The Virtuous Woman

  Wisdom's Praise for the Virtuous, Wise Woman

 Book of Proverbs Chapter 31 verses 10-31

 Many things have been said throughout the Book of Proverbs about women of folly, foolish women, and wrong women, but the Holy Spirit would not finish this great book without telling us about the virtuous woman.

 No matter who we are, as men, we all have a desire for a virtuous woman.

 Virtuous means morally good, acting in conformity to moral law, practicing moral duties, and abstaining from vice.

 Conforming to Divine Law.

 How did a woman come about? Gen 2:21  And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; 

Gen 2:22  And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. 

Gen 2:23  And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.

 Only one man can join with one woman and be One Flesh, and this by marriage.

 The Lord Jesus said: Mat 19:4  And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, 

Mat 19:5  And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? 

Mat 19:6  Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. 

 This is the definition of marriage, as defined by Almighty God.

 These are the only two humans that God has created!

 What does the Holy Spirit say about this virtuous woman?

 *****Pro 31:10  Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. 

 The most important decision we will ever make is what we will do with the Lord Jesus Christ.

 Are we going to believe Him and the Gospel, or are we going to ignore Him?

 The Bible says we are to submit to Him in complete obedience.

 We already know that submitting is far greater than just complying.

 Once we have accepted the Gospel of Jesus Christ as the truth of God, then the Holy Spirit will come to live in our hearts, and we can know what it is to "Fear the Lord".

 For most of us, the next great decision we will make is the choice of our spouse.

 Pro 18:22  Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD.  

 We can understand from this question in verse ten that it may not be easy to find a virtuous woman.

 What we see in this passage is the qualifications of an excellent wife.

 What we see in this passage is the embodiment of all the wisdom instructions contained in the previous thirty chapters.

 We have a portrait in words of an exceptionally wise woman who has the "Fear of the Lord".

 If we are a Christian male and fear the Lord, then if we are seeking a wife, we should seek a Christian female who also has the fear of the Lord.

 We must understand that because family relationships are the most important relationships in life, the character of the wife and mother is of great importance.

 Eph 5:25  Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 

Eph 5:26  That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 

Eph 5:27  That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. 

Eph 5:28  So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. 

Eph 5:29  For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: 

Eph 5:30  For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. 

Eph 5:31  For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. 

Eph 5:32  This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. 

Eph 5:33  Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband. 

 We may read these words as describing a perfect wife and a perfect marriage, and we know that none of us is perfect, so for the husband to find such a godly wife, then that husband must be a God-fearing man living as close as he can to the Word of God.

 A virtuous woman is a woman who is noticed by many of God's people because she has an excellent character, no matter where she is or what she is doing.

 Rth 3:11  And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman. 

 A virtuous woman is a rare and precious treasure!

 We may think that such a woman does not exist, but she does.

 It is a fact that there may not be many of them.

 Women would say the same thing about us men.

 One thing is true to that man who has found a virtuous woman is richer than any king.

 This woman of wisdom is certainly a gift from the Lord.

 Pro 19:14  House and riches are the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife is from the LORD.

 *****Pro 31:11  The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.

Pro 31:12  She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. 

 One of the greatest qualities of this godly wife is the fact that her husband can trust her.

 He knows that this woman is devoted first to the Lord, next to him, and then to the family.

 He will not question her motives, and he will not question her words.

 He understands that such a woman will draw the attention of other men, but he knows she will never betray him.

 His heart is secure in her faithfulness!

 She has enriched his life and meets his needs, and he has hers.

 The one thing the Old Testament is good at is showing us examples.

 It spends a lot of time on godly men and things that God will punish us for.

 This passage is an example for godly women.

 Here we see faithfulness and purity, and these are things God expects from all His children.

 A good wife will commit that she will never act in a way that could cause her to lose the trust of her husband, and the husband must make this same commitment to the Lord.

 The world we live in today is so full of immorality that any signal from a woman or a man can be seen as saying they are available.

 The commandments of God do not even exist in modern society.

 Wedding vows are not sacred.

 Adultery is glorified and seen as normal behavior.

 God's Word is still the truth: 1Jn_2:16  For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

 Our commitments to our spouses must be important, and they must be real!

 In marriage, both spouses must be attentive to each other's needs.

 The primary need of women is still love and affection!

 The primary need of the husband is reverence and respect.

 We are to put the needs of our spouses before our own needs.

 The husband-and-wife relationship must be a picture of our relationship with Jesus Christ!

 Rev 19:7  Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. 

Rev 19:8  And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. 

 To gain His bride, the Lord Jesus gave up everything to become a man, so that he could give His life to purchase His bride.

 We have no greater example of this for our own marriages!

 He gave Himself for us!

 Friendship with the world is committing Spiritual adultery.

 We are completely secure in the love of our Savior!

 Joh 10:28  And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 

Joh 10:29  My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. 

Joh 10:30  I and my Father are one.

 Rom 8:38  For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 

Rom 8:39  Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. 

 *****Pro 31:13  She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands. 

Pro 31:14  She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar. 

Pro 31:15  She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. 

Pro 31:16  She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard. 

 This is a woman of good works: 1Ti 2:10  But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. 

 This home is founded on the commitment of a husband and wife and the love they share with their children.

 Her first concern is for her family to be well-clothed.

 She does not buy the clothes, nor does she buy the fabrics to make those clothes.

 She gets the raw materials, wool and flax to make the fabrics herself, and takes the time to get the best materials she can find.

 She works with her own hands.

 Wool comes from sheep and keeps the body warm when it's cold.

 Flax comes from the land and is used to make linen, which is for warmer days.

 In typology, the wool would indicate that the Church is to be a place of warm, loving interest in each member.

 Linen would represent righteous deeds of the members: Rev 19:8  And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. 

 She also provides food for her family, and she seeks out the best foods for them; she even brings it from afar.

 She is compared to ships and not a single ship.

 She eats the same food she prepares for all who live in her house.

 In typology, this is Spiritual food, and it comes from afar because it comes from Heaven, where our Lord Jesus Christ is today.

 It is the Lord Jesus who provides for the Church: Eph 5:29  For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: 

Eph 5:30  For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. 

 This is the food she prepares and puts upon the table.

 For breakfast, she gets up before all others so the food will be ready when they awaken.

 She does not call upon her maidens; she does these things herself.

 She makes sure all those in her home start the day with a good breakfast.

 She then plans the day's work for her maidens.

 In typology, the Church is to be full of believers who serve each other the food of the Word of God.

 Each member has a purpose, and they are to do that task as well as they are able, but they need the nourishment of God's Word, that Heavenly Manna from on high.

 Each member receives their portion that is needed to perform the service God has given him or her.

 After taking care of the needs of her family, she is free to do things that will increase the family budget.

 She is also a good businesswoman who invests wisely.

 She buys the things she needs without going into debt.

 After she buys this field, she immediately plants a vineyard.

 In typology, that field is an area outside the Church where we can do the work of God.

 A vineyard speaks of joy in that work.

 That field can represent the family of God because the Church is to be made up of families.

 Every family in the Church that lives for God is a great joy to our Heavenly Father.

 A strong Church is a blessing in the place where it is located.

 *****Pro 31:17  She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. 

Pro 31:18  She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night. 

Pro 31:19  She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.

 Laziness is one of those things that God hates, but the virtuous woman is never lazy.

 We see her work begins before daylight and continues after all others are in bed.

 She is a symbol of strength, and in typology, she represents the Church, which is also to be a symbol of strength.

 Most of the churches in America are failing in this issue today, and attacks against the Church have increased because the Church appears to be so weak, and it is a shame.

 The Word of God is being twisted and turned till the truth has been removed, and this is another reason God will first judge the Church, and He will accept no excuses!

 The strength of the Church is in the Lord Jesus Christ, and He is no longer relevant in much of the Church of today.

 Eph 6:10  Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

 The Lord Jesus says: Rev_3:20  Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

 We see this wise woman is always evaluating the work she has done, and it must be the same for the Church.

 There is only one way that will work for the Church!

 Jer_6:16  Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.

