Trademark

Proverbs 3:29 (KJV) Devise not evil against thy neighbour, seeing he dwelleth securely by thee.

Somewhere in my reading, I came across the concept of “trust culture”.  The United States is a trust culture because our way of dealing with each other is based on biblical principles.  This is an expression of one aspect of that culture.  We should be able to live together with other people, and they should know that we are not going to do evil against them.

I remember talking to someone who shared that in the Asian country that he was familiar with home improvement stores never rented out equipment.  Instead, they would put you in contact with someone who would come and do the work you wanted to do with that equipment.  The reason for that was that if somebody rented a saw by the time they brought it back to you it would be totally ruined and they would not stand by paying for it.  The only way you could guarantee getting your equipment back in decent shape was to rent out the worker rather than the tool.  This kind of behavior would be totally unacceptable in the United States.

So?  Rejoice in the remnants we have of Christian culture.  Most of the points are still strong and are generally followed by people, even if they do not embrace the God of Christianity.  Be one of those who demonstrates this kind of behavior.  

Love Is Long Suffering

(Psa 145:8 KJV)  The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.

(Proverbs 2 also read)

God is capable of great wrath.  We know that He came down hard on Israel.  What we often forget when people are talking about the violence of God is that little phrase in this verse, “slow to anger”.  Remember that God is love.  Remember the first quality of love in I Corinthians, patience or long suffering.

Imagine if we actually received justice for our actions and attitudes.  The world would not be concerned about over-population.  There would be even more “Help Wanted” signs.  God is patient but keep in mind that He does have His limits.

So?  Live with an attitude of obedience, confession and repentance.  You will have nothing to fear.  

Laying the Tracks

(Psa 1:1 Brenton)  Blessed is the man who has not walked in the counsel of the ungodly, and has not stood in the way of sinners, and has not sat in the seat of evil men.

(Proverbs 1 also read)

This month I am reading in the Brenton translation of the Septuagint (LXX).  One difference that stands out is the tense of the verb.  In the Hebrew based translations the walking, standing and sitting are all in the present tense.  In the LXX they are in the past.

The basic message is the same but the LXX points out that our past actions have an influence on where we are today and how we can expect God to interact with us.

So?  Just as yesterday laid the track for today, what you do now will influence and direct the options for tomorrow.  God can work miracles.  Why make it hard on Him?  

A Spoon Full of Sugar...

(Psa 141:5 KJV)  Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head: for yet my prayer also shall be in their calamities.

(Proverbs 30 also read)

Notice the phrase, “it shall be an excellent oil.”  This will tend to slip past us because we don’t think of oil the same way the ancients did.  For them it had medicinal uses.  The Living Bible paraphrases it as “If they reprove me, it is a medicine!”  

We need to wrap out minds around that.  Reproof and correction from those who care about us should be looked at as a medicine.  I might go so far as to suggest that even the criticisms of our enemies can do us good if we filter them through the Holy Spirit.

So?  May your day be full of good medicine.  

School Has Started

(Pro 29:15 KJV)  The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.

There are times when we adapt some of the wisdom of our culture and there are other times when that is a real danger.  This is one of those areas where we need to give the evil eye to culture.  What I am looking at here is our philosophy of education.  One of the big forces is the Montessori school method.  It is very popular and I don’t think we stop to consider why we should avoid it.  Read the verse again and ask yourself which is Montessori and which is Biblical.  

For those who don’t know the Montessori method stresses letting children explore and guide their own education.  The problem is not letting children explore.  It is in not giving them any foundation to guide that exploring.  The idea here is not to beat children because you have had a bad day.  The idea is to discipline to help them focus and instill a sense of right and wrong.

So?  Think twice before you put your children in even Christian schools.  Talk with others who might be thinking of doing so.  Do not turn over your children to people with a free style philosophy.  

Do You Invite a Lion for Dinner?

(Pro 28:15 KJV)  As a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; so is a wicked ruler over the poor people.

Let this be a warning to people who think that leaders who reject the standards of God will bring them prosperity.  I must concede that the role of political leaders does not bring hope in this regard.  That is the nature of humanity but we are in a unique position in history.  We have a voice in whom our leaders will be without getting violent.

We have an election coming up.  If you are a believer, and I assume if you take the time for a blog like this you are, then don’t fall for the lies of socialists, Marxists and those who advocate that people can get ahead without effort.  Don’t fall for the lie that we can have prosperity by taxing the rich.  Look at the people who advocate such things.  History is full of them.  Stalin, Hitler, Mao, Pol Pot, Gavin Newsome.  Our day is also full of them.  People who reject principles of God, who advocate abortion and undermine the family, are not people who will bring God’s blessing on us as a people.

So?  You may only be one vote but you are one vote.  Use what you have.  

Look under the Bed

(Psa 139:7 KJV)  Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence?

(Proverbs 27 also read)

Is this a praise or a complaint?  Think about it.  Do you rejoice that God is always present or do you find it a thought that cramps your style?  This could be an indicator of our spiritual condition.  God should be like that friend or relative that is always welcome at your house.  When you see them pull up you gladly drop what you are doing and go greet them.  Compare that to the gossipy neighbor who fills you with dread when he comes in sight.

Which is it?  It may be that you don’t sense the presence of God because you don’t want to be bothered.  It could be you don’t want Him to know what you are doing.

So?  The Psalmist is rejoicing and I think we should be doing the same.  

Drowning in Love

(Psa 136:15 KJV)  But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red sea: for his mercy endureth for ever.

(Proverbs 26 also read)

The phrase that is repeated in every verse of this chapter is “for his mercy endureth for ever.”  We like that concept.  We don’t want to look at the entire context.  I lifted out this verse because most of us would have a hard time equating “mercy” (2617) [chesed] with drowning Pharaoh and his entire army.  It gives us a nuance that we probably missed.  

Mercy is a common translation in the KJV.  I prefer the “loving kindness” of the NASB.  Either way we resist this application.  We have this fantasy that love is gentle and long suffering.  It is.  It is also a reality built on God’s holiness.  In our compassion we are not to suffer fools gladly.  We are not to throw out discernment.  

So?  Read the context of your favorite quotes.  They may surprise you.  They will hopefully mold you.  

Muddy Waters

(Pro 25:26 KJV)  A righteous man falling down before the wicked is as a troubled fountain, and a corrupt spring.

As a kid it was fun to stomp in puddles or wade in small streams.  Part of the fun was stirring up the silt and mud.  It would make instant clouds that would take serious time to clear out.  What is fun for a child can be a problem for adults.  If you had been moving west in a wagon and came to a spring or creek, how would your parents have responded if you ran ahead and started muddying the water?  I think we both know.

The same is true for those of us seeking to live righteous lives.  We will obviously make mistakes.  There will be times when we will muddy the waters.  We can mess things us for others as well as ourselves.

So?  Perfect performance may be impossible but being aware that your actions effect others might be helpful in curbing your enthusiasm for stirring up the mud of life.  

Happy, Happy

(Psa 135:6 KJV)  Whatsoever the LORD pleased, that did he in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places.

(Proverbs 24 also read)

I sometimes wonder if God ever gets bored.  What does He do in His spare time?  Does He have any spare time?  Here we are told that He does whatever “pleased” (2654) Him to do.  The root of the word indicates delight.  If you read through the rest of the chapter you find that His pleasure ranges from lightning bolts to destroying pagan kings.  Maybe He never gets bored.

This is another indication of the nature of God.  He is not an impersonal force.  He is not a hand carved, gilded rock.  He is a person.  He is the great I AM.  The really strange part of all this is that He seems to care about us.  That caring is not only corporate but individual.

So?  Rejoice when you see a lighting bolt or watch the trees dance in the wind.  Also be glad that you are not a pagan king.  

Put It in Your File

(Psa 130:1 KJV)  A Song of degrees. Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O LORD.

(Proverbs 23 also read)

Not today, thankfully.  This morning I have had a great time with the Lord.  He has reminded me of His glory and how beyond comprehension He is.  At the same time He has given me glimpses of what I can’t understand.  It was glorious.

So?  Take this verse and store it away for the day when it is an echo of your soul.  We all have them.  It might help us to remember that even Bible writers have those moments.  Let that build your trust and your awareness that God will answer the cry.  

