"There are six things the Lord hates. There are seven things He cannot stand: a proud look, a lying tongue, hands that kill innocent people, a mind that thinks up evil plans, a witness who tells lies, feet who are quick to do evil, and a man who causes trouble among brothers." Proverbs 6:16-19 (ICB)
These are 6 things we hate in our FAMILY, in our CHURCH and in the WORKPLACE and COMMUNITY. God hates these things too:
* ARROGANCE: Haughty eyes and Pride.
* DISHONESTY: Lying and False Witness
* EVIL: Murder, Anger and Hatred.
* WICKEDNESS: Evil plots and Wrongdoing
* ADULTERY: Lust
* DISCORD: Trouble in the Family.
GOD IS LOVE, JUST and HOLY! These sins can cause "enormous damage" with our relationships in out lives, especially in our families. They can bring division in our Church, Neighbourhood and Workplace. The only thing we can do when we face these temptations, is to ask for the Lord's strength and courage so we do not face them alone.
Jesus was led to the cross so that we could have forgiveness for our sins. In the same way, God shows His great LOVE for us.
"Christ died for us while we were still sinners. In this way God shows His great love for us." Romans 5:8 (ICB)
"In Christ we are set free by the blood of Christ's death. And we have forgiveness because of God's rich grace." Ephesians 1:7 (ICB)
4. WARNING AGAINST ADULTERY
"My son, keep your father's command and do not forsake your mother's teaching. Bind them on your heart; fasten them around your neck. When you WALK they will GUIDE YOU; when you SLEEP, they will WATCH OVER YOU; when you AWAKE, they will SPEAK TO YOU. For this command is a LAMP, this teaching is a LIGHT, and correction and instruction are the way of life." Proverbs 6:20-23 (NIV)
Solomon started this next chapter on a lighter note, with the encouraging words of his teachings. But he was going to get a little heavy with his warnings on ADULTERY AND LUST. It's like a powerful fire - sex outside marriage!
Mark has been spending the last few weeks building a fire in his fire pit. I thought he had become a (pyramaniac) - with his uncontrollable urge to start fires - but he just wanted to clear some wood around the property. The fire did look good, but when left unmanageable, it can cause a bushfire. It reminds me of the T.V show we are watching at the moment: "Country Fire". They always start with small fires, but the sparks spread to homes, forests and at times, even the firefighters.
"Lust is pornogrophy, and the top Pornsites on our computers/TV's are Netflix, Amazon and Tik Tok. Anyone can gain access, and they are free. You can click page by page, image by image - violent, deviant, degrading and immoral. A person is not necessarily evil, but their brain is destabilized by a chemical flow. An addiction intensifies and you become VULNERABLE. It's not right - it's an UNTRUTH, a FALSE NARRATIVE and an OVERREACTION that can lead to terrible sinful consequences." Max Lucado
"So it is the man who sleeps with another man's wife. He who emraces he will never go UNPUNISHED...... But a man who commits adultery has no sense (he is an utter fool); whoever does so destroys himself, He will be wounded and disgraced. His shame will never be wiped away (erased)." Proverbs 6:32&33 (NLT/NIV/ICB)
Remember King David's affair with Bathsheba. It led to the death of her husband. And David's son, ended up raping his sister Tamar, and his brother consequently murdered him.
The pull of LUST and ADULTERY is strong but GOD'S POWER IS STRONGER. You can be healed from this struggle.
* Take every thought captive and OBEY CHRIST.
* Parents help your children - check the INTERNET.
* Offer God the parts of your body - EYES, MOUTH, SEXUAL ORGANS.
"We destroy every proud thing that raises itself against the knowledge of God. We capture every thought and make it give up and obey Christ." 2 Corinthians 10:5 (ICB)
"Do not offer the parts of your body to serve sin. Do not use your bodies to do evil, but offer yourselves to God. Be like people who have died and now live forever. Offer the parts of your body to God to be used for doing good." Romans 6:13 (ICB)
"They belong to the Lord. Cause me to use them for your glory." 1 Thessalonians 4:5 (MSG)
Solomon warned his son about adultery and lust - sex outside marriage. They were encouraged in Proverbs 5 to enjoy the love of their wife. They were encouraged to not let negative sexual thoughts occupy their minds.
