30 Day Cleanse - Day 17

Scripture

"Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but the Lord tests the heart." --Proverbs 17:3

Observe

A crucible is used to test the quality of silver, and a furnace is used to refine gold, but God HIMSELF is the one who tests our hearts.

"I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve." --Jeremiah 17:10

God REALLY cares about our hearts.

He requires that we search for Him with all of our hearts to find Him (Jeremiah 29:13); He requires that we do whatever we do with all of our heart for His glory (Colossians 3:23); and like we discussed on Day 16, He's equally concerned with our motivations AND actions (Proverbs 16:2).

 

 

 

The Heart of the Matter is Always a Matter of the Heart

Why does God care about our hearts so much?

Because our hearts are where He lives.

"He has identified us as his own by placing the Holy Spirit in our hearts as the first installment that guarantees everything he has promised us." --2 Corinthians 1:22

The word for heart in the Greek is "kardia". It literally means "heart"--but not the physical organ. Kardia refers to the innermost self and intentions of a person (think spirit).

God has placed the very essence of Himself (His Spirit) with our very innermost self (our heart), and He desires that our intentions reflect His heart.

In Luke 6:45, it says, "A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart."

If God lives in our hearts, what we say and do is a reflection on Him.

By putting us through any kind of test, God searches the contents of our hearts, reveals to us the condition of our hearts, and uses the results of the test to bring about greater godliness in our lives.

The Lord Tests the Heart

Abraham, the father of the nation of Israel, may be the most famous man to ever undergo the testing of God.

Mostly, we're all familiar with how God told Abraham to pick up his family, leave his home, and head in the direction God would show him. In turn, God would give him land (the Promised Land), decedents, and blessings.

Abraham decided to follow God, and God followed through on His promises.

But because the end of the story turned out so well (AKA Jesus was a descendent of Abraham, and the nation of Israel is always blessed by God), we sometimes forget the fact that Abraham walked in faith.  In fact, there was a HUGE gap in between the promises of God and their fulfillment--especially the descendents part.

<Read Genesis 16:1-18:15, Genesis 21:1-6>

Abraham and his wife, Sarah, were unable to conceive for years.

Finally, after much struggle and heartache, God released a miracle and at 91 years old, Sarah bore Abraham (100 years old) his promised son--Isaac. Abraham's faith had paid off.

Though God enjoyed blessing Abraham, He didn't want Abraham to follow Him because of the blessings. God wanted Abraham to follow Him because of who He was (is and will be).

So God tested Abraham's heart, by instructing him to sacrifice his only son--the son of promise, for whom he had waited nearly 100 years.

And what did Abraham do?

<Read Genesis 22:1-18>

In the first occurrence of the word "worship" in the Bible, Abraham showed God how much He was worth by making the trek up a mountain to sacrifice his son.

Seeing that Abraham's heart was in the right place (the place of honoring God above all else), God not only spared the life of Isaac but promised even MORE blessings to Abraham.

Apply

When we think about tests, we usually groan. Tests mean studying; studying means time and energy; and even if we study, there is no guarantee that we'll know what the teacher / professor (test creator) expects of us.

But the testing of God is different.

For God's "Heart Test", studying means spending time with God. It does require time and energy, BUT we know exactly what He wants. He gives us all of the answers in His Word (the Bible).

Though He doesn't cheat, God helps us EVERY step of the way.

If we are wise, we'll submit ourselves to the discipline of God. When times of testing come, our hearts will be in the right place to pass the tests and we'll experience more of God's blessing in our lives.

Pray

"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me tin the way everlasting." --Psalm 139:23-24

Your Turn!!!

30 Day Cleanse - Day 16

Scripture

"All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit." --Proverbs 16:2

Observe

We think that we are doing what is right, but God judges our real motivation.

Let's talk about the difference between the law and the spirit of the law:

The Law

A "law" is a rule or set of rules established and enforced by a governing body.

In America, our local, state, and federal leaders establish laws for us to follow. We drive within speed limits, stay off of private properties, and refrain from bringing weapons into public places. These laws are intended to protect us and the people around us.

In the same way, the supreme ruler of our universe--God--established certain standards under which His people must live:  The 10 Commandments (Exodus 20).

1. Worship God
2. Do NOT Worship Idols
3. Do NOT use God's Name in Vain
4. Keep the Sabbath
5. Honor Your Parents
6. Do NOT Kill
7. Do NOT Commit Adultery
8. Do NOT Steal
9. Do NOT Lie
10. Do NOT Covet

God's Law contains the parameters of how we ought to relate to God and how we ought to treat to others. It protects us and the people around us.

The Consequences

When we deviate from any law, there are consequences. Depending on the extent of the crime and the location in which it was committed, penalties range from fines, to jail time, to time in prison, to capital punishment.

Likewise, when we break God's Law, the penalty is death.

However, just like a sympathetic judge may allow the person on trial to do community service instead of going to jail, God knew that we would never be able to live up to his standards. Instead of punishing all sinners with death, He accepted sacrifices for penance.

But people still messed up--all the time--and were far away from the very God who created them.

So, God's son, Jesus, decided to give up His own life as a sacrifice--once and for all. He came to Earth, lived a perfect human life, and died on the cross to cover the sins of every man.

"All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God." --Romans 3:23

"The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life, through Christ Jesus, our Lord." --Proverbs 6:23

"But God demonstrates His own love for us in this:  While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." --Romans 5:8

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life." --John 3:16

Through Jesus, we are no longer bound to the Law. Instead, we have the Spirit of God living in us.

The Spirit

What does the Spirit of God do?

"For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God DID:  Sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.... You are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you." --Romans 8:2-4, 9a

God's Spirit teaches us to know the heart of the Father, so we can live out the spirit of the Law.

Imagine this:

I ask you to deliver a present to my mom for Mother's Day, because I have to go out of town on business and am really disappointed I wont be able to be there for her.

You have a choice to respond in one of two ways:

1. The Law: You deliver the present, because that is what I asked.
2. The SPIRIT of the Law: You know that I really wanted to be there for my mom, so you throw a surprise Mother's Day party for her. You decorate, buy flowers, and set up a Skype date, so we can talk while I'm away.

When you fulfill the SPIRIT of the Law, you're not just following a rule, you're paying attention to the heart of the One who established it--the motivation behind it.

Apply

In today's verse, it states that the Lord weighs the SPIRIT.

We may think that we've done a good job, because we did what was required of us, but God tells us that He looks at our hearts--the motives behind our actions.

