25
2 It is the glory of God to conceal a matter;
to search out a matter is the glory of kings.
I heard a meteorologist speak on this verse before. This was one of his reasons for choosing the career he did and being so passionate about it. He said that it is our job to search and ask questions and study God's mysterious works.
15 Through patience a ruler can be persuaded,
and a gentle tongue can break a bone.
16 If you find honey, eat just enough—
too much of it, and you will vomit.
27 It is not good to eat too much honey,
nor is it honorable to seek one's own honor.
(this will also make you vomit - it goes nowhere good)
19 Like a bad tooth or a lame foot
is reliance on the unfaithful in times of trouble.
20 Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day,
or like vinegar poured on soda,
is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.
Mourn with those who mourn.
28 Like a city whose walls are broken down
is a man who lacks self-control.
Here's that discipline and self control again... without it, I am like a city whose walls are broken down...
26
1 Like snow in summer or rain in harvest,
honor is not fitting for a fool.
9 Like a thornbush in a drunkard's hand
is a proverb in the mouth of a fool.
Words of wisdom can be dangerous if used incorrectly.
On gossip:
20 Without wood a fire goes out;
without gossip a quarrel dies down.
21 As charcoal to embers and as wood to fire,
so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife.
22 The words of a gossip are like choice morsels;
they go down to a man's inmost parts.
I hate gossip. It really does go deep into a person and it's a vicious unending cycle. I hate it and pray that I will begin to see the consequences of my words and never gossip about the people I love or even the people that aren't exactly my favorites.
24 A malicious man disguises himself with his lips,
but in his heart he harbors deceit.
25 Though his speech is charming, do not believe him,
for seven abominations fill his heart.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Thursday, April 24, 2008
23,24
23
2 and put a knife to your throat
if you are given to gluttony.
5 Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone,
for they will surely sprout wings
and fly off to the sky like an eagle.
15 My son, if your heart is wise,
then my heart will be glad;
16 my inmost being will rejoice
when your lips speak what is right.
18 There is surely a future hope for you,
and your hope will not be cut off.
19 Listen, my son, and be wise,
and keep your heart on the right path.
There is a future for you that will make God glad. But don't put yourself in tempting places or be greedy with food or riches. Be wise and keep your heart on the right path.
24
It's so good I don't really know what to highlight...
1 Do not envy wicked men,
do not desire their company;
2 for their hearts plot violence,
and their lips talk about making trouble.
12 If you say, "But we knew nothing about this,"
does not he who weighs the heart perceive it?
Does not he who guards your life know it?
Will he not repay each person according to what he has done?
13 Eat honey, my son, for it is good;
honey from the comb is sweet to your taste.
14 Know also that wisdom is sweet to your soul;
if you find it, there is a future hope for you,
and your hope will not be cut off.
26 An honest answer
is like a kiss on the lips.
27 Finish your outdoor work
and get your fields ready;
after that, build your house.
It's easy for me to be jealous of "wicked men" because sometimes life just seems easier when they are not held to higher standards or a higher calling and they can just do whatever they want. But this is not freedom and their lips talk about making trouble which is definitely not freedom. God knows our hearts no matter what we say and honesty is like a kiss on the lips, so we might as well just be honest. Wisdom is sweet to the soul. Don't be lazy but build your house.
2 and put a knife to your throat
if you are given to gluttony.
5 Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone,
for they will surely sprout wings
and fly off to the sky like an eagle.
15 My son, if your heart is wise,
then my heart will be glad;
16 my inmost being will rejoice
when your lips speak what is right.
18 There is surely a future hope for you,
and your hope will not be cut off.
19 Listen, my son, and be wise,
and keep your heart on the right path.
There is a future for you that will make God glad. But don't put yourself in tempting places or be greedy with food or riches. Be wise and keep your heart on the right path.
24
It's so good I don't really know what to highlight...
1 Do not envy wicked men,
do not desire their company;
2 for their hearts plot violence,
and their lips talk about making trouble.
12 If you say, "But we knew nothing about this,"
does not he who weighs the heart perceive it?
Does not he who guards your life know it?
Will he not repay each person according to what he has done?
13 Eat honey, my son, for it is good;
honey from the comb is sweet to your taste.
14 Know also that wisdom is sweet to your soul;
if you find it, there is a future hope for you,
and your hope will not be cut off.
26 An honest answer
is like a kiss on the lips.
27 Finish your outdoor work
and get your fields ready;
after that, build your house.
