PROVERBS 13 - WALK WITH THE WISE

 

"A wise son heeds (responds to)  his father's instruction (discipline), but a mocker does not  respond (listen) to rebuke." Proverbs  13:1 (ICB/CSB)

We begin with this chapter on provers with DISCIPLINE. As parents and grandparents we want to leave a spiritual inheritance. We wanted to bring up our own children, so that they could learn how to bring up their own. My biggest prayer every day as a mother, was that Aaron would have a LOVE for the Lord and that HE WOULD SERVE HIM IN THE CHURCH. Also, he would marry a Christian woman and they would bring up their children WISELY, as my parents had brought me up.

                                                                                                     

                                                                                                                              

"But as for me and my househould, we will SERVE THE LORD." Joshua 24:15b (NIV)

"A good person leaves an inheritance for their grandchildren."                                                                                                         Proverbs 13:22a (NLT)

                               1. LISTEN TO PARENTAL ADVICE

Honouring parents is high on GOD'S LIST of priorities. Family life and good parenting is so important. Nothing in the Bible condones violence - cruelty towards children, but children need to be disciplined and they need to respect their parents.

"I have four boys and I work with children everyday. You need to have communication skills - check that they understand what is expected of them. Discipline is not corporal punishment. The "rod" is not the 1st resort, but it is the last plan for disobedience. Children need to have clarity and understanding of the rules in their home and family. You don't beat them because they have made you mad, but discipline them because YOU LOVE THEM, and want the best for them." Dees Rees

"I adopted two girls, and my wife and I had to sign two documents that said we weren't allowed to spank our daughters. Discipline is an EXPRESSION OF GOD'S LOVE and OURS. We try and be patient, to talk things through with them. We want them to know they can LOVE AND TRUST US. The consequences have to be real - through cause and effect. They need to be punished when they disobey us, but in LOVE NOT FEAR. It's not about POWER, BUT LOVE!" Peyton Jones

"Whoever spares the rod hates the child, but the one who loves children is careful to discipline them." Proverbs 13:24 (NIV)

"Children, always oney your parents, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers do not aggravate your children, they will become discouraged and they may want to stop trying." Colossians 3:20&21 (NLT)

 

                                                  2. GUARD YOUR LIPS

"Those who guard their lips will preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin." Proverbs 13:3 (NIV)

Here we go again - there are many more Proverbs that remind us that the TONGUE can bring us TROUBLE. It can do a lot of damage if we don't THINK BEFORE WE TALK! We need to ALWAYS USE WORDS CAREFULLY in all situations.  Wisdom is contagious, but it can also lead to folly.

"As a psychologist/nurse, I learnt how to speak politely."As a Chaplain/Counsellor/Teacher, working with children was a real challenge. We often experiened some "conflict".  You remember that Jesus was a great Shepherd who helped you to "redirect His flock".  Peyton Jones/Dees Rees

"It is impossible to overestimate the importance of your WORDS and CONTROLING YOUR TONGUE." Nicky Gumbel

"Where there is strife (arguments), there is pride (arrogant know it alls stir up discord), but wisdom is found in those (wise men who listen to each other) who take advice." Proverbs 13:10 (ICB/NIV/MSG)

"Walk with the wise (spending time with people) will become wise. But whoever makes friends with fools will suffer." Proverbs 13:20 (NIV/ICB)

Whether it is in a marriage, friendship or any relationship, even in a Church, there will be "quarrels", because there will always be PRIDE. We need to learn to LISTEN CAREFULLY and admit when we are  WRONG or MAKE MISTAKES. Most of all, as we were reminded in the last Proverb, we need to be HUMBLE, GENTLE AND KIND, an encouragement to another with our WORDS.

 

                             3. HARD WORK, PERSEVERENCE, TRUTH

"Lazy people want much but get little (they will not get  what they want), but those who WORK HARD will prosper (the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied, they get what they want)." Proverbs 13:4 (NLT/NIV/ICB)

"Unrelenting disapointments (hope deferred) leave you heart sick, but a sudden good break (a dream fulfilled is a tree of life) can turn life around."                                                                                                 Proverbs 13:12 (MSG/NLT)

Hard work is a blessing! It requires perseverence and lots of "enthusiasm". We may be sad, and disapointed when our prayers aren't answered the way we want. Like Solomon said "his heart was sick". 

"Disapointment can really make us feel ill if we let it fester. It will eat away at us. There is  only one answer: to TAKE IT TO GOD and to TRY AND LET GO OF IT. Trust in God's sovereignty - that's always easier!" Pippa Gumbel

 God's vision will be finally fulfilled through you, in  PERSEVERENCE, with "great joy, fulfillment and satisfaction". 

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that easily entangles. Let us run with perseverance the race that is marked out before us." Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)

"The righteous (good people) hate what is right and false. Doing what is RIGHT protects the HONEST PERSON Proverbs 13:6 (NIV/ICB)

We are to hate dishonesty and LOVE TRUTH. Integrity does not mean we need to be perfect, but God does want us to be HONEST, AUTHENTIC AND REAL. 

                                  

                                       4. PICKING FRIENDS GOD'S WAY

"Whoever spends time with wise people will become wise. But whoever makes friends with fools will suffer." Proverbs 13:20 (ICB)

When you want to sharpen a pencil, you want to find a good sharpener. The same is true with FRIENDS! If you want to find a friend you need to be WISE! If you want to find a good person you have to hang around with the right people - both at school and at Church.