Jesus said, "'Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.'

'You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, "You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment." But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment.... You have heard that it was said, "You shall not commit adultery." But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.'" --Matthew 5:17, 21-22, 27-28

When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we have the ability to understand the heart of God, and our hearts DESIRE to do God's will.

We no longer desire to sin--not because of the Law, but because of LOVE.

Like David said to God, "I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." --Psalm 119:11

Let's remember to spend time in the Word of God and in the presence of God, learning God's heart. To know Him is to know LOVE, and LOVE is the greatest impetus for obedience.

Pray

God, we want our motives to be pure. We don't want to barely scrape by with the minimum; we want to serve you out of LOVE. We thank you that we are no longer subject to the Law but that you have given us Your Spirit. Please give us more of Your Heart, so we can live our lives to please you. Thank you for giving us the desire to do Your Will. Please give us creative ideas to communicate your LOVE to others. We love you! Amen.

Your Turn!!!

30 Day Cleanse - Day 15

Scripture

The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but he delights in the prayers of the upright. --Proverbs 15:8

Observe

The sacrifices of the ungodly are an abomination to the Lord, but the prayers of the righteous bring favor.

The Words

Three words I found interesting in this passage are:  Sacrifices, Lord, and prayers.

1. Sacrifices - Hebrew "zebach", to sacrifice, from "zabach", to slaughter for sacrifice. To me, slaughter is a brutal word--indicating a lot of hard work (to kill the animal) and personal forfeiture (because what once belonged to the person is no longer theirs).
2. Lord - Hebrew "Yhvh", the proper name of the God of Israel (so holy Jews will not say it or spell it). It comes from the word "havah" which indicates the state of being and becoming. It reminds us that God is, was, and always will be.
3. Prayers - Hebrew "tephillah", prayer, from "patal", to intervene or interpose. Remember how we discussed intercession? It's the act of intervening on behalf of another person. For instance, if my brother was getting in trouble for something my sister did, I would want to intervene on his behalf. When we pray for others, we are interceding (with God) for them.

God, the almighty, eternal, infinite God hates it when the wicked work hard or try to "give things up" to appease Him, but when the righteous come to God to make requests for God to move in the lives of other people, it is pleasing to Him.

This passage reminds me of two passages in Scripture that we have talked about recently:  1 Samuel 15 and Job 42.

The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked.

<Read 1 Samuel 15>

God had given the king of Israel, Saul, an objective:  Completely destroy the Amalekites--including women, children, and animals. They were to be entirely eliminated.

Saul went to war against the Amalekites, but he wanted to impress his men, so he saved the best of the Amalekite possessions, including animals and their king, Agag.

Because Saul was disobedient to God, He sent Samuel, His priest and prophet, to correct him. "The Lord sent you on a mission and told you, ‘Go and completely destroy the sinners, the Amalekites, until they are all dead.’ Why haven’t you obeyed the Lord? Why did you rush for the plunder and do what was evil in the Lord’s sight?” --1 Samuel 15:18-19

Saul tried to defend himself, stating that the items he collected were to be sacrificed to God. (He tried to appease God with a sacrifice to make up for his actions.)

But God, through Samuel, revealed His heart to Saul: "What is more pleasing to the Lord:  Your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, and stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols. --1Samuel 15:22-23a

Literally, God could not stand Saul's sacrifice, and the consequences were crucial. "So because you have rejected the command of the Lord, he has rejected you as king." --1 Samuel 15:23b

 But he delights in the prayers of the upright.

<Read Job 42>

The story of Job is a simple one:  Job was a faithful man of God, whom God blessed with family, land, and possessions. The devil challenged God, stating that if He removed His blessings from Job's life, Job would no longer serve Him. God, knowing Job better than anyone, took the challenge, and allowed the devil to take away Job's blessings. Job lost his children, his land was devastated, and his possessions were literally consumed by every kind of natural disaster.

But, Job still praised God.

So, the devil came back to God again, saying that if Job's body was injured, he'd break. God took the challenge again, and the devil was allowed to terribly inflict Job's body (as long as he didn't take Job's life). Job's body was covered in boils so bad that he scraped his skin off with pieces of pottery.

But, Job still praised God.

Job's wife turned bitter, and told Job to curse God and die.

But, Job still praised God.

Finally, Job's friends arrived, and for chapter upon chapter in the Bible, challenged Job's faith--saying things that weren't true about God, and declaring to Job that he must have sinned.

Literally everything that COULD go wrong in Job's life DID.

But, Job still praised God, saying, "Though He slay me, I will hope in Him." --Job 13:15


Finally, at the end of the book, God shows up and reveals Himself to Job in a powerful way. Then:

"After the Lord had finished speaking to Job, he said to Eliphaz the Temanite: 'I am angry with you and your two friends, for you have not spoken accurately about me, as my servant Job has. So take seven bulls and seven rams and go to my servant Job and offer a burnt offering for yourselves. My servant Job will pray for you, and I will accept his prayer on your behalf. I will not treat you as you deserve, for you have not spoken accurately about me, as my servant Job has.' So Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite did as the Lord commanded them, and the Lord accepted Job’s prayer. When Job prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes. In fact, the Lord gave him twice as much as before!" --Job 42:7-10

Job's righteous prayer for his friends not only spared them from the wrath of God, but also brought incredible blessings back into Job's life.

Apply

For OUR Spiritual Growth:  Every day we live, we make choices whether or not to obey God. God wants us to follow Him by laying down our will in the moment--the sacrifice of self. When we ignore God's voice, we feel the need to try to make up for our disobedience by doing random things for God--the sacrifice of stuff. Which does God prefer? "Then Jesus said to his disciples, 'If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me.'" --Matthew 16:24

For OTHERS to Know God:  Prayer is powerful. God loves us so much that, because we belong to Him, He chooses to listen to our requests on the behalf of others. When we ask for God to heal others, to introduce Himself to them, or to intervene when they aren't making good decisions, those prayers deliver our friends and family out of bondage, and free us up to receive the blessings of God.

Pray

God, help us to know you more. Please build our faith in you, so when you ask us to do things, we will be obedient in the moment. Give us hearts of compassion for others, so we can intercede for them. Give us wisdom in how to pray for the people around us every day. We thank you that we get to be part of your plans, and that you love us enough to listen when we pray! Amen.

Your Turn!!!

Thoughts?

30 Day Cleanse - Day 14

Scripture

"In all labor there is profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty." --Proverbs 14:23

Observe

Hard work brings about abundance, but just talking leaves a void.