"Do not be seduced by lust. Falling prey to lust only leads to moral ruin and spiritual death. Avoid anything that causes you to desire anyone other than your own spouse. Take extra time to demonstrate your LOVE FOR THEM." Max Lucado
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
"What the Lord Hates" - Proverbs 6:12-19 (2025), Bible in Songs/Worship Jesus, YOUTUBE
"Do Not Lust" - Proverbs 6:20-35, (2021), Col Johnston (Performer), Our Gospel in Song Collections, YOUTUBE.
"LUCADO, Max, "Tame Your Thoughts", 2025, Harper Collins
These first 11 verses in Proverbs 6 give us some PRACTICAL WISDOM strategies on how not how to live SELF DISCIPLINED LIVES and how not to WASTE OUR TIME.
1. BEING THE MASTER OF OUR FINANCES
"My child, be careful about giving a guarantee for somebody else (a friend or stranger), security for a debt, a promise for what they owe. You might be trapped by what you say (an agreement). You might be caught by your own words. My child, you might be under somebody elses control (your friend's mercy). Folllow my advice: this is how you get free. Save yourself. Go to your neighbour and swallow your pride. Beg him for freedom from your debt - what you have promised - have your name erased." Proverbs 6:1-3 (ICB/NLT)
There are plenty of FINANCIAL TRAPS - especially ONLINE - Google investments and pledges. I have been been doing some work on my computer today, and I have had so many adds coming up interrupting my work - tempting me to "clean up my Tablet and Phone". At first it sounded a good idea. Then I realized it was just a SCAM and they wanted my MONEY!
When these come up, I usually check these SCAMS with my husband, because they are detrimental to my family. Even when it is something religious!! Even our friends and neighbours can at times lead us astray. We need to save ourselves from "foolish traps". You just don't know what might happen when you get into DEBT, even when you are just helping someone out of the kindness of our hearts.
Can you really afford it? Keeep yourself out of harms way. TRUST THE LORD! PRAY - and seek GOD'S GUIDANCE, and let Him be the "Master of your finances."
"Free yourself like a gazelle (a deer) running from a hunter. Like a bird from the snare of a the fowler (a trapper)." Proverbs 6:5 (NLT/ICB)
2. MASTER YOUR TIME - THR ART OF AN ANT
"Go to the ant, you sluggard (lazy person), consider its ways, watch what they do and be wise! It has no co commander, no overseer, leader, or ruler, yet it stores provisions in summer, yet it gathers its food (supplies) at harvest." Proverbs 6:6&7 (NIV/ICB)
"How long will you lay there and sleep, you lazy person? When will you wake up? To take a little extra sleep, a little more slumber (a nap).You fold your hands to rest." Proverbs 6:9&10 (NLT/ICB)
We can easily become lazy and waste our time. But it's also important to get enough sleep and not over do it. Both have "disastrous consequences".
a) We can learn from the ANTS who work extremely hard. They hardly ever sleep, and they spend time feeding the other ants. Solomon wants us to take notes of them: we don't want to waste our time , we need to use it wisely.
I love to spend my time productively in God's Word, doing my exercises and I love writing and studying. Mark loves the outdoors, fixing things and gardening. We both love to help help others, especially our young family.
b) But now, we are also at an age, where we need our sleep, Mark especially in the afternoon. Accordind to Dr Lee Warren, my online Neurosurgeon, this isn't a bad thing. Sleeping doesn't mean we are lazy!
"Sleep cleanses metabolic waste, consolidates positive memories, resets emotional circuits. Even one night of better sleep (or an afternoon nap in our case) can improve mental clarity and emotional steadiness. We need to protect our sleep and be consistent with bedtimes and morning wake ups. " Dr Lee Warren
I agree with both Dr Warren and Solomon. We need to get enough sleep and rest to stay healthy, but we don't want to waste our time with unproductive activity. If we ask God to help us, it's amazing how much He can use us.
"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
"GO TO THE ANT" - "Proverbs 6:1-11" (2025), Bible Songs/Worship Jesus, YouTube
"Warren, W.Lee, "Practical Ways to Care for Your Brain", 2026, YouTube
"My son, pay attention to MY WISDOM, listen carefully to my WISE COUNSEL (UNDERSTANDING). Then you will show discernment (use good sense) and your lips will express what you learn (watch what you say)." Proverbs 5:1&2 (NLT/ICB)
Proverbs 5 begins with Solomon's wise teachings to his sons, and they should also be to our daughters. He was remembering times when he'd made mistakes and "fallen" - following his own way, rather than the will of God; and he wanted them to "listencarefully" to his wise teaching so they would make the same mistakes.
