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  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on May 15, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    The people will curse him who withholds grain, But blessing will be on the head of him who sells it (Proverbs 11:26, NKJV). Clearly this pertains with sustaining life with more than just one person. Yet, is there an application to the local church? I think there is. We might desire to have a “rainy-day” fund, but if the Lord money is used for a rainy-day and the rainy day never comes, what good work (or works) was sacrificed to a day that never came? We don’t want to minimize the need for a reserve, but just exactly what do we need to reserve? RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on May 8, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    The generous soul will be made rich, And he who waters will also be watered himself (Proverbs 11:25, NKJV). In the previous verse it was noticed that the one who is generous with his possessions (gives it away) actually increases, but the area in which he increases the greatest is in virtue. A man who gives because it benefits another does more to benefit himself than he might even realize. On the other hand, he who gives only to get, has received more than he desired. RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on May 1, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    “There is one who scatters, yet increases more; And there is one who withholds more than is right, But it leads to poverty” (11:24). The word “scatters” has been understood to mean generous in some translations (NET, ESV, GNB), with the idea of being generous with one’s material possessions. Surely this has a ring of truth. On the other hand, could it not also refer to the one who sows the seed of God’s word in a dark world? I think so, but the second half of the verse lends itself to the better interpretation with regard to being generous with one’s material possessions. RT

     

    • J. Randal Matheny 7:20 am on May 1, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      I think sowing the seed is a good secondary application, even with the second half of the verse. Those who don’t share the word of God through evangelism, when they are sitting on spiritual riches, are poor indeed.

    • Esther Lee 3:48 pm on May 1, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      I agree as well!

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on April 25, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    “The desire of the righteous is only good, But the expectation of the wicked is wrath” (11:23). The desire of the righteous is good because the desire is only holiness (1 Peter 1:16). The righteous, therefore, seek only that which is good (God). Reflect on that for a moment. If holiness is the goal in life, then that which helps one to attain righteousness will be that for which one reaches (John 8:31-32; Matthew 11:28-30). This is not to say that one who desires righteousness can’t make poor choices, because it is obvious they can and many times they do. On the other hand, if one seeks for only God’s standard of righteousness then what poor choice will be made? It is when we alter our decision away from God’s holiness and accept our own that we make poor choices. RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on April 18, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    “As a ring of gold in a swine’s snout, So is a lovely woman who lacks discretion” (11:22). The old saying the “beauty is skin deep” is surely a true sentiment that any person of maturity understands. This proverb illustrates that many who do not recognize as much have failed to mature. Of course, immaturity does not benefit anyone, be it a family, community, or even oneself. It is made worse when arrogance resides within the one who fails to mature. A hog looks better with a gold ring in its nose (snout) than such women. RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on April 10, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    “Though they join forces, the wicked will not go unpunished; But the posterity of the righteous will be delivered” (11:21). When the singular standard of morality (God) is dismissed, then the standards of that which is right are set aside for the purpose of benefitting one’s self. Of course, this is but to be expected. Lest it be forgotten, however, there are many people who think and live this way, but fail to remember “their sin will find them out” (Numbers 32:23). On the other hand, those who live the life of Christ long to be delivered from the wicked ways of those who have dismissed God.  RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on April 9, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: abundance, , Proverbs, secular righteousness   

    Out of the Abundance 

         The Lord speaks an axiom: “Brood of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34, NKJV). From the heart comes the issues of life (cf. Proverbs 4:23). Exactly what those issues are will manifest itself in due time. Whatever your occupation, hobby, or interests might be—if any of these things take a priority in your life, why should you expect the Lord to take an interest in you?

    You can be a scientist, a teacher, a banker, or even a preacher; if these things that are done encourage you to lose site of Him who is all-important, then blindness settles in. People speak about what is important to them. The Lord gave us what is important to Him. If we prioritize our thinking over His, then end result is catastrophic for those who do.

    When a man does not protect that which belongs to him (his heart), then that which belongs to him will be affected by those evil influences on the outside. Secular education is important, but it has, unfortunately, turned into our own “secular righteousness.” Thus, the abundance that comes from the heart can be secular “righteousness” or godly righteousness.

