True Friends

O. T. #1473  "True Friends"
June 28, 2019
Proverbs 17-Part 3
A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Proverbs 17:17

LET IT GLOW

When the chips are down or when trouble hits, through thick and thin, how many friends do you really have? It has been said that people who have 3 good friends in their lifetime are fortunate. So I looked up Scriptures which contained "friends" and most are found in Proverbs.

What does Solomon have to say about friends?

• The rich/wealthy have many friends. (14:20) People can buy their friends, but are they truly friends because  the rich person is loved or because their money is loved and for what it can profit? I call them users.
• A gossiper repeats matters and separates the best of friends. (16:28;17:9) The one who spreads your deep secrets is only going to hurt you and doesn't care about you.
• A friend loves at all times. (17:17) We can choose our friends but not our family, an old cliché.

Genuine friends are loyal. I think of Jonathan and David being the best of friends. When David played music in the palace and when David was running for his life from Jonathan's father, Jonathan remained a faithful friend. A friend loves us at all times and vice versa. So when the chips are down, you find out who really loves you.
Friends are closer than brothers because they are available all the time, not just in the crisis. (McArthur)
Are we that kind of friend?

LET IT GROW

Brothers and sisters often fight when growing up, right? Sadly, sometimes what begins in childhood  continues throughout adulthood. Who knows, we may have been born into such a family for such a time as this.

Christ is a true friend and brother that loves us at all times, even to the end as He did his disciples.  (John 13:1) He even forgave those who put Him on the cross to die.

There we have it-be a loving friend and brother or sister.

LET IT GO

Love as Jesus loved.
Forgive and love those who are unloving toward me.

Separations

O. T. #1472  "Separations"
June 27, 2019
Proverbs 17-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Folks, I just wanted to let you know that I have 2 crowns. Probably,you didn't know I was such an important person. Actually, I am not. Everyone can have  these two crowns. They are a crown of gray hair (16:31) and grandchildren (17:6). So we ordinary people don't have to wait unto we get to heaven to wear a crown.

Let me tell you, this grandma is excited because I get to see my 6 other grandchildren this weekend. They are staying for a week, so if there are some posts missing next week, you will understand why.
Cookies are baked and in the freezer, and pies are going in the oven tomorrow. I hope the rain holds off, though. Are you seeing your grands this summer? Or perhaps you are going to your grands?


LET IT GROW

Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends. (v. 9)

So we can keep our relationships in the right order, we must forgive. How many times have people said hurtful things and we dwell on those words, keeping us away from them? A division isn't worth it. Don't let time get away from us and hold grudges for years. Things are only things, but people will live eternally. Let's keep people close to us. Let love reign.

LET IT GO

Love, forgive, love more.

A Heart of Gold

O. T. #1471  "A Heart of Gold"
June 26, 2019
Proverbs 17
The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts. 
Proverbs 17:3

LET IT GLOW

Families eating together at the dinner table-is it a norm or unusual today? I recall all families ate supper together when I was growing up. We would sit down and talk about the day's events. It was a tradition not only regarded at holidays, but a daily practice. How about your family?

Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than a house full of sacrifices with strife. (v. 1)

It is better to have a simple meal in peace is better than having a feast with contention. (Falwell)

Conflict does not set well on the stomach. It can cause one's to be upset. Something to think about.

LET IT GROW

Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but the LORD tests the heart. (v. 3)

In order to separate the impurities of gold and silver, it must be heated at high temperatures. Then the dross can be scraped off and removed. I think of the huge pots used in refineries. In a similar way, it takes the heat of trials for the Christian to be purified. God shows us what is in us and clears out anything that gets in the way of complete trust in Him as He uses trials.
1 Peter 1:7 tells us that trials are testing our faith so it results in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Our faith is more precious than gold. Is our faith lasting like gold? Does our heart need purifying from sin?

So when tough times come our way, remember that God wants to use them to refine our faith and purify our heart.
Have you heart the phrase, "They have a heart of gold?" To me it is one that is pure in motives and right with God, loving and serving others. The good ol' boy or gal that will do whatever to help you.
There is our challenge today-have a heart of gold.

