The king of Assyria had captured the cities of Judah in the north and was threatening Israel. He sent a message to Hezekiah, king of Israel: What are you relying on...?

As messages went back and forth between the kings, the king of Assyria was mocking the Living God. So Hezekiah sent the words to Isaiah the prophet. Isaiah's words from the Lord were: Don't be afraid of the words you have heard, that the king of Assyria's attendants have blasphemed Me with. I am about to put a spirit in him, and he will hear a rumor and return to his own land where I will cause him to fall by the sword. (19:6-7)

Hezekiah went into the Temple and laid the threatening letter from the king of Assyria before the Lord God and prayed.

Do you want to know how the situation turn out? Verses 35-37 tell us the angel of the Lord struck down 185,00 Assyrians one night-all dead. The king of Assyria head about it and left to live in Nineveh. Later, his sons struck their father with a sword and he escaped  to the land of Ararat.

God can restore a spark of faith into a blaze of fire of commitment to Him.
Folks, I needed that Word today.
What or whom are we relying on? Our self, an army, a bank account, or our God?

LET IT GO

Help me to be more merciful and remain truthful.
I want to trust You, Jesus, with all my heart.
When I don't understand this situation, help me to not lean on my own understanding.
When I lean to my own understanding, lean me toward You.
When I want to know what to do or the solution, keep me trusting in You.
Jesus, show me the right path, direct me to it.

How Do We Get Wisdom?

O. T. #1439  "How Do We Get Wisdom?"
May 7, 2019
Proverbs 2

LET IT GLOW

The young man who cries out for understanding will find the knowledge of God. It is the highest of all gifts to know God who is the giver of all things that are good. The knowledge of God will include the fear of the Lord, which is clearly represented in Scripture as the most valuable possession of man.
(Liberty Bible Commentary)

In John 17:3, Jesus prays, This is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and the One You have sent-Jesus Christ.

The pathway to wisdom is not easy. It is strenuous, as we seek it like hidden treasure. God will reward our sincere and persistent search. It's source is the Word of God and the Holy Spirit. People may have insight, discretion, knowledge, or common sense, but that is not the same as wisdom.
God gives true wisdom. (verse 6)

Do we want wisdom? I know that I lack wisdom. There is especially a couple of situations that I need the wisdom of God concerning them.

James 1:5 tells us, If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.



LET IT GROW

Take a look at the first 4 verses in this chapter. Here we find several verbs concerning with how we obtain wisdom:

• receive (verse 1)
• hide His commandments in me
• incline thine ear (verse 2)
• apply thine hear
• cry after (verse 3)
• lift up thy voice
• seek (verse 4)
• search for it.

When we do those things, then you will understand what it means to fear the LORD, and you will gain knowledge of God.  (verse 5)

You know that God is all-knowing don't you? He made everything and He certainly knows how it works. He knows the future and certainly knows what is best for us. With that said, why do we not seek the wisdom of God in our life?

LET IT GO

I seek Your wisdom for the right direction dealing with this thing on my heart, Lord Jesus.
Show me in Your Word which way to go.
Your Word tells me to ask and I will receive.
By faith I believe You have the right way for me.

Are We Playing The Fool?

O. T. #1438  "Are We Playing The Fool?"
May 6, 2019
Proverbs 1
But whosoever harkeneth unto Me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.  Proverbs 1:33

LET IT GLOW

In movies, we can see what is going on with the characters, although they may not. We may deduct that one is playing the fool. Their confidence is in their own self, running things their own way. Usually, they are taken advantage of and fall short of meeting their goals. Yep, we could have told them not to do such and such, had they asked us. And so life does not turn out the way they desired when they played the fool. Are we playing the fool?

Although these proverbs are only a small collection (800 out of 3000) written by King Solomon of Israel, they are full of wisdom for our life no matter our age or status. Problems are going to be present for us as long as we live here on earth. We can choose to go it alone or with God's wisdom. We can carry the pains upon our shoulders or lay them upon Jesus. Are we willing to listen and apply God's advice or allow pride to stand in the way?
As for me, sweet friend, I need all the help I can get. The thing is, my Helper is only a prayer or cry away. He is prepared to come to my rescue immediately. It can't get any better than this.

Are we willing to listen to wise words or play the fool and reject them? If we listen, then we will live:

• safely, which means  a place of refuge; security; trust; hope, and
• shall be quiet from fear of evil.

There we have it-we will live in peace and untroubled by fear of harm (NLT)
How many times did David write in the Psalms about God being his refuge?
I say, that is the way to live. I am always needing security and no fear. How about you?


LET IT GROW

Wisdom appears as a female in this chapter. Her activities run parallel with Jesus. Wisdom's crying out is directed to 3 classes of people:

1. The simple ones who are open to good influences, but also too open to those who influence for evil. Life is simple for them as they pursue simple pleasures with little else that interests them.
2. The scorner, who despises that which is godly and takes pride in his evil works.
3. Fools are those stupid persons who are totally confident in their own wisdom. They believe they have things all figured out without God's aid. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

Wisdom cannot bear the sight of these sinners moving toward destruction without crying out. She is crying out for those men to turn toward her. The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him. Blessing and revelation is for those who will turn, and judgment awaits those who will not.

We are an affluent society; we measure every man by his bank account, the home he lives in, the car he drives. Are we enjoying the prosperity of fools? Are we living in a fool's paradise? (J. Vernon McGee)

There we have it folks. It is our choice to yield to wisdom or become one of the above. If we look around, how many can we find who are living the life of a simple person, scorner, or fool?

LET IT GO

Dwell safely with the hope and faith Jesus gives.
Help me to live with a gentle and quiet spirit of great worth in Your sight, God.

