Trusting When We Don't Understand

O. T. #1514  "Trusting When We Don't Understand"
Sept. 1, 2019
Summary of Proverbs-Part 2

While I write this lesson, it is Saturday morning and I don't know the results of the hurricane heading toward Florida. I have family living there, and probably some of you do, too. I have been praying that the winds do not make it to landfall, but turns up the coast. We will wait and see what God deems best. We will trust in our God.

As I look over the verses highlighted from our study of Proverbs, which took 4 months and 78 posts, there are some worthy of review every now and then. Here are some:

• 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. (3:5-6)
• Honor the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase. (3:9)
• For whom the LORD loveth He correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.  (3:12)
• Her  (wisdom's) ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace. (3:17)

Trust means to be confident or sure; hope; refuge. 
Acknowledge is to know.

We may not fully understand what is going on in our life, but we are completely confident that God has this. We love our God so much and we know Him, believing He is going to direct our paths. It is a total trust, commitment of life. As believers, we tithe from our income, showing that God is our provider and we depend upon Him for everything.
As for corrections, they may not be pleasant at the time, but needful so we can be more like Jesus.

As we gain wisdom, we have peace.
Peace is the highest reward in the New Testament for the life of dependence upon God (Phil.4:6,7).
(Falwell)

What are you trusting God to do? In the meantime, let us walk by faith.

Want Wisdom?

O. T. #1513  "Want Wisdom?"
August 30, 2019
Summary of Proverbs

Wouldn't it be nice if we could just take a pill as a child and immediately become wise? Then we would not have to endure decades of life in order to become a little bit wise? Well, there is no such pill, but there is a way to become wise throughout our life. Follow on and find the way to obtain wisdom.

The book of Proverbs is included in the books of Hebrew poetry of the Bible-Job, Psalms, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon.

A proverb is a truth that is couched in a form that is easy to remember, a philosophy based on experience, and a rule for conduct. (McGee)

A proverb is a short, wise, easy=to=learn saying that calls a person to action. (Life Application Study Bible)

King Solomon of Israel, before it divided with Judah, spoke some 3000 proverbs of which 800 were written down. You will recall that God made Solomon the wisest man, so he shared that wisdom with others. Chapter 30 is written by Agur, a student of the wise man, and 31 is written by King Lemuel, whom ancient tradition identified as King Solomon. At any rate, the last chapter is written as a wise mother imparts instructions for her son in choosing the right wife.

This book is a gold mine of biblical theology through practical righteousness, addressing man's ethical choices, how he thinks, lives, and manages daily life in light of divine truth. It also refers to promises for the wise, who fear God, such as living longer, prospering, experiencing joy, and the goodness of God. The two major themes interwoven and overlapping throughout Proverbs are wisdom and folly. Wisdom includes knowledge, understanding, instruction, discretion, and obedience, built on the fear of the Lord and the Word of God. Folly is everything opposite to wisdom.
(The MacArthur Bible Commentary)

MacArthur gives us different topics addressed-man's relationship to God, himself, and others.

Perhaps the motto, or the most important or key verse is found in 1:7-8, The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother.

Matthew Henry suggests verses 7 and 8 give us two general rules to be observed:

1. Fear God as our supreme, the head of knowledge, who is to be feared, reverenced, served, and worshipped.
2. Honor your parents, (which love, direct, and provide for you) by doing so promises a long life.

If thou sleekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. (2:5-6)

God's Word should be of great value to the life of Christians, It is meant to be the foundation of our faith. Jesus the way, the truth, and the life. Believing in Him is the only way to God and heaven.

The description of wisdom in Proverbs 8:22-31 leads to the conviction that Jesus Christ is the ultimate embodiment of the wisdom of God (1 Cor. 1:24-30). To yield our lives to Jesus Christ is the ultimate act of wisdom; to be in Him is to be in the wisdom of God. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

Next time we will get into some gold nugget scriptures.
Have a safe and relaxing weekend, my friends.

*Praying for the folks in Florida this weekend. I have a sister and two nieces with families living there.

A Hard Working Woman

O. T. #1512  "A Hard Working Woman"
August 29, 2019
Proverbs 31-Part 12
Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the LORD will be greatly praised.  (verse 30)

LET IT GLOW

Do you work outside the home? Or are you a stay-at-home mom who works inside the home? Lord bless you dear. I have been there and done both. Isn't it so hard to keep a household going and your family's needs met when you are tired from working all day? On the other hand, it can be so discouraging when your day evolves around preschoolers and dirty laundry and dirty dishes. I hope you can find encouragement here, no matter your situation. God's Word can give us strength and love to continue on. Keep in mind, this will not last forever. One day the kids will be grown and out the door, or you will be retired from the job. So what are we doing with the time and place God has put us? Are we desiring to be a virtuous woman, no matter our circumstances, as we walk on this road of faith?

So, as we look one more time at what the scriptures say about the virtuous, excellent, and kingdom woman:

1. She provides for her household and family.

• She makes clothing of wool, flax, and scarlet for them and for herself, clothing of silk and purple. This is done willingly as she works with her hands spinning thread and twisting fiber.(verses 13,19, 21, 22)
• She makes her own bedspreads and hangings of tapestry. (verse 22)
• She brings food from afar, like the merchant ship. (verse 14)
• She rises before dawn to prepare breakfast and plans the day's work for her servant girls. (v.15)
• She carefully manages over her household and is not lazy. (verse 27)

2. She is a businesswoman.

• She is energetic and strong and a hard worker. (verse 17)
• She is a good investor buying a field, then uses her earnings to plant a vineyard. (verse 16)
• She makes sure her dealings are profitable; her lamp burns late into the night. (verse18)
• She makes belted linen garments and sashes to sell to the merchants. (verse 24)

3. She gives to others.

• She extends a helping hand to the poor and opens her arms to the needy. (verse 19)

Those are things this kingdom woman does. Is there anything we could do to be like her?

LET IT GROW

What is this kingdom woman's personality like?

• She is clothed with strength and dignity. God is the strength of my hear. My portion forever. (Psalm 73:26b)
• She laughs without fear of the future. (verse 25)
• When she speaks, her words are wise. (verse 26)
• She gives instructions with kindness.

How do others perceive her?

• Her children stand and bless her.
• Her husband praises her-"You surpass all the virtuous and capable women in the world." (verses 28-29)
• Her deeds publicly declare her praise. (verse 31b)
• She is rewarded for all she has done. (verse 31a)
• She fears the Lord and is greatly praised. (verse 30)
• Her own works praise her in the gates, public. (verse 31)

Now, look at our key verse.
What does it say about charm and beauty? Charm is deceitful and beauty passes away with age.
What kind of wife should this king look for? The woman who fears, respects, and worships the Lord Jesus.

