Blessings and Curses (Proverbs 3:31-35)

There is a distinct difference in how the Lord chooses to deal with individuals. As humans I feel that at different points in our walk with the Lord that we need to be reminded of this truth. Too many times we see the sinner prosper while we sit in sackcloth and ashes praying for the Lord to hear our prayers. We feel like Job; where is the Lord when we need him? Solomon knew and he passed this knowledge onto his son.

"Do not resentfully envy and be jealous of an unscrupulous, grasping man, and choose none of his ways." Proverbs 3:31, Amplified

Solomon's father, David had this same problem. He feared the Lord and wanted to follow Him, however, at every corner it seemed as if he was being persecuted. He wrote, "For I was envious of the boastful, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked." (Psalm 73:3, NKJV) But David also wrote, "Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity." (Psalm 37:1, NKJV) The Lord knows our heart and He is constantly reaching out to us to remind us that He has the best planned for us. Though the sinner prospers it is for just a moment, but as we follow the Lord our prosperity will be for an eternity.

"For the perverse are an abomination - extremely disgusting and detestable - to the Lord; but His confidential communion and secret counsels are with the uncompromisingly righteous - those who are upright and in right standing with Him." Proverbs 3:32, Amplified

Now Solomon starts to lay out four reasons why it is important not to follow or be envious of the wicked. First of all the wicked miss out on the counsels of God. We have the blessing of being able to talk to our God and have Him correspond with us. He hears and and cares enough for us to answer our prayers. This communion with the Lord is for those who are not walking in iniquity, but striving to follow God.

"The curse of the Lord is in and on the house of the wicked, but He declares blessed - joyful and favored with blessing - [is] the home of the just and consistently righteous." Proverbs 3:33, Amplified

The Lord wants to bless the righteous. He cannot bless those who are not willing to follow Him and live righteous lives. Think of it like a father wanted to give his son a good gift. The son has obedience issues and needs to understand that he cannot act a certain way, so ground rules are laid out for the young boy. As the boys behavior starts to change, he gets closer to the prize. This is exactly what I am going through with my son right now. My wife and I are trying to potty train him; he knows where he needs to relieve himself, but he chooses not to. So we put up a chart with a goal for him to reach. I can be sympathetic to the Lord on this one. I have been that son who willfully chooses to turn his back on the Lord. I walked through a portion of my life not receiving the blessings of the Lord.

"Though He scoffs at the scoffers and scorns the scorners, yet He gives His undeserved favor to the low [in rank], the humble and the afflicted." Proverbs 3:34, Amplified

I like how Solomon puts this next verse. The Lord gives His undeserved favor to the low, humble and afflicted. We need to understand that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23) None of us are deserving of what the Lord has for us. Even James and Peter use this idea in their epistles (James 4:6, I Peter 5:5) Have you ever tried to give something to a proud man. He will just as soon deny anything that you have to give, because he has no need of it. I feel it is not so much that God will not bless the proud than He cannot bless the proud. The proud turn their noses up and are above any charity. But the lowly in spirit will receive any crumb to fill any hole, whether it be hunger or thirst.

"The wise shall inherit glory - all honor and good; but shame is the highest rank conferred on [self-confident] fools." Proverbs 3:35, Amplified

Now Solomon switches it up. He refers to the people of God first in this last verse of the chapter. It is important to be reminded tat the Lord has an inheritance for the wise. The wise are simply those who know that there is a God and choose to follow Him. Nothing but shame is in store for the man who chooses not to follow God, but relies on his own means to get him by.

Though our walk seems hard, dear Christian, realize that glory is on the other side of this life. Whoever said that being a Christian was easy lied through their teeth. Our journey is arduous and full of peeks and valleys. Temporary wealth and honor and glory are not worth giving up out inheritance.

In the Infamous Words of E.T., "Be Good." (Proverbs 3:27-30)

It is in man's nature to think only of himself, it is a self preservation. If one were to stick his hand in the fire then it would be quickly drawn out because of the pain that the body feels. Selfishness is also in man's nature. This can be observed in any child, it just becomes more masked as the individual grows into adulthood. The idea that Solomon is trying to convey to his son is to be good.

"Withhold not good from those to whom it is due [its rightful owners], when it is in your power of your hand to do it." Proverbs 3:27, Amplified

It is sometimes hard for one to see another receive accolade after accolade. However, we are commanded to give those accolades as well as do any kind of good that is in our power to give. I remember a time that I was in a facility called U-Turn 4 Christ. It is a Christian restoration program for anyone involved in any kind of sin. Every morning we were to wake up and read the Proverbs which corresponded to the day of the month that we were in. On one particular morning, no one got up because no alarm seemed to go off, which in itself is odd. I should say that everyone besides our house leader accidentally slept in. He got up and decided it was best to discipline everyone instead of waking us up. Everyone in the house was late for work, I just so happened to work at the same place as my house leader. Everyone in the house was angry and no one felt that it was right. After work, my house leader came to me and asked for some money for gas money or he would not be able to get to work in the morning. I looked at him and smiled as sinister thoughts ran through my head. "I was late for work and you didn't care." Then the Lord spoke this verse to me. As far as I saw, he did not deserve it, but the Lord did, so I ended up giving him the money. What blessing would I have missed out on if I did not give him the money?

"Do not say to your neighbor, Go, and come again, and tomorrow I will give it, when you have it with you." Proverbs 3:28, Amplified

This is the oldest trick in the book to try and get out of giving. I have done this at different points in my life. I used to think that if they came back tomorrow they would either forget to come back or that they would find someone else to give it to them. The depth of our own self worth runs deeply within the heart of man. Again, if I had this type of attitude with my house leader, what kind of blessing would I have missed out on? "So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver." (II Corinthians 9:7, NKJV) The word for cheerful that Paul uses in this verse means hilarious. So give hilariously!

"Do not contrive or dig up or cultivate evil against your neighbor, who dwells trustingly and confidently beside you." Proverbs 3:29, Amplified

I like the Amplified's version of this verse. It makes me think of the heart as a garden. To contrive is a process. It takes time to cultivate evil in the heart. To act out of passion is to act rashly and get caught. If one were to take his time planning, then he would have a better chance at not getting caught. But what is he focusing on? It is certainly not the Lord. Remember, Solomon is speaking to his son, Rehoboam. This is a message for believers, not unbelievers. We have to admit that there are times when thoughts like these enter into our hearts. But the true test is if we entertain the thought. Entertainment of the thought plants the seed, entertainment of the thought cultivates, waters, prunes, nurtures and finally harvests action.

"Contend not with a man for no reason, when he has done you no wrong." Proverbs 3:30, Amplified

In the last part of this section we are encouraged to contend with no man who has done no wrong to us. Remember that the Bible is not gender biased. Husbands need to ask if they are picking fights with their wives for no reason, and wives do the same. Parents are to do the same for children and children for parents. Think of other places as well around your town, like the grocery store. I have seen women fighting over the last box of an item (or even the department store over sale items). I think that what the Lord is trying to coney in this verse is that there are more important things in life than fighting. Prayer is more important than fighting; pray for that person that took the last item that you wanted. It is possible that they needed it more than you.

Go and be good.

The Dichotomy of Wisdom and Discretion Proverbs 3:21-26)

The one thing in life that I think everyone is looking for is safety, whether in this life or the next. The insurance industry is booming, in house security systems as well. There was a time in America when one did not have to lock the doors to a house or a car. People looked out for each other. Today the attitude of the average American has changed. Most everyone is looking out for the most important person, themselves. The Lord does not want that to be the attitude of the average Christian, however. This is why He has prescribed certain ways to live so that less focus can be placed on ourself and more can be directed at him and our fellow man. The closer we walk with Christ, the less we have to worry about ourselves.

"My son, let the not escape from your sight, but keep sound wisdom and discretion, and they will be life to your inner self, and be a gracious ornament to your neck [your outer self]." Proverbs 3:21-22, Amplified

The prescription of wisdom and discretion is never going to be harmful to one's self. In fact, it is commanded to us for that very purpose. Solomon encourages his son to not allow for wisdom and discretion to be lost for two distinct reasons. First, they will be life to the inner being of a person. Sin has a way of sapping everything out of us as well as effecting our insides. Drugs and alcohol do such harm to the body as well as smoking; sex with anyone other than your spouse has a way of tearing you apart from the inside out, not just because of the fornication but also the possibility of sexually transmitted diseases. The second reason is for the purpose of the outer self. Wisdom and discretion can have great influence on the way a person views us. Great men have taken even greater falls because of lack of discretion; Marion Berry and Bill Clinton just to name two. These men lived great political lives until lack of discretion assisted in their falls. Americans remember less of their contributions to America, but do remember clearly the circumstances surrounding their falls.

