I never payed attention to the edge of the page during my reading on this link, strange enough this morning was reading Proverbs 31 and at end I saw "Discussion for Proverbs 31 View Comments" then pressed on comment just by curiosity, I saw your message.
I understand why you feel worried. Wanting marriage is natural, and it's okay to feel discouraged sometimes when this is taking time. Please allow me to remind you of the character of GOD: GOD is faithful, intentional, with a perfect timing; GOD doesn't withhold good things from His children ( Psalm 84:11).
Psalm 37:4-5 - "Delight yourself in the Lord He will give you the desires of your heart."
Isaiah 41:10 - "Fear not, for I am with you"
Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart"
You might feel behind; allow me to remind you that waiting is not wasted time. GOD often uses preparation before promotion.
Many strong Christian marriages happen later rather than earlier. This season may be shaping you into the husband you are meant to be. Sometimes GOD develops us privately before blessing us publicly. This period might be strengthening qualities you'll later be grateful for. Isaiah 34:16; Genesis 2:18 are your portions.
Please have in mind you are valuable, purposeful, and complete in GOD; Marriage is a blessing, but it's not what makes you worthy or whole. Your identity doesn't depend on your marital status.
I'll hand you my little help by prayer as you requested.
LORD, give our brother Jonathan Grove peace in his heart. Remind him that You hold his future, and Your timing is perfect. Prepare the right relationship for him and prepare him for it. Remove fear and replace it with confidence in Your love. Amen
Brother Jonathan Grove I'm here for you. You don't have to walk through this by yourself.
How Does Trust in God Translate into Daily Life? pt1
Hello to all, I have read somewhere the following:
Trust in God is not an abstract concept. It translates into specific practical behaviors and inner states that affect the way we live, think, and face challenges.
1. In Dealing with Anxiety and Fear
"Trust turns fear into peace"
Practical Translation: Instead of being paralyzed by worry about the future (job, health, finances), you do what you can and then leave the outcome in God's hands.
Inner State: You adopt the mindset: "I have done what is humanly possible. Now, I trust that God, who sees the big picture, will provide the best for me, according to His will." This brings inner peace ( Psalm 46:1).
2. In Decision Making
"Trust provides guidance and removes uncertainty"
Practical Translation: Before making a big decision (career change, moving), you pray for guidance and wisdom, rather than relying solely on your own logical abilities.
Inner State: You recognize that God's wisdom surpasses your own. You trust that if you commit the decision to God, He will "He shall direct thy paths." ( Proverbs 3:5-6), even if the path seems unclear at first.
3. In Interpersonal Relationships
"Trust in God affects how we view others and ourselves".
Practical Translation: When you feel wronged or hurt, instead of holding a grudge or seeking revenge, you trust God to bring justice or comfort. You focus on forgiveness.
Inner State: You rely on God's Love for your worth, rather than seeking constant validation from people. This makes you freer and less demanding in your relationships.
4. In Trials and Difficulties
"Trust turns pain into opportunity"
Practical Translation: When you face an illness or loss, you don't see the situation as a dead end, but as part of a larger plan.
Inner State: You believe that "all things work together for good to those who love God" ( Romans 8:28). This faith allows you to look for the lesson or empowerment hidden within the trial, keeping hope alive.
Brother Richard, what a beautiful prayer of faith and dependence on the Lord!
May your heart rest in this truth - that God's plans for you are perfect and full of peace.
Psalm 37:5 (KJV): "Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass."
As you stand at this final stage, remember that victory is not only in the job offer itself, but in the steadfast trust you place in the Lord through every step. Whether He opens this particular door or another, His purpose for you cannot fail.
Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
You are indeed chosen, set apart, and dearly loved. ( 1 Peter 2:9)
May God go before you this week, grant you favor before men, and give you peace to wait in faith. Whatever the outcome, your testimony will shine of His goodness and faithfulness.
Standing with you in prayer, brother - may His will be done and His name glorified.
I am a praying and God fearing mom. I pray ever day. I can't quote scriptures well, I'm just learning a few by heart. One I hold on to every day is Proverbs 3: 4-6 this scripture gives me strength. Only today however I decided to click on the comments here and saw the comments made and found like a whole community here. So I will like to ask if someone can pray for me and my kids security of a home, which is not really secure at the moment. I am trying to run my business full time, grow it and support my family all on my own and its very difficult at times but my faith in God keeps me strong. Bless this group and the members for their support to others and their sharing of their spiritual knowledge.
Ricardo, There's a wall up between you and God that's hindering God's ability to do additional things of what He wants/needs to do in your life. The "wall" is your way of thinking. You stated, "As a man I operate and rely strongly upon logic". Logic is not a bad at all when applied correctly. It's impossible to rely strongly on logic when understanding the character of God. Of course, God Almighty is ALL powerful. God won't force Himself to operate in our lives "fully" until we "fully" surrender our all to Him...our mind, body, spirit, and soul. and there is absolutely NO limit to His power, we can't allow our point of view to get in the way of God wanting us to Him in our lives completely.
"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding." Proverbs 3:5 KJV
"God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth." John 4:24 KJV
I read your comment and I am sorry for all you are going through. That is a lot to carry. A few months ago the Lord impressed upon me to have a prayer book. I want you to know that your name is in it. The prayer book is prayed on often and this prayer book belongs to the Lord. From experience, I want you to know that when life feels this heavy, it is when the Lord is the closet and right by your side. I never knew this to be true until I also went through some suffering myself. I learned that the devil will attack what is valuable to God's plan. You are valuable and loved by God. Do not lose sight of the Lord. Trust me he has not left. The bible verse that I constantly remind myself of is "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding." Proverbs 3:5. Know that I am praying for you and Jesus is with you. Keep praying and talking with him. He hears every word. If there is anything else that I can pray about with you, please let me know!
At this moment, we are called to pay close attention.... by the faith we have in Christ Jesus, we will reflect His character and holiness.
However, I must also add a word of exhortation and admonition: we are called to be the salt of the earth ( Hebrews 10:25), just as other passages in Scripture speak about being conformed to the image of Christ and the continual transformation of believers,
The Bible emphasizes the importance of wise choices and the pursuit of God's will in every area of our lives. This processs "unfolds" throughout the Christian walk, and it is something we recognize and witness in one another. how we know all this
In Proverbs 3:5-6, we are instructed to trust in the Lord with all our heart and not lean on our own understanding, acknowledging Him in all our ways so that He may make our paths straight.To avoid being too vague, what I've found so ffar is that we should not pretend to build friendships only to evangelize. I n addition, in 1 Corinthians 7:7, the apostle Paul acknowledges that difffferent people have diffferent gifts.
So I hope this adds something meaningful, as it's also something I've been observing.
