Proverbs 22 - Integrity

 

Proverbs 22 - Integrity

 

Self-worth is more important than net worth. It is better to have a good name than to be a millionaire (Ecc. 7:1).

 

To stimulate a newborn’s sucking reflex, Hebrew midwives would put something sweet on their finger and rub it on the roof of the infant’s mouth to train up their nursing instincts. Likewise, a wise parent is one who uses incentives to stimulate and train the children toward godliness, creating a hunger in him for righteousness and wise living. Just as an infant never loses the ability to suckle, so a child will not forget the instincts toward godliness which were stimulated in him as a child.

 

The lender always holds power over the borrower. For this reason, it is better to avoid taking out large loans as much as possible. A loan can easily become a form of bondage.

 

A lazy person will make all kinds of excuses to avoid responsibility, never realizing how foolish their words and conduct appear to others.

 

Foolishness comes with being a child, so parents need to correct their children, not only because discipline purges wrong conduct from a child’s life but because it points them in the right direction, the way of wisdom.

 

Landmarks were stone pillars of piles of stones that marked property boundaries in fields. Moving them resulted in individual loss or gain of property and wealth. Since God owned and appointed all the land, removing an ancient landmark would have been a sin against God (Deut. 27:17).

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible

 

 

Proverbs 21 - Honor and Character

 

Proverbs 21- Honor and Character

 

The sacrificial system played an important role in Israel’s religious life, but it was no substitute for righteous living. (Hosea 6:6).

 

A housetop in the ancient near east was flat, and people used it as a living space, but it was not a desirable place to sleep or spend a lot of time. The point is that sparse conditions with peace are better than physical conditions with strife.

 

Understanding means seeing things as God sees them.

 

A ransom is paid to free a person from penalty, similar to posting bail to get someone out of jail. God delivers the righteous by punishing those who oppress them.

 

The false witness will perish, or be discredited, so that their reputation is destroyed. The person who hears seeks to know and understand rather than simply waiting to express their opinion. That person is worth listening to.

 

If you measure life by riches, you will be disappointed. God made both the rich and the poor, and both are important to Him.

 

Concentrate on character, a good name, and not on great wealth. Money can buy fame but not a good name. If you are proud, all you may get is money, but if you are humble, God will give honor and life along with the wealth He wants you to have.

 

Do not allow debt to put you in bondage or the love of money to cause you to oppress others. If you give gifts to the rich just to get their favor, you will end up poor.

No matter how rich or poor you may be, it is integrity that really counts. Even the king, probably the richest person in the land, pays attention to people of character. And do not forget the King of kings before whom you will one day stand.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah

Proverbs 20 - Decisions and Actions

 

Proverbs 20 – Decisions and Actions

 

Wine and strong drinks are pictured as troublemakers, a mocker and a brawler.  Such beverages cloud one’s thinking and judgement, hampering the ability to make wise decisions. (Genesis 9:20-22).

One of the greatest gifts parents can give their children is a name that they will be proud of, because their parents have lived with integrity.

Taking on the obligations of a stranger is not wise, thus the recommendation to require some collateral, such as a garment or some other pledge, so that the one guaranteeing the loan will repay.

We must never speak harmfully of our parents. The warning is that such speech harms the speaker most. God will take note and punish the offender (Matt. 15:4).

Making a vow rashly can get someone in as much trouble as if they stepped into an animal trap. So, people should be careful about making promises without thinking them through (Deut. 23:21-23). Getting into something is much easier than getting out.

Every individual lives because of God and His inscrutable knowledge of His creation.

If you are wise you will consider the consequences of your decisions and actions. You will ask, “What about afterward?”

The afterward of strong drink is not pleasant, and the afterward of starting trouble could be dangerous. Better to stop the trouble at the beginning.

Sleep is essential to good health, but the afterward of too much sleep is poverty. A crooked business deal may be profitable financially, but you will not enjoy the aftertaste. You may enjoy getting your inheritance now, but afterward it may do you more harm than good. Remember what happened to the prodigal son. (Lue 15:11ff).