"Then you will walk on your way securely and in confident trust, and you shall not dash your foot or stumble. When you lie down you shall not be afraid; yes, you shall lie down and your sleep shell be sweet." Proverbs 3:23-24, Amplified

If wisdom and discretion are kept, we will also live peaceful lives. First we have to realize that these two concepts effect the way we see ourselves. the way people see us and the health of our human bodies. Then we must come to the conclusion that wisdom and discretion have a tremendous effect on our lifestyles. Either in action or rest, there will be peace and security for the one who keeps wisdom and discretion. Wisdom and discretion keep one from stumbling into sin as well as allowing for that same person to rest easily. When one is involved in sin, there is a paranoia that usually accompanies. We are constantly trying to cover the tacks of lies and misdeeds so that no one finds out what we have done. But to the one who has no shame in his actions because they are not sinful has a confident walk as well as a peaceful sleep.

"Be not afraid of sudden terror and panic, nor of the stormy blast or the storm of ruin of the wicked when it comes [for you will be guiltless], for the Lord shall be your confidence, firm and strong, and shall keep your foot from being caught [in a trap or hidden danger]." Proverbs 3:25-26, Amplified

With wisdom and discretion also come a peacefulness and assuredness. This peacefulness is going to be different than that spoken of in the prior two verses. It is a peacefulness of the soul. There will come a time when all will have to answer for their deeds. The one who has kept wisdom and discretion close at hand will not be caught in the snares of sin, therefore he will walk in confidence.

There is a dichotomy in this life; a very distinct and defined separation of those who walk in wisdom and discretion as opposed to those who do not. One lifestyle offers peace, safety and confidence while the other offers none of this but peace, safety and confidence must come within oneself. Man cannot facilitate access to heaven by works or faith or any other means. However, walking in wisdom and discretion, the access to heaven in opened for us through the blood of Jesus Christ.

The Lord Uses Wisdom (Proverbs 3:19-20)

The Lord is even uses wisdom. I love that the Lord encourages man to do something that He Himself does, or has already done. As I have stated before, being asked to operate in wisdom does no harm to an individual as it has done no harm to the Lord.

"The Lord by skillful and godly Wisdom has founded the earth; by understanding He has established the heavens." Proverbs 3:19, Amplified

By wisdom the earth was founded. This has to be the case. The earth is placed just far enough away from the sun so it does not burn up and just close enough that it does not freeze. The Lord even established the earth to operate as it does before the fall of man. Even before man fell the Lord had all scientific constructs worked out, because He operates in wisdom.

The Lord is never surprised by the events of the earth. Human history has no effect on the Lord, in that there is nothing that has happened, nor that is happening, nor that will happen that is going to catch the Lord off guard. Even the spiritual realms here on earth were established by the Lord. "For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on the earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him." (Colossians 1:16, NKJV)

If the Lord operates in wisdom, why then should we not. We are created in His image.

"By knowledge the deeps were broken up and the skies distill the dew." Proverbs 3:20, Amplified

This is speaking of the cycle of rain. In the original King James the word used here is "depths". It is the same word as is found in Genesis 1:2, "The earth was without form and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep." This deep was just speaking about the waters that were on the earth, later in the story of creation we find that the dry land comes out of it. But the depths were broken up into rivers. You see, the cycle of the rain works like this: ocean waves break on the shore, they evaporate and become clouds, the clouds become heavy with water and it becomes rain, the water on the earth finds the rivers and the river flow back into the ocean. All this was established before the fall of man. The cycle of precipitation was established even before it rained on the earth. "For the Lord had not caused it to rain on the earth, and there was no man to till the ground; but a mist went up from the earth and watered the whole face of the ground." (Genesis 2:5-6, NKJV)

By wisdom the earth was not destroyed because man decided not to heed the voice of the Lord. Adam and Eve ate from the tree, if God had not been prepared, would the earth had been destroyed? Thank God that we serve a God who operates in wisdom.

The Prizes of Wisdom (Proverbs 3:13-18)

Through wisdom, man receives a variety of gifts. Solomon recognized this and tried to explain this to his son.

"Happy - blessed, fortunate [enviable] - is the man who finds skillful and godly Wisdom, and the man who gets understanding - drawing it forth [from God's Word and life's experiences]." Proverbs 3:13, Amplified

Happy, blessed and fortunate is that man. What is it about wisdom that can bring about these things in a man's life? Wisdom is knowledge. Wisdom comes from experiences. Those around us who understand that we have wisdom always come to us. I enjoy it when I am asked my advice on certain things in the Cafe at Joshua Springs because I am able to give an answer. My answers do not come from a place of knowing it all, rather they come from experience. It blesses me so much that some one sees that I can offer information from my experiences.

However, not all wisdom comes from the experience that life gives to us. Sometimes that wisdom comes directly from the Word of God. As a pastor (not speaking of myself) one must be able to give advice and impart wisdom to all who came seeking. If a pastor has not spent a lifetime drinking or doing drugs or gambling or developed sexual conquests, how then is he to give advice. This sort of wisdom comes from the Word of God. Everything that we need for life is found in the pages of the Good Book.

"For the gaining of it is better than the gaining of silver, and the profit of it better than fine gold. Skillful and godly Wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you can wish for is to be compared to her." Proverbs 3:14-15, Amplified

Next Solomon compares wisdom to riches. Silver, gold and rubies do not compare to the wealth of these riches. This reminds me of something that the Apostle Peter said, "Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give to you: in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise us and walk." (Acts 3:6, NKJV) This was in response to a lame beggar asking for money. Now imagine if Peter did have the silver or gold that the man was asking for, what then would it have profited him? Nothing. Peter saw the need not for riches but for healing. Wisdom gave this to Peter.

"Length of days is in her right hand, and in her left hand are riches and honor. Proverbs 3:16, NKJV

Wisdom is not without its benefits, however. Though it may be better than silver, gold and rubies does not mean that silver, gold and rubies cannot be attained through wisdom. Long life and riches are byproducts of wisdom. Riches and honor cannot be the focus that we have, rather it must be on the Lord. Solomon, after he became king, was visited by the Lord. The Lord asked him what he wanted: riches, honor, long life. Solomon asked for wisdom to rule the nation of Israel. Because of that choice the Lord also blessed Solomon with riches, honor and long life.

Notice, too that in her right hand, the hand of blessing is long life and in the left are riches. The more important thing is that through wisdom we are to attain long life. Riches are good, money is good, but deep in the heart of man lies covetousness and greed. What man out there has gambled away his children's college tuition for longer life? Who has given their house a collateral for a few more years on this earth? None. The Lord knows and understands the heart of man. He is not unwilling to bless us, but He also knows what is best for us.

"Her ways are highways of pleasantness, and all her paths lead to peace. She is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her, and happy - blessed, fortunate [to be envied], is everyone who holds her fast." Proverbs 3:17-18, Amplified

Know this: these things are not always instantaneous but they are synonymous. The life of a Christian is not a life lined with peace. It is an arduous journey, difficult and full of hills and valleys. However, taking this path leads to peace and pleasantness. We have the pleasure of knowing where our eternity will be spent. There is a peace and pleasantness in that. Do not misunderstand me, peace is attainable here on earth. And through wisdom that peace may be attained. So lay hold of wisdom and never let her go.

Correction and Love (Proverbs 3:11-12)

Correction comes in many different forms. It is a tool designed to right mistakes made by an individual so that when the same set of circumstances arises, a new and better path is chosen. Correction should never be classified as abuse, because it is always performed out of love or concern. Solomon had a lot to say about correction in the Proverbs. This is the first of many times Solomon will tell his son about correction and it is never in a negative aspect but always positive.

