The Thorn

I stood a mendicant of God before His royal throne

And begged him for one priceless gift, which I could call my own.

I took the gift from out His hand, but as I would depart

I cried, “But Lord this is a thorn and it has pierced my heart.

This is a strange, a hurtful gift, which Thou hast given me.”

He said, “My child, I give good gifts and gave My best to thee.”

I took it home and though at first the cruel thorn hurt sore,

As long years passed I learned at last to love it more and more.

I learned He never gives a thorn without this added grace,

He takes the thorn to pin aside the veil which hides His face.

by Martha Snell Nicholson

Fear and Unexpected Change

Fear and Unexpected Change

Everyone has faced or will face an unexpected circumstance that produces fear. While this may be a normal response, fears that remain unchecked can become emotionally paralyzing. It can strip us of self-confidence, steal away inner peace, complicate relationships, and rob us of God given opportunities and blessings.

The story of Mary and Joseph is a great example.  Mary has just been told that she will become pregnant and give birth to the Son of God. “Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God.” (Luke 1:29-30) Joseph, her betrothed, was in utter shock, believing the woman he loved had betrayed him.  “The angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 1:20)

The Lord, knowing their fearful emotional state, rushes in like a cool breeze on a scorching day to refresh and reassure them. His words enabled them to boldly exchange their fears for His peace. Instead of quietly sending Mary away as a marked woman, Joseph embraced her as his wife. Mary with bold faith threw off her fears and brought forth the promised Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Let’s take a closer look at the various components of this familiar story to see if there is a parallel for our lives: (1) the situation was unexpected and life changing (2) gripping fear produced confusion and disbelief (3) possible negative consequences could be  loss of reputation, financial hardship, isolation, and rejection (4) divine intervention and reassurance comes resulting in clarity and renewed peace (5) we no longer make fear based decisions that negatively impact us and others (6) with courage we can face the future with renewed hope in God’s promises.

I love the words of Jesus as He speaks to his disciples about the impending change they are about to face.  “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27) His words are still true for us today!

Building Joy In Others

Everyone around you is dealing with the pressures of life. Some are discouraged, anxious, and others are in deep despair. Anyone of us can become so focused on the pain of the moment that we forget to be thankful and lose our joy.

You and I can bring light into those shadowed places and rekindle thankfulness by building joy in others. It's the golden rule for living. "Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb guide for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them. Add up God's Law and Prophets and this is what you get. Being and Doing." Matthew 7:12 (The Message)

Here are eight ways in which we can be used of God to build joy in others.

1.  Smile whenever you greet those you love, and use sincere voice tones.

2.  Ask questions that invite others to tell you truthfully, how they are doing, and what they are thinking.  Listen intently without interrupting.

3.  Take a sincere interest in really knowing the other person.  Work hard to understand the other’s fears, joys, passions, talents, and pain. 

4.  Treat each other with dignity and respect.  When ending a discussion, try to make both people feel affirmed.

5.  Use touch whenever appropriate: Hold hands, link arms, give hugs, and use physical connection as effectively as you can.

6.  Discover what brings the person joy:  a time to talk, encouraging notes, a helping hand, or evening walks.

7.  Give them little surprises that will cause their eyes to light up, and let your eyes light up, too!  The joy builds as the glances go back and forth.

8.  Cherish babies and children by establishing through words and actions that you are authentically “glad to be with them”.

Think about it. Aren't you thankful when someone treats you in one or all of the eight way mentioned above? English novelist William Makepeace Thackeray said, "Life is a mirror; if you frown at it, it frowns back; if you smile, it returns the greeting."

*1-8 Living From The Heart Jesus Gave You, pg24, Shepherd’s House, Inc.

A Noble Woman--Proverbs 31: 10-12

Proverbs 31:10-12 (AMP) Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? She is more precious than rubies.11 Her husband can trust her, and she will greatly enrich his life.12 She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.

What a joy it is to finally be able to write about this noble woman! There have been so many warning about the cantankerous woman and the immoral enticing woman. Now we have the testimony of the VIRTUOUS woman that any sensible man would be honored to have as his wife. 

