Gratitude

A tiny revelation today.

Of all the years that I have been alive and being a disciple of Christ, a simple answer came to me this morning while I was meditating about life.
Nothing is more powerful than the power of Gratitude.

Paul always start of his letters with:
"I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers..."

"...rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness..."

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."

"Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful."

"Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe..."

And in the letter of Philemon:
"I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ."

Psalm 30:12
"that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever."

To God be the Glory.

Proverbs 13

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

If this is true, and it is, we are and is waiting for our hope to come true. Therefore is our heart sick? Are we sad, or perishing with a sad, sad, hear? Or do we keep up with the strength that God has given us, or sustain it so that when it comes, "it is a tree of life."
So is it normal to be sad? Or are we suppose to rejoice because we have this hope, yet, it is deferred.

So, it is with the meek that will inherit the kingdom.

To God be the Glory.

Soul

Proverbs 13

"The soul of a lazy man desires, and has nothing;
But the soul of the diligent shall be made rich.
A righteous man hates lying,
But a wicked man is loathsome and comes to shame. "

"There is one who makes himself rich, yet has nothing;
And one who makes himself poor, yet has great riches. "

Regardless of "status" of soul, we are here on earth till we die or when Jesus comes back, we are bound by the rules of this earth.
We either live to the way of the righteous or give up and be captive to the evil one and has no hope.

To God be the Glory.

Mouth

Proverbs 13

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

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


Need I say more? Ha.

To God be the Glory

Pathway

Proverbs 12

"In the way of righteousness is life: and in the pathway thereof there is no death."

The way of righteousness brings forth confidence and power to move on the pathway.
The evil has no confidence and entices others to fall as time progress because, ultimately, time is finite.

To God be the Glory

Good Word

Proverbs 12

"Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, But a good word makes it glad." Proverbs 12:25

Depression:

–noun
1. the act of depressing.
2. the state of being depressed.
3. a depressed or sunken place or part; an area lower than the surrounding surface.
4. sadness; gloom; dejection.
5. Psychiatry. a condition of general emotional dejection and withdrawal; sadness greater and more prolonged than that warranted by any objective reason. Compare clinical depression.
6. dullness or inactivity, as of trade.
7. Economics. a period during which business, employment, and stock-market values decline severely or remain at a very low level of activity.
8. the Depression. Great Depression.
9. Pathology. a low state of vital powers or functional activity.
10. Astronomy. the angular distance of a celestial body below the horizon; negative altitude.
11. Surveying. the angle between the line from an observer or instrument to an object below either of them and a horizontal line.
12. Physical Geography. an area completely or mostly surrounded by higher land, ordinarily having interior drainage and not conforming to the valley of a single stream.
13. Meteorology. an area of low atmospheric pressure.
Origin:
1350–1400; ME (< AF) < ML dēpressiōn- (s. of dēpressiō), LL: a pressing down, equiv. to L dēpress(us) (see depress ) + -iōn- -ion

Any you wonder why the world is in such "chaos."
It is what it is because the evil one wanted it that way, and God is the only way out.
So, his goal is to create things and circumstances that "presses" "down" on the humans, while God's goal is to "lift" us "up"

To God be the Glory

Established

Proverbs 12

"A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved."

Even though we are not saved by works, we are judged by our works.
I have always been in debate, whether with myself or with someone else on this matter.
We are saved by grace and not by works is a common statement, but what does that mean?
If that is so, then what is Judgment Day?
If the former is true, than should all be saved and all are going to heaven?
Then we bring up another debate, God chooses as he pleases because he is God, therefore it does not depend on man's efforts nor desire. Another misconception.
If this is so as it says, then why is the verse on top suggesting that a man has the will to established by wickedness?

Fact:
"The LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens. "

If that is the case and we believe it to be so, than we have no means or ways to defy it.
Wickedness is therefore anything that is contrary to God's ways.
God only chooses those who chooses to be established in him and his ways.
"In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
"Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil."

"If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures;
Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. "

Is seeking God's wisdom "work"?
Is it an action that requires a response?
Or are we just plain zombies and has anything but free will and spirit?

I believe the Bible is clear that it is up to us to decide what we want to be "established" in.

To God be the Glory.

Proverbs 12

"The wicked desireth the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yieldeth fruit.

The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble.

A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompence of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him. "


If you are drawn to evil, you will admire and desire those who has success based on what evil has to offer.

Good or bad, we are still bound by earth's perimeters and hence subjective to the evil of this world. However, only those who follows God's perimeters, will overcome.

To God be the Glory.

Do what is right

Proverbs 12

"A man is praised according to his wisdom,
but men with warped minds are despised.

Better to be a nobody and yet have a servant
than pretend to be somebody and have no food.

A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal,
but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.

He who works his land will have abundant food,
but he who chases fantasies lacks judgment. "


"A man shall be commended according to his wisdom:
but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised.

He that is despised, and hath a servant, is better
than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread.

A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast:
but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.

He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread:
but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding."

To God be the Glory

Righteous

Proverbs 12

"The plans of the righteous are just,
but the advice of the wicked is deceitful.

The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood,
but the speech of the upright rescues them.

Wicked men are overthrown and are no more,
but the house of the righteous stands firm. "


Power of God in righteous acts.

To God be the Glory.

Discipline

Proverbs 12

"Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge,
but he who hates correction is stupid.

A good man obtains favor from the LORD,
but the LORD condemns a crafty man. "


What is discipline from God?
Did Job get disciplined? If so, is discipline challenges or disastrous?
Israelites was disciplined through the exodus?
Jonah disciplined through the sea and the "big fish"?
Humans was cleansed through the flood? Was that discipline?
So whoever loves disaster, pain, trials, suffering, loves knowledge?
Maybe I am not quite awake, but it does not seem quite right.
Are we supposed to be sadistic, or oppressed?

Or is it the evil one causes all the sufferings of this world, and if we do not follow God's directions and teachings, we are just plain sitting ducks, or gluttons for punishment.
I like to think and believe and know the latter is more probable.

To God be the Glory.

Due

Proverbs 11

"If the righteous receive their due on earth,
how much more the ungodly and the sinner!"

Anyone and everyone will go through trials and tribulations on earth.

"The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life,
and he who wins souls is wise. "

However, it is only by following the way of God, will one survive the turmoils.

To God be the Glory.