Ask God to help you draw closer to Him, so He can help you develop and grow closer in faith with FRIENDS. GOOD, MATURE CHRISTIAN FRIENDS take time to find, but they are worth it. They usually last a LIFETIME!!

 

"HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION", 2011, Biblica

"INTERNATONAL CHILDREN'S BIBLE", 2015, Tommy Nelson

"HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION", 2015, Tyndale House Publishers

"THE MESSAGE - THE BIBLE CONTEMPORARY LANGUAGE", 2018, Eugene H Peterson , NavPress/Tyndale House Publications.

"CHRISTIAN STANDARD BIBLE", 2017, Holman Bible Publishers

"Walk With the Wise", 2019, Jim Spencer (Composer), Spencer Family (Performers), Crossway/ESV Good News Publishers/YouTube

Jones, Peyton, Ross TeDese, "Walk With the Wise - Proverbs 13" ,2026, Though the Word

Gumbel, Pippa & Nicky, "How to Respond to Conflict"/"How to Finish Well" -   (2026)      "The Bible in One Year" (2009), Alpha International/YouVersion

PROVERBS 12 - LIFE LESSONS

 

"The Lord is pleased with a GOOD PERSON. But He will punish anyone who plans evil." Proverbs 12:2 (ICB)

Solomon gave instructions for our LIFE, which we have been learning from the last 11 Proverbs. But they still continue:

* DO RIGHT AND YOU WILL SUCEED.

* WICKEDNESS LEADS TO FAILURE.

* FOOLISHNESS AND LAZINESS LEAD TO RUIN.

He contrasted:

* GOOD AND EVIL.

* WISDOM AND FOOLISHNESS.

* LABOUR AND LAZINESS.

Do you want success in life? Achievement? These are not really important. I am more a "Mother Theresa" type person - I don't own a lot, and it has never worried me.  My daughter in law in law were chatting the other day and she encouraged with some words: "Mum, I always have faith because I have watched you in your life - no matter what happens in your life you always TRUST GOD and you know that HE IS IN CONTROL". 

The first words on my NDIS PLAN are: "You want to support others". My goals and strengths are to develop my COMMUNICATE SKILLS, to IMPROVE MY BALANCE and DAILY LIVING ACTIVITIES. I want to develop my FINE MOTOR SKILLS with my writing and my reading skills, to support my family, the Church and the community. 

"What matters to you? Look for LOVE, your JOB, SERVICE FOR GOD, wealth or sacrifice. Pattern your life after WISE, FAITHFUL, SPIRITUAL WORKERS."                                                                                                               Max Lucado

                                     1. PATIENCE AND KINDNESS

"A foolish person quickly shows that he is upset (is quick tempered), but a wise person ignores (stay calm) when insulted" Proverbs 12:16 (ICB/NLT)

Instead of lashing out when someone insults us, God reminds us that we need to be patient and kind, use our wise thoughts to SAY NOTHING. We may find it hard to ignore them, but as it Jesus told us when teaching the Beautitudes, "the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way we were", but God always watched over them. 

"God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses you when people say bad things about you and hurt you. They will lie and say all kinds of evil things about you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in Heaven. People dod the same evil things to the prophets who lived before you."                                                                                                          Matthew 5:10-12 (NLT/ICB)

When you are PATIENT AND KIND when someone is hurting you, they will hopefully see GOD'S LOVE IN YOU. It may change their hearts if they see FORGIVENESS rather than HATE, and hopefully it may CHANGE THEIR HEARTS. It may take time, but it's worth the wait!!

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, FORGIVING ONE ANOTHER, just as God forgave you in Christ." Ephesians 4:32 (CSB)

"In the same way, ther is JOY IN HEAVEN before the angels of God when one sinner CHANGES HIS HEART." Luke 15:10 (ICB)

                                           2.  ENCOURAGING OTHERS

"Some people make cutting remarks (careless words stab like a sword), but the WORDS OF THE WISE BRING HEALING." Proverbs 12:18 (NLT/ICB)

"ENCOURAGE EACH OTHER DAILY while it is still called today, so that none of you are hardened by sins of deception." Hebrews 13:31 (CSB)

"Therefore, ENCOURAGE ONE ANOTHER, and BUILD ONE ANOTHER UP as you are already doing." 2 Thessalonians 5:4 (CSB)

Life in the world can be so TOUGH. We can have so many BATTLES and discouraging experiencing. Sometimes we feel like GIVING UP. We thank God that He uses special people to encourage and lift us up in those times - to speak encouraging words into our hearts and to remind us of the plans God has for our lives.

"For I know the PLANS I HAVE FOR YOU says the Lord, PLANS PROSPER YOU AND NOT TO HARM YOU, TO GIVE YOU HOPE AND A FUUTURE." Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Sometimes it can be Pastors and Christian friends (contact groups), or may even online friends, from authors and speakers we have grown up with. We too need to bring encouragement to others, shining a light into their lives.  We will have the opportunity by using our GIFTS, TOOLS AND PASSIONS to reach our to others in our family, community and Church.

                                                   3. FRUITFULNESS/HONESTY

"The fruit of the righteous is the tree of life, and the one who is wise saves live." 

                                                                                           Proverbs 11:30 (ICB)

"Wickedness never brings stability (no life can be established), but the GODLY HAVE ROOTS (the righteous cannot be uprooted)."                                                                                                                Proverbs 12:3 (NLT/NIV)

Do you want your life to make a difference? Do you want your life to be a blessing to others? It is the HOLY SPIRIT that enables you to this, and helps you enjoy God's favour. Being HONEST AND TRUTHFUL is the 3rd skill God wants us to develop in life, with "authenticity from the heart".