 Much of the Church will no longer walk in the ways that work and have teamed up with the world in ways that are destroying much of the Church.

 We see the candle of this wise woman does not go out at night, and her house is spared from the disasters of the wicked.

 The Church must always be alert to the wickedness of the world and the wiles of the Devil.

 This wise woman sees that her clothes are in demand from others, and she sells some of them along with her produce that she grows.

 It is the same for the Church; the Gospel message is still in high demand from those who have never heard it, and the same Gospel that worked in the days of the Apostles will still work today.

 1Co 15:57  But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 

1Co 15:58  Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

 Just as this wise woman will be blessed the Bride of Christ will be blessed if it remains diligent in the work the Lord has given us to do.

 The Lord Jesus promises a reward for our labors!

 We will all stand before the Lord and give an account for what we have done, good or bad.

 1Co 3:8  Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.

 *****Pro 31:20  She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. 

 We have seen that this wise woman cares much for her family, but she does not forget those who are poor and needy.

 She is compassionate and caring.

 We must understand that the Church must never be seen as standoffish and must share with the less fortunate.

 There are far too many people in our area who are spiritually poor and needy.

 The Church should extend its hand and help with spiritual blessings.

 There all always people who are in need, and there may be some inside the Church that we just have not noticed, but we should.

 It is not just the poor but also those members who have become too old to get out and those who, through sickness, can no longer get out.

 If we truly love the Lord, we will be compassionate and help others when we are able, and this includes the Church.

 In fact, this should be a ministry of the Church.

 Rom 12:13  Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. 

 *****Pro 31:21  She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet. 

 She does not just think of today, but she prepares for the future.

 This cold, dead world does not bother her because she shows the warmth of love in her home.

 No matter what is going on outside, she has prepared her family for it.

 That word scarlet describes the quality of the things this wise woman has prepared for those times of uncertainty.

 The Church, full of love and warmth, will attract those who are seeking a place of rest.

 The Church must be prepared to face this cold and worsening world.

 The Bible tells us that this world will never improve, but there will always be souls that need saving.

 Life is far shorter than we realize, and we cannot predict the future except for those who love the Lord Jesus Christ.

 In Psalms 22, which refers to the crucifixion of the Lord Jesus, He says: Psa 22:6  But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people. 

 That worm refers to a crimson worm that had to die to produce a dye used for the color scarlet.

 *****Pro 31:22  She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.

 This noble wife takes great pride in her appearance and in being attractive and appealing to her husband.

 She could buy anything she needed, but she prefers to make them herself.

 She uses the skills God has given to her, and she lives according to the Word of God.

 The Lord Jesus clothes His bride in the very best: Eph 5:25  Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 

Eph 5:26  That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 

Eph 5:27  That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

 The Bride of Christ is clothed in fine linen: Rev 19:8  And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. 

Rev 19:14  And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. 

 As husbands, we should provide nice things for our wives if we are to be like Jesus Christ.

 *****Pro 31:23  Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land. 

 This husband was known in the community, and part of the reason was that his wife was so diligent and supportive of Him.

 A noble wife will help her husband, and many wives contribute to their husbands’ success.

 It is the same for the Bride of Christ.

 A diligent, hardworking Church will brag on the Lord Jesus.

 Eph 1:3  Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 

Eph 1:4  According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 

Eph 1:5  Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 

Eph 1:6  To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. 

 The Church has a high calling: Eph 4:1  I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, 

Eph 4:2  With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; 

Eph 4:3  Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

 He sits among the elders: Rev 5:5  And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof. 

 *****Pro 31:24  She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant. 

 This wise woman provides for her family.

She cares for the poor.

She encourages her husband and his position as head of the family.

 Now we see she wants to serve her family with her abilities but charges a price for her services.

 What she delivers is quality!

 We see there is nothing in Scripture that says a woman cannot work to help provide for her family.

 We know that her priority is for her family, and everything else is secondary to this first thing.

 1Ti 5:8  But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel. 

 Tit 2:4  That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, 

Tit 2:5  To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. 

 We know that there is a price to be paid to be a Christian.

 We are to be Born Again into a godly life as much like Jesus Christ as we are able.

 The truth must be bought: Pro 23:23  Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.

 Truth is not some doctrine, but it consists of wisdom, instruction, and understanding.

 These things are more valuable in life than any material riches and are necessary to make life on earth have any value.

 This value is eternal and is connected to our Savior, Jesus Christ.

 The purchase price is the time we invest in the Word of God.

 Learning the truth of God takes time and effort, and the Holy Spirit.

 Rev 3:18  I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. 

 We know that a sinner cannot pay anything to be saved.

 We can be saved only by grace: Eph 2:8  For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 

Eph 2:9  Not of works, lest any man should boast. 

 *****Pro 31:25  Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. 

Pro 31:26  She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. 

Pro 31:27  She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. 

Pro 31:28  Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. 

Pro 31:29  Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. 

We have already seen where this wise woman is adorned in elegance and modesty, but her true beauty is inside her.

1Ti 2:9  In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; 

1Ti 2:10  But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. 

She possesses strength, honor, and dignity.

She is esteemed and honored by others as a woman with a strong character.

This is a product of the wisdom of God, our Heavenly Father.

She is ready for her future and does not fear the unexpected.

She stands upon a firm foundation.

She has sown righteousness in her life and in her family, and God promises she will reap the same.

Gal 6:8  For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. 

Living in the fear of the Lord brings great benefits.

Psa_103:2  Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:

The Church owes all strength and dignity to the Lord Jesus Christ.

Strength and dignity are the attributes of our Heavenly Father, and the Church should exhibit them.

The Church must always be the Lamb's wife who has made herself ready, dressed in fine linen for the Bridegroom.

Rev 19:7  Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. 

Rev 19:8  And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.

She offers helpful and reliable counsel.

When she opens her mouth, only wisdom comes from it.

Col 4:6  Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. 

She is always watchful for anything or anyone who would harm her family and never passive in this area.

Nothing escapes her attention!

Her children want the world to know how precious their mother is to them.

Today, not many children honor their parents, but they should know that there is nothing more precious than loving parents.

Her husband praises her and expresses great appreciation for the support she has always given him.

Her husband knows he could not have chosen a better spouse for himself and his family.

Her driving force has always been the "fear of the Lord".

Pro 1:7  The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. 

It is no different for the Church!

Only through the reverence of our Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ is it able to express itself in a way that will reap the praise of God.

Heb 11:6  But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Joh 14:6  Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. 

Joh 14:7  If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. 

*****Pro 31:30  Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised. 

Pro 31:31  Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates. 

This last passage should strike a note with us because the Lord Jesus said deceit is the main ingredient in these last days.

Mat 24:3  And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world? 

Mat 24:4  And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. 

This wise woman does not focus on deception.

She knows that personality and popularity do not always reveal a person's true character.

People are not always genuine.

Many people today are masters at deceit, trying to get what they want from others, and the world is full of them at this time.

She can stand her ground because of her relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.

It is our fear of the Lord who will lead us in the right direction.

She has given her life to raising her family and being a good wife to her husband.

No reward in this world can be given for the work she has done, for there is no work more important than the work she has done every day.

It is the same for the Church that remains the Bride of Christ.

There is no more important work than that of the Church that remains with the Lord Jesus Christ.

Heb 12:28  Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: 

Heb 12:29  For our God is a consuming fire. 

It is the "fear of the Lord" that is the secret to a successful, satisfying, and blessed life here and then the great rewards of our Heavenly Home.

The Church has one job, and it is to remain close to Jesus Christ and do the work He has given us to do.

There is no greater work than this!

Amen

Bible Teaching Human Relations

 Wisdom's Instructions on Human Relations

 Book of Proverbs Chapter 27

 What are our duties as the children of God?

 Ecc 12:13  Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. 

Ecc 12:14  For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. 

 After the Holy Spirit guided Solomon through the entire Book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon sees that there is truly one duty that every human is to have.

 "We are to have a reverent fear of the Lord and keep His commandments".

 Everything in this world is meaningless unless we see it through the eyes of Jehovah.

 There is safety and peace in the keeping of the commandments of our self-existing God.