    On can’t help but to speak about that which resides inside. On Sunday morning it is easy to see what people want others to see, but when you post (or share things) on facebook what you would not say in “polite company”, then others learn who has your heart. RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on April 3, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    “Those who are of a perverse heart are an abomination to the LORD, But the blameless in their ways are His delight” (Proverbs 11:20, NKJV). What is a perverse heart? One translation conveys the idea of twisted. Clearly, that word conveys a meaning. Isaiah said, in a different context, but with the principle extending itself: “Those who call evil good and good evil are as good as dead, who turn darkness into light and light into darkness, who turn bitter into sweet and sweet into bitter. Those who think they are wise are as good as dead, those who think they possess understanding. Those who are champions at drinking wine are as good as dead, who display great courage when mixing strong drinks” (Isaiah 5:20-22, NET).  RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on March 27, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

     As righteousness leads to life, So he who pursues evil pursues it to his own death (Proverbs 11:19, NKJV). The Scriptures are clear that one can be sure that what sin or sins have been committed, if there is no repentance, will come back to haunt (Numbers 32:23; Galatians 6:7). It is the foolishness of man to think that the evil he does (or did) will not be called to account by the Lord. This included those who have innocent blood on their hands (abortion), those who spit in the Lord face with regard to marriage, even those who support these atrocious behaviors; in fact, this includes anything contrary to the Lord’s will. RT

     

    • John Henson 11:05 am on March 28, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      Tried to “like” this, but, alas the “like” button isn’t working. It always says it’s “loading” now. I think I will include this in our bulletin, or do something very similar to it. I always give you credit for the ideas. Thanks.

      • Ron Thomas 2:54 pm on March 28, 2013 Permalink | Reply

        You are very kind, John. thank you

        • John Henson 10:22 am on March 30, 2013 Permalink

          I think you’re a bigger hit in our bulletin than I am. I’m not jealous, though. Just thankful.

        • Ron Thomas 11:09 am on March 30, 2013 Permalink

          You are much too kind, John. Let them know I am a Buckeye, and they will disfellowship me! :-)

  • J. Randal Matheny 2:43 pm on March 25, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , Proverbs   

    Tenderness towards immorality 

    Cheney did it, now Portman, other politicians as well. A child announces he’s homosexual, and the parent suddenly finds compassion in his heart to accept and approve of the new status. Such tenderness towards immorality happens in many a family. Parents often accept adultery after their children shack up. This is just one example of worldliness in the church that I take a shot at in my editorial today over on Forthright Magazine.

    • Doesn’t it thrill you to hear of others studying the Bible with the lost? I heard it three times yesterday. Already I heard it once today, also, from a sister in Christ, in Qatar, reaching out to Brazilians who are looking for a church. She and others are worshiping in a home. Pray they may have good success.

    • It’s one thing to insist on the old paths, which we do, and quite another to recycle old sermons and classes to the point that no new insights are allowed to seep through. It’s hard to know if there’s laziness involved, or pandering to the brethren, or a confusion as to what faithfulness to the Lord’s teaching is.

    • The GOP and conservatives within and without are mired in discussions about rebranding and rebuilding the party. They want to win the hearts of a greater percentage of the American populace, but many disagree how to go about it. I don’t know much about politics. I find it almost as confusing as the study of economics. But I do know slightly more about the Bible and outreach. Not much, but a bit. We need such a discussion about how to win more people to and with the gospel of Christ. Some are still in 1611 mode, which won’t go far in 2013 to reach the lost. (Am I on my soapbox again?)

    • Speaking of conservatives, Bill O’Reilly will speak at a Faulkner Univ. fundraiser in Sept. I’ve never seen the point behind inviting such people, but I understand that the masses love big names and pay to rub elbows with them. As far as I know, all the so-called Christian colleges do this. At what point, however, do we give in to the society or hold to a higher standard? For what in the world does a Christian have to do with the likes of O’Reilly or Rice or their ilk? (Am I in the kickative mood today?)