This is woman is morally and spiritual strong in character. She is competent, courageous, industrious and wise. She is the mistress of her domain building her house day by day with godly wisdom. Her husband has complete confidence in her, trusting her explicitly.

Proverbs 12:4 (AMP) A virtuous and worthy wife [earnest and strong in character] is a crowning joy to her husband, but she who makes him ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.

Proverbs 14:1 (AMP) EVERY WISE woman builds her house, but the foolish one tears it down with her own hands.

Proverbs 18:22 (NASB) He who finds a wife finds a good thing, And obtains favor from the LORD.

Proverbs 19:14 (AMP) House and riches are the inheritance from fathers, but a wise, understanding, and prudent wife is from the Lord.

As a man I recognize that God has blessed me beyond what I could have hoped for. I have found incredible favor in receiving the gift of a God-fearing sensible woman. It is very humbling to contemplate! I am very proud to say that I am married to Linda and she is the virtuous woman of my dreams! Thank you Lord!!

Proverbs 30:10 Never Slander

Proverbs 30:10 (NLT) Never slander a worker to the employer, or the person will curse you, and you will pay for it.

Definition: slander is a malicious, false, and defamatory statement or report.

Definition:  defamation is the act of saying false things in order to make people have a bad opinion of someone or something.

To slander another person is simply evil false speech that can cause alienation and damage to someone else’s character. In the end the damage that is projected toward another person will come back to its point of origin. There is an old saying, “never spit when the wind is blowing toward you.” Get the point?

It has been my observation that those who engage in such evil activity have a sense that they have been unjustly wronged. In their anger they lash out looking for revenge. They are also prideful, defensive, and blame shifting to somehow justify their ungodly behavior. Perhaps in some cases they have been wounded.  Regardless, when wronged we are admonished to guard our hearts from bitterness (Proverbs 4:23) which in the end defiles many (Hebrews 12:15).  We must remember that, “man’s anger does not work the righteousness of God. (James 1:19)

Here is the word of the Lord for those who engage in slander and defamation. “I will not tolerate people who slander their neighbors. I will not endure conceit and pride.”  Psalm 101:5 (NLT)  

Romans 12:19-21 (NLT) Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say,“I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the LORD. 20 Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.” 21 Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.

Father God, guard my heart from any root of bitterness that would cause me to retaliate and damage another person’s reputation.  When I am injured give me the humility to bring my pain to you alone. Help me to respond to Your Spirit, to forgive as You have forgiven me. Amen

Hasty Words: Proverbs 29:20

Proverbs 29:20 (AMP) Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a [self-confident] fool than for him.

Wow! What a statement. This reminds me of the guy who does not take time to think about what he is saying, exercises no restraint and continually puts his foot in his mouth. You know the one :0)

Proverbs 19:2 (AMP) Desire without knowledge is not good, and to be overhasty is to sin and miss the mark.

1)      This person is anxious to insert their thoughts into a conversation.

2)      They are not good listeners.

3)      You can see the wheels turning in their head. Before you can finish your  

             thought they are forming a rebuttal.  

4)      Their opinions are the most important and of course always right.  

5)      They simply don’t know when to stop talking. They go on and on and on.

What’s the cure?

1)      Exercise self-control with a measured response. Proverbs 10:19 (NIV) When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, But he who restrains his lips is wise.

2)      Determine to listen twice as much as you talk.  James 1:19 (AMP) Understand [this], my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear [a ready listener], slow to speak, slow to take offense and to get angry.

3)      Remember, you do not have to say everything that comes into your mind. Uses shorter sentences and fewer words. Proverbs 17:27 (NLT) A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered.

4)      There are some conversations or situations when silence is the wisest response. Proverbs 17:28 (NLT) Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent.

Heavenly Father, Help me to take my own advice! There have been too many times in conversations when I have been left with the taste of shoe leather in my mouth.

