Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ Category
Change, Christ, Christian Lifestyle, Coronavirus, Coronavirus/COVID-19, COVID-19, Easter, God, God’s Voice, Godly Counsel, Holy Spirit, Marriage, Parenting, PERSONAL GROWTH, Prophecy, Prophet, Prophetess, RELATIONSHIPS, Renewal, Repentance, Suffering, Truth, Unity
In Bible Study, Biblical Principles, Christian Lifestyle, Christian Living, Contentment, Coronavirus, Coronavirus/COVID-19, COVID-19, Disunity, Divorce, God's Voice, Godliness, Learning, Lifestyle, Love, Marriage, Parenting, Repentance, Revival, Righteous Living, Righteousness, Uncategorized, Unity, Wisdom on March 18, 2021 at 10:30 am
In the last post we took a look at the GOD growth in individuals during the pandemic. Family growth is the topic of this post. I use the term GOD growth because God wants to bring about change in people that draws them closer to Him and that causes them to implement His Principles regardless of whether or not they have come to trust in Him for their salvation as of yet or not. God is about seeing His Will and His Principles come about in our society, in our homes, and in us personally before and after we enter that personal relationship with Him.
Questions to ponder. Why do people find it easier to talk about the dysfunction of their and other people’s families than they are able to find the courage to talk about the positive loving things within their family? Has society’s distorted view of family made people where they feel almost ashamed of loving, caring, normalcy?
Boy has the family dynamic changed over the last year amidst the COVID-19 lockdowns. With children out of school. Some parents unfortunately unemployed, and most of the other parents working from home, family has taken center stage.
We have all seen the news reports, where the anchor is attempting to do a new story via Zoom from home and the child is in the background doing all they can to get that parents attention, making the parents task almost impossible. Sometimes it is so cute you just cannot help but laugh. Other times it seems that the child is driving the parent to distraction. And on any given day it might be a little of both. Nevertheless, during the pandemic families have been forced to be together.
Just as with the private individuals, of course there are incidents where families crammed together had a negative impact for the family members. However in those situations there were most likely deep deep problems prior to the family finding themselves in lockdown together.
For many people, the endless hours of family togetherness have resulted in finding new ways to spend that time together. Finding out more about each other. A realization that all of the busy activities that both the parents and the children were involved in were robbing them of what was precious time together. It no doubt unearthed cracks in the foundation of the family that needed some repair. It helped fathers to realize what they are made out of as a father. It helped mothers to come to terms with just how much nurturing of their children they were doing and willing to do. For the children, it just may have created a new found respect for their mothers and their fathers and a greater understanding of them as real people.
For many families it created a much-needed family reset, which in America we need greatly for the American families to function in a moral and godly manner. God wants us to lift up the wholesomeness of family, not the dysfunction. To find the courage to speak out about the loving manner in which families should function or do function. We cannot allow the distortions of a backwards society make us hide our light under a bushel, when it comes to lifting up the ideal of loving, caring, normalcy in the family unit.
I want to close each of this series of postings with a quote from the original post, “COVID-19 – God and Man at Work.”
“Blessings from God are not just material or financial, more often the greater ones (blessings) are intangible such as growth and change.”
Change, Christ, Christian Lifestyle, Coronavirus, Coronavirus/COVID-19, COVID-19, Easter, God, God’s Voice, Godly Counsel, Holy Spirit, Marriage, Parenting, PERSONAL GROWTH, Prophecy, Prophet, Prophetess, RELATIONSHIPS, Renewal, Repentance, Suffering, Truth, Unity
In Attitude, Biblical Principles, Christian Lifestyle, Christian Living, Coronavirus, Coronavirus/COVID-19, COVID-19, Godliness, Godly Counsel, New Year’s Resolutions, Renewal, Repentance, Resolutions, Revelation, Revival, Righteous Living, Righteousness, Spiritual Fruit, Spirituality, Uncategorized, Wisdom on March 7, 2021 at 4:10 pm
Though people have played up the loss and problems of COVID-19, which there have been many of course, much loss and much grief, nevertheless, I mentioned in my last post that we would tackle the other side of the coin and explore the growth that has occurred and the good things that have come out of going through this pandemic.
Over the next few post we will take a look at the GOD growth in individuals, families, and couples during the pandemic. I use the term GOD growth because God wants to bring about change in people that draws them closer to Him and that causes them to implement His Principles regardless of whether or not they have come to trust in Him for their salvation as of yet or not. God is about seeing His Will and His Principles come about in our society, in our homes, and in us personally before and after we enter that personal relationship with Him.
Individual growth will be the topic here. As stated in the last posting, “There has also been more time for individuals to take a good look at themselves, to explore their own inner spiritual person, come to terms with, and perhaps do something in response to, what they discovered during the isolation that God has allowed in their life.”
Crisis pushes crisis, meaning a societal crisis usually produces a personal crisis for people. When confronted with mass alterations in the societal landscape a person finds their personal life altered in many capacities, and underneath those alterations they find their inner life altered as well.
During this pandemic people’s movements have been greatly restricted causing them a loss in what many people use to escape seeing themselves clearly, “distraction[s]” of every type and usually in multiple degrees or quantities. People often search for anything that can help them avoid dealing with what is inside of them. During the isolation of this pandemic that just has not been possible thus resulting horribly for some people in despair and giving up, but for other people in self-reflection and growth.
It is extremely hard to be alone with one’s self, yet it is extremely healthy. Many very spiritual and godly people over the course of history have heralded the importance of a time of personal spiritual retreat with God to reflect, recharge, and seek growth in God. It is during the aloneness that God’s voice is heard most clearly by the majority of people, when most people’s insight and understanding is opened up the most. In the aloneness we find whether or not we like ourselves (or if we should like ourselves), and if not, we learn from God what to do about what we do not like.
From what I have understood from people living in relative isolation during the pandemic, that isolation has also brought with it a quietness of life, a slowing of their pace, a peeling back of the daily stresses of life and thus resulted for many individuals in an embracement of a quieter simpler less stressful life.
The isolation of the pandemic for individuals has not been all bad, it has produced personal growth, reordering of priorities, and recharging of one’s stress coping batteries.