A Know -It-All

O. T. #1437  "A Know-It-All"
May 3, 2019
Proverbs 1
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7

LET IT GLOW

We all know some people that we would classify as a "know-it-all," right? They have a dogmatic opinion about everything and always share it. They are close-minded to anything new and refuse to learn. Only God knows everything. Solomon calls this type of person a fool. Sweet friend, we do not want to be that way. We should have a teachable spirit, which I think we do have, since you are studying His Word. :)

We finished the book of Psalm, which is a prayer and devotional book for life. Now we begin the book of Proverbs, which is different. It gives us practical ways we can live an effective, Christian  life with deep spiritual insights drawn from experiences. This book focuses on God's character, works, and blessings, as well as how to live in close relationship to Him. (Life Application Study Bible)
A proverb is a short, wise, easy-to-learn saying that calls a person to action.

It is hard, but today, I am resisting my nerd tendency to look up all the definitions of these words found in this chapter. However, they may pop up off and on later.

Look at our key verse. What is the beginning of knowledge? (Fear of the LORD)
The foundation of knowledge is to revere and respect our God. We show it when we obey His Word. Faith and obedience in our God is the first step of a growing Christian.

Are we willing to learn from the wisest man-Solomon? When we are driving in a city unfamiliar to us, we want a road map or Google map to show us the way to our destination. They are a good source getting around in unknown territory. So is this book. It can provide us with guidance along our road of life. When we are on an unsure path or which way to go (decisions), we can find answers here. Now, we may have to did deep for it, but it can be found.

LET IT GROW

What are fools like in the description in verse 7? They despise wisdom and instruction. (Could they be one of those know-it-all's?)

Wisdom can be the right use of knowledge. I think it is more than that. For the believer, it is Jesus Christ. For the foolish, wisdom is neglected and they don't care to know Jesus at all. Yep, don't you think they are a fool, all right?

The word wisdom occurs 37 times in Proverbs. It must be very important in our walk, then. It gives us direction, good decisions, and discipline. The fool could care less. They are focused on their agenda, meeting self needs.

But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption. (1 Corinthians 1:30)

Can we deduct that wisdom is Christ? To know Christ is not to play the fool, but be a wise person.
As the bumper sticker reads, "Wise men seek Him." Let us be one of those wise people.

LET IT GO

May I have a teachable spirit today, Jesus.
I always need Your wisdom.
Thank You that all I need to do is ask in faith and You will give it.

Who Wants to be Wise?

O. T. #1436  "Who Wants to be Wise?"
May 2, 2019
Introduction to Proverbs

If anyone desires to be a wise person, then read on, folks. We have a bushel full of wisdom to absorb in this book.

Here are some things I read in The MacArthur Bible Commentary concerning this book of the Bible:
The word proverb means to be like, so it is a book of comparisons between common, concrete images and life's most profound truths. It illustrates man's relationship to God, to himself, and to others. Two major themes are here: wisdom, which includes knowledge, understanding, instruction, discretion, and obedience; folly, which is everything opposite to wisdom.

Author
This book was written by King Solomon, the son of David, who ruled over Israel. God had granted him great wisdom (1 Kings 4). All but the last two chapters were written by him. (Chapter 30 was by Agur and chapter 31 was by Lemuel.)
Take note that Solomon's proverbs were written before his heart was turned away from God. (MacArthur)
Solomon spoke some 3,000 proverbs that led to 800 verses of Proverbs were the product of his hand, according to Falwell.

The sum of this wisdom is the personification in the Lord Jesus Christ. Thus, we have the wise verses the foolish; in a sense, good versus evil. Using poetry and pose, Solomon gets his message across to the young who have so much to learn, and are warned.

No matter our age, if we apply these divine guidelines for our life, we will live long, prosper, and enjoy it along the journey. So our challenge throughout these 31 chapters is for us to ponder and apply the truths in our life.

In Matthew 10:16, Jesus told us to be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.

I think that is the bottom line. Shall we be as serpents and doves today/wise and harmless?

Understanding

O. T. #1435  "Understanding"
May 1, 2019
Summary of Psalm

LET IT GLOW

You don't understand! That may be a true statement, because one has not experienced what we are going through. Maybe they don't want to take the time to listen, either. Maybe we don't understand our situation and wonder why it is not getting better. Perhaps our dreams have been shattered; relationships are not mending. Prayers have not been answered yet.
Friend, there is One who understands it all. Read on.

Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; and His greatness is unsearchable. (Ps. 145:3)

The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy. (verse 8)

The LORD is righteous in all His ways, and holy in all His works. (verse17)

Great is our Lord, and of great power; His understanding is infinite. (147:5)

In the Hebrew language, the word understanding means discern, perceive, know, deal wisely.

Life Application Study Bible explains:

Sometimes we feel as if we don't understand ourselves-what we want, how we feel, what's wrong with us, or what we should do about it. But God's understanding has no limit, and therefore, He understands us fully. If you feel troubled and don't understand yourself, remember that God understands you perfectly. Take your mind off yourself and focus it on God. Strive to become more and more like Him. The more you learn about God and His ways, the better you will understand yourself.

No one understands like Jesus. The best thing for us is to turn to Him and trust Him, for He understands us, completely.

LET IT GROW

The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear Him, in those that hope in His mercy. (Ps.147:11)

Don't we spend a lot of time sharpening our skills and increasing our strength, individually and nationally? Are they being used for the glory of God?

LET IT GO

Let everything that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD. (Ps. 150:6)

*Thank you dear friends for sticking with us throughout a year of studying all 150 chapters of the book of Psalm. Hasn't it been a learning experience and refreshing, too.