It's easy for me to be jealous of "wicked men" because sometimes life just seems easier when they are not held to higher standards or a higher calling and they can just do whatever they want. But this is not freedom and their lips talk about making trouble which is definitely not freedom. God knows our hearts no matter what we say and honesty is like a kiss on the lips, so we might as well just be honest. Wisdom is sweet to the soul. Don't be lazy but build your house.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Proverbs 18-22
I'm a little behind... so this will be short and sweet to catch up
18
how many people do you know like this?:
A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions (2)
Basic hospitality:
A gift opens the way for the giver and ushers him into the presence of the great (16)
Words are powerful:
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit (21)
Close friends:
A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. (24)
19
2. it is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way
8. He who gets wisdom loves his own soul; he who cherishes understanding prospers.
11. A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense
20. Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise
21. Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails.
so good...
20.
5. The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out
I want that to be my story.. deep waters are the purpose of my heart. I want to understand those deep waters and draw them out. I think I've only begun to reveal the shores of those deep waters of purpose in my life.
15. Gold there is, rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel
25. It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider his vows
21
2. All a man's ways seem right to him, but the Lord weighs the heart.
Of course we can justify everything we do. This is right for me because... but only really God can say what is right and wrong. I don't know if this means that it is relative for everything and that God searches our hearts and can say what is right for one person may not be for someone else or if it means that we think it's relative and justify our actions but God can really define a black and white right and wrong. Thoughts on this??
17. He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich
20. In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has.
This is really good. Sometimes I think we get really excited about celebrating life, sabbathing (AKA resting and pampering ourselves), hanging with friends (AKA gorging ourselves with unending food, and other fun things because we love pleasure and we love it now. But the wise will wait.
21. He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor
30. There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord.
22
Some facts:
2. Rich and poor have this in common: The Lord is the Maker of them all.
7. The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.
Folly is naturally in us:
15. Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him
This is interesting to me. We have to search for wisdom and need to face consequences for our actions to learn anything. It is so natural for us to be dumb, that it has to be beaten out of us with a "rod of discipline"
18
how many people do you know like this?:
A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions (2)
Basic hospitality:
A gift opens the way for the giver and ushers him into the presence of the great (16)
Words are powerful:
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit (21)
Close friends:
A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. (24)
19
2. it is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way
8. He who gets wisdom loves his own soul; he who cherishes understanding prospers.
11. A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense
20. Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise
21. Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails.
so good...
20.
5. The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out
I want that to be my story.. deep waters are the purpose of my heart. I want to understand those deep waters and draw them out. I think I've only begun to reveal the shores of those deep waters of purpose in my life.
15. Gold there is, rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel
25. It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider his vows
21
2. All a man's ways seem right to him, but the Lord weighs the heart.
Of course we can justify everything we do. This is right for me because... but only really God can say what is right and wrong. I don't know if this means that it is relative for everything and that God searches our hearts and can say what is right for one person may not be for someone else or if it means that we think it's relative and justify our actions but God can really define a black and white right and wrong. Thoughts on this??
17. He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich
20. In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has.
This is really good. Sometimes I think we get really excited about celebrating life, sabbathing (AKA resting and pampering ourselves), hanging with friends (AKA gorging ourselves with unending food, and other fun things because we love pleasure and we love it now. But the wise will wait.
21. He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor
30. There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord.
22
Some facts:
2. Rich and poor have this in common: The Lord is the Maker of them all.
7. The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.
Folly is naturally in us:
15. Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him
This is interesting to me. We have to search for wisdom and need to face consequences for our actions to learn anything. It is so natural for us to be dumb, that it has to be beaten out of us with a "rod of discipline"
Friday, April 18, 2008
16-17
Proverbs 16
1. To man belongs the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the reply of the tongue.
2. In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.
Our desires & longings lead to the actions God gives us to take. Those longings/desires/holy discontents are in us for a reason - fuel to do what God has for us. And it's so cool, that He already knows that and already has the steps laid out for us to take. This is my constant prayer - God please determine the steps you want me to take in this season of deep longing.
21. The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction
23. A wise man's heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction
28. A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends.
Our words are really important and can easily be good or evil. If we are wise at heart, and listening to the wisdom of the Lord, it will be natural for us to promote instruction. But if we are not listening and blurting out folly or gossiping, we can destroy friendships.
Proverbs 17
1. Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting with strife
5. He who mocks the poor shows contempt for their Maker; whoever gloats over disaster will not go unpunished.
Wealth is not so great when you're greedy, prideful, foolish, and angry. I have seen happiness in some pretty shabby places around the world and I have seen sadness and anger in some pretty rich homes in the US.
16. Of what use is money in the hand of a fool, since he has no desire to get wisdom?
This I just think is really cute:
6. Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children
17. A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity
22. A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones
1. To man belongs the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the reply of the tongue.
2. In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.
Our desires & longings lead to the actions God gives us to take. Those longings/desires/holy discontents are in us for a reason - fuel to do what God has for us. And it's so cool, that He already knows that and already has the steps laid out for us to take. This is my constant prayer - God please determine the steps you want me to take in this season of deep longing.