Another Chicken or Egg Question

(Pro 22:14 KJV)  The mouth of strange women is a deep pit: he that is abhorred of the LORD shall fall therein.

Here is where my presuppositions settle into my interpretations.  Reading this simply and in isolation one would get the idea that the only people who fall into sin are those whom God has already written off.  In this thinking God becomes the cause of your sin.  He has abandoned you.  He has left you to fall into the pit.

I think that is skipping a significant part of the reality.  The Psalms and Proverbs are full of descriptions of people who have made the decision to either pursue evil or seek righteousness.  One does his own thing.  The other seeks to obey God.  In some theology God is the one who decides which way you go.  In my understanding God responds to the desire of your heart.  He makes it possible for you to respond correctly.  The choice is yours.  

So?  Yes.  He that is abhorred by God will fall into the pit but before you go too far down that path repeat to yourself John 3:16.  Once you reject Him you fall into this category.  

Be a Calamity

(Pro 21:15 KJV)  It is joy to the just to do judgment: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.

We are in a battle for the direction of our country.  If you stop to look at history you will realize that this is nothing new.  The forces of evil have always been out to destroy the things of God.  To look at it another way, yes, they are out to get us.  We believe in justice.  It is a justice based on the standards and holiness of God.  That is why they fight so hard.  The Living Bible puts the last part of this as, “...it is a calamity to evildoers.”

So?  Live a holy life.  Expect opposition.  It is the nature of the beast that seems to be in control of our culture and neighborhoods.  

Quiver as a Noun

(Psa 127:5 KJV)  Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.

(Proverbs 20 also read)

I read this verse the day after we had a house full of children.  True, they were not my children.  Two of them were my grandchildren.  The point is the same.  Children are a blessing.

Yes, they can be a burden.  Proverbs also contains awareness that much of the blessing depends on the type of children they are but the ones we had over were all home schooled and vitally involved in a church that supported home schooling as well as teaching the Bible.  What is the key to raising wonderful children?  I am still waiting to write my book but the first ingredient is living a life that demonstrates what you are trying to teach.

So?  Be aware that for Christians children are a precious resource not a burden that keeps you from living at the style in which you would like to become accustomed. 

Bait and Switch

(Pro 19:27 KJV)  Cease, my son, to hear the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge.

Think of all the ways in which we ignore this advice.  Sometimes it is blatant.  We go to a movie that we know focuses on prurient interests.  We attend a meeting designed to promote ungodly behavior.  Sometimes it is more subtle.  We might read books that start off on a high level and then degenerate.  I remember a series I started by a popular author.  The first couple of books were aboveboard and I was looking forward to the rest of the series.  Then things started getting polluted.  Questionable lifestyles began to enter the lineup.  Degenerate characters were portrayed in a positive light.  It saddened me but I stopped reading.  I knew where it was going.

A big reason for ignoring this is pride.  We tend to think that we are impervious.  We think we can take a bath in polluted water and come out clean.  Too bad it doesn’t usually work out that way.

So?  Be wise.  Avoid the contamination of evil.  Be willing to walk out.  While you are at it, ask for a refund.  Hit them where it hurts and be a good steward at the same time.  

The True Rebel Yell

(Pro 18:2 KJV)  A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself.

Again the Living Bible hits a home run.

(Pro 18:2 LB) A rebel doesn’t care about the facts.  All he wants to do is yell.

Does that make you want to hang your head?  Does it make you embarrassed when you look back and see some of the things you have done and said?  Maybe I am the only one.  I don’t think so but I can accept that if necessary.

An interesting thing about facts and fools is that they think they have them and they don’t have a clue.  Facts are often elusive.  It isn’t because they can’t be found but because we tend to accept whatever agrees with our opinion.

So?  It is funny how often the cure for an illness is the same thing.  Saturate yourself with the word of God.  Know His truth.  It will help you know facts when you come across them and might even assist in keeping your, or my, mouth shut.  

Target Practice

(Pro 17:16 KJV)  Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing he hath no heart to it?

The Living Bible brings this into modern culture,

(Pro 17:16 LB) It is senseless to pay tuition to educate a rebel who has no heart for truth.

Think of all the young people going to college and coming out ignorant.  You see it in man-on-the-street interviews.  You experience it in your own conversations.  Does that mean there was no truth available?  Not necessarily.  Many of them spend their time trying to figure out the easiest major and least demanding classes instead of looking to be challenged.

We see the same thing in our churches.  We have some people who leave worship revived.  We have others who just can’t wait to get to lunch.  I would guess that one had his Bible open and the other was checking his e-mails.

So?  Be open to invest your life and energy in others but it might be a good idea to look for someone who is actually seeking truth.  

Another Voice Heard

(Pro 16:2 KJV)  All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits.

There are times when a paraphrase hits a home run.  This is one of them or else I am just in the mood for a pithy saying,

(Pro 16:2 LB) We can always “prove” that we are right, but is the Lord convinced?

One of the great functions of reading the word of God is to knock us off of our high horse.  It is so easy for us to be filled with ourselves.  God loves to deflate our egos when it is a step toward righteousness and upright living.

So?  Read another translation at times.  Look for insights that have escaped you before.  Trust me, they are there. 

Wrong Word

(Psa 126:1 KJV)  A Song of degrees. When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream.

(Proverbs 15 also read)

There are times when the KJV just does not communicate.  This is one of them.  Compare this to the statement in the NASB,

(Psa 126:1 NAS77) A Song of Ascents. When the LORD brought back the captive ones of Zion, We were like those who dream.

The phrase “brought back” (7725) or “turned again” is a very common Hebrew word, 1339 times, and is translated “again” most frequently with an English verb that is supplied often by context.

Make it a habit to compare translations.  Also note that a simple reading of this tells us it was written after the return from captivity.  The nonsense of theology comes from commentators who have a theological system that demand this to refer to the end times.  Beware of such nonsense.

So?  Read and compare.  Become your own Bible commentator based on what the Bible says rather than what the guru on the internet tells you. 

Whose Children

(Pro 14:26 KJV)  In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.

To see both the weakness and the strength of a paraphrase compare this to the Living Bible,

(Pro 14:26 LB) Reverence for God gives a man deep strength; his children have a place of refuge and security.

As I read this today I found a resounding “Yes” developing in my heart.  I think there is some real truth in what the Living Bible says, yet it is just a paraphrase.   Is it a sound principle?  Obviously.  The idea that parents having a deep reverence for God will give their children an atmosphere to thrive in is solid.  

Do you notice the part that is assumption?   Read the KJV or NASB again.  When I read it that way it seems that the “children” are the Lord’s.  That is an encouraging understanding but it assumes that the “his” refers to God.   That is literal but the nuance picked up in the paraphrase could also be the emphasis.

So?  Let the Holy Spirit speak to you as you read.  This is an example where looking a little deeper, thinking a little broader and letting your imagination go to work can bring you greater truth.  It is a matter of addition, not substitution.  

Extreme Choices

(Pro 13:13 KJV)  Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.

(Pro 13:13 NAS77) The one who despises the word will be in debt to it, But the one who fears the commandment will be rewarded.

These two translations agree on the problem as despising the word.  The results seem to be different.  Before I look at the Hebrew I am reminded of another question I have of the use of words like “destroy”, “never”, “always” and other extreme statements.  These words are often used as hyperbole because in the next verse there are contradictory statements.  That is a question for another platform.

Which is better, “destroy” or “be in debt.”  I would suggest that both are to be avoided.

So?  Focus on the gold standard.  

A Twist on Advice

(Pro 12:15-16 LB) A fool thinks he needs no advice, but a wise man listens to others.  A fool is quick-tempered; a wise man stays cool when insulted.

There are times when a paraphrase can dig out insight.  What struck me here, and spoke to me, is that insults, which are meant to destroy, can actually build us up.  I know that does not make sense but think of an insulter as someone giving you advice for your life.  It is true they did not mean well.  They were hoping for the worst, but much depends on how we take it and whether we are open to what might be the helpful message.

Suppose that someone told you that you talk too much and no one wants to hear what you say.  Ouch.  I am not saying I speak from experience but if I were I would be able to decode that as a simple message:  I talk too much and no one wants to hear what I say.  See how that works?

