Dilligence

Today's Scripture: Proverbs 24 (KJV)

Proverbs 24 (KJV)

1 Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.

2 For their heart studieth destruction, and their lips talk of mischief.

3 Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established:

4 And by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

5 A wise man is strong; yea, a man of knowledge increaseth strength.

6 For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety.

7 Wisdom is too high for a fool: he openeth not his mouth in the gate.

8 He that deviseth to do evil shall be called a mischievous person.

9 The thought of foolishness is sin: and the scorner is an abomination to men.

10 If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.

11 If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain;

12 If thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider it? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth not he know it? and shall not he render to every man according to his works?

13 My son, eat thou honey, because it is good; and the honeycomb, which is sweet to thy taste:

14 So shall the knowledge of wisdom be unto thy soul: when thou hast found it, then there shall be a reward, and thy expectation shall not be cut off.

15 Lay not wait, O wicked man, against the dwelling of the righteous; spoil not his resting place:

16 For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.

17 Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:

18 Lest the Lord see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.

19 Fret not thyself because of evil men, neither be thou envious at the wicked:

20 For there shall be no reward to the evil man; the candle of the wicked shall be put out.

21 My son, fear thou the Lord and the king: and meddle not with them that are given to change:

22 For their calamity shall rise suddenly; and who knoweth the ruin of them both?

23 These things also belong to the wise. It is not good to have respect of persons in judgment.

24 He that saith unto the wicked, Thou are righteous; him shall the people curse, nations shall abhor him:

25 But to them that rebuke him shall be delight, and a good blessing shall come upon them.

26 Every man shall kiss his lips that giveth a right answer.

27 Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house.

28 Be not a witness against thy neighbour without cause; and deceive not with thy lips.

29 Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I will render to the man according to his work.

30 I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding;

31 And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down.

32 Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction.

33 Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep:

34 So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man.

Scripture Meaning

Verses 1,2:3-67-91011,1213,1415,1617,1819,2021,2223-262728,29

Envy not sinners. And let not a desire ever come into thy mind, Oh that I could shake off restraints!
Piety and prudence in outward affairs, both go together to complete a wise man. By knowledge the soul is filled with the graces and comforts of the spirit, those precious and pleasant riches.

The spirit is strengthened for the spiritual work and the spiritual warfare, by true wisdom.A weak man thinks wisdom is too high for him, therefore he will take no pains for it. It is bad to do evil, but worse to devise it. Even the first risings of sin in the heart are sin, and must be repented of. Those that strive to make others hateful, make themselves so.Under troubles we are apt to despair of relief. But be of good courage, and God shall strengthen thy heart.

If a man know that his neighbour is in danger by any unjust proceeding, he is bound to do all in his power to deliver him. And what is it to suffer immortal souls to perish, when our persuasions and example may be the means of preventing it? We are quickened to the study of wisdom by considering both the pleasure and the profit of it.
All men relish things that are sweet to the palate; but many have no relish for the things that are sweet to the purified soul, and that make us wise unto salvation.The sincere soul falls as a traveller may do, by stumbling at some stone in his path; but gets up, and goes on his way with more care and speed.

This is rather to be understood of falls into affliction, than falls into actual sin.The pleasure we are apt to take in the troubles of an enemy is forbidden.Envy not the wicked their prosperity; be sure there is no true happiness in it. The godly in the land, will be quiet in the land. There may be cause to change for the better, but have nothing to do with them that are given change.The wisdom God giveth, renders a man fit for his station. Every one who finds the benefit of the right answer, will be attached to him that gave it. We must prefer necessaries before conveniences, and not go in debt. There are three defaults in a witness pointed out.

Verses 30-34
See what a blessing the husbandman's calling is, and what a wilderness this earth would be without it. See what great difference there is in the management even of worldly affairs. Sloth and self-indulgence are the bane of all good.
When we see fields overgrown with thorns and thistles, and the fences broken down, we see an emblem of the far more deplorable state of many souls. Every vile affection grows in men's hearts; yet they compose themselves to sleep. Let us show wisdom by doubling our diligence in every good thing.

Scripture Application

Each day we walk through the Bible chapter by chapter making an application of our text to help us grow in the Lord. Many applications can be made from each day's text. Today we continue with the Book of Proverbs with Chapter 24. In our text today we continue in words of wisdom from proverbs, what catches my eye is the theme in this chapter of sowing and reaping and how the Lord allows those who work hard to be blessed while those who are slothful will end up in poverty. In making application we see a pattern for diligence that will produce a fruitful life. As we leaned yesterday we are not to place our trust in riches but at the same time we are to be diligent in all we do. How about you? Are you diligent? Let us learn from our text today to remember to not place our trust in riches but at the same time to be tillage in all we do to receive the blessings of the Lord.

Seeking Wealth

Today's Scripture: Proverbs 23 (KJV)

Proverbs 23 (KJV)
1 When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee:

2 And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite.

3 Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat.


4 Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.

5 Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.

6 Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats:

7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.

8 The morsel which thou hast eaten shalt thou vomit up, and lose thy sweet words.

9 Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.

10 Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless:

11 For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.

12 Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.

13 Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die.

14 Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell.

15 My son, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine.

16 Yea, my reins shall rejoice, when thy lips speak right things.

17 Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the Lord all the day long.

18 For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off.

19 Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way.

20 Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh:

21 For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.

22 Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.

23 Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.

24 The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.

25 Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice.

26 My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.

27 For a whore is a deep ditch; and a strange woman is a narrow pit.

28 She also lieth in wait as for a prey, and increaseth the transgressors among men.

29 Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?

30 They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.

31 Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.

32 At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.

33 Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things.

34 Yea, thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the sea, or as he that lieth upon the top of a mast.

35 They have stricken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick; they have beaten me, and I felt it not: when shall I awake? I will seek it yet again.

