Monday, May 31, 2010

May Thirty One


All comments welcome!! It is how I get my questions answered.

 
~Good Morning~
Happy Memorial Day!
I went to church yesterday at a local church that most of my friends out here go. I went with a friend who has been going to church and finally asked if I would go. I really liked it this time. I had gone alone and with my husband when we were trying to find a church locally. We went back to our church and love it. It gives a life lesson with scripture. I love this. But when I went to this church today. I really liked it. It runs longer than my church, which is usually very hard for me to sit anywhere for any amount of time (any amount of time is hard for me.) But I liked how the pastor does it like a bible study. He takes the scripture and explains it to you. Like a bible study. How did I miss it the last times I went? I feel God (woo hoo can I get an amen) convicting me to go back, so I will be there next week. Plus I hope my friend will go again too. Her husband didn't want to drive as far as my church so she wanted to try this church. Isn't it amazing how God gets us places. I am sooo happy to feel him working in my life. (Now if my friend and I can get the hubby's there next week)

 

  • It is scary how much power we wives have over our home. This is something I pray for every night. That I be the wife and mother He wants me to be.
A wise woman builds her home,
      but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands.

  • I actually learned this from Dr. Laura. She has said that people are trying to hide or get rid of guilty feelings when there is usually a reason for it. (not quoted obviously)
9 Fools make fun of guilt,
      but the godly acknowledge it and seek reconciliation.

  • Huh?
20 The poor are despised even by their neighbors,
      while the rich have many "friends."


  • This is another nightly prayer for me that I fall short of. That I will be the witness that He wants me to be.
25 A truthful witness saves lives,
      but a false witness is a traitor.

  • WOW.
31 Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker,
      but helping the poor honors him.


  • Huh?
    30 A cheerful look brings joy to the heart;
          good news makes for good health.

  • I love corrective criticism. I know I do and say things that I am not aware of the affect on people or that may be wrong. I am sure it is hard to give to me because I ask a lot of questions when it is given to me so I completely understand. I also need it to be direct. For example "you did a.b.c.". Not casually done. Which is hard on my side of the family, they tend to use passive aggressiveness and it slides right pass me.
31 If you listen to constructive criticism,
      you will be at home among the wise.

  • ??? Isn't the enemy trying to temp and lead people away from godly ways?
7 When people's lives please the Lord,
      even their enemies are at peace with them.

  • I need to add this to my prayers!! I am not good at discretion!!
22 Discretion is a life-giving fountain to those who possess it,
      but discipline is wasted on fools.

  • Does this really have anything to do with "gray hair"? Is it a parable and what does it mean? Hard work?
31 Gray hair is a crown of glory;
      it is gained by living a godly life.

  • Huh?
33 We may throw the dice,
      but the Lord determines how they fall.

 

 

 
Today's Scripture:



Proverbs 14

 1 A wise woman builds her home,
      but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands.


 2 Those who follow the right path fear the Lord;
      those who take the wrong path despise him.

 3 A fool's proud talk becomes a rod that beats him,
      but the words of the wise keep them safe.

 4 Without oxen a stable stays clean,
      but you need a strong ox for a large harvest.

 5 An honest witness does not lie;
      a false witness breathes lies.

 6 A mocker seeks wisdom and never finds it,
      but knowledge comes easily to those with understanding.

 7 Stay away from fools,
      for you won't find knowledge on their lips.

 8 The prudent understand where they are going,
      but fools deceive themselves.

 9 Fools make fun of guilt,
      but the godly acknowledge it and seek reconciliation.


 10 Each heart knows its own bitterness,
      and no one else can fully share its joy.

 11 The house of the wicked will be destroyed,
      but the tent of the godly will flourish.

 12 There is a path before each person that seems right,
      but it ends in death.

 13 Laughter can conceal a heavy heart,
      but when the laughter ends, the grief remains.

 14 Backsliders get what they deserve;
      good people receive their reward.

 15 Only simpletons believe everything they're told!
      The prudent carefully consider their steps.

 16 The wise are cautious and avoid danger;
      fools plunge ahead with reckless confidence.

 17 Short-tempered people do foolish things,
      and schemers are hated.

 18 Simpletons are clothed with foolishness,
      but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

 19 Evil people will bow before good people;
      the wicked will bow at the gates of the godly.

 20 The poor are despised even by their neighbors,
      while the rich have many "friends."


 21 It is a sin to belittle one's neighbor;
      blessed are those who help the poor.

 22 If you plan to do evil, you will be lost;
      if you plan to do good, you will receive unfailing love and faithfulness.

 23 Work brings profit,
      but mere talk leads to poverty!

 24 Wealth is a crown for the wise;
      the effort of fools yields only foolishness.

 25 A truthful witness saves lives,
      but a false witness is a traitor.


 26 Those who fear the Lord are secure;
      he will be a refuge for their children.

 27 Fear of the Lord is a life-giving fountain;
      it offers escape from the snares of death.

 28 A growing population is a king's glory;
      a prince without subjects has nothing.

 29 People with understanding control their anger;
      a hot temper shows great foolishness.

 30 A peaceful heart leads to a healthy body;
      jealousy is like cancer in the bones.

 31 Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker,
      but helping the poor honors him.


 32 The wicked are crushed by disaster,
      but the godly have a refuge when they die.

 33 Wisdom is enshrined in an understanding heart;
      wisdom is not found among fools.

 34 Godliness makes a nation great,
      but sin is a disgrace to any people.

 35 A king rejoices in wise servants
      but is angry with those who disgrace him.

Proverbs 15

 1 A gentle answer deflects anger,
      but harsh words make tempers flare.

 2 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing,
      but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness.