LET IT GO

Show me the impurities in my heart.
Wash me and I shall be whiter than snow.
Hold me as I go through the testing of my faith.
May I turn to you and trust You, Jesus.
May I be quick to help others.

Gray Hair and Patience

O. T. #1470 "Gray Hair and Patience"
June 25, 2019
Proverbs 16-Part 4
Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained by living a godly life. Proverbs 16:31NLT

LET IT GLOW

Is this verse a good motto for senior citizens? Do we consider gray hair an honor, a crown of glory?
When you see a person with gray hair, a sign of older age, probably they have been living right. Now that is not to say that when a young person dies they were not living righteously. God has a plan for each of our lives and an appointed time of birth and death. It's what we do between the dashes of those dates that counts.
Are we gray haired folks living right with God? Are we honoring those gray haired or white haired with respect? After all., they just might have some wisdom we could learn. Do we take time to listen to them? Are some of us wearing our crown with integrity?

LET IT GROW

Now, even though we may have gray hair, that does not mean we are patient. Right? Especially when I am driving and people pull out in front of me from a side street. I have to talk to Jesus about them. Ask Him to get them safely where they are going. That seems to help my attitude then.
Slow to anger, patient, self control-are good words, good qualities for a Christian, but hard to put into practice. Amen?

Better to be patient than powerful; better to have self-control than to conquer a city. (verse 32 NLT)
He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city. (KJV)

Just think about how patient God is with us. We may skip Bible study a few days, but He is still there waiting on us to show up. Remember, Jesus walks closer than a brother to us. He never leaves us nor forsakes us.
So there is our challenge today-be patient and have self-control.

LET IT GO

May I live worthy of my crown of glory, gray hair.
Remind me today, Jesus, to be patient and have control of my self.
May I honor You.

Pleasant Words

O. T. #1469  "Pleasant Words"
June 24, 2019
Proverbs 16-Part 4
Pleasant words are as a  honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.  Proverbs 16:24

LET IT GLOW

I say, nothing beats down on the farm fresh honey on a hot, homemade biscuit for breakfast or anytime. (Unless it is sorghum molasses) Nothing is sweeter than chewing  a piece of the honeycomb, with honey dripping down your chin. mmm!!

Wisdom brings to a man skill in utterance and continuously places in his mouth such pleasant words that others often find healing and learning in the instruction that is give. Like honey, the words of the wise have a therapeutic and strengthing value.  (Liberty Bible Commentary)

"Honeyed words," which reflect intelligence, judiciousness, and discernment in speech. This refers to eloquent discourse from the wise. (The MacArthur Bible Commentary

 Pleasanr words are seasonable advice, instruction, and comfort, words taken from God's Word, for that is it which Solomon had learned from his father to account sweeter than honey and the honeycomb.   (Matthew Henry's Commentary)

Too often we hear words of bad news from the media. Who couldn't use some words of encouragement today? Reality is, there may be days or weeks that go by and we do not hear pleasant words spoken to us. If that is the case, dear one, go to a dependable source of pleasant words-the Bible. Remember, we are loved by The King of kings and LORD of lords, and Creator of the world and us.

LET IT GROW

Verse 25 tells us, There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

Solomon repeated himself from 14:12. He is reemphasizing the danger of refusing the path of wisdom for self-chosen ways that can only end in death. There are so many man-made religions and cults in our world. They think their way is right and deceive people into thinking they are headed to heaven. Reality is, Jesus is the only way to heaven. No one comes unto the Father but through Him.
Let us take the opportunity whenever it comes to share salvation in Jesus and caution others of the reality of Hell whenever rejection Jesus.

LET IT GO

May sweet words come from my mouth today.
Follow Jesus' way, not my way.

What is a Haughty Spirit?

O. T. #1468 "What is a Haughty Spirit?"
June 21, 2019
Proverbs 16-Part 3
Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18

LET IT GLOW

Have you heard anyone say that key verse switched,  "pride goes before a fall"? It is a common mistake. Anyway, here we are again reading about pride. Hmm. Maybe people in Solomon's day up to present day have had a problem with pride. Surely not us. Well, there we go.

