The Power of Proverbs

(1st Kings 4:29-34 NIV) God gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight, and a breadth of understanding as measureless as the sand on the seashore. Solomon's wisdom was greater than the wisdom of all the men of the East, and greater than all the wisdom of Egypt. He was wiser than any other man… He spoke 3000 and his songs numbered 1005… Men of all nations came to listen to Solomon's wisdom, sent by all the kings of the world, who had heard of his wisdom.

It is with great excitement and Godly expectation that I embark upon a new series this morning. This series has been a long time in the making. I have wanted to teach through the book of Proverbs for years, and I am glad and grateful that God has given me release to do it now. The series is entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” The Book of Proverbs is part of the Wisdom Literature of the Bible; a division of books that include: Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and some of the Psalms. Of the Wisdom Literature, the Book of Proverbs is probably the best known. Christians and non-Christians alike have sought to glean from the wisdom contained in this book. Although some have sought to receive the Godly wisdom contained in this book without the reality of a relationship with God, but let me remind you this morning that if you have not accepted Jesus as your Lord, then you don’t need to seek God’s wisdom (His head), you need to receive His Son (His heart). Don’t try to get things from God without receiving God Himself. So, If you have not accepted Jesus as your Lord, please do so today. Click here to receive more information about Jesus.

I am looking forward to receiving and releasing whatever God gives me to share from this powerful book of wisdom. Although Solomon is not the only author, he is the primary one. I will highlight the other contributors (Agur the son of Jakeh and King Lemuel) when I get to the passages of scripture that they wrote. But for the most part, the book was written by Solomon, under the leadership of the Holy Spirit.

Solomon is an extraordinary Biblical character. Our text says that God gave him “Wisdom and very great insight, and a breadth of understanding as measureless as the sand on the seashore.” Think about that for a moment. This is not a mythical character. This was a real human being, who lived in the earth, who had measureless understanding. This was not something he learned in school. This was not something that he received by accumulating information through institutions of higher learning. No, he received the wisdom of God by revelation and we are fortunate that he documented many of the precepts he received for us to learn and live by. The Bible says, “He was wiser than any other man.” Now, remember, this is the Bible speaking, not some little boy exaggerating about his Daddy. No, this is God’s book of truth stating that the wisdom possessed by Solomon was unsurpassed in the earth. It is easy to see why the text says that kings from all over the world sent representatives to learn from Solomon, so that they could apply his principles and precepts in their kingdoms.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that as we prepare to receive from the Book of Proverbs we are preparing to receive from both the wisest man to walk the earth (other than Jesus) and the God who gave him that wisdom. I am sure that you have sought the counsel of many people in your life and over the next few months we will seek the counsel of God. This book is power-packed with God’s truth and as we seek to tap into His wisdom, it is my prayer that God gives us all a greater level of understanding, so that we can maximize our time in the earth!

Confession for this day: Lord God, I seek Your counsel daily. I put Your Word above the words of every one else. Your counsel has the highest position in my life. I seek Your wisdom and I seek understanding. I am prepared to mine through Your book of wisdom as a miner mines through a gold mine, looking for golden nuggets along the way. I am excited and I know that Your principles and precepts will change the way I look at and live life! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

Unlocking the Power of Proverbs (Series Intro – cont.) (top of page)

(1st Kings 3:12-14 NIV) I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for—both riches and honor—so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings. And if you walk in my ways and obey my statutes and commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life."

This morning we continue the introduction to our new series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Yesterday I introduced you to the primary author f the Book of Proverbs (Solomon). We learned from the 4th chapter of 1st Kings that Solomon spoke 3,000 proverbs and wrote over 1,000 songs (or poems). We know that he did this under the inspiration of God. In chapter 3 we see how he received the wisdom that he is known for. I want you to know a few things about Solomon before we get heavy into the series.

Solomon was the son of King David and he took over the throne while his father was still alive and he was quite young when he took over. He was concerned about assuming such a great responsibility at such a young age. The Lord spoke to him through a dream. In the dream God said, "Ask for whatever you want me to give you." This was Solomon’s golden opportunity. He was young, he was in charge, he was somewhat afraid, and he was seeking help from God. God told him what he wanted to here, “Ask for whatever you want!” Now, you know that most of us would have started rattling off a list of selfish desires, but young Solomon was different. He said, "You have shown great kindness to your servant, my father David… you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties. Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong." Wow. Solomon had maturity beyond his years. He did not ask for fame or fortune, he asked for wisdom and understanding; for help in carrying out the duties of the office that he had been charged with. He knew that he was in authority, but also knew that he was under authority. He submitted to God so that those that he led would submit to him. All leaders should learn from this example.

In our text we see that the Lord was overwhelmingly pleased. Not only did God give him wisdom, but He also gave him riches, honor, and an unequalled name. It is interesting to me that the latter portion of the text says, “And if you walk in my ways and obey my statutes and commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life.” In other words, it is clear that Solomon still had a choice. God was going to give him the wisdom, but he still had to put forth the energy and the effort to lead. God was not going to lead FOR him. God would bless whatever he did, but the doing was still up to Solomon.

So what does this mean to you today? There is so much here, but I will attempt to glean just a few quick golden nuggets from this:
1. God can give us the wisdom needed to carry out the duties He has blessed us to have. Remember, if it’s God’s will, then it’s God’s bill. If He put you in the leadership position, then He will give you what you need to succeed!
2. It is OK to be real with God. Solomon felt overwhelmed and he expressed it to God.
3. God has a part and we have a part. God promised to give him the wisdom, but Solomon still had to do something with it. God was not going to rule for him and He won’t do it all for us either.

Confession for this day: Lord God, I submit my life wholly unto You. I thank You for all that You have blessed me to accomplish in my life and I thank You for the people that You have blessed me to be in a position to influence. I ask You to give me the wisdom to carry out the duties that You have positioned me to have. I am a child of Abraham and like Abraham I am blessed TO BE a blessing. Use me today, Lord, for Your glory! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(1:1,2) God’s Wisdom is Attainable (top of page)

(Proverbs 1:1,2 NIV) The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: For attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight;

This morning we continue the introduction to our new series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” The first six verses are the prologue of the book. They set the table for what we can expect from this book of wisdom. After identifying Solomon, the son of David, the first thing that God tells us in Proverbs is that the book was written “For attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight.” This is important because this book is not talking about ordinary wisdom. This is a reference to the wisdom of God. The first thing we learn is that the wisdom of God is attainable. This is a simple, yet powerful truth. I say that because when I first became a Christian I was told things like, “Son, the ways of the Lord are past finding out,” “God’s knowledge is too wonderful for us,” “You can never know the mind of God.” Although things like that sound very religious, they are simply not true.

God made sure that 66 Books were written so that we could know Him, His character, His attributes, His nature, and His wisdom. Moreover, He also gave us His Spirit. In 1st Corinthians chapter 2 Paul said, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him.” If we read just those words it sounds like God is some mysterious God and His wisdom is unattainable; that He is just so big that we could never comprehend ‘The things of God.’ But thankfully Paul did not stop there. Paul went on to say, “But God has revealed it to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God… We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us.” See, when we are Born-Again, God’s Spirit comes to live inside of us. God Himself is inside of us, thereby giving us access to His wisdom, His leadership, and His guidance. The same Holy Spirit that gave wisdom to Solomon, the same Spirit that inspired all the writers of the Bible, the true author of the Bible Himself, lives inside of every twice born believer. Through His Spirit His wisdom is attainable and our text says that with His wisdom we can develop discipline and have understanding.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that God is not some distant God that wants you to fear Him without knowledge, that wants you to stumble through life without a clue, or that expects you to trust Him without ever understanding His ways. No, God is a loving, caring, and sharing heavenly Father who ensured that we have access to His Book of Life and the author. I often say that the Bible is not a textbook to study, but rather a life-book to live. I will admit that everything is not in the Bible. The Bible does not have instructions on how to change a spare tire or how to operate a computer. No, everything is not in the Bible, but everything you NEED to live that life that God desires for you to live IS in the Bible and that, coupled with the author Himself living inside of you, give you access to God’s attainable wisdom. God is not a dictator that withholds information so that He can be the only one that knows. No, God is a Father who wants to teach His children so that they can make wise decisions, because He knows that at the end of the day your life is a grand-sum-total of your decisions. If you make good decisions, Godly decisions, then you will get Godly results. That’s why you have access to His attainable wisdom. Why not tap into it on a regular basis?

Confession for this day: Lord God, I have access to Your Word and to the author. The author of Your Book of Wisdom, Your Spirit, lives inside of me. Holy Spirit, I ask You to speak to me, to reveal to me things about You, Your Word, and my life. Things that I need. I know that there are things that I can only receive by revelation; things that exceed anything I could ever learn any other way. I declare, by faith, that You reveal those things to me. Your wisdom is attainable and I have faith that You will release it to me. I am a child of God and I am wise beyond my years. God’s wisdom gives me an advantage in the workplace and in life. With Your wisdom, Lord, I move up and the more You elevate me, the more I glorify You! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(1:3,4) Learning to Live “Right” (top of page)

(Proverbs 1:3,4 NIV) For acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young.

This morning we continue the introduction to our new series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” The first six verses are the prologue of the book. Yesterday we looked at the first two verses, this morning we look at three and four. Let’s break these two verses down into smaller groups:

For acquiring a disciplined and prudent life: My definition for discipline is, “The ability to make the decisions that will take you towards a pre-determined destination.” Being prudent or to operate with prudence means: to exercise good judgment with resources; the ability to govern oneself wisely in practical matters. Needless to say, discipline and prudence are lacking in our society today. Solomon tells us that as we read, understand, and apply the truths contained in this book, we will develop the ability to live a disciplined and prudent life; a life full of wise choices. I like the fact that the Bible not only tells us how to make it to heaven, but it tells us how to enjoy the ride. God does not want us to receive Him and then live miserable in the earth. No, He wants us to have and enjoy life. If we apply His truths we are well on our path to doing just that.
Doing what is right and just and fair: I have two teenage children and I don’t know how many times I tell them, “Do what is right, because it’s right, and then do it right!” Last night a purchased office furniture for my new home office here in Washington (by the way, we move in today – Glory to God – we finally get out of hotels). I rented a truck to get the furniture home and several employees came out to bring me the boxes and to help me load the truck. When I got home I realized that they had loaded two extra filing cabinets in the truck that I had not paid for. My wife liked them and wanted them for the house. My son said, “I guess we just got them for free.” I said, “No, we have to pay for them.” I called the store, told the manager what happened, and paid for them over the phone. The manager was amazed that I would actually tell them and then pay for something that they had no idea that I had, but I told him that I would not violate my integrity over a couple of filing cabinets. I did what was right, but the manager was surprised because doing what is right is not the norm anymore. As we apply the truths from this book we will learn that it is important to God and to us to walk circumspectly before Him.
For giving prudence to the simple: God has called me to preach and I love preaching the Word of God. I love standing before people (or sitting here like this) and sharing God’s truth. There was a time where I wanted to look for ‘the deep things of God’ in His Word. I wanted to share rare and exciting truths. I wanted to share deep and mind-boggling thoughts. Well, to be honest, part of that was pride. Although I am thankful for the revelation God gives me about weighty things in Him, I also am very thankful for the simple truths found throughout His Word. I have learned over the years that I need to master the simple things; that I need to be prudent (watchful and careful) to do the seemingly small things that God expects of me. Giving prudence the simple may not be sexy, but it is sure necessary in our walk with God.
Knowledge and discretion to the young: Our youth have so many inputs that it is hard to keep up. Television (MTV, BET, etc.), the internet (You Tube, MySpace, etc.), radio, iPods, CDs, and the list can go on and on. It is important to instruct our youth in the Word of God. Although they may not always like it, our youth need to know that God’s Word, His instruction, His truth, must have a central role in their lives!

Confession for this day: Lord God, I thank You for leaving the Bible for me. Not only do I need it, but I love it. I enjoy learning more about You and how You expect me to live. I declare, by faith, that as I read Your Word I grow and become more like You. I am transformed into Your image and Your likeness, here in the earth. By faith I declare that I live a disciplined and prudent life. I do what is right and just and fair. I give prudence to the simple. I know that I need both the simple and the deep truths found in Your Word. I will give due diligence to both and I will share what I receive with our youth. Use me today, Lord, for Your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(1:5,6) From Learning to Living (top of page)

(Proverbs 1:5,6 MSG) There's something here also for seasoned men and women, still a thing or two for the experienced to learn — Fresh wisdom to probe and penetrate, the rhymes and reasons of wise men and women.

This morning we continue the introduction to our new series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” I told you up front that the first six verses are the prologue of the book; they set the stage for what is to come. We have already looked at the first four verses and this morning we look at the last two in the book’s introduction. We have learned thus far that this book is sort of a ‘Manual for living.’ Within its pages we will learn how to live well and right, to receive God’s understanding for life, and learn what to share with our youth. Solomon then tells us that, “There's something here also for seasoned men and women, still a thing or two for the experienced to learn.” This is a good point and it comes from someone who is considered of the wisest men who ever lived. Solomon understood that no matter who you are, no matter how much you have learned, no matter how many educational degrees you have attained, nor how much life experience you have racked up, there is always room to learn more. If you are still living then God expects you to still be learning.

A common statement that I hear when someone is done with a degree is, “I am glad that I am done with school.” But the reality is that life is a school. Every day is an opportunity to learn from the classroom of life and to do hands-on training (Labs) in the earth. No one was wiser than Solomon and he let us all know that even the seasoned and experienced can learn a thing or two from the Book of Proverbs. So get ready to learn, to receive, to be educated by God’s wisdom, to expand your capacity to believe, to broaden your horizons, and to stretch your faith.

Solomon tells us that this book is filled with, “Fresh wisdom to probe and penetrate.” This book was written thousands of years ago, but its wisdom is still fresh. It is new, because it is often new to us. As we receive this wisdom, God’s wisdom, it will probe and penetrate us. It will come up against what we think we know. It will clash with our preconceived notions. It will often directly conflict with human wisdom. And it is then that we must make a choice. We must choose between what we have learned from the world and what God expects of us. God’s wisdom often penetrates us to the core. It is sometimes hard for us when we realize that what we thought was right is actually not right in God’s sight. We sometimes get emotional when we realize that what our Grandmamma or Granddaddy taught us does not line up with God. No matter what we thought we knew, no matter how emotional we might get, no matter how deep the truth penetrates and probes, if we are going to grow in Christ then we must change and we must be determined to line up our life, thoughts, and beliefs with God’s Word!

So what does this mean to you today? It means that we must daily be ready to receive and respond to what God teaches us. Receiving it is nothing if we are not committed to providing the proper response to what we have learned. We must be determined to turn the corner from information to application. We must turn our learning into living. Does this require change? Yes. Will we have to sometime change what we believe? Absolutely. But you cannot grow without changing. Dr. O. C. Jones once said, “Life is change, growth is optional!”

Confession for this day: Lord God, I thank You for Your Word. I thank You for Your wisdom. I thank You for Your truth. I declare, right now, by faith, that I will read, receive, and respond to what You teach me in Your Word and in life. My learning turns into living. I turn the corner from information to application. I am determined to change to become more and more like You. I am committed to line up my beliefs with Yours. No matter how much I have learned in the past, I am ever-ready to learn more. And more specifically, to learn from You! Your truth is the ruler by which I judge every decision. I grow because I change! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(1:7) The Fear of the Lord (top of page)

(Proverbs 1:7 NIV) The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

This morning we continue the introduction to our new series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” We have seen thus far in the introduction to this book that is was written to give prudence to the simple, understanding to the young, and to make wise men even wiser. It is a sort of manual for living and its truths are very practical and applicable to every day life. Our focus text this morning serves as a reminder that we should not attempt to get things FROM God without first having a relationship WITH God. In other words, we should not attempt to tap into His wisdom and to glean from His understanding without first having submitted to Him. The wisdom found in this book is based solidly on the fear of the Lord; not a fear where we are afraid of Him, but a reverential and respectful fear. This fear runs the gamut from a mild respect that simply acknowledges God to a deep and powerful respect that seeks to obey Him wholeheartedly. Whether deep or mild, Solomon tells us that true knowledge begins with fearing the Lord.

There are some very smart people in this world who don’t have a relationship with God. Some believe that He does not exist. Some claim that their high sense of reason and logic keep them from believing in a God that they cannot see. Solomon calls them fools. Not fools because they have not attained human knowledge, but because they believe that human knowledge is all they need; because they believe that they don’t need God, His instruction, nor His discipline.

I like the way the Message Bible translates this verse, it says, “Start with God — the first step in learning is bowing down to God; only fools thumb their noses at such wisdom and learning.” Those that refuse to bow down to God may attain information, but they lack revelation. They may accumulate human knowledge through human ability, but there is so much more available to us. See, we are a Spirit, we possess a soul (mind, emotions, and will), and we live in a body. Just like God is three-in-one (Father, Son, and Spirit), we are three-in-one (Spirit, Soul, and Body). Human knowledge is important, but it only feeds our mind (soul). It only gives us head-knowledge. But God’s wisdom is able to feed our mind and our spirit. It gives us both head-knowledge and heart-knowledge. God’s Word penetrates our true being. The writer of Hebrews told us that God’s Word is, “Living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (4:12). No human knowledge is able to do that. When we fear the Lord, when we have a relationship with Him, and when we walk with Him daily, He teaches us truths that far exceed anything that we could ever receive any other way. Our text tells us that these truths not only provide us knowledge, but also wisdom and discipline. Not only will God teach us the information, but He will lead us in the application of the knowledge and the discipline to carry it out and to receive the benefits of it in our lives.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that God’s truth is the highest form of truth, that a relationship with Him gives you access to His knowledge, that walking with Him will give birth to wisdom (how to apply the truth) in your life, and that He will help you develop the discipline you need to maximize the benefits of His wisdom. Now, only a fool would choose to miss out on that!

Confession for this day: Lord God, I acknowledge You, Your existence, Your relationship with me, the validity of Your Word, and the reality of Your presence in my life. I respect You enough to obey You. I fear You and I know that my relationship with You gives me access to Your knowledge, Your wisdom, and Your discipline. I receive them all, by faith, and I declare that I will develop into the person You desire me to be, because I respectfully fear You with all my heart, mind, soul, and strength! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(1:8,9) Honor and Obey Your Parents (top of page)

(Proverbs 1:8,9 CEV) My child, obey the teachings of your parents, and wear their teachings as you would a lovely hat or a pretty necklace.

This morning we continue the introduction to our new series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” The introduction is over, the prologue is complete, now we get into the proverbs. The first thing that Solomon tells us is that we, as children, should obey our parents. We should receive and not reject their teachings. Furthermore, we should wear their teachings as a hat or a necklace; meaning that we should proudly put what they have taught us on display.

This translation says, “parents.” Others say, “Father and Mother.” Solomon is clear that our obedience and submission should be to both parents. In the New Testament Paul taught something similar to the church at Ephesus saying, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’ — which is the first commandment with a promise — that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” (Eph 6:1-3). Paul reminds us that obeying and submitting to our parents is not a suggestion from God, but rather a commandment. And not just that, it is the first commandment (of the Ten Commandments) listed in Exodus with a promise associated with it. In Exodus it says, “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you” (Ex 20:12). Paul echoes the promise of long life to those that obey their parents.

It is interesting to me that the person who is considered the wisest man to ever live starts out his teachings to us with a reminder to obey our parents. If you take a bird’s eye view of the Bible, if you zoom back for a broad view of this book of books, you realize that the Bible is a book about family. The order of father to son is all the way through the Bible. The Blessing is always passed down from father to son, from parent to child. Disobedient children are never heralded in scripture. The positions of father and mother are positions of dignity and honor. I like the way Paul said it when he said, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.” Obeying your parents is just the RIGHT thing to do. Even without the promise of long life, we should obey, submit to, and receive from our parents.

My mother may not have received advanced formal education, but she received wisdom from her parents and grandparents. She passed that wisdom on to me. I was raised in Brooklyn in a very rough neighborhood with all sorts of negative influences, but I was able to resist the impulses to do wrong, because I had a mother who was teaching me to do right. She taught me things that were not popular (and are still not today), things that I did not learn on the streets. She taught me about integrity, dignity, respect, loyalty, honestly, and hard work. To this day I highly respect my mother. I honor her every chance I get and her teachings have provided me countless material for sermons. She may not have been able to quote the Bible, but she lived the scriptures in front of me, and I am eternally thankful for that!

So what does this mean to you today? It means that, as children, you should honor your parents and, as parents, you should live a life that is worth honoring. Take time with your children. Pour what you have learned into them. Give them tools to live by. Share with them what has been shared with you. Make an impact in the lives of your children, so that they will pass on the Blessing of parenting to theirs.

Confession for this day: Lord God, as a child, I obey my parents. I receive from them, I do not reject what they impart into my life. I embrace their teachings and I proudly display them for others to see. As a parent I am committed to my children. I pour into them as I have been poured into. I live a life that is worth honoring, so that my children can honor me without reservation. I live the Word before them all the days of my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(1:10-15) A Warning Against Temptation from Sinners (top of page)

(Proverbs 1:10-15 MSG) Dear friend, if bad companions tempt you, don't go along with them. If they say—"Let's go out and raise some hell. Let's beat up some old man, mug some old woman. Let's pick them clean and get them ready for their funerals. We'll load up on top-quality loot. We'll haul it home by the truckload. Join us for the time of your life! With us, it's share and share alike!"— Oh, friend, don't give them a second look; don't listen to them for a minute.

This morning we continue the introduction to our new series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In verses 10 through 19 Solomon gives us a warning against submitting to the temptation to do wrong from sinners. This morning we will look at verses 10 though 15. Let’s see what God has to say to us through Solomon:

Dear friend, if bad companions tempt you, don't go along with them: Where this translation says, “bad companions,” other translations clearly say, “sinners.” These are people that don’t have a relationship with or any regard for God. Solomon warns us against giving in to negative peer-pressure. I talk to my teenagers about peer-pressure all the time, but the reality is that peer-pressure does not stop once we leave high school. There is a constant pull from those that you associate with to do what they do, right or wrong, godly or ungodly, holy or unrighteous. That is why we must: 1) be very careful who we associate with, and 2) be strong enough in God to resist the negative peer-pressures of life; because they will come.
If they say—"Let's go out and raise some hell. Let's beat up some old man, mug some old woman. Let's pick them clean and get them ready for their funerals. We'll load up on top-quality loot. We'll haul it home by the truckload: Now you may be thinking, “I will never do that,” but you Solomon is talking about attaining ill-gotten gains. True, you might not go out and mug and old woman, but you might take something home from the office, or fudge on your taxes, or on an expense report. Sinners will tell you, “Oh, we all do it. Everybody does it. Go ahead, it’s no big deal.” But walking with God means walking in integrity. It means doing what’s right, because it’s right, and then doing it right. As tempting as ill-gotten gains may seem, we are warned by God (through Solomon) to stay away from them.
Join us for the time of your life: Sinners are quick to paint a good picture of what they are doing. They have no problem sharing with you how much fun they are having and welcoming you to do the same. Now, let’s be honest, when you were out there, when you were a sinner, when you were in the world, you liked it! You had fun sinning. I know I did. I served the enemy with all my heart. I was a good sinner. But now that I am a believer I no longer live that way and my heart and mind have been transformed to enjoy other things. Being a Christian is lots of fun and since I am having the time of my life, I can easily turn down temptations to have fun in the wrong ways. It would no longer be fun for me to live in sin. That’s why it is important for you to get into the Word, to renew your mind, and to develop new desires in God. Then you will like what God likes and dislike what He does not.
With us, it's share and share alike. Oh, friend, don't give them a second look; don't listen to them for a minute: No matter how good of a picture they paint, no matter how tempting they make the offer, no matter how grand the scheme, we are to abstain from even the very appearance of evil (1 Thes 5:22). We are called to be the light of the world. How can we shine as light if we live in darkness? How affective can we be in influencing others if we tell them we have moved, but they keep finding us at our old address?

Confession for this day: Lord God, I am Your child. I am secure in my salvation. I am a believer and not a sinner. I live like You want me to live. I do what You want me to do. There is a clear difference between my life and the life of sinners. I influence them to do right and am not influenced by them to do wrong. My mind and my heart have been renewed to desire what You desire and to long for what You want me to have. I live my life as light in a dark, dying, and decaying world. Use me today as a witness for You! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(1:16-19) A Warning Against Temptation from Sinners (Part II) (top of page)

(Proverbs 1:16-18 CEV) They are in a big hurry to commit some crime, perhaps even murder. They are like a bird that sees the bait, but ignores the trap. They gang up to murder someone, but they are the victims. The wealth you get from crime robs you of your life.

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In verses 10 through 19 Solomon gives us a warning against submitting to the temptation to do wrong from sinners. He knew that associating with the right people is a key facet to maximizing your potential. Peer-pressure is a reality of life, but when you surround yourself with the right people then the peer-pressure you receive will be positive, influencing you to do right and not wrong. Yesterday we looked at verses 10 through 15 of this passage and this morning we pick up the last three verses.

They are in a big hurry to commit some crime, perhaps even murder: This translation says, “They are in a big hurry to commit some crime,” others say, “They rush to do evil.” The point here is that sinners sin. I really don’t expect them to do anything else. It is no surprise to me when a sinner lives like a sinner. I would be a fool to expect a sinner to live like the righteous. They have a path and they are headed down it. The reference here to murder is used to paint the picture of the extreme. You and I were on that path – the path of unrighteousness – and I know that I walked down it with enthusiasm; sometimes even running. The lesson here is that we must be aware whom we are around. Sinners cannot make us do anything, neither can satan himself for that matter, but when you surround yourself with the wrong people and constantly seek the wrong company, you escalate your chances of doing wrong.
They are like a bird that sees the bait, but ignores the trap: The world is so often blinded by their lustful desires that they ignore the pitfalls along the way to attaining them. There are consequences to sin and many sinners understand that, but they choose to ignore the eternal consequences for temporary satisfaction. Don’t live like them. Know that there are consequences to all of our actions and we must choose wisely. When we line up our decisions with the Word of God, when we allow the Word to be the ruler by which we judge our choices, when we walk in God’s counsel, we will find ourselves avoiding the pitfalls that snag others.
They gang up to murder someone, but they are the victims: Worldly people often trample over others to seemingly get to the top, but they don’t realize that they are really hurting themselves. They will eventually reap what they sow. They think they are winning by mistreating others, but at the end of the day, they will find out that they are the victims. As believers, we are to live to BE a Blessing to others, not a burden. We are to help others and not hurt them along the way. We are here to build up and not tear down. By pouring into others we find ourselves growing. By giving we find ourselves actually getting. That’s love and that the life that God wants us to live.
The wealth you get from crime robs you of your life: True life is more than ‘things.’ We live in a society that is ‘thing’ oriented; money is the god of many. Solomon later wrote, “Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income” (Ecc 5:10). Those that seek money the wrong way, at all costs, are really robbing themselves of true life. Money makes a great servant, but a poor master. Seek to grow financially – the right way – and seek to honor God with your finances. This way money is not a problem, but rather a tool by which you can be a blessing.

Confession for this day: Lord God, I am Your child. I thank You for Your counsel. I seek to surround myself with the right people; people that are living circumspectly before You. I don’t ignore the consequences of sin. I abstain from sin and the very appearance of evil. I seek to be a blessing and not burden. I help and do not hurt. I build up and never tear down. I walk in financial integrity. Money is my servant, not my master. I use money as a tool to be a blessing. I am light in the midst of darkness; I declare that I shine brightly today! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(1:20,21) A Warning Against Rejecting the Wisdom of God (top of page)

(Proverbs 1:20,21 NIV) Wisdom calls aloud in the street, she raises her voice in the public squares; at the head of the noisy streets she cries out, in the gateways of the city she makes her speech:

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In verses 10 through 19 Solomon gave us a warning against receiving the wisdom of the world, against submitting to the temptation of sinners. In verses 20-31 he gives us a warning against rejecting the wisdom of God. Not only should we reject the ways of the world, but we should openly and consistently receive and respond to the ways of God. When we ignore the God’s wisdom we become susceptible to worldly counsel.

The language used here is interesting. Wisdom is personified with a Hebrew noun that is both feminine and plural. It is as though Solomon was telling us that this wisdom, God’s wisdom, is the queen or the mother of all wisdom. The wisdom of God is the greatest wisdom we can receive. This book, the book of Proverbs, is a book of wisdom. The title of this series tells us that if we are able to unlock the power that is found within it’s pages, we will be able to walk in the wisdom of God.

Our text tells us that God’s wisdom calls aloud in the streets, crying out louder than the noise of cities, raising her voice in the public, making her speech in the gateway of the cities. The point here is that God’s wisdom is available. God is daily and earnestly inviting sinners to repentance, believers to the reality of righteousness, the burdened to cast their cares upon Him, the weary to find rest, the brokenhearted to find healing, the downtrodden to find encouragement, and those that are living in faith to continue to grow in God from glory to glory; from faith to faith. No, God is not some distant and despondent God that hides His wisdom, His will, His heart, or His power. God is a loving, caring, and sharing heavenly Father that dearly wants close and intimate relationships with His children. He desires that the lost would come to Him. It is not His desire that any would perish, but that all come to repentance and accept the Lordship of Jesus the Christ. Equally, it is not His desire that believers – people like you and I – stumble through life. He wants us to access His wisdom. He wants us to understand His purpose and plan for our lives. He wants us to walk in knowledge and understanding. He wants us to excel in every area of our lives: mentally sound, physically strong, relationally stable, financially prepared, and psychologically at peace. All of this and much, much more is available to us when we receive and respond to the wisdom of God. When we walk in His counsel, when we line up our lives with His Word, when we commit to His teachings, we release Him to work in our lives to the fullest. However, when we reject His counsel, when we walk in the ways of the world, and when we ignore the leading of His Spirit, we hinder Him from releasing His best in our lives. The key to all of this is wisdom, God’s wisdom, that is made available to us through His Spirit and His Word.

So what does this mean to you today? It means you must both reject wisdom of the enemy (the temptation to do wrong) and receive the wisdom of God. Once you open yourself up to receive from God you will find that He is always talking. What do you think He does all day? He is seeking to relate to His children. He will speak to you through circumstances, others, His Spirit, His Word, dreams, visions, and many other ways. His wisdom is raising her voice. Are you listening?

Confession for this day: Lord God, I am Your child, I am Your sheep, and You are my shepherd. Jesus said that Your sheep would hear Your voice. I declare that I am Your sheep. I hear Your wisdom and I reject the wisdom of the world. I take heed to Your instructions. I obey Your commandments. I walk in Your counsel. I line up my life with Your ways. I take the time to hear, receive, and respond to Your wisdom. Your words are the words that I live by and because of it, You are able to develop me into the person You desire me to be. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(1:22,23) A Warning Against Rejecting the Wisdom of God (Part II) (top of page)

(Proverbs 1:22,23 NIV) "How long will you simple ones love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge? If you had responded to my rebuke, I would have poured out my heart to you and made my thoughts known to you.”

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” I have already shared with you that in verses 20-31 Solomon gives us a warning against rejecting the wisdom of God. In these two verses we see the heart of God expressed through Solomon. Let’s take a close look at this passage within the passage:

“How long will you simple ones love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge?” The Hebrew word translated “simple” in verse 22 is a word that refers to a person without moral direction; a person inclined to do evil; a sinner. The question is, how long will the sinner remain in sin? How long will mocker delight in mockery? How long will the person that lives without God continue to reject His pleas, His calls, and His attempts to get their attention? God is ever ready to receive the sinner and to bring him into a relationship with Him. God does not desire for anyone, not one person, to perish (2nd Peter 3:9). God desires for all to come to repentance and to accept His Son Jesus as their Lord. I know that this is not popular today. I know that people come by the multitudes to see what they can get FROM God, but many of that same crowd leave without giving themselves TO God. They are seeking God’s hand, but He is seeking their heart. They want ‘things,’ but He wants them.

“If you had responded to my rebuke.” Solomon tells us that these people (sinners and mockers) have rejected God’s rebuke. This word “rebuke” means: correction, reprimand, or warning. God warns sinners not to continue in sin. God warns the disobedient to come to repentance. God warns the wicked from the consequences of rejecting His call to righteousness. The wages of sin is still death, but the Gift of God is still eternal life through Jesus the Christ, our Lord (Rom 6:23). To the sinner the message is clear, turn from your wicked ways. To the believer the reminder is also clear, walk in the newness of life in God. Respond to God’s rebukes. Accept His correction. Enjoy His instruction. Line up your life with His Word, His will, and His ways.

“I would have poured out my heart to you and made my thoughts known to you.” God, through Solomon, tells us that He is ready, willing, and able to pour out His heart, to make known His thoughts, and to impart His wisdom into those that obey Him; those that are dedicated to living the life He intends for them to live. To the sinner this is an offer – repent and receive God’s heart and His wisdom. To the believer this is a promise – Divine wisdom is available to those that accept and obey God.

So what does this mean to you today? A few things:
1. God loves the sinner, but He hates the sin.
2. God will not overlook sin, but He does offer a way out for the sinner.
3. God tells us what He expects the sinner to do: turn, repent, convert, submit, obey.
4. His offer still stands: accept His correction and have access to His heart and wisdom.
5. For the believer (You and I), we have a promise to stand on in this passage. God’s heart and His wisdom are available to us, because we have chosen Him, His path, and His way.