 3 The Lord is watching everywhere,
      keeping his eye on both the evil and the good.

 4 Gentle words are a tree of life;
      a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

 5 Only a fool despises a parent's discipline;
      whoever learns from correction is wise.

 6 There is treasure in the house of the godly,
      but the earnings of the wicked bring trouble.

 7 The lips of the wise give good advice;
      the heart of a fool has none to give.

 8 The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked,
      but he delights in the prayers of the upright.

 9 The Lord detests the way of the wicked,
      but he loves those who pursue godliness.

 10 Whoever abandons the right path will be severely disciplined;
      whoever hates correction will die.

 11 Even Death and Destruction hold no secrets from the Lord.
      How much more does he know the human heart!

 12 Mockers hate to be corrected,
      so they stay away from the wise.

 13 A glad heart makes a happy face;
      a broken heart crushes the spirit.

 14 A wise person is hungry for knowledge,
      while the fool feeds on trash.

 15 For the despondent, every day brings trouble;
      for the happy heart, life is a continual feast.

 16 Better to have little, with fear for the Lord,
      than to have great treasure and inner turmoil.

 17 A bowl of vegetables with someone you love
      is better than steak with someone you hate.

 18 A hot-tempered person starts fights;
      a cool-tempered person stops them.

 19 A lazy person's way is blocked with briers,
      but the path of the upright is an open highway.

 20 Sensible children bring joy to their father;
      foolish children despise their mother.

 21 Foolishness brings joy to those with no sense;
      a sensible person stays on the right path.

 22 Plans go wrong for lack of advice;
      many advisers bring success.

 23 Everyone enjoys a fitting reply;
      it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!

 24 The path of life leads upward for the wise;
      they leave the grave behind.

 25 The Lord tears down the house of the proud,
      but he protects the property of widows.

 26 The Lord detests evil plans,
      but he delights in pure words.

 27 Greed brings grief to the whole family,
      but those who hate bribes will live.

 28 The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking;
      the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words.

 29 The Lord is far from the wicked,
      but he hears the prayers of the righteous.

 30 A cheerful look brings joy to the heart;
      good news makes for good health.

 31 If you listen to constructive criticism,
      you will be at home among the wise.


 32 If you reject discipline, you only harm yourself;
      but if you listen to correction, you grow in understanding.

 33 Fear of the Lord teaches wisdom;
      humility precedes honor.

Proverbs 16

 1 We can make our own plans,
      but the Lord gives the right answer.

 2 People may be pure in their own eyes,
      but the Lord examines their motives.

 3 Commit your actions to the Lord,
      and your plans will succeed.

 4 The Lord has made everything for his own purposes,
      even the wicked for a day of disaster.

 5 The Lord detests the proud;
      they will surely be punished.

 6 Unfailing love and faithfulness make atonement for sin.
      By fearing the Lord, people avoid evil.

 7 When people's lives please the Lord,
      even their enemies are at peace with them.


 8 Better to have little, with godliness,
      than to be rich and dishonest.

 9 We can make our plans,
      but the Lord determines our steps.

 10 The king speaks with divine wisdom;
      he must never judge unfairly.

 11 The Lord demands accurate scales and balances;
      he sets the standards for fairness.

 12 A king detests wrongdoing,
      for his rule is built on justice.

 13 The king is pleased with words from righteous lips;
      he loves those who speak honestly.

 14 The anger of the king is a deadly threat;
      the wise will try to appease it.

 15 When the king smiles, there is life;
      his favor refreshes like a spring rain.

 16 How much better to get wisdom than gold,
      and good judgment than silver!

 17 The path of the virtuous leads away from evil;
      whoever follows that path is safe.

 18 Pride goes before destruction,
      and haughtiness before a fall.

 19 Better to live humbly with the poor
      than to share plunder with the proud.

 20 Those who listen to instruction will prosper;
      those who trust the Lord will be joyful.

 21 The wise are known for their understanding,
      and pleasant words are persuasive.

 22 Discretion is a life-giving fountain to those who possess it,
      but discipline is wasted on fools.


 23 From a wise mind comes wise speech;
      the words of the wise are persuasive.

 24 Kind words are like honey—
      sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

 25 There is a path before each person that seems right,
      but it ends in death.

 26 It is good for workers to have an appetite;
      an empty stomach drives them on.

 27 Scoundrels create trouble;
      their words are a destructive blaze.

 28 A troublemaker plants seeds of strife;
      gossip separates the best of friends.

 29 Violent people mislead their companions,
      leading them down a harmful path.

 30 With narrowed eyes, people plot evil;
      with a smirk, they plan their mischief.

 31 Gray hair is a crown of glory;
      it is gained by living a godly life.


 32 Better to be patient than powerful;
      better to have self-control than to conquer a city.

 33 We may throw the dice,
      but the Lord determines how they fall.

Sunday, May 30, 2010

May Thirty

All comments welcome!! It is how I get my questions answered.


 

~Good Morning~

I am going with a friend to church this morning. She was not raised Christian. I am feeling blessed to go with her. I am praying that the Lord reaches her and touches her heart. I am also praying for her kids to be okay going into Sunday school. They tend to be on the shy side, which makes it hard for her to drop off at day care/child care type place.

  • Does this contradict the "we will all face tribulations"?

8 The godly are rescued from trouble,
      and it falls on the wicked instead.

  • It amazes me how much God is against co-signing.

15 There's danger in putting up security for a stranger's debt;
      it's safer not to guarantee another person's debt.

  • I need to give more. I keep thinking "when I get ahead, or caught up, or the right person/group…"

24 Give freely and become more wealthy;
      be stingy and lose everything.

  • They had cancer way back then?????

4 A worthy wife is a crown for her husband,
      but a disgraceful woman is like cancer in his bones.

  • Harm does come to the godly. Well wait..who or what is considered godly?