Knowledge is power

Proverbs 11

"With his mouth the godless destroys his neighbor,
but through knowledge the righteous escape."


We are all effected by the evil one's deceit and terror, but only those who understands God's knowledge will be able to escape.

"The desire of the righteous ends only in good,
but the hope of the wicked only in wrath."

"If the righteous receive their due on earth,
how much more the ungodly and the sinner!"

"One man gives freely, yet gains even more;
another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.

A generous man will prosper;
he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

People curse the man who hoards grain,
but blessing crowns him who is willing to sell. "

Reward

Proverbs 11

"The wicked man earns deceptive wages,
but he who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward.

The truly righteous man attains life,
but he who pursues evil goes to his death.

The LORD detests men of perverse heart
but he delights in those whose ways are blameless.

Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished,
but those who are righteous will go free."

We are all going through this world together.
It is up to us whether we choose to do good or not.
God chooses those who do good in his eyes.

To God be the Glory

Attainment

Proverbs 11

"The wicked man earns deceptive wages,
but he who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward.

The truly righteous man attains life,
but he who pursues evil goes to his death."


Live as if you have attained it, good or bad, you will get it.


To God be the Glory

Advisers

Proverbs 11

"A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor,
but a man of understanding holds his tongue.

A gossip betrays a confidence,
but a trustworthy man keeps a secret.

For lack of guidance a nation falls,
but many advisers make victory sure."

Many advisers = good judgment = good understanding = trustworthy

Proverbs 11

"With his mouth the godless destroys his neighbor,
but through knowledge the righteous escape."

"When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices;
when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy."

To God be the Glory.

Rescue

Proverbs 11

"The righteousness of the blameless makes a straight way for them,
but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness.

The righteousness of the upright delivers them,
but the unfaithful are trapped by evil desires.

When a wicked man dies, his hope perishes;
all he expected from his power comes to nothing.

The righteous man is rescued from trouble,
and it comes on the wicked instead. "

Righteousness' power and result rest at the end of life.
The wicked has it's power and prosperity attained now, so in the end it is nothing.
Wickedness oppresses others and is perceived as power.
Righteousness powers comes from overcoming the oppression of the wicked.
With Righteousness, it will light the path for freedom and in the end deliver us from the wicked one.
God, rescue us!

To God be the Glory.

Humility, integrity, & righteousness.

Proverbs 11

"The LORD abhors dishonest scales,
but accurate weights are his delight.

When pride comes, then comes disgrace,
but with humility comes wisdom.

The integrity of the upright guides them,
but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.

Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath,
but righteousness delivers from death. "


To God be the Glory

Mouth

Proverbs 10

"The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom,
but a perverse tongue will be cut out.

The lips of the righteous know what is fitting,
but the mouth of the wicked only what is perverse."

"The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom: but the froward tongue shall be cut out.

The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness"


What type of mouth is desirable?
What kind of mouth is acceptable?
Am I able to control my mouth?

To God be the Glory

Storm

Proverbs 10

"Wise men store up knowledge,
but the mouth of a fool invites ruin."

"When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone,
but the righteous stand firm forever. "

We are all subjected to the same trials, but only if you are preparing and building on God's
foundations, will you overcome the challenges.

To God be the Glory

Prospect

Proverbs 10

"The prospect of the righteous is joy,
but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing."

"The way of the LORD is a refuge for the righteous,
but it is the ruin of those who do evil."

"The righteous will never be uprooted,
but the wicked will not remain in the land. "


Prospect:
1. an apparent probability of advancement, success, profit, etc.
2. the outlook for the future: good business prospects.
3. anticipation; expectation; a looking forward.
4. something in view as a source of profit.

It may not be joy now when we are on earth, but in the end, it will be when the day comes. And vice versa, the wicked will not see the fruit of their labor.

To God be the Glory

Desire

Proverbs 10

"What the wicked dreads will overtake him;
what the righteous desire will be granted. "

Powerful, indeed.

What does wicked dread?
Righteousness? Good?
So good will overtake them anyways.

To God be the Glory

Wealth

Proverbs 10

"The blessing of the LORD brings wealth,
and he adds no trouble to it. "

"The fear of the LORD adds length to life,
but the years of the wicked are cut short."

"The prospect of the righteous is joy,
but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing."

Do I believe it?
YES!

To God be the Glory.

Lead

Proverbs 10

"He who heeds discipline shows the way to life,
but whoever ignores correction leads others astray. "

Like a beacon, you can be effective or not.
We impact our surroundings whether we know it or not.
Follow God and you will have a following.
Follow Evil and you will have a following.
We all lead and follow.


"He who conceals his hatred has lying lips,
and whoever spreads slander is a fool. "

Nothing else to say.
It is what it is and it is true.

To God be the Glory.

Be Wise

Proverbs 10

"The wise in heart accept commands,
but a chattering fool comes to ruin."

"When words are many, sin is not absent,
but he who holds his tongue is wise."

"Hatred stirs up dissension,
but love covers over all wrongs. "

"He who heeds discipline shows the way to life,
but whoever ignores correction leads others astray. "

Quite to listen, slow to speak. Love your neighbor as yourself.
Understanding others will better prepare your environment.

To God be the Glory.

Walking securely

Proversb 10

"The wise in heart accept commands,
but a chattering fool comes to ruin.
The man of integrity walks securely,
but he who takes crooked paths will be found out."

Believing in God and doing it.

To God be the Glory

What you crave.

Proverbs 10

Sounds like a commercial doesn't it?

"The LORD does not let the righteous go hungry
but he thwarts the craving of the wicked."

I believe it is referring to a spiritual desire and not the physical hunger.
Hence the fasting of food. If we crave what the flesh wants, than we crave what this world craves, which is evil, and with that, we can never be fulfilled.
Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights to get himself ready for the worldly battle.
How do I fight the fight?

To God be the Glory.

Folly

Proverbs 9

"She sits at the door of her house,
on a seat at the highest point of the city,

calling out to those who pass by,
who go straight on their way.

"Let all who are simple come in here!"
she says to those who lack judgment.

"Stolen water is sweet;
food eaten in secret is delicious!

But little do they know that the dead are there,
that her guests are in the depths of the grave"

fol⋅ly
–noun, plural -lies for 2–6.

