Proverbs Pick of the Day

These are the wise sayings of Solomon, David's son, Isreal's king-

Written down so we'll know how to live well and right, 

to understand what life means and where it's going; 

A manual for living, for learning what's right and just and fair.

Cry out for wisdom, and beg for understanding.

Search for it like silver, and hunt for it like hidden treasure.

Then you will understand respect for the Lord, 

and you will find that you know God.

                     MY THOUGHTS

 When was the last time you lost something you really needed to find, like your phone, car keys, or money? Do you remember how desperately you searched for it and how relieved you were when you found it? Just imagine how overjoyed God would be if we searched for Him in His Word like that and find we know Him better. 

Don't lose grip on Love and Loyalty.

Tie them around your neck; carve their initials on your heart. 

Earn a reputation for living well in God's eyes and the eyes of the people. 

                      MY THOUGHTS

 As in the days of old, I see the imagery of when a teenager in love carved the initials of his one true love on a tree. I swoon all over again, imagining when Jesus Christ carved His initials on my heart!          

                                   JC                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

                                    +                                                                                                                                  

                                   YE

                               4EVER

Prize wisdom [and exalt her], and she will exalt you; 

She will honor you if you embrace her.  

She will place on your head a garland of grace; 

She will present you with a crown of beauty and glory. 

                    MY THOUGHTS

We can envision and treat Wisdom as a best friend. We should greatly desire to spend time with our best friend. We should call upon her as often as we need help. We should cherish her, honor her, and guard her. Wisdom, in turn, being the most wonderful best friend she is, will honor us, protect us, and instruct us. She longs to be close to us. Wisdom has the most incredible gifts for those who call her friend!
 

Mark well that God doesn't miss a move you make; he's aware of every step you take. 

The shadow of your sin will overtake you; you'll find yourself stumbling all over yourself in the dark.

                 MY THOUGHTS

Okay, now, did you start singing that song "Every Breath You Take" by the 80's rock band The Police? I did!

The lyrics are:

Every breath you take

Every move you make

Every bond you break

Every step you take

I'll be watching you

Every single day

Every word you say

Every game you play

Every night you stay

I'll be watching you

Oh, can't you see

You belong to me

How my poor heart aches

With every step you take

Our God watches us night and day. He never takes His eyes off of us. He wants the same from us, to keep our eyes on Him to keep us from stumbling in the dark. His heart does ache with every misstep we take. He is the light for our path. Come to Him every single day and you can hear Him say, "you belong to me!" 

Can a man embrace fire and his clothes not be burned?

Can a man walk on burning coals without scorching his feet?

                    MY THOUGHTS

Everything we do matters.  We need to recognize that our day to day actions define our custom of living. These customs are significant to the outcome of our day, our lives, and the lives of those around us. No matter how much our flesh desires and justifies, the thoughts and behaviors we hold on to,  support, and practice should not go against what God says in his Word.  There are always consequences for our actions.  We cannot live the way we desire, going against what God desires, and not be harmed in the end. It is not God who is punishing us.  It is us who are punishing us! When we play with the fires of sin, we will get burned. 

Follow my advice, my son; always treasure my commands. 

Obey my commands and live!

Guard my instructions as you guard your own eyes.

                MY THOUGHTS 

The Lord has given to us a most precious gift which is His commands. We should guard them as we would an overflowing treasure chest. We should protect God’s commands as we protect anything precious to us, such as our eyes are precious. We can protect or shield our eyes by putting on safety goggles or shades. We need to place a shield between the word we have received and the world that seeks to distort it.  Our obedience is the shield for the Word’s instructions, protecting them from the world’s distortions. Just as we know, if we allowed outside irritants to enter our eyes, it could affect if our eyes could see clearly. Likewise, we should take every measure to shield or protect the Lord’s instructions and not let outside irritants or cultural influences distort what is true. For example, the Word’s instructions say, "do not steal." So if we allow or justify behaviors, such as stealing, for a “good cause”, we have allowed the instructions to be distorted.  Look back at Proverbs 6:30-31 MSG, we find,  “Hunger is no excuse for a thief to steal.” Let us guard our eyes and minds against distortions.   But, there is good news! God, our Father, knows we need help! The Word tells us: "now that we know what we have-Jesus, the great High Priest with ready access to God-let's not let it slip through our fingers. We don't have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He's been through weakness and testing, experienced it all-all but the sin. So let's walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help. (Hebrews 4:16 MSG) Love the Word and protect it. Obey the Word and we will live and live well!    

I was like a child by his side.

I was happy every day and enjoyed being in his presence.

I enjoyed the whole world.

And I was happy with all its people.

                   MY THOUGHTS

Wisdom has been with God since the very beginning. She is His "ride or die", His 100 from day one! She knows everything about Him. Wisdom was the event coordinator the week the world was created. They had such a good time, they rested all day Saturday to laugh, rejoice, and reminisce about some of the wild creations they had made. If you really want to get to know more about God and what brings Him joy, call Wisdom, she would love to tell you all about Him!      

                  MY THOUGHTS 

In Chapter 9, we learn that just as Wisdom calls out to us, Folly calls out also. Let's see what each of them has to offer.

Wisdom built her house and furnished it, and she is productive.

Folly sits on her porch and she is restless.

Wisdom made a sacrifice and prepared a feast for us.

Folly stole the meal she sets out.

Wisdom offers bread and wine to be eaten together at the table.

Folly offers plain water and stolen bread to be eaten in secret.

Wisdom sends out invitations and offers gifts to those who come to her.

Folly makes herself a distraction and operates in the deception of her guests.

Wisdom provides correction,  instructions, and benefits.

Folly leads to offense, insults, and scorn.

Wisdom promises you life and insight.

Folly promises you death and Hell.

They both call out to those who are naive or lack judgment to come to their house.  So as we go about our day, please let us be mindful of whose voice calling out to us that we stop and give our attention to. And at the end of this day,  think back, whose house did you visit, Wisdom or Folly?  

The wisdom of Solomon: 

When wisdom comes to a son, joy comes to a father. 

When a son turns from wisdom, a mother grieves.

MY THOUGHTS 

Solomon's proverbs offer us parents a manual for teaching our children wisdom. At the end of the day, however, we cannot control their or anyone else's decisions. We should rejoice and celebrate with them when they do make wise and godly choices. When our children turn from Wisdom and chose Folly, we will feel hurt or disappointed by those decisions. But if we continue to share with them the wisdom of God's Word, if we show them a life of a lover of God who sometimes fails but never gives up, and if we plant the good seed in them and Holy Spirit waters it, we all will see the fruit of our works. We pray to see lives that glorify God, theirs and ours! 

The who seeks good finds delight;

the student of evil becomes evil.

MY THOUGHTS

As we go through life, we all become students of something. A student is defined as a person who takes an interest in a particular subject. What are your interests? What are you studying?  Life offers many subjects to choose from. If we choose Jesus as our student advisor, He encourages us to pursue subjects that are true, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous, and praiseworthy. At the end of our course, we will experience favor, grace, kindness, and delight. In the same way, if we choose Satan as our student advisor, he encourages us to pursue subjects like sexual immorality, lustful thoughts, pornography, manipulation, hatred, arguments, resentments, selfishness, and addictions. At the end of our course,  we will experience oppression, trouble, and all kinds of evil.  The efforts we place in learning, studying, and mastering any of these subjects, will be demonstrated in how we live our lives. Take out your student handbook, the Bible, consider your long-term goals, and choose your course wisely! 

Better is a man of humble standing who works for himself 

than one who plays the great man but lacks bread.

MY THOUGHTS 

God will give honor and grace to those who turn away from self-righteousness. The Bible also tells us that "God can't stomach arrogance and pretense" (Proverbs 16:5 MSG.) Being prideful is described as highly offensive, disgusting, detestable, and hated by God. God made us who we are and the actions we choose determine how we live our lives.  In all circumstances, we should trust Him, be humble by being ourselves, and do what is right.  I believe we would have more contentment and joy in our lives if we would just be and do what God has called us to be and do. When we step outside of His calling and live a life of our own pretenses, we will lack the things God has promised us.  Those of us who recognize who we are and whose we are will lack nothing!  

Wealth quickly gained is quickly wasted-easy come, easy go! But if you gradually gain wealth, you will watch it grow.

MY THOUGHTS 

For those of you who play dominoes, you may be familiar with the saying, “all money ain’t good money!” A simplified object of the game is to count the little black dots on the dominoes, scoring in multiples of 5 until you reach 150 points first to win. Some call each score “money.” In the process of scoring money, an expert domino player will know when to place the right game piece to stop another player from scoring and will be the first one to call out “domino” to win the round. A greedy and inexperienced player will quickly throw out a game piece when he realizes that it will allow him to score 5 or 10 points. However, getting that score too soon without regards to what else he and the other players have in their hands, may cause him to lose the game. There was not much effort or thought into gaining the money or the score. It is the steady and strategic adding on of points; it is the studying the board to be the one to call out “Domino” that will most likely win him the game. If he places his pieces out there too soon, he may very well “lock-up” the game and lose everything he has in his hand! Be careful not to be like the inexperienced player. Do not go for the wealth in haste. God desires us to live a life steady in Him, heeding to His wisdom and instructions, and being rewarded by our labors. Diligent, honest, and productive labor that will grow and multiply is the way to gain everlasting wealth. Watch it grow!

A calm and undisturbed mind and heart are the life and health of the body, 

but envy, jealousy, and wrath are like rottenness of the bones.

MY THOUGHTS

Today as we celebrate Valentine’s Day, we must give attention to the heart. The condition of our hearts is most important. The heart holds the treasures of our lives (Matthew 6:21), so let us consider its condition. How has your heart been doing lately? Let us give it a check-up. How has your heart been responding to situations? What are the words from your heart that have come out your mouth? What prompts from your heart have you followed? In all those situations, did your actions manifest peacefulness, relaxation, serenity, and calmness in your life? Or did your reactions give way to restlessness, tensions, worries, and/or agitations?  The Bible says to guard your heart above all else for your affections will affect who you are (Proverbs 4:23). When we take our guard down and allow envy, jealousy, and anger to enter our hearts, it will affect our minds, our hearts, and our quality of living. For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:34). So, if you find on this day of celebrating love that you are without tranquility, consider your heart. A good man out of the good treasure of the heart brings forth good (Luke 6:45a). What is the best thing for your heart? Jesus! God has provided for us a great prescription, take Jesus into your heart, for “he came that you may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows)” (John 10:10 AMPC). Share your heart with Him. Let Jesus be your Valentine today and every day.  

The sacrifice of the wicked is hateful and exceedingly offensive to the Lord,

but the prayer of the upright is His delight.

 MY THOUGHTS

Take a minute to imagine your most favorite person in the whole world. Go ahead, smile! When you think of that person, do thoughts of times you two have spent together or conversations you have had flood your mind? You know, God does that too! He smiles when He thinks of the prayers, which are simply conversations, that He has shared with us. Our honest and genuine prayers are His delight! God desires for us to make Him our favorite person in the whole universe, to trust and believe in Him. According to His Word, God is so smitten with you, " he will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs" (Zephaniah 3:17 NLT). God sings over us! Go ahead, smile again! It is amazing how our God, our Father, our Creator, our Wonderful Counselor, our Healer, our Strong Tower, our Redeemer, our Everything loves us so much. Also, it is amazing when we recognize, accept, and act on His love and have a desire to reciprocate it, there is a promise. The promise is fulfilled when we delight ourselves also in the Lord, He shall give us the desires of our hearts (Psalms 37:4 NKJV)! One more time, smile!
 

Commit your works to the Lord [submit and trust them to Him],

And your plans will succeed [if you respond to His will and guidance]. 

MY THOUGHTS

“It’s about faith.

It’s about trust.

Nothing can come between us."

Never truer words were song by 90’s songstress Sade’ that can be used as an anthem describing how our relationship with God can be.  If we trust Him with all our plans, and all our hopes, He will guide us in the direction of success. The Bible professes to us that “a man’s mind plans his way [as he journeys through life], but the Lord directs his steps and establishes them” (Proverbs 16:9). By putting our complete trust in our Heavenly Father to take care of us, we can never be separated from Him. In Romans 8:37-39, God promises us, for those who believe in Jesus Christ, nothing, not things in the present nor things to come, shall separate us from his love. The responsibility is on us to act on faith and trust God at His Word. God does not lie. God declares to us, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11).  Make a commitment to truly trust God with everything and everything God promised you will come true. 

A simple, humble life with peace and quiet is far better than an opulent lifestyle with nothing but quarrels and strife at home.

MY THOUGHTS  

Just imagine when peace in your life was far more valuable than anything else at that time. Just peace and quiet. Sometimes it is these simple things that money cannot buy, food cannot satisfy, and friends cannot esteem us enough. Just peace and quiet. God promises such peace, the peace “which transcends all understanding [that] will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7). We do not have to get filled with what the world offers, and we do not have to let all the troubles of the world overtake our minds, bodies, and souls. Believe Jesus when He exclaims, “in the world, you will have trouble, but take heart! I have overcome the world.” Believe Jesus when He proclaims, “in me you may have peace” (John 16:33). At times, all we need is to sit in the corner of our house, eating a crust of bread without conflict and have what Jesus offers. Just peace and quiet! My prayer for you: “may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:3).

Death and life are in the power of the tongue,

and those who love its use will eat its' fruit.

MY THOUGHTS 

 Perhaps, there has never been a bigger lie uttered than:     

        Sticks and stones can break my bones      

        But words will never hurt me!

Words do hurt! Words can leave wounds that can take a person a lifetime to heal from. Words are powerful, for good and for evil. Words used for good can bring life. Since the beginning of time, words are the foundation of life. God spoke everything in this world into existence. In Genesis Chapter 1, God said let there be and so it was, and it was good. Simply powerful. Similarly, words can most definitely be used for evil and death. Satan's most powerful weapon is words. He whispers words of deception into our ears every day, just as he did with Eve in the garden. And like Eve, if we listen to those words, if we consume them into our bodies, it will cause death, which is the separation of the relationship between us and God. Words spoken and believed can strengthen our relationships with God and others or destroy those relationships. Words are essential to life. Words feed us as food does. Proverbs 18:20 MSG also tells us, “words satisfy the mind as much a fruit does the stomach, good talk is a gratifying as a good harvest.” Likewise, “bad talk” reaps a “bad harvest.” The type of seeds we plant with our words will grow and produce fruit. What type of fruit are you producing? Do you taste the consequences of your words? Do others want seconds? Or, do they excuse themselves from your table? “Words kill, words give life, they’re either poison or fruit-you choose” (Proverbs 18:21 TPT). 

The reverent worshipful fear of the Lord leads to life,

and he who has it rests satisfied; he cannot be visited with [actual] evil.

MY THOUGHTS

If we completely fear God, with fear meaning to love, respect, trust, believe God, we should not fear evil. The love of God is all-consuming and encompassing. If we truly fear God (love, respect, trust, believe Him) we will not let fear bother us. It comes down to “faith over fear.”  In any particular situation we face, we must decide will we chose faith or fear. With faith in God, we will not have sleepless nights, we will not have worry and anxiety. With the Lord as our guide, He will give us rest and comfort (Psalm 23). For “who are they that live in holy fear of God? [He] will show them the right path to take” (Psalm 25:12). We are promised life to those of us who worship God and refuse the works of evil. The Bible says, “so give yourselves completely to God. Stand against the devil, and the devil will run from you” (James 4:7 NCV).  Let your faith in God satisfy you and there will be no more room for evil! 

A slacker will not plow in season,

so at harvest, he looks but finds nothing.

MY THOUGHTS

We all want to be blessed. We all are promised to be blessed. But we all don’t do what is necessary to get those blessings. Most promises in the Bible come with action due on our part. If you lack wisdom, you must ask (James 1:5). If you want forgiveness, you must confess your sin (1 John 1:9).  If you want rest, come to Jesus (Matthew 11:28). If you want to be blessed in your storehouse and in everything you do, you must listen to and obey the Lord your God’s commands (Deut. 28:8,13). So, if you are not planting seeds now for what fruit you want to reap in the future, don’t be surprised when you have nothing to show for at harvest time. According to Matthew 25:14-30, if you want all the blessings God has planned for you; you must use the talents He has given you to get them. This is not the time to sleep and slumber, it is time to plan and plant! Get up and go get your blessings!   

The Lord is more pleased when we do what is right and just

than when we offer him sacrifices.

MY THOUGHTS

Do you know what makes God smile? Faithful love and obedience. It is better to obey the Word of God than to sacrifice something that you chose to do or give away. To sacrifice is sometimes good and sometimes necessary, but the true evidence of our love and knowledge of God is found in our living in obedience. When the Israelites turned from righteous living in the past, God our Father makes His request known to them, “I’m after love that lasts, not more religion. I want you to know GOD, not go to more prayer meetings"(Hosea 6:6 MSG)! God asks us to do the same today, to know Him, love Him, and do what is right. He says “stop bringing meaningless offerings! The multitude of your sacrifices-what are they to me" (Isaiah 1:13, 11 NIV)? God wants a relationship with us. He loves us so much that He sent His only son, Jesus, to die for us, so He could have a relationship with us (John 3:16). Jesus simply says, "if you love me, you will obey my commands"(John14:15 NCV). In return, God would be honored if we would obey and do good to show our appreciation of his love. The Bible says, “the Lord has told you, what is good; he has told you what he wants from you; to do what is right to other people; love being kind to others and live humbly, obeying your God” (Micah 6:8 NCV).  So, do you want to make God smile? Love God. Love people. Obey His Word.

 The rich and the poor have a common bond;

The Lord is the Maker of them all.