There we are. We have some work to do in order to be like this virtuous woman, don't we? Will we pass on this advice to our sons and grandsons when they look for a wife?
Remember, you are valued above rubies!!

LET IT GO

I need to make sure my words are wise and kind today.
Live so Jesus praises me, when I please Him.
Show more compassion to others.
Jesus, please bless everyone reading this today.

Your Portrait

O. T. #1511  "Your Portrait"
August 28, 2019
Proverbs 31-Part 11
Who can find a virtuous woman? Fore her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She shall do him good and not evil all the days of her life.  Proverbs 31:10-12

LET IT GLOW

Didn't we have a good study about the kingdom woman? Verses 10-31the king's mother gives us a picture of a good woman for her son to marry, one of strong character, great wisdom, many skills, and great compassion. She is not a shrinking violet, nor one like Whistler's mother, always sitting in a rocking chair, as in the picture her son painted of her. No, this virtuous woman is busy and of precious value to her husband. She is more valuable than rubies and precious jewels.

How should this excellent wife and mother look if a painting could capture her?
Life Application Study Bible  describes her:

She is a manufacturer, importer, manager, realtor, seamstress, upholsterer, and merchant. Her strength and dignity did not come from her amazing achievements, however. They are a result of her reverence for God. In our society, where physical appearance counts for so much, it may surprise us to realize that her appearance is never mentioned. He attractiveness comes entirely from her character and actions. She may be a composite portrait of ideal womanhood. See her as an inspiration to be all you can be. Do not see her as a model to imitate in every detail; your days are not long enough to do everything she does. We can't be just like her, but we can learn from her industry, integrity, and resourcefulness. 

If our son were to paint a portrait of us as his mother, how would we look in it? Wouldn't it be interesting? I may have a mop in my hand, mopping the hall floor on Saturdays (They later complained that I woke them up at 6 in Saturday mornings to get my cleaning done. That was so I could spend the rest of the day with them.) Maybe I would be in the kitchen with floor everywhere making homemade rolls or pancakes or cinnamon rolls. Would it be one with love and a sparkle in my eyes, holding a Bible or on my knees praying for my family? Hmm.

How would your portrait look if your family painted it?


LET IT GROW


Virtuous means strong, mighty, power, riches, virtue, valor.

So isn't it acceptable to be a strong woman, a woman of virtue, knowing in what I believe and acting like Jesus said to act? To be a doer and not a sitter?

First of all, in verses 11 and 12, this virtuous wife is described by how she treats her husband:

• Her husband can trust her.
• She greatly enriches his life.
• She brings him good not harm all the days of her life.
• She is faithful to him.
• She is a helpmeet for him, his partner.

What is her character like? Matthew Henry describes her as:

• made strong by wisdom and grace;
• fears God;
• a woman of spirit that controls hers;
• having good principles and is firm and steady to them;
• not being frightened by the wind and clouds;
• not seducing by dress, wealth, or actions, but is modest, virtuous in countenance and behavior;
• industrious;
• meets her husband's needs;
• can be trusted;
• managing the home well;
• has a good reputation for herself, her husband, and family;
• having good words and encourages her husband.

Wow! Do we have any homework?

LET IT GO

Thank You Father for my family, husband, home which You have given me. I am so very blessed.
Make me into a virtuous woman for them.
Glory to Jesus today!

Stepping Out in Faith

O. T. #1510  "Stepping Out in Faith"
August 27, 2019
Proverbs 31-Part 10

LET IT GLOW

Can I share what is on my heart today? Sunday night we stepped out of the boat and are walking by faith toward Jesus, as Peter did. After 22 years of pastoring our church, my husband resigned as pastor. We don't have any plans, just looking where God is leading and resting in the mean time. September 29 is our last day, so everyone will have time to adjust to this change. It is time for both the church and for us to walk on, which is by faith. We have had blessings and heartaches, and developed friendships which will last a lifetime. So please pray for us. We want to continue to serve our Lord Jesus, just need a direction to go. I am continuing this blog writing, so please continue with me as we walk by faith until He calls us home or in the air.

Shall we continue to review the description about the kingdom woman, according to Tony Evans?

• She has God has her primary influence and seeks to please Him.
• She positions herself under and operates according to the rule of God over every area of life.
• She brings glory to God in her excellence in all she does.
• She obeys God's Word and chooses to walk the faith of faith unsure of the outcome.
• She prays regularly and specifically.
• She bears kingdom fruit.
• Her lifestyle is one of reverence and worship, a teachable spirit, and has self-control.
• she disciples, trains, and models how to be a kingdom woman.

Are you needing to get out of your boat of comfort and safety to experience the extraordinary with Jesus?

LET IT GROW

A kingdom woman:

• is blessed in order to be a blessing. Whatever God has given her, she uses her gift, talent, and unique life to be lived and used for God's purpose.
• is not perfect, but a forgiven and forgiving woman.
• is willing to abandon her own agenda, plans, and hang-ups to act on what God says.

Are there any of these principles which you need to develop in your life, my friend?

LET IT GO
                      ... of the past and look to Jesus for my future.
                                 ... and walk by faith today.
                                 ... and let Jesus be my guide.

Continuing On

O. T. #1509  "Continuing On"
August 26, 2019
Proverbs 31-Part 9

LET IT GLOW

Well, we did it, we completed the study of Proverbs, by Tony Evans. I am so proud of you. So before we tackle the Scriptures, shall we take this time to review what we learned about the kingdom woman? I will pick a few characteristics out from each session.
A kingdom woman:

• is a woman of excellence not perfection, but doing all we can with all we have at that moment.
• is ordained to be a woman of excellence, which is her destiny.
• makes God's standard her own in all that she does, rising higher to His standard in all we do.
• desires God's plan for her more than her plan, He purposes over an easy life, is willing to trade her shining exteriors for usefulness in God's kingdom, and chooses to be filled with God's love and power.
• continues walking until God reveals the next step.
• gives to others, gives her emptiness and problems to God.
• demonstrates faith when odds are impossible, believes He has solutions, then continues in faith based on God's Word, even when things are hard to do.
• is successful due to humility, as she pursues Christ in private and public.
• never gives up taking her requests to her Heavenly Father.
• knows how to pray, aligning with God's Word.
• prays regularly, sincerely, thoughtfully, and specifically.

LET IT GROW

Now, that is a lot to take in, so let's take a break and look at those women in the Bible who are our examples of kingdom women:

• Deborah, who joined the Israelite army in war;
• Rahab, who hid the Israelite spies in safety, so she and her family were spared in the battle of Jericho;
• Moses' mother, who trusted in God to rescue her son from death and he was used as the rescuer of God's people from slavery; 
• Samuel's mother, who was faithful to keep her vow in giving up her son for God's service, and he became a great prophet; 
• Ruth, who provided for her mother in law, and was provided for by a faithful husband and son
• widows that provided for Elijah and Elisha, who received provisions in abundance;
• Mary, the mother of Jesus, who endured as a virgin mother, taught her Son to be a servant, loving God and others, forgiveness, and Scriptures. Her faith endured to the end, seeing her Son die on a cross for salvation of Jews and Gentiles.