What does Life Application Study Bible have to say about pride?
Prideful people:

• take little account of their weaknesses;
• do not anticipate stumbling blocks;
• think they are above frailties of common people;
• are easily tripped up;
• seldom realize pride is their problem;

Everyone around us may be aware of our pride problem, just not us. What can we do about it? Ask a friend to if self-satisfaction has blinded us to warning signs. They can help us avoid a fall.
As we submit to Jesus as Lord of our life daily, we can avoid the above. Submission requires true humility.
Remember, pride is first on God's hate list we previously found.

LET IT GROW

What is a haughty spirit? Haughty means to soar; be lofty; be proud; be high.

The Bible mentions several people who were prideful and haughty: Pharaoh, Nebuchadnezzar, Haman, Abssalom, Goliath, Ahabe, and Herod, to name a few.

Each one has their circumstances and tragedy, but pride was what caused them to stumble when God brought them down.
Look at verse 19:Better it is to be of a humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.

There we go, folks-the wise is humble, not prideful. Plain and simple, huh? Well, if you are like me, it is an ongoing work in me.


LET IT GO

Help me lift others up above me and remain humble.

Beep Beep

O. T. #1467  "Beep Beep"
June 20, 2019
Proverbs 16-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

All right, those of you who are leaning toward the senior side of life will know this.
What did I see yesterday running across a quiet, dirt road, way back off the beaten path (pavement), surrounded by trees? It had long legs and a big tail, as well as a long beak. Cartoons used to have this bird go "Beep beep." Need another hint? A coyote was always on his trail, trying to outwit him with crazy tactics in order to bring him  down, to no success, of course. Got it? The answer is a ROADRUNNER. Yep, they are real and still exist. I had not seen one since my childhood when one came in our yard. (Now I have not heard it's sound that a roadrunner makes, but I tend to doubt it is as the cartoon portrayed.)

All that was said to relate to our verse below. God made that bird for Himself to enjoy, and I got an overflow of blessing. How creative Jesus is! And what a sense of humor, too. Think of the flamingo standing on one skinny leg and sleeping in that position. :)

The LORD hath made all things for Himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.
(Prov. 16:4 KJV)
NLT says it this way, The LORD has made everything for His own purposes, even the wicked for a day of disaster.

What have you encountered lately in creation that is amazing? We believers is Jesus do not have a hard time in saying He created all things, but unbelievers-they try to reason it out. Won't admit He done it, folks. but we know what is true, the bible tells us it is so. Amen??!!

LET IT GROW

We don't like to think of the rest of that verse-the wicked will have their day of disaster. Like that yucky cough syrup we had to take as a child when sick, it is hard to swallow. Just remember, Jehovah made all things for Himself. He will receive glory through it.

God is moving this universe according to His plan and purpose. Isn't it time we got in step with our God? I always pictured in my mind that Jesus is walking beside me, when in reality, He is walking in front of me. As I obey Him, I am to be walking behind Jesus. Are we in step with Him?

LET IT GO

Show me something You created, something I have not noticed before.
Thank You that I have eyes to see it and all You have made.
Keep me following You throughout this day.
Make me alert to those "Beep beeps," too.

When Plans Change

O. T. #1466  "When Plans Change"
June 19, 2019
Proverbs 16
Commit thy ways unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. Proverbs 16:3

LET IT GLOW

I don't know about you, but I like to have a plan for the week, even daily, as to my activities. And it is hard for me when those plans are interrupted. For instance, I have a family reunion, which is hosted at our church's facilities and needs decorated, and a house to clean and pies to bake  before our daughter and family arrive. Yet, in the last two weeks, I have gone on a one-day business trip and a funeral with my husband, helped him pack for a mission trip, and was sick in bed for a day, as well as have an unexpected evening obligation pop up. Now that has offset my plans. Well, well, in the scope of importance of things, maybe some can be erased from my to do list. Could it be that my plans are not what God had for me each day? I am learning to say yes to the needs of others.

Look at verses 1-3, where we learn from The New Living Translation:

• We can make our own plans, but the LORD gives the right answer. (verse 1) Man proposes, but God disposes. Man doesn't direct his steps, according to Jeremiah 10:23.
• People may be pure in their own eyes, but the LORD examines their motives. (verse 2) God weighs our moral character of every action, and ultimately every action must be submitted to His judgment. (Falwell)
• Commit your actions to the LORD, and your plans will succeed. (verse 3)

In the Hebrew language, commit means roll.