So?  God can take anything negative and make it useful is we living in wisdom and humility.  Don’t forget the humility.  

The Adjectives Have It

(Psa 125:4 KJV)  Do good, O LORD, unto those that be good, and to them that are upright in their hearts.

(Proverbs 11 also read)

There are times when I like to drop the words of italics out and see what the simple Greek and Hebrew actually says without the interpretation of scholars.  The italics are not in the original language but are added to make things coherent and understandable.  At least so goes the popular wisdom.  What happens when you drop them out here?

“Do good, O Lord, unto good and upright in their hearts.”

What adds to my confusion is that both “good” (2896) and “upright” (3477) are adjectives and not nouns.  

Why does this confuse?  Because popular interpretation and theology says that we can do no good.  We cannot be upright.  My question would be a paraphrase, “Who you going to believe, the theologian or your lying eyes and ability to read?”

So?  Wherever you fall on the theological framework, be good.  Be upright.  Even if you don’t believe it is possible, be good and upright anyway today.  

Stay Attached

(Pro 10:25 KJV)  As the whirlwind passeth, so is the wicked no more: but the righteous is an everlasting foundation.

The Living Bible infers that this “whirlwind” touches both the “wicked” and the “righteous”.  That would conform to the observations of life.  It is the source of the book “Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People.”  God seems to allow His chosen ones to go through hard times.

But the results are different.

If you watch your trees during the high winds of spring you will notice two responses of the leaves.  At least I see this in the oaks in my yard.  The dead leaves are shaken loose and blown across the landscape to rot and become fertilizer.  The leaves that are still alive and well attached shake a bit but remain to provide life giving photosynthesis.  

So?  This is the picture given to us of our place in creation.  Hard times will come.  Israel was warned about the desolation coming.  In the midst of those predictions there was usually a word of hope for the faithful.  Be one of the faithful.  

Schooled on Prayer

(Mat 6:9 KJV)  After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

(Proverbs 9 also read)

I would assume that most people would recognize this beginning to what is called the Lord’s Prayer.  Take a moment and see if you can recite it.  It is also found in Luke 11:2.  

Most of us have a goal to talking to God, praying, on a regular basis.  Also most of us don’t live up to that as we would.  It is a common problem.  Paul tells us to pray without ceasing.  To take that literally would make most of life impossible if we pray in the way the pastor does on Sunday morning.  Fortunately Jesus gives us more specific guidance.

I think that what Jesus does not mention is as important as what He does.  He does not mention prayers for health.  He does not mention our concerns for our nation or its leaders.  He does not mention our families.  That does not mean we ignore them.  Think of it as more a priority list than an inclusive list.

So?  Set aside all the books you have on how to pray and spend some time in the school that Jesus left us in two gospels.  

Reach Out

(Pro 8:34 NAS77) "Blessed is the man who listens to me, Watching daily at my gates, Waiting at my doorposts.

The Living Bible phrases this in an interesting way.  For doorposts it says, “waits for me outside my home!”  

As an introvert I am generally willing to let people come to me.  I can handle social contact when it confronts me but I would rather sit in my Lazy Boy with a good book.  As much as I try to get myself to reach out I find it very hard to pick up the telephone.  In my daily social activities it is just a blip of my personality.

In relation to God we need to overcome this.  While it is true that God reaches out to us and sent His Son to die for us there is still an aspect of growing that requires us to seek His face, or as it says here, His doorpost.

So?  I know it gets monotonous but this needs to be a daily priority.  Notice the word “daily”.  That is not just filler.  

A Matter of Opinion

(Psa 124:2 KJV)  If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, when men rose up against us:

(Proverbs 7 also read)

This brings to mind a quote that I heard attributed to Abraham Lincoln.  He is reported to have said something to the effect that “It isn’t so much that God is on our side as whether we are on His side.”  There is a real difference even though the results should be the same.

We need to careful about putting our priorities in God’s mouth.  I was reading recently about how in the Civil war, as in many wars, both sides were praying to the same God and claiming His protection and victory.  It can’t work that way.

So?  The only way to avoid this is to be aware of our pride and how it often dictates our thinking process.  Know the truth if you want it to set you free.  

Comfort and Red Lines

(Psalms 121:8 LB) He keeps his eye upon you as you come and go and always guards you.

(Proverbs 6 also read)

How about a word of comfort for the day.  This ought to do it for you.  God is not our servant.  He does not jump through hoops or feel a need to earn His salary.  He is more like a parent who is always aware of what His toddler is up to.  He is almighty God and He is constantly in multi-function mode.  If a poisonous snake is coming through the fence to get you He will zap it.  If you are going to step in a fire ant mound He will nudge you aside.  Usually.

This is also a word of challenge for the day.  God has a peculiar way of guarding us.  It does not mean that you will face no issues or experience no failure.  It means that He will keep things out of the red zone.  You know about the red zone if you have ever driven a motor vehicle with a tachometer.  The needle tells you when the RPM’s are safe and when they forecast danger.  

So?  Don’t red line your day.  While God will protect us from many things our deliberate violation of His will is not on the list.  

Ancient Alarm Systems

(Psa 123:2 KJV)  Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress; so our eyes wait upon the LORD our God, until that he have mercy upon us.

(Proverbs 5 also read)

This describes a mental attitude that is totally foreign to us.  The word “servants” (5650) is sometimes translated “slave”.  That is because in ancient times there was a social position that did not have much difference.  The power of the masters was almost absolute.  

Why would the “maiden” (8198) be fixed on the hand of her mistress?  Because she was expected to understand that her place in society demanded subservience and instant obedience.  If the boss-lady picked up her coffee cup and looked inside the servant should already be on her way with a refill or fresh cup.  In the process the servant was not allowed to express any annoyance or sloth.  The signals were clear.

So?  We should be attuned to what God has to say to us.  That may come obviously in a sermon or a Bible verse.  It may also come from that inner voice that becomes alert when we see something that sets off an alarm in our soul.  

Evangelistic Evil

(Pro 4:16 KJV)  For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall.

I read this verse every month.  I think the idea is repeated another place in Proverbs.  It would do many Christians good to pay attention to it.  It isn’t just that evil exists.  The point is that there are people who are unhappy if they are not able to drag someone else down to their level.  Evil is evangelistic.

Keep that in mind when you watch commercials.  Review it when you listen to talking heads.  You might even consider it when you spend time with people you think are your friends.  The enemies of God are all in and are out to get you.  It is not your imagination.

So?  When I was teaching, students would come up and deliberately cough in my face hoping to make me sick.  In a way it was childish nonsense.  In a way it was a manifestation of this verse.  Eventually my immune system developed so that their coughing was in vain.  Build up your immunity to evil. 

Hope Day

(1Pe 3:15 KJV)  But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

(Proverbs 3 also read)

This verse came to mind in the early hours focusing on the word “hope” (1680).  I think I was pondering the condition of the world and discussions I had listened to.  One question that came up in regard to the condition of society was, “Is there any hope?”  My instant response was, “Yes.”  Their instant response was, “No.”  

You may not have noticed but those are two different answers.  They would not understand that the different answers are based on a different reference point for our hope.  The talking heads were reflecting on the ability of us as individuals to bring about change in the system.  It was based on a knowledge of human nature and a lack of moral fiber.

We acknowledge those points but come from a different reference point.  Our hope is not based on a dependence on society and politicians but on our hearts and our God.  We can look at history, see the suffering and chaos and still realize that God has preserved His people.

So?  We have a hope.  By that we don’t mean a desire but an assurance.  We need to be ready to share that.  If we exhibit our hope people will wonder and if we have been a faithful witness they will want to know if we are crazy or know something they don’t.  

Know Your Temptations

(Pro 2:16 KJV)  To deliver thee from the strange woman, even from the stranger which flattereth with her words;

The Living Bible combines this verse with the next and, if you carefully clip, it starts off with a warning about flattery.  It tells us that only “the wisdom from the Lord” will keep us from disaster.  Since I have never been approached by a prostitute, at least in my knowledge, I don’t need advice to avoid them but other temptations are always present.

So the heart of the reminder is still beating strong.  The best defense we have against defeat and compromise is being saturated with the things of God.  I seek that daily in Psalms and Proverbs but you can find it almost anywhere in scripture.  I say “almost” because I am currently skimming through a portion of I Chronicles which lists off the names of officials in David’s government.  I am sure that even the Holy Spirit would be challenged to find something inspiring there.