21. The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction
23. A wise man's heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction
28. A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends.
Our words are really important and can easily be good or evil. If we are wise at heart, and listening to the wisdom of the Lord, it will be natural for us to promote instruction. But if we are not listening and blurting out folly or gossiping, we can destroy friendships.
Proverbs 17
1. Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting with strife
5. He who mocks the poor shows contempt for their Maker; whoever gloats over disaster will not go unpunished.
Wealth is not so great when you're greedy, prideful, foolish, and angry. I have seen happiness in some pretty shabby places around the world and I have seen sadness and anger in some pretty rich homes in the US.
16. Of what use is money in the hand of a fool, since he has no desire to get wisdom?
This I just think is really cute:
6. Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children
17. A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity
22. A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
14 & 15
Proverbs 14
This proverb says a lot about the heart to me:
10. Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no one else can share its joy
12. There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death
13. Even in laughter the heart may ache and joy may end in grief
30. A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones
33. Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning and even among fools she lets herself be known.
The heart - and no one really knows but you and God. No one knows my heart but me. I can be laughing and still broken inside. A heart at peace gives life to the body, but if we don't live in peace but instead by envy, greed, and pride it will rot the bones. Obviously a heart is pretty important, giving life to the body. Wisdom tries to let herself be known and call out to us at all times, but it is only in the hearts of those who are searching where she rests. Kind of awesome - a heart of peace gives life to the body and wisdom rests in the hearts of those who find her.
Proverbs 15
God is so in tune with us that he knows "a cheerful look brings joy to the heart..." It's so cool. I don't understand the faiths that believe in a God that's not involved in our lives or that just created the universe and let it run. God understands the depths of our souls and longings. He knows that discipline and wisdom will lead us down a path of righteousness, not only because God is great and deserves our best, but because he completely understands our hearts.
23. The path of life leads upward for the wise to keep him from going down to the grave.
And how much we desperately need the love of God and community.
16. Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil
17. Better a meal of vegetables where there is love, than a fattened calf with hatred.
This proverb says a lot about the heart to me:
10. Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no one else can share its joy
12. There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death
13. Even in laughter the heart may ache and joy may end in grief
30. A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones
33. Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning and even among fools she lets herself be known.
The heart - and no one really knows but you and God. No one knows my heart but me. I can be laughing and still broken inside. A heart at peace gives life to the body, but if we don't live in peace but instead by envy, greed, and pride it will rot the bones. Obviously a heart is pretty important, giving life to the body. Wisdom tries to let herself be known and call out to us at all times, but it is only in the hearts of those who are searching where she rests. Kind of awesome - a heart of peace gives life to the body and wisdom rests in the hearts of those who find her.
Proverbs 15
God is so in tune with us that he knows "a cheerful look brings joy to the heart..." It's so cool. I don't understand the faiths that believe in a God that's not involved in our lives or that just created the universe and let it run. God understands the depths of our souls and longings. He knows that discipline and wisdom will lead us down a path of righteousness, not only because God is great and deserves our best, but because he completely understands our hearts.
23. The path of life leads upward for the wise to keep him from going down to the grave.
And how much we desperately need the love of God and community.
16. Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil
17. Better a meal of vegetables where there is love, than a fattened calf with hatred.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Proverbs 10-13
Proverbs 10 (Proverbs of Solomon)
3. The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.
11. The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.
12. Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs.
16. The wages of the righteousness bring them life, but the income of the wicked brings them punishment
17. He who heeds discipline shows the way to life but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.
21. The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of judgement
27. The fear of the Lord adds length to life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.
28. The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing.
A lot of promises for the wise, righteous, and God-fearing. A lot of nothingness for the wicked and evil. All of their desires are for themselves and not for the glory of God and so as much as they may strive, as long as their wicked ways rule them, they will end up with nothing.
Proverbs 11
Although God promises to feed the righteous and even says they that hard workers will gain wealth (10:4), he also says these things are nothing to God without righteousness and humility.
2. When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom
4. Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death
14. For lack of judgement a nation falls, but many advisers make victory sure.
16. A kindhearted woman gains respect but ruthless men may gain only wealth.
To me this says, that wealth is less valuable than respect and righteousness. Pride leads to disgrace and foolishness leads to a falling nation.
25. A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed
But the reason the generous man prospers is because to be fully generous, he must be humble. He must give to bless others for the Glory of God, not for his own desires or because he knows he will be rich if he gives.
27. He who seeks good finds goodwill, but evil comes to him who searches for it.
Proverbs 12
Words. Wise words. Stupid words. Words have a big impact on us and those around us.
6. The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the speech of the upright rescues them.
15. The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice.
18. Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing
23. A prudent man keeps his knowledge to himself, but the heart of fools blurts out folly
Basically be careful what you say and wise in what you hear. Take advice but do not give out stupid advice so freely. Words are strong enough to bring healing and rescue. Use your words wisely. Wait on the Lord before you rush into speech. Let your words be His.