Literally, the challenge is to roll something on someone or entrust it wholly to him. (Falwell)

We just roll our plans over on the Lord Jesus and He will take charge. Roll them on Him and rest in His best. Let Him lead us today.

You know, I probably did more good during those unexpected interruptions in ministering to others than what I could have done at home working my little agenda. Are you with me?
If only I could remember that lesson.

LET IT GROW

Do we give in and give up to what God has planned for us this week or today? Is our life and living for His glory or for our selfish self? Ouch!

Are we trusting God as if everything depended on Him, while working as if everything depended on us?

LET IT GO

I commit my ways to You, Jesus.
Direct my thoughts and steps today, Jesus.
Your ways and thoughts are higher than mine.
I will trust in You.

Which is Better, Little or Lots?

O. T. #1465 "Which is better, Little or Lots?"
June 18, 2019
Proverbs 15-Part 3
Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith. Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith. Proverbs 15:16-17

LET IT GLOW

Which is better, luxuries with troubles or little on earth with joy; Festive foods with those who hate you or vegetables with those who love you?

Liberty Bible Commentary notes for us:

It is better to have little on earth and joy in the heart than to have extensive luxuries accompanied by great trouble. The one who is rejoicing in the Lord can well understand the glass of water, and then joyfully thanked God for "all this and Jesus!" Better is a dish of herbs when love is there. Vegetables represented the diet of the simple poor, while meat was the festive food, especially the flesh of fatted oxen. Better the simple diet with love than festive food shared with those who hate you.

So it is better to have little with love than treasures with turmoil, vegetables with those you love than steak with hate. Are we thankful for what we have and with whom we can share it?

LET IT GROW

What does the Lord Jesus delight in and who does He love?
Verses 8 and 9 tell us-He delights in the prayers of the upright and love those who pursue godliness.

What does Jesus detest?
The same verses say it is the sacrifice of the wicked and the way of the wicked.

The wicked cannot do good or think right. It is impossible for them to do so. The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord and so are the sacrifices that he brings. (McGee)

Are we doing what is right and praying in Jesus' name? Do we humbly acknowledge our mistakes, faults, and sins? Then we are wise.

LET IT GO

Be thankful for the little.
Share with those we love.
So what is right .
Pray.

A Wise Tongue

O. T. #1463  "A Wise Tongue"
June 17, 2019
Proverbs 15-Part 2
A soft answer turneth away wrath: but gracious words stir up anger. Proverbs 15:1

LET IT GLOW

This chapter begins with the effects of the tongue of a wise person. What does Solomon teach us about it?

• A soft, whispering voice can disarm a person whose heart is bent upon harm and angry. (v. 1)
• The right answer at the proper time and place has been learned by the wise person. (v. 2)
• The tongue results in healing speech. (v. 4)
• A joyful heart is revealed by the answers given.  (v. 23)

What do our words reveal about us?

LET IT GROW

Don't we need reminding of these things often? A wise person applies what they learn. There are many verses concerning the tongue. Here are a few:
James 1:26NLT-If you claim to be religious but don't control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless.

James 3:3-8 speak of the bit in a horse's mouth turn the animal, a small rudder controlling a huge ship, a spark can burn a whole forest down, but no one can tame the tongue.  Blessing and cursing come from it.

For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile. (1 Peter 3:10)

My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. (1 John 2:18)

And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
(Philippians 2:11)

Are we sowing seeds of peace and love? I, for one, need to work on this.

LET IT GO

Control what my tongue says.
Think before speaking.

Smile

O. T. #1463  "Smile"
June 14, 2019
Proverbs 15
A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.
Proverbs 15:13

LET IT GLOW

:) Smile dear friend. When a person is happy, you can tell it by looking at their face.
Oh, we may have our lip hanging down to the ground, but when we meet a  smiling person, it seems to lift us up, doesn't it? Mostly, it forces us to return a smile, which helps us.

While in high school, there was a classmate of mine that we nicknamed "Smiley." Guess how his countenance was.

NLT tells us that  a glad heart makes a happy face.

Can you recall the various places where you have seen smiley faces? One particular company adopted it as a logo. I used to draw one on good papers that I checked as a teacher.