1. the state or quality of being foolish; lack of understanding or sense.
2. a foolish action, practice, idea, etc.; absurdity: the folly of performing without a rehearsal.
3. a costly and foolish undertaking; unwise investment or expenditure.
4. follies, a theatrical revue.
5. Obsolete. wickedness; wantonness.

Folly is the result from lacking understanding of God's wisdom.
Folly is the result of a decision to not following God's wisdom.
Folly is the result of not training in God's wisdom.
Folly is the result of missing God's wisdom.

It would be most beneficial to obtain wisdom from the Word of God as much as possible.
" 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind... Love your neighbor as yourself.' "

To God be the Glory.

Wisdom

Proverbs 9

"'The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,
and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

For through me your days will be many,
and years will be added to your life.

If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you;
if you are a mocker, you alone will suffer.'"

"To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech." Prov. 8:13

Seems pretty straight forward:

Evil kills. God saves.


To God be the Glory.

Wisdom

Proverbs 9

Is Wisdom of God the Holy Spirit?

The Holy Spirit is the guide from God.
Wisdom was there when with Jesus and God when God laid the foundation of the earth.

"Wisdom has built her house;
she has hewn out its seven pillars.

She has prepared her meat and mixed her wine;
she has also set her table.

She has sent out her maids, and she calls
from the highest point of the city.

"Let all who are simple come in here!"
she says to those who lack judgment.

"Come, eat my food
and drink the wine I have mixed.

Leave your simple ways and you will live;
walk in the way of understanding. "


Find Wisdom and you will live.
Eat, feast on wisdom and walk in the way of understanding.

To God be the Glory.

The Counselor

Proverbs 8

"Counsel and sound judgment are mine;
I have understanding and power."

Wisdom is the Counselor.
Wisdom is the Judge.
Wisdom contains understanding and power.

With understanding the earth was planned.
With it's power, it was built.
With wisdom, life is born.
With wisdom, life is sustained.

Blessed are those who yearns for it.
Blessed are those who finds it.
Blessed are those who keeps it.

Choose God's wisdom and God chooses you.

To God be the Glory.

Fear the Lord

Proverbs 8

"To fear the LORD is to hate evil;
I hate pride and arrogance,
evil behavior and perverse speech. "

" The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate."

Froward: adj.
Stubbornly contrary and disobedient; obstinate

Fearing the LORD is to hate evil, pride and arrogance, disobedience.
If I do not hate evil, and the like in myself, than I need to rethink and re-align.

T0 God be the Glory.

Wisdom

Proverbs 8

"Does not wisdom call out?
Does not understanding raise her voice?

On the heights along the way,
where the paths meet, she takes her stand;

beside the gates leading into the city,
at the entrances, she cries aloud:

"To you, O men, I call out;
I raise my voice to all mankind.

You who are simple, gain prudence;
you who are foolish, gain understanding.

Listen, for I have worthy things to say;
I open my lips to speak what is right.

My mouth speaks what is true,
for my lips detest wickedness.

All the words of my mouth are just;
none of them is crooked or perverse.

To the discerning all of them are right;
they are faultless to those who have knowledge.

Choose my instruction instead of silver,
knowledge rather than choice gold,

for wisdom is more precious than rubies,
and nothing you desire can compare with her."


Get some Sisdom. Need some Wisdom. What is Wisdom?
Doing what is right according to God, and keeping them till the day he comes.


To God be the Glory.

Adulteress

Proverbs 7

Adultery again!

"...they [God's wisdom] will keep you from the adulteress,
from the wayward wife with her seductive words."

"I saw among the simple,
I noticed among the young men,
a youth who lacked judgment."

" And beheld among the simple ones, I discerned among the youths, a young man void of understanding, " KJV

"All at once he followed her
like an ox going to the slaughter,
like a deer stepping into a noose

till an arrow pierces his liver,
like a bird darting into a snare,
little knowing it will cost him his life. "

Scary.
When we are "void of understanding," we are too easy of a prey.

To God be the Glory.

Apple

Proverbs 7

"My son, keep my words
and store up my commands within you.

Keep my commands and you will live;
guard my teachings as the apple of your eye.

Bind them on your fingers;
write them on the tablet of your heart. "

What is the "apple of you eye?"

The apple of your eye is that person (or thing) that you care for the most. Example: "He sure does love his little girl." Reply: "She's the apple of his eye." Example: "You got me the bracelet I wanted!" Reply: "Yes, I knew it was the apple of your eye."

The original meaning of the apple of your eye is the pupil, or the round black spot in the middle of the eye. It is as if that person's reflection can be seen in the pupil ("apple") of your eye. Example: "Everyone knew they would get married someday. She was always the apple of his eye."

It makes you feel good to look at the person who is the apple of your eye. From a famous love song: "You are the apple of my eye. That's why I'll always be with you."
-TheAppleOfYourEye

Interesting, and yet Adam and Eve ate the "apple" in the Garden of Eden.
Was that a metaphor? Was it something that was the "apple" of God's eye?
It is beginning to seem that way. It was the ultimate treasure of God and it was stolen by the broken trust of the evil one.
I am wondering if the evil one actually took a bite too after Adam and Eve.

To God be the Glory.

Adultery

Proverbs 6


"So is he who sleeps with another man's wife;
no one who touches her will go unpunished.

Men do not despise a thief if he steals
to satisfy his hunger when he is starving.

Yet if he is caught, he must pay sevenfold,
though it costs him all the wealth of his house.

But a man who commits adultery lacks judgment;
whoever does so destroys himself.

Blows and disgrace are his lot,
and his shame will never be wiped away;

for jealousy arouses a husband's fury,
and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge.

He will not accept any compensation;
he will refuse the bribe, however great it is."

A thief is someone taking something that does not belong to him/her without asking nor of the owner's knowledge.
Here, an adulterer is like a thief, but worse.
There will be no mercy shown to an adulterer. No fine or penalty is acceptable except final condemnation.

To God be the Glory.

Adultery

Proverbs 6

"keeping you from the immoral woman,
from the smooth tongue of the wayward wife.

Do not lust in your heart after her beauty
or let her captivate you with her eyes,

for the prostitute reduces you to a loaf of bread,
and the adulteress preys upon your very life.

Can a man scoop fire into his lap
without his clothes being burned?

Can a man walk on hot coals
without his feet being scorched?

