Devotionals

We can have appetites for many things this fallen world has to offer, can’t we? Therefore, we must be diligent with self-control, as well as teach our children about the foolish path strewn with the temptation and gluttony of food, alcohol, drugs, social media, foul TV/movies, as well as the destructive work of lust that can rob and destroy lives. Every human being has an inclination to follow temptation. These things cannot satisfy a soul that was created to hunger for Christ alone; Jesus is the only Antidote for the world’s poison. Thinking our lives will not be changed by what we consume is the epitome of foolishness.

Gluttony is a topic we don’t cover often, but we should certainly do so. Gluttony is a silent killer that is greatly underestimated; it is a lack of control over one’s consumption. For example, we may not see the overindulgence or poor choice of foods we consume as a sin; however, we may point the finger of shame at the sinful consumption by others of alcohol, drugs, as well as illicit sex. Our bodies are the temple of God; his Spirit lives in us (1 Cor 3:16). So, whatever we choose to indulge in definitely matters to the Lord. Gluttony and lust have tentacles that reach into many areas of human life and relationships, so people need to learn divine Wisdom on how to take authority over them in the Spirit of self-control.

Lust is another topic we rarely cover, but is so very dangerous to our relationship with God and our loved ones. Lust is a sinful desire for something that God has forbidden. Many times we associate lust with sexual behavior, but it is also connected to intoxication, thievery, hoarding, revenge, etc.; the root of lust is emptiness. Lust is a predator and human beings are its prey. Just because a person does not act upon a lustful desire, does not mean sin is absent. Jesus said to even “look” with lust is committing unfaithfulness in the heart (Mat 5:28). God is not unaware of the lustful fantasy of the mind and Jesus teaches the eye is the window to the soul. Pornography is a killer; it destroys trust and intimacy. People may think it is harmless, but they are terribly deceived. Pornography is a battle that is fought in the mind, the root is selfishness, and destroyed lives are the result. There is never a way to satisfy the root of lust.

In our passage from Proverbs 23, today, Solomon continues to teach his son about the areas of life that desperately need Christ’s Wisdom and the fruit of self-control. Solomon has spent a lot of energy and words through his wisdom writings teaching his son about immoral sexuality; he writes about the prostitute or immoral woman—a metaphor for sexual sin and lust.

Wisdom is a Person—Jesus—who calls us to follow him as committed disciples. Folly is a person—Satan—who seeks to trap and kill the unsuspecting. Remember, the pure in heart—those set apart for the glory of the Lord— are the ones who shall see God (Mat 5:8). Gluttony and lust are trespassing thieves seeking to rob the believer and we need to send them straight back to hell.

Proverbs 23 NLT
1
While dining with a ruler,
    pay attention to what is put before you.
2 
If you are a big eater,
    put a knife to your throat;
3 
don’t desire all the delicacies,
    for he might be trying to trick you.
4 
Don’t wear yourself out trying to get rich.
    Be wise enough to know when to quit.
5 
In the blink of an eye wealth disappears,
    for it will sprout wings
    and fly away like an eagle.
6 
Don’t eat with people who are stingy;
    don’t desire their delicacies.
7 
They are always thinking about how much it costs.
    “Eat and drink,” they say, but they don’t mean it.
8 
You will throw up what little you’ve eaten,
    and your compliments will be wasted.
9 
Don’t waste your breath on fools,
    for they will despise the wisest advice.
10 
Don’t cheat your neighbor by moving the ancient boundary markers;
    don’t take the land of defenseless orphans.
11 
For their Redeemer is strong;
    he himself will bring their charges against you.
12 
Commit yourself to instruction;
    listen carefully to words of knowledge.
13 
Don’t fail to discipline your children.
    The rod of punishment won’t kill them.
14 
Physical discipline
    may well save them from death.
15 
My child, if your heart is wise,
    my own heart will rejoice!
16 
Everything in me will celebrate
    when you speak what is right.
17 
Don’t envy sinners,
    but always continue to fear the Lord.
18 
You will be rewarded for this;
    your hope will not be disappointed.
19 
My child, listen and be wise:
    Keep your heart on the right course.
20 
Do not carouse with drunkards
    or feast with gluttons,
21 
for they are on their way to poverty,
    and too much sleep clothes them in rags.
22 
Listen to your father, who gave you life,
    and don’t despise your mother when she is old.
23 
Get the truth and never sell it;
    also get wisdom, discipline, and good judgment.
24 
The father of godly children has cause for joy.
    What a pleasure to have children who are wise.
25 
So give your father and mother joy!
    May she who gave you birth be happy.
26 
O my son, give me your heart.
    May your eyes take delight in following my ways.
27 
A prostitute is a dangerous trap;
    a promiscuous woman is as dangerous as falling into a narrow well.
28 
She hides and waits like a robber,
    eager to make more men unfaithful.
29 
Who has anguish? Who has sorrow?
    Who is always fighting? Who is always complaining?
    Who has unnecessary bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes?
30 
It is the one who spends long hours in the taverns,
    trying out new drinks.
31 
Don’t gaze at the wine, seeing how red it is,
    how it sparkles in the cup, how smoothly it goes down.
32 
For in the end it bites like a poisonous snake;
    it stings like a viper.
33 
You will see hallucinations,
    and you will say crazy things.
34 
You will stagger like a sailor tossed at sea,
    clinging to a swaying mast.
35 
And you will say, “They hit me, but I didn’t feel it.
    I didn’t even know it when they beat me up.
When will I wake up
    so I can look for another drink?”