I want to close each of this series of postings with a quote from the original post, “COVID-19 – God and Man at Work.”
“Blessings from God are not just material or financial more often the greater ones (blessings) are intangible such as growth and change.”
Change, Christ, Christian Lifestyle, Coronavirus, Coronavirus/COVID-19, COVID-19, Easter, God, God’s Voice, Godly Counsel, Holy Spirit, Marriage, Parenting, Prophecy, Prophet, Prophetess, RELATIONSHIPS, Renewal, Repentance, Suffering, Truth, Unity
In Agape Love, Attitude, Bible Study, Biblical Principles, Christian Lifestyle, Christian Living, Christianity, Church Growth, Contentment, Coronavirus, Coronavirus/COVID-19, COVID-19, Disunity, God's Voice, Godly Counsel, Holy Spirit, Love, Marriage, Repentance, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on February 28, 2021 at 9:25 am
During the whole of the pandemic we have heard so much about the negative affects that the isolation and the restrictive movement have had on people’s lives, or so we hear in our local media. However, I challenge the notion that it has been all bad.
What has God been doing in the lives of people as He kept children at home, dads at home, moms at home, couples at home together? What has God been doing during the time when He stripped away religious practice and worship truly was up to the private individual, in their own way, in their own home?
Has there been mental and emotional, and perhaps even spiritual problems due to the isolation and the restricted movements of the pandemic? Yes, of course there have been. There has been horrible abuse, horrible loneliness, and sin has existed. However, there has also been great growth for individuals, for families, and for couples. Growth we will explore in more depth in another post. There has also been more time for individuals to take a good look at themselves, to explore their own inner spiritual person, come to terms with and perhaps do something in response to what they discovered during the isolation that God has allowed in their life.
The pandemic has caused financial loss, but I dare to say that in a spiritual and relational level it has done more good for people than harm, and certainly more good than what was financially lost. Blessings from God are not just material or financial more often the greater ones are intangible such as growth and change.
Sometimes God has to get people’s attention, sometimes God has to get a country’s attention, but God always leaves people who are repentant better off than they were when He started a particular work in their life.
Candy, Candy Cane, Christ Birth, Christmas, Witness
In Bible Study, Birth, Candy Cane, Christ, Christ Birth, Christian Living, Uncategorized on December 12, 2020 at 1:19 pm
This came to me in the form of a Christmas greeting decades ago printed on a 4×7 laminated sheet with a candy cane attached. I loved it and have passed it on each year ever since.
A Candymaker’s Witness
Original source/author unknown
A candymaker in Indiana wanted to make a candy that would be a witness, so he made the Christmas Candy Cane. He incorporated several symbols for the birth, ministry and death of Jesus Christ.
He began with a stick of pure white, hard candy. White to symbolize the Virgin Birth and the sinless nature of Jesus, and hard to symbolize the Solid Rock, the foundation of the Church, and firmness of the promises of God.
The candymaker made the candy in the form of a “J” to represent the precious name of Jesus, who came to earth as our Savior. It could also represent the staff of the “Good Shepherd” with which He reaches down into the ditches of the world to lift out the fallen lambs, who like all sheep, have gone astray.
Thinking that the candy was somewhat plain, the candymaker stained it with red stripes. He used three small stripes to show the stripes of the scourging Jesus received by which we are healed. The large red stripe was for the blood shed by Christ on the cross so that we could have the promise of eternal life.
Unfortunately, the candy became known as a Candy Cane – a meaningless decoration seen at Christmas time. But the meaning is still there for those who “have eyes to see and ears to hear.” I pray that this symbol will again be used to witness TO THE WONDER OF JESUS and HIS GREAT LOVE that came down at Christmas and remains the ultimate and dominant force in the universe today.
This year try hanging your candy canes, on your tree, upside down so that they form the letter “j”. It will be a small way to remind all who see them the real reason we celebrate Christmas.
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In Advice, Attitude, Blessings, Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Decision Making, Discernment, Discretion, God's Voice, Godly Counsel, Laziness, Proverbs, Prudence, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on April 5, 2020 at 1:59 pm
The Scripture passages are identified with bold upright font and the author’s notes are identified with italic regular font.
Note – All words or phrases found in quotation marks are actual parts of the Hebrew definition(s).
2 Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death. 3 The LORD will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: but he casteth away the substance of the wicked.
4 He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.
5 He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.
Temporary Treasure
Christians no doubt see those who appear wicked, who seem to care nothing for the things of God, become wealthy and roll in the lap of luxury. They must ask themselves why? Why not the godly?
Some godly people are wealthy and enjoy the luxuries of life. However, more than not, do not find themselves in this group. I do not think it is important to know why, but instead to focus on what God says about ill gotten gains.
The “treasures of wickedness” have no true value in life (v.2). As verse two states they “profit nothing” which when you examine those words in the Hebrew language means that they hold no, “rightness, rectitude, objectively justice, moral virtue or figuratively aka spiritually prosperity.” (Interesting side note the reference number used for the word “nothing” is “6666” – as in 666.) These types of treasures have no real value in life, only earthly worldly value.
In contrast “righteousness delivereth from death” (v.2). When the meaning of “death” in this verse is examined in the Hebrew language we come to realize that it is addressing ‘certain types of death (both natural or violent); or being among the dead, their place or state in hades aka hell and figuratively pestilence or ruin.’ How many wicked people do you often see come to utter ruin within a few days (v.3-4). It happens often actually if you pay attention. They ride high and crash hard.
I am going to jump to verse five now for a moment. Wise people are people who gather their resources, work hard, and do not squander what they have been given by God (v.5). Whereas, lazy people are a cause of “disappointment” to God and those who know them (v.5).
God satisfies the soul of the righteous, He meets their need (v.3). That does not mean that God is going to give a Christian everything they want. I am confident you have heard the say, ‘Thank God for unanswered prayers.’ God knows what is best for us and often denies us out of love.