Multiple Uses

For Future Kings:  Solomon reminds his sons that kingdoms are not made successful by the length of the king's speech, but by the strength of his efforts.

For Bible Times:  Most of the reading audience would have been farmers, gardeners, craftsman, and people of trade. For them, the message is that all of their hard work will bring about provision, but if they are idol (for example, sitting and chatting instead of working) they will not get anything accomplished.

For Today:  Most of us do not barter and trade for the things we need. We work for our wages, and use the compensation to purchase the things we need. This passage encourages us to be diligent workers, so we can get paid. AKA-Talking about getting a job doesn't actually make us any money.

Apply

This verse applies to our Christian walk, as well.

For Our PERSONAL Spiritual Growth:  James 1:22 states, "But don't just listen to God's word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves." We need to make sure that we don't just talk about God's word, but apply it to our lives. The extra work taken to make spiritual truths our reality WILL pay off.

For Others to Know God:  Later in his book, James says this: "What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, 'Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well'—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless. Now someone may argue, 'Some people have faith; others have good deeds.' But I say, 'How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.'" --James 2:14-18

Likewise, 1 John 3:18 says, "Dear children, let's not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions."

In order to be proper ambassadors of God's Kingdom, we must do more than just love people with our words. We must take care of their practical needs.

Our hard work will bring about spiritual abundance in our lives, and in the lives of those around us.

Pray

God, we pray that everything we do would be done for your glory. We ask that you would help us to internalize your word, to make it part of our lives so that we live by it. Help us to listen to the Holy Spirit's guidance, so our hearts and our actions will line up with your will. Amen.

Your Turn!!!

Is God challenging you through this passage? Is there anything else in Proverbs 14 that stood out to you?

30 Day Cleanse - Day 13

Scripture

 
"A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a faithful envoy brings healing." --Proverbs 13:17

Observe

If we look at this verse by itself, we see a principle repeated throughout Proverbs:  Trouble will befall the wicked, but God preserves the task of the godly.

When I researched the words, though, I found something cool:

Defining the Terms - Part 1

The term "wicked messenger", in the original Hebrew, is a combination of the words "rasha" (meaning wicked, criminal) and "malak" (meaning angel).

There was a moment in time when the angels of Heaven had a chance to choose between God and Lucifer (Satan). Those who chose Satan were thrown out of Heaven, thus the term "fallen angels."

These fallen angels are more commonly referred to as "demons."

The word for fall is "naphal", meaning "fall" but in many different ways. For example, to fall by being thrown down, cast out, judged, overthrown, or smote.

"Ra'" is the Hebrew word for adversity in this passage. It is a word for affliction, calamity, and distress--which comes from the root word "ra'a'" meaning to spoil by literally breaking it to pieces.

Remember how we talked about the difference between the enemy's destructive abilities and God's? The devil destroys by distraction, but God destroys by taking away authority.

So, let's reread this verse from the vantage point of spiritual warfare:  Demons are thrown down and broken into tiny little bits.

And that's only part one!

Defining the Terms - Part 2

The term "faithful" is from the Hebrew word "emun" meaning established, faithful, trustworthy, true. It comes from the word "'aman" meaning to build up or support. It can have the same connotation as parental guidance and insinuates a trustworthiness based on faithfulness over time. It is unshakably certain and true.

The term "envoy" is from the Hebrew word "tsiyr", meaning "ambassador".

"Marpe" is the Hebrew word for healing in this passage. It comes from the word "rapha" which means cure and thoroughly make whole.

Who is the faithful ambassador who brings the cure?

Isaiah 53:5 prophesies about Jesus, saying,"He was wounded for our transgressions, bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him, and with His stripes, we are healed."

Jesus is the faithful ambassador from Heaven who brought us complete healing and wholeness.

Apply

Proverbs contains SO many pieces of wisdom. Most of them are repeated again and again. Sometimes, it can feel a little monotonous or boring.

Let's remember, though, that all Scripture points to Jesus.

Time in the Word of God is time spent seeking God, and He rewards those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).

Pray

God, help us to find You in the Bible. We know that it is important to renew our minds with the truth found in Your Word, so please make Your truth alive to our hearts. When we read, help us to interact with You and walk away with a greater understanding of who You are and what You are doing. We thank You that while we are learning and growing in You, You are fighting on our behalf. Continue to make us aware of the spiritual victories You have already won for us, so we can walk in victory too. Amen.

Your Turn!!!

30 Day Cleanse - Day 12

Scripture

"A man will not be established by wickedness, but the root of the righteous will not be moved." --Proverbs 12:3

Observe

No one can stand firm in evil, but the righteous have deep roots that cannot be shaken.

Evil = Nothing

Evil is a shallow thing.

Evil is the opposite of good. We associate the word evil with anything negative, immoral, wicked, or depraved. In the Bible, evil is carried out by Satan and his minions (demons).

Evil, however, is much like darkness.

Darkness is not a substance. It cannot be held, nor measured. It is not comprised of "darkness atoms", nor does it contain energy. It is has neither volume, nor mass. It cannot be captured, nor contained.

Darkness is not anything, except the absence of light.

Similarly, evil is not a substance. It is the absence of God.

And actions that are evil are simply actions that take place without God in them.

God is the creator of everything. It says in John 1:3 "All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being."

So, think about the people who try to build their lives on evil.

It would be like trying to construct a Lego tower on a shadow of a table. Without the table itself, the entire Lego structure would fall.

Likewise, people who try to found their life on wickedness--the lack of God--end up falling to pieces.

Building on God

In contrast, the righteous have deep roots in God that cannot be shaken.

How do the righteous become so deeply rooted?

1. Getting into God's Word.
   "How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the path of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night. He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers." --Psalm 1:1-3
2. Living out God's Word.
   "Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock." --Matthew 7:24-25
3. God's Word in us:  Jesus.
   "So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God's holy people. You are members of God's family. Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself. We are carefully joined together in him, becoming a holy temple for the Lord." --Ephesians 2:19-21

Apply

Every day we're alive, we have an opportunity to build our lives on God--through reading the Word, living the Word (walking it out), and getting to know Jesus better.

At the same time, each day is filled with teeny tiny pivotal decisions--like whether or not to honor God with our words or how we treat someone.