So?  Fill up your tank with God’s wisdom and drive your life for the most effective mileage.  

Does He Need to Shout?

(Pro 1:15 KJV)  My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path:

Today I begin reading through Proverbs in the Living Bible.  Not the NLT, but the original.  I always enjoyed it and, because it admits it is a paraphrase, feel it has a place on my Bible shelf.  

Today the phrasing is slightly different.  It starts with a plea, not an order.  “Don’t do it, son!”  This tells me that God is addressing us here as adults, or at least older children, and not toddlers.  If a two year old reaches for a hot stove you might move quickly to slap his hand away or scream bloody murder to get him to stop.  If he is 25 a simple reminder that the stove has been on might be enough.

How does God talk to you?  Does He need to shout or is the still small voice enough to get your attention?

So?  Listen and apply in whatever way is necessary.  

Rejoice in the Law

(Pro 31:26 KJV)  She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

Two great concepts are united in this verse.  Different translations hide one or the other.  The KJV says “law” (8451) of “kindness” (2617).  The NASB says “teaching” instead of law.  If they were trying to please me that would say “law of lovingkindness”.  Let me drop in the Hebrew words and it becomes “torah of chesed”.  

Law gets a lot of bad press because of Paul reacting to Judiasers trying to push circumcision.  We forget that we also have phrases such as “law of love” and this “love of lovingkindess”.  The purpose of the law was not to lower the boom but to mold a people into a civilized society.  The character of God includes justice and holiness but also love and compassion.

So?  We need to put them together in the proper proportions.  Law gives us boundaries that keep us on track.  Kindness modifies the rules with an attitude of mercy.  Apply them both.  

Big Ears

(Pro 30:14 KJV)  There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men.

Personally I think we have too many people with the gift of mercy and not enough with the gift of discernment.  Part of that is because people lather on the mercy without the gift and then attack those who have discernment.  The other part is that discernment knows when to speak out and when to stay silent.  Discernment knows how to express itself to the “poor” (6041) and “needy” (34).  When someone is struggling in the mud you don’t jump on their shoulders.  You give them a hand and then help them wash.

We stand for righteousness.  We must never compromise.  We must speak truth.  Sometimes the tone of voice can destroy the message.  Sometimes refusing to listen can totally distort what the afflicted are saying.

So?  Stand tall but develop big ears to hear.  Truth spoken gently can sometimes be more powerful than a loud voice.  

Partisans

(Pro 29:27 KJV)  An unjust man is an abomination to the just: and he that is upright in the way is abomination to the wicked.

I’m sorry.  No, we can’t just get along.  As much as we might want “peace in our time” it is not going to happen.  

We know that as Christians there is a courtesy and concern for the unjust.  It is part of the burden we carry.  At the same time we need to recognize that our ways are not compatible with theirs.  In fact we should accept that they are an abomination to God and thus to us.

What we keep avoiding is the understanding that they hate who we are.  What makes it worse is that there is no real restraint on their hatred other than the laws and justice systems that the upright have established.  Picture the monarchs who think that their will is above the laws of the common rabble.

So?  The power that will bring victory to our lives is not the rational discussions with evil but the power of God that we trust and lean on.  

Dangers of DIY

(Pro 28:26 KJV)  He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.

When you have questions where do you look for answers?  Many look in self-help books.  Some talk to a friend.  The problem with these approaches is that you find books that reinforce the inclination of your own “heart” (5315) or you find a friend who will tell you to trust your heart.  That is not walking “wisely” (2451).

To walk wisely means to seek truth instead of trying to assuage your feelings or feed your inclinations.  I know it is possible to find a verse that reinforces what you want but if you are reading consistently and encouraging your mind to be receptive you will find the answers you need.

So?  Read scripture widely.  Don’t just focus on Psalms or Proverbs.  Those offer a lot of wisdom but it may not be the bit that you need today. 

Give Me Context

Proverbs 27:26 (KJV) The lambs are for thy clothing, and the goats are the price of the field.

When you hear sheep and goats mentioned together you think of judgment and Jesus separating them, or at least I do.  Our conception is that sheep, or here lambs, are the righteous and goats are the bad guys.  Notice that does not apply here.

Be careful in your choice of words.  Even more important be careful of your interpretation of words.  They do not always mean the same.  Another example might be milk.  At one place you have the joy of a land of milk and honey.  At another you are urged to grow beyond the milk of the word as baby food.

So?  Never get complacent.  Be aware of the danger of drifting and not thinking.  God speaks but we need to listen.  

Daily Reminder

(Psa 119:125 KJV)  I am thy servant; give me understanding, that I may know thy testimonies.

(Proverbs 26 also read)

I read in Psalms and Proverbs every day.  One of the dangers of regular Bible reading is that it becomes a routine that can dull our edge.  We can read and not understand.  I think we have all had that experience where we find we have read several pages and can’t remember a thing.  Sometimes we read it again and still can’t remember.  Our minds wander.  We can have the same experience with verses we have memorized.

Here the author is calling upon God to take him beyond the ability to read and quicken his mind so that he has understanding.  That is a good prayer for us to start every day and to renew many times.

So?  God puts His truth in writing for us.  He also wants to quicken it in our hearts.  It is not just a book on the shelf.  It is meant to change us.  

Be Neighborly

(Pro 25:17 KJV)  Withdraw thy foot from thy neighbour's house; lest he be weary of thee, and so hate thee.

As I write I am applying this in my own life.  I have decided that the period of time here is three days.  It does not say that.  It simply says don’t stay too long when you are visiting.  I take the principle and apply it in a way that seems logical.  I think there is some chemistry that changes after three days but it is just me.

I offer this as a way of suggesting how to apply scripture.  Much of what we read is the transmission of principles.  Because life is complex it is better to understand the principles than the exact words.  This is an example of the comparison made between the spirit of the Law and the letter of the Law.  If demands that we engage mentally and spiritually with what God is trying to communicate.

So?  Think as you read.  Recognize the letter being delivered but go beyond that to the principles at the core.  

Skip the Bananas

(Psa 118:6 KJV)  The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?

(Proverbs 24 also read)

The answer to the question is, “Quite a lot.”  That is not the point.  Of course we can be robbed, oppressed and persecuted.  Every time I miss a green light or come to a detour I feel like someone has it in for me.  What the Psalmist is saying is look beyond the immediate.

I know I can have problems.  I also know that God will provide a way out.  I know that there is a bigger picture that I may not see.  It is like going to an art museum to see a famous painting and being forced to look at some kind of modern art like a banana taped to the wall as you walk to the exhibit down the hall.  It may be that not making that green light will keep you from being crushed by an eighteen wheeler that will capsize down the road.

So?  Live in trust and expectation.  God has your back.  And, of course, your front and sides also. 

The Other Fingers

(Psa 120:2 KJV)  Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips, and from a deceitful tongue.

(Proverbs 23 also read)

When I started reading this verse I was thinking this involved “lying” (8267) lips of other people.   That would certainly be a good reason for God to “deliver” (5337) me, but I kept reading.

There is just as much evidence that the author is talking about his own lying lips.  That perspective is the one we should be most concerned about.  

We tend to focus on the shortcomings of others and ignore our own weaknesses.  You have heard the illustration of how when you point your finger at someone there are three more pointing back at you.  That applies here.

So?  The Bible is written for you to read to see what God wants you to hear.  Listen.  

Selective Reading

(Psa 119:93 KJV)  I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me.

(Proverbs 22 also read)

By “precepts” (6490) this is referring to the law, among other writings.  Out of 24 times it is used, 21 of them are in Psalm 119 and all are in Psalms.  What touched my mind as I read this today is that we could substitute “Bible” for precept or law and get the way we should feel about it.  

Christians read and study their Bibles.  We love the word.  Having said that I must confess that I do not spend a lot of time in the book of Numbers or the genealogies of the gospels.  Why?  Because they are not meant for repeated consumption.  Okay, maybe they charge your batteries some way, but for me they were read 20 years ago and do not need a repeat.  I focus on the parts of the word that help me build my life.  So when the Psalmist says he loves the law, he is not talking about the advice for the clothing of the Levites.