Those who are righteously “diligent” I add “righteously because any interpretation of Scripture must be taken in context; the Christians who are righteously diligent God will “maketh rich” (v.4). Again, what do the words mean in the Hebrew language? Looking into “maketh rich” in the Hebrew we can gather no general meaning since the word “rich” is not defined. I think this is intentional on God’s part. The riches that God gives His righteous people are beyond worldly, they are indescribable.
Throughout this study, if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.
Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:
This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.
Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV
11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
Abominations, Abuse, Adultery, Adulthood, Advice, Bible, Bible Study, Biblical Principles, Blessing, Chastisement, Childhood, Choices, Christian, Christian Lifestyle, Christian Living, Christianity, Compassion, Confusion, Contentment, Correction, Crime, Curses, Death, Decision Making, Desire, Devotional, Discipline, Discretion, Encouragement, Equality, Evil, Exhortation, Fairness, Favor, Fear, Flattery, Generosity, Godly Fear, Good, Grace, Growing, Guidance, Happiness, Hate, Hatred, Health, Heart, Ignorance, Illness, Information, Insomnia, Jealousy, Justice, King Solomon, Knowledge, Laziness, Learning, Life, Loans, Long Life, Longevity, Mercy, Money, Neighbors, Oppression, Parenting, Parents, Peace, Poverty, Protection, Proverbs, Prudence, Renewal, Righteousness, Safety, Security, Seven Deadly Sins, Sexual Abuse, Shame, Sickness, Sin, Sovereignty, Spirituality, Stealing, Strength, Teachable, Trust, Truth, Wickedness, Wisdom
In Advice, Bible Study, Biblical Principles, Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Decision Making, Depression, Discernment, Discretion, Proverbs, Prudence, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on March 25, 2020 at 9:36 am
The Scripture passages are identified with bold upright font and the author’s notes are identified with italic regular font.
Note – All words or phrases found in quotation marks are actual parts of the Hebrew definition(s).
1 The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.
Child that Blesses or Burdens
Whether a child is growing into adulthood or has already obtained adulthood that child can be a blessing to their parents or a burden to their parent. At either stage of life the desire of children should be to be a blessing to their parents. However, do we live up to that inner desire that beckons to us?
We can make our parents glad or we can fill them with a heaviness of soul and spirit. What does it mean biblically in this context to make them glad or fill them with heaviness? Let us explore that.
In the Hebrew language the words “glad” and “heaviness” mean the following.
Can you tell which definition is which, or do you need me to enlighten you?
8055. שָׂמַח sâmach, saw-makh’; a prim. root; prob. to brighten up, i.e. (fig.) be (caus. make) blithe or gleesome:— cheer up, be (make) glad, (have, make) joy (-ful), be (make) merry, (cause to, make to) rejoice, × very.
8424. תּוּגָה tûwgâh, too-gaw’; from 3013; depression (of spirits); concr. a grief:— heaviness, sorrow.
We have previously thoroughly studied what it means to be both wise and foolish. Keep in mind that you are a parent or might be a parent one day. I will make this simple and close by asking a few questions you can reflect on.
Do your actions brighten up your parent’s world? Do they cause them happiness and joy? Do you make them glad you are their child? Can they rest knowing they do not have to worry about you? Or do your actions make their spirits heavy with sorrow and grief? Does depression haunt them because you cannot get your act together?
As you reflect on these questions remember that our life affects the life of all those around us, including our parents, whether we are grown or not, so let us make choices that bless people instead of burdening people.
Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.
Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:
This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.
Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV
11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
Abominations, Abuse, Adultery, Advice, Bible, Bible Study, Biblical Principles, Blessing, Chastisement, Choices, Christian, Christian Lifestyle, Christian Living, Christianity, Compassion, Confusion, Contentment, Correction, Crime, Curses, Death, Decision Making, Desire, Devotional, Discipline, Discretion, Encouragement, Equality, Evil, Exhortation, Fairness, Favor, Fear, Flattery, Generosity, Godly Fear, Good, Grace, Growing, Guidance, Happiness, Hate, Hatred, Health, Heart, Ignorance, Illness, Information, Insomnia, Jealousy, Justice, King Solomon, Knowledge, Laziness, Learning, Life, Loans, Long Life, Longevity, Mercy, Money, Neighbors, Oppression, Parents, Peace, Poverty, Protection, Proverbs, Prudence, Renewal, Righteousness, Safety, Security, Seven Deadly Sins, Sexual Abuse, Shame, Sickness, Sin, Sovereignty, Spirituality, Stealing, Strength, Teachable, Trust, Truth, Wickedness, Wisdom
In Biblical Principles, Christian Living, Confusion, Contentment, Decision Making, Devotional, Discretion, Godly Counsel, Knowledge, Proverbs, Prudence, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on February 27, 2020 at 2:15 pm
The Scripture passages are identified with bold upright font and the author’s notes are identified with italic regular font.
Note – All words or phrases found in quotation marks are actual parts of the Hebrew or Greek definition(s).
13 A foolish woman is clamorous: she is simple, and knoweth nothing. 14 For she sitteth at the door of her house, on a seat in the high places of the city, 15 To call passengers who go right on their ways: 16 Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: and as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him, 17 Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant. 18 But he knoweth not that the dead are there; and that her guests are in the depths of hell.
Foolish Man Foolish Woman Equals Hell
Ever wondered why men are so easily taken with silly, dumb, or dumb acting, women who hang on their very word? Because when it comes to women men are often led by their lust not by their intelligence, wisdom, or the Spirit of God. They are drawn to the seduction these women offer, “stolen waters” that they should be tampering with (v.14-17). However, man’s foolish response to a foolish woman leads them both to the “depths of hell” and rightfully so; why should foolishness be rewarded (v.18).
Now fair warning here, the descriptions from the Hebrew language of the “foolish woman” who is “clamorous” and “simple” is pretty harsh (v.13). There is no doubt many women or men for that matter will identify with what it is to be “foolish, clamorous, and simple” on some level and to some degree. However, if we recognize these things in ourselves, we need to pray for God to remove them, repent, and turn away from such behaviors.
To be “foolish” equals “silly, be foolish, probably fat, figuratively stupid” in the Hebrew. When I saw the definition it all made sense expect for one part, “probably to be fat” then the revelation; if one is fat there are acts of foolishness on that person’s part hat led to that condition and being fat show a lack of discipline and self-control over the body (with rare legitimate medical exceptions). Hard to write, hard to admit, but true in most cases.