My prayer for all of us is best stated through our Bible Memory Verse:  May the words of our mouths, and the meditations of our hearts, be pleasing in God's sight. HE is our Rock and our Redeemer. (Psalm 19:14)

Pray

God, we recognize that nothing in this world would exist without You. You have made all of creation--including us--and we'd be foolish to try to live without You. We have so many big and small decisions to make every day. Help us to get closer to you, so everything we say and do will be built on the strongest foundation:  You. We want to honor you. Amen.

Your Turn!!!

30 Day Cleanse - Day 11

Scripture

"By the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked, it is torn down." --Proverbs 11:11

Observe

When those who walk in righteousness bless a city, that city is lifted high; when the ungodly speak, the city is overthrown.

Keeping it Real

There is a great deal of power in the things that we say.

If an entire CITY can be changed by the blessing of the righteous or the curses of the ungodly, think about how much our words impact the INDIVIDUAL people around us.

I just want to encourage you today that the things that you say have everlasting impact. You can make a choice whether to use your words to bless the people around you and watch them become better people, OR to tear them down and watch them embody the negative things that you say.

Recently, I was challenged by someone to watch the things that I say--because I'm an example as a leader.

But it's NOT just me.

We are called to be imitators of Christ (Ephesians 5:1); we are called to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14); and we are chosen to be ambassadors of God (2 Corinthians 5:20).

Our lives are not our own, and neither are our words.

As it says in Ephesians 4:29 "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."

Apply

When we speak about our families, our churches, our leaders, our friends, our schools, our hometowns, our coworkers, and the places that we work--we have an ability to either speak blessings over them and bring the Kingdom of God, or speak death over them.

I challenge you to think before you speak:

What do I want this person to become?
What do I want my nation to become?
What do I want my family to become?
What do I want my church to become?

And then start speaking blessings over and praying for those things, believing that God will bring change to the areas that need it.

If "life and death are in the power of the tongue" (Proverbs 18:21), let's bring life.

Pray

Memorize: "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my rock and my Redeemer." --Psalm 19:14

Your Turn!!!

Have you ever spoken positively of someone, blessing them even when you didn't want to, and seen God totally change their heart? Write about it below!!!

(P.S. Any time you see God fulfill a promise of Scripture, write it down. God will use it to build your faith and the faith of others.)

30 Day Cleanse - Day 10

Scripture

"The Lord will not let the godly go hungry, but he refuses to satisfy the craving of the wicked." --Proverbs 10:3

Observe 

God wont let the wicked get what they want, but for His righteous ones, He makes sure that even their souls (desires, passions) are satisfied.

Balance

I think a lot of times we do not have a balanced understanding of who God is or what He does.

We see God as the ultimate power and authority, supreme and distant; OR we see God as our friend, with whom we can share everything.

Very rarely do there occur instances where we revere God as holy AND love Him dearly.

This verse, however, presents an opportunity to do just that.

Thwarting the Wicked - INFINITE GOD 

So many verses in the Bible declare the power and majesty of God.

From the beginning of Genesis--where God creates everything that has ever been made--to the end of Revelation--where God completes His destruction of everything unholy and reigns eternally, God is supreme.

When I read about how He withholds the desires of the ungodly, it reminds me of my little brother.

For those of you who know me, my younger brother is NOT little. He's about ten inches taller than me, over 35 pounds heaver than I am, and can bench press two of me and leg press three of me.

AKA- he is stronger than I am.

If I want something, and my brother has it in his possession, I cannot get it--no matter how hard I try.

Conversely, if I have something already, he can take it from me with little effort.

And he's not even the strongest person in the world.

So, think about God compared to the wicked.

God is not only larger in size, but greater in every way than any person ever. Being the creator of the universe, He has infinite power and might.

If the wicked want something, and God doesn't want to give it to them, there is NO way they can get it--no matter how hard they try.

Supporting the Godly - INTIMATE GOD

Conversely, with the righteous, God uses His power to provide for every desire and passion.

"Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." --Psalm 37:4

God loved the world so much that He gave us Jesus--who died for our sins, making us righteous with God. We've already discussed, throughout our cleanse, how being made right with God doesn't just provide us with eternal life but also influences every area of our lives in a positive way:

We get wisdom and direction; we receive blessings of the Lord; and God fights on our behalf, bringing us victory in every area.

Here, we see that God's love for us (those He has made godly) is very intimate love.

To be intimate is to be close.

For instance, one may tell a friend, "We are having a family problem." Whereas, one may tell a CLOSE friend the details of that problem. "My older sister ran away from home after a fight with my parents, and we can't find her."


God uses His infinite attributes to benefit those He intimately loves.


In other words, He knows us so well and loves us so much that He uses all of His power to provide for the simple things that we want and need--including the desires of our hearts.

Apply

If you do not yet know God, do not wait any longer.

If you do know God, take the time to get to know Him better. As you delight yourself in Him (as you are pliable in His hands), He rewards you with your heart's desires.

Pray

God, you are so powerful and holy and wise. The fact that you love us so much is beyond comprehension. Thank you for rewarding us when we pursue you. Give us the desire to do your will, so when you fulfill our desires, you are glorified. As we seek you, continue to make your word come alive to our hearts. Amen.

Your Turn!!!

Thoughts? Ready, set, go!

30 Day Cleanse - Day 9

Scripture

"So don't bother correcting mockers; they will only hate you. But correct the wise, and they will love you." --Proverbs 9:8

Observe

When we judge the people who mock us, it only encourages them to hate us. But when we correct the people who walk in wisdom, they embrace the correction, and love us more for helping them be wise.

 

 

Where We've Been

Over the past couple of months, we've grown closer to God, by remembering how good He has been in our lives; and we've grown closer to each other by hearing each others' stories about how God has impacted us.

Unfortunately, we have one sad thing in common:  Rejection.

Like Jesus says in John 15:19, "If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you."

Hate hurts.

So, really quickly, I want to encourage you with two verses:

"God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs." --Matthew 5:10

AND

"Even if [your] father and mother abandon [you], the LORD will hold [you] close." --Psalm 27:10

The God of all Wisdom has chosen you, loves you completely, and will bless you for whatever trials you face in this life on His behalf.

Where We Are

I feel like most of us are really grasping the love of God in such a way that we want everyone else to know Him--even the people who have hurt us.

That is the heart of God. 

"God demonstrates His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." --Romans 5:8

If you think about it, God knew Judas would betray His Son the whole time that he was a disciple, but Jesus didn't treat Judas ANY differently.

Judas got the same access to all of the heart and love and teaching and miracles of Jesus, even though he would eventually turn Jesus over to the people who wanted to kill Him.