Proverbs 13
I seriously love Proverbs.
14. The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.
A fountain of life. Wisdom saves. With God's wisdom, a man can be saved and save others from death.
19. A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest turning from evil.
(evil desires are not longings that need to be fulfilled.) It is too hard sometimes for fools to turn to have beautiful healthy longings, instead they turn to evil. But, on the other hand of that, it's so wonderful and true - a longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul. mmmm
3. The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.
11. The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.
12. Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs.
16. The wages of the righteousness bring them life, but the income of the wicked brings them punishment
17. He who heeds discipline shows the way to life but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.
21. The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of judgement
27. The fear of the Lord adds length to life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.
28. The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing.
A lot of promises for the wise, righteous, and God-fearing. A lot of nothingness for the wicked and evil. All of their desires are for themselves and not for the glory of God and so as much as they may strive, as long as their wicked ways rule them, they will end up with nothing.
Proverbs 11
Although God promises to feed the righteous and even says they that hard workers will gain wealth (10:4), he also says these things are nothing to God without righteousness and humility.
2. When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom
4. Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death
14. For lack of judgement a nation falls, but many advisers make victory sure.
16. A kindhearted woman gains respect but ruthless men may gain only wealth.
To me this says, that wealth is less valuable than respect and righteousness. Pride leads to disgrace and foolishness leads to a falling nation.
25. A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed
But the reason the generous man prospers is because to be fully generous, he must be humble. He must give to bless others for the Glory of God, not for his own desires or because he knows he will be rich if he gives.
27. He who seeks good finds goodwill, but evil comes to him who searches for it.
Proverbs 12
Words. Wise words. Stupid words. Words have a big impact on us and those around us.
6. The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the speech of the upright rescues them.
15. The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice.
18. Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing
23. A prudent man keeps his knowledge to himself, but the heart of fools blurts out folly
Basically be careful what you say and wise in what you hear. Take advice but do not give out stupid advice so freely. Words are strong enough to bring healing and rescue. Use your words wisely. Wait on the Lord before you rush into speech. Let your words be His.
Proverbs 13
I seriously love Proverbs.
14. The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.
A fountain of life. Wisdom saves. With God's wisdom, a man can be saved and save others from death.
19. A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest turning from evil.
(evil desires are not longings that need to be fulfilled.) It is too hard sometimes for fools to turn to have beautiful healthy longings, instead they turn to evil. But, on the other hand of that, it's so wonderful and true - a longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul. mmmm
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Proverbs 9
whoever corrects a mocker invites insult; whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse. do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you. instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning.
Definitely the wisest thing I've heard all day. Argue with someone who thinks they're right all the time, and it will end in a hostile mess. Advise a wise person, and they will take the lesson and become wiser. So the instruction for us here is to be open to new lessons because they will make wiser still.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding
The woman Folly is loud; and she is undisciplined without knowledge.
Folly is the stupid place we always run because it's so tempting. "stolen water is sweet; food eaten in secret is delicious!" This says secrecy is good and delicious even. It's more exciting and thrilling to hide our deepest secrets.
But little do they know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of the grave
that's the problem. When we hide our actions, we start to hide ourselves, and eventually our souls end up in the grave.
Definitely the wisest thing I've heard all day. Argue with someone who thinks they're right all the time, and it will end in a hostile mess. Advise a wise person, and they will take the lesson and become wiser. So the instruction for us here is to be open to new lessons because they will make wiser still.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding
The woman Folly is loud; and she is undisciplined without knowledge.
Folly is the stupid place we always run because it's so tempting. "stolen water is sweet; food eaten in secret is delicious!" This says secrecy is good and delicious even. It's more exciting and thrilling to hide our deepest secrets.
But little do they know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of the grave
that's the problem. When we hide our actions, we start to hide ourselves, and eventually our souls end up in the grave.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Prov 8
Wisdom is calling, begging for us to have understanding of what is right and true.
For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her - 11
I, wisdom dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion. - 12
all we have to do is seek and listen. and we will find this powerful knowledge.
By me kings reign and rulers make laws that are just - 15
Wisdom hates evil, pride, and arrogance (13) and makes fearless leaders. It wants to help guide in the right direction; wants to share it's thoughts, words, plans...
I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me - 17
I also think this is really cool. Wisdom was here before it all began. As it is written, "she" was beside the Creator the entire time. "before the mountains were settled in place, before the hills, I was given birth" (25)
and she loves Creation.
Then I was the craftsman at his side. I was filled with delight day after day, rejoicing always in his presence, rejoicing in his whole world and delighting in mankind. - 30,31
Wisdom inspires creation and does not keep creative thoughts away from us; does not want us to live simply by right and wrong but also by enjoying the beautiful gift of creation.