Christian is the Religion of God to Believe inRomans 10:14 KJV
Romans 10:14 KJV
[14] How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
My Interpetation: I allow God to use me to handle the word of God correctly and his testimony Revelation 12:11 KJV
[11] And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.
Ways you can handle the word of God correctly is 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV
[15] Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Rightly dividing the truth is to understand, interpret, apply its teachings correctly which some methods I use are reading bible, praying, meditating on God's word and actions.
My Interpetation: I allowed God to use me being vessels as whole of his love messengers of the Gospel. A Result I become blessed - Habakkuk 2:2-3 KJV, LinkProverbs 3:5-6 KJV Link
Ways you can be vessels messengers are to preach the Gospel message of Jesus Christ and it is the same as to seed sown "power to take root and spread the message of salvation."
Psalm 90:2 KJV
[2] Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.
My Interpetation: In my life I have and still until this day believe Jesus Christ is God from before and when the earth was formed until now and future.- Philippians 4:13 KJV
[13] I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Word Spoken and Interpetation by Reginald Taylor Jr
Godforbid: yea,letGodbetrue, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightestbejustified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.
Are we responsible to know the Bible ourselves ? ?
John 5:39
Searchthescriptures; for inthem ye think ye have eternal life: andthey arethey which testify of me.
The biggest liar in the world is the devil himself as Satan.
John 8:44
Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is aliar, and the father of it.
There will be people with great education and decrees and will look very rightous , but deceive many .
Ephesians 4:14
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait todeceive;
Deception is only going to get worse and we are living in it right now.
2 Timothy 3:13
But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and beingdeceived.
If we can't trust man , then who do we trust ? ? Most people will say " I trust Jesus Christ ". But how ? ?
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trustin theLordwith all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
We all have to trust God in His word.
Ephesians 1:13
In whom ye alsotrusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
Now, after you have trusted God, where do you go from here ? ?
2 Timothy 2:15
Studytoshew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth nottobe ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
I am praying for your daughter. Please tell her that others feel as she does and have similar experiences, and also have seen the Lord give His grace and help. "In all they ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct they paths".- Proverbs 3:6
There are many interpretations of scripture and a plethora of church denominations. When we read and study the Bible, we can arrive at different conclusions. It might be that we are not ready to receive the answer as Paul mentioned in 1 Corinthians 3:2, or it might be that we are clinging to preconceived notions instead of approaching the text with an open mind and fresh eyes. We should set aside our interpretations and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit, rather than relying solely on our understanding, as advised in Proverbs 3:5.
We should approach Scripture with the curiosity and wonder of a child as if we are reading it for the first time. It is essential to read the Word of God with humility, acknowledging that we have much to learn. When God provided bread to the Israelites, they named it "Manna," which means "What is it?" This should be our mindset when we read Scripture-praying, "What is it?" We must strive to understand its message, be eager for the truth, and rejoice when it is revealed.
We must carefully follow the text, avoiding preconceived ideas and allowing it to reveal its meaning. If we impose our interpretations onto the text, we may alter its intended meaning and not see it. We must have eyes to see and ears to hear.
This is just for fun, but it could also be eye-opening.
We've all heard the expression, "You can't see the forest for the trees." Imagine someone standing in front of a forest, trying to appreciate its beauty but unable to do so because the trees are blocking their view. While it may seem simplistic, this analogy illustrates how our subconscious mind operates. We all have preconceived notions that can overshadow our understanding of what we are reading.
When asked how many of each type of animal went into the ark with Noah, many people will say there were two of each, one male and one female. However, that is not what Scripture states.
Day 18 January 18,2025 Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV West Angeles Church Consecration Calendar
Me being a member at West Angeles Cogic Church Cathedral Los Angeles California
Proverbs 3:5 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
"Being a man and woman of your word-Direct to best of knowledge or if something changed of rule based procedures and laws. Good news is to trust in the LORD to be identified Christian shown and known to be directed, lead to change uncertainty to certainty of your faith Ephesians 4:6KJV. Where it begun will be completed.
I have proof, evidence of my speaking habits are approved to receive and be services of speaking correctly, holiness actions, speech. Principle of God all religions Always performaning righteousness, holiness in actions "to do it" of God. To have faith, believe Romans 10:9-10 KJV. Myself is an example cordial and sincere. Romans 10:10 KJV (Standard rule and practice).
Ezekiel 36:26 KJV Allows people to see Jesus Christ is God and believe practical understanding of morals. Not if acts "did it" actions,sensorys of wanting not to be a man and woman of your word ."
Proverbs 3:6 KJV
My interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
"Rules of all God's in all paths.By faith first Romans 10:9-10 KJV believe.For greater results and responds standard rules and practices Christian methods serving, reading holy bible, praying, fasting.
Most Quoted Jehohvah which is needed-Jesus Christ is God the Father. Allowing God to give you what you suppose to have and returned guaranteed in truth. That's your mind, body, soul, counsel Psalms 119:24 KJV confirmed did the word of God where it begun and will be completed.In truth I have applied my faith, believing, supporting God,God supporting me, supporting West Angeles Cogic Church Cathedral distinction of born man identified Christian, service ,ministry, Christian methods reading holy bible, praying, fasting. "
Trust YAH/GOD [ Proverbs 3:5-6] and go to HIS Word and let it lead you and guide you.
HE and HE alone IS the Great Physician [ Isaiah 53:5 & Psalm 103:3] although HE has HIS representatives on the earth, they are in the vast minority because as it is written satan has deceived the "whole" world [ Revelation 12:9]
Pharmakeia [pharmaceuticals] by its very definition in the Greek means witchcraft. [ pharmakea, far-mak-i'-ah; from G5332; medication ("pharmacy"), i.e. (by extension) magic (literally or figuratively):-sorcery, witchcraft.]
So be very discerning and ALWAYS ask the HOLY SPIRIT OF YAH for Wisdom [ James 1:5] that you may understand HIS Word to sift out truth from fiction or truth from half truths, that HE may guide your feet to [ Psalm 119:105] where HE may want you to go and to whom, if any, that HE may want you to go to.
Also that most of all, HE would teach you about the power and authority that HE has placed in you, even from the foundation of the world [ Ephesians 1:4-6]; and which HE reinforced in the forming of the template [Adam] of material man [ Genesis 1:26 ] when HE [ELOHIM- I.E. THE PLURALITY OF HIMSELF] said Let US make man in our own image and likeness; and again when YESHUA/JESUS said that you can do all that HE does and even more [ John 14:12]
May YAH continue to Keep you. In YESHUA MIGHTY NAME.AMEN.