I am currently working on my memoirs. I've been doing it for many years, and there are still many things in my life I still don't remember, or maybe don't want to. Those I do, are HONEST MEMORIES from the HEART. I love sharing them, hopefully to BRING JOY to others. 

"A WISE PERSON IS PRAISED, but a stupid person is not respected....TRUTH WILL LAST FOREVER, but lies last only a moment. The Lord hates those who tells lies. But HE IS PLEASED WHO DO WHAT THEY PROMISE." Proverbs 12:8, 19, 22 (ICB)

Kids do it! Adults do it! We all tell lies! We all bend the truth, because we don't want to get into trouble. I remember when I was a child, I was afraid of telling my Dad I stole some money from my dad's wallet; so I could buy the kids at school some lollies. I just wanted to make friends! But I knew my Dad would be unhappy and I knew God didn't like LIES. So I ended up telling the TRUTH!

Being HONEST is the way we show that we have GOD'S SPIRIT in our hearts. This is what I learnt as a child, and what I still try to live out today. I'm not perfect, but PRAISE GOD, with GOD'S GRACE we cann be HONEST AND TRUSTWORYHY, living the way Jesus wants us to. 

                                         4. DON'T WORRY, BE HAPPY:                                                                                                 PROMOTE PEACE

"Worry (anxiety) makes a person feel like they are carrying a heavy load. A heavy heart weighs a person down, but the kind words cheer the person up."                                                                  Proverbs 12:25 (ICB/CSB)

Remember the old song: "Don't Worry, Be Happy". The picture below shows the donkey carrying a heavy load, but he is smiling, because he knows that Jesus is carrying it with him, so his burden is light. He has given his worries to Jesus.

God wants us to have a HAPPY LIFE and to HELP OTHERS.  He does not want  us to be "weighed down with anxiety". Promote PEACE with your words. They can be vey powerful, hurtful or healing. 

"Lord, help me to be a person who promotes PEACE, who speaks WORDS OF HEALING, TRUTH, KINDNESS and ENCOURAGEMENT." Nicky Gumble.

"THE HOLY BIBLE" - 'NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION" 2011, Biblica

"THE HOLY BIBLE" - "NEW LIVING TRANSLATION", 2015,                                                                                                             Tyndale House Publications

"INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN'S BIBLE", 2015, Tommy Nelson

"CHRISTIAN STANDARD BIBLE." 2017, Holman Bible Publishers

"DON'T WORRY, BE HAPPY", 2021, Bobby McFerrin (Composer/Performer), ChoyLyrics/YouTube

LUCADO, Max, "In the Eye of the Storm",  1991, Word.

GUMBEL, Nicky, "Tell Your Story Authentically/Bible in the Year" 2009/2026,       ALPHA International/YouVersion

PROVERBS 11 - WITH HUMILITY COMES WISDOM

 

"When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but WITH HUMILITY COMES WISDOM."                                                                                                                           Proverbs 2:2 (NIV)

                                        1.  WISE WORDS: PRIDE CREATES PROBLEMS,                                                                                    WITH HUMILITY COMES FAITH & TRUST

God says over and over againn: "I hate hearts filled with pride". He isn't impressed with how strong we are or what we want to do ON OUR OWN. Why does God hate pride?

 Our granddaughters are growing up very fast - the oldest is 12 years old and the youngest 7 years old; but they all have one thing in common - THEY LOVE DOING THEIR OWN THING! Even if they make mistakes, they want to keep trying on their own: "No, I CAN DO IT MYSELF!" 

We often treat God this way, "out growing the need for God's help". Throughout the Proverbs we have been warned: "to keep our hearts humble and trust in Him".

Because we need JESUS - the "the WAY, THE TRUTH and the LIFE". This is how He creaeted us. When we simply understand that our TALENTS come from GOD and not us, we are filled with HUMILITY, and we are free from pride.  We need to have FAITH that God knows more than we do. 

"Good people will be GUIDED BY HONESTY, but dishonesty will destroy those who are not trustworthy"Proverbs 2:3 (ICB)

                              2. GIFTS OF LOVE & RIGHTEOUSNESS

"Doing what is RIGHT brings freedom to honest people. But those who are not trustworthy will be caught by their own desires." Proverbs 11:6 (ICB)

GOD LOVES US and we cannot experience this LOVE and know HIM, if we are proud. When we understand GOD'S LOVE we don't  want to push Him away. We enjoy a RICH RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM, as our CREATOR. 

To have this "right relationship" with God and His Son Jesus, is truly a GIFT OF FAITH. This is our only true foundation. It is not based in riches or wealth, in which we can be tempted. We can have these for a short time, but we can't take them with us to Heaven, when Jesus returns!

"RICHES will not help on the day of judgement, but RIGHT LIVING can save you from death. The godly are directed by honesty; the wicked fall beneath their load of  sin." Proverbs 11:4&5 (NLT)

Placing our hope in the resurrection of Christ is the KEY to the KINGDOM. When God's justice comes, knowing Christ is the what will help us GET TO HEAVEN. Living a life like Him in RIGHTEOUSNESS, LOVE AND HUMILITY. 