 The Word of God is just as valuable today as it was in the days of Solomon and all the writers of Scripture, led by the Holy Spirit, and even more so as we approach the end of the Church Age.

 Our eternal existence depends upon our relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the giver and the taker of life!

 Our one job is to please our Heavenly Father through His Son!

 This begins when we recognize sin and avoid it.

 *****Pro 27:1  Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth. 

Pro 27:2  Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips. 

Pro 27:3  A stone is heavy, and the sand weighty; but a fool's wrath is heavier than them both. 

Pro 27:4  Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy? 

 We should understand that no matter how our day goes, it is a day that God by His Almighty Power causes or allows to happen according to His plan for us.

 If we rely on what we think tomorrow will bring, according to the day we live now, we can be totally disappointed.

 All our plans are secondary to the plan of God!

 When we ignore what God has said, it is a sin as much as any other sin!

 We are blind and arrogant to think that we hold power over our own lives.

 This does not mean we are not to plan and even plan for the future, but we had better remain flexible with our plans.

 We cannot take tomorrow for granted, and only God can direct our future; and it is sin not to know this.

 God's plans will always prevail.

 Let the Lord Jesus teach us on this: Mat 6:33  But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 

Mat 6:34  Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. 

 There is another proverb that should be more important to us: 2Co 6:2  (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) 

 God is saying we do not know what tomorrow will bring, so do not put off today what needs to be done today.

 If the Lord Jesus returns this afternoon and you are waiting till next week to talk to the preacher about salvation, it will be too late for you to get to Heaven.

 It is the same thing if the Lord has laid it upon you to witness to a certain person and you put it off for a few days, and all of a sudden, the trumpet sounds and we're out of here.

 We may think we are the best that the Lord has to offer to the world, but we are never to brag about ourselves.

 If we are just doing what the Lord has commanded us to do, there is no reward for that, it's obedience.

 If we are not obedient, we are living in sin!

 If we boast about how great we are, we will forget how great the Lord is.

 Humility, not boasting, will cause others to think more of us, especially the Lord.

 2Co 10:17  But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. 

2Co 10:18  For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth. 

 As we go through life as a Christian, we will find there are many daily irritations that can make our life unbearable, but if we come face to face with a fool, the Spiritual effort it takes to deal with him is far greater than anything else we face.

 Pro 16:22  Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly. 

 Envy, which includes jealousy, will consume and destroy even the strongest Christian, and we must avoid them.

 Remember, Cain slew Abel because of jealousy and became the first murderer in the Bible and caused strife in the first family that existed.

 Joseph, the son of Jacob, was sold into slavery because of jealousy.

 King Saul tried to kill David because of jealousy.

 Envy is the most dangerous of all sinful emotions.

 Pro 6:34  For jealousy is the rage of a man: therefore, he will not spare in the day of vengeance. 

 Many times, we ignore these sins in our lives, and we think we are living according to the Word of God when we are living in unconfessed sin, and our prayer life will suffer because of it.

 The Lord Jesus Christ has given us the power to overcome all sin in our lives, but we must recognize them as sin.

 The closer we stay to living according to the Word of God, we will understand that all sin is an abomination to our Heavenly Father.

 Next, we must always be sensitive to the Holy Spirit who lives within us.

 When we feel someone tugging at our heart, there is no need to look around on the outside because it will be the Spirit on the inside ringing our bell.

 We must swallow our pride, admit our sin, and we will see an improvement in our prayer life and in our lives.

 *****Pro 27:5  Open rebuke is better than secret love. 

Pro 27:6  Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. 

Pro 27:7  The full soul loatheth an honeycomb; but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet. 

Pro 27:8  As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place. 

Pro 27:9  Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel. 

Pro 27:10  Thine own friend, and thy father's friend, forsake not; neither go into thy brother's house in the day of thy calamity: for better is a neighbour that is near than a brother far off. 

 We meet a lot of people throughout our lifetime, but only a few can we say are our friends.

 How can we say we are good friends if we do not love them enough to point out bad behavior?

 We are never to ignore their bad behavior or anything which could be called evil.

 It's the same with our children. How can we say that we love them if we do not tell them about their bad behavior and try to correct them at any age?

 Pro 3:12  For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. 

 Real friends will confront each other with the truth!

 A true friend will get over that rebuke and remain your friend.

 Many of us tend to overindulge, especially when we are eating our favorite meal.

 Even that favorite meal will lose its taste when we reach the point where we cannot take another bite.

 We know our health should be maintained before we reach this point.

 We sometimes forget that a hungry person will eat anything they are offered, even if they do not like the taste of it.

 Pro 22:9  He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor. 

 True friends will help the needy.

 A bird that strays from the nest shows no regard for the family it leaves behind, and they will perish without its help.

 For a father or a mother to desert loved ones is not different.

 We simply are not to walk away from those we love!

 As far as the Jews, this applied to those who left their nation to live in some other nation.

 God's plan encompasses the community of people beyond the family.

 We must understand that God has placed us wherever we live, and unless God calls for us to go somewhere else, then His intention is for us to remain where He has placed us.

 This is our mission field.

 What did God tell Cain after he murdered Abel? Gen 4:12  When thou tillest the ground, it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength; a fugitive and a vagabond shalt thou be in the earth. 

 Look at what happened to Naomi.

 Rth 1:1  Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehemjudah went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he, and his wife, and his two sons. 

Rth 1:2  And the name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of his two sons Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Bethlehemjudah. And they came into the country of Moab and continued there. 

Rth 1:3  And Elimelech Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons. 

Rth 1:4  And they took them wives of the women of Moab; the name of the one was Orpah, and the name of the other Ruth: and they dwelled there about ten years. 

Rth 1:5  And Mahlon and Chilion died also both of them; and the woman was left of her two sons and her husband. 

 God made something good come out of this tragedy in the family of Naomi, for this is what God does, but maybe they should have stayed in Bethlehem.

 Our purpose cannot be fulfilled when we run away from it!

 Maybe we should not run away from the friends that God has allowed us to establish unless it is God who leads us to do so.

 Good friends are just too hard to find!

 True friends can help heal each other in times of sorrow and times of need.

 Wounds of the heart are especially painful, and a good friend can help heal that pain.

 Gal 5:13  For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. 

Gal 5:14  For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 

Gal 5:15  But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another. 

 In today's world, we need more friends and not fewer friends, and our brothers and sisters in Christ are to always be our friends and we theirs.

 A friend of your father who is now your friend shows a connection to the family and should be regarded as a true friend.

 We should not only love our friends, but we should also love our friends' children.

 Most of the time, we do not need the help of our friends, but on that day, we do, and it is good to know that help will come.

 True friends are priceless!

 A good friend who is available is far better than a family that lives miles away from you.

 A wise child of God will cherish and value their friends.

 Our greatest friend is the Lord Jesus Christ.

 Mat 28:20  Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. 

 *****Pro 27:11  My son, be wise, and make my heart glad, that I may answer him that reproacheth me. 

Pro 27:12  A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself; but the simple pass on, and are punished. 

Pro 27:13  Take his garment that is surety for a stranger, and take a pledge of him for a strange woman. 

Pro 27:14  He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, it shall be counted a curse to him. 

 If we raise our children according to the Word of God, we will certainly be criticized by the world.

 The world will say we are doing it wrong.

 They will be taught to follow certain godly rules.

 They will be denied certain freedoms that the children of the world will partake in.

 They will be removed from certain teachings in the schools that go against the Word of God.

 The world will say, As Christians, we are being too oppressive to our children.

As a Christian, I say, the world allows Marxist teachers, and terrorist to brainwash their children.

 That wise child will bring great joy to his parents if they have listened and learned the reasons why these things are important.

 How we and our children go through life reflects our upbringing.

 When we are trained to recognize the pitfalls of life, then we can avoid them.

 When we see the danger that is ahead, we can protect ourselves from it.

 The wise child of God will not walk into danger unprepared.

 We have the full armor of God.

 Those who are simple seldom see the danger that is ahead of them and are not prepared to face it when it comes.