"My son, do not despise nor shirk from the chastening of the Lord - His correction by punishment, or by subjection to suffering or trial; neither be weary and impatient and loathe or abhor His reproof..." Proverbs 3:11, Amplified

The book of Judges is a great place to see this spiritual concept in action. Moses had died as well as Joshua; the people had no leader. Israel was supposed to be Theocracy, governed by God. However, without a physical person to keep them from slipping into sin, the Israelites would turn to idols for answers and the Lord would turn to discipline for correction. This correction came in many different forms of Gentile kings and leaders. When the oppression became too much for the Israelites, they would call out to the Lord for deliverance and that deliverer would come in the form of a Judge.

The spiritual concept of correction by the Lord is not an Old Testament philosophy or idea. We serve the same God as the Israelites did. The writer of the book of Hebrews explains this concept. He begins by quoting Proverbs 3:11-12 then expounds more on the subject. "If you endure chastening, God deals with you as sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons." (Hebrews 12:7-8, NKJV) We need not worry if we are being chastened by the Lord, it is when we are not being chastened that we need to worry. Solomon elaborates more on this concept in the next verse.

"For whom the Lord loves he corrects, even as a father corrects the son in who he delights." Proverbs 3:12, Amplified

It is a spiritual concept that can be viewed in everyday life. If a father loves his son then he will correct the son by means if discipline. Discipline is designed to create a new thought process in the child so that when the same set of circumstances arises, a new choice will be made (as I stated earlier). Without love there are two different categories that arise. For the corrector to correct without love is to become an abuser. No correction comes about by bruises, broken bones or scarring; only fear (not reverence) is a byproduct of abuse. Also without love the correctee becomes uncorrected. The writer of hebrews told us that if there is no correction then we are illegitimate and not sons. We become ignored.

Now there is something that I want everyone to understand. Before we came to our belief in Christ we were all illegitimate. There is a big difference from leading someone to the right path by way of direction and the concept of correction. Leading someone to Christ does not involve correction or discipline, but guidance and love. It is only after we have made the choice of following Christ that we come under correction and discipline, and that only because the Lord loves us. We are adopted, or grafted, into the family of Christ. Love gave us the chance for that adoption and correction is proof of that love.

Thank You Cards for the Lord (Proverbs 3:9-10)

The Lord gives us everything that we have. It does not matter what kind of possession that it is , we receive all from Him. The Lord expects us to acknowledge that fact. It is like receiving a gift at a party or for a wedding. It is common for people to send thank you cards to the providers of those gifts. Now this thankfulness encompasses everything in out lives whether it be a new house, children or income. Solomon is focusing in this proverb on the income of the believer.

"Honor the Lord with you capitol and sufficiency [from righteous labors], and with the first fruits of all your income..." Proverbs 3:9, Amplified

It is prescribed to the believer throughout the Bible to bring the first fruits of labor to the Lord. Even in Genesis, before the Law was written on stone it was written in the heart. Abraham gave a tenth of his belongings to Melchizedek (Gen. 14)

To bring the very first of what the Lord has given to us means that He reaps the benefits of that labor before we do. It is an opportunity for the Lord to use the fruit of our labor for His own purposes.

"So shall your storage places be filled with plenty, and your vats be overflowing with new wine." Proverbs 3:10, Amplified

There is a spiritual truth here that the Lord wants to unveil to the believer. If we give to the Lord, then we will receive more. Don' t get me wrong, we are not supposed to give with the expectancy of receiving for that would be selfish. We are not told when we will receive or eve what we will receive. We are to give with the expectancy of loosing out. Solomon said it best, "Cast your bread on the waters, for you will find it after many days..." (Ecclesiastes 11:1, NKJV) What happens to bread as it is cast onto the water, it becomes useless. The flavor leaves the bread, it becomes impossible to handle and it is destroyed. But in the spiritual concept of giving, Solomon encourages to throw bed on the water and afterward it would be found many days later.

Theft from the Lord has also been brought us concerning tithes (which is giving of the first fruits). "Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me! But you say, 'In what way have we robbed You?' In tithes and offerings." (Malachi 3:8, NKJV) God states that we have robbed Him if we are not giving out tithes and offerings. And here is the spiritual truth that I spoke of earlier straight from the lips of God. "'Bring all your tithes into the storehouse, that there might be food in My house, And try Me now on this,' says the Lord of hosts, "If I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessings that there will not be enough room enough for you to receive it." (Malachi 3:10, NKJV) This is the only place in Scripture where the Lord encourages us to test Him. My wife and I are living testaments to this truth. Just before I got fired from my job, we began to give to the Lord on a regular basis. Since my income has disappeared, we have received money from different places that we never expected. I received a letter from a former employer who said that they owed me money because of an old profit sharing program. The widows of heaven were open for us and even still are.

Reverent Turning Points (Proverbs 3:7-8)

Humans beings have a way of making themselves the center of all things. Something goes right, we all desire the credit. Our boss has nothing but good things to say about the department, who wants the glory? Wisdom is no different. There are some that claim to be wise on their own merit; they studied hard, they went to school for years, they have a doctorate. Solomon encouraged us, by way of the Holy Spirit, that we need to acknowledge where our wisdom comes from.

"Be not wise in your own eyes; reverently fear and worship the Lord, and turn [entirely] away from evil." Proverbs 3:7, Amplified

We should not ever come to the place where we are wise for ourselves. I myself have fallen victim to this sam way of thinking. I being wise in our own eyes, we tend to place ourselves upon a pedestal. We amass a wall of learning. Degrees, certifications and honors are placed out for all to see. "Look at me!', we exclaim. The one problem with placing ourselves on that pedestal is that we have farther to fall. I have fallen too many times, yet there are times in my life when I feel that I belong on that pedestal.

How is one to convert from this "me" syndrome? The answer is right in front of us. Fear and worship the Lord. The fear being spoken of here is one of reverence, respect, adoration. If our focus is on the Lord, then we cannot focus on ourselves. If the focus is on ourselves then we cannot focus on the Lord and therefore in danger of sin. But this is a two step process. We are to fear the Lord and we are to turn from evil. This is not a turning of the head to divert one's eyes. This is a full 180 degree turn away from sin. We can walk towards sin and turn an eye to it. It is like watching an R-rated movie and closing your eyes when a nude scene comes up. the problem with this solution to "not sinning" is that how much of the nude scene did we see before we closed our eyes, how much of that flesh is burnt into our mind before we say it is enough? But what if we were not even walking in that direction? If we never place our feet on the path that might possibly lead to sin then we will not sin. Do you see what I a getting at? To turn one's head is simply not enough, the whole body, the directionality must be changed.

"It shall be health to your nerves and sinews, and marrow and moistening to your bones." Proverbs 3:8, Amplified

Reverence to the Lord is something that is good for the body. The New King James calls it "health to the flesh and strength to the bones." Praying never resulted in a heart attack. Worship never lead to diabetes. Having a devotional did not cause cancer. Are all these things among Christians? Yes. Do they originate from the Lord? No. I cannot begin to answer why the Lord allows these things to afflict the Christian, but I can say that they are not because of loving the Lord. My father stopped drinking 17 years ago, he drank very heavily up until a turning point in his life. He decided to follow Jesus and turn entirely away from alcohol. My father also died from liver failure on Christmas day 2008 due to his time drinking. Could the Lord have miraculously healed my father? Of course. Do I blame the Lord for not healing my father? No. It is not the Lord who killed my father, but the sin that ensnared him in life. You see, the worship of the Lord does not lead to diseases of any kind and is not detrimental to the body. But sin has a way of slowly destroying a person. Lack of sleep, an unhealthy diet, drugs, alcohol, rampant sex can all be directly linked to death. I encourage the reader today, to turn entirely, completely away from sin.

Faith in a Chair (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Trust has become just another word in the english vernacular. It used to be that trust was the ultimate idea in America. Faith is another word that can be used to describe trust. As Christians, this is a word with a little more familiarity. I had a friend who went to Africa to Preach the Gospel. He was trying to define faith to the local peoples because they had no word for it. Just as he is fumbling for the words one of the people from the village come into the hut where he is trying to define faith. The person was so tired that they leaned on the back of a chair and said, "I am so tired, I need this chair to hold me up." Just then, my friend had the idea to define faith as such. He told the people of the village that faith in God is like leaning on the back of a chair; when you are so tired and you cannot go on you need something to support you.

