but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands.
but the godly acknowledge it and seek reconciliation.
while the rich have many "friends."
but a false witness is a traitor.
but helping the poor honors him.
good news makes for good health.
you will be at home among the wise.
even their enemies are at peace with them.
but discipline is wasted on fools.
it is gained by living a godly life.
but the Lord determines how they fall.
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.
Monday, May 31, 2010
May Thirty One
Posted by Unknown at 7:13 AM 0 comments
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. 8 The godly are rescued from trouble, 15 There's danger in putting up security for a stranger's debt; 24 Give freely and become more wealthy; 4 A worthy wife is a crown for her husband, 21 No harm comes to the godly, 4 Lazy people want much but get little, 20 Walk with the wise and become wise; Today's Scripture: Proverbs 11-13:25 (New Living Translation) Proverbs 11 1 The Lord detests the use of dishonest scales, 2 Pride leads to disgrace, 3 Honesty guides good people; 4 Riches won't help on the day of judgment, 5 The godly are directed by honesty; 6 The godliness of good people rescues them; 7 When the wicked die, their hopes die with them, 8 The godly are rescued from trouble, 9 With their words, the godless destroy their friends, 10 The whole city celebrates when the godly succeed; 11 Upright citizens are good for a city and make it prosper, 12 It is foolish to belittle one's neighbor; 13 A gossip goes around telling secrets, 14 Without wise leadership, a nation falls; 15 There's danger in putting up security for a stranger's debt; 16 A gracious woman gains respect, 17 Your kindness will reward you, 18 Evil people get rich for the moment, 19 Godly people find life; 20 The Lord detests people with crooked hearts, 21 Evil people will surely be punished, 22 A beautiful woman who lacks discretion 23 The godly can look forward to a reward, 24 Give freely and become more wealthy; 25 The generous will prosper; 26 People curse those who hoard their grain, 27 If you search for good, you will find favor; 28 Trust in your money and down you go! 29 Those who bring trouble on their families inherit the wind. 30 The seeds of good deeds become a tree of life; 31 If the righteous are rewarded here on earth, Proverbs 12 1 To learn, you must love discipline; 2 The Lord approves of those who are good, 3 Wickedness never brings stability, 4 A worthy wife is a crown for her husband, 5 The plans of the godly are just; 6 The words of the wicked are like a murderous ambush, 7 The wicked die and disappear, 8 A sensible person wins admiration, 9 Better to be an ordinary person with a servant 10 The godly care for their animals, 11 A hard worker has plenty of food, 12 Thieves are jealous of each other's loot, 13 The wicked are trapped by their own words, 14 Wise words bring many benefits, 15 Fools think their own way is right, 16 A fool is quick-tempered, 17 An honest witness tells the truth; 18 Some people make cutting remarks, 19 Truthful words stand the test of time, 20 Deceit fills hearts that are plotting evil; 21 No harm comes to the godly, 22 The Lord detests lying lips, 23 The wise don't make a show of their knowledge, 24 Work hard and become a leader; 25 Worry weighs a person down; 26 The godly give good advice to their friends; 27 Lazy people don't even cook the game they catch, 28 The way of the godly leads to life; Proverbs 13 1 A wise child accepts a parent's discipline; 2 Wise words will win you a good meal, 3 Those who control their tongue will have a long life; 4 Lazy people want much but get little, 5 The godly hate lies; 6 Godliness guards the path of the blameless, 7 Some who are poor pretend to be rich; 8 The rich can pay a ransom for their lives, 9 The life of the godly is full of light and joy, 10 Pride leads to conflict; 11 Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes quickly disappears; 12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick, 13 People who despise advice are asking for trouble; 14 The instruction of the wise is like a life-giving fountain; 15 A person with good sense is respected; 16 Wise people think before they act; 17 An unreliable messenger stumbles into trouble, 18 If you ignore criticism, you will end in poverty and disgrace; 19 It is pleasant to see dreams come true, 20 Walk with the wise and become wise; 21 Trouble chases sinners, 22 Good people leave an inheritance to their grandchildren, 23 A poor person's farm may produce much food, 24 Those who spare the rod of discipline hate their children. 25 The godly eat to their hearts' content,
and it falls on the wicked instead.
it's safer not to guarantee another person's debt.
be stingy and lose everything.
but a disgraceful woman is like cancer in his bones.
but the wicked have their fill of trouble.
but those who work hard will prosper.
associate with fools and get in trouble.
but he delights in accurate weights.
but with humility comes wisdom.
dishonesty destroys treacherous people.
but right living can save you from death.
the wicked fall beneath their load of sin.
the ambition of treacherous people traps them.
for they rely on their own feeble strength.
and it falls on the wicked instead.
but knowledge will rescue the righteous.
they shout for joy when the wicked die.
but the talk of the wicked tears it apart.
a sensible person keeps quiet.
but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence.
there is safety in having many advisers.
it's safer not to guarantee another person's debt.
but ruthless men gain only wealth.
but your cruelty will destroy you.
but the reward of the godly will last.
evil people find death.
but he delights in those with integrity.
but the children of the godly will go free.
is like a gold ring in a pig's snout.
while the wicked can expect only judgment.
be stingy and lose everything.
those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.
but they bless the one who sells in time of need.
but if you search for evil, it will find you!
But the godly flourish like leaves in spring.