FATHER You said that where two or more are gathered YOU shall be in their midst [ Matthew 18:20] We confess our sins and we know that you have forgiven us because it is not your will that any should perish [ 2 Peter 3:9]. FATHER, YOUR SON YESHUA/CHRIST says that anything we ask in HIS NAME YOU shall honor [ John 16:23] so in faith we ask that YOU go ahead of Christian and make the crooked places straight and break the gates of brass and the bars of iron [ Isaiah 45:2] . Still the tongue of the enemy and the avenger [ Psalms 8:2b] Stop, confound and turn back the wicked. Hide Christian under the shadow of your wings [ Psalm 91:1] Let your Word be a lamp unto his feet and light unto his path [ Psalms 119:105] Bridle his tongue when the wicked are around [ Psalms 39:1] Give him the peace which surpasseth all understanding [ Philippians 4:7] Bless the work of his hands [ Deuteronomy 28:12] Cause him to have favor with YOU and with man [ Proverbs 3:4]. Let all evil collaborators turn upon each other as they did when they came against Zerubbabel/ Gideon [ Judges 7:22] For as they come in as one they shall flee as seven [ Deuteronomy 28:7] Your Word said that those who dig a pit they shall fall into it [ Ecclesiastes 10:8] let the wicked whose only plans is to destroy [ Psalm 140:4] your children fall into their own pits and let their own arrows return back to them [] but keep Christian safe, and merited and in good standing that he may have the victory and let all this be applied by extension to his whole house that he may live and give YOU the Glory in YESHUA MIGHTY NAME . Amen!
Luke 14:8 - When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him;
The Greek word here for "highest room" means the chief reclining places. When the master of the feast, (the one who has made the feast), he sits at the head, at the back of this big reclining table, and the most honorable sit next to him, and working its way down to the end is the lowest seats or reclining places at the table.
Luke 14:10 - But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.
Here is the literal translation of this verse:
But when you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest reclining place; that when he that has invited you, he may say unto you, Friend, go up higher: then you shall have glory, (the word worship is the word glory (DOKSA), in the presence of them that sit at meal with you.
Luke 14:11 - For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
The word "abased" is the word humbled. One of the primary teachings in the New Testament and this is where it comes from. This is a quote from Proverbs 3:34 and it is used quite extensively through the entire NT.
Peter has probably the best presentation of this in 1 Peter 5:5. He quotes Proverbs 3:34 "For whosoever exalts themselves shall be humbled, and whosoever should humble themselves shall be exalted."
Luke 14:16 - Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great supper, and bade many:
The word bade is invitation.
Luke 14:23 - And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.
The word compel (ANANKASON), is a word of urgency. It means be urgent but don't use physical force.
I am unable to discuss faith and salvation in depth as you in this group so fluently express yourselves.
When I find myself unsure about a subject or a religious issue, like the one on salvation for infants and children now being discussed,there are two scriptures I rely on to help me
move pass this obstacle.
The first one is Isaiah 55:8__
The second one is
Proverbs 3:4,5,6___
Lord thank you for Grace, for your loving kindness and Mercy for forgiveness when I error. Amen.
Hello David, you seem familiar- did we already discuss this topic some months or years before?
If I remember right you don't believe in free will? If so, my challenge to that is then did you write this or someone else? Do you think God made you- or forced you to (beyond your will). If there's no such thing as choice, then how do you explain Paul saying he was wrestling with his fleshly temptation of sin? It's possible you just don't like the word freewill but might believe you are the one who chooses things, like if you are given a menu at a restaurant and order- is that truly you ordering a burger or someone else.
"And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." Joshua 24:15 KJV
"I make a decree, that all they of the people of Israel, and of his priests and Levites, in my realm, which are minded of their own freewill to go up to Jerusalem, go with thee." Ezra 7:13 KJV
"Envy thou not the oppressor, and choose none of his ways." Proverbs 3:31 KJV
"Choose." The Bible does say we have the ability (freedom) to choose. How many verses can you provide that says we have no choice whatsoever? God bless.
I am endeavoring with all my heart and strength to follow after the instructions of Proverbs 3:5-7. I believe and often recite Romans 8:28 with my whole heart. Most of my life, I have put my trust in the Lord, and tried to serve Him. Now, in my eighties, I am in a desperate spiritual battle with my wife's serious illness. I am asking for prayer for healing and for God's help to endure with grace and mercy, the trials that my wife and I now face.
Proverbs 3:9-10 may be a favorite verse of prosperity preachers. It states:
Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: 10So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.
It is too bad they don't go on to the next verse which says: My son, do not reject the discipline of the LORD, and do not loathe His rebuke; for the LORD disciplines the one He loves, as does a father the son in whom he delights. (verses 11 and 12-so next TWO verses).
This concept of correction also makes Job 21:13 a frightening perspective because it describes them thriving until the moment of death; then the wrath of God afterwards (see rest of chapter and other parts of the book of Job as well).
Malachi 3:10 also discusses putting tithes in the storehouse and God's blessings; as well as pointing out their stinginess earlier in the book where they offer lame and sick animals ( Malachi 1:8). Naturally; if the first appeal doesn't work guilt trips like this are also utilized; any trick in the book to get the coffers filled.
The blessings of God are conditional on obedience to the Lord to His statutes and commandments; and of course that deals with matters of the heart as this verse in Malachi and similar references in Isaiah 1; for example. One can surmise that when one sin (covetousness which breaks the 10th Commandment) there is another; and that often is adulteries and adulterous remarriages that this type of celebrity pastor commonly is involved in. Since the church rarely stands up as they should to these matters with other members they sometimes can seemingly get by; but sometimes this does cost them a significant number of members.
In my next post I am going to explore factors in society that make such con artists thrive that exist today; as well as that form the personality types of individuals that tend to start on these ventures.
In the name of Jesus, God hears your every word and I pray that God uses you for his will. Remember his word Proverbs 3:5,6 tells us that he will direct our path.
Hello EPAB. In this chapter of giving wise counsel in view of life's uncertainties, we see in Ecclesiastes 10:2, that the "right hand" is equated to 'wisdom', as the "left (hand)" to foolishness. When we look at the Scriptures, we often see the emphasis of the 'right hand' as it applies to action taken as a result of one's decision ( Matthew 5:30, Matthew 6:3); of being in the place of God's Approval ( Matthew 25:33,34); and of Power & Authority ( Matthew 26:64, Acts 2:33; Revelation 1:16).
So here in Ecclesiastes, to say that "a wise man's heart is at his right hand", implies that a wise, prudent person will always have his heart direct his thoughts, & then his actions towards his 'right hand' (and this is seen as the place of wise & correct action based on sound knowledge & judgement). Are there any then wise in their actions (i.e. always towards the right), or having hearts that are foolish, going to the opposite place (the left) of risk, speculation, with error & regret following?