To be “clamorous” in the Hebrew is defined as:
1993. הָמָה hâmâh, haw-maw’; a prim. root [comp. 1949]; to make a loud sound (like the English “hum”); by impl. to be in great commotion or tumult, to rage, war, moan, clamor:— clamorous, concourse, cry aloud, be disquieted, loud, mourn, be moved, make a noise, rage, roar, sound, be troubled, make in tumult, tumultuous, be in an uproar.
1949. הוּם hûwm, hoom; a prim. root [comp. 2000]; to make an uproar, or agitate greatly:— destroy, move, make a noise, put, ring again.
The English “hum” would be something like a sigh that we do in America, a sound meant to express some form of displeasure.
Tumultuous means to lack restraint.
My only response to this definition, ouch!
The meaning of “simple” in the Hebrew as it relates to the woman is “silliness in a seductive way” which leads us back to my opening the “dumb blonde” act (v.13-15 )– absolutely no offense meant at all toward blonde women, but it is term people know and understand the cultural meaning of in America. As far as the word relates to men who respond to this type of women; to be “simple” on their part mean to be “silly, foolish, and deluded” (v.16).
Women would be far better off to not conduct themselves in clamorous ways and men would be far better off not to be taken in by seductive daisy who will only lead them to hell.
Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.
Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:
This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.
Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV
11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
Abominations, Abuse, Adultery, Advice, Bible, Bible Study, Biblical Principles, Blessing, Chastisement, Choices, Christian, Christian Lifestyle, Christian Living, Christianity, Compassion, Confusion, Contentment, Correction, Crime, Curses, Death, Decision Making, Desire, Devotional, Discipline, Discretion, Encouragement, Equality, Evil, Exhortation, Fairness, Favor, Fear, Flattery, Generosity, Godly Fear, Good, Grace, Growing, Guidance, Happiness, Hate, Hatred, Health, Heart, Ignorance, Illness, Information, Insomnia, Jealousy, Justice, King Solomon, Knowledge, Laziness, Learning, Life, Loans, Long Life, Longevity, Mercy, Money, Neighbors, Oppression, Parents, Peace, Poverty, Protection, Proverbs, Prudence, Renewal, Righteousness, Safety, Security, Seven Deadly Sins, Sexual Abuse, Shame, Sickness, Sin, Sovereignty, Spirituality, Stealing, Strength, Teachable, Trust, Truth, Wickedness, Wisdom
In Advice, Authority, Biblical Principles, Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Contentment, Decision Making, Discernment, Discretion, Godly Counsel, Knowledge, Prudence, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on February 22, 2020 at 1:07 pm
The Scripture passages are identified with bold upright font and the author’s notes are identified with italic regular font.
Note – All words or phrases found in quotation marks are actual parts of the Hebrew definition(s).
10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. 11 For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased. 12 If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it.
Security and Long Life
The starting point for wisdom is to have a proper fear of God. Without a proper fear of God you will most likely not be someone given to the use of godly wisdom. People who mock and scorn the things of God are people who usually act in very foolish prideful manners thinking they have life all figured out.
Fearing the LORD, Jehovah, has different aspects to its dynamics (v.10). Before I go into to those aspects let me provide you with the definition of this word “fear” found in verse ten from the Hebrew language.
“fear” in the Hebrew language means:
3374. יִרְאָה yir˒âh, yir-aw’; fem. of 3373; fear (also used as infin.); mor. reverence:— × dreadful, × exceedingly, fear (-fulness).
3373. יָרֵא yârê˒, yaw-ray’; from 3372; fearing; mor. reverent:— afraid, fear (-ful).
3372. יָרֵא yârê˒, yaw-ray’; a prim. root; to fear; mor. to revere; caus. to frighten:— affright, be (make) afraid, dread (-ful), (put in) fear (-ful, -fully, -ing), (be had in) reverence (-end), × see, terrible (act, -ness, thing).
When we fear the LORD, we have a moral reverence for Him, His Ways, His Purposes, His Will, and His Wisdom. We have a keen sense of the Almighty’s power and position in the universe and rightfully fear what that power is capable of if need be in the face of evil. God loves, but God is not a marshmallow man or a teddy bear He is the HOLY ALMIGHTY GOD and we should be afraid both for other people and ourselves should they or we fail to follow God’s wisdom. We can learn to fear God by learning about and understanding His character or we can learn to fear God through painful trial and error, it is our choice.
To have “knowledge” of the holy is, according to the Hebrew language, to have awareness of the holiness of God and the sacredness of the things of God (v.10). This is where getting to know God, His Ways, His Character, His Purposes, and His Word is important. There is truly no other way to come to a proper understanding of God. Having this type of “knowledge” about God’s and God’s holiness is “understanding” and according to the Hebrew language understanding is a form of “wisdom” (v.10).
The use of wisdom comes with a spiritual law and effect or what some might call a promise. It is more of a spiritual law than a promise. The use of wisdom will lead to a much greater chance of a longer life (v.11). If we do what God directs that is best for us, wise, live according to His Will not our own will or desires, we are likely to live much longer, and I dare say have a much better quality of life along the way.
There is security in the use of wisdom. If you use godly wisdom under God’s guidance following His directives and things “appear” to go wrong, I use the word appear because if you are following God’s Wisdom any difficulties you face have a godly purpose, thus God will be with you in the mist of the difficulty to guide you through and show you His Purpose for allowing the difficulty (v.12).
Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.
Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:
This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.
Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV
11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
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In Biblical Principles, Christ, Christian Living, Decision Making, Discernment, Discretion, God's Voice, Godliness, Godly Counsel, Proverbs, Prudence, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on January 20, 2020 at 3:09 pm
The Scripture passages are identified with bold upright font and the author’s notes are identified with italic regular font.
Note – All words or phrases found in quotation marks are actual parts of the Hebrew or Greek definition(s).
