Foolish and Lazy

O. T. #1495  "
August 1, 2019
Proverbs 27

LET IT GLOW

You know, we get busy and time goes by so quickly that we have to take time out of our schedule to have lunch with a couple of close friends. That is what I did this week. We had fun, laughed loudly in the restaurant, and shared hurts and concerns. We didn't solve each other's problems, but we carried each other's burdens. I consider these ladies true friends.

What are the characteristics of a true friend? Do you have godly friends? This chapter holds some verses about godly friendships. Friendship is a spiritual endeavor and highly valued in Proverbs. How is friendship a part of our spiritual life?

LET IT GROW

LET IT GO
       

One More Time

O. T. #1493  "One More Time" 
July 30, 2019
Proverbs 25-Part 4
If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink: For thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head, and the LORD shall reward thee. 
Proverbs 25:21-22

LET IT GLOW

How are we going to live in the middle of this? Especially when we have to see them so often, how do I endure? Dear one, we are not alone in this hared situation. Jesus is walking with us, in and though this. If God's Word is our guide for our life, we can't close the Holy Book or click off this site and ignore these standards and instructions given to us. If we love Jesus, we desire to obey Him, even when an enemy causes us to bleed in our soul. So please, don't leave me alone in the midst of this. This is hard for me, too, yet I need it. How about you?

How are we to deal with our enemies? First, we need to define an enemy.
In this verse, an enemy (saw-nay') is to hate personally; be hateful; foe.

First, if we return evil for evil, then the battle will only escalate and harm will come to all parties.
Next, evaluate if there is a reason for them to hate us; have we done something to hurt them, making their actions make sense? Do we need to make things right with them?
Third, how are we supposed to react to their hatefulness, if we have done nothing to deserve this?

• Show kindness by meeting their needs, thus softening his angry feelings by bringing fire to his soul (conviction). (verses 21-22)
• Love them, bless them, do good to them, and pray for our enemies.

In Matthew 5:44, Jesus tells us, but I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.

• Lend to them, hoping for no returns. Your reward will be great, and you shall be the children of the Highest. (Luke 6:35)
• Be merciful. (Luke 6:36)

Is there anyone who is cursing you, hating you, despitefully using you, or persecuting you? We are told to love them, bless them, do good to them, and even pray for them. Are we willing to deny our self, take up our cross, and follow Jesus?

LET IT GROW


Oh, Sweet Jesus, You tell us hard things. We can't do this in the flesh nor alone. We need your help. I know You forgave those who beat and killed you-Your enemies. Nothing is too difficult for Thee.  Fill us with Your Spirit so these attitudes and actions are not too difficult for us to do. Change us and make us more like You.

I have a sticky note on my desk. I am looking at it now. It has 3 symbols on it, no words, but I know what it says to me and I know it is the right way.

1 ^ x (turn the middle symbol to the right.) It stands for ONE MORE TIME. Jesus is reminding me to do whatever I am struggling with, 1 more time. Love them one more time. Forgive them one more time. Show kindness to them one more time. Pray for them one more time.
We are to be Jesus here on earth, so we must act like Him and be filled with His Spirit.
Well, I have some homework.


LET IT GO

In the middle of this, do it one more time, for Jesus.

Well Chosen Words

O. T. #1492  "Well Chosen Words"
July 29, 2019
Proverbs 25
Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket. Proverbs 25:11 NLT

LET IT GLOW


Clarke Commentary gives us a few main points found in this chapter:

• God's glory is in mysteries.
• There are observations concerning kings.
• Avoid contentions.
• Opportune speech.
• The faithful ambassador.
• Delicacies are to be sparingly used.
• Avoid familiarity.
• Amusements are not grateful to a distressed mind.
• Do good to your enemies.
• There is misery in dwelling with a scold.
• The necessity of moderation and self-government.

Shall we pick one topic for today to glean something from it?

LET IT GROW

I wonder why it is that hateful, undeserved words spoken to us seem to stick in our brain and we carry them with us all the rest of our life. Maybe it is the emotion, the pain, that is tied with them. We forgive the person, and strive to be an overcomer, even kind to the person who doesn't deserve kindness. Still, those mean words pop up every now and then. Over and over again, we experience this. When we do not return evil for evil, our golden words are like golden apples in a silver basket. It is through Jesus that we can do this.

Picture this: a silver basket filled with golden apples. Exquisitely beautiful silver baskets used to be made from silver wire skillfully formed into the appearance of delicate flowers. What a pleasing-to-the-eye effect this would be. So are the fitting words spoken at an opportunely time, pleasing to the soul. Whether the words are an observation, a caution, reproof, or advice, they should be smooth and suitable, as well as timely. Well-chosen words will be helpful while blurted-out words in anger will harm, so let us choose well our words.

If we have something to say to another, we better pray first. We need God's perspective. After all, Jesus knew the right words to speak at the right time.

LET IT GO

Watch my words.
Choose them well.