"Lord, I take possession of your GIFT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS BY FAITH, Help me to live a life of HUMILITY, INTEGRITY AND LOVE". Nicky Gumbel

 

                          3. BE A BLESSING TO YOUR COMMUNITY,                                                                                     CHURCH & FAMILY

"The whole city celebrates when the GODLY SUCCEED; they shout for joy when the wicked die.......Without WISE LEADERSHIP, a nation falls; there is safety in having many ADVISORS.....a GRACIOUS WOMAN GAINS RESPECT, YOUR KINDNESS WILL REWARD YOU." Proverbs 11:10,14,16&17 (NLT)

You can have an influence in your community and Church, and even in you whole country, if you follow God's guidance and favour. 

As you've already learnt in these last Proverbs, USING YOUR TONGUE is very important, with restraint, trust and honesty. 

Conflict in your neighbourhood can cause a lot of trouble. Remember to HOLD YOUR TONGUE. Think about what you are going to say before you say it. The mouth can get us into trouble very fast. If you say something stupid, there will be consequences. Even if you say what you think is the truth by spreading gosspip, you can damage friendships. Your mouth needs to be filled with GRACE, "seasoned with salt." 

"It is foolish to belittle one's neighbour; a sensible person keeps quiet."                                                                                        Proverbs 11:12  (NLT)

 We need WISE, GODLY LEADERS to provide wise advice. an very fortunate to have woman in my Connect Group who are very godly and Biblical leaders, who not only encourage me with their words, but with their PRAYERS. They are KINDHEARTED and SOW RIGHTEOUSNESS! I know they will always be rewarded.

The leaders in our Church, including my own daughter in law who is the Children's Pastors and reaches out to young parents in their community Playgroup, are a great influence in their Connect Groups too. 

"The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed." Proverbs 11:27 (NLT)

"Life has difficulties, challenges and sufferings", but we are also crowned with blessings. We will find "good will", thriving like a "green leaf". Thank you Lord for giving us a righteous life in Christ, and helping us to walk in the path of "truth and kindness" that is a "light to others". Nicky Gumbel

"THE HOLY BIBLE" - 'NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION" 2011, Biblica

"THE HOLY BIBLE" - "NEW LIVING TRANSLATION", 2015,                                                                                                             Tyndale House Publications

"INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN'S BIBLE", 2015, Tommy Nelson

GUMBEL, Nicky, "Pride Creates Problems/Humility, Integrity & Love/Blessing the Community" .One Year" 2009/2026, Alpha International/You Version

 

 

PROVERBS 10 - SOLOMON'S PROVERBS

 

"Solomon's sons had been faced with CHOICES. Urged to choose WISDOM AND UNDERSTANDING, these PRACTICAL ASPECTS of their life begin."                                                                                                            David & Pat Alexander

1. MATERIALISM & HARD WORK

"A WISE SON makes a GLAD (HAPPY) FATHER but a FOOLISH SON is a SORROW TO HIS MOTHER  (SAD) . Treasures (Riches) gained by wickedness (doing wrong) do not profit (have no profit), but RIGHTEOUSNESS delivers (saves) from death."                                                                                       Proverbs 10:1&2 (ESV/ICB)

"The Lord does not let people who LIVE RIGHT GO HUNGRY, but he refuses to satisfy the cravings of the wicked. LAZY PEOPLE ARE SOON POOR; HARD WORKERS GET RICH." Proverbs 10:3&4 (ICB/NLT)

There are many Proverbs that talk about being IDLE and LAZY. Sometimes we just procrastinate, or we may just be tired and take time starting on a project. Sometimes it might be a health issue or depression. 

Have you ever watched a spider spin it's web? Have you ever watched a robin pull a worm from the ground? THEY ARE HARD WORKERS! But God cares about us, just as He cares for them. He provides for our NEEDS, and this is evidence of His love. He would still like it if we worked hard, but he cares for us still, if we are struggling.

 God will protect his righteous people, and desires a godly integity. He wants us to care for our community and Church too. What upsets Him, "makes us subject to His wrath" is when we put MATERIAL GAIN first in our lives, and we try to get it by using ungodly means.

These verses outline a "wise character" and contrasts them with "a selfish fool". 

"The honest person will live safely. But the one who is dishonest will be caught......The rich man's wealth is his strong city; the destruction of the poor is their poverty. Tha labour of the righteous leads to LIFE, but He who refuses correction goes astray." Proverbs 10:9, 15&16 (ESV/NKJV)

My daughter in law and I were talking yesterday. Both my husband and my son are stressing themselves lately about "housing" - and whether they have enough money.  She said that she has always noticed that this is one thing I never stress over. God always seems to take care of us!  It's nice to know that I can be a positive blessing in at least one way.  And she's right - that's a PROMISE I can always trust in! My Mum and Dad taught me that! Through GOD'S WORD and their TRUSTING IN HIM!

"I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans for hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

"Come to me, all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."                                                                                                                Matthew 11:28 (NIV)

 

2. WISE WORDS & FOOLISH WORDS

"You can expect wise people to speak with understanding, but people who lack sense (without wisdom) can expect to be punished (are beaten with a rod). WISE PEOPLE TREASURE KNOWLEDGE, but a babbling fool (a person who talks too much) invites disaster (is ruined)." Proverbs 10:13&14 (ICB/NLT)

Proverbs places a lot of stress on the POWER OF OUR WORDS AND SPEECH. What we say and how we speak to people, can have a great impact in our lives. We need to BE AN ENCOURAGEMENT to others, give positive advice from the WORD OF GOD, not be tempted with negative GOSSIP OR REBUKE. 