As a mother, teacher and grandmother, I always wanted to read God's Word, so that I could follow GOD'S PATH and teach my children to do the same. I made mistakes - I definetely wasn't a perfect mother and teacher - there were times I FAILED; but I always tried to show show "good sense" and to "watch what I said". To live the way Jesus wanted me to and be a witness to my family and the world. I am blessed to have see my son and his wife, and children, serving the Lord in their local Church and community.
"You are a LIGHT that gives LIGHT TO THE WORLD. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden......In the same way, YOU SHOULD BE A LIGHT FOR OTHER PEOPLE. Live, so they will see the GOOD THINGS YOU DO. Live, so that THEY WILL PRAISE YOUR FATHER INN HEAVEN." Matthew 5:14&16 (ICB)
1. BE FAITHFUL IN MARRIAGE
"The lips of the adulterous woman (another man's wife) drip sweet as honey and her speech (words) is smoother, pleasant than olive oil; but in the end she is bitter thab gall (bring you sorrow). She will cause you pain like a two edged sword." Proverbs 5:3&4 (NIV/ICB)
Too many Christians are tempted by ADULTERY, feeling it is okay, as long as they are FORGIVEN. But this does not relieve us from the CONSEQUENCES and the HURT that PAIN it may cause others.
"Now then, my son, LISTEN TO ME, do not run away (ignore) what I say. Keep to a path far from her, (stay away from such a woman), do not go near to the door of her house." Provebrs 5:7&8 (NIV/ICB)
As Solomon realized, the trouble with regret, you can GO BACK IN TIME and CHANGE YOUR WRONG DECISIONS. Our consequences can touch the lives of others. Solomon had made many mistakes with many wives and concubines, and he had even TURNED AWAY FROM GOD; but he didn't want this life for his sons (or daughters).
"Be wise when it comes to women. Find pleasure in your OWN WIFE: LOVE HER AND BE HAPPY. Don't be tempted by a "female fatale", a married woman". David Alexander
Solomon wanted his sons to care for his wives - "drink water from your own cistern". He wanted them to be faithful in their sexual relations. Water was a precious commodity in their community, and amd you never let your "water stream into the public squares".
"May your fountain be blessed and may you rejoice with the wife of your youth. A LOVING DOE, A GRACEFUL DEER.....May you always be captivated by HER LOVE" Proverbs 5:18&19 (NIV/NLT)
"Your sexuality belongs at home, not for anyone else. It is like a "spring of fresh water". It is yours alone, never to be shared with others. There is something about a homogomous relationship that causes sex to grow better IN TIME. It is more romantic with TRUST. A man who VALUES HIS WIFE, becomes captivated by her beauty and love." Peyton Jones
Thesefirst verses in Proverbs 5, capture both the appeal and the danger of sexual temptation. You don't want to end your life with regrets. WISDOM IS OUR FRIEND and it helps us make the right choices. Wives beed to make these decisions too, for there is a lot of JOY in A HEALTHY ROMANCE!
2. BETTER TOGETHER: MARRIAGE: TWO BECOME ONE
"TWO ARE BETTER THAN ONE. They get more done WORKING TOGETHER. If one person falls, the other can help them up. But it is bad if a person is ther, and NO ONE IS THERE TO HELP HIM. ......A rope that has 3 PARTS WRAPPED TOGETHER is HARD TO BREAK." Ecclesiastes 4:9 & 12b (MSG)
"I went to a marriage course with Nicky and Sila Lee. Nicky showed a picture of marriage: He took 2 strands of different wool and weaved them TOGETHER. They were NOT EASILY BROKEN. He then took an invisiblle fishing line - representing GOD as the CENTRE - giving ENORMOUS STRENGTH. Friendships and Marriages are wonderful gifts" Nicky Gumbel
Mark and I have been married for nearly 43 years. We have "adopted" parents and friends who have been married for many more - their 50's and 60's. Their relationships are a real BLESSING to us, and a WITNESS - full of LOVE, JOY, GRACE AND ROMANCE
"A man will leave his father and mother and be UNITED WITH HIS WIFE. And the two people will become ONE BODY." Genesis 2:24 (ICB)
This is a beautiful description of two people becoming ONE with EACH OTHER and with GOD. They are becoming intimate as husband and wife. This is so much better than the "cheap thrills" that come from promiscuity and adultery.
"GOD'S LOVE is the 3RD STRAND of the CHORD of this MARRIAGE relationship. JESUS is the central principle of how we should LOVE ONE ANOTHER. With Jesus in the centre, the 3 strands will not be BROKEN." Nicky Gumbel.