It is known that laughter and good cheer and joy actually add to a person's health. a smile can bring to life a wonderful dimension that cannot be there if we live in sorrow and pessimism. (McGee)

The inner condition  of a person always shows in their outward appearance. The heart of a person determines the course to be taken. Joy in the heart brightens the countenance. (Falwell)

What is our heart condition? Is it one of joy or sadness or worry? Today, smile and give encouragement to others. Watch and see if your smile brings a smile on another's face as you go about your daily routine.

LET IT GROW

When there is pain in the heart, the spirit of a man is broken; and the power for effective living vanishes. A spirit can be crushed by words or a look of disapproval. Let us consider how we are presenting our self to others-happy as a Christian or burdened down with sin and troubles.


LET IT GO

:)   :)   :)   :)  :)

Be Prudent

O. T. #1462  "Be Prudent"
June 12, 2019
Proverbs 14-Part 2
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. Proverbs 14:12    

LET IT GLOW

Are you a prudent person? Usually, the word is used in a bad sense, but not in this case.
In the Hebrew language of the Old Testament, the word prudent means cunning; crafty; subtle.

Look at verses 15-16: Only simpletons believe everything they're told! The prudent carefully consider their steps. The wise are cautious and avoid danger; fools plunge ahead with reckless confidence.

Solomon teaches us to be prudent instead of simple. What are we to be like, then?
Liberty Bible Commentary suggests:

• Consider carefully the planting of your feet and ponder the direction in which you are advancing.
• Fear the dreadful consequences of evil.
• Choose to remove yourself from evil's presence with haste, rather than playing around with it.
• Don't give way to passion. We can't master any situation (without Jesus). Remain humble and not confident in yourself.
• Be cautious and avoid danger.

Try before you trust. Weigh the good and bad, consequences and possibilities. Prove all things and believe not every spirit. (Matthew Henry)

So be a prudent person in a good sense, right? Consider and choose cautiously.

LET IT GROW

Jump back up to our key verse.
As imperfect humans, there will always be a way that seems right to us in the moment, but ends up bringing disaster. Have we experienced a dangerous direction when we thought the way or decision was right?
Going the way that seems right leads us to please ourselves. Opinions and practices appear to be good. But they are actually worldliness and earthly-mindedness.
What sounds reasonable and is attractive to the old nature, may not be God's way for us. We can apply this to cults and "isms." Since their ways are not the right way, because Jesus is The Way, it will lead to death spiritually. Be aware of those deceivers. Let us warn others of their falsehood.

LET IT GO

Be prudent, wise, and discerning.
Watch out for the deceivers.
Stay in God's Word.
Remove myself from evil.

LIndy Lou, the Bag Lady

O. T. #1461 "Lindy Lou, the Bag Lady"
June 11, 2019
Proverbs 11
Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands. Proverbs 14:1


LET IT GLOW

Proverbs is a book in which God's wisdom is imparted into small sentences. I call them tidbits of wisdom. They fit people and into their lives, be it you, me, family, friends, or the foolish. There is so much for us to learn here. It will help us through life, making the good choices while walking on the right path if we heed it. Yet, it describes the fool and their way of life, which we need to avoid.
Today's focus will be upon verse one and what we can learn from it as women.

How is a wise woman described in the Bible? Joyce Rogers, wife of admirable Adrian Rogers, wrote in her book, Becoming a Woman of Wisdom, these truths for us to follow:

• discerns time and judgment(what to do and when to do it) Ecc. 8:5b-6a
• develops inner beauty, which comes from the Word of God and the Holy Spirit (Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised. Prov. 30:31
• fears the Lord (Pay to Him humble, childlike reverence, walk in His laws, have respect to His will, tremble to offend Him, hasten to serve Him... Fear God and nothing else. Charles Spurgeon)
• shows evidence of being a Christian (trust Christ and allow Him control in our life)
• blesses the Lord and gives thanks in whatever circumstance you find yourself right now
• submits to Christ and those in authority over us, such as our husband; her head covering, hair, is a symbol of submission.
• is a servant (yields her personal rights as she works to fulfill her God-given assignment)
• is a wise influence (trains children through discipline and example, lovingly)
• when married, she makes homemaking her priority.