Scripture Meaning

Verses 
1-3: God's restraints of the appetite only say, Do thyself no harm.
(4,5). Be not of those that will be rich. The things of this world are not happiness and a portion for a soul; those that hold them ever so fast, cannot hold them always, cannot hold them long.
(6-8). Do not make thyself burdensome to any, especially those not sincere. When we are called by God to his feast, and to let our souls delight themselves, (Isa 25:6; 55:2), we may safely partake of the Bread of life.
(9). It is our duty to take all fit occasions to speak of Divine things; but if what a wise man says will not be heard, let him hold his peace.
(10,11). The fatherless are taken under God's special protection. He is their Redeemer, who will take their part; and he is mighty, almighty.
(12-16). Here is a parent instructing his child to give his mind to the Scriptures. Here is a parent correcting his child: accompanied with prayer, and blessed of God, it may prove a means of preventing his destruction. Here is a parent encouraging his child, telling him what would be for his good. And what a comfort it would be, if herein he answered his expectation!
(17,18). The believer's expectation shall not be disappointed; the end of his trials, and of the sinner's prosperity, is at hand.
(19-28). The gracious Saviour who purchased pardon and peace for his people, with all the affection of a tender parent, counsels us to hear and be wise, and is ready to guide our hearts in his way. Here we have an earnest call to young people, to attend to the advice of their godly parents. If the heart be guided, the steps will be guided.
Buy the truth, and sell it not; be willing to part with any thing for it. Do not part with it for pleasures, honours, riches, or any thing in this world. The heart is what the great God requires. We must not think to divide the heart between God and the world; he will have all or none. Look to the rule of God's word, the conduct of his providence, and the good examples of his people. Particular cautions are given against sins most destructive to wisdom and grace in the soul. It is really a shame to make a god of the belly. Drunkenness stupifies men, and then all goes to ruin. Licentiousness takes away the heart that should be given to God. Take heed of any approaches toward this sin, it is very hard to retreat from it. It bewitches men to their ruin.
(29-35). Solomon warns against drunkenness. Those that would be kept from sin, must keep from all the beginnings of it, and fear coming within reach of its allurements. Foresee the punishment, what it will at last end in, if repentance prevent not. It makes men quarrel. Drunkards wilfully make woe and sorrow for themselves.
It makes men impure and insolent. The tongue grows unruly; the heart utters things contrary to reason, religion, and common civility. It stupifies and besots men. They are in danger of death, of damnation; as much exposed as if they slept upon the top of a mast, yet feel secure. They fear no peril when the terrors of the Lord are before them; they feel no pain when the judgments of God are actually upon them.
So lost is a drunkard to virtue and honour, so wretchedly is his conscience seared, that he is not ashamed to say, I will seek it again. With good reason we were bid to stop before the beginning. Who that has common sense would contract a habit, or sell himself to a sin, which tends to such guilt and misery, and exposes a man every day to the danger of dying insensible, and awaking in hell? Wisdom seems in these chapters to take up the discourse as at the beginning of the book. They must be considered as the words of Christ to the sinner.

Scripture Application

Each day we walk through the Bible chapter by chapter making an application of our text to help us grow in the Lord. Many applications can be made from each day's text. Today we continue with the Book of Proverbs with Chapter 23.
In our text today we continue in words of wisdom from proverbs, from alchol to realtionships and everthing inbetween. What catches my eye is how we are not seek wealth as it can come and go but seek the Lord. In making application see that money is simply a means of exchange for goods and services.
We are to work but not to seek wealth but to seek the Lord as He is our Provider. Today many think that wealth will make you happy but the truth is that wealth people are among the most unhappy people in the world today. Those who have the Lord and follow His Word are truly full of joy. How about you? Are you full of Joy? Let us learn from our text today to that wealth does not bring lasting happiness and our Joy is in the Lord.

A Good Name

Today's Scripture: Proverbs 22 (KJV)

Proverbs 22 (KJV)
1 A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.

2 The rich and poor meet together: the Lord is the maker of them all.

3 A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.

4 By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honour, and life.

5 Thorns and snares are in the way of the froward: he that doth keep his soul shall be far from them.

6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

7 The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.

8 He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity: and the rod of his anger shall fail.

9 He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.

10 Cast out the scorner, and contention shall go out; yea, strife and reproach shall cease.

11 He that loveth pureness of heart, for the grace of his lips the king shall be his friend.

12 The eyes of the Lord preserve knowledge, and he overthroweth the words of the transgressor.

13 The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.

14 The mouth of strange women is a deep pit: he that is abhorred of the Lord shall fall therein.

15 Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.

16 He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want.

17 Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge.

18 For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips.

19 That thy trust may be in the Lord, I have made known to thee this day, even to thee.

20 Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge,

21 That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee?

22 Rob not the poor, because he is poor: neither oppress the afflicted in the gate:

23 For the Lord will plead their cause, and spoil the soul of those that spoiled them.

24 Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go:

25 Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.

26 Be not thou one of them that strike hands, or of them that are sureties for debts.

27 If thou hast nothing to pay, why should he take away thy bed from under thee?

28 Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set.

29 Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.

Scripture Meaning

Verses
1: We should be more careful to do that by which we may get and keep a good name, than to raise or add unto a great estate.
(2). Divine Providence has so ordered it, that some are rich, and others poor, but all are guilty before God; and at the throne of God's grace the poor are as welcome as the rich.
(3). Faith foresees the evil coming upon sinners, and looks to Jesus Christ as the sure refuge from the storm.
(4). Where the fear of God is, there will be humility. And much is to be enjoyed by it; spiritual riches, and eternal life at last.
(5). The way of sin is vexatious and dangerous. But the way of duty is safe and easy.
(6). Train children, not in the way they would go, that of their corrupt hearts, but in the way they should go; in which, if you love them, you would have them go. As soon as possible every child should be led to the knowledge of the Saviour.
(7). This shows how important it is for every man to keep out of debt. As to the things of this life, there is a difference between the rich and the poor; but let the poor remember, it is the Lord that made the difference.
(8). The power which many abuse, will soon fail them.
(9). He that seeks to relieve the wants and miseries of others shall be blessed.
(10). Profane scoffers and revilers disturb the peace.
(11). God will be the Friend of a man in whose spirit there is no guile; this honour have all the saints.
(12). God turns the counsels and designs of treacherous men to their own confusion.
(13). The slothful man talks of a lion without, but considers not his real danger from the devil, that roaring lion within, and from his own slothfulness, which kills him.
(14). The vile sin of licentiousness commonly besots the mind beyond recovery.
(15). Sin is foolishness, it is in the heart, there is an inward inclination to sin: children bring it into the world with them; and it cleaves close to the soul. We all need to be corrected by our heavenly Father. (16). We are but stewards, and must distribute what God intrusts to our care, according to his will. (17-21). To these words, to this knowledge, the ear must be bowed down, and the heart applied by faith and love. To live a life of delight in God and dependence on him, is the foundation of all practical religion. The way to know the certainty of the word of truth, is to make conscience of our duty.
(22,23). He that robs and oppresses the poor, does so at his peril. And if men will not appear for them, God will.
(24,25). Our corrupt hearts have so much tinder in them, that it is dangerous to have to do with those that throw about the sparks of their passion.
(26,27). Every man ought to be just to himself, and his family; those are not so, who, by folly or other carelessness, waste what they have.
(28). We are taught not to trespass on another man's right. And it is hard to find a truly industrious man. Such a man will rise. Seest thou a man diligent in the business of religion? He is likely to excel. Let us then be diligent in God's work.

Scripture Application

Each day we walk through the Bible chapter by chapter making an application of our text to help us grow in the Lord. Many applications can be made from each day's text. Today we continue with the Book of Proverbs with Chapter 22. In our text today we continue in words of wisdom from the Lord.

What catches my eye is verse 1 which says a Good Name is rather to be chosen than great riches. In making application we see how integrity is not only Godly for a witness to our Heavenly Father but also a practical, profitable, proverb. Recently our business received several jobs during a busy time in our industry. It was our "Good Name" that allowed us to receive these jobs as our old customers referred us to our new customers.

Our goal has always to Glorify the Lord in our business for a witness unto Him but this practical application has profited me and my family in the process that brings this Proverb to life. How about you? Do you choose a "Good Name" over your own personal gain? Let us learn from our text today to remember that a "Good Name" that comes from treating others right not only Glorifies our Lord but also is profitable as the Lord blesses those who put God first in all they say and do

Changing a Nation

Today's Scripture: Proverbs 21 (KJV)

Proverbs 21 (KJV)
1 The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.

2 Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the Lord pondereth the hearts.