God LOVED Judas completely, and gave Judas all of the chances in the world to know and love Him too.

The key word here is LOVE.

Where We're Going

In the New Testament, the Holy Spirit is called our guide. He gives us the mind of Christ, unveils the secrets of Scripture, and enables us to understand godly Wisdom.

But the Bible says that the Wisdom of God is NOT the wisdom of the world.

"For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.... But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong." --1 Corinthians 18:25 & 27

The Kingdom of God is backwards from the kingdom of the world.

In the Kingdom of God, a shepherd boy named David killed a giant, war hero named Goliath. In the Kingdom of God, we love our enemies. In the Kingdom of God, when we give away everything we have, we gain more than we could ever have.

To the world, all of these statements are illogical. They don't make mathematical sense.

Trying to correct the behaviors of non-Christians with the Wisdom of the Kingdom of God is like trying to use the rules of baseball to play rugby. It just doesn't work.

It only leads to frustration--on both parts.

Apply

Proverbs 9:8 tells us that wisdom doesn't work to reach the lost. The rest of the Bible tells us what does:  Love.

Like it says in 1 Peter 4:8, "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins."

When we judge/correct/rebuke the world, we uncover their sin. We point out where their actions do not line up with the will of God, and expose their weaknesses.

God doesn't do that.

In John 3:16 it says that "God so loved the world that He gave His only son, that whoever believes in Him would not perish, but have eternal life."

God didn't save anyone through judgment. He saved them through love.

And we get the privilege of doing the same!

Pray

God, we thank you that you loved us when we were imperfect. If you would have judged us while we were a mess, we never would have had the guts to come to you. We wouldn't have wanted you. But your love won us over. Thank you that we can learn from you in so many ways. Thank you that wisdom teaches us how to be like you. Thank you for sharing some of your heart with us today, as we studied your Word. Help us to be more loving, and give us grace to forgive those who have rejected us and hurt us. Most of all, help us to love others the way that you loved us, so the people we care about the most can know you too. Amen.

Your Turn!!!

Have you ever gone through a situation where you tried to give truth to someone living in sin? How did they react? Have you let God heal the places in your heart where you were rejected? Have you ever seen love transform someone's life? I'd love to hear about it!

30 Day Cleanse - Day 8

Scripture

"Now therefore, O sons, listen to me, for blessed are they who keep my ways." --Proverbs 8:32

Observe

 

The Therefore

In Bible School, one of my professors was known for a certain saying:

"When you see a 'therefore', find out what it's there for, for it's there for a reason."

In the original Hebrew, the word for "therefore" is "attah", which means "now". In English, we could translate it as, "so".

Imagine if you walked in a room to the end of someone's joke:  "So the farmer says, 'We didn't knead it anyway!'" Everyone in the room busts up laughing, but you're confused. All you heard was the punchline.

This verse is the punchline of Proverbs 8.

Wisdom is making her final statement that ties everything together. She says, "So you really want to listen to be, because people who do are spoiled rotten by God."

As a stand-alone statement that sounds pretty easy to understand, but just like you need to hear the whole joke for the punchline to be funny, we need to look at the rest of what Wisdom says, in order to understand the HUGENESS of what she is saying.

So, let's back up a couple of verses, and read Proverbs 8:22-31:

“The LORD possessed me at the beginning of His way, Before His works of old. From everlasting I was established, From the beginning, from the earliest times of the earth. When there were no depths I was brought forth, When there were no springs abounding with water. Before the mountains were settled, Before the hills I was brought forth; While He had not yet made the earth and the fields, Nor the first dust of the world.

When He established the heavens, I was there, When He inscribed a circle on the face of the deep, When He made firm the skies above, When the springs of the deep became fixed, When He set for the sea its boundary So that the water would not transgress His command, When He marked out the foundations of the earth; Then I was beside Him, as a master workman; And I was daily His delight, Rejoicing always before Him, Rejoicing in the world, His earth, And having my delight in the sons of men."

The Context

 

On Day 3, we talked about how wisdom is an attribute of God, which He gives to us through His Holy Spirit.
We discussed how Heaven and Earth were made by the Wisdom of God, and how it gives us worth as people and advantage in every situation of life.

But today, Solomon is not talking about Wisdom. Instead SHE declares her own existence and gives her own history.

And there is distinct purpose in the WAY she talks.

Have you ever read the book of Job?

For those of you who haven't, the basic context of the story is this: There's a guy named Job who undergoes a tremendous amount of suffering for God; in the midst of it, he has a bunch of friends visit--who make him feel like he must have sinned; he tells them that he hasn't sinned and tries to defend himself and God.

There is A LOT MORE in the book of Job, but my favorite part is when God shows up, and puts all of them in their place.

Read what He says in Job 38:1-11.

"Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind and said, 'Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge? Now gird up your loins like a man, And I will ask you, and you instruct Me!

'Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell Me, if you have understanding, Who set its measurements? Since you know. Or who stretched the line on it? On what were its bases sunk? Or who laid its cornerstone, when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy?

'Or who enclosed the sea with doors when, bursting forth, it went out from the womb; when I made a cloud its garment and thick darkness its swaddling band, and I placed boundaries on it and set a bolt and doors, and I said, "Thus far you shall come, but no farther; And here shall your proud waves stop"?'"

Answering the Question

 

Who was there when God started the beginning?

Wisdom.

And the whole time, she cheered God on and rejoiced with Him in the beauty and perfection of His creation.

God doesn't just have an acquaintance with Wisdom; they're inseperable.

Apply

On Day 7, we learned that pursuing Wisdom is a way of getting to know God.

This passage affirms it.

Wisdom tells us, "Because of who I am and where I've been with God, learn from me. God will reward you for it."

Remember the whole family analogy?

Wisdom is like an older sister who has gone before us.

Want to learn the layout of your high school? She knows; she's went there first. Want to know which professors are good in college? She knows; she's studied under them first. Want to know the quickest way to the mall? She knows; she's driven there many times.

Want to get to know God? Wisdom knows. She knew Him first.

Pray

God, thank you for teaching us to appreciate and value wisdom. Help us to listen to wisdom and pay attention to your Holy Spirit, so we can get to know You better. Thank you for teaching us so much and for always wanting our hearts. Amen.

Your Turn!!!

You know the drill. HMU

30 Day Cleanse - Day 7

Scripture

"Say to wisdom, 'You are my sister,' And call understanding your intimate friend;" --Proverbs 7:4

Observe

Become friends with wisdom and understanding; love them like they are part of your family.