22 The LORD possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old. 23 I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was. 24 When there were no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water. 25 Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth: 26 While as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, nor the highest part of the dust of the world. 27 When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass upon the face of the depth: 28 When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep: 29 When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth: 30 Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him; 31 Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights were with the sons of men.
32 Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways. 33 Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not. 34 Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. 35 For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD. 36 But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.
Source and Fruit of Wisdom
Keep in mind that this is Wisdom talking to you from the pages of Proverbs. Therefore, when He/it states, “The LORD possessed me” (v.22) it is stating that Jehovah, which is who the LORD in the Old Testament is when you find it written in all capital letters, possessed wisdom in the greatest possible measure since the beginning of time, and before (v.23-30).
Whom else was with God from the beginning of time and before as wisdom was? Yes, Jesus, the Christ, our Savior, and in New Testament times, our Lord.
Jesus is the Word of God (John 1:1), Jesus is Wisdom, God’s incarnated wisdom (1 Corn. 1:24).
Like Wisdom (v.22-30) Jesus was with God, LORD, Jehovah since the beginning.
Just as we need to listen to, follow, and obey Wisdom (v.32-36), we need to listen to, follow, and obeying Jesus in how we live, as Jesus is Truth, Jesus is the Word, Jesus is Wisdom.
If you lack godly wisdom all you must do is, ask God for it and He will give it to you (James 1:5).
What is the value of wisdom?
It…
† Gives happiness – Prov. 3:13
† Benefits are and of many – Prov. 4:5–10
† Keeps from evil – Prov. 5:1–6
† Better than rubies – Prov. 8:11
† Above gold in value – Prov. 16:16
† Should be acquired – Prov. 23:23
† Gives life – Eccl. 7:12
† Makes strong – Eccl. 7:19
† Better than weapons – Eccl. 9:18
† Insures stability – Is. 33:6
† Produces good fruit – James 3:17
The very last verse of this passage is so strong in its examination of the human condition that I am going to quote it again here.
“36 But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.”
The person who chooses to reject Wisdom, to sin against the Almighty/Wisdom by rejecting godly wisdom is a person who sins against their own soul. To “wrongeth” our soul according to the Hebrew language means to ‘violently mistreat ourselves’, which is often done physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually when we use poor discernment and wisdom. It also means that we “make bare” aspect of our life that would flourish if we used godly wisdom. When we refuse God’s godly wisdom we “shake off” and “violate” His Will and thus damage our soul, as we enter into vain imaginations, ‘imagining wrongly’ what our life should be through our own limited lenses instead of through the Mind of Christ and the Wisdom of Jehovah God.
“wrongeth” Hebrew definition is as follows:
2554. חָמַס châmaç, khaw-mas’; a prim. root; to be violent; by impl. to maltreat:— make bare, shake off, violate, do violence, take away violently, wrong, imagine wrongfully.
Wisdom, wisdom, wisdom we must use wisdom, our life, the quality of our life, depends upon doing so!
Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.
Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:
This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.
Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV
11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
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In Advice, Bible, Bible Study, Biblical Principles, Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Confusion, Decision Making, Discernment, Discretion, God's Voice, Godly Counsel, Proverbs, Prudence, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on January 13, 2020 at 5:42 pm
The Scripture passages are identified with bold upright font and the author’s notes are identified with italic regular font.
Note – All words or phrases found in quotation marks are actual parts of the Hebrew or Greek definition(s).
17 I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me. 18 Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. 19 My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver. 20 I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment: 21 That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.
Wisdom, Substance, and Treasures
Wisdom, much like our relationship with Christ, is something that is more easily assimilated into our life when it is taken on and developed in our youth. When developed in youth both seem to be sustainable for a lifetime. Thus, God’s encouragement in verse seventeen to “seek me early” a reference to wisdom, and God is Wisdom.
Note that verse eighteen points out that honor and riches follow the use of godly wisdom. The verse even makes the point that such riches and righteousness are “durable” which according to the Hebrew means that they will last a very long time, but it also means that they will highly “valued” as well.
Now for a moment of transparency. Though I came to know Christ at an early age I did not by any means learn to use godly wisdom at an early age. Today, well into middle age, I find myself at times still struggling to use wisdom, as it is still not second nature to me to do so. People tell me that God has blessed me with a great deal of godly wisdom to share with others, but I personally do struggle at times in the application of godly wisdom for myself. Had I learned to use and trust in God’s Wisdom at a young age my struggle may not exist today.
The great value of using godly wisdom can never be explained, it can only experienced by the one who uses the godly wisdom. If you avail yourself to godly wisdom and you apply godly wisdom, it brings so much fruit, joy, and peace to your life just as verse nineteen points out. However, you have to trust God enough to seek His Wisdom, and trust Him enough to apply His Wisdom.
God will never fail you; He will always lead you in the path of righteousness through His Wisdom, just as verse twenty states. No matter what man thinks of your actions, if you follow God’s Wisdom, He will lead you into righteousness.
Verse twenty-one lets us know what God desires to do for those who follow His godly wisdom. God wishes to lavish upon their life “substance” and “treasures” beyond anything they might imagine.
In the Hebrew language “substance” and “treasures” are defined as follows:
“substance” in the Hebrew language means the following:
3426. יֵשׁ yêsh, yaysh; perh. from an unused root mean. to stand out, or exist; entity; substance
“treasures” in the Hebrew language means the following:
214. אוֹצָר ˒ôwtsâr, o-tsawr’; from 686; a depository:— armory, cellar, garner, store (-house), treasure (-house) (-y).
686. אָצַר ˒âtsar, aw-tsar’; a prim. root; to store up:— (lay up in) store, (make) treasure (-r).
This substance, and these treasures, which stand out in our life may be literal or figurative, spiritual or physical, tangible or intangible or all of the aforementioned.
There is nothing but good, righteousness, and blessing to be found by following godly wisdom. Let us each seek to do so with consistency and dedication. I know that is my personal prayer.
Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.
Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:
This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.
Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV
11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
Attitudes, God, Godliness, Gratitude, Heart, Thankfulness, Thanksgiving
In Attitude, Biblical Principles, Blessings, Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Contentment, God, Godliness, Gratitude, Suffering, Thanksgiving, Trust, Truth, Uncategorized on November 25, 2019 at 4:32 am
Find out what a godly grateful heart actually is and reflects.