For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her - 11
I, wisdom dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion. - 12
all we have to do is seek and listen. and we will find this powerful knowledge.
By me kings reign and rulers make laws that are just - 15
Wisdom hates evil, pride, and arrogance (13) and makes fearless leaders. It wants to help guide in the right direction; wants to share it's thoughts, words, plans...
I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me - 17
I also think this is really cool. Wisdom was here before it all began. As it is written, "she" was beside the Creator the entire time. "before the mountains were settled in place, before the hills, I was given birth" (25)
and she loves Creation.
Then I was the craftsman at his side. I was filled with delight day after day, rejoicing always in his presence, rejoicing in his whole world and delighting in mankind. - 30,31
Wisdom inspires creation and does not keep creative thoughts away from us; does not want us to live simply by right and wrong but also by enjoying the beautiful gift of creation.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Proverbs 5-7
Proverbs 5: Warning against adultery
What I find so great about this proverb, is that's it's beautifully honest. Not only does God not want you to sin because it's just wrong, but He wants to protect our hearts.
12 "You will say 'How I hated discipline! How my heart spurned correction!... (14)I have come to the brink of utter ruin in the midst of the whole assembly'"
You'll feel guilty, you'll have regrets, and God does not want to see that. He wants us to embrace discipline because He knows that is what really frees us - not lack there of.
18 "May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth."
This is not to say that sex is dirty or wrong but even more so that you miss out on the beauty of it, if you have sex outside of marriage. It says rejoice in the wife of your youth! Rejoice! These are good and beautiful things and God does not want us to miss out.
Proverbs 6: Warning against Folly
This is talking getting yourself into a sticky situation. If you mess up, and by your words, get yourself into a messy place that you can't figure out how to get out of -
"go humble yourself; press your plea with your neighbor"
get out of it! Do not dig a deeper hole or wait for it to work itself out.
"allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids"
instead "do this, my son, to free yourself... go humble yourself..."
It goes on to say:
16 "there are six things the Lord hates and seven that are detestable to him:
haughty eyes
a lying tongue
hands that shed innocent blood
a heart that devises wicked schemes
feet that are quick to rush into evil
a false witness who pours out lies
and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers"
and to the scoundrel and villain "therefore disaster will overtake him in an instant; he will suddenly be destroyed - without remedy."
So do not fall into these traps. It's laid out right here for us. Some things really are black and white.
Proverbs 7: warning against the adulteress
2 "Keep my commands and you will live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye"
4 "Say to wisdom, 'you are my sister,' and call understanding your kinsman"
Wow, wisdom, my sister and understanding part of my family?? Sweet deal! Guard God's teachings as the apple of my eye, though? easier said than done. I long for that righteousness and wisdom. I long for life filled with commands I keep instead of ones I disobey. God knows our hearts. He knows that keeping His commands will in fact let you live, let you be free, versus the alternative which we sometimes think is freedom - doing whatever we want - that really leads to destruction and death.
This proverb is more adultery talk, but I think in a lot of cases it could be taken as any type of luring sin. She says "come let's drink deep of love till morning; let's enjoy ourselves with love!" man, have I heard that one too many times! (of course not from an adulterating woman). But this sin (whatever it is that really attracts you) just pulling you in "with persuasive words she led him astray; she seduced him with her smooth talk" (21).
Don't be led astray. Cling to freedom - true freedom. Long for Jesus, not for any other temporary fix. Call wisdom your sister and understand that God has a better plan for you than lust and immorality.
What I find so great about this proverb, is that's it's beautifully honest. Not only does God not want you to sin because it's just wrong, but He wants to protect our hearts.
12 "You will say 'How I hated discipline! How my heart spurned correction!... (14)I have come to the brink of utter ruin in the midst of the whole assembly'"
You'll feel guilty, you'll have regrets, and God does not want to see that. He wants us to embrace discipline because He knows that is what really frees us - not lack there of.
18 "May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth."
This is not to say that sex is dirty or wrong but even more so that you miss out on the beauty of it, if you have sex outside of marriage. It says rejoice in the wife of your youth! Rejoice! These are good and beautiful things and God does not want us to miss out.
Proverbs 6: Warning against Folly
This is talking getting yourself into a sticky situation. If you mess up, and by your words, get yourself into a messy place that you can't figure out how to get out of -
"go humble yourself; press your plea with your neighbor"
get out of it! Do not dig a deeper hole or wait for it to work itself out.
"allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids"
instead "do this, my son, to free yourself... go humble yourself..."
It goes on to say:
16 "there are six things the Lord hates and seven that are detestable to him:
haughty eyes
a lying tongue
hands that shed innocent blood
a heart that devises wicked schemes
feet that are quick to rush into evil
a false witness who pours out lies
and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers"
and to the scoundrel and villain "therefore disaster will overtake him in an instant; he will suddenly be destroyed - without remedy."