So?  Read and let the word speak to you.  Don’t get hung up on Paul’s criticism of the law.  

An Inclusive Word

(Psa 118:4 KJV)  Let them now that fear the LORD say, that his mercy endureth for ever.

(Proverbs 21 also read)

There are people who claim that since Psalms was written to the Jews it has no application in our lives today and does not speak to us.  To that I say, “It may have been written to the Jews but it is written for us.”   That takes nothing away from God speaking to Israel.  It just expresses a larger view of God and His word.

Why say that here?  If you look back at the previous verses you will see that first the author speaks to the house of Israel and then to the house of Aaron.  He then extends the promise to everyone who fears the Lord.  That includes me.  I assume it includes you.

So?  Read your Old Testament.  Understand what God was saying to Israel.  Do some more thinking and embrace what He is saying to you.  

Some Things Are Forever

Psalm 117:2 (KJV) For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the LORD endureth for ever. Praise ye the LORD.

I memorized this chapter in Psalms when I was younger.  The main purpose involved a contest and this was the shortest chapter in the Bible.  Anyone else with me there?  Now, hopefully a bit more mature I see other values in it.  A great truth is offered.

The truth is about truth.  There are some things that last forever and one of them is the truth of the Lord.  This is a particular type of truth.  It might be a truth that never wears out but it is more than that.  This is a truth that never goes out of style.  A truth that never wears out could be like a pair of shoes that last forever but are in a color that is not considered cool today.  God’s truth is more like a white T-shirt that goes with all attire and all events.  It is always useful.

So?  Put your time into the eternal rather than the fashionable.  Read Moses instead of Plato. 

The Problem of Hands

(Psa 115:4 KJV)  Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men's hands.

(Proverbs 19 also read)

I dialogue with several people who have as much exposure to the Bible as I do.  I say dialogue instead of argue although that is often the atmosphere.  In theory we are all seeking the truth but one of the mysteries is how we can come to different positions from the same Bible.  I use the NASB of 1977.  I started with it because I thought it was the most accurate in 1977.  I have stuck with it because my study notes are geared to it.  I like it because the Bible software available makes it easier to study the Greek and Hebrew.  I accept the validity of other translations and really, the differences with others that I experience are not based on the version we are using.  They are based on the traditions of men in regard to the scripture that we have been taught.

Which brings me to this verse.  God has offered us silver and gold in the written word.  We work to mine that in order to know and love our God.  The problem is not in the gold and silver of the idols but the fact that man has molded it with his hands instead of really seeking what it says.  Since I am aware that I have traditions lurking in the recesses of my mind I seek to find truth, not by accepting other traditions but asking what does the Bible actually say.

So?  Keep pouring over the written word.  Keep listening to the Holy Spirit.  Others may help.  They may steer you correctly or simply make mistakes obvious but keep on seeking.  God will work with you, and I hope with me.  

House Keepers

(Psa 113:9 KJV)  He maketh the barren woman to keep house, and to be a joyful mother of children. Praise ye the LORD.

When I see statements or promises like this I have to scratch my head because it doesn’t seem to match what I see.  First of all, if God makes them fertile and gives them children they are not barren.  Secondly, is there a reason why God has made them barren?

We all know people who have no children.  Many make that choice.  Some choose it because they want to live Mercedes level rather than dented fender mode.  They want the finer things of life.  Culture has even invented the DINK title, “double income, no kids”.  Some choose it because they are going to Libya as missionaries and don’t think kids fit into the danger.  Those are explainable.

What about the people who claim to want children but it isn’t happening.  Is God drying up their wombs?  Why?  Obviously on the individual level we cannot proclaim great authority but as a generalization I have a theory.  I wonder if God keeps some women childless because He knows that their career is going to trump children and family.

So?  I believe God has a reason for the things He does.  We will often have no idea but He sees the deeper picture and fits it into His plan for the universe and you.  Keep trusting.  Keep growing.  He is still God.  

Stepping Down

(Psa 113:6 KJV)  Who humbleth himself to behold the things that are in heaven, and in the earth!

As I was reading this chapter my mind went into “get through it” mode and I just read through this verse.  The Holy Spirit checked me and made me go back.  I had assumed that this was either a question or referring to a man speaking.  No, it was God speaking and that struck me as odd.

When you read scripture, keep your mind engaged including your baloney meter.  I am ot saying you will find baloney in the Bible but the awareness will wake you up to tensions in the text.  The NASB takes this as a question and the KJV a statement of fact.  I imagine you can take it either way so we might have another both/and situation.

How does God humble himself and why does this means He humbles Himself?  I think this is a clue to the difficult question of the relationship between God and time and comes into our daily investigations when we try to reconcile God’s foreknowledge and man’s free will.  The word “humbled” (8213) has the idea of stepping down.  There is a real sense in which God must step down to deal with our universe.  We are familiar with the idea that we cannot look into the face of God without being consumed by His glory.  Is it possible that the same principle applies to all of creation?

So?  However you want to look it it God is involved with His creation I hope we don’t bore Him too much.  

A Further Clarification

(Psa 96:4 KJV)  For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods.
(Psa 96:5 KJV)  For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens.

I am sure I have written about this somewhere in the past year but this addresses the question of whether Yahweh is unique or just top God.  

Notice in verse 4 that it is only declaring that He is above the others.  That could leave open the possibility that there are other gods.  Such an opinion is shut off when you read the next verse.  The word for “idols” (457) has the meaning of worthless.  It is a clear declaration that they are just inanimate stone or dead wood.

So?  Rest easy.  There may be demons running around but there is only one God.  Worship Him.

Happy Hearts

Proverbs 15:15 (KJV) All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.

I never thought of myself as having a merry heart.  As a skeptic, I don’t walk down the street singing “Pennies from Heaven” or “I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart.”  OK, actually I may sing that second one.  That should be a clear indication that I might actually have a merry heart.

Now if I don’t have a merry heart I need to develop one.  And actually I think I’m making progress.  Of course, having a happy heart starts with a clear view of reality.  That could be a bit depressing if the clear view of reality was not rooted in a clear view of the God of creation.  Providence rules.  I am a child of Providence,  I must say I don’t say “Praise the Lord” when I stub my toe or knock my head, but I am willing to praise the Lord when the pain goes away.

So?  Work on it.  For some it may come naturally.  For those of us who tend to be skeptics it’s a goal to achieve.  It is also a goal within reach.  

Reject the Calf

(Psa 95:9 KJV)  When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my work.

I don’t have as many down times as when I was younger but they still hit.  Usually I understand that they are a bit cyclical and, as they say, “This too shall pass.”  What helps me is referred to in this verse.  There was a commercial once that talked about “the pause that refreshes”.  I think it was about beer so the thought was wasted but it is still a useful tool.  The pause I go to is a time of thanksgiving.

The Psalmist is rebuking Israel for focusing on a current problem and ignoring how God had seen them through so many other hard times.  It always amazed me that the group that crossed the Red Sea on dry land could turn around and make a golden calf.  We do it in our way.  What we need to do is spend a few moments remembering all the blessings of the past and all the blessings that are still in operation in our lives.

So?  Don’t live in the moment.  Live in the scope of eternity.  Since we can’t comprehend that then settle for the memory of God’s actions in your life.  It works for me.  I trust it will work for you.  

Avoid the Traps

(Pro 13:14 KJV)  The law of the wise is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

Again we see how David praises knowing the law.  Don’t be confused by the term “fountain of life”.  David is not saying the law saves you.  It is there to give us guidance.  It was given to the newly declared nation of Israel to give guidance to a mass of people emerging from pagan darkness and having no idea about living in an upright and godly life.

The law tells us how to live as God would have us.  It gives a social and spiritual structure to keep us from getting caught up into sin and rebelling against God.  It is part of God’s plan for allowing His people to avoid ultimate death.

So?  Other verses remind you to trust and believe.  This one says, “Watch your step.”  God expects and demands both.  If you have trouble with that then spend more time reading the entire witness of the Bible.   

Different Word, Same Problem

(Pro 12:13 KJV)  The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble.