"Be happy with the wife you married when you were a young man . SHE GIVE YOU JOY as your fountain gives you water. SHE IS AS LOVELY as an angel , beautiful as a rose, AND GRACEFUL as a deer. LET HER LOVE MAKE YOU HAPPY (take delight in her body) LET HER LOVE always hold you captive (never take it for granted) " Proverbs 5:18&19 (ICB/MSG)
"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
"Rejoice, Wife of Thy Youth.", (2026), Male and Female Vocals, Scripture in Song, Velvet Candy Records/YouTube
"Alexander, David, "The Lion Handbook To the Bible - 4th Edition", 2009, Lion Hudson Publishers
"Gumble, Nicky, Nicky & Sila Lee"Better Together: The Marriage Course/Marriage - Two Become One" - Proverbs 5:15-23, The Bible In One Year, 2026, Alpha International/YouVersion
Jones, Peyton, "Temptation, Lust and the Way Out - Warning Againgst Adultery", Proverbs 5, (2026), Through the Word
In this Passage - Proverbs 4:1-9 we see the value of learning the wise teaching of parents and elders. Learning is HARD WORK but it has "immense value". Children are encouraged to learn from their parents, and it is their responsibility to pass on WISDOM to them. As grandmother, teacher and writer, I still VALUE LEARNING and "esteem and embrace" it, so I can pas it on to my granddaughters.
"My children, listen when your father corrects you. Pay attention and learn GOOD JUDGEMENT, for I am giving you GOOD GUIDANCE . My father taught me, "Take my words to heart. Follow my commands and you will live." Proverbs 4:1,2a&4 (NLT)
"It's not good enough to listen to wise words , you need to LIIVE THEM. PUT GOD'S WORDS INTO PRACTICE! Lord, help us GROW in wisdom and understanding by reading and listening to GOD'S TEACHINGS." Nicky Gumbel
"Believe in the value of WISDOM and it will make you great. USE IT and it will bring you honour. Like flowers in your hair, it will beautify your life. Like a CROWN, it will make you look beautiful." Proverbs 4:8&9 (ICB)
Proverbs reminds us that to be WISE and BEAUTIFUL we need to be LIKE JESUS. We need to have His Heart and to live obedient to His Word. This is the kind of beauty money can't buy. BELIEVE this PROMISE in GOD'S WORD and ask Him "to fill you with the wisdom from above."
2. GUARD YOUR HEARTS
"Get yourself in an imagination station; go back to Jerusalem - back in time, in a busy market place - with King Solomon and his sons. He was sharing with them some words of wisdom. Have you ever spent time with your mother and father, listening and learning to their words of wisdom and uunderstanding. This applys to daughters as well!" Peyton Jones
These young men and women were guided well by their parents and their grandfather David, but they probably followed many distractions, as our children also do today. But their father didn't want their sons to stumble and fall. In the market place there were many swindlers, and the fathers wanted their young ones to "step wisely in the world". He is not telling them "which path to take", but is equipping them to make the "rightchoices."
"Hold on to INSTRUCTION and do not let it go. GUARD IT WELL, for it is your LIFE. Do not set your foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the ways of the evildoers. AVOID IT and do not TRAVEL ON IT; turn from it and go on your way."
Proverbs 4:13-15 (NIV)
3. FOLLOW THE WAYS OF THE GOOD
"The ways of the GOOD PERSON is like the light of dawn. It grows brighter and brighter until it is full daylight.....Don't ever FORGET MY WORDS. Listen closely to what I say. These WORDS are the secret to life for those who find them. They bring HEALTH to the whole body." Proverbs 4:18, 21&22 (ICB)
"Then the father sees sees something GOOD - A RIGHTEOUS PERSON! Have you ever been to a campsite when it is dark, but in the morning the sun begins to rise. Suddenly the world become alives with fresh sunshine. That's the PATH OF THE RIGHTEOUS, following the full LIGHT OF DAY." Peyton Jones
There is a dark path where the wicked stumble. It is dangerous and you can't see the "spiritual righteousness". But our Father reminds us that we need to pay attention to what He says. To listen to HIS WORDS, to guard our hearts from all "lust, envy, poison", that will lead us into darkness.
Give careful thought to your words, and keep your eyes focused on what is right. Watch where you put your feet, so you can go in the right direction. Remember what Jesus taught us:
a) The mouth is an overflow of the heart. Corrupt words is a sign that something has gone bad on the inside.