3 To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.

4 An high look, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sin.

5 The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.

6 The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death.

7 The robbery of the wicked shall destroy them; because they refuse to do judgment.

8 The way of man is froward and strange: but as for the pure, his work is right.

9 It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.

10 The soul of the wicked desireth evil: his neighbour findeth no favour in his eyes.

11 When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.

12 The righteous man wisely considereth the house of the wicked: but God overthroweth the wicked for their wickedness.

13 Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.

14 A gift in secret pacifieth anger: and a reward in the bosom strong wrath.

15 It is joy to the just to do judgment: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.

16 The man that wandereth out of the way of understanding shall remain in the congregation of the dead.

17 He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.

18 The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, and the transgressor for the upright.

19 It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.

20 There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up.

21 He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour.

22 A wise man scaleth the city of the mighty, and casteth down the strength of the confidence thereof.

23 Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.

24 Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.

25 The desire of the slothful killeth him; for his hands refuse to labour.

26 He coveteth greedily all the day long: but the righteous giveth and spareth not.

27 The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination: how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?

28 A false witness shall perish: but the man that heareth speaketh constantly.

29 A wicked man hardeneth his face: but as for the upright, he directeth his way.

30 There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the Lord.

31 The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the Lord.

Scripture Meaning

Verses 
1: The believer, perceiving that the Lord rules every heart as he sees fit, like the husbandman who turns the water through his grounds as he pleases, seeks to have his own heart, and the hearts of others, directed in his faith, fear, and love.
(2). We are partial in judging ourselves and our actions.
(3). Many deceive themselves with a conceit that outward devotions will excuse unrighteousness.
(4). Sin is the pride, the ambition, the glory, the joy, and the business of wicked men.
(5). The really diligent employ foresight as well as labour.
(6). While men seek wealth by unlawful practices, they seek death.
(7). Injustice will return upon the sinner, and will destroy him here and for ever.
(8). The way of mankind by nature is froward and strange.
(9). It is best to shun bitter contention by pouring out the heart before God. For by prudence and patience, with constant prayer, the cross may be removed.
(10). The evil desires of a wicked man's heart, lead to baseness in his conduct.
(11). The simple may be made wise by punishments on the wicked, and by instructions to those who are willing to be taught.
(12). Good men envy not the prosperity of evil-doers; they see there is a curse on them.
(13). Such as oppress the poor by beating down wages, such as will not relieve according to their ability those in distress, and those in authority who neglect to do justice, stop their ears at the cry of the poor. But doubtless care is to be used in the exercise of charity.
(14). If money can conquer the fury of the passions, shall reason, the fear of God, and the command of Christ, be too weak to bridle them?
(15). There is true pleasure only in the practice of religion.
(16). Of all wanderers in the ways of sin, those are in the most dangerous condition who turn aside into the ways of darkness. Yet there is hope even for them in the all-sufficient Saviour; but let them flee to him without delay.
(17). A life of worldly pleasure brings ruin on men.
(18). The righteous is often delivered out of trouble, and the wicked comes in his stead, and so seems as a ransom for him.
(19). Unbridled passions spoil the comfort of all relations.
(20). The plenty obtained by prudence, industry, and frugality, is desirable. But the foolish misspend what they have upon their lusts.
(21). True repentance and faith will lead him that relies on the mercy of God in Christ, to follow after righteousness and mercy in his own conduct.
(22). Those that have wisdom, often do great things, even against those confident of their strength. (23). It is our great concern to keep our souls from being entangled and disquieted.
(24). Pride and haughtiness make men passionate; such continually deal in wrath, as if it were their trade to be angry.
(25,26). Here is the misery of the slothful; their hands refuse to labour in an honest calling, by which they might get an honest livelihood; yet their hearts cease not to covet riches, pleasures, and honours, which cannot be obtained without labour. But the righteous and industrious have their desires satisfied.
(27). When holiness is pretended, but wickedness intended, that especially is an abomination.
(28). The doom of a false witness is certain.
(29). A wicked man bids defiance to the terrors of the law and the rebukes of Providence. But a good man asks, What does God require of me?
(30,31). Means are to be used, but, after all, our safety and salvation are only of the Lord. In our spiritual warfare we must arm ourselves with the whole armour of God; but our strength must be in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

Scripture Application

Each day we walk through the Bible chapter by chapter making an application of our text to help us grow in the Lord. Many applications can be made from each day's text. Today we continue with the Book of Proverbs with Chapter 21. In our text today we continue in words of wisdom from the Lord.

What catches my eye is how the Kings heart is in the hand of the Lord. Even the Bible that you read today is in your hands today due the Lord changing the heart of a wicked King. In making application we see that our country and others have leaders that are ungodly. Knowing this it is hard to work under the authority of these leaders but the Bible instructs us to pray and seek God to have an ungodly Kings heart changed.
Today our leaders approve of sins that are an abomination from abortion to homosexuality but even so, the heart of King is in the Lord's Hand. If we humble ourselves, pray, and seek the Lords face - then will the ungodly will be convicted, having their heart changed - to lead our land in a Godly direction.
How about you? Do your pray for your leaders? Let us learn from our text today to remember that the Kings heart is in the hand of the Lord so we must pray and seek His face to change the course of a nation.

Wisdom on Finances

Today's Scripture: Proverbs 20 (KJV)

Proverbs 20 (KJV)
1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.

2 The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul.

3 It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.

4 The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing.

5 Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.

6 Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?

7 The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.

8 A king that sitteth in the throne of judgment scattereth away all evil with his eyes.

9 Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin?

10 Divers weights, and divers measures, both of them are alike abomination to the Lord.

11 Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.

12 The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the Lord hath made even both of them.

13 Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty; open thine eyes, and thou shalt be satisfied with bread.

14 It is naught, it is naught, saith the buyer: but when he is gone his way, then he boasteth.

15 There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.

16 Take his garment that is surety for a stranger: and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.

17 Bread of deceit is sweet to a man; but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel.

18 Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.

19 He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.

20 Whoso curseth his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in obscure darkness.

21 An inheritance may be gotten hastily at the beginning; but the end thereof shall not be blessed.

22 Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the Lord, and he shall save thee.