I God that chair of our lives?

"Lean on, trust and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind, and do not rely on you own insight or understanding." Proverbs 3:5, Amplified

Trust in the Lord should be our ultimate. There is no greater thing than trust. As we go about our daily tasks, trust is an issue that is so common we do not even realize it. When we go to the grocery store, we trust that when we buy the peanut butter that there is actually peanut butter in the jar. Buying a car, we trust that it is going to continue working for the next few years. We trust our waitresses, teachers and politicians, but can we trust the Lord? Is God that chair in our lives?

Over the years trust has been so closely associated with sight, smell, taste, feeling and hearing that some do not associate it with God. But faith on the other hand has been so disassociated with the five senses. I ask, what is the difference between faith and trust? Nothing.

This trust in the Lord needs to be whole heartedly as well. To rely on oneself negates the need for an outside Savior. If we do not need the Lord when buying a car or a house or to watch over our finances, then why do we need Him at all?

"In all your ways know, recognize and acknowledge Him, He will direct and make straight and plain your paths." Proverbs 3:6, Amplified

As we begin to trust the Lord with everything, then He will begin a work in us. In everything that we do we need to acknowledge Him and he will begin a work in us.

Just as the member of the village who came into the hut and acknowledged his need for the chair to support him, we too need to acknowledge the Lord when He supports us. As a result, the path laid out for us becomes much clearer. Think of it like a walkie-talkie. As we get closer to the other unit, the voice becomes clearer and clearer, easier to understand and discern. Do you see where I am going with this? Seek the Lord and listen to the Lord; as that relationship develops, then His voice becomes clearer and and easier to discern.

What Wisdom Gave to the Third Little Pig (Proverbs 3:1-4)

As Solomon moves on in his discourse to his son, he encourages his son to not forsake wisdom. Too many times we see people who are willing to throw wisdom by the wayside. Remember that wisdom is experiential knowledge. If we hold on to that experience, then we will not be doomed to repeat our past.

"My son, forget not my law or teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments..." Proverbs 3:1, Amlpified

This idea of forgetting is a willful oblivion, a blatant disregard. As we read about Rehoboam in the book of the Kings, we see that he forgot the wisdom that his father had bestowed upon him and as a result the Kingdom was divided. But as human beings, we need to be constantly reminded not to forget. This is the reason for my daily devotional. As I go through my days, weeks or months, without reading I tend to forget the goodness, faithfulness and righteousness of the Lord.

Solomon also tells his son to keep his commandments. This is the same word used to describe how discretion and understanding will keep up in Proverbs 2:11.

"For length of days, and years of a life [worth living], and tranquility [inward and outward and continuing through old age till death], these they shall add to you." Proverbs 3:2, Amplified

As we follow wisdom, we find that there are certain life applications that com into play. Long life will be given to the one who follows wisdom. Also the quality of that life gets better as well as the peacefulness of it. How can this ever be a bad thing? Throughout the years we see different men trying to defeat or cheat death. The Greeks immortalized Sisyphus in the pages of mythology as the man who deceived Hades to be able to have an eternal existence on earth. It is rumored that Walt Disney had his head cryogenically preserved; and there are store houses where whole bodies are kept of people who have died waiting for the cure to whatever killed them. This is not the quality of life to which Solomon was referring.

One question that needs to be asked of ourselves is if our lives are worth living? Is there a quality of life that is worth our existence? Because without this quality, there will never be a peace of mind. The acceptance of Jesus Christ as our Savior adds to us long life, quality of life and peace of mind.

"Let no mercy and kindness [shutting out all hatred and selfishness], and truth [shutting out all deliberate hypocrisy or falsehood] forsake you." Proverbs 3:3a, Amplified

In the original King James we find that it was only written to not let mercy or truth be forsaken in our lives. But this addition of kindness does not change anything. What Solomon is trying to convey here is that there is no room for hatred or selfishness in our lives. These two words do not describe a long life, a life of quality or a life of peace. In fact, they are antonyms of this life, direct opposites.

And this truth is a forsaking of any deliberate hypocrisy or falsehood. How many people out there are deliberately deceptive of their fellow man? After Katrina hit Louisiana, different websites were set up to receive relief funds for the hurricane victims. A lot of these websites were set up to steal the money, they fed on the sympathies of many. With truth comes an establishment, a foundation. It is like the house that the third little pig built. His brick house survived the trials an testing that the first two houses did not. It was established, it was safe and because of that the other two little pigs dwelt in safety. The received long life, quality of life and a tranquility of life. Now I know that this story is just an allegory, but how well does it fit into real life scenarios?

"Bind them about your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart..." Proverbs 3:3b, Amplified

It is interesting that Solomon chose this word picture to describe what we should do with wisdom. It should be tied around the neck. As we place something heavy around the neck an undue weight is placed on the upper half of the body. We have to strain to look up, to look forward. But it is because of this undue weight that we develop the strength to do so. And as that newly found wisdom hangs from our neck, it becomes a constant reminder that it is always there, it is impossible to ignore.

We are also to write them on the tablet of our hearts. Writing is a preservation of ideas and thoughts, an archive for the rest of humanity to peruse. The writing on the heart becomes a personal preservation. To know and understand the Word of God so well, that when faced with any situation and answer comes. The heart filters any and all communication. As we take in the world around us, the word written onto the heart becomes a sieve, sifting out the unwanted; and likewise, it also becomes the governor of anything leaving the heart.

"So shall you find favor, good understanding and high esteem in the sight [or judgement] of God and man." Proverbs 3:4, Amplified

A we do all this, we see the quality of life improving. When wisdom is bound around the neck and written on the heart, favor comes our way. I do not know anyone who does not enjoy it when favor comes to pay a visit. Not only favor (which is a personal experience) but also high esteem amongst others. As one proves himself to be faithful and truthful, that brick house that he built becomes more and more established. When other house of straw and sticks falter around you, you remain established.

What Wisdom Does (Proverbs 2:10-22)

Not only are we told that we need wisdom and where we can find wisdom, but the Lord also allows us to see what wisdom will do in our lives. It is like the ultimate infomercial. There is a dynamic speaker on the television, he has this wonderful product that he wants to give you. He also tells you where you can find it by telling you about the toll free number or the website. On top of all that he even shows you how your life would be better if you were to purchase this item. Thank the Lord that He is not as cheesy as some of these infomercial gurus.

"For skillful and godly Wisdom shall enter your heart, and knowledge shall be pleasant to you; discretion shall watch over you, understanding shall keep you..." Proverbs 2:10-11, Amplified

As we come to the point of receiving wisdom, it will perform tremendous things and feats in our lives. But first, it must enter our hearts. This entrance into the heart is an extended stay; not only have we received this wisdom, but it has become a part of us. Also, knowledge will be pleasant. Most people want to walk around life not knowing. There is some satisfaction in not knowing, plausible deniability. Who wants to know that the life that they have been living is wrong? However, when wisdom enters the heart to stay, that knowledge will be pleasant because we know the end game.

After all this, we need to understand that discretion will watch over us. This word here is "preserve", a hedging about like we spoke about last time. And understanding becomes the guard in our lives. We need to see that discretion and understanding, in the sense that Solomon is speaking) only come after we accept the wisdom of the Lord. What does this wisdom preserve and guard us from?

"To deliver you from the way of evil and the evil man, from men who speak perverse things and are liars, men who forsake the paths of uprightness to walk in darkness, who rejoice in doing evil and delight in the perverseness of evil, who are crooked in their ways, wayward and devious in their paths." Proverbs 2:12-15, Amplified

The deliverance and protection is from these men. Men who love to be sinners. It seems by the language of the verse that these men love doing what they do because they know that it is evil. These are men who have deliberately walked in darkness and left the paths up "right standing". Deliberate sinners. Men who do not care what they do as long as they are satisfied. But these men are not the only thing that we are protected from.