Rash promises have an afterward of regret (Ecc. 5:1-7), but loving discipline has an afterward of reform. (Hebrews 12:3-11).

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible

 

Proverbs 19 - Building Character

 

Proverbs 19 – Building Character

 

People often blame something or someone else for the parts of life they do not like – the problem is as old as Adam and Eve. However, Solomon says that a fool is responsible for their own actions and should not blame the results of carelessness on the will of the Lord.

The love of money is often the driving motivator for people, right down to “friendship”. Real friends will be loyal in any circumstance and should be prized above any relationship.

Having pity means acting on someone’s behalf or meeting a person’s needs. Giving to the poor is like lending to the Lord. (Deut. 15:7,8). God repays with interest, blessing the givers generosity with His. (2 Cor. 9:6-8).

Disciplined postponed will be ineffective. Discipline ought to be administered when the offense occurs and before a child grows up. This is when parents have a chance to make a difference; this is when there is hope for saving a child from the course of destruction.

You can make all the plans you like, but God get the last word. In the end, His purpose always prevails. (Psalm 33:10,11).

Kindness is a quality that God desires to see lived out in the relationships His people have with one another.

Wise people submit to the Lord and walk a straight way, but fools argue with the Lord and twist their way. Wealth is no evidence of wisdom; in fact a fool only wastes wealth.

Every father wants wise sons who will use their inheritance wisely. Lazy sons only bring poverty. The father who chastens his son will help him build character, but the son who chases his father away will bring shame and reproach. Sons who listen to their fathers and the Father in heaven will stay on the right path.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Proverbs 18 - Watch How and What You Say!

 

Proverbs 18 – Watch How and What You Say!

 

The fool has two habits that get them in trouble: Closing the mind while opening the mouth. Instead of being receptive to other points of view, the foolish person wants to share only one perspective, that of their own heart. The result is self-inflicted harm.

 

The sage likens gossip to tasty truffles. Just as fine morsels of food are hard to resist. Gossip is easy to partake of, but once taken in, it penetrates to one’s inmost being – and always to the listener’s detriment.

 

Wealth provides a measure of security, but one may falsely imagine it a strong wall or higher safeguard against calamity than it really is. The name of the Lord is where true strength and protection are found (2 Sam. 22:2,3).

 

A gift can mean an innocent courtesy, or something given to get a desired result.

What a person says will often return to him or her in some way, either adding to their life or subtracting from it. Our speech has consequences.

 

Having one true friend is much better than having many apparent friends. Friendship has its risks, but the isolated person is not wise. We belong to each other, and we need each other. We may have many acquaintances, but we have few real friends. A person with too many friends may end up in trouble. Be a true friend and God will give you true friends who will stick close to you throughout life.

 

Fools do not make good friends for many reasons. For one thing, they like to talk so much that they do not hear what others say. Their foolish words cause fights and inward pain. Their impatience to speak makes them jump to conclusions, and that creates problems. The only hope for fools is that they will stop talking and start to listen to wisdom.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible

Proverbs 17 - Check Your Attitude

 

Proverbs 17 – Check Your Attitude

 

The poor and the needy are easy targets because they are powerless. But all people are made in God’s image (Gen. 1:27). To make fun of the poor is to make fun of God. To be glad over someone’s misfortune makes one at fault before God.

 

Starting an argument may seem harmless, but it can release a flood of damage like a small crack in a dam. The answer is to stop contention before it begins. (I Thess. 4:11).

 

Relationships built on love and fidelity are a rare treasure. True friends are faithful in times of adversity as well as prosperity.

 

Some people seem to thrive when they are offending others – in their love of fighting, they have a way of pushing those around them to the breaking point. In similar fashion the one who builds a doorway too high will most assuredly see the doorway collapse.

 

Like the student who hears nothing of what the teacher says because his attention is focused elsewhere in the classroom, the fool who is inattentive to the instruction of wisdom is said to have his eyes on the ends of the earth.

 

Here is your litmus test:

 

What do you listen to?

What do you rejoice in?

What do you talk about?

What do you get angry at?

What do you give in to?