Searching

O. T. #1491  "Searching"
July 25, 2019
Proverbs 25-Part 2
It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honor of kings is to search out a matter. Proverbs 25:2

LET IT GLOW

Let me tell you, this grandma uses the map apps on her phone quite often. It has successfully shown us the way through the big cities, such as Dallas, Ft. Worth, San Antonio, and Portland. without it, we would probably still be driving in circles. Well, maybe not for a year. But when you aren't sure the of the right way, it sure helps. Friend, are you like me and wondering which way to go today? We should search out the matter, not with a map app, but somewhere else. Read on to find out where.

We can see the things God does, but we may not know the reasons. He doesn't search into any matters, for He knows everything by a clear and certain view. Nothing can be hidden from Him. It is God's privilege to conceal things. It is God's glory and honor to do as He pleases.

In Jeremiah 29:11 NLT, God says, "For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. "

Will we surrender to God's plans for our life? Even in the latter season of our life? Are we trusting Him?

LET IT GROW

Our understanding is limited, you will agree. He would have us search the Scriptures for His mind and will. It is not an automatic thing to know all of His will when we become a Christian. When we desire the truth, we will search for it.
Shouldn't we pray for our leaders to search for God's will and for god to reveal it? Then for all to do it.

Jeremiah 29:12 God continues, "In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for Me wholeheartedly, you will find Me. I will be found by you," says the LORD. "I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes."

LET IT GO

Seek, pray, look for answers from God's Word.

Are We Rejoicing?

O. T. #1490  "Are We Rejoicing?"
July 25, 2019
Proverbs 25

LET IT GLOW

Chapters 25-29 are included in the Hezekiah's Collection. They were written by Solomon, but men of King Hezekiah copied them. Copied indicates that the scribes were dealing not only with written proverbs, but also with proverbs that were a part of Israel's oral tradition. Hezekiah, in his anxiety to preserve these sacred words from the past, had them brought together in one sacred collection. (Falwell)

This happened 250 years later. Hezekiah was a righteous king and desired to return to godly wisdom (2 Kings 18:2-8) What were his first acts as king, found in chapter 29 of 2 Chronicles?

• He opened the doors of the House of the Lord and repaired them. (verse 3)
• He brought the priests and Levites together. (verse 4)
• He told them to get rid of the idolatry, filthiness within the Temple and sanctify it, as well as themselves. (verse 5) This was accomplished within 16 days.
• The sin offering was reinstated, Temple musicians and singers returned, and the people freely offered thank and burnt offerings, as the priests and Levites continued their function. (verses 26-35)

How did the people respond to all of this? Verse 36 tells us Hezekiah rejoiced, and all the people, that God had prepared the people: for the thing was done suddenly.

Are we doing what is right? Are we rejoicing in God's House of Worship? Are we seeking forgiveness of our sins?

LET IT GROW

Jesus exemplified wisdom in His ability to rejoice, weep, and speak hard truth depending on what the situation called for. He was aware of the hearts of others and what would be wise for each circumstance. (Matthew 21:12-14; Luke 11:33-35; John 8:1-11)

LET IT GO

Rejoice in the Lord.

Laziness Versus Work

O. T. #1489  "Laziness Versus Work"
July 24, 2019
Proverbs 24


LET IT GLOW

According to Solomon, what does wisdom produce in us?

• It builds up instead of tearing down as the foolish do. (verses 3-4)
• It produces strength in us. (verses 5-6) If we trip 7 times, we get up again, according to verse 16.
• It gives us strength to advocate others. (verses 11-12)
• It keeps us from showing partiality. (verse 23) 

When we are a wise person, we have strength that can be used to seek justice and help others.
Are we in need of strength? Seek wisdom in the Word of God.
Do we desire to help others? Seek wisdom in the Word of God.


LET IT GROW

Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth: and thy want as an armed man. (verses 33-34)

NLT describes what will happen to this lazy person-poverty will pounce like a bandit and scarcity will attack like an armed robber on them.

A person can graduate from college, know a lot of things, even have good qualities, but if they are lazy, they will find it to be the greatest handicap they could have in life. (McGee)

This laziness sounds like a habitual practice instead of working. We can encourage them, but note that some people just want handouts and not do anything for it.
What are we teaching this young generation?

LET IT GO

Study the Word and apply it to my life.
Honor the Lord as I work.

Warnings About Wine

O. T. #1488  "Warnings About Wine"
July 23, 2019
Proverbs 23-Part 3
Get the truth and never sell it; also get wisdom, discipline, and good judgment. Proverbs 23:22

LET IT GLOW

I have a large yellow bowl which was my mother's. As a child, I watched her make mouthwatering biscuits and luscious homemade rolls in it. It is priceless. I would never sell this bowl.

There are some things which should not be sold at any price. Included is wisdom, self-discipline, and understanding. Theses can only be obtained from Yahweh. He graciously gives these gifts to the lowly. You can't buy them, yet they are pearls of great price (Matthew 13:44-46). Once obtained, they ought never be sold for any price. (Falwell)

We don't need to buy truth with money, for it is available without money and without price.
Isaiah 55:1a NLT tells us,  Is anyone thirst? Come and drink-even if you have no money!

Christ is all of this for the child of God-truth, wisdom, and understanding. Paul told us in
1 Corinthians 1:30, but of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.

Jesus is our everything we could ever want and need. Come all who are hungry and suffering, disappointed and wronged, to the table of Christ and be set free from all things keeping a holding, causing you to be down.