So is he who sleeps with another man's wife;
no one who touches her will go unpunished. "

"reduces you to a loaf of bread." is quite a description.
However, it is even more picture perfect when it is describing scooping fire into his lap or walking on hot coals without getting burned!
Ultimately, he will be punished for his act, even if he was seduced, because it was his choice, his decision.

"To keep thee from the evil woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a strange woman.

Lust not after her beauty in thine heart; neither let her take thee with her eyelids.

For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adultress will hunt for the precious life.

Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?

Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned?

So he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent."

KJV is even more straight forward.


To God be the Glory.

Detestable - VII

Proverbs 6

"and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers."

"and he that soweth discord among brethren."

I guess this is the "detestable" sin.

God is about unity, and evil is about discord.

So whatever you do, whatever you see and are experiencing discord, pray and if you can, resolve it.

To God be the Glory.

Detestable - VI

Proverbs 6

"a false witness who pours out lies "

"A false witness that speaketh lies"

I have touched on this earlier, as it is somewhat similar but even more damaging than just "a lying tongue"

I guess being a false witness is a premeditated, planned objective to hurt and destroy someone.

To God be the Glory

Detestable - V

Proverbs 6

"feet that are quick to rush into evil,"

"feet that be swift in running to mischief, "

So, when feet are slow to rush to into evil, is that OK?
I guess that means someone is fighting the temptation, and is trying to figure it out?

The question would be when am I quick to rush into something?
What am I impulsive about? Being impulsive is not a good habit.

Ultimately, know what the goal is and stay on course with Hope, Faith & Love.

To God be the Glory.

Detestable - IV

Proverbs 6

"a heart that devises wicked schemes, "

"An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations"

"a heart that plots evil"

Should it not be our mind that devises or plots?

Definition of devise:
Etymology:
Middle English, from Anglo-French deviser, diviser, to divide, distinguish, invent, from Vulgar Latin *divisare, frequentative of Latin dividere to divide
Date: 13th century
1 a: to form in the mind by new combinations or applications of ideas or principles : invent barchaic : conceive, imagine c: to plan to obtain or bring about : plot

Do we plan with our hearts, or is it because we are such emotional beings?
How do we plan with our hearts the evil, or what is contrary to God?

When we plan things, ultimately we know where we are heading. We know where we want to reach, or end up. There is something we know that we want.
If the "want" is contrary to God, than that is evil. That is the difference. We are so blinded by the deception of the evil one, that we sometimes rationalize our desires, from our hearts, what we do to fit our "wants" versus what is God's.

To God be the Glory.

Detestable - III

Proverbs 6:17

"hands that shed innocent blood, "

It seems straight forward enough.
However, Jesus expound on it in the book of Matthew:
"You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment."

This particular example is clear and puts it into perspective in our daily lives.
I, for one, can testify that it is only when you love and forgive someone that your live is more livable.

To God be the Glory.

Detestable - II

KJV.

"A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,

An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,

A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren. "

2- A Lying tongue.
I think we all know what a lying tongue is, however, it seems to be different than " A false witness that speaketh lies" or "a false witness who pours out lies "

Detestable

Detestable: –adjective
deserving to be detested; abominable; hateful.
Inspiring or deserving abhorrence or scorn.

"There are six things the LORD hates,
seven that are detestable to him:

haughty eyes,
a lying tongue,
hands that shed innocent blood,

a heart that devises wicked schemes,
feet that are quick to rush into evil,

a false witness who pours out lies
and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers."

1- Haughty eyes.
Haughty: –adjective, -ti⋅er, -ti⋅est.
Disdainfully proud; snobbish; scornfully arrogant; supercilious: haughty aristocrats; a haughty salesclerk.
Scornfully and condescendingly proud.

Haughty eyes denotes pride that says, “I did it! I accomplished this goal on my own without GOD!” The person who has haughty eyes does not recognize the fact that without GOD, he/she can do nothing. A merciful GOD gives us all abilities, health, and strength to be able to accomplish, and yet a haughty person tells GOD by his/her actions, “I don’t need you!”

I think I'll stop right here. It is convicting enough for me today and will let it sit for a day in my mind, heart and soul.

To God be the Glory.

Folly

Proverbs 6

"My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor,
if you have struck hands in pledge for another,

if you have been trapped by what you said,
ensnared by the words of your mouth,

then do this, my son, to free yourself,
since you have fallen into your neighbor's hands:
Go and humble yourself;
press your plea with your neighbor!

Allow no sleep to your eyes,
no slumber to your eyelids.

Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter,
like a bird from the snare of the fowler. "

Be Humble, and you will be free.


"Go to the ant, you sluggard;
consider its ways and be wise!

It has no commander,
no overseer or ruler,

yet it stores its provisions in summer
and gathers its food at harvest.

How long will you lie there, you sluggard?
When will you get up from your sleep?

A little sleep, a little slumber,
a little folding of the hands to rest-

and poverty will come on you like a bandit
and scarcity like an armed man. "

Be prepared, be aware and be alert!


To God be the Glory.

Adultery

Proverbs 5 is the kick off for wisdom, and it is interestingly enough that adultery is the first topic.

"For the lips of an adulteress drip honey,
and her speech is smoother than oil;
but in the end she is bitter as gall,
sharp as a double-edged sword."

It is always the false sense of gratification, get rich NOW, get served NOW, be free NOW, do it NOW, NOW, NOW!

"Should your springs overflow in the streets,
your streams of water in the public squares?
Let them be yours alone,
never to be shared with strangers.
May your fountain be blessed,
and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth. "

God has given us a gift, the gift of life. Protect it.

"For a man's ways are in full view of the LORD,
and he examines all his paths.
The evil deeds of a wicked man ensnare him;
the cords of his sin hold him fast.
He will die for lack of discipline,
led astray by his own great folly."

Ultimately, God, our LORD, has full view to our lives.
We loose our gift of life from the "lack of discipline."
When we do not have discipline, we are being controlled by others, under oppression, being influenced by satan.

To God be the Glory.

The path

Proverbs 4

The good and evil paths.

Evil:
"For they cannot sleep till they do evil;
they are robbed of slumber till they make someone fall.
They eat the bread of wickedness
and drink the wine of violence."

"For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall.
For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence."

"The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble."


Good:
"The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn,
shining ever brighter till the full light of day."

"But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day."