Yet, as Christians, we are blessed above all, not relying (or, leaning) only on our own understanding as we fully trust in the LORD, only acknowledging Him in all that we do, and we will know how perfectly He directs our paths ( Proverbs 3:5,6).
We are to be at peace with one another, forgive one another, have mercy on one another.
Just a few references.
1 Thessalonians 4:9
Ephesians 4:32
Galatians 5:26
Galatians 6:2
Matthew 7:12
1 John 4:7
However, we don't lie or deceive one another for the sake of peace. The truth hurts sometimes but it promotes spiritual growth providing that the Christ spirit is in the person.
BELEIVERS SHUNNING OTHER BELEIVERS.
To shun is to deliberately avoid something or someone. In the Bible, the word shun is applied to evil. Job 1:8, Job 28:28, Proverbs 3:7-8 Proverbs 14:16. So, shunning evil is good.
There is scripture that promotes excommunication. Matthew 18:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 3:14. but do we do it for harm or Good? What's the intent?
In any case, it would seem that extreme forms of shunning, such as considering someone "dead," utterly ignoring him, or refusing to acknowledge his existence, go beyond what Scripture commands.
After all, Jesus said that, when someone is put out of the church, he should be treated as "a pagan or a tax collector" Matthew 18:17. In other words, treat an intractable offender as an unsaved person.
How are we to treat the unsaved? With love and grace.
The "pagans and tax collectors" need to be evangelized. We are to love even our enemies ( Matthew 5:44).
The goal of excommunication and any form of shunning is restoration ( Galatians 6:1).
The purpose of any type of discipline is to prompt repentance and, ultimately, to reunite our fallen brother or sister with the church body. Being officially ostracized from the church, the sinner might be brought to repentance.
When the man in the Corinthian church later realized that he had sinned against God, he repented and came back to the church for forgiveness and reinstatement. Fellowship with the Corinthian believers was restored ( 2 Corinthians 2:6-11).
Isn't it hateful to ignore or shun other believers?
Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to trust in the Lord and lean not on your own understanding, but acknowledge the Lord and He will direct your paths. Surely our Creator should know what is best for us; and we should have enough examples of past saints and sinners to guide us and keep us on the straight and narrow path ( 2 Timothy 3:16). Giving up all to follow Him is something that certainly takes trust; that is for God to provide basic needs and the fact that there is heavenly rewards for temporal suffering. Those living as the Disciples did would certainly need encouragement such as found in the Book of Hebrews where it says that we MUST believe He is a rewarder of those who do His will ( Hebrews 11:6). Understanding that comes from above is what allows us to believe that Christ is truly God in the flesh ( Matt. 16:17). God's wisdom through the Spirit unlocks scripture and reveals to us eternal truths about individuals as well as the fate of nations. Many hard to read scriptures have meanings cleared up with cross references; and meditating on the Word day and night helps us to bring these things to mind for our own edification and witnessing to others "in and out of season" ( 2 Tim 4:2).
A general rule of thumb is that there is no (or shouldn't be) any line of demarcation between our "spiritual" lives involving various religious duties and the rest of our work and recreational interests. There is no good substitute for daily scripture studies accompanied by prayer; but there has to be more than just head knowledge. Continuing on the subject of TRUST; other people as well need to be able to see evidence of Christ "on display" in our character and interactions before they go for deeper understanding on spiritual matters. Therefore; we must be living out what we believe and naturally be dividing the Word correctly ( 2 Tim. 2:15). In upcoming posts I will try to demonstrate how to effectively read scripture and put it to use.
"Now therefore restore the man his wife; for he is a prophet, and he shall pray for thee, and thou shalt live: and if thou restore her not, know thou that thou shalt surely die, thou, and all that are thine." Genesis 20:7 KJV
(even in the midst of Abraham's deceit God intervened and protected both him and his wife Sarah)
"No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD." Isaiah 54:17 KJV
(my learning from this is to trust God, as in the scriptures:)
"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding." Proverbs 3:5 KJV
"Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah." Psalms 62:8 KJV
"He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered." Proverbs 28:26 KJV
"The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?" Jeremiah 17:9 KJV
Today in Sunday school someone mentioned that before prayer it is good to say "Lord I don't love you; or other people (fill in the blank). Alas some with a spiritual gift of compassion would find what I am saying repulsive. We all can apply this principle to scripture reading as well "help me with my unbelief" ( Mark 9:24); or "God be merciful to me a sinner" ( Luke 18:13).
Since we are reading the "living Word" ( John 1:1) it behooves us to focus on our Lord and Savior and how much He suffered for our benefit. It also is important that we trust the Lord and also His Word as being truth and something we can lean on. Trusting in the Lord and not our own understanding ( Proverbs 3:5-6) is something we need to discuss in more detail.
Assuming we have a legitimate faith and basic understanding that the Bible is the truth and we live on that premise we could say that we trust the Lord. That of course is easier said than done; we can suddenly find ourselves overwhelmed by circumstances and allow our emotions to dictate through either a "fight or flight" mentality. This is true if we face martyrdom or serious persecution; but as with anything else the Lord usually leads us through the valleys of everyday trials and stresses to teach us to trust Him more for those big things. We can look at scripture for these examples with the 12 Apostles and their growth through Christ's earthly ministry then after Pentacost; or look at the kings of Israel with all their sins exposed for us to see.
There are a few who don't have sins mentioned; it is noteworthy that only Moses seems to be a Prophet whose sins were mentioned and the consequence of not being able to enter the Promised Land. David technically prophesied as well about the Messiah in the Psalms in particular and his personal sins and immediate consequences out the for us to see. These; of course are examples for us all ( 1 Cor. 10:11).
God's apparent contradictions: Examining Psalm 107 compared to Proverbs 1:26-28 and like passages
We see in the first example God's patience when people were about to head to destruction; either physical or spiritual death or both how throughout several earlier Biblical events God's people were delivered and rescued when at wits end and they called upon His name. The second passage and others such as we find in Jeremiah and Micah to name just two show where God will not hear; and in the case of this section of Proverbs mocks them in their calamity.
One can generalize of how God chastises all those He loves such as we see in Proverbs 3:12 (just a couple chapters later) and Hebrews 12:6. These techniques were primarily for the nation of Israel in the Old Testament and His church today. Exceptions exist; however such as those who offered profane fire before the Lord in Numbers 16 who deliberately rebelled against God's chosen prophet (Moses) and suffered immediate judgment. Moses surely wasn't the only one either who was saved but couldn't enter the Promised Land (only Caleb and Joshua could from the original generation along with their children).