Confession for this day: Lord God, I don’t reject Your ways, I receive them by faith. I am no longer a sinner. I have been made righteous by the Blood of Jesus Your Son. I walk as the righteousness of God by faith. I abstain from sin, I walk in purity, and I am a conduit of Your love in the earth. I enjoy when You correct me. Your correction is a reminder that I am Your child and You are my Father. I receive Your correction and because I do, You release Your heart and Your wisdom in my life. I am wise beyond my years, because I walk with You! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(1:24-26) A Warning Against Rejecting the Wisdom of God (Part III) (top of page)

(Proverbs 1:24-26 MSG) As it is, I've called, but you've turned a deaf ear; I've reached out to you, but you've ignored me. "Since you laugh at my counsel and make a joke of my advice, How can I take you seriously? I'll turn the tables and joke about your troubles!

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” As previously stated, in verses 20-31 Solomon gives us warning against rejecting the wisdom of God. God has ensured that His wisdom has been documented within the 66 books of the Bible. He has provided a way for us to receive Himself, His Spirit, His presence and His counsel through accepting Jesus as Lord. He freely offers us (creation) a personal and intimate relationship with Him (our Creator). But even still, many reject the offer, and even attempt to make a mockery of the reality of God. Our text tells us that they turn a deaf ear to God and His countless pleas for them to come to repentance. As sure as I am alive, their time will eventually run out. Our days on the earth are numbered. We ought to make the most of the time that we have. Running from God is not the answer. Running to Him is the way.

As many of you know, I recently moved from Georgia to Washington. The county I currently live in is one of the least “churched” counties in the US. Only about 7% of this county goes to church on Sunday. That is a VAST difference from Georgia. Most people from the south claim to be Christians, whether they are or not. Most people from the Bible-belt were raised in church and are at least familiar with the gospel message. Many people out here have never heard the gospel message and truly don’t know anything about God. But then there are some who have heard the message and find it ludicrous. They look down upon those that believe as if we are the simpletons. How can you believe in a God that you cannot see? How can you believe in a God that does this… or that? They turn a deaf ear to God. They reject his counsel. They ignore His way. Surely, this practice is not limited to this county, but there are countless individuals all over the world you have put themselves in the place of God. They believe their intellect, their understanding and their wisdom is enough. They believe they can make it through life without God and they don’t believe in life after death. Whether they believe it or not, they will spend eternity somewhere. But since they choose to ignore God, Solomon reminds us that there will come a time where they will suffer the consequences. There will come a time where they wish they had heeded His commands, been guided by His wisdom and had chosen to fear God.

Now, the reality is that if you are living, then it is not too late. If there is air still flowing through your lungs and blood flowing through your veins, then God is no through with you. It is not too late to repent and accept Jesus as Lord today. But for those that continue to reject, ignore, and turn a deaf ear to God there will come a time where it is too late. At the end of the day, they will have to reap what they have sown. What they do in life will echo in eternity. Paul said it best in his letter to the Galatians. He said, “Make no mistake about this: You can never make a fool out of God. Whatever you plant is what you'll harvest” (Gal 6:7).

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you WANT to accept everything that God makes available to you. You don’t want to be part of the crowd that ignores God, because there will come a time where that crowd will wish they hadn’t. You want to be part of the crowd that accepts Him, His counsel, His wisdom, and His offer for eternal life in Christ. Make the right choice, be part of the right crowd, and reap the right harvest!

Confession for this day: Lord God, I am not like those that reject Your counsel, that turn a deaf ear to Your pleas, that ignore Your way. I accept Your wisdom. I obey Your commandments. I live by Your ways. I am submitted to Your counsel. Since I sow the right seed, I declare, by faith, that I will reap the right harvest. I live the life You intend for me to live. I enjoy the benefits of a submitted life in Christ. I walk in The Blessing of Abraham and The Blessing of Jesus. I know I am going to heaven, but I will also enjoy the ride! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(1:27-29) A Warning Against Rejecting the Wisdom of God (Part IV) (top of page)

(Proverbs 1:27-29 NIV) When calamity overtakes you like a storm, when disaster sweeps over you like a whirlwind, when distress and trouble overwhelm you. "Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me. Since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the LORD,

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” As previously stated, in verses 20-31 Solomon gives us warning against
rejecting the wisdom of God. We have already looked at several scriptures in this passage (20-26) and as we continue through the passage we see that Solomon is adamant that we should accept and apply the wisdom of God to every area of our lives. Choosing to ignore or reject God’s wisdom has consequences. Solomon tells us of the storms that we literally open ourselves up to when we choose to go against God’s wisdom, His instruction, His way.

There are many examples in scripture of people who both accepted God’s wisdom and were blessed and those who rejected God’s wisdom and experienced storms. One man, who experienced a literal storm because of his decision to reject God’s instruction, was Jonah. God told Jonah to go to Nineveh to preach to them. Jonah had the opportunity to make the right decision, but he didn’t. He chose his own wisdom, his own desires, and his own way. The result was that he experienced a literal storm that endangered his life and the lives of those around him. He almost died in an awkward journey that took him through the bowels of a big fish before he eventually repented, submitted to God’s instruction, and did what God wanted him to do. Dr. Creflo Dollar identifies with Jonah in his book, 8 Steps to Create the Life You Want, saying, “Many people are like Jonah. I know; I’ve been there. God would tell me to do one thing, and I would do another. I made decisions out of God’s will on many occasions as a pastor, father, husband, and businessman. Eventually, I realized that I wasn’t as smart as God and made a quality decision to avoid making choices that were outside of His will for my life. That decision has put me on the path to my destiny. The moment I made the decision to repent and start doing things God’s way, He led me out of my error and into His will.”

J. Martin Kohe wrote in his book, Your Greatest Power, “The greatest power that a person possesses is the power to choose.” To avoid the pitfalls of life, we must make the right decisions, decisions that are bathed in prayer and based in the counsel of God (His Word). There is a Bible-based answer to every one of life’s questions. Our challenge is seeking it, receiving it into our spirit, applying it, and living it out by faith.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you WANT to use your power to choose wisely. God has made you a free moral agent. You have the right to choose to submit to Him or to reject Him; to accept His wisdom or to live by your own. Just know that whatever you choose today will determine where you wind up tomorrow. You are where you are today as a result of choices you have made in the past. God has set it up so that truly the only person that can dictate what happens to you is YOU! The Kingdom of God operates by the system of sowing and reaping. If you don’t like the harvest you are reaping, then it is time to check your seed (the decisions you have been making). Change your seed and you will change your harvest!

Confession for this day: Lord God, I declare, by faith, that I sow the right seed. I heed Your warnings. I submit to Your Word. Your Words are the Words I live by. I line up my life with Your counsel. I am not foolish enough to believe that I can live my life by my own counsel and wisdom. I make the decision to do things Your way and this decision takes me down the path to my destiny. Lord, you are free to lead me in the way that I should go. I may not always know where I am going, but I know Who I am following. I follow You Lord, by faith! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(1:30-33) A Warning Against Rejecting the Wisdom of God (Part V) (top of page)

(Proverbs 1:30-33 NIV) Since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with the fruit of their schemes. For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them; but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm."

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” As previously stated, in verses 20-33 Solomon gives us warning against
rejecting the wisdom of God. We have covered a great portion of this passage already (20-29) and this we look at Solomon’s final words in this warning against rejecting the wisdom of God:

“Since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with the fruit of their schemes.” Solomon drives it home here again. He wants to make it clear that when the wicked choose to ignore God’s call to righteousness and when they consciously reject His advice (His Word), then they too will reap what they have sown. They will eat the fruit of their ways and it will be no one’s fault but their own. They made their own decisions, without the wisdom of God, and their life will be “filled with the fruit of their schemes.”
“For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them.” Solomon highlights two different areas here that merit further elaboration: waywardness and complacency. The word translated waywardness here is a Hebrew word that means: a turning away, turning back, apostasy. This is a reference to those who knew to do better, but chose not to. They knew of the goodness of God, they knew what His wisdom instructed, they knew what His character expected, but even then they made a conscious choice to ignore, reject and turn away from it. Their waywardness will result in death, sometimes a premature death. They literally force themselves down a path of unrighteousness, because of their own lusts and desires. Their ways trump God’s ways in their lives. This call to righteousness, to the ways of God, is the theme of this entire passage. So the first highlight here (waywardness) is just more of the same; it flows with what we have already been covering. But then Solomon tells us that the “complacency of fools will destroy them.” This is different. You can heed the call of God, you can walk down the path of righteousness, you can abstain from sin, and still be complacent. Yes, many believers today and throughout the course of history have been crippled by complacency; they have been setback by procrastination. Solomon calls the complacent a fool. This person accepts where they are as the final destination. They stop moving, stop growing, stop expecting, stop anticipating, they simply stop. The problem is that God has not stopped. If you are still alive, then God is not through with you. If He were done with you then you would be gone. We are warned against being complacent, against giving up on progress, against throwing in the towel of expectation from God, because complacency will eventually destroy the fool. As much as Solomon calls us to righteousness, he also calls us to diligence. Life in God is a life of persistence, perseverance, determination, and dedication. Look throughout all the books of the Bible and you will never find God doing mighty things through the life of a lazy person.

I did not get the to 33rd verse this morning. We will take a look at that verse tomorrow.

Confession for this day: Lord God, I thank You for Your Word. I thank You for making it so clear for me. The more I learn the more I live. My learning turns into living daily. Today I declare, by faith, that I sow the right seed and therefore, reap the right harvest. I live a submitted and obedient life. I judge my decisions upon the ruler of Your Wisdom, which is Your Word and what I receive from Your Spirit who lives in me. I shun the path of the wayward and choose to overcome complacency and procrastination. I am persistent, perseverant, determined, dedicated, and diligent. Since I am still living, I declare that I am still learning and growing more and more like You daily. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(1:33) A Warning Against Rejecting the Wisdom of God (Part VI) (top of page)

(Proverbs 1:33 NIV) But whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm."

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” As previously stated, Solomon gives us warning against rejecting the wisdom of God in verses 20-33. Yesterday I attempted to finish with this passage, but I was unable to get to the 33rd verse, so we will cover that today.

After clearly giving us the warning, after laying out the consequences of rejecting God’s wisdom for 13 verses, after characterizing those that ignore God’s pleas as “simple” and “fools,” God through Solomon then says, “But whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.” This is a final reminder that we have a choice; a choice to live with God or without Him; a choice to walk in His way or our own; a choice to receive or reject His counsel; a choice make His Son our Lord or to continue to make ourselves the lord of our own lives. Solomon reminds us this morning that when we choose God, His Son, His Spirit, His Word, and His counsel, we will enjoy the benefits of our decision.

I remember when I became a Christian at the age of 23. After receiving Christ I was taught about what my decision meant. My mentors led me through Bible verses that explained to me that I was no longer a citizen of the kingdom of darkness and how I had already been translated into the Kingdom of God’s dear Son (Col 1:13). I was taught about the benefits I could and should now receive as a citizen of God’s Kingdom, things like: protection (angelic and otherwise), soundness of mind, peace of heart, authority over the kingdom of darkness, deliverance from fear, health and healing, the ability to find and follow my purpose, access to God’s wisdom, the leading of His Spirit, and the list can go on and on. I knew that if I was a new citizen that I was SUPPOSED to receive benefits with my citizenship. I knew that because I was the first of my family to be born as a US citizen. Those that came before me came to this country seeking a better life and they became naturalized citizens – because they CHOSE to – and they made their decision because of the benefits package. They knew that becoming a citizen of the US has benefits and there are people that will swim through rivers, traverse deserts in the middle of darkness, ride in the trunk of vehicles, or endure other hardships and dangers just to enter this country, albeit illegally, with hopes that some day they will be able to become a citizen and access the benefits.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that when you accepted Jesus as your Lord it opened up the door of possibilities. Those without God have no reference point from which to make sound decisions. They make decisions based on reason, emotions, or intellect. They step out on a limb, hoping that things will work out. When they do, they call it “good luck,” when they don’t, they call it “bad luck.” Or they say things like, “It was just meant to be.” But since you have been Born-Again you have access to God’s Word and His Spirit. You don’t have to rely on so-called luck or being lucky. You can train yourself to think like God. Your mind can be renewed to make Godly decisions. Renewing your mind and following the leadership of the Holy Spirit gives you advantage in the world. This advantage should spill over to every area of your life. Believe me, this is how you WANT to live; enjoying the benefits of walking in obedience!

Confession for this day: Lord God, I thank You for translating me out of the kingdom of darkness and into the Kingdom of Your dear Son. I am a citizen in Your Kingdom and I declare, by faith, that I will make a demand for and enjoy the benefits therein. I don’t have to rely on luck, I renew my mind and line up my thinking with Your Word and Your Spirit. You lead me in my decision making process and that leadership gives me an advantage in the world. I enjoy Godly success in every area of my life, by faith! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(2:1) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (top of page)

(Proverbs 2:1-5 NIV) My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Last week we finished off the first chapter. It is my prayer that you were blessed richly by Solomon’s opening words, but I am even more expectant that you will continue to be blessed by what we receive as we journey through the remaining 30 chapters. In this second chapter Solomon outlines some of the benefits of walking in God’s wisdom; of lining up our lives – our decisions and actions – with God’s Word, will, and way. Before he gets into explaining the benefits he gives us a list of prerequisites. We find eight of them in the first five verses. I like the way Solomon starts off his teaching by saying, “My Son.” This puts us at his feet. He is the tutor and we are the student, he is the father and we are the child, he is the wise man and we are his apprentice as we receive the pearls that flow from his lips. He tells us to:

Accept his words
Store up his commands
Turn our ear to wisdom
Apply our heart to understanding
Call out for insight
Cry aloud for understanding
Look for wisdom like miner mines for silver
Search for wisdom like a treasure-hunter pursues a hidden treasure

We will look at all eight of these as we move forward, but for this morning we enjoy a cursory view of them all. Solomon paints a picture for us of the hidden wisdom that is locked up within the pages of the Bible. As we unlock the power of God’s truth we are able to find God, His love, His character, attributes, and nature; along with finding ourselves, our purpose, future, destiny. God’s Word is like no other book ever written. It does not matter whether one lived in the times of Moses, Joshua, and Caleb; David, Saul, and Jonathan; Peter, James, and John; or Jim, Sally, and Suzy (today). The Bible was, is, and ever shall be applicable. That’s why Solomon tells us to not only accept, but to store up God’s commands in our heart. Not only are we to turn our ear to what God is saying, we are also to apply our heart to His understanding. We are not just supposed to learn, but we are urged to live these pages. No, this is not just a textbook to study, but rather a life-book to live. There is so much I can say about the Bible, but I will close with the words of John F. MacArthur Jr. He said, “This book contains: the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrine is holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be saved, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword, and the Christian’s charter. Here heaven is open, and the gates of hell are disclosed. Christ is the grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, and prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, health to the soul, and a river of pleasure. It is given to you here in this life, will be opened at the judgment, and is established forever. It involves the highest responsibility, will reward the greatest labor, and condemn all who trifle with its contents.”

Confession for this day: Lord God, I thank You so much for leaving us Your Word, which is Your will documented. I thank You for Your Word. I receive it’s truths by faith, I mine through it’s pages for the hidden wisdom You have locked therein. I find golden nuggets in Your Word daily. I store them in my heart, I apply them in my life, I speak them with my lips, I live them with my every fiber of my being. Thank You again, for Your Word! Your Word is the ruler by which I judge every decision, by faith! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(2:1-5) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (Part II) (top of page)

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Yesterday I highlighted the lengthy if-then statement that Solomon opens the second chapter of Proverbs with, where the ‘if’ portion requires us to fulfill eight things. If we fulfill the requirement, we qualify for the ‘then’ portion, which promises that we will understand the fear of the Lord (Jehovah) and find the knowledge of God (Elohim – God the Creator). We will look at the eight requirements in sections of two, because that is the way that they are written.

Let’s focus in on the first section this morning. Solomon says, “My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you.” The Hebrew word here for “accept” means: to receive, acquire, lay hold of, to take from, or to carry away. At first glance it seems like Solomon is telling us simply to not reject his words, which in context are really God’s Word. The word “accept” can connote a passive permission. And although it is true that we must accept and welcome God’s Word and not reject it, our requirement is much higher than mere acceptance. Yes, there are some people who simply reject God and the very notion that He worked through men to write the Bible. But we, as believers, must do more than just accept the Bible as God’s Words. Solomon tells us that we must lay hold, take possession of, and make personal the Word of God. It’s books may not have been written TO us, but they were surely documented FOR us. The first step in receiving God’s wisdom is acknowledging the validity and supremacy of God’s Word and then laying hold of it as ours, making it personal, making it God’s Word to US!

Not only does Solomon tell us to “accept” God’s Word, but he also tells us to “store up” God’s commands within us. Another translation says, “Collect my counsels and guard them with your life.” Not only are to we acknowledge the validity of God’s Word(s), not only are we to welcome and accept them into our lives, but we are to literally hide them within the center of our being. We must accept God’s Word to the point where it is written upon the tablets of our heart. This reminds me of something that Solomon’s father (David) said in the 119th Psalm. David said, “Your word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against you” (Ps 119:11). No doubt Solomon learned many things from his father David, the man considered by many to be the greatest king to ever live. David’s greatest attribute, his greatest characteristic, his greatest accolade, was that he was a man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22). David chased after God’s heart by placing God’s Word within his own.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that if you want to access God’s wisdom, if you want to walk in His counsel, if you want to benefit from knowing His will, the first step is accepting and storing up His Word within you. You must settle the issue of the validity of God’s word for yourself. Men may have penned the scriptures, but they were not the authors. Men wrote the letters, but they did not manufacture the Words. They may have been the tools, but the Holy Spirit was the Mastermind. And then, after settling the issue of the origin of God’s Word, you must seek to hide His truth upon the tablet of your heart. Once you store up God’s Word within you, you will find yourself becoming what you have stored; you will slowly, but surely, be transformed. You know what they say, “You are what you eat” J.

Confession for this day: Lord God, I have settled the issue of the validity of Your Word in my heart. I know You worked through men to document Your Word for me. The books of the Bible may not have been written to me, but they were written for me. I learn from and live by Your Word. Your Word is written upon the tablet of my heart. I hide Your Word in my heart so I won’t sin against You! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(2:1-5) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (Part III) (top of page)

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God,” by taking a look a the second set of requirements listed here by Solomon for us. He says, “Turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding.” It is no coincidence that the ear and the heart are coupled here by Solomon. Our ears and eyes are gateways to our soul. What we look at passes through our ‘eye-gate’ and what we listen to passes through our ‘ear-gate.’ Both directly affect our soul, which is comprised of our mind (our thinker), emotions (our feeler), and will (our chooser). That being the case, it is very important for us to listen to the right things. Just like our faith can be built up by hearing the right things (Rom 10:17), we can also build up fear in our lives if we listen to the wrong things. The bottom line is that whatever consistently passes through our ears will eventually get down into our heart.

Solomon tells us to literally turn our ear to wisdom. He teaches us that we have the power to choose what we listen to and we should use that power wisely. We have the ability to tune in and to tune out things that come our way. More importantly, we can simply put ourselves in a position to receive a constant diet of God’s Word. The more we receive God’s Word (His wisdom), the more it will get down in our heart. The more it gets down in our heart, the more we will be able to apply our heart to God’s understanding. The more we apply our heart to God’s understanding, the more we will find ourselves making Godly decisions and reaping Godly results. This reminds me of a time in Mark chapter four where Jesus was teaching a series of parables. At one point in the teaching He said, “If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.” The people listening to Him obviously had ears, but His point was that they should ‘tune-in’ their ears to what He was saying. His words, God’s Words, are spirit and life (John 6:63). The more we listen to the words of God, the more we will be built up. That’s why Jesus went on to say, “Consider carefully what you hear" (Mark 4:23,24). Jesus knew that what we consistently hear eventually gets down into our heart and there it affects every area of our life.

When I first gave my life to Christ I was taught that I could listen to all sorts of teaching, but that I just had to have the ability “Take in the meat, and spit out the bones.” What that meant was that I was supposed to listen to it all, but then only digest what I wanted. The problem with that was that I had already listened to it. To some level, I had already digested it. This takes me to a story of a farmer and his donkey. He loved this donkey and he made sure that the donkey always had a place to graze. One day the donkey stopped eating. The farmer was not sure what happened and after a few days he got worried. He called in a vet. The vet stuck his hand down the donkey’s throat and pulled out a stick. Somehow a stick got caught in the donkey’s throat and it almost killed him. My point is that you just can’t listen to everything and then think you can take in the meat and spit out the bones. One of those bones might get stuck in your throat!

So what does this mean to you today? It simply means that you need to check your input. What you allow through your ear and eye gates will get down in your heart and once it is there, it can affect every area of your life. If you turn your ear to wisdom your heart will be filled with the right things and you will find yourself making decisions that are pleasing to God.

Confession for this day: Lord God, I have ears to hear and I declare, by faith, that I will turn my ears to the right teaching. I refuse to listen to things that will bring me down and that will lead me down the path of fear, doubt, or unbelief. I listen to things that build me up, that feed my faith, and that starve my doubts. What I listen to gets down in my heart and I find myself becoming more and more like You daily! I speak this by faith! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(2:1-5) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (Part IV) (top of page)

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God,” by taking a look a the third set of requirements listed here by Solomon for us. He says, “If you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding.” I looked up the Hebrew words for “call out,” “cry aloud,” “insight,” and “understanding,” but they all basically mean just what they say. My emphasis, then, for this message will be on what I believe Solomon’s point is: that we should ASK God, with our own lips, for wisdom. The verbiage he uses connotes an earnest plea. He is telling us that we should ask God for insight and understanding, but we should do so earnestly or in-faith. Asking God for something, with our own lips, may be obvious, but it still needs to be stated. For one thing, you will be hard-pressed to find a silent prayer in the Bible. Solomon does not want us to wish for it, or to dream about it, but to literally ask God, to call out, to cry aloud to God for His wisdom concerning whatever we are facing.

Solomon is not alone in this teaching. James and Jesus (Himself) taught similar things. When Jesus was teaching on prayer He said, “So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened” (Luke 11:9,10). So what happens if you don’t ask? It won’t be given. Or if you don’t seek? You will not find. Or if you don’t knock? The door will not be opened! And whose fault will it be, God’s or yours? The answer is obvious, yours! The Bible is clear that God expects us to ASK for what we need and desire. There are countless things stored up for us, things that we need to succeed in life, things that are readily available to us, if we access them through the vehicle of prayer.

Now let’s take a look at what James taught about this topic. He said, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5). You can’t get much clearer than that. James makes is plain – if you need wisdom, just like anything else you need, you should ask God for it! And like Solomon, James emphasizes the fact that we must be earnest in our prayer. If you read further you learn that James tells us that we MUST ask IN FAITH, not wavering. He explains that the person who waivers, who is double-minded, will NOT receive ANYTHING from God. And not only must our petition by IN FAITH, but in the fourth chapter James tells us that our motives must also be pure. He says, “You do not have, because you do not ask God,” this is further emphasis on our requirement to ask, but then James says, “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures” (4:2,3).

So what does this mean to you today? It means that God’s willingness to freely give wisdom (and other things) does not do away with our requirement to ask. God expects us to come to Him in prayer for the things that we desire and require in life. Oftentimes we think we are waiting on God, but He is actually waiting on us. God has set it up so that we must ask, but even then there are stipulations. We must ask earnestly, in faith, without wavering, and with pure motives.

Confession for this day: Lord God, first of all I thank You for giving me the ability to ask, for granting me the right to come boldly before the throne of Your grace in the name of Your Son Jesus! I have the access and I declare, by faith, that I will use it. I will ask, seek, and knock. I pray in faith, without wavering, and with pure motives and I receive, find, and walk through open doors. I have a relationship with You and part of that relationship is coming to You daily in prayer. I exercise this privilege and I enjoy the benefits. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(2:1-5) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (Part V) (top of page)

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God,” by taking a look a the fourth and final set of requirements listed here by Solomon for us. He says, “If you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure.” Another translation says, “If you search for wisdom as if it were money and hunt for it as if it were hidden treasure.”

How do people pursue money? Many do it at all costs. There are countless people today, unfortunately even believers, who pursue money with reckless abandon. Their endless pursuit of money often causes them to wind up with money, but only to realize that they have lost everything else along the way. Many lose their families, their integrity, and even their health in a tireless pursuit of money. Jesus once asked the question, “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?” (Mat 16:26). What good will the money be if you lose everything that matters to get it? Many even miss out on eternal life in their pursuit of temporal gain. I often say, “Money makes an excellent servant, but a poor master.” I think you get the point. So now let’s get back to what Solomon said. He taught us that we should pursue wisdom, God’s Wisdom, God’s Word, they way that people pursue money. The good news is that if we pursue Godly wisdom with the earnestness and fervor that others pursue money, we will be able to obtain the wisdom of God and still retain the things that matter the most to us in the process. As a matter of fact, the more Godly wisdom we receive, the more we are able to enjoy our family, life, health, and strength. Pursuing Godly wisdom will add to our lives, not take away from it. So search for her with passion, dedication, and enthusiasm, because the more you learn from God, the more you will be able to have and enjoy the life He desires for you!

The second point is that we are to search for wisdom they way that treasure hunters hunt for hidden treasure. I like movies and I really enjoy movies about hidden treasure. Oftentimes the treasure was right beneath the noses of people, within their reach for decades, sometimes even centuries, but since they never looked for it, they never found it. That’s how it is with many believers. They carry their Bible around with them. Some have several Bibles: one on their coffee table, one on the nightstand by the bed, another in the car, and yet another in their office. All these Bibles, all that wisdom right beneath their noses, but it will never benefit them if they never look for it. The Bible is a treasure chest of pearls of wisdom. It is chock-full of instruction, correction, encouragement, and strength, but it will never do you any good if you don’t read it.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you should pursue God’s wisdom – the wisdom locked up within the pages of His Word – and you should do it with the passion, dedication, loyalty, and enthusiasm that people use when they pursue riches and hidden treasure. Wouldn’t be a shame if you pursued things more than you pursued God? Don’t let that be your testimony. Pursue God, receive His wisdom, and you won’t have to pursue things, they will pursue you!

Confession for this day: Lord God, I thank You for teaching me in Your Word about Your Word. Thank You for making it clear to me that your wisdom is locked up within the pages of the Bible. I will pursue Your wisdom with the dedication and determination that others pursue money. I will search for her with the devotion and excitement that others have when they search for hidden treasure. I give my all to this pursuit and I know that I will not lose anything important because of it, but I will rather be enriched in the process. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(2:5,6) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (Part VI) (top of page)

(Proverbs 2:5,6 NIV) Then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Thus far in chapter two Solomon has told us that we must accept and store God’s Word in our hearts; that we must check our inputs, because what comes through our gates (ears and eyes) will eventually get down in our spirit; that we must use our lips to make petitions of God and when we do, we must do so earnestly, in faith, without wavering, and with pure motives; and finally, he told us to pursue God’s wisdom – the wisdom locked up within the pages of His Word – with the passion, dedication, loyalty, and enthusiasm that people use when they pursue riches and hidden treasure. Solomon has set the stage for us to genuinely attain Godly wisdom. It is “then,” he says, that we will “Understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.” The reason why our pursuit of God’s wisdom must be so earnest and genuine is because it is not an overnight process. When we come to God we already have years upon years of teaching. In most cases it is teaching that DOES NOT line up with God’s Word. Our text tells us that the Lord gives wisdom, and yes He does, but to receive it and walk in it we must be willing to let go of the worldly wisdom we have received. At the end of the day, our life is a grand-sum-total of our decisions. If we make decisions based upon worldly counsel we will live a life that is NOT pleasing to God. Let’s look at some examples of the differences:

Enemies: Whether we like it or not, we all develop enemies as we walk down the path of our lives. Some people will dislike us, whether we do anything wrong to them or not. Worldly wisdom tells us to fight against our enemies, to expose their weaknesses, and to destroy them if we can. Godly wisdom us to love them, pray for them, and to attempt to overcome their evil with good. Walking in love is Godly wisdom, walking in revenge is worldly wisdom. Although the Bible is full of teaching on forgiveness and love, we must CHOOSE not to operate in hatred and revenge. Like anything else, the CHOICE is ours to make and – good or bad – we will reap the results.
Treatment of others: We live in a society of give and take, this for that, tit for tat. Worldly wisdom tells us to help only those THAT CAN help us back; to do things for those that can return the favor. Godly wisdom tells us to help others, even when it is obvious that they cannot do anything for us in return. Godly wisdom knows that everything we do is a seed. We sow (good or bad) into the lives of others and we don’t need to expect a harvest from them. Our God is the Lord of the Harvest and He will cause us to reap whatever we sow.
Finances: Worldly wisdom tells us to store up as much as we can, especially for a ‘rainy day.’ Godly wisdom is not against saving, but it does require us to give. We give to a God that we cannot see, we sow into ministries, we help the less fortunate, we give to the poor, because we do what we do as unto God; not man. We know that ultimately we are blessed TO BE a blessing. Now, a worldly financial advisor will look at the checkbook of a child of God and say, “You are giving away way too much. You should reduce your charitable contributions.” But a child of God that is giving, as he is led to give, knows that he continues to be blessed BECAUSE of his faithfulness in the area of finances. Whose counsel will you accept? God’s or the worlds?
Integrity: Worldly wisdom will tell you to get away with whatever you can to get ahead. Godly wisdom will tell you to do what is right, because its right, and then do it right, even if no one else is around! Integrity is a dying word in the world, but it is still a central requirement for Godly living.

Confession for this day: Lord God, I choose to live my life in accordance with Your Word, Your will and Your way. I am a Psalm 1 man (or woman). I refuse to walk in the counsel of the ungodly, or to stand in the way of sinners, or to sit in the seat of mockers. My delight is in Your Word and I meditate therein day and night. I shall be like a tree that has a constant supply of what it needs to grow (Your Word). I bring forth fruit in season, my leaves do not wither and everything I do prospers, because I walk in Your wisdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(2:7) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (Part VII) (top of page)

(Proverbs 2:7 NIV) He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless.

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” All last week we learned about the requirements that Solomon listed for receiving God’s wisdom and now we finally get into the benefits. This seventh verse basically lays out two benefits: wisdom and protection. To get the bigger picture of what Solomon is saying I want to share this verse with you from three more translations. The New American Standard Bible says, “He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk in integrity.” The Contemporary English Version says, “God gives helpful advice to everyone who obeys him and protects all of those who live as they should.” And the New Living Translation says, “He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity.”

The first half of the verse tells us that God has wisdom/victory stored up for the righteous/just. First of all, those of us that have accepted Jesus as Lord have been made righteous by the Blood of Jesus. We are the righteousness of God in Christ (2 Cor 5:21). We have been justified by faith (Rom 5:1). We are the people that Solomon is talking about. God has wisdom/victory stored up for us. I like the way some translators decided on the word wisdom or common sense, while others decided on the word victory. The way that I read it, I believe that God has wisdom available for us and when we CHOOSE to walk in it, we obtain the victory. I am convinced, through scripture, that God desires for His children to live a victorious life in the earth. The problem is that we are free moral agents. God has given us the power to make our own decisions. We are not puppets in the least. That being the case, we have a say in the matter. God has done His part by providing us His counsel (in His Word) and His Spirit (to guide us), but when we ignore His wisdom and choose to make decisions that are opposed to His will, we reap the consequences of those decisions and it is no one’s fault but our own. When we walk in His counsel we experience countless victories as we live out the remainder of our lives.

The second half of the verse deals with protection. Almost all of the translators paint the same picture: God will provide protection for those that walk in integrity. Our heavenly father wants us to know that when we walk upright before Him and when we live a life that is pleasing to Him, we will enjoy His protection. When I was a child growing up in Brooklyn I needed physical protection and I thank God that He provided it countless times. When deployed in the Middle East I have needed physical protection as well and God has been faithful to provide it. But the protection here is greater than just physical protection. This is protection against spiritual attacks; against the plots of unrighteous people; against schemes from enemies in the workplace; against bacteria, viruses, disease, and all manner of sickness; and etc. God can and will literally provide an impenetrable hedge of protection round about the person that fears Him (Ps 34:7)

So what does this mean to you today? It simply means that walking in God’s wisdom – His counsel, His Word – puts you in a position to experience victory and protection. When you choose to ignore God’s wisdom you open yourself up to failure and calamity. Close every door to the enemy today, by choosing to make decisions that are pleasing to God!