 When we do business with people we do not know, we need to demand payment or keep some sort of collateral.

 If we are asked to stand good for the debt of someone else, we should refuse.

 If we allow our best winter coat to be collateral, we may spend many cold days because of it.

 Pro 11:15  He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it: and he that hateth suretiship is sure. 

 What is common courtesy? Most of us would say it is being polite, connected to kindness.

 It is also an act of respect.

 If we have had some great thing happen to us and we just cannot hold it in and wake our friends up in the middle of the night to tell them, then we have not been good friends to them. We have not respected them.

 We may even lose a friend with such behavior.

 Our good news has become bad news for them.

 If we call our friends in the middle of the night to tell them how much we appreciate them, they may not appreciate your call.

 Friends are just too important for us to do these things to them.

 If we call our Pastor for some trivial matter after he has preached three services and visited the sick and needs his rest, we have done him no favor.

 *****Pro 27:15  A continual dropping in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike. 

Pro 27:16  Whosoever hideth her hideth the wind, and the ointment of his right hand, which bewrayeth itself.

Pro 27:17  Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. 

Pro 27:18  Whoso keepeth the fig tree shall eat the fruit thereof: so he that waiteth on his master shall be honoured.  

 The Holy Spirit has mentioned this subject at least five times, so it has to be important.

 If it has been raining for a long time and the place you are seeking shelter has a leaky roof, that can drive us back out into the storm.

 If we are at home trying to have some peace, but an angry, quarrelsome wife will not let that happen can also drive a man out of that house.

 Those who are married to such a person are at their mercy.

 We should not be the cause of her anger, or we will certainly suffer for it.

 It will be raining inside and outside, and we will have nowhere to avoid it.

 Eph 5:21  Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. 

 Eph 5:33  Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband. 

 A husband and wife must be good friends at all times and let not anger divide them.

 Iron is sharpened by another piece of abrasive iron.

 The Bible says we are not created to be alone but with others.

 We are social beings, and we need to be around others to feel human.

 Iron sharpening iron is about two pieces of equivalent materials.

 When two people talk and work out the details of their marriage or their friendship, they have sharpened each other, and their bond remains strong.

 Our character is shaped by contact with others, which is another reason God wants us to gather together as like-minded people to worship our Heavenly Father.

 We do not have to agree with each other all the time, but by talking and gaining understanding, it will sharpen our convictions and remove those sharp edges that cause friction.

 It is the same for husbands and wives, good friends, and brothers and sisters in Christ.

 It is also the same in our relationships at work.

 It is not so much about sharpening as it is about caring for one another.

 Tending to a fig tree requires some work, but if you do this properly, you will be able to eat its fruit.

 As Christians, we have only one Master, the Lord Jesus Christ.

 If we faithfully serve the Lord and do not worry about whether our efforts will be recognized and rewarded will in the end receive from our Master, the most important things.

 Joh 12:25  He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. 

Joh 12:26  If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour. 

 Mat 25:23  His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. 

 It is these things that build our character.

 *****Pro 27:19  As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man.

 A good mirror will show the reflection of our face, but they did not exist at this time, so a pool of clear water would give the best reflection.

 Just as that good mirror gives the best reflection of our outside character, our hearts will give the best reflection of our inside character.

 Mat 12:34  O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. 

 It is the Word of God that is to be used as our mirror.

 It is the Word of God that will show us what is in our hearts.

 What is in our heart is what we are!

 When we acknowledge what is in our hearts, it will drive us to our knees, and we will beg God for mercy!

 The world we live in today is so close to being like the world that existed before the flood that the Lord could return at any moment to remove His Church, which He promised would not see His wrath and return with fire to destroy this wicked world.

 Gen 6:5  And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. 

Gen 6:6  And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart. 

 *****Pro 27:20  Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied. 

Pro 27:21  As the fining pot for silver, and the furnace for gold; so is a man to his praise. 

Pro 27:22  Though thou shouldest bray a fool in a mortar among wheat with a pestle, yet will not his foolishness depart from him. 

 We know that the grave eats up all the bodies that are put into it and is always ready to eat up more.

 Destruction is speaking of the second death.

 Rev_20:14  And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.

Rev_21:8  But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

 Hell is always hungry for more of the dead!

 Hab 2:5  Yea also, because he transgresseth by wine, he is a proud man, neither keepeth at home, who enlargeth his desire as hell, and is as death, and cannot be satisfied, but gathereth unto him all nations, and heapeth unto him all people: 

 Hell is never full or satisfied. Enough is never enough.

 The Bible then says our sinful desires can be compared to Hell because our sinful desires are never satisfied.

 1Jn 2:16  For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 

1Jn 2:17  And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

 The only thing that will satisfy us is the "Fear of the Lord" and a reverent relationship with Him.

 The fining pot and the furnace are used to test precious metals for purity.

 In the same way, our praise of the Lord reveals our character.

 If our praise is not real, God knows it!

 When we humble ourselves before God, we show we are sinners and give God the credit for His Mercy and His Grace, which allows for our salvation.

 Eph 2:4  But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 

Eph 2:5  Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) 

 We should understand that not everyone is going to accept the truth of God, and over and over, God says they are foolish.

 Even severe punishment is not enough to cause fools to change their minds.

 Pro 26:3  A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass, and a rod for the fool's back. 

Pro 26:4  Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

 No matter how long we pound fools, we will never be able to separate them from their foolishness!

 We are cautioned not to waste our time and energy trying to reform them.

 Jer 13:23  Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? then may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil. 

Jer 13:24  Therefore will I scatter them as the stubble that passeth away by the wind of the wilderness.

 We must recognize who we can and cannot help.

 *****Pro 27:23  Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds. 

Pro 27:24  For riches are not for ever: and doth the crown endure to every generation? 

Pro 27:25  The hay appeareth, and the tender grass sheweth itself, and herbs of the mountains are gathered. 

Pro 27:26  The lambs are for thy clothing, and the goats are the price of the field. 

Pro 27:27  And thou shalt have goats' milk enough for thy food, for the food of thy household, and for the maintenance for thy maidens. 

Everything we own belongs to God, and we need to be diligent in managing and protecting these things.

The wealth of the people of the Old Testament consisted of livestock.

God had given them their land, and it could not be sold.

Flocks would designate sheep, but herds could be goats or cattle, or any group of animals.

Why should we be so diligent? Because God has provided these things to feed and clothe our families.

When we do not work diligently with the things God has given to us or loaned to us, then our families will suffer.

A farmer must keep a close eye on his animals.

Today, we are to keep a close eye on our assets, our property, businesses, if you have a business, our accounts, and any other resource.

We are to do this because at any moment these things could disappear, or we could see a better place to place our finances.

Riches do not last forever!

We know that if we have animals, they require personal attention.

It is the same for everything we have obtained.

We must set our hearts on providing for our families.

Once money is spent then it is gone.

The value of cars and other possessions deteriorates with time or can be stolen.

There are more risks every day because our world is getting more evil, and crime is increasing.

Nothing we own is entirely secure, even our nation, and who knows about our government from day to day.

We must also apply these things to our Churches.

The Church is compared to flocks by the Holy Spirit.

Act 20:28  Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. 

Act 20:29  For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 

Act 20:30  Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. 

We know that these things are happening in the Church today.

What is the Pastor to do?

1Pe 5:1  The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: 

1Pe 5:2  Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; 

1Pe 5:3  Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. 

1Pe 5:4  And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. 

It is not the time for any Pastor or Church leader to stray from the Gospel, but many are.

The message of the Lord Jesus Christ does not ever change.

There is no such thing as a modern Gospel.

The growth of the Church has always been the job of the Holy Spirit!

Our job is to preach and teach the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ!

In the beginning of time, God provided everything needed to sustain humans throughout all the Ages.

God then gave humans the knowledge to take care of the things He created.

We are to be good stewards of these things.

Luk_12:42  And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season?

This includes taking care of the planet God has allowed us to live upon.

We will one day give an account to God for all He has placed in our heads, our hearts, and our hands.

Psa 8:4  What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? 

Psa 8:5  For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour. 