21 No harm comes to the godly,
      but the wicked have their fill of trouble.

  • How does this apply to the Christian widow working 2 jobs to keep her family afloat?

 4 Lazy people want much but get little,
      but those who work hard will prosper.

  • "Birds of a feather, walk together",eh?

20 Walk with the wise and become wise;
      associate with fools and get in trouble.


 


 


 


 


 


 


 

Today's Scripture:

Proverbs 11-13:25 (New Living Translation)

Proverbs 11

 1 The Lord detests the use of dishonest scales,
      but he delights in accurate weights.

 2 Pride leads to disgrace,
      but with humility comes wisdom.

 3 Honesty guides good people;
      dishonesty destroys treacherous people.

 4 Riches won't help on the day of judgment,
      but right living can save you from death.

 5 The godly are directed by honesty;
      the wicked fall beneath their load of sin.

 6 The godliness of good people rescues them;
      the ambition of treacherous people traps them.

 7 When the wicked die, their hopes die with them,
      for they rely on their own feeble strength.

 8 The godly are rescued from trouble,
      and it falls on the wicked instead.

 9 With their words, the godless destroy their friends,
      but knowledge will rescue the righteous.

 10 The whole city celebrates when the godly succeed;
      they shout for joy when the wicked die.

 11 Upright citizens are good for a city and make it prosper,
      but the talk of the wicked tears it apart.

 12 It is foolish to belittle one's neighbor;
      a sensible person keeps quiet.

 13 A gossip goes around telling secrets,
      but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence.

 14 Without wise leadership, a nation falls;
      there is safety in having many advisers.

 15 There's danger in putting up security for a stranger's debt;
      it's safer not to guarantee another person's debt.

 16 A gracious woman gains respect,
      but ruthless men gain only wealth.

 17 Your kindness will reward you,
      but your cruelty will destroy you.

 18 Evil people get rich for the moment,
      but the reward of the godly will last.

 19 Godly people find life;
      evil people find death.

 20 The Lord detests people with crooked hearts,
      but he delights in those with integrity.

 21 Evil people will surely be punished,
      but the children of the godly will go free.

 22 A beautiful woman who lacks discretion
      is like a gold ring in a pig's snout.

 23 The godly can look forward to a reward,
      while the wicked can expect only judgment.

 24 Give freely and become more wealthy;
      be stingy and lose everything.

 25 The generous will prosper;
      those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.

 26 People curse those who hoard their grain,
      but they bless the one who sells in time of need.

 27 If you search for good, you will find favor;
      but if you search for evil, it will find you!

 28 Trust in your money and down you go!
      But the godly flourish like leaves in spring.

 29 Those who bring trouble on their families inherit the wind.
      The fool will be a servant to the wise.

 30 The seeds of good deeds become a tree of life;
      a wise person wins friends.

 31 If the righteous are rewarded here on earth,
      what will happen to wicked sinners?

Proverbs 12

 1 To learn, you must love discipline;
      it is stupid to hate correction.

 2 The Lord approves of those who are good,
      but he condemns those who plan wickedness.

 3 Wickedness never brings stability,
      but the godly have deep roots.

 4 A worthy wife is a crown for her husband,
      but a disgraceful woman is like cancer in his bones.

 5 The plans of the godly are just;
      the advice of the wicked is treacherous.

 6 The words of the wicked are like a murderous ambush,
      but the words of the godly save lives.

 7 The wicked die and disappear,
      but the family of the godly stands firm.

 8 A sensible person wins admiration,
      but a warped mind is despised.

 9 Better to be an ordinary person with a servant
      than to be self-important but have no food.

 10 The godly care for their animals,
      but the wicked are always cruel.

 11 A hard worker has plenty of food,
      but a person who chases fantasies has no sense.

 12 Thieves are jealous of each other's loot,
      but the godly are well rooted and bear their own fruit.

 13 The wicked are trapped by their own words,
      but the godly escape such trouble.

 14 Wise words bring many benefits,
      and hard work brings rewards.

 15 Fools think their own way is right,
      but the wise listen to others.

 16 A fool is quick-tempered,
      but a wise person stays calm when insulted.

 17 An honest witness tells the truth;
      a false witness tells lies.

 18 Some people make cutting remarks,
      but the words of the wise bring healing.

 19 Truthful words stand the test of time,
      but lies are soon exposed.

 20 Deceit fills hearts that are plotting evil;
      joy fills hearts that are planning peace!

 21 No harm comes to the godly,
      but the wicked have their fill of trouble.

 22 The Lord detests lying lips,
      but he delights in those who tell the truth.

 23 The wise don't make a show of their knowledge,
      but fools broadcast their foolishness.

 24 Work hard and become a leader;
      be lazy and become a slave.

 25 Worry weighs a person down;
      an encouraging word cheers a person up.

 26 The godly give good advice to their friends;
      the wicked lead them astray.

 27 Lazy people don't even cook the game they catch,
      but the diligent make use of everything they find.

 28 The way of the godly leads to life;
      that path does not lead to death.

Proverbs 13

 1 A wise child accepts a parent's discipline;
      a mocker refuses to listen to correction.

 2 Wise words will win you a good meal,
      but treacherous people have an appetite for violence.

 3 Those who control their tongue will have a long life;
      opening your mouth can ruin everything.

 4 Lazy people want much but get little,
      but those who work hard will prosper.

 5 The godly hate lies;
      the wicked cause shame and disgrace.

 6 Godliness guards the path of the blameless,
      but the evil are misled by sin.

 7 Some who are poor pretend to be rich;
      others who are rich pretend to be poor.

 8 The rich can pay a ransom for their lives,
      but the poor won't even get threatened.

 9 The life of the godly is full of light and joy,
      but the light of the wicked will be snuffed out.

 10 Pride leads to conflict;
      those who take advice are wise.

 11 Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes quickly disappears;
      wealth from hard work grows over time.