"[Discretion shall watch over you, understanding will keep you] to deliver you from the alien woman, from the outsider with her flattering words, who forsakes the husband and guide of her youth and forgets the covenant of her God..." Proverbs 2:16-17, Amplified

Discretion and understanding also keep us safe from the immoral woman, the whore. I have known many good men who have given themselves over to this immorality. Realize also, that this giving oneself over is not just from one being to another. Adultery starts in the heart. "If you lust you have already committed adultery." This giving oneself over also encompasses pornographic material. Now I proud to that I have not ever given myself over to the former but I am guilty of the latter, therefore my ride means nothing. Discretion now keeps me from going into liquor stores that are open late and have very easy access to this kind of material. I do not want to be that guy who hangs around the barber shop for too long, because he will eventually get a hair cut.

"For her house sinks down to death, and her paths to the spirits [of the dead]. None who go to her return again, neither do they attain or regain the paths of life." Proverbs 2:18-19, Amplified

Out of all the sin available to the human heart and mind, it seems that sexual sin is the most deadly. Now understand that I know that sin is sin. James tells us, "For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all." (James 2:10, NKJV) An intertwining of souls takes place as the "two become on flesh." Realize that the Lord does not make reference to the two becoming one because of marriage, rather the two become one because of the sexual act. To have sex with a person is to take a piece of that person into yourself and to leave a piece of yourself. Do this enough times then you will have no more of yourself to give, you will be utterly empty inside, a husk. In the marriage, though you take and leave, you are with that person forever, slowly becoming one.

"So may you walk in the way of good men, and keep to the paths of the [consistently] righteous - the upright, in right standing with God. For the upright shall dwell in the land, and the men of integrity, blameless and complete [in God's sight], shall remain in it; but the wicked shall be cut off from the earth, and the treacherous shall be rooted out of it." Proverbs 2:20-22, Amplified

Discretion and understand leading to a long life. They preserve and protect against a cutting off. What relative in their right mind wants to be disinherited? Who wants to give up a life of ease? The answer is that no one does. The Lord wants us to have life, and that more abundantly, but all life starts with wisdom that comes only from the Lord.

The Lord Gives Wisdom (Proverbs 2:6-9)

Not only does the Bible tell us how to search for wisdom, but it also tells us where to find it. It is like the easiest hide & seek game ever played. Some how when we had our eyes closed and we were counting the Lord drew a map to His exact location.

"For the Lord gives skillful and godly Wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding." Proverbs 2:6, Amplified

Wisdom comes only from one place, the Lord. Men spend years at colleges and other learning institutions to receive their Mater's Degree and Doctorates. In truth, however, all that wisdom comes from the Lord. The Creator of all things has created a brain in which we are able to store vast amounts of knowledge. Without Him, we are nothing.

"He hides away sound and godly Wisdom and stores it for the righteous - those who are upright and in right standing with Him; He is a shield tot hose who walk uprightly and in integrity..." Proverbs 2:7, Amplified

The knowledge and wisdom that He has is all stored up, waiting to be distributed. It is like the ultimate stimulus package for the believer. The upright in the Lord are the "righteous" according to the King James Version. It is interesting to find that the word righteous here means to be "straight". The Amplified version uses the term to "walk uprightly". It is the same thing. Noah was a righteous man, he was given wisdom on how to build and Ark ; something that had never been done. Joseph was a man in right standing with the Lord, we was given wisdom on how to sustain the world through a horrible famine; something that had never been done before.

Not only does He distribute wisdom to the upright, but He is also a shield. He is also a shield to those who walk uprightly. Words are not just thrown together in different verses simply because they look good. We have to understand that the second half of verse seven is not out of place, but in the perfect place. Yes the Lord distributes wisdom, but it is because of that distribution that He also becomes our shield. The word for shield used here in the King James is "buckler". Now a buckler is a very small shield about 18 inches in diameter. It was used as a companion weapon and in melee. It is interesting that the Lord is not the kind if shield that one can hide behind as arrows come, but it is the kind of shield used in intimate battle.

"That He may guard the paths of justice. Yes, He preserves the way of His saints." Proverbs 2:8, Amplified

The Lord guards, or keeps, the paths of justice. This word is used in a way that shows us that the Lord "maintains" the paths of justice. He is the ultimate lawgiver, by Him the way to justice is maintained.

He also preserves the way of His saints. This gives us the picture that He puts a hedge around the path. Not only is the way protected from the outside, but it now gives us some directionality. The Lord guides us and leads us and directs us as He protects us.

"Then you will understand righteousness, justice and fair dealing [in every area and relation]; yes, you will understand every good path." Proverbs 2:9, Amplified

It is because of His guidance and protection that we begin to see and understand the things of the Lord. If we were to hide behind a larger shield, would we be prone to move? If we did not have that hedge about us, would we then be running in any direction?

This word for understand means to "separate mentally". It is like a mechanic on a car. You bring in your problem, he looks and listens and understands what needs to be done. He has the ability to go through your car without even touching it and tell you what the problem is. The same can be said about the believer. We can look at a situation and separate it in our heads and understand what needs to be done. It is not that we are going to understand every good path, but in any given situation we are going to understand which would be the best path taken.

He Still Works (John 2:1-4)

I was out tonight at a friends house for a Bible study. It was my first Men's Bible study that I have attended in a while. Logan Harper taught from the Gospel of John. I was quiet, taking in every detail he had for me to absorb. It wasn't until right now that I had an epiphany about one of the Scriptures that he had covered. I just had to deviate from my normal morning devotional blog to insert this little gold nugget that I stumbled across.

"On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Now both Jesus and His disciples were invited to the wedding. And when they ran out of wine, the mother of Jesus said to Him, 'They have no wine.' Jesus said to His mother, 'Woman, what does this concern have to do with Me? My hour has not yet come.'" John 2:1-4, NKJV

As we read further into the text we find that Jesus did in fact perform His very first miracle and turned water into wine. I have a proposal for you to digest. The wedding is a type for Christ's love for the church. The father brings the bride to the bridegroom just as we read in Genesis when God brought Eve to Adam. We, as the church, are that bride and Christ is our bridegroom. As we speak, we are betrothed to our Beloved, waiting for Him. But He says, "My hour has not yet come." His time to come for the church is not now, it is not here. But until that time He will ensure we have all we need. He cares so much for us that He works constantly to make sure that His bride is taken care of. Though His time has not yet come, Jesus performs miracle after miracle in our lives. Though His time has not yet come, we still see Him work, we feel him work and we experience him work. So much so that others around us see that what He has done is so much better than what we once had.

How to Search for Wisdom (Proverbs 2:1-5)

In the world around us we see that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. The same can be said about our faith. Prayer results in us getting closer to God. Reading the Bible allows for us to better understand the desire of God. Sinning can only lead to a separation from God. Solomon lays out this same process in the search for wisdom.

"My son, if you will receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you, making your ear attentive to skillful and godly Wisdom, and inclining and directing your heart and mind to understanding - applying all you powers to the quest for it..." Proverbs 2:1-2, Amplified

The first step in the search for wisdom is the reception of it. The whole idea for a search is to receive something when the search is over. One does not pursue the love of his life just to let her go when he finds her. Nor does one search for treasure only to leave it where he found it.

In verse one, Solomon paints a word picture for us. If we receive wisdom and treasure, or hide, those words within ourselves. There is an idea here that the Lord wants us to receive whatever it is that He has to say and we are to "stockpile" those words of wisdom. I Egypt, Joseph was commissioned to receive grain for the people to stockpile it for the seven years of famine that were approaching. The same can be said for wisdom. It is something that may not seem to be useful at the time, but when the time comes, those words of wisdom can be at the ready. How useful does the "stop, drop and roll" method of putting ourselves out if we were on fire sound? How often have we used that method? But how useful will that information be when we do happen to find ourselves on fire?

"Yes, if you cry out for insight and raise your voice for understanding , if you seek Wisdom as silver, and search for skillful and godly Wisdom as for hid treasure..." Proverbs 2:3-4, Amplified

A few conditions need to be set in our search for wisdom. If. This is a very important word here. If can point to a variety of things. It can point the idea of a continuation of something so that it will never stop. Should a quest for wisdom ever stop? No. Four ifs are covered in these next to verses.

"If we cry out for." There needs to be a continual crying out for wisdom. This set of words gives the idea of "calling out by name". The word in the original King James is "knowledge". Crying out after knowledge. This is something that I want everybody to understand as I convey it. We are not to call knowledge by its name, but we are to cry out for the knowledge of whatever it is that we are seeking. Be specific in your prayers. Ask for the understand and knowledge of whatever it is that you seek. The other day I prayed for the Lord to help me understand how to fix my swamp cooler. I am not the mechanical type of guy, but He was faithful to show me whatever it was that I needed to complete me task.