The "prefect day" is when Jesus comes back...

To God be the Glory.

Wisdom Is Supreme

"Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom.
Though it cost all you have, get understanding."

"Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding"
"Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men.
Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away. "

Pursue wisdom, not money. Pursue wisdom, not power. Pursue wisdom, not only will it protect you, it will sustain you with honor.

To God be the Glory.

Wisdom, the ultimate wealth & Power.

"Blessed is the man who finds wisdom,
the man who gains understanding,

14 for she is more profitable than silver
and yields better returns than gold."

Funny, it did not say: Blessed is the man who finds an investment/job, he will gain wealth..."

15 She is more precious than rubies;
nothing you desire can compare with her.

16 Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.

17 Her ways are pleasant ways,
and all her paths are peace.

18 She is a tree of life to those who embrace her;
those who lay hold of her will be blessed.

19 By wisdom the LORD laid the earth's foundations,
by understanding he set the heavens in place;

20 by his knowledge the deeps were divided,
and the clouds let drop the dew. "

God's discipline

What is God's discipline?

"My son, do not despise the LORD's discipline
and do not resent his rebuke,

because the LORD disciplines those he loves,
as a father the son he delights in. "

What is God's rebuke?

Does God's rebuke happen when disaster takes over?
Is his blessing wealth and prosperity?

Or is it when we feel the emptiness of God, whether rich or poor, that he is discipling or rebuking us?

The only challenging time for Jesus was when he was on the cross and God was silent.

To God be the Glory.

Honor God with you wealth.

"Honor the LORD with your wealth,
with the firstfruits of all your crops;

then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
and your vats will brim over with new wine. "

This is a very sensitive subject. It would be too easy to just respond to this verse by how it was taught to us.
It is interesting that this verse is stuck in the middle of this chapter where wisdom of God is the main focus.
Here's a description of "firstfruits":

• The term first fruits designate the offering of the first crops of the harvests and the beasts of the herds, which were supposedly the best of quality, to placate and give thanks to the LORD. The term is derived from an earlier term, the Firstborn of the Womb, which designates the "firstborn" of the Creator.

My perspective, in accordance with the topic of wisdom, is that anything that we obtain that which is from our labor, money, gifts, food, relationships, and anything, should first be acknowledged to God. Money is the easiest form of giving. It has become and for a long while a standard of measure as to what something is worth. When there was a time when there was not a monetary system in place, because God does not need money, the offering would be the first fruits of your labor, your crop, your need of survival.
In doing this, it helps us not to get caught up in the "wealth" and focus on how God provided.

To God be the Glory.

Trust in the LORD

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;

in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight.

Do not be wise in your own eyes;
fear the LORD and shun evil.

This will bring health to your body
and nourishment to your bones. "

Sometimes, we are "told" that believe in God is not a "feeling".
So what does it mean by trusting in the LORD with all my heart?
Should it not be my brain? My knowledge?
It is also suggesting not to rely on my own understanding.
In ALL my ways, I should acknowledge him.
Here's the definition of Acknowledge:

1. to admit to be real or true; recognize the existence, truth, or fact of: to acknowledge one's mistakes.
2. to show or express recognition or realization of: to acknowledge an acquaintance by nodding.
3. to recognize the authority, validity, or claims of: The students acknowledged the authority of the student council.
4. to show or express appreciation or gratitude for: to acknowledge a favor.
5. to indicate or make known the receipt of: to acknowledge a letter.
6. to take notice of or reply to: to acknowledge a greeting.
7. Law. to confirm as binding or of legal force: to acknowledge a deed

This was helpful. To me it seems to be saying give credit to God. I know for us "humans" that is probably the number 1 thing we crave. Example: If you work, your remuneration is your pay, bonus, or even a promotion in title. We get married and the ultimate gratification is respect for each other.

The next verses is interesting. It says, to fear the LORD and shun evil. It might be pretty simple and clear, however, psychologically, it is implying us as humans, we like evil and do not fear the LORD. Common sense tells us, if there is danger, we would avoid it at all cost. We would avoid it because this "danger" would hurt us and cause us harm. We would be more alert and have a fear that act as an alarm and help us stay on course.
Let's look at the definition of the word shun:

• to keep away from (a place, person, object, etc.), from motives of dislike, caution, etc.;
• take pains to avoid.
• Synonyms: evade, eschew.
• Antonyms: seek.
  

So we can established that we, humans, like to seek "evil", danger, things that is not good for us, things will cause us harm.
However, here is says to "fear the LORD" instead.
Definition of fear:

• to regard with fear; be afraid of.
• to have reverential awe of.
• Archaic. to experience fear in (oneself).
• Origin: bef. 900; ME fere, OE fær sudden attack or danger; c. OS fār ambush, D gevaar, G Gefahr danger, ON fār disaster
  

Maybe I am being a wise guy, but forgive me for my simple thoughts, is God more "evil" or dangerous, worse off for us humans?
Yes and no.
It is because God is the most powerful "entity" that will ever be. He is the source of our lives and being. Without it, we will suffer.
I believe the sentence in this book is telling us which direction we should be going.
If we go towards "evil" we will not only be destroyed by "evil" itself, but also by God.
If we go towards "GOD" we will not only be SAFE, but cannot be touched by "evil."
There, probably the most simple way of putting it.

To God be the Glory.

Proverbs 3

"My son, do not forget my teaching,
but keep my commands in your heart,

for they will prolong your life many years
and bring you prosperity. "

As simple as this sentence might be, I view it as a very complex statement.
At least for me, I like to pride myself to be excellent at the things that I know and do it well.
But that is just it. I am human and am limited to what I know and ultimately at what I can retain.
When I see that I am not as excellent at the things that I know and do, I am humbled.
So in essence, my point of view is that as much as I think I know what God's teaching is and have kept it my heart, sometimes I do forget.
The trick, or key is to NOT forget, just as this sentence describes.
I am pretty sure we all know what the answer to know something and NOT forget.

"Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.

Then you will win favor and a good name
in the sight of God and man. "

To God be the Glory.

Proverbs 2

Wisdom enters your heart after the application of God's wisdom.

"For wisdom will enter your heart,
and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.

Discretion will protect you,
and understanding will guard you.

Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men,
from men whose words are perverse,

who leave the straight paths
to walk in dark ways,

who delight in doing wrong
and rejoice in the perverseness of evil,

whose paths are crooked
and who are devious in their ways.