It takes a WISE PERSON to MASTER THE TONGUE. And to do this, we need to spend a lot of time with the Lord in studying His Word and in PRAYER.  Proverbs are full of wise judgement and sound advice.

"The TONGUE is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a TINY SPARK can SET A FOREST ON FIRE.....Blessing and cursing come out of the SAME MOUTH. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! .......The wisdom that comes from above is first of all PURE, it is also PEACE LOVING AND GENTE. This wisdom is always FAIR AND HONEST. Those who are PEACEMAKERS will plant SEEDS OF PEACE and reap a harvest of righteousness." James 3:5,10,17&18 (NLT/ICB)

Control of the tongue is VITAL. 

The mouth of a  fool produces:                                The mouth of the righteous:

* Hatred and violence, stiring up conflict.             * LOVES -  covering all wrongs.

"Hatred stirs up conflict, but LOVE COVERS OVER ALL WRONGS."                                                                                                             Proverbs 10:12 (NIV)

* Inviting ruin, trouble                                            * Fountain of Life, understanding. 

"The wise are glad to be instructed (they do what they are told) but the babbling fools  (a talkative fool) fall flat on their faces (will be ruined)."                                                                                                          Proverbs 10:8 (NLT/ICB)

* Sin: Talking too much, Slander, Lying              * FORGIVENESS - Heals relationships. 

"If you talk a lot, you are sure to sin. If you are wise, you will keep quiet. The words (tongue) of a good person (the righteous) are like pure silver. But an evil person's thoughts are worth litttle." Proverbs 10:19 (NLT/ICB)

* Hold a Grudge, Offending Others                      * End bickering. 

" A good person's words (the lips of the righteous) will help (nourish) many others. But a foolish person dies because he doesn't have wisdom (for a lack of sense)." Proverbs 10:20&21 (ICB/NIV)

Your words have the power to bring great blessing, but it can also bring harm. It can heal or destroy relationships. Love can cover and forgive all wrongs. 

"A kind word heals but cruel ones injure - psychological wounds cut deeper. Physical ones reject the idea that words never harm us. Proverbs says: "Death and life are in the power of the tongue." Rabbi Jonathon Sacks

3. HEALTHY, WEALTHY AND  RIGHTEOUSNESS

"The blessing of the Lord brings WEALTH (he makes a person rich); without painful toil for it (he adds no sorrow for it)." Proverbs 10:22 (NIV/NLT)

The wealth that God wants for is children is not necessarily MATERIAL. It is TRUE JOY and RICHNESS. God wants to bless us with Heavenly treasures, that will last forever. Material things don't make us happy. Our focus needs to be on SPIRITUAL TREASURES.

" WHAT  THE RIGHTEOUS DESIRE WILL BE GRANTED. A good person receive what he wants.  THE RIGHTEOUS STAND FIRM FOREVER..... A good person looks forward to happiness, the PROSPECT OF THE RIGHTEOUS IS JOY"                                                                                           Proverbs 10: 24b,25b,28b (NIV/NLT)

God's Spirit will change your desires. He aligns your HEART with GOD'S WILL. Right and good relationships are a source of GREAT JOY forever! When we know JESUS OUR SAVIOUR and Lord. Our  JOY IS COMPLETE!

"I have told you this so that MY JOY may be in you and YOUR JOY MAY BE COMPLETE." John 15:11 (NIV)

"REJOICE IN THE LORD ALWAYS. I will say it again: REJOICE!" Philippians 4:4 (NIV)

THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION", 2011, Biblica

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION" - 2015, Tyndale House Publishing

"INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN'S BIBLE", - 2015, Tommy Nelson

ALEXANDER, David & Pat (1994), "Proverbs 9- Lion Handbook to the Bible -        Fourth Edition", Lion Hudson Publishers

RABBI SACKS, Jonathon (2015/2016), "Essays on Ethics" - Covenant and Conversations: A Weekly Reading in the Jewish Bible", Maggid Books and              Orthodox Press

PROVERBS 9 - BEING WISE & FOOLISH

 

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                                            GROW IN WISDOM

 These are all wise words from Solomon that were passed on from his father King David. 

One night Solomon had a dream, and God promised to give him anything he wanted. HE CHOSE WISDOM so that he could LEAD GOD'S PEOPLE, as his father had. God granted him this, with great riches and fame. Unfortunately, like his father, Solomon fell into a trap of becoming a womanizer. He turned away from God and the older he became the further he drifted from GOD'S TRUTH. He worshipped the idols of his ungodly wives. 

But he wanted to pass these words onto his sons and daughters, so they would not fall away into folly.

"WISDOM has built her house. She has made her seven columns (pillars)....Stop your foolish (simple) ways and you will LIVE. Be a person of UNDERSTANDING (walk in the way of INSIGHT)....Teach (instruct) a wise man and he will become even WISER (still). Teach a good man (the righteous)  and HE WILL LEARN EVEN MORE.  The fear of the Lord (respect) is the beginning of WISDOM, and KNOWLEDGE OF THE HOLY ONE IS UNDERSTANDING."                                                                                                       Proverbs 9:1,6,9&10 (NLT/NIV)

1. HANDLING CRITICISM

"If you correct someone who makes fun of WISDOM, you will get INSULTED. If you correct an evil person, YOU WILL GET HURT. Do not correct someone who makes fu1n of wisdom, but correct a wise man and HE WILL BECOME WISER."                                                                                                                    Proverbs 9:7&8 (ICB)

When someon criticizes or gossips about us, we dont't like it. We often want to fight back!  Constructive criticism annd  personal attacks are not comforting, especially when they come to us at a  young age. Growing up I was teased a lot at school every day. It was hard to leave these words in the past - I had lot of resentment and rejection over many years. 