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

 

Proverbs 16 - What Kind of Heart do you Have?

 

Proverbs 16 – What Kind of heart do you have?

 

People can and should make plans, but it is essential to remain mindful that the Lord directs how we will go (Psalm 37:23).

Pride involves placing one’s own reasoning powers above the revelation of God and depending on one’s finite mind to determine infinite truths. Pride was the original sin, and it  has its place at the top of God’s hate list.

Understanding is the ability to evaluate a situation and respond to it appropriately. This is a source of life for the wise, while folly is a source of discipline for a fool. A person’s wisdom, or lack of it, determines his or her prospects in life.

 

The ability to restrain anger is developed as a person yields to the Lord’s control and the Holy Spirit’s leading. Anger is like an unbridled horse. Unless we tame it, we are at its mercy.

 

 A prepared heart is a heart that receives God’s truth and submits to God’s will. Since the mouth speaks what the heart has treasured up, the Lord can guide your words when your heart is prepared. (Matt. 10:19-20).

 

A proud heart leads to all kinds of troubles and robs you of the blessing of the Lord.

 

A purposeful heart is devoted to God’s purposes. Take time to think and pray, meditate on the Word, and make your plans; and then trust the Lord to guide you.

When wisdom is your food and drink, then you will be able to make prudent decisions. A prudent heart is revealed by lips that speak words of wisdom.

 

What is in the heart eventually comes out in life, and the life described here is anything but beautiful or useful.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

 

II Samuel 17 - Absalom Strategizes

 

II Samuel 17- Absalom Strategizes

 

Ahithophel said to Absalom. “Let me choose twelve thousand men, and I will come upon him while he is weak and weary. He will be afraid, and all his people will flee, and I will kill the king only.” Ahithophel thought that if David could be destroyed, the rebellion would be broken, and Absalom would be made king. Absalom agreed to the heartless plan, but Hushai offered an altogether different strategy. He says, “you would be very foolish to attack David now. He is an expert at evading capture. He would know where to hide. He would know how to escape. Soon word would circulate that you were losing the battle and the people who had joined you will not stay with you.”  His strategy was to gather all Israel and overwhelm David by sheer numbers. Hushai’s advice was good, but it was not for Absalom’s benefit. It was to give David time to regroup. God was at work in David’s behalf.

While they were gathering the nation and unite them under Absalom, Hushai sends a warning to David. He is to escape over the Jordan quickly.

Because Ahithophel was a proud man and a highly respected advisor, when he saw that his counsel was not followed, he considered his career over. The record says that he put his house in order, then hanged himself.

David finds that he has many allies. The rulers of these kingdom’s probably have very little confidence in Absalom, knowing he is deceitful and tricky. He would not be dependable. However, they have confidence in David, and they bring him, and his men supplies to ease their hardship.

Absalom’s delay enables David to get supplies from his allies and ready his troops for combat.

 

 

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

Proverbs 15 - A Positive Outlook

 

Proverbs 15 – A Positive Outlook

 

Hurtful words can cause great emotional damage, but positive, encouraging words contribute to a person’s emotional health, producing life-bearing fruit. Words that are perverse can break the spirit (James 1:26).

Mean-spirited words are the slowest and most venomous of toxins, a poison that ultimately brings down two lives. And nearly always, one’s tone of voice makes the difference. This is why Solomon so wisely counsels a soft answer in response to someone’s wrath.

Acquiring wisdom often requires discipline and correction as God’s people wander from the way the Lord intends for them to take. While discipline is rarely enjoyable, it can mean the difference between life and death.

A foolish son not only fails to make his father glad, but likely laughs at his parents. Despises may imply that the fool is callous toward his mother.

Seeking wisdom from godly, mature Christians allows believers to increase their understanding of God and His ways.

The problem with wealth is that it is never enough- no matter how much a person gets, he or she always wants more. Many wealthy people throughout history have reported that at some point, even the money itself takes a backseat to the all-consuming game of getting to accumulate more. It is a cycle that inevitably leads to destruction.