Confession for this day: Lord God, I know the type of life that You want me to experience and I want it as well. I want to experience Your best for the remainder of my years in the earth. To do so I must make wise decisions. Therefore, I declare, by faith, that my mind is renewed by and towards Your Word. I make decisions that are pleasing to You. I walk in integrity, honestly, and loyalty. I am the person You desire for me to be and I experience Your victory in every area of my life. I am protected from every attack, because I live my life under Your shield! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(2:8) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (Part VIII) (top of page)

(Proverbs 2:8 NIV) For he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Yesterday we started getting into the benefits and this one hits home with me this morning. This verse finds me where I am today. Like most people, I want to know that I am doing what God wants me to do and that I will be successful at the things He assigns me to. I am in a new environment, living in a new house, attending a new church, making new friends, facing new challenges, and doing it all by trusting in a God that is not new to me at all. Admittedly, I am not a fan of church hymns, but there is an old hymn by Jennie Wilson that I like. It says, “Time is filled with swift transition, Naught of earth unmoved can stand, Build your hopes on things eternal, Hold to God’s unchanging hand.” We live in a world of constant change. We seemingly make plans daily. Sometimes the plans hold true and other times they change completely. None of us entirely know what the future holds, but we want to believe that our path is protected, that our plans are worthy of execution and that our lives are headed down the right direction. That’s why Solomon is so adamant that we pursue God’s wisdom. God is the only constant in this world. His hand is the only unchanging hand. He is our stability in an ever-changing environment.

The words of Solomon really minister to me this morning and I pray they minister to you. I know that I do my best to walk in Godly wisdom, to pursue Godly counsel, and to live the life that God desires for me to live. This morning God tells all of us that are seeking to be faithful to Him that He guards our course and protects our way. The Contemporary English Version of this verse says, “God sees that justice is done, and he watches over everyone who is faithful to him” (CEV). Does it seem like others sometimes get the upper hand on you? Does is seem like things happen that should not happen or that others treat you wrong for no reason? Don’t try to get revenge. Leave revenge to God. Just pray for them and know that God will see to it that justice is done. God will see to it that you will reap the right reward. God will watch over you for being faithful to Him. God will!

The Message Bible translation of this verse makes it even more clear. It says, “He keeps his eye on all who live honestly, and pays special attention to his loyally committed ones” (MSG). Are you loyally committed to God? If so, God’s Word just told you that God has His eye on you! Think about that for a moment. The God that sits on the circle of earth, that spoke to darkness and created light, that spoke to chaos and created order, that caused the blind to see, the lame to walk, the dumb to speak, and that dead to live, that God – our God – is watching over You! The God of the Universe takes time, every day, to watch over you! He guards your course and protects your way. Praise God! That is Good News!

So what does this mean to you today? It does not mean that bad things will not happen to good people, but it does mean that God will protect you as you walk down the path to your destiny. God will see to it that justice is done in your life. He keeps His eye on you to ensure that you experience His best. So continue to seek His counsel and to rely on His wisdom. He is the only constant in our world of constant change. Hold to God’s unchanging hand!

Confession for this day: Lord God, I speak the words of David this morning. I say that You, Oh Lord, are a shield for me. You’re my glory, the lifter up of my head. You lift my head whenever I am down. You encourage me when I need it. Because You watch over me. You see to it that justice is done in my life. You protect me from the unrighteous. You shield me from others and even from myself, when I am about to make a mistake. You show me my wrong ways, so that I can make Godly decisions. Because I am loyal, committed, and faithful to You, You guard my course and protect my way. So I just want to say THANK YOU! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(2:9) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (Part IX) (top of page)

(Proverbs 2:9 NASB) Then you will discern righteousness and justice and equity and every good course.

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God,” by continuing to look at the benefits of walking in God’s wisdom and understanding. This morning’s benefit is a big one – discernment. Solomon was a king, a ruler, and an astute businessman. He oversaw the equivalent of billion-dollar enterprises. He led the greatest project of his time, and one of the greatest of all time, in building Solomon’s temple; the house of God. He had to make key decisions on a daily basis. He was able to do what He did, by the grace of God, because of the wisdom of God. He is fully qualified to tell us that when we walk in God’s wisdom we will be able to discern righteousness. He is basically telling us that when we walk with God and when His wisdom is operating in our lives we will be able to make the right decisions. We will choose what is right, just, equitable, and good.

The definition of discernment is: the quality of being able to grasp and comprehend what is obscure; showing insight and understanding; acuteness of judgment. This is not limited to spiritual things. God’s wisdom is not just for understanding the scriptures, for going to church, or for leading a Bible study. No, God’s wisdom applies to every area of life. I am a Network Engineer in the Army. As a Warrant Officer I am expected to be a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in my field and my field (communications) is pretty broad. Over the years I have been expected to comprehend the technical and often confusing aspects of technology and then develop action plans to implement the technology in the way that best suits the mission. I have been very successful – by the grace of God – because I have the ability to not only understand the obscure, but to articulate it in ways that are easily understandable. This is basically what God has graced me to do in the church as well; taking often understood Biblical concepts and explaining them in ways that are easily understood and applicable. The amazing part of all of this is that this comes naturally to me. I call this “sweatless victory.” Does it require energy and effort on my part? Of course, but not nearly the amount expended by those who attempt to do it on human ability alone.

I know that I do what I do by the grace of God. I know that it is not all God, but it is not all me either. This reminds me of something Paul said in his first letter to the church at Corinth. He said, “By God's grace I am what I am.” But he knew that he could not stop there, because that sounds like he had no part in the matter. Someone could read that and say, “Well, my life is all up to God.” No, Paul went on to say, “I worked harder than all the others.” This made it clear Paul had a part in the matter, but that does not sound good either. Someone might think he was being arrogant. So Paul continued and said, “Not I, of course, but God's grace that was with me” (1st Cor 15:10). This shows that Paul had part and God had a part. Without God, we cannot. Without us, God will not. It is God + man making a difference in the world.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you can try to live your life on human ability alone, but why would you want to? When you operate in Godly wisdom it will impact every area of your life. God can show you things by revelation (in a minute) that would take years to learn by education. I am a relatively young man, but God has graced me to operate in wisdom beyond my years. I am not special. He can do the same for you. Don’t make it all you and don’t think I will be all God, it is God + you making a difference in your environment.

Confession for this day: Lord God, I declare that the more I learn the scriptures and apply them in my life, the more I become like You, the more I operate in Your counsel and Your way. As I walk with You, You walk with me. It is not all me, but it is not all You. It is You and I, together, making a difference in my environment. I am what I am by your grace and my effort. Together, You working with me, we impact this environment for the better. Thank You for giving me the ability to discern what is right, just, equitable, and good. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

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(2:10) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (Part X) (top of page)

(Proverbs 2:10 NASB) For wisdom will enter your heart and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God,” by continuing to look at the benefits of walking in God’s wisdom and understanding. This morning’s benefit is a vital benefit to any believer that wants to live a life that is pleasing to God and it is mind-renewal. When we come to God we do so with a set of ideas, beliefs, values, convictions, and etc.; along with many years of formal and informal education. The day we accept Jesus as Lord we do so without a clean slate. No, our slate, by that point, has been filled with knowledge, experiences, and decisions. When we accept Jesus as Lord we are Born Again. At that moment our spirit is regenerated by God’s Spirit and it is a wonderful and everlasting experience. The problem is that we, like God, are tripartite beings. God is Father, Son, and Spirit. We are spirit, soul, and body. Once we are Born Again our spirit is “saved,” but not our soul or our body. I like to say that our spirit was saved instantly, our soul must be saved progressively and our body will be saved eventually.

So if our spirit has already been saved and our body will eventually be saved, then what should be our focus today? You got it! The salvation of our soul. Our soul is comprised of our mind (the way we think), emotions (the way we feel), and will (the way we choose). When we come to God our soul is already conditioned to think, feel, and choose a certain way. Most of us came to God with a soul that was not conditioned to think, feel, and choose in ways that are pleasing to Him. Dr. Finace Bush says, “This new man in and old body needs a new mind!”

When I came to God I had already received 23 years of input, 18 of which came from living in Brooklyn, New York. I was a fast-tracker in the military, but I was rough around the edges. I liked confrontation, I cussed more than anyone I knew, and I wanted to be a man after the pattern of the men that I had seen in my life. These were men that I respected and looked up to, but they were not Godly men. So at the age of 23 I was Born Again, but my mind was still the same. I was a Christian, but I still wanted to fight, cuss, and live like the men that I had been looking up to. However, the more I read the Word the more I knew that I had to change. The more I accepted, received, and applied God’s Word to my life the more I realized that I was no longer rejecting the things of God, like I had done in the past, I was becoming them. Our text says that when we allow God’s wisdom to enter our heart His knowledge will become pleasant to our soul. Things that had never been pleasant to me before became more and more pleasant, day by day, as I learned to walk with God in accordance with His wisdom. Before I came to God I held grudges, but over time I realized that forgiveness was now pleasant to me. Before I came to God I wanted to fight my enemies, but over time I found myself praying for them. And the same can be said for many areas of my life. It’s been 13 years now and I can honestly say that the things of God are pleasant to my soul.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that renewing your mind is a process, not an event. It will take time, but if you stay with God, it will happen. The more you accept, apply, and live by God’s Word the more and more pleasant His ways will become to you. I know that when you first become a Christian it may not be all that easy to love, forgive, and turn the other cheek, but the more you read and apply His Word the more you will become what you read!

Confession for this day: Lord God, I thank You for giving me a book of Your Wisdom – Your Word. The more I read, receive, apply, and live out Your Word the more I become what I read. I declare, by faith, that Your ways are pleasant to my soul. I think, feel, and choose in ways that are pleasing to You, because Your ways are pleasing to me. My soul no longer rejects Your ways, it welcomes them with open arms! I speak this by faith. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(2:11) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (Part XI) (top of page)

(Proverbs 2:11 NASB) Discretion will guard you, Understanding will watch over you.

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Solomon tells us this morning that walking with God, receiving and applying His wisdom, lining up our decisions with His Word, will enable us to exercise discretion. This means that we will be able to make wise choices; exercising sound judgment. Why? Because we are not just using our own wisdom and understanding, but we have decided to live by God’s wisdom and understanding. Solomon tells us that His understanding will literally watch over us. Another translation of this text says, “Foresight will protect you. Understanding will guard you.” Yes, when we walk with God, when we pray daily, when we make decisions that are bathed in prayer, when we choose to line up our decisions with God’s Word, it is as if we are living our lives with foresight. God often leads us to make decisions that simply don’t make sense to us, but we do them anyway, by faith. Then, after the dust settles, we see why God led us to make the decisions and we come out looking like we knew what was coming. But in reality we didn’t, we just trusted God and our trust in Him protected us from making a mistake. I can tell you story after story of how God has protected me from mistakes along the way and most of the time He protected me from ME!

Yes, the person we often need most protection from is OURSELVES! Why? Because sometimes we allow our confidence in our own intellect and abilities to keep us from praying and seeking Godly wisdom. We want everything to make sense and to be logical, but sometimes logic fails us. What happens when God wants us to go against the grain? What happens when He knows that what makes the most sense is NOT the answer? What happens when He makes every attempt to lead us down the path of the irrational or unreasonable? If we listen to Him and follow His lead by faith, we will experience what He wants us to experience, but if we ignore His counsel, just because it does not make sense, we will find ourselves wondering why ignored God. See, God is a Spirit and His ways are Spiritual, not sensual. It does not make sense to Tithe, or to love those that hate you, or to speak to a God you cannot see, but you do it anyway. Why? Because we are instructed to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Cor 5:7). Our sight (natural ability) is limited, but God’s ability is infinite.

Conrad Adenauer, in his book The Churchman wrote, “The good Lord set definite limits on man’s wisdom, but set no limits on his stupidity – and that’s just not fair.” That might be a funny quote, but it does bring out a truth, and that is that we are prone to making mistakes. What we think is true today might not be true to us 10 years from now. We might even be adamant and sincere about something, but sincerity does not guarantee accuracy. We can be sincere and sincerely wrong. George Bernard Shaw once said, “New opinions often appear first as jokes and fancies, then as blasphemies and treason, then as questions open to discussion, and finally as established truths.” What this tells us is that human truth changes. That might be a sad reality, but you can I can find solace in knowing that God’s truth is eternal. What worked for Solomon, David, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, can also work for us.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that walking with God and applying His wisdom will protect you from the deception of others and even from yourself. Now, this does not mean that you will never make a mistake – I can attest to that – but it does mean that God’s wisdom will watch over you as you seek to maximize your purpose in the earth!

Confession for this day: Lord God, I thank You for the wisdom You give me in Your Word and by Your Spirit, who lives in me. I declare, by faith, that I will receive, apply, and live by Your wisdom, even when it does not make sense. I thank You for the natural abilities You have blessed me with, but I will not allow my intellect to keep me from submitting to Your wisdom. Your wisdom watches over me daily as I live my life BY FAITH! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

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(2:12,13) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (Part XII) (top of page)

(Proverbs 2:12,13 NIV) Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse, who leave the straight paths to walk in dark ways.

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In verses 12-15 of this second chapter Solomon tells us that wisdom will save us from the ways of wicked men. This morning we look at verses 12 and 13. What do we know about the men that Solomon warns us about? We know that:

• Their ways are wicked: The Hebrew word translated wicked here is also translated as evil, trouble, bad, and grievous. These are not people who are out to do good. The word wicked also means twisted. They have a twisted view of live and they are out to influence others to view things they way they do. They are not content in living in darkness by themselves, but they are out to bring as many people with them as possible. Solomon tells us that Godly wisdom will literally save or deliver us from them. Godly wisdom will highlight their wrongdoings. When you walk with God and you have His Word in you it is as if alarms go off in your head when you hear or see something wrong. You know immediately that you need to stay away from the way of the wicked. Instead of them influencing you, Godly wisdom will enable you to stand your ground, to remain on the path of righteousness, and to shine as light in the midst of darkness. That way you can be the person who does the influencing and not the other way around.
• Their words are perverse: I did an entire series on the importance of your words. I often say, “What’s in you abundantly will come out of you eventually.” Your words show what’s inside of you. Jesus clearly taught this when He said, “A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot produce good fruit. You can tell what a tree is like by the fruit it produces. You cannot pick figs or grapes from thornbushes. Good people do good things because of the good in their hearts. Bad people do bad things because of the evil in their hearts. Your words show what is in your heart” (Luke 6:43-45). Since your words show what’s in your heart, people that speak perverse words – or words that don’t line up with God – are showing what’s in their heart. These are not people that you need to CHOOSE to be around regularly. If you surround yourself with perverse speech and you listen to it constantly, you will find yourself repeating it. You must protect your ear gate. What you continually hear will get down in your heart (your soul).
• They have left the path of the upright for the way of darkness: This is the real danger. These are people that know better. They have tasted the way of the upright. They know right from wrong. They know what the Bible says. They can quote scripture. These people are most dangerous, because they say things like, “Well, I know what the Bible says, but…” Or, “God never really meant that, because…” They know what right is, but they simply choose to do wrong. They have left the path of the upright and they would want you to do the same, because it will help them justify their actions. When you take your stand it upsets them, because it reminds them of their wrongdoing. Holding fast to the wisdom of God will enable you to hold fast to the profession of your faith and to resist the temptations to do evil.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you must choose your friends wisely. I can’t remember who said, “Who you will be in five years will be influenced by the friends you choose and the books you read.” Although I believe your relationship with God has a lot to do with where you will be in five years, the point is that your friends will also influence who you become. My mother used to tell me daily, “Show me who you hang with and I will tell you who you are.” I will talk more about this tomorrow.

Confession for this day: Lord God, I thank You for helping me to choose my friends wisely. I choose not to have close associations with those that are not out please You. I surround myself with people that will build me up and not tear me down. I connect with people that are of like precious faith, people that speak the language of faith, and that do their best to live their lives by faith. As iron sharpens iron, they sharpen me and I sharpen them. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(2:14,15) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (Part XIII) (top of page)

(Proverbs 2:14,15 NLT) They take pleasure in doing wrong, and they enjoy the twisted ways of evil. Their actions are crooked, and their ways are wrong.

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In verses 12-15 of this second chapter Solomon tells us that wisdom will save us from the ways of wicked men. Yesterday we looked at verses 12 and 13 where we learned that the people Solomon is describing are people who speak perverse words, who have left the way of the upright for the path of darkness, and who know better, but choose not to do better. This morning he tells us that these people literally take pleasure in doing wrong, their moral compass is calibrated towards wickedness to the point that they enjoy twisted ways. Solomon tells us plainly that their actions are crooked and their ways are wrong. It is interesting that the word wrong is used in our text. I have gotten into many conversations with people who try to tell me that there is no right or wrong. They like to believe that we are just different. They want to find solace in thinking that living in sin is not wrong, but just their choice. They shun away from anyone who believes in an absolute right. Why? Because they realize that if the Bible is right, then they are wrong and they just don’t want to come to grips with that.

I remember an old song I learned when I first became a Christian that said, “The Bible is right, and somebody’s wrong!” Yes, we live in a society where anything goes. Those living in sin take pleasure in it, and rightly so. I know I was a good sinner. When I was a sinner I did my best to live like one. My point is that it would be foolish of me to expect a sinner to live like a believer. A person that is not redeemed, that has not been Born Again, that does not have God’s Spirit living on the inside of them, and that does not ascribe the truth in God’s Word is simply not equipped or positioned to live a life that is pleasing to God. That’s why we must share the truth of the Gospel with the lost. But Solomon’s point is that we must not be naïve enough to think that we can befriend sinners and not be affected by it. We must choose our friends wisely. Those that we closely associate with will influence us, one way or another.

Why do you think that Solomon is teaching us that wisdom will protect us from people who are twisted, crooked, and wrongdoers? Because he knows that we need protection from their negative influence. So, if the Bible is warning us against this influence, wouldn’t it be foolish of us to welcome it? I have two teenagers and they sometimes struggle to understand why I emphasize so strongly to them the importance of choosing friends wisely. I know that if they choose the wrong friends they will wind up doing the wrong things. How many times have you heard of kids taking a turn for the worse because they started hanging out with the wrong people? The problem is that many adults think peer pressure is something that is reserved for children. No, we can all be affected by those that we CHOOSE to associate with. And that’s the good news – we have a CHOICE! We get to choose who we call our friends. We get to choose whom we spend time with. We get to choose whom we allow to speak into our lives. We get to choose whom we share intimate thoughts with. We get to CHOOSE!

So what does this mean to you today? It means that like so many other things in life, the choice is yours! You can choose to surround yourself with people that will help promote your relationship with God, or you can choose to surround yourself with people that will draw you back away from God. Don’t fool yourself into believing that your friends can’t affect your destiny. Choose wisely!

Confession for this day: Lord God, I declare, by faith, that Your wisdom is evident in my decisions. I make wise choices, especially when choosing friends. I connect with those that will lead me down the path You want me to go. I am no lone ranger. I am not in this race alone. And I choose to run it with people that are living lives that are pleasing to You. That way I build them up and they build me up! Together we are making a difference. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(2:16-19) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (Part XIV) (top of page)

(Proverbs 2:16-19 NLT) Wisdom will save you from the immoral woman, from the seductive words of the promiscuous woman. She has abandoned her husband and ignores the covenant she made before God. Entering her house leads to death; it is the road to the grave. The man who visits her is doomed. He will never reach the paths of life.

This morning we continue the series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” God gives us both encouragement and a warning in these four verses. The encouragement is that heeding to His wisdom will save us from the trap of sexual immorality. The warning is that if we ignore His wisdom and follow the path of sexual immorality, we may never find our way back.

Paul told us that we should not be ignorant of satan’s tactics (2^nd Cor 2:11). One tactic that has been tremendously successful for him, especially with men, is sexual sin. I did a quick search for statistics on internet porn alone and the estimates are the worldwide internet porn brings in around $97 Billion a year. That is remarkable and that is just one aspect of sexual sin. The warning here against the adulteress or the woman that has left the husband of her youth is a warning against all sexual sin. Let’s be clear, it is not a temptation for you if you are not tempted by it; meaning that if something is not tempting to you, then you won’t be tempted by it. Don’t fool yourself into thinking that it can never happen to you. The enemy has been watching you all your life. Imagine him having a file on you that documents what type of women you like. He knows how you like them and he will do everything he can to set you up for failure. There are people (men and women) in the kingdom of darkness that have no regard for the covenant they made with their spouses or with God. These are people that are out to have a good time and they are used (knowingly or not) by the enemy to bring down people in God’s kingdom.

One time Jesus was accused of doing what He did by the power of satan. Jesus responded saying, “If Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand?” (Mat 12:26). Did you catch that? Jesus identified the fact that satan has a kingdom and we know that God has a Kingdom. These two kingdoms are in all out war and the war will not be over until Jesus returns.

Getting back to our text. Solomon tells us that if we fall to the temptation of the woman who has no regard for the covenant she made with her spouse or her god, then we are walking down the path of death; it is the road to the grave. He tells us clearly that we are doomed and he says that we will NEVER reach the paths of life. Now, lest you be confused, this does not mean that if you have fallen to sexual sin that you are condemned forever. No, just like anything else, you can repent, receive forgiveness, overcome the temptation by the power of God, and get back on the road to fulfilling your purpose. But let’s be clear, opening the door to sexual sin opens many other doors in your life and before you know it you can be so entangled that you may never make it back. Many powerful men of God have fallen to sexual sin. The enemy has used this tactic time and time again against believers. Heed the warning. Don’t fall to sexual sin!

So what does this mean to you today? It means that walking in the wisdom of God can save you from sexual sin and from the myriad of other tactics the enemy uses to bring believers down. When you walk in the wisdom of God you live the life that is pleasing to Him and you abstain from even the very appearance of evil (1^st Thes 5:22). I have two confessions today:

Confession for the Married: Lord God, I declare, by faith, that I abstain from sexual sin. I close the door to immorality in my life. I walk in purity and my sexual desires are towards my spouse and my spouse alone. I please my spouse and my spouse pleases me. We have a passionate and fulfilling sex life and we are content with each other. We keep ourselves physically and we make opportunities for romantic moments. Father, thank You for blessing me with my spouse and I will not violate the covenant I made with them or with You! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

Confession for the Single: Lord God, I declare, by faith, that I have the ability to make the right decisions. I live the celibate life, until You lead me to connect with my life-long mate. When I connect with my mate we will please each other sexually, but until then, I walk in abstinence and I do it with Your help. I am not foolish enough to believe that I cannot fall, but I declare that I WILL NOT fall to sexual sin. I close the door to the enemy I walk in righteousness, by faith. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

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(2:20) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (Part XV) (top of page)

(Prov 2:20 GNB) So you must follow the example of good people and live a righteous life.

This morning we get back to our current series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Solomon has already told us to avoid the way of the evil man and the strange woman. Here he contrasts the warning against what NOT TO do with instruction on what TO do. The previous picture of shame and sin is compared to the call to live a better life. He tells us that we MUST follow the example of good people and live a righteous life. He knows that history is full of examples, especially for us, who have God’s Word. We have 66 books of examples of good and evil. We have thousands of years of history documented for us; giving us countless examples of right and wrong. Solomon commands us to walk in the way of good men.

The writer of Hebrews said something similar. He told us not to be lazy, but rather imitators of those that have gone before us, who through faith and patience have obtained the promises of God (Heb 6:12). The Hebrew writer knows that we have all sorts of examples in life and in scripture and He urged us not to follow the example of the lazy, of those that are simply unwilling to put forth the effort to live by faith and to have the staying power required of patience. No, he tells us to follow the right example, the example of those that coupled patience with their faith, those that believed God and held on to that belief no matter how long it took, those that stayed the course and who were able to – at the end of the day – receive the promises of God.

This is why it is so very important for us to check our input. We can’t listen to worldly and negative teaching, watch ungodly material, and surround ourselves (consistently) with unrighteous people and then think that we will not be affected by it. The call to wisdom is a call to live the life that is right before God. It is difficult to live that life when you place yourself in the wrong environments. The call to follow the example of good and righteous people is the call to live a good and righteous life. This is not a onetime thing. This is not an event. This is not for a moment. This is a God wanting us to live the remainder of our days in the earth is ways that are pleasing to Him. Matthew Henry explained this well. When commenting on this verse he said, “And we must not only walk in that way awhile, but we must keep it, keep in it, and never turn aside out of it: The paths of the righteous are the paths of life, which all that are wise, having taken hold of, will keep their hold of.” That’s what wisdom does for us; it enables us to find the path of God and to stay on it. The fool might stumble on to the right path, but he will not remain there.

So what does this mean to you today? A few things:

1. Your friends matter: Solomon clearly explains the impact made by those that we CHOOSE to associate with. Choose the right friends and they will help you live the right life.

2. Select Godly mentors: One day I will teach on mentoring relationships. Mentors enable us to do much more than we can alone. Select your mentors wisely and grant them ‘right of passage;’ giving them access to speak into your life.

3. Follow the mentors in scripture: In addition to the Godly mentors that we can and should have in the earth today, we can be mentored by the heroes of the faith in scripture. Follow their example. Learn from their lives. Imitate their faith and patience and you too will be able to obtain the promises of God.

Confession for today: Lord God, I intentionally choose to follow the example of the righteous. I learn from those that are walking examples of Your goodness in the earth today and those that have gone before me in scripture. I allow my living mentors to speak into my life. I grant them right of passage to my soul. I also allow those that have gone before me in scripture to mentor me through their life experiences; through both their failures and success. Who you desire for me to be is far too great for me to attempt to become it alone. I allow the righteous lives of others to poured into my own, by faith. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(2:21,22) The Benefits of Walking in God’s Wisdom and Understanding (Part XVI) (top of page)

(Prov 2:21,22 GNB) Righteous people --- people of integrity --- will live in this land of ours. But God will snatch the wicked from the land and pull sinners out of it like plants from the ground.

This morning we get back to our current series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” We finally get to the end of chapter two. In this chapter we have learned a great deal about the benefits of receiving, applying, and living by God’s wisdom. The final benefit that Solomon lays out in this chapter is one that is near and dear to the Jews. It is a promise to dwell in the land promised to their forefathers, the land of Canaan, modern day Israel.

Going back to Jehovah’s first encounter with Abraham (Gen 12:1) the Lord promised to lead Abraham to a land. Later the Lord promised that land to both Abraham and his descendants. If there is anything that is close to the heart of the Hebrew it is his love for home and country. Solomon tells the Jew in the closing words of this second chapter that if he walks in wisdom, if he lives the righteous life, if he is a person of integrity, he will live in the land of promise.

David knew the importance of Canaan to both he and his people. His desire for and understanding of the blessing it was to live in Canaan is evident in many of the psalms he wrote. For example, in the 37^th Psalm David said, “Don't be annoyed by anyone who does wrong, and don't envy them. They will soon disappear like grass without rain. Trust the LORD and live right! The land will be yours, and you will be safe” (verses 1-3). The reference to the land here is a reference to Canaan and like his son Solomon, David mentioned the reward of the wicked. In our text Solomon tells us that the wicked will be snatched from the land. If we continue reading psalm 37 we see that Solomon’s words are very similar to those of his father used when David said, “Those who trust in the LORD will possess the land, but the wicked will be driven out” (v.9). These words provided hope for the Jew because even though were able to take possession of the land promised to them by God, it was not without a fight (initially) and not without constant defense. See, the land was promised to them by God, but that does not mean that they were going to live there happily ever after. They were, and we are, in the world. God promises to bless us, but His blessing does not mean that we will live in a bubble. Living in the world brings with it the occasional challenge from the wicked, but both Solomon and David tell us that the wicked will have their reward. Instead of trying to get even, wisdom tells us to simply live right before God. God will ensure the wicked receive what’s coming to them. That’s why David, later in psalm 37, went on to say, “Turn away from evil and do good, and your descendants will always live in the land” (v.27). Once again, the focus was not on what we cannot control (others), but rather on what we can (ourselves).

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you although your desire may not be to live in present day Israel, you too have a promise to be both blessed in the earth and in the hereafter. So walk in wisdom, be the righteous person, the person of integrity described in this text, and you will find yourself walking in The Blessing. And finally, don’t spend a lot of energy worrying about the wicked. They might rise up against you from time to time, but don’t waste brain power developing ways to get back at them. Leave vengeance to God. Your part is to walk in love and live a life pleasing to Him! Godly wisdom requires true forgiveness and an unwavering focus that is on self, not others.

Confession for today: Lord God, I thank You for blessing me to live in the earth. I know that I am going to heaven, but I thank You for leaving me here, for now, to make a difference in my environment. I know that living in the world will bring the occasional challenge from the wicked, but I declare, by faith, that I am not focused on them. My focus is on myself, on living in integrity, and on walking upright before You. I forgive the wicked in my heart and I leave their fate to you. I work on me and I seek to be a blessing to others. Use me today. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:1) Keeping God’s Word in Your Heart and Mind (top of page)

(Prov 3:1 AMP) My son, forget not my law or teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God,” with the first scripture of the third chapter of the book of Proverbs. We have two chapters down, 29 to go. The first thing Solomon tells us in chapter three is that we must keep His Word at the forefront of our mind. First of all, you cannot forget what you never knew, so Solomon’s initial point is that we must read and learn God’s Word. The undertone is that if we are able to remember the Word, then we will be reminded to perform it. The writer of Hebrews told us to pay close attention to the Word, lest at any time or in any way we let it slip (Heb 2:1). If we allow the Word to slip from our mind, then we will eventually find ourselves slipping from God altogether. I often say, “If you think you can or you think you can’t, either way, you’re right.” Solomon will tell us later in Proverbs that basically, we are the way that we think we are (23:7). Our thoughts influence our decisions. Our decisions will dictate our actions. Our actions lead to our habits. Our habits develop our character. Our character will eventually lead us to our ultimate destination (or destiny). It all starts with our mind. Keeping the Word at the forefront of our mind will ensure that our decision making process is influenced by God’s wisdom and that is the ultimate goal of the book of Proverbs – for us to literally WALK in the wisdom of God.

Solomon then says, “Let your heart keep my commandments.” The original commandments were written upon tablets of stone. Theses stone tablets were then placed in the Ark of the Covenant. The symbolism of God’s Word being written on stone tablets and then the tablets being safely guarded within the Ark of the Covenant translates to us today. Jeremiah foretold what would happen someday and that day has come. He said, “The new covenant that I will make with the people of Israel will be this: I will put my law within them and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people” (31:33). Jeremiah talked about a day where God’s law, His Word, would no longer have to be written on tablets of stone and carried around in an ark, but it would rather be written upon our hearts and safely guarded within the essence of our beings. Paul said something similar in his second letter to the church at Corinth. He said, “For ye know that ye are an epistle of the Messiah, ministered by us; not written with ink, but by the Spirit of the living God; not on tables of stone, but on the tablets of the heart of flesh” (2^nd Cor 3:3). Even as God wrote many letters, through Paul, and sent them to different churches, He tells us here that we are a living letter. If we allow Him to, He will write upon the tablets of our hearts of flesh and send us out for others to read.

When you keep God’s Word in your heart, you literally allow Him transform you into a living letter to be read of men. You might be the only Bible that someone reads. When they read you, your words, your life, your example, what will they learn? Will they be drawn to God or away from Him? Will they learn about love or hate, bitterness or kindness, mercy or revenge? When you hide God’s Word in your heart you become the tablet, the letter, the light, the life He wants you to be in your environment.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you must keep God’s Word in two places: your mind and your heart. When His Word is at the forefront of your mind you will make wise decisions. When His Word is locked safely within your heart you will walk in His love. Do you want to make a difference? Then hide God’s Word in your heart and mind!

Confession for today: Lord God, I hide Your Word in my heart and my mind. In my mind Your Word influences my decision making process. I make wise decisions, because I constantly and consistently refer to Your counsel – Your Word. In my heart Your Word influences every area of my being. It helps me to walk in love, grace, mercy, kindness, and forgiveness. I am a living letter, ready to be read of men! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:2) A Long and Prosperous Life (top of page)

(Prov 3:2 AMP) For length of days and years of a life [worth living] and tranquility [inward and outward and continuing through old age till death], these shall they add to you.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Yesterday we saw how Solomon urged us to keep God’s Word in our hearts and minds. The point was that we should allow God’s wisdom to influence the way we think and feel. When God’s Word becomes the ruler by which we judge our decisions, we will find ourselves living the God-kind of life. As we move from verse one and to verse two we see that there are clear benefits in it for us. The reason God wants us to walk in His wisdom is so that we can make the maximum impact possible in the earth. I often say that I want to die empty. I want to fulfill my purpose. I want to get out of me, all that God has put in to me, while I am in the land of the living. Solomon tells us that if we submit to God’s wisdom, His counsel, His way, we will live long and strong. Not only will we live for many years, but we will live a life worth living.

Another translation of this verse says, “My teaching will give you a long and prosperous life.” That is about as plain as you can make it. Not only does God desire for us to live long, but He wants our years to count. He does not want us to live long, but empty years. No, He wants us to live long and full years. Years that we can look back on and say, “Thank You Lord, for using me to make a difference.” Isn’t that what you want? Don’t you want to live a long and prosperous life? Don’t you want to be used of God for the long term? I know I do. The lesson here, from God’s book of wisdom, is that can we make a difference, we can live long and strong, we can impact lives through faith, but we must do it God’s way. When we allow His wisdom to influence our thinking, feeling, and choosing, then we will make that long and lasting impact God desires for us to make.

Now, you may be thinking, “But Rick, you don’t know me. You don’t know my past. You don’t know the things I have done. I am not sure if God can really use me.” Let me assure you that God can. If you read the Bible you will find person after person that God used mightily and NONE of them were perfect. God is in the business of making Holy Garments from Flawed Material. Some of the heroes of the faith made some of the biggest mistakes you can make, but God still used them and He can still use you. Since you are still living, then God still wants to use you to make a difference. And he does not only want to do it once or sporadically, but He wants to use you daily and for the long-haul.