There are so many other kingdom women, who exhibited faith in God, and His grace and mercy.
We may not know who is watching us, so let us be women striving to be one of excellence.
We may not know what is around the next corner for us, so let us continue on, walking by faith today, trusting Jesus.


LET IT GO
                              ... and be a kingdom woman today.

Are Your Ducks in a Row?

O. T. #1508  "Are Your Ducks in a Row?"
August 23, 2019
Proverbs 31-Part 8

LET IT GLOW

So far, we have learned that the kingdom woman has been called to take care of herself (grow in faith), support her family (according to the will of God), raise her children (to become kingdom people), and honor her husband (with her words and actions).

Today, we have more to learn about the kingdom woman, according to Tony Evan's book, Kingdom Woman:

• She has a destiny that extends beyond her home-a legacy to leave with her community and possibly even her nation and the world.

Esther was a poor orphan raised by her cousin, lived in a foreign land, who became a queen of that land through God's providence. When her people, the Jews, were about to be killed, Esther risked her life by approaching the king and asking him to preserve the Jews. However, the law could not be revoked, but the Jews were allowed to defend themselves on that chosen day, resulting in preservation of the Jews and Esther. God had Esther in her position "for such a time as this."
God is not done writing your story, dear one. Trust in him. Obey Him.

• She is blessed in order to be a blessing. Whatever God has given her, the kingdom woman, whether a gift, a talent, or a unique life, it is to be lived and used for His purpose.
• She is not a perfect woman, but a forgiven woman.
• She is willing to abandon her own agenda, plans, and hang-ups to act on what God says.

 Are our ducks in a row so we can respond to the call God has on our life? Although we are not perfect, we can be used to touch others as we share what we have received.

LET IT GROW

Do you recall the story about the wise judge Deborah? She could discern the mind and purposes of God and communicate those to others. Her name means bee. She had an influence with sweet wisdom that was sweet as honey, but she also had a deadly sting for those who sought to subjugate her people , the Jews. In Judges 4, we read that the Lord God of Israel told Deborah how to defeat Sisera and his army. As she followed God's directions, Israel was victorious, protecting her spiritual children from the spiritual disaster of false god and idol worship of Baal. Another woman, Jael, was used to destroy Sisera by driving a peg into his temple as he rested within Jael's tent.

From Deborah, we learn that a kingdom woman:

• knows that in order to win a spiritual battle, it has to be fought spiritually.
• realizes that God does not discriminate between male or female when revealing His truth. Barak, captain of Israel's army, would not go into that battle unless Deborah went with him. (Not a kingdom man, huh.)

As a kingdom woman, we represent a King from another kingdom who has put us here on earth as a preview for all that He offers and supply. Risk requires focus, boldness, and faith. Are we up for this challenge?

The single greatest impact ever made in history came through a kingdom woman named Mary, Jesus' mother. Mary chose over fear when she boldly proclaimed regarding God's will for her life, "May it be to me as you have said" (Luke 1:38). 

LET IT GO
                               ... and say "Yes, Lord Jesus."

More Ways to be a Kingdom Woman

O. T. #1507  "More Ways to be a Kingdom Woman"
August 22, 2019
Proverbs 31-Part 7

LET IT GLOW

God honors those who honor Him (1 Samuel 2:30), and if we commit our way-our path, decisions, actions, and heart to Him, then God will give us the desires of our heart (Ps.37:4-5).

How do we receive God's blessings as a kingdom woman?

• If unmarried, a kingdom woman trusts God in faith to bring her future spouse directly to her. Learn to submit to those in authority over you, according to God's Word.
• She aligns herself under God's prescribed order-husband is the head of wife, Christ is the head of man, and God is the head of Christ. Our function is to respect our husband's position, whether we agree with him or not. If he is not a kingdom man, then align yourself under God's Word and His will while praying for your husband to get in alignment as well.
• As parents, we are to raise kingdom children so they align their decisions with God's will throughout their lives, His principles, and precepts.

Sarah was not only fruitful spiritually, but also physically, as she had a son. She wound up in the Hebrew's Hall of Faith. Even though Sarah made mistakes, she learned to submit to Abraham and God honored that.

LET IT GROW

A kingdom woman:

• aught to produce a lifestyle of reverence and worship. The church is to help her grow spiritually.
• knows how to hold her tongue, so gossiping is not her way of life.
• has a teachable spirit when under teachers that are respectable examples.
• has self-control, which means good decisions and sound judgment, is pure in actions and attitude, busy at home, kind, and subject to her husband so God's Word is not maligned.
• understands that she is to dress modestly, as to not draw inappropriate attention to herself.
• has prioritized her home above other completion; her home is a spiritual place.
• has a lifestyle that honors God's Word.
• seeks how God wants her to spend her time, with whom to spend time, and best express herself in those she is with.
• disciples, trains, and models how to be a kingdom woman.
• has a ministry to other women through the local church.

[Resource: Kingdom Woman by Tony Evans and Chrystal Evans Hurst]

LET IT GO
Help me to model the kingdom woman You want me to be.

Distractions

O. T. #1506  "Distractions"
August 21, 2019
Proverbs 31-Part 6

LET IT GLOW

Good morning kingdom woman. Thank you for walking with us on this long road in Proverbs. It has been good, for me, at least.
Jesus, You are our king. Your love is amazing, so amazing that You would die for us in order to bring us eternal life and abundant life. Your mercies are new every morning. It's our joy to honor You, Jesus. Strengthen us, encourage us, provide for us, love us, as we surrender to You today. Please speak to our hearts and mold us into Your kingdom woman. Thanks be to Jesus Who hears us when we cry out to Him. Amen.


What have we learn so from about a kingdom woman from Tony Evans?
A kingdom woman:

• has God as her primary influence and seeks to please Him;
• positions herself under and operates according to the rule of God over every area of life.;
• brings glory to God in her excellence in all she does;
• obeys God's Word even when it makes no sense;
• has success because faith is coupled with humility;
• chooses to walk the path of faith when unsure of the outcome;
• honors God in her actions despite the chaos around her;
• prays regularly, sincerely, secretly, thoughtfully, and specifically;

Is there one of those that we need to work on in our life? 

LET IT GROW

What are some other things a kingdom woman does?

• She bears kingdom (spiritual ) fruit.
• Whether she is single or married, she maximizes her gifts, skills, time, treasure, and talents for the glory of God.
• She watches out for distractions-gadgets, friends, time.
• She delights herself in the Lord Jesus and His agenda becomes her own.
• She uses her life lessons for His glory.