LET IT GROW

So many lives and families have been destroyed by wild women and  wine. The wise person will heed the numerous warnings about wine which Solomon gives here.

Who has anguish? Who has sorrow? Who is always fighting? Who is always complaining? Who has unnecessary bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? It is the one who spends long hours in the taverns, trying out new drinks. Don't gaze at the wine, seeing how red it is, how it sparkles in the cup, how smoothly it goes down. for in the end it bites like a poisonous snake; it sting like a viper. (verses 29-32, NLT)

Wine used here (mimsak) is the blended wine that was a mixture of water, wine, honey, and spices. To drink this sparkling brew is tantamount to submitting oneself to the bite of a poisonous snake. such venomous brew will cause a man to loosen control of his morals. His speech, walk, and senses diminish. (Falwwell)

What should we do whenever we are in anguish, sorrow, shame, hurting? Go to the Lord Jesus. He has experienced it all. This is what the wise person does. Are we wise?

LET IT GO

Go to Jesus instead of the bottle.
Seek wisdom in the Word and share it.

Who is Mighty in Our Life?

O. T. #1487 "Who is Mighty in Our Life?
July 22, 2019
Proverbs 23-Part 2
Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless. For their Redeemer is mighty; He shall plead their cause with thee.  Proverbs 23:10-11

LET IT GLOW

Here is the remark about the landmark again. Don't cheat your neighbor by moving landmarks. The difference this time is that something has been added-don't take the land of defenseless orphans.
Matthew Henry tells us about the fatherless:

• They are taken under God's special protection as He shows them mercy and justice is done for them (Hosea 14:3).
• God is their Redeemer.
• He stands up for them,
• He will plead their cause against those that do them injury.
• God defends their rights and recovers it for them. Being in childhood, the orphans don't apprehend the wrong done them.

Thus, men should restrain from injuring children, especially fatherless children. Abusers and sexual predators should take heed-God will take care of His children, either in this life or in the next. (Immigrant children need protection from the evil ones seeking their harm.)

In the Hebrew language, the word for Redeemer is ga'al (gaw-al'), which refers to being the next kin (to buy back a relative's property); ransom; avenger; deliver; purchase.

Their Redeemer is mighty. (verse 11a)

The one who invades the fields of the fatherless in order to enlarge his possessions will learn to his sorrow of the power of their Kinsman-Redeemer. They may have no near kinsman (Lev. 25:25) to redeem their land; yet Yahweh is might to deliver (Ex. 6:6). He will deliver all who trust His might power. (Falwell)

Are you in need of a Redeemer today? Jesus has purchased our salvation so we can inherit life in heaven. He wants to be your Redeemer today. Will you surrender to Him? Such love He demonstrated when He died on the cross, the Perfect Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world, and us!
Dear one, He will protect and provide for us, His children. We may not understand why He allows pain, but we live in a sinful world.

LET IT GROW

Saturday, July 20, we were recognizing the 50th year anniversary of men walking on the moon for the first time. How amazing it was. I was only 15 back then, but I recall eyes were glued to the black and white television in my family and on the news stations. The United States flag was placed there as a sign of America conquering the moon. But one thing you may not know, nor do the secular news reporters tell-Buzz Aldrin was an elder in the Presbyterian church at that time. He got permission to take communion on the moon, reading Scriptures and having bread and wine there.
I remember Genesis 1:1 was read, just not the communion meal in remembrance of what Jesus did for us and giving thanks to God.

What a witness to a world watching at this special time in history. What an incredible view the astronauts had in space of the whole earth in space. What a might God and mighty Redeemer He is!
These 3 men had to trust this Creator God to get them back home, being so far away, and so many things could have happened to them to prevent their return. They returned safely to earth.

Are we in awe of our Creator God who made the earth, sun and moon, and planets from nothing but His word being spoken? What a Mighty God we serve!
Who is He mighty in your life? Are we trusting Him in all areas?

LET IT GO

You are an Awesome God; the One and Only to be worshiped and served!
You are rich in mercy, which is new every morning.
Thanks be to Jesus for being my loving Redeemer.

When Dinner is Free

O. T. $1486  "When Dinner is Free"
July 19, 2019
Proverbs 23

LET IT GLOW

Eating out with others, you want to be on your best behavior and use good manners, as well as your children, right? Her are some tips Solomon gives us. Ahh, gourmet food, a banquet, a special meeting, dinner at a nice restaurant-we are given some instruction concerning our actions during those times:

• Don't make a pig of yourself whenever you are invited out to eat and someone else is footing the bill, paying. (verse 1) That is the way to be courteous.
• Show moderation and self-control even when eating. (verse 2)
• Food may be a means by which deception is used for a favor. Be careful when eating with an important or influential person because they may try to bribe you. (verse 3)
• Don't associate with those who drink too much wine, or with those who gorge themselves on meat. (verse 20) We could become like them.
• Be aware of users, for they will ask you questions and use your answers against you later. A gossiper wants to find out things so they can spread it to others, often twisting the truth,  not considering if it hurts. (verses 6-8)
• Be careful of the company you keep. Birds of a feather flock together. Evil companions produce evil manners. (verses 19-21) [Resource: Proverbs by J. Vernon McGee]

I have had to learn the hard way concerning this good advice. You don't always have to answer questions whenever a snoopy person asks them. We can weasel our way out of them, for our own good. "Better ask them, not my department, hmm I had not thought of that" are some good answers. Sometimes it is best to avoid those people, too.