MY THOUGHTS

God cares for all of us. He designed each of us before we were in our mother’s womb (Psalm 139:13).  According to Matthew 10:30, He knows the numbers of hairs on each of our heads. Each of us is valuable to God (v. 31). We are His creations. He has plans for all of us. God does not desire to see any of us looked down upon or treated unfairly due to a lack of money or status. We have a common bond, perhaps the greatest reason not to treat each other differently, God created us all. God is our Father; therefore, we are brothers and sisters born with the same amount of love and details as the next person. And because God poured out the same amount of love for each of us, it bothers Him when we treat each other as if one is less than the other. As we continue in Proverbs Chapter 22, we read more about how to relate to the poor and the rich: verse 9 says, “He who generous will be blessed, For he gives some of his food to the poor;” verse 16 says, “He who oppresses or exploits the poor to get more for himself or who gives to the rich [to gain influence and favor] will only come to poverty;” and lastly verse 22 says, “Do not rob the poor because he is poor [and defenseless]”. For God knows that just living in this world has its own tribulations, so He “shows no partiality [no arbitrary favoritism; with Him one person is not more important than another] (Romans 2:11). Our Creator calls us to do the same, not show favoritism. As Psalm 139:14 states that which David did, we should also give thanks and praises to God, for we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are His works. His wonderful works formed you, me, and your neighbor too! Give God thanks for us all.

Be sensible when you dine with a stingy man and don’t eat more than you should. For as he thinks within himself, so is he, He will grudgingly say, “Go ahead and eat all you want,” but in his heart, he resents the fact that he has to pay for your meal. You’ll be sorry you ate anything at all, and all your compliments will be wasted.

MY THOUGHTS 

Do you know that person? That person who gives but seems to hold it against you when you accept it? He gives out of pretense, not of pleasure. Stingy, selfish, and manipulative people will get back what they give. In his efforts to keep more for himself, thinking he is protecting, or doing right for himself when, in actuality, he is limiting the blessings he can receive. According to II Corinthians 9:6 TPT, “A stingy sower will reap a meager harvest, but the one who sows from a generous spirit will reap an abundant harvest.” We must discern what type of spirit we are dealing with in others, and ourselves. Are we being generous or pretending to be generous? Are we giving from brotherly love or religious duty? Our innermost thoughts can manifest themselves in our actions. Even though a stingy giver is still a giver, God examines the heart. The Bible says, “Let each one [give] as he has made up in his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, “prompt to do it” giver [whose heart is in his giving]” (v 7 AMPC). Don’t be a giver that regrets, be a giver that rejoices! God loves a cheerful and sincere giver!

First, finish your outside work and prepare your fields,

After that, you can build your house.

MY THOUGHTS

Preparation is key to a solid foundation. We have to put first things first as God intends for us to do, just as He does. God sent His son Jesus Christ to establish His kingdom, but first, he sent prophets and messengers to prepare the way for Jesus’s coming. In Luke 7:27, we learn that John the Baptist was a messenger sent ahead of Jesus to prepare the way, to set the foundation of Jesus’ teaching. Once Jesus had arrived to build His kingdom, He also told us of His plans to prepare a place for us, so that we could come and dwell with Him in His house (John 14:3). Preparation is key. In order for us to live according to God’s will, we first plan, then prepare, by reading, listening, and following instructions, and after that, our house, our families, our lives will be well built. The Bible says, “By wisdom a house is built, by understanding it is prepared” (Proverbs 24:3 TLV). First things first, we must get an understanding to establish a strong foundation for our lives. The preparation that comes from understanding who God is and how He operates in our lives sets the foundation that allows us to build our house of wisdom, living according to the knowledge of God. The more we understand and know God, the more rooms we will add to our house, and the more powerful experiences will add to our lives. So, let us be a person who prepares, listens, and obeys the Word of God, then live our lives according to what we have learned. Be a person, a builder, as Jesus describes in Luke 6:48-49 TPT, “who chooses the right place to build a house and then lays a deep secure foundation. When storms and floods rage against that house, it continues to stand strong and unshaken through the tempest, for it has been wisely built on the right foundation. But the one who has heard my teaching and does not obey it is like a man who builds a house without laying a foundation whatsoever. When the storms and floods rage against that house, it will immediately collapse and become a total loss.” So first, let’s pull out our blueprint, the Bible, and then we can build our houses on a solid foundation, Jesus!

When a lover of God gives in and compromises with the wickedness, It can be compared to contaminating a stream with sewage or polluting a fountain.

MY THOUGHTS

Sometimes we fail to “be the Bible.” Even the lovers of God, sometimes give in to the love of our flesh. Our God knows that about us, He knows we “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23 NKJV). Mercifully, God loves us still the same. As a matter of fact, Christ proved God’s passionate love for us, by dying in our place while we were still [sinners], lost and ungodly (Romans 5:8 TPT)! When we muddy our lives with choices that do not reflect who we are, God promises us if we call upon His great name, and receive His Holy Spirit, He will sprinkle clean water on us, and we shall be clean; He will cleanse us from all our filthiness; He will deliver us from our uncleanness, according to Ezekiel 3623-28 NKJV). When we realize we allowed the ways of man to influence us more than the ways of God, we should know we do not have to remain as a polluted fountain. We must “lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness and with a humble spirit, we absorb God’s Word, which has been implanted within our nature, for the Word of Life has power to continually deliver us (James 1:21 NKJV, MSG). When our stream becomes dark and murky, call out to Jesus, the Living Water, for He is able to cleanse, refresh, and restore us.  

Like a madman who throws firebrands, arrows, and death, 

Is the man who deceives his neighbor,

And says, I was only joking!

MY THOUGHTS

The way we treat our neighbor, our acquaintance, our friend, can reveal what values we live by. A person who is careless with their words or actions shows how much or how little he cares about those who would be affected by those words or actions. It is considered madness to deceive others in ways that are so harmful, then, to think when caught in this deception a simple shrug and “I was just joking” would be sufficient to justify the hurt. God expects more from us than that. We should always strive to walk in love and give thanks for another. The Bible tells us, “Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes-these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. Don’t be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey him” (Ephesians 5:4,6 NLT). Furthermore, the way we treat our neighbors also reveals our obedience to God. When asked by one of the Pharisees which is the most important commandment, Jesus replied, “’ You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’” (Matthew 22:36-38). Consequently, knowing to love your neighbor is the second greatest commandment, which is also said to be equally important as the first, we should show love, honor, and respect to our neighbors with words and actions at every opportunity that arises. By this, we will show our love and obedience to God. So with our hearts and mind in the right place, we could follow in the kindness of Mr. Rogers from Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood and seek out someone every day and say:  

        It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood, 

        A beautiful day for a neighbor,

        Would you be mine?  

       Could you be mine?  

       Won’t you be my neighbor? 

Fire tests the purity of silver and gold,

but a person is tested by being praised.

MY THOUGHTS

Why do we do what we do? Do we do good for the praise of men or the glory of God? After all the accolades and pat on the backs are given, after all the honors and awards are passed out, after the looks of admiration and winks of acknowledgment have ceased, what we will we do? Will we sit back, cross our legs, and bask in our successes or will we fall to our knees, with tears and awe, and worship our God, our Creator, our King of glory? When all the praise of men is done, the Lord examines our hearts and motives. It is good to do good works, in fact, we are created to do good works (Ephesians 2:10). Nevertheless, we must not miss the reason to do good works. The Bible says, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16 NKJV). Our main purpose in life, in all that we do, is to glorify God, our Father (I Corinthians 15:43)!  Proverbs 25:27 warns us that “to seek one’s own glory is not glory” at all. In Jeremiah 9:23-24, the Lord says, “Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, Let not the mighty man glory in his might, Nor let the rich man glory in his riches; But let him who glorifies glory in this, That he understands and knows Me, That I am the Lord, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. For in these I delight " (Revelation 4:9). When we are praised, we should praise God more. In due course, when the exam is put before us and we are tested with praise, our hearts’ best answer is to “give glory and honor and thanks to Him who sits on the throne, who lives forever and ever, for all He created all things, and by Him will they exist and were created!” (Revelation 4:11) 

Guilty criminals experience paranoia even though no one threatens them,

But the innocent lovers of God because of righteousness will have the boldness of a young ferocious lion!

MY THOUGHTS

When I am afraid, I call on one of my favorite scriptures, II Timothy 1:7 AMP, which reads, “For God did not give us a spirit of fear and timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control]. It is so comforting to know Holy Spirit in us will give us boldness (Acts 4:31). We can be bold in Christ for Christ. There is no need to fear man nor evil-real or imagined. The Bible exclaims, “The wicked run away when no one is chasing them, but the godly are as bold as lions (Proverbs 28:1 NLT). King David explains in Psalms 27:1, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” He goes on to say in verse 3, “Though an army may encamp against me, My heart shall not fear; Though war may rise against me, In this I will be confident.” We do not need to run from anything, we need to run to God! For those who trust in Him, God is our strong tower, our fortress, our refuge, our strength, and our protection (Nahum 1:7). Because our active belief in the Lord our God makes us righteous, we can “therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Hebrews 4:16). William Shakespeare penned the phrase, “A coward dies a thousand deaths, but a hero dies but once.” Jesus is our hero. Be bold. Be brave. Be like Jesus. 

If only you had listened when I corrected you,

I would have told you what's in my heart;

I would have told you what I am thinking.

I called, but you refused to listen; 

I held out my hand, but you paid no attention.

MY THOUGHTS

 
Do you not hear it? Are you listening for it? God is calling out to us, by His Spirit, through the Bible, through other believers, through songs, through your passions. God is waiting for us to respond accordingly-to listen and obey. He calls out for us to listen with our hearts, not our ears of understanding, lest we get offended at His words. The Bible calls out to us to "Trust the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5 NJKV). We must not refuse to listen and continue to go the way we intend to go. Jesus calls out to us in Mark 1:15, saying "The [appointed period] of time is fulfilled (completed), and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent (have a change of mind which issues in regret for past sins and in change of conduct for the better) and believe (trust in, rely on, and adhere to) the good news (the Gospel)" (AMPC). God deeply desires for us to know Him and love Him with all our heart, soul, and strength (Luke 10:27). Hear Jesus in John 8:47(TPT) saying, "If you really knew God, you would listen, receive, and respond with faith to his words. But since you don't listen and respond to what he says, it proves you don't belong to him and you have no room for him in your hearts." Let us make room for God. He is holding out His hand to help, please take it.

He is a shield to those who walk with integrity.
He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him.

MY THOUGHTS

Lace-up your shoes. Leave your phone. The Lord wants to take a walk with you. He wants to show the best trails to follow. He's there to warn you of loose gravel and patches of poison ivy (Ephesians 4:26-27, 31-32). He points out the tracks of the lions and tigers and bears that are lurking nearby (I Peter 5:8). He instructs you of what areas to avoid (Proverbs 13:4). When you are hungry, he provides you with bread (John 6:48-51). When it rains, He helps shelter you (Psalms 37:40). When it is cold, He warms you and covers you (Psalm 91:4). When it floods, the Lord will lift you to higher ground (Isaiah 59:19) When there is drought, He provides you a spring of water (Isaiah 58:11). When the sky darkens, He is there to shine the light upon your path (John 8:12). It is quite an adventure to "walk along the path following His commands for that is where [our] happiness is found" (Psalm 119:35 NLT). An though we sometimes "walk through the valley of the shadow of death, [we] will fear no evil and surely goodness and mercy shall follow [us] all the days of [our lives]" (Psalms 23:4a). And when we are finished with our walk on this earth, the Lord promises and I am so grateful that we "will dwell in the house of the Lord forever" (Psalms 23:6). Amen! Are you ready to walk?

Don’t envy violent people or copy their ways,

Such wicked people are detestable to the Lord,

But He offers His friendship to the godly.

MY THOUGHTS

The good guys always finish last is a saying most of us have heard and probably believed to be true in some situations in our lives. However, the Bible warns us not to “be dismayed when the wicked grow rich and their homes become more splendid” (Psalm 49:16). Our God sees and knows all, “Don’t be misled-you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant” (Galatians 6:7). So good guys who plant in response to God’s goodness will harvest goodness. The more we are with God, the more we become like Him, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend” (Proverbs 27:17). God wants godly friends. Friends whose behavior copies his behaviors. He desires friends that “do not copy the behavior of the customs of this world, but [who] let God transform [them] into new persons by changing the way [they] think” (Romans 12:2).  If we are willing to pursue the things of God and not the things of man, if we are willing to be the good guys no matter what the world may be doing by following His commands, our God is willing and waiting to call us "friends" (John 15:14)! Do you believe it? God calls you "Friend!" 

Do not detour into darkness or even set foot on that path.

Stay away from it; don’t even go there!

MY THOUGHTS

Another false cultural saying is “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.” Even though our bodies travel from Vegas-or any other place where sins occurred, those transgressions travel with us in our minds. The ungodly actions may have ceased and desist, but our minds tend to harbor fugitive thoughts. Our thoughts of the sins will remain with us. Like David in Psalms 13:1-2, we may cry out to God asking, “How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me?” When we choose to follow our own directions, we allow the enemy, Satan, to use this opportunity to drag us down. The Bible cautions us, “The wisdom of the wise keeps life on track, the foolishness of fools lands them in the ditch” (Proverbs 14:8 MSG). Frankly, the easiest way to avoid the dangers of traveling on a path of destruction is to not get on it! In Proverbs 4:14, Wisdom yells out to us, “don’t step one foot on it!” When we are faced with which path to take, like David in Psalms 25:4, we should seek God asking Him to direct us throughout our journey so we can experience His plans for our life; Reveal the life-paths that are pleasing to Him; Escort us along the way; take us by the hand and teach us. So if you have made a wrong turn and traveled down Folly Rd, you can now “ repent [change your inner self-your old way of thinking, regret past sins] and return [to God-seek His purpose for your life], so that your sins may be wiped away [blotted out, completely erased], so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord [restoring you like cool wind on a hot day] (Acts 3:19 AMP). Allow God to lead you along Wisdom Way, He'll keep you out of the ditch!

And you groan and mourn when your end comes,

When your flesh and body are consumed,

And you say,  "How I hated instruction and discipline, and my heart despised reproof!"

MY THOUGHTS

The Word of God is beautiful. More beautiful and fulfilling than anything the world has to offer. Yet we reject the Word for fleeting pleasures that, in the end, leave us “full of regrets, with nothing but sin and bones” (Proverbs 5:11 MSG)! God’s heart breaks when we fail to accept, “All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for showing people what is wrong in their lives, for correcting faults, and for teaching how to live right. Using the Scriptures, the person who serves God will be capable, having all that is needed to do every good work” (II Timothy 3:16 NCV). God has plans for us, plans for our lives to be successful and full (Jeremiah 29:11, John 10:10).  In our pridefulness, we want to do things our own way, neglecting that “Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life” (John 14:6). If we follow Him with our whole hearts, there is nothing God will withhold from us (Romans 8:32).  In our humility, we must acknowledge that “he who refuses and ignores instruction and correction despises himself, but he who heeds reproof gets understanding” (Proverbs 15:32).  Therefore, if you want to show love to yourself and to come to an end of this life celebrating with peace, joy, and satisfaction instead of lamenting with groaning, complaining, and sorrow, you must follow the instructions and accept the corrections from “Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us,” the Living Word of God, Jesus Christ (Ephesians 3:20)!

Here are six things God hates,

And one more that he loathes with a passion:

eyes that are arrogant,

a tongue that lies,

hands that murder the innocent,

a heart that hatches evil plots,

feet that race down a wicked track,

a mouth that lies under oath,

a troublemaker in the family.

MY THOUGHTS

Just as God created each of us individually with a purpose, he created each of our body parts, physically and spiritually, to be used for His pleasure. So, when we use parts of the body- the eyes, tongue and mouth, hands, heart, feet, and mind, to fight against the goodness of God and to harm one another, He is greatly displeased. He is angry and ready for us to fight against evil. Because God is so brilliant and compassionate, He provides a way for us to combat sinful behaviors that try to overtake us and separate us from Him. We learn from Ephesians 6:11-17; God provides armor to withstand each one of these sins He hates.

To withstand the eyes that are arrogant, God provides the helmet of salvation.

To withstand the tongue and mouth that lies, God provides the belt of truth.

To withstand the hands that shed innocent blood, God provides the shield of faith.

To withstand the heart that plots evil, God provides the breastplate of righteousness.

To withstand feet that are swift in running to mischief, God provides the shoes of readiness that come with the gospel of peace.

To fight against the troublemaker in the family or community, He provides the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.

We are to battle against those things that God finds detestable. The Bible urges us, “Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand” (Ephesians 6:13 NKJV). Suit up Beloved, and prepare for battle! 

By her clever words she made him give in.

By her pleasing words she led him into doing wrong.

MY THOUGHTS

As the saying goes, "You can catch more flies with honey than vinegar," Folly, like any persuasive person, knows that the best way to get someone to follow is by saying what that person wants to hear. Flattering words are like honey, and to draw us closer to her, the “lips of the forbidden woman drip honey” (Proverbs 5:3 NKJV). Beware of the sweet seduction of flattery. Notice David’s prayer in Psalms 12:3, “May the Lord cut off flattering lips, and the tongue that speaks proud things.” We should do our best not to let pride and ignorance lead us into compromising situations. The Bible implores us to “get wisdom; develop good judgment. Don’t forget God’s words or turn away from them” (Proverbs 4:5). Do not be deceived; the Word of God is "sweeter than honey” (Psalms 119:103)!  The Good News is when we are lead astray and follow the words of Folly, even after we “tasted the good Word of God” (Hebrews 6:5), we can repent, turn around wherever we are, and return to God and He will return to us (Zechariah 1:3-5)!  
 