Psa 8:6  Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet: 

Psa 8:7  All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field; 

Psa 8:8  The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, and whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas. 

We will one day give an account for this planet God has created for us to live on till He takes His children home, those who love the Lord Jesus Christ!

Amen

How to Obtain and Keep a God Name

 Wisdom's Instructions to Obtain and Keep a Good Name

 Book of Proverbs Chapter 22

 

 We should ask ourselves, how will people perceive us, or how will they remember us after we're gone?

 Do we have a "good name", a good reputation, a good testimony?

 Are we a person of integrity?

 Are we friends to the world, or is our name written down in the Lamb’s Book of Life?

 If people see us a friend to the world, then we are God's enemy!

 Jas 4:4  Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. 

 Do we compromise on the Word of God just to remain friends with the world?

 Luk 6:26  Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets. 

 Are we seen as a child of God?

 2Co 8:18  And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches; 

 Act 10:22  And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee. 

 3Jn 1:12  Demetrius hath good report of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, and we also bear record; and ye know that our record is true. 

 We need to understand that a good name, a good reputation, is not the same as being popular.

 We can be popular without being a child of God, but with what sort of people!

 These are people who are concerned for their own honor and not the honor of God.

 This is a people pleaser, and we have far too many of those behind many pulpits today.

 One of the first things we need to have a good reputation is the fact that people recognize us as Christians, being like Jesus Christ, and not a hypocrite.

 *****Pro 22:1  A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold. 

Pro 22:2  The rich and poor meet together: the LORD is the maker of them all.

 God will never show partiality to His children!

 The Lord Jesus died upon that cross for every single living person from the time of Adam till the end of time.

 We may put a high value on earthly things that have no value in Heaven, but to our Heavenly Father, our soul is the most valuable part of being a human.

 We should ask ourselves, would we sell our good name for a million dollars?

 Would we compromise our character for a million dollars?

 We cannot put a price on honor, integrity, and righteousness!

 Ecc 7:1  A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one's birth. 

 Why is our death more important than our birth?

 We are born into a life that will not be very lengthy.

 At our death, we will have eternal life, either in the torments of Hell or in the glory of Heaven.

 We must make this choice while we are alive!

 We must understand that we are one of God's creations and love Him as our Creator, our Maker.

 God is unmoved by the possessions we gain while we are living, but He offers the glories and the wealth of Heaven if we turn to Him for our salvation.

 God will never discriminate among people because of their wealth, success, gender, race, or social status!

 Gal 3:28  There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. 

Gal 3:29  And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. 

 Why are there so many suicides in America? They are plagued with low self-esteem and see no future for themselves.

 They use the wrong things to judge themselves!

They focus on appearance, abilities, or position.

They focus on popularity, wealth, or success.

 These things have nothing to do with our real value if we look through the eyes of God.

 God cares for us so much that He keeps up with every detail of our lives.

God loves us so much that He will go with us everywhere we go, in good times and bad times.

God has a wonderful plan and purpose for our lives.

God is always thinking about us.

God loves us enough that He sacrificed His Son for us despite our sins and our rebellious nature.

 Rom 5:6  For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 

Rom 5:7  For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 

Rom 5:8  But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 

 Almost every religion in the world is looking for some messiah, but my Messiah came and died for me, and He will return to take me home.

 We will never be able to fulfill the purpose God has for us if we do not have a good name after our salvation.

 We were all dirty, rotten sinners before our salvation.

 Act 6:3  Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. 

 *****Pro 22:3  A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished. 

Pro 22:4  By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life. 

Pro 22:5  Thorns and snares are in the way of the froward: he that doth keep his soul shall be far from them. 

Pro 22:6  Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. 

Pro 22:7  The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender. 

Pro 22:8  He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity: and the rod of his anger shall fail. 

Pro 22:9  He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor. 

Pro 22:10  Cast out the scorner, and contention shall go out; yea, strife and reproach shall cease. 

Pro 22:11  He that loveth pureness of heart, for the grace of his lips the king shall be his friend. 

 As Christians under the leadership of our faith, we understand that there will be a day of wrath from the Almighty Living God, and there is only one way to avoid it.

 We know to look to Jesus Christ and hide ourselves in His loving arms.

 Jas 2:5  Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? 

 Eph 1:18  The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 

Eph 1:19  And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 

 Isa_25:4  For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall.

 As Christians, we are paying attention to what is going on in this world, and we know the results at the end of the Church Age and the seven years of tribulation.

 Mat 24:21  For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. 

Mat 24:22  And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened. 

 Mat 24:29  Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: 

Mat 24:30  And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 

 Only the Church will be saved from this day of wrath!

 Those whom God says are simple-minded reject the truth of God, and they will be punished for it; most of them, if not all, will spend eternity in Hell.

 They refuse to recognize the dangers of a sinful lifestyle!

 Pro 27:12  A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself; but the simple pass on, and are punished. 

 They refuse to recognize the truth of a Righteous God!

 We already know the foundation of wisdom is the "Fear of the Lord".

 This fear is not only a reverent fear of the Lord but also includes an actual fear of a God who would rather not show His wrath.

 Isa 28:22  Now therefore be ye not mockers, lest your bands be made strong: for I have heard from the Lord GOD of hosts a consumption, even determined upon the whole earth. 

Isa 28:23  Give ye ear, and hear my voice; hearken, and hear my speech.

 Only those who have submitted to God before they come to their own death will miss out on this consumption upon the whole earth.

 This consumption is the disease of sin that God will eradicate.

 We know there are painful hazards as we travel life's journeys.

 That journey is far worse for those who reject the Word of God.

 They cannot know the comfort of knowing we do not have to go through these pains alone.

 Pro 15:19  The way of the slothful man is as an hedge of thorns: but the way of the righteous is made plain.

 Those who have received the pleasures of this world become slaves to those things, and God's people know there is no real pleasure in anything this world has to offer.

 We who travelled that sinful life for far too long and have turned to Jesus Christ know that we are to train our children while they are children, so they can avoid most of life's pitfalls.

 The children God has given to us are our responsibility and not the governments to raise and teach.

 If there is one thing we have realized in the last several years is that our government has steered our children down the path to the destruction of our entire nation and the way of freedom.

 As parents and grandparents, and great-grandparents, we only get the opportunity to guide our children in the right direction.

 They will choose a path for themselves sooner than we realize.

 We hope that as they get older, they will remember those things in their heart and their minds.

 Eph 6:4  And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. 

 Eph 6:3  That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.

 We must understand that there are consequences to borrowing money, and credit cards have destroyed many families.

 There is nothing disgraceful about being poor!

 The rich have far too much power in dictating the lifestyle of the poor, and certain politicians want to keep the poor from gaining in life by giving incentives to them incentives not to work. All for their vote to keep them poor.

 It is ridiculous that people have fallen into this trap and want to remain there.

 Those who have caused this problem and keep doing these things will reap what they sow.

 God is sending His warnings to these lenders from the Holy Spirit.

 As Christians, we are taught to share.

 The Holy Spirit says to those who share, they will also reap what they sow.

 Pro 19:17  He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.

 The Church has become stagnant because the Church has allowed the world into the Church.

 God has one answer if you want to stop the arguments: throw out those who reject the Word of God or those who try to compromise the Word of God with the world's ways.

 Pro 21:24  Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.

 These are the ones causing the contention and strife in the Church, and it can be settled by simply forcing them to leave unless they repent.

 Ask them how they get saved to hear their answer.

 Rom 16:17  Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. 

Rom 16:18  For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. 

 If we can speak to others with the same grace that our Heavenly Father has shown to us, we will get along, and we cannot move to the left or to the right from the truth of God.

 A troublemaker does not have a pure heart; they are troublemakers. This is what they live for.

 *****Pro 22:12  The eyes of the LORD preserve knowledge, and he overthroweth the words of the transgressor. 

Pro 22:13  The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets. 

Pro 22:14  The mouth of strange women is a deep pit: he that is abhorred of the LORD shall fall therein. 

Pro 22:15  Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him. 

Pro 22:16  He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want. 