Solomon’s father David wasn’t perfect. He had a spell in his life where he got involved in adultery and murder. Did he throw in the towel? Did he give up and take his life? Did he conclude that his days of walking with God were over? NO! He repented and God used him for the long-haul. He wound up living a long and prosperous life. As an old man David looked back over his life and concluded, “I have been young, and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging for bread” (Ps 37:25). What was he saying? He was saying, “God never gave up on me and I haven’t seen God give up on anyone I knew.”

So what does this mean to you today? It means that not only does God want you to live long, but He wants you to live well. It is not His best for you to live long, but miserable. No, He wants you to have the blessed assurance that you will make it heaven, but He also wants you to enjoy the ride. He wants to use you to make a difference in your environment. Will you let Him?

Confession for today: Lord God, I want what You want for me – to live a long and prosperous life. I declare, by faith, that I will long and strong. By Your grace I will make a difference. I will not die young and I will not die empty. I line up my words with Your Word. I choose to believe what I just read in Your Word. Yes Lord, I want what You want and that is for me to live long and to make a lasting impact everywhere You bless me to go! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:3) Mercy and Truth (top of page)

(Prov 3:3 KJV) Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” We closed out last week with a message about God’s desire for us to live long and prosperous lives. I told you that God does not want you to live long and miserable in the earth. He wants us to make it to heaven, but He also wants us to enjoy the ride. One of the key ways to enjoy the ride is to build healthy and lasting relationships. Solomon gives us two key character traits that we must develop if we want healthy and lasting relationships. He tells us not to allow mercy and truth to forsake us. Now, that is Old English. What it really means is that we should not forsake them. Mercy and truth are attributes of God and Solomon is teaching us that if we want to live the life that God desires for us to live, if we want to win with people, if we want to have healthy relationships, then we should walk in mercy and truth. Let’s take a closer look:

Mercy: Webster’s dictionary defines mercy as that benevolence, mildness or tenderness of heart which disposes a person to overlook injuries, or to treat an offender better than he deserves; the disposition that tempers justice, and induces an injured person to forgive trespasses and injuries, and to forbear punishment, or inflict less than law or justice will warrant. My Webster’s dictionary goes on to say, “In this sense, there is perhaps no word in our language precisely synonymous with mercy. That which comes nearest to it is grace.” My former Pastor (Dr. S.L. Moton) often said, “It doesn’t get any better than grace.” His point was that God constantly looks beyond our flaws, faults, and failures, and still decides to equip, empower, and employ us. Our relationship with God should be our pattern for our relationship with others. The same way God shows us mercy, the same way He overlooks our faults, the same way He extends benevolence, kindness, and goodness to us, is the same way we should treat others. In other words, forgiven people should develop the ability to forgive people. The closer you get to God, the less you will think of yourself, the more you will realize that you are where you are because of grace and mercy – not all merit and achievement – and the more lenient you should be towards others.

Truth: We serve a God that literally cannot lie (Titus 1:2). As we develop more and more in His image and likeness, one of the key areas that we must develop in is the area of truth. Words like honesty and integrity may not be popular in today’s ‘win at all costs’ culture, but they are central in your walk with God and men. The foundation for any relationship is trust. Once the trust is gone, the relationship is either in jeopardy or destroyed. One of the fastest ways to destroy trust is to lie. We trust God because He is trustworthy. He says what He means and He means what He says. If you say something and then don’t do it, because of a failure of some sort, it is one thing. But if you intentionally misled a person or said something that you NEVER intended to accomplish in the first place, you are walking a line that leads to mistrust and broken relationships. If you are not careful, you will develop a reputation of being dishonest, deceptive, and untrustworthy.

So what does this mean to you today? It means if you want the healthy and lasting relationships God wants you to have, then you should develop mercy and truth. Solomon tells us to display them around our neck and to write them upon the tablets of our heart. Mercy and truth are character traits that we should be both known by (externally) and made of (internally). There are few things in life as precious and rewarding as a relationship with a true friend. Develop mercy and truth and you will enjoy the gratification that comes from having them.

Confession for today: Lord God, I declare, by faith, that I am both made of and known by mercy and truth. I have been forgiven by You and as a forgiven person, I develop the ability to forgive. I trust those that are trustworthy and I earn the trust of others. I build healthy and lasting relationships in the earth. These relationships are rewarding, enjoyable, and necessary in my walk with You. I win with people and I am happy about it! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:4) Favor with God and Man (top of page)

(Prov 3:4 GNB) If you do this, both God and people will be pleased with you.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Yesterday we learned about developing healthy and lasting relationships. In the message I said, “Mercy and truth are character traits that we should be both known by (externally) and made of (internally). There are few things in life as precious and rewarding as relationships with true friends. Develop mercy and truth and you will enjoy the gratification that comes from having them.” The wisdom of God released through Solomon was teaching us about our relationships with God and man. What good is it to have a powerful relationship with God, but none with men? How can you say you love a God that you cannot see, but you fail to get along with the people that you see every day? Walking with God, developing His character, taking on His image, and becoming more like Him daily, will ensure that you walk in favor with both He (God) and men.

Another translation of this verse says, “God and people will like you and consider you a success.” We will all be judged some day for the actions that we took or failed to take while we lived our lives out in the earth. God will want to know what impact we made – for His Kingdom – in the land of the living. You cannot impact lives, positively anyway, when you cannot get along with people. Solomon tells us that walking in the wisdom of God will help us to not only get along with God, but others will consider us a success. Others will be drawn by our character and charisma. We will shine as light in the midst of darkness.

It is our commitment to healthy relationships that affords us the opportunities to pour into someone else’s life and vice-versa. Jesus had three people (Peter, James, and John) in His inner circle. He spent more time with them, than anyone else. He invested into them and they invested into Him. He committed to teach them and they committed themselves to be taught. The same can be said for the additional 9 men (the other Apostles) that followed Jesus daily. Both Jesus and the disciples had to be committed to God and to each other. John Maxwell says that greatness is too great a task for one person. Jesus was the greatest man to ever live and part of His greatness was His ability to form lasting relationships. Although He had different levels of commitment to the three (inner circle), the 12 (the Apostles), the 70 (that He sent out), and the multitude, He was committed, to some extent, to every relationship He entered into.

Jesus, the man, was very successful at developing at maintaining His relationships with God and man. And we see that even as a child Jesus knew how to win with people. Luke says this of 12yr. old Jesus, “Jesus became wise, and he grew strong. God was pleased with him and so were the people” (Luke 2:52). Even at the tender age of 12 Jesus was committed to growing with both God and man.

So what does this mean to you today? A few things:

1. Your love for God is expressed through your relationships with men.

2. You cannot positively influence those that you cannot connect with.

3. You will have to give account for your time in the earth. Are you simply trying to impress people or are you out to impact their lives for the Kingdom of God?

4. Jesus was a master at relationships. Learn from Him. Invest time, energy, and effort into the lives of others. They will learn from you and you will learn from them.

Confession for today: Lord God, I thank You for Your wisdom. I have favor with You and with men. I positively influence others for Your glory. By Your grace I am able to impact lives for Kingdom living. I know that I will have to give account for my time in the earth and I declare that it will be productive. I invest time, energy, and effort into the lives of others and they do the same for me. I have healthy and lasting relationships. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:5) Do You Trust God? (top of page)

(Prov 3:5 KJV) Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” This morning’s verse is very important to me. Not only is it one of the first verses that made sense to me and that I attempted to live out it the earth, but it, along with verse six, is the very first scripture passage I ever memorized. My first spiritual mentor, Leo Jacobs, recommended that I memorize Proverbs 3:5&6 and memorize them I did. However, I did not commit them to memory so that I could simply quote them; my intention was to allow God’s Word to be the ruler by which I judged my decisions. This passage was a very good place to start.

The first thing I read was that I needed to trust in the LORD (Jehovah). I was 23 years old, I was attempting to learn how to be the Christian I had just become, and my first assignment, from my mentor, was to trust God. Leo led me right, because trust is what I needed to establish up front in my new relationship with God. John Maxwell, in Winning with People, talks about The Bedrock Principle, where he states that trust is the foundation for any relationship. I needed to be able to trust God and I prayed earnestly that He would trust me.

Williams Boost said, “Trust is established when words and deeds are congruent. Trust also develops when people feel safe and secure.” From that standpoint God is THE most trustworthy being I can establish a relationship with. He always says what He means and means what He says. He has never (ever), promised something and then not done it. He has never failed. He is completely flawless and therefore, completely trustworthy. Even though I had just entered into a sincere relationship with Him at 23, I was able to look back over my life and see how He, time after time, protected me in Brooklyn and kept me from harm. I was able to look back at a trustworthy God and receive the internal peace that I needed to both look and move forward. It is said (and I agree), that people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. Within my first few days of becoming a Christian I settled in my heart how much God cared for me. I was as convinced then, as I am now, that God is a loving, caring, and sharing heavenly Father who wants nothing but His best for His children. My job was to line up my thoughts, desires, and decisions with His, so that I could experience His best in my life.

I used the King James Version of this text, because that I how I memorized it, but I also like the way the Message Bible translates it, saying, “Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own.” I was tired of trying to figure everything out on my own. I was young and relatively successful, but I knew that I was not on the right path. Later in Proverbs Solomon teaches, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death” (14:12). I was on the way that seemed right, but deep down in my heart I knew it wasn’t right. So what did I need to do? I needed to trust my newly designated Lord. I had to trust that He would not lead me wrong and 13 years later, I can say that He never has!

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you need to take a moment to answer a very important question in your heart: do you trust God? Now, I don’t mean trust with your lips, I mean trust with your life. Do you believe that God is truly trustworthy? And if you do, then are you really trusting Him to lead, guide, and direct you or are you simply continuing on with your path, your life, your decisions, and your actions? Saying that you trust Him is one thing, showing it is quite something else. So I ask you again, do you trust God?

Confession for today: Lord God, I as I look back over my life and take a few moments to take self-inventory, I can truly say that You are the most trustworthy being I have ever encountered. I commit to trusting You with all my heart and with all my ways. I am tired of walking down the path that seems right. From this day I walk down the path that IS RIGHT! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:5) Do You Trust God? (Part II) (top of page)

(Prov 3:5 KJV) Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” The reason the message is going out a little late this morning is because I am off my battle rhythm. I will be back on track tomorrow. I made it back home yesterday after spending about two weeks in the Middle East. As I looked out the window on my last of five flights I saw something I had never seen. I have looked down at God’s creation from many flights of many countries, but what I saw yesterday was as breathtaking as anything I had ever seen. I looked across a deep-blue sky, seemingly painted with fluffy white clouds, and I looked down at beautiful snow-capped mountains, expansive lakes, flowing rivers, and stretching valleys. I am not sure where we were. Judging by the time remaining on the flight I believe we were either over Montana or Idaho, but wherever we were it was awesome. As I looked out I thanked God for His creation. I was reminded of the words of David when he said, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows and God’s handiwork” (Ps 19:1). As I looked out at both the sky and the earth I saw the glory of God.

As I sat there, on the plane, giving God glory for His handiwork, I realized that I did not have a care in the world. I had been on five flights in two days flying over many countries and at no point was I afraid. Honestly, fear is not a factor in my life. I did a series on fear entitled, “Overcoming the Fear Factor,” and I pray that those that received it and applied it to their lives were able to overcome the incapacitating power of fear. As I thought of my absence of fear and the Word that God allowed me to share with you yesterday about trusting Him, I came to the conclusion that the main reason that I don’t allow fear to operate in my life is because I trust God. You can’t trust and fear at the same time. When you truly trust God it creates an atmosphere that shields you from doubt and fear. Let’s look at what theologian Adam Clarke taught from this verse. He said that:

1. God is the Fountain of all good.

2. He has made His intelligent creatures dependent upon Himself.

3. He requires them to be conscious of that dependence.

4. He has promised to communicate what they need.

5. He commands them to believe His promises, and look for their fulfillment.

6. And to do this without doubt, fear, or distrust; “with their whole heart.”

To sum up what Adam Clarke said I would say that when we have a solid and secure relationship with God and we sincerely believe the promises in His Word, then we will trust Him to bring to pass the manifestation of those promises in our lives. This trust keeps us from fear, doubt, and unbelief. When we trust God with our whole heart we are able to live enjoyable, fulfilling, fun, and carefree lives. We are able to enjoy every experience and to see God’s goodness in everything. Trusting God keeps us from allowing fear to rob us from once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, joy-filled experiences, and in my case, breath-taking views.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that when you truly God you are able to have and enjoy the life God wants you to have. Jesus came that we might have and enjoy life, to the full, until it overflows (John 10:10). It’s hard to enjoy the abundant life Jesus died to give you when you are boggled down with fear, doubt, and unbelief. So trust God, believe His promises, and enjoy the life He wants you to live!

Confession for today: Lord God, I declare that fear is not a factor for me. I don’t allow the incapacitating force of fear to rob me from living the life You desire for me to live! Jesus died so that I could have and enjoy abundant life, and I declare that I will. I trust You with my whole heart and I am able to enjoy every opportunity, every experience, and every breath-taking view. Thank You Daddy, for blessing me to enjoy life! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today's Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:5) Lean not to thing own Understanding (top of page)

(Prov 3:5 KJV) Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” This verse, along with the next one, are far too important to just skim over. That’s why I am taking my time going through these two verses; the verses that helped lay the foundation for my spiritual walk. This morning I want to focus in on the latter part of the verse, where Solomon said, “Lean not unto thine own understanding.”

To get the full weight of what he is saying I want you to read this latter portion from a few other translations. The Bible in Basic English says, “Not looking to your reason for support.” The Darby Bible says, “Lean not unto thine own intelligence.” The Contemporary English Version says, “Not your own judgment.” And finally, the Message Bible says, “Don't try to figure out everything on your own.” In light of this information it is easy to see that Solomon is warning us against attempting to live life solely upon the basis of our own intellect, judgment, reason, and logic. Solomon knew that God’s wisdom far surpasses that of man and that God makes His wisdom available to man. Solomon understood this and he only experienced a portion of what Born-Again have available to them. The Spirit of God came upon Solomon and others in the Old Testament, but they did not have a permanent indwelling. In the New Testament we learn that Jesus paid the penalty for the origin sin – what caused us to be separated from God in the first place – and He opened the door for God’s Spirit to be returned to man. It happened 50 days after Jesus’ death, on the day of Pentecost, and it happens daily all over the world as people accept Jesus as their Lord and are Born-Again.

God’s Spirit in us, gives us direct access to His wisdom. Paul explains this well in his first letter to the church at Corinth. Paul said, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him.” If we stop there it sounds like humans are simply incapable of receiving and comprehending the deep things of God. But Paul did not stop there. He went on to say, “But God has revealed it to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God… no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us.” Did you get that? Paul explains that the deep things of God are revealed by God’s Spirit, whom we (Born-Again believers) have received and then Paul says something very important. Paul explains that one of the purposes of God’s Spirit coming into our beings is so that we may understand! Wow! Praise God! Paul then goes on to say something that brings us back to our focus text in Proverbs. Paul says, “The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned” (see 1^st Cor 2:9-14). Our intellect, reason, and logic cannot make sense of Spiritual things. Oftentimes Spiritual things are diametrically opposed to our intellect, reason, and logic. See, man, left alone, attempts to make sense of everything, because men are sensual beings. We filter information through our senses. But God is Spiritual, not sensual. God can provide us revelation that far exceeds mere information. He can give us more insight in a minute than we could ever receive otherwise. Now, this does not mean that we should forgo formal education and natural learning, but it does mean that we should never allow our natural wisdom to trump God’s Spiritual wisdom, made available to us by His Spirit.

Confession for today: Father God, I thank You for blessing me with Your Spirit. Your Spirit lives in me and He makes Your wisdom available to me. I no longer have to live my life by mere intellect, reason, logic, or senses; I can live my life by Your wisdom, insight, revelation, and truth. I would be a fool to attempt to live my life on my ability alone. I am not a fool. I seek Your leading, guiding, and directing. Teach me Lord, I am ready to follow! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper

(3:6) He Shall Direct Thy Path (top of page)

(Prov 3:6 KJV) In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” For the last couple of days we looked at the words, “In all thy ways acknowledge him.” We learned that we must be willing to acknowledge God – to Get Him involved – in every area of our lives. Nothing should be off limits to God. And most importantly, we learned that we must be willing to make the necessary adjustments to align our lives with His instruction (His Word).

This morning we look a the latter part of the verse, where Solomon said, “And he shall direct thy paths.” Solomon promises a benefit for those that choose to involve God in every area of their lives. He says that God, after being welcomed in (because He will not force Himself), will direct your paths. Now, that’s Old English and it may be unclear what it means to us today. So for the sake of clarity, let’s look at this portion of the text from a few other translations. The New American Standard Bible says, “And He will make your paths straight.” So not only will God direct us (if we let Him), but He will direct us down straight paths. The Bible in Basic English says, “He will make straight your footsteps.” The inference here is that when we involve God in our decisions, the decisions that we make will be good ones. Every step that we take on the path towards our destiny will be a straight or correct step. This really helps, because some might read “He shall direct they paths” and think that they don’t have anything to do with it. Some believers think they can leave everything to God. But if you read the Bible you will learn that God has a part and we have a part. God will give us the wisdom, but ultimately, we make our own decisions. Solomon’s point is that if we involve God, we will make the right ones. The Message Bible says, “He's the one who will keep you on track.” Isn’t that what we all want? Don’t we want to know that the decisions that we are making are leading us down the right road? Well, when we acknowledge God in all our ways, He keeps us on track, because we allow Him to. And finally, the Contemporary English Version says, “He will clear the road for you to follow.” The inference here is that if we listen to God, if we apply His counsel to our lives, if we acknowledge Him in all our ways, then our path will be easier and more enjoyable. Now, don’t get me wrong, I am not saying that life in Christ is free of all challenges. You and I both know that that is not the case. What I am saying is that although life is never completely easy, when you involve God in your life (decisions and actions), then it will most certainly be easier. Life with God is much better than life without Him!

So what does this mean to you today? It means that when you choose to involve God in your life He is able to:
1. Influence your decisions. At the end of the day, our life is a grand-sum-total of our decisions. God has set it up, so that we will all reap whatever we sow. Sow the right seed and you will reap the right harvest.
2. Help keep you on the path that will lead to His best for your life. God has plans for you (Jer 29:11) and He wants you to fulfill those plans. When you involve God in your decisions He is able to help you make the decisions that will take you down the path He wants you to go down. Believe me, that’s the path you want to take.
3. Ease the load. Not only does God want you to make it to heaven, but He wants you to enjoy the ride. He does not want you to live a stress-riddled, obstacle filled, miserable life. When you involve Him in your decisions you free Him to help you enjoy the life Jesus died to give you!

Confession for today: Father God, I choose to involve You in my decision making process. I want You to influence my decisions, so that I stay on the path You want me on. As I do, as I seek Your counsel, as I make decisions that line up with Your Word, as I seek to live that life You want me to live, I thank You in advance for clearing the road; for easing the load. I involve You in every area of my life and I free You to move however You see fit! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:7) Do not be Wise in Your Own Eyes (top of page)

(Prov 3:7 NASB) Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and turn away from evil.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” I pray that you learned a great deal from verses 5 and 6 and verse 7 flows in the same vein. After telling us to trust God, to avoid the folly of our own understanding, and to acknowledge God in everything that we do so that He can direct our paths, Solomon seemingly sums it all up by saying, “Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and turn away from evil.” By this point Solomon has already made it clear that human wisdom is far below God’s wisdom. He spent all of chapter two teaching us about the benefits of receiving and applying God’s wisdom. Here he is driving home the waywardness of human wisdom. Even those things that you say you are SURE of today, can change from one day to the next. Every once in a while I will pull out a CD or DVD of an old sermon that I preached. Sometimes I hear what I said, from the pulpit, preaching the Word of God, and I think to myself, “How could I have said that?” I was preaching with passion and sincerity. I was preaching what I believed to be true. But sometimes, as we grow, we realize that some of the things that we believed were either off-course or flat-out-wrong. Passion does not always equal accuracy. The evening news is full of quotes from people who made passionate plunders. Yes, you can be sincere, and wind up be sincerely wrong.

What’s my point? My point is that you and I both know that we can look back five, 10, 15 years and remember points in our lives where we were completely convinced (human wisdom) that we knew something, only to find out later that what we were wrong. The only absolute truth comes from God. That’s why when people come to Pastors for counsel/advise most Pastors lead them right to the Word of God. If I tell you what the Bible says about your situation, then I know I am solid ground. But if I tell you what my opinion is, apart from the Word of God, then we can both wind up on shaky ground.

Matthew Henry said, “There is not a greater enemy to the fear of the Lord in the heart, than self-conceit of our own wisdom.” Our wisdom can lead us astray, that is why we must make every effort to acknowledge God in all our ways. I am not saying that human wisdom is useless, but to be sure that our wisdom is solid and secure, our wisdom must be deeply rooted in God’s. When Solomon said, “Do not be wise in your own eyes,” he meant that whatever wisdom we believe we have should not be gained and applied apart from God’s wisdom. The goal is to fashion our thinking after God’s; to develop a decision making process that lines up with His Word; to react to things the way that He would; to walk in His wisdom daily. The more we read, understand, apply, and live out God’s Word, the more our thinking will become like His; the more our wisdom will be rooted in His. At that point we can trust our wisdom, because our wisdom is not ours alone. By then it has been developed and fashioned by God Himself.

So what does this mean to you today? Two things:
1. Human truth has a date/time stamp. Meaning that it changes. What you believe to be true today may not be true tomorrow.
2. Godly truth never changes. We live in an ever-changing environment. The only constant is God. When we root our lives (thinking, feeling, choosing) in His wisdom we develop a source of strength and stability that enables us to live the safe and secure life that many seek after.

Confession for today: Father God, I realize that it is dangerous to be wise in my own eyes. I declare, right now, by faith, that I will not put my whole heart in human wisdom. I am thankful for everything that I have learned, but I will allow You to fashion and shape my thinking. I want my wisdom to be deeply rooted in Your wisdom, so I can simply live my life from the inside out, knowing that what I believe on the inside has been influenced by You, Your Word, and Your Spirit. Your wisdom enables me to live a solid, stable, and secure life. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:7) Fear the Lord (top of page)

(Prov 3:7 NASB) Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and turn away from evil.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” I want to focus in on the latter portion of our text, where Solomon said, “Fear the LORD and turn away from evil.” This reminds me of one of the messages I shared early in this series from Proverbs 1:7 where Solomon said, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge but fools despise wisdom and discipline.” In the corresponding message I shared: “Our focus text this morning serves as a reminder that we should not attempt to get things FROM God without first having a relationship WITH God. In other words, we should not attempt to tap into His wisdom and to glean from His understanding without first having submitted to Him. The wisdom found in this book is based solidly on the fear of the Lord; not a fear where we are afraid of Him, but a reverential and respectful fear. This fear runs the gamut from a mild respect that simply acknowledges God to a deep and powerful respect that seeks to obey Him wholeheartedly. Whether deep or mild, Solomon tells us that true knowledge begins with fearing the Lord.” Furthermore, Solomon went as far as to call those that do not possess the fear of the Lord “fools.” No matter how much we learn in the world, it would be foolish to ignore or flat-out reject the wisdom of God – made available to us in His Word.

I like the way the Message Bible translates our text, it says, “Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil!” That’s about as plain as you can get it. It’s not enough to run from evil. Unless you are running TO God as you run FROM evil, you will never get away. It is in this running to God, in the fear of the Lord, that we find protection, peace and power. Benjamin Franklin said, “Better is little with the fear of the Lord, than great treasure, and trouble therewith.” He knew that no matter how much you think you have, if you are without God, then you will never find true solace from the world’s troubles. Samuel Johnson said, “Shame arises from the fear of men, conscience from the fear of God.” It’s been my observation that those that fear God and have a true relationship with Him are more apt to be people of integrity, loyalty and personal courage; exercising sound judgment as they seek to walk upright before God. Without the fear of the Lord many lack the moral compass required to navigate the difficulties of life. The Bible has a lot to say about the fear of the Lord. Some of the benefits listed in scripture for those that fear God are:

It will add length to your life (Prov 10:27)
You will be blessed (Ps 115:13), prosperous (Ps 25:13), and enjoy fulfilled desires (Ps 145:19)
You will lack nothing (Ps 34:9), and always have food (Ps 111:5)
You will enjoy angelic protection (Ps 34:7)
And I could go on and on

Fearing God does not mean that you operate in worldly fear; quite the contrary. The Fear of the Lord should keep you from succumbing to the incapacitating force of fear. Francis of Assisi said, “Where there is fear of God to keep the house, the enemy can find no way to enter.” Yes, the fear of God should keep us from all other fears.

So what does this mean to you today? Quite simply it means that you should fear the Lord and turn away from evil. You should acknowledge and respect Him in all your ways. You should not continue in sin and think that there will not be consequences. Have a sober understanding of God, His power and His expectation of you to walk in His righteousness today and every day.

Confession for today: Father God, I declare, by faith, that I fear You with my whole heart! I make every attempt to abstain from even the very appearance of evil. I submit unto You and seek to please You all of my days. I thank You in advance for blessing me with the benefits of walking in the Fear of the Lord. Use me as light and salt today! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:8) Wisdom for Living, Strength for Life (top of page)

(Prov 3:8 KJV) It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Although the King James Version (KJV) has a dear place in my heart – because it is the version I used when I first read/learned the Bible – I will admit that it is not always the most accurate, nor the most understandable. In this case, however, the KJV is both accurate and concise. There is no need to look for alternate translations for understanding. Solomon tells us that if we perform the proceeding verses (5-7), if we trust God with all our heart, lean not to our own understanding, acknowledge God in all our ways, allow Him to direct our path, and turn away from evil, our actions will literally be health to our navels and marrow to our bones. Let’s take a closer look at the picture Solomon paints for us:

Navel: It is common knowledge that the umbilical cord feeds a baby, in the womb, with everything the baby needs to grow. The yet unborn child is nourished not by mouth, but by belly. It is connected with its mother directly and it feeds off of her everything that it needs to develop and grow. Just like an unborn child needs the umbilical to develop, a twice-born believer needs to be consistently connected to God to grow. Solomon tells us that when we trust Him, when we allow His counsel (His Word) to help shape our decisions, when we are willing to adjust our lives to be more pleasing to Him, it is as if we were being fed through a Godly umbilical cord. His life, His direction, and His strength are passed on to us by His Word, His wisdom, and His Spirit. An unborn baby will die if the connection to their mother is severed. A Born-Again believer will eventually die, Spiritually, if he allows his connection to His Father to be severed. But as we trust God, as we walk with Him daily, and as we allow Him to influence us in daily affairs, we allow Him to feed us His light, His love and His life. It is this life (God’s life) that is nourishment to our navel. It is health and healing to every area of our lives.

Marrow: Bone marrow is the flexible tissue found in the hollow interior of bones. It contains blood vessels and capillaries that supply the fibers of the bones; making them less liable to break. In other words, bone marrow gives strength to the bones. Remove all marrow from a bone and it becomes brittle. Restore the marrow and within a few minutes, the bone will be solid and strong again. This is what marrow does for bones and it is what our relationship with God does for us. Without Him, His direction, His leadership, His guidance, and His wisdom, we are frail, fragile, and brittle. But when we walk with Him, when we trust Him daily, when we acknowledge Him in all our ways, we live the strong, solid, stable, and secure lives that God intends for us to live. His Word, His wisdom, and His counsel are like marrow to our bones.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that God wants you to live a healthy life. This is much more that just physical health. When you do all that he said to do in verses 5-7 then you can be physically healthy, emotionally stable, psychologically sound, socially connected, and internally at rest. What He said in verses 5-7 is that He wants to be a part of your life. He wants you to involve Him in your decisions. He wants to provide you with everything you need to live the life that He intends for you to live. If you do that you will know what Solomon meant when He said that His wisdom can be strength to your navel and marrow to your bones. Imagine receiving a constant supply Godly nourishment through your navel and having your bones infused with heavenly strength. That’s what happens when you trust God with your whole heart, acknowledge Him in everything You do, and walk with Him daily!

Confession for today: Father God, I want to live the life that You want me to live. I welcome and apply Your wisdom in my life. It is health to my navel and marrow to my bones. I am healthy and strong because I allow You to influence every area of my life. Nothing is off-limits to You. Lead me and I will follow. Speak and I will listen. Feed and I will eat. Release and I will receive. I receive Your wisdom for living and Your strength for life! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:9) Honoring the Lord with your Money (top of page)

(Prov 3:9 NASB) Honor the LORD from your wealth And from the first of all your produce;

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” This morning we get to a topic that is ‘touchy’ for many people: money. First of all, let me share a few things with you about Solomon’s background. Whenever you talk to people about money they want to make sure that you know what you are talking about first. They don’t want to take financial advice from a pauper. Solomon himself taught this. In Ecclesiastes Solomon told a story of a small city with just a few men in it. The city was attacked by a great king. There was a poor man in the city that had the wisdom to save the city, but no one listened to him, because he was poor (see Ecc 9:14-16). Solomon, on the other hand, was not poor by any standard.

Solomon was born as heir to the Kingdom; he was the son of King David. He learned at an early age how to manage finances and he was destined by God to build God the house his father David wanted to build. It would be called King Solomon’s temple, but it was the house of God. When Solomon was ready to build he knew that he needed cedar wood and that his people were not skilled with wood. So he contracted the King of Hiram to send the wood an the carpenters, for which he paid Hiram 125,000 bushels of wheat (1 Kings 5:11), and 115,000 gallons of pressed olive oil. You know how much olive oil costs today. Imagine 115,000 gallons of it. Solomon also hired 30,000 Israelites to help the carpenters. The project required 75,000 carriers (general laborers), 80,000 stonecutters and 33,000 foremen for supervise the project (1 Kings 5:16). It took 7.5 years to build and some estimate the cost at well over a Billion dollars. When the temple was ready Solomon held a two weeklong dedication ceremony during which he had 22,000 cattle and 130,000 (1st Kings 6:62,63) sheep sacrificed and offered unto the Lord. If you do the math, that was an over $15M offering in livestock alone. And I could show you other scriptures that show how Solomon received hundreds of millions of dollars a year in silver and gold alone. My point is that Solomon was well qualified to talk about money. Many consider him the richest man (money wise) to ever live.

Getting back to our text, Solomon says, “Honor the LORD from your wealth And from the first of all your produce.” Before we get to the latter portion of the text let’s focus in on the words, “Honor the LORD from your wealth.” Instead of the word wealth, some other translations say, “substance,” or “money.” The point here is that you should honor God with your finances. In Deuteronomy chapter 8 the Lord, through Moses, was preparing the people to enter the Promised Land (Canaan). Moses knew that when the people got into Canaan, after spending so much time in the wilderness, they might not know how to handle the blessing. The told them, “But you shall remember the LORD your God, for it is He who is giving you power to make wealth, that He may confirm His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day” (Deut 8:18). When they came into money they were to remember God and His covenant? What was the covenant? What he had established with Abraham, that they would be Blessed TO BE a Blessing (Gen 12:1,2). I will stop here for today, but know that we will not rush through this.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you should honor God with your finances. Money makes an excellent servant, but a poor master. When you honor God with your money you are affirming to God that 1) He blessed you to possess it, 2) It does not posses you, and 3) You understand that you are Blessed TO BE a Blessing to others.

Confession for today: Father God, I declare, right now, that I do and will always honor You with my finances. There is nothing in my life, not even money, that I place above you. Money is not my master, it is my servant. I am blessed by it and I used it TO BE a blessing to others and to Your Kingdom. Use me Lord, finances and all, to bring You glory; today and every day! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:9) Honoring the Lord with your Money (Part II) (top of page)

(Prov 3:9 NASB) Honor the LORD from your wealth And from the first of all your produce;

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” I read an article yesterday about Jerome “The Bus” Bettis, the former NFL football player. He has retired from professional football, is working on television, and most importantly, he is giving back. He started a Foundation that helps underprivileged kids. He teaches kids that they should live their lives out in three stages: Learn, Earn, and Return. Biblically speaking, we are not called to wait to any particular phase of live to give back. We are to teach our children, as soon as they can understand it, that they should honor God with all their increase. My children give back from their allowances and from whatever they make on odd jobs here and there. Financial stewardship should be taught early, because undisciplined spending is hard to correct.