    • Many versions have an almost deterministic rendering of Pro 20.24. An example is NASB: “Man’s steps are ordained by the Lord, How then can man understand his way?” One might read this to mean that, since God has already chosen what’s going to happen to you, there’s no use in trying to figure it all out. (The CEV has exactly this idea. It’s hard to know if it or the EXP is worse here.) So the NLT rendering caught my attention, and I used it today for QBT: (More …)

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on March 21, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    The wicked man does deceptive work, But he who sows righteousness will have a sure reward (Proverbs 11:18, NKJV). A wicked man is no other than one who refuses to obey the Lord. Judas was a wicked man, but his wickedness was only in a matter of degrees different than another who has refused to obey the Lord in some other area of life. “Wicked” is associated with sin, and it is sinful to not believe and/or obey the Lord. It is foolish to think of wickedness as one who is morally vile only. On the other hand, one who is righteous is not forgotten by the Father, but his reward is everlasting. Remember Jesus? RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on March 14, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    The merciful man does good for his own soul, But he who is cruel troubles his own flesh (Proverbs 11:17, NKJV). The very foundation of good is found in Him from whom all good flows. He who is merciful follows the pattern of the Father (Ephesians 5:1), and one who follows the pattern of the Father can’t help but affect his soul in a way that is beyond measurement by anything in this world. On the other hand, one who has a heart that is suspicious, bitter, cruel can’t do anything but destroy himself. RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on March 7, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    A gracious woman retains honor, But ruthless men retain riches (Proverbs 11:16 NKJV). The word gracious is also rendered generous in the NET. Note the contrast between the two: gracious/ruthless and honor/riches. That which resides without has everything to do with the quality and influence of life that comes from within. To the ruthless man the important thing is the quantity of his material possession; to the gracious woman the important thing is the quality of her character.  RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on February 26, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    “He who is surety for a stranger will suffer, But one who hates being surety is secure” (Proverbs 11:15, NKJV).

    Have you ever co-signed a loan for another? It can bring its own apprehensions, but if the other signature has substance and character under-girding it, there is more peace of mind. On the other hand, with regard to a stranger, with regard to one who is of an unknown quality, though they speak warmly and sincerely, is disaster just waiting to happen! RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on February 19, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14, NKJV). What kind of counsel or guidance is in view? It is unstated; probably any kind of good counsel would be in view. On the other hand, if we consider the options between man’s counsel and the Lord’s, I think we can tell what the better counsel actually is. It is not the concept of counsel that is necessarily good, but the quality of that counsel that contributes in a positive way. Consequently, people guided by political persuasion rather than the Lord’s will surely bring the individual and country down. RT

     

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on February 15, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    “A talebearer reveals secrets, But he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter” (Proverbs 11:13, NKJV). The ESV gives a clearer sense, I think. “Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered.” Gossip is an evil thing; it has no virtuous benefit. Love, on the other hand, understands failings, but the one who loves is not interested in speaking to another when there is no need for the other to know. If you love another, and they tell you their failings, that which they told you will die with you.

     

    • John Henson 8:57 am on February 15, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      Great way to use the versions to get at the meaning. I remember James 3:2. If a person can discipline their tongue, then doing what’s right won’t be a problem.

    • Galt Church of Christ 9:16 am on February 15, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      Bethel, my wife’s joke: Do you know how Lot’s wife felt when the angel told her not to look back?

      insulted

    • Ron Thomas 3:26 pm on February 15, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      Thanks, John.

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on February 4, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    He who is devoid of wisdom despises his neighbor, But a man of understanding holds his peace (Proverbs 11:12; NKJV).

    I have observed many times that those with much bravado are the most insecure. The knowledge they pretend to have is exposed rather quickly when one with actual knowledge is encountered. The one who has the pretend knowledge begins to judge him who has actual knowledge, holding him in contempt. Why is this? This occurs because of insecurity (in part). The insecure one is now exposed and left standing naked. It is embarrassing to stand all alone. RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on January 31, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    “Whoever belittles his neighbor lacks sense, but a man of understanding remains silent” (Proverbs 11:12, ESV).

    The word “belittle” is rendered “denounces” (NET), “despiseth” (ASV), “sneers” (LXX), and “speak scornfully” (GNB). We have a good sense of what the Holy Spirit wants us to understand. As I read this the thought occurred to me that even light-hearted people need to be careful with regard to what they say and how they say it. Some words can pierce even when not intended be received literally. The point of the Holy Spirit in this regard, however, is with those who have a heart full of swords rather than just one (the sword of the Lord; Hebrews 4:12).