 12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick,
      but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life.

 13 People who despise advice are asking for trouble;
      those who respect a command will succeed.

 14 The instruction of the wise is like a life-giving fountain;
      those who accept it avoid the snares of death.

 15 A person with good sense is respected;
      a treacherous person is headed for destruction.

 16 Wise people think before they act;
      fools don't—and even brag about their foolishness.

 17 An unreliable messenger stumbles into trouble,
      but a reliable messenger brings healing.

 18 If you ignore criticism, you will end in poverty and disgrace;
      if you accept correction, you will be honored.

 19 It is pleasant to see dreams come true,
      but fools refuse to turn from evil to attain them.

 20 Walk with the wise and become wise;
      associate with fools and get in trouble.

 21 Trouble chases sinners,
      while blessings reward the righteous.

 22 Good people leave an inheritance to their grandchildren,
      but the sinner's wealth passes to the godly.

 23 A poor person's farm may produce much food,
      but injustice sweeps it all away.

 24 Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children.
      Those who love their children care enough to discipline them.

 25 The godly eat to their hearts' content,
      but the belly of the wicked goes hungry.

Saturday, May 29, 2010

May Twenty Nine

All comments welcome!! It is how I get my questions answered.


 

~Good Morning~

I really love where we live. (Okay when I am complaining this summer send me back to today's date). We were in the snow a few days ago and today it is going to be 86. I love love cold wet weather but 86 is REALLY nice. Now if I can just stop my girls from thinking it is okay to dive in the 1' deep pool.


 

  • Is this what people mean by predestined. Our souls were already created? Also, is Soloman remembering being there? Especially when he is talking about being the architect? Jared and I were talking about this he said "maybe all the souls have been created and when all the souls get to earth, then the apocalypse starts", kind of makes some sort of sense, eh??

22 "The Lord formed me from the beginning,
      before he created anything else.
 23 I was appointed in ages past,
      at the very first, before the earth began.
 24 I was born before the oceans were created,
      before the springs bubbled forth their waters.
 25 Before the mountains were formed,
      before the hills, I was born—
 26 before he had made the earth and fields
      and the first handfuls of soil.
 27 I was there when he established the heavens,
      when he drew the horizon on the oceans.
 28 I was there when he set the clouds above,
      when he established springs deep in the earth.
 29 I was there when he set the limits of the seas,
      so they would not spread beyond their boundaries.
   And when he marked off the earth's foundations,
    30 I was the architect at his side.
   I was his constant delight,
      rejoicing always in his presence.
 31 And how happy I was with the world he created;
      how I rejoiced with the human family!

  • This sounds like something Jesus would say not Soloman? Why is he saying this????

 35 For whoever finds me finds life
      and receives favor from the Lord.

  • How does wisdom multiply your days and add years to your life?

11 Wisdom will multiply your days
      and add years to your life.

  • Before Jesus came, did we get to heaven by works?

2 Tainted wealth has no lasting value,
      but right living can save your life.

  • Are there no hungry people in the world who are godly?

3 The Lord will not let the godly go hungry,
      but he refuses to satisfy the craving of the wicked.

  • Huh?? We all have trials and tribulations???...

30 The godly will never be disturbed,
      but the wicked will be removed from the land.


 


 


 


 


 

Today's scripture:

Proverbs 8

Wisdom Calls for a Hearing

 1 Listen as Wisdom calls out!
      Hear as understanding raises her voice!
 2 On the hilltop along the road,
      she takes her stand at the crossroads.
 3 By the gates at the entrance to the town,
      on the road leading in, she cries aloud,
 4 "I call to you, to all of you!
      I raise my voice to all people.
 5 You simple people, use good judgment.
      You foolish people, show some understanding.
 6 Listen to me! For I have important things to tell you.
      Everything I say is right,
 7 for I speak the truth
      and detest every kind of deception.
 8 My advice is wholesome.
      There is nothing devious or crooked in it.
 9 My words are plain to anyone with understanding,
      clear to those with knowledge.
 10 Choose my instruction rather than silver,
      and knowledge rather than pure gold.
 11 For wisdom is far more valuable than rubies.
      Nothing you desire can compare with it.

 12 "I, Wisdom, live together with good judgment.
      I know where to discover knowledge and discernment.
 13 All who fear the Lord will hate evil.
      Therefore, I hate pride and arrogance,
      corruption and perverse speech.
 14 Common sense and success belong to me.
      Insight and strength are mine.
 15 Because of me, kings reign,
      and rulers make just decrees.
 16 Rulers lead with my help,
      and nobles make righteous judgments.

 17 "I love all who love me.
      Those who search will surely find me.
 18 I have riches and honor,
      as well as enduring wealth and justice.
 19 My gifts are better than gold, even the purest gold,
      my wages better than sterling silver!
 20 I walk in righteousness,
      in paths of justice.
 21 Those who love me inherit wealth.
      I will fill their treasuries.

 22 "The Lord formed me from the beginning,
      before he created anything else.
 23 I was appointed in ages past,
      at the very first, before the earth began.
 24 I was born before the oceans were created,
      before the springs bubbled forth their waters.
 25 Before the mountains were formed,
      before the hills, I was born—
 26 before he had made the earth and fields
      and the first handfuls of soil.
 27 I was there when he established the heavens,
      when he drew the horizon on the oceans.
 28 I was there when he set the clouds above,
      when he established springs deep in the earth.
 29 I was there when he set the limits of the seas,
      so they would not spread beyond their boundaries.
   And when he marked off the earth's foundations,
    30 I was the architect at his side.
   I was his constant delight,
      rejoicing always in his presence.
 31 And how happy I was with the world he created;
      how I rejoiced with the human family!