The Bible has a lot to say about money. I could easily teach an entire series about this. But that is not overall emphasis of this series, so I will attempt to be brief. Biblical giving can be broken up into the following categories:
1. Giving to the poor: Later on in Proverbs Solomon taught, “One who is gracious to a poor man lends to the LORD, And He will repay him for his good deed” (19:17). This is the principle that Jerome Bettis is teaching and it is Biblical. I often ask, “What is the purpose of discipleship, if not evangelism?” Meaning that what good is it to learn the Bible if you are not going to use what you learn to be a blessing to others? In the same way, what good is it to earn if not to RETURN?
2. Giving Tithes and Offerings: There are several scriptures that I could use for this, but for brevity’s sake I will only use one: “Bring one-tenth of your income into the storehouse so that there may be food in my house. Test me in this way," says the LORD of Armies. "See if I won't open the windows of heaven for you and flood you with blessings” (Malichi 3:10). Some Christians practice tithing and some do not. I for one, do, and believe that it is Biblical. Giving God the first tenth of your income (plus offering) is a small thing and it is a reminder that He is the Lord of every area of your life. It’s OK to have money, just don’t let the money have you.
3. Supporting Ministry: God will ensure that you are blessed for whatever you sow (give up) for His sake and for the sake of furthering the Gospel message: Jesus said, “Truly I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or farms, for My sake and for the gospel’s sake, but that he will receive a hundred times as much now in the present age, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and farms, along with persecutions; and in the age to come, eternal life” (Mark 10:29,30).
4. First fruit: Some see first fruit as the same as tithing and others as something separate. Whatever your position, it is about giving God the first and giving Him the best of what you receive. That’s what Solomon was teaching in our text. Back then agriculture was a major part of commerce. Solomon taught that farmers should give God, “The first of all your produce.” This was the first fruit. Giving God the first and the best. Honoring Him as the Lord of the harvest.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that God should be the Lord of your life – and that includes your money. I never ask for donations so I don’t have any ulterior motives here. I just want you to enjoy all that God wants you to experience. When you meet someone else’s need, with no expectation of a return, you experience what it is to share the love of God. So enjoy everything God has blessed you with, but remember that you are BLESSED SO THAT you can with the purpose of BEING a BLESSING!

Confession for today: Father God, I thank You for birthing a desire in me to want to give back. I give to the less fortunate. I am thankful for everything You have blessed me with and I know that I am blessed TO BE a blessing. I honor You with the first and the best of whatever You bless me with. I support those that are ministering the gospel message to the lost and I thank You for helping me to help them. I honor You with my life, money and all! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:10) Can God trust you with Abundance? (top of page)

(Prov 3:10 NASB) So your barns will be filled with plenty And your vats will overflow with new wine.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Over the last coupe of days we looked at verse 9 where Solomon said, “Honor the LORD from your wealth And from the first of all your produce.” I shared with you the different categories of giving and the point is that we, as believers, are expected to be faithful stewards over everything the Lord blesses to come into our possession; and that includes our finances. I say finances, because that is what we mostly deal with today. The audience who would have read this back then were, for the most part, farmers. Although they primarily dealt in grain, grapes, cattle, and sheep, I want to be clear that Biblical stewardship is not limited to these areas. Our previous verse set called for the readers to honor the Lord (to be honorable) with their money (wealth) and produce. For those that heeded the call, for those that were obedient to God, for those that operated honorably with their money and their crops, this verse promises an abundance of grain (barns) and grapes (vats). What would the overflowing crops produce? More wealth. And why would God want to bless them with more wealth? Because they were honoring Him – doing the honorable thing – with their wealth. They were giving back to him and blessing the less fortunate. Since they proved they could be trusted with abundance, then God had no problem with releasing abundance. This is a VERY important point. Why would God bless you with a million dollars if you are not faithful over a thousand? If you refuse to honor God and bless others with your current income, then praying and believing for more may be an exercise in futility.

Now, let me be very clear, this is not about you investing in God. Some can read verse 10 and think, “Alright! That’s what’s in it for me! I will give to get!” No, the issue is not you investing in God; it is God investing in you. When you prove to God that money does not have you, that you will be faithful over what He blesses you to posses, that you are willing to be a conduit through which He can bless others and that you are willing to finance ministry, then He is free to bless you without measure. I know most believers don’t like to talk about it, but it takes money to reach the world. It takes money for me to share this email with you and with the world via the Internet. I have to have equipment, an Internet site, a web hosting company, an email list server, software, and etc. It takes money to share the Word on the radio. I have been on the radio before (and I will be again) and I know that it is not cheap. It takes money to share the gospel via television (lots of money). It takes money to finance missionaries. Most of the world is still unreached. It takes money to translate the Bible into different language. There are thousands of languages and dialects in the world and we only have the Bible (in print) in about 450. It takes money to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, provide medical supplies for the sick, and etc., etc. etc. I could go on and on. So why is this important? It is important to understand because you may not be called to be a missionary. You may not be called to preach the gospel around the world. You may not be called to translate the Bible. You may not be called to… you get the point. But you can make a difference by helping those that are.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that God wants to know if you can be trusted with finances. Can He trust you with abundance? Can he BLESS you and trust that you will BE a BLESSING to others? Can He trust you to give back? Can He trust you to finance ministry? Can He trust you to make a difference? CAN HE TRUST YOU?

Confession for today: Father God, I want You to know that I can be trusted with abundance. I am not so selfish that I just want enough for me and mine. If all I have is enough for me and my household, then I will not be able to BE a blessing to others. You can trust me with more than enough and know that I will use it to finance ministry and to make a difference in the lives of others. I will do the honorable thing. You can trust me! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:11) Welcoming Chastisement and Correction (top of page)

(Prov 3:11 KJV) My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction:

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Solomon jumps from the abundance of God’s provision to chastening and correction. Walking with God is not all roses. Sometimes we will get out of line and God has to correct us, but He does it because He loves us. He wants us to make sure we make the course corrections necessary to get back on the right path. This reminds me of a very familiar a passage in Jeremiah. It says, “The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying, Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words. Then I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels. And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it” (Jer 18:1-4).

God told Jeremiah to go down to the potter’s house and that he would receive a Word (a message) there from what he saw. He saw a potter working a work on his wheel with clay. He then saw something significant. The potter looked down and did not like what he saw, because the vessel he was working on was marred (damaged). This caused the potter to make it all over again, into something that pleased him. The good news of this story is that, although imperfect, the clay was still on the wheel. The vessel might have been marred, but the potter was not through with it. It might have been damaged, but it was still destined. It was a candidate for correction and the potter did just that, so that it could become something pleasing TO HIM!

So what does this mean to you today? A few things:

The Potter did not start the work until He finished it in his mind: God knows what plans He has for you (Jer 29:11). He declares the end from the beginning (Is 46:10). Just like a contractor does not start on a house until the plans are completed, God already has the plan – that’s your Destiny! When He sees you’re off-course, He provides chastisement and correction.
The Potter puts the clay through a process: Clay on a potter’s wheel endures shaping, molding, making, bending, etc. You may feel like you have been through quite a bit of molding in the hands of God. This is sometimes painful, but it’s always productive – the potter knows what He is doing. It will not happen overnight, but if you remain on the wheel, it will happen.
The Potter periodically checks the progress: The unique part of this story is that the clay (you) has a choice in the outcome of the vessel. So the potter periodically checks to see that His work is not in vain; that what He planned for the vessel to look like is actually coming to fruition. The potter is displeased when he looks down to a marred (damaged) vessel. He knows that the damage is a result of the decisions of the clay. This is not His plan – not His best.
Fixing the clay often requires major reconstruction: Sometimes a potter basically smashes the clay to start all over again. Now, I pray that God does not have to smash us, but the reality is that major reconstruction is needed, from time to time, because of our disobedience.
Praise God that You’re Still on the Wheel: God loves you just the way you are, but he loves you TOO much to leave you that way. You may not like the chastisement and correction, the molding and making, the bending and shaping, but at least be thankful that you are still on the wheel and that He is still working with you. If you are anything like me, you know all the mistakes you have made and you will be thankful to God for His grace and mercy!

Confession for today: Father God, I am eternally thankful to You for loving me too much to leave me the way that I am today. You take me – with my flaws, failures and all – and You continually work on me and with me to bring to pass Your best for my life. Your grace and mercy are amazing and I will never cease to thank You for chastising and correcting me. No matter how painful the process gets, I am thankful that I am STILL ON THE WHEEL! Forward ever, backward never! The best is yet to come! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:12) Being Mature Enough to Welcome God’s Discipline (top of page)

(Prov 3:12 NIV) Because the LORD disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message we looked at verse 11, where Solomon said, “My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction.” As we looked at that text I shared with you some observations from the story of the Potter and the Clay. I told you that we, like the clay on the potter’s wheel, must endure shaping, molding, making, bending, and etc. if we are to become (in the potter’s hands) the image the Potter sees for us in His head. The point being that we must accept the process. The process is sometimes painful, but it is always productive. Ultimately, the Potter knows what He is doing.

In the next verse we receive motivation to accept the process. Solomon explains that the Lord only does what He does because He loves us. Just as a father takes the time to discipline his son, because he loves him, God does the same for us.

I have two teenage children and a two-year old. There are sometimes when my teenagers do things that I see need correcting. Even though I am tired, even though I might not feel like getting into long explanations, even though I may prefer to ignore their actions, I force myself to take the time to correct them. Why? Because I love them. Now, they may think I am being hard on them, but I am only doing what I do with their best interest in mind. If I don’t correct them now, they might develop unproductive and destructive life-long habits. Whether I feel like it or not, my love for them drives me to correct them, because I want to do all that I can for them and share all that I can with them.

What is it that drives a young child on a merry-go-round to wave at his parents every time around? And what makes his parents wave back? It is love. It is an eternal connection. It is an inner-bond. It is a covenant between parent and child – child and parent. When we understand this connection we can better receive from God. Just like we want the best for our children, God wants the best for His. The difference is that He never makes mistakes. Our children often see and feel the affects of our mistakes, but they still love us. We have a heavenly Father that never makes a mistake. So never question His love, His motives, nor His methods. You did not do anything to make Jehovah love you and you can’t do anything to make Him stop. But the fact that He loves you DOES NOT mean that He will not discipline you. The opposite is true. He disciplines us, He corrects us, He instructs us BECAUSE He loves us. A true mark of maturity in Christ is understanding that fact and welcoming His chastisement and correction. I remember the look on my mother’s face when I was mature enough to thank her for raising me the way that she did. I recounted time after time where she refused to back down to my ill-warranted desires, because she knew better and because she loved me. As I thanked her I saw on her face what all parents want; and that is the satisfaction that comes from knowing that you did all that you could and that your children appreciated it.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you should take a few moments to take self-inventory this morning. Are you mature enough to thank God for His correction? Or are you too immature to understand why you need it? I pray you get to the point where you welcome God’s correction and discipline. Without it, you will never maximize your potential in life!

Confession for today: Father God, I thank You for all the times when Your Spirit convicted me of wrong and when You gave me an inner-witness in my heart that helped me to do right. I may not always know where I am going, but I know WHOM I am following. I declare, by faith, that I follow You with my whole heart. I welcome your correction and I know that I need it. Speak Lord, Your servant is listening! I won’t fight against Your discipline! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:13,14) Wisdom is Better than Silver and Gold (top of page)

(Prov 3:13,14 NIV) Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” We are living in uncertain times. Millions of Americans are concerned about the future. They see rising gas prices, an unstable economy, a nation in the middle of a long-war, and financial institutions falling left and right. Many that are seeking peace of mind find it in their savings accounts. Their money is their security blanket. But happens when the money is not there? What happens if the money runs out? What happens if the money is no longer the be-all end-all that many mistakenly thought it was? Is money bad? Of course not, but money is not everything.

What if I told you that what you are doing right now is one of the most profitable practices of your daily routine? Do you realize how important taking time with God is? Do you understand the impact that His wisdom can have upon your life? Our text says that those that find His wisdom and gain His understanding shall be Blessed! Other translations say, “Happy!” The Hebrew word used here is a word that means: empowered to prosper. I know that some have made the word prosperity to be an ugly word in the church. Some have pursued money to a fault. But prosperity is not al about money. To say that prosperity involves money is not incorrect, but it is way incomplete. Money is just a small part of prospering in God, walking in His wisdom, enjoying THE BLESSING of the Lord. God wants you to be physically healthy, to live a long and fulfilling life, to have fruitful and rewarding relationships, to enjoy the satisfaction of making a difference in your environment, and to die with the pleasure of knowing that you fulfilled your purpose in the earth. Now how valuable is that? How much is a life like that worth? How much more significant is that than money?

Solomon had lots of money. By most accounts he was the richest man in the world. But he did not get there because he asked God to make him rich. No, he asked God for wisdom. Wisdom was the key to Solomon’s life. Godly wisdom was the key that unlocked every other door for him. It was the wisdom of God that made the difference. That’s why Solomon could unequivocally say that wisdom is, “More profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold.”

If you have wisdom and lose money, you can always get more money, but if you lose wisdom and still have money, then rest assured that the money won’t last too long. In the next chapter Solomon calls wisdom, “The principal thing” (4:7). Wisdom was the difference maker in his life and it can be the difference maker in yours.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you should keep your perspective clear and your priorities in order. Money is required in life and as I have stated numerous times that money makes and excellent slave, but a poor master. Money is a necessary tool, but it should not be your number one focus. Take time EVERY DAY with God, to learn from His Word, to receive insight and counsel, and to ensure that you are receiving the wisdom you need to face the challenges set before you. If His wisdom is more profitable than silver and yields better returns that gold, shouldn’t you want it operating in your life? I will close with the words of James, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him” (1:5).

Confession for today: Father God, I need Your wisdom in operation in my life. You said that if any lacked wisdom that they could ask it of You, so I ask right now, by faith. I ask You to release Your wisdom in my life for today. I receive Your wisdom by faith and I declare that Your wisdom in the difference maker for me. Knowing how You want me to face every day is more precious to me than silver and gold. Speak Lord, I need to hear from You! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:15) Wisdom is More Precious than Jewels (top of page)

(Prov 3:15 NASB) She is more precious than jewels; And nothing you desire compares with her.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” I consider my mother to be a woman of great wisdom. She may not have completed higher education, but she has gained wisdom and understanding as she has traveled the course of her life. Very few people I know are more respected than my mother. One of the things she often told me (in Spanish) was that I should take things based upon who said them. Considering the source this morning is important, because Solomon is telling us that wisdom is more precious than jewels and basically ANYTHING that we could ever desire. Solomon was more than qualified to make such a statement because he was both the wisest and the richest man in the land. He made the statement because he knew that his wisdom did not come from his riches; it was the other way around.

Solomon was young when he took over the throne from his father David. He was concerned about assuming such a great responsibility (being King) at such a young age. The Lord spoke to him through a dream and said, "Ask for whatever you want me to give you." This was Solomon’s golden opportunity. He was young, he was in charge, he was somewhat afraid, and he was seeking help from God. God told him what we all want to here, “Ask for whatever you want!” Now, you know that most of us would have started rattling off a list of selfish desires, but young Solomon was different. He said, "You have shown great kindness to your servant, my father David… you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties. Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong." Wow. Solomon had maturity beyond his years. He did not ask for fame or fortune, he asked for wisdom and understanding; for help in carrying out the duties of the office that he had been charged with. He knew that he was in authority, but also knew that he was under authority. He submitted to God so that those that he led would submit to him. All leaders should learn from his example. God was pleased and said, “I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for—both riches and honor—so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings” (see 1st Kings 3).

Solomon had wisdom and riches, but he knew which had first place in his life. He attributed all his success to the wisdom of God. Without it, he would not have been able to lead, to build the temple, and to make the impact that he did.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that nothing should take a higher place in your life over the pursuit of Godly wisdom. You, like my wife, may like precious jewels. You may have other desires. There is nothing wrong with having nice things. God has blessed us to possess and enjoy lots of niceties, but they mean nothing in comparison to the wisdom of God. I know that I am who I am today, because of God’s grace and His wisdom. I am able to make an impact in the military and in the ministry because of His wisdom operating in my life. His wisdom will make you wise beyond your years and open doors for you that no man can close. Believe me, that is more previous than rubies.

Confession for today: Father God, I thank You for blessing me to be able to keep things in proper perspective. After receiving Your Son as my Savior, the pursuit of Your wisdom is first place in my life. With Your wisdom I am able to be a better parent, son/daughter, brother/sister, worker, leader, servant, etc. Your wisdom enables me to do everything that I do BETTER. As I walk with You and You walk with me, together, we make a difference! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:16-18) The Very Tree of Life (top of page)

(Prov 3:16-18 MSG) With one hand she gives long life, with the other she confers recognition. Her manner is beautiful, her life wonderfully complete. She's the very Tree of Life to those who embrace her. Hold her tight—and be blessed!

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Hands-down, the salvation message is THE most important message in the Body of Christ. The message of eternal life through Jesus Christ must be preached to every man in every land. Hearing, receiving, and responding to the gospel of Jesus Christ is how we were translated out of the kingdom of darkness and into the Kingdom of God’s dear Son. The importance of receiving Christ as Lord is second to none in the life of any person. But after you accept Christ, after you have been Born-Again, after you have eternal life, then what? Salvation is not the end, but rather the beginning. It’s not the finishing line; it’s the starting block. After receiving Christ, that’s when true life begins and that’s when the wisdom of God is paramount.

After we are Born-Again we are able to, for the first time, really hear from God. We open the scriptures and see them in a new light. Why? Because the author is then living inside of us. Most new believers have an insatiable thirst for the scriptures. Peter likens a new believer’s desire for the scriptures to a newborn’s desire for milk (1st Peter 2:2). It is all new, it is all good, and it is all powerful. I received Christ at 23 and I know that for me, that is when my life started to come into focus. My life’s purpose was revealed to me and I am now on that path. I teach that every believer should 1) Find, 2) Follow, and then 3) Finish their purpose, in the earth, before they die. However, you cannot do this without the wisdom of God.

Solomon says that wisdom, on the one hand will give long life, and with the other recognition. So when we walk in God’s wisdom, not only will our life be long, but it will be rewarding. Who wants to live long if they are living miserable? God does not want us to be saved, but miserably saved. No! He wants us to live the lives He has destined for us to live. Solomon goes on to say that wisdom’s manner is beautiful and her life is wonderfully complete. Another translation says that her ways are pleasant and all her paths lead to peace. The point here is that when we walk in the wisdom of God we are able to get along with people. We are able to have pleasant, rewarding, and meaningful relationships. Life is too precious to attempt to live it alone. And if that were not good enough, God’s wisdom enables us to both enjoy inner and outer peace. He teaches us how to be at peace with ourselves and with others; physical, psychological, and social health. This is the life God wants us to live and if we want to live it, then we will need Godly wisdom.

And finally, our text says that wisdom is, “The Very Tree of Life to those who embrace her.” That sums it all up for me and it makes me want to embrace her. I want to enjoy the life God wants me to enjoy and to have it I must embrace God’s wisdom. This means that I will have to change some of my ways. That’s a small price to pay to live life He wants me to live.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that like everything else, the choice is yours. You can choose to accept Christ and then not make any changes, but that’s not God’s best. If you are willing to make the adjustments that God’s Wisdom instructs and you are willing to embrace the changes He leads you to make – by His Word and His Spirit – then you will enjoy the benefits of eating from The Very Tree of Life! Hold wisdom tight and Be Blessed!

Confession for today: Father God, first of all I thank You for making a way for me to receive eternal life through Your Son Jesus. After receiving Christ I know that my best years are ahead of me. Therefore, I declare, by faith, that I embrace Your wisdom and I don’t fight against her. I make swift and accurate changes, as I am led, and I experience the best year and years of my life. I eat daily from the Very Tree of Your Life! I hold wisdom tight and I am blessed in every area and aspect of my life! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:19,20) Jehovah’s Wisdom is available to You! (top of page)

(Prov 3:19-20 NIV) By wisdom the LORD laid the earth's foundations, by understanding he set the heavens in place; by his knowledge the deeps were divided, and the clouds let drop the dew.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Think about the wisdom of God in creation for a moment. The earth is just the right distance from the sun to make human life possible. If the earth were any closer to the sun, we would burn up. If it were any further, we would freeze. It’s just on the right axis, rotating at the right speed, with the right amount of gravity, so that it remains in place. Have you ever looked at the sea? The waters ebb and flow without human intervention. They draw back the right amount of sand during the day and bring it back at night. They only come but so far and then stop. What about the air you breathe? We breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide. Plants do the opposite and help us to cohabitate. Without plants we would die. Without humans plants would die. What about rain? Solomon mentions the clouds and the dew. It’s like God setup an irrigation system so that water (most of the earth’s land mass) could evaporate into the air, create clouds, travel over land, and then be released where it is much needed; required for all life and vegetation. What about the human eye? If you ever do any research on the eye itself you will be amazed. The tear production system, along with our subconscious blinking, constantly cleans the eyes. Also, there is a small bone behind the eye that has a small hole in it where tears pass through. I remember one time when my son was questioning creation and I asked him, “Who drilled the hole?” He got the point.

I could go on and on about creation, about the interrelated and interdependent nature and order of things, but in it all we see the glory and the wisdom of God. What’s both amazing and encouraging is that this same wisdom – the wisdom used to create the heavens and the earth, to divide the earth from the waters, to setup an irrigation system, and etc. – is available to us. The whole point of the book of Proverbs is for us to know that God’s wisdom is available for us and He states, in no uncertain terms, that we need that wisdom to live the lives He desires for us to live.

How much would you pay for a one-on-one mentoring session with Donald Trump? Or Bill Gates? Or Oprah Winfrey? Or Colin Powell? Or Billy Graham? Or T. D. Jakes? Or… whomever. My point is that there are certain people in the world that you hold in high regard. You consider them wise and you would love to have a closed session with them. Well, guess what? No human as ever come close to possessing the wisdom of God. God is the alpha and omega, the beginning and ending, the author and finisher, the first and the last, the creator and sustainer of everything and He makes Himself available to you. He clears his schedule whenever you are ready. He stops what He is doing to spend time with you. He knows everything about everything and He is willing to impart His wisdom into your life, if you would only setup the time. And guess what? He is willing to do it free-of-charge! You can’t get a better deal anywhere.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that the all-knowing and all-wise God of everything is willing to spend time with you, to impart wisdom into your life, but you have to be willing to setup the time to spend with Him. And it doesn’t have to take long. I had an awesome time with God two days ago as I drove to work. I left the car refreshed, renewed, restored, and ready to face the challenges of the day. If you make time for God He will make time for you!

Confession for today: Father God, Jehovah, I acknowledge the fact that you are Omnipresent, Omnipotent, and Omniscient. There is no god like Jehovah. I acknowledge no other gods and I call upon no other name. I come boldly to You in the name of Your dear Son Jesus. I setup time with You daily and I thank You for honoring that time. I ask for wisdom and You impart it into my life. Thank You for giving the wisdom to carry out the duties of every responsibility You have blessed me to have and in it all I give You praise and I bring You honor! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:21) Do not Allow His Wisdom to Depart from Your Eyes (top of page)

(Prov 3:21 KJV) My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” I like the way that Solomon keeps saying, “My Son.” It is as if we were young apprentices sitting at the feet of a wise and time proven leader. He is teaching us what he knows about God and life. After exalting wisdom over and over again Solomon says, “Let not them depart from thine eyes.” It seems as though the sentence was written backwards. The way it is written the first part of the sentence seemingly poses a question? What is it that we should not allow to depart from our eyes? What is it that we should keep before us continually? What is it [implied] that we should meditate on day and night? He then gives us the answer and says, “Keep sound wisdom and discretion.” He tells to keep wisdom and what wisdom enables us to do (discretion) before our eyes continually. Yes, when we keep God’s wisdom before us, when we allow His instruction to be the ruler by which we judge every decision, when we make decisions that we know are pleasing to Him, when we involve Him in every area of our lives, we then – as we find out in the next verse – experience the lives that He desires for us to live.

What is the purpose of studying God’s wisdom, His Word, His insight, His way of doing things, if not to apply what we learn in our own lives? Solomon warns us from learning the Word of God without learning the God of the Word. Solomon does not want us to gain empty head knowledge. He wants our head knowledge to become what I call “hand knowledge;” meaning that we literally perform (with our hands) those things that we have learned (with our heads).

Another thing that this verse implies is that we are in it for the long haul. We are not to forget the things that we have learned of God. God’s wisdom is not just applicable for the moment. His wisdom is timeless and it is well worth holding on to for life. There are countless lessons that I have learned in God that serve me time and time again. But for them to pay dividends you must take the time – from time to time – to look back to move forward.

So what does this mean to you today? A few things:
1. Take the time to take self-inventory: In our fast-paced society many live their lives so fast that they fail to take the time to realize the life-lessons God is attempting to teach them. If you are not careful, days will turn into weeks, weeks into months, and months into years before you realize that life is passing you by. Slow down enough to recognize and learn from the life-lessons God is teaching you.
2. Take the time to consider wisely: Over the years I have realized that many people don’t take the time to think. They don’t weigh the magnitude of the decisions set before them, and because of it, they are prone to making mistakes. Take the time to pray, to allow God to speak to you, to consider the wealth of His Wisdom (from His Spirit and His Word) and to judge accordingly. Don’t let His wisdom depart from your eyes.
3. Take the time to look back so you can go forward: I, for one, don’t like to have to learn the same lesson twice (or more). If you take the time to remember the life-lessons you have already learned in God then you will find that you can apply many of those lessons in your current situations. Not allowing His wisdom to depart from your eyes is never forgetting what you have learned in God. Sometimes looking back gives you the best perspective for moving forward.

Confession for today: Father God, I thank You for Your timeless wisdom. l take the time to take self-inventory. I slow down long enough to recognize the life-lessons you are teaching me as I journey with you towards my final destination. I also take the time to consider wisely. I pray, I seek Your face, I consider Your Word and what I hear form Your Spirit concerning the decisions that I must make. And then, from time to time, I look back so I can go forward. I tap into the life-lessons of the past so I can apply them to future successes! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:22) Wisdom To Me and then Through Me (top of page)

(Prov 3:22 TNIV) They will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Yesterday we learned how important it is to keep God’s wisdom before us continually. His wisdom enables us to walk discreetly; to make sound decisions that take us incrementally closer to God’s desired destination for our lives. This morning we learn that this ability – the ability to make sound judgment and to walk in divine wisdom – becomes life for us. The New American Standard Bible (NASB) says, “So they will be life to your soul…” I have shared with you before that your soul is comprised of your mind (your thinker), your emotions (your feeler), and your will (your chooser). When you walk in divine counsel daily you think, feel, and choose wisely. Mentally you are sharp and alert, emotionally you are stable and secure, and you literally train your will to choose the will of God. You learn to make astute and accurate decisions. So yes, wisdom and discretion become life to you, they become life to your soul.

I really like the latter portion of the text. Solomon tells us that this ability to walk in divine counsel and to choose wisely will become like an ornament that graces our neck. If I read into it I could say that Solomon was painting a picture that God’s wisdom around your neck enables your head to make good decisions, but I don’t believe Solomon was speaking figuratively. I believe he simply meant that when you walk in God’s wisdom and make sound decisions then you will be known for it. You will wear wisdom and discretion like a gold chain. Wisdom and discretion will adorn your neck and all will know that you are a man/woman of wisdom.

What do you want to be known for? We are all known for something. When someone asks about you to someone else, what is the common answer? Some are known for their athletic ability (sports), others for their artistic ability (song, dance, etc.), others for their inability to get along with people (snobbish), others for their love for people (caring), and I could go on. I believe you get the point. But what are you known for? Wouldn’t you like to be known for wise counsel? Wouldn’t you like to be sought after for Godly advise? Wouldn’t you like to be called upon when a tough decision has to be made? If so, then seek God’s wisdom and you are on the road to becoming that person.

The guy that drew me to Christ was a Staff Sergeant (SSG) in my platoon in Kuwait in 1995 named Leo Jacobs. I too was a SSG but I was clearly not like SSG Jacobs. Every third word that came out of my mouth was a cuss word. I still had a Brooklyn mentality and I led by fear – all 150 lbs of me (back then). When SSG Jacobs spoke it was obvious that he and I were different. He was articulate, sound, and sought after. Everyone respected SSG Jacobs and sought him out when they needed help (military or otherwise). This is what drew me to him and he led me to Christ. I later found out that he was walking in the counsel of God. I still talk Leo Jacobs (now a retired Master Sergeant) from time to time and I still seek his advise.

So what does this mean to you today? It boils down to two things: when you walk in wisdom and discretion they become both life for you and for others. God’s wisdom will obviously change your life, but the more you walk in it, the more others will see it (around your neck) and seek it from you. So not only can divine wisdom impact you, but if you allow God to, He can impact others through you. This is how you become the light and the salt God desires for you to be.

Confession for today: Father God, I thank You for gracing me with Your wisdom. I know I have a part and I declare, right now, by faith, that I do it. I seek your counsel daily and I allow Your Word, Your will, and Your way to shape my decisions. Help me to be known as a person that walks in Your counsel. Use me to be light in the midst of darkness. Use me as a conduit of Your wisdom, so that You can impact others through me. Your Word ministers TO ME and then it ministers THROUGH ME! I speak this by faith! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:23) Safety In His Counsel (top of page)

(Prov 3:23 NIV) Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Yesterday we learned how God’s wisdom upon our lives becomes life to us and through us. We become known as wise and sought after for Godly counsel. Solomon now tells us that when we walk this way, when we allow God’s counsel to be the foundation for our decisions, we enjoy both safety and security.

The songwriter wrote, “The safest place in the whole wide world is in the will of God.” Solomon, later in Proverbs, wrote, “In the multitude of counselors there is safety” (11:14). Now, I hope you know enough about Solomon to know that the implication is that the multitude of counselors he refers to are providing Godly, not worldly, counsel. It does no good to seek a multitude of counsel if the counsel you are seeking is bad. Solomon’s father (David) taught us that we are blessed when we DO NOT seek the counsel of the ungodly (Psalm 1). So it is obvious that we should seek counsel, and that there is safety in seeking counsel, but the counsel we seek must be rooted and grounded in the counsel (The Word) of God.

Don’t you want to know that you are doing the right things? That you are making the right decisions? That you are heading down the right road? That you are taking on the right endeavors? At the end of the day, none of us want to lead our families down paths that lead to failure, fear, and frustration. We want to know that we are leading our families down roads that are safe, secure, and certain. This is where the counsel of God comes in. Solomon took on many endeavors, one of which – the building of the temple – was a billion dollar project. He oversaw construction for years, not to mention the fact that he was also running a nation at the same time. Solomon knew a thing or two about taking on major projects and making decisions that had major impact, but he took them all on with the wisdom of God. Looking back he tells us that when we walk in that same wisdom, when we seek Godly counsel, when we allow God to influence our decisions, then we will be safe and we will not stumble. Now, let me warn you. This does not mean that you will be perfect. This does not mean that you will not make mistakes. This does not mean that, in God, you are flawless. Because we all know that we miss it from time to time, but what it does mean is that we can recover. When we walk in the counsel of God we get back up from every mistake with an ability to look up (towards God) and to look forward (towards our future).

I like the way the Message Bible translates our verse. It says, “You'll travel safely, you'll neither tire nor trip.” I can attest to the fact that when I know I am doing what God wants me to do that I don’t tire. Knowing His will enables you to tap into an ever-flowing well of confidence, courage, and strength. You move forward with the excitement and expectation of experiencing Godly success.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that when you seek God – through prayer, His Word, or others – and you believe you know what God desires for you to do in a certain situation, it gives you both confidence (in believing for success) and peace (in believing for safety). Never underestimate the power of confidence and peace. Seek Godly counsel. Go forth to do great things for God, with God.

Confession for today: Father God, I thank You for placing people in my life that can speak Your counsel to me. I declare, by faith, that I receive Your counsel through prayer, through Your Word, and through Godly others. Knowing that I have Your counsel gives me confidence, courage, and strength. I don’t tire or trip. I move forward and not backward. I look up and not down. My hope is rooted and grounded in my relationship with You and Your counsel for me. I enter this day with a confidence and peace that cannot be shaken! I am safe in You! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:24) Sleep and Rest (top of page)

(Prov 3:24 NLT) You can go to bed without fear; you will lie down and sleep soundly.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Yesterday we learned that when you truly believe you have received the wisdom/counsel of God on something, then you approach the task with fearless confidence and undisturbed peace. There is safety in God’s counsel. Solomon goes on to teach us that when we walk in that safety, confidence, and peace we are able to resist fear and sleep well.

Most Americans don’t get enough sleep. Studies for years have shown that we need eight hours of uninterrupted sleep to function at our maximum level. However, the reality is that most Americans don’t get eight hours of sleep. Knowing that, a mattress company is currently running an Ad that says, “Most of us are lucky to get six hours of sleep. With this mattress you can get a better six.” So now, “A Better Six,” is their slogan. Whether you are trying to get six, eight, or more hours of sleep, the point is that we all need it. God has set it up so that we live our lives out in increments of days. We need sleep to help rejuvenate our minds and bodies, so that we are ready for the challenges and opportunities of every day.

It is worth noting that many of the people of Solomon’s time would read this verse differently than us today. We read it and our focus is on the latter portion – sound sleep. However, many of them would have read it and focused on the fact that when you are safe in God you can go to sleep without fear. Remember, many of these people lived in tents or makeshift dwelling places. Security was an issue and some even had to post night guards. This is lost on many of us who live in secure communities, with many homes being protected and monitored by alarms and security agencies. But Solomon’s point is that beyond the alarms, beyond the safe neighborhoods, beyond the locked doors, there are many people who still can’t sleep, because they are not at rest in their minds and in their hearts. When you believe you are walking in the wisdom of God, it gives you an unshakable peace that enables you to get both sleep and rest.