23 Divers weights are an abomination unto the Lord; and a false balance is not good.

24 Man's goings are of the Lord; how can a man then understand his own way?

25 It is a snare to the man who devoureth that which is holy, and after vows to make enquiry.

26 A wise king scattereth the wicked, and bringeth the wheel over them.

27 The spirit of man is the candle of the Lord, searching all the inward parts of the belly.

28 Mercy and truth preserve the king: and his throne is upholden by mercy.

29 The glory of young men is their strength: and the beauty of old men is the grey head.

30 The blueness of a wound cleanseth away evil: so do stripes the inward parts of the belly.

Scripture Meaning

Verses
1: A poor man who fears God, is more honourable and happy, than a man without wisdom and grace, however rich or advanced in rank.
(2). What good can the soul do, if without knowledge? And he sins who will not take time to ponder the path of his feet.
(3). Men run into troubles by their own folly, and then fret at the appointments of God.
(4). Here we may see how strong is men's love of money.
(5). Those that tell lies in discourse, are in a fair way to be guilty of bearing false-witness.
(6). We are without excuse if we do not love God with all our hearts. His gifts to us are past number, and all the gifts of men to us are fruits of his bounty.
(7). Christ was left by all his disciples; but the Father was with him. It encourages our faith that he had so large an experience of the sorrows of poverty.
(8). Those only love their souls aright that get true wisdom.
(9). Lying is a damning, destroying sin.
(10). A man that has not wisdom and grace, has no right or title to true joy. It is very unseemly for one who is a servant to sin, to oppress God's free-men.
(11). He attains the most true glory who endeavours most steadily to overcome evil with good.
(12). Christ is a King, whose wrath against his enemies will be as the roaring of a lion, and his favour to his people as the refreshing dew.
(13). It shows the vanity of the world, that we are liable to the greatest griefs where we promise ourselves the greatest comfort.
(14). A discreet and virtuous wife is more valuable than house and riches.
(15). A sluggish, slothful disposition makes men poor; it brings them to want. And this applies both to the present life and that which is to come.
(16). If we keep God's word, God's word will keep us from every thing really hurtful. We abuse the doctrine of free grace, if we think that it does away the necessity and advantage of obedience. Those that live at random must die. This truth is clearly taught in words enough to alarm the stoutest sinner. (17). God has chosen the poor of this world, to be rich in faith, and heirs of his kingdom.
(18). When parents keep under foolish tenderness, they do their best to render children a comfort to them, and happy in themselves.
(19). The spared and spoiled child is likely to become a man of great wrath.
(20). Those that would be wise in their latter end, must be taught and ruled when young.
(21). What should we desire, but that all our purposes may agree with God's holy will?
(22). It is far better to have a heart to do good, and want ability for it, than to have ability for it, and want a heart to it.
(23). Those that live in the fear of God, shall get safety, satisfaction, and true and complete happiness. (24). Indolence, when indulged, so grows upon people, that they have no heart to do the most needful things for themselves.
(25). A gentle rebuke goes farthest with a man of understanding.
(26). The young man who wastes his father's substance, or makes his aged mother destitute, is hateful, and will come to disgrace.
(27). It is the wisdom of young men to dread hearing such talk as puts loose and evil principles into the mind.
(28). Those are the worst of sinners, who are glad of an opportunity to sin.
(29). The unbelief of man shall not make God's threatenings of no effect. Christ himself, when bearing sins not his own, was not spared. Justice and judgment took hold of our blessed Surety; and will God spare obstinate sinners?

Scripture Application

Each day we walk through the Bible chapter by chapter making an application of our text to help us grow in the Lord. Many applications can be made from each day's text. Today we continue with the Book of Proverbs with Chapter 20.
In our text today we continue in wisdom with many practical applications from being balanced to being diligent. What catches my eye is verse 1 which explains the sin of the recreational drinking alcohol. In making application we see that God gave us alcohol as a medicine as other drugs but those who misuse this item are not wise and are deceived.

Today we are bombarded with beer and alcohol commercials with the world saying it is o.k. to recreationally drink alcohol, but the Bible is clear on the use of alcohol. Those who want to justify alcohol bring up how Jesus turned water into wine but it was a "fruit of the vine" or a fresh grape juice not a fermented alcoholic beverage.
Today verse gives us more insight on this deception. How about you? Do you believe that the recreational drinking of alcohol is o.k.? Let us learn from our text today to shed light on this issue that has many deceived.

Wisdom on Finances

Today's Scripture: Proverbs 19

Proverbs 19 (KJV)

19 Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his lips, and is a fool.

2 Also, that the soul be without knowledge, it is not good; and he that hasteth with his feet sinneth.

3 The foolishness of man perverteth his way: and his heart fretteth against the Lord.

4 Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour.

5 A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape.

6 Many will intreat the favour of the prince: and every man is a friend to him that giveth gifts.

7 All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth them with words, yet they are wanting to him.

8 He that getteth wisdom loveth his own soul: he that keepeth understanding shall find good.

9 A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall perish.

10 Delight is not seemly for a fool; much less for a servant to have rule over princes.

11 The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.

12 The king's wrath is as the roaring of a lion; but his favour is as dew upon the grass.

13 A foolish son is the calamity of his father: and the contentions of a wife are a continual dropping.

14 House and riches are the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife is from the Lord.

15 Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.

16 He that keepeth the commandment keepeth his own soul; but he that despiseth his ways shall die.

17 He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.

18 Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.

19 A man of great wrath shall suffer punishment: for if thou deliver him, yet thou must do it again.

20 Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.

21 There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand.

22 The desire of a man is his kindness: and a poor man is better than a liar.

23 The fear of the Lord tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.

24 A slothful man hideth his hand in his bosom, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.

25 Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware: and reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge.

26 He that wasteth his father, and chaseth away his mother, is a son that causeth shame, and bringeth reproach.

27 Cease, my son, to hear the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge.

28 An ungodly witness scorneth judgment: and the mouth of the wicked devoureth iniquity.

29 Judgments are prepared for scorners, and stripes for the back of fools.

Scripture Meaning

Verses
1: A poor man who fears God, is more honourable and happy, than a man without wisdom and grace, however rich or advanced in rank.
(2). What good can the soul do, if without knowledge? And he sins who will not take time to ponder the path of his feet.
(3). Men run into troubles by their own folly, and then fret at the appointments of God.
(4). Here we may see how strong is men's love of money.
(5). Those that tell lies in discourse, are in a fair way to be guilty of bearing false-witness.
(6). We are without excuse if we do not love God with all our hearts. His gifts to us are past number, and all the gifts of men to us are fruits of his bounty.
(7). Christ was left by all his disciples; but the Father was with him. It encourages our faith that he had so large an experience of the sorrows of poverty.
(8). Those only love their souls aright that get true wisdom.
(9). Lying is a damning, destroying sin.
(10). A man that has not wisdom and grace, has no right or title to true joy. It is very unseemly for one who is a servant to sin, to oppress God's free-men.
(11). He attains the most true glory who endeavours most steadily to overcome evil with good.
(12). Christ is a King, whose wrath against his enemies will be as the roaring of a lion, and his favour to his people as the refreshing dew.
(13). It shows the vanity of the world, that we are liable to the greatest griefs where we promise ourselves the greatest comfort.
(14). A discreet and virtuous wife is more valuable than house and riches.
(15). A sluggish, slothful disposition makes men poor; it brings them to want. And this applies both to the present life and that which is to come.
(16). If we keep God's word, God's word will keep us from every thing really hurtful. We abuse the doctrine of free grace, if we think that it does away the necessity and advantage of obedience. Those that live at random must die. This truth is clearly taught in words enough to alarm the stoutest sinner.
(17). God has chosen the poor of this world, to be rich in faith, and heirs of his kingdom.
(18). When parents keep under foolish tenderness, they do their best to render children a comfort to them, and happy in themselves.
(19). The spared and spoiled child is likely to become a man of great wrath.
(20). Those that would be wise in their latter end, must be taught and ruled when young.
 (21). What should we desire, but that all our purposes may agree with God's holy will?
(22). It is far better to have a heart to do good, and want ability for it, than to have ability for it, and want a heart to it.
(23). Those that live in the fear of God, shall get safety, satisfaction, and true and complete happiness.
(24). Indolence, when indulged, so grows upon people, that they have no heart to do the most needful things for themselves.
(25). A gentle rebuke goes farthest with a man of understanding.
(26). The young man who wastes his father's substance, or makes his aged mother destitute, is hateful, and will come to disgrace.
(27). It is the wisdom of young men to dread hearing such talk as puts loose and evil principles into the mind.
(28). Those are the worst of sinners, who are glad of an opportunity to sin.
(29). The unbelief of man shall not make God's threatenings of no effect. Christ himself, when bearing sins not his own, was not spared. Justice and judgment took hold of our blessed Surety; and will God spare obstinate sinners?