Proverbs 28:13 Humble Confessions

Proverbs 28:13 (AMP) He who covers his transgressions will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes his sins will obtain mercy.

The clarity of the message here is unmistakable. If I refuse to humbly acknowledge my sin, renounce, and abandon it, I will not prosper. I know some of you are thinking about the person you know who lives like the devil and is living a prosperous life. May I submit to you that the prosperity mentioned in verse 13 is not the size of a bank account.

Matthew 16:23 (NKJV) For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?

3 John 1:2 (NKJV) Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.

There is nothing that compares to the soul that has gown healthy and strong through walking in the truth and power of God’s Word! This prosperity is an eternal treasure that cannot be destroyed by moth and rust and cannot be stole by thieves. (Mark 6:20)  

This is a soul that has obtained unfathomable mercy.  “Blessed is he whose transgression is forgive, The Joy of Forgiveness A Psalm of David. A Contemplation. Whose sin is covered.  Blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not impute iniquity, And in whose spirit there is no deceit. When I kept silent, my bones grew old Through my groaning all the day long.4For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; My vitality was turned into the drought of summer. I acknowledged my sin to You, And my iniquity I have not hidden. I said, I will confess my transgressions to the Lord, And You forgave the iniquity of my sin.” Psalm 32:1-5 (NKJV)

The Word of God speaks for itself in confronting our denial and pride. “If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth.9 But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.” 1 John 1:8-9 (NLT)

When we humble ourselves in prayer and confess our needs, “He gives us more and more grace (power of the Holy Spirit, to meet this evil tendency and all others fully). That is why He says, God sets Himself against the proud and haughty, but gives grace [continually] to the lowly (those who are humble enough to receive it). So be subject to God. Resist the devil [stand firm against him], and he will flee from you. Come close to God and He will come close to you. [Recognize that you are] sinners, get your soiled hands clean; [realize that you have been disloyal] wavering individuals with divided interests, and purify your hearts [of your spiritual adultery].  [As you draw near to God] be deeply penitent and grieve, even weep [over your disloyalty]. Let your laughter be turned to grief and your mirth to dejection and heartfelt shame [for your sins].  Humble yourselves [feeling very insignificant] in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you [He will lift you up and make your lives significant].” James 4:6-10 (AMP)

Psalm 32:5 (AMP) I acknowledged my sin to You, and my iniquity I did not hide. I said, I will confess my transgressions to the Lord [continually unfolding the past till all is told]--then You [instantly] forgave me the guilt and iniquity of my sin.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for continually dealing with my stubborn PRIDE! Oh how I desire that it be completely rooted out of my life. I invite the conviction of the Holy Spirit. Come,  continue to shine the light of God’s Word into every corner of my soul. Amen

Proverbs 27:19 True Reflections

Proverbs 27:19 (NLT) As a face is reflected in water, so the heart reflects the real person.

A great example of this truth would be the relationship between Jacob and Laban found in Genesis 29:16-30:43. It’s an intriguing story of Laban’s repeated manipulation, lies and deceit. His actions were a true reflection of his heart. By the time we get to chapter 30:31 Jacob has finally come to understand Laban and how to deal with his treacherous father-in-law. 

Jesus taught his disciples, “the good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart.” Luke 6:45 (NASB)  Our actions and words are the fruit that bears witness to our heart. They are a true reflection of our deepest self. “you can identify people by their actions.” Matthew 7:20b (NLT)

Matt 12:33-35 (NLT) 33 “A tree is identified by its fruit. If a tree is good, its fruit will be good. If a tree is bad, its fruit will be bad.34 You brood of snakes! How could evil men like you speak what is good and right? For whatever is in your heart determines what you say.35 A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart.

Acts 28:27 (NIV)  For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.

The prophet Jeremiah speaking by the Spirit of the Lord declares, “The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is?” Jeremiah 17:8 (NLT) This is very sobering statement! We can be easily deceived, refusing to believe what we see in our reflection. We tend to minimize and to deny what is clearly visible to God and others. 