LET IT GROW

Get the truth and never sell it; also get wisdom, discipline, and good judgment. (verse 23)

Liberty Bible Commentary tells it like it is:

There are some things which ought not be sold at any price. Wisdom, self-discipline, and understanding are all children of the truth. These can only be obtained from Yahweh and are His gracious gift to the lowly. They are obtained without money (Isa. 55:1) and are pearls of great price (Matthew 13:44-46). Once obtained, they ought never be sold for any price.

We don't need to buy the truth with money, do we? Christ is all we need. He is all-wise and all-knowing.
Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 1:30, but of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.

If we need to know the truth of a situation, ask Jesus.
If we need wisdom in a decision, ask Jesus.
If we need understanding, ask Jesus.
If we need a clean heart, ask Jesus.

LET IT GO

May I learn wisdom from Your Word and Solomon, then pass it on to others.
Help me listen more and talk less.

Angry People

O. T. #1485  "Angry People"
July 18, 2019
Proverbs 22-Part 4
Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go. Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul. Proverbs 22:24-25

LET IT GLOW

As parents of teenagers, we tend to look deeply at those with whom our children are friends. Do they show anger at the drop of a hat? Do they explode at little things? What does Solomon have to say about this?

Don't befriend angry people or associate with hot-tempered people, or you will learn to be like them and endanger your soul. (NLT)

We are greatly influenced by our companions. Wise folks avoid bad company. We don't want to learn their ways and practice their ways of being hot-tempered.

People tend to become like those with whom they spend a lot of time. Even the negative characteristics and habits often rub off. The Bible exhorts us to be cautious in our choice of companions. choose people with qualities you would like to develop in your own life. (Life Application Study Bible)

We can be civil to all, yet choose those who we rub elbows. So it is good for us to be aware of others we hang around with, "lest we imitate him, to honor him, and so contract an ill habit."
(Matthew Henry's Commentary in quotations)

LET IT GROW

Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set. (verse 28)

This refers to stealing land by moving the boundaries. (MacArthur)

Good fences make good neighbors. As surveyors mark our land, we are to abide by it and not take what is not rightfully ours.

The landmark was protected by the ancient laws of Israel, according to the Torah. (Deut. 19:14; 27:17) It was a memorial and reminder of what their ancestors went through to acquire their Promised Land.

Even if you are not a landowner, we should set limits, boundaries, for our children so they avoid evil and downfalls. Are we setting boundaries for ourselves-movies, television, friends?

LET IT GO

Evaluate those with whom I spend time.
Set boundaries for myself.

Disciplining a Child

O. T. #1484  "Disciplining a Child"
July 17, 2019
Proverbs 22-Part 3
Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.  Proverbs 22:15

LET IT GLOW

We talked about training a child in the way they should go, not the way he would go, but God's way. Lead them in the way they are bent, their personality can be used for God's purpose. Today, we have discipline repeated since children need it.

A youngster's heart is filled with foolishness, but physical discipline will drive it far away. (NLT)

What is foolishness? Foolishness means silliness, folly.

Left to himself, a child is to unsure his ruin, for folly is bound to every child's heart. Folly is stubbornness. The correct administration of discipline will correct this propensity to arrogance.
(Liberty Bible Commentary)

Sin is foolishness. Our inward inclination is to sin, to speak and act foolishly. That is due to our nature being sinful. Sin is not only found in the heart of children, but it is bound there. It is through Jesus Christ that they find deliverance. The right way must be taught, not caught. We point out errors in hopes that they will not repeat it. Left to our self, we will go the wrong way.


LET IT GROW

Correction is necessary in order to remove foolishness. There are times that it is not removed by fair means and gentle methods. I know, so many opinions have been written on this topic, but the best book is the Bible to instruct us. There are times that a child needs a spanking, and they need to know why. It brings repentance.

The rod is the symbol of parental restraint. Applied in love, it will ensure the child's proper moral development. (Falwell)

I agree, although would add, discipline needs to be consistent-not here today and gone tomorrow.
Just as God trains and corrects us to make us better, so parents must discipline their children to help them learn the difference between right and wrong.

Proverbs 3:11-12 tells us, Do not despise the LORD's instruction, my son, and do not loathe His discipline; for the LORD disciplines the one He loves, just as a father, the son he delights in.
(Life Application Study Bible)

God is concerned for our development. He desires we become strong morally and a good person. His love teaches us the difference between right and wrong.

Are we willing to discipline children in our little world? Will we teach them the difference between right and wrong?

LET IT GO

Thank You, Father, for disciplining me, for I see Your love.

Which Direction is Your Child Bent?