Call the ones who are wise your brothers and sisters; declare that the discerning will know you the best.

The Sacrifice

On Day 4, we learned that, in order to obtain true wisdom, we have to give up our own thoughts and ideas. On Day 5, we talked about how we need to get away from negative influences in our lives--in order to be able to listen to and follow God.

When we put those things together, it sounds like we could be lonely or miserable.

Imagine Solomon's sons. They heard these words from their father, knowing that someday they would be kings themselves. And they became responsible (even from a young age) to abstain from all the pleasures reserved for kings.

Before they even got a chance to try it out, Solomon busted up their party, and told them it wasn't going to be worth it.

I would have pouted.

In fact, sometimes I DO pout when I think about the things I'm "missing out on", or the sacrifices I make "for God" with no immediate reward.

BUT God encourages me.

The Reward

God himself reaches down from Heaven into my exact circumstance (remember how perfect His timing is?), and encourages me.

In times when I'm down, God reminds me that my relationship with Him isn't just sacrifice. I also GAIN a LOT of things:  Friendship with Him, awesome revelations in the Word, crazy friends who love Jesus, comfort when I'm sad, someone to talk to when I'm lonely, healing when I'm broken, and hope that--no matter what I go through today--God has a plan for my life.

Apply

In our verse today, God reminds us to not just see wisdom as something to memorize, something to conquer, or something to check off the invisible list.

He tells us to take our time getting to know wisdom, because when we pursue wisdom, we are pursuing Him, and nothing compares to knowing Him.

He's the best friend that we could ever have.

AND you'll find that, along the way, your friendship with God will bring people into your life who have been pursuing wisdom too.

When you are complete in God, surrounded by others who know God, walking in the plan God has for your life, suddenly you'll realize that the sacrifices are well WORTH the rewards.

Pray

God, we thank you that you love us and that you want to know us. It is an honor that you give us salvation AND friendship. Help us to understand wisdom--not just so we can say that we get it, but so we can know your heart. We pray for our friends and family all around the world right now. Holy Spirit, please encourage their hearts, and help us--no matter how near or far--to be united in wisdom, heart, and purpose. We love you, Lord! Amen.

Your Turn!!!

You know the drill. Hit me up with your comments!

30 Day Cleanse - Day 6

Recap:

So far on our journey, we have learned the following things:

Day 1 - If we pay attention to the Holy Spirit, we will be wise.
Day 2 - God fights for us, because we have been made righteous through Christ.
Day 3 - When God fills us with the Holy Spirit, He gives us access to all wisdom.
Day 4 - The cost of wisdom is the same as the cost of salvation:  Everything we have.
Day 5 - Part of the cost of wisdom is laying down ungodly relationships and behaviors that hinder us from being who God made us to be.

 

Scripture

 

"My son, keep your father’s command and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. Bind them always on your heart; fasten them around your neck. When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you." --Proverbs 6:20-22

Observe

I LOVE these verses!

In them, Solomon is telling his children to pay attention to the wisdom from their parents, because the things they are taught will guide them, protect them, and give them counsel through all of life's situations.

This passage reminds me of three things:

1. God's Omnipresence
2. God's Timing
3. God's Word

God's Omnipresence

 

Omnipresence is a word meaning everywhere, all the time.

Just like Solomon tells his children that his teachings will accompany them wherever they go, God is with us wherever we are.

In fact, Solomon's dad, David, wrote about that in Psalm 139:

"O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away. You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord. You go before me and follow me.... I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence!" --Psalm 139:1-7

God's Timing

God's omnipresence allows Him to guide us through literally every situation in life.

Just like Solomon's wisdom would guide, guard, and teach his children, God interacts with us in real time to provide us with guidance, protection, and wisdom for us and others.

In the New Testament, God affirms that He will give us direction and wisdom--exactly when we need it: 

"'But when they hand you over, do not worry about how or what you are to say; for it will be given you in that hour what you are to say. For it is not you who speak, but it is the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.'" --Matthew 10:19-20

God's Word

It is always good to know that God never leaves us--no matter where we go--but we don't always feel like He's there. Likewise, it's good to know that God's timing is perfect for every situation, but in the middle of some situations, we can feel absolutely desperate for God to show up.

So, how do we stand in times like these?

In the Old Testament, we read about how Moses led the people of Israel out of slavery in Egypt and into the desert. They were headed to the Promised Land, but due the hearts of the people, most of them never saw it--including Moses.

Before he died, Moses passed the responsibility of leading God's people to Joshua.

Joshua needed to experience the omnipresence of God. He needed God to be with him everywhere he went; He needed to experience the direction of God; and He needed the words of God to lead the people of God.

In Joshua's most desperate moment, God himself showed up and gave Joshua everything he needed:

"'Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.'" --Joshua 1:8

 

One of the greatest ways we get to experience God's omnipresence and timing is through His Word.

Apply

Like it says in John 15:5, we can't do anything without God. We desperately need Him in our lives.

We live our lives in the presence of God by studying the Word of God.

Solomon taught his children that wisdom would be with them always if they would do two things:  Bind wisdom to their hearts (memorize), and fasten them around their necks (reflect). In the same ways (through memorization and constant reflection) we can keep God's wisdom--His Word--with us.

You'll be amazed at how often God will use the very passages you study to reveal Himself to you--and to others, through you.

Pray

God, we thank you that you never leave us (Matthew 28:20). We thank you for giving us the Holy Spirit--who teaches us everything we need to know and reminds us of everything You have told us (John 14:26). We ask that as we study your Word, you would guide us, watch over us, and speak to us. Thank you that your word is alive (Hebrews 4:12). Like David said, let us hide your word in our hearts, so we will not sin against you (Psalm 119:11). Amen.

Your Turn!!!

What is God saying to you today? Respond below.

 

 

30 Day Cleanse - Day 5

Scripture

"Now then, my sons, listen to me and do not depart from the words of my mouth. Keep your way far from [the adulterous] and do not go near the door of her house, or you will give your vigor to others and your years to the cruel one;" --Proverbs 5:7-9
 

Observe

Solomon tells his children to listen to and remember to follow the things he says. He warns them to stay far away from adulterers (those who have turned aside, the profane, strangers). If not, they will sacrifice their honor and give their lives to those who are cruel.

The Old Testament contains a narrative of God's chosen people (the Israelites)--from the call of Abraham (Genesis 12) to the conquering of the Promised Land (Canaan) under the headship of Joshua, starting with Jericho (Joshua 6).