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on January 25, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    A city is exalted by the blessing provided from the upright, but it is destroyed by the counsel of the wicked (Proverbs 11:11, NET).

    Exactly who counsels in a wicked way? It is not likely that you know of a person who does such; generally, people who give counsel do so because they believe it can help. The problem is the foundation from which they give counsel. “How blessed is the one who does not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand in the pathway with sinners, or sit in the assembly of scoffers! Instead he finds pleasure in obeying the LORD’s commands; he meditates on his commands day and night” (Psalm 1:1-2, NET).

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on January 18, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things” (Romans 10:15). Paul uses the words of Nahum to make a point with regard to those who are saved by faith. They have come to understand the importance of God’s servant, the one who preaches the gospel of peace. When we reflect on the preachers in the Lord’s church, and then dismiss them as fodder, as nothing more than a man who comes and goes, thus not needed, it would be wise to remember what the Lord thinks. RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on January 9, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    “With his mouth the godless man would destroy his neighbor, but by knowledge the righteous are delivered” (Proverbs 11:9, ESV).

    The word “godless” is rather strong (the NKJV uses the word “hypocrite”); we understand, however, that if one destroys with the mouth, the one who seeks to destroy is not godly. There are Christians who are guilty of such activity; they need rebuke and, if required, avoidance. Is it not unfortunate that such a small member of the body can dismantle a body composed of many members? Godly knowledge, on the other hand, delivers those who seek a godly refuge. RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on January 1, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    The righteous is delivered from trouble and the… 

    The righteous is delivered from trouble, and the wicked walks into it instead (Proverbs 11:8, ESV).

    It is prudent to give ear to him who knows of that which he speaks. Parents are good illustrations of this. How much more so our heavenly Father? The righteous is delivered from trouble because of their education and protective wall. This matter of education and justice is the Lord’s protective measure. When Jesus said he was the way the truth and the life, he said this in order to help us understand the best way to live. Those who refuse to hear will walk into the evil they had hoped to avoid. RT

     

    • J. Randal Matheny 7:47 am on January 1, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      RT in Twitterspeak means retweet, or share. Suggestive. :) Thanks for doing these. They’re great. Check that fourth line, though. Missing something.

    • Ron Thomas 11:11 am on January 1, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      Thanks, Randal. I appreciate the encouragement.

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on December 25, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    The righteousness of the blameless will direct his way aright, But the wicked will fall by his own wickedness (Proverbs 11:5, NKJV)

    Verse 5 is better read in connection with 11:3-6; these four verses have as their theme righteousness. With the righteous the following will be found: integrity, deliverance, blameless, and upright. Contrast that with perversity, wickedness, and unfaithfulness. All of this will be from two vantage points. First, the life one chooses to live and, second, how the Lord looks upon those who made their respective choices. 

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on December 17, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    Word To The Wise 

    Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, But righteousness delivers from death (Proverbs 11:4, NKJV). There are a great number of people in today’s world who believe that because they have any degree of wealth then that means the Lord has blessed them with it and they must be doing something right. The Lord, however, makes it clear that this is NOT the case. Whatever wealth a person has can be used for good, but it is righteousness that is a “good” that transcends this world’s borders. That makes all the difference in the eternal realm. 

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on December 10, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them” (Proverbs 11:3, ESV). When parents train up a child in the way he ought to go, that child has a starting place that helps him move through this world better protected. If the parent has integrity, and teaches the way of integrity, honesty, and truthfulness imagine the progress made. On the other hand, now consider the opposite. The word “crookedness” is rendered “perversity” in the NKJV. When one does not have the proper starting point, then what is it that can be expected? RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on December 5, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    A false balance is an abomination to the LORD, but a just weight is his delight (Proverbs 11:1, ESV).

    When the Lord was on the earth He expressed what was important for the people to do: judge righteously (John 7:24). It is always much easier to say one ought to judge righteously than doing it yourself. Nonetheless, it is incumbent upon the child of God to do so; the way we judge others is the way we will be judged (Matthew 7:1-2). If we are a hypocrite (liar) in judgment, then in time the Lord will expose us (Galatians 6:7).RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on November 26, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word to the Wise 

    There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death (14:12, NKJV).