It will save you also from the adulteress,
from the wayward wife with her seductive words,

who has left the partner of her youth
and ignored the covenant she made before God.

For her house leads down to death
and her paths to the spirits of the dead.

None who go to her return
or attain the paths of life."

Older women will entice men, and lead you to "the spirits of the dead"

Thus you will walk in the ways of good men
and keep to the paths of the righteous.

For the upright will live in the land,
and the blameless will remain in it;

but the wicked will be cut off from the land,
and the unfaithful will be torn from it."

Wicked are people who knows the righteous of God but chooses not to do it.

Proverbs 2

Choose wisely.


"For the LORD gives wisdom,
and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding."

Where is his mouth? Is it the scriptures? Is it Jesus?

"He holds victory in store for the upright,
he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,

for he guards the course of the just
and protects the way of his faithful ones.

Then you will understand what is right and just
and fair—every good path.

For wisdom will enter your heart,
and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.

Discretion will protect you,
and understanding will guard you."

It is when you decide to do what is right. Deciding to WALK with God is when "wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul."


"Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men,
from men whose words are perverse,

who leave the straight paths
to walk in dark ways,

who delight in doing wrong
and rejoice in the perverseness of evil,

whose paths are crooked
and who are devious in their ways.

It will save you also from the adulteress,
from the wayward wife with her seductive words,

who has left the partner of her youth
and ignored the covenant she made before God. [a]

For her house leads down to death
and her paths to the spirits of the dead.

None who go to her return
or attain the paths of life.

Thus you will walk in the ways of good men
and keep to the paths of the righteous.

For the upright will live in the land,
and the blameless will remain in it;

but the wicked will be cut off from the land,
and the unfaithful will be torn from it."

A decision is a decision and if you choose to walk in the path of darkness, your "house leads down to death and her paths to the spirits of the dead."

Proverbs 2

"My son, if you accept my words
and store up my commands within you,

turning your ear to wisdom
and applying your heart to understanding,

and if you call out for insight
and cry aloud for understanding,

and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,

then you will understand the fear of the LORD
and find the knowledge of God. "

Some believe we are all "predestined" to be with God and despite of what we do, or want to do, we have no choice, or "free will" to decide. If that is the case, than why did God ask us to seek him with all our mind, strength, soul and spirit?
Predestination and God's divine selection is God's set of guidance and it is up to us to choose it so he can choose us.
Just like the book of Proverbs. It is a book on God's divine wisdom and if you choose to live by it, "you will understand" and "find" God.
This however, is another topic all together to be dissected.

To God be the Glory.

Proverbs 1

"How long will you simple ones love your simple ways?
How long will mockers delight in mockery
and fools hate knowledge?..."

"...they will eat the fruit of their ways
and be filled with the fruit of their schemes. "

"...For the waywardness of the simple will kill them,
and the complacency of fools will destroy them;

but whoever listens to me will live in safety
and be at ease, without fear of harm."

There will be a time when it is too late, even if the fools repent.

Proverbs

"Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, "Acts 3:19

I am going to focus on Proverbs this time around.
"for giving prudence to the simple,
knowledge and discretion to the young-
let the wise listen and add to their learning,
and let the discerning get guidance- "

Seems to be a win win situation.

"My son, if sinners entice you,
do not give in to them."

No matter who you are, strong or not, you are exposed to the good and bad.
It does not mean if you are strong, you are not going to be susceptible to all kinds of trials.

The first section's advice is that sinners are self centered and greedy:

"If they say, "Come along with us;
let's lie in wait for someone's blood,
let's waylay some harmless soul;

let's swallow them alive, like the grave,
and whole, like those who go down to the pit;

we will get all sorts of valuable things
and fill our houses with plunder;

throw in your lot with us,
and we will share a common purse"

"... for their feet rush into sin,
they are swift to shed blood.
Such is the end of all who go after ill-gotten gain;
it takes away the lives of those who get it."

To God be the Glory.

Repent

OK, life has been quite interesting to say the least. Nothing seems to be working out and the world seems to be on life support. The economy is at it's worst since the depression or maybe worse? However, God is still God and that has not change.
Well, after the last few encounters with "religious" leaders, who professes leadership credentials through various accreditations, I was really discouraged. I will say it again, really discouraged. Not that I was discouraged about their accreditations, but by their perspective of growing. It seems after all that they have attained, they have arrived. Their perspective has been solidified by their accreditations that as leaders that leads the way of the Lord, they can learn from no one unless they have the same status or the like.

This is just a confession, and so I can repent and keep moving forward.

Back to God

Romans 1

"Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done. They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; they are senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless. Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them."


It has been a while since I have had a personal time with God here.
I figured, or finally got some sense knocked into me.
God is God. There are no ifs or buts. There is no dispute whether if he is there or not.
Just from this little absence, I was hoping to do it on my own again.
I know God is there, and I know the scriptures. But each morning I was pre-occupied by something else, namely tyring to find my next "job."

I have to say, my "job" does not help me in feeing better or knowing God is there.
It is quite the contrary.
My happiness, joy, faith, and confidence comes from God alone and the rest relies on my perspective of God.

To God be the Glory.

Grace

John 8

"Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin."

Grace is good.
However, a response is required.

To God be the glory

Blindness

John 9


"Jesus said, "If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains."

Since those whom were not of a Jewish descent, hence Gentiles, were not bound by the law, were they qualify as blind?

To God be the Glory

The Unbelief

John 10

Again the Jews picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus said to them, "I have shown you many great miracles from the Father. For which of these do you stone me?"

"We are not stoning you for any of these," replied the Jews, "but for blasphemy, because you, a mere man, claim to be God."

It is really strange for people claiming to believe in the coming of the Christ and yet not believe Jesus is from God.
I would think if people do know the scriptures, they would recognize the miracles, and even Jesus himself mentioned it.

"Do not believe me unless I do what my Father does. But if I do it, even though you do not believe me, believe the miracles, that you may know and understand that the Father is in me, and I in the Father." Again they tried to seize him, but he escaped their grasp. "

I guess when people are so steep in sin, they will believe what they want to believe, and not see the truth.