True prayer belongs to the righteous- God’s people get their prayers answered. (the Lord does hear one prayer from the unbeliever; “God be merciful to me a sinner.”)

A positive outlook creates a ripple effect; it spreads joy to others and produces encouraging words, all of which create a healthier environment at work or home.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Proverbs 14 - Fear the Lord

 

Proverbs 14 – Fear the Lord

 

To have meaningful results requires investing time, money and work.

 

The Hebrew for backsliders implies a failure to stick to what is right. This could be a person who is morally lazy, not just the one who consciously rebels.

 

While the quick-tempered often act rashly, doing stupid things that get them in trouble, even worse is one who contemplates and then carries out evil.

 

Patient people wisely understand what provokes their anger.

 

Some people’s hearts wear out before their bodies wear out. A heart full of bitterness, resentment, strife, pride, hatred, and envy will destroy a life of wholeness and happiness. A lack of peace is a problem of the heart, indicating that a person is not in fellowship with God.

 

Fools may have earthly knowledge, they do not have eternal wisdom.

 

Watch out for fools! Wisdom builds but folly destroys, and the tent of the godly is stronger than the house of the wicked. When you obey the Word of God, you build on a solid foundation. (Matt. 7:21-27).

 

Watch out for fools! Their speech can tear you down, for their words are like a rod that hurts. You cannot trust what they say, they mock sin, and they rage in their self-confidence. Be sure to watch out for their temper; it can get you and them into trouble.

 

When you fear the Lord, your walk will be marked by uprightness, confidence, and protection. The fear of the Lord is better than the folly of fools.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Proverbs 13 - Work Diligently and Honestly

 

Proverbs 13 – Work Diligently and Honestly

 

Righteous people speak the truth, understanding that what a person says always comes back to them.

 

The principles of God’s economy are opposite the worlds. The Bible says that when you give, you gain; when you hoard, you lose (Luke 12:20). Those who give, open the door for God to give back to them.

 

Dishonest money will not last, but money gathered through honest work will grow. Accumulating financial resources does not require abundance, but faithfulness. A continual investment of small amounts- will multiply with patience, self-discipline, and time.

 

Discipline proves a parent’s love for his or her children.

 

To be wise you must first listen to and rebuke instruction, and learn to take advice and discipline. Walk with the wise and listen to their conversation, and you will become more like them. As you meditate on the Word of God, you walk with the wisest of the wise, so do not neglect the scriptures.

 

Diligent people will work and gain wealth and not get it dishonestly.

 

The rich are often poorer than the poor when it comes to what really counts!

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

 

Proverbs 12 - Think Before You Speak

 

Proverbs – 12- Think Before You Speak

 

The wicked want to benefit from the work of other evil people, but the righteous are content to earn wages from their own honest toil.

 

The way of wisdom is paved with careful and truthful words that promote health to the soul and produce peace. Joy is a byproduct of those whose lives delight the Lord.

 

A prudent person is slow to speak and does not blurt out words thoughtlessly. The good word is any word that gives encouragement and relieves anxiety and depression.

 

The lazy person does not finish his or her tasks and thus forfeits opportunities for something better. The one who has mastered diligence, however, has a precious tool at his or her disposal: perseverance.

 

God uses the mouth of the righteous to bring deliverance, but the mouth of the wicked brings bondage. Right words must begin with right thoughts and a love for learning, and this is where the ungodly person fails.

 

Right words bring good to others (Prov. 10:21) and also to those who speak them. With your words, you can help to heal those who have been hurt and who have suffered because of lies. You can bring joy to those who are depressed and worried.

 

Be alert today for God given opportunities to speak healing words to hurting people.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah.

 

Proverbs 11 - Honesty

 

Proverbs 11 - Honesty

 

Dishonesty in business is condemned throughout scripture. The Lord hates cheaters (Lev. 19:35-36). His delight is with those who charge what is fair. Scales, usually two plates suspended from a bar, were used in daily commercial transactions. On one pan a merchant would place a pre-measured weight, on the other pan, the product to be purchased. False labeling or manipulation of the standard weight would give ample opportunity to cheat an unsuspecting customer.