Martha was distracted as she served a meal to Jesus and the disciples. Her sister Mary had chosen the better thing, sitting at Jesus' feet to learn from Him and show Him love.

Are we showing love, joy, peace, patience, faithfulness, goodness in our life?

LET IT GO

Focus on Jesus.
Ask His Spirit to bear fruit in my life.

How to Pray

O. T. #1505  "How to Pray"
August 20, 2019
Proverbs 31-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

How's it going, kingdom woman? I am so glad you are with us, learning how to be a kingdom woman, virtuous and excellent. Isn't it exciting that God would inspire his teacher to help us become more than we think we can be, a light in darkness?

It you will respond in faith to the one true God, if you will honor Him with your actions despite the chaos around you, if you choose to walk the path of faith that He has called you to, even when you are unsure of the outcome, He will honor, protect, and establish you as a kingdom woman. (Kingdom Woman, by Tony Evans)

So far, we have found that the success to a kingdom woman  is faith coupled with humility. Faith is acting like something is so, even when it isn't so, in order that it might be so because God said so.

Prayer is a powerful tool in the hands of a kingdom woman. What can we learn about prayer of a kingdom woman?

• She never gives up, but continues to take her request to the Father. Jesus told of a parable to show his disciples that they should always pray and never give up. It was about a widow who sought justice in a dispute with her enemy. She continued to be persistent in asking an unrighteous judge to grant her request. Finally, since she was wearing him out and driving him crazy with her constant requests, the judge granted her request. The widow's opponent was treating her unjustly and she need the law applied to her situation, legal intervention. How much more will God, who is just, righteous, and compassionate, bring justice to His elect. (Luke 18)
• She knows how to pray. Praying kingdom prayers aligns them with God's Word. He wants to do for His people based upon what falls within the boundaries of His sovereign will. Gideon laid out his fleece before the Lord and waited for Him to answer. So can we. My God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19)

Our God can bless us exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think. (Ephesians 3:20)

A Christian life without prayer is like driving a car almost empty of gas. The fumes take us a ways but then the car stops along the side of the road, broken down. We can't get very far on occasional rote prayers, which will eventually result in us being broken down.

So, how is your prayer life, Christian kingdom woman?

LET IT GROW

Prayer is a believer's communication with God through the person of Christ and assisted by the work of the Holy Spirit. Is He on our mind, our focus of attention, the object of our communication?
Prayer is expressing faith, which pleases God. It builds up our faith.

How should we pray?

• Pray regularly. A follower of Jesus communes with their Lord and Master for instructions.
• Pray sincerely. Not as eloquent hypocrites prayed in Matthew 6, to be seen of men, but heart-felt prayers in secret, which are heard.
• Pray thoughtfully. Not meaningless repetition at the dinner table, but prayers should be praising God for Who He is and thanking Him for what He has done, interceding for others, and confessing our sins.
• Pray specifically. Jesus told us to ask, seek, and knock and we shall have it. (Matt. 7:7) How much more will our Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him.

Not only does God desire to hear from us when we have huge problems, but also with small ones.
I couldn't find my NLT Bible this morning, and I needed it. It's me again, Lord, not able to find my Bible this time. Would You reveal it to me? You know all things. It had slid in the corner down on the floor out of plain sight. Now I know He showed me where it was. (This type of prayer happens often.) God is so faithful and has a sense of humor, for He reveals to me what I can't find.

Okay, kingdom women, we have our challenge today-pray. Then thank God for the answer.

LET IT GO

Take my needs to my Heavenly Father.
Ask in faith, believing He hears me.
Trust Him to reveal the answer as I wait.
Know that His way is best.

Be a Woman of Faith

O. T. #1507  "Be a Woman of Faith"
August 19, 2019
Proverbs 31-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

I am tickled pink that you have joined me in learning how to become a virtuous, excellent, and kingdom woman. My resource is Tony Evan's book, Kingdom Woman. As we follow God's prescribed path, we must align our self under His authority. Submission will lead us in the right direction and keep us on the right path, heading us toward our destiny. God's pathway is a path of faith. Without faith, it impossible to please God. We are to continue walking until God reveals the next step.

How is a kingdom woman to walk (live) by faith?

• She is to be passionate about what God is passionate. It can result in positive changes in lives, families, communities, and even our nation.
• She believes that if God is the cause of whatever issue she is facing, then only God can be the solution. Hannah prayed and prayed for a son and she would give him back to God for His service. At the right time, God gave Hannah Samuel, and she kept her promise. God used that faith to develop a prophet of Samuel, who was a great influence upon Israel.
• She demonstrates faith in the face of impossible odds. God lead Elijah to a woman in 1Kings 17. she gave the prophet water, but had no bread during a famine. She only had a handful of flour and a little oil in a jug, but made Elijah a cake to eat. As a result of her faith, the flour was not used up, nor did the jug of oil run dry until the day the Lord gave rain. (verse 14) That was for 3 1/2 years.
•  She does hard things, and sometimes having faith based on God's Word is the simplest yet toughest thing she will ever have to do.  When God told us to go to college in view of surrendering to the ministry, His Word was that He provides all our needs according to His riches in glory.   It was one of the hardest things, our moving away from family, friends, and homechurch, yet we did. God richly blessed us with new friends and new churches. He provided for our needs along the way. Had we not gone, we would not have experienced God's faithfulness in providing for His children.

LET IT GROW

• A kingdom woman is a woman who knows and believes that her solution is not found in money, human reasoning, or other people. Her solution is found in humbling herself before Jesus Christ and surrendering to the Word of God. In Matthew8- 9, the woman who touched the hem of Jesus' garment needed a supernatural touch and healing. She had to bend low in order to touch the hem. She looked to God for the solution of her issue of blood. Her faith was strong enough that by doing so resulted in her healing.
• The kingdom woman's success is due to humility. Jesus asked who touched Him. He knew who it was. Jesus was wanting her to go public. She stepped out of her comfort zone and isolated life into the public to declare what Jesus had done for her.
• She pursues Christ in private and in public. Things that we have been struggling with for years may be resolved in a moment when we pursue Christ humbly, publicly, and holistically.  

LET IT GO

Grab hold of Jesus and His Word.
Keep praying and following Jesus.
Be a woman of faith.

Don't Throw in the Towel

O. T. #1506  "Don't Throw in the Towel"
August 16, 2019
Proverbs 31-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

We are learning about the characteristics of a virtuous, excellent, and kingdom woman. We are using as a resource, Kingdom Woman, written by Tony Evans and Chrystal Evans Hurst. We don't want to miss out on the destiny which God has for us, do we? It is God whom we are striving to please and serve. So read on dear friend as we find out more so we can be more of a kingdom woman.