O. T. #1483  "Which Direction is Your Child Bent?"
July 16, 2019
Proverbs 22-Part 2
Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6

LET IT GLOW

In our yard is an old pine tree. I say old, because mom must have planted it before I was born, for as long as I can remember, that tree has been there. It has always leaned a little to the north, though. I don't know what caused it to do so, but it does. Perhaps she planted it that way, or the wind caused it to bend that direction, or whatever. Who knows? This pine tree has survived all these years, leaning a little. Its trunk has grown in that direction, not straight up. So the tree grew and followed the direction it was bent. And survive it has, producing shade and pinecones in the summer, along with greenery in the winter. It has served its purposes quite well.

Aren't we familiar with today's key verse? How are we to train a child? We are to train them concerning the way they should go, not would go. If we love them, we want them to go the right way, God's way. It is our duty as parents.

Train means to initiate or discipline; dedicate; child is a boy or girl from age of infancy to adolescence.

Parents are meant to be a child's first and most important instructor, trainer, disciplinarian.

This training is designed to open before the child the manner of life for which he is intended. To commence the child's education in this way is of great importance, for the tree follows the bent of its early years. (Falwell)

We help the child choose the right paths and discerning which ones are right. We discipline them whenever it is needed, showing them what is wrong and right, then how to correct their mistake, sin. We sure don't want them to repeat it again.

Are we disciplining children or leaving them to their own demise?


LET IT GROW

Don't we wish there was a guarantee that every one of our children will walk the straight and narrow way! Unfortunately, there is not such thing. We can do our best, instill the Word of God in them early, and even direct and discipline them along the way. Unfortunately, not all child will follow The Way, which is Jesus. (John 14:6)

Hang in there. We do have God's promise that such a child, when he or she is old, will not depart from their training.

Depart means to turn off; put away or down; be sour; take away or off; turn aside; withdraw.

A wayward child will return to Jesus when they are old, if they were trained to bend in that direction.
Are we bending them toward Jesus?

LET IT GO

Be faithful in teaching children in the right direction, following Jesus.
Help them find the way He has them bent for kingdom work.

Riches

O. T. #1482  "Riches"
July 15, 2019
Proverbs 22
A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.  Proverbs 22:1

LET IT GLOW

The adjective good does not appear in the Masoretic text. Name conveys the idea of reputation, or character. A continuous display of that grace that wins love is commended here. (Falwell)

What two things are more valuable than great riches?

1. To be well spoken of is to be more important to us than great estates and money. This opens up the door of opportunity to do good things.
2. To be well loved and to be esteemed and held with high affections of those around us is better than silver and gold.

Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold. New Living Translation

Christ grew in favor with God and man (Luke 2:52), We are to set our hearts on those things which are lovely and of good report (Philippians 4:8).

There we are, folks. What is our focus in life? Is it on Jesus or money? Is it on a righteous life or a self-serving life? What do others say about us? Is our faith shining today?
I wonder what others say about me whenever I am not around. Hmm.

LET IT GROW

By humility and fear of the LORD are riches, and honor, and life. (Verse 4)

Humility is the absence of pride. It includes a teachable and disciplined spirit. What are found in a life of true humility?  True riches, honor, and eternal life are.
Finding favor with God and respecting Him should be one of our priorities. Those matured for the Kingdon sake were willing to give up everything.
How is our attitude today?

LET IT GO

May I seek to have a good name-faithful servant of Jesus Christ.
May I be rich in love and obedience to You.

What Kind of Wife Are We?

O. T. #1481  "What Kind of Wife Are We?
July 12, 2019
Proverbs 21-Part 2
It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.
Proverbs 21:9
It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and angry woman. Proverbs 21:19

LET IT GLOW

Are we a brawling or contentious woman? What are they like?

Brawling means discord, strife; contentious refers to a contest or quarrel; discord , strife.

Discord is a lack of agreement or harmony; strife is a bitter sometimes violent conflict, fight. (Webster Dictionary)

Liberty Bible Commentary explains:

The corner of the housetop refers to a small room sometimes used for guests. It was built on the roof near the corner, and was accessible only by ladder. The room was small and less comfortable than the quarters below. It is better to dwell in these small quarters than to live to more comfortable quarters with a brawling woman who seeks to rule the house and will not be content unless everything goes her way.

Since roofs were open like patios, a small arbor or enclosure in the corner of a flat roof was a very inconvenient place to live. (MacArthur)

So, my conclusion is, that it is better for us to live alone peaceably in a small space than to live with a person that is criticizing and fighting all the time. Perhaps a bathroom or porch can be a getaway for prayer during those times. Men can be that way, as well as women.



LET IT GROW

Verse 19, NLT, refers to being alone in the desert is better than living with a quarrelsome, complaining wife.
Wisdom and grace should not get us into returning railing for railing.

Matthew Henry tells us that a wife should be a comfort and a helper to her husband, as well as be good company for him.

I think we can extend this verse to a husband, a child, a parent, and a neighbor. Are we driving a person which we love to the wilderness, to be alone, to avoid being with us? Is there a person with whom we associate that is always angry or critical? Can we help them find love and contentment, which comes through Jesus?

Hint: If we can survive the early years of adjustment in marriage, it gets better.

LET IT GO

Jesus, help me live in harmony with my husband and others, serving them instead of mysself.
May I help others today?