 

Despises means  “belittles” God wants His people to treat their neighbors well. A gossip not only breaks confidences but magnifies and sometimes tells lies.

 

As the Great Giver who will not be outgiven, God makes sure that generosity is returned  (2 Cor. 9:6-7). With Him, giving is an opportunity for gain. Through Him, generosity is profitable, while greed leads to an impoverished life.

 

The foolish one who attempts to provide for his home and family in an unethical manner may eventually have to sell himself as a servant to the wise person who is a better manager. An example would be someone who gets too deep into debt and has to sell all his or her possessions to pay off creditors.

 

The contrast is between the righteous and the wicked. God delivers the righteous from lust, death, trouble, and gossip. God also delivers their families.

 

God guides the upright in their integrity because they desire what God desires. They sow righteousness and flourish like a healthy tree. The upright are a blessing to others and they gain a sure reward.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Proverbs 10 - Wise and Righteous

 

Proverbs 10- Wise and Righteous

 

Integrity is a mind-set and the willingness to be and do what is wholly and completely right as defined by God, regardless of personal cost and place.

 

Spoiled children often live unproductive lives. Just as good parents exert loving and careful correction on their children (Heb. 12:3-11). Discipline is God’s way to lovingly return His sons and daughters to the right path.

 

The one who fears the Lord will act in conformity to His will; the one who does not fear the Lord will ignore His commands. Longer life comes to those who live as God intended.

 

Wise and righteous are two words that go together, for the wise practice righteousness and the righteous grow in wisdom.

 

The wise bring joy and not grief to their parents. They will take advantage of God-given opportunities and will obey orders. Wise people gather knowledge and share it with others. They also know when to be quiet. They do not jest about sin but are serious about obeying the Lord.

 

The righteous have God’s protection and provision and He blesses them in life, and their works prosper. Their future is secure and joyful.

 

If you are wise and righteous, those traits will be revealed by your words as well as by your works.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Proverbs 9 - Wisdom or Folly?

 

Proverbs 9 – Wisdom or Folly?

 

Those who respond to wisdom’s maidens, though they may lack understanding and moral experience, will soon see a change in themselves. Wisdom is like a palace or temple with pillars, reminiscent of Solomon’s temple. Pillars give a building lasting strength and beauty.

The wise person who sits at wisdom’s banquet will be still wiser because wisdom begets more wisdom.

The fear of the Lord is knowledge of the Holy One. For wise, skilled living in the world, God requires a right understanding of God’s business and a reverent submission to His ways.

The power of foolishness is presented in the form of a seductress. She may be clever, acquainted with the ways of the world and crafty, yet she is blind to spiritual realities. Her brazen ways and exciting talk may be persuasive, but persuasion does not equal permission in the Lord’s eyes. The fact that the woman admitted her pleasures were wrong should be the Christians signal to flee, no matter how tantalizing they may seem to the flesh.

 

Wisdom offers you a banquet of bread, meat, and wine; folly offers you stolen bread and water. Wisdom promises you life, but if you eat at folly’s table, you will die.

 

Scoffers know so much that nobody can teach them anything, but the wise learn from rebuke. You may not enjoy it when somebody corrects you, but it can do you good.

 

Wisdom multiplies days. Those who abuse their bodies with sin usually cut their lives short, but when you follow wisdom, you can add years to your life – and life to your years! God gives a fullness of experience to those who obey Him

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah.

Proverbs 8 - Wisdom is to Love christ.

 

Proverbs 8 – Wisdom is to love Christ

 

The gates were to the entrance of the city and therefore a very public place. Solomon’s point is that the wisdom of God is available to all who will listen to and follow wisdom’s call (James 1:5). Wisdom and all its benefits (the ability to lead, plus riches, honor and righteousness) are tied to the fear of the Lord. Wisdom is linked to the eternal God. He established it before the creation and brought it forth for the creation’s use.

 

Wisdom’s first call was from the crowded city square, but now she is “where the paths meet”. When you are confronted with truth, you are at a place of decision, and the decision you make will have inevitable consequences. Keep your ears and eyes open and listen to God’s wisdom.