Although the word is not used, this is another reminder of the evil of lies and deceit.  Too often we accept the spin and distortion that we hear without any protest.  I will concede that you can do little in real time about the warped coverage of the news and partisan editing of comments that you see on the screen.  What you can do is turn it off and begin to contact sponsors.  Above all turn it off and urge your friends to do so.

If you hear this kind of thing in church you have more access to the people twisting truth.  If no one will listen then it may be time to leave that church your children were raised in and find a place that endorses truth.

So?  If you expect to come out of the other end of the tunnel of trouble then you need to be one of the small remnant that embraces truth.  

The Assurance of “Unless”

(Psa 94:17 KJV)  Unless the LORD had been my help, my soul had almost dwelt in silence.

(Proverbs 11 also read)

This Psalm is an interesting mixture of accurate social commentary and a shout of assurance.  The author is looking at a culture where the evil men are living out their fantasies in mocking, wild abandon.  Does that sound familiar?  It should.

At the same time there is the assurance that God is there for us.  Here the writer is reminding us that our hope is in the Lord.  My first impression was that I would simply keep my mouth shut.  The Septuagint throws in Scheol somehow.  The message though is that God is quite aware of what is going on.

So?  Go ahead and look around.  The world is falling apart but it has been falling apart for a long time.  God will work His divine will even if we are too blind to see it.  

Make Them Count

Psalm 90:12 (KJV) So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.

(Proverbs 10 also read)

How do you number your days?  To know that you would need to know how long you’re going to live.  A few verses before this, it tells us that 70 years would be normal and that if we’re strong 80 years would be seen.  That gives us a place to start.  For people like me that are 78 years old that doesn’t give a lot of time to do any planning.

The point isn’t how much time do you have before Jesus calls you home.  The point is what are you going to do with the time you have.  Are you going to be conscientious?  Are you going to redeem the time as it says somewhere?

It also tells us that in a sense God is going to be waiting for us to present Him with the results of our counting.

So?  Make every day count.  I need to hear that, especially at times when I am feeling a bit of sloth, creeping into my soul.  

The Price of Truth

(Pro 9:14 KJV)  For she sitteth at the door of her house, on a seat in the high places of the city,

You think you have problems.  You do.  The problems you have are nothing new.  One of my problems is trying to find a news source that will actually tell me the truth without the spin.  You all know how hard that is.  Consider this chapter in Proverbs.

We have two women depicted in this chapter.  Much of the descriptions are identical.  They are both sitting calling people to come and partake of their “wisdom”.  They are not the same in spite of the similarities.  The first one’s advice leads to understanding.  This one will lead you to hell.

How do you tell the difference?  The first leads you to greater wisdom.  The second uses the theft.  What did Jesus say?  “By their fruits you shall know them.”

So?  We may not be able to listen to someone short term and know if they speak truth.  The insight comes over time as we watch their patterns and reliability.  This is true of news.  It is true of political leaders.  It is true of Bible teachers.  We can’t get away from paying attention. 

Irritation Check

(Psa 85:1 KJV)  To the chief Musician, A Psalm for the sons of Korah. LORD, thou hast been favourable unto thy land: thou hast brought back the captivity of Jacob.

(Proverbs 8 also read)

There is a phrase here that I keep coming across that does not make any sense.  In the KJV it is “brought back the captivity” and in the NASB it is “restore the captivity.”  Neither one makes any sense.  “Captivity” (7622) is a word that means just what it says.  The problem is in the “restore”.  I checked through the translations I have and found they all follow this pattern.

I am sorry.  It does not work.  If you go to your software you find that there are meanings that would work just fine, for instance “reverse”.  Why are they not used?

So?  When you find something that does not make sense spend a little time and look deeper.  You may not figure out what was on the mind of the translators but you should be able to understand what God is saying.  

Where Are the Ways?

(Psa 84:5 KJV)  Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee; in whose heart are the ways of them.

(Proverbs 7 also read)

I first read this in the NASB which talks about the “highways to Zion”.  I noticed that some other translations have that also.  In the NASB “Zion” is in italics which means it is not in the Hebrew.  The KJV has words in italics too.  Where do they get Zion?  One translation has “temple”.  Interesting but not what got my attention.

What stood out to me was that the ways, or highways, of God are to be established in our hearts.  God is not satisfied with people who learn to go through the motions but are not touched in their core being.  Yes, He wants us to live upright, righteous lives but He wants it grounded in a heart that is on the right path.

So?  Seek to be constantly touched and renewed in your inner man.  God wants a foundation that will endure the trials of life.  

Inner Arrows

(Pro 6:14 KJV)  Frowardness is in his heart, he deviseth mischief continually; he soweth discord.

Let me start with a quick aside for KJV readers.  “Frowardness” (8419) or “perversity” (NASB) represents an inner twisting of the soul.  It is archaic but I have seen it used.

This reminds me that there are people who are twisted in the soul.  Usually we don’t see it.  As our culture degenerates it will be displayed more often, but it is already there.  I think most people will agree on that.  Where I would disagree with popular opinions is that I think people make the choice to send their values in that direction.

Yes, we are all born in sin.  Original sin is real.  My difference is that I believe God has given us free will and we begin at an early age to decide which way we want to go.  Although we cannot save ourselves we can point our heart and desire toward or away from God.

So?  Obviously we need to be aware of the evil around us.  In addition to that I think this is a warning to make decisions that move us away from that and toward the holy God.  

Depressing Reality

(Psa 81:12 KJV)  So I gave them up unto their own hearts' lust: and they walked in their own counsels.

(Proverbs 5 also read)

What a depressing verse.  After again going through all the times that God had demonstrated His love for them He again returns to the fact that they are not responding.  He finally gives up on them.  The depressing part is that God can give up on us.  

But don’t stop there.  Historically He gave up on this group but there are also the places where we are reminded that in the larger group there are always a few who make us the true Israel, the faithful remnant, in today’s terms the Body of Christ.  While God may write Icabod over the door of your church He never departs from those who are listening to His voice.

So?  Rejoice for His personal touch.  Mourn for those who have chosen to go their own way. 

Don’t Text While Driving

(Pro 4:13 KJV)  Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.

It is so easy to get sidetracked.  We think we are doing well, we look up and find out the car in front of us has stopped.  There is a time not to text and driving a car is one of them.  There is also a time to text.  Sending a message while the baby is asleep might be an example.  What we are holding fast to is not the texting but the wisdom to know when and where.

I need to be reminded of this today.  I had an encounter which quickly moved me from alert and productive to inert and lethargic.  It had nothing to do with my diet or global warming.  It was purely an emotional response that overwhelmed the wisdom God places in front of me.

So?  Time to take hold.  Time to center my scope.  Time to believe that God does not want me drifting off into La La land.  

Divine Side-Kick

(Pro 3:26 KJV)  For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.

If you look at this in the NASB “confidence” (3689) has a marginal note that says “or at your side”.  As I look at the different translations I have available I see a number of wordings that have this idea that we have confidence because of the close presence of the Lord.  Although it shows a lot of immaturity, think of the young boy yelling back at the bully when his father is right behind him.  That presence changes your attitude.

We need to develop that awareness or concept.  The previous verse talks about fear.  The idea is not that we become fearless and start doing stupid things but that we have a confidence to face the trials of life without turning to jelly.

So?  Keep reminding yourself that God is with you.  I find that a regular morning time of renewing that focus makes all the difference in the world.  

Who Speaks First

Psalm 80:18 (KJV) So will not we go back from thee: quicken us, and we will call upon thy name.

Why did Israel never seem to find revival as a nation?  Individuals came to the Lord.  I expect there to be descendants of David in heaven.  We have a woman in our church who was born and raised a Jew and is now a follower of Jesus.  In spite of those observations, as a group, a people, a nation they have refused to turn to the God who called them out of Egypt.

This verse gives a clue.  They expected God to force them into obedience.  They expected God to “quicken” them and then they would call on Him.  They continued to wait and live in self-centered rebellion as they waited for the big boom.

Too many people raised in Protestant churches seem to feel the same way.  If God chooses them and transforms them, then they will get serious about the things of God.  Remember how that theology worked out for Israel.

So?  I could be wrong.  It seems to me that God expects us to call on Him so that He can respond.  He is God and can force us to faith but somehow that does not seem to match the idea of being created in His image.  

The Pebbles of Tradition

(Pro 1:30 KJV)  They would none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof.