 32 "And so, my children, listen to me,
      for all who follow my ways are joyful.
 33 Listen to my instruction and be wise.
      Don't ignore it.
 34 Joyful are those who listen to me,
      watching for me daily at my gates,
      waiting for me outside my home!
 35 For whoever finds me finds life
      and receives favor from the Lord.

 36 But those who miss me injure themselves.
      All who hate me love death."

Proverbs 9

 1 Wisdom has built her house;
      she has carved its seven columns.
 2 She has prepared a great banquet,
      mixed the wines, and set the table.
 3 She has sent her servants to invite everyone to come.
      She calls out from the heights overlooking the city.
 4 "Come in with me," she urges the simple.
      To those who lack good judgment, she says,
 5 "Come, eat my food,
      and drink the wine I have mixed.
 6 Leave your simple ways behind, and begin to live;
      learn to use good judgment."

 7 Anyone who rebukes a mocker will get an insult in return.
      Anyone who corrects the wicked will get hurt.
 8 So don't bother correcting mockers;
      they will only hate you.
   But correct the wise,
      and they will love you.
 9 Instruct the wise,
      and they will be even wiser.
   Teach the righteous,
      and they will learn even more.

 10 Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom.
      Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment.

 11 Wisdom will multiply your days
      and add years to your life.

 12 If you become wise, you will be the one to benefit.
      If you scorn wisdom, you will be the one to suffer.

Folly Calls for a Hearing

 13 The woman named Folly is brash.
      She is ignorant and doesn't know it.
 14 She sits in her doorway
      on the heights overlooking the city.
 15 She calls out to men going by
      who are minding their own business.
 16 "Come in with me," she urges the simple.
      To those who lack good judgment, she says,
 17 "Stolen water is refreshing;
      food eaten in secret tastes the best!"
 18 But little do they know that the dead are there.
      Her guests are in the depths of the grave.

Proverbs 10

The Proverbs of Solomon

 1 The proverbs of Solomon:

   A wise child brings joy to a father;
      a foolish child brings grief to a mother.

 2 Tainted wealth has no lasting value,
      but right living can save your life.

 3 The Lord will not let the godly go hungry,
      but he refuses to satisfy the craving of the wicked.

 4 Lazy people are soon poor;
      hard workers get rich.

 5 A wise youth harvests in the summer,
      but one who sleeps during harvest is a disgrace.

 6 The godly are showered with blessings;
      the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions.

 7 We have happy memories of the godly,
      but the name of a wicked person rots away.

 8 The wise are glad to be instructed,
      but babbling fools fall flat on their faces.

 9 People with integrity walk safely,
      but those who follow crooked paths will slip and fall.

 10 People who wink at wrong cause trouble,
      but a bold reproof promotes peace.

 11 The words of the godly are a life-giving fountain;
      the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions.

 12 Hatred stirs up quarrels,
      but love makes up for all offenses.

 13 Wise words come from the lips of people with understanding,
      but those lacking sense will be beaten with a rod.

 14 Wise people treasure knowledge,
      but the babbling of a fool invites disaster.

 15 The wealth of the rich is their fortress;
      the poverty of the poor is their destruction.

 16 The earnings of the godly enhance their lives,
      but evil people squander their money on sin.

 17 People who accept discipline are on the pathway to life,
      but those who ignore correction will go astray.

 18 Hiding hatred makes you a liar;
      slandering others makes you a fool.

 19 Too much talk leads to sin.
      Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.

 20 The words of the godly are like sterling silver;
      the heart of a fool is worthless.

 21 The words of the godly encourage many,
      but fools are destroyed by their lack of common sense.

 22 The blessing of the Lord makes a person rich,
      and he adds no sorrow with it.

 23 Doing wrong is fun for a fool,
      but living wisely brings pleasure to the sensible.

 24 The fears of the wicked will be fulfilled;
      the hopes of the godly will be granted.

 25 When the storms of life come, the wicked are whirled away,
      but the godly have a lasting foundation.

 26 Lazy people irritate their employers,
      like vinegar to the teeth or smoke in the eyes.

 27 Fear of the Lord lengthens one's life,
      but the years of the wicked are cut short.

 28 The hopes of the godly result in happiness,
      but the expectations of the wicked come to nothing.

 29 The way of the Lord is a stronghold to those with integrity,
      but it destroys the wicked.

 30 The godly will never be disturbed,
      but the wicked will be removed from the land.

 31 The mouth of the godly person gives wise advice,
      but the tongue that deceives will be cut off.

 32 The lips of the godly speak helpful words,
      but the mouth of the wicked speaks perverse words.


 


 

Friday, May 28, 2010

May Twenty Eight


All comments welcome!! It is how I get my questions answered.

 
~Good Morning~
I can not tell you how I am enjoying proverbs already. It is amazing. I think it should be a mandatory study in all high schools (okay really jr high school).
I am going to get my husband a book on the book of proverbs for father's day. He is pretty good with morality but I feel every husband should have it.

  • Is this the introduction to monogamy? It doesn't say wives it says wife?
15 Drink water from your own well—
      share your love only with your wife.
 16 Why spill the water of your springs in the streets,
      having sex with just anyone?

  • Man o man I needed this in my early (know it all 20's). I know I co-signed for boyfriends and relatives.
1 My child, if you have put up security for a friend's debt
      or agreed to guarantee the debt of a stranger—
 2 if you have trapped yourself by your agreement
      and are caught by what you said—
 3 follow my advice and save yourself,
      for you have placed yourself at your friend's mercy.
   Now swallow your pride;
      go and beg to have your name erased.
 4 Don't put it off; do it now!
      Don't rest until you do.
 5 Save yourself like a gazelle escaping from a hunter,
      like a bird fleeing from a net.