For whoever finds me finds life,

And obtains favor from the Lord.

MY THOUGHTS 

Jesus gives us a promise in Mathew 7:7 NKJV; “Ask, and it will be given to you, seek, and you will find, knock, and it will be opened to you!” He gives us instructions on how to ask, seek and find by telling us that whatever we ask in His name, He will do, that our Father may be glorified (John 14:13). We first must ask for His will to be done in His name in whatever we are asking (Luke 11:2). Then, we must “seek Him with all [our] hearts” to know and understand Him (Jeremiah 29:13). Lastly, if we are asking and seeking in His name, we find Him (Isaiah 55:6). The Lord has many names; if we call upon His name for our needs, we will find Him to be that we seek. If we ask for and seek healing, we find Healer (Malachi 4:2). If we ask for and seek redemption, we find Redeemer (Isaiah 59:20). If we ask for and seek counseling, we find Wonderful Counselor. If we ask for and seek spiritual sustenance, we find Bread of Life (John 6:35). And when we find the Lord our God, let us not forget to “glory in His holy Name; Let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice (I Chronicles 16:10 AMP)! "Again, I say rejoice (Philippians 4:4)!
 

So don’t even bother to correct a mocker, for he’ll only hate you for it.
But go ahead and correct the wise; they’ll love you even more.
Teach a wise man what is right and he’ll grow even wiser.
Instruct the lovers of God and they’ll learn even more.

MY THOUGHTS

The Bible implies that you should not waste your breath on someone who does not want to listen to wise advice- that person who will blame you or everyone else but himself for the circumstances in their lives. They are not seeking wisdom; therefore, they will not grow in understanding. Proverbs 9:12 MSG instructs you to “save your breath for the wise-they’ll be wiser for it.” Our God is looking for those who actively pursue Him; He will reward their efforts with more. Take heed to the story in Matthew Chapter 5, where Jesus tells of the master who went on a trip and left his servants talents to use as they will until he returned. Verse 29 sums up the moral of the story: “For the one who has will be given more until he overflows with abundance, and the one with hardly anything, even what little he has will be taken from him” (TPT). The more you love God and seek after His Word, the more you will love God and seek after His Word! Consequently, you will not be resistant to correction but realize correction allows you to stay on the right path. According to Proverbs 25:12 TPT, you will be rewarded, “When you humbly receive wise correction, it adorns your life with beauty and makes you a better person.” Be a person who teaches and is teachable. And in your learning, “draw near to God, and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8 NKJV)!

God is solid backing to a well-lived life,

but he calls into question a shabby performance.

MY PERCEPTIONS

 What does your daily life say about you? What will the works printed on the pages of your days narrate about you when your book is finally closed? Jesus enlightens us that we “must work the works of Him who sent [Him] while it is day, the night is coming when no one can work” (John 9:4 NKJV). Do your works show a life saturated with the love of God? How do your works define your faith? The apostle James says, “Someone may say, “You have faith, but I have deeds.” Show me your faith without doing anything, and I will show you my faith by what I do (2:18). So, you see that people are made right with God by what they do, not by faith only” (2:24). God sets the foundation for us to do good things. According to Ephesians 2:10, “God has made us what we are. In Christ Jesus, God made us to do works, which God planned in advance for us to live our lives doing.”  We are created to represent and live our faith. How is your performance going so far? What review would God, the Great Director, give you? “Shining” or “Shabby?” Let’s give God our best and hope to get a standing ovation!
 

A beautiful woman who rejects good sense is like a gold ring in a pig’s snout.

MY PERCEPTIONS

Beauty is a blessing from God and comes in several forms. Beauty is to be praised. Beauty has a value, for God “has made everything beautiful in its time.” Webster’s Dictionary defines beauty as a particular excellence. Therefore, the exterior beauty, or excellence, of a woman has no lasting value if there is no internal beauty, or excellence. If a woman does not adorn herself with the excellence of the knowledge of Christ our Lord, her beauty can be considered worthless (Philippians 3:8). The Bible advises us, “Charm and grace are deceptive, and beauty is vain [because it is not lasting] but a woman who reverently and worshipfully fears the Lord, she shall be praised” (Proverbs 31:30 AMPC)! Women of true beauty, according to Apostle Paul, “should wear decent and appropriate clothing and not draw attention to themselves by the way they fix their hair or by wearing gold or pearls or expensive clothes. For women who claim to be devoted to God should make themselves attractive by the good things they do (I Timothy 2:9-10 NLT). One of the loveliest things to behold is an attractive and wise woman who loves and serves the Lord, while an attractive and foolish woman is as appealing and useful as a gold ring on a pig! So Beloved, know this, “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes, Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight (I Peter 3:3-4 BOOKS)!
 

Worry weighs us down,

a cheerful word picks us up.

MY PERCEPTIONS

We have a choice. Worry or worship. Travail or trust. Let worry weigh us down, or let God’s Word lift us up. In Psalms 55:22 TPT,  we are encouraged to “leave all [our] cares, and anxieties at the feet of the Lord and measureless grace will strengthen [us]!” Please do not allow the concerns of this world to weigh you down; remove your baggage and hand it to Jesus. Jesus urges us to travel light. Our savior invites: 

     “Come to me, all of you who are tired and have heavy loads, and I will give you rest.      

      Accept my teachings and learn from me because I am gentle an humble in spirit, and    

      you will find rest for your lives. The burden that I ask you to accept is easy; the load I          

      give you to carry is light" (Matthew 11:28 TPT).

If you find you do not have someone to speak encouraging or cheerful words to you when you feel it is most needed, do not give it a second thought, God’s Word is more than a friend because it is incapable of misleading, deceiving, or letting us down. God loves us. “God was delighted to give us birth by the truth of his infallible Word so that we would fulfill his chosen destiny for us” (James 1:18 TPT). God has plans for our lives, and to worry is not one of them. He gives us instruction through His Word, explaining how to have a life He designed. We are instructed not to worry, pray always, and give thanks (Philippians 4:6)! When worry tries to drag you down into a pit, reach for the wonderful Word of God, reach for Jesus; He promises to pick you up! Arise Beloved, and be of good cheer! 

He that goeth with wise men, shall be wise;

Friend of fools shall be made like them.

MY PERCEPTIONS

Have you heard these sayings? “Birds of a feather flock together.” “Lie down with dogs; you will get up with fleas.” “Since you were with them when they did it, you getting a whooping too!” The company we keep matters for more than just entertainment. The people we allow into our close circle can influence the course of our lives. In most scenarios, if we lend ourselves to being around people who are positive and constructive with their lives, we will do positive and constructive things with our lives. Likewise, the reverse is true; if we spend our time with people who are negative and destructive, negativity and destruction will come into our lives. In Proverbs 13:20,  King Solomon admonishes us, “If you want to grow in wisdom, spend time with the wise. Walk with the wicked, and you’ll eventually become just like them.” If we are following the behaviors of others, it is as Jesus said to His disciples, “And if the blind leads the blind, both will fall into a ditch” (Matthew 15:13b). We should seek those who are “wise, understanding, and knowledgeable from among us” (Deuteronomy 1:13) and allow them to lead. The apostle James questions, “Are there those among you who are truly wise and understanding? Then they should show it by living right and doing good things with a gentleness that comes from wisdom” (3:13). We should walk with such a person that demonstrates wisdom. We must pay attention to our “friends” because the Bible says, “Even when a fool walks along the road, his [common] sense and good judgment fail him, and he demonstrates to everyone that he is a fool” (Ecclesiastes 10:3 AMP). Choose to pattern our lives after those with sound, wholesome and true teachings that come from a life of faith in and the love of Jesus Christ (II Timothy 1:13). Even better, pattern your lives after our King Jesus, the wisest of the wise! 

Speak the truth and you’ll save souls,

But in the spreading of lies, treachery thrives.

MY PERCEPTIONS

In today’s culture, people will say, “You have your truth and I have my truth.” Be not deceived; when living a godly life, there is only one truth-the Word of God. The Bible explains how to live a life of truth, “God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life-your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life-and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him, Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking, Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from inside out, Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you” (Romans 12:2 The Message). As you seek wisdom, you find Jesus is the truth and the truth is Jesus. “If in fact, you have [really] heard Him and have been taught by Him, just as truth is in Jesus [revealed in His life and personified in Him], that, regarding your previous way of life, you put off your old self [completely discard your former nature], which is being corrupted through deceitful desires, and be continually renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a fresh, untarnished mental and spiritual attitude], and put on the new self [the regenerated and renewed nature], created in God’s image, [godlike] in the righteousness and holiness of the truth [living in a way that expresses to God your gratitude for your salvation]” (Ephesians 4:21-24 AMP). If your lifestyle speaks “truth” that does not align with the truth of The Word, your “truth” is in fact a lie. And, instead of saving lives, you are endangering lives with deceitfulness (Proverbs 14:25 AMPC). When you lie to others, you end up lying to yourself. “Therefore,” as it is written in Ephesians 4:25,15 AMP, “rejecting all falsehood [whether lying, defrauding, telling half-truths, spreading rumors, and such as these], speak truth each one with his neighbor, for we are all parts of one another [and we are all parts of the body of Christ]” and “speaking the truth in love [in all things-both our speech and our lives expressing His truth], let us grow in all things into Him [following His example] who is the Head-Christ.” 

A gentle tongue is a tree of life, 

But willful contrariness in it breaks down the spirit.

MY PERCEPTIONS

Your words are powerful. Words can create or destroy. Words can be used as a supporter to "heal and help" or as a weapon to "wound and maim" (Proverbs 15:4 MSG). We need to understand the full scope of their power. Our words affect more than those around us; they also affect our inner selves and the Holy Spirit that lives in us. "As a tree gives us fruit, healing words give us life. But evil words crush the spirit" (Proverbs 15:4 ICB).  We should always strive to be true and kind to ourselves and one another in action and in words, and sometimes we may need help achieving that goal.  Good news, we have a helper, the Holy Spirit! We should not ignore the Holy Spirit who lives in us but allow Him to guide us in our words, for His "mouth will utter truth, And wickedness is repulsive and loathsome to [His] lips. All words of His mouth are in righteousness (upright, in right standing with God); There is nothing contrary to truth or perverted (crooked) in them" Proverbs 8:7-8 AMP). Jesus Christ "gave his life for us that we may share in resurrection life in union with him" and sent the Holy Spirit to seal that union (I Thessalonians 5:10a TPT, John 16:7).  The Word of God says, "Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word is a gift. Don't grieve God. Don't break his heart. His Holy Spirit, moving and breathing in you, is most intimate part of your life, making you fit for himself. Don't take such a gift for granted" (Ephesians 4:29-30 MSG). God gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit to help us live righteously (Titus 2:11-14). We should seek to give gladness and gratitude, not grief, to the Holy Spirit, accept His help with your tongue, and together your words can plant trees of life. 

Life motivation comes from the deep longing of the heart

and the passion to see them fulfilled urges you onward.

MY PERCEPTIONS

 Did you know your passion can reveal how to live your purpose? Our primary purpose is to glorify God, our Creator. God placed in all of us a desire to do His will. It is up to us to pursue those passions in godly ways. The Bible says, "Make God the utmost delight and pleasure of your life, and he will provide for you what you desire most" (Psalm37:4 TPT). When our motivation "is not in pleasing people but pleasing God, who thoroughly examines our hearts" (I Thessalonians 2:46), He will "satisfy our every desire with good things" (Psalms 103:5). The activities or situations that make your heart speed up or consume your thoughts or motivate you to do more and more are the very things that God designed in you to hunger after.  Proverbs 16:26 explains, "A worker's appetite works for him because his hunger urges him on."  We are promised, "Those who hunger for Him will always be filled, but the smug and self-satisfied He will send away empty" (Luke 1:53 CSB). Have a heart and a hunger for the things of God, and pursue His blessings with confidence that "The blessings of the Lord enriches, and He adds no painful effort to it" Proverbs 10:22). Let your love for God, motivate you to do the work He has called you to do. And in the words of Marc Anthony, "If you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life."
 

Sensible people keep their eyes glued on wisdom,

but a fool's eyes wander to the ends of the earth.

MY PERCEPTIONS

We are reading the book of Proverbs. Why Proverbs?  The purpose of this book is best explained in Proverbs 1:1-4 TPT; we read the scriptures of this book because "they are kingdom revelations, words to live by, and words of wisdom given to empower you to reign in life, written as proverbs by Israel's King Solomon, David's son.  Within these saying will be found the revelation of wisdom and the impartation of spiritual understanding. Use them as keys to unlock the treasures of true knowledge. Those who cling to these words will receive discipline to demonstrate wisdom in every relationship and to choose what is right and just and fair. These proverbs will give you great skill to teach the immature and make them wise, to give youth the understanding of their design and destiny." We don't have to read to tea leaves, palms, nor tarot cards. We don't have to sit in dark caves, take mind-altering drugs, nor walk on coals. We don't have to search the world for wisdom and understanding, we have the Bible, the Holy Word of God. Praise God! All we have to do is open it up and read it! Keep your eyes,  mind, and heart focused on the Word every day! Get Wisdom and your life will be better (Proverbs 4)!

 The words of a whisper (gossip) are like dainty morsels [to be greedily eaten];

They go down into the innermost chambers of the body [to be remembered and mused upon].

MY PERCEPTIONS

Have you ever been approached with this phrase, "Mmm, I got some good gossip for you!"? Did your mouth fill with saliva like the Big Bad Wolf waiting on Little Red Riding Hood to come closer!? Words are like food for your soul. In the Message Bible, Proverbs 18:8 translates as, "Listening to gossip is like eating cheap candy, do you really want junk like that in your body?" Do not let these choice morsels of gossip into your innermost being because they provide false nourishment (Proverbs 18:8 NIV). Mere words do not always offer facts about another person, but as they are churned over in one's heart, they begin to affect how you see that person or situation. In Proverbs 18:17, King Solomon cautions us not to forget, when we feed on gossip, "There are two sides to every story. The first one to speak sounds true until you hear the other side and they set the record straight." Because words of gossip can contain falsehoods or be misleading, once planted and they take root in one's heart, they can divide and ruin friendships and families (Proverbs 16:28). "Words create and sustain prejudices, bias, fears, and anxieties that are virtually impossible to uproot," explains author Timothy Keller. The words we consume are crucial to the feelings eventually grown in our hearts and words released from our mouths. To maintain healthy relationships within ourselves and with others around us, we should be like Jeremiah. He professed to our Lord God, "When I discovered your words, I devoured them. They are my joy and my heart's delight" (Jeremiah 15:16a). Jeremiah chose to seek after and eat words of truth. When presented with the opportunity to be fed by the words of another, choose wisely between words that come from lips that spread poison (James 3:8) or lips that give praise (Psalm 34:1). 

Mercy to the needy is a loan to God,

and God pays back those loans in full. 

MY PERCEPTIONS

 God always keeps His word for "He is not a man that He should lie" (Numbers 23:19 NIV). True to who He is, the Bible says that God is a rewarder of those who keep His Word (Hebrews 11:6). God is pleased when we take care of each other, for He loves all of us. When we show kindness to His children, He is eager to reward us. It is in His Word, regarding the poor, that if you "give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to" (Deuteronomy 15:10). Being kind to the poor among us honors God and shows our gratefulness for all He has done for us. If we withhold gratitude to God by failing to show kindness, God is offended, and He will allow curses to come upon us (Proverbs 14:31. 28:27). Our Maker wants one of our deepest desires to be to follow His ways. What are God's ways? "It is not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter-when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not turn away from your own flesh and blood (Isaiah 58:7)?  We must show God we trust Him by our actions, so when we are in need and cry to Him for help, God will gladly say, "Here I am" (Isaiah 58:9). Hallelujah! We will be rewarded for our good deeds in full by our faithful Creator. "Give, and you will receive. You will be given much. Pressed down, shaken together, running over, it will spill into your lap. The way you give to others is the way God will give to you" (Like 6:38 NCV). Be confident, ready, and willing to give to the poor and needy because, know this, you can't out-give God (Hebrews 10:35-36)!  

Lovers of God have been given eyes to see with spiritual discernment and ears to hear from God.

MY PERCEPTIONS

In a psalm of praise to God our Creator, King David proclaims, "The Lord is good to everyone; he is merciful to all he has made.  Lord, everything you have made will praise you; those who belong to you will bless you" (Psalm 145:9-10 ICB). God has made us all, and all that we have comes from Him. God gave us ears to hear and eyes to see that we may bless Him and be set apart as the most important of all His creations (Proverbs 20:12, James 1:18). Despite all the scientific theories and medical advancements we have, we did not create ourselves. The Bible warns us not to be fooled nor prideful because "Every good action and every perfect gift is from God. These good gifts come down from the Creator of the sun, moon, and stars" (James1:17 ICB). The only way we are able to see and hear and discern who God is because He allows it. As Peter declared that Jesus Christ is "the Son of the living God, Jesus answered him, Blessed [happy, spiritually secure, favored by God] are you, Simon son of Jonah, because flesh and blood (mortal man) did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven" (Matthew 16:17 AMP).  Only those believers who are loyal and faithful to God will He open their eyes and ears to see and hear and their hearts to perceive what He has for them (Luke 10:23-24, Deuteronomy 29:4). Let us commit ourselves to be lovers of God and His Word so that we can receive blessings and wisdom and understanding and power and mercy and grace all the days of our lives! Amen! 

 You can do your best to prepare for the battle,

but ultimate victory comes from the Lord.  