Prayer: Lord, thank you for helping us really think and focus today on the sinful roots of gluttony and lust. We need to be aware and on guard, because we know how you feel about these things. The enemy tries all the time to use fear as a way to alienate us from your presence, but gluttony and lust operating in our lives does the same thing. It’s all sin and we need your help to overcome everything sent to destroy us. We pray for your goodness and courage to fill us, today. We pray for you to give us a desire for righteousness that far exceeds any desire for that which is forbidden by you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

As parents, we should always want God’s best for our children and that means they need plenty of love, guidance, and correction. Many times we want to shield our children from the lack and pain we may have experienced in our young lives, or the difficulties that tried to destroy our own futures. After all, this is a fallen world and sin tempts everyone and, yes, especially parents; we are all flawed so we need our Creator to direct every life. The enemy is never silent or still; he moves to rob, kill, and destroy the abundant life of Christ moment by moment. Satan—the author of sin and death—hates and strives to destroy everyone connected to Christ—our Holy God and Author of the Holy Life.

We may passionately desire a meaningful and successful future for ourselves and our loved ones, but many times we stop looking beyond this natural realm for the victory only grace can provide. The world is not our home; this worldly system of lies is not our Creator. Only God can bring us meaning and success for living; we can make plans and steer things, but if the direction we are going is not the will of God then our efforts will not bring what we hope to gain. Evil cannot be satisfied. We cannot follow our hearts, we must obediently follow the righteous plan of God laid out in his Word. But, are we promised if we teach our children the gospel, they will always follow Christ and never veer from the Truth? Let’s remember the lesson of the Prodigal son who as a child experienced the loving care of the Father, yet demanded his own selfish way and left the safe dwelling of grace for a season; he experienced tremendous lack, but he found his way back to abundant life (Luke 15:11-32).

In our reading from Proverbs 22, today, King Solomon reminds us the greatest need for children is to know the saving power of Jesus and it is the parents job to set the course from the beginning. Therefore, as believers, our children should be the first ones we teach about their sinful nature and the righteous nature of Jesus to bring salvation and deliverance. Children need instruction, guidance, and discipline; this is an example of sharing the Good News of Christ. As our heavenly Father disciplines his children, we must also correct our children by helping them pursue and follow the spiritual realm of righteous living with the Lord. Yet, there is that free will, the deception of Satan, and a world culture that tries to steer a heart away from God; leaving a soul feeling lost and disconnected.

As I type this devotional, I am sitting next to a cup that bears my granddaughter’s picture and the wisdom proverb found in verse 6 (Ch 22). I know it takes the faithful work of God’s Spirit to help raise children into God-fearing adults. I pray for Christian parents to understand the power of a strong free will, the tendency of every human being to demand his or her own way, and Satan’s unquenchable hunger to destroy God’s design for family. I pray against a spirit of shame and failure for parents who have done all they knew to do only to feel their children are lost; we must trust the seeds of Truth we have sown in our children. When we pray and trust the Word of the Lord for salvation, we are saved and that salvation works to bring our families to Christ, as well (Acts 16:31-32). I pray for the supernatural and transforming work of Christ to bring people of all ages, who have heard and received the seeds of Truth, back to the Truth with their obedient lives and receive wholeness for the Glory of our amazing Lord in Jesus’ name! May the Wisdom of Christ open blind eyes to see and deaf ears to hear what the Spirit is saying in their spirits!