 God is so moving and loving for us that he sent His only Son to die in our place just so we could live with Him forever.

 God is also holy and righteous and will not put up with foolishness and unrighteousness.

 We should ask ourselves, "What is the providence of God"?

 The providence of God is the fact that it is God's wisdom and God's power that preserves and governs this world for the ends which He purposes to accomplish.

 Since God created everything, it should be reasonable to infer that He upholds and governs all things!

 All things are known to Him!

All things are possible for Him!

 It is our Heavenly Father's plan for us, and nothing in this world can change God's plan for us!

 As our Creator, He is self-existent, and it is His Will, so all His creations depend on Him!

 He only deserves our worship!

 He is the great guardian of the truth of this world we live in!

 It is a fact that lazy people will come up with all sorts of excuses not to work.

 Some things they come up with are laughable.

 It is highly unlikely that any Jew was mauled by a lion because they were not found in towns or cities.

 It is in our best interest as Christians to be the best workers on the job site.

 This is diligent.

 It is true to say that those who can work but refuse to do so should not eat.

 When they are hungry enough, they will find some work to do to provide that meal.

 We have to wonder if Solomon wrote this proverb early in life or later in life because he admits that the seductive words of harlots and adulteresses will entice a man to his own destruction of his body and his soul.

 Solomon also wrote the Book of Ecclesiastes, and we can see more profound words by the Holy Spirit.

 Ecc 7:26  And I find more bitter than death the woman, whose heart is snares and nets, and her hands as bands: whoso pleaseth God shall escape from her; but the sinner shall be taken by her. 

 Foolishness is actually self-will.

 Children must be rescued from this and it can be accomplished through discipline.

 Foolishness is not a learned behavior it is in that child from birth.

 It can be removed while they are still young to keep them from harming themselves or others.

 Parents who love their children will correct them!

 Pro 29:15  The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame. 

 God says we will reap what we sow.

 So those who oppress the poor will themselves suffer similarly by giving their riches to someone who is already rich and does not need it.

 Mat 18:24  And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. 

Mat 18:25  But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. 

Mat 18:26  The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. 

Mat 18:27  Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. 

Mat 18:28  But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. 

Mat 18:29  And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. 

Mat 18:30  And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. 

Mat 18:31  So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. 

Mat 18:32  Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: 

Mat 18:33  Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? 

Mat 18:34  And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him.

 We can see where we fail in this life if we reject the wisdom of God.

 When we reject the Word of God, we live in open opposition to Him.

 True success in life comes through trusting and fearing the Lord.

 Who are the foolish, all those who do not want the Lord to be on their side!

 The Bible did not come to us by accident!

 It is a Holy God who has preserved His Word for us to know and respect.

 *****Pro 22:17  Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge. 

Pro 22:18  For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips. 

Pro 22:19  That thy trust may be in the LORD, I have made known to thee this day, even to thee. 

Pro 22:20  Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge, 

Pro 22:21  That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee? 

 Wisdom does not just come upon us. We must ask for wisdom and then study what other wise men have said.

 If we understand that the Holy Spirit has directed the thoughts of God to men to write down so they can be understood.

 The Word of God is useless if it remains in the Book. These wise words must be read and studied and brought into our hearts and our consciences.

 That word hear is the Hebrew word "shama," which means to hear intelligently and to heed and obey.

 We must keep this wisdom in our hearts.

 Rom_6:17  But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.

 God wants His word to be active in our lives.

 The Bible is the most powerful Book that has ever existed!

 It is nourishment for the soul!

 It is the seed that brings forth much fruit.

 It is the truth that applies to this life we live now.

 It is the Word of God, the Holy Spirit, that teaches us to trust Jehovah, Yahweh, Elohim, the Almighty God.

 It is our Heavenly Father who is the source of all wisdom, no matter whose lips it comes from.

 God wants us to know the truth of this world.

 God expects us to know the truth of this world.

 God wants us to have confidence in His Word of Truth!

 Jehovah can be trusted, the Lord Jesus Christ can be trusted, and the Holy Spirit can be trusted because the Bible is designed and written by the Holy Trinity, so we can know the truth.

 God gives us His truth so we can live more successful and meaningful lives.

 It is the Word of God that gives us this powerful message we can share with those who do not know Him.

 God did not have to tell us anything, and we would have gone through life confused, but He would have still held us accountable for our sin.

 Rom_1:20  For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

 God gave us His Word so that we can have hope that this life we live now is not just meaningless, and there is a better life ahead. That hope is in our Savior, God Himself!

 Rom 15:4  For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. 

Rom 15:5  Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: 

Rom 15:6  That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

 *****Pro 22:22  Rob not the poor, because he is poor: neither oppress the afflicted in the gate: 

Pro 22:23  For the LORD will plead their cause, and spoil the soul of those that spoiled them.

 There are many poor people in this world, many of them have happy lives and know that riches cannot make them happier than they already are.

 Some are poor, and they do not like to be reminded of that fact, and we should help them if we are able.

 We must understand that God is always on the side of the poor!

 The instruction "not to rob the poor" does not speak of robbery because they have nothing worth stealing.

 We are not to rob the poor of their dignity.

 Many of the poor are taken advantage of because they cannot hire a lawyer.

 God is reminding us that He will defend them in the end.

 To understand what the Holy Spirit is talking about here, let's look at the Apostle Paul.

 2Co 6:4  But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, 

2Co 6:5  In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;

 There are probably far more Christian Saints who were poor until they met the Lord Jesus than rich.

 Just as it is today, many of the poor are wrongly afflicted by unjust judges and society.

 Cruel and greedy people choose the poor as their targets because they are unable to defend themselves.

 Praise the Lord, we have an advocate in Heaven.

 1Jn 2:1  My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: 

 Psa 35:10  All my bones shall say, LORD, who is like unto thee, which deliverest the poor from him that is too strong for him, yea, the poor and the needy from him that spoileth him?

 When the Lord says He will spoil the souls of those who oppress the poor, He is saying He will take away their lives.

 *****Pro 22:24  Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: 

Pro 22:25  Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul. 

 There are a lot of bad examples in our world, and we must not spend time around them.

 Yes, we are to witness if we get the opportunity and flee as soon as we can.

 Those who are short-tempered can influence us in a bad way.

 All of us are prone to losing our temper from time to time, but this angry man from the Scripture is full of anger at all times, and the wise do not need to be around them.

 Wise people understand the power of influence and avoid such people.

 Bad behavior can rub off on people and infect others.

 Uncontrolled anger is a trap that is easy to get caught in and hard to escape.

 Scripture never tells us to associate with the ungodly for the purpose of trying to change their behavior.

 In fact, Scripture tells us to be an example to them of the wisdom to avoid anger as best we can.

 1Co 15:33  Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.

 *****Pro 22:26  Be not thou one of them that strike hands, or of them that are sureties for debts. 

Pro 22:27  If thou hast nothing to pay, why should he take away thy bed from under thee? 

 In the old days, all it took was a handshake to seal a deal.

 We all want to help our children and maybe close friends, but God says do not secure debts for them.

 I do not know how many of us have been burned by our own children, but it happens.

 If that debtor is not creditworthy, then why should we be taken advantage of?

 We end up taking up a debt that we are not prepared for, and we could lose our own possessions and our own creditworthiness be ruined.

 Our testimony can also be affected if we are known to be someone who does not pay our debts.

 We must not make foolish deals. Nothing is untouchable if you put yourself up for someone else's debts.

 *****Pro 22:28  Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set. 

 The ownership of property is important in today's world, but it was extremely important in ancient Israel.

 Most land is worth far more than its monetary value.

 It was Jehovah who gave Abraham and the descendants of Sarah the land that belonged to Israel.

 Deu 19:14  Thou shalt not remove thy neighbour's landmark, which they of old time have set in thine inheritance, which thou shalt inherit in the land that the LORD thy God giveth thee to possess it. 

 Gen_17:21  But my covenant will I establish with Isaac, which Sarah shall bear unto thee at this set time in the next year.

 Heb 11:9  By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: 

God had forbidden the children of Israel to sell their land He had given to them.