Which one do you and I need to work on this week?
Might I add, that a wise woman encourages those in her house, be it husband, children or parents.

LET IT GROW

If you knew me personally, you would be surprised in the crazy things I do. I am naturally a quiet and shy person. I take things seriously. But, don't we all need a time to laugh, get away from the problems in the world that weigh us down? Well, I have some unique ways in helping others do this. I have been dressing up as "Lindy Lou, the Bag Lady." I give away some cooky things from my bag to a chosen woman that meets her situation, or even deacons. I have to have notes for the skit because I get to laughing so hard with the ladies that I tend to forget what is next. Mostly, I have done these to my sister in laws and to teenager girls as I gave my testimony. We have fun while learning some good principles for life.
God has blessed you and me is various ways, so share them with others.

Ladies, we have several examples in the Bible of godly women:

• Mary, the chosen mother of our Savior, Jesus, who had her life turned upside down, but had the greatest task-teaching Jesus.
• The Samaritan woman at the well, who shared Jesus with others.
• Lydia, who opened her home to Paul.
• Priscilla, who helped her husband instruct Apollos.
• Phoebe, who served in the church in Cenchrea.
• Esther, who saved her people, the Jews, risked her life in doing so.
• Jochebed, the mother of Moses, in all she did to train her son to love God.
• Sarah, wife of Abraham, who waited for the right time to conceive a son, yet failed and found grace.
• Noah's wife followed her husband into the Ark.
• Abigail, who prevented David from committing murder of her husband.
• Hannah, who kept her promise to God after she received a son, giving him up to serve God.

There are so many other women who are not in the spotlight of the Bible, were faithful to God.
You, dear sister in Christ, have an important job today, in Kingdom work. Walk on the wind and the rain, serving our Savior.
May God bless you and your family as you serve Him.

LET IT GO

Be faithful in serving in our God-given assignment and loving others to Him.
What is God calling us to do today?

Disciplining Children

O. T. #1460  "Disciplining Children"
June 7, 2019
Proverbs 13

LET IT GLOW

Disciplining children is a difficult topic to discuss. There are so many opinions on techniques. However, God's Word should be our priority for guidance. So shall we dig in and find some gold nuggets for life?

As we read through Proverbs, isn't it obvious that King Solomon listened to his father David? He is an example of a wise son who heard his father's instruction. Although, an example of the scorner who did not listen is Rehoboam, Solomon's son.

Look at verse 20: He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.

Don't we watch those who our children are friends are with? Are they making wise decisions? One bad apple can spoil the whole barrel. We can apply that saying to friendships. They should spend time with people they want to be like. That would include adults, too.

When people need advice, who do they usually seek? They go to their friends first. Now these are the ones who accept them and usually agree with them. But friends are not able to help with difficult problems since they are so much like us. Therefore, we should seek older and wiser people for advise. Wise people have experienced a lot of life-and have succeeded. They aren't afraid to tell the truth. Do we have wise, godly people which we can seek, those who will warn us of the pitfalls ahead?

LET IT GROW

How much do we love our children? Enough to discipline them, correct their ways when wrong, explain why they can't do something?

He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chastenteh him betimes.
Proverbs 13:24 KJV

NLT puts it this way, Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. Those who love their children care enough to discipline them.

It isn't easy being a good parent. The loving parent takes on the responsibility of nurturing and guiding their children, which is what God tells us to do. Character development is a lifetime job. If we desire wise children, we must teach them right and wrong. Then they will seek wisdom from God when they are an adult. Discipline seems to be going by the wayside. Parents who neglect discipline then others must do it for them, which should not be. Society ought not have that total responsibility.

Now, as a child of God, do we accept His discipline in our life? Do we change our ways? Is "no" an okay answer?


LET IT GO

May I keep company with wise people, not fools.
I need discernment.
Help me accept Your discipline in my life.
Although it is hard to discipline my grandchildren, remind me that it is done because I love them and desire them to do right.

Cheerful Words

O, T. #1459  "Cheerful Words"
June 6, 2019
Proverbs 12
A prudent man concealeth knowledge, but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.
Proverbs 12:23

LET IT GLOW

It is time to take inventory of the words we have used this week. Think about where and how they are used-social media, emails, conversations, under our breath. What were some of the motivations for these words? Do they make us proud or ashamed? Words can encourage or cut us to the bone. Our words have great power for good or bad.