 

 

 
Today's Scripture:

Proverbs 5-7:27 (New Living Translation)

Proverbs 5

Avoid Immoral Women

 1 My son, pay attention to my wisdom;
      listen carefully to my wise counsel.
 2 Then you will show discernment,
      and your lips will express what you've learned.
 3 For the lips of an immoral woman are as sweet as honey,
      and her mouth is smoother than oil.
 4 But in the end she is as bitter as poison,
      as dangerous as a double-edged sword.
 5 Her feet go down to death;
      her steps lead straight to the grave.
 6 For she cares nothing about the path to life.
      She staggers down a crooked trail and doesn't realize it.

 7 So now, my sons, listen to me.
      Never stray from what I am about to say:
 8 Stay away from her!
      Don't go near the door of her house!
 9 If you do, you will lose your honor
      and will lose to merciless people all you have achieved.
 10 Strangers will consume your wealth,
      and someone else will enjoy the fruit of your labor.
 11 In the end you will groan in anguish
      when disease consumes your body.
 12 You will say, "How I hated discipline!
      If only I had not ignored all the warnings!
 13 Oh, why didn't I listen to my teachers?
      Why didn't I pay attention to my instructors?
 14 I have come to the brink of utter ruin,
      and now I must face public disgrace."

 15 Drink water from your own well—
      share your love only with your wife.
 16 Why spill the water of your springs in the streets,
      having sex with just anyone?

 17 You should reserve it for yourselves.
      Never share it with strangers.

 18 Let your wife be a fountain of blessing for you.
      Rejoice in the wife of your youth.
 19 She is a loving deer, a graceful doe.
      Let her breasts satisfy you always.
      May you always be captivated by her love.
 20 Why be captivated, my son, by an immoral woman,
      or fondle the breasts of a promiscuous woman?

 21 For the Lord sees clearly what a man does,
      examining every path he takes.
 22 An evil man is held captive by his own sins;
      they are ropes that catch and hold him.
 23 He will die for lack of self-control;
      he will be lost because of his great foolishness.

Proverbs 6

Lessons for Daily Life

 1 My child, if you have put up security for a friend's debt
      or agreed to guarantee the debt of a stranger—
 2 if you have trapped yourself by your agreement
      and are caught by what you said—
 3 follow my advice and save yourself,
      for you have placed yourself at your friend's mercy.
   Now swallow your pride;
      go and beg to have your name erased.
 4 Don't put it off; do it now!
      Don't rest until you do.
 5 Save yourself like a gazelle escaping from a hunter,
      like a bird fleeing from a net.

 6 Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones.
      Learn from their ways and become wise!
 7 Though they have no prince
      or governor or ruler to make them work,
 8 they labor hard all summer,
      gathering food for the winter.
 9 But you, lazybones, how long will you sleep?
      When will you wake up?
 10 A little extra sleep, a little more slumber,
      a little folding of the hands to rest—
 11 then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit;
      scarcity will attack you like an armed robber.

 12 What are worthless and wicked people like?
      They are constant liars,
 13 signaling their deceit with a wink of the eye,
      a nudge of the foot, or the wiggle of fingers.
 14 Their perverted hearts plot evil,
      and they constantly stir up trouble.
 15 But they will be destroyed suddenly,
      broken in an instant beyond all hope of healing.

 16 There are six things the Lord hates—
      no, seven things he detests:
 17 haughty eyes,
      a lying tongue,
      hands that kill the innocent,
 18 a heart that plots evil,
      feet that race to do wrong,
 19 a false witness who pours out lies,
      a person who sows discord in a family.

 20 My son, obey your father's commands,
      and don't neglect your mother's instruction.
 21 Keep their words always in your heart.
      Tie them around your neck.
 22 When you walk, their counsel will lead you.
      When you sleep, they will protect you.
      When you wake up, they will advise you.
 23 For their command is a lamp
      and their instruction a light;
   their corrective discipline
      is the way to life.
 24 It will keep you from the immoral woman,
      from the smooth tongue of a promiscuous woman.
 25 Don't lust for her beauty.
      Don't let her coy glances seduce you.
 26 For a prostitute will bring you to poverty,
      but sleeping with another man's wife will cost you your life.
 27 Can a man scoop a flame into his lap
      and not have his clothes catch on fire?
 28 Can he walk on hot coals
      and not blister his feet?
 29 So it is with the man who sleeps with another man's wife.
      He who embraces her will not go unpunished.

 30 Excuses might be found for a thief
      who steals because he is starving.
 31 But if he is caught, he must pay back seven times what he stole,
      even if he has to sell everything in his house.
 32 But the man who commits adultery is an utter fool,
      for he destroys himself.
 33 He will be wounded and disgraced.
      His shame will never be erased.
 34 For the woman's jealous husband will be furious,
      and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge.
 35 He will accept no compensation,
      nor be satisfied with a payoff of any size.

Proverbs 7

Another Warning about Immoral Women

 1 Follow my advice, my son;
      always treasure my commands.
 2 Obey my commands and live!
      Guard my instructions as you guard your own eyes.
 3 Tie them on your fingers as a reminder.
      Write them deep within your heart.

 4 Love wisdom like a sister;
      make insight a beloved member of your family.
 5 Let them protect you from an affair with an immoral woman,
      from listening to the flattery of a promiscuous woman.