MY PERCEPTIONS

For us to have a successful life, we must do our part, and God will do His part. God has given us a strategy to win.  As the Bible instructs us in Joshua 1:8-9 ICB, "Always remember what is written on the Book of the Teachings. Study it day and night. Then you will be sure to obey everything that is written there. If you do this, you will be wise and successful in everything. Remember that I commanded you to be strong and brave. So don't be afraid. The Lord your God will be with you everywhere you go." We must do our part, in preparation by His Word, He teaches us how to fight our battles; He is our friend, our fortress, where we are safe. He is our shield (Psalms 144:1-2). But if we fail to be prepared as instructed by studying and obeying, we will be sinning against God. We don't want to be in willful disobedience against God, our Protector.  God Himself is ready to fight for us when we trust Him and do not fear people nor trials and tribulations (Deuteronomy 3:22, Exodus 14:14). When we come to a situation where we have to fight, we must know His commands, put on the armor of God, and be confident because we have the King of glory on our side who is "strong and mighty, and invincible in battle" (Psalms 24:8 NLT). Nonetheless, the most significant part of this battle is not that you are "prepared for the day of battle, but [knowing] deliverance and victory are of the Lord" (Proverbs 21:31 AMPC). We can praise our Lord God Almighty that He goes before us in battle and He will win for us! Let us  passionately and gratefully sing to Him;

   "You can do all things, but fail  

      You can do everything else

      Cause You've never lost a battle  

      No, You've never lost a battle  

      And I know, I know  

      You never will!" 

(CeCe Winans, "Never Lost") 

Click here to watch video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPHXL8Poku0 

Listen (consent and submit) to the words of the wise, and apply your mind to my knowledge; 

For it will be pleasant if you keep them in your mind [believing them]; 

your lips will be accustomed to [confessing] them. 

MY PERCEPTIONS

The words we allow to penetrate our hearts and mind should be of great value, not cheap and unprofitable. The wisdom we receive from reading God's Word should be treated like a treasure. The words of the wise, according to Proverbs, are like good health (12:18), easily digestible nourishment (13:2),  a fountain of life (13:4), shields (14:3), and always having sufficiency in your home (21:20). These are all attributes we should welcome into our lives and gladly release to share with others. For "wise people store up knowledge, " to be given to otherwise men so they may increase in learning (Proverbs 10:14, 9:9 NKJV).  The more we acquire wisdom and knowledge, the greater our desire to share that wisdom and knowledge with others, especially those seeking to be wise and righteous. 

Furthermore, you are instructed by Peter to "sanctify the Lord God in your hearts and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you" (1 Peter 3:15NKJV). Are you ready to share your story of the reasons why you love God and His Word? Are your lips dripping with praise (Psalms 119:171) of His graciousness (Ecclesiastes 10:12) and righteousness (Psalms 40:9)? At the height of our day, we should be saying to others, "Come and listen, all you who fear God, and I will tell you what [God] did for me! (Psalms 66:16).  

Don't let your heart envy sinners;

instead, always fear the Lord. 

For then you will have a future, 

and your hope will never fade.

MY PERCEPTIONS

What God has for you, God has for you! Why envy the lives of other sinners? We are all called for a purpose, to glorify God as a whole and to each represent a character of God as individuals.  God has plans for all of us. In Jeremiah 29:11 NET, the Lord declares, "For I know what I have planned for you, I have plans to prosper you, not to harm you, plans to give you a future filled with hope." Since the omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient Lord our God has plans for your life, why waste time comparing your life to someone else's? We should depend on and have our hope in "Him who is able to to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us (Ephesians 3:20 NKJV)! Have hope in the One who loves us more than anything, "and this hope will never disappoint us because God has poured out his love to fill our hearts" (Romans 5:5a NCV). We may want to make our own plans, but if we are wise, we know it is the Lord who directs our steps (Proverbs 16:9). Trust God with your life, have hope for your future, then,  as in the expectant words of Dr. Suess, "Oh, the Places You'll Go!"

 Never gloat when your enemy meets disaster and don't be quick to rejoice if he falls. 

For the Lord who sees your heart, will be displeased with you and will pity your foe.

MY PERCEPTIONS

Do you recall when you were little, and your annoying sibling got in trouble for doing something to you? Do you remember a time when you laughed a little too hard when he or she got that whooping they truly earned? What happened? Your mom or dad, in turn, got upset with you and comforted your crying sibling! Well, God is that type of parent too. He knows those who do wrong must reap the consequences; however, He does not want us to gloat over the failings of our brothers and sisters, even the wicked and hateful ones. We are His children, and His heart goes out to us. Jesus urges you to "love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you" (Matthew 5:44 NKJV). Our Father wants us to replicate Him in our kindness and compassion towards one another, thereby demonstrating His love by loving others even when they do wrong. For "God demonstrated His own love for us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). The Bible tells us in Ezekiel 33:11, it pains God when His children turn from Him, and He takes no pleasure in seeing the wicked being punished. Those who belong to God are expected to take no pleasure in others being punished the neither. Again, you should pray for your enemies when they stumble, let your heart go out to them, for we all can say, "there but for the grace of God, go I!"(I Corinthians 15:10)  

A person without self-control is like a house 

with its doors and windows knocked out.

MY PERCEPTIONS

A house with no doors and no windows would not be a very safe and reliable place to live. Anything and everything would be able to enter in and cause all kinds of damage for the owner to deal with. The Bible says a man without self-control, like this house described, is defenseless and sets himself up for trouble (Proverbs 25:28). When we cast off restraint or lose our temper and bust out the windows and doors of our mind, our spiritual house, there is only one carpenter to call! Jesus! For "whoever calls on the name of LORD shall be saved," and He will pour out His Spirit on them (Joel 2:32, 28 NKJV). Jesus gives us His Holy Spirit to help us repair our knocked-out windows and broken doors. 

Even more, with the Holy Spirit dwelling in our house, we can be filled with "love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" to help us build it up and not allow it to be torn down (Galatians 5:22 NKJV). The Holy Spirit living in us ensures a righteous life over sin's death because we have been made right with God (Romans 8:10). The Holy Spirit in us enables us to have power, be bold, and be sensible (II Timothy 1:7 MSG). So if we want to keep the life-giving power on and keep the windows and doors secure from the attacks of evil, we should always welcome the Holy Spirit into our house-our mind, body, and soul. Behold, He stands at the door and knocks (Revelation 3:20a NKJV). Will you let Him in today?  

Hatred is the root of slander

and insecurity the root of flattery.

MY PERCEPTIONS

The Bible tells us in Romans 11:16b, "If the roots of a tree are holy and set apart for God, so too will be the branches" (TPT).  Likewise, the opposite is true; if the roots of a tree are unholy and not set apart for God, so too will be the branches. That which our hearts are rooted in will show up on the branches of our behavior. Often the lack in the character of the root shows themselves for what they truly are, and other times they get twisted and represent themselves falsely. Proverbs 26:28 warns us that flattery or "false praise can ruin others" and "liars hate the people they hurt" (NCV).  Therefore we can conclude that people who lie to you and give you false praise do not honestly care about you. These people are selfish and fearful, and only care about themselves and what they can get from you.

Those who belong to God should be people who seek truth and wisdom and have care and concern for the needs of others, not just ourselves. Be wary around those who give you undeserved praise because "flattery can often be used as a trap to hide ulterior motives, and take advantage of you" (Proverbs 29:5 TPT). Furthermore, King Solomon wants us to be aware that "kind words can be a cover to conceal hatred of others, for hypocrisy loves to hide behind flattery" (Proverbs 6:24 TPT). Seek Christ-like friends that love you enough to tell you the truth. "You can trust a friend who wounds you with his honesty, but your enemy's pretended flattery comes from insincerity" (Proverbs 27:6 TPT).  Let us nurture and feed our roots with the Word of God, and produce branches of love, confidence, and sincerity.  

As water reflects the face,

so one's life reflects the heart.

MY PERCEPTIONS

Look in the mirror of your life. Do you look more like Jesus or more like the world? Do not deceive yourselves; we cannot only be hearers of God's Word, but we must also be doers if we claim that He is our Lord (James 1:22). The Bible says, "one's life reflects the heart" (Proverbs 27:19 NIV). It is what you do in life that gives the portrait of your heart, of what you treasure most (Matthew 6:21). Mere words on t-shirts and bumper stickers do not accurately reflect who you are and what you stand for. The Word of God advises us to keep the words of Proverbs "and treasure the commandments within you [so they are readily available to guide you]" (Proverbs 7:1 AMP). Let the scriptures guide you into demonstrating a life as a follower of God, not just a reader of His Word.

If we have accepted Jesus' invitation to follow Him, our daily works should reflect that. In John 14:15, Jesus said, "If you [really] love Me, you will keep and obey My commandments." Furthermore, Jesus says, "If anyone serves Me, he must [contine to faithfully] follow Me [without hesitation, holding steadfastly to Me, conforming to My example in living]" (John 12:26a AMP). Be careful not to be the person who "only listens to the word without obeying it, he is like a man who looks very carefully at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he immediately forgets what he looked like. But he who looks carefully into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and faithfully abides by it, not having become a [careless] listener who forgets but an active doer [who obeys], he will be blessed and favored by God in what he does [in his life of obedience]" (James 1: 23-25 AMP). We can do many things in life to show who we are, but because of our love for Jesus, let them reflect a heart that seeks to be like Him!

Happy is the man who is always reverent,

But he who hardens his heart will fall into calamity.

MY PERCEPTIONS

Do you want to be happy? The Apostle Paul tells us we can be happy if we "Do everything without complaining and arguing. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people " (Philippians 2:14-15). King David tells us to "obey the Lord with great fear," and you will "be happy, but tremble" in reverence (Psalms 2:11 ICB). Lastly, King Solomon tells us happy or "Blessed and favored by God is the man who fears [sin and its consequence] at all time, But he who hardens his heart [determined to sin] will fall into disaster" (Proverbs 28:14 AMP). 

Having a reverential fear and awe and appreciation for our God Almighty is essential to us fully experiencing joy and happiness. Reading the holy scriptures, being obedient, and seeking knowledge of God corresponds with one's happiness, for "whoever pays attention to what he is taught will succeed. An whoever trusts the Lord will be happy" (Proverbs 16:20 ICB). As those who have hearts to honor God, we are to "tremble in awe before the Lord, and do not sin against him" (Psalms 4:4 TPT). You cannot truly be happy and surrounded with peace if you turn against God for "He is wise in heart, and mighty in strength--who has hardened himself against him, and succeeded?" (Job 9:4 RSV). No one. Jesus promises us in Matthew 5:8 and 12 that "Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God," and they can "rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven!" So as we still have time on this earth, we should "worship the Lord with joy! [And] Enter his presence with joyful singing!" (Psalms 100:2) 

We pray, "Thank you, God," that "you will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever" (Psalms 16:11 NLT).

Good people can't stand the sight of deliberate evil;

the wicked can't stand the sight of well-chosen goodness.

MY PERCEPTIONS

As lovers of God, we are called to be set apart from those who do not love Him.  It should bother us being around others who behave with evil intentions; in contrast, those who do not have a heart for God should be bothered by our good works with pure intentions. "Therefore," the Bible says, "Come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the Lord. Do not touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you" (II Corinthians 6:17 NLT). When we decide what kind of people we allow in our close personal lives, we should always consider if God would approve. Who does God want you to welcome in? 

The Apostle Paul pleads to us, "Don't become partners with those who reject God. How can you make a partnership out of right and wrong? That's not partnership; that's war. Is light best friends with dark? Does Christ go strolling with the Devil? Do trust and mistrust hold hands? Who would think of setting up pagan idols in God's holy Temple? But that is exactly what we are, each of us a temple in whom God lives. God himself put it this way: 

"I'll live in them, move into them; I'll be their God and they'll be my people. So leave the corruption and compromise; leave it for good," says God. "Don't link up with those who will pollute you. I want you all for myself. I'll be a Father to you; you'll be sons and daughters to me" (II Corinthians 6:14-16 MSG). Our Father God does not want to share our attention, and He is pleased when we do not allow the ungodly to influence us, only to repulse us. 

"Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing to God, which is your rational (logical, intelligent) act of worship. And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you]" (Romans 12:1-2 AMP). 

Two things I ask of you, Lord;

do not refuse me before I die:

Keep falsehood and lies far from me;

give me neither poverty nor riches, 

but give me only my daily bread.

MY PERCEPTIONS

When we remove all the unnecessary things of life, the most important things to acquire are truth and provision.  Our Almighty God is Truth and Provision! (John 1:14, Psalms 111:5). Nothing can compare to being filled with the truth of God and His Word. Agur, the author of Proverbs 30, pleads with God, "Empty out my heart everything that is false- every lie, and every crooked thing." We should desire to do the same. As we empty ourselves of the evil, lies, and selfishness that live within us, we should seek to decrease and allow God's truth and presence to increase (John 3:30). As we draw closer to God and His truth transforms us, He can "banish lies from [our] lips and liars from [our] presence" (Proverbs 30:7 MSG). We pray to our God to keep misdirection, falsehoods, and death away from us and just give more of us Jesus, "the Way, the Truth, and the Life!" (John 14:16).  

Beer and wine are only for the dying or for those who have lost all hope.

Let them drink and forget how poor and miserable they feel.

MY PERCEPTIONS

Excuse me, but are you spiritually dying? Have you lost hope? Are you thirsty? Good news! There is a drink that is far more satisfying than beer or wine. It is the Holy Spirit! Because God our Maker chose us before we chose Him, He  assures us, that not only will He pour water to quench the thirst of our land and our physical bodies, but He will pour out the living water, His Spirit, into our spiritual bodies and blessings to our children and our children's children (Isaiah 44:3). He does not desire for any of us to live in misery. 

Unlike beer or wine or any other physical thing that offers temporary fulfillment from this world, there is the living water that cannot compare or compete. Jesus offers this water to the Samaritan woman at the well and to all of us when He says, "Whoever drinks of the water that I give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life" (John 4:14 NKJV). Who would not be like the woman who replies, "Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst" (John 4:15 NKJV)? Again, that continually flowing and ever satisfying water is the Holy Spirit.

It is so amazing that if we ask Him, God will pour His Spirit on us! If we have hope and believe in His Word, "such hope [in God's promises] never disappoints us, because God's love has been abundantly poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us" (Romans 5:5 AMP). So Beloved, I say, "drink up!" "And don't get drunk with wine which leads to reckless actions, but be filled by the Spirit" that leads to an abundant life! (Ephesians 5:18 HCSB)

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,

But fools despise wisdom and instruction.

MY IMPRESSIONS

How do we get knowledge and wisdom? Where do we start? "Start with God-the first step in learning is bowing down to God" (Proverbs 1:7a MSG). In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (John 1:1 NKJV). Since fear of God is the beginning of knowledge, we have to start with what it means to fear. To fear God is to have profound reverence and awe for Him, to tremble under the magnificence of His power, to kneel under the weight of His glory (Job 31:23, II Chronicles 5:14 AMP). Webster's Dictionary defines fear as "the passion of nature which excites us to provide for our security, on the approach of evil." It goes on to say that "In scripture, fear is used to express a filial or slavish passion. In good men, the fear of God is a holy awe or reverence of God and his laws, which springs from a just view and real love of the divine character, leading the subjects of it to hate and shun every thing that can offend such a holy being, and inclining them to aim at perfect obedience." 

As we launch into the study of Proverbs for this month, we must begin with our hearts and our focus in order. The scripture Romans 13:7 urges us to live an orderly life, "Render therefore to all their dues, tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor." Simply, all honor and fear are due to our God because, profoundly, in the beginning He created the heaven and the earth! (Genesis 1:1)  He is our God, our Creator, and through Him, "all things were made, without Him nothing was made that has been made" (John 1:3 NIV)! 

Let's just meditate on that for a moment. The same God that hung the moon whispers "Good night" to me and you!

The more we get to know and understand who God is, the more wisdom we get to help us live. Anthony Douglas Williams made the observation that "Knowledge comes from learning. Wisdom comes from living." "For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. Wise choices will watch over you" (Proverbs 2:10-11 NLT). Do not go the way of a fool- a person who lives life without regard to wisdom or moral values.  "The [reverent] fear of the Lord [that is, worshipping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome] is the beginning and the preeminent part of knowledge [its starting point and its essence]" (Proverbs 1:17 AMP)! 

From the beginning to the end, in all His ways, God is awesome! (Psalm 47:2 NIV)

Click here to watch "Our God is Awesome" video!

https://youtu.be/d_UE7xgNOzM

For all my godly lovers will enjoy life to the fullest

and will inherit their destinies.

But the treacherous ones who love darkness 

will not only lose all they could have had,

they will lose even their own souls!

MY THOUGHTS

What are the pleasures of this world worth to you? The Bible asks us this  way, "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?"(Mark 8:36 NKJV)  We cannot forfeit our inheritance to eternal life with Jesus for superficial and temporary happiness shrouded in darkness. "What delight comes to the one who follows God's ways! He won't walk in step with the wicked, nor share the sinner's way, nor be found sitting in the scorner's seat. His pleasure and passion is remaining true to the Word of "I Am," meditating day and night in the true revelation of light" (Psalm1:1-2 TPT).

Always seek the light. Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life" (John 8:12 NLT). Nothing in this world is greater than what He gave His life for us to have- a personal relationship and eternal life with God. To demonstrate His love and commitment to us, Jesus "came that [we] may have life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]" (John 10:10 AMP), and He shed His blood on the cross for us to have such privileges (Romans 3:25).

Let us never take for granted,"For this is how much God loved the world-he gave his one and only, unique Son as a gift. So now everyone who believes in him will never perish but experience everlasting life. The Light of God has now come into the world, but the hearts of people love their darkness more than the Light, because they want the darkness to conceal their evil. So the wicked hate the Light and try to hide from it, for their lives are fully exposed in the Light. But those who love the truth will come out into the Light and welcome its exposure, for the Light will reveal that their fruitful works were produced by God" (John 3:16,19-21 TPT). 