God desires excellence in all we do. Are we defining our decisions, thoughts, and actions by the highest quality and authenticity we have to offer?
So let us learn more about this kingdom woman that God loves:

• She is willing to trade in her shining exteriors for usefulness in God's kingdom.
• She desires His purposes over an easy life.
• She loves God's plan for her more than loving her plan for herself, even when it hurts.
• She trusts that He will only let her experience the grit and grime necessary for Him to fully use her for God's glory.
• As a seasoned sister, she chooses to be filled with God's love and power.

Do you recall the widow which Elisha the prophet visited? She was the poor one, in debt, who was down to her last pot of oil, yet she didn't throw in the towel when the prophet gave her instructions. He told her to go to her neighbors and ask to borrow all of their empty pots. She did it. As Elisha poured out her oil, it kept coming, and all the empty ones were filled. God did it. First, she had to humble herself to borrow from her neighbors. Her oil was increased in proportionate to her faith and obedience. Elisha told the widow to go sell the oil, pay her debt, and live with her children. What a powerful God!

No doubt, this kingdom woman experienced emotional pain because she lost her husband and feared loosing her children. She was in physical pain as she was hungry, with no food in the house. She was financially in pain, since the creditors took her two children away to be slaves. An even greater pain was spiritual pain. She feared God, yet nothing had happened before Elisha came. God blessed her faith and obedience.

Will God not bless our faith and obedience, also?
Faith doesn't always make sense, but it does make miracles as the kingdom woman obeys God's Word.

LET IT GROW

The widow's path of commitment was laid out by the prophet as she demonstrated faith to walk on it. What did she learn?

1. God's way is the best way to address life's problems.
2. God responds to our emptiness.
3. Give to others what you need God to give to you.
4. Continue walking until He reveals the next step. God's path is one of faith.

Do we think that when a problem comes along, we can do it on our own, fix it, solve it, face it? If we do, then we miss out on God's great power and glory. As a kingdom woman, we are to never bee too proud to beg for whatever it is we need from Jesus!

LET IT GO

Pour my last jar of oil into another's empty jar.
Take my little and turn it into much for Your glory, Almighty God.

A Woman of Excellence

O. T. #1505  "A Woman of Excellence"
August 15, 2019
Proverbs 31-Part 2
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. Proverbs 31:10

LET IT GLOW 

This section is written differently in the Hebrew language in that the initial letters are in the alphabetical order of Hebrew letters in acrostic  form. It's content (verses 10-31) is thought to have been teachings of King Lemuel's, another name for Solomon (Bathsheba) mother. 

Who wants to be a virtuous woman? Perhaps we should know what it means before answering. 

Virtuous in the Hebrew means strong, wealthy, able, virtue, valor. 

Now that we understand it's meaning, is your answer "yes?" Of course, if you are a guy, wouldn't you want a virtuous wife? Or, who wouldn't want that kind of wife for their son?

Just to let you know, we may be camping on this topic and chapter for a while before we wrap up this book. God has some things to teach us, which could take a while. So thank you dear friend for joining me. Actually, I think it is going to be a good study as we learn how to be a virtuous woman. I pray that we open up our heart to what God has to say to us and then apply it to our life, as well as share with others. May the Lord Jesus bless you as we travel this road of faith together. 

I am going to be using Kingdom Woman, written by Tony Evans  
and daughter Chrystal Evans Hurst as a reference. 

I assume that since you are still reading this that your answer is "Yes, that you and I want to be a virtuous woman." We desire to do what it takes to be a Kingdom woman. We commit to finish this chapter together and apply it to our life. Remember that we are not alone. I surely need this, too.

Hebrews 12:1 tells us to throw off everything that hinders our service for God. It weighs  us down, as a burden, and the sin that so easily entangles us. It is individual sins, since we each struggle with various sins in our life. It is that sin which defeats us in our Christian life. When we cast those off, then we are free to seriously and patiently run the race for Christ, the race He has marked out for us. [Reference: Liberty Bible Commentary]

On the other hand, Tony Evans says it  "the sin," (singular), the sin of unbelief, a lack of faith, which we are to throw off.  

Jesus, we need Your help to learn how to become a virtuous woman, a kingdom woman that pleases You. Lead us in our individual race, and give us the strength to follow You.

With all of that said, are you read to dive in?

LET IT GLOW

English Standard Version, ESV, says verse 10 this way:
An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.

What can we learn about the excellent wife?

• Excellence should be our aim as a kingdom woman.
• God has ordained us for a destiny of excellence. He wants us to rise to a higher standard. He desires excellence in all we do.
• We are to be excellent in our decisions and actions.
• Excellence doesn't mean perfection, but doing all we can with all we have at that moment.
• Don't let the reality of our past, good or bad, to affect our present. Let go of yesterday. Learn from yesterday, but don't live in it, talking about it. Move forward.
• Fulfill our responsibilities willingly because we do them unto the Lord Jesus.
• Allow God to transform us into the likeness of Jesus.
• When we choose excellence, God gets the glory and we get joy.
• A kingdom woman knows her true value and shows the reflection of how God sees her. She makes God's standard her own in all that she does.

Ruth in the Old Testament is a good example of living a life of excellence. She was a good worker, took care of her mother in law, didn't run after younger men. Thus she gained an excellent reputation. God was pleased with her and showed it. When she became the wife of Boaz, she later became the great-grandmother of King David, and ultimately a direct ancestor of King Jesus Christ.

Are we striving to live in order to please God? (1 Thessalonians 4:1)
In our season of life, are we striving to be a kingdom woman of excellence?

LET IT GO
                     ...of the past and live in today.
                                ... of the world and live for Jesus.
                                ... and go the extra mile.

Motherly Advice

O. T. #1504  "Motherly Advice"
August 14, 2019
Proverbs 31

LET IT GLOW

Doesn't a mother's heart desire for her son to do what is right, make good decisions, and live a godly life? We hurt whenever they don't, for we know consequences are coming. Today's mother has some good advice for her son. Although he is a king, we can surely share them with our own sons (and daughters), some motherly advice. Read on mothers.

The MacArthur Bible Commentary  explains:

This concluding chapter contains two poems: (1) The Wise King (verses 2-9) and (2) The Excellent Wife (verses 10-31). Both are the teachings of a godly mother (v.1) to King Lemuel, whom ancient Jewish tradition, identified as King Solomon, but who is, otherwise, unknown.

This godly king is instructed to reign with:

1. holiness (v.3);
2. sobriety (v.4-7);
3. compassion (v.8,9).

Not only are kings susceptible to such vices, but so are Christians. We need to be aware of temptations to immorality, over-indulgence, unrighteous leading, and indifference to those in need.