Moving a boundary stone was an act of theft and a violation of the eighth commandment.

Deu 19:14  Thou shalt not remove thy neighbour's landmark, which they of old time have set in thine inheritance, which thou shalt inherit in the land that the LORD thy God giveth thee to possess it. 

Deu 27:17  Cursed be he that removeth his neighbour's landmark. And all the people shall say, Amen.

*****Pro 22:29  Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men. 

It is a rare occasion for a diligent worker to be fired, even in today's world.

To have a good work ethic is to be obedient to our Heavenly Father.

Christians should be the best workers on any job site.

As believers, we are called to set the example of being diligent workers.

We are never to be seen as being lazy.

We do not labor only for our employers; we labor also for our Lord!

Ecc 9:10  Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest. 

And the words that every Saint of God hopes to receive.

Mat 25:23  His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. 

Amen

The Church Must Deal with Moral Virtues

 Wisdom's Instructions on Moral Virtues

 Book of Proverbs Chapter 18

 We can say that virtue is acting according to the "Will of God" for our lives.

 The Bible tells us that only fools walk outside the will of God!

 Rom_12:2  And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

 1Jn_2:17  And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

 1Pe 4:2  That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. 

 Each of us must come to understand what the will of the Lord is!

 Eph 5:17  Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.

 We should come to an understanding that:

 1) We should stand in awe of our Creator, who is wise, powerful, and loving.

2) We can entrust our entire lives to our Almighty God.

3) We can rejoice in the wonder of His salvation.

4) We can rest in peace while the world goes through turmoil after turmoil.

5) That God holds people accountable for their sin.

6) That God opposes the pride of mankind.

 Man, in his pride, desires to run his own life and refuses to recognize that God is God of all creation, but He has a humble Spirit.

 We must avoid having a sinful attitude.

 We must understand that the Book of Proverbs declares that fools walk a path of death.

 *****Pro 18:1  Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.

Pro 18:2  A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself.

Pro 18:3  When the wicked cometh, then cometh also contempt, and with ignominy reproach.  

 There are many interpretations of this verse, but the most accurate interpretation seems to be that people who think only of themselves, who are selfish and antisocial, are fools.

 They are foolish because they have a great desire to live as they wish, but they will meddle in the affairs of all others.

 We are to separate ourselves from the world: 2Co_6:17  Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,

 We are not to live a life like an isolationist, which is foolish behavior!

 Gen 2:18  And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. 

 We are social people, and we will not develop properly by self-discipline in solitude.

 To depend upon us for all things is not beneficial, and it is not good, but to do this while we intermeddle in the business of all others is downright sinful.

 Pro 20:3  It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling. 

 Pro 21:24  Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath. 

 What is being obstinate? It is stubborn, having only your own opinion, your own purpose, your own resolutions.

 Not yielding to reason nor in arguments. Having your own way at the expense of all others.

 This fool has no desire to listen to what others have to say, as they have made up their minds that they are right and everyone else is wrong.

 They are interested in only their own opinion.

 They will not listen to the arguments of others.

 They are so full of pride in themselves that they want to impress others with what they have to say.

 These are not people who should be allowed to stay in the Church.

 The Church is far better off without wicked people in the Church.

 This is not to say that we should police all who come into the doors of the Church, but the Bible does say we will know them by their fruit.

 One pastor said that these are blessed subtractions.

 Wicked people may contribute to some organizations but not to the Church.

 They bring contempt to the Church.

They bring ignominy or shame to the Church.

They bring reproaches or disgrace to the Church.

 They will also bring this same damage to themselves and to their families, unless they repent.

 It is the wisdom of God that will bring blessings.

 *****Pro 18:4  The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook.

Pro 18:5  It is not good to accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment. 

Pro 18:6  A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes. 

Pro 18:7  A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul. 

Pro 18:8  The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly. 

 It is the mouths of those who fear the Lord that will edify the Church.

 Pro 20:5  Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out. 

 Joh 4:14  But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.

 In contrast, if that wicked person is allowed to stay in the Church, then there will be problems.

 Pro 10:11  The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked. 

 When we accept this person, we are showing partiality and not considering the right and wrong of it.

 Anytime we show partiality to the wicked, we are wrongly judging the righteous man!

 These wicked people may seem to be very wise in the Scriptures, but so was Satan.

 Mat 4:6  And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. 

Mat 4:7  Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.

 The Bible teaches us against such things.

 Psa 82:2  How long will ye judge unjustly, and accept the persons of the wicked? Selah. 

 This wicked person may be the richest man in the congregation, but we are to act according to the Word of God.

 These things have divided many Houses of Worship today.

 The Bible says we are never to show partiality to the wicked, nor are we to speak against the righteous and the innocent.

 Fools bring on most of their problems because they cannot control their speech.

 In most cases, it is their quarreling over matters we consider evil that sets them apart from the Church.

 Many churches today are accepting the testimony of certain movements when there is no repentance, which goes against the Word of God, when the Word of God is the foundation of the Church and not the words of man.

 God calls for repentance!

 Jhn_3:3  Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

Jhn_3:7  Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

1Pe_1:23  Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

 Many denominations are quarreling over these things today when the Lord Jesus says, "ye must be Born Again".

 When we throw the Lord Jesus out of the Church, we have no Church!

 We are warned: A fool's mouth ends in destruction!

 Their senseless, uncontrolled words will be their downfall.

 If they could keep their mouths shut, they might even fool the Church.

 Pro 17:28  Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.

 Talebearers or those who go around whispering about others also cause divisions in the Church.

 We call it gossip, and it will destroy the reputation of the righteous man.

 Spreading rumors inside the Church is an abomination to the One we come together to worship.

In fact, the reason we gather together is to worship the Living God!

 Pro 6:16  These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: 

Pro 6:17  A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, 

Pro 6:18  An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, 

Pro 6:19  A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren. 

 We must avoid selfish attitudes and sinful words that hinder our relationships with our brothers and sisters in Christ and cause division in the Church.

 We are to love one another and seek our security in the Lord, who is the foundation of the Church.

 *****Pro 18:9  He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster. 

Pro 18:10  The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe. 

 Being slothful is being lazy, being idle, and it is destructive!

 Those who are wise are people who trust in the Lord Jesus Christ for life now and eternal life in the future.

 This is a never-ending life of "Grace".

 Fools trust in themselves, some in their wealth, and others in this corrupt world.

 I used to think our own government, no matter which party was in charge, would be far above corruption, but I now know this is not so after seeing the Democrats do everything they could to destroy are nation and our Republic.

 Things are getting worse just as the Lord has said.

 2Ti 3:12  Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 

2Ti 3:13  But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. 

2Ti 3:14  But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; 

 We can blame a lot of these problems on the Church because the Church has become weak and lazy, and slothful.

 The Church has become a great waster of the work the Lord Jesus has done to save us!

 Many in the Church purposely tear down rather than build and preserve the Gospel.

 This is why God will first judge the Church before He judges the world.

 God will separate the goats from the sheep in the House of God, and the goats know who they are, but the sheep have become far too docile to take a stand on the Lord Jesus and the Gospel.

 We can trust that our Lord God knows what He is doing and run to Him for safety.

 God is The Almighty God.

He is the great I Am Yahweh.

He is Jehovah.

He is the Lord God.

He is wonderful.

He is the everlasting Father.

He is the Prince of Peace.

He is our Counselor.

He is the High and Lofty One.

He is the Lord Our Righteousness.

He is Emmanuel.

He is the Alpha, the Omega, the beginning, and the End.

He is my Savior and Redeemer.

He is my Strong Tower of safety.

He is my Rock and Fortress.

 Those who reject these things are fools.

 *****Pro 18:11  The rich man's wealth is his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit. 

 There are not enough riches in this entire world that can save those who reject the Lord Jesus Christ from the wrath of my Heavenly Father.

 The rich think that their wealth can save them from anything, and they are wrong when it comes to the wrath of God.

 1Ti 6:17  Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; 

1Ti 6:18  That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; 

1Ti 6:19  Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. 

 To all others, the Holy Spirit says.