The Feast of Dedication also called "Feast of the Maccabees" was a Jewish festival observed for eight days from the 25th of Kislev (i.e. month of December). It was instituted by Judas Maccabeus, his brothers, and the elders of the congregation of Israel, in the year 165 B.C. in commemoration of the reconsecration of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem, and especially of the altar of burnt offering, after they had been desecrated in the persecution under Antiochus Epiphanes (168 BC). The distinguishing features of the festival were the illumination of houses and synagogues, a custom probably taken over from the Feast of Tabernacles, and the recitation of Psalm 30:1-12 HE.[2] J. Wellhausen suggests that the feast was originally connected with the winter solstice, and only afterwards with the events narrated in Maccabees.

To God be the Glory

The Gate

John 10

"I tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber."

Which gate are we entering?
How do we know which is the right gate?
If someone is a "thief" or a "robber" would we recognize him/her?
When is it too late?

"I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd."

It is safe to say that the other sheep would be the Gentiles.
The BIG picture here is: "...one flock and one shepherd."
One.
So why are there so many denominations?
Is one "Church" bigger than the other make it the "true" church?

To God be the Glory

Scattered Children of God

John 11

"He did not say this on his own, but as high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the Jewish nation, and not only for that nation but also for the scattered children of God, to bring them together and make them one. So from that day on they plotted to take his life."

Well, I am not of any Jewish descent nor am I a convert. So I would safely say that I am a "scattered children of God."

What does that mean?
I know I was reached out to and was found.
What about those whose parents are already a "Christian?" They were "born" into the Church?
Are they "scattered" children? I guess they would be the parents' responsibility or would it still be their own responsibility? Infant baptism? Against their will? Not knowing?
Just a thought.

To God be the Glory.

Believe

John 11

But, Lord," said Martha, the sister of the dead man, "by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days."

Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?"

Do we and are there miracles today?
What does believe mean?
How do you believe?
What is the result or is there an immediate result or enlightment?
Or is it like Moses at the top of the mountain? Just sit and wait, maybe break out some cards and play some rummy?

To God be the Glory

Die to live

John 1

"When he heard this, Jesus said, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it."

Glory through death.
As in we have to die to ourselves in order for God to be Glorified.

To God be the glory.

Troubled

John 12

"Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour.

Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again."

Even Jesus was troubled. As much as he is all knowing, and all powerful, he is distressed.

How is someone "distressed?"

It is when something that is incorrect, or does not fit, and there is no way, in any power, to rectify or correct it to your liking.

Love one another

John 13

"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

This basically sums up the meaning of Christianity, discipleship, God, religion, etc.
It ties in all with the rest of the passage and probably the most profound, most important rule in the history of life itself.

Enough said.

To God be the Glory.

Accept

John 13

"I am not referring to all of you; I know those I have chosen. But this is to fulfill the scripture: 'He who shares my bread has lifted up his heel against me.'

"I am telling you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe that I am He. I tell you the truth, whoever accepts anyone I send accepts me; and whoever accepts me accepts the one who sent me."

I would say the question of the day is: 'What do you choose to accept?'

From the first verse here, some might argue, or have a believe, that God chooses and therefore we are predestined. If that is the case, where does accepting come into play?

To God be the Glory

Be Served

John 13

"He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?"

Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand."

"No," said Peter, "you shall never wash my feet."
Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me."

I have known that a "true" leader is a servant to all. As Jesus himself said, I came to serve and not to be served.

The point that hit me with this statement finally, or maybe is hitting me harder today, is the fact that I have to let God "serve" me. If I do not let God intervene, than according to this passage, I do not believe in God, and do not know God. Ultimately, with the following passage:

""Then, Lord," Simon Peter replied, "not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!"

Jesus answered, "A person who has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; his whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you." For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.

When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. "Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them."

Because of the example, because if you have been "served" by God, you should do the same for others, so others, being humble, will be serve by God, and hence know who God is.

Sometimes, or I should say, a lot of times, I have a hard time letting God "serve" me. My ignorant, or maybe it is arroganance, perspective feels I am OK, and God has too much on his plate to even bother with me, and do not want to "whine" to God for help. However, it would also be futile, like Judas, as much as he was "served" by God, he did not serve others, and therefore he went to the wrong place.

Important lesson, be served by God and to serve others.

To God be the Glory.

Feet washing

John 13

"Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him."

Jesus knew, especially at that moment, he had all the power in the world, in the universe. He could do anything, anything at all, he could have annihilated everyone around him, everyone on the planet, but he chose to become a servant.
A thought just came to my head. IF, and a big IF, one can do anything, can one make someone else love him/her?
Is love the only thing God cannot control?
Or is love so powerful that it cannot be controlled?
Is love the most powerful force in the universe?

If you just received 100 Gazillion dollars, that you can buy anything in the whole world or universe, what would you do?

To God be the Glory

Trust

John 14

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me."

"Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

"The words I say to you are not just my own. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. "

"I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father."

"And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father."

Outcast

John 15

""If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you."

Feeling left out? Feel like a dork? An outcast?

"Remember the words I spoke to you: 'No servant is greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the One who sent me."

People do not outcast a "Christian" because of what you have started or are doing. People dislike you, or hate the way you live because of what Jesus started, and you are just following it. People oppose you because of a decision you made to follow Jesus because you are not following those who are not.

"If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin. Now, however, they have no excuse for their sin. "

People still want to believe that there is no such thing as sin. People still want to believe whatever they are doing is because of "nature" and there is ultimately no consequence or "hell". So how dare you come and tell them there is such a "bad" thing?

"He who hates me hates my Father as well. If I had not done among them what no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin."

Same as before, they close their eyes to so that they do not see.

"But now they have seen these miracles, and yet they have hated both me and my Father. But this is to fulfill what is written in their Law: 'They hated me without reason.' "

Sometimes, reason is thrown out the window.

"When the Counselor comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father, he will testify about me. And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning."

Because of the disciples' decision to do what is right, and the Holy Spirit will help guide them. Today we have the Bible.

To God be the Glory.

Sustainablitiy

John 15

The ever famous passage, 'The Vine and the Branches'.

"Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me."

"As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love."

"My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you."

"Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends."

"This is my command: Love each other."

To God be the Glory

Ah Ha!

John 16

"You believe at last!" Jesus answered. "But a time is coming, and has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me.

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Jesus was finally happy that the disciples got it at last, then he continues saying, however, but, they will desert me.
It's kinda like, you got it, but you don't.

Frustrating.