So do not fall into these traps. It's laid out right here for us. Some things really are black and white.
Proverbs 7: warning against the adulteress
2 "Keep my commands and you will live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye"
4 "Say to wisdom, 'you are my sister,' and call understanding your kinsman"
Wow, wisdom, my sister and understanding part of my family?? Sweet deal! Guard God's teachings as the apple of my eye, though? easier said than done. I long for that righteousness and wisdom. I long for life filled with commands I keep instead of ones I disobey. God knows our hearts. He knows that keeping His commands will in fact let you live, let you be free, versus the alternative which we sometimes think is freedom - doing whatever we want - that really leads to destruction and death.
This proverb is more adultery talk, but I think in a lot of cases it could be taken as any type of luring sin. She says "come let's drink deep of love till morning; let's enjoy ourselves with love!" man, have I heard that one too many times! (of course not from an adulterating woman). But this sin (whatever it is that really attracts you) just pulling you in "with persuasive words she led him astray; she seduced him with her smooth talk" (21).
Don't be led astray. Cling to freedom - true freedom. Long for Jesus, not for any other temporary fix. Call wisdom your sister and understand that God has a better plan for you than lust and immorality.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Proverbs 3 & 4
***3***
More beautiful promises... if you follow some simple steps
3 "Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart."
5 "trust the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding"
12 "because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in."
The steps are:
1. keep God's commands
2. always love
3. always be faithful
4. trust in the Lord (lean not on your own understanding)
5. Honor the Lord with your wealth
6. accept and even embrace discipline
The promises are:
*prolonged life and prosperity
*favor and a good name in the sight of God and man
*straight paths
*health to your body
*nourishment to your bones
*overflowing resources
*discipline out of love
*wisdom more valuable than silver or gold
*safety
*sweet sleep
*blessings of the home
*inherited honor
This passage does not change the unconditionality of our God. His love for us cannot be earned through discipline or good works. BUT if we just live life without honoring the God who created us and everything around us, we miss out on a lot of blessings.
13 "Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding."
***4***
Some more wisdom talk. Isn't it sweet?
6 "Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding"
It's that valuable. All you have. Understanding is worth more. To know what God wants for my life and where he has planned to take me, I would pay anything for at this point, so I guess I can grasp that one. It tells us to love wisdom. I think it's cool that we are called to seek. We are called to ask. Also, we are offered help along the way...
11 "I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths."
18 "The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day. 19 But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble."
It's so cool! The path of the righteous is fully lit and beaming even. There are no secrets - it's all out there in the sunlight. Cool promise, but unfortunately I can imagine the alternative much better. Knowing you're in a bad place, but you don't know what got you there or how to get out or even the literal; falling but you don't know on what.
Sometimes I think people write God off as "too mysterious" or too distant, vague even. On the other hand, people also name God as a very conditional, my way or the highway type. But this passage tells us otherwise. God has our best interest at all times and wants to shine that "gleam of dawn" on our paths. He wants us to want Him and search for Him, to really understand.
And here's something I've held pretty closely.. "above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life." (23) I've been holding onto this verse for I don't even know how long. I have been guarding my heart by not putting myself out in the world to get hurt. I think there's a little wisdom in that, not to throw yourself at anyone, but I don't know if that's exactly what this verse is saying. I think in the context of this Proverb, it's saying be righteous, go down the righteous path. Use wisdom to guard your heart. Hiding is not wisdom. And more than anything, the verse is simply saying "the wellspring of life" or "out of the heart the mouth speaks" (matt 12:34) so guard your heart. Do not speak unwisely.
More beautiful promises... if you follow some simple steps
3 "Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart."
5 "trust the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding"
12 "because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in."
The steps are:
1. keep God's commands
2. always love
3. always be faithful
4. trust in the Lord (lean not on your own understanding)
5. Honor the Lord with your wealth
6. accept and even embrace discipline
The promises are:
*prolonged life and prosperity
*favor and a good name in the sight of God and man
*straight paths
*health to your body
*nourishment to your bones
*overflowing resources
*discipline out of love
*wisdom more valuable than silver or gold
*safety
*sweet sleep
*blessings of the home
*inherited honor
This passage does not change the unconditionality of our God. His love for us cannot be earned through discipline or good works. BUT if we just live life without honoring the God who created us and everything around us, we miss out on a lot of blessings.
13 "Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding."
***4***
Some more wisdom talk. Isn't it sweet?
6 "Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding"
It's that valuable. All you have. Understanding is worth more. To know what God wants for my life and where he has planned to take me, I would pay anything for at this point, so I guess I can grasp that one. It tells us to love wisdom. I think it's cool that we are called to seek. We are called to ask. Also, we are offered help along the way...
11 "I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths."
18 "The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day. 19 But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble."