So enjoy life in the Light to the fullest; Jesus died so we could! 

The wise shall inherit glory,

But shame shall be the legacy of fools.

MY MUSINGS

We're rich! Do you know you have an inheritance? Through our union with Christ, "we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will" (Ephesians 1:11 NKJV). Not only is the Bible God's love letter to us, but it is also His "Last Will and Testament" provided so we may claim, possess, and know how to live with what has been given to us (Hebrews 9:16-17). In this most sacred document, we learn that God has bequeathed many promises to us His children.

Here are some of the good things you are entitled to according to the life you live:

The meek and patient shall inherit the earth and an abundance of peace (Matthew 5:5, Psalms 37:9, 11). 

The overcomer shall be able to continuously drink from the fountain of living water (Revelation 21:6-7).

The wise shall inherit glory (Proverbs 3:35).

The lovers of God shall inherit wealth (Proverbs 8:31).

The blameless shall inherit good (Proverbs 28:10).

He who chooses God's kingdom over home and property, wife, children, parents, and family, shall inherit eternal life (Luke 18:29-30).

Do you know that everyone will not inherit the kingdom of God? "Stop being deceived! People who continue to engage in sexual immorality, idolatry, adultery, sexual perversion, homosexuality, fraud, greed, drunkenness, verbal abuse, or extortion-these will not inherit God's kingdom realm. It's true that some of you once lived in those lifestyles, but now you have been purified from sin, made holy, and given a perfect standing before God-all because of the power of the name of the Lord Jesus, the Messiah, and through our union with the Spirit of our God" (I Corinthians 6:9-11 TPT).

"What a God we have! And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus! Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we've been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven-and the future starts now! God is keeping careful watch over us and the future. The Day is coming when you'll have it all-life healed and whole" (I Peter 1:4 MSG)! Amen! Come, Lord Jesus, come! (Revelation 22:20)

But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn,

which shines brighter and brighter until full day. 

Ponder the path of your feet;

then all your ways will be sure.

MY MUSINGS

Ponder the path of your feet.

At the light of dawn, 

what did you see?

Brighter and brighter, the light grows.

Keep your eyes forward,

what do you know?

Look up the path.

See the rolled away stone,

what do you have?

The tomb is empty.

The promise fulfilled,

what do you believe?

To save our souls,

He is risen.

He is risen indeed!

Death is the reward of an undisciplined life;

your foolish decisions trap you in a dead end.

MY MUSINGS

Choose life. Be happy! 

How do we choose life and reap happiness? The Bible says in Deuteronomy 30:15-16 NKJV, "See, [God has] set before you today life and good, death and evil, in that I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in His ways, and to keep His commandments, His statutes, and His judgments, that you may live and multiply; and the Lord your God will bless you in the land which you go to possess." "Happy is the man who trusts the Lord" (Psalms 34:8 ICB)

How do we choose death and reap agony? The Bible continues in verses 17-18, "But if your heart turns away so that you do not hear, and are drawn away, and worship other gods and serve them. I announce to you today that you shall surely perish; you shall not prolong your days in the land which you...go in and possess."

When we turn away from God, it can be a result of a lack of discipline. Fortunately, the Holy Spirit in us allows us to choose life, be bold and choose to be happy. "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline" (II Timothy 1:7 BOOKS). With the Holy Spirit's help, we can avoid making wrong choices that lead to death and destruction in our lives and affect the lives of others. (Proverbs 5:23)

If death is the reward for being undisciplined, then, life is the reward for being self-disciplined. 

Choose life. Choose to follow God's Wisdom, to love, and trust Him with your life. If you choose Him, "The Lord says, "I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name. When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue and honor them. I will reward them with long life and give them my salvation" (Psalms 91:14-16 NLT). 

Stay disciplined. Choose life!

Today, choose to be happy!

My son, obey your father's godly instruction

and follow your mother's life-giving teaching.

 MY MUSINGS

The Bible gives us guidance on how to be wise children. The apostle Paul says, "Children, if you want to be wise, listen to your parents and do what they tell you, and the Lord will help you. For the commandment, "Honor your father and your mother," was the first of the Ten Commandments with a promise attached: "you will prosper and live a long, full life if you honor your parents." (Ephesians 6:1-2 TPT) We are instructed to honor our parents and learn from the wisdom they have gained and implement that wisdom into our lives.  If we can do that with love and respect, God will bless us with long, abundant lives.

Likewise, in order for us parents to give godly instruction and life-giving teaching, we ourselves must study, know, and live out the Word of God for our children. We cannot forsake our duties to our own children, relying predominately on our parents or community. We are to welcome the words of those who came before us along with the Holy Word of God to "Train up a child in the way he should go,  And when he is old he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:6 NKJV).  The Passion Translation states it this way, "Dedicate your children to God and point them in the way that they should go, and the values they've learned from you will be with them for life." (emphasis mine)

A key to living a long, full life is the dedication to God from generation to generation to generation.

Be a wise child to become a wise parent to raise wise children!

Treasure my instructions, and cherish them within your heart.

MY MUSINGS

We, the church, are to be Christ's bride. As those who choose to take the marriage vow with Christ, we commit to love and to cherish 'til death do us part. Just as Jesus "nourishes and protects and cherishes the church," we are called to love and cherish the Word of God as in the godly relationship between husbands and wives. (Ephesians 5:28-29 AMP).  

We must honor and respect the Word. We must keep guard over the Word in our hearts-protect it from the evil one. For we know, the devil, that joy thief, comes "to steal, and to kill, and to destroy" (John 10:10 NKJV). We must be on alert and not let the devil steal the greatest treasure we have in our hearts. True love for the Word of God is our greatest treasure, and if we obey His commands and guard the revelation-truth as we would guard our own precious eyesight, He promises we will live and even more live an abundant life (Proverbs 7:3, John 10:10). 

Allow Jesus, the Word of God, the bridegroom, to be a provider of your joy always. Then, we should be able to say to Him from our hearts, "Your promises are the source of my babbling joy; the revelation of your word thrills me like one who has discovered hidden treasure!" (Psalms 119:162 TPT) 

Oh, how precious to say to Him, "I take you, Jesus, to have and to hold from this day forward." Forever. Amen.

Those who listen to me are happy.

They stand watching at my door every day.

They are at my open doorway wanting to be with me.

MY MUSINGS

Is there somewhere you go or something you do every day? Is there someone you must talk to every day? Do these things bring you joy and happiness?

Wisdom welcomes us to visit her daily;  she says, "come to my home each day and listen to me. You will find happiness" (Proverbs 8:34 CEV). Our first desire should be to seek out Wisdom and to find Knowledge. Do not doubt the assurance that "whoever finds [her] finds life, and obtains favor from the Lord" (Proverbs 8:35 NKJV). 

If we diligently seek Wisdom, we will find her, and God will be pleased with us.  Because God desires to have a sincere and truthful relationship with us, He urges us, "Seek Me daily, and delight to know My ways" and to "take delight in approaching God" (Isaiah 58:2 NKJV).  Jesus tells us our move towards Wisdom and discipleship should be daily when He says, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me" (Luke 9:23 NKJV). We must set aside our own selfish desires and pursue Him every day. 

Pursue the Words of Wisdom. Wake up eagerly expecting to hear from the Lord. For the Bible says of Wisdom, "If you wait at wisdom's doorway, longing to hear a word for every day, joy will break forth within you as you listen for what I'll say" (Proverbs 8:34TPT). Rejoice with Jesus as he speaks about the importance of abiding in His words; He says, "I have told you these things so that My joy and delight may be in you, and that your joy may be made full and complete and overflowing" (John15:11 AMP)!

To be blessed by God, make sure these two things are on  your daily to-do list:

--Read the Bible

--Do what it says! 

Leave [behind] your foolishness [and the foolish] and live,

And walk in the way of insight and understanding.

MY MUSINGS

The best way to grow in life is to grow in wisdom. We receive benefits from growing in wisdom in that we get to leave behind behaviors that no longer reflect who we have become. The apostle Paul explains, "When I was a child, I spake a child, I understood as a child, I thought like a child, but when I was made a man, I avoided/ I voided those things that were of a child" (I Corinthians 13:11 WBMS).  As we mature on the life-transforming Word of God, we can change the way we act and think and make wise choices about who and what we allow to influence our lives. In other words, as we know better, we do better.

When we grow in wisdom by choosing to accept and follow Christ, we are in Christ; therefore, we are new creatures, the old things are passed away and left behind, new things and new life have come (I Corinthians 5:17).  We are now called to live different lives, to choose a different path, and "walk in the way of insight and understanding" (Proverbs 9:6) 

The Message Bible translation says it this way:

"You learned Christ! My assumption is that you have paid careful attention to him, been well instructed in the truth precisely as we have it in Jesus. Since, then, we do not have the excuse of ignorance, everything-and I do mean everything-connected with that old way of life has to go. It's rotten through and through. Get rid of it! And then take on an entirely new way of life-a God-fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you" (Ephesians 4:20-24).

The Word of God encourages us to lay aside our simple thoughts and leave our old paths behind. Agree with God's ways, live in His truth, and we will find righteousness (Proverbs 9:6 TPT).

As the television afterschool special used to say;

"The more you know, the more you grow!"  

The wicked are blown away by every stormy wind.

But when catastrophe comes, the lovers of God have a secure anchor.

MY MUSINGS

Do not fear. Do not worry.  God says this to all who are godly. If you are not godly, then you may want to worry. The Bible tells us that "When then the storms of life come, the wicked are whirled away, but the godly have a lasting foundation" (Proverbs 10:25 NLT). To those of us who call upon His name as Strong Refuge, "The Lord is good, giving protection in times of trouble. He knows who trusts in him" (Nahum 1:7 NCV). 

When the disciples experienced an actual storm while in a boat on the sea with Jesus, they became fearful. After they awoke Him, Jesus said to them, "Why are you so afraid? Haven't you learn to trust yet?" (Mark 4:40 TPT) We must remain steadfast in our faith, trust, and belief in what the Word of God tells us and the Holy Spirit reveals to us. "Don't burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don't quit in hard times; pray all the harder!" (Romans 12:12 MSG). As the Psalmist encourages Isreal's descendants, we are also encouraged to "trust God and obey His teachings, without forgetting anything God had done" (78:7 CEV). 

Let your hope remain in Him our Strong Tower because "This hope [confident assurance] we have as an anchor of the soul [it cannot slip and it cannot break down under whatever pressure bears upon it]-a safe and steadfast hope that enters within the veil [of the heavenly temple, that most Holy Place which the very presence of God dwells]" (Hebrews 6:19 AMP) 

So dear ones-you lovers of God, when the storm comes, either physical or spiritual, you may draw strength from the Word of God. Psalms 27:3-5 reads: "Though an army may encamp against me. My heart shall not fear; Though war may rise against me, In this I will be confident. One thing I have desired of the LORD, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life. To behold the beauty of the LORD, And to inquire in His temple. For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; In the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock!" 

Praise Jesus, our Rock, our fortress, and our deliverer! (Luke 6:48, II Samuel 22:2)
 

Sometimes you can become rich by being generous or poor by being greedy. 

Generosity will be rewarded: Give a cup of water, and you will receive a cup of water in return.

MY MUSINGS

God is watching you, and it pays to be nice! Do you recall the story of the widow's two mites? In Mark 12:41-43, a poor widow gave her two mites or coins, which all she had, to the offering box, and those who were rich gave much. The focus of this passage today is that "Jesus sat down near the offering box, watching all the people dropping in their coins" (v 41). Jesus watched them and made mention of their giving. He notices all that we do. 

Jesus mentions the deeds of the righteous givers did not go unnoticed. When Jesus returns to judge the nations, He will separate those who loved Him from those who did not. According to Matthew 25:34-36, our King will say to His lovers, "Come you blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in, I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me." Jesus continues in verse 40, saying, "Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me."  In our giving, we will be a blessing to God and to others, and He will reward us, if not on earth, in eternity. Futhermore, to His non-lovers, He will say, "Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels," "inasmuch as you did not do it to the one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me. And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life." (Matthew 25:41,45-46NKJV). We will be rewarded one way or the other!

The Word of God tells us not to be afraid to give nor be stingy in forgiveness and mercy. There will be a reward equivalent to how and how much you participate in all areas of your life. Jesus instructs us to "Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you" (Luke 6:38 NKJV). 

Since the second greatest commandment is to "love your neighbor as yourself,"  we must know that what we do for ourselves and for others matters a great deal to God. So give and give generously. "Just as you want others to do for you, do the same for them!" (Luke 6:31 HCSB).

Sin cannot offer security!

But if you live right, you will be as secure as a tree with deep roots.

MY MUSINGS

We have a God that always cares for us and desires to protect us. The righteous can always call on Him for protection from sin. The Bible tells us, "The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe" (Proverbs 18:10 NKJV). The righteous should not worry, instead, "Cast your burden on the LORD, And He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved" (Psalm 55:22).  "For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit" (Jeremiah 17:8).

In the first chapter of Psalms 1, we learn of the ways of the righteous and the unrighteous:

Blessed is the man

Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,

Nor stands in the path of sinners,

Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;

But his delight is in the law of the Lord,

And in His law he meditates day and night.

He shall be like a tree

Planted by the rivers of water,

That brings forth its fruit in its season,

Whose leaf also shall not wither;

And whatever he does shall prosper.

The ungodly are not so,

But are like the chaff which the wind drives away.

Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment,

Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.

For the Lord knows the way of the righteous,

But the way of the ungodly shall perish.

There should be no insecurities in the life of the consistently righteous because the Word of God tells us, "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, And whose hope is the Lord" (Jeremiah 17:7). As we "continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, we have not moved away from the hope of the gospel which we have heard" and believed in our hearts (Colossians 1:23). 

And, we shall not be moved. Anchor yourself in the steadfast love of God for His righteousness endures forever! (Psalms 112:7, 3) 

Not getting what you want can break your heart,

but a wish that comes true is a life-giving tree.

MY MUSINGS

Your current situation is temporary. This whole life experience is temporary. We should make the most of our time. So when we hope for something, and it takes longer than we expected, we can draw comfort from the Word of God. which says, "Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning" (Psalms 30:5 NKJV). Do not lose heart for "God's favor restores one's life."  "When hope's dream seems to drag on and on, the delay can be depressing. But when at last your dream comes true, life's sweetness will satisfy your soul" (Proverbs 13:22 TPT).  We should thank God for His lovingkindness and that despite all the tears we may shed, we know "across a lifetime there is only love [from Him]. The nights of crying your eyes out give way to days of laughter" (Psalms 30:5 MSG).  

So next time you find yourself sulking over what has not come into your life, pause and ask yourself, "Why are you in despair, O my soul? Why have you become restless and disquieted within me? Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him, for I shall yet praise Him," "He puts a smile on my face. He 's my God" (Psalms 42:11 AMP, MSG). And remember, when you "make God the utmost delight and pleasure of your life, he will provide for you what you desire the most!" (Psalms 37:4 TPT)

It is okay to cry out to God for what you want; as His loyal worshippers, 

we know that He will hear us and answer our prayers with life, just as King David knew.  The king acknowledges God, sayings, "Every one of your godly lovers receives even more than what they ask for. For you hear what their hearts really long for and you bring them your saving strength" (Psalms 145:19).

So dream big, trust God, wait patiently, receive blessings, and rejoice always! 

Where there are no oxen, the feedings trough is empty,

but an abundant harvest comes through the strength of an ox.

MY MUSINGS

I often quote the line from The Great Debaters movie to my children. Forest Whittaker's character, James Farmer Sr, tells his son, "We do what we have to do, so we can do what we want to do." Most times in life, to reap the benefits of a good harvest, we have to do the things necessary for a good harvest. Most times, we simply have to put in the work, and God will bless it. But if there is no work, just daydreaming or self-admiration, there is nothing for God to bless, build, nor multiply. 

Our God advocates for His followers to  "sow fields and plant vineyards that yield a fruitful harvest. He blesses them, they multiply greatly, and He does not let their herds diminish" (Psalms 107:37-38 TLV). "The slacker does not plow during planting season; at harvest time he looks, and there is nothing" (Proverbs 20:4). Do not be a slacker during times when you need to sacrifice. 

We may want to keep our hands and life clean and relaxed, like a manger with no oxen, but to produce the results we want to see in our lives, we have to get things dirty, allow others in, leave our comfort zones, and put in some work. And just a reminder, "Whatever you do, do it enthusiastically, as something done for the Lord and not for men" (Colossians 3:23 HCSB). 

As lovers of God, we should invest our time and energy wisely as He intends. "But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely. Since this is the kind of life we have chosen, the life of the Spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives" (Galatians 5:22-23, 25 MSG).

We have to put faith and understanding into action. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we all can be doers, not just hearers of His Holy Word. You can be "the kind of person that God will approve, and give yourself to Him. Be a worker who is not ashamed of His work-a worker who uses the true teaching in the right way" (James 1:22, II Timothy 2:15 ICB). 

 The ear that listens to and learns from the life-giving rebuke (reprimand, censure)

Will remain among the wise.

He who neglects and ignores instruction and discipline despises himself,

But he who learns from rebuke acquires understanding [and grows in wisdom].

MY MUSINGS

Reading the Bible can save your life. Accepting Jesus, the Living Word, can save your life. God provided His Word for us to know Him and to know how to live. The apostle Paul teaches us that " Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God's will in thought, purpose, and action), So that the man of God may be complete and proficient, well fitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work" (II Timothy 3:16-17 AMPC). 