In the case of Pagan nations; such as in Psalm 2 and examples of wholesale slaughter in the Old Testament of the nations around Israel were a result of their vile abominations; with child sacrifice being a top thing causing wrath no doubt. Psalm 2 is a parallel to Revelation 19 where those having taken the Mark of the Beast are led by the 3 frog like spirits coming out of Satan's evil "trinity" to be led to Armageddon to fight Christ (although there may be some trickery at first to convince them that they are fighting the last battle for control over the earth by destroying the armies coming against Antichrist.)
This gives us assurance that those who are His elect will be saved; even if chastisement shortens their earthly existence ( 1 Cor. 11:30). This is the difference between those He hears or not.
Isaiah 52:14 states: As many were astonied at thee; his visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men...
Whenever we question suffering and why it needs to be on this earth today; the ultimate question may be why did God's Son have to suffer beyond any other in creation? Again; the physical death would have been nothing compared to the sweat of drops of blood considering His upcoming separation from the Father and taking on our sins onto Himself. This atonement is perhaps the biggest reason suffering needs be; it all began with the fall of man and it's ripple effect in all Creation but God in His infinite wisdom knew that this atonement needed to happen to restore all things to Himself ( Acts 3:21).
One could; of course look at all of human history as one would view a screen play; full of drama; pathos and various characters of antagonist or protagonist leanings. This helps us to examine God's overall "emotions" (again reducing things to a human level to comprehend characteristics of the Godhead). If we were to examine our free will in the midst of this it could be crudely compared to a rogue actor doing some unscripted scene which is confined to the small time allotted for the play to act itself out.
This shows how we as humans cannot ultimately change the course of predetermined events; but also that we are not robots ourselves who are always bound to the same script but all have individual roles to play and also how all of us are interconnected to each other. This results in all who are His own on "stage right" as it were and the rest on "stage left". Proverbs 3:6 says in all ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your steps (I believe that is one translation).
When we look to the Apostle Paul's declaration that the sufferings of the present time are nothing compared to the glory to come ( Romans 8:18) we see that the joys of heaven will therefore be so much the greater after the harvest from today's brief trials
Glory be to GOD.
I tap amen to your prayers.
I never payed attention to the edge of the page during my reading on this link, strange enough this morning was reading Proverbs 31 and at end I saw "Discussion for Proverbs 31 View Comments" then pressed on comment just by curiosity, I saw your message.
I understand why you feel worried. Wanting marriage is natural, and it's okay to feel discouraged sometimes when this is taking time. Please allow me to remind you of the character of GOD: GOD is faithful, intentional, with a perfect timing; GOD doesn't withhold good things from His children ( Psalm 84:11).
Psalm 37:4-5 - "Delight yourself in the Lord He will give you the desires of your heart."
Isaiah 41:10 - "Fear not, for I am with you"
Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart"
You might feel behind; allow me to remind you that waiting is not wasted time. GOD often uses preparation before promotion.
Many strong Christian marriages happen later rather than earlier. This season may be shaping you into the husband you are meant to be. Sometimes GOD develops us privately before blessing us publicly. This period might be strengthening qualities you'll later be grateful for. Isaiah 34:16; Genesis 2:18 are your portions.
Please have in mind you are valuable, purposeful, and complete in GOD; Marriage is a blessing, but it's not what makes you worthy or whole. Your identity doesn't depend on your marital status.
I'll hand you my little help by prayer as you requested.
LORD, give our brother Jonathan Grove peace in his heart. Remind him that You hold his future, and Your timing is perfect. Prepare the right relationship for him and prepare him for it. Remove fear and replace it with confidence in Your love. Amen
Brother Jonathan Grove I'm here for you. You don't have to walk through this by yourself.
FIND COMFORT IN GOD.
YOU ARE BLESSED.
AMEN
Hello to all, I have read somewhere the following:
Trust in God is not an abstract concept. It translates into specific practical behaviors and inner states that affect the way we live, think, and face challenges.
1. In Dealing with Anxiety and Fear
"Trust turns fear into peace"
Practical Translation: Instead of being paralyzed by worry about the future (job, health, finances), you do what you can and then leave the outcome in God's hands.
Inner State: You adopt the mindset: "I have done what is humanly possible. Now, I trust that God, who sees the big picture, will provide the best for me, according to His will." This brings inner peace ( Psalm 46:1).
2. In Decision Making
"Trust provides guidance and removes uncertainty"
Practical Translation: Before making a big decision (career change, moving), you pray for guidance and wisdom, rather than relying solely on your own logical abilities.
Inner State: You recognize that God's wisdom surpasses your own. You trust that if you commit the decision to God, He will "He shall direct thy paths." ( Proverbs 3:5-6), even if the path seems unclear at first.
3. In Interpersonal Relationships
"Trust in God affects how we view others and ourselves".
Practical Translation: When you feel wronged or hurt, instead of holding a grudge or seeking revenge, you trust God to bring justice or comfort. You focus on forgiveness.
Inner State: You rely on God's Love for your worth, rather than seeking constant validation from people. This makes you freer and less demanding in your relationships.
4. In Trials and Difficulties
"Trust turns pain into opportunity"
Practical Translation: When you face an illness or loss, you don't see the situation as a dead end, but as part of a larger plan.
Inner State: You believe that "all things work together for good to those who love God" ( Romans 8:28). This faith allows you to look for the lesson or empowerment hidden within the trial, keeping hope alive.
Proverbs 3:5
"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding."
Ezekiel 36:27
"And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them."
Blessings
May your heart rest in this truth - that God's plans for you are perfect and full of peace.
Psalm 37:5 (KJV): "Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass."
As you stand at this final stage, remember that victory is not only in the job offer itself, but in the steadfast trust you place in the Lord through every step. Whether He opens this particular door or another, His purpose for you cannot fail.
Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
You are indeed chosen, set apart, and dearly loved. ( 1 Peter 2:9)
May God go before you this week, grant you favor before men, and give you peace to wait in faith. Whatever the outcome, your testimony will shine of His goodness and faithfulness.
Standing with you in prayer, brother - may His will be done and His name glorified.
"Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil."
Blessings
"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding." Proverbs 3:5 KJV
"God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth." John 4:24 KJV
I read your comment and I am sorry for all you are going through. That is a lot to carry. A few months ago the Lord impressed upon me to have a prayer book. I want you to know that your name is in it. The prayer book is prayed on often and this prayer book belongs to the Lord. From experience, I want you to know that when life feels this heavy, it is when the Lord is the closet and right by your side. I never knew this to be true until I also went through some suffering myself. I learned that the devil will attack what is valuable to God's plan. You are valuable and loved by God. Do not lose sight of the Lord. Trust me he has not left. The bible verse that I constantly remind myself of is "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding." Proverbs 3:5. Know that I am praying for you and Jesus is with you. Keep praying and talking with him. He hears every word. If there is anything else that I can pray about with you, please let me know!
