“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it. Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Go, and come back, and tomorrow I will give it,’ when you have it with you.” (Proverbs 3:27-28, NASB)

As disciples of Jesus, we should aspire to maintain “short accounts” with everyone.  We should not put-off for tomorrow the things that can be done today: The praise that will encourage; the return of a kindness; the helping hand.

Each day, God gives us numerous opportunities to bless the lives of those around us.  Seize as many of these opportunities as strength will allow.  – Luther

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“Wisdom is a shelter as money is a shelter, but the advantage of knowledge is this: Wisdom preserves those who have it. (Ecclesiastes 7:12, NIV)

While many in this world pursue wealth because of its apparent security, Ecclesiastes reminds us that — compared to wisdom — money is an inferior shelter. 

Money cannot add years to our life, but wisdom will give life to our years. Money cannot reveal the secrets of life; but if a persons acquires wisdom, life’s secrets are revealed.

To live according to God’s wisdom is to have all of the things that money can’t buy.  – Luther

Reminder: “Daily Encouragement” will be on break tomorrow (as it is each Sunday).  Have a great day of rest, relaxation, and worship.  Lord willing, see you again on Monday!

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“I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.” (Psalm 37:25, NIV)

David saw in his history the total faithfulness of God, both to him — and to his offspring. God may sometimes display His faithfulness to us “because of”; and God may sometimes display His faithfulness to us “in spite of,” but God is always faithful.

He cares for us. He seeks our highest good, even through trial or in tears. He gives each of us reasons to love Him and to trust Him that are as countless as they are compelling. 

Each of us has lived long enough to have made “history” with God. When you look back on your particular, personal, history; what is it you see? What is your testimony?  – Luther

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