To God be the Glory

The Counselor

John 16

"When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment: in regard to sin, because men do not believe in me; in regard to righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; and in regard to judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned."

The "Counselor" is here.
How does the Holy Spirit convict the world?
Is the Counselor the Holy Spirit?

"But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will bring glory to me by taking from what is mine and making it known to you. All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will take from what is mine and make it known to you."

He is the Spirit of truth.
Where is this Spirit of truth?
If he is the Holy Spirit, when do we see him or be guided by him?
According to this passage, he will bring glory to Jesus buy taking from what is his making it known to the disciples.

To God be the Glory

Warning...

John 16

"'All this I have told you so that you will not go astray. They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, a time is coming when anyone who kills you will think he is offering a service to God."

Strange isn't it? Why would anyone think they are "offering a service to God..." yet in reality, they are not, according to Jesus?
Jesus is speaking to the disciples warning them of this fact, so as to not be mislead.

"...They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me. I have told you this, so that when the time comes you will remember that I warned you."

Glorify

John 17
What is the meaning of "Glorify"?
To give glory, honor, or high praise to; exalt
According to Webster's: to make glorious by bestowing honor, praise, or admiration.

What the heck does all that mean, really?

"After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed: "Father, the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began."

Jesus has "glorified" God by "completing" the work God gave him to do.
Understood, he finished what was supposed to be done, which was telling the truth so that people might have eternal life.
Now, Jesus in return, asked God to "glorify" him so that he may "glorify" God.
Is he asking God to raise him from the dead and ascend to heaven as the glorification?
In our lives, are we supposed to ask God to "glorify" us by doing something out of the ordinary, so God can be "glorified"?
So what is this "something" that is out of the ordinary?

"And glory has come to me[Jesus] through them[the disciples]. "
Were the disciples the handy result of God's work through Jesus, and hence Jesus was glorified through his disciples from what was given by God, there God is glorified.

"Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified."
Keeping them clean, protected, grounded. Because for the disciples, Jesus stayed cleaned, protected and was grounded by God, so they can be the same. Being a great example.

For all who will believe through the disciples:
"I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me."
So glory is given. Glory is served. In order for glory to be reflected or have effect, it has to be accepted by the recipient.
In this case, complete unity is the glory.

"Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them."

To God be the glory.

What is the Truth?

John 18

"What is truth?" Pilate asked.

Is that not the all encompassing question?
As Jesus answered when Pilate was questioning him:

"You are a king, then!" said Pilate.
Jesus answered, "You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me."

My question is, would it be easier to live if you know what the "ending" of your life is going to be or would it be easier if you do not know what your life is going to end up?

I think it would be harder if you do not, but maybe just as hard if you do, because, ultimately, you have to believe that it is going to be what "you" want.
Now the key question is, what is it that you "want"?

I do not think Jesus "wanted" to be crucified.
I do not think Jesus "wanted" to be flogged.
I do not think Jesus "wanted" to be betrayed.
I do not think Jesus "wanted" to be abandoned by his Father, nor his friends. (At least for a few days...3 to be exact)

In the end, we all have to know "where" we are going, otherwise, it would be a really morbid life and that is exactly what the devil wants.

My definition of "where" is what this "Truth" is, otherwise, you do not know where you are going because you are living a "lie".

To God be the Glory.

Power

John 19

Jesus answered, "You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin."

It read:|sc JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS.

The chief priests of the Jews protested to Pilate, "Do not write 'The King of the Jews,' but that this man claimed to be king of the Jews."

Pilate answered, "What I have written, I have written."

Everything appears to be all pre-planned, and I believe it is.
It is just challenging that God has "put" certain people in power so bad things can happen and people might have a chance to see and be with God.
Almost seems cruel in a way. Why is there not a "better" way?
Is it because this world, as it is mentioned, is doomed?
So, in my own little human thinking, would it be better if it was lead by people that are "Godly" or is that not possible while things are still here on earth?
I am in question.
Again, it is my own little human brain working.

To God be the Glory

The Other disciple

John 20

Is John the disciple that Jesus loved?
It is always interesting, or intriguing, that as much as the disciples and people around Jesus saw and lived with him, no one knew what was to come.
Why?
Is this concept or faith that foreign?
Should it be not as simple and clear that people who truly loves God knows?
Maybe it is.

To God be the Glory.

"Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven."

"Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

Reality is not real

John 21

It has been a while since I have really dig deeper into the Bible like never before.
My faith is challenged as I continued to read more and more.
I have shared with many about how it gets more and more frightening the more I read and supposedly understand.

I am going to read John backwards, since I have read it many times, and just recently even more so, I figured that it would be a nice change to read it from the end.

As God is the beginning and the end and there's really no time frame, why not see what happens if we know the ending and work from there?

Regardless, this chapter is challenging.
The reality is, the fishermen did not catch any fish. There were no fruits of their labor, even though they were professionals.
Yet, when Jesus gave the instructions, it changed the outcome of all realities.
According to God, reality is his.
We are just living in the dream, or illusion.

So what is real?

Are we so ignorant and helpless, we can not do anything ourselves, but just to obey?
Where is the free will? Where is the choice? Where is the reality?

To God be the Glory.

Choose correcty

Isaiah 66

Finally. The last chapter. Not that it is good that it is finally over, but finally this ties everything together. I wish there was more. Finally I think I got it. At least I think I did.

We chose to do what is right in our eyes.
We are waiting for the day to come where there will be rest and relaxation, or aka, R&R.
The question is if we see or understand what that R&R is.
God is waiting for the right day to reveal what that is because most of us are still trying to figure it out.
However, before we can see what God has in store for us, we have to go through a transformation, a labor in pain, a construction, a selection.
We have to keep that in our heads, our soul, our spirit to remind us where we are going.
Patience, perseverance, and endure the challenges to get to where that place is.

To God be the Glory.

"But whoever sacrifices a bull
is like one who kills a man,
and whoever offers a lamb,
like one who breaks a dog's neck;
whoever makes a grain offering
is like one who presents pig's blood,
and whoever burns memorial incense,
like one who worships an idol.
They have chosen their own ways,
and their souls delight in their abominations;

so I also will choose harsh treatment for them
and will bring upon them what they dread.
For when I called, no one answered,
when I spoke, no one listened.
They did evil in my sight
and chose what displeases me."