It's so cool! The path of the righteous is fully lit and beaming even. There are no secrets - it's all out there in the sunlight. Cool promise, but unfortunately I can imagine the alternative much better. Knowing you're in a bad place, but you don't know what got you there or how to get out or even the literal; falling but you don't know on what.
Sometimes I think people write God off as "too mysterious" or too distant, vague even. On the other hand, people also name God as a very conditional, my way or the highway type. But this passage tells us otherwise. God has our best interest at all times and wants to shine that "gleam of dawn" on our paths. He wants us to want Him and search for Him, to really understand.
And here's something I've held pretty closely.. "above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life." (23) I've been holding onto this verse for I don't even know how long. I have been guarding my heart by not putting myself out in the world to get hurt. I think there's a little wisdom in that, not to throw yourself at anyone, but I don't know if that's exactly what this verse is saying. I think in the context of this Proverb, it's saying be righteous, go down the righteous path. Use wisdom to guard your heart. Hiding is not wisdom. And more than anything, the verse is simply saying "the wellspring of life" or "out of the heart the mouth speaks" (matt 12:34) so guard your heart. Do not speak unwisely.
Completely Random - Update
Hi lovelies!
I'm sorry I've been so MIA for the start of this thing again, but ya'll started it right during finals and spring break for me, so I was quite distracted with school and traveling. I went to see my parents in Singapore, and the minute my sis and I got there, they told us that in the morning we were leaving for Bali! Bali was amazing, and we were able to spend 5 days there before going back to Singapore for 3 days. It was really good to spend time with them - I am glad they are moving home (May 1!!) cuz when I'm with them, I realize just how much I miss them.
The main point of this, though, is to tell you guys some big news I have. If I pass all of my medical exams, I leave in December for West Africa to serve for 27 months in the Peace Corps. :) I will be spending my summer learning French, spending time with my family (and friends, please let me see you before I leave) and hopefully traveling a little bit with my dad, since he is currently having a small retirement before starting something new! So keep my health in your prayers - I have about 4million medical exams to pass before I leave, so hopefully I don't have some secret cancer no one knows about yet that they find. haha.
So I miss you girls tons, and I really hope I get to see you this summer. I am going to try to get some crappy easy barista job in a drive thru coffee stand or something this summer so that I have money to travel a little bit in Summer & Fall, so maybe I'll even be able to have enough to come visit ya'll in your hometowns or something fun like that!
Love you lots!
Bri
I'm sorry I've been so MIA for the start of this thing again, but ya'll started it right during finals and spring break for me, so I was quite distracted with school and traveling. I went to see my parents in Singapore, and the minute my sis and I got there, they told us that in the morning we were leaving for Bali! Bali was amazing, and we were able to spend 5 days there before going back to Singapore for 3 days. It was really good to spend time with them - I am glad they are moving home (May 1!!) cuz when I'm with them, I realize just how much I miss them.
The main point of this, though, is to tell you guys some big news I have. If I pass all of my medical exams, I leave in December for West Africa to serve for 27 months in the Peace Corps. :) I will be spending my summer learning French, spending time with my family (and friends, please let me see you before I leave) and hopefully traveling a little bit with my dad, since he is currently having a small retirement before starting something new! So keep my health in your prayers - I have about 4million medical exams to pass before I leave, so hopefully I don't have some secret cancer no one knows about yet that they find. haha.
So I miss you girls tons, and I really hope I get to see you this summer. I am going to try to get some crappy easy barista job in a drive thru coffee stand or something this summer so that I have money to travel a little bit in Summer & Fall, so maybe I'll even be able to have enough to come visit ya'll in your hometowns or something fun like that!
Love you lots!
Bri
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Proverbs 2
10 For wisdom will enter your heart,
and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.
pleasant to your soul...
3 and if you call out for insight
and cry aloud for understanding,
4 and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,
5 then you will understand the fear of the LORD
and find the knowledge of God.
I feel like these words are too beautiful to even put my own spin on them. We search. We search everyday for something: love, distraction, success, community... whatever. But sometimes we search and we don't even know what we're searching for. We just know there's something missing so we fill it or ignore it. But if we knew we were searching for this prized silver, this hidden treasure it might help our journey just a little bit. If we search for wisdom as hidden treasure - something that is so desired but not so easily obtained, then we will understand... It doesn't say if you find the treasure... It says if you search...
Then not only is wisdom this treasure, it also protects
16 It will save you also from the adulteress,
from the wayward wife with her seductive words,
You can choose the path to the hidden treasure or the path to sin and destruction basically and being on one path keeps you from the other.
20 Thus you will walk in the ways of good men
and keep to the paths of the righteous.
21 For the upright will live in the land,
and the blameless will remain in it;
22 but the wicked will be cut off from the land,
and the unfaithful will be torn from it.
and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.
pleasant to your soul...