We must first love God. To prove that we genuinely love God and He is the head of our lives, we must accept His Word in its entirety. We must love His Word in spirit and truth. In His Word, we learn how to honor Him and how we dishonor Him. By reading, listening to, and following His instructions, we prove we also love ourselves and are not willing to let ourselves perish. 

Do not limit your love towards God, nor the love for yourself. Let the Bible "empower you by its instruction and correction, giving you the strength to take the right direction and lead you deeper into the path of godliness" (II Timothy 3:16 TPT). As you examine yourself, be willing to accept what the Bible reveals about you. "Refusing constructive criticism shows you have no interest in improving your life, for revelation-insight only comes as you accept correction and the wisdom that it brings" (Proverbs 15:32 TPT). 

"For the Word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]" (Hebrews 4:12 AMP).  Therefore, to live our best life, we should never neglect it, but constantly desire to learn from it. 

Gray hair is a glorious crown worn by those who have lived right.

MY MUSINGS

Dear Lord,

Let my head almost full of gray hair and my almost 46 years of life be an award for a God-loyal life (Proverbs 16:31 MSG).  A life that I hope You will sustain and bless with many more years to come. I am aware that some did not make it this far.  So, I pray that my gray hair is a crown of glory earned by living a godly life (NLT). I speak Your Word over my life, that old age with wisdom will crown me with dignity and honor, and through a lifetime of righteousness, I acquire them both (TPT).

Beloved, I pray the same prayer for you! 

In Jesus's name. Amen. 

A person with understanding looks for wisdom. 

But a foolish person lets his mind wander everywhere. 

MY MUSINGS

Happy Saturday!

Today, I created a puzzle for us to muse over Proverbs Chapter 17! Please have fun and enjoy God's Word!
 

*hint: TPT version

Some friendships don't last for long, 

but there is one loving friend who is joined to your heart closer than any other.

MY MUSINGS

As the Word says in Ecclesiastes 3:1, "To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven" (NKJV).  Our relationships with others on this earth will wax and wane as the seasons and experiences in our lives change. These times may prove to be hurtful and lonely. However, no matter the trials or tribulations we go through with those we love, the Bible assures us "that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28 NLT). The Holy Trinity-God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit are always working with us.

God knows everything about us, yet He declares, "I will not abandon you or leave you alone" (Joshua 1:5 NET). So when we are unfriendly, He remains our friend. When we are ungrateful, He is still gracious. When we are selfish, He is selfless and concerned for us. God loves us so much; He sent His son, Jesus Christ.

Jesus is the best friend we will ever have. Because "there is no greater love a person can show than to die for his friends," we know that Jesus is our friend (John 15:13 NCV). Because "a friend loves at all times," we know there is not a time when Jesus does not love us (Proverbs 17:7 NKJV). He asks of one thing from us to be considered His friend. Jesus says, "You show that you are my intimate friends when you obey all that I command you" (John 15:14 TPT). That one thing is not easy by any means. We need help. Jesus provided that help. Jesus tells us, "The Friend, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send at my request, will make everything plain to you. He will remind you of all the things I have told you" (John 14:26 MSG). The Holy Spirit will help us be an intimate friend of Jesus and help us show our love for Him.

As we go through the different seasons of life, some friends may come and go. They have served the purpose God called them to perform in our lives. Do not lose heart nor hope, "because we can now experience the endless love of God cascading into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who lives in us!" (Romans 5:5 TPT) 

We are never alone! We have a Friend that lives in us in our hearts at all times! Praise God!

The sluggard buries his hand in the dish

and will not even bring it back to his mouth.

MY MUSINGS

King Solomon has much to say about sluggards and their idleness in Proverbs. Webster's Dictionary defines a sluggard as "a person habitually lazy, idle and inactive." We can assume that Solomon is annoyed with the lazy person. He asks of him, "How long will you lie there, O sluggard? When will you arise from your sleep?" (Proverbs 6:9) The king contends, "Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to those who send him" (Proverbs 10:26). He is useless. The sluggard makes wild excuses for not working, like saying, "There is a lion outside! I shall be killed in the streets!" 

(Proverbs 22:13) The way of the sluggard is almost comical when Solomon describes him as one who "buries his hand in the dish, it wears him out to bring it back to his mouth" (Proverbs 26:15). 

Even more, the apostle Paul commands, "if anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat" (II Thessalonians 3:10a). Paul goes on to warn us about even being associated with sluggards. In II Thessalonians 3:6, he says, "Now we command you, brothers, in the name in our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us."

We should all resist the urge to be lazy. There is much work to be done. The Bible declares, "The harvest is great, but the workers are few" (Luke 10:2 NLT). We should all rise up and be workers for God, not idle, not inactive, but whole-heartedly seeking to do His will, loving and serving God with all our strength.

"Now, may the God of peace and harmony set you apart, making you completed holy. And may your entire being-spirit, soul, and body-be kept completely flawless in the appearing of our Lord Jesus, the Anointed One" (I Thessalonians 5:23 TPT). 

Don't go the way of the sluggard. 

Don't hit the snooze button. Get up and get out there! 

Which one of us can truly say,

"I am free from sin in my life,

for my heart is clean and pure"?

MY MUSINGS- "All Scripture"

"If we boast that we have no sin, we're only fooling ourselves and are strangers to the truth" (I John 1:8). "For we all have sinned and are in need of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). "If we claim that we're not guilty of sin when God uncovers it with his light, we make him a liar and his word is not in us" (I John 1:10). Sin includes "chasing after things instead of God, manipulating others, hatred of those who get in your way, senseless arguments, resentment when others are favored, temper tantrums, angry quarrels, only thinking of yourself, being in love with your own opinions, being envious of the blessings of others, murder, uncontrolled addictions, wild parties, and all other similar behavior (Galatians 5:20).  "I'm a mystery to myself, for I want to do what is right, but end up doing what my moral instincts condemn" (Romans 7:15) "Remember this: sin will not conquer you, for God already has! You are not governed by law but governed by the reign of the grace of God" (Romans 6:14). "So then, refuse to answer its call to surrender your body as a tool for wickedness. Instead, passionately answer God's call to keep yielding your body to him as one who has now experienced resurrection life! You live now for his pleasure, ready to be used for his noble purpose" (Romans 6:13).

"If you cover up your sin, you'll never do well. But if you confess your sins and forsake them, you will be kissed by mercy" (Proverbs 28:13). "God, give me mercy from your fountain of forgiveness! I know your abundant love is enough to wash away my guilt. Because your compassion is so great, take away this shameful guilt of sin. Forgive the full extent of my rebellious ways, and erase this deep stain on my conscience" (Psalm 51:1-2). "For God made the only one who did not sin to be sin for us, so that we who did not know righteousness might become the righteousness of God through our union with him" (II Corinthians 5:21). "And you know without a doubt that Jesus was revealed to eradicate sins, and there is no sin in him. Anyone who continues to live in union with him will not sin" (I John 3:5).

"Everyone who is truly God's child will refuse to keep sinning because God's seed remains within him, and he is unable to continue sinning because he has been fathered by God himself " (I John 3:9). God's "grace teaches us how to live each day as we turn our backs on ungodliness and indulgent lifestyles, and it equips us to live self-controlled, upright, godly lives in this present age" (Titus 2:12). 

It is a joy for the just to do justice,

But destruction will come to the workers of iniquity.

Happy Wednesday Beloved!

Let's muse over Proverbs Chapter 21 with a seek and find puzzle! I hope you enjoy studying the Word of God!

Click on the link for the puzzle. 

 Crossword Puzzle Maker: Final Puzzle (shareapuzzle.com)  If the link does not work, please print from the above picture.

*My apologies for the errors on the puzzle for Proverbs Chapter 21. The clues for #9-14 are from Proverbs Chapter 20 MSG.*

Walk away from an angry man or you'll embrace a snare in your soul by becoming bad-tempered just like him.

MY MUSINGS- "All Scripture"

"An angry person causes trouble. A person who easily gets angry sins a lot" (Proverbs 29:22 ICB). "The source of strife is found in an angry heart, for sin surrounds the life of a furious man" (Proverbs 29:22 TPT). "Don't make friends with someone who easily gets angry. Don't spend time with someone who has a bad temper. If you do, you may learn to be like him. Then you will be in real danger" (Proverbs 22:24-25 ICB).

 "My dear brothers, always be willing to listen and slow to speak. Do not become angry easily. Anger will not help you live a good life as God wants. So put out of your life every evil thing and every kind of wrong you do." (James1:19-20 ICB).

 "When you are angry, do not sin. And do not go on being angry all day (Ephesians 4:26 ICB). "But now put these things out of your life: anger, bad temper, doing or saying things to hurt others, and using evil words when you talk" (Colossians 3:8 ICB).  "Do it before it's too late. Do it before you are blown away like chaff. Do it before the Lord's terrible anger reaches you. Do it before the day of the Lord's anger comes to you" (Zephaniah 2:2 ICB). "Do not give the devil a way to defeat you" (Ephesians 4:27 ICB).

Apply your heart to instruction

and your ear to words of knowledge.

MY MUSINGS-SEEK AND FIND PUZZLE

Thank God It's Friday!I created a puzzle for us to muse over.  Find the words in all CAPS. I hope you enjoy it! Let's have fun studying the Word together!

Please click on the link for the Proverbs Ch. 23 ESV puzzle: 

Crossword Puzzle Maker: Final Puzzle (shareapuzzle.com)

If the link does not work, kindly print the picture above.
 

If you fall to pieces in a crisis,

there wasn't much to you in the first place.

MY MUSINGS

The Message Bible translation really hits hard when it says, "If you fall to pieces in a crisis, there wasn't much to you in the first place!" But it is right, we are called to handle life's situation differently since we are believers in the saving power of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

When trials and tribulations come our way, and the Word assures us they will come (John 16:33), God says, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness" (II Corinthians 12:9 NKJV). "If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small" (Proverbs 24:10 NKJV). The power of God's strength is what we need to rely on in times of trouble. Take heart, "we all experience times of testing, which is normal for every human being. But God will be faithful to you. He will screen and filter the severity, nature, and timing of every test or trial you face so that you can bear it. And each test is an opportunity to trust him more, for along with every trial God has provided for you a way of escape that will bring you out of it victoriously (I Corinthians 10:13 TPT).

 
We do not have to fall apart, if we trust in God, He will provide solutions and allow us to succeed. "And it's trouble ahead if you're satisfied with yourself. Your self will not satisfy you for long" (Luke 6:25 MSG). We can not withstand the troubles of this world depending on our own strength, nor our own understanding, for without God, as it was said, there is not much to us. "Trust only in God every moment! Tell him all your troubles and pour out your heart-longings to him. Believe me when I tell you- he will help you! Pause in his presence" (Psalms 62:8 TPT). 

It's better to live all alone in a rundown shack 

than to share a castle with a crabby spouse!

MY MUSINGS

In Proverbs chapter 25, Solomon educates us on what qualities a person should have that we want in our environment that will help us to live better no matter where we live nor what we have. These qualities are what we desire even more so in a spouse. 

Our God-honoring spouse should not be crabby, contentious, complaining, nor quarrelsome. Our spouse should not be boastful. In verse 6 TPT, the king says, "Don't work yourself into the spotlight; don't push your way into the place of prominence. It's better to be promoted to a place of honor than face humiliation by being demoted." 

Our spouse should not reveal our secrets or use them against us. In verse 9 MSG, the king says, "In the heat of an argument, don't betray confidences; Word is sure to get around, and no one will trust you." 

Our spouse should not be hasty to quarrel. In verse 8 MSG, the king says, "Don't jump to conclusion-there may be a perfectly good explanation for what you just saw," and when it is proven you are wrong, you could be humiliated. 

Our spouse should not be unreliable. In verses 14 CEV, the king says, "Broken promises are worse than rain clouds that don't bring rain." Furthermore, in verse 19 TPT, he says, if you can't depend on a person when you really need help, "It can be compared to biting down on an abscessed tooth or walking with a sprained ankle." These are just a few of the qualities we should seek in our spouse to enjoy life together as God intended. 

These are qualities that we should possess in ourselves. Be not deceived, "To set high standards for someone else, and not live up to them yourself, is something God truly hates. But it pleases him when we apply the right standards of measurement" (Proverbs 11:1 TPT)! So when you seek a spouse with all the right qualities or expect these qualities in your spouse you have now, stop and examine yourself to see if you are measuring up!

You don't want to be the one forcing the spouse to want to live in the shack nor the one wanting to live there! 

Whoever digs a pit [for another man's feet] 

shall fall into it himself, 

and he who rolls a stone [up a height to do mischief], 

it will return upon him.

MY MUSINGS-All Scripture

"In my experience, those who plow injustice and those who sow trouble reap the same" (Job 4:8 HSCB). "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked {He will not allow Himself to be ridiculed, nor treated with contempt nor allow His precepts to be scornfully set aside]; for whatever a man sows, this and this only is what he will reap. For the one who sows to his flesh [his sinful capacity, his worldliness, his disgraceful impulses] will reap from the flesh ruin and destruction" (Galatians 6:7-8a AMP).

"For the [wicked] get trapped in the very snares they set for others. The hidden trap they set for the weak has snapped shut upon themselves! Yahweh is famous for his justice. While the wicked are digging a pit for others, they are actually setting the terms for their own judgment. They will fall into their own pit. Consider the truth of this and pause in his presence" (Psalms 9:15-16 TPT).

"If you warn a wicked person to turn from his way and he doesn't turn from it, he will die for his iniquity, but you will have saved your life" (Ezekiel 33:9 HCSB).  "The one who plants in response to God, letting God's Spirit do the growth work in him, harvests a crop of real, eternal life" (Galatians 6:8b MSG). "So we must not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don't give up" (Galatians 6:9 HCSB).

Better be the wounds of him that loveth, 

than guileful kisses of him that hateth.

MY MUSINGS

A kiss can be deceitful (Mark 14:44). A wink can be malicious (Proverbs 6:12). The motive of the person is what must be considered when you receive pleasantries from him or her. Which is a friend, someone who tells you you may need to practice that song or dance again before putting on a show, or someone who will praise your progress and snicker at your performance?

Truth can be hurtful, but when given out of love, it will heal. A true friend who loves you and knows you well will say the things that are needed to help you to be better. A fake friend is only trying to make themselves feel better by deceiving you (Proverbs 16:29-30, Psalm 12:2). 

When you have true friends, you can tell them things that may cause temporary pain when chastised or corrected, but in the end, you will save them from destruction and more permanent pain (Galatians 19:-21).

The Bible encourages us to listen to true friends above all others. Proverbs 27:10a reads, "So never give up on a friend or abandon a friend of your father-for in the day of your brokenness you won't have to run to a relative for help." Someone who is intimate with you daily should be able to speak into your life better than someone who knew you back when and who is no longer as close to you. Seek out the one who knows you best and will stand by you when you are in need. "A friend nearby is better than a relative far away" (Proverbs 27:10b TPT).

We all want relationships that are true. The truest relationship we can have is with our Savior Jesus Christ. He "is a friend that who stays closer than a brother" (Proverbs 18:24 CSB). He was the friend who was ”wounded for the wrong we did, he was crushed for the evil we did” (Isaiah 53:5 NVC). Jesus says "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life" (John 14:6 CSB). Since He is truth, and in truth there is freedom, we can be free to be ourselves with Him and know that all He tells us is for our good because He loves us! (John 8:32, Romans 8:28, Revelations 1:5). 

Accept Jesus as your Best Friend today! You will never regret it! 

If you close your heart and refuse to listen to God's instruction,

even your prayers will be despised.

MY MUSINGS-All Scripture

"God has no use for the prayers of the people who won't listen to him" (Proverbs 28:9 MSG). "If you refuse to obey what you have been taught, your prayers will not be heard" (Proverbs 28:9 ICB). "God looks on all [who embrace life] with approval. listening and responding well to what he's asked, but he turns his back on those who do evil things" (I Peter 3:10,12 MSG). " When [an evil man] is judged, he will be found guilty! Then his prayer will be regarded as sinful" (Psalms 109:7 NET). However, "the heartfelt and persistent prayer of a righteous man (believer) is able to accomplish much [when put into action and made effective by God-its dynamic and can have tremendous power]" (James 5:16 AMP).

"Now we know that God does not hear sinners, but if anyone is a worshipper of God and does His will, He hears him" (John 9:31 NKJV). "Have faith in God. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them" (Mark 11:22, 24 NKJV). Scripture says, "No man who believes in Him [who adheres to, relies on, and trusts in Him] will [ever] be put to shame or be disappointed" (Romans 10:11 AMPC).

"Blessed be God, Who has not turned away my prayer, nor His mercy from me!" (Psalm 66:20 NKJV)

Evil people are trapped by sin, 

but the righteous escape, shouting for joy.

MY MUSINGS

As the righteous, you should trust God with your life- all you think, do, and have. "We all experience times of testing, which is normal for every human being. But God will be faithful to you. He will screen and filter the severity, nature, and timing of every test or trial you face so that you can bear it, And each test is an opportunity to trust him more, for along with every trial God has provided for you a way of escape that will bring you out of it victoriously" (I Corinthians 10:13 TPT). 

Thank You, God, that "You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever (Psalms 16:11 NLT).  "Let us enter His presence with thanksgiving; let us shout triumphantly to Him in song" (Psalms 95:2 HCSB).

 MY MUSINGS

"Who is it that travels back and forth from the heavenly realm to the earth?"GOD

"Who controls the wind as it blows and holds it in his fists?"

GOD

"Who tucks the rain into the cloak of his clouds?"

GOD

"Who stretches out the skyline from one vista to the other?"