Hearts

O. T. #1480  "Hearts"
July 11, 2019
Proverbs 21
The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: He turneth it whithersoever He will. Proverbs 21:1

LET IT GLOW

In Solomon's day, kings possessed absolute authority and were often considered to be like gods. This proverb shows that God, not earthly rulers, has ultimate authority over world events. Although they may not have realized it, the earth's most powerful kings have always been under God's control. (Isaiah 10:5-8) Assyria didn't know it was part of God's plan to judge His people. God didn't create the world and let it go. We can find security in God's controlling today.

There have been some powerful rulers down through the ages-Pharaoh of Egypt, the king of Babylon, Caesar of Rome, Alexander the Great, Napoleon, Stalin, and Hitler. Some were good leaders and some were not, just as America has had. No matter how powerful a man may become politically, no man can act in independence of God. Many of these rulers thought they could, and men today may still think they can, but the truth is that no man is free from God, so no man can act independently. There is no king, ruler, nor any individual that can act independently of God.
(Resource: Proverbs, by J. Vernon McGee)

The king's heart is like a stream of water directed by the LORD; He guides it wherever He pleases. (NLT)

The books of Daniel and Esther show us this principle. How important it is for us Christians to pray for our President's decisions. We believe that God controls the flow of water in rivers, so a Sovereign God can control world leaders. We must pray for those foreign leaders that God would influence them, and not Satan; that they would support God's Beloved Israel.

Here's the bottom line, friends: Do we desire for God's hand to direct our heart?

LET IT GROW

We may mistakenly think we are doing right, but God sees the motives behind our actions.

Verse 2 says, Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the LORD pondereth the hearts.

In the Hebrew language, pondereth means to balance, measure out, arrange, test.

Haven't we always been experts in justifying our personal actions, resulting in self-righteousness?
Previously, we learned that a high look and a proud heart result in sacrifices unacceptable to God.

Evaluate our motives by asking, "Would God be pleased with my real reasons for doing this?" When our motives are to receive something in return, God is not pleased.

LET IT GO

Direct my heart, Lord, placing Your desires in me.
May my motives be from a pure of heart.
Glory to You today.

Where Are Our Steps Taking Us?

O. T. #1479  "Where Are Our Steps Taking Us?
July 10, 2019
Proverbs 20-Part 2
Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the LORD, and He shall save thee.
Proverbs 20:22

LET IT GLOW

Man's goings are of the LORD; how can a man then understand his own way? (verse 24)


Life Application Study Bible tells us:

We are often confused by the events around us. Some things we will never understand; others will fall into place in years to come as we look back and see how God was working. This proverb counsels us not to worry  if we don't understand everything as it happens. Instead, we should trust that God knows what He's doing, even if His timing or design in not clear to us.

Psalm 37:23-24 says, A man's steps are established by the LORD, and He takes pleasure in his way. Though he falls, he will not be overwhelmed, because the LORD holds his hand.

Why do we seem to have this need to try to understand everything along the way since God directs our steps? How can we understand our own way? We have never passed this way before. Only the Holy Spirit can lead us along the right path meant for us. God told Mosses that he needed God to lead him. And so do we.
When we go our own way, we end up in a mess, at least I do. Then I end up asking God to deliver me out of it. I should have asked His directing first. Amen?

LET IT GROW

Look at our key verse now. NLT says it this way, Don't say, "I will get even for this wrong." Wait for the LORD to handle the matter.

Sounds like revenge is not for Christians. God will handle the matter. So quit pondering over it, Linda. It is not your department. Let it go and let God handle it. Don't we need to have a good talking
to our self every now and then? Some people will never apologize, anyway. I know that if I am to be the kind of person God wants me to be, then I must forgive and love in spite of them. I have had to eat crow a lot during my years in the ministry. In the bigger picture, what does it matter who is right? So pride be gone. If we say we love God and hate our brethren, does the love of God dwell in us?
Self, there is your task for today. God will help.

Jesus walked up the steps, which lead to Calvary, carrying the cross. Can I do any less-deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Jesus.

LET IT GO

Direct my steps onto the path You have established for me, O Lord my God.
If my steps are to be down the path of forgiveness and love for the person who hurt me, so be it, so be it.
Use me for whatever You want.
I am trusting that You know best, Jesus.

Look and Listen

O. T. #1478. "Look and Listen"
July 8, 2019
Proverbs 20

LET IT GLOW 

I apologize for skipping out on yesterday's lesson.
I have been exhausted after all the family activities last week and weekend.
How refreshing it was to be with grandchildren and cousins.
Now things will settle down after this week (vbs).
I hope you are having a great summer, too.

Shall we jump into chapter 20 now?
According to J. V. McGee, verses 6-12 are connected
as they speak of moral principles:

• goodness(v.6)
• integrity (v.7)
• scattering away all evil is cleaning up his kingdom(v.8)
• clean and pure hearts (v.9)
• falseness is a contrast to goodness (v.10)
• good doing by children (v.11)
• look and listen (v.12)

We cannot make our heart pure. A clean heart is the result of asking
God to forgive us of our sins.
In John 3:3 , Jesus said we must be born again in order to see the
kingdom of God.
Until we are clothed in the righteousness of Christ, through His
salvation, we will not be pure.
Friend, have you done this?
Do we know others who need Jesus as Savior?