But I realized this was not WISE BEHccAVIOUR! We need to be HUMBLE AND POSITIVE. It has taken me many years to seek forgiveness. There are still days I still think about words that are spoken - maybe in jest - but still hurtful. I need to make sure my words are CHRISTLLIKE and that that they BUILD OTHERS UP not TEAR THEM DOWN. It may not be easy, but THANK GOD you have a "TOOL OF WISDOM" that can make you stronger, that can "add to our learning" and our response can help us GROW IN LOVE LIKE CHRIST.  

"Constructive feedback is more affective. A right relationship with God will increase our wisdom and help us to grow in understanding." Nicky Gumbely

"These wise choices are especially important with out WORDS. If someone hurts your feelings you can react in a number of ways. We can GET ANGRY or we can ignore their personal attacks. This can hurt, especially when it criticizes our work. They can poison relationships. Satan's cruellest artillery and weapons are GOSSIP, ACCUSSATIONS AND REJECTION. But GOD'S WORD IS HEALING! Jesus is our great physician." Max Lucado

2. RESPONDING TO SUFFERING - MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICES

"He is rewarded by HIS WISDOM. But the person who makes fun of wisdom will suffer for it." Proverbs 9:12  (ICB)

"Do you think the Galileans are worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you will perish."                                                                                                                        Luke 13:2&3  (NIV)

Jesus shows His extroadinary WISDOM in hIS TEACHING. We don't suffer because of our sins or natural disasters. They are not our punishments. But our sins are dangerous if we don't repent and follow Him.

"Leave your simple ways behind and you will LIVE. LEARN TO USE GOOD JUDGEMENT." Proverbs 9:6 (NLT)

Have you faced a decision? A right way or a wrong way? An easier way or hard way - wisdom or folly? Here again we have a WOMAN - wisdom calling out to the "simple minded". She invites the fools to a banquet, where they will "eat, drink and be merry (folly)"; but the the wise will also come, "using good judgement". 

Wisdom begins with KNOWING GOD and HIS WORD. Understanding and analyzing the TRUTH. It is a reward that comes when we ignore FOLLY (selfishness). The woman calls folly to her house, but it is not the RIGHT DECISION - it is not LIFE, it is death. Which way will you follow? Which way do you want to end up?

" Stop compromising bad habits and return to God. God's standards are WISDOM AND RIGHTEOUSNESS. Folly is willfully going your own way. WISDOM leads to a life that is GOOD and folly ends in death."                                                                                                                                       David & Pat Alexannder (1994)

"The actions of the wise and good people are contrasted with the foolish and evil people. We need to live HONEST LIVES and make WISE CHOICES." Max Lucado

3. REVERENCE TO GOD

"You are the children of the Lord your God ..... You are a people, whho acre called to be HOLY to the Lord your God..... You have been chosen to be a treasured possession." Deuteronomy 14:1a,2a,2c (NIV/ICB)

"Wisdom begins with respect for the Lord and understanding begings with knowing God, the HOLY ONE. The wise person is REWARDED BY HIS WISDOM"                                                                                                                     Proverbs 9:10 &12 (ICB)

In Proverbs 9:10 we are told that reverence for the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. In Verse 12, we are told that our wisdom will be rewarded. Thank you Lord that we are  a "treasured poseesion" and we will grow daily in your wisdom if we continue to be honour you. 

This would have to be one of my favourite verses, not only because I love worshipping and honouring my Father God; but simply on those days when I feel "old" and "unworthy", it's nice to know I am still His "treasured possession". 

4. THE WAYS OF FOLLY

"Do not be shaped by the world. Instead be changed by a new way of thinking. Then you will be able to decide what God wants for you. And you will be able to know what is the GOOD AND PLEASING WILL OF GOD." Romans 12:2 (ICB)

"Foolishness is like a loud woman. She does not have WISDOM OR KNOWLEDGE. She sits at the door of her house, it is at the highest place in the city.....She  says to those who are not wise: "Come in here, you foolish people! Stolen water is sweeter. Stolen food tastes sweeter." Proverbs 9:13,14,16&&17 (ICB)

We are back to the picture of a "woman", calling out to thhe foolish people she knows who are easily led into her ways - the ways of the world. Help us Lord not to "fall into folly", for the "stolen water" is not sweet or refreshing. And food "eaten in secret" does not taste good. You don't want to lack "good judgement" but you want to follow the words and will of God and His Son Jesus. You want to live an EVERLASTING LIFE full of joy, wisdom and PROMISE.

"Have you been nurturing what you believe is a "harmless habit". You may be like the man who is continually led into the woman's house to "drink her sweet water" or "alluring food". Stop that compromising habit today and RETURN TO GOD before it's too late." Gordon McDonald  

"If you think yoou arre strong you should be careful you do not fall. The only temptation that has come to youis that which evveryone has. But you can trust God who will not permit you to be tempted more than you can stand. And when you are tempted, and he also will give you a way of escape, so that you will be able to stand it." 1 Corinthians 10:12&13

. I was very blessed to be brought up in a Christian family,  but my parents were always out serving the "City Missions" - the homeless and out in the world. I went to a State School, and although I always wanted to go to Bible College - into ministry - I always knew my leading was into the "world". I always had this PROMISE!!