Scripture Application

Each day we walk through the Bible chapter by chapter making an application of our text to help us grow in the Lord. Many applications can be made from each day's text. Today we continue with the Book of Proverbs with Chapter 19. In our text today we continue in wisdom with a focus on money and how we respond to it.

In making application we see the money is just a means of exchange but the Bible tells us that love of money is the root of all evil. I have been blessed - and been in need - and can testify that the Lord is with you every step of the way. Puttng God first will keep your heart in balence and allow you to see the true purpose for money. How about you ? Do you love money or just see it a means of exchange?

Let us learn from our text today to remember to put God first with our money understang that God owns it all and has given us stewardship over many things so we should be faithful in following the Lord.

Elevating Ourselves

Today's Scripture: Proverbs 18

Proverbs 18 (KJV)

1 Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.

2 A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself.

3 When the wicked cometh, then cometh also contempt, and with ignominy reproach.

4 The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook.

5 It is not good to accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment.

6 A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes.

7 A fool's mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.

8 The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.

9 He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster.

10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

11 The rich man's wealth is his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit.

12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.

13 He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.

14 The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?

15 The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.

16 A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.

17 He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.

18 The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty.

19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.

20 A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.

21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.

22 Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord.

23 The poor useth intreaties; but the rich answereth roughly.

24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

Scripture Meaning

Verses
1: If we would get knowledge and grace, we must try all methods of improving ourselves.
(2). Those make nothing to purpose, of learning or religion, whose only design is to have something to make a show with.
(3). As soon as sin entered, shame followed.
(4). The well-spring of wisdom in the heart of a believer, continually supplies words of wisdom.
(5). The merits of a cause must be looked to, not the person.
(6,7). What mischief bad men do to themselves by their ungoverned tongues!
(8). How base are those that sow contention! and what fatal effects may be expected from small beginnings of jealousy!
(9). Omissions of duty, and in duty, are fatal to the soul, as well as commissions of sin.
(10,11). The Divine power, made known in and through our Lord Jesus Christ, forms a strong tower for the believer, who relies on the Lord. How deceitful the defence of the rich man, who has his portion and treasure in this world! It is a strong city and a high wall only in his own conceit; for it will fail when most in need. They will be exposed to the just wrath of that Judge whom they despised as a Saviour.
(12). After the heart has been lifted up with pride, a fall comes. But honour shall be the reward of humility.
(13). Eagerness, with self-conceit, will expose to shame.
(14). Firmness of mind supports under many pains and trials. But when the conscience is tortured with remorse, no human fortitude can bear the misery; what then will hell be?
(15). We must get knowledge, not only into our heads, but into our hearts.
(16). Blessed be the Lord, who makes us welcome to come to his throne, without money and without price. May his gifts make room for him in our souls.
(17). It is well to listen to our enemies, that we may form a better judgment of ourselves.
(18). It was customary sometimes to refer matters to God, by casting lots, with solemn prayer. The profaning the lot, by using it in matters of diversion, or coveting what belongs to others, forms an objection to this now.
(19). Great care must be taken to prevent quarrels among relations and those under obligations to each other. Wisdom and grace make it easy to forgive; but corruption makes it difficult.
(20). The belly is here put for the heart, as elsewhere; and what that is filled with, our satisfaction will be accordingly, and our inward peace.
(21). Many a one has caused his own death, or the death of others, by a false or injurious tongue. (22). A good wife is a great blessing to a man, and it is a token of Divine favour.
(23). Poverty tells men they must not order or demand. And at the throne of God's grace we are all poor, and must use entreaties.
(24). Christ Jesus never will forsake those who trust in and love him. May we be such friends to others, for our Master's sake. Having loved his own, which were in the world, he loved them unto the end; and we are his friends if we do whatever he commands us, (Joh 15:14).

Scripture Application

Each day we walk through the Bible chapter by chapter making an application of our text to help us grow in the Lord. Many applications can be made from each day's text. Today we continue with the Book of Proverbs with Chapter 18. In our text today we see more wisdom as the Lord lays out many cause and effects of making wise decisions.

Today there is a focus on the foolishness. In making application we see that those who put themselves before the instruction of the Lord give themselves over to foolishness. How about you? Have you made any foolish decisions in life? Let us learn from our text today to remember that foolishness comes when we elevate ourselves over the Lord and His Word instead of placing Him first in all that we do or say.

How is Your Heart with God?

Today's Scripture: Proverbs 17 (KJV)

1 Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than an house full of sacrifices with strife.

2 A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part of the inheritance among the brethren.

3 The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the Lord trieth the hearts.

4 A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue.

5 Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker: and he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished.

6 Children's children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.

7 Excellent speech becometh not a fool: much less do lying lips a prince.

8 A gift is as a precious stone in the eyes of him that hath it: whithersoever it turneth, it prospereth.

9 He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.

10 A reproof entereth more into a wise man than an hundred stripes into a fool.

11 An evil man seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.

12 Let a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man, rather than a fool in his folly.

13 Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.

14 The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.

15 He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the Lord.

16 Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing he hath no heart to it?

17 A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

18 A man void of understanding striketh hands, and becometh surety in the presence of his friend.

19 He loveth transgression that loveth strife: and he that exalteth his gate seeketh destruction.

20 He that hath a froward heart findeth no good: and he that hath a perverse tongue falleth into mischief.

21 He that begetteth a fool doeth it to his sorrow: and the father of a fool hath no joy.

22 A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.

23 A wicked man taketh a gift out of the bosom to pervert the ways of judgment.

24 Wisdom is before him that hath understanding; but the eyes of a fool are in the ends of the earth.

25 A foolish son is a grief to his father, and bitterness to her that bare him.

26 Also to punish the just is not good, nor to strike princes for equity.

27 He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.

28 Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.

Scripture Meaning

 Verses 1:23456789101112131415161718
These words recommend family love and peace, as needful for the comfort of human life. (). The wise servant is more deserving, and more likely to appear one of the family, than a profligate son. (). God tries the heart by affliction. He thus has often shown the sin remaining in the heart of the believer. (). Flatterers, especially false teachers, are welcome to those that live in sin.

(). Those that laugh at poverty, treat God's providence and precepts with contempt. (). It is an honour to children to have wise and godly parents continued to them, even after they are grown up and settled in the world. (). A fool, in Solomon's Proverbs, signifies a wicked man, whom excellent speech does not become, because his conversation contradicts it. ().