Proverbs 22 NLT
1
Choose a good reputation over great riches;
    being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold.
2 
The rich and poor have this in common:
    The Lord made them both.
3 
A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions.
    The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.
4 
True humility and fear of the Lord
    lead to riches, honor, and long life.
5 
Corrupt people walk a thorny, treacherous road;
    whoever values life will avoid it.
6 
Direct your children onto the right path,
    and when they are older, they will not leave it.
7 
Just as the rich rule the poor,
    so the borrower is servant to the lender.
8 
Those who plant injustice will harvest disaster,
    and their reign of terror will come to an end.
9 
Blessed are those who are generous,
    because they feed the poor.
10 
Throw out the mocker, and fighting goes, too.
    Quarrels and insults will disappear.
11 
Whoever loves a pure heart and gracious speech
    will have the king as a friend.
12 
The Lord preserves those with knowledge,
    but he ruins the plans of the treacherous.
13 
The lazy person claims, “There’s a lion out there!
    If I go outside, I might be killed!”
14 
The mouth of an immoral woman is a dangerous trap;
    those who make the Lord angry will fall into it.
15 
A youngster’s heart is filled with foolishness,
    but physical discipline will drive it far away.
16 
A person who gets ahead by oppressing the poor
    or by showering gifts on the rich will end in poverty.

Sayings of the Wise
17 
Listen to the words of the wise;
    apply your heart to my instruction.
18 
For it is good to keep these sayings in your heart
    and always ready on your lips.
19 
I am teaching you today—yes, you—
    so you will trust in the Lord.
20 
I have written thirty sayings for you,
    filled with advice and knowledge.
21 
In this way, you may know the truth
    and take an accurate report to those who sent you.
22 
Don’t rob the poor just because you can,
    or exploit the needy in court.
23 
For the Lord is their defender.
    He will ruin anyone who ruins them.
24 
Don’t befriend angry people
    or associate with hot-tempered people,
25 
or you will learn to be like them
    and endanger your soul.
26 
Don’t agree to guarantee another person’s debt
    or put up security for someone else.
27 
If you can’t pay it,
    even your bed will be snatched from under you.
28 
Don’t cheat your neighbor by moving the ancient boundary markers
    set up by previous generations.
29 
Do you see any truly competent workers?
    They will serve kings
    rather than working for ordinary people.

Prayer: Lord, you are the Rescuer! We pray for a spiritual rescue mission for our sons, daughters, and family of loved ones to return to the Truth and Life you offer. We pray for a spiritual rescue mission for our friends, neighbors, and this world that desperately needs your forgiveness and grace. We pray for Wisdom to guide the choices of all of your children. We pray to see the foolishness of our selfish ways. We pray for the gospel seeds already planted in hearts to overtake the sinful inclinations of human flesh, so we can genuinely emulate the Truth. Give every heart that has some knowledge of you, an unquenchable hunger for the Truth and pursue it for overflow. Bring the miracles we need, Lord. Deliver us and our loved ones from evil. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Victory in Jesus is one of my favorite gospel songs. It reminds me of the atoning work of Jesus for me; to redeem, cleanse, heal, and open my eyes to the Truth of the Father’s love for me. As a believer, I have victory because I have repented of sin and chose to reach for his godliness. The Lord guides, directs, and has authority over all things. Therefore, if I stay focused on my Lord, I never have to fear not being in the right place at the right time; I will not miss a single good thing God has for me. I have victory over sin and death to live in Christ and, if you have repented and been cleansed by the blood of Jesus, so do you!

In our passage this morning from Proverbs 21, King Solomon reminds us of the power, knowledge, and presence of the Lord over all creation and this Lord examines the motives of human hearts. Think about how God knows the hearts that run to share goodness and the hearts that run to do evil. God can move people around and in and out of positions according to his will. He knows the leaders who will honor his Word and who will not. As believers, when we do the will of the Lord, we may not always see the results right away, but God sees the Truth of our discipleship. God knows and has the power to position any human being where he or she can bring the most good for the benefit of Christ and his Kingdom.