"If we raise up our voices". Now this may sound like the same thing is being done. It is not, however. The word in the original King James is "to lift", and it denotes a giving over of. After crying out by name for what it is that we desire, then we are to give ourselves over to it. When the cry leaves our lips, the Lord gives us the skill to be able to complete whatever task that might be daunting us.

"If we seek". This word for search is going to be one of the most important ideas of this study. It means to seek through prayer. Realize that verses three and four are not chronological in order, they are merely mirrors of each other. We have to come to the understanding that not all people receive in the same fashion, so verse for is merely a different way of presenting verse three. Crying out for by name can be defined as a prayer. In prayer one cries out to the Lord for wisdom. We are to diligently seek Him daily for whatever needs we may have.

"If we search." The word for search here gives the idea of stealth or concealment. This is not a concealment for search, rather it is a concealment to let be sought. After we pray for the Lord to give us whatever it is that we had asked for, we are to then sit and wait for it to come. The idea of having a prayer closet is to keep things personal between you and the Lord. I am not downing public prayer or allowing your brothers and sisters to know what it is that you are praying for. I just know for me, and in my personal experience that there is a greater satisfaction when what I desire comes directly from the Lord after discussing the matter exclusively with Him. Can the Lord use other people? Of course. Will the blessing be any less significant? Of course not.

"Then you will understand the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of [our omniscient] God." Proverbs 2:5, Amplified

Four ifs leading to one then. Our quest has an end, every quest must. If we call out for it, the Lord will bestow it upon us. I am not speaking of a "name it and claim it" ritual. I am speaking about the things of the Lord. If we diligently seek after the things of God, then we will find the things of God.

The Call of Wisdom (Proverbs 1:20-33)

Just as sin calls for the believer, so too does wisdom. Wisdom has just as big a stake in our lives as sin. It is our duty and responsibility to decide which of the two to follow. As we continue to go through the book of Proverbs, we will see this dichotomy many times more. Both call to the believer, both promise to deliver something to the believer, both are tempting to follow, but only one is true, only one is right.

"Wisdom cries aloud in the streets; she raises her voice in the markets. She cries at the head of the noisy intersections - in the chief gathering places - at the entrance of the city gates she speaks..." Proverbs 1:20-21, Amplified

This is wisdoms endeavor to find us. She seeks us out. Just as sin surrounds us, so too wisdom surrounds us. She is relentless in her pursuit of us.

"How long, O simple ones and open [to evil], will you love being simple? And he scoffers delight in scoffing, and [self-confident] fools hate knowledge?" Proverbs 1:22, Amplified

Wisdom poses an honest question. How long? I know that when I sin, the enjoyment may be for a minute, however, that joy is soon replaced by disgust. I do not hate myself, but i do hate the actions and choices that I made to get me to that place of disgust. Nonetheless, the question deserves an answer. How long can one continue to love being simple, or a scoffer or a fool? The question is posed, I feel, for the same reason that the disgust wells up inside of myself. There is no true fulfillment in neither of these things. Simplicity leaves no room for growth, but wisdom is a continually growing dynamic. Scoffing keeps pushing different things away because nothing truly satisfies whereas wisdom embraces things to glean from because the Lord is the Maker and Creator of all things. And the fool has said in his heart that there is no God, but wisdom knows God and loves God.

"If you will turn (repent) and give heed to my reproof, behold, I [Wisdom], will pour out my spirit upon you, I will make my words known to you." Proverbs 1:23, Amplified

This is the promise of wisdom, to pour itself out on the one who finds it. In order to find wisdom, one must repent from sin. Repent simply means to make a 180 degree turn in our lives. If we are not running to the Lord then we are running from Him, if we are not running from Him then we are running toward Him. With repentance comes an openness to what the Lord has to say to us. As sinners, none of us wants to speak to a holy and just God. But as a believer, we can envelope every word He has for us. The Lords wisdom is not detrimental to us all, no harm will come from listening to the Lord.

"Because I have called you and you refused [to answer], I have stretched out my hand and no man heeded it, but you have treated as nothing my counsel, and would accept none of my reproof, I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when the thing comes that shall cause you terror and panic, when your panic comes as a storm and desolation, and your calamity comes on as a whirlwind, when distress and anguish come upon you." Proverbs 1:24-27, Amplified

Wisdom has no choice but to mock the one who denies it. Wisdom is full of knowledge and logic; for one to suffer because they would not listen to that knowledge or logic is quite ironic. But notice the continued promise of wisdom. She states that "when you calamity comes". Make no mistake, the refusal of wisdom will result in calamity. And what happens when that calamity comes? Zechariah speaks of this event in his book, "'But they refused to heed, shrugged their shoulders, and stopped their ears so that they could not hear. Yes, they made their hearts like flint, refusing to hear the law and the words which the Lord of hosts had sent by His Spirit through the former prophets. Thus great wrath came from the Lord of hosts. Therefore it happened, that just as He proclaimed and they would not hear, so they called out and I would not listen,' says the Lord of hosts." (Zechariah 7:11-13, NKJV)

"Then will they call upon me [Wisdom], but I will not answer; they will seek me early and diligently, but they will not find me. Because they hated knowledge, and did not choose the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord, would have none of my counsel, and despised my reproof, therefore they shall eat the fruit of their own way, and be satisfied of their own devices." Proverbs 1:28-31, Amplified

Hindsight is always 20/20. There will come that day when the simple will remember the call of wisdom, but it will be to late. Wisdom has nothing but good things for us, but the offer is not available to us forever. Now I am not saying that there are some the Lord cannot reach, but there are those who harden themselves so much that they make themselves unreachable. We are constantly molding our future by the choices that we make.

"For the backsliding of the simple shall slay them, and the careless ease of [self-confident] fools shall destroy them." Proverbs 1:32, Amplified

It is inevitable that a fool will undue himself, but fools are not fools only for themselves. "For the foolish person will speak foolishness, and his heart will work iniquity; to practice ungodliness, to utter error against the Lord, to keep the hungry unsatisfied, and will cause to drink of the thirsty to fail." (Isaiah 32:6, NKJV)

"But whoso hearkens to me [Wisdom], shall dwell securely and in confident trust, and shall be quiet without fear or dread of evil." Proverbs 1:33, Amplified

To heed the call of wisdom leads to a life of security. To listen to the words of wisdom leads to a life of safety. To answer the call of wisdom leads to a life without fear.

The Call of Sin (Proverbs 1:10-19)

It has been said that if you stand in front of a barber shop, before long you will end up with a hair cut. The same can be said about sin. The more we hang around it, the more enticing it becomes. But unlike sin, the barber does not come looking for you. Sin has a way of seeking the believer out. Imagine walking home on a dark night, and you hear footsteps behind you. Your heart begins to race because you know that you are about to be attacked. So what are we to do when sin calls out for us? How are we as Christians supposed to react?

"My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent." Proverbs 1:10, Amplified

The easiest way to resist is to not do. Everyday we are approached for different reasons. The best example is the television. Commercials target a specific demographic to entice them into purchasing a product, whether it be insurance, a new car, food. Do we then go and do whatever the commercial is suggesting simply because it claimed to offer better than anyone else could. No. Why can we not then have the same attitude toward sin? There is one reason. It is a heart issue. "Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the Law of the Lord. And in His Law he meditates day and night." (Psalm 1:1-2, NKJV) It is about focus and a singularity of faith.

"If they say, 'Come with us, let us lie in wait to shed blood, let us ambush the innocent without cause [and show that his piety is in vain]; let us swallow the up alive as does Sheol [the place of the dead], and whole, as those who go down into the pit [of the dead]; we shall find and take all precious goods [when our victims are put out of the way], we shall fill our houses with plunder; Throw in your lot among us [they insisted], and be a sworn brother and comrade; let us all have one purse in common.'" Proverbs 1:11-14, Amplified

Sin is vicious. Sin is out to get what sin wants. Sin will use you to avail its own cause. Why is it then that at some points in our lives we cannot see sin as it really is. If we are not planted and dedicated to the Lord then our loyalty and focus and roots are somewhere else. A tree or bush will die if it is not planted. Jesus spoke about different kinds of soil, and only one out of four was the good soil. Are you dying as a Christian; have you fallen by the wayside so that crows may come and whisk you away, are you in the rocky soil and shoot us quickly only to die because you have no root, or are you among the thorns and thistles being choked out? The only good soil is Jesus. If we are in any of the other soils, then we will never see sin for what it truly is.