Those who set their hearts upon money, will do any thing for it. What influence should the gifts of God have on our hearts! (). The way to preserve peace is to make the best of every thing; not to notice what has been said or done against ourselves. (). A gentle reproof will enter, not only into the head, but into the heart of a wise man. (). Satan, and the messengers of Satan, shall be let loose upon an evil man. (). Let us watch over our own passions, and avoid the company of furious men. (). To render evil for good is devilish. He that does so, brings a curse upon his family. ().

What danger there is in the beginning of strife! Resist its earliest display; and leave it off, if it were possible, before you begin. (). It is an offence to God to acquit the guilty, or to condemn those who are not guilty. (). Man's neglect of God's favour and his own interest is very absurd. (). No change of outward circumstances should abate our affection for our friends or relatives.
But no friend, except Christ, deserves unlimited confidence. In Him this text did receive, and still receives its most glorious fulfilment. (). Let not any wrong their families. Yet Christ's becoming Surety for men, was a glorious display of Divine wisdom; for he was able to discharge the bond.

Verses: 192021222324252627,28
If we would keep a clear conscience and a quiet mind, we must shun all excitements to anger. And a man who affects a style of living above his means, goes the way to ruin. (). There is nothing got by ill designs. And many have paid dear for an unbridled tongue. ().

This speaks very plainly what many wise and good men feel very strongly, how grievous it is to have a foolish, wicked child. (). It is great mercy that God gives us leave to be cheerful, and cause to be cheerful, if by his grace he gives us hearts to be cheerful. (). The wicked are ready to part with their money, though loved, that they may not suffer for their crimes. ().

The prudent man keeps the word of God continually in view. But the foolish man cannot fix his thoughts, nor pursue any purpose with steadiness. (). Wicked children despise the authority of their father, and the tenderness of their mother. (). It is very wrong to find fault for doing what is duty. (). A man may show himself to be a wise man, by the good temper of his mind, and by the good government of his tongue. He is careful when he does speak, to speak to the purpose.
God knows his heart, and the folly that is bound there; therefore he cannot be deceived in his judgment as men may be.

Today's Scripture Application

Each day we walk through the Bible chapter by chapter making an application of our text to help us grow in the Lord. Many applications can be made from each day's text. Today we continue with the Book of Proverbs with Chapter 17. In our text today we see continuing lesson in wisdom with a focus on the heart of man. How a merry heart doeth good like a medicine while the Lord trieth the heart like one who refines a precious metal.

In making application we see how God looks on our hearts or the true nature of ourselves. Today we can do the right thing having the wrong motive. We can claim to be a Christian without truly being saved or possessing Jesus-Christ in our hearts. How about you? How is your heart with God? Let us learn from our text today to examine our heart to ensure we have been saved and if so, to surrender our hearts to Him to do His Will in these last days.

His Best for Our Life

Today's Scripture: Proverbs 16 (KJV)

1 The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the Lord.

2 All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits.

3 Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.

4 The Lord hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.

5 Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished.

6 By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil.

7 When a man's ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.

8 Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues without right.

9 A man's heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.

10 A divine sentence is in the lips of the king: his mouth transgresseth not in judgment.

11 A just weight and balance are the Lord's: all the weights of the bag are his work.

12 It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness.

13 Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.

14 The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.

15 In the light of the king's countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the latter rain.

16 How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!

17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul.

18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

19 Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.

20 He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.

21 The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning.

22 Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly.

23 The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.

24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

26 He that laboureth laboureth for himself; for his mouth craveth it of him.

27 An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire.

28 A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.

29 A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good.

30 He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass.

31 The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.

32 He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

33 The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord.

Scripture Meaning

Verses
1: The renewing grace of God alone prepares the heart for every good work. This teaches us that we are not sufficient of ourselves to think or speak any thing wise and good.
(2). Ignorance, pride, and self-flattery render us partial judges respecting our own conduct.
(3). Roll the burden of thy care upon God, and leave it with him, by faith and dependence on him.
(4). God makes use of the wicked to execute righteous vengeance on each other; and he will be glorified by their destruction at last.
(5). Though sinners strengthen themselves and one another, they shall not escape God's judgments. (6). By the mercy and truth of God in Christ Jesus, the sins of believers are taken away, and the power of sin is broken.
(7). He that has all hearts in his hand, can make a man's enemies to be at peace with him.
(8). A small estate, honestly come by, will turn to better account than a great estate ill-gotten.
(9). If men make God's glory their end, and his will their rule, he will direct their steps by his Spirit and grace. 10. Let kings and judges of the earth be just, and rule in the fear of God.
(11). To observe justice in dealings between man and man is God's appointment.
(12). The ruler that uses his power aright, will find that to be his best security.
(13). Put those in power who know how to speak to the purpose.
(14,15). Those are fools, who, to obtain the favour of an earthly prince, throw themselves out of God's favour.
(16). There is joy and satisfaction of spirit, only in getting wisdom.
(17). A sincerely religious man keeps at a distance from every appearance of evil. Happy is the man that walks in Christ, and is led by the Spirit of Christ.
(18). When men defy God's judgments, and think themselves far from them, it is a sign they are at the door. Let us not fear the pride of others, but fear pride in ourselves.
(19). Humility, though it exposes to contempt in the world, is much better than high-spiritedness, which makes God an enemy. He that understands God's word shall find good.
(21). The man whose wisdom dwells in his heart, will be found more truly prudent than many who possess shining talents.
(22). As waters to a thirsty land, so is a wise man to his friends and neighbours.
(23). The wise man's self-knowledge, always suggests something proper to be spoken to others.
(24). The word of God cures the diseases that weaken our souls.
(25). This is caution to all, to take heed of deceiving themselves as to their souls.
(26). We must labour for the meat which endureth to everlasting life, or we must perish.
(27,28). Ungodly men bestow more pains to do mischief than would be needful to do good. The whisperer separates friends: what a hateful, but how common a character!
(29,30). Some do all the mischief they can by force and violence, and are blind to the result.
(31). Old people especially should be found in the way of religion and godliness.
(32). To overcome our own passions, requires more steady management, than obtaining victory over an enemy.
(33). All the disposal of Providence concerning our affairs, we must look upon to be the determining what we referred to God; and we must be reconciled to them accordingly. Blessed are those that give themselves up to the will of God; for he knows what is good for them.

Scripture Application

Each day we walk through the Bible chapter by chapter making an application of our text to help us grow in the Lord. Many applications can be made from each day's text. Today we continue with the Book of Proverbs with Chapter 16.

In our text today we see more wisdom for daily living as our text advises us to put the Lord first in all we do. In making application we see how pride cometh before a fall and when we put ourselves before the Lord we are is really performing self worship which ends in failure. How about you? Do you put yourself before the Lord? Let us learn from our test today to remember to put the Lord first so we will experience His best for our Lives.

Our Conversation

Today's Scripture: Proverbs 15 (KJV)

1 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

2 The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.

3 The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.

4 A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.

5 A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.

6 In the house of the righteous is much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.

7 The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish doeth not so.

8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.

9 The way of the wicked is an abomination unto the Lord: but he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.

10 Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die.

11 Hell and destruction are before the Lord: how much more then the hearts of the children of men?

12 A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise.

13 A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

14 The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness.

15 All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.

16 Better is little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble therewith.

17 Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.