However, I must also add a word of exhortation and admonition: we are called to be the salt of the earth ( Hebrews 10:25), just as other passages in Scripture speak about being conformed to the image of Christ and the continual transformation of believers,
The Bible emphasizes the importance of wise choices and the pursuit of God's will in every area of our lives. This processs "unfolds" throughout the Christian walk, and it is something we recognize and witness in one another. how we know all this
In Proverbs 3:5-6, we are instructed to trust in the Lord with all our heart and not lean on our own understanding, acknowledging Him in all our ways so that He may make our paths straight.To avoid being too vague, what I've found so ffar is that we should not pretend to build friendships only to evangelize. I n addition, in 1 Corinthians 7:7, the apostle Paul acknowledges that difffferent people have diffferent gifts.
So I hope this adds something meaningful, as it's also something I've been observing.
May God bless us and help us.
Romans 10:14 KJV
[14] How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
My Interpetation: I allow God to use me to handle the word of God correctly and his testimony Revelation 12:11 KJV
[11] And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.
Ways you can handle the word of God correctly is 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV
[15] Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Rightly dividing the truth is to understand, interpret, apply its teachings correctly which some methods I use are reading bible, praying, meditating on God's word and actions.
My Interpetation: I allowed God to use me being vessels as whole of his love messengers of the Gospel. A Result I become blessed - Habakkuk 2:2-3 KJV, Link Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV Link
Ways you can be vessels messengers are to preach the Gospel message of Jesus Christ and it is the same as to seed sown "power to take root and spread the message of salvation."
Psalm 90:2 KJV
[2] Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.
My Interpetation: In my life I have and still until this day believe Jesus Christ is God from before and when the earth was formed until now and future.- Philippians 4:13 KJV
[13] I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Word Spoken and Interpetation by Reginald Taylor Jr
Who should we trust with the word ? ?
Romans 3:4
Godforbid: yea,letGodbetrue, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightestbejustified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.
Are we responsible to know the Bible ourselves ? ?
John 5:39
Searchthescriptures; for inthem ye think ye have eternal life: andthey arethey which testify of me.
The biggest liar in the world is the devil himself as Satan.
John 8:44
Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is aliar, and the father of it.
There will be people with great education and decrees and will look very rightous , but deceive many .
Ephesians 4:14
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait todeceive;
Deception is only going to get worse and we are living in it right now.
2 Timothy 3:13
But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and beingdeceived.
If we can't trust man , then who do we trust ? ? Most people will say " I trust Jesus Christ ". But how ? ?
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trustin theLordwith all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
We all have to trust God in His word.
Ephesians 1:13
In whom ye alsotrusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
Now, after you have trusted God, where do you go from here ? ?
2 Timothy 2:15
Studytoshew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth nottobe ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Ray, in Christ Jesus 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
There are many interpretations of scripture and a plethora of church denominations. When we read and study the Bible, we can arrive at different conclusions. It might be that we are not ready to receive the answer as Paul mentioned in 1 Corinthians 3:2, or it might be that we are clinging to preconceived notions instead of approaching the text with an open mind and fresh eyes. We should set aside our interpretations and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit, rather than relying solely on our understanding, as advised in Proverbs 3:5.
We should approach Scripture with the curiosity and wonder of a child as if we are reading it for the first time. It is essential to read the Word of God with humility, acknowledging that we have much to learn. When God provided bread to the Israelites, they named it "Manna," which means "What is it?" This should be our mindset when we read Scripture-praying, "What is it?" We must strive to understand its message, be eager for the truth, and rejoice when it is revealed.
We must carefully follow the text, avoiding preconceived ideas and allowing it to reveal its meaning. If we impose our interpretations onto the text, we may alter its intended meaning and not see it. We must have eyes to see and ears to hear.
This is just for fun, but it could also be eye-opening.
We've all heard the expression, "You can't see the forest for the trees." Imagine someone standing in front of a forest, trying to appreciate its beauty but unable to do so because the trees are blocking their view. While it may seem simplistic, this analogy illustrates how our subconscious mind operates. We all have preconceived notions that can overshadow our understanding of what we are reading.
When asked how many of each type of animal went into the ark with Noah, many people will say there were two of each, one male and one female. However, that is not what Scripture states.
God bless,
RLW
Me being a member at West Angeles Cogic Church Cathedral Los Angeles California
Proverbs 3:5 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
"Being a man and woman of your word-Direct to best of knowledge or if something changed of rule based procedures and laws. Good news is to trust in the LORD to be identified Christian shown and known to be directed, lead to change uncertainty to certainty of your faith Ephesians 4:6KJV. Where it begun will be completed.
I have proof, evidence of my speaking habits are approved to receive and be services of speaking correctly, holiness actions, speech. Principle of God all religions Always performaning righteousness, holiness in actions "to do it" of God. To have faith, believe Romans 10:9-10 KJV. Myself is an example cordial and sincere. Romans 10:10 KJV (Standard rule and practice).
Ezekiel 36:26 KJV Allows people to see Jesus Christ is God and believe practical understanding of morals. Not if acts "did it" actions,sensorys of wanting not to be a man and woman of your word ."
Proverbs 3:6 KJV
My interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
"Rules of all God's in all paths.By faith first Romans 10:9-10 KJV believe.For greater results and responds standard rules and practices Christian methods serving, reading holy bible, praying, fasting.
Most Quoted Jehohvah which is needed-Jesus Christ is God the Father. Allowing God to give you what you suppose to have and returned guaranteed in truth. That's your mind, body, soul, counsel Psalms 119:24 KJV confirmed did the word of God where it begun and will be completed.In truth I have applied my faith, believing, supporting God,God supporting me, supporting West Angeles Cogic Church Cathedral distinction of born man identified Christian, service ,ministry, Christian methods reading holy bible, praying, fasting. "
Word Spoken and Written by REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY
Your post has attracted a lot of comments.
Do not be confused.
Trust YAH/GOD [ Proverbs 3:5-6] and go to HIS Word and let it lead you and guide you.
HE and HE alone IS the Great Physician [ Isaiah 53:5 & Psalm 103:3] although HE has HIS representatives on the earth, they are in the vast minority because as it is written satan has deceived the "whole" world [ Revelation 12:9]
Pharmakeia [pharmaceuticals] by its very definition in the Greek means witchcraft. [ pharmakea, far-mak-i'-ah; from G5332; medication ("pharmacy"), i.e. (by extension) magic (literally or figuratively):-sorcery, witchcraft.]
So be very discerning and ALWAYS ask the HOLY SPIRIT OF YAH for Wisdom [ James 1:5] that you may understand HIS Word to sift out truth from fiction or truth from half truths, that HE may guide your feet to [ Psalm 119:105] where HE may want you to go and to whom, if any, that HE may want you to go to.