Throughout history, various antagonists have entered the story of God's people.

One of the most noteworthy adversaries, however, was Israel's own choice: Intermarriage with foreign nations.

The Old Testament is full of stories that go something like this:

A godly king conquers an enemy nation with the miraculous power of God; the king has to make a choice about whether or not to destroy that nation completely or to take some of its treasure (and women) for himself; the king decides to take one (or several) ungodly (pagan) women, and the whole nation of soldiers follows suit; the pagan women lead their men into worship of foreign gods; the godly nation turns away from God, removing God's blessing; a foreign nation then conquers Israel (God's chosen people); Israel cries out to God; God liberate Israel and gives them another godly king; the godly king would go to battle....

And the process repeats again and again.

So, it is understandable why Solomon would advise his children--future kings and leaders--to stay away from adulterers (those who would lead them away from God). If they didn't, they would sacrifice their honor (literally majesty, authority), and the years on their throne(s) to the cruelty of foreign nations.

Apply

In the New Testament, Paul writes the same advice to believers:

"Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness?" --2 Corinthians 6:14

When we become Christians, we become sons and daughters of God (Romans 8:15) and heirs along with Jesus (Romans 8:17). We, like Solomon's sons, are current and future rulers of God's Kingdom.

Whereas Solomon warned his sons that intermarriage with foreign wives would cause them to sacrifice the glory of kings, God warns us (His children) that being influenced by those who have turned away from Him will cause us to not live up to the glory of God.

This does not mean that we cannot have non-Christian friends. Jesus used to hang out with "sinners" all the time.

The most important thing, however, was that wherever Jesus went, the people around Him changed--not the other way around.

Pray

God, we recognize that wisdom tells us to be careful in our relationships. It is so easy to compromise the things that we believe in when we are surrounded by people and media that don't believe in you. We live in, go to school in, and work in this world. Sometimes it feels like we can't escape it. BUT we want to be people who accurately demonstrate the glory of God--in such a way that the lives of the people around us are changed. So, please give us grace to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14) and help us to remember that you have overcome the world (John 16:33) when we encounter struggles. We trust that you are still fighting for us and will give us wisdom and victory in every area. Amen.

Your Turn!!!

Do you have experience in this area? How has God given you wisdom in balancing your relationships and your time? What did God speak to you through Proverbs 5? Comment below!

30 Day Cleanse - Day 4

Scripture

"The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom.
Though it cost all you have, get understanding." --Proverbs 4:7

Observe

The very start of being wise is to acquire wisdom in the first place--which will take you everything you have.

Apply

Giving all we have to obtain wisdom is done in two ways:

1. We GIVE our all.
2. We SURRENDER our all.

 

We GIVE our all.

In Proverbs 4:7, the word for "all you have" is the Hebrew word "kol" which means "all". Kol comes from the word "kalal" which means "complete, perfect."

Kol is the same word used in Jeremiah 29:13, when God says, "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with ALL your heart."

It reminds me of the Greatest Commandment:  "Love the Lord your God with ALL your heart and with ALL your soul and with ALL your mind and with ALL your strength."

Since wisdom comes from God, we must seek God to find wisdom.

And God is found by us when we give our ALL.

We SURRENDER our all.

In order to obtain wisdom, we must first give up our own human wisdom.

Like it says in 2 Corinthians 10:5, "We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ."

Part of the battle to gain wisdom is a battle against the thoughts that come naturally to us.

On Day 3 of our cleanse, we discussed how humans have a soul--containing our mind, will, and emotions.

Our soul is how we think and feel about things.

Unfortunately, oftentimes our soul gets in the way of listening to the wisdom of God:  His thoughts and feelings about things.

Therefore, in order to gain true wisdom, we must surrender our thoughts and feelings in exchange for his.

Pray

God, we thank you that you do not withhold wisdom from those who seek it. It says in your word that you love giving wisdom those who ask for it. We know that you made a way for us to be filled with wisdom by filling us with your Holy Spirit, but we recognize that we aren't perfect yet. So we ask you for MORE wisdom. Help us to seek wisdom like it's treasure, and help us to lay down our own thoughts and feelings that could get in the way of choosing wisdom. Amen.

Your Turn!!!

Write your thoughts and/or the wisdom God has given you about Proverbs 4 below!

30 Day Cleanse - Day 3

Recap:

Day 1 - Proverbs 1 - Wisdom comes from God; when we listen to Wisdom, God gives us more of His Spirit--who gives us more Wisdom.

Day 2 - Proverbs 2 - God fights for the righteous; we are made righteous through Christ, so God is fighting for us.

Today - Proverbs 3 - God gives us Wisdom in the form of His Holy Spirit, because He wants us to be victorious.

Scripture

 

"The Lord by wisdom founded the earth,
By understanding He established the heavens." --Proverbs 3:19

Observe

Some things are made in Taiwan; some things are made in China; some things are made with love. God, however, made everything with Wisdom.

If Wisdom took place in the creation of heaven and earth, it is not a created thing. It is part of who God is.

Wisdom is part of God's Spirit.

What is His Spirit?

Do you remember when we talked about how humans are created in the image of God?

Humans are spirits who possess souls and live in bodies.

Body:  A physical casing comprised of tangible matter.
Soul:  Emotions, thoughts, desires, and the human will.
Spirit:  The essence of a man--the person who has the emotions, thoughts, desires, etc.

God's Spirit is His essence--the permanent things, like His character:

"The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." --Galatians 5:22-23

Wisdom is part of God's Spirit.

Just like a person who has a compassionate spirit may desire to feed the homeless, God's Spirit of Wisdom prompts Him to do cool things--like create the whole world, provide salvation for you and me, and work all things together for the good of those who love Him.

Apply

When Jesus went back to Heaven to be with God, He gave us His Spirit.

"It is God who enables us, along with you, to stand firm for Christ. He has commissioned us and he has identified us as his own by placing the Holy Spirit in our hearts as the first installment that guarantees everything he has promised us." --2 Corinthians 1:21-22

By giving us His Spirit, God literally FILLS us with Wisdom.

If you go back and re-read the first three chapters of Proverbs--paying close attention to the blessings, provision, and promises of God in the lives of the wise--you'll realize that being filled with Wisdom is one of the greatest blessings God could give.

In the end, the wise overcome.

Because God is God (who loves rigging the deck in our favor), He filled us with His Spirit--who being Wisdom, teaches us to be more wise, so we can live in victory and experience tremendous blessing and provision!