For the reflection to change the heart must be reborn. The heart must be continually yielded to the sanctifying power and truth of God’s Word and the inner working of the Holy Spirit. “Don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like.” James 1:22-25 (NLT)

Father God, thank You for forgiving me for the times when I have resister Your influence, when I have closed my eyes to Your Word, turned a deaf ear to the voice of the Holy Spirit and hardened my heart.  I wounded those I love, brought shame to my life, and pain to You. You heard my confession and cleansed me by the blood of Jesus. You gave great grace to those I offended to also forgive me and have mended damaged relationships. With all my heart I love and worship YOU. Amen

Proverbs 26:2 It Will Not Land

Proverbs 26:2 (NLT) Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow, an undeserved curse will not land on its intended victim.

Over the years I have had numerous people talk to me about someone in their life that claims to have put a curse on them. In many cases this person has come out of occult or cultic activities and received Christ as their personal savior. Angry, hateful and desperate to induce panic and fear they were cursed by those still involved in these demonic activities. These dear Christians were emotionally tormented and genuinely afraid. 

In such cases we must never dismiss these troubled souls as simply being deluded or mentally ill. Evil words of this kind can have a powerful effect up the mind breading confusion, anxiety, depression and worse. The profit Elijah is a prim example. Cursed by Jezebel and seized with fear he ran for his life and later begged God to take his life. 

1 Kings 19:1-4 (NIV) 1 Now Ahab told Jezebel everything Elijah had done and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword.2 So Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah to say, "May the gods deal with me, be it ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like that of one of them."3 Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there,4 while he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. "I have had enough, Lord," he said. "Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors."

David experienced this to some degree also.  “For they have opened the wicked and deceitful mouth against me; They have spoken against me with a lying tongue. They have also surrounded me with words of hatred, And fought against me without cause.” Psalm 109:2-3 (NASB) 

King Saul in his jealousy cursed David and was determined to take his life. On the heals of desperation David with renewed clarity boldly proclaimed, “My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber.” Psalm 121:2-3 (NKJV)

The profit Isaiah wrote, “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, And every tongue which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, And their righteousness is from Me, Says the Lord.” Isaiah 54:17 (NKJV) This is a powerful promise that continues to bring us hope today. 

For those of you who love the Lord and may be experiencing the fury, threats and curses from others take heart! NO weapon turned against you can succeed! Your hope is in the Lord and in Him you must place your trust. 

In the battle against the enemies of our soul we are all instructed to, “Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour. Withstand him; be firm in faith [against his onset--rooted, established, strong, immovable, and determined], knowing that the same (identical) sufferings are appointed to your brotherhood (the whole body of Christians) throughout the world.” 1 Peter 5:8-9 (AMP)

Ephesians 6:12-17 (AMP) 12 For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the despotisms, against the powers, against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere.13  Therefore put on God’s complete armor, that you may be able to resist and stand your ground on the evil day [of danger], and, having done all [the crisis demands], to stand [firmly in your place].14  Stand therefore [hold your ground], having tightened the belt of truth around your loins and having put on the breastplate of integrity and of moral rectitude and right standing with God,15  And having shod your feet in preparation [to face the enemy with the firm-footed stability, the promptness, and the readiness produced by the good news] of the Gospel of peace. 16  Lift up over all the [covering] shield of saving faith, upon which you can quench all the flaming missiles of the wicked [one].17  And take the helmet of salvation and the sword that the Spirit wields, which is the Word of God.” 

Heavenly Father, when I am distressed and fearful remind me of your promises, comfort me by Your Spirit, lift my soul and renew my hope. When I see a fellow Christian in the bonds of despair give me compassion, wisdom, and courage to share the power of Your Word that they too may be revived and strengthened till they find their victory in You. Amen

Proverbs 25:28 (AMP)  He who has no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down and without walls.

Proverbs 25:28 (NLT) A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls.

The walls of the city were a critical element is the livelihood of every citizen within. They provided a place of safety from wild beasts and marauding bandits. Within these walls there was shelter and comfort providing rest for the weary, peace of mind and a sense of tranquility. To neglect the care and maintenance of the city walls was to invite danger, death and destruction. 