18 A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.

19 The way of the slothful man is as an hedge of thorns: but the way of the righteous is made plain.

20 A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish man despiseth his mother.

21 Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom: but a man of understanding walketh uprightly.

22 Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.

23 A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!

24 The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.

25 The Lord will destroy the house of the proud: but he will establish the border of the widow.

26 The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord: but the words of the pure are pleasant words.

27 He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.

28 The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.

29 The Lord is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

30 The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart: and a good report maketh the bones fat.

31 The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise.

32 He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.

33 The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.

Scripture Meaning

Verses
1: A right cause will be better pleaded with meekness than with passion. Nothing stirs up anger like grievous words.
(2). He that has knowledge, is to use it aright, for the good of others.
(3). Secret sins, services, and sorrows, are under God's eye. This speaks comfort to saints, and terror to sinners.
(4). A good tongue is healing to wounded consciences, by comforting them; to sin-sick souls, by convincing them; and it reconciles parties at variance.
(5). If instruction is despised, reprove men rather than suffer them to go on undisturbed in the way to ruin.
(6). The wealth of worldly men increases their fears and suspicions, adds strength to their passions, and renders the fear of death more distressing.
(7). We use knowledge aright when we disperse it; but the heart of the foolish has nothing to disperse that is good.
(8,9). The wicked put other things in the stead of Christ's atonement, or in the place of holy obedience. Praying graces are his gift, and the work of his Spirit, with which he is well pleased.
(10). He that hates reproof shall perish in his sins, since he would not be parted from them.
(11). There is nothing that can be hid from the eyes of God, not even man's thoughts.
(12). A scorner cannot bear to reflect seriously within his own heart.
(13). A gloomy, impatient, unthankful spirit, springing from pride and undue attachment to worldly objects, renders a man uneasy to himself and others.
(14). A wise man seeks to gain more wisdom, growing in grace and in the knowledge of Christ. But a carnal mind rests contented, flattering itself.
(15). Some are much in affliction, and of a sorrowful spirit. Such are to be pitied, prayed for, and comforted. And others serve God with gladness of heart, and it prompts their obedience, yet they should rejoice with trembling.
(16,17). Believers often have enough when worldly eyes see little; the Lord is with them, without the cares, troubles, and temptations which are with the wealth of the wicked.
(18). He that is slow to anger, not only prevents strife, but appeases it, if kindled.
(19). Those who have no heart to their work, pretend that they cannot do their work without hardship and danger. And thus many live always in doubt about their state, because always in neglect of some duty.
(20). Those who treat an aged mother or a father with contempt or neglect, show their own folly.
(21). Such as are truly wise, study that their thoughts, words, and actions should be regular, sincere, and holy.
(22). If men will not take time and pains to deliberate, they are not likely to bring any thing to pass. (23). Wisdom is needed to suit our discourse to the occasions.
(24). A good man sets his affections on things above; his way leads directly thither.
(25). Pride is the ruin of multitudes. But those who are in affliction God will support.
(26). The thoughts of wicked men offend Him who knows the heart.
(27). The covetous man lets none of his family have rest or enjoyment. And greediness of gain often tempts to projects that bring ruin.
(28). A good man is proved to be a wise man by this; he governs his tongue well.
(29). God sets himself at a distance from those who set him at defiance.
(30). How delightful to the humbled soul to hear the good report of salvation by the Lord Jesus Christ!
(31). Faithful, friendly reproofs help spiritual life, and lead to eternal life.
(32). Sinners undervalue their own souls; therefore they prefer the body before the soul, and wrong the soul to please the body.
(33). The fear of the Lord will dispose us to search the Scriptures with reverence; and it will cause us to follow the leadings of the Holy Spirit. While we humbly place all our dependence on the grace of God, we are exalted in the righteousness of Christ.

Scripture Application

Each day we walk through the Bible chapter by chapter making an application of our text to help us grow in the Lord. Many applications can be made from each day's text. Today we continue with the Book of Proverbs with Chapter 15. In our text today we see a continuing of practical wisdom. What catches my eye are the many references in controlling our tongue or what we say.

In making application I am reminded of how a ship is controlled by a tiny rudder, we are controlled and directed by our tongue. Our conversation will direct our life just as a rudder directs a ship. How about you? Do you see the power of your conversation? Let us learn from our text today to realize the power of our tongue and then to submit our words as instructed by the Lord.

The Lord's Path

Today's Scripture: Proverbs 14 (KJV)

Proverbs 14 (KJV)

1 Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.

2 He that walketh in his uprightness feareth the Lord: but he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him.

3 In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.

4 Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.

5 A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies.

6 A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.

7 Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge.

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit.

9 Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour.

10 The heart knoweth his own bitterness; and a stranger doth not intermeddle with his joy.

11 The house of the wicked shall be overthrown: but the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish.

12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

13 Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; and the end of that mirth is heaviness.

14 The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.

15 The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going.

16 A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.

17 He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated.

18 The simple inherit folly: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

19 The evil bow before the good; and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

20 The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich hath many friends.

21 He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.

22 Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.

23 In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.

24 The crown of the wise is their riches: but the foolishness of fools is folly.

25 A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies.

26 In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.

27 The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

28 In the multitude of people is the king's honour: but in the want of people is the destruction of the prince.

29 He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.

30 A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.

31 He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.

32 The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death.

33 Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known.

34 Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.

35 The king's favour is toward a wise servant: but his wrath is against him that causeth shame.

Scripture Meaning

Verses 
1 A woman who has no fear of God, who is wilful and wasteful, and indulges her ease, will as certainly ruin her family, as if she plucked her house down.
(2). Here are grace and sin in their true colours. Those that despise God's precepts and promises, despise God and all his power and mercy.
(3). Pride grows from that root of bitterness which is in the heart. The root must be plucked up, or we cannot conquer this branch. The prudent words of wise men get them out of difficulties.
(4). There can be no advantage without something which, though of little moment, will affright the indolent.
(5). A conscientious witness will not dare to represent anything otherwise than according to his knowledge.
(6). A scorner treats Divine things with contempt. He that feels his ignorance and unworthiness will search the Scriptures in a humble spirit.
(7). We discover a wicked man if there is no savour of piety in his discourse.
(8). We are travellers, whose concern is, not to spy out wonders, but to get to their journey's end; to understand the rules we are to walk by, also the ends we are to walk toward. The bad man cheats himself, and goes on in his mistake.
(9). Foolish and profane men consider sin a mere trifle, to be made light of rather than mourned over. Fools mock at the sin-offering; but those that make light of sin, make light of Christ.
(10). We do not know what stings of conscience, or consuming passions, torment the prosperous sinner. Nor does the world know the peace of mind a serious Christian enjoys, even in poverty and sickness.
(11). Sin ruins many great families; whilst righteousness often raises and strengthens even mean families.
(12). The ways of carelessness, of worldliness, and of sensuality, seem right to those that walk in them; but self-deceivers prove self-destroyers. See the vanity of carnal mirth.
(14). Of all sinners backsliders will have the most terror when they reflect on their own ways.
(15). Eager readiness to believe what others say, has ever proved mischievous. The whole world was thus ruined at first. The man who is spiritually wise, depends on the Saviour alone for acceptance. He is watchful against the enemies of his salvation, by taking heed to God's word.
(16). Holy fear guards against every thing unholy.
(17). An angry man is to be pitied as well as blamed; but the revengeful is more hateful.
(18). Sin is the shame of sinners; but wisdom is the honour of the wise.
(19). Even bad men acknowledge the excellency of God's people.
(20). Friendship in the world is governed by self-interest. It is good to have God our Friend; he will not desert us.
(21). To despise a man for his employment or appearance is a sin.
(22). How wisely those consult their own interest, who not only do good, but devise it!
(23). Labour of the head, or of the hand, will turn to some good account. But if men's religion runs all out in talk and noise, they will come to nothing.
(24). The riches of men of wisdom and piety enlarge their usefulness.
(25). An upright man will venture the displeasure of the greatest, to bring truth to light.
(26,27). Those who fear the Lord so as to obey and serve him, have a strong ground of confidence, and will be preserved. Let us seek to this Fountain of life, that we may escape the snares of death. (28). Let all that wish well to the kingdom of Christ, do what they can, that many may be added to his church.
(29). A mild, patient man is one that learns of Christ, who is Wisdom itself. Unbridled passion is folly made known.
(30). An upright, contented, and benevolent mind, tends to health.
(31). To oppress the poor is to reproach our Creator.
(32). The wicked man has his soul forced from him; he dies in his sins, under the guilt and power of them. But godly men, though they have pain and some dread of death, have the blessed hope, which God, who cannot lie, has given them.
(33). Wisdom possesses the heart, and thus regulates the affections and tempers.
(34). Piety and holiness always promote industry, sobriety, and honesty.
(35). The great King who reigns over heaven and earth, will reward faithful servants who honour his gospel by the proper discharge of the duties of their stations: he despises not the services of the lowest.