"Don't use your mouth to tell lies, keep it from perversity. Don't ever say things that are not true, keep corrupt talk from your lips." Proverbs 4:24 (ICB/NIV)
b) Eyes are a lamp for the body. Every athlete knows that if he loses his gaze and focus, you will move off track.
"Keep your eyes focused on what is right, fix your gaze directly before you. Keep looking straight ahead at what is good." Proverbs 4:25 (ICB/NIV)
c) Don't just start walking on the path - know where you intend to go. Commit yourself to follow God's way!
"Give careful thought to the paths of your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or to the left. Keep your foot from evil. " Proverbs 4:26&27 (NIV)
I have just been given a new "Game" to play, for my Stroke Trial. I have to keep my eyes and brain focused and on track. I have fallen over once! And, it's not as easy as I thought to keep "on track". Mark keeps telling me: "Keep your eyes on the whole board", but that's not so easy when you haven't got 100% peripheral vision. Also, when you feel a little dizzy and your legs are don't want to cooperate.
But, my online Dr Lee Warren reminds me: "What you think in your BRAIN, affects the WAY YOUR BODY ACTS."
And if I can train my brain to "keep on track" with my "Game", I should also be able to be obedient to follow GOD'S WILL in my life. We need to "program our brains to think as Jesus thinks" and to believe HIS TRUTH in our lives.
4. WALK WISELY
You have a part to play in responding to GOD'S CALL! You are to THINK WISELY, SPEAK WISELY, be careful WHAT YOU LOOK AT and WHERE YOU GO! The life you lead will flow from your heart. Your words are powerful, and you can use them to lift others up in an encouraging way, or you can bring them down. I would hope that you would chose the LOVE AND KINDNESS.
Paul reminded us:
"Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things." Philippians 4:8 (NIV)
Be careful what you look at - especially on T.V, the computer, social media. Jesus said, that if you look at the wrong things your whole body is full of darkness, but if follow Him, you are more to have HEALING and RIGHTEOUSNESS.
"The EYE IS A LAMP of the body, If your EYES ARE HEALTHY, you whole body is full of life.....Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and LIVE RIGHTEOUSLY, and He will give you everything you need." Matthew 6:22 &33 (NIV/NLT)
Avoid TEMPTATION - "keep your feet from evil". We encouraged to "run with perseverence" and "fix our eyes on Jesus". If you follow Jesus and all the PROMISES IN HIS WORD, He will lead in the "WISDOM WAY". It may not always be EASY, but ultimately, it will be filled with JOY AND EXCITEMENT.
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin that so easily snares us, and let us RUN WITH PERSEVERENCE THE RACE MARKED OUT FOR US, FIXING OUR EYES ON JESUS, THE PIONEER AND PERFECTER OF OUR FAITH." Hebrews 12:1&2b (NKJV/NIV)
"Spiritual growth is like a journey. You progress ONE STEP AT A TIME. It doesn't matter how far you get, but that you are heading in the right direction, and keep going that way. Thank you Lord that you lead us on the STRAIGHT PATHS AND WE CAN FOLLOW YOUR WISDOM today. Guard our hearts and help us to WALK WISELY!" Nicky Gumbel
"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW KING JAMES VERSION", 1982, Thomas Nelson
"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATONAL VERSION", 2011, Biblica
'THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION", 2015, Tyndale House Publishers
'INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN'S BIBLE", 2015, Thomas Nelson
GUMBEL, Nicky, "Wisdom Way - Proverbs 24-27 - "Bible In One Year" (2009/2026), Alpha International/YouVersion
JONES, Peyton, "Guard Your Hearts - Proverbs 4", 2026, Through the Word
WARREN, Dr Lee, "10 Commandments for Self Brain Surgery" , 2025, www.neurosurgeon.com
"Wisdom was at work in creation and continues to be at work in our everyday LIVES AND RELATIONSHIPS." Pat & David Alexander
"Never walk away from someone who deserves help. Take every opportunity to DO GOOD; if you have the opportunity to HELP SOMEBODY, do not delay." Proverbs 3:27&28 (MSG)
If you are serious abour build lasting relationships and keeping committments you need to have a desire SHOW KINDNESS and HELP YOUR NEIGHBOUR whenenver they they are in need.
"Do not plot harm against your neighbour, for those who live nearby TRUST YOU." Proverbs 3:29 (NLT)
If trust is lost, it is difficult to regain. We need to retain our confidence in our friends and neighbours. TRUST IN GOD helps us to LOVE OUR NEIGHBOURS. Sometimes our motives can be misinterpreted, but we need to do all we can to uphold our "integrity", and remain our trustworthy.