Think about it for a moment. How many times has the lack of self control loosened a few bricks in your wall? Personally I have lost count! While I have a reputation for being self controlled, I must admit there have been to many times in my life when it was missing. The lack of self control is evident all around us with bad eating habits, flashing tempers, lust, substance abuse and the list continues. The devastation caused by the lack of self control is painfully visible in the rubble of fallen walls that scar the landscape of our families, cities, nation and the wold at large. 

There is a battle for control that rages touching all of our lives.  As passionate followers of the Lord Jesus Christ we should have the tactical advantage in this war! “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (AMP)

It is in part, self control that enables us to rise about temptation, to avoid the traps of satan, and to obtain a good testimony. It is the fruit of the Holy Spirit that bears witness to the world that we are the children of God. 

Galatians 5:22-23 (NKJV) 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,23 gentleness, self-control.

Heavenly Father, my prayer is that the fruit of self control would increase in every area my life. Help me Holy Spirit to hear your voice with greater clarity and to live a more disciplined life. Amen

Proverbs 24:11 Rescuers

Proverbs 24:11 (AMP) Deliver those who are drawn away to death, and those who totter to the slaughter, hold them back [from their doom].

The word of God is clear for those of us who claim to be Christ followers. Our love of God demands expression that is tangible, verifiable, practical and active. We cannot sit idly by and watch people walk to their death whether physically or spiritually. We have been called to RESCUE others, to work in concert with the Holy Spirit in accomplishing God’s will on the earth. 

Isaiah 58:6-7 (AMP) 6  [Rather] is not this the fast that I have chosen: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the bands of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every [enslaving] yoke? 7  Is it not to divide your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house--when you see the naked, that you cover him, and that you hide not yourself from [the needs of] your own flesh and blood? 

James 2:18-20 (AMP) 14  What is the use (profit), my brethren, for anyone to profess to have faith if he has no [good] works [to show for it]? Can [such] faith save [his soul]?15  If a brother or sister is poorly clad and lacks food for each day,16  And one of you says to him, Good-bye! Keep [yourself] warm and well fed, without giving him the necessities for the body, what good does that do?17  So also faith, if it does not have works (deeds and actions of obedience to back it up), by itself is destitute of power (inoperative, dead).18  But someone will say [to you then], You [say you] have faith, and I have [good] works. Now you show me your [alleged] faith apart from any [good] works [if you can], and I by [good] works [of obedience] will show you my faith.19  You believe that God is one; you do well. So do the demons believe and shudder [in terror and horror such as make a man’s hair stand on end and contract the surface of his skin]!20  Are you willing to be shown [proof], you foolish (unproductive, spiritually deficient) fellow, that faith apart from [good] works is inactive and ineffective and worthless?

It is hypocritical to say that we have faith and do nothing to help the poor and broken. I am thankful for those men and women of courage that have proved their faith in birthing ministries such as World Vision, Compassion Internation, the Salvation Army, Second Harvest, and numerous other missions organizations, churches, and outreaches that are involved in sharing the Gospel in tangible ways. Lives are being rescued by the thousands. Those of you who contribute in any way share in an eternal reward. God bless you!

Our expression, the proof of our faith must also extend to those poor souls that are being “drawn away to death, and those who totter to the slaughter.” The apostle Paul and James give clear instruction that we are to reach out in an attempt to rescue those who wonder from and oppose the truth, others who are being overtaken by misconduct and sin.

2 Timothy 2:24-26 (NLT) 24 A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people.25 Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth.26 Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants.

Galatians 6:1 (AMP)  BRETHREN, IF any person is overtaken in misconduct or sin of any sort, you who are spiritual [who are responsive to and controlled by the Spirit] should set him right and restore and reinstate him, without any sense of superiority and with all gentleness, keeping an attentive eye on yourself, lest you should be tempted also.

James 5:19-20 (NIV) 19 My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back,20 remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins.