LET IT GROW

First, we mothers should be the example of the above list, following our own advice to our children. Son, watch out for those women who will bring you down and into the gutter of sin with them. A good woman is more valuable than rubies. Search for her and marry her. She will bless you all of your life.

Second, MacArthur says, "Intoxication drinks can weaken reason, and judgment, loosen convictions, and/or pervert the heart."

Third, see the needs of others and show compassion. The poor and needy are unable to defend themselves.

Which of those three do we need to exemplify? Christ did them all, so He desires us to follow His example.

LET IT GO

Be holy, sober, and compassionate.

Thoughts and Words

O. T. #1503  "Thoughts and Words"
August 13, 2019
Proverbs 30-Part 5
If thou hast done foolishly in lifting up thyself, or if thou hast thought evil, lay thine hand upon thy mouth. Proverbs 30:32

LET IT GLOW

Put your hand over your mouth. I used to tell my class of second graders whenever they were talking instead of listening to me. I think it made them feel like preschoolers, but it worked.

What does our key verse mean to us? If we have been a fool by being bragging about our self, showing pride, or plotting evil, then we should cover our mouth in shame.

Stop your scheming and talking, then put your hand on your mouth, a gesture of awestruck, self-imposed silence. (MacArthur)

It is better to let others brag on us than we doing it. We need to watch out for any evil thoughts which come into our mind, for they can become spoken words and actions that we would be ashamed of doing. It is better to keep silent.

In Paul's letter to the Philippian church, he said for us to think on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. (4:8)

There is our challenge, friends-watch our thoughts and words.

LET IT GROW

There is one way to prove to a doubter that the Bible is true-put two fingers up inside a person's nose and twist it. When the nose bleeds, that proves the Word is truth. Now I don't advise doing that for proof. I think the doubter would not like it either. And it surely would not cause one to love God's Word, would it?

Verse 33 KJV says, surely the churning of milk bringeth forth butter, and the wringing of the nose bringeth forth blood: so the forcing of wrath bringeth forth strife.

As the beating of cream yields butter and striking the nose causes bleeding, so stirring up anger causes quarrels.  (verse 33)

Notice this, the word for churning and wringing and forcing in the Hebrew language is the same word, miyts (meets), which means pressure, churning, forcing, wringing.

Strife refers to a contest, adversary, cause, contend.

Is it obvious that anger causes quarrels and strife? It must be so since pressure on the fat of milk produces butter, and pressure, such a hitting or twisting, the nose produces blood, so pressure on wrath produces anger.
It takes a lot of continues pressure to produce butter, whereas, it probably would not take much of a punch in the nose to cause it to bleed (boxers). If we continue to apply pressure on a person using hateful words, it will eventually result in strife and a quarrel.

These natural causes and effects to show that anger pressed beyond certain limits produces conflict. (MacAuthur)

My conclusion is that when we continue to angrily attack a person with words, then it will result in  quarrel, a contest, making an enemy of them unless the problem is resolved. So this is not the appropriate method to use if we want good results. A discussion would be better-listening to each other. Do we want to make an enemy? Don't keep on churning, wringing, forcing the issue using our words and way on another. Who wants a quarrel, feud or violence, anyway?

A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. (Prov. 15:1)

A gentle and quiet spirit is of great worth in God's sight. (see 1 Peter 3:4)

There we go, the answer we need. Now those are two scriptures that I will need to work on daily. How about you, dear one?

LET IT GO

Help me speak with softness and kindness today, Jesus.
Please give me a gentle and quiet spirit so I please You.

Animals of Examples

O. T. #1502  "Animals of Examples"
August 12, 2019
Proverbs 30-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

I recall while we visited an Asian country, we stayed in a two story house at a camp. Well, I had to get up during the night for my nightly visit as nature called. When I turned on the light, that little room had many creatures, called geckos, lizards, on the walls and ceiling. Need I say that I quickly took care of business and got out of there. They didn't bother me, but they were foreign to me and I didn't trust them eyeing me. I hoped that none made their way into my bed since I forgot to close the bedroom door behind me. (So I bought a wooden Gecko at an outdoor shopping center, just as a reminder of my experience.)

So far, we have read about wisdom's instructions on wonderful things (v.18-20) and intolerable things (v.21-23). Today, our focus in on  wisdom's instruction on little things and comely things.

What can we learn from the attributes of these four creatures? (It's not that they have a brain that solves problems, but that God has programed them to do such thing, in my opinion.)

1. Ants-The little bitty ants prepare their food for the coming winter, storing it up. They show us to prepare for the future with material things. (Proverbs 6:6-8)
2. Conies are badgers as big as rabbits. They hide in the cleft of the rock for security and a place of safety. Christ is the Rock that is higher than I. (Ps. 61:2)
3.  Locusts have no king as a leader, yet they devour vegetation while in swarms. They move methodically in such a way, together, that it seems they have instructions and strict discipline as soldiers.
4. Lizards have fan-like feet with sticky substance which aid them to hold onto a marble wall or a ceiling by faith. (I wonder if they have enjoy hanging around wherever, staying away from trouble.)

[Resources: Liberty Bible Commentary, Proverbs by J. Vernon McGee]

Christ is our future in the hereafter, our security in the now, our disciplined leader and King who leads us in His will, and the joy in our life as we live by faith.
Here's the thing, are we lacking any of these, not allowing Jesus to be that for us?
Is He our refuge and strength, our faithful leader, the One in which our security comes, and the joy of our life?
Do we need to be more like the ant, badger, locus, or lizard? Shall we ask Jesus to show us which one we need to be more alike?

LET IT GROW

The last section of these things wisdom uses to instruct us is on comely things (verses 29-31). Three strong animals illustrate wisdom for us:

1. The lion is the strongest of animals, who executes boldness as he fights other males for dominance or brings down an animal for food.
2. The greyhound is a dog which has strong loins for running.
3. The goat which is a mountain goat is a climber who lives on rocky terrain of mountains. They are safe there.
4. The king is an example for us, for he marches on with vigorous resolve, trampling his conquered foes. (Falwell)

What can we learn from these three animals?

• Christians should boldly contend for their faith, with the Lord Jesus being our strength.
• Believers are to run the race set before them with patience as the greyhound.
• Jesus is our high retreat for safety against the enemies of this world as the goat finds safety in the mountain.
• King Jesus will eventually conquer the devil and his demons. Until then, we must allow Him to be our conqueror of our problems. 

We must no longer be a slave to fear, for we are a child of God, as the song goes.

LET IT GO

Teach me to be more bold to speak for the Word, strong in faith, safe in You, and marching on to victory.

Are We Floating or Sinking?

O. T. #1501  "Floating or Sinking?"
August 9, 2019
Proverbs 30-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

My husband likes to watch that show about the crews on boats that crab fish in waters off the Alaskan coast. Those boats are of great size, yet they float, and even in rough waters. It is an amazing thing. I don't know how that happens, but God does.