"All lovin relationships involve some element of TRUST. We also need to have FAITH AND INTIMACY WITH GOD, - communion with Him. Lord, help us to live a life of FAITH - walking closely with You and putting our TRUST AND CONFIDENCE IN YOU." Nicky Gumbel
EMOTIONAL HUMILITY FOCUS
"Do not envy the violent people or chose (copy) any of their ways. Such wicked people are detestable to the Lord, but He offers FRIENDSHIP tom the godly (taking them into His confidence)." Proverbs 3:31&32 (NIV/NLT)
There are two types of people:
* The oppressors - the violent and the wicked.
* The righteous and godly - following God's way.
It's natural for us to admire political leaders, athletes, actors, business people - especially young people. But we need to be careful of their attributes - especially their words and actions. Public life can effect a person's homelife.'=
Improper talk should not be used in our homes - especially offensive speech and hurtful actions. Our home with our family needs to be a place of REFUGE AND PEACE. Parents need to respect the unique potential of their children, and children need to respect their parents.
Children can LEARN AND PRACTICE HUMILITY from their parents. Jesus reminds us in his beautitude teaching that his followers need to be HUMBLE AND PEACEMAKERS. We are not to be critical of others or to find fault with others. FORGIVENESS IS THE KEY!
"A person who produces GENUINE FORGIVENESS will open up his life to the blessings of God." John and Janice Walsh
"God blesses those who are HUMBE, for they will inherit the whole earth....God blesses those who work for PEACE, for they will be called children of God." Matthew 5:5&9 (NLT)
"God gives grace to the humble. The wise inherit honour but fools are put to shame." Proverbs 3:34b&45 (NLT)
CONFLICT MANAGEMENT
"Do not walk around picking a fight without reason; when no one has done you harm, always spoiling for a fight." Proverbs 3:30 (NLT/MSG)
Conflict and misunderstandings are part of life. But if we value RELATIONSHIPS we need to learn to MANAGE CONFLICT amd "produce peace".
I have never been known to be an angry person, but when I had my strokes, my family and friends used to tell me that my personality had changed. There were days I found I really "lost it", especially my patience with my husband. But I didn't like this me, I wanted to get back to the old me: the SMILING, PEACEFUL AND LOVING ME!
According to Dr Lee Warren, the author of, "The Life Changing Art of Self Brain Surgery", and my new "neurosurgeon", we can learn to manage our anger and conflict, and "produce peace".
" Anger is a "signal, not a supervisor". When you feel anger arising, say to yourself, "I am still in charge . Create SPACE before you EXPLODE. Use your "10 mminute rule" - MOVE - go for a walk; BREATHE - pray and read Scripture. Underneath your anger is usually something more - hurt, fear, shame, injustice. Ask yourself: "What am I really feeling?" Choose your words - "How are you feeling, rather than attacking." Dr Lee Warren
"Be angry, but do not sin. Do not let the sun go down on your anger." Ephesians 4:26 (ESL)
"Whoever is SLOW TO ANGER is better than the mighty, and He who RULES HIS SPIRIT, than he who takes a city." Proverbs 16:32 (ESL)
"A gentle answer turns away wrath but a harsh word stirs up anger." Proverbs 15:1 (ESL)
"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION" - 2011, Biblica
"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION" - 2015, Tyndale House Publications
"THE HOLY BIBLE - ENGLISH STANDARD VERSION" - 2001, Good News Publishers
"THE MESSAGE: THE BIBLE IN CONTEMPORARY LANGUAGE" - 2018, Eugene H. Peterson, Tyndale House Publications
"ALEXANDER, Pat & David, 2009 , "The Lion Handbook to the Bible" - 4th Edition", Lion/Hudson Publishers
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WALSH, John and Janice, "Successful Living- Proverbs 2" , 2000, Home Schooling
WARREN, Dr W. Lee M.D, "10 Commandments of Self Brain Surgery - The Life Changing Self Brain Surgery", 2025, Tyndale Refresh
"Do Not Withhold God - Proverbs 3:27-32", 2025, Bible Songs in Worship, Worship Jesus/YouTube
Now, I am not saying that I am the wisest teacher. I don't believe I was ever the best parent; but I do know that my parents did the best they could as they could when it came with their teaching and disciplining. How? With their LOVE and their actions - "WALKING IN THE TRUTH".