We cannot relegate this task exclusively to the clergy. Every believer is called of God to be involved without exception! We are all His ministers to our individual sphere of influence and beyond.

Dear God, break my heart with the things that break Yours! Shake me out of my slumber and awaken me to the glorious call of the gospel. Give me courage, wisdom, understanding and discernment as I walk into the harvest field of humanity. Help me to rescue others. Amen

Proverbs 23:17 Beware of Envy

Proverbs 23:17 (AMP)  Let not your heart envy sinners, but continue in the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord all the day long.

Psalms 73:3-7 (NLT) For I envied the proud when I saw them prosper despite their wickedness.4 They seem to live such painless lives; their bodies are so healthy and strong.5 They don’t have troubles like other people; they’re not plagued with problems like everyone else.6 They wear pride like a jeweled necklace and clothe themselves with cruelty.7 These fat cats have everything their hearts could ever wish for!

Envy: “painful or resentful awareness of an advantage enjoyed by another joined with a desire to possess the same advantage” Merriam-Webster

  

“Envy can also derive from a sense of low self-esteem that results from an upward social comparison threatening a person's self-image: another person has something that the envier considers to be important to have. If the other person is perceived to be similar to the envier, the aroused envy will be particularly intense, because it signals to the envier that it just as well could have been he or she who had the desired object.” --Wikipedia

One aspect of envy is covetousness. Notice the similarities in the definition. “having or showing a great desire to possess something, typically something belonging to someone else.” Here is a familiar example. “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife or his male servant or his female servant or his ox or his donkey or anything that belongs to your neighbor.” Exodus 20:17

Allowing envy to take hold of our emotions will certainly have a negative affect on the closeness and sanctity of our relationships. In the Book of Genesis envy is said to be the motivation behind Cain murdering his brother, Abel, as Cain envied Abel because God favored Abel's sacrifice over Cain's. [see Genesis 4:3-8]

Paul writes that those who give themselves to envy are, “still [unspiritual, having the nature] of the flesh [under the control of ordinary impulses]. For as long as [there are] envying and jealousy and wrangling and factions among you, are you not unspiritual and of the flesh, behaving yourselves after a human standard and like mere (unchanged) men? “ 1Corinthians 3.3 (AMP)

Envy is a condition of the heart that rises up eventually defiling the whole person.  Mark 7.20-23 (AMP) And He said, What comes out of a man is what makes a man unclean and renders [him] unhallowed.21  For from within, [that is] out of the hearts of men, come base and wicked thoughts, sexual immorality, stealing, murder, adultery,22  Coveting (a greedy desire to have more wealth), dangerous and destructive wickedness, deceit; unrestrained (indecent) conduct; an evil eye (envy), slander (evil speaking, malicious misrepresentation, abusiveness), pride (the sin of an uplifted heart against God and man), foolishness (folly, lack of sense, recklessness, thoughtlessness).23  All these evil [purposes and desires] come from within, and they make the man unclean and render him unhallowed. 

Envy is listed among the many sins that will separate us from God for and eternity. Every aspect of this cancerous growth MUST be thoroughly rooted out or it will take our lives. 

Galatians 5:19-21 (NKJV) 19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness,20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies,21 ENVY, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. (emphasis added)

Heavenly Father, help me not to compare myself or any aspect of my life, possessions, achievements, lack or failures with others. Guard my heart against the evils of envy. Help me to be truly thankful and content with what You have given me in life. Amen

Proverbs 22:1 Better Than Riches

Proverbs 22: 1 (AMP)  A GOOD name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.

This suggests integrity, honest, humility, faithfulness, keeping promises, etc. This is a person that you can trust and have confidence in. The apostle Paul was so confident in his “good name” that he encouraged the Christians in Corinth to “PATTERN YOURSELVES after me [follow my example], as I imitate and follow Christ (the Messiah).” 1 Corinthians 11:1 (AMP)

Acts 16:1 (AMP) He [Timothy] had a good reputation among the brethren at Lystra and Iconium. 