Solomon’s father David said, “I can lie down and sleep soundly because you, LORD, will keep me safe” (Psalm 4:8). I know a thing or two about the Lord keeping me safe. In Brooklyn I was shot at several times, I had a .357 magnum placed to my head when I was 11 years old, I have had knives placed at my throat, and have escaped many a close call, by the grace of God. I know that if God kept me safe in Brooklyn back then (and He did) that He will definitely keep me safe now. That is why fear is not a factor for me. I lie down and sleep soundly, because I know Lord keeps me safe. Another thing David taught was that God never sleeps. David said, “Indeed, He who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps” (Psalm 121:3). The point here is that there is no need in both of us staying up. If God is up, then we can go to sleep. He can protect us from seen and unseen dangers, whether we are asleep or awake. Our trust must be in God.

So what does this mean to you today? It means God wants you to get both sleep and rest. I see rest as a spiritual thing. We can burn ourselves out if we fail to enjoy a Sabbath (one day of rest a week) and if we fail to enjoy the rejuvenating, refreshing, and restoring power of sleep. So walk in the counsel of God, set your mind at ease, and when you lay down to sleep trust God for both sleep and rest. That way you can live a long and productive life in Christ!

Confession for today: Father God, I thank You for blessing me with Your wisdom. I apply Your wisdom to my life and it gives me fearless confidence and unshakable peace. I declare, by faith, that fear is not a factor for me. I trust You totally and I know that You neither slumber, nor sleep. Since You are awake, then I can go to sleep. There is no need in both of us being up. When I sleep, I sleep well. I get both sleep and rest and I enter every day with the energy and excitement of knowing that I am ready to be used of You in again. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:25,26) Where is Your Confidence? (top of page)

(Prov 3:25,26 NIV) Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, for the LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being snared.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message I taught you that God, who watches over us, neither slumbers nor sleeps (Psalm 121:3). I told you that since He’s awake, we can go to sleep and sleep well. There is no need in both of us staying up.

One of the major impediments of sleep is worry. Many people, even Christians, stay up late worrying about tomorrow. They worry about the unknown. They worry about the economy. They worry about gas prices. They worry about this and they worry about that. I remember when I first came to Christ. There was an older lady in the church that we called, “Momma.” Momma told me one time, “Baby, if you are going to pray, then don’t worry. But if you are going to worry, then don’t pray.” If you are worrying, then you don’t have any confidence in your prayer. You can’t trust and worry at the same time. Just like you can’t be in fear and in faith at the same time.

After telling us to get some sleep – without fear – Solomon drives home the point. He instructs us, under the wisdom of God, not to fear sudden disasters or the ruin that overtakes the wicked. Will bad things happen in this world? Sure. Do bad things even happen to good people? Of course. But the answer is found in the latter portion of the text where Solomon says, “For the LORD will be your confidence.” There is a constant battle for our minds and our hearts; basically, a battle for our confidence. Faith is having confidence in what God said. Fear is having confidence in what the enemy said.

Let’s say you read your Bible, have an intimate time with God in prayer, and receive a Word from your Pastor that all tell you that you things will be well with you. If you believe that and make your decisions based upon that belief, then that is: Walking by faith! But let’s say that after listening to your Pastor, on your way home from church, you hear bad news about the economy on the radio. Then you go home and watch the news and things are looking grim. You then get a call from your cousin who just lost his job. They enemy, at that point, will do everything he can to get you to lose your confidence in God. Once you give up the confidence and start having more confidence in the negative input from the enemy, you will find yourself believing that things are not going to turn out well with you. Before you know it you will be making decisions based upon that belief. Do you know what that is? That’s Walking by Fear! Fear moves satan, just like faith moves God. The enemy will use anything he can to get you to fear. Once you are afraid you will not, you cannot, come to God in faith, because you have lost your confidence.

So what does this mean to you today? It means fear is a choice, just like faith is a choice. You can choose to walk in confidence in God or not to and the major battle is in your mind. If the enemy can get you to be afraid – with a constant barrage of negative information – he can cripple your relationship with God. The Bible tells us 365 times (in some form), not to fear. That’s at least one Word from God not to fear for every day of the year. So don’t – not now, not ever – allow the enemy to rob you of your confidence in God. Paul asked the question, “If God be for us, who can be against us?” (Rom 8:31). The answer is: Anyone that wants to lose!

Confession for today: Father God, I declare, right now, by faith, that I have fearless confidence in You. You Lord, are my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? You Lord, are the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? I live under the protection of the Most High God and stay in the shadow of God, the All- Powerful. You spread your wings over me and keep me secure. I don’t need to worry about dangers at night or arrows during the day. Nor do I fear diseases that strike in the dark or sudden disaster at noon. Though thousands may fall around me, I will not be harmed, because my confidence is in You! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:27) Using Your Position for Good (top of page)

(Prov 3:27 NIV) Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message we dealt with confidence and how if your confidence in God is intact, it will enable you to resist fear. Solomon goes on to teach us about doing good to others. Many scholars interpreted this verse with money in mind. As I read through a few commentaries on this verse this morning most commentators said that we have a responsibility, from God, to Be a Blessing to others, with our money, once we realize that God has blessed us with it. The Message Bible translation lends itself to this interpretation saying, “Never walk away from someone who deserves help; your hand is God's hand for that person.” I like the way that we become God’s hand and how we become the conduit through which God blesses others, but I can’t see this as just money. My challenge is with the words, “Those who deserve it.” When giving to the poor, most of the time it is not because someone deserves it. You give to those in need out of compassion, not merit. So when I read this verse this morning and as I prayed over it I see it as a Word to leaders. This verse tells me, as a leader, that we should praise those that we lead, when they deserve it. Now, this could be at work, at church, or at home. Whether you are leading a staff, a congregation, or a family, the same holds true.

In our society positive news is no news at all. Negative news and gossip spread like wildfire, whereas positive news is hardly interesting. Most leaders (parents included) are quick to correct something they see being done wrong, but are not as quick to praise those things being done right. I know that as a father I have had to force myself to shower praise on my children, because if I don’t praise them, then who will?

Solomon was a leader with levels upon levels of subordinates. He was a leader of leaders. Surely he made corrections when he needed to. Without the corrections he would have never achieved what he did in his years on the throne, but he gives us a glimpse this morning into another aspect of his reign. He lets us know that leaders are not only affective when they correct, but also when they realize that their position of leadership can be used for praise. As a leader in the US military I can tell you that it is a rewarding experience to be able to submit a subordinate for an award; or to praise him/her in front of their peers. As I read this verse I see that we do it because, 1) they deserve it, and 2) it’s in our power to do it. The problem comes when people deserve it, but those that are in the power to do it never do. Tomorrow Solomon will teach us a thing or two about procrastination. So I jump the gun a little this morning and remind you, as a leader, to not put off recognition. It may seem like a small thing to you, but it is a big thing to the person that is being recognized. That worker wants to know that someone is paying attention to his/her effort. That child wants to know that their parents see how hard they are working in school. A word of praise goes a long way.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you should take a few moments this morning to survey those around you. Who have you been withholding good from, that deserves it? And now that you realize it, what are you going to do about it? Remember, God blessed you to be in a position where you can BE a blessing to others. Why not use that position for good?

Confession for today: Father God, I thank You for giving me the power, for placing me in a position, to BE a blessing to others. I will not just use my authority for correction, but I will also use it for praise. I praise and recognize those that deserve it and in-so-doing, I become a conduit of Your love, Your grace, and Your goodness. Use me Lord as an emissary of good today and every day. I want to become the hands through which You bless others. As I enter this day I am determined to BE a blessing within my sphere of influence. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:28) Overcoming Procrastination (top of page)

(Prov 3:28 NLT) If you can help your neighbor now, don't say, "Come back tomorrow, and then I'll help you."

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message we dealt with using the position and power the Lord has given you for good. Whether it is praising someone for their efforts or blessing someone financially, we are to seek to BE a blessing to others every chance we get. This message flows in the same vein. Solomon tells us that if our neighbor needs our help and we have the ability to help them, then we should do it. Don’t tell them, “Come back tomorrow,” when you have the ability to help them today. This is a matter of doing what is right, because it’s right, and then doing it right. If you call yourself a Christian, but you never do the things that Christians are supposed to do – like give to God and others, show compassion and mercy, walk in love and forgiveness – then at some point you will need to question your status. What good is it to be enough light for others to come to you for help, but then not be enough light to actually provide it? Especially when you know you can.

James says it this way: “Dear friends, do you think you'll get anywhere in this if you learn all the right words but never do anything? Does merely talking about faith indicate that a person really has it? For instance, you come upon an old friend dressed in rags and half-starved and say, "Good morning, friend! Be clothed in Christ! Be filled with the Holy Spirit!" and walk off without providing so much as a coat or a cup of soup--where does that get you? Isn't it obvious that God-talk without God-acts is outrageous nonsense?” (James 5:14-17 MSG). At some point your video must match your audio. Empty words don’t make the impact that God wants us to make.

When it comes down to it, this verse is about fulfilling obligations. When we are presented with opportunities to BE a blessing we must realize that they are divine appointments, setup by God, for us to be conduit through which He can bless others. Wouldn’t it be a shame if God would through all the trouble of setting up the appointment, but we allowed procrastination to keep us from doing what He expected us to do? Whether it is giving to the poor, giving at church, repaying a loan, returning a tool, or fulfilling a promise, never allow procrastination to keep you from doing what the Holy Spirit is tugging at your heart to do. Never allow procrastination to cause you to miss an opportunity to BE a blessing. You and I both know that ‘waiting for tomorrow’ just doesn’t work. Do all that you can do NOW and deal with tomorrow when it comes.

So what does this mean to you today? Two things:
1. God wants to use you to bless others: God does nothing in the earth without a human. If God wants to make a difference in your environment (and He does), then why not sign up for the task? Sign up for duty and watch how God blesses others through you. But be careful, when He sets up the divine appointments, don’t blow them off because of procrastination. If you fail to do what He wants you to do, He will use someone else to get the mission done and you will miss the blessing of being used by God.
2. Procrastination is NEVER God’s M.O.: Search the Bible and you will NOT find ONE time where God said, “I will do it tomorrow!” Not once! God is always a RIGHT NOW God and if you want to please Him you need to learn to be a RIGHT NOW person.

Confession for today: Father God, I declare, by faith, that I break the back of procrastination in my life. I do what You want me to do, when You want me to do it. I make swift and accurate changes as You lead me. I am a man/woman of my Word. I fulfill every natural and spiritual commitment and I do so on-time. I prove myself to be faithful so that You can use me to make a difference in my environment. Use me Lord for Your glory! In Jesus’ name. Amen!

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:29) Live in Peace with Everyone (top of page)

(Prov 3:29 MSG) Don't figure ways of taking advantage of your neighbor when he's sitting there trusting and unsuspecting.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message we dealt overcoming procrastination and helping those that you can help, when the help is needed. Solomon is still talking about our treatment of others, but now the emphasis is no longer on just giving, but rather getting along. God, through Solomon, is teaching us how to treat others. He wants us to be unifiers and not dividers, to be menders and not breakers.

Solomon knew that we only have 24 hours in a day and we want to use our time, energy, and effort in the right way. We need to be good stewards of the abilities the Lord has given us and, for the believer, it does no good to waste time devising schemes to do people wrong; especially people who live among us who have not done anything wrong to us. Under the Old Testament, ‘an eye for and eye’ concept, some believed it was OK to repay evil with evil. That’s why Solomon makes it clear that he is not talking about someone who has done you any wrong. This is someone who is your neighbor, who lives at peace with you, and you trusts you. For you to take the time to devise an evil scheme against them, without any provocation, and then carry out your premeditated evil, is a double-sin. It’s a sin of your heart and your hands. This is definitely NOT the expectation of God for the believer. Moreover, the New Testament requirement is even higher.

Jesus said, “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:28,28). Paul said, “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves… Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse… Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.” And then Paul, summing it all up, says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (see Rom 12:12-18). That’s the bottom-line. God expects us to do all that we can to live at peace with everyone.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that God expects you to be a peace-maker, not a peace-breaker! He expects you to walk under a higher standard. He wants you to live above the ‘eye for an eye’ mentality. Bottom-line: He wants you to walk in love. Now, I know that things like loving your enemies and blessing them that curse you are hard pills to swallow for average Christian. However, God calls you to excellence, not average. There are too many people that are “turned off” from God, Christianity, and the church, because of people who claim to be Christians, but fail to walk in God’s love. Loving God and loving man are the commandments of Jesus. I entreat you to allow the Love of God to wash away the resentment, bitterness and anger that your past may have embedded in your soul. Walking in His love can heal past hurt, remove past pain, and renew you into the person God intends for you to be. This way you can truly treat others the way God wants you to treat them and the way that you want to be treated.

If God loves you and treats you well, even with all the mistakes that you make, then why not share that same kind of forgiving love with others?

Confession for today: Father God, You empower me to love. You equip me to walk in peace. You employ me as an instrument of godliness in the earth. Your blood covers me, Your Spirit guides me, and Your love rules me. I walk peaceably with all men. I do not allow any corrupt communication to proceed from out of my mouth. I am a blessing and not a burden. I am a help and not a hindrance. I build up, not tear down. I am a peace-maker, not a peace-breaker! I am Your child and I walk in Your love this day and for the rest of my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:30) Not being Argumentative (top of page)

(Prov 3:30 CEV) Don't argue just to be arguing, when you haven't been hurt.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message we dealt living in peace with everyone. This message flows in the same vein. Basically, it boils down to walking in love. Love is God’s highest standard, because God is love (1st John 4:8&16). Solomon urges us NOT to be like those that are out to pick a fight. They want to get into confrontational situations, even when the situation doesn’t call for it. I know it is unrealistic to think that you can walk through life without having a disagreement with anyone, but you can disagree without being disagreeable.

Jesus said, “Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults--unless, of course, you want the same treatment…” (Luke 6:37 MSG). To pick on someone is to intentionally cause undue stress; to hassle, annoy and irritate. Have you ever met someone who constantly harasses others? I don’t mean the person that jokingly plays around, but the one that finds pleasure in intentionally aggravating others? These people are constantly seeking to identify contentious areas in the lives of others and when they find them, they take every opportunity to “push their buttons.” Simply put, love does not act that way. Love seeks to minimize and not magnify the weaknesses of others.

This reminds me of something that Paul wrote in what is commonly referred to as “The Love Chapter” in his first letter to the church in Corinth. In that chapter (1st Corinthians 13) he explained, “Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily.” The main characteristic of love that lines up with what Solomon is teaching is kindness.

Love is kind. Webster’s dictionary defines the word kind as being disposed to do good to others; to make others happy by granting their requests; having tenderness or goodness of nature; benevolent. If you read that definition again and you think of the ministry of Jesus you will quickly see that Jesus was kind. He was disposed to do good to others. He was inclined to meet their needs. He was good natured and benevolent. I mention that because Jesus is our ultimate example. As a matter of fact, we identify ourselves as Christians. The word Christian literally means “Like Christ.” So if we claim to be like Him, shouldn’t we make every effort to live like He lived, walk like He walked, and act like He acted?

Paul also instructed us to be “…kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another” (Eph 4:32). A person who is kind is constantly looking for ways to be a blessing to others. They are literally seeking opportunities to do good, not to argue. Arguments drain you, being a blessing to others recharges you.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that it is not wise, nor healthy – physically, relationally, or career wise – to be argumentative for the sake of being argumentative. You don’t want to be ‘that person’ that no one wants to talk to. If you are, then how can you be a witness for Christ? You are surely being known for something, but it is the wrong thing. No one will ever be drawn to the light in you if they can’t SEE it. When you are overly argumentative God’s light is either dim or is not shining at all in your life. So walk in love, be kind to others, and seek to make the impact in your environment that God intends for you to make!

Confession for today: Lord God, I declare that I am NOT argumentative. I am disposed to do good to others. I seek to make others happy. I seek to be a blessing and not a burden. I enter this day with my heart attuned to Your heart. I am listening for Your leading. Lead me to those that You are looking to bless and I declare that I will be the channel through which Your love can flow. Use me to bring peace, not turmoil, to my environment today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:31) Following After that which is Right (top of page)

(Prov 3:31 NIV) Don't envy violent people or copy their ways.

This morning we continue our series, "Unlocking the Power of Proverbs - Walking in the Wisdom of God." In our last message we dealt not being argumentative. As you can see, Solomon has been on a roll, teaching us how to get along with people. He is teaching us how 'The righteous' ought to live. It's not that walking in love makes us righteous, but righteous people walk in love. It's not that avoiding unnecessary arguments makes us righteous, but righteous people avoid unnecessary arguments. Now he tells us that righteous people don't envy violent or cruel people and they don't copy their ways. In other words, righteous people don't covet the lifestyle of the unrighteous and they don't use them as examples worthy of emulation.

God is using Solomon to teach us life lessons. He knows that if we follow the wrong people we will wind up in the wrong place, doing the wrong things. If we are not careful, we can die without fulfilling our God-given purpose. Solomon provides us another warning later on in Proverbs, saying, "Don't envy evil people or desire their company" (24:1). He doesn't even want us to desire the company of the unrighteous, because he knows that we can be influenced by the people we CHOOSE to hang with. My mother understood the unrighteous environment I grew up in (Brooklyn, NY), so she daily told me, "Son, show me who you hang with and I will tell you who you are." In other words, "Show me your friends and I will show you your future." The people we choose to associate ourselves with says a lot about us. More importantly, the people we choose to follow will directly affect our lives. Solomon warns us about copying or imitating the wrong people.

Since Solomon was clear on what types of people we should not copy or imitate, you may ask me, "Rick, so what types of people should I imitate?” To answer that question I point you to the words of the writer of Hebrews. He said, "Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith" (Hebrews 13:7). In other words, he is saying, "Observe the lives of righteous leaders, of those who live their lives in accordance with the scriptures, of people who live by faith; and then imitate the faith you see in them." Now that's sound counsel. Imitating the lifestyle of the faithful will do us well. Allowing righteous leaders to share their life experiences with us, and then applying their lessons to our own lives, is a way to learn from the mistakes and successes of others. The point is, we should not have to learn every lesson ourselves. Paul drove home this point in his first letter to the church in Corinth. After teaching them about the lessons our forefathers had to learn, he said, "These things happened to them as examples for us. They were written down to warn us who live at the end of the age" (1st Corinthians 10:11).

So what does this mean to you today? I sum it all up with two things:
1. Your desires should be pure: You are not to envy the wrong people or the wrong things. You are expected to like the things God likes and dislike the things He dislikes. This way you can pursue your desires, because they are pleasing to God.
2. Your examples should be righteous: Following people of faith and learning from their lessons (good and bad) is a way to maximize your time in the earth. It's not about imitating their clothes, or their things, or the way they talk or walk; it's a matter of imitating the faith they used to live a life pleasing to God. You are the just and you are called to LIVE BY FAITH!

Confession for today: Lord God, I follow after that which is right. I flee from evil. I have no desire for the things that are not pleasing to You. My heart is turned towards and tuned into You. I love what You love and I yearn for the things You want me to have. I follow after righteous leaders. I observe their lives and I learn from their examples. I search the scriptures and learn from the pioneers of faith. I follow after the lifestyle of the faithful and I live the life of faith You desire for me to live. I am the just and I live by faith! In Jesus' name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:32) The Secret (top of page)

(Prov 3:32 KJV) For the froward is abomination to the LORD: but his secret is with the righteous.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message we dealt with following after that which is right. Solomon’s point was that we should not attempt to emulate those that, in the eyes of God, are not worthy of emulation. If we are going to follow after the example of anyone, we must ensure that that person is setting a righteous example. We should love the things God loves and hate the things He hates. Now, I used the word hate in reference to God and I know that many people don’t see God that way. They see God as a loving, caring, sharing, and forgiving heavenly Father; which He is. But God is not afraid of taking positions. God is clear on what is right and wrong in His sight. We live in a society today where people want to make concessions for everything. In an attempt to “Not offend” anyone they make excuses for sin and open doors to things that God closes the door to. I guess if Jesus were on earth today He would not be considered “Politically Correct.” One time, when dealing with the religious leaders of the time who were coming up against Him, Jesus plainly said, “You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desire” (John 8:44). Jesus was not afraid to call right right and wrong wrong.

Solomon was not afraid either, he clearly states that the froward are an abomination to the Lord. The word froward comes from the words from and ward. In other words, these are people that are walking from and not towards God. The dictionary definition of this word is: willfully contrary; not easily managed; habitually disposed to disobedience and opposition. This is definitely NOT the way God expects us to live. Neither does He expect us to have a desire to pattern ourselves after those that live this way.

Our society seemingly idolizes the rich and famous, even if their lives are froward. There are many teenagers, even in the Body of Christ, that idolize singers, actors, and athletes. They get caught in what they see in the movies, in music videos, and on the television magazine shows, but they fail to acknowledge the fact that many of these people are NOT living lives pleasing to God. Many a teenager today, when asked who their hero is, mentions one of these people, regardless of their personal convictions and lifestyle choices. Simply put, with the righteous, this should not be. We have what Solomon calls “A Secret.” If you have it, then you know what I am talking about. If you don’t, then it is hard to explain. This secret, this inner knowledge of God, this inward reality of His presence, it is what we, as believers, should strive to feed and please. There is something unexplainable about knowing that God is IN you, ON you, WITH you, and FOR you. When you realize that God is literally walking with you as you enter your day, you can’t help put have a smile on your face, a spring in your step, and a song in your heart. When you realize this, when you know this secret, then you have no need to envy the unrighteous. I deal with high-ranking officers in the military from time and time and I am never intimidated. Why? Because I know this secret. I know that if they are not in Christ, then I would have to take a demotion to be them.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you should recognize and respond to the secret God has given you. Know who you are in Christ. Understand the reality of God’s presence in your life. Once you do, then you will have no need to envy those that don’t have THE SECRET!

Confession for today: Lord God, I know who I am in You. I realize THE SECRET. I am covered by Your blood, anointed by Your Spirit, called according to Your Purpose, and empowered to make a difference. I have no need to envy anyone that does not have You in their lives. Me with You, You with me, together we make a difference today! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:33) The Home of the Righteous (top of page)

(Prov 3:33 NIV) The LORD's curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message we dealt with “The Secret” that is with the righteous. Solomon told us that the froward (those who are live willfully contrary to God), do not possess the secret. He plainly stated that they are an abomination unto the Lord. He continues to flow in that same vein this morning as he paints another contrast between the life of those that walk with God and those that walk without him. I read through many translations before deciding to use the NIV for this morning. The King James, for example, calls the dwelling place of the wicked a house, while calling the dwelling place of the righteous a habitation. I felt in my Spirit that I needed to highlight the differences in these two and that is the focus of this message.

As I looked at the original Hebrew words used for the two dwelling places I learned that Solomon used the Hebrew word bayith for the dwelling place of the wicked (or twisted). This word can be translated: house, court, dungeon, prison, etc. The word he used for the dwelling place of the righteous is the Hebrew word naveh, which can be translated: home, habitation, lovely, house of God (temple), pleasant place, residence, pasture, etc. These are clearly two different words and Solomon is clearly painting two different pictures. He wants the readers to know that the house of the wicked, although it might be a physical structure – it might even be a nice one – it is void of the presence of God. Solomon calls it cursed.

God does not need to curse anyone or any place. The world is already cursed. Because of the fall of man (Adam), satan became the prince of the power of the air. We are all born into sin and shapen in iniquity. We don’t have to do anything to walk in the curse. But when we accept Christ, when we Born-Again, when we are covered by His blood, anointed by His Spirit, and translated out of the kingdom of darkness, we are no longer under the curse. At that point we are in God and He is in us. We are connected to the Blessing of Abraham and the Blessing of Jesus. My point is that God does not have to actively curse the house of the wicked, just the mere fact that He is not welcome there, that He does not take up residence there, makes the place cursed. The absence of God leaves the house subject to the curse of the world. On the other hand, the dwelling place of the righteous is not just a house, but also a home. Believers dwell there and so does God. Jehovah is welcome to take up residence and His love abounds within the walls. Angels establish a hedge of protection around the land and believers are able to enter their homes to enjoy the safety, peace, love, and rest of God. Their homes become a sanctuary in which they can kind rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. They can come home to get refreshed and renewed so that they are ready for another day. That’s what God wants for the home of the righteous, and believe me, that’s what you want for your home.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that God wants your home to be your refuge; a place where both you and He can dwell together. He wants you to be able to come home and enjoy the same recharging and rejuvenating power you receive when you go to church. He wants your home to be a sanctuary for you and your family. But you have a part in this. Don’t willfully disrupt the peace of your home. Avoid arguments and strife, bitterness and discord. Allow God’s love to permeate through your home so that you and your family can enjoy the dwelling place He desires for you to have; a place where He can meet with you and you with Him.

Confession for today: Lord God, I declare what You have already decreed. My home is blessed, because I am the righteous. You are welcome in the home You have blessed us to have. You have free reign! You make our home a refuge; a place where we find rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Our home is our sanctuary and we will not do anything to disrupt the peace and serenity of it. I thank You for dwelling with us, Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:34) Remain Little in Your Own Eyes (top of page)

(Prov 3:34 GNB) He has no use for conceited people, but shows favor to those who are humble.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message we dealt with the house of the wicked vs. the home of the righteous. Solomon now gives us another contrast between the life of those that walk pleasing to God and those that don’t. He tells us that God won’t use the conceited or the proud, but He releases His favor upon the humble. This is the Hebrew (Old Testament) version. Two New Testament Apostles quote this verse in Greek saying, “God resists the proud, and gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6 & 1st Peter 5:5).

To be conceited is to have or display a sense of overbearing self-worth or self-importance. We learn this morning that this character trait can literally cause God’s favor to cease from operating in our lives. Believe me, you don’t want to be on the other side of God’s resistance. We see an example of this in 1st Samuel chapter 15. The Lord spoke to King Saul through the prophet Samuel and said, “I am the one the Lord sent to anoint you king over his people Israel; so listen now to the message from the Lord. This is what the Lord Almighty says: 'I will punish the Amalekites… Now go, attack the Amalekites and totally destroy everything that belongs to them. Do not spare them… " (verses 1-3). But King Saul only partially obeyed. Partial obedience is disobedience. Saul decided to allow the King of the Amalekites (Agag) to live. He also decided to keep the best of the sheep and cattle alive, supposedly to offer up a sacrifice to God. God sent the prophet Samuel to express His displeasure with King Saul. In verse 17 we see what God told Saul through Samuel. The Message Bible says, “When you started out in this, you were nothing – and you knew it.” The King James version says, “When thou wast little in thine own sight.” What was the problem? Saul had gotten to the point where his self-importance as King caused him to disobey the God that he was supposed to be serving with the position in the first place. He got the point where he thought he could rule without God. That was a fatal mistake for Saul. Soon after this event God elected David to replace him. David ruled as King of Israel and had a son named Solomon. It was David’s son, King Solomon, that wrote the words we read this morning. Solomon must have learned from his father that it is better to be humble than proud. He was a King, he was on the throne, he was in authority, but he was not foolish enough to believe that he had gotten there solely based on his own merit and that he could rule and reign without the God that placed him and his father there. Was he a leader? Yes! But he was a servant leader that understood that in God, the quickest way up is down and the quickest way down is up.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you should thank God for everything he blesses you to do, every position He blesses you to obtain, and all the influence He blesses you to yield; and you must NEVER get to the point where you think that you have done it all on your own or that you don’t need God. Stay little in your own eyes. Over the years I have learned that the closer you get to God the less you think of yourself, and the more tolerant you are of others. If you are conceited, high-minded, and you constantly look down on the mistakes/faults/flaws of others, then it is an indication of your immaturity. As you grow in Christ you will learn that you are only where you are by your effort (Yes), but more importantly, by grace of God (1st Cor 15:10). So if you want God’s favor to continue to flow in your life, remain little in your own eyes and seek to be the conduit through which God can bless others daily.

Confession for today: Lord God, I appreciate whom You have made me to be and I keep the proper perspective. I acknowledge that You are the source of my success and the reason for my being. I honor others and do not look down upon them. Your love in me keeps me balanced. Thank You Father for allowing me to succeed, while still keeping the proper perspective! No mater how high You bless me to go, I remain little in my own eyes! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(3:35) The Wise vs. The Foolish (top of page)

(Prov 3:35 TNIV) The wise inherit honor, but fools get only shame.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” We have been in this series for over 13 weeks now and we are just getting to the end of chapter three. We have 28 chapters to go, but the Lord, through Solomon, has already taught us a wealth of wisdom. In the 90 verses we have covered thus far we have clearly seen the benefits of walking in the wisdom of God and the folly of those that ignore it. Solomon has unashamedly painted two pictures: one for those that walk with God and one for those that don’t. It seems like verse after verse, Solomon continues to add brush strokes to both paintings as he clearly does this morning. He tells us that the wise have an inheritance of honor, but fools (those that ignore God’s wisdom) get only shame as their reward.

I believe the teaching of this verse holds true both in time and eternity. In time – right now, here on the earth – those that choose to walk in the wisdom of God are able to enjoy the benefits of receive earthly honor. Applying God’s Word to their lives enables them to establish a good name (reputation), earn the admiration of others (respect) and become persons of influence (recognition). These are people that, although highly respected, maintain a balanced self-image and understand that they do what they do with and under the grace of God. They don’t make the mistake of thinking that they are where they are completely on their own merit. People that walk in the counsel of God are hard-working, humble, and highly tolerant of others. However, those that ignore the wisdom of God are left only with the wisdom of the world; wisdom that promotes self-centeredness, pride, and personal achievement, even at the cost of others. Solomon says that people that live this way will eventually receive nothing but shame. Their treatment of others and their focus on themselves will eventually catch up with them. They will receive their reward.

Even of greater important is the eternal reward. In eternity we will all be judged and those that walked in the counsel of God will receive the honor of heavenly crowns. Even if you suffered for Christ’s sake, here in the earth, even if you were ridiculed for believing the Bible and it’s teaching, it is nothing compared to the reward you will receive for walking in His wisdom. Paul had been through quite a bit for the cause of Christ and he wrote, “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18). He also wrote, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2nd Corinthians 4:17). Yes, no matter what you endure for the cause of Christ, it is nothing compared to your eternal weight of glory. On the other hand, those that choose to ignore the counsel of God are not only resigned to living their lives under the lesser wisdom of the world, but they will also be judged and damned. They will walk without God here in the earth and they will live without God for eternity. In time they ignore the counsel of God, in eternity they will wish they hadn’t.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you have a choice. As you read this verse you see two categories: the wise and the foolish. Which one do you want to be? Both have consequences in time and eternity. Choose wisely. Choose God. Choose Christ! I close with the words of Moses. I tell you what he told the Israelites. “I call Heaven and Earth to witness against you today: I place before you Life and Death, Blessing and Curse. Choose life so that you and your children will live” (Deuteronomy 30:19).

Confession for today: Lord God, I thank You for making the choice clear. You have laid before me life and death, blessing and cursing, and then you gave me the answer to the question. You told me to choose life so that I and my children would live. I pass the test. I choose life. I choose You. I choose Christ. I choose Your Word, Your wisdom, and Your way. I live my life under Your counsel and I receive a reward, both in time and eternity. No matter what I face now, for walking in Your counsel, it is nothing compared to my eternal reward! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:1) The Invitation from a Father (top of page)

(Prov 4:1 NIV) Listen, my sons, to a father's instruction; pay attention and gain understanding.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God,” by beginning a new chapter in Proverbs. Solomon opens this fourth chapter with an invitation. It is as if he has proven to us by now (after three chapters) that he 1) walks in the wisdom of God, 2) has a sincere desire to share that wisdom with us, and 3) does so because he loves us, like a father loves his son. Just like I invite my children to sit down and listen to the life-lessons I have learned, Solomon invites us this morning to take a pause and to put ourselves in ‘receiving-mode.’ He sees us as his children and wants us to see him as a father.

The Bible is a book about family. When God speaks to one person He does not just see them, He sees them and their descendants. God urges us to establish father-to-son relationships (not limited by gender) with our natural and spiritual children. It is never God’s intent for the lessons of a father to die with the father. God wants life lessons to be passed from generation to generation.

When God cut covenant with Abraham He knew that He was cutting covenant with a nation (his descendants). The promise given to Abraham was to him and his seed. Abraham took what he learned (naturally) and The Blessing he had received from God (spiritually) and passed them on to his son Isaac. Isaac did the same for Jacob. Jacob did the same for Joseph. It was never God’s desire for a son to have to start from scratch. No! Abraham started from scratch, but everyone after him had the benefit of receiving the instruction and blessing of a father. When the Jews looked back and mentioned their God they called Him the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In other words, they were saying that He was the God of family, of covenant, and of generational blessing. Whether its biological sons like: Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, or spiritual sons like: Moses to Joshua, Elijah to Elisha, or Paul to Timothy, Jehovah is a God of family, a God of order, and a God of that desires for instruction and blessing to pass from father-to-son.