    These words are known well; what do they mean? When man walks and determines his own steps, his own course of life, not at all allowing Galatians 2:20 to be his philosophy of life, that man who walks in his own way has no future with the Lord. He has simply deceived himself; in time his deception will be realized in a way that will be anguishing. Let us choose wisely the Lord’s way. RT 

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on November 20, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    “When the wicked dies, his hope will perish, and the expectation of wealth perishes too” (Proverbs 11:7, ESV).

    When one looks at life as the entirety of his hope then when life is over—what of his hope? The word hope is an important word for a person in life; without it, what reason does he have to continue on? With it, much can be done. Our challenge is to be sure our hope is something that will move us beyond this life. RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on November 14, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    A Word To The Wise 

    The righteousness of the blameless keeps his way straight, but the wicked falls by his own wickedness (Proverbs 11:5, ESV). 

    When one’s life is measured by the Lord’s will, opportunity is given by the Lord to help that one conform to righteousness, and when one does, then the life lived is fruitful beyond measure. The wicked, on the other hand, do more thinking and doing with regard to throwing stumbling blocks in the way of the blameless. For each of us, let us be sure we choose wisely the way we are living. RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 4:18 am on November 1, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    When pride comes then comes disgrace but with… 

    When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom (11:2, NET)

    Herein lies the problem with man. Right smack in the middle of the word PRIDE is the letter “i”; this is similar to the word SIN. Yet, the Lord has exhorted, encouraged, and demanded that our use of the letter “i” be used a little differently. He said something like this: “Not My will, but Thine be done…” (Galatians 2:20). RT

     

    • robertebarger 8:49 pm on November 1, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      Hi Ron,
      I agree that part of our problem is pride, but this is only part of our trouble. By the sin of Adam, we inherited the carnal nature that puts us at war with God. (Romans 8) We are told not to love the world nor the things that are in the world, for all that is in the world is not of the Father but is of the world. The lust of the eye, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life.(1 John 2:15-16) These things are what Satan useed on Eve in the garden, and she failed. Satan used the same thing on Jesus in the wilderness, but He did not fail, but won.These are the things that are in us that Satan feeds to make us sin against God and ourselve. James 1:12-15 King James Bible 1611. This tells us that when we are drawn away of our own lust and “enticed” , sin conceives. At this point we have given Satan the right to control our life and steal, kill, and destroy. This is part of the reason Jesus came and died for our sins, that we might be able to understand how sin has its power over us. When we find out the truth, we can brake the hold that Satan has on us and we are free to walk in God’s perfect will through the power of God’s word and recieve His Love.
      Yes we have the little “i” in the way because when Adam sinned, we become a god unto our self.
      Father in Jesus name I pray for Ron and ask that you bless him in Jesus name. I ask that you send Paul the apostle to him to give him the understanding according to Ephesians 6:18-24. This is part of the armor of God you Father have given us that we might have Pau’ls understanding in the scriptures. Thank you Father in Jesus name. To Jesus Christ be the glory.
      Robert E. Barger

    • preachercarter 3:15 pm on November 3, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      Succinctly true yet Jesus provided the best remedy – humility.

      http://thechristianperspective.intuitwebsites.com/

  • Eugene Adkins 6:50 am on July 9, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , Proverbs, , ,   

    “Proverbs Are The Piths” (8) 

    Solomon uses what I consider to be a classic way of explaining things to children in his lesson in Proverbs 4: “When I was a boy….” The point of ch. 4 is that if it worked then, it’ll work now!

    Verses 1-4: Here we have a little father and son moment. It seems as if Solomon’s expectation is that if anybody would want to listen to him it would be his own son. He had visitors from all over the world, but the most important ears lived under the same roof. He doesn’t say, “Hear what the king has to say!” He says, “Hear what your father has to say.” Maybe a good point in verse 3 that all of us “old fogies” would do good to get is to remember what it was like to be young, and sometimes dumb because of it :) Also, don’t miss the compliment being paid to David right there.

    Verses 5-9: Wisdom is the lady who won’t lead you wrong. Solomon is talking about a whole other lady here in chapter 4 than he’ll talk about in chapter 5! She is to be the principle thing, not to be forsaken; when she’s exalted and embraced she will reward accordingly with the best crown a king could wear.

