Tag Archives: the book of Proverbs

September 17
Leave a comment
Uncategorized

“Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice, or the Lord will see and disapprove and turn his wrath away from them.” (Proverbs 24:17-18, NIV)

The world maintains a “dance on the ashes of your enemy” approach to human relationships because it is too short-sighted to appreciate the long-term benefit of reconciliation.

As disciples of Jesus, we are His “ambassadors”; and as His ambassadors, we represent only His interests, not our own.

His interest, according to scripture, is not the condemnation of the world, but its salvation. (John 3:17)  His purpose is not the perpetuation of the world’s estrangement from God, but its reconciliation to God. (2 Corinthians 5:18-19)

In all that you do, endeavor to illuminate the path to reconciliation.  – Luther

Tagged ,
September 16
Leave a comment
Uncategorized

“Whoever keeps commandments keeps their life, but whoever shows contempt for their ways will die.” (Proverbs 19:16, NIV)

There is an old saying: “Learn from the mistakes of others; you won’t live long enough to make them all yourself.”

The commandments of God are the best way to avoid the mistakes of others because God’s commandments have two purposes: To protect us; and to provide for us.

So many otherwise intelligent, talented, and resourceful people come to grief because they chose to ignore God’s wisdom and God’s commandments. Trying to learn everything from personal experience, they destroy themselves long before reaching the end of every list of lessons.

Keeping God’s commandments does not inhibit living.  On the contrary, it provides the length of days that makes living possible.  – Luther

Tagged , , , , ,
September 15
Leave a comment
Uncategorized

“The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of the upright will flourish.” (Proverbs 14:11, NIV)

Generally speaking, houses are more secure than tents.  However, most of us would choose a tent erected with integrity over a house marked for destruction.

A house (e. g. life) built on deceit, corrupted morals, or other deficiencies — no matter how grand the house may appear to observers — is destined for destruction.  It is far better to dwell in a humble tent with the assurance of God’s protection, than in any house of wickedness.

As disciples of Jesus, we must keep an eternal perspective; even as the rest of the world looks only at tomorrow, or at outward appearances.  If we forgo the fruits of evil, we shall certainly instead receive the rewards of a clear conscience, a good reputation, and the favor of our heavenly Father.  – Luther

Tagged ,
← Older posts
Newer posts →