Paul goes on to instruct Timothy that any person that is to be considered for leadership in the church must have a good name [reputation]. I am convinced that one of the greatest needs in the church today is authentic leadership of good report. 

1 Timothy 3:7 (AMP)Furthermore, he must have a good reputation and be well thought of by those outside [the church], lest he become involved in slander and incur reproach and fall into the devil’s trap. 

Without doing damage to the context, this verse also suggests a good name with God. We are to “...rejoice that your names are written in heaven." Luke 10:20 b

Philippians 4: 3 Yes, and I ask you, loyal yokefellow, help these women who have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.

Heavenly Father I thank you for Your consistent refining of my character. I have not always had a good name due to my immaturity, bad choices, and at times my willful disobedience. You have convicted me of my sins, led me to repentance and given me the will and courage to change. You have helped me to face those that I have disappointed and to reestablish my integrity in their eyes. Thank you that I have received their forgiveness and Yours! I love YOU my Lord and Savior. Amen

Proverbs 21:3 Obedience vs. Sacrifice

Proverbs 21:3 (NASB) To do righteousness and justice Is desired by the LORD more than sacrifice.

I can see the emotional battle raging in Abraham as he hears the Word of the Lord in Genesis 22. “"Take now your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I will tell you."

To me Abraham exemplifies God’s admonition to do righteousness and justice, to walk in obedience and the fear of the Lord. He is a man with an intimate relationship with God that impacts every area of his life to include those he loves most! What courage, what faith that Abraham would offer the sacrifice that God had required.

As you continue to read the following scriptures you will see this recurring theme, obedience is better than sacrifice.

1 Samuel 15:22 (NKJV)  So Samuel said: Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, As in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, And to heed than the fat of rams.

Isaiah 1:11-17 (NLT) 11 “What makes you think I want all your sacrifices?” says the LORD. “I am sick of your burnt offerings of rams and the fat of fattened cattle. I get no pleasure from the blood of bulls and lambs and goats.12 When you come to worship me, who asked you to parade through my courts with all your ceremony?13 Stop bringing me your meaningless gifts; the incense of your  offerings disgusts me! As for your celebrations of the new moon and the Sabbath and your special days for fasting—they are all sinful and false. I want no more of your pious meetings.14 I hate your new moon celebrations and your annual festivals. They are a burden to me. I cannot stand them! 15 When you lift up your hands in prayer, I will not look. Though you offer many prayers, I will not listen, for your hands are covered with the blood of innocent victims.16 Wash yourselves and be clean! Get your sins out of my sight. Give up your evil ways.17 Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.18 “Come now, let’s settle this,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, I will make them as white as wool.

Hosea 6:6 (AMP) For I desire and delight in dutiful steadfast love and goodness, not sacrifice, and the knowledge of and acquaintance with God more than burnt offerings.

Micah 6:8 (NKJV) 8 He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?

There are many Christians in sacrificial service in churches across America, teaching Sunday school, serving as board members and others in higher levels of church leadership. These “servants” sacrifice their time, finances, at times relationships and even their health. But are they walking in obedience? Are they living righteous lives and pursuing justice as lovers of mercy, serving God with integrity and humility? Are you?

In conclusion we read the words of Jesus as he weighs in on this topic, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” John 14:13 (NASB)

With deepest sincerity I echo the prayer of the Palmist, “Search me [thoroughly], O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!  And see if there is any wicked or hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23-24

Proverbs 20:22 Good vs. Evil

Proverbs 20:22 (AMP) Do not say, I will repay evil; wait [expectantly] for the Lord, and He will rescue you.

Proverbs 24:29 (NLT) And don’t say, “Now I can pay them back for what they’ve done to me! I’ll get even with them!”