Pray

God, we thank you that you give us so many good things! From eternal salvation, to giving us your Spirit--who brings us peace, teaches us, and makes us more like you--to literally providing every way for us to be victorious and blessed. You are awesome, and we are grateful for your love. Thank you for the truth of your Word, and help us to continue to understand your love and wisdom as we read it. Give us grace to LISTEN to the voice of wisdom and walk in the victories you've already provided for us. Amen.

Your turn!!!

What do you think of Proverbs? What has God been teaching you? Have you been challenged? Respond below!

30 Day Cleanse - Day 2

Recap:

 

Solomon was the wisest man who ever lived. Wisdom was a gift God gave to him, because Solomon had a faithful heart and desired to wisely lead God's people.

From our reading yesterday, we know that wisdom comes from God.

By giving Solomon a piece of Himself--wisdom--God gave Solomon insight into things that had not yet happened.

Keep reading!

 

Scripture

 

"He is a shield to those who walk in integrity, Guarding the paths of justice, And He preserves the way of His godly ones." --Proverbs 2:7b-8

Observe

God himself covers, surrounds, and defends the righteous. He watches over justice to make sure that it is carried out in all situations, and He is a bodyguard for those who show mercy.

He is a shield to those who walk in integrity.

 

The word for "integrity" in the original Hebrew is "tom"--which comes from the root word "tamam". Tamam means "finished."

But what is finished?

Right before Jesus died on the cross to pay for the sin of all humanity (John 3:16), he uttered one Greek word:  Tetelestai. (John 19:30)

Tetelestai literally means "It is finished."

In New Testament times, it was the same word used to declare indentured servants free. It announced in bold letters, "Your debt is paid in full."

Reread that.

God himself covers, surrounds, and defends those who walk in integrity--those who have been made righteous by the FINISHED work of Christ on the cross.

Apply

Sometimes we feel like we're all alone in the world, like everyone we love is against us, life is caving in and we are left fighting by ourselves.

Jesus summed it up for us in Matthew 10:22:  "You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved."

The one who stands firm to the end will be saved.

So, how do we stand firm?

God himself covers, surrounds, and defends us, because of what Jesus did for us. And if God is for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31)

God literally set it up so that, before it even got started, the battle was already won.

Pray

Jesus, we thank you that you came to earth, lived a perfect life, and died in our place. We thank you that you gave up your life to make us perfect and to give us right-standing with God. God, we love you and are so grateful to get to know you. And we are SO honored that you are always fighting for us. We know that you will give us victory in all things, so please give us courage, boldness, and a sense of your presence with us in our battles. Make us confident that we will stand firm to the end. We trust you, and we thank you that we don't have to fight alone. Amen.

Your Turn!!!

 

What did you like about Proverbs 2? Respond below!

30 Day Cleanse - Day 1

Scripture

 

"Turn to my reproof, Behold, I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you." --Proverbs 1:23

Observe

Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, wrote the book of Proverbs to his children. He used Hebrew poetry and story-telling to give them tid-bits of wisdom for life.

Throughout Proverbs, Solomon personifies Wisdom as a woman who stands and calls loudly at people. She stands out in the street, shouting out the differences between wisdom and folly and giving advice to anyone who will listen. It is literally impossible for people to miss her.

In this verse, she cries, "When I correct you, listen to me and apply my words to your life. If you do, I will give you all of myself."

If you take that out of quotes and put it in a direct statement, the verse says this: Turn back to wisdom when you are corrected / rebuked / disciplined. If you do, you will receive a "spirit" of wisdom--a living source that will constantly give you understanding.

Apply

Wisdom comes from God (James 1:5), and in this verse, Wisdom talks just like Him!

1. Turn. Wisdom says turn; God says repent (Mark 1:15).
2. Reproof. Wisdom says, "Pay attention to my reproof"; God says His Word is good for reproof (2 Timothy 3:16).
3. Spirit. Wisdom says she will pour out her spirit; God says He will pour out His Spirit (Joel 2:28-29).
4. Known. Wisdom says she will make her words known; God says He will make Himself known (Ezekiel 38:23).

How does this apply to everyday life?

We make mistakes all the time. The Bible says that "all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23), BUT if we return to God (REPENT) when He corrects us, He will cover us in His Spirit and reveal Himself to us in greater ways.

Proverbs 1:23 is a picture of salvation--many many years before Jesus even came!

 

 

Pray

God, you are all glorious on your throne. You have all knowledge and wisdom. You hold time in your hands and have created every mystery. We thank you for the perfection of your Word and hold tight to your promise that if we ask you for wisdom, you will give it to us. So, right now, we ask you for wisdom. And we ask for grace in the moments when we don't want to listen to wisdom and want to do things our own way. It says in Philippians 2:13 that you are working on our hearts--not only do you help us to DO your will, but you give us the HEART and DESIRE to do your will. Please help us to turn to you as you correct us, so we can grow. Help us to repent when we mess up, so we can come close to you and get more of you. Mostly, we pray that you would pour out your Spirit upon us--that we would be full of you. Amen.

Your turn!!!

What did you get from Proverbs 1? Comment below.

 

30 Day "Cleanse"

January 1st, for most people, is a day of reflection and resolution. When looking at a new year, we tend to see opportunity. Nothing has been done in the new year yet, so we can make it great! We can eat better, sleep better, play better, be better friends, and do more good things--basically becoming better people.

With that in mind, we make resolutions and set goals. For the first few days, we're successful, but we end up wrestling between new ideas and old habits--till we end up here.

Today.

When someone reminds us that our plans have failed. The year is almost half-way over, and we're not the people that we wanted to be yet.

But the keyword is YET.

January is over; February is over; March is over; April is going quickly, but LIFE is not over.

We still have time to make every moment count, to make every effort to eat better, sleep better, play better, be better friends, do more good things, and become better people.

For me, personally, it's time to get back up and running again (literally), but especially when it comes to reading the Word.

One of our guests to UR presented a concept that her church embraces called SOAP-ing. It's where you read the Bible, pick a verse that stands out to you, and do the following:

S - Scripture (Write it down word for word)
O - Observe (Write what it means, in your own words)
A - Apply (Write how it applies to your life)
P - Pray (Write a simple prayer about what you've learned)

There's a lot of SOAP to be had, so we're going to do a 30 Day "Cleanse".

For the next 30 days, we're going to read through Proverbs together. I'll provide a SOAP of the day, and all are welcome to respond and/or share theirs for the chapter too.

It's a lot easier to keep a goal when we work together.

Let's do this!!!