Now, as God’s sons and daughters, we may not like where we are positioned sometimes, because God does not ask us where we want to serve, what we want our responsibilities to involve, or if we like the people with whom we serve. God simply positions us, guides and empowers us, and asks us to go and do his will where he places us. Learning to treasure our call from the Lord is a part of our transformation; to become disciples [students] of Christ.

God has moved kings, presidents, and other leaders throughout history in order to accomplish his justice and reveal his glory. There have been times in my life where I did not understand God’s positioning process, but down the road of life a bit farther it all made sense to me. Christ was discipling me, so I could disciple others. I was learning valuable lessons that would help prepare, sustain, and make me victorious in the next place the Lord was taking me. Therefore, keeping a humble attitude is essential, because we must be motivated to do the will of God.

Proverbs 21 NLT
1
The king’s heart is like a stream of water directed by the Lord;
    he guides it wherever he pleases.
2 
People may be right in their own eyes,
    but the Lord examines their heart.
3 
The Lord is more pleased when we do what is right and just
    than when we offer him sacrifices.
4 
Haughty eyes, a proud heart,
    and evil actions are all sin.
5 
Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity,
    but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.
6 
Wealth created by a lying tongue
    is a vanishing mist and a deadly trap.
7 
The violence of the wicked sweeps them away,
    because they refuse to do what is just.
8 
The guilty walk a crooked path;
    the innocent travel a straight road.
9 
It’s better to live alone in the corner of an attic
    than with a quarrelsome wife in a lovely home.
10 
Evil people desire evil;
    their neighbors get no mercy from them.
11 
If you punish a mocker, the simpleminded become wise;
    if you instruct the wise, they will be all the wiser.
12 
The Righteous One knows what is going on in the homes of the wicked;
    he will bring disaster on them.
13 
Those who shut their ears to the cries of the poor
    will be ignored in their own time of need.
14 
A secret gift calms anger;
    a bribe under the table pacifies fury.
15 
Justice is a joy to the godly,
    but it terrifies evildoers.
16 
The person who strays from common sense
    will end up in the company of the dead.
17 
Those who love pleasure become poor;
    those who love wine and luxury will never be rich.
18 
The wicked are punished in place of the godly,
    and traitors in place of the honest.
19 
It’s better to live alone in the desert
    than with a quarrelsome, complaining wife.
20 
The wise have wealth and luxury,
    but fools spend whatever they get.
21 
Whoever pursues righteousness and unfailing love
    will find life, righteousness, and honor.
22 
The wise conquer the city of the strong
    and level the fortress in which they trust.
23 
Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut,
    and you will stay out of trouble.
24 
Mockers are proud and haughty;
    they act with boundless arrogance.
25 
Despite their desires, the lazy will come to ruin,
    for their hands refuse to work.
26 
Some people are always greedy for more,
    but the godly love to give!
27 
The sacrifice of an evil person is detestable,
    especially when it is offered with wrong motives.
28 
A false witness will be cut off,
    but a credible witness will be allowed to speak.
29 
The wicked bluff their way through,
    but the virtuous think before they act.
30 
No human wisdom or understanding or plan
    can stand against the Lord.
31 
The horse is prepared for the day of battle,
    but the victory belongs to the Lord.

Prayer: Lord, you have called us to be your disciples and you continue to use all of Scripture to help us discover and learn your righteous ways. Our human wisdom is inadequate, but your divine Wisdom in Christ makes us victorious as disciples. Examine our hearts and motives; help us grow in Truth. Give us eyes to see evil and run from it. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Broken promises, the abandonment of a parent, abuse of trust, unfaithful mates, untrue gossip, physical or emotional violence are just some of the acts of injustice we can face in this life; they all leave deep wounds and pain. Even though God has promised to be our Vindicator, letting him handle things when we have been wronged can be a difficult challenge. Oh, we trust God for sure, right? Yet, we know God’s timing is different; he may not deal with things right away. God’s perspective of a situation is entirely righteous bringing to the forefront the motives of every heart; he may not deal with the situation the way we would prefer. God’s goal is to make us stronger and persevering in this life; he may call us to forgive an offense without receiving an apology or a change in that person. God’s way is not a “get even” process; he is pure righteousness.

In our passage today from Proverbs 20, we