When we are wronged, not only are we offended, at times we are also temped to retaliate. Strong emotions cry out for a strong response. This is only natural but not godly. As passionate followers of Jesus we are called to a higher past. We cannot be driven by our emotions and at the same time respond by the spirit. Out trust is in God, recognizing that He alone is our defense. We do not take matters into our own hands but “Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous.Yes, wait patiently for the LORD.” Psalm 27:14 (NLT)

This is difficult In the face of injustice. The caution is these verses is not one of inaction. Godly wisdom demands that we choose to respond to evil in the opposite spirit. As you read the following verses notice the specific call to ACTION, 1) Resist vengeance 2) Trust God for justice 3) do good to the offending party 4) pray 5) have pity.

Romans 12:17, 19-20 (AMP) 17 Repay no one evil for evil, but take thought for what is honest and proper and noble [aiming to be above reproach] in the sight of everyone.; 19  Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave the way open for [God’s] wrath; for it is written, Vengeance is Mine, I will repay (requite), says the Lord. 20  But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals upon his head. 21  Do not let yourself be overcome by evil, but overcome (master) evil with good.

1 Thessalonians 5:15 (AMP) See that none of you repays another with evil for evil, but always aim to show kindness and seek to do good to one another and to everybody.

1 Peter 3:9 (AMP) Never return evil for evil or insult for insult (scolding, tongue-lashing, berating), but on the contrary blessing [praying for their welfare, happiness, and protection, and truly pitying and loving them]. For know that to this you have been called, that you may yourselves inherit a blessing [from God--that you may obtain a blessing as heirs, bringing welfare and happiness and protection].

Only as we give ourselves fully to the Lord can we hope to walk above the pain, to resist our sinful urges, and respond in the Spirit. To this we have been called! 

Heavenly Father, you know the weakness of my human nature. You know that at times I am angry at those who have hurt me or members of my family. PLEASE help me to obey you commands. Help me so that I am not overcome by evil. Help me to overcome by doing good. In Jesus name, Amen.

Proverb 19:3 Angry With God

Proverbs 19:3 (AMP)  The foolishness of man subverts his way [ruins his affairs]; then his heart is resentful and frets against the Lord.

Proverbs 19:3 (NLT) People ruin their lives by their own foolishness and then are angry at the LORD.

I am not sure who all will read this post. Depending on where the reader is spiritually, it could prove to be offensive. The Word of God is true and gives considerable insight into human behavior. I have met men and woman, angry with God as though he had sinned against them. 

They cannot accept the truth that their behavior has brought them down. I have talked with people that are angry with God at the have loss of marriages, employment, being estranged from their children and more.  In every instance, they are the causes of their own calamities. When I have tried to talk with them they become defensive, avoiding the truth, denying, minimizing and blame shifting. They see themselves as victims.

Who are these foolish people? “These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage.” Jude 1:16 (NKJV)

Here is God’s response to those who are willful in their sin and blame God for their circumstances. Notice God’s heart toward them in verses 27-29.  This is a redemptive promise full of grace!

Ezekiel 18:23-29 (NKJV) 23 Do I have any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? says the Lord God, and not that he should turn from his ways and live? 24 But when a righteous man turns away from his righteousness and commits iniquity, and does according to all the abominations that the wicked man does, shall he live? All the righteousness which he has done shall not be remembered; because of the unfaithfulness of which he is guilty and the sin which he has committed, because of them he shall die. 25 Yet you say, The way of the Lord is not fair. Hear now, O house of Israel, is it not My way which is fair, and your ways which are not fair? 26 When a righteous man turns away from his righteousness, commits iniquity, and dies in it, it is because of the iniquity which he has done that he dies. 27 Again, when a wicked man turns away from the wickedness which he committed, and does what is lawful and right, he preserves himself alive. 28 Because he considers and turns away from all the transgressions which he committed, he shall surely live; he shall not die. 29 Yet the house of Israel says, The way of the Lord is not fair. O house of Israel, is it not My ways which are fair, and your ways which are not fair?

There are also people who would blame God for their moral failures, saying that they were set up, tempted by God himself. The apostle James addresses this accusation with absolute clarity. “Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. “ James 1:13 (NASB)  

Heavenly Father, thank you for the promise of your word. That if we turn from our sin you will forgive us and heal our broken lives.