I never liked getting into trouble. I always hid away in my room, up in my tree outside, or went for a ride on my bike to the park for a swing. I didn't like getting punisshed, but I knew that sooner or later I would have to ley my anger calm down, so I could go I tell the TRUTH. Sometimes the correction hurt, but afterwards my dad would always come and and give me a hug, followed by a Bible story (teaching a lesson).
Like my time with my father, we need "repentof our sins", so we can have a "beautiful, loving relationship with our Father God."
"Myson, do not despise (reject) the chastening (discipline) of God; neither be weary, (upset) when he corrects you. The Lord loveth those He corrects; even as a father in whom He delighteth." Proverbs 3:11&12 (NKJV/NLT)
"Every child needs discipline to help them grow. His father knew he couldn't delay or his son would resent him, and turn away from God. There will be trials ahead for you, but knnow that GOD LOVES YOU. Remember He has purpose for every trial, and all you need to do is TRUST IN HIM. BELIEVE IN HIM and He will BELIEVE IN YOU!" Peyton Jones
"And we know that in all things God works together for good to those who LOVE GOD, to those who are called according TO HIS PURPOSE." Romans 8:28 (NKJV)
GROW INTO BETTER PEOPLE
* Be more valuable SERVANTS, ministering TO OTHERS!
*Expanding your WORKS, having a greater impact in your COMMUNITIES!
Be happier CHILDREN OF GOD!
"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for His GOOD WORKS, which GOD PREPARED beforehand that we should WALK IN THEM. Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV)
My husband loves to get out in his garden , to prune his plants , so they will GROW HEALTHY and "well shaped". God also prunes His people, shaping their behaviour, so they develop godly behaviours and characters.
We also "find wisdom" and "gain wisdom", profiting as we gain great riches in "silver and gold". But these are not necessarily material riches or physical health - they are also aso riches of PEACE and HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS.
"Happy are those who find wisdom, and the man who gains understanding; for her proceeds are better than the proceeds of silver, and her gain than fine gold." Proverbs 3:13&14 (NKJV)
"A tree makes fruit, WISDOM GIVES LIFE to those who use it. Everyone WHO USES WISDOM WILL BE HAPPY." Proverbs 3:18 (ICB)
GOD'S WAY, GOD'S TIME
"My child, hold on to wisdom and reason. Don'y lose sight of sound judgement and discretion. They will be life your your soul, like a necklace, adornment for your neck, that will beauitify your life." Proverbs 3:21&22 (ICB/NIV)
"These come from walking closely with God. You will soon shine with "inner beauty from your soul". You will have LIFE and GRACE, finding success and happiness."
Nicky Gumbel
You can be an inspiration to others. I have many friends who have radiated JOY and CHRIST'S LOVE to me over the years - both men and women. They have reflected GRACE in their lives even in their greatest TRIALS and in the time of greatest LOSS.
The best way to deal with these difficult situations is to keep GOD'S WISDOM flowing through you:
* Meditating on His Scripture.
* Feeling His Assurance.
*Lying down in a Peaceful Sleep.
*Trusting that God is in Control.
"When you lie down, you will not be afaid; YES, you will lie down and your sleep will be sweet." Proverbs 3:24 (NKJV)
"I WILL LIE DOWN IN PEACE AND SLEEP; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety." Psalm 4:8 (NKJV)
"Peace comes from a relationship with God. No pillow is as soft as a clear conscience. Whatever happens, you can trust that God is watching over you."
Nicky Gumbel
"The Lord will keep you safe, have no fear of sudden disaster (trouble coming suddenly), for the Lord is at your side and will keep you from being caught in a trap." Proverbs 3:25&26 (ICB/NIV/NLT)
"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW KING JAMES VERSION" - 1982, Thomas Nelson
"THE HPLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION" - 2011, Biblica
"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION", 2015, Tyndale House Publishers
"INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN'S BIBLE", 2015, Thomas Nelson
JONES, Peyton, "Trust the Lord - Proverbs 3" (2026), Through the Word.
GUMBEL, Nicky, "Through Jesus, the Universe Was Created" - "The Bible in One Year", 2009/2026, Alpha International/YouVersion
"Blessed is the One Who Finds Wisdom - Proverbs 3:13-26", 2025, You Tube
The famous hymn "Trust and Obey" almost never made it , for the it was just a poem written by Daniel Towner, and he threw his first manuscript in the bin. Fortunately, his wife found it, and along with his pastor, the Reverend J.H Sammis , who later put it to music, they encouraged him to "never give up".