The fool will be a servant to the wise.
a wise person wins friends.
what will happen to wicked sinners?
it is stupid to hate correction.
but he condemns those who plan wickedness.
but the godly have deep roots.
but a disgraceful woman is like cancer in his bones.
the advice of the wicked is treacherous.
but the words of the godly save lives.
but the family of the godly stands firm.
but a warped mind is despised.
than to be self-important but have no food.
but the wicked are always cruel.
but a person who chases fantasies has no sense.
but the godly are well rooted and bear their own fruit.
but the godly escape such trouble.
and hard work brings rewards.
but the wise listen to others.
but a wise person stays calm when insulted.
a false witness tells lies.
but the words of the wise bring healing.
but lies are soon exposed.
joy fills hearts that are planning peace!
but the wicked have their fill of trouble.
but he delights in those who tell the truth.
but fools broadcast their foolishness.
be lazy and become a slave.
an encouraging word cheers a person up.
the wicked lead them astray.
but the diligent make use of everything they find.
that path does not lead to death.
a mocker refuses to listen to correction.
but treacherous people have an appetite for violence.
opening your mouth can ruin everything.
but those who work hard will prosper.
the wicked cause shame and disgrace.
but the evil are misled by sin.
others who are rich pretend to be poor.
but the poor won't even get threatened.
but the light of the wicked will be snuffed out.
those who take advice are wise.
wealth from hard work grows over time.
but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life.
those who respect a command will succeed.
those who accept it avoid the snares of death.
a treacherous person is headed for destruction.
fools don't—and even brag about their foolishness.
but a reliable messenger brings healing.
if you accept correction, you will be honored.
but fools refuse to turn from evil to attain them.
associate with fools and get in trouble.
while blessings reward the righteous.
but the sinner's wealth passes to the godly.
but injustice sweeps it all away.
Those who love their children care enough to discipline them.
but the belly of the wicked goes hungry.
Posted by Unknown at 8:11 AM 0 comments
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. 22 "The Lord formed me from the beginning, 35 For whoever finds me finds life 11 Wisdom will multiply your days 2 Tainted wealth has no lasting value, 3 The Lord will not let the godly go hungry, 30 The godly will never be disturbed, Today's scripture: Proverbs 8 Wisdom Calls for a Hearing 1 Listen as Wisdom calls out! 12 "I, Wisdom, live together with good judgment. 17 "I love all who love me. 22 "The Lord formed me from the beginning, 32 "And so, my children, listen to me, Proverbs 9 1 Wisdom has built her house; 7 Anyone who rebukes a mocker will get an insult in return. 10 Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. 11 Wisdom will multiply your days Folly Calls for a Hearing 13 The woman named Folly is brash. Proverbs 10 The Proverbs of Solomon 1 The proverbs of Solomon: A wise child brings joy to a father; 2 Tainted wealth has no lasting value, 3 The Lord will not let the godly go hungry, 4 Lazy people are soon poor; 5 A wise youth harvests in the summer, 6 The godly are showered with blessings; 7 We have happy memories of the godly, 8 The wise are glad to be instructed, 9 People with integrity walk safely, 10 People who wink at wrong cause trouble, 11 The words of the godly are a life-giving fountain; 12 Hatred stirs up quarrels, 13 Wise words come from the lips of people with understanding, 14 Wise people treasure knowledge, 15 The wealth of the rich is their fortress; 16 The earnings of the godly enhance their lives, 17 People who accept discipline are on the pathway to life, 18 Hiding hatred makes you a liar; 19 Too much talk leads to sin. 20 The words of the godly are like sterling silver; 21 The words of the godly encourage many, 22 The blessing of the Lord makes a person rich, 23 Doing wrong is fun for a fool, 24 The fears of the wicked will be fulfilled; 25 When the storms of life come, the wicked are whirled away, 26 Lazy people irritate their employers, 27 Fear of the Lord lengthens one's life, 28 The hopes of the godly result in happiness, 29 The way of the Lord is a stronghold to those with integrity, 30 The godly will never be disturbed, 31 The mouth of the godly person gives wise advice, 32 The lips of the godly speak helpful words,
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!
and receives favor from the Lord.
and add years to your life.
but right living can save your life.
but he refuses to satisfy the craving of the wicked.
but the wicked will be removed from the land.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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."
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."
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.
Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment.
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.
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.
a foolish child brings grief to a mother.
but right living can save your life.
but he refuses to satisfy the craving of the wicked.
hard workers get rich.
but one who sleeps during harvest is a disgrace.
the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions.
but the name of a wicked person rots away.
but babbling fools fall flat on their faces.
but those who follow crooked paths will slip and fall.
but a bold reproof promotes peace.
the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions.
but love makes up for all offenses.
but those lacking sense will be beaten with a rod.
but the babbling of a fool invites disaster.
the poverty of the poor is their destruction.
but evil people squander their money on sin.
but those who ignore correction will go astray.
slandering others makes you a fool.
Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.
the heart of a fool is worthless.
but fools are destroyed by their lack of common sense.
and he adds no sorrow with it.
but living wisely brings pleasure to the sensible.
the hopes of the godly will be granted.
but the godly have a lasting foundation.
like vinegar to the teeth or smoke in the eyes.
but the years of the wicked are cut short.
but the expectations of the wicked come to nothing.
but it destroys the wicked.
but the wicked will be removed from the land.
but the tongue that deceives will be cut off.
but the mouth of the wicked speaks perverse words.
Posted by Unknown at 6:59 AM 0 comments
Friday, May 28, 2010
May Twenty Eight
share your love only with your wife.
16 Why spill the water of your springs in the streets,
having sex with just anyone?
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.
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.
Posted by Unknown at 6:37 AM 0 comments
Thursday, May 27, 2010
May Twenty Seven
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.
the words of the wise and their riddles.
we'll all share the loot."
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.
Posted by Unknown at 5:39 AM 0 comments