Scripture Application

Each day we walk through the Bible chapter by chapter making an application of our text to help us grow in the Lord. Many applications can be made from each day's text. Today we continue with the Book of Proverbs with Chapter 14. In our text today we see a continuing of wisdom and wise instruction.

What catches my eye is verse 12 that explains how a man that places his faith in his own ways will experience his own path that will end in disappointment. In making application we see that to succeed in life is to follow the Lord's instruction. His ways are perfect. How about you? Do you go your own way or follow the Lord's path?
Let us learn from our text today to remember to follow the Lord through His Word for His Path leads to life, happiness, and is perfect

Foolishness

Today's Scripture: Proverbs 13 (KJV)

Proverbs 13 (KJV)

1 A wise son heareth his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.

2 A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence.

3 He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.

4 The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.

5 A righteous man hateth lying: but a wicked man is loathsome, and cometh to shame.

6 Righteousness keepeth him that is upright in the way: but wickedness overthroweth the sinner.

7 There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches.

8 The ransom of a man's life are his riches: but the poor heareth not rebuke.

9 The light of the righteous rejoiceth: but the lamp of the wicked shall be put out.

10 Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.

11 Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.

12 Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.

13 Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.

14 The law of the wise is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

15 Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard.

16 Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open his folly.

17 A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful ambassador is health.

18 Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured.

19 The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul: but it is abomination to fools to depart from evil.

20 He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.

21 Evil pursueth sinners: but to the righteous good shall be repayed.

22 A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.

23 Much food is in the tillage of the poor: but there is that is destroyed for want of judgment.

24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.

25 The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soul: but the belly of the wicked shall want.

Scripture Meaning

Verses
1: There is great hope of those that reverence their parents. There is little hope of any who will not hear those that deal faithfully with them.
(2). By our words we must be justified or condemned, (Mt 12:37).
(3). He that thinks before he speaks, that suppresses evil if he have thought it, keeps his soul from a great deal both of guilt and grief. Many a one is ruined by an ungoverned tongue.
(4). The slothful desire the gains the diligent get, but hate the pains the diligent take; therefore they have nothing. This is especially true as to the soul.
(5). Where sin reigns, the man is loathsome. If his conscience were awake, he would abhor himself, and repent in dust and ashes.
(6). An honest desire to do right, preserves a man from fatal mistakes, better than a thousand fine-drawn distinctions.
(7). Some who are really poor, trade and spend as if they were rich: this is sin, and will be shame, and it will end accordingly. Some that are really rich, would be thought to be poor: in this there is want of gratitude to God, want of justice and charity to others. There are many hypocrites, empty of grace, who will not be convinced of their poverty. There are many fearing Christians, who are spiritually rich, yet think themselves poor; by their doubts, and complaints, and griefs, they make themselves poor.
(8). Great riches often tempt to violence against those that possess them; but the poor are free from such perils.
(9). The light of the righteous is as that of the sun, which may be eclipsed and clouded, but will continue: the Spirit is their Light, he gives a fulness of joy: that of the wicked is as a lamp of their own kindling, easily put out.
(10). All contentions, whether between private persons, families, churches, or nations, are begun and carried forward by pride. Disputes would be easily prevented or ended, if it were not for pride.
(11). Wealth gotten by dishonesty or vice, has a secret curse, which will speedily waste it.
(12). The delay of what is anxiously hoped for, is very painful to the mind; obtaining it is very pleasant. But spiritual blessings are chiefly intended.
(13). He that stands in awe of God, and reverences his word, shall escape destruction, and be rewarded for his godly fear.
(14). The rule by which the wise regulate their conduct, is a fountain yielding life and happiness. (15). The way of sinners is hard upon others, and hard to the sinner himself. The service of sin is slavery; the road to hell is strewed with the thorns and thistles that followed the curse.
(16). It is folly to talk of things of which we know nothing, and to undertake what we are no way fit for.
(17). Those that are wicked, and false to Christ and to the souls of men, do mischief, and fall into mischief; but those that are faithful, find sound words healing to others and to themselves.
(18). He that scorns to be taught, will certainly be brought down.
(19). There are in man strong desires after happiness; but never let those expect any thing truly sweet to their souls, who will not be persuaded to leave their sins.
(20). Multitudes are brought to ruin by bad company. And all that make themselves wicked will be destroyed.
(21). When God pursues sinners he is sure to overtake them; and he will reward the righteous.
(22). The servant of God who is not anxious about riches, takes the best method of providing for his children.
(23). The poor, yet industrious, thrive, though in a homely manner, while those who have great riches are often brought to poverty for want of judgment.
(24). He acts as if he hated his child, who, by false indulgence, permits sinful habits to gather strength, which will bring sorrow here, and misery hereafter.
(25). It is the misery of the wicked, that even their sensual appetites are always craving. The righteous feeds on the word and ordinances, to the satisfying of his soul with the promises of the gospel, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the Bread of life.

Scripture Application

Each day we walk through the Bible chapter by chapter making an application of our text to help us grow in the Lord. Many applications can be made from each day's text. Today we continue with the Book of Proverbs with Chapter 13.

In our text today we see more of the wise instruction for practical living. What catches my eye is the contrast between wisdom and foolishness as we see the cause and effect of making decisions. In making application we see that foolishness is rooted in selfishness.
When we insist on our own way verses God's way we generally make foolish decisions. How about you? Is your life yielded to God's way? Let us learn from our text today to remember that our selfishness leads us to making foolish decisions.