When God calls you to work on something, you may get frustrated, but don't give up. Paul encouraged us with Scripture:
"For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that WE CAN DO GOOD THINGS HE PLANNED FOR US LONG AGO." Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)
Today my writing is really illegible. I am looking aroung at all thes young people at the Library on their computers, and I wonder if I will ever be able to write coherently again. Today I went to the "Neura Smart Step Stroke Clinic" to be tested for a trial. I was very nervous, as I haven't been feeling very positive about my future. But today, I did really well - and went away more confident, trusting in the Lord and His future plans for myself and my family. I knew again, we could:
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and don't depend on your own understanding. Remember the Lord (seek His will) in everythng you do, and He will show you which path to take (give you success)." Proverbs 3:5&6 (ICB/NLT)
2 PERFECT TRUST
Can you TRUST GOD? Do you have a RELATIONSHIP with someone you can DEPEND ON in your time of need? Do you believe that GOD IS WITH YOU ALWAYS? Do you hav evidence of His "presence and power"?
This is something I have always had! I'll confess, there have been times when I have faced adversity, darkness and despair, and have been "overwhelmed" by circumstances beyond my control, but I have alwayS ALWAYS BELIEVED THAT GOD IS SOVEREIGN and has CARED FOR ME. I find "calm assurance" by resting in His LOVE and OMNIPRESENCE.
Many of us try to face what we feel are "unfair circumstances" trying to face them alone. I'll admit, there are times, over the years, when I have been "angry with the world", and even my family. Yes, I admit, I have tried to do things in my own strength, but I have always come back to CHRIST.
"Helen Rosevere was a British Missionary in the Congo. While serving the Lord she was raped, assaulted and treated brutally. Yet, HER FAITH REMAINED STRONG. Why? ...."First, God brought me here, and BY HIS WILL I am in this place. I WILL REST! He will keep me here IN HIS LOVE and GIVE ME GRACE to behave as His child. Then every TRIAL IS A BLESSING that is intending for learning and strength. Last, in HIS GOOD TIMES he brings me out." Charles Swindoll/Helen Rosevere
* When we feel hurt and alone, GOD ASSURES US THAT HE CARES!
* When we feel angry and resentful, GOD PROVIDES WISDOM & STRENGTH!
* When we fell anxious, GOD PROMISES US PEACE AND SECURITY!
* May He give us EARS TO HEAR, HEARTS TO TRUST AND MINDS TO REST IN HIM!
* God is ultimately TRUSTWORTHY!
"YOU WILL KEEP IN PERFECT PEACE, ALL WHO TRUST IN YOU, ALL WHOSE THOUGHTS ARE FIXED ON YOU. TRUST IN THE LORD ALWAYS, FOR THE LORD GOD IS THE ETERNAL ROCK." Isaiah 26:3&4 (NLT)
3. TRUST GOD FOR THE IMPOSSIBLE
Walking with God is the most exciting and rewarding experience you can have, but there are also hard times and struggles.
Elijah was sitting at a dried up brook at Cherith when God came to him and instructed him to go to Zarapeth. It was a long walk in the wilderness, and when he got there he was hungry and thirsty. Yet God had already prepared a widow for his arrival.
When Elijah met the woman , she had been gathering sticksto make her last meal for her son, before she died. Elijah took courage and spoke to her.
"He called to her and asked: "Would you bring me a little water in a jar so I may have a drink? As she was going to get it, he called, "And bring me, please, a piece of bread."
"As surely as the Lord your God lives," she replied, "I don't have any bread - only a handful of flour in a jar and a little olive oil in a jug. "
"Elijah said to her, "Don't be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small loaf of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, then make something for you and your son. For this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says, "The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord sends rain on the land." 1 Kings 17:10b,11,12a, 13&14 (NIV)
QUIET! TRUST! COURAGE! It certainly built the woman's faith! GOD WAS FAITHFUL! The woman was obedient and her bowl of flour empty and the jar of oil never ran dry. There are 2 important things you can learn about TRUSTING GOD:
1. "It doesn't always alter our circumstances".
2. It is "hinged on our obedience" and it "changes us".
"PERFECT TRUST gives us character and stability in hard times. One of the most encouraging things FAITH is that it PLEASES GOD." Charles Swindoll
"And WITHOUT FAITH it's impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him MUST BELIEVE THAT HE EXISTS that He rewards those who seek Him." Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)
"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION", 2011, Biblica
"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION", 2015, Tyndale House Publishing