 6 While I was at the window of my house,
      looking through the curtain,
 7 I saw some naive young men,
      and one in particular who lacked common sense.
 8 He was crossing the street near the house of an immoral woman,
      strolling down the path by her house.
 9 It was at twilight, in the evening,
      as deep darkness fell.
 10 The woman approached him,
      seductively dressed and sly of heart.
 11 She was the brash, rebellious type,
      never content to stay at home.
 12 She is often in the streets and markets,
      soliciting at every corner.
 13 She threw her arms around him and kissed him,
      and with a brazen look she said,
 14 "I've just made my peace offerings
      and fulfilled my vows.
 15 You're the one I was looking for!
      I came out to find you, and here you are!
 16 My bed is spread with beautiful blankets,
      with colored sheets of Egyptian linen.
 17 I've perfumed my bed
      with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.
 18 Come, let's drink our fill of love until morning.
      Let's enjoy each other's caresses,
 19 for my husband is not home.
      He's away on a long trip.
 20 He has taken a wallet full of money with him
      and won't return until later this month."

 21 So she seduced him with her pretty speech
      and enticed him with her flattery.
 22 He followed her at once,
      like an ox going to the slaughter.
   He was like a stag caught in a trap,
    23 awaiting the arrow that would pierce its heart.
   He was like a bird flying into a snare,
      little knowing it would cost him his life.

 24 So listen to me, my sons,
      and pay attention to my words.
 25 Don't let your hearts stray away toward her.
      Don't wander down her wayward path.
 26 For she has been the ruin of many;
      many men have been her victims.
 27 Her house is the road to the grave.
      Her bedroom is the den of death.


 

Thursday, May 27, 2010

May Twenty Seven


All comments welcome!! It is how I get my questions answered.

 
~Good Morning~
WOO HOO Proverbs.
I am sooo excited for proverbs. Looking forward for some wisdom!!

 

  • Boy did I need this:
1 These are the proverbs of Solomon, David's son, king of Israel.
2 Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline,
      to help them understand the insights of the wise.
 3 Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives,
      to help them do what is right, just, and fair.
 4 These proverbs will give insight to the simple,
      knowledge and discernment to the young.

  • Why parables and riddles?
6 by exploring the meaning in these proverbs and parables,
      the words of the wise and their riddles.

  • I still do not know what the word "lot" means…..
14 Come, throw in your lot with us;
      we'll all share the loot."

  • WOW This is what I needed to hear in the last month + !!
(oh my gooses I need that in vinyl!!)
 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
      do not depend on your own understanding.

 


Today's scripture:

Proverbs 1

The Purpose of Proverbs

 1 These are the proverbs of Solomon, David's son, king of Israel.

 2 Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline,
      to help them understand the insights of the wise.
 3 Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives,
      to help them do what is right, just, and fair.
 4 These proverbs will give insight to the simple,
      knowledge and discernment to the young.


 5 Let the wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser.
      Let those with understanding receive guidance
 6 by exploring the meaning in these proverbs and parables,
      the words of the wise and their riddles.

 7 Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge,
      but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

A Father's Exhortation: Acquire Wisdom

 8 My child, listen when your father corrects you.
      Don't neglect your mother's instruction.
 9 What you learn from them will crown you with grace
      and be a chain of honor around your neck.


 10 My child, if sinners entice you,
      turn your back on them!
 11 They may say, "Come and join us.
      Let's hide and kill someone!
      Just for fun, let's ambush the innocent!
 12 Let's swallow them alive, like the grave;
      let's swallow them whole, like those who go down to the pit of death.
 13 Think of the great things we'll get!
      We'll fill our houses with all the stuff we take.
 14 Come, throw in your lot with us;
      we'll all share the loot."


 15 My child, don't go along with them!
      Stay far away from their paths.
 16 They rush to commit evil deeds.
      They hurry to commit murder.
 17 If a bird sees a trap being set,
      it knows to stay away.
 18 But these people set an ambush for themselves;
      they are trying to get themselves killed.
 19 Such is the fate of all who are greedy for money;
      it robs them of life.

Wisdom Shouts in the Streets

 20 Wisdom shouts in the streets.
      She cries out in the public square.
 21 She calls to the crowds along the main street,
      to those gathered in front of the city gate:
 22 "How long, you simpletons,
      will you insist on being simpleminded?
   How long will you mockers relish your mocking?
      How long will you fools hate knowledge?
 23 Come and listen to my counsel.
   I'll share my heart with you
      and make you wise.


 24 "I called you so often, but you wouldn't come.
      I reached out to you, but you paid no attention.
 25 You ignored my advice
      and rejected the correction I offered.
 26 So I will laugh when you are in trouble!
      I will mock you when disaster overtakes you—
 27 when calamity overtakes you like a storm,
      when disaster engulfs you like a cyclone,
      and anguish and distress overwhelm you.


 28 "When they cry for help, I will not answer.
      Though they anxiously search for me, they will not find me.
 29 For they hated knowledge
      and chose not to fear the Lord.
 30 They rejected my advice
      and paid no attention when I corrected them.
 31 Therefore, they must eat the bitter fruit of living their own way,
      choking on their own schemes.
 32 For simpletons turn away from me—to death.
      Fools are destroyed by their own complacency.
 33 But all who listen to me will live in peace,
      untroubled by fear of harm."

Proverbs 2

The Benefits of Wisdom

 1 My child, listen to what I say,
      and treasure my commands.
 2 Tune your ears to wisdom,
      and concentrate on understanding.
 3 Cry out for insight,
      and ask for understanding.
 4 Search for them as you would for silver;
      seek them like hidden treasures.
 5 Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord,
      and you will gain knowledge of God.
 6 For the Lord grants wisdom!
      From his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
 7 He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest.
      He is a shield to those who walk with integrity.
 8 He guards the paths of the just
      and protects those who are faithful to him.