 

Wisdom says, “I Love those who Love me”. Love wisdom rather than wealth, for wisdom enriches you for eternity. Jesus Christ is the Wisdom of God (I Cor.1:30, Col. 2:3). To love wisdom is to love Christ, and when you love Christ, you live for Him.

 

Spend time daily at wisdom’s door as you read God’s Word and meditate on His truth. God will give you counsel, wisdom, understanding, and strength. Instead of serving as a slave, you will reign as a king.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

 

Proverbs 7 - Faithfulness to the Word

 

Proverbs 7 – Faithfulness to the Word

 

Keeping the Lord’s commands is the best protection against promiscuity and relational ruin. Faithfulness to the Word creates faithfulness in the heart. Affairs begin in the mind. The heart is the doorway to one’s mind and life, and the adulterer uses enticing words – especially flattery – to push it wide open.

 

When wisdom is your sister, you will not be seduced by the tempter. Your feet will not go near the house. And if he would come after you, your heart will see through all the enticements and have no desire for the tempter.

 

Expensive tapestries cannot cover the ugliness of sin, and the most aromatic spices cannot turn the stench of sin into fragrant perfume. No matter what temptation offers you, look beyond the externals and see it as it really is.

 

You are made in the image of God, but sin drags you down to the level of the beast and eventually to the level of Satan himself.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

Proverbs 6 - Hate What God Hates

 

Proverbs 6 – Hate What God Hates

 

Surety is a loan. In Solomon’s day, a cosigner could lose all he had and be forced into slavery if both he and the borrower were unable to pay the debt. There is nothing wrong with being generous, but Solomon warns against entering into agreements that cannot be kept.

 

Laziness is in opposition of wisdom. Even an ant treats work as necessary for survival and does not need external motivation to work hard. Rest is good, but excuses not to work can lead to disastrous consequences.

 

The formula six things the Lord hates, yes seven, suggests that the list is never-ending. The point is to illustrate the behavior that displeases God.

 

Wicked works will trap you but so will reckless words. You must be careful when you make promises. If you do not learn to say no, you will end up in bondage, and the price will be very high. Better to humble yourself and get free than to let your pride rule you.

 

Learn from the world of nature. The ant makes good use of opportunities to prepare for the future, but the sluggard is aimless and lazy and ends up in poverty.

 

Watch out for the wicked man and the evil woman. Hate what God hates and love what God loves and you will enjoy what God enjoys.            `

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

Proverbs 5 - Immorality

 

Proverbs 5 - Immorality

 

Morality and marital faithfulness can never be tossed aside without paying the price. An illicit life robs its people of honor and years. Family fidelity satisfies best.

 

“Immoral woman” was referred to as idolaters who were outside the covenant, Israelites who once walked with God but turned aside to worship other gods, and those who were unfaithful to their spouse. Each speak of betrayal and forsaking a covenant.

 

To hate instruction, despise correction, and ignore the voice of teaching makes a person susceptible to choices full of remorse. Falling prey to lust inevitably leads to the ruin of a person’s reputation with the assembly and congregation.

 

In a world that has commercialized sex and turned adultery into entertainment, this warning is desperately needed. Few people believe that there are tragic consequences to sexual sin, but Solomon names some of them.

 

What begins as something “sweet” gradually turns into something bitter. What is “life” becomes death; and the end is hell. You lose honor, years of life, wealth, and joy and what you think is freedom is really the worst kind of bondage. The physical consequences alone ought to make a person want to obey God.

 

Sex in marriage should be like drinking refreshing water from a clean fountain, while illicit sex is like drinking at a sewer. The Hebrew word “enraptured means “intoxicated”. When husband wand wife loves each other as God wants them to, the water turns into wine!

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Proverbs 4 - Wisdom Guides You

 

Proverbs 4 – Wisdom Guides You

 

The key to getting wisdom is to understand that no one has it to start with; God provides it. This also means that anyone can acquire wisdom who will pursue it (Matt. 13:44). Wisdom is not achieved by one choice, it is a journey of many steps, a path upon which a person openly receives truth. Jesus continually spoke of people who had ears to hear but did not listen (Matt 11:15). The wise will apply an attentive ear to God’s Word, hearing with their hearts and minds.