GOD

"What is his name?"

FATHER

"And what is the name of his Son?"

JESUS

"Who can tell me?" 

HOLY SPIRIT

(Proverbs 30:4 TPT) 

Heed the words of Jesus, the Living Word, who declares. "when the Father sends the Spirit of Holiness, the One like me who sets you free, he will teach you all things in my name. And he will inspire you to remember every word that I've told you" (John 14:26 TPT).  "More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!" (Luke 11:28  NKJV)
 

"Who among you will give ear to this?"

I WILL

Who will listen and heed hereafter?"

I WILL!

(Isaiah 42:23 TLV)

Wisdom's praises are sung in the streets and celebrated far and wide. 

Yet wisdom's song is not always heard in the halls of higher learning. 

But in the hustle and bustle of everyday life

its lyrics can always be heard above the din of the crowd. 

You will hear wisdom's warning as she preaches courageously 

to those who stop to listen.

Wisdom is a gift from a generous God, 

and every word he speaks is full of revelation

and becomes a fountain of understanding within you.

 My child, never drift off course from these two goals for your life:

to walk in wisdom and to discover your purpose.

Don't ever forget how they empower you. 

Wisdom will exalt you when you exalt her truth.

She will lead you to honor and favor 

when you live your life by her insights.

You will be adorned with beauty and grace,

and wisdom's glory will wrap itself around you,

making you victorious in the race. 

Listen to me, my son,

for I know what I'm talking about.

Listen carefully to my advice

so that wisdom and discernment will enter your heart,

and then the words you speak will express what you've learned.

And then finally you'll admit that you were wrong and say, 

"If only I had listened to wisdom's voice

and not stubbornly demanded my own way,

because my heart hated to be told what to do!"

For truth is a bright beam of light shining into every area of your life,

instructing and correcting you to discover the ways to godly living. 

Treasure my instructions, and cherish them within your heart,

Say to wisdom, "I love you," 

and to understanding, "You're my sweetheart."

"May the two of you protect me, and may we never be apart!"

"Wisdom pours into you when you begin to hate every form of evil in your life,

for that's what worship and fearing God is all about.

Then you will discover that your pompous pride and perverse speech are the ways of wickedness that I hate!" 

The starting point for acquiring wisdom

is to be consumed with awe as you worship Yahweh.

To receive the revelation of the Holy One,

you must come to the one who has living-understanding. 

Living in the worship and awe of God will bring you many years of contented living.

So how could the wicked ever expect to have a long, happy life?

Lovers of God have a joyful feast of gladness,

but the ungodly see their hopes vanish before their eyes. 

Those who live to bless others will have blessings heaped upon them,

and the one who pours out his life to pour out blessings will be saturated with favor.

A life lived loving God bears lasting fruit, for the one who is truly wise wins souls. 

MY MUSINGS 

Saturated! Wow! to be "saturated" with favor! Webster's dictionary defines saturated as "to supply to fullness."  To those of you who give of yourselves to others simply to bless them because you know and love God, He will saturate you, supply you to fullness, with favor! 

Our God is so good and worthy to be praised! 

The wicked will get trapped by their words of gossip, slander, and lies.

But for the righteous, honesty is its own defense.

Truthfulness marks the righteous,

but the habitual liar can never be trusted.

Live in the truth and keep your promises, and the Lord will keep delighting in you, but he detests a liar.
 

The virtues of God's lovers shine brightly in the darkness,

but the flickering lamp of the ungodly will be extinguished.

When the lovers of God teach you truth, a fountain of life opens up within you, 

and their wise instructions will deliver you from the ways of death. 

Don't expect anyone else to fully understand

both the bitterness and joys of all you experience in your life.

MY MUSINGS

Don't expect anyone else to fully understand both the bitterness and joys of all you experience in your life...but Jesus-the one who died for your sins so that you could have an abundant and eternal life! He is our Wonderful Counselor (Isaiah 9:6) and our Friend (Matthew 11:19).

Share your life experiences first with the one who first loved you  (I John 4:19). Jesus will understand!
 

Accepting constructive criticism opens your heart to the path of life,
making you right at home among the wise.

Refusing constructive criticism shows
you have no interest in improving your life,
for revelation-insight only comes as you accept correction
and the wisdom that it brings.

The source of revelation-knowledge is found
as you fall down in surrender before the Lord.
Don't expect to see Shekinah glory until the Lord sees your sincere humility.

Go ahead and make all the plans you want,
but it’s the Lord who will ultimately direct your steps.

Before you do anything, put your trust totally in God and not in yourself.

Then every plan you make will succeed.

The Lord works everything together to accomplish his purpose.

Even the wicked are included in his plans— he sets them aside for the day of disaster.

Within your heart you can make plans for your future, 

but the Lord chooses the steps you take to get there.

Can you bridle your tongue when your heart is under pressure?

That's how you show that you are wise. An understanding heart keeps you cool, calm, and collected,

no matter what you're facing. 

Words of wisdom are like fresh, 

flowing brook-

like deep waters that spring forth from within,

bubbling up inside the one with understanding.

The spiritually hungry are always ready  to learn more,

for their hearts are eager to discover new truths. 

Sharing words of wisdom is satisfying to your inner being.

It encourages you to know that you've changed someone else's life.

Do yourself a favor and love wisdom.

Learn all you can,

then watch your life flourish and prosper! 

Listen well to wise counsel

and be willing to learn from correction

so that by the end of your life

you’ll be known for your wisdom. 

The lovers of God will walk in integrity,

and their children are fortunate to have godly parents as their examples.

All children show what they’re really like by how they act.

You can discern their character,

whether they are pure or perverse.

If you despise your father or mother,          your life will flicker out like a lamp,

extinguished into the deepest darkness.  

Taking the easy way out is the habit of a lazy man,

and it will be his downfall.

All day long he thinks about all the things that he craves,

for he hasn’t learned the secret that the generous man has learned:

extravagant giving never leads to poverty. 

Laying your life down in tender surrender before the Lord

will bring life, prosperity, and honor as your reward.  

You’ll become winsome and wise 

when you treasure the beauty of my words. 

And always be prepared to share them at the appropriate time.

For I’m releasing these words to you this day, yes, even to you, so that your living hope will be found in God alone, 

for he is the only one who is always true.
 

My beloved child, when your heart is full of wisdom,
my heart is full of gladness.

And when you speak anointed words,
we are speaking mouth to mouth!

Go and rescue the perishing! Be their savior!
Why would you stand back and watch them stagger to their death?

And why would you say, “But it’s none of my business”?
The one who knows you completely and judges your every motive
is also the keeper of souls—and not just yours!
He sees through your excuses and holds you responsible
for failing to help those whose lives are threatened.

Don’t reveal another person’s secret

just to prove a point in an argument,

or you could be accused of being a gossip

and gain a reputation for being one

who betrays the confidence of a friend.

As the north wind brings a storm,

saying things you shouldn’t brings a storm to any relationship.

If you live without restraint

and are unable to control your temper,

you’re as helpless as a city with broken-down defenses,

open to attack. 

Don’t respond to the words of a fool with more foolish words,

or you will become as foolish as he is!

It takes fuel to have a fire—

a fire dies down when you run out of fuel.

So quarrels disappear when the gossip ends.

Add fuel to the fire and the blaze goes on.

So add an argumentative man to the mix,

and you’ll keep strife alive. 

 Sweet friendships refresh the soul and awaken our hearts with joy,

for good friends are like the anointing oil

that yields the fragrant incense of God’s presence.  

Overjoyed is the one who with tender heart trembles before God,

but the stubborn, unyielding heart will experience even greater evil.

Life’s blessings drench the honest and faithful person,

but punishment rains down upon the greedy and dishonest.
 

The wicked always have a trap laid for others,

but the lovers of God escape as they sing and shout in joyous triumph!

Fear and intimidation is a trap that holds you back.

But when you place your confidence in the Lord,

you will be seated in the high place.

As I celebrate my 46th birthday today, I pray;

God, there are two things I'm asking you for before I die, only two:

Empty out of my heart everything that is false--

every lie, and every crooked thing.

And give me neither undue poverty 

nor undue wealth--

but rather, feed my soul with the measure of prosperity

that pleases you.

May my satisfaction be found in you,

Don't let me be so rich that I don't

need you

or so poor that I have to resort to dishonesty

just to make ends meet.

Then my life will never detract from bringing glory to your name.

Amen

Charm can be misleading,

and beauty is vain and so quickly fades,

but this virtuous woman lives in the 

wonder, awe,

and fear of the Lord.

She will be praised throughout

eternity.

 Within these sayings will be found the revelation of wisdom

and the impartation of spiritual understanding.

Use them as keys to unlock the treasures of true knowledge. 

Only wisdom can save you from the flattery

of the promiscuous woman—

she’s such a smooth-talking seductress! 

MY MUSINGS

We all want to hear good and pleasing things about ourselves and our futures. Words can uplift us and nudge us forward to doing the right things. Words can lead us into life, just as words can lead us into death! Therefore, we must be careful about whose words we are following at all times. 

The world will use words of flattery, or insincere or excessive praise, to draw off course. And because they are words we want to hear, we are being lulled away, and we don't even notice the car is drifting out of our lane towards the ditch! But if you started traveling the right road, when you cross the line, your tires will roll over the sleeper line.  The sleeper line (also known as rumbling strips or alert strips) is a "road safety feature to alert inattentive drivers of potential danger, by causing a tactile vibration and audible rumbling transmitted through the wheels into the vehicle interior."  When we drift off our moral and spiritual course, here comes Wisdom, our rumbling strip, to alert us and wake us up! 

The Word makes known to us that "only Wisdom can save you from the flattery of the promiscuous woman," which is a representation of sexual, immoral, and spiritual unfaithfulness (Proverbs 2:16 TPT). Without Wisdom, we would have no rumbling strip to help navigate our journey and most likely we would end up in that ditch called Hell. 

But there is good news! So God calls out to us, "Get wisdom! Get understanding! Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth" (Proverbs 4:5). "In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths!" (Proverbs 3:6 NKJV). And at the end of our journey, we are guaranteed to arrive at our eternal destination called Heaven.

You will not be subject to terror, 

for it will not terrify you.  

Nor will the disrespectful be able to push you aside, 

because God is your confidence in times of crisis, 

keeping your heart at rest in every situation.   

MY MUSINGS-All Scripture

"Dear friend, guard Clear Thinking and Common Sense with your life; don’t for a minute lose sight of them. They’ll keep your soul alive and well, they’ll keep you fit and attractive. You’ll travel safely, you’ll neither tire nor trip. You’ll take afternoon naps without a worry, you’ll enjoy a good night’s sleep. No need to panic over alarms or surprises, or predictions that doomsday’s just around the corner, Because God will be right there with you; he’ll keep you safe and sound" (Proverbs 3:25-26 MSG) "

So, what do you think? With God on our side like this, how can we lose? If God didn’t hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything else he wouldn’t gladly and freely do for us? And who would dare tangle with God by messing with one of God’s chosen? Who would dare even to point a finger? The One who died for us—who was raised to life for us!—is in the presence of God at this very moment sticking up for us. 

Do you think anyone is going to be able to drive a wedge between us and Christ’s love for us? There is no way! Not trouble, not hard times, not hatred, not hunger, not homelessness, not bullying threats, not backstabbing, not even the worst sins listed in Scripture:

They kill us in cold blood because they hate you. We’re sitting ducks; they pick us off one by one.

None of this fazes us because Jesus loves us. I’m absolutely convinced that nothing—nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable—absolutely nothing can get between us and God’s love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us" (Romans 8:31-39 MSG)Glory to God! Amen! 

But the lovers of God walk on the highway of light,

and their way shines brighter and brighter 

until the perfect day.  

Set your gaze on the path before you. 

With fixed purpose, looking straight ahead,

ignore life’s distractions.

Watch where you’re going! 

Stick to the path of truth, 

and the road will be safe and smooth before you.

Don’t allow yourself to be sidetracked for even a moment

or take the detour that leads to darkness.  

For God sees everything you do and his eyes are wide open

as he observes every single habit you have.

MY MUSINGS

Pay attention to your habits...God certainly does!

When you’re feeling lazy, 

come and learn a lesson from this tale of the tiny ant.

Yes, all you lazybones, come learn

from the example of the ant and enter into wisdom.

The ants have no chief, no boss, no manager— 

no one has to tell them what to do.

You’ll see them working and toiling all summer long, 

 stockpiling their food in preparation for winter.

So wake up, sleepyhead. How long will you lie there?  

When will you wake up and get out of bed?

If you keep nodding off and thinking, “I’ll do it later,”  

or say to yourself, “I’ll just sit back awhile and take it easy,”  just watch how the future unfolds!  

By making excuses you’ll learn what it means to go without. 

Poverty will pounce on you like a bandit  and move in as your roommate for life.
 

Dear friend, do what I tell you; treasure my careful instructions.  They’ll be with you to fend off the Temptress— that smooth-talking, honey-tongued Seductress.

Brazen and brash she was, restless and roaming, never at home, 

Walking the streets, loitering in the mall, hanging out at every corner in town. 

Soon she has him eating out of her hand, bewitched by her honeyed speech. Before you know it, he’s trotting behind her, like a calf led to the butcher shop. 

So, friends, listen to me, take these words of mine most seriously. Don’t fool around with a woman like that; don’t even stroll through her neighborhood. Countless victims come under her spell; she’s the death of many a poor man. She runs a halfway house to hell, fits you out with a shroud and a coffin. 

MY MUSINGS

Be aware of the ways of the Seductress woman, same as those of the devil, who has a goal to destroy you by any means necessary. "Be sober [well balanced and self-disciplined], be alert and cautious at all times. That enemy of yours, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion [fiercely hungry], seeking someone to devour" (I Peter 5:8 AMP).  Therefore, "Control your sexual urges and guard your hearts against lust. Don't let your passions get out of hand" (Proverb 7:25 TPT).  

Instead of letting your passion burn for the things that lead to death and Hell, let your passions burn for the Word of God and living a life pursuing Him!

 “I’m calling to you, sons of Adam, yes, and to you daughters as well.

Listen to me and you will be prudent and wise. For even the foolish and feeble can receive an understanding heart that will change their inner being.

The meaning of my words will release within you revelation for you to reign in life. My lyrics will empower you to live by what is right."

MY MUSINGS 

When Wisdom calls out to you, do you listen to her song?
 

Lady Wisdom goes to town, stands in a prominent place,

and invites everyone within sound of her voice:

“Are you confused about life, don’t know what’s going on?

Come with me, oh come, have dinner with me!

I’ve prepared a wonderful spread—fresh-baked bread, roast lamb, carefully selected wines.

Leave your impoverished confusion and live!

Walk up the street to a life with meaning.”

MY MUSINGS

We don't have to live a life of foolishness, simpleness, nor impoverished confusion.  We have a promise from Jesus, who calls out to us, saying, "I have come that [you] may have life, and that [you] may have it more abundantly." Follow Jesus, the Word of God, and live the life you were created to live!
 

The heart of the wise will easily accept instruction.
But those who do all the talking
are too busy to listen and learn.
They’ll just keep stumbling ahead
into the mess they created. 

If you readily receive correction,
you are walking on the path to life.
But if you reject rebuke,
you’re guaranteed to go astray. 

When judgment day comes,

all the wealth of the world won’t help you one bit.

So be rich in righteousness,

for that’s the only thing that can save you in death.

A son of righteousness experiences the abundant life, but the one who pursues evil hurries to his own death.

Keep trusting in your riches and down you’ll go!

But the lovers of God rise up like flowers in the spring.

MY MUSINGS

Rise up all you lovers of God! Rise up! 

Rise up and trust and believe in Him!

Rise up and seek His will!

Rise up and love God with all you have!

Rise up and live!

To learn the truth you must long to be teachable, 

or you can despise correction and remain ignorant. 

A fool is in love with his own opinion, 

but wisdom means being teachable. 

MY MUSINGS

Wisdom means being teachable,

by the Word, and by wise counsel.
 

If you want to grow in wisdom,
spend time with the wise.
Walk with the wicked
and you’ll eventually become just like them.

MY MUSINGS-SEEK AND FIND PUZZLE

I created a puzzle for us to muse over.
I hope you enjoy it!
Let's have fun studying the Word together!

Please click here for the link for the Chapter 13 Puzzle!

If the link does not work, kindly print the picture above.

God-devotion makes a country strong;

God-avoidance leaves people weak. 

It is despicable to the Lord 

when people use the worship of the Almighty as a cloak for their sin,

but every prayer of the righteous is pleasing to his heart. 

Even hell itself holds no secrets from the Lord God,  

for before his eyes, all is exposed—

and so much more the heart of every human being. 

The source of revelation-knowledge is found as you fall down in surrender before the Lord. 

Don’t expect to see Shekinah glory until the Lord sees your sincere humility.  

The one with a wise heart is called “discerning,” 

and speaking sweetly to others

makes your teaching even more convincing.

Nothing is more appealing

than speaking beautiful, life-giving words. 

For they release sweetness to our souls

and inner healing to our spirits.
 

The one who returns evil for good can expect to be treated the same way for the rest of his life. 

MY MUSINGS

Our actions demand a response. God works in the principle of reciprocity, defined as mutual actions, equal in return or response with another of the same category.  The Bible gives us many examples of this principle in life:   

    "Those who return evil for good will meet their own evil returning" (Proverbs 17:13 MSG);    

 "Do good things everywhere you go. After a while, the good you do will            return to help you" (Ecclesiastes 11:1 ICB);  

   "Give, and it will be given to you" (Luke 6:38a); and   

  "This is what the Lord of heaven's armies says: 'Return to me, and I will return to you'" (Zechariah 1:3 ICB).  