3 and if you call out for insight
and cry aloud for understanding,
4 and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,
5 then you will understand the fear of the LORD
and find the knowledge of God.
I feel like these words are too beautiful to even put my own spin on them. We search. We search everyday for something: love, distraction, success, community... whatever. But sometimes we search and we don't even know what we're searching for. We just know there's something missing so we fill it or ignore it. But if we knew we were searching for this prized silver, this hidden treasure it might help our journey just a little bit. If we search for wisdom as hidden treasure - something that is so desired but not so easily obtained, then we will understand... It doesn't say if you find the treasure... It says if you search...
Then not only is wisdom this treasure, it also protects
16 It will save you also from the adulteress,
from the wayward wife with her seductive words,
You can choose the path to the hidden treasure or the path to sin and destruction basically and being on one path keeps you from the other.
20 Thus you will walk in the ways of good men
and keep to the paths of the righteous.
21 For the upright will live in the land,
and the blameless will remain in it;
22 but the wicked will be cut off from the land,
and the unfaithful will be torn from it.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Proverbs in April
Proverbs 1
Wisdom is there for those who listen...
Proverbs are to be recited as helpful tools, words to live by.
5-6 "let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise"
Wisdom is this beautiful gift that is always there if we ask for it. And most times, we don't even ask. ...fools despise wisdom and discipline.
Proverbs is written to a son and I love this passage that I can totally imagine a father saying to his child,
15 "my son, do not go along with them, do not set foot on their paths..."
This parent figure is talking about how people will call you to follow them, that they have so much to offer - it will be great fun, we'll all be rich, we're all in this together. This is the lie that they believe but in reality, "these men lie in wait for their own blood; they waylay only themselves." (18)
This proverb talks about wisdom as a female appealing to simple young men... "at the head of the noisy streets she cries out, in the gateways of the city she makes her speech..." she's screaming but is anyone listening? Wisdom is throwing itself at these people ("the simple ones") but do they respond at all?
23 "If you had responded to my rebuke, I would have poured out my heart to you and made my thoughts known to you."
We walk around all the time saying 'I don't know, this is so confusing, frustrating, annoying...' or whatever else it may be. We never take 1 second to stop and just listen to the God that's been calling us all along; the God who has always had our best interest.
But then we ignore this beautiful wisdom and "disaster sweeps over us like a whirlwind."
It's one of these simple things that is really difficult to grasp. Wait so, if we just ask for wisdom and listen, we'll get it? Huh?
The last verse of this proverb confused me a little at first
33 "but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm."
I was confused because I thought that we were never promised a life of ease and this pretty much says we are. I have a hard time believing that this is a promise of a life of ease when there are countless examples of righteous God-fearing men and women who would listen to wisdom and sometimes that wisdom would lead them into dark and scary places. But I don't think that's exactly what it's saying. I think in contrast to the "whirlwind" we create for ourselves by ignoring wisdom and choosing our own way, that living by wisdom will be an easier path and that God will protect us along the way.
Wisdom is there for those who listen...
Proverbs are to be recited as helpful tools, words to live by.
5-6 "let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise"
Wisdom is this beautiful gift that is always there if we ask for it. And most times, we don't even ask. ...fools despise wisdom and discipline.
Proverbs is written to a son and I love this passage that I can totally imagine a father saying to his child,
15 "my son, do not go along with them, do not set foot on their paths..."
This parent figure is talking about how people will call you to follow them, that they have so much to offer - it will be great fun, we'll all be rich, we're all in this together. This is the lie that they believe but in reality, "these men lie in wait for their own blood; they waylay only themselves." (18)
This proverb talks about wisdom as a female appealing to simple young men... "at the head of the noisy streets she cries out, in the gateways of the city she makes her speech..." she's screaming but is anyone listening? Wisdom is throwing itself at these people ("the simple ones") but do they respond at all?
23 "If you had responded to my rebuke, I would have poured out my heart to you and made my thoughts known to you."
We walk around all the time saying 'I don't know, this is so confusing, frustrating, annoying...' or whatever else it may be. We never take 1 second to stop and just listen to the God that's been calling us all along; the God who has always had our best interest.
But then we ignore this beautiful wisdom and "disaster sweeps over us like a whirlwind."
It's one of these simple things that is really difficult to grasp. Wait so, if we just ask for wisdom and listen, we'll get it? Huh?
The last verse of this proverb confused me a little at first
33 "but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm."
I was confused because I thought that we were never promised a life of ease and this pretty much says we are. I have a hard time believing that this is a promise of a life of ease when there are countless examples of righteous God-fearing men and women who would listen to wisdom and sometimes that wisdom would lead them into dark and scary places. But I don't think that's exactly what it's saying. I think in contrast to the "whirlwind" we create for ourselves by ignoring wisdom and choosing our own way, that living by wisdom will be an easier path and that God will protect us along the way.
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