I am hosting a book discussion and a recent section of the book that was reviewed had to do with being thankful. Therefore, as a special Thanksgiving Posting here is an outtake from the book discussion.
Chapter 11: The Attitudes of a Godly Heart (Grateful Heart)
This chapter is broken down into sections that cover various aspects of what a godly heart looks like. I will cover one characteristic per posting.
It is such a God Thing that we are here just before Thanksgiving and this is the section of the book that I am currently on, a section that covers the topic of having a grateful heart. God is so good!
The author points out that people who are ungrateful in life grumble and complain about everything and everyone, for them nothing is ever good enough and this becomes a way of life for them. For the Christian the opposite should be true, they should be grateful to God in all things, good or bad circumstances.
Biblical Principles of a Grateful Heart:
1. To be grateful for God’s grace through Christ Jesus, (2 Corinthians 9:15).
2. Showing God gratitude is part of worshipping Him, (Psalm 100:1-5).
3. To be ungrateful to God is reflect the character of an unbeliever, (Romans 1:21).
4. It is a command to be grateful, (Colossians 3:15).
5. Be thankful for whatever GOD brings your way, (1 Thessalonians 5:18 and Job 1:21).
Practical Ways of Living Out A Life as a Person with a Grateful Heart:
1. Look for the grace of God in your trials.
2. Do not be bitter or angry with God when adversity comes your way.
3. Do not live in the land of sinful disappointment instead give your hopes, desires, and dreams to God then wait to see what He wants to do with them.
4. As a thankful person be a joy to be around, do not grumble and complain be cheerful.
5. Worship God with a thankful heart full of gratitude.
At the end of this section, the author makes quite a statement, a statement with which I agree. ‘We must have the right thoughts about God in order to truly be emotionally stable.’
Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:
This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.
Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV
11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
Abominations, Abuse, Adultery, Advice, Bible, Bible Study, Biblical Principles, Blessing, Chastisement, Choices, Christian, Christian Lifestyle, Christian Living, Christianity, Compassion, Confusion, Contentment, Correction, Crime, Curses, Death, Decision Making, Desire, Devotional, Discipline, Discretion, Encouragement, Equality, Evil, Exhortation, Fairness, Favor, Fear, Flattery, Generosity, Godly Fear, Good, Grace, Growing, Guidance, Happiness, Hate, Hatred, Health, Heart, Illness, Information, Insomnia, Jealousy, Justice, King Solomon, Knowledge, Laziness, Learning, Life, Loans, Longevity, Mercy, Money, Neighbors, Oppression, Parents, Peace, Poverty, Protection, Proverbs, Prudence, Renewal, Righteousness, Safety, Seven Deadly Sins, Sexual Abuse, Shame, Sickness, Sin, Sovereignty, Spirituality, Stealing, Strength, Teachable, Trust, Truth, Wickedness, Wisdom
In Advice, Biblical Principles, Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Decision Making, Discernment, Discretion, Godly Counsel, Knowledge, Proverbs, Prudence, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on November 18, 2019 at 10:09 am
The Scripture passages are identified with bold upright font and the author’s notes are identified with italic regular font.
Note – All words or phrases found in quotation marks are actual parts of the Hebrew or Greek definition(s).
14 Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength. 15 By me kings reign, and princes decree justice. 16 By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth.
God’s Sovereignty and Wisdom
Note: The verses fall under the “Law of Double Reference” which means that a portion of Scripture applies in more than one way to more than one group of people. Here we see both God’s Sovereignty addressed, and God’s Wisdom bestowed upon leaders.
“Counsel is mine” the “mine” in this verse is Wisdom, with a capital “W” because it is a reference to God, the source of all Divine Wisdom, and Wisdom itself or Himself.
“Counsel” in the Hebrew language is defined as:
6098. עֵצָה ˓êtsâh, ay-tsaw’; from 3289; advice; by impl. plan; also prudence:— advice, advisement, counsel ([-lor]), purpose.
3289. יָעַץ yâ˓ats, yaw-ats’; a prim. root; to advise; refl. to deliberate or resolve:— advertise, take advice, advise (well), consult, (give, take) counsel (-lor), determine, devise, guide, purpose.
In one aspect God is saying to us that Divine Counsel can only come from Him. To act with a godly “plan,” godly “prudence,” godly “purpose,” or to make a godly “determination” about something, “to deliberate and resolve” a matter in a godly way can only come from the Divine Counsel of God by way of The Holy Spirit. If it comes from worldly wisdom and worldly intellect then it is not of God, it is not godly counsel.
In another aspect, God is saying that He “guides” the king, princes, and nobles that He puts in place on the earth. That He through His Divine Counsel “guides and directs” them. As can be seen by looking into the definition of “sound wisdom” as found in verse fourteen.
“sound wisdom” in the Hebrew language is defined as:
8454. תּוּשִׁיָּה tûwshı̂yâh, too-shee-yaw’; or
תֻּשִׁיָּה tûshı̂yâh, too-shee-yaw’; from an unused root prob. mean. to substantiate; support or (by impl.) ability, i.e. (direct) help, (in purpose) an undertaking, (intellectual) understanding:— enterprise, that which (thing as it) is, substance, (sound) wisdom, working.
God puts His rulers and holds them in place. It is through His “support” and the “ability” that God provides them that these rulers are able to rule. He provides them “direct help” in their “undertaking” and “purpose” that His Sovereign Will might be brought to pass. God provides the “intellectual understanding” that these men and women need to rule. It is God and God alone that makes it all “work” in accordance with His Will, Wisdom, and an understanding that no human can even fathom.
For only God holds “perfect knowledge” and impeccable “discernment” of all things. Only God has the correct “feelings” on all matters. Only God can flawlessly “inform” or “teach” or “instruct” people. For God is, as verse fourteen states Understanding and by extension Wisdom is understanding.
“understanding” in the Hebrew language is defined as:
998. בִּינָה bı̂ynâh, bee-naw’; from 995; understanding:— knowledge, meaning, × perfectly, understanding, wisdom.