 *****Pro 18:12  Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility. 

 The rest of the world seeks salvation in their own abilities.

 That word haughty means proud and disdainful with contempt for all those who trust the Lord.

 They are proud people who trust only in themselves.

 In their own strength, in their own intelligence, in their own abilities.

 As fools, they will not even be able to stand against the storms of this life, and it will break them.

 Pro 16:18  Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. 

 *****Pro 18:13  He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.

 We must first hear the whole story before we can speak to a matter.

 Only a fool thinks he has all the answers!

 This is being arrogant and putting yourself above others.

 A wise man will wait until he has heard the whole story of the matter and then see if he can help in some way.

 Only God and His Word have all the answers to life!

 *****Pro 18:14  The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?

 Our spirit can only sustain us if we live according to Christian principles.

 Christian principles give us the strength to look past our troubles to our future, and this will make all our troubles bearable.

 Pro 17:22  A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. 

 Those who are deep into depression and despair are difficult to rescue.

 *****Pro 18:15  The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge. 

 God has no respect for those who are ignorant except for the fact that He will send someone to tell the ignorant the truth so they can decide for themselves.

 If a person desires to avoid harm to body, mind, and soul, then that person must acquire knowledge both in relation to things of this world, which are material, and seek spiritual things that are from Heaven.

 Most of us who have tasted the wisdom of God are now trying to find out more.

 We know we need to grow in wisdom, but it requires our faith, our belief in the truth of God!

 Jas 1:5  If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. 

Jas 1:6  But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. 

Jas 1:7  For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. 

 If we truly begin a search for wisdom, it will lead us to fear of the Lord, the place of true wisdom.

 1) Our hearts must be dedicated to obtaining this knowledge.

2) Our ears are open to receive this great knowledge.

 Eph 1:17  That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 

Eph 1:18  The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 

 Our security can only be found in the Lord Jesus Christ.

 Those who reject the Lord Jesus Christ have nowhere else to turn for lifesaving knowledge!

 They are open to all the destructive forces in this world, which is the domain of Satan.

 Eph 2:1  And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; 

Eph 2:2  Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: 

 Joh 12:31  Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out. 

 Only those who are filled with God the Holy Spirit is secure in this world and the world that is to come.

 2Co 4:10  Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. 

2Co 4:11  For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. 

 God has a purpose for everything we face in this life, every problem and every difficulty.

 This does not mean He causes all our problems; that is what Satan does.

 We must keep our focus on Heaven and not on our problems!

 2Co 12:9  And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 

2Co 12:10  Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. 

 When we become too ashamed to ask for God's help, we will suffer more than we could have.

 Our Heavenly Father does much more than just listen to us; He will answer every prayer that reaches into Heaven.

 We must live our lives in such a fashion as to make sure our prayers reach Heaven, and it begins when we have the "Fear of the Lord".

 We must never seek an unfair advantage over others, because God will not allow it.

 We must seek that God's righteousness is at work in us as we go about the business of serving the Lord!

 God's wisdom will affect our behavior toward others!

 *****Pro 18:16  A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men. 

Pro 18:17  He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him. 

Pro 18:18  The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty. 

Pro 18:19  A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle. 

 It is a proven fact that generosity and politeness have opened many doors.

 There are two kinds of gifts, the gift of selfishness and the gift of kindness.

 A man sometimes bestows a favor on another to get back something of a higher value. This gift is a bribe.

 Bribery is the cause of much corruption in our world.

 The true children of God will not offer bribes, nor will they accept them!

 The gift of kindness is the true gift and is the real power.

 It makes room for the giver in the heart of the receiver, and it bringeth him before truly great men. Great men recognize and honour the generous.

 We may be able to use gifts here on this earth to help open doors, but we never need gifts to go before the Lord!

 The door of access to our Heavenly Father is always open to His children!

 We must be very careful when we hear something that seems bad about someone.

 God's children must hear both sides of each story.

 The first one to plead their case usually seems right. When we hear from the first side, we often feel that the first one to plead their case seems right, and we are quick to take their side.

 Our neighbor may come and judge us for our quick reaction without hearing the story from the other side.

 Our judgment may be different once we have heard from the other side.

 We may have to demand cross-examination of both parties before we can know the truth.

 In the Bible, the casting of lots was used to find answers and make decisions, and they had every faith that God would be involved.

 Pro 16:33  The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD. 

 As true believers, we should be able to settle disputes just as peacefully as they did; we supposedly have the mind of Christ and have the Holy Spirit living within us.

 We should never turn to the world for help!

 As we witness to the lost, it is important that we argue and defend the truth of the Scriptures before all whom we may face, giving exactly what God has said and the meaning of it.

 As Christians, we are wise to do everything we can to prevent conflicts in the Church before they arise.

 Once it has taken place and relationships are harmed, it will be hard for them to be restored.

 People who are angered and hurt are difficult to win back.

 These things divide churches if not solved before they get out of hand.

 We see that to please God, we must make it clear that we cannot be bought; we are not for sale.

We must never take sides based on partial information.

We must handle differences of opinion according to the Scriptures.

We should do everything we can to live peaceably with others.

 *****Pro 18:20  A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled. 

Pro 18:21  Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.

 There is sometimes great power in the words that we say.

 We need to think before we speak and try not to wound the spirits of those around us.

 Some people indeed make their living speaking words, and most of them do not care what they say if it gets a laugh or causes some dispute.

They just laugh at those who do not think the way they do

 It is far better to seek to encourage and build up people.

 We are commanded to show respect for each other.

 Heb 10:24  And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:

 What we say comes from the heart, so impure words come from an impure heart.

 Pro 4:23  Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. 

 Each of us is responsible for our own spiritual growth.

We are responsible for getting our children headed down the right path.

Pro_22:6  Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

The families of our nation are failing in this command of God.

If we keep our minds focused upon the Lord, we will think right.

Php 4:8  Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. 

There is certainly death in the power of the tongue, but there can also be life if we think before we speak.

The great example we have before us is the Word of Life, the Love Letter that God has given to us.

God just speaks, and things happen.

God does not speak bad things because it is out of His character and goes against His goodness, but He does not hesitate to tell us the truth of this world and the world that is to come.

*****Pro 18:22  Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD. 

When we find that wife that God designed for us, we know we have a good thing.

This is also pleasing to our Heavenly Father, and He will bless this marriage.

Unfortunately, not every wife is a good wife, and not every husband is a good husband.

To be honest, we will not know how to choose a good wife until we become children of God.

Besides salvation, the choosing of a good wife is one of the most important decisions we will make in this life.

What does God actually say: 2Co 6:14  Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 

We should understand that God ordains each marriage for life, so we must be wise when we are searching for a wife.

1Co 7:10  And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: 

1Co 7:39  The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord.

These things go for the husband also.

If our marriage does not work out, we must be careful to observe the Word of God and allow God to decide if we need another wife or another husband.

God is very good at leading two people together and making it a blessing.

*****Pro 18:23  The poor useth intreaties; but the rich answereth roughly. 

In the Bible, the poor are those because of circumstances beyond their control, cannot work to support themselves.

God has very little pity on those who can work but are too lazy to do so.

God has very little pity on those who cannot work because of sin.

Eph 4:28  Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. 

Those whom God has allowed to become rich are to help those who are poor.

1Ti 6:17  Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; 

1Ti 6:18  That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; 

1Ti 6:19  Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

How to use our resources is another thing we need the wisdom of God to do righteously.

*****Pro 18:24  A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. 

We should understand that one true friend is far more valuable than many who just claim to be our friends.

The one who gave us our first cigarette was not our friend.

The one who gave us that drink of alcohol was not our friend.

The one who gave us drugs was not our friend.

The one who talked us into doing something foolish was not our friend.

A true friend will stick by you no matter the circumstances.

Even in this, we have the Lord Jesus Christ as our example because He is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

It is the Lord Jesus Christ who died in our place so we can live an eternal life.

Nothing can separate us from our Savior!

Rom 8:35  Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 

Rom 8:38  For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 

Rom 8:39  Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. 

God bless the Word of God that gives us such great wisdom from the only source of true wisdom.

Amen