"My son, do not walk in the way with them, restrain your foot from their path; for their feet run to do evil, and they make haste to shed blood." Proverbs 1:15-16, Amplified

There is nothing subtle about sin. Solomon encourages his son not to walk with them, because they run. Have you ever tried to walk in a mob that is running. It is impossible. you will be knocked over and trampled underfoot, so you must maintain the speed of the masses to ensure your life, but in reality you only hasten death.

"For in vain is the net spread in the sight of any bird; but [when these men set a trap for others] they are really waiting for their own blood, they set an ambush for their own lives. So are the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain; such [greed for plunder] takes away the life of its possessors." Proverbs 1:17-19, Amplified

"A bird will instinctively avoid a visibly spread net." (Jamieson, Fausset and Brown) Sin is that visibly spread net, instinctively we too should avoid that net. Inevitably sin will destroy whomever it is using at the time. When the net is spread to trap, the trapper is the true victim. Sin is a very personal product of separation from God. No one else is going to Hell because of your sins, only you will go to Hell for your own sins.

Listen to Mom and Dad (Proverbs 1:8-9)

It is important for a child to listen to their mother and father. There are certain life lessons that will be taught to the child via the parents. Solomon understood this and had this to say:

"My son, hear the instruction of your father; reject not or forsake the teaching of your mother; for they are a [victor's] chaplet of grace upon your head, and the chains and pendants [of gold worn by kings] for you neck." Proverbs 1:8-9, Amplified

Solomon was a father himself. One would have to assume that Solomon wrote these words for his son Rehoboam. Solomon describes the instruction of a father and the teaching of a mother as two distinct things.

A father is to instruct a son on many different levels. Instruction, I feel, is a lesson through experience. For example a father teaches his son how to fish by taking him fishing, the son learns about camping and hunting and different other manly things through experiencing them himself.

The word teachings used in the Amplified Bible was not the original words used. In the King James Version, it talks about the "law of your mother." This word law is synonymous with the Decalogue or Pentateuch. In other words, a father teaches his son how to live like a man; take this one step further and understand it as a Christian man teaches his son how to live like a Christian. A mother takes on the spiritual aspects of life, for she is the spiritual nurturer in the family dynamic.

But this instruction and teaching are also going to become two things for the boy. In the King James Version they will become an ornament of grace. This ornament is actually more like a wreath. The Amplified version takes it further and calls it a "victor's crown". Notice that the crown is not made of gold. I feel that the gold crown would be a symbol of authority, and that is not what the instruction of a father and the teaching from a mother is about. Following the words of you father and mother is a personal victory, these words will help you overcome obstacles in your own life. And not only will it be a crown, but also be of grace. One might also view this as favor. Having personal victories in one's life brings with it confidence.

The words from your mother and father also become like chains around your neck. These chains are decorations for everyone else to see. When I read this verse I always think of the bling that rapper's wear. Everyone wants to get a closer look. This is what our life should be like. Those around us should want to scrutinize our lives. However, this should encourage us to live an impeccable life. Impeccable simply means "without sin." In living an impeccable life, we will bring honor to our mother and father and our God.

Righteous Fear (Proverbs 1:7)

Is there something that you are afraid of? As a child, I was afraid of the dark; I had to jump into bed for fear of something coming out from under it. I even had trouble walking out of a dark room. Soon age and logic outweighed irrational fear.

When the Bible talks about fear, however, it is speaking about a very different kind of fear. It is a reverential fear, a respectful fear. Solomon wrote of this fear:

"The reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is the beginning and the principal and choice part of knowledge - that is, its starting point and its essence; but fools despise skillful and godly wisdom,instruction and discipline." Proverbs 1:7, Amplified

This fear of the Lord is respect. But notice how the Amplified Bible elaborates on the verse. It is a reverent and worshipful fear. We will go nowhere in life if we do not come to a place of worship. It is the beginning of knowledge. As we worship, we begin to know our God. It is sort of like a courtship. A specific time is set aside for you to get to know your future mate. You cannot be disrespectful of something that you worship for fear of severing that potential relationship. Knowledge influences us. Worship of the Lord opens us up to His influences as we begin to know Him. Even Solomon's father understood this spiritual precept. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever." (Psalm 111:10, NKJV) The idea of fearing the Lord was not something that Solomon had made up, it was a spiritual truth passed down by his father.

But fools want no part of wisdom. It is interesting that Solomon approaches the issue like this. The fool wants no part of wisdom or instruction. Who is the fool? "The fool has said in his heart, 'There is no God.'" (Psalm 14:1, NKJV) The fool has no fear of God whatsoever. There is no intimacy or openness in the heart of a fool. There are many educated fools out in the world today, so where did this wisdom and knowledge come from? We need to keep it in the context of the verse. Understand that the wisdom and instruction that is being spoken of here is a godly wisdom and instruction. To interlace any sort of Christian doctrine into instruction is to offend the world full of fools. The fool has said in his heart that there is no God, therefore anything having to do with God, the fool cannot receive or hear.

Purpose for the Proverbs (Proverbs 1:1-6)

The book of Proverbs is a wonderful collection of sayings. It can also be used as a daily devotional. There are 31 chapters in the book and no more than 31 days in a single month, it is the perfect devotion. When I attended U-Turn 4 Christ, a restoration program, we read the Proverbs aloud every morning. then each one chose one particular verse that spoke to us more than the others. We will not be going through the book in 31 days, however. I wanted to spend a little more time and take the book apart piece by piece and section by section

But back to the issue at hand. I chose the book of Proverbs because I always wanted to share my thoughts on the book. It is rich in knowledge and wisdom. I will also be using the Amplified Version of the Bible to unlock even more richness.

"The proverbs [truths obscurely expressed, maxims and parables] of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel." Proverbs 1:1, Amplified

The Proverbs were written by Solomon, king of Israel. In I Kings the Lord appeared to Solomon and told Solomon that He would give him whatever he had asked for. Solomon said, "Give therefore thy servant and understanding heart to judge Thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this Thy so great a people?" (I Kings 3:9, KJV) Solomon understood his youthfulness and only wanted to understand how to judge the people of Israel. This pleased the Lord so much that He gave him more than that such as riches and honor. It has also been stated that Solomon spoke about 3,000 proverbs (I Kings 4:32).

Like the Amplified version lays out for us, the Proverbs are a collection of obscurely expressed truths. It is my hope, that in these devotions the truth will become less obscure.

"That people may know skill and godly wisdom and instruction, discern and comprehend the words of understand and insight." Proverbs 1:2, Amplified

The next five verses lay out the purpose of the proverbs. The first of the five reason is to know and understand wisdom and instruction. It has been said that wisdom is knowledge gained through experience. Solomon wished to pass that experience on to others, so the book of Proverbs is a place where we can glean from his experience.

It is also to discern and comprehend words of understand and insight. Not only are we to know, but the Lord also wants us to discern. This word discern is a very interesting word; it comes from the French word "discernere". It is a combination of two words, "dis" which means "apart" and "cernere" which means "to separate". The Lord wants us to have the ability to take something apart and understand everything about it.

"Receive instruction in wise dealing and the discipline of wise thoughtfulness, righteousness, justice and integrity." Proverbs 1:3, Amplified

The second purpose is to receive something back from the proverbs. Five things come from reading the proverbs. the first is the instruction in wise dealings. Throughout the proverbs we will come across different verses dealing with unjust balances and our interaction with our fellow man. Also the discipline of thoughtfulness. By nature, man is a very selfish beast. As a Christian we come to the place where we discipline ourselves to think of others first. The next three go hand in hand with each other and cannot come about unless the former is in practice.

Justice cannot be a product of our walks unless first righteousness is put into play. Righteousness is nothing more than a right standing with the Lord, and if we are not right with Him, then how are we to execute justice?