 9 Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair,
      and you will find the right way to go.
 10 For wisdom will enter your heart,
      and knowledge will fill you with joy.
 11 Wise choices will watch over you.
      Understanding will keep you safe.


 12 Wisdom will save you from evil people,
      from those whose words are twisted.
 13 These men turn from the right way
      to walk down dark paths.
 14 They take pleasure in doing wrong,
      and they enjoy the twisted ways of evil.
 15 Their actions are crooked,
      and their ways are wrong.

 16 Wisdom will save you from the immoral woman,
      from the seductive words of the promiscuous woman.
 17 She has abandoned her husband
      and ignores the covenant she made before God.
 18 Entering her house leads to death;
      it is the road to the grave.
 19 The man who visits her is doomed.
      He will never reach the paths of life.

 20 Follow the steps of good men instead,
      and stay on the paths of the righteous.
 21 For only the godly will live in the land,
      and those with integrity will remain in it.
 22 But the wicked will be removed from the land,
      and the treacherous will be uprooted.

Proverbs 3

Trusting in the Lord

 1 My child, never forget the things I have taught you.
      Store my commands in your heart.
 2 If you do this, you will live many years,
      and your life will be satisfying.
 3 Never let loyalty and kindness leave you!
      Tie them around your neck as a reminder.
      Write them deep within your heart.
 4 Then you will find favor with both God and people,
      and you will earn a good reputation.


 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
      do not depend on your own understanding.

 6 Seek his will in all you do,
      and he will show you which path to take.


 7 Don't be impressed with your own wisdom.
      Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil.
 8 Then you will have healing for your body
      and strength for your bones.

 9 Honor the Lord with your wealth
      and with the best part of everything you produce.
 10 Then he will fill your barns with grain,
      and your vats will overflow with good wine.

 11 My child, don't reject the Lord's discipline,
      and don't be upset when he corrects you.
 12 For the Lord corrects those he loves,
      just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.

 13 Joyful is the person who finds wisdom,
      the one who gains understanding.
 14 For wisdom is more profitable than silver,
      and her wages are better than gold.
 15 Wisdom is more precious than rubies;
      nothing you desire can compare with her.
 16 She offers you long life in her right hand,
      and riches and honor in her left.
 17 She will guide you down delightful paths;
      all her ways are satisfying.
 18 Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her;
      happy are those who hold her tightly.

 19 By wisdom the Lord founded the earth;
      by understanding he created the heavens.
 20 By his knowledge the deep fountains of the earth burst forth,
      and the dew settles beneath the night sky.

 21 My child, don't lose sight of common sense and discernment.
      Hang on to them,
 22 for they will refresh your soul.
      They are like jewels on a necklace.
 23 They keep you safe on your way,
      and your feet will not stumble.
 24 You can go to bed without fear;
      you will lie down and sleep soundly.
 25 You need not be afraid of sudden disaster
      or the destruction that comes upon the wicked,
 26 for the Lord is your security.
      He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap.

 27 Do not withhold good from those who deserve it
      when it's in your power to help them.
 28 If you can help your neighbor now, don't say,
      "Come back tomorrow, and then I'll help you."

 29 Don't plot harm against your neighbor,
      for those who live nearby trust you.
 30 Don't pick a fight without reason,
      when no one has done you harm.

 31 Don't envy violent people
      or copy their ways.
 32 Such wicked people are detestable to the Lord,
      but he offers his friendship to the godly.

 33 The Lord curses the house of the wicked,
      but he blesses the home of the upright.

 34 The Lord mocks the mockers
      but is gracious to the humble.

 35 The wise inherit honor,
      but fools are put to shame!

Proverbs 4

A Father's Wise Advice

 1 My children, listen when your father corrects you.
      Pay attention and learn good judgment,
 2 for I am giving you good guidance.
      Don't turn away from my instructions.
 3 For I, too, was once my father's son,
      tenderly loved as my mother's only child.


 4 My father taught me,
   "Take my words to heart.
      Follow my commands, and you will live.
 5 Get wisdom; develop good judgment.
      Don't forget my words or turn away from them.
 6 Don't turn your back on wisdom, for she will protect you.
      Love her, and she will guard you.
 7 Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do!
      And whatever else you do, develop good judgment.
 8 If you prize wisdom, she will make you great.
      Embrace her, and she will honor you.
 9 She will place a lovely wreath on your head;
      she will present you with a beautiful crown."


 10 My child, listen to me and do as I say,
      and you will have a long, good life.
 11 I will teach you wisdom's ways
      and lead you in straight paths.
 12 When you walk, you won't be held back;
      when you run, you won't stumble.
 13 Take hold of my instructions; don't let them go.
      Guard them, for they are the key to life.

 14 Don't do as the wicked do,
      and don't follow the path of evildoers.
 15 Don't even think about it; don't go that way.
      Turn away and keep moving.
 16 For evil people can't sleep until they've done their evil deed for the day.
      They can't rest until they've caused someone to stumble.
 17 They eat the food of wickedness
      and drink the wine of violence!

 18 The way of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn,
      which shines ever brighter until the full light of day.
 19 But the way of the wicked is like total darkness.
      They have no idea what they are stumbling over.

 20 My child, pay attention to what I say.
      Listen carefully to my words.
 21 Don't lose sight of them.
      Let them penetrate deep into your heart,
 22 for they bring life to those who find them,
      and healing to their whole body.

 23 Guard your heart above all else,
      for it determines the course of your life.

 24 Avoid all perverse talk;
      stay away from corrupt speech.

 25 Look straight ahead,
      and fix your eyes on what lies before you.
 26 Mark out a straight path for your feet;
      stay on the safe path.
 27 Don't get sidetracked;
      keep your feet from following evil.