I have been listening to a lot of debates in the last month.  Two areas have predominated.  One was between Christians and Muslims.  The other was between Arminians and Calvinists.  Setting aside the reality that I am also guilty, it amazes me how often people refuse to acknowledge clear statements.  I was going to say “clear truth” but that is me making an assumption that I am right.  I would hope that I am but I need to be open to the “counsel” (6098) that the Holy Spirit tries to throw my way.

The context here is people who make it a habit to reject what God is telling them.  They start off with the concrete foundations and must warp everything into that.  We need foundations.  We need rocks to stand on.  The place we fail is when we make those rocks traditions instead of the clear teaching of scripture.

So?  My goal is to listen to what God says.  I need to recognize that sometimes that comes from people I disagree with and not reject everything they say.  Always I need to go back to the clear teachings instead of the loud voices.  

Judge or Plead?

Proverbs 31:9 (KJV) Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.

When I read verses like this I tend to sit up and take notice.  I also squirm a lot.  We live in a day when a person with air conditioning, a cell phone and food on the shelf will cry “Poor” because someone else has more than they do.  I remember being exposed to a video clip where a young woman was in despair because she was too pretty to have to work.  She thought she should be able to sit around on a yacht and have money thrown at her just because she was so good looking.  She would claim to be poor and needy.

At the same time the phrase “plead the cause” is usually translated “judge”.

So?  For me this requires a lot of soul searching.  I need to make sure that my evaluation of others is done “righteously” and not be based on my own prejudices.  

Get the Focus

(Psa 79:9 KJV)  Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of thy name: and deliver us, and purge away our sins, for thy name's sake.

(Proverbs 30 also read)

I am not sure how to take this idea of being concerned for the “glory” (3519a) of God’s name.  They know God’s name, Yahweh but they only use it once in this chapter in verse 5.  In reality, God’s glory does not depend on the survival of Israel.  That is even more true today.  The only people who would blame God for the destruction of modern Israel are some hard-core Christians who think it is the proof of prophecy.  The Zionists are mainly atheists so they would not care about God’s glory.  The Muslims worship Allah so they would not care about Yahweh’s name.

This can be another way of trying to manipulate God.  I don’t know that I have ever used it but I am sure it is common.  We need to understand that God is more concerned about His holiness than about someone’s concern that He look good.

So?  The important part of this verse is the second part, repentance.  Don’t forget that.  

Leaning into Truth

(Pro 29:12 KJV)  If a ruler hearken to lies, all his servants are wicked.

The term “hearken” (7181) or “pays attention” seems to sometimes have the idea of leaning toward.  In fact, part of the definition is to incline.  This is a major quality that we need to seek in our leaders and it is hard to prove.  Talking heads always portray the people they disagree with as dishonest and their own favorites as pure as the driven snow.  Obviously things can’t be that clear.

We can easily find places where people have been deceived.  We can find evidence that they have been quoted out of context.  What we need to look for is a general desire to know truth.  When I look at one of our current races I see one candidate making the most atrocious statements, having them shown on video and then denying that they said it.  We see this all the time in elections.  

So?  They cannot change their spots but they can buy a can of paint that looks good on camera.  Our job in a free society is to do our homework.  One of the requirements of homework is keeping our memory on the job.  Pray that God will guide us in the influence we have.  

Telling God What to Do

(Psa 75:7 KJV)  But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another.

(Proverbs 28 also read)

Serious Christians would agree with this statement, at least on the surface.  Underneath they begin to waffle a bit.  This is usually done by stuffing God into the box of their theological system.

You have some systems that read this and have a glory fest.  They point out the sovereignty of God and how He predestines whom shall be saved.  Usually they include themselves on that list but say it is a mystery how God chooses whom He will save.  They might quote this verse as verification but they are making an assumption.  While it gives God the power and position of Judge it overlooks the fact that judging involves justice, not just mercy.  The fact that we all deserve hell and can’t earn our salvation does not mean that God does not look for certain attitudes or applications in order to make His judgement.  There is a big difference between a God who says, “I see the desire of your heart and will honor it” and a God who closes His eyes and says, “Eeny, meeny, miny moe...”

The second distortion is just the opposite.  They would claim since God is love that none will really be put down.

So?  Develop your theology by reading the whole scripture and letting God be God. 

There Is an Answer

(Pro 27:11 KJV)  My son, be wise, and make my heart glad, that I may answer him that reproacheth me.

We all come across times when others “reproach” (2778) us for one reason or another.  That is life but we don’t need to enjoy it.  Neither do we need to let it drag us down.

The obvious qualifications should be noted.  When someone criticizes you start by listening to what they are saying.  Consider it as objectively as you can.  Ignore or implement change as required.  That should be part of our basic response.

With me the emotional pressure is what mounts and does not want to go away.  When criticized unjustly I can acknowledge that it is unjust, but it still inflicts pain.  How do I deal with it, or more accurately, how should I deal with it?  The suggestion here implies that there are areas of our lives where we have done well.  The example here is a son who has shown wisdom.  The idea is to keep reminding yourself of your successes to keep the negatives in check.

So?  I think we have all done some good.  It may take a bit of thinking when we are being attacked but give it some time.  Just as you relied on God’s grace to do well now you need to call on the Holy Spirit to bring those times to mind.  

A Timely Reminder

(Pro 26:12 KJV)  Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him.

Recently at a monthly men’s meeting I expressed a number of thoughts.  They found no traction, to put the best spin possible on it.  Another way is to say that I didn’t even get a nice pat on the head.  I have been thinking about that for the last few days.  I wasn’t sharing anything of great depth but I felt it was a good time for my input.  As I read this today I thought it summarized me at that moment.  No one thought my counsel was wise.

One of the painful truths about life is that we tend to think our thoughts are deeper than others do.  I needed to be reminded of this.  I must continue to be willing to answer questions and express my opinion if someone asks but realize that they will seldom ask really wanting an answer.

So?  It is reassuring the way that the written word can keep talking to us and hitting home.  I can’t say I enjoy it but I do need it.   

Hiding in Thee

(Psa 71:3 KJV)  Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: thou hast given commandment to save me; for thou art my rock and my fortress.

(Proverbs 25 also read)

Put aside your yearning to emulate John Wayne.  We are not stand alone giants, defying everything that the world throws at us.  Sure, we stand tall but we also get worn down.  This is a time for heading for our “strong” (6697) “habitation” (4583).  Here the NASB is more literal with “rock of habitation”.  The idea is a fortress where we can get out of the storm.

“Continually” (8548) does a good job of getting across the expectation that we are going to need to make this a lifestyle, not the exception.  What surprised me when I look at the software was that this is a noun.  It is continuity rather than continually.  

So?  Seek Him and rejoice that He shelters us.  He will send us out again but the assurance of a fortress behind us adds strength to our stance.  

Be the Straw

(Pro 24:11 KJV)  If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain;

This is another place where it helps to compare other translations.  In the KJV this is an incomplete thought.  In other translations it stands alone.  

The point is that we are to be working to keep people from destroying themselves.  This has so many application in our culture today.  It goes far beyond just the need to evangelize.  Think of the ways in which people are heading for destruction.  Start with the standard one of alcohol.  That has been with us since the beginning of time.  Move forward to all the drugs that are turning minds in mush and bodies into wastelands.  Add the most resent atrocities of using surgery and drugs to encourage confused children to try to change their sex.

So?  We have a calling to stand up and speak out.  For most of us it will be almost a surprise when we find someone willing to listen.  Keep on the alert.  It could be that you will be the straw that breaks the devils back.  

The Days Are Gone

(Pro 23:25 KJV)  Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice.

Now that we are past Mothers’ Day and Fathers’ Day we can get past the emotional moments and remind ourselves of the ongoing principles.  The context of this verse is a son who shows wisdom.  This is not just being glad you have children but rejoicing in how they turned out.

It is a reminder of what you have invested and what is called ROI, or return on investment.  It often takes years to pay off.  I remember well the times I wondered if it had been a mistake to have children.  I stuck to my guns and God has honored that.

For those who have no children or came to the Lord too late to raise godly children I relate a note that our pastor read last Sunday.  It was from a young man who was going off to college.  He related how the people in the church had been such an influence on him during his life and wanted to thank them.  This was in addition to godly parents.  You can contribute.