LET IT GROW

Stop, look, and listen. May we not go blindly through this life.
Use our eyes and ears to see the needs of others.

The hearts of people and children are revealed for others to see
as their words and deeds are observed. ( See Jeremiah 17:9)

Even children are known by the way they act, whether their
conduct is pure, and whether it is right.

Are we watching our conduct today?

LET IT GO


Look and listen.
Watch my words and deeds.

A Planning Person

O. T. #1477  "A Planning Person"
July 5, 2019
Proverbs 19
Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom for the future.
 Proverbs 19:20 RSV
You can make many plans, but the LORD's purpose will prevail. verses 21 NLT

LET IT GLOW

Are we listening to advice that others give us? Are we accepting instruction? Sometimes we should heed advice and instruction. A wise person can be a good influence for us. They can help us gain wisdom for our self. However, it is difficult to listen when the advice is presented in a critical way. That just gets me on the offensive. Therefore, it would be good if we considered how we are presenting some good advice and instructions to others. Hmm.

LET IT GROW

Are you a planning person? I'm not talking about having a ridged schedule that you can't vary from it.

Sarah Young says in her devotional Jesus Calling:

Walk with Me in holy trust, responding to My initiatives rather than trying to make things fit your plans. I died to set you free, and that includes freedom from compulsive planning. When your mind spins with a multitude of thoughts, you cannot hear My voice. A mind preoccupied with planning pays homage to the idol of control. Turn from this idolatry back to Me. Listen to Me and live abundantly.

Isn't that good advice! His plans are always good, better than ours.

LET IT GO

I will trust in You, Jesus.
Direct my thoughts and plans today.
Help me to listen to advice and instructions.

July 4, 2019
Independence Day

Folks, there are so many blessings for us to thank the Lord for giving to us. I am enjoying having my daughter and her family here with us this week. Last night, we took the grandchildren down to the creek, which has been in my family 4 generations. It was so peaceful and relaxing sitting in the shade beside a cold creek. (Except for the yelling of happy children) They got to float down the stream snake free, walk barefooted on rocks, skip rocks across the top, swim in the cold spring-fed clear water. I even saw a few bald headed eagles fly over. They roasted hot dogs on an open fire. Grandma had baked homemade cookies and cold watermelon were ready for all to enjoy. My brother, who owns the farm now, and his son joined us, sharing memories. New memories were made last night.
Isn't that what makes life have meaning, loving each other?

So I hope you have a wonderful day today with family, enjoying our freedom, and making new memories. Our cookout is planned, with fireworks for the kids. Now I have to get to the kitchen and make those hungry chillin' come homemade peach cobbler and blueberry cobbler. Wish you could all join us.

Proverbs 19:1 says, Better is a poor man that walketh in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his lips, and is a fool.

I am rich with the love of family and Jesus. May I walk with integrity.

A Good Wife

O.T. #1476 "A Good Wife"
July 3, 2019
Proverbs 18-Part 2
Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favor of the LORD. 
Proverbs 18:22

LET IT GLOW 

Hey ya'll, I am in Grandma Land. Enjoying all 7 this week. It's been 13 months since we had seen them.
A  good wife is a gift from Yahweh. It is not blind chance that brings such a blessed union. She is one of the highest expressions of the Lord's favor. (Falwell)

Are we acting as a blessing to our husband? Are we blessing him?

LET IT GROW 


Strong marriages are just as important as strong individuals. Marriage was created for our enjoyment and should be treasured.
Are we joyfully in love with the one we pledged to honor and obey til death do we part, no matter how many years we have been married?
Or are taking each other for grant?

LET IT GO

Fill me with love for my husband of 46 years.
Be an example of a good wife to my family, especially the girls.

Good Gifts

O. T. #1476 "Good Gifts"
July 3, 2019
Proverbs 18
The human spirit can endure a sick body, but who can bear a crushed spirit? Proverbs 18:14

LET IT GLOW

Aren't there days in which it is hard to get out of bed. We have to face what the world slings at us. However, we can have our hearts renewed each morning since God's mercies are new every morning. Great is His faithfulness. We learned that the Lord our strong tower for security Today, He can be our strength and joy. Read on, sweet one.

A spirit of praise often enables a man to rise above the infirmities of the flesh. If that spirit is lost and replaced by a broken spirit, then the defeat of the whole man will quickly ensue. (Falwell)

We can break a bone and recover from it; but when your spirit is broken, you are completely broken. Only God can put you back together again. Let us heed the words of Nehemiah after the walls around Jerusalem were repaired. The people were weeping. He said in 8:10, ...the joy of the Lord is your strength.

Psalm 73:26 says, God is the strength of my heart, my portion forever.

So rise up, friend, and be an overcomer today. Let us yield and follow Jesus wherever He leads. He has a purpose for our lives and His love cannot be put out  like a fire. Start a fire in us, fan the flame, so we shine for Jesus today.


LET IT GROW

Who doesn't like an unexpected gift?

Verse 16 NLT tells us, Giving a gift can open doors; it gives access to important people.