Wisdom is not just having knowledge but knowing when to share it. (Titania Paige, writer for Proverbs 31, First 5 App)

Our key verse shows us that by listening to others, we know if they are foolish or will take wise counsel. Then we can go from there.


LET IT GROW

What kind of power do our lives hold?

• They can save lives. (v.6)
• They help us escape from trouble since our words are not trapping us. (v. 13)
• Bring healing, not cutting words. (v. 18-19)
• Encouraging words cheers a person up. (v. 25)

Today, will our words bring healing and cheer to others?


LET IT GO 

Help me to know when to speak and when to keep quiet.
Use my words to bring healing and cheer up others which I encounter today.

Which Way Do I Go?

O. T. #1458  "Which Way Do I Go?"
June 5, 2019
Proverbs 11


LET IT GLOW

How many times have we stood at crossroads and wondered which way to go? Decisions are difficult to make, sometimes. Knowing God's way and path for us is often had to discern. What is the answer?
Read on, friend.

Have you noticed that the choice of paths is consistently presented in Proverbs? What are some of the characteristics of the path of the righteous or the wise path?

Righteousness means rightness, justice, virtue, in the Hebrew language.

Look at verses 3, 5, and 23:

• (verse 3) Integrity and honesty, guides the righteous people. If our heart's desire is to walk in truth, then the Holy spirit will guide us down the right path. How do we know which way to go when we come to a Y in the road? The way that opens up is the way we should go.  If the door is closed, it is closed. We trust the Lord to open the right door and light the right path. when we pray Prov. 3:5-6, and we are trusting Him with all our heart and in all our ways acknowledging Him, God will direct our path.
• (verse 5) Solomon has been giving us instructions for the right path for God's children to walk on during this study of Proverbs. When we encounter difficulties in life, we can count on wisdom to give us direction. Keep practicing the godly principles. God will direct us, which is repeated here.
• (verse 23) The righteous will desire good. We don't wish hurt on anyone; they desire to please God, finding favor with Him; they preserve peace of a good conscience.

When we are trusting in God with all our heart and walking the path of righteousness, God will give us the desires of our heart. He will place His desires in us. So let us practice what is right. God delights in those who delight in Him.

Delight refers to acceptable, favor, pleasure.

Can I deduct that finding favor with God comes whenever He is our pleasure in life? We desire what He desires.


LET IT GROW

What are some of the characteristics of the wicked or unwise path? We find them in verses 3,5, 8, and 20:

• Dishonesty destroys treacherous people. (verse 3)
• The wicked fall beneath their load of sin. (verse 5)
• Trouble falls on the wicked. (verse 8)
• The LORD detests people with crooked hearts. (verse 20)

The wicked people desire to obtain and retain wealth. Do they think that with it they can control the world? What they sow, they will one day reap. Their sins will find them out. Wealth is not always a blessing. It can cause more problems than we wish for on our path of life.
Here is an old epitaph: What we spent, we had; what we saved, we lost; what we gave, we have. When we do not do good, we are sinning.
Which path are we on right now, the wise path or the unwise path?

LET IT GO

Be honest.
Apply the wisdom principles in Proverbs.
Delight in Jesus.

Life is Like a Storybook

O. T. #1457    "Life is Like a Storybook"
June 4, 2019
Proverbs 10-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Our life is like a story book, others are reading it. Are we pointing them to a forgiving and loving God or to the ways of the world? During trials and problems, is our faith shining brightly or are we living defeated?

We are continuing the characteristics of the wise and righteous man, which Solomon contrasts with the foolish man.

Liberty Bible Commentary tells us:

The man of understanding fears Yahweh and disciplines himself to carefully fulfill his appointed tasks. Yahweh rewards such a man with length of days, gladness of heart, and strength to continue in the path of life. The righteous shall dwell in the land, and they shall never be removed.

Can we face our trials with confidence? Do we have faith like Daniel in the lions den, hope like Moses in the wilderness, and a heart like David so we can face our enemies, with confidence in God?

LET IT GROW

Here is the contrast of the wise and foolish man. How do we recognize a foolish person?