995. בִּין bı̂yn, bene; a prim. root; to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e.(gen.) understand:— attend, consider, be cunning, diligently, direct, discern, eloquent, feel, inform, instruct, have intelligence, know, look well to, mark, perceive, be prudent, regard, (can) skill (-full), teach, think, (cause, make to, get, give, have) understand (-ing), view, (deal) wise (-ly, man).
God is, and therefore by extension, godly wisdom is strength, and this is not just some earthly form of strength. As you will see by the definition below God and godly wisdom is a “literal and figurative force” like no other. A force that brings “valor” and “victory” to circumstances. A “power” to end all powers. A force that creates the “valiant man” or woman; the noble, honorable, godly human being that only God can create.
“strength” in the Hebrew language is defined as:
1369. גְּבוּרָה gebûwrâh, gheb-oo-raw’; fem. pass. part. from the same as 1368; force (lit. or fig.); by impl. valor, victory:— force, mastery, might, mighty (act, power), power, strength.
1368. גִּבּוֹר gibbôwr, ghib-bore’; or (short.)
גִּבֹּר gibbôr, ghib-bore’; intens. from the same as 1397; powerful; by impl. warrior, tyrant:— champion, chief, × excel, giant, man, mighty (man, one), strong (man), valiant man.
We should not only pray for godly wisdom but for the ability to act in accordance with godly wisdom in every single action we take and decision we make.
Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.
Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:
This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.
Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV
11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
Abominations, Abuse, Adultery, Advice, Bible, Bible Study, Biblical Principles, Blessing, Chastisement, Choices, Christian, Christian Lifestyle, Christian Living, Christianity, Compassion, Confusion, Contentment, Correction, Crime, Curses, Death, Decision Making, Desire, Devotional, Discipline, Discretion, Encouragement, Equality, Evil, Exhortation, Fairness, Favor, Fear, Flattery, Generosity, Godly Fear, Good, Grace, Growing, Guidance, Happiness, Health, Heart, Illness, Information, Insomnia, Jealousy, Justice, King Solomon, Knowledge, Laziness, Learning, Life, Loans, Longevity, Mercy, Money, Neighbors, Oppression, Parents, Peace, Poverty, Protection, Proverbs, Prudence, Renewal, Righteousness, Safety, Seven Deadly Sins, Sexual Abuse, Shame, Sickness, Sin, Spirituality, Stealing, Strength, Teachable, Trust, Truth, Wickedness, Wisdom
In Advice, Biblical Principles, Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Decision Making, Discernment, Discretion, Godliness, Godly Counsel, Knowledge, Proverbs, Prudence, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on August 9, 2019 at 4:04 pm
The Scripture passages are identified with bold upright font and the author’s notes are identified with italic regular font.
Note – All words or phrases found in quotation marks are actual parts of the Hebrew definition(s).
12 I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.
Wisdom Equals Knowledge
For those of God’s children who choose to submit themselves to God and govern their life by godly wisdom God gives them the ability to know and understand things that not all people know and understand. He also gives them the ability to learn and create in a way that most people cannot, though this verse is not about that type of inventions. God enlightens their minds in ways that only He can.
“prudence” according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary is defined as and inclusive of the following:
1 : the ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason
2 : sagacity or shrewdness in the management of affairs
3 : skill and good judgment in the use of resources
4 : caution or circumspection as to danger or risk
When you use wisdom, you are able to project the pros and cons of any given situation and act in accordance with what is most godly. Wisdom gives you the knowledge to know what is best and what is not; godly wisdom equals godly knowledge, which equals godly judgment. Wisdom gives us the knowledge to sense danger or when we need to use caution and care in a situation.
The “inventions” spoken of in this verse are not what one might first think of when you hear the word inventions. It is more about understanding in a godly way what is not seen in a situation or with a person. It can be applied to both good or bad, godly or evil.
“inventions” from this verse in the Hebrew language means the following:
4209. מְזִמָּה mezimmâh, mez-im-maw’; from 2161; a plan, usually evil (machination), sometimes good (sagacity):— (wicked) device, discretion, intent, witty invention, lewdness, mischievous (device), thought, wickedly.
A person trained in the use of godly wisdom has come into a godly knowledge that gives them the ability to read situations and people in such a way that they are able to make good quality godly decisions about both their actions and people.
Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.
Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:
This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.
Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV
11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
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In Advice, Anxiety, Authority, Biblical Principles, Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Confusion, Decision Making, Discernment, Discretion, Godly Counsel, Prudence, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on August 1, 2019 at 8:53 am
The Scripture passages are identified with bold upright font and the author’s notes are identified with italic regular font.
Note – All words or phrases found in quotation marks are actual parts of the Hebrew definition(s).
1 Doth not wisdom cry? and understanding put forth her voice? 2 She standeth in the top of high places, by the way in the places of the paths. 3 She crieth at the gates, at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors. 4 Unto you, O men, I call; and my voice is to the sons of man. 5 O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart. 6 Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things. 7 For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips. 8 All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them. 9 They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge. 10 Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold. 11 For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.
Can Godly Wisdom Falter?
When something falters it “stops being strong or successful” according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary. Can godly wisdom stop being strong? Can it stop succeeding? Does godly wisdom falter?
Wisdom from the heart of God is continually calling out to us to be listened to, applied, and followed (v.1-4). To not harken to the voice of godly wisdom is to be simple-minded and foolish (v.5). Why the continual urgency from God for us to use His wisdom, godly wisdom?
Wisdom calls out with urgency because wisdom is the source of God’s Knowledge for the “excellence” of all things in our life. Wisdom is always “right” and never falters, wisdom is “truth” in all things, as well as “righteousness” for living (v.6-8). Excellence, right, truth, and righteousness can never fail you.
This “excellence” according to the Hebrew definition is “commands” that are “noble” and “honorable.” Therefore, godly wisdom speaks commands to us that we must follow. These “right” things that wisdom speaks to us is according to the Hebrew definition things that will lead to our “prosperity” in life. The “truth” that is spoken to us according to the Hebrew language is “sure” and brings “stability” to our life. The “righteousness” that godly wisdom brings to our existence according, once again to the Hebrew language is, “natural, moral, and legal equity and prosperity” in every sense. There is simply no way for wisdom to fail.