 

The way of light and the way of darkness are clearly marked out, those who seek wisdom will be able to discern- and keep discerning which path is safe. Christians who walk the path of light may lose their footing, but God quickly shines on the problem. Those who stumble in the darkness have no way of discerning what has tripped them up.

 

The wise person encourages others to hear the Word of God and find wisdom. The father received wisdom when he was a boy, and he admonished his children to do the same. Live today so that your counsel and example will influence others and help them live wisely.

 

When you have wisdom, you have protection and promotion and you will have the freedom to make progress. As you obey His Word, the light will get brighter on the path of life. But this is not true if you are on the path of the wicked.

 

Solomon emphasized having your whole person controlled by God’s Word, (Col. 3:16). This will guide you on the right path and keep you from detours.

 

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

 

Proverbs 3 - Lean Not in Your Own Understanding

 

Proverbs 3 – Lean Not on Your Own Understanding

 

Trust in- means to believe that the object of one’s trust can and will do what should be done. Lean – does not mean to put one’s whole weight on something but to rely with one’s own intellect.

 

What you do with your heart determines what you do with your life. Cultivate an obedient heart that receives God’s Word (2 Cor. 3:1-3) and a trusting heart that obeys. We’re not suggesting that you ignore your mind or common sense, but that you not lean only on them and reject God’s way.

 

Put God first in the way you use His wealth (matt 6:33) and major on the things that money cannot buy. When God corrects you, accept it as evidence of His love. (Heb. 12:5-6)

 

Let every part of your body be controlled by God’s wisdom (Rom. 12:1-2). Sleep is one of the tests of faith and true surrender to God.

 

If you want God’s blessings on your home, be a blessing to those around you. Share what you have and never plan evil against others. (Rom. 12:9-21).

 

In order for God to direct one’s paths, a person must be doing whatever he or she already knows to do right – obedience activates God’s promises. To depend on one’s own understanding of truth and life means to disregard God’s will. Pride begins elevating oneself in one’s own eyes. (Romans 12:16). Depart from evil is the idea behind repentance: a change of direction.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

 

Proverbs 2 - Wisdom, A Way of Life

 

Proverbs 2 – Wisdom, A Way of Life

 

The nature of this and many other proverbs is of a Father talking to his sons about life. The son is just beginning to face adult realities and become responsible for himself. The wise sayings are offered as treasures.

 

The two phrases; the fear of the Lord and the knowledge of God encompass the Old Testament terms for true religion; the poles of awe and intimacy.

 

The basic meaning of wisdom in the Old Testament is skill. Those who made the tabernacle tapestries had skill. Those who made the High Priest garments had skill. Those who piloted the ships at sea had skill. Wisdom is a skill given by God to accomplish a task.

 

When wisdom and knowledge become a way of life, the talk and interest of the wicked, the evil, the immoral of darkness and perversity will lose their appeal. Wisdom that seeks God delivers from the temptation that leads to death. The path a person walks today will determine their destination tomorrow.

 

The word path is used seven times in this chapter. It suggests to us that life involves direction, decision, and determination, just like walking a path. God will do His part if you do your part.

 

The path of wisdom is a guarded path and a good path that leads to life and righteousness. The path of folly is a dark and devious path that leads to death.

 

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah Study Bible.

Proverbs 1 - Wisdom

 

Proverbs 1 – Wisdom

 

All you need for success is yours when you receive God’s Wisdom. “Success” means much more than making a living. It means making a life that honors God and serves others. Wisdom is more important than riches and power (Prov. 8:12-21) because wisdom helps you build for all eternity.

 

“The fear of the Lord” means reverence for God and respect for His Word, a willingness to listen and a promptness to obey. God uses different people to teach you wisdom, and you must be alert to each lesson. Note the warnings: “Do not forsake!, Do not consent!, Do not walk!” God says no that He might say yes.