Solomon learned many lessons from his Godly father David. King David taught young Solomon everything he knew; all he had learned from walking and talking with God. Solomon took over the throne at a young age and as he did he was able to enter this stage of his life with everything he had learned from God directly and everything he had learned from his father. He had the benefit of being better prepared than his father was. And now he wants to pass on those life lessons to us. He sees us as his spiritual children and he wants us to have everything we can learn from God directly, plus everything we can learn from him. That way we can be better prepared to face the challenges of our life’s assignment.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you must take the Word seriously. As we read/study through the book of Proverbs, look at every verse as an attempt by God to speak to you directly and through the writer. Jehovah is our Lord, that is undeniable, but He has also given us human leaders; some leaders who have lived and died (like Solomon), and some who are alive today. Learn from these Godly leaders and allow them to mentor you. This gives you access to everything you have learned from God on your own and everything they have learned from God as well. When you couple what they teach you with all that you already know, you are better prepared to live the life that God desires for you to live.

Confession for today: Lord God, I thank You for giving me Godly mentors that see me as someone worth investing in and for giving me the righteous example of those that have gone before me, who have lived and died in the faith. I also thank for the living mentors that pour Your life into me every chance they get. I will receive a father’s instruction and gain understanding for my own life! I am better because of generational blessings. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:2) Forsake Not God’s Law (top of page)

(Prov 4:2 KJV) For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In the last message from this series we dealt with Solomon’s invitation to us to sit as sons sit at a father’s feet. That invitation is continued this morning. Solomon unapologetically tells us that what he is teaching is “Good doctrine.” The word doctrine means: teaching; instruction; a principle or the body of principles in a branch of knowledge or system of belief. Solomon exuded confidence that he was teaching time tested and proven principles that, if applied, would produce Godly results. He had walked with God and received Godly wisdom beyond any man of his time. He knew God’s wisdom operating in his life was the center and circumference, the base and boundary of his success. All that he had done for the nation of Israel and for others could be attributed to the grace and wisdom of God upon his life. He was not teaching us something that he had learned by way of education. No! These are things that he received directly from God. This was not information, this was revelation and he freely shared it with us. That is why he could unashamedly say that it is good doctrine. This is not an attempt at being conceded. No, this is an attempt to acknowledge his source and strength.

To further drive home the point he ends the sentence by saying, “Forsake ye not my law.” This is an interesting choice of words. The Hebrew word used here for “law” is the word torah. This is the same word used for the law God wrote with His own hands on Mount Sinai (The Ten Commandments) and the subsequent law He gave to Moses documented in the first five books of the Bible – commonly referred to by Jews as “The Law” or “The Torah.” To me, this is not an attempt by Solomon to ascend his own abilities to the likes of God, but rather an attempt to acknowledge that he is not the true author behind the book. He knew that he was merely the vessel, the channel, the conduit, the tool in the hands of God. He knew that this was good teaching and that it was worthy of being accepted as “law,” because he knew that this was God’s law, God’s teaching, God’s instruction. Now, this is not to minimize Solomon’s role. The truth of God came through Solomon’s personality, his character, and his experience. Solomon had a perspective that few, if any, have ever had. He was ascended to the throne at the tender age of 17 and ruled with the wisdom of God. He oversaw a building project (King Solomon’s Temple) that would put Donald Trump to shame. His kingdom thrived under his leadership and he attributed it all to the wisdom of God operating in his life. He is more than qualified to teach us and even with all his qualifications, he still points the glory back to God.

So what does this mean to you today? Let’s glean a few golden nuggets from this:
1. Acknowledge God’s role in your life: Do you have a part in your own success? Absolutely! But don’t think that you do it all. Acknowledge God’s part and welcome Him, through prayer, to continue to work in your life. Don’t try to live without God. It’s much better WITH His help.
2. Settle the issue of the validity of the Bible: If you are still struggling over whether or not the Bible is truly the Word of God or simply the word of man, then you will never receive all that God wants you to receive from it. Solomon knew that what he was writing was bigger than him. Settle that issue for yourself.
3. Apply the Word and Prosper: Solomon was successful by any measurement and he knew the source of his success. If you walk in love and faithfully apply the principles outlined in the Word of God you will experience like success. Knowing the Word of God and obeying the God of the Word is a formula for life-long fulfillment and total-life-prosperity.

Confession for today: Lord God, I thank You for the example of righteousness You have given me in Solomon. I learn from him and in-so-doing, I am learning from You. I apply Your Word, which is Your Wisdom, to my life and I enjoy Godly results. I know the Bible is Your Word and I live my life in accordance with Your law. I walk in love, I apply Your principles, and I live the life You desire for me to live. Use me today, for Your glory! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:3) Sowing the Right Seed (top of page)

(Prov 4:3 NLT) For I, too, was once my father's son, tenderly loved as my mother's only child.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In the last two messages we dealt with Solomon’s invitation to us to sit as sons sit at a father’s feet. Ultimately, he wants us to look to God as the true source of all wisdom, but he realizes that God is using him to share his truths with us, so he asks us to look at him as a father. Solomon is not asking us to do anything that he did not do. He could ask us to submit ourselves to him as sons, because he had already submitted himself to his parents. He had sat at their feet. He received their instruction. He allowed himself to be influenced by their teaching. He could be a good father, because he was a good son. He developed into a great leader, because he knew how to follow. He had been the servant, so he was ready to be the master when that time came. Even in this simple statement about his past I see a lesson from Solomon to us about faithfulness, servanthood, submission, and obedience to authority.

Solomon fulfilled his role as a son, so he was ready to fulfill his role as a father. He was a father to his own children, a father to his nation, and a father to all those that have received his documented wisdom in scripture. He sowed the right seed and he reaped the right harvest. He was faithful over little, so God promoted him to be ruler over much (Mat 25:21). There’s a lot we can learn from this example. There is a credibility that cannot be overlooked or underestimated when a person that is attempting to teach you something has already been where you are, has walked in your shoes, and has been successful at it.

So what does this mean to you today? Let’s seek to glean a few golden nuggets from this:
1. To the son/daughter: Honor your parents, love them, obey them, and submit to their authority. Do it because it is the right thing to do and also remember that in-so-doing you are sowing seeds for your own children. Sow the right seed and you will reap the right harvest.
2. To father/mother: Teach your children in love. Train them in the way of the Lord. Instruct them in righteousness and do everything you can to prepare them for the their life’s assignment. Know that the time will come where they will have to stand on their own (with God), and make their own tough choices. You want to be able to stand before God with clean hands, knowing that you did all you could to prepare them to be productive citizens in the Kingdom of God. Solomon’s parents (David and Bathsheba) did their part and God (with Solomon) did the rest. Be faithful to do your part and then trust them and God enough for their future.
3. To those that are looking forward: If you are just starting out in business, in your career, in life, find someone who is willing to mentor you and then be faithful to them. Learn from them and do all that you can do to honor their investment in your life. Work hard, be diligent, and remember that ultimately you are working for God. Solomon was faithful and he was promoted. Be faithful over little and God will see to it that you are elevated to rule over much (Mat 25:21).
4. To those that are looking back: If you have been around awhile and are in the latter years of your career/life, then it is good to take the time to look back and take self-inventory. Think about the many people that helped you get to where you are. Are you returning the favor? Are you making an investment into the lives of others? If not, then start today. If you are, then continue to do so. See yourself as a seasoned Solomon, seeking to share life-lessons with those that have yet to learn them. Do all you can for everyone you can. Be a blessing today!

Confession for today: Lord God, I thank You for the righteous example You have given me in Solomon. I learn a great deal from him. I learn to be faithful over little and trust You to make me a ruler over much. The more I prove myself faithful, the more I sow the right seed, the more I seek to BE a blessing, the more You can use me to make a difference in the earth. I am a good leader, because I have been a good follower! Others have made an investment in my life and I now I seek to make an investment in the lives of others – by faith! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:4) Father-to-Son Relationships (top of page)

(Prov 4:4 NLT) My father taught me, "Take my words to heart. Follow my commands, and you will live.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message we saw how Solomon talked about his father David. He lovingly admits that he a son to his father, that he submitted to his authority, and that he listened to his teaching. If you and I could sit down with Solomon today I am sure his face would glow when talking about his father. I am positive that Solomon would admit that he was the man that he was, largely in part to the example and instruction of his father. His father David was a passionate man. David fought fearlessly, led heroically and sinned horribly. David knew both highs and lows in God, but when he was at his lowest, after sinning terribly before God, David tapped into the power of repentance. David cried out to Jehovah, asking God to create in him a clean heart, to renew the right spirit within him (Psalm 51:10). David was not flawless, but he was overall faithful to God. He served God with all his might – flaw, failures, and all. When God looks back on David He looks past his faults and sees a sincerely submitted servant. Later on, in the New Testament, God speaks through Luke and says that David was a man after His own heart (Acts 13:22).

I want you to know a little about David, because the next six verses are dedicated to His teaching. In verses 4-9 Solomon passes on to us some of golden nuggets his father passed on to him. Before we get too deep into David’s teaching, I believe this is a good place to mention the special relationship God fosters between fathers and sons (gender nonspecific). Whether biological or spiritual, God expects us to be sons, brothers, and fathers. It is said that everyone should have a Paul (a spiritual father to pour into us), a Timothy (a spiritual son for us to pour into), and a Barnabas (a spiritual brother we can be accountable to). It all starts with connecting with and learning from a father. The relationship betweens fathers and sons is extremely important to God. For example, if you read the Old Testament you will see that the nation of Israel had many highs and lows in their relationship with God, the lowest coming towards the end of the Old Testament. The Israelites were rebellious towards God and the Lord was about to stop taking. He shut His mouth and it created the 400 years of silence between the Old and New Testaments. The silence was to be broken with the coming of John the Baptist, who would prepare the way for Jesus. The last verse of the Old Testament points towards the preaching of John the Baptist and it says, “He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers; or else I will come and strike the land with a curse” (Malachi 4:6). Out of all the things that God could have focused on, out of all the problems that needed fixing, out of all the challenges facing the Israelites, God said that his focus would be to turn the heart of the fathers to their children and of the children to their fathers. This tells you a great deal about God and the importance of family, covenant, connection, and heritage. Without a father (natural or spiritual) a son may never know himself, he may never know his heritage, and he may never realize what he is fully qualified to receive.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you should take your natural and spiritual father-to-son (gender nonspecific) relationships very seriously. Why? Because God does. If it is important to God, then it should be important to you. Turn your heart to your children (both natural and spiritual), and allow their hearts to be turned towards you. Foster this relationship, nurture and feed it, and watch as heaven smiles upon you and grace, like rain, falls on you.

Confession for today: Lord God, I thank You for the strong emphasis You place on family, covenant, connection and heritage. I know who I am, because I know where I came from. I know my spiritual heritage and what I have a blood-bought covenant right to. My heart is turned towards my natural and spiritual children and so is theirs towards me. You are pleased with our relationship(s) and Your grace, like rain, falls down all over me! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:5) The Influence of a Father (top of page)

(Prov 4:5 NIV) Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or swerve from them.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message I gave you a brief background on Solomon’s father David, because the next few verses are dedicated to his teaching. In verses 4-9 Solomon chooses to share with us some of what his father shared with him. The first thing that comes out of Solomon’s mouth about his father’s teaching is: “Get wisdom, get understanding.” You get the sense that David probably told this to Solomon over and over again. Just like there are some lessons that we, as parents, drive home more than others, this was the lesson that David chose to drive home. David knew that his Solomon was born to rule. Some kids are born to be carpenters, teachers, pastors, lawyers, and etc. Solomon was born to be king. His life’s assignment was the throne. David knew that Solomon would do what he was not able to do and that was to build the house of God. The Lord told David, “Your son whom I will put on the throne in your place will build the temple for my Name” (1st Kings 5:5). With this in mind David attempted to prepare Solomon from day one. He knew that the key ingredient to Solomon’s success would be to operate in the wisdom of God. So David drove home this message, “Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or swerve from them.” These words were so ingrained in Solomon that I am sure that he shared them with us from the top of his memory. I believe that this teaching – this emphasis on wisdom – is the teaching that had the greatest impact on Solomon’s life. I say this because it was, in my opinion, this teaching that led Solomon to make the greatest decision he ever made.

In 1st Kings chapter 3 we find Solomon in a semi-vulnerable state. His father, kind David, had recently died and he was still a young man. He was concerned about assuming the throne – and the responsibility that came with it – at such a young age. The Lord spoke to him through a dream and said, "Ask for whatever you want me to give you" (v.5). This was Solomon’s golden opportunity. He was young, he was in charge, he was somewhat afraid, and he was seeking God for help. God told him what he wanted to here, “Ask for whatever you want!” Now, you know that most of us would have started rattling off a laundry-list of selfish desires, but young Solomon was different. It is obvious that he had learned many life-lessons from his father. This was a crossroad decision. Whatever came out of his mouth next could favorably or adversely affect his life, his time on the throne, his kingdom, and his people. His life was no longer just his own. The decisions that he made would impact all those under his authority. And what he asked for would have made David proud. I am sure the words of his father rang through his ears as he said, “Give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong" (v.9). Wow. Solomon had maturity beyond his years. He did not ask for fame or fortune, he asked for wisdom and understanding; for help in carrying out the duties of the office that he had been charged with. He knew that he was in authority, but also knew that he was under authority. He submitted to God so that those that he led would submit to him. God was pleased with his request.

So what does this mean to you today? As a parent, it means that your words matter. David’s influence on Solomon is vividly clear. As a son, it means that taking heed to your parent’s teaching is imperative. A father’s advice helped Solomon make the biggest decision of his life. So nurture your parent-to-child relationships and allow God to be glorified in them.

Confession for today: Lord God, I both receive and release Your wisdom in my parent-to-child relationships. As a son I receive wisdom from my natural and spiritual parents and as a parent I pass on that wisdom to my natural and spiritual sons. Use me as a conduit through which You help shape the future of my children. I allow myself to be influenced by my parents and I use the influence You have given me with my children for Your glory! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:6) There is Safety in His Wisdom (top of page)

(Prov 4:6 NIV) Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God,” by continuing with David’s teaching, as shared by his son Solomon. Solomon is well known for his wisdom and we know that that wisdom came from God. Solomon was convinced that Godly wisdom was the center and circumference of his success. Everything that he did that was positive and brought glory to God, he attributed to the wisdom of God operating in his life. We know this of Solomon, but what we are learning now is that David also exalted Godly wisdom. David instilled in Solomon a hunger and thirst after righteousness that God was more than happy to fulfill. David plainly told his son not to forsake wisdom. Whether or not Solomon heeded his father’s advice was up to him. Like most things, the choice was his to make, and also like most things, the consequences were his to receive.

I like the language David uses. He provides his son both a warning and a promise. The warning is that if Solomon chooses to forsake wisdom he will not be under the protection that comes from being in the center of God’s will. When you take heed to God’s commands, when you walk in His ways, when you make decisions led by His Spirit, when you incline your ear to His wisdom, then He gets personally involved in the outcome of your decisions. Why? Because at that point, your decision was His decision, your choice was His choice, your will was infused with His will. And as I have shared many times before, if it is God’s will, then it is God’s bill. Meaning that He will always feed where He leads, and He will always provide where He guides. There is an inherent safety that comes from walking with and obeying Jehovah! But then David takes it further than just a warning. He urges his son (and us) not just to simply avoid forsaking God’s wisdom, but to actually love it. He wants his son to yearn for God’s Word, His instruction, His will, His way. In the New Testament Peter describes it well. He says that as new believers we ought to desire God’s Word like a baby desires milk (1st Peter 2:2). If you have ever been around a hungry baby you know what Peter is trying to say. He wants us to desire, to hunger for, to thirst after, to love God’s instruction, His Word, His wisdom. The promise is that if we love her and heed to her, she will protect us and watch over us.

If you want this type of wisdom, you are going to have to go after it. No one is gong to be able to force you to do it. You must develop a hunger and thirst for the things of God if you truly want to grow in Him. This takes resolve and determination. This takes commitment and dedication. This takes passion and purpose. This is not about a one-time decision, but rather a life full of daily decisions between right and wrong, good and evil, righteous and wicked.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you too have a choice. You must choose between chasing after or forsaking God’s wisdom. There are people all over the world that forsake God when they forsake the assembly of his church (people), when they forsake His ministers (messengers), and when they forsake His Word. Don’t be like them, pursue God through His Word, gather together with other believers, submit Yourself to Godly authority, and allow Him to teach You His Word. And please, don’t just do it out of obligation, but love it. Open up the Word of God with a burning desire in your heart to hear from Him. The Master of the Universe wants to sit with you and wants you to sit with Him. Don’t neglect His call, sit at the Master’s feet and say, “Speak Lord, your servant heareth!”

Confession for today: Lord God, I forsake not Your wisdom and she protects me. I love her and she watches over me. I connect with a local church and I submit to the authority of a local Pastor. I hear from You as I hear from them. I also hear from You as I open up Your Word. Your Words are Spirit and they are Life to me. They are health and healing to all my flesh. Your Word inspires me, encourages me, uplifts me, and protects me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:7) The Principal Thing (top of page)

(Prov 4:7 KJV) Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God,” by continuing with David’s teaching, as shared by his son Solomon. I love this verse. It is one of the first verses I memorized as a Christian. I was new to God, to His Word, and to the entire experience of walking with Him. I listened attentively as my Pastor preached and other teachers taught. I developed a yearning for wisdom, but most importantly, I wanted understanding. I did not want to merely quote the Bible, I wanted to be able to live it. I knew early on that the Bible is not a textbook to study, but rather a life-book to live. My principal focus was attaining God’s wisdom – His way of doing things – but I only sought to attain it, with the singular purpose of doing what I learned. I wanted my learning to turn into living. I wanted to turn the corner from information to application. Even as a baby Christian I knew that churches were packed with people that had heard thousands of sermons, that had attended countless Bible studies, and that could quote scripture like the back of their hand, but many of these same people were not living what they knew. That’s not what I wanted. I wanted to gain Godly wisdom, but I wanted to do it in such a way that I understood what I received – so I could live what I learned.

David made no bones about it; he exalted Godly wisdom above all else. As the son of the king, Solomon had access to sharpest minds of his time. He could sit down with intellectual giants and glean from them. But even with this access, even with the privilege, David drove home the fact that pursuing God’s wisdom must be the principal pursuit of Solomon’s life. I like to read and I enjoy learning from literary masterminds, but no book ever written is more power-packed and wisdom-filled than the Bible. You could take a thousand of the brightest minds on the planet and put them together in one room and their combined brain-power would still pale in comparison to the wisdom of God.

I like the way that David then says, “And with all thy getting.” You and I “get” lots of things as we journey through life. We pick up all sorts of things along the way. With everything that we get, with everything that we gain, with everything that we learn, Solomon urges us this morning to get understanding. Don’t just learn the Bible, live it. Don’t just be a hearer, commit to being a doer. If you are a hearer only and not a doer, James says that you literally deceive yourself (James 1:22). What good is it to KNOW some of the greatest truths ever known if you are not going to DO anything with them?

So what does this mean to you today? Three things:
1. Get wisdom: James said, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you” (1:5). So ask, pray, and study God’s Word. Make the pursuit of wisdom the principal pursuit of your life. Exalt His wisdom above all others and pursue with all your might.
2. With all thy getting: Keep first things first. Don’t major on the minors or minor on the majors. As you walk down the path of your life’s journey don’t lose the eternal for the pursuit of the temporal. You will pick up things up along the way – and there is nothing wrong with that – just ensure that you give the things of God first place.
3. Get Understanding: Do not be contented with mere learning. Turn the corner from learning to living, from information to application, from head knowledge to heart knowledge, from religious creeds to righteous acts, and from empty rituals to a fulfilling relationship with Jehovah!

Confession for today: Lord God, I declare that I get wisdom. I ask You for wisdom and You release her to me. I know I will learn lots of things in life, but I will never exalt worldly wisdom above Yours. I keep first things first. The pursuit of Your wisdom is the principal pursuit of my life and as I pursue her I do so with the singular intent of DOING what I learn. My learning turns into living, because I not only get wisdom, but I get understanding. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:8) The Choice is Yours (top of page)

(Prov 4:8 NLT) If you prize wisdom, she will make you great. Embrace her, and she will honor you.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God,” by continuing with David’s teaching, as shared by his son Solomon. Here David does what most good parents do, and that is to instruct their children in the way that they should go (Prov 22:6). The verbiage he uses makes it clear that the decision is ultimately up to Solomon (and us for that matter). The word “if” lays out a condition. After walking with God for many years, after being exalted from a shepherd boy who supernaturally killed a lion and a bear with his bare hands, after being picked by God above his seven older brothers, after fighting a giant (Goliath) with two armies watching and the fate of two nations riding on the outcome, after running for years from the man he was to replace (Saul), after taking the throne and ruling the people of God, and after recovering from a dastardly mistake, David knows a thing or two about the word if. He knew what it was to be both high and low in God. He knew the blessing of walking in Godly counsel and the burden of forsaking it. He knew the benefit of having God’s favor upon your life and he also knew the danger of having it removed. So David uses the word if when he teaches his son about the options he had in life. He made it clear that Solomon had a choice. David had done all he could do. He had prepared the way for Solomon. Solomon was not going to have to endure all that David endured. Solomon would not have to start from scratch. Solomon was inheriting the kingdom from his father and more importantly, he was the recipient of the inheritance of the Blessing of Abraham. Solomon knew who he was, because he knew where he came from. He understood his heritage and his place in the bloodline. It was all setup for him, but he still had the if to contend with.

David laid out for Solomon the benefits of being on the right side of the if. If Solomon prized wisdom, in other words, if Solomon practiced God’s way of doing things, then the result would be greatness. This is no overstatement. The Word says great and it means it. The stars were aligned for Solomon and he could choose to walk in the Blessing and experience greatness, but make no mistake, he could also choose to abandon wisdom, to ignore God’s way of doing things, and the results would be disastrous. Solomon, like us, did not have a ‘carte blanche’ guarantee to the blessing. No, the favor of God upon his life was contingent upon his actions, just like it is contingent upon ours. David tells his son that if he embraces God’s way of doing things that he would be honored, but the opposite is also true. If Solomon chose to disregard God and everything he knew about God, then the result would be dishonor, disgrace, discredit, and ultimately discontent.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you too have to contend with the “if” of life. If you embrace God’s wisdom – God’s way of going things – then you too will experience greatness and honor. Think about it for a moment. Think about God’s way of doing things. God’s way teaches us to work hard, be honest, walk in integrity, submit to authority, love, forgive, walk peaceably with all men, honor the sanctity of marriage, train our children in the way they should go, to say what we mean and mean what we say, to be good stewards over our finances, and the list could go on and on. If you do these things, if you live the way God wants you to live, then you can’t help but experience The Good Life. But then there’s that if. Like everything else, the choice is yours!

Confession for today: Lord God, I declare, by faith, that I am on the right side of the “if” of life. I embrace Your wisdom, I practice Your way of doing things. I walk peaceably with all men, I work hard and overcome laziness, procrastination, and idleness. I am a prompt, diligent, and dedicated person of integrity. I honor You with my life and actions and You honor me with Your favor. You bless me greatly, because I choose to live my life the way You want me to live it. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:9) The Grace of God (top of page)

(Prov 4:9 BBE) She will put a crown of grace on your head, giving you a headdress of glory.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God,” by continuing with David’s teaching, as shared by his son Solomon. In our last message we saw that David clearly exalted Godly wisdom – God’s way of doing things – to his son Solomon. David told Solomon that if he walked in wisdom that she would literally make him great and he would receive honor. Greatness and honor are no small terms, but David was convinced that when we live our lives the way that God desires for us to live them, when we ascribe to His ways, when we apply His teaching, when we allow His wisdom to be the foundation for ours, then we can’t help but experience God’s best! David was convinced that God wants us to live successful and enjoyable lives in the earth and he was clearly convinced that the way to attain it was through God’s wisdom.

Here David tells his son that if he walks in God’s wisdom, if he submits to God’s way of doing things, that he would receive a crown of grace and a headdress of glory. I love the term, “Crown of grace.” The grace of God is amazing. Grace and mercy are immeasurable. When I first came to Christ I learned that grace was God giving me what I did not deserve and mercy was Him not giving me what I did. Even though that definition led me to thank God then and still thank Him today grace and mercy, I have learned along the years that there is much more to grace than simply God giving me what I do not deserve. Grace is so vast that if you look through any good Bible dictionary you will find many different definitions with all sorts of scripture references. How can I explain it? It is so wonderful that one of my former pastors and current mentors, Dr. S.L. Moton, often asked, “Does it get any better than God’s grace?” My friend, Pastor Jon Bryant and I, when we were young ministers under the tutelage of Pastor Moton, appreciated this question so much that we had a picture of Jesus holding up a man framed with the question placed under it. This was many, many years ago and the last time I was in Pastor Moton’s office the picture was still on display. He had remodeled and replaced many things, but the reminder of God’s grace is one that he chose to keep.

The phrase, “The grace of God,” is found 23 times in the New Testament. It’s so powerful that Paul said, “I am what I am by the grace of God” (1st Cor 15:10). The way I explain it is that God’s grace is His empowerment upon ours. It’s His super upon our natural. It’s His ability placed upon our ability. It’s the power of the Holy Spirit being made manifest through a man. It’s the grace of God. Yes, I can attest to the words of David this morning. When you walk in the wisdom of God, when you choose to live you life the way He desires for you to live it, when You choose God’s way of doing things, then its like you literally don a crown of grace upon your head and enter every day clothed with a headdress of glory. It’s beautiful to walk with God. Many songwriters have called it, "The beauty of holiness."

So what does this mean to you today? It means that Godly wisdom is a choice and when you choose her, when you choose God’s way above yours, when you choose His Word above your impulse, when you choose love above hate, forgiveness above revenge, peace above strife, and etc., then you make yourself a candidate for the crown of grace and the headdress of glory! Believe me, that’s what you want to wear as you enter every day!

Confession for today: Lord God, I worship You daily in the beauty of holiness. I choose Your way of doing things and it leads to a beautiful, enjoyable, and satisfying life. I know that it is Your ability upon mine that enables me to do all that You desire for me to do today. You will never expect me to do anything that You do not equip me to do and You equip me to do it, by Your grace. It does not get any better than grace. Thank You Lord for grace and mercy. I know that I am what I am by the grace of God. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:10) Live Long and Live Strong (top of page)

(Prov 4:10 NIV) Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God,” by continuing with David’s teaching, as shared by his son Solomon. In our last message we saw how David clearly urged his son to walk in the wisdom of God. David explained that choosing God’s way of doing things is not without reward. Listen to wisdom, accept her teaching, apply her truths, and you will be clothed with a crown of grace and a headdress of glory. I call that the beauty of holiness. There is an undeniable prestige that comes from walking upright before the Lord, from shunning the ways of the world, and from rising above the impulses to do wrong. When you encounter a person of irrefutable integrity, unquestionable character, unwavering personal courage, and an unrelenting pursuit of God, you leave that person’s presence knowing that you have encountered the extraordinary. David was that type of person, he taught his son to be that type of person, and now David, Solomon, and Jehovah Himself are attempting to teach us to be the same. If we heed their instruction, if we reject the ways of the world, if we apply God’s wisdom to our lives, then we will be able to rise above the fray of the norm. I say the norm, because it is certainly not the norm in the United States to be a strong Christian. Now, every third person may claim to be a Christian, but most don’t display Christian traits. When you choose to walk in God’s wisdom, when you choose to live your life by His Word, when you choose to be led by His Spirit, when you consciously choose His way of dong things, then believe me, you will not be the norm. It is then that you shine as light in the midst of darkness and you become the salt of the earth. There’s an old adage that says, “If the average person who claims to be a Christian were on trail for being one, there wouldn’t be enough evidence to convict them.” I hope this could not be said of you.

This morning we learn that David taught his son that if he accepting what he was saying, that if he submitting to God’s wisdom, that the years of his life would be many. Another translation says, “Listen to me, my child. Take seriously what I am telling you, and you will live a long life.” Most people want to live long. The only ones who don’t are the ones that are not living well. David is not promising a long and miserable life. No, David is explaining to his son that when you walk with God, when you submit to His way of doing things, then not only do you live long, but you live strong. You can have a long and satisfying life. Solomon must have listened, because he himself taught us (in the last chapter), something very similar. Solomon said, “My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity” (verses 1 & 2). Solomon made it clear that he was talking about a long and prosperous life.

God does not just want us to make it to heaven. No, He wants us to enjoy the ride, He wants our years to be full of purpose. He wants us to make the maximum impact that we can make while we are here. That’s why He tells us to stay away from certain things. The ways of the world, and the vices therein, often impair health and subsequently shorten your days in the earth.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that God wants you to be sober, to avoid destructive habits and to abstain from damaging passions. Walking in the ways of God (His Wisdom) promotes physical health, mental acuity, psychological stability, and social fulfillment. Put these all together and you can’t help long and live strong!

Confession for today: Lord God, I thank You for a long and satisfying life. Not only will I make it to heaven, but I will enjoy the ride. As I enter this day I do so clothed with a crown of grace and a headdress of glory. I declare that my mind is alert and sharp, by body is strong and healthy, my soul is stable and secure, my emotions are in check – I rule over them, they don’t rule over me, and I have fulfilling personal relationships. I live long and I live strong so that I can maximize the impact that I make for You in the earth. Use me as light and salt today! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:11) No Excuses! (top of page)

(Prov 4:11 MSG) I'm writing out clear directions to Wisdom Way, I'm drawing a map to Righteous Road.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God,” by continuing with David’s teaching, as shared by his son Solomon. In our last message David made it clear to his son that accepting his wisdom – which was by de facto mainly God’s wisdom; the sum of all that he himself had learned from God – that he would be able to live long and strong. David was convinced that God wants us to live long purpose filled lives. But David was equally convinced that many had shortened their lives by the unrighteous choices they had made. Many a believer has wrecked his life with destructive habits and unrighteous addictions. David did not want his son to live this way, but the fact that he knew that Solomon had the ability to do so speaks volumes. David knew that Solomon was no puppet. No, he had been born with a destiny, he was a child of both prestige and promise, but at the end of the day, David knew that Solomon’s life was going to be a grand-sum-total of his decisions. David knew that God was not going to overlook it if Solomon chose to walk away from Godly counsel. David urged his son, passionately I am sure, to walk in the ways of God.

In this morning’s text the father tells the son that he wrote our clear directions to Wisdom Way; that he provided him a map to Righteous Road. In essence David was saying, “Son, I’ve done all I can do. I have provided you the best Godly instruction I can give. I have done my part. The rest is up to you.” Not only do I hear the words of a father in this text, but I hear the words of a loving, caring God who says, “Son, I have made the path to righteousness clear. Not only have I provided you a father who loves you and who taught you in my ways, but I have provided you a book of counsel, a collection of my wisdom, a life-book by which to live. And furthermore, I am here for you. I will never leave you nor forsake you. Listen and I will speak. Speak and I will listen. I am always here when you call.”

It’s like David and Jehovah had both done their part. David knew his time on the earth was not eternal. He knew that there would come a time when Solomon could not seek him for advice; when Solomon had to trust what he had been taught and trust the God that his father had pointed him to over and over again. There would come a time when Solomon had to be his own man, making his own decisions, and reaping his own rewards (good or bad). Although Solomon grew up in a palace, as the son of a king, and as an heir to the throne, David assured him that the throne would not guarantee him success. If he wanted success he would have to seek it from God and he would have to choose to do things God’s way.

So what does this mean to you today? It means the same is true for you – there will come a time when you realize that you have a great deal to do with where you end up in life. Maybe you had a parent like David that provided you Godly counsel or maybe you didn’t. You will not be judged for what your parents did or failed to do. No, your life is your issue and you must tend to it. God has provided you His instruction (The Bible), His precious Holy Spirit (inside of you), and millions of believers in the earth to stand with you. You have been given directions to Wisdom Way and a map to Righteous Road. What you do with it is up to you. No excuses, no pushing off responsibility, no finger pointing. If you don’t like where you are, then change it. Accept God’s counsel, walk in His way, and experience His best for your life NOW!

Confession for today: Lord God, thank You for providing me Your Word. I do not take it lightly that I have access to Your counsel and I know that Your Word is Your will documented. As I pick it up and read it I realize that it provides me directions to Wisdom Way and a map to Righteous Road. I follow the map, I take the directions, and I choose to become the person Your desire for me to be. I take responsibility for my own actions and I declare, right now, that they will be actions that take me towards Your best for my life! No excuses! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:12) Sure-Footed (top of page)

(Prov 4:12 NIV) When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” We are back now the words of Solomon. He shared with us what his father shared with him and he now treats us like the son. He had received and now he in transmitting mode. He gives us a mental picture of a person that can both walk and run. He tells us that when we walk with God, when we accept His counsel, when we do things God’s way, that our steps will not be hampered. In the walking picture he wants us to see a man that is able to overcome every obstacle that comes his way. He paints a picture of an unstoppable man. This is not to say that he won’t face obstacles, but the obstacles will not hamper him. He has the ability to overcome them all. Then he gives us a picture of that same man running. This time he says that he won’t even stumble. He is sure-footed. No matter where his foot lands, no matter how uneven the surface and no matter how unstable the ground, this man has the ability to maintain his balance, his speed, and his forward mobility. He is running, he is heading towards a goal, and he will not be slowed down by the inconsistency of the path. It is unreasonable to think that his path will always be easy and that it will never include tricky spots, but this man has the power to maneuver through them all. Why? Because he is running with God and God is running with him.