Look at the first part of that verse, where it talks about giving a gift, not the last where that gift is a bribe. Consider a good gift of encouragement, a gift of love, a gift of forgiveness-these are not tangible gifts. They do not cost us, except for pride. They can open doors of a wounded relationship.
Probably, we all could think of someone who needs that kind of gift, one from the heart.

Jesus gives the gift of everlasting life through His sacrifice of life on the cross. There is no better gift.

What kind of gift are we going to give? Will it be a bribe to acquire something for our self or will it be a gift of love for the other person?


LET IT GO

Thank You, Jesus, that you are always putting me back together when I am crushed.
Fill me with Your love so I can love others.

A Strong Tower

O. T. #1475  "A Strong Tower"
July 2, 2019
Proverbs 18
The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
 Proverbs 18:10

LET IT GLOW

Strong towers. Do you recall seeing them in movies-forts, military camps, churches. That is where the watchman or look out man watched for the enemy to approach the city or camp. When they came, people were warned. Until the enemy came, the people could sleep at night because they knew they could trust the watchman to sound the alarm if danger was approaching. Do we need that today!

Look at our key verse for today. Anyone in need of a strong tower today? Broken, worn out, beaten down with criticism, weary of work, worried about the future? Jesus is there. He is our strength to go on, our safety from the meanness in the world, our security for tomorrow. We can count of Jesus. No one can pluck us out of His hands. Find relief, renewal, rest in Him.

Believers are lifted up above their enemies and fortified against them. There is enough in God. He is our comfort. Retire from the world, live above, dwell in God and God in you. (Matthew Henry)



LET IT GROW

Solomon, the wisest man, other than Jesus Christ, continues to contrast wisdom and foolishness. so I was thinking, if we don't want to be foolish, then shouldn't we do the opposite of what the fool does?
If that is so, then the wise person should:

• Be friendly, caring about others and use common sense. (verse 1)
• Seek understanding and keep our opinions to our self. (verse 2) 
• Do right and thus not be disgraced (verse 3)
• Let wisdom flow from us like a bubbling brook. (verse 4)
• Acquit not the guilty, nor deny justice to the innocent. (verse 5)
• Avoid foolish words so you are not involved in quarrels. (verse 6)
• Watch your mouth. (verse 7) 
• Don't be a talebearer wounding others. (verse 8)
• Be not a lazy person. (verse 9)
• Run to the Lord for safety and a strong defense. (verse 10)

Which ones do you and I need to put into practice? It isn't enough to read these instructions, but we need to apply them to our life today.

LET IT GO

Jesus, protect me from temptations of sin, evil, and myself.
Be my strong tower this day.
Zip my mouth when the wrong words try to come out of it.

Rattle, Clang

O. T. #1474  "Rattle, Clang"
July 1,2019
Proverbs 17-Part 4
A merry heart doeth good like medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. Proverbs 17:22

LET IT GLOW

Yesterday, my sweet granddaughter was here. She helped me make fruit tarts. I put the ingredients for the crust in a bowl and she took over  mixing, rolling and cutting the circles out, plus the stars for the top. Then I placed the crust inside the cupcake holder and we filled them with apple, cherry, and blueberry filling. The tarts are ready for my daughter's family visiting (6 grandchildren). We had a time doing it. A memory was made.

Don't we all like being around a cheerful person? When joy invades the heart of a person, it refreshes the whole person. And this aging body can use all the refreshing it can get. It seems like the joy is catchy, jumps on us as well, when we are around joyful folks. I lifts us up above those problems.
The best medicine for our body and soul is a merry heart. That comes from confessing our sins and asking forgiveness. Mercy is available. Our heart is to rejoice in God. Give thanks to Him for all the things He has provided as we go throughout our daily life. What has He been doing in our lives lately? Then, as we serve Him in a way that pleases God, we have that assurance deep down that we are doing good.
It is the fountain of life that pours on us the joy we need for endurance to complete the little things in life. Are we singing as we do chores? I had flour on the floor, sticky dough on counter, blueberry stains on my shirt, and a sink full of dirty dishes, but it was worth all the scrubbing required for a few moments together with her.

LET IT GROW

A broken spirit dries the bones. So many people around us are heart sick, not physically, but they lack joy.
The sorrows of the mind often contribute very much to the sickliness of the body. Dry bones are in need of marrow, blood, skin, to support a body's skeleton.

Ezekiel has a vision of the Valley of Dry Bones, found in chapter 37 of his book. Rattle, rattle, clang, clang. There he saw the Lord cover the bones with tendons, flesh, and skin. Then He breathed life into them. This illustrated the restoration of Israel and Judah being united again as one nation under one God, Jehovah, which was to come. Ezekiel and 10,000 exiles were living in Babylon (2 Kings 24:14).
God asked Ezekiel, "Can these bones live?"  He replied, "Thou knowest." Then the two sticks becoming one showed this.

Dear ones, let us continue to pray for our loved ones, for God can cause them to be restored spiritually and physically. Nothing is too difficult for the Lord Jesus.

LET IT GO

Revive the joy of thy salvation in my heart with joy.
There ain't nothing going to steal my joy, as the song says.
I have a sweet salvation in Jesus Christ.