As the Word explains in Galatians 6:7 TPT, "God will never be mocked! For what you plant will always be the very thing you harvest." As you sow a seed of righteousness, you will harvest a crop of love (Hosea 10:12), likewise, "sin is a seed that brings a harvest; you'll reap a heap of trouble with every seed you plant. For your investment in sins pays a full return—the full punishment you deserve!" (Proverbs 22:8 TPT). "Evil people should stop being evil. They should stop thinking bad thoughts. They should return to the Lord, and he will have mercy on them" (Isaiah 55:7 ICB).

So there is good news!  Even though Proverbs 17:13 WBMS warns us that  "evil shall not go away from the house of him that yieldeth evils for goods," the Bible professes that "if you return to God All-Powerful, you will be blessed again." In your repentance and returning to God, you will "remove evil from your house"(Job 22:23 ICB). 

Then, lock the door behind evil and do what is good! 

He that hath found a good wife, hath found a good thing,

and shall receive a pleasure from the Lord,

He that driveth away a good wife, driveth away a good thing; 

but he that keepeth an adulteress, is foolish and wicked.

MY MUSINGS

When a man finds a wife, he has found a treasure! For she is the gift of God to bring him joy and pleasure.

(Proverbs 18:22a TPT)

All you female lovers of the Lord, 

all you true and faithful women of the Word,

shout out from your heart,

say it so it may be heard,

"God says, I am a good thing!

To my man, God's favor I bring!"
 

A person may have many ideas concerning God's plan for his life,
but only the designs of God's purpose will succeed in the end.

When you live a life of abandoned love,
surrendered before the awe of God,
here's what you'll experience:
Abundant life.
Continual protection.
And complete satisfaction!

To the Fathers:

The righteous man walks in his integrity;

His children are blessed after him. 

Love and truth form a good leader;

sound leadership is founded on loving integrity.

To the Sons and Daughters:

All children show what they're really like by how they act.

You can discern their character,

whether they are pure or perverse.

If you despise your father or mother,

your life will flicker out like a lamp,

extinguished into the deepest darkness.

 
MY MUSINGS

Regard (treat with honor, due obedience, and courtesy) your father and mother,

that your days may be long in the land your God gives you (Exodus 20:12 AMPC).

All Honor and Praise to our Father in Heaven!  Happy Father's Day to all those blessed to be fathers on Earth!

A godly, righteous person has the ability

to bring the light of instruction to the wicked even though he despises what the wicked do.

MY MUSINGS

Love the person.

Hate the sin.
 

Listen carefully and open your heart. Drink in the wise revelation that I impart.

You’ll become winsome and wise when you treasure the beauty of my words.

And always be prepared to share them at the appropriate time. For I’m releasing these words to you this day, yes, even to you, so that your living hope will be found in God alone, for he is the only one who is always true.

Pay attention to these excellent sayings of three-fold things. For within my words you will discover true and reliable revelation.

They will give you serenity so that you can reveal the truth of the word of the one who sends you. 

Pay close attention to the teaching that corrects you,

and open your heart to every word of instruction. 

As you listen to me, my beloved child,

you will grow in wisdom and your heart

will be drawn into understanding,

which will empower you to make right decisions.

Embrace the truth and hold it close.

Don’t let go of wisdom, instruction, and life-giving understanding.

When a father observes his child living in godliness,

he is ecstatic with joy—nothing makes him prouder!

So may your father’s heart burst with joy

and your mother’s soul be filled with gladness because of you. 

MY MUSINGS

I am filled with joy and gladness because of you!

Thank you for sharing a little part of your day with me! 

I love you, and God loves you more!!

Wisdom can make anyone into a mighty warrior,

and revelation-knowledge increases strength.

Revelation-knowledge is a delicacy,

sweet like flowing honey that melts in your mouth.

Eat as much of it as you can, my friend! 

MY MUSINGS
What is revelation knowledge you ask? "The Greek word that’s translated knowledge in Scripture means more than just a mental understanding of something, more than the kind of knowledge that can be gained through your senses. It means exact knowledge. Knowledge revealed directly to your heart by the Spirit of God—that’s revelation knowledge" (blog.kcm.org/what-is-revelation-knowledge).

Andrew Wommack of Andrew Wommack Ministries explains it this way;

One of the most needed things among the body of Christ today is revelation knowledge of the Word of God.
To understand what revelation knowledge is and how to get it functional in your life, you have to know at least some of the basics about your spirit, soul, and body. Your spirit is the part of you that was changed at salvation. Second Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” Your body and soul didn’t become totally new. They can be changed and renewed as you grow in the Lord, but that is a continuing process. The only part of you that is completely changed at salvation is your inner man or spirit.

This born-again spirit is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him (Col. 3:10). First Corinthians 2:16 says “But we have the mind of Christ,” and 1 John 2:20 says “But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.” These scriptures show us that our spirit man is complete in Jesus (Col. 2:10). We know all things.

But even though that is true in your spirit, this knowledge will not profit your physical and soulish parts until you release it by renewing your mind. Romans 12:2 says, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

When the knowledge of God’s Word enters our soulish minds through hearing or studying it, our spirits bear witness with the truth and impart wisdom, which is the ability to apply knowledge. This then becomes revelation knowledge, not just facts about God (you could program a computer with that), but the knowledge of God which has been divinely quickened in us by God through our born-again spirits.”

Please continue to read the entire article. https://www.awmi.net/reading/teaching-articles/revelation_knowledge/ 

Reliable friends who do what they say

are like cool drinks in sweltering heat—refreshing!
Like a cool drink of water when you’re worn out and weary

is a letter from a long-lost friend.

MY MUSINGS

It is so refreshing for you to have a good and faithful friend.

You may be blessed to have such a friend in the physical world, even greater, you have one in the spiritual world.  

God declares to us, "I'll refresh tired bodies;

I'll restore tired souls" (Jeremiah 31:25 MSG).

Because our God is such a good friend, He sent us His Word, the Holy Bible, as a love letter to us. In His Word, we "find the healing refreshment your body and spirit long for" (Proverbs 3:8 TPT).  Because our God is such a good friend, He sent us His Holy Spirit as our faithful Helper to constantly be with us (John 14:16). 

How about you? Are you a good friend to God? What do you give Him? 

Like a madman who throws firebrands, arrows, and death, 

Is the man who deceives his neighbor,

And says, I was only joking! 

MY MUSINGS

The way we treat our neighbor, our acquaintance, our friend, can reveal what values we live by. A person who is careless with their words or actions shows how much or how little he cares about those who would be affected by those words or actions. It is considered madness to deceive others in ways that are so harmful, then, to think when caught in this deception a simple shrug and “I was just joking” would be sufficient to justify the hurt. 

God expects more from us than that. We should always strive to walk in love and give thanks for another. The Bible tells us, “Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes-these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. Don’t be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey him” (Ephesians 5:4,6 NLT).

Furthermore, the way we treat our neighbors also reveals our obedience to God. When asked by one of the Pharisees which is the most important commandment, Jesus replied, “’ You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’” (Matthew 22:36-38).

Consequently, knowing to love your neighbor is the second greatest commandment, which is also said to be equally important as the first, we should show love, honor, and respect to our neighbors with words and actions at every opportunity that arises. By this, we will show our love and obedience to God. 

So with our hearts and mind in the right place, we could follow in the kindness of Mr. Rogers from Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood and seek out someone every day and say:    

      It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood,

      A beautiful day for a neighbor,

     Would you be mine?     

     Could you be mine?      

     Won’t you be my neighbor?  

Tend an orchard and you'll have fruit to eat,

Serve the Master's interests

and you'll receive honor that's sweet.

Take care of your responsibilities 

and be diligent in your business and 

you will have more than enough-

an abundance of food, clothing, and plenty for your household.
 

 MY MUSINGS

Our Father is the source of everything. He is the reason we exist, "for in Him we live, and move, and have our being" (Acts 17:27-28 KJV).   He has provided for us all that we need to succeed in this life, but we have to pursue it, just as we have to pursue Him to truly know Him and receive from Him. 

When we relentlessly seek God, we will find Him (Deuteronomy 4:29). "Blessed and favored by God are those who keep His testimonies, And who [consistently] seek Him and long for Him with all their heart (Psalm 119:2 AMP). And when we come to Him in faith,  "He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him" (Hebrews 11:6 NKJV).

"Therefore, believers, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you [be sure that your behavior reflects and confirms your relationship with God]; for by doing these things [actively developing these virtues], you will never stumble [in your spiritual growth and will live a life that leads others away from sin]; for in this way entry into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly provided to you" (II Peter 10 AMP). 

"Seek the Kingdom of God [His way of doing and being right] above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need, and all those less important things will be given to you abundantly!" (Matthew 6:33 NLT, AMP,  TPT)

Glory to God! 

 Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity

than a rich man who is crooked in his ways. 

Whoever walks in integrity will be delivered,

but he who is crooked in his ways will suddenly fall. 

Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool,

but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered. 

When there is no clear prophetic vision, 

people quickly wander astray. 

But when you follow the revelation of the Word,

heaven’s bliss fills your soul.

 MY PICK and MY MUSINGS

Who is it that travels back and forth from the heavenly realm to the earth?

"GOD"

Who controls the wind as it blows and holds it in his fists?

"GOD"

Who tucks the rain into the cloak of his clouds?

"GOD"

Who stretches out the skyline from one vista to the other?

"GOD"

What is his name?

"FATHER"

And what is the name of his Son?

"JESUS"

Who can tell me?

"HOLY SPIRIT"

(Proverbs 30:4 TPT)

Heed the words of Jesus, the Living Word, who declares. "when the Father sends the Spirit of Holiness, the One like me who sets you free, he will teach you all things in my name. And he will inspire you to remember every word that I've told you" (John 14:26 TPT).  "More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!" (Luke 11:28  NKJV)

"Who among you will give ear to this?"

I WILL!

"Who will listen and heed hereafter?" 

WE WILL!
(Isaiah 42:23 TLV)

But the one who always listens to me 

will live undisturbed in a heavenly peace.

Free from fear,

confident and courageous, 

that one will rest unafraid and sheltered from the storms of life. 

When wisdom enters your heart,

And knowledge is pleasant to your soul,

Discretion will preserve you;

Understanding will keep you,

To deliver you from the way of evil,

From the man who speaks perverse things,

From those who leave the paths of uprightness

walk in the ways of darkness;

So you may walk in the way of goodness,

And keep to the paths of righteousness.

For the upright will dwell in the land,

And the blameless will remain in it; 

The ways of wisdom are sweet,

always drawing you into the place of wholeness. 

Seeking for her brings the discovery of untold blessings,

for she is the healing tree of life to those who taste her fruits

But the lovers of God

walk on the highway of light,

and their way shines brighter and brighter

until the perfect day.

MY MUSINGS- All Scripture

"This is the message [of God's promised revelation] which we have heard from Him and now announce to you, that God is Light [He is holy, His message is truthful, He is perfect in righteousness], and in Him, there is no darkness at all [no sin, no wickedness, no imperfection].  If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness [of sin], we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we [really] walk in the Light [that is, live each day in conformity with the precepts of God], as He Himself is in the Light, we have [true, unbroken] fellowship with one another [He with us, and we with Him], and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin [by erasing the stain of sin, keeping us cleansed from sin in all its forms and manifestations]"(I John 1:5-7 AMP).

"Jesus said, "'I am light to the world, and those who embrace me will experience life-giving light, and they will never walk in darkness" (John 8:12 TPT)

Walk in the light for Jesus is the light! (John 12:46) 

Beware that your sins don’t overtake you

and that the scars of your own conscience don’t

become the ropes that tie you up.

Those who choose wickedness die for lack of self-control,

for their foolish ways lead them astray,

carrying them away as hostages—kidnapped captives robbed of destiny.

 MY MUSINGS

When unwise decisions have bound you up and wounded you, call on Jesus,

He will set you free!

Jesus is our Rescuer and our Healer!

In His Holy Word, Jesus reveals to us His purpose;

"'The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, 

and he has anointed me to be hope for the poor,

healing for the brokenhearted, 

and new eyes for the blind, 

and to preach to prisoners,  

‘You are set free!’

I have come to share the message of Jubilee,

for the time of God’s great acceptance has begun.'"

(Luke 4:18-19 TPT) 

Here are six things God hates,

and one more that he loathes with a passion:

eyes that are arrogant,

a tongue that lies,

hands that murder the innocent,

a heart that hatches evil plots,

feet that race down a wicked track,

a mouth that lies under oath,

a troublemaker in the family.

MY MUSINGS-All Scripture

"Search me, O God, and know my heart;

test me and know my anxious thoughts.

Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life"

 (Psalms 139-23-24 NLT). 

Dear friend, do what I tell you;

treasure my careful instructions.

Do what I say and you’ll live well.

My teaching is as precious as your eyesight—guard it!

Write it out on the back of your hands;

etch it on the chambers of your heart.

Talk to Wisdom as to a sister.

Treat Insight as your companion.

They’ll be with you to fend off the Temptress—that smooth-talking, honey-tongued Seductress. 

“For I am Wisdom, and I am shrewd and intelligent. I have at my disposal living-understanding to devise a plan for your life."

"You will find true success when you find me, for I have insight into wise plans that are designed just for you. I hold in my hands living-understanding, courage, and strength." 

Do not correct someone who makes fun of wisdom, or he will hate you.

But correct a wise man, and he will love you. 

The wise person is rewarded by his wisdom.

But a person who makes fun of wisdom will suffer for it. 

The wicked are blown away by every stormy wind.

But when a catastrophe comes,

the lovers of God have a secure anchor.

MY MUSINGS

Thank You, Father!

Living your life seeking what is good for others brings untold favor,

but those who wish evil for others will find it coming back on them.

You can’t find firm footing in a swamp,

but life rooted in God stands firm.

MY MUSINGS

Watch your step! 

Stand upon the Rock!

"Blessed be my Rock!

Let God be exalted,

The Rock of my salvation!" 

(II Samuel 22:47 NKJV)

Whoever disregards discipline comes to poverty and shame,

but whoever heeds correction is honored.

A refusal to correct is a refusal to love;

love your children by disciplining them. 

It’s a sin to despise one who is less fortunate than you, 

but when you are kind to the poor,

you will prosper and be blessed.

MY MUSINGS

To receive God's love and salvation,

there is nothing you have to do.

To receive God's blessings and favor,

He expects action from you! 

A cheerful heart puts a smile on your face,

but a broken heart leads to depression.

Everything seems to go wrong

when you feel weak and depressed.

But when you choose to be cheerful,

every day will bring you more and more joy and fullness 

Before you do anything,

put your trust totally in God and not in yourself. 

Then every plan you make will succeed.

The Lord works everything together to accomplish his purpose.

MY MUSINGS

The Bible says, "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, who are the called according to His purpose" (Romans 8:28 NKJV)." If you believe that, trust Him with your whole life.

For who is more trustworthy, 

you or God?

Love overlooks the mistakes of others,

but dwelling on the failures of others devastates friendships. 

A dear friend will love you no matter what,

and a family sticks together through all kinds of trouble. 

The mind of the prudent is ever getting knowledge, 

and the ear of the wise is ever seeking (inquiring for and craving) knowledge.
 

 There are some people who ruin their own lives
and then blame it all on God. 

Wise words are more valuable

than much gold and many rubies.

Watch your words and be careful what you say,

and you'll be surprised by how few troubles you'll have. 

A good name [earned by honorable behavior, godly wisdom, moral courage, and personal integrity] is more desirable than great riches;

And favor is better than silver and gold. 

 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.

MY MUSINGS
So Beloved? What are you about thinking yourself? 

For a just [or rightwise] man shall fall seven times in the day, and shall rise again; 

but wicked men shall fall into evil. 

MY MUSINGS

Don't give up.

Don't give in.

Rise up! 

If your enemies are hungry, give them food to eat.

If they are thirsty, give them water to drink.

You will heap burning coals of shame on their heads,

and the Lord will reward you.

Kind words can be a cover to conceal hatred of others,

for hypocrisy loves to hide behind flattery.

So don’t be drawn in by the hypocrite,

for his gracious speech is a charade,

nothing but a masquerade covering his hatred and evil on parade. 

Don’t worry—he can’t keep the mask on for long.

One day his hypocrisy will be exposed before all the world.

Carrying a log across your shoulders

while you’re hefting a boulder with your arms

Is nothing compared to the burden

of putting up with a fool.

MY MUSINGS

Pile your troubles on God’s shoulders—he’ll carry your load, he’ll help you out. He’ll never let good people topple into ruin (Psalms 55:22 MSG). 

Those who hide their sins won’t succeed,

but those who confess and give them up will receive mercy.

MY MUSINGS

Therefore, confess your sins to one another [your false steps, your offenses], and pray for one another, that you may be healed and restored. The heartfelt and persistent prayer of a righteous man (believer) is able to accomplish much [when put into action and made effective by God—it is dynamic and can have tremendous power] (James 5:16 AMP). 

The fear of human opinion disables;

trusting in God protects you from that.

Every word of God is pure;

He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him.

An excellent woman [one who is spiritual, capable, intelligent, and virtuous], who is he who can find her?

Her value is more precious than jewels and her worth is far above rubies or pearls.

MY MUSINGS

Dear Daughter of the King, 

Strive to be excellent in ALL you do!

"And this I pray, that your love may abound more and more [displaying itself in greater depth] in real knowledge and in practical insight, so that you may learn to recognize and treasure what is excellent [identifying the best, and distinguishing moral differences], and that you may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ [actually living lives that lead others away from sin]; filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God [so that His glory may be both revealed and recognized] (Philippians 1:9-11 AMP).