 

Wisdom is like a lovely woman inviting hungry people to a great feast.

Folly is like an evil woman seducing the ignorant into sin. Accept wisdom’s call and you will be blessed; accept folly’s call and you will be destroyed.

 

Throughout the Book of Proverbs, wisdom and folly are personified as women, calling on all who will listen to embrace them. Wisdom goes where the people are, in the open squares, in the chief concourses, at the openings of the gates in the city.

She calls aloud, raises her voice, cries out, speaks in the public places of the city. She speaks to three types of sinners: simple ones, scorners, and fools.

 

Fools make a habit of continually rejecting wisdom; in return, they receive the fruit of their own way (Jer. 6:19).

 

The final step in rebellion (complacency) is destruction. What a horrible price to pay for rejecting wisdom’s gracious appeal.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

Dr. David Jeremiah.

 

 

Psalm 148-150 - Let All Creation Praise Him!

 

Psalm 148 – Let All Creation Praise Him!

 

The Psalmist starts with the angels, then summons the heavenly bodies, and even includes the clouds! God created them, established them, and controls them. They should praise Him – and they do.

Whether the depths of the sea or the heights of the mountains, the winds or the fruitful trees, all should praise the Lord – and they do! When the weather is bad, it is good to know that even the storms fulfill God’s Word.

Made in God’s image, men and women have more reason to praise God than does any other thing in creation. And when you have been saved by God’s grace, your motive is even greater. Praise the Lord!

 

Psalm 149 – Sing all Ye People!

 

God’s people should be a singing people. They should sing in the sanctuary because God is their Savior, their Maker, and their King. You are reminded again that praise pleases God and beautifies God’s people (Psalm 147:, 11)

You should be singing at home, even when in bed! Sing when you wake up in the morning, when you take a nap, when you go to bed at night. If it is a bed of illness, sing to the Lord even more.

Sing to the Lord on the battlefield. God’s Word is your sword (Eph. 6:17), and it should be on your lips as well as in your hand. Praise is a wonderful weapon for defeating the enemy.

 

Psalm 150 – Praise Him Always

 

We should praise Him locally and universally, in the temple and in the heavens. Wherever you are, praise the Lord.

We should praise Him because of what He does and who He is. The better you know God’s character and works, the more you will praise Him and the more you will enjoy pleasing Him.

Praise Him with voices and with our bodies expressing the joy we feel within. The whole person should be one living sacrifice that praises the Lord.

“Everything that has breath” should praise Him. Our breath comes from Him (Acts 17:25), so we ought to use it to praise His name. Breath is the weakest thing we have, but we can devote it to the highest service, praising the Lord.

Psalm 146 & 147 - Praise

 

Psalm 146 – Praise

 

Praise is an evidence of life, not just physical life, but the life of God in the heart. In heaven, it is all praise; in hell, there is no praise; here on earth, you must make a choice.

Praise is an encouragement to faith.. When you have faith in somebody – your doctor for instance – you praise the person to others. When your faith is low, your praise will gradually subside, but when you major on praise, your faith will grow.

Praise is an encouragement to hope. When your hope is in the Lord, you can praise Him no matter what the circumstances may be. Faith is the upward look, and hope is the forward look.

Praise is an encouragement to love, your love for God and for others, and God’s love for you. When you love someone, you trust that person, and greater trust brings greater love.

Life, faith, hope, and love – all abound in the experience of praise.

 

Psalm 147 – Praise

 

Praising the Lord is the highest exercise of your faculties. He is worthy of praise, and you should praise Him whether or not you think your praise is accomplishing anything in your life. However, there are some blessings that come to those who worship Him in truth.

Praise brings spiritual beauty to God’s people; (Psalm 27:4, 29:2). It builds His work and unifies His people. It heals the inner person and lifts the fallen. Praise is good medicine!

Praise makes God’s world real and personal to you, even the storms, and its great protection against the enemy. Praise pleases the Lord and enables Him to work in your life.

Praise must never become a pragmatic device for getting blessing from God. When you sincerely praise Him, the blessing will come. Praise changes things and people.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.