Also that most of all, HE would teach you about the power and authority that HE has placed in you, even from the foundation of the world [ Ephesians 1:4-6]; and which HE reinforced in the forming of the template [Adam] of material man [ Genesis 1:26 ] when HE [ELOHIM- I.E. THE PLURALITY OF HIMSELF] said Let US make man in our own image and likeness; and again when YESHUA/JESUS said that you can do all that HE does and even more [ John 14:12]
May YAH continue to Keep you. In YESHUA MIGHTY NAME.AMEN.
1 Timothy 2:5,
Hebrews 12:24,
Proverbs 3:5 kjv.
Luke 14:8 - When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him;
The Greek word here for "highest room" means the chief reclining places. When the master of the feast, (the one who has made the feast), he sits at the head, at the back of this big reclining table, and the most honorable sit next to him, and working its way down to the end is the lowest seats or reclining places at the table.
Luke 14:10 - But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.
Here is the literal translation of this verse:
But when you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest reclining place; that when he that has invited you, he may say unto you, Friend, go up higher: then you shall have glory, (the word worship is the word glory (DOKSA), in the presence of them that sit at meal with you.
Luke 14:11 - For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
The word "abased" is the word humbled. One of the primary teachings in the New Testament and this is where it comes from. This is a quote from Proverbs 3:34 and it is used quite extensively through the entire NT.
Peter has probably the best presentation of this in 1 Peter 5:5. He quotes Proverbs 3:34 "For whosoever exalts themselves shall be humbled, and whosoever should humble themselves shall be exalted."
Luke 14:16 - Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great supper, and bade many:
The word bade is invitation.
Luke 14:23 - And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.
The word compel (ANANKASON), is a word of urgency. It means be urgent but don't use physical force.
on infants and children
MotherMac
To All:
I am unable to discuss faith and salvation in depth as you in this group so fluently express yourselves.
When I find myself unsure about a subject or a religious issue, like the one on salvation for infants and children now being discussed,there are two scriptures I rely on to help me
move pass this obstacle.
The first one is Isaiah 55:8__
The second one is
Proverbs 3:4,5,6___
Lord thank you for Grace, for your loving kindness and Mercy for forgiveness when I error. Amen.
If I remember right you don't believe in free will? If so, my challenge to that is then did you write this or someone else? Do you think God made you- or forced you to (beyond your will). If there's no such thing as choice, then how do you explain Paul saying he was wrestling with his fleshly temptation of sin? It's possible you just don't like the word freewill but might believe you are the one who chooses things, like if you are given a menu at a restaurant and order- is that truly you ordering a burger or someone else.
"And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." Joshua 24:15 KJV
"I make a decree, that all they of the people of Israel, and of his priests and Levites, in my realm, which are minded of their own freewill to go up to Jerusalem, go with thee." Ezra 7:13 KJV
"Envy thou not the oppressor, and choose none of his ways." Proverbs 3:31 KJV
"Choose." The Bible does say we have the ability (freedom) to choose. How many verses can you provide that says we have no choice whatsoever? God bless.
Proverbs 3:9-10 may be a favorite verse of prosperity preachers. It states:
Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: 10So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.
It is too bad they don't go on to the next verse which says: My son, do not reject the discipline of the LORD, and do not loathe His rebuke; for the LORD disciplines the one He loves, as does a father the son in whom he delights. (verses 11 and 12-so next TWO verses).
This concept of correction also makes Job 21:13 a frightening perspective because it describes them thriving until the moment of death; then the wrath of God afterwards (see rest of chapter and other parts of the book of Job as well).
Malachi 3:10 also discusses putting tithes in the storehouse and God's blessings; as well as pointing out their stinginess earlier in the book where they offer lame and sick animals ( Malachi 1:8). Naturally; if the first appeal doesn't work guilt trips like this are also utilized; any trick in the book to get the coffers filled.
The blessings of God are conditional on obedience to the Lord to His statutes and commandments; and of course that deals with matters of the heart as this verse in Malachi and similar references in Isaiah 1; for example. One can surmise that when one sin (covetousness which breaks the 10th Commandment) there is another; and that often is adulteries and adulterous remarriages that this type of celebrity pastor commonly is involved in. Since the church rarely stands up as they should to these matters with other members they sometimes can seemingly get by; but sometimes this does cost them a significant number of members.
In my next post I am going to explore factors in society that make such con artists thrive that exist today; as well as that form the personality types of individuals that tend to start on these ventures.
So here in Ecclesiastes, to say that "a wise man's heart is at his right hand", implies that a wise, prudent person will always have his heart direct his thoughts, & then his actions towards his 'right hand' (and this is seen as the place of wise & correct action based on sound knowledge & judgement). Are there any then wise in their actions (i.e. always towards the right), or having hearts that are foolish, going to the opposite place (the left) of risk, speculation, with error & regret following?
Yet, as Christians, we are blessed above all, not relying (or, leaning) only on our own understanding as we fully trust in the LORD, only acknowledging Him in all that we do, and we will know how perfectly He directs our paths ( Proverbs 3:5,6).
Part 3.
How should Christian treat one another?
We are to be at peace with one another, forgive one another, have mercy on one another.
Just a few references.
1 Thessalonians 4:9
Ephesians 4:32
Galatians 5:26
Galatians 6:2
Matthew 7:12
1 John 4:7
However, we don't lie or deceive one another for the sake of peace. The truth hurts sometimes but it promotes spiritual growth providing that the Christ spirit is in the person.
BELEIVERS SHUNNING OTHER BELEIVERS.
To shun is to deliberately avoid something or someone. In the Bible, the word shun is applied to evil. Job 1:8, Job 28:28, Proverbs 3:7-8 Proverbs 14:16. So, shunning evil is good.
There is scripture that promotes excommunication. Matthew 18:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 3:14. but do we do it for harm or Good? What's the intent?
In any case, it would seem that extreme forms of shunning, such as considering someone "dead," utterly ignoring him, or refusing to acknowledge his existence, go beyond what Scripture commands.
After all, Jesus said that, when someone is put out of the church, he should be treated as "a pagan or a tax collector" Matthew 18:17. In other words, treat an intractable offender as an unsaved person.
How are we to treat the unsaved? With love and grace.
The "pagans and tax collectors" need to be evangelized. We are to love even our enemies ( Matthew 5:44).
The goal of excommunication and any form of shunning is restoration ( Galatians 6:1).
The purpose of any type of discipline is to prompt repentance and, ultimately, to reunite our fallen brother or sister with the church body. Being officially ostracized from the church, the sinner might be brought to repentance.
When the man in the Corinthian church later realized that he had sinned against God, he repented and came back to the church for forgiveness and reinstatement. Fellowship with the Corinthian believers was restored ( 2 Corinthians 2:6-11).