"My prayer is not that you take them out of the world, but you protect them from the evil one.....Make them ready for service through the TRUTH. Your teaching is TRUTH. I have sent them into the world, the same as you sent me into the world. I am praying not only for those disciples but also for those who will ever believe in me, through their message. I pray that THEY MAY BE ONE , just as You and I ARE ONE - as you are in me, Father, and I am in You. And MAY THEY BE IN US so that the world will BELIEVE YOU SENT ME." John 17:15, 17&18, 20&21  (NIV/ICB/NLT

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION", 2011, Biblica

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION" - 2015, Tyndale House Publishing

"INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN'S BIBLE", - 2015, Tommy Nelson

ALEXANDER, David & Pat (1994), "Proverbs 9- Lion Handbook to the Bible - Fourth Edition", Lion Hudson Publishers

GUMBEL. Nicky & Pippa, 2009/2026, "The Bible in One Year - Seven Ways to Grow Wisdom - Proverbs 9" , Alpha/You Version

LUCADO, Max, "Just Like Jesus", 1999, Word Publishing

MCDONALD, Gordon, "Rebuilding the Broken World", 1988, Thomas Nelson

PROVERBS 8 - WISDOM'S CALL

 

"Listen to WISDOM call out! Hear, as UNDERSTANDING raises HER VOICE.....I call to you, all of you! I raise my voice to all people!.....Listen to Me, I have important things to tell you. Everything I SAY IS RIGHT!, for I SPEAK THR TRUTH and detest every kind of deception." Proverbs 8:1, 4,6&7 (NLT)

Proverbs is about knowing the difference between RIGHT AND WRONG. Young people are offered many paths:

1. WISDOM OF GOD (CHRIST)

"But Christ is the power of God and WISDOM OF GOD to those God has called Jews and Greeks ..... the Jews ask for MIRACLES and the Greeks want WISDOM. But we preach CHRIST ON THE CROSS." 1 Corinthians 1:22, 23a,24 (ICB)

If you want TRUE WISDOM it starts with a relationship with Jesus. WISDOM, KNOWLEDGE and UNDERSTANDING are the TRUTH that comes from living in the nature of JESUS HIMSELF. 

Jesus is described in the New Testament as being WISDOM ITSELF.  When we seek WÀISDOM, we pursue JESUS. The first step is to SET GOALS, LIVE WELL, and SEEK WISDOM. An example of this is HONESTY AND TRUTH, in our communication and speech, words that are RIGHTEOUS and TRUE

"My advice is wholesome. There is nothing devious or crooked in it. My words are plain to anyone with understanding, clear to those with knowledge."                                                                                                                 Proverbs 8:8&9 (NLT)

"The fear of the Lord is to hate evil. I hate pride, arrogance, evil behaviour and perverse speech." Proverbs 8:13 (NIV)

This is what we want to be when we want to live like Jesus. For he despises these things: pride, arrogance, slander and gossip. He hates all evil and sin! If we hate sin we want to run to him as seek his forgiveness. God can change us if wee REPENT. We can seek RIGHTEOUSNESS and Jesus will gladly help us live a godly life with Him.

"But seek first  His Kingdom and HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS and all these things will be givento you as well." Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

"I tell you, ther will be rejoicing in Heaven over one sinner WHO REPENTS than over the ninety nine righteous persons who do not need to repent." Luke 15:7 (NIV)

2. FOLLOWING YOUR OWN WAY , OR GOD'S WAY.

A woman's wisdom is contrasted with an adulterer. She is "seductive and secretive". They show sensual pleasure and reveal a LACK OF TRUST IN GOD.  Wisdom is personified as a WOMAN - calling GOD'S PEOPLE to follow her ways. It is highly desirable!

We have choices to make and sometimes me can make the wrong ones, because we think we know better, even though WISDOM IS CRYING OUT FOR US TO LISTEN. Wisdom is  even more important than seeking after WEALTH. We need to make the right decisions, that will result in a positive transformation of our lives.

"Oprah Winfey tells us: "There is TRUE WISDOM in following INSTINCTS."  But this is a worldly view. Solomon reminds us that "TRUE WISDOM COMES FROM GOD." You can grow in a relationship with Him and His Son Jesus, by learing to REFLECT ON HIS WORD." Nicky Gumbel /Oprah Winfrey

"Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies and nothing you want is equal to it."" Proverbs 7:10&11 (NIV/ICB)

"Your teachings are worth more to me than thousands of pieces of gold and silver." Psalm 119:72 (ICB)

It may sometimes be hard to know which choices are the right ones to make. But as David reminds us in his Psalm, and Solomon in Proverbs, if we read GOD'S WORD we will GAIN WISDOM for this is more precious than silver, gold and rubies. 

Yes, we can receive riches and honour, enduring wealth and prosperity, golden fruit, the paths of righteousness and justice, treasures of goodness. But our richest inheritance is having this RELATIONSHIP.

"I love those who love Me, and those who seel me find me......I walk in the way of righteousness along the paths of justice, bestowing a rich inheritance on those who LOVE ME and making their treasuries full." Proverbs 8:17, 20&21 (NIV)

3. AIM TO BE FULL OF JOY

"Wisdom is a kind of sanctified common sense. It leads to the greatest self understanding that helps you steer through life and master challeginges ahead."                                                                                                              Nicky Gumbel

Jesus wants us to be full of JOY, and this is personified in WISDOM! Our JOY CAN OVERFLOW everday as we celebrate being in His presence.  Wisdom is PURE and BEAUTIFUL, it helps us as LEADERS when we minister to God's people; and it is promised to us, if we seek after it every day.