    Verses 10-19: Wisdom will keep others from hurting you, and you from hurting yourself. In these verses there is the ”way of wisdom” and the “way  of the wicked” and finally the question “which way will you follow?” The gist is that the truth has always been the narrow way!

    Verses 20-27: Right is never left and left won’t lead right no matter how many times you turn – keep it between the lines and stay straight, Solomon says. He urges his son to keep his eyes on the prize and the goal in the middle of his heart. He introduces a theme that will he use again too, “keep your heart with all diligence….“

    A lot of things can be said of Solomon, one of which includes that he had a desire for his children to make the right choices. I guess anyone today who is honest enough to admit when they’ve made the wrong choices should want at least this much for their own children as well; if not all children in general!

     

  • Eugene Adkins 6:34 am on March 23, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , Proverbs,   

    I Heard it Through the Grapevine 

    Sometimes the source of the news from “the grapevine” is sour grapes!

    Let’s be careful in understanding the difference between passing along information and passing along gossip after it reaches our ears.

    Gossip can be such a tempting thing, but if we know it’s gossip, then we should let it die on the vine. Let’s strive today to pass along the Good News instead of the sour stuff.

    “He who goes about talking of others makes secrets public, but the true-hearted man keeps things covered.” (Proverbs 11:13 BEV)

     

    • J. Randal Matheny 7:07 am on March 23, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      Great post, Eugene. What’s the BEV? That’s a new one on me.

      • Eugene Adkins 7:16 am on March 23, 2012 Permalink | Reply

        It’s a translation called the Basic English Version on an older Bible Program I have. The program lets me use two versions at the same time along with a concordance and some other stuff. I keep the BEV and the KJV with strong’s #’s up for my studies. The BEV seems to be a fairly reliable version with a few exceptions in the NT, but the OT is really good, especially in books like Proverbs.

        • Weylan Deaver 8:53 am on March 23, 2012 Permalink

          The BEV is a new one to me, too. My grandfather used the Greek, ASV and KJV, but he enjoyed reading from the Berkeley Version (which is rarely heard of).

        • Eugene Adkins 5:53 pm on March 23, 2012 Permalink

          Hey Weylan, since you and Randal both asked, I decided to try and check out what else I could find out. It seems as if what my Bible program is calling the Basic English Version is called the Bible in Basic English in other places on the Internet.

          Here’s a link – http://www.biblestudytools.com/bbe/

          I guess maybe I should start using BBE although my program uses BEV if I want to be “technically” correct. I thought I would pass this along in case you guys wanted to check it out further.

  • Don Ruhl 1:52 pm on December 8, 2011 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs,   

    Welcome Advice 

    Some of the best advice comes from the Book of Proverbs, and the best way to get that wisdom into you is to read the chapter that corresponds to the day. For example, for today, December 8, read chapter 8 and there you will hear wisdom saying to you, “Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors” (Pro 8.34). Right there, the Book of Proverbs tells you to read it daily!

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:07 am on November 22, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs, ,   

    A Word Spoken 

    Proverbs 10:19 says, “In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise.” Many years ago I learned that the value of a word fitly spoken penetrates powerfully. Though I learned this I did not always do what I learned. While I was in the USAF, stationed in Guam, I heard a brother in the Lord answer someone’s question about why he spoke so little. He responded, “I’m tired of eating my foot.” Those few words said more to me than all the philosophy classes I took in college. What is your impression of a person who seems to always be talking? My impression, sometimes, is that the person doing all or nearly all the talking doesn’t have much to say, but it is going to be said anyway. The context, of course, of the circumstances (and words) will determine how this is to be interpreted. The proverb writer does not speak anything profoundly spiritual. He simply utters a truth that any mature adult can understand. I wish, though, that many adults would transfer this understanding of theirs into actions. Someone has said that if you give a man enough rope and he will hang himself. I think I’ll carry a short rope! RT

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:04 am on July 23, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , Proverbs, sensitivity,   

    Sensitivity and Weakness 

    Are you sensitive? I have often looked at people who I thought to be overly sensitive to be weak. They were weak, I thought, because their sensitivity was worn on the shirt-sleeve and one would no more turn around than to see that the sensitive one was offended and had their feelings hurt – over silly and trite things no less! Around people like this, people like me must walk on eggs, in order not to crack the thin shell.