• Doing wrong is fun for the foolish. (v. 23) He gets his enjoyment by carrying out evil plots.
• The fears of the wicked shall be fulfilled. (v. 24)
• When the storms of life come, the wicked are whirled away. (v. 25) This is because they lack depth of soul.
• Lazy people irritate their employers, like vinegar to the teeth or smoke in the eyes. (v. 26)
• The years of the wicked are cut short. (v. 27)
• The expectations of the wicked come to nothing, perishing. (v. 28)
• Destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity. (v. 29)
• The wicked shall not inherit the earth, but be removed from the land. (v. 30)
• The forward tongue shall be cut out. (v. 31-32) They distort the truth.

This person can expect a shortened life and eternal death. Sinning with the tongue will be severely judged. (Matthew 12:36) The sluggard has failed to realize that his life is a mission and a message constantly read by Yahweh and others. (Falwell)

What kind of message is our life sending to others-one of wisdom or foolishness?
Do we realize and take seriously that our life is a mission and message being read by God and others?
Like a book, we are being read. Are we pointing others to God or the world?
Are we striving to fulfill our appointed task? Are we using everything we have in order to accomplish this?

LET IT GO

Live wisely, not foolishly.
Continue on the path God has me on for His glory.
Grow in faith and obedience.
Let love live in me today.

Words and Sterling Silver

O. T. #1456  "Words and Sterling Silver"
June 3, 2019
Proverbs 10-Part 2
The words of the godly are like sterling silver; the heart of the fool is worthless.  Proverbs 10:20


LET IT GLOW

Do you have any sterling silver? We received a beautiful platter for our wedding which looked like sterling silver, but over the years, the tarnish revealed what it was made of-too many alloys to be pure silver. (Since the giver was a relative, I would not have told her and hurt her feelings. It was my little secret.) Folks, our words can be like pure sterling silver or mixed with too much impurities.

Today we will be looking at verses 15-22. We read of 7 proverbs which instruct us on the proper use of wealth. Solomon shows us that it is a mistake to think rich people are happy and poor people are undone and worthless. (verse 15) Both types of people can be content, have integrity, and live by faith. We must be careful that our riches does not take us away from the Lord. Remember, He hates pride, which was first on the list we covered recently. Let's take a look at the rich people and learn from Solomon, who was a rich man.

Matthew Henry's Commentary and the New Living Translation give us some insight:

1. The wealth of the rich is their fortress. (verse 15a) It protects them from evil ways.
2. The earnings of the godly enhance their lives. (verse 16a NLT) Their earnings is from a honest livelihood and maintains his family. This man's labor enables him to do for others. Sounds like he sows to the Spirit, involved in Kingdom work.
3. People who accept discipline are on the pathway to life. (verse 17a) When instruction is heeded, their life is enhanced and others as well, which leads eventually to eternal life in heaven.
4. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut, for too much talk leads to sin. (verse 19) It is good to keep a bridle on our mouth and refrain our lips. This is evidence of wisdom.
5. The words of the godly are like sterling silver. (verse 20a) Sterling silver contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% of other metals, usually copper, by weight. That is because pure silver is soft and needs the hardness and strength of an alloy. Did you know that; I didn't. Good men are good for something; bad men are good for nothing. The words of the godly men are pure, can be relied upon, and are just.
6. The words of the godly encourage many. (verse 21a) Their words are full of the Word of God, which is the bread of life and feed us spiritually giving comfort and wisdom.
7. The blessing of the LORD makes a person rich and He adds no sorrow with it. The love and grace of God is a blessing which leads to a person serving God with joy and gladness of heart. Thus, we are a wealthy person, in my opinion.

Wow! That is a lot to take in, huh? So if we have extra money, are we using it for ourselves selfishly, or are we helping others? Are we using it in Kingdom work? Are we disciplined enough to not allow our money to lead us down a path of sin, but righteousness? What are we talking about? Is it how to make more money or the Lord's work and His blessings on our life? Is knowing Jesus resulting in joy in our life?

LET IT GROW

What is left to be said here? Solomon said it, a wise man. Our challenge today is to let our words be as pure as sterling silver.

LET IT GO

Watch my mouth.
May my life be rich in faith, love, and Kingdom work.