So?  Take a moment to rejoice in the family investments you have made.  Like most investments it often means going short on other areas but the payoff is worth it.  

Dream Busters

(Pro 22:29 KJV)  Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.

I don’t think I was feeling sorry for myself.  I am not depressed at all.  Life is full of blessings.  With all that said this verse put me in my place this morning.

I have never stood before kings.  I am not sure I have ever been in personal contact with anyone who plays a significant role in our society.  I am not sure that I even stand before the mean men in my area.  I know that I am above average in most ways.  That is not something to be arrogant about.  My son points out George Carlin’s observation that half of the population is below average.  Even they don’t think I have much to say.

So?  Rejoice.  I keep reminding myself that God does not call all of us to be CEO’s or celebrities.  We are called to be faithful.  When we realize that our goal is to be like Jesus and not John Wayne it changes the perspective.  He will help us in one and just shake His head at the other.  

Fool Me Once...

(Psa 66:3 KJV)  Say unto God, How terrible art thou in thy works! through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee.

(Proverbs 21 also read)

The KJV totally misses the point here.  It would seem that God’s enemies are actually coming in surrender but the actual wording of “submit” means that they are giving “feigned obedience” (3584) as the NASB has it.  It looks good but it is a total fraud.

If you continue reading you find evidence of genuine worship.  We need to understand that God always knows the difference.  We can know the difference in our own hearts but we need to understand that we can’t usually see through the facade that others offer.

So?  Keep your eyes on Jesus.  This is easy to say but hard to do.  We look around for affirmation instead of focusing on what God expects.  We try to live up to the charade that others are acting out and will usually fail miserably because that is not what God has for us. 

Facades

(Pro 20:29 KJV)  The glory of young men is their strength: and the beauty of old men is the gray head.

We live in the age of the buff dude.  Working out at the gym is a religious ritual for many.  Even the click bait tries to get the elderly lifting weights and building strength.  That is reflected in this.

We are not in a time when age is assumed to bestow wisdom.  We tend to link it with dementia, feebleness, being out of touch and stuck in our ways.  That is definitely not reflected in this verse.

In either case this might be a case of damning with faint praise.  Neither big muscles or gray hair guarantee anything of value.  Many athletes die early because they put so much into big muscles.  One of the marks of foolishness is a Ph.D. from an Ivy League school.

So?  Put your trust in the Lord.  If you want to lift weights, fine, but don’t let it substitute for prayer and studying the word. 

He Has Your Back

Psalm 63:7 (KJV) Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.

Another place talks about sheltering under God’s wings.  This is a bit of a different picture, at least for me today.

When I read this I asked myself when we would be under this shadow and came up with the idea of a young bird out learning the ropes and having the adult flying above.  The purpose would be to shelter me from an attack in that direction.  As a novice I might forget to check that direction.  I would be a sitting duck.  The parent protects the young from the foolishness of immaturity.

In the same way we can count on God to be taking care of the things that would not even occur to us.  What would those things be?  If I knew I might not need the shelter.

So?  Develop awareness but while you are working on it trust that the Lord is hovering in the areas that you are not even sensing.  

Haughty Destruction

(Pro 18:12 KJV)  Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.

I sense another both/and reading.  I find myself wondering if the destruction in the first part of the verse is the source of the humility or is humility something we can achieve without total disaster.  It is clear that humility comes before honor but what is the means?

I like to think that the Holy Spirit can bring about humility.  It is hard to measure because part of the problem is that thinking we are humble is often a sign of a lack.

Followers of Jesus are expected to put others first.  Even that is to be done with the right attitude.  It can be achieved.

So?  If you are learning the hard way, embrace the lesson and grow on.   If you are blessed enough to grow without the pain then give God the praise.  

Vice Versa

(Pro 17:11 KJV)  An evil man seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.

(Pro 17:11 NAS77) A rebellious man seeks only evil, So a cruel messenger will be sent against him.

Which came first, the chicken or the egg?  When you see these two translations side by side you see that the order of rebellion and evil are reversed.  If you compare multiple translations you find this repeated.  I don’t know enough about Hebrew to make a case for either so I will work with what I can figure out.

The evil is clear.  No matter how you define it, evil is bad.  That is by definition.  Not so with rebellion.  Most of us would accept that there are times when rebellion is necessary and the responsible thing to do.  The problem comes when rebellion is your default mode.

We often talk about children going through their rebellious stage.  Some never get over it and move on.  That is the person referred to here.  When your go-to response to any direction or correction is, “Well, of yeah?” you are this person.

So?  There may be times when God wants us to reject something being presented to us or forced upon us.  We don’t do this in the spirit of rebellion but in the desire to reject evil.  See the difference?  Think about it and see if it makes any difference in your day.  

Working It Out

Psalm 62:12 (KJV) Also unto thee, O Lord, belongeth mercy: for thou renderest to every man according to his work.

(Proverbs 16 also read)

Last Sunday the pastor was in Romans 4 and waxing strong on how we are not saved by works.  Well and good.  If you have read your Bible you know that your skill, hard word and talent will never be enough to pay for your sin and bring you eternal life.  Only the death and shed blood of Jesus on the cross are adequate for that.

At the same time you come across this statement by David about our “work”.  Jesus makes the same type of statements.  It seems a contradiction but it isn’t.  If you read Paul when he is condemning, you will notice that he seems to usually us the plural, works.  He also seems to focus almost exclusively on circumcision.  You need to understand that he is not saying obedience is not necessary.  He is saying that slavishly followed rituals will not save you.

So?  Live in righteousness as an expression of your love and faith.  Neither faith nor obedience are options.  

Investment in Life

(Pro 15:27 KJV)  He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.

My mind went to possible applications of this that are necessary to use cautiously.  My thought was that “greedy” (1214) of “gain” (1215) can be understood as an attitude that rejects consistent moral behavior or acts correctly to cover up the hypocrisy of the heart.  

I am aware of many people who’s house has been “troubled” (5916).  It might not be obvious to the casual observer.  All may seem wonderful.  All the motions are there.  Go back 30 years later and find divorce, drug addicted children and bankruptcy.  That is a bit extreme but I am still trying to figure out why people who seem to be walking spiritual lives can have children that go down the path of rebellion and rejection.  I hear of children who will not talk to their parents because they voted for Trump and I wonder what path led to this.

I do not have an answer and I am afraid to look too close.  One reason is that there is nothing I can do to help.  I rejoice that my children seem to have turned out right.

So?  Be consistent.  I have to believe that my example is still being examined.  I also have to believe that God will honor a change of heart.  

Notice the Fence

(Pro 14:30 KJV)  A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.

The KJV sounds much more scientific than the NASB.  The NASB has “tranquil” (4832) for “sound”.  The Hebrew, as far as I can tell, has the idea of healing and being cured.  

Where do we get this cure?  There are frequent references in Proverbs to the fear of the Lord.  A reminder: Fear in Proverbs is not the phobia of the Greek but a sense of awe and reverence.  Read the rest of the chapter and you will find it several times.  It tells us to take a step back and put things in perspective.  When I am out walking I will occasionally have a dog start barking from close by and get me to jump.  When I stop and think I realize that the dog is behind a fence.  I might even notice that its tail is wagging.  That is where our confidence in God produces the tranquility mentioned here.

So?  A momentary spike in adrenaline is not a mark of doubt or danger.  It helps us focus on what the real problem is and get a better understanding of the security we have in Christ.  

Wealth vs Riches

(Pro 13:11 KJV)  Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.

As I read this today I began to think about the possible difference between wealth and riches.  In modern economics they are not the same.  Wealth can be used as a synonym but has more of an attitude of the total amount of value in society rather than just what you have in your bank account.  

What seemed to resonate with me is that the uncountable dollars accumulated by a few people who manipulate paper in places like the stock market are not real wealth for society.  It may line their pockets but the self-centeredness, or vanity, of such focus actually has the potential to suck the life out of a country.  Real wealth is the result of producing not manipulating.

So?  This does not mean we don’t invest but it does mean that we keep a perspective on what will actually make the physical world a better place for all men.  If hedge fund managers all disappeared tomorrow the world would go on.  If all the plumbers were raptured it would be almost instant chaos.