There were 3 things which Agur, the author of this chapter, was amazed by and the fourth he didn't understand (verse 19):

1. how an eagle glides through the air;
2. how a snake slithers on a rock;
3. how a ship navigates the ocean;
4. how a man loves a woman.

We can marvel at these things, yet not understand them. They are amazing to see. An eagle is a huge bird, yet it jump off a tree branch and fly up to heights in the sky, then remain there. It takes a lot of flapping of its wings and a long distance before it gets up. Also, they can glide in the air without falling down. God has programed this to happen. God does it so we marvel at His abilities.

I have not been intrigued by the way a snake slithers without feet and won't be either, because I don't watch them. It is a thing of wonder, but God has been responsible for this, ever since the Garden of Eden.

Then there are the huge ships which weigh tons that can float in the water. Made of iron and it does not sink. One time we were staying several floors up in a hotel in San Diego. Out our window, in the back. we watched a barge float into dock with tons of truck loads of Dole fruit. It was something else to see. They used a humongous magnet to lift them off so the trucks could drive them to a fenced area.

Isn't it something to see love shining through the eyes of a young couple? A strong man is weakened by the gentle love of a young gal. He gets tongue-tied, fumbles around, and sweetened whenever she is near him.

Who can understand these things? No one but God.
As a Christian, shouldn't we be soaring with Jesus above our trials? Sliding on through problems by faith? Floating in the rough seas of life instead of sinking? Thankful for the love of a good man?
Are we just surviving or are we living by faith?

LET IT GROW

In verses 21-23, we read of 4 intolerable things:

1. a slave who becomes a king; (He doesn't know how to handle power.)
2. an overbearing fool who prospers; (He is filled with self.)
3. a bitter woman who finally gets a husband; (She lords it over her peers.)
4. a servant girl who is heir to her mistress. (She doesn't know how to manage wealth.)

These people have not learned how to handle their promotions, for they were of a lower means before promotion. Therefore, they are not successful, but chances are they squander their wealth and loose their high position.

Consider our position with Jesus-we are His slave; we are prosperous in blessings of spiritual matters, He is our protector and Provider as a husband, and we are inheriting heaven as His child. Now, how are we handling those? It is with pride or humility?

LET IT GO

How marvelous is Your creation, Jesus!
We stand in awe of You.
Your grace and mercy is undeserved.
Your are so loving without end.

Bloodsuckers

O. T. #1500  "Bloodsuckers"
August 8, 2019
Proverbs 30-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

The origins of this chapter's sayings isn't clear. The man Agur, who was the writer, had a name which meant gatherer. He was a wise man that may have come from Lemuel's kingdom. (31:1)
Agur writes about:

• the infinite God whose ways are mysterious. Christ is the One who created the world and came down to be the Messiah and Savior for His beloved children. (verses 2-4)
• too much money being dangerous as well as having too little. (verses 7-9) Paul spoke concerning being content with little or plenty in Phillipians 4:12)
• the Word of God being pure and God is our shield, protector, as we trust in God. (verse 5)

An overview of this chapter shows us that wisdom's instructions concerning the knowledge of God, the Word of God, on prayer, another man's servant, the classification of persons, on insatiable things, the turbulent son, and wonderful things. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

Folks, if we desire a deeper walk with God, then we will search for wisdom concerning these matters.
It is obvious that we have a wise teacher and God put it in His Word for us to learn from them. How wonderful our God is to us!
Will we apply what we have learned?

LET IT GROW

Don't we all have bloodsuckers around us? They may be those who suck the joy out of our life, those who criticize our efforts, those who use us for their gain, those who take and take but never give, those who try to destroy our faith? We are warned about them in our passage today. Read on friend.

Within this chapter, I see a pattern of three or four things this wise man places together, five of them.
First, in verse 15, the horseleach is mentioned. A horse leech found in Syria, attacks the membrane that lines the inside of the mouth and nostrils of animals, such as horses, that drink at pools where it lives. It is a bloodsucker, which wants more. Since it can't penetrate the think skin of mammals, it attacks the weak place on the body, the nose. They are often found in still water, but also under stones near the water.

Agur is warning us of things which can suck the life out of us as they always want more, right? Look at the first set, found in verse 16:

1. The grave-materialism, worldliness, pride suck us into their grave and swallows us up if we are not careful, in which it is never enough, resulting in turning us away from depending on God.
2. The barren womb-childless couples focus on what they do not have instead of what blessings they do have, and not reaching out to those in need. Do we have children, spiritually speaking, who are learning about Jesus and His salvation?
3. The thirsty desert-rain in the desert places is lacking; spiritually, are we living in an area where our soul does not get the Living Water, Jesus?
4. The blazing fire-devours what is thrown into it, lust, desires, physical needs. Are we trusting Jesus to meet our needs?

Are we really walking by faith today, dear one?
Are we praising the Savior today?
Are we thanking our Provider, El Shaddiah today?

LET IT GO

Help me let go of pride, the materialism, and worldliness that lures me away from You, Sweet Jesus.
Teach me Your ways for my life.       

Need a Shield of Protection?

O. T. #1499  "Need a Shield of Protection Today?"
August 7, 2019
Proverbs 30

LET IT GLOW

Who but God goes up to heaven and comes back down? Who holds the wind in His fists? Who wraps up the oceans in His cloak? Who has created the whole wide world? What is His name-and His Son's name? Tell Me if you know! Proverbs 30:4 NLT (My capital letters)

Sound familiar? God asked Job some of the same questions. He didn't know the answers then and neither do we. We don't have to know or do everything just right, because we love a God who does! Jesus, the Sovereign God of the universe, has done it all. When we are trusting in Him, we have peace. (Job 38:4), John 3:8, 13)


LET IT GROW

Here is our answer...

Every Word of God is pure: He is a shield unto them that put their trust in Him. (verse 5)

Every word that God speaks is truth. The name for God is 'Eloah, which is commonly used in Job.
Pure is literally smelted or refined. Every Word of God has been tested and proven in the furnace of man's experience and His promises are a shield. (Falwell)

Shield is a protector, defense.

We can't improve upon God's Word.
Are we allowing Him to be our shield from problems and evil and worry?
He brings light to the darkness, mends the broken hearts, hope in our soul.
There is power in the name of Jesus. Are we using it against these problems?


LET IT GO

I am trusting my family members' health to You, Jesus.
Use me to reassure them with Your Word.
Direct me with Your wisdom.
I surely am in need today, Lord!
Be my shield of protection from worry.
Great are You Lord JESUS!