"I was like a child BY HIS SIDE. I was HAPPY everyday (filled with delight). I enjoyed being in GOD'S PRESENCE. I rejoiced in His world and was happy with people (delighted in mankind)." Proverbs 8:30&31 (ICB/NIV)

"I have told you this, so that my JOY may be in you, and that YOUR JOY may be COMPLETE." John 15:11 (NIV)  

THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION", 2011, Biblica

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION", 2015, Tyndale House Publishers

"INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN'S BIBLE", 2015, Thomas Nelson

GUMBEL, Nicky, WINFREY, Oprah, "How to Become Wise/Aim to Be Full of Joy" - Proverbs 8," (2009/2026) The Bible in One Year/Alpha International/YouVersion

PROVERBS 7 - MORE WARNINGS AGAINST ADULTERY

 

1. GOD'S LOVING BOUNDARIES - 
BE CAREFUL LITTLE EYES AND FEET.

"My son, remember what I say. Treasure my commandsKeep my commands and you will LIVE. Guard my teachings as the apple of your eye. Bind them on your fingers, wriite them on on the tablet of your heart." Proverbs 7:1-3 (ICB)

   

Sin is trick! We know it is wrong - this is what our parents and teachers have taught us.  But when we grow older we begin to question what we are taught. Solomon's son's began to do this too. Like their father had done, they began to put their themselves into the way of TEMPTATION - falling into EVIL AND ADULTERY. 

"We need to protect God's teachings as we would our own eyes. HIS WORD will help us avoid temptation. We need to ask God for help, to turn our minds eyes and feet in the opposite direction. These are not words of a DICTATOR, but a LOVING FATHER. They are designed for JUSTICE, PEACE AND FULLNESS OF LIFE"             Nicky Gumbel

"Wisdom and understanding will keep them away from the adulterous woman, from the wayward woman (unfaithful wife) with seductive (pleasing) words."                                                  Proverbs 7:5 (NIV/ICB)

Solomon was an encouraging parent, like our Father God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit is with us. "Wisdom" is an "intimate friendship" that gives us "insight" and keeps us out if trouble. God will held us to keep the "boundaries" from temptation. , so we can live a full and happy lives.

2. FAITHFUL RELATIONSHIPS - 
WARNING AGAINST ADULTEROUS WOMEN

This is another Proverb that warns us against the dangers of unfaithfulness. Temptation luks at every corner. Unfaithfulness has the potential to destroy relationships (marriages), ruining lives. . 

"Solomon loved many foreign women. Besides Pharoah's daughter, he married women from Moab, Ammon, Edom, Sidon, and from among the Hittites. The Lord had clearly instructed the people of Israel, "You must not marry them, because they will turn your hearts to their gods." Yet Solomon insisted on loving them anyway.......In Solmon's old age, they turned his heart to worship other gods instead of being completely FAITHFUL TO THE LORD HIS GOD, as his father David had been......He refused to FOLLOW THE LORD COMPLETELY. Solomon did what was evil in the Lord's sight." 1 King 11:1&2, 4&6 (NLT)

Solomon was looking out of his window and he recognizes his "young self". He saw a shameless and seductive woman, leading young men astray. He wanted to warn his sons. The woman had just been to the Temple and made a fellowship offering, then she took hold of this young man, making it difficult for him to walk away from her. 

"Out came a woman. She approached him,  dressed like a prostitute, seductively, with craft intent (a sly of heart)..... She threw her arms around him and kissed him......With persuasive words (pretty speech) she led him astray,seducing him with her talk (flattery). " Proverbs 7:10,13 &21(NIV/NLT)   

"We are tempted with comfort and pleasure, and the only way to keep away from this temptation is to AVOID IT. Sexual sin may provide pleasure for a season but they bring death TO TRUST AND RELATIONSHIPS. Adultery can also bring down leaders in our Churches and their ministries. Jesus reminds us that they are guilty and victims. They have redemption from Christ, but the damage is done"             Barry Water (Wales)/Kris Langham

"Beware of being entrapped in the world's lies, the promises of sensuality a means of happiness for a while, but insignificance. We need to be FIRMLY GROUNDED IN CHRIST, diligent in READING GOD'S WORD and PRAY, FOLLOWING THE LORD'S WILL in our lives." Max Lucado 

On our wedding day Mark and I made some promises to each other, and in PRAYER we seek the Lord's guidance to help us keep them. This is how my parents brought me up, and we encourage our son to do the same, just  as Solomon did with his sons.

"Now then, my friends (my son, listen to me, take these words of mine seiously, pay attention to what I say." Proverbs 7:24 (MSG/NIV)

 "THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION", 2011, Biblica

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION", 2015, Tyndale House Publishers

"INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN'S BIBLE", 2015, Thomas Nelson

"THE MESSAGE: THE BIBLE CONTEMPORARY", 2018, Eugene H Peterson,          Tyndale House Publishers

Lucado, Max, "In the Eye of the Storm", 1999, Word Inc.

Water, Barry; Langham, Kris, "Warning Against the Adulterous Woman" - Proverbs 7, (2026), Through the Word

Gumbel, Nicky, "God's Loving Boundaries", Proverbs 7:1-5, Bible In One Year (2009/2026), Apha International/YouVersion

"Treasure Wisdom" - Proverbs 7:1-5 (2025), Bible in Songs/Worship Jesus/YouTube