To make it plain, I want you to see this from a couple of others translations. Another translation says, “When you walk, you won't be held back; when you run, you won't stumble.” Isn’t that what we want? The ability to continue to move forward, no matter what comes our way, is a desire of many and it is the quality of those that walk (and run) in the wisdom of God. Another translation says, “When you walk, nothing will slow you down. When you run, you won't trip and fall.” I think that says it all. When you know for certain that you are doing what God wants you to do, it gives you an unshakable inner confidence that propels you forward against any enemy, obstacle, hindrance, or challenge. No matter what you face, you face it with the belief that you will come out on top.

The Bible is God’s book of wisdom and when you read/apply it, you can’t help but be empowered and encouraged. You read things like, “If God be for us, then who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31). “Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world” (1^st John 4:4). “You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country… You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out... The LORD will make you the head, not the tail… you will always be at the top, never at the bottom” (see Deuteronomy 28). The Bible is chock full of promises. When you read it carefully and thoroughly you encounter a loving and caring heavenly father that wants you to have and enjoy life. He desires goodness for us so much that He gave us a book by which to live by. If we do things His way then we experience His results.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that Jehovah is not some mean and spiteful god that is out to get you. I say all the time that if God wanted you get you, you would have been ‘got’ a long time ago. No, God wants to bless you. He wants you to succeed. He wants you to enjoy life. He wants you to go to heaven, but he wants you to enjoy the ride. That’s why he wants you to apply His counsel. When you do you find yourself having the ability to overcome anything and everything that life sends you way. You + God = Victory!

Confession for today: Lord God, I apply Your Word to every area of my life. You are with me and for me. You are on my side. Who can be against me? I am blessed everywhere I go. I am the head and not the tail, the winner and not the loser, the victor and not the victim. I walk and am not held back. I run and I don’t trip and fall. I am forward moving, sure footed, and determined to run this race with You! Thank You for running it with me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:13) The Key to Life (top of page)

(Prov 4:13 NLT) Take hold of my instructions; don't let them go. Guard them, for they are the key to life.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Solomon has been teaching us many things. He has spent over three chapters thus far giving us the wisdom of God. I am sure that he is conscious of God’s use of him during this period. He knows that God is sharing eternal truth through him and his personality. It’s not hard for me to understand how the Bible is God’s Word through man. Every book is truly God’s Word, but within every book we see the personality of each writer. I can identify with this, because the same can be said of preaching. Dr. Martin Lloyd Jones – the early 20^th century British evangelist – said, “The preacher is a man who is possessed and he is aware of this. I do not hesitate to make this assertion. I would say that I only begin to know something about preaching on those occasions when, as it were, I am looking on. I am speaking, but I am really a spectator. I am amazed at what is happening. I am listening. I am looking on in utter astonishment, for I am not doing it. It is true preaching when I am conscious that I am being used; in a sense, I am as much a spectator as the people who are listening to me. There is this consciousness that is outside me, and yet I am involved in it; I am merely the instrument and the vehicle and the channel of all of this.” I believe Solomon could have said something similar. I am convinced that he knew that what he was writing was the Word of God. When Solomon says, in our text, that his instructions are, “The key to life,” he was not being conceited. No, Solomon was exalting God. He was both making an acknowledgement that God has been the source of his success and that what he was sharing was coming from God.

The Good News Bible (GNB) translation of this verse says, “Always remember what you have learned. Your education is your life---guard it well.” Once again, this is not a reference to mere secular education. This is an admonishment to remember, recall, recount, and continually apply the teaching that we receive from God. The New International Reader’s Versions (NIrV) translation of this verse says, “Hold on to my teaching. Don't let it go. Guard it well. It is your life.” Do you get the point? Solomon is telling us that God’s teaching is not something that we should apply just on Sundays. This is not just something that we should remember just when things are going bad. God and His Word are not a bailout plan that we run to only in case of emergency. No, God’s teaching should be the foundation for our life. Further the NLT says it’s the key to life. Both the GNB and the NIrV say it is our life.

In God’s teaching the sinner finds salvation, the wayward finds a way home, the stressed-out finds peace, the worried finds rest, the downtrodden gets encouraged, the heavy burdened is lightened, the seeker find answers, the educated finds revelation, the conniver finds integrity, the shifty finds a solid foundation, and when it is all done, the laborer finds reward – the mortal finds immortality.

So what does this mean to you today? It means God’s Word is true, powerful, and life changing. Never let it go. Never stop reading it. Never stop learning. The day you stop learning is the day you stop living. This teaching must be your life. When you apply God’s Word daily, then your life becomes God’s and God’s becomes yours. It is then that you realize that you are the instrument, vehicle, and channel that Dr. Jones talked about. You realize that you are walking with God and He is walking with you. Together you make a difference in the world!

Confession for today: Lord God, I thank You for leaving us Your Word. Your teaching is the key to my life. It IS my life. My life is rooted and grounded in Your Word. Your wisdom is my foundation. I apply Your Word so much that my life becomes Yours and Your mine. I walk with You and You with me. I am in You and You are in me. I am an instrument, vehicle and channel through which you can bless others today! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:14) A Call to Godliness (top of page)

(Prov 4:14 NIV) Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evil men.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” This verse seems clear-cut and at first read you might think that it could/should go without saying. Solomon sounds like every good mother or father that knows the perils of being influenced by the wrong people. But as I read it and re-read it, and then prayed over it, I realized that this verse is not as clear-cut as it seems. Solomon assumes that we understand who the wicked and evil men are. He takes it for granted that there is some sort of separation between the sinner and the believer, between righteous and the unrighteous, between the wicked and holy. The problem is that today’s society is so painted with political correctness, tolerance, open-mindedness, acceptance, and etc. that some people have been programmed to accept everything. They are so programmed that even after becoming Christians they think that everyone is still OK, that every good person is going to heaven, and the God is somehow going to accept what society has been programmed to accept. But Solomon lived in a different time. In his time right was called right and wrong wrong. People knew what sin was and there was a clear choice between serving Jehovah and serving other gods. People made their choice and they lived with the consequences.

Somehow people today think that things have changed, but from a Godly perspective, from a Biblical perspective, they have not. God is still God, He still sits on the throne, He still wants sinners to come to repentance, He still urges them to accept forgiveness for their sins through the cleansing power of the Blood of Jesus, and He will still judge us all based upon whether or not we accepted His Son. I think it is because believers have been too accepting of the world’s ways that our text is not as clear as it should be. There should be a clear distinction between the believer and the wicked, between the righteous and the evil. But the sad reality is that if you filled a camp with 100 people, 50 Christian and 50 not, and then watched them for a week, it might be difficult to distinguish between the believer and non. This should not be so.

Solomon tells us not to even set foot on the path of the wicked; because he knows that it might tempt us to remain on it. Make no mistake about it, sin is tempting. I know that when I was a sinner I was a good one. I had fun and lots of it, but I can honestly and unreservedly say that I have more fun now. I am convinced that life in Christ is better, much better, that life without Him. I am so satisfied, so fulfilled, so happy, and I have so much fun that I don’t need to follow the temptations of the wicked. But I would fool myself if I thought that they were not there. When commenting on this verse Matthew Henry said, “Venture not into the company of those that are infected with the plague, no, not thinking that you are guarded with an antidote.” I know that I don’t have an antidote against sin, I must simply resist it, and one of the best ways to resist it is to not surround myself with it. Solomon’s father David said, “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers.” (Psalm 1:1). David knew the dangers of hanging with the wrong people.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that God is not politically correct, nor is He all accepting. He draws a line between the sinner and believer, between righteous and unrighteous and He expects us to abstain from even the very appearance of evil. I know that this type of teaching is not popular today, but this is not about popularity contests, this is about living the life that God wants you to live! God says, “Be holy, because I am holy” (1^st Peter 1:16).

Confession for today: Lord God, I accept Your call to Godliness, righteousness, and holiness. I am now and I will continue to live a holy life, because You are holy. I resist the temptation to sin. I abstain from the very appearance of evil. I refuse to set my feet on the path of the wicked. I was once a sinner and that is the point. Sin is in the past-tense in my life. I live for You and I enjoy it. Use me to draw others to Your abundant and overflowing life! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:15) Avoiding the Path of the Wicked (top of page)

(Prov 4:15 NIV) Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message Solomon told us not to even set foot on the path of the wicked. He urged us to avoid the perils of falling back into the world of the lost after having connected with God. If the worldly life was fun, then the Godly life is glorious. Life in God is not a letdown. Solomon acknowledges the temptation of the world and tells us not to even test the waters of evil. Once you have crossed over into God, once He has translated you into the kingdom of His dear son, it is utterly dangerous and foolish to go back.

When I first gave my life to Christ my pastor at the time told a story of a book of five chapters. It’s a short book. In chapter one a man is walking down the street and he falls into a hole. That’s the end of chapter one. In chapter two the same man is walking down the same street, this time he sees the same hole and he… falls into the hole. That’s the end of chapter two. In chapter three the same man is walking down the same street, sees the hole, stops, tries to go around the hole, and… falls into the hole. That’s the end of chapter three. In chapter four the same man walks down the same street, sees the same hole, stops, backs up, stretches out, takes a running start, and tries to jump over the hole, and… you guesses it, he fell in the hole. That’s the end of chapter four. In chapter five… he went down another street. Solomon tells us that there will come a time when we must travel down another street. The way of sinners, the path of the wicked, the street of the ungodly, should not be the way we travel any more!

So what does this mean to you today? Let’s take a closer look at Solomon’s counsel:

Avoid it: Acknowledge the seriousness of the threat of sin to your life and progression in God. Sin is not something to be cavalier about. If you play around with sin you can find yourself in a stronghold, an addiction, and a hole so deep that you will be grasping at straws to get out. It’s a sad commentary, but many a Christian delves into the realm of sin on a regular basis. Solomon tells you this morning to avoid it at all costs. Now, to be clear, I am teaching that God’s grace will not keep you, that God’s will turn His back on you, but Paul asked the question: shall we go on sinning so that grace may continue to cover it? “God forbid,” he says. No way! We are in Christ and we should be dead to sin (Romans 6:1,2).
Do not travel on it: Don’t ever take the path of sinners. No, not for the sake of worldly gain, nor to appease others. You must have the courage to be different. You must have the audacity to live your life the way God wants you to live it. Trust Him, not others, for your promotions. Trust that if your life is pleasing to God, if you ascribe to His way of doing things, that He will see to it that you climb the corporate (and every other) ladder. Don’t compromise for what seems like gain, because you will be sowing seed for a harvest that you really don’t want.
Turn from it: Make a decision today – whether it be the first time or one of recommitment – that you will turn from the path of sinners and CHOOSE never to return. Settle in your mind and in your heart the issue and the matter of Godliness. Be like the person in the book with five chapters; decide to go down another street!
Go on your way: You can’t really stop doing something until you start doing something else; until you replace it! Replace the path of sinners with the path of God. Go on your way in Christ. Determine to maximize your potential in the Kingdom of God. Commit to living your life in God to the fullest. Live the abundant, overflowing, and glorious life He wants you to live and live it full-throttle. No looking back. Forward ever, backward never! The best is yet to come!

Confession for today: Lord God, I declare that I am in You and You are in me. I am in the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of God is in me. I have been delivered from the power of sin. I have been translated out of the kingdom of darkness. Sin has no power over me. By the power of the Holy Spirit I am able to walk in Godliness, righteousness, and holiness. I live full-throttle for You, Lord. No looking back. Forward ever, backward never! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:16 & 17) Choose Your Friends Wisely (top of page)

(Prov 4:16 & 17 MSG) Evil people are restless unless they're making trouble; They can't get a good night's sleep unless they've made life miserable for somebody. Perversity is their food and drink, violence their drug of choice.

First of all I pray you enjoyed the Thanksgiving weekend. I had a great time with my family as we enjoyed way too much food and had lots of fun. I am back on the West Coast now and still trying to catch up on missed sleep. That’s interesting, because this message has something to do with sleep. So as we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God,” we pick up where we last left off. Solomon has been going to great lengths to warn us against walking down the path of the wicked, against associating with the wrong people, against picking the wrong friends. Here he makes it plain. He paints a clear picture of the people that we should stay away from. As I read these two verses I knew right away that I did not need to look up the Hebrew meanings of the words, look through several commentaries, or Bible dictionaries, no, I needed only to think about the many people I have met through the course of my life that meet this description.

I am sure you have met your lot of troublemakers. It seems like they are unhappy unless they are ‘stirring the pot.’ They find pleasure in making others miserable. They get excited when they have incriminating evidence to spread in gossip. Solomon says that they can’t get a good night’s sleep unless they have negatively affected someone’s life. In other words, when others are doing well it keeps them up at night. They find a preserve satisfaction in knowing that they have done their part in disrupting the peace of another. Wickedness provides them sleep and rest, perversity is their food and drink, violence is their drug of choice.

We make hundreds of choices every day. If we think about it, our day is full of choice, after choice, after choice. Getting out of bed in the morning is a choice – one that I sometimes don’t like to make. We choose to brush our teeth, take a shower, what we will eat, what we will wear, what path we will take to work, what we will do when we get there, and the list can go on and on. Obviously, some decisions are more important than others and therefore require more deliberation. You should take more time, for example, in choosing whom to marry and connect with for the rest of your life, over what to eat for lunch today. One of the decisions that we should place in the important category is the decision of whom we will call our friend. You can tell a lot about someone by looking at his or her friends. Most people choose friends that have like interests, ambitions, character, and lifestyle. I know the term is used lightly today, but it should be reserved for someone that you can pour into and someone that can pour into you; someone you can let your guard down around and know that they will not make your pay for it. Since your time on the earth is limited you should choose carefully whom to spend that time with. Solomon tells us NOT to spend our time with the ungodly, unrighteous, mischievous troublemakers that can’t sleep unless they have made someone’s life miserable.

So what does this mean to you today? Someone said, “Show me your friends and I will show you your future.” Think about your friends for a moment. What do they say about you? What do their lives say about your decision making process? Are they people that build up or tear down? Are they people who help or hurt others? Choose your friends wisely, whether you like it or not, they do make a difference in your life!

Confession for today: Lord God, I know unrighteous, ungodly, mischievous troublemakers that take pleasure in making others miserable, but these people are not people that I consider friends. I choose to associate with people of like-precious-faith; people that help build up and not tear down. I surround myself with people that help me feed my faith and starve my doubts; people that are making an impact for Your Kingdom in the earth. I walk with them and they walk with me. Together we make a difference! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:18) The Path of Light (top of page)

(Prov 4:18 KJV) But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message Solomon told to choose our friends wisely; telling us not to associate with the ungodly, unrighteous, mischievous troublemakers that can’t sleep unless they have made someone else’s life miserable. He has already told us about the perils of their path, the path of the ungodly, the path of wicked. He now gives us the alternative. It would not be a choice if we did not have another option. The good news is that we do. Solomon does a wonderful job of describing the path of God, the way of the righteous, the life of the just. He says that it is like the shining light that shines more and more as the day progresses, until it is a perfect (full) day. I like the way the King James Version put it, but the Contemporary English Version makes it even clearer, saying, “The lifestyle of good people is like sunlight at dawn that keeps getting brighter until broad daylight.”

Just like daylight starts out as just a glimpse of light over the horizon and continues to increase until the sun is shining brightly overhead, our life in Christ should progress to the point where we wake up one morning and realize that God’s goodness is shining brightly all throughout every facet of our lives. I can identify with that glimpse, that glimmer of light breaking through the darkness, and how it grew brighter and brighter as I walked with God. On August 27^th, 1995 I gave my life to Christ. On the morning of August 28^th, I knew that I was different, I knew that my decision the night before had changed everything, but I did not know what to do next. I knew there was a new path before me, but that path was nothing more than a glimmer of light coming over the horizon. It wasn’t enough light to keep me from stumbling, it wasn’t enough light to expose all the pitfalls within the darkness, no, it wasn’t even enough light to see down the road, but what I did have was enough light to take one more step. And that’s what I did. I took baby step after baby step in Christ until that light became brighter and brighter. And then one day, I am not sure when, I woke up and I realized that I was living it the light. Not only was I living in the light, but I had become light. Not only was God shining brightly TO me, but He was shining brightly THROUGH me. Not only was I on the road to God, but I represented that road for others, for those that were still in darkness, for those that were seeking that glimmer just beyond the horizon.

The Message Bible translation of this verse explains my experience well, it says, “The ways of right-living people glow with light; the longer they live, the brighter they shine.” If the path of the wicked is gloomy, dark, and dangerous, then the path of the just is welcoming, bright, and safe. The longer you stay on it, the more you become it. You become light in then midst of darkness, peace in the midst of chaos, love in the midst of hatred, an emissary of God in the midst of others.

So what does this mean to you today? It simply means that you should continue down the path of God. It doesn’t matter if you have been walking down this path for 50 years or if you just got on it, the point is that you should continue to move forward. The more you go the more you grow; the more light you receive the more light you become. First God becomes the difference FOR you, then He starts to make a difference in the lives of others THROUGH you.

Confession for today: Lord God, I thank You for shining brightly for me to see. When I first came to You your path seemed like nothing more than a glimmer of light breaking over the horizon, but the more I walked with You the more the light became my life. I woke up one morning and realized that not only is Your light is shining brightly FOR me, but it is shining brightly IN me and THROUGH me. Use me as light for someone else today! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:19) The Path of Darkness (top of page)

(Prov 4:19 MSG) But the road of wrongdoing gets darker and darker-- travelers can't see a thing; they fall flat on their faces.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Solomon, for several verses, gave us an extensive warning against the way of the wicked. In yesterday’s message (v.18), he finally gave us the alternative – the path of the just. We learned that the path of the just is the path of light and the longer we stay on it, the brighter the light shines and the more light we receive, the more light we become. God’s path of light starts out as just a glimmer of light breaking over the horizon, but it then grows unto the brightness of noonday. We walk and walk with God until we get to the point where we realize that His light is shining brightly over us, in us, and through us. It is important to understand the vivid picture of light, brightness, goodness, and safety that Solomon painted for us when describing the path of the just, because for this morning’s text he goes back to the path of the wicked. He painted such a clear picture of the path of the just, the path of light, because he wanted to contrast it with the path of the wicked, the path of darkness.

If the path of the just is a path of increasing light, then the opposite is also true. Solomon tells us that the path of the wicked, the road of wrongdoing, gets increasingly darker. The darkness grows until the traveler doesn’t know where he/she is going. They stumble and they don’t know why, they trip and they don’t know what they are tripping over. They have no way of seeing where they are going, nor the pitfalls that await them. They may be taking steps, but they fail to make progress. They have activity, but not productivity. They have continuous and strenuous effort, but to no avail. They started out with just a decision or two of darkness, a sin here and a sin there. “No big thing,” they thought. But their darkness grew and grew and before they knew it, they woke up on a path so dark that they can’t seem to find a way out of.

Now, when Solomon talks about a dark path and he does not describe what most Americans envision. Most Americans envision a path at night, but with our modern society, extensive power grids, and expansive lighted infrastructure, even at night in the US you can see what lies ahead of you. But I remember going to the Dominican Republic many times as a kid and the village where my grandmother lived did not have electricity. When it got dark, most people went to sleep. Why? Because when it was dark, it was utterly dark. Unless the moon was clear and provided some light, the paths were too dark to travel down without accepting the dangers inherent to the darkness. If you chose to walk around in the darkness you were also choosing to accept the risk of stumbling, falling, or worse. This is the type of darkness that Solomon knew; darkness so deep that it consumes everything and creates an environment full of ignorance and error, uncertainty and confusion, danger and misery. I guess the worse part is not knowing what you stumble over. The travelers of this path stumble over unrecognizable dangers. They fall into sin, but are often not aware of how they got there; which means they have no way of avoiding it the next time.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that, once again, you have a choice. You can choose the path of light or the path of darkness, but make your choice wisely. Each path will grow on you. One will create increasing light that produces warmth, intelligence, peace, and safety. The other will create increasing darkness that produces cold, ignorance, fear, and danger. I hope the choice is clear – choose the path of God, the path of light!

Confession for today: Lord God, thank You for giving me the ability to choose and I thank You for making the choice so clear. I choose Your path, the path of light, and I grow in grace and in the knowledge of Your Son daily. I see clearly and I am able to avoid pitfalls, hindrances and obstacles. If I ever do stumble, I am able to quickly repent, to learn from my mistake, and to avoid it from ever happening again, because I am on the path of light! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:20) Incline Thine Ear (top of page)

(Prov 4:20 NLT) My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” Solomon, to this point, has taught us a great deal. He has painted vivid pictures of a path of light and a path of darkness and he has instructed us to take the path of light. This morning he reiterates his paternal role and calls us (the readers) his children once again. Just as a father wants to se his children prosper, he wants to se us grow in God, in grace, and in the knowledge of God’s Word. With the admonishment and love of a father he tells us to pay close attention to what he is saying. The King James Version says, “Incline thine ear.” The sense is that if we were physically listening to Solomon in an open forum, at this point he would urge us to sit up, to slide to the edge of our seats, to tune in carefully with Godly anticipation to what he will say next. For the next few verses (if not all scripture) are very powerful. Verses 20-23 are part of a list of scriptures that my Spiritual Father gave me early on this year. They have been part of my meditation all year long. So needless to say, I am excited about getting to this portion of Proverbs. But getting back to Solomon’s point, he doesn’t want us to miss what he is saying. He wants us to take his words (God’s Words) seriously. He knows that humans have a tendency to listen, without truly listening; to read, without truly reading. He urges us to peak up our senses and our attention. He wants us to be in strict listening/receiving mode.

This reminds me of a passage in Nehemiah chapter eight. The Bible says, “And when the seventh month came, the children of Israel were in their towns. And all the people came together like one man into the wide place in front of the water-doorway; and they made a request to Ezra the scribe that he would put before them the book of the law of Moses which the Lord had given to Israel. And Ezra the priest put the law before the meeting of the people, before the men and women and all those who were able to take it in, on the first day of the seventh month. He was reading it in the wide place in front of the water-doorway, from early morning till the middle of the day, in the hearing of all those men and women whose minds were able to take it in; and the ears of all the people were open to the book of the law” (verses 1-3). Let’s glean a few golden nuggets from this passage:

1. They came together as one man: Not only were they tuned in to what God was saying through Ezra, but they tuned in together. This is what happens when you are in a church where everyone is tuned in to what God is saying through the man/woman of God.

2. They asked Ezra to bring the Book: They were not there to hear the words of man; they were gathered together to hear the Words of God. They asked Ezra to ‘bring the Book.’ Sometimes I imagine you, the readers of Today’s Word, telling me to ‘bring the Book’ as I prepare each morning to share what God gives me for you.

3. The ears of all the people were open to the book: Ezra read for six hours and the people were tuned in the entire time. See, they did not have the luxury of having their own copy of the Bible. They knew the value of God’s Word and they valued it enough to listen attentively for hours. Their ears were open, their hearts were attentive, their souls were in receiving mode. They knew that what they were hearing could change their lives.

So what does this mean to you today? Quite simply, it means that you should always come to God’s Word with your ears and your heart tuned in to what He is saying. Don’t allow distraction to cause you to miss what God is saying to you as you read and listen to His Word.

Confession for today: Lord God, I thank You for giving me access to Your Word. I don’t take it lightly. I submit to what You have said and what You are saying. When I read Your Word I read it attentively and carefully. When I listen to Your Word I listen with my ears and heart open; ready to receive. I block out all distractions, because I know that Your Words are life unto me. They govern my conduct, encourage my soul and protect me from harm. Your Word is the ruler by which I line up my life! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:21) His Word – My Heart (top of page)

(Prov 4:21 NIV) Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message Solomon told us to pay close attention to what he was about to say next. What he was about to tell us was part of the keys to his life’s success. He now tells us not to allow his words, or better stated in this case, God’s Words, out of our sight. Solomon instructs us to keep them within the midst of our heart. Have you ever met someone who had access to something that they needed, but since they failed to exercise that access they failed to enjoy the benefits of it? A simple example would be a person that has a winter coat in his house, but he can’t remember where he put it, so he is resigned to entering the cold weather unprotected. Now he faces the elements in an exposed, defenseless, and vulnerable state. He subjects his body to the risk of illness and injury, all because he cannot remember where his coat is. He knows that he has a coat. He fondly remembers the warmth that it provided when he had it on, but since he can’t remember where he put it, he has to deal with the consequences. It’s almost worse than the person that never had a coat at all. That person never enjoyed the warmth and protection of the coat, so they really don’t know what they are missing. But the person that knows what a coat can provide, and is then haunted by the fact that they have access to one, but simply can’t remember where they put it, this person has to live with the pain of a failed memory.

Solomon’s father (David) knew the importance of a good memory, especially in our walk with God. He asked the question, “How can a young man keep his way pure?” Think about that for a moment. This is not just a man, but David explains that he is a young man. A young man full of hot passions and desires, poor in knowledge and experience; how shall this young man find purity and then keep it? How shall this young man resist the multiple temptations to do wrong? David gives us the answer, saying, “By living according to God’s Word.” This seems a bit obvious, but we all know that you can’t give what you don’t have, you can’t teach what you don’t know, you can’t lead where you haven’t gone, and you can’t recall what you have never learned. For you to live in accordance with God’s Word you must first know it. You must have read it and read it in such a way that you are now able to recall it. That’s why David went on to say, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you” (see Psalm 199:9 &11). David knew that if the young man, the old man, and every man in between, was able to take God’s Word and hide it in their hearts – in the inner most portion of their being – then they would be able to walk in purity, to resist the luring power of sin.

Solomon no doubt learned this lesson from his father and he now takes it one step further with us. Since he understands the importance of remembering God’s Word, he tells us not to let it depart from out of our sight. Another translation says, “Keep my message in plain view at all times. Concentrate! Learn it by heart!” Another says, “Don't forget a single word.”

So what does this mean to you today? It means that you should do whatever you need to do to keep God’s Word before your eyes. Do whatever you need to do to remember. Whether its 3x5 cards, a Christian screensaver, listening to the Word on audio CD, whatever. Do whatever you need to do to receive and retain God’s Word. It’s not good enough to wear God’s Word ON your heart like a charm on a necklace. No, God wants you to take His Word and put it IN your heart where it reside as a rule – as the ruler by which you judge every decision.

Confession for today: Lord God, how can I keep my way pure? I know You have given me all that I need to walk in purity, holiness, and righteousness. I am covered by Your blood, anointed by Your Spirit, and I have access to Your Word. The onus is now on me to read, retain, and live what I learn. I declare, by faith, that I hide Your Word in my heart that I might not sin against You. Your Word is IN my heart as a rule and it is the ruler by which I judge every decision. I live a life that is pleasing to You by living in accordance with Your Word! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:22) The God Kind of Life (top of page)

(Prov 4:22 NLT) For they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message Solomon taught us that God’s Word should not just be on display in our lives, as a necklace ON our heart, but it should be the foundation for our lives, as a rule IN our heart. Now he tells us why. Solomon gives us motivation to read, memorize, and live the Word. He says that God’s Words bring life – the God kind of life – to all those that find them and healing to their whole body. Let’s break this down into two parts:

1. For they bring life to those who find them: This is a quite interesting statement because just as Solomon was supernaturally led to write these words, I believe he knew – although he had no way (humanly) of knowing – that these words would some day find their way to the hands of the common man. The Bible is the #1 all time best seller. The average Christian today owns several copies of the Bible. But the sad reality is that most Christians don’t read, with any regularity, any of the several copies they own. Solomon makes it clear that God’s Words will bring life to those that find them. This implies that: 1) they did not have this ‘type’ of life prior to coming in contact with God’s Word, and 2) not everyone is going to find them. Although all humans that walk the earth today are alive (physically), that does not mean that they are alive to God (spiritually). God’s Word provides the truth, the gospel, the way to eternal life. When a person accept Jesus the Christ as Lord they are Born-Again (see John 3). They had already been born once, a physical birth, by they were lacking a second birth, a spiritual birth, a newness of life. We might have been existing before coming to Christ, but we were not truly living. Now that we are in Christ we have life, true life, eternal life, the God kind of life.

2. And healing to their whole body: For the word healing other translations use the word health. While it is true that God’s Word is full of healing promises for the sick, the ultimate goal, God’s best, is for us to walk in health or wholeness. Nothing missing, nothing broken – that’s the life that God wants us to live. And then it says “whole body.” This is a reference to the entire man. You are I are tripartite beings like God. God is Father, Son and Spirit. We are Spirit, Soul and Body. When we find God’s Word, and then allow it to be the rule by which we live, we position ourselves to enjoy health in our Spirit, Soul, and Body. No, God does not want us to be saved, but then miserably saved. He wants us to go to heaven, but He wants us to enjoy the ride. He wants us to possess a Spirit that is tuned in to His Spirit, that is capable of leading us in righteousness. He wants us to have a healthy Soul. Our Soul is comprised of our mind (our thinker), emotions (our feeler), and will (our chooser). God wants our mind to be sharp, our emotions to be in control, and our will to be inclined to choosing things that please Him. And finally, he wants our body to be healthy. He wants us to physically be able to carry out our destiny. This is the strong, stable, and secure life that God wants us to have and this is the life that we can have if we find, ascribe to, and live by His Word!

So what does this mean to you today? It means that God wants you to be spiritually attuned and attentive, mentally astute and alert, psychologically stable and sound, emotionally under control, and physically fit and strong. This is the type of life that God’s Words can unlock for those that find them, apply them, and ascribe to them as a rule!

Confession for today: Lord God, I declare, right now, that I want the life that You want me to have. I find Your Word, I read it, I meditate on it, I observe to DO it, I ascribe to it as the rule for my life. Your Word brings life to me and health/healing to my entire being. My spirit is submitted to Your Spirit and attuned to what You are saying daily. My mind is alert and awake, ready to face the challenges of today. My psyche is stable and secure. I am sound in all my ways. I rule over my emotions, they don’t rule over me. And I am physically fit, healthy, and strong. I have the discipline to eat the right foods, exercise, and promote long life! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!

(4:23) Keep Your Heart (top of page)

(Prov 4:23 KJV) Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.

This morning we continue our series, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In our last message from this series Solomon urged us to remain steadfastly focused on the Word of God. When we allow God’s Word to be the rule by which we live we make ourselves prime candidates for His grace and blessing. In essence, remove all the blessing-blockers and we allow his blessing to flow unconstrained. When we choose to ascribe to His Word, not as a textbook to merely study, but rather as a life-book to live, then we literally make our own way prosperous and we enjoy good success (see Joshua 1:8).

Solomon has given us many principles, countless golden nuggets to this point, but this text ranks up there with the top of them. He tells us to keep our heart with all diligence. Why? Because out of it flows the issues of life. Some scholars say that the heart here is a reference to our spirit, others says that it is our soul, and then some believe it is a matter of the spirit and the soul. I agree with the latter. Solomon’s reference here is to our inner man, both our spirit and soul. Our spirit, where our true essence resides, and our soul where our mind (thinker), emotions (feeler), and will (chooser) reside. The only part of us left out of this equation is our body. And yet many people focus way more attention, energy and effort on the condition of their body, their outward man, than they do their heart, their inner man.

The word keep here gives us the sense that Solomon is urging us to protect our inner man; to put up a wall of defense against the errors of undisciplined conduct. It is utterly dangerous to allow our mind to stray or remain idle, to allow our emotions to fluctuate unchecked, to allow our will to choose what we know is wrong, and to allow our spirit to wander without direction. Yes, this is our inner man and it is here that decisions are made at forks in the road, that chances are taken at divine opportunities, that the faith line is crossed at life-changing moments. The New Living Translation says, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” I guess that says it all. For while many spend countless hours in the gym building their bodies – and let me say that physical fitness is important, but just not as important as the condition of your internal man – the danger lies in leaving their inner man un or underdeveloped. Greater than the discipline required to get up in the morning for a run, is the discipline required to abstain from sin, to do what is right the sight of God, to walk circumspectly before Him, in essence, to keep our heart.

So what does this mean to you today? It means that, in general, all the actions of life flow from the heart, from the inner man. So make no mistake, if you want to become the person that God desires for you to be, if you want to arrive at the final destination He envisions for your life, if you want to enjoy Godly success in life, then you will have to develop the discipline required to keep/guard/protect your inner man. It’s in your inner man that the course of your life is determined. It’s in your inner man that you either thrive or starve in God. It’s in your inner man that you either overcome or succumb to the temptations of the enemy and the flesh. You may fool others by being a big, strong, and physically fit imposing specimen, but God looks past the outward appearance and He judges the heart (1^st Sam 16:7) How do you look on the inside? How fit is your inner man? How do you look to God?

Confession for today: Lord God, I thank You for teaching me the importance of both physical and internal fitness! I keep my heart with all diligence, because I know that that’s where true discipline is needed. I keep my mind sharp and alert. I read and study to keep it crisp and ready. I ruler over my emotions and keep them in check. I train my will to line up with Yours. And I submit my spirit to the leadership of the Holy Spirit. My inner man, my heart, is fit, firm, and focused. I will arrive at the final destination You want for me! I am confident of this, because my heart is right before You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.