Fearing or Trusting

O. T. #1498  "Fearing or Trusting"
August 6, 2019
Proverbs 29
Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.
Proverbs 29:18

LET IT GLOW

People need a purpose in their life. Otherwise, time passes by and they realize they have accomplished nothing of meaning or worth while. Isn't this common for the older people? They need something to do instead of sitting around, alone. They need a vision.

What is a vision? In the Hebrew language, vision means a revelation or oracle; a sight (mentally); a dread.

J. Vernon McGee said in his book, Proverbs:

Vision is actually spiritual understanding. It is the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer to give him understanding of the Word of God. We read in 1 Samuel 3:1, ...and the Word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision. There was no understanding of the Word of God, and therefore, it was precious in those days. God had to raise up Samuel, a seer, to meet that need.

In those days, there was no prophet to expound the Law, no priest or Levite to teach the good knowledge of the Lord, no means of grace. The Word of the Lord was scarce. (Matthew Henry)

Sounds like we have a choice-either we find what God's will is for us and do it, or we rebel or remain idle.

What God wants is to get the attention of His people and reveal to us what is on His heart and what is His will, for God's ways are not our ways! (Isaiah 55:8-9) The only way for you to know God's will is for Him to reveal it to you. (Blackaby)

Instead of setting goals, arranging agendas, Christians should be praying and reading the Bible, then looking where God is working and joining Him. When we know, then the next step is obedience, doing God's will His way.

What does God want us to do today? Is there a person on our heart, in our mind, that has needs? 

LET IT GROW

Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the LORD means safety. (verse 25)

Do we have a fear of displeasing people? It puts us in bondage to them, and they become our primary focus. Jesus is to be our primary focus throughout the day. He is only a whisper away.
He does not give us a spirit of fear, but of love and a sound mind. Jesus is the one we should fear.

When we trust in the Lord will be set on high, beyond man's reach. (Falwell)

Are we fearing or trusting?

LET IT GO

Seek the purpose for my life though all seasons of life.
Trust God and not fear people.

Who Wants to be Fat? Me!

O. T. #1497  "Who Wants to be Fat? Me!"
August 5, 2019
Proverbs 28-Part 2
He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the LORD shall be made fat.  Proverbs 28:25

LET IT GLOW

I admit it-I have gained 20 pounds in the last few years. However, I was not satisfied with my body being overweight, so I lost 10 pounds. I can get back into my old clothes, but still, I don't feel as good carrying around a 10 pound of potatoes or flour. I know what to do, just haven't yet. And this scriptures says to trust in the Lord and be made fat? Really?

Do I want to be made fat spiritually, not physically? Fat with faith-that sounds better. Do we need reminded to put our trust in Jesus and not in things? I think every now and then we all do. But do I want to be made fat? We will after we understand what that means.

In the Hebrew language, fat means to satisfy; accept; to remove (fat) ashes (of sacrifices).

How do we apply this? When we trust in the LORD, we will be:

• satisfied; Jesus will supply whatever we need, whether it be healing, a job, relationships mended, wisdom.
• accepted; No matter our failings or wrong turns, Jesus is always watching us and waiting for us to return in repentance.
• cleansed; After the animal is burnt on the altar as a sacrifice, the fat is cooked out of it, ashes  remain from the fire, then all is clean for another sacrifice.  How precious Jesus is to be our sacrifice for our sins. We can come to Him time and again and He is faithful to forgive us of our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. We just repent wholeheartedly.

Are we committing our cause to the Lord, depending upon Him? Are we fat with God's grace? Are we content living by faith?

The one whose trust is in the Lord will be richly rewarded (Matthew 6:19-34). Please take time to read those verses, for you will be blessed and be made fat.

LET IT GROW

On the other hand, look at the first part of our key verse-He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife.

A proud heart is conceited, looks with contempt on others, can't bear competition or contradiction. He stirs up strife, making mischief and disturbance for himself and others. (Matthew Henry)

Which way do we want to live?
Walk in His light and enjoy today.

LET IT GO

Jesus, cleanse my soul, accept me and satisfy me with You.
Make me fat-spiritually, that is.
Fat in faith.

The Law

O. T. #1496  "The Law"
August 2, 2019
Proverbs 28

LET IT GLOW

Hezekiah, who gathered this section of Proverbs, was king of the southern kingdom of Judah. He had a firsthand look at how lawlessness sent Israel, the northern kingdom, into a political tailspin.
Israel had all bad kings, and 9 were murdered. Israel eventually fell unto captivity by Assyria, since they forsook God.
Hezekiah was a good king in Judah. He destroyed the idols of false worship and reestablished the worship of God and reading of the Law in Judah.

The law demonstrates great wisdom. Proverbs is in close relationship with the Law-giving practical advice on how to apply the wisdom found there. For us, the Law helps us understand what God requires of Christians and how we are to treat others. Jesus Christ fulfilled the Law. We can't keep it since we sin, so we are in need of the Savior, Jesus Christ to be the propitiation for our sins.

He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy. (verse 13)

Liberty Bible Commentary explains:

God and men cover sins. God covers with the blood of His Christ, and men with the shame of hypocrisy. confession is the divinely appointed method fro obtaining the mercy and blessing of God. Confession, when accompanied by forsaking, brings prosperity in the life of the child of God.

It is human nature to try to hide or overlook our sins. What we should do is admit sin, analyze where we messed up, and adjust our life so it isn't repeated.  We all make mistakes, sin, but it is the wise person who does not repeat them.
What do we need to do today-admit, analyze, or adjust?

LET IT GROW

A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent. (verse 20)

The man who purposes in his heart to cleave to the laws of Yahweh will be saved from much that vexes the soul of the perverse man. (Falwell)

We are directed in the True Way (Jesus) to be holy, honest, and happy. When we are faithful to God, we will be blessed. Although, we are cautioned against a false and deceitful way to happiness.
Are we faithful?

LET IT GO

Confess and forsake sin.
Remain faithful to God.

True Friends

O. T. #1495  "True Friends"
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 fellowshipping together.

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 someone else praise you, not your own mouth-a stranger, not your own lips. (verse 2)
Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy. (verse 6)
The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense. (verse 9)
He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, it shall be counted a curse to him. (verse 14)
Iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. (verse 17)

A true friend will give you advice that is good for you, although it may be unpleasant. Friends can bounce ideas off each other, listening to ideas without offending them. It is all for our own good.

LET IT GROW

Faithful are the wounds of a friend...

Don't be taken in by a flattering or deceiving person.
A faithful friend:

• edify, not flatter;(Romans 15:2)
• is humble and demonstrates love; (Ephesians 4:2)
• does not always tell you what you want to hear; rebukes out of love (Proverbs 9:8)

[Resource:David Jeremiah's Morning & Evening Devotions-Holy Moments in the Presence of God]

True friends are willing to wound you in order to help you. Are we close to someone who will ask us hard questions?

LET IT GO

Be a true friend.
Listen to my true friends.