The value of godly wisdom far exceeds the value of our most prized gems. There is truly nothing earthly we can possess that will bring more value to our life, and spiritual speaking it is the greatest gift from God we can receive minus our relationship with and redemption by Christ.
Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.
Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:
This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.
Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV
11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
Abominations, Abuse, Adultery, Advice, Bible, Bible Study, Biblical Principles, Blessing, Chastisement, Choices, Christian, Christian Lifestyle, Christian Living, Christianity, Compassion, Confusion, Contentment, Correction, Crime, Curses, Death, Decision Making, Desire, Devotional, Discipline, Discretion, Encouragement, Equality, Evil, Exhortation, Fairness, Favor, Fear, Flattery, Generosity, Godly Fear, Good, Grace, Growing, Guidance, Happiness, Health, Heart, Illness, Information, Insomnia, Jealousy, Justice, King Solomon, Laziness, Learning, Life, Loans, Longevity, Mercy, Money, Neighbors, Oppression, Parents, Peace, Poverty, Protection, Proverbs, Prudence, Renewal, Righteousness, Safety, Seven Deadly Sins, Sexual Abuse, Shame, Sickness, Sin, Spirituality, Stealing, Strength, Teachable, Trust, Truth, Wickedness, Wisdom
In Advice, Biblical Principles, Chrisitan Lifestyle, Christian Living, Decision Making, Discernment, Discretion, Godly Counsel, Proverbs, Prudence, Truth, Uncategorized, Wisdom on July 25, 2019 at 8:45 am
The Scripture passages are identified with bold upright font and the author’s notes are identified with italic regular font.
Another Exhortation
This piece will cover the entire chapter seven of the Book of Proverbs, as only one principle is focused on in the entire chapter. Once again, the author and God are warning his child against the use of worldly wisdom, no wisdom, foolishness, and against ungodly practices.
As you read this chapter keep in mind that godly wisdom and/or godliness is represented by the good woman and foolishness, worldly wisdom, and/or ungodliness is represented by the harlot. You might ask why a harlot so often represents sin, ungodliness, worldly wisdom, or foolishness in the bible; it is because to sin, to use worldly wisdom, to practice ungodliness or behave foolishly is to adulterate yourself with the things that are opposed to God when you belong to God, you are created by Him, and in covenant relationship with Him.
1 My son, keep my words, and lay up my commandments with thee. 2 Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye. 3 Bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart. 4 Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister; and call understanding thy kinswoman: 5 That they may keep thee from the strange woman, from the stranger which flattereth with her words.
6 For at the window of my house I looked through my casement, 7 And beheld among the simple ones, I discerned among the youths, a young man void of understanding, 8 Passing through the street near her corner; and he went the way to her house, 9 In the twilight, in the evening, in the black and dark night: 10 And, behold, there met him a woman with the attire of an harlot, and subtil of heart. 11 (She is loud and stubborn; her feet abide not in her house: 12 Now is she without, now in the streets, and lieth in wait at every corner.) 13 So she caught him, and kissed him, and with an impudent face said unto him, 14 I have peace offerings with me; this day have I payed my vows. 15 Therefore came I forth to meet thee, diligently to seek thy face, and I have found thee. 16 I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, with carved works, with fine linen of Egypt. 17 I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon. 18 Come, let us take our fill of love until the morning: let us solace ourselves with loves. 19 For the goodman is not at home, he is gone a long journey: 20 He hath taken a bag of money with him, and will come home at the day appointed. 21 With her much fair speech she caused him to yield, with the flattering of her lips she forced him. 22 He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks; 23 Till a dart strike through his liver; as a bird hasteth to the snare, and knoweth not that it is for his life.
24 Hearken unto me now therefore, O ye children, and attend to the words of my mouth. 25 Let not thine heart decline to her ways, go not astray in her paths. 26 For she hath cast down many wounded: yea, many strong men have been slain by her. 27 Her house is the way to hell, going down to the chambers of death.
In verse seven and eight we are given the visual of a person observing another person who does not use wisdom. How that individual is led astray into a life where they cheat on God; they cheat themselves out of being who God created them to be by going into a harlot aka ungodliness, sin, worldly wisdom, and foolishness. The folly of such a person often comes with the pretense of being satisfied with their self and okay with their conduct, however, self-loathing and shame are often cloaked in a nonchalant attitude.
Any conduct that goes against God’s Will, God’s Ways, God’s Commands, God’s Principles, and God’s Purpose is the ‘attire of a harlot’ in your life (v.10). The lure of what is opposed to God’s Way for you is very strong; it comes with false promises, the allure of fun, often in some manner pandering to your ego (v.21), yet in the end the results are horrible (v.23).
Worldly ways and worldly wisdom are extremely seductive (v.21). However, once they are done with you, they bring about a death blow to your life (v.23). Why did they choose the phrase of having one’s liver pierced? If the liver is pierced, you will most likely bleed to death from internal bleeding. The wound on the outside might be small without much or hardly any blood, but the damage on the inside can be fatal. Such is the way when we indulge worldly wisdom, sin, foolishness, and ungodliness; some area of our life ends up being killed, a part of us dies with each sin, we leave vials of blood at the resting place of each foolish action, and ungodliness erodes the good things in our life, relationships, work, our health, etc. (v.26).
Thanks be to God there is a cure, a way to avoid such a fate; the use of godly wisdom (v.25).
Throughout this study if you need the wisdom of God on a matter, and you wish to receive the counsel of another Believer in Christ, please use the “comments” link to send your question to me.
Spiritual/Political Disclaimer:
This blog will not be for the faint of heart or the easily offended. It will not be in any way politically correct. It will make every effort to share the truth in love, [Ephesians 4:11-16], to a decaying and dying society and church. I share what I share not to hurt, harm, or offend any person[s] or group; I do it because Christ’s Standard and Truth is not being represented by enough of His Followers, and I do it out of love. I love enough to tell His Truth.
Ephesians 4:11-16 NKJV
11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
God's Truth in Love 