    A sister said to me some years ago that in order to offend her she needed to be hit with a two-by-four. That is my sentiment exactly! I am not sensitive and, perhaps, my lack of sensitivity is to my peril. My wife says often enough to me that I need to be more sensitive than I am. She is probably correct.

    The fact is, though, I am not. As I get older I notice that more and more my sensitivity sensors (if you will) are starting to get a little more active. Frankly, I don’t like that much. Nevertheless, it comes and I need to “grow-up” and allow the sensors to take root.

    The Proverbs writer said, “If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small” (24:10). I really like this verse because it gets to heart of what I am saying. However, is that true? Is it true that sensitive people are weak because it is perceived they faint? There is no necessary relation between a sensitive person and weakness. Perhaps it could be said there is more a relation between a non-sensitive person and faintness!

    Weakness of faith has everything to do with lack of knowledge. The Holy Spirit, in 2 Peter 1:5-11, makes clear where the problem actually resides; when we fail to add the virtues mentioned in that passage to our lives – when adversity comes, and it surely will come, then our weakness will be exposed, and we will faint! RT

     

    • J. Randal Matheny 8:23 am on July 23, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      This verse is a favorite of mine, Ron. It causes me to buck up, wipe away the tears from my sensitive eyes, and get those feet to moving forward. It comes across as almost a dare, a challenge, a taunt even, with a view to pushing us out of our self-pity to find in God strength for the moment and faith for the day of adversity.

      • Ron 8:40 am on July 23, 2010 Permalink | Reply

        It is interesting to me, Randal, how you have come to look at this verse. I appreciate your words.

    • Stanley Adams 11:59 am on July 23, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      I have always been a sensitive person, one driven to being a peace maker where there is division. That is probably due to the abusive behavior and alcoholism that was in my early home life. But I have learned to let those who do not like me or who do not like what I say to just not bother me………at least, too much.

      • Ron 12:39 pm on July 23, 2010 Permalink | Reply

        I appreciate those who came out of difficult circumstances. I was fortunate when I grew up. Some were not so fortunate to have a family environment as I did. Fortun ately for all of us, however, is that no matter the environment then (and now), the Lord loves those who see peace. Thank you, Stanley.

  • Stephen R. Bradd 9:40 am on June 25, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , dirty trough, oxen, Proverbs   

    Living with a Dirty Trough 

    From http://www.AudioEvangelism.com yesterday–

    On June 24, 2000, I married my sweetheart–Ranae Breeden. It’s a joy to be able to celebrate our tenth wedding anniversary today. In truth, I appreciate and love her more as my wife today than I did then. I see her increased maturity and ever-growing strength to face many challenges. I can perceive more clearly now than ever before the wisdom in choosing her as my mate and the divine providence that I believe helped bring us together. Our lives have changed in dramatic ways in the past ten years and things have unfolded in ways we did not always expect. We had no idea I’d still be preaching for the same congregation of the Lord’s people in Clinton, Illinois, who helped facilitate my training to become a gospel preacher. We had no idea I’d be spending many hours each week laboring to write and record Bible lessons to distribute via the internet. We had no idea we would be able to buy a home of our own. We had no idea Ranae would be working at home, keeping things going strong while educating our children. We had no idea we’d have four boys under the age of eight!

    And speaking of children, I want to challenge your thinking with a verse from Proverbs today. Granted, Solomon’s subject matter is not about children, per se, on this occasion, but there are some great applications to be made nevertheless – “Where no oxen are, the trough is clean; but much increase comes by the strength of an ox” (Prov. 14:4).

    Oxen are stinky, dirty, and messy (as is the case with many animals). They don’t clean up after themselves and can be quite a burden at times. They must have food and water to live. If you were to raise oxen, you might make use of a feeding trough. You’d have to keep it replenished regularly. Of course, if you sold all your oxen or they got sick and died, you wouldn’t have to keep the trough full. It would become clean or empty. With no oxen to care for, life would be a little simpler, a little cleaner, and it would smell a lot better.