Integrity is a product of righteousness and justice. As we walk in both, those around us will have no leg to stand on when they come to accuse. Integrity is vital to the person of Christ; without integrity one is just labeled a hypocrite.

"That prudence may be given to the simple, and knowledge, discretion and discernment to the youth." Proverbs 1:4, Amplified

This book of the Bible has something for everyone. Not only can the wise become wiser, but the simple can also become wiser. And also, the youth can take away from this book. The young man or woman will be given knowledge, discretion and discernment for their futures. The best thing that one can give to a youth is wisdom. I plan to teach my children and bestow upon them my wisdom, my experiences and send them on their way.

"The wise also may hear and increase in learning, and the person of understanding acquire skill and attain to sound counsels [so that he may be able to steer his course rightly]." Proverbs 1:5, Amplified

It is also for the wise and the person of understanding. There will never be a time when we know it all for ourselves, but we are constantly learning more, day by day. The purpose of learning more is to acquire knowledge. The Lord wants us to be able to steer ourselves rightly. Just think of the Bible at your steering wheel and the knowledge of God received through the reading of the Word is the power steering fluid.

"To understand a proverb and a figure of speech or an enigma with its interpretation, and the words of the wise and their dark sayings or riddles." Proverbs 1:6, Amplified

What the parables of Jesus are for the New Testament so the Proverbs are for the Old Testament. The parables were obscured truth that needed to be discerned, truths for the believer. The same can be said for the proverb. Some are more difficult to understand, but with the reading of the proverbs, comes understanding.

Build on the Rock

In order to ensure that one will not be a bad tree, nor the one to hear the words "I never knew you", Jesus Christ must be the foundation of one's life. If Jesus is that rock, that foundation, then none will fall.

"Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man built his house on the rock." Matthew 7:24, NKJV

Jesus will liken that man to one who built his house on the rock. If we follow the teachings of Jesus Christ, then we are first of all wise. This wisdom denotes a sagacious and prudent life. One who follows the wisdom and teachings of Jesus is mindful of the eternal. More than that, however, is that his house is built on the rock. Notice that it is not just a rock but the rock. That rock would be none other than Jesus Christ.

"And the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on the house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock." Matthew 7:25, NKJV

Trials will come, trouble does not stop. Just because we build a house on the rock does not mean that trials will stop. This is like saying that weather proofing your house stops the cold outside. The house, because of the preparation will be warm and protected, but the outside will still get cold. The same goes for building on the rock. Preparation ensures the houses stability, but the trials will not cease. The rains will descend, the floods will come and the wind will blow, but the house will stand.

"But everyone who hears these sayings of mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rains descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on the house; and it fell. And great was its fall." Matthew 7:26-27, NKJV

Jesus likens the man who does not heed to His teachings as a fool. Psalms 14 and 53 both state that "the fool has said in his heart there is no God." Jesus is not speaking of the ignorant, He is speaking of one who has heard and chooses not to do. The rains will descend, the floods will come and the winds will blow and the house will fall. Not only will it fall, but the fall will be great. It will be great only because this person has the knowledge, but chose to not heed. There is nothing worse than willful disobedience. Nothing of what Jesus taught during the Sermon on the Mount infringes upon human rights, nor does it impede morality. Everything that Jesus taught is already instilled on the heart of man. It is a given that one should not murder, however, Jesus took it one step further. Jesus took all the issues of a social order and made it a moral issue. "You should not murder, but also do not hate. You should not commit adultery, but also do not lust."

"And so it was, when Jesus had ended these sayings, that the people were astonished at His teaching, for He taught them with authority, and not as the scribes." Matthew 7:28-29, NKJV

Thus ends the Sermon on the Mount. the masses had not heard anything like the teachings of Jesus before. though Jesus was speaking to His disciples, the outside world was privy to what was being said. Everything from the first beatitude to the foundation of the rock was meant for the people of God, but the masses needed to hear it too. And they were astonished because Jesus spoke with authority. Who better to speak at the Bible, or the things of God I should say, than Jesus, the Word Himself.

I Never Knew You

"Every man produces according to his nature." (Spurgeon) In the last section, we spoke about the good and bad trees. Every man is known by the fruit that he bears. Good trees produce good fruit and bad trees produce bad fruit. Those who produce bad fruit are doomed to be chopped down and cast into the fire. What is that ultimate end?

"Not all who say to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven." Matthew 7:21, NKJV

It is not enough to merely give Christ the title of Lord of our lives. We must act in obedience to Him. There are many who pay lip service to Jesus, but never fulfill the will of the Father. Anyone can fall into this dismal place. We can all find ourselves in church on Sunday and live like the rest of the world for the other six days of the week. To call Him Lord and to make Him your Lord are two vastly different things. As soon as we all come to that understanding in our lives, our walks will be tremendous. To call Him Lord is to also give Him the throne of the heart.

If one were to only call Him Lord, would that person die for Jesus or go hungry for Jesus or give up his belongings for Jesus? I want Him to be my Lord so that I might call Him Friend.

"Many will say to Me in that day, 'Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name and done many wonders in your name?" Matthew 7:22, NKJV

Is it truly possible to perform these acts without truly having Jesus be the Lord of your life? Apparently so. To perform liturgy and live liturgically can be the difference of entering and not entering the gates of heaven. What is it about these men that they feel they need to profess their good deeds to the Lord?

I am the kind of person who does not need someone to tell me something and then say the words, "Trust me," or "Honest," or "Swear to God!" If someone needs to suffix a statement with those words then I have all the more reason to distrust. The true servant of God needs only to stand in confidence before his Savior. Our deeds will always outweigh our words.

"And then I will declare to them, I never knew you; depart from Me you who practice lawlessness!" Matthew 7:23, NKJV

The ultimate end for those who did not truly know Christ is Hell. Notice the words of our Lord; the word practice is in the present tense. The lawlessness in the life of the unbeliever and the false disciple is a constant. There is no end to the iniquity. If there is no end to the iniquity in a life then there is no room for Christ to sit upon the throne of the heart. Bad fruit fills the seat, wasted produce is scattered throughout the heart. Christ cannot indwell the heart of a man who refuses to cleanse himself. One cannot walk up to a celebrity and fein friendship; you would surely be exposed as a liar. In the same way one cannot walk up to Christ on "that day" and fein a relationship with Him; you will surely be exposed as a practicer of lawlessness.

You Will Know Them by Their Fruit

After speaking about the narrow way, Jesus turns His focus to false prophets. It does not matter where we find ourselves on the timeline, false prophets have always been a problem for the believer.

"Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves." Matthew 7:15, NKJV

The thing with false prophets is that they know exactly what they are. They purposely put on sheep's clothing to disguise there true appearance. Spurgeon wrote, "These affect the look, language and spirit of God's people, while they really long to devour souls, even as wolves thirst for the blood of sheep." "A man is what he is inwardly." The appetite of the wolf does not change just as the appetite of the sheep does not change. The purpose of the wolf is not to convert the sheep to his cuisine, rather it is to devour the sheep.

"You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles?" Matthew 7:16, NKJV

Jesus gives us a simple litmus test, "You will know them by their fruits." Fruit is merely a product of a tree. As the fruit is picked from the tree, the quality of the fruit is known. Notice too, how the Lord uses a plurality of the word fruit. Paul wrote in Galatians 5:22, "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance..." There is a singularity in the fruit whereas the false prophets bear bad fruits.

Even so, Jesus goes on to describe the picking of fruit. Grapes and figs are not gathered from thorn bushes and thistles. One can look at a bush and see that it does not bear the fruit that they are looking for. "Every doctrine and doctrinaire may thus be tried." (Spurgeon) A false prophet can be tried and tested the in the same fashion. One does not have to ingest the words of the false prophet to know that the words he speaks are bad, he needs only to hear them.

"Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit." Matthew 7:17-18, NKJV

This is a spiritual truth, good produces good and bad produces bad. Another truth is that good cannot produce bad and bad cannot produce good. It is impossible for a good tree to produce bad fruit; if this is the case then the tree itself is bad. Neither can a bad tree produce good fruit. In short, no good can come from the false prophet.

"Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them." Matthew 7:19-20, NKJV

The ultimate end to a tree that bears bad fruit is to be cut down and thrown into the fire. This end will be covered more in the next blog entry. But this truth remains, by their fruits they will be known.