Isn't it hateful to ignore or shun other believers?
See part 4.
Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to trust in the Lord and lean not on your own understanding, but acknowledge the Lord and He will direct your paths. Surely our Creator should know what is best for us; and we should have enough examples of past saints and sinners to guide us and keep us on the straight and narrow path ( 2 Timothy 3:16). Giving up all to follow Him is something that certainly takes trust; that is for God to provide basic needs and the fact that there is heavenly rewards for temporal suffering. Those living as the Disciples did would certainly need encouragement such as found in the Book of Hebrews where it says that we MUST believe He is a rewarder of those who do His will ( Hebrews 11:6). Understanding that comes from above is what allows us to believe that Christ is truly God in the flesh ( Matt. 16:17). God's wisdom through the Spirit unlocks scripture and reveals to us eternal truths about individuals as well as the fate of nations. Many hard to read scriptures have meanings cleared up with cross references; and meditating on the Word day and night helps us to bring these things to mind for our own edification and witnessing to others "in and out of season" ( 2 Tim 4:2).
A general rule of thumb is that there is no (or shouldn't be) any line of demarcation between our "spiritual" lives involving various religious duties and the rest of our work and recreational interests. There is no good substitute for daily scripture studies accompanied by prayer; but there has to be more than just head knowledge. Continuing on the subject of TRUST; other people as well need to be able to see evidence of Christ "on display" in our character and interactions before they go for deeper understanding on spiritual matters. Therefore; we must be living out what we believe and naturally be dividing the Word correctly ( 2 Tim. 2:15). In upcoming posts I will try to demonstrate how to effectively read scripture and put it to use.
"Now therefore restore the man his wife; for he is a prophet, and he shall pray for thee, and thou shalt live: and if thou restore her not, know thou that thou shalt surely die, thou, and all that are thine." Genesis 20:7 KJV
(even in the midst of Abraham's deceit God intervened and protected both him and his wife Sarah)
"No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD." Isaiah 54:17 KJV
(my learning from this is to trust God, as in the scriptures:)
"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding." Proverbs 3:5 KJV
"Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah." Psalms 62:8 KJV
"He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered." Proverbs 28:26 KJV
"The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?" Jeremiah 17:9 KJV
Today in Sunday school someone mentioned that before prayer it is good to say "Lord I don't love you; or other people (fill in the blank). Alas some with a spiritual gift of compassion would find what I am saying repulsive. We all can apply this principle to scripture reading as well "help me with my unbelief" ( Mark 9:24); or "God be merciful to me a sinner" ( Luke 18:13).
Since we are reading the "living Word" ( John 1:1) it behooves us to focus on our Lord and Savior and how much He suffered for our benefit. It also is important that we trust the Lord and also His Word as being truth and something we can lean on. Trusting in the Lord and not our own understanding ( Proverbs 3:5-6) is something we need to discuss in more detail.
Assuming we have a legitimate faith and basic understanding that the Bible is the truth and we live on that premise we could say that we trust the Lord. That of course is easier said than done; we can suddenly find ourselves overwhelmed by circumstances and allow our emotions to dictate through either a "fight or flight" mentality. This is true if we face martyrdom or serious persecution; but as with anything else the Lord usually leads us through the valleys of everyday trials and stresses to teach us to trust Him more for those big things. We can look at scripture for these examples with the 12 Apostles and their growth through Christ's earthly ministry then after Pentacost; or look at the kings of Israel with all their sins exposed for us to see.
There are a few who don't have sins mentioned; it is noteworthy that only Moses seems to be a Prophet whose sins were mentioned and the consequence of not being able to enter the Promised Land. David technically prophesied as well about the Messiah in the Psalms in particular and his personal sins and immediate consequences out the for us to see. These; of course are examples for us all ( 1 Cor. 10:11).
Having a healthy fear of God (to come part 3
We see in the first example God's patience when people were about to head to destruction; either physical or spiritual death or both how throughout several earlier Biblical events God's people were delivered and rescued when at wits end and they called upon His name. The second passage and others such as we find in Jeremiah and Micah to name just two show where God will not hear; and in the case of this section of Proverbs mocks them in their calamity.
One can generalize of how God chastises all those He loves such as we see in Proverbs 3:12 (just a couple chapters later) and Hebrews 12:6. These techniques were primarily for the nation of Israel in the Old Testament and His church today. Exceptions exist; however such as those who offered profane fire before the Lord in Numbers 16 who deliberately rebelled against God's chosen prophet (Moses) and suffered immediate judgment. Moses surely wasn't the only one either who was saved but couldn't enter the Promised Land (only Caleb and Joshua could from the original generation along with their children).
In the case of Pagan nations; such as in Psalm 2 and examples of wholesale slaughter in the Old Testament of the nations around Israel were a result of their vile abominations; with child sacrifice being a top thing causing wrath no doubt. Psalm 2 is a parallel to Revelation 19 where those having taken the Mark of the Beast are led by the 3 frog like spirits coming out of Satan's evil "trinity" to be led to Armageddon to fight Christ (although there may be some trickery at first to convince them that they are fighting the last battle for control over the earth by destroying the armies coming against Antichrist.)
This gives us assurance that those who are His elect will be saved; even if chastisement shortens their earthly existence ( 1 Cor. 11:30). This is the difference between those He hears or not.
Whenever we question suffering and why it needs to be on this earth today; the ultimate question may be why did God's Son have to suffer beyond any other in creation? Again; the physical death would have been nothing compared to the sweat of drops of blood considering His upcoming separation from the Father and taking on our sins onto Himself. This atonement is perhaps the biggest reason suffering needs be; it all began with the fall of man and it's ripple effect in all Creation but God in His infinite wisdom knew that this atonement needed to happen to restore all things to Himself ( Acts 3:21).
One could; of course look at all of human history as one would view a screen play; full of drama; pathos and various characters of antagonist or protagonist leanings. This helps us to examine God's overall "emotions" (again reducing things to a human level to comprehend characteristics of the Godhead). If we were to examine our free will in the midst of this it could be crudely compared to a rogue actor doing some unscripted scene which is confined to the small time allotted for the play to act itself out.
This shows how we as humans cannot ultimately change the course of predetermined events; but also that we are not robots ourselves who are always bound to the same script but all have individual roles to play and also how all of us are interconnected to each other. This results in all who are His own on "stage right" as it were and the rest on "stage left". Proverbs 3:6 says in all ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your steps (I believe that is one translation).
When we look to the Apostle Paul's declaration that the sufferings of the present time are nothing compared to the glory to come ( Romans 8:18) we see that the joys of heaven will therefore be so much the greater after the harvest from today's brief trials