    So, if there are many benefits to be enjoyed by being oxen-less, why would anyone go to the expense, time, and trouble to own them? Because “much increase comes by the strength of an ox.” Especially before modern technological advancements in agriculture, there was so much that could be accomplished with a strong animal. The required food, mess, and stink were all worth the benefit that oxen could provide.

    I know the parallel to children is not perfect, but you can see the application. With four boys in the house, messes are the norm in the Bradd residence, not the exception. It’s a lot of hard work to keep them all fed, clothed, and relatively clean. There are dishes to be done, clothes to be washed, diapers to be changed, tables to be wiped down, floors to be mopped, food to be cooked, errands to be tended to, etc. And, like oxen, after you get them fed and things cleaned up, it’s just a short span of time before you’ll be doing it all again, and again, and again!

    But, the joys of parenting far outweigh the continued required effort that must be invested to be effective. Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD (Psa. 127:3). Wise parents will continually remind themselves of this truth. It is often the case that a childless house will be much cleaner and orderly, but those homes may lack the vibrancy and excitement that children can bring. Sometimes a clean, immaculate house is an empty one. I wouldn’t trade for that any day.

    Some parents can’t wait until the kids (whom they view as burdens) grow up and move out, but not Ranae and I. We love our children and can live with a dirty trough, so to speak. We might be tempted to tell you otherwise when there is pee on the floor, vomit on the carpet, ants in the house working on the food that inevitably ends up where it shouldn’t, laundry piled up with no end in sight, etc., but we know that such is a small price to pay if we are to enjoy the smiles, hugs, laughter, joy, and the manifold other blessings God makes possible in parenthood.

     

    • Mike Riley 3:42 pm on June 25, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      Stephen, it’s great that you and your wife have such a positive attitude toward raising your children. If all parents were to have your attitude, we wouldn’t have so many dropouts in school and society. May God give you both the strength and stamina to raise godly children, respectful of parents, the elderly, and those in authority.

  • Richard Mansel 5:11 pm on May 6, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs,   

    Biblical, Not Biblical 

    Let us have some fun and list some wise sayings that people think are in the Bible, when they are not.

    1. Cleanliness is next to godliness

    2. Spare the rod, spoil the child.

    3. God helps those who help themselves.

    What can you add?

     

    • J. Randal Matheny 5:22 pm on May 6, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      Benjamin Franklin probably gets taken for Solomon too often. (How often is too?)

      A penny earned is a penny saved, perhaps?

    • Richard Hill 5:27 pm on May 6, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      How about this one?
      He that sitteth on a hot stove shall rise again.

    • Larry Miles 5:28 pm on May 6, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      Charity begins at home.
      Honesty is the best policy
      A Bird in the hand is worth 2 in the bush

    • Don Ruhl 9:54 pm on May 6, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      Richard, here are some wise sayings that people think are in the Bible, but are not:

      All men are created equal
      Moderation in all things
      To thine own self be true
      Neither a borrower nor a lender be
      This too shall pass
      God works in mysterious ways

      Don

    • Mike Riley 11:07 pm on May 6, 2010 Permalink | Reply

      Richard, some of these have already been listed by others, but there’s a few that have not been listed:

      http://www.blueletterbible.org/faq/sayings.cfm

  • Daniel Haynes 4:13 pm on April 12, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs, ,   

    Whatever Happened to Truth? is an excellent article written by Mike Vestal. The article offers three practical points from Proverbs 23:23.

     

  • jimnewy 2:40 pm on March 25, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , Proverbs   

    My Favorite Proverb 

    Mike has already used my most favorite one, because there was a time I had to quote it to myself throughout a day. In that Proverbs are truisms some of the best are found in chapter 26. Wisdom can be found in these, but better yet, remembering them will better your life.

     

  • Stephen R. Bradd 11:37 am on March 25, 2010 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Proverbs   

    Favorite proverbs 

    Here are 2 of my favorites:

    For disciplining an unruly child: Proverbs 23:13 – “Do not withhold correction from a child, for if you beat him with a rod, he will not die.”

    For competition against an arrogant opponent: I Kings 20:11 – “Let not the one who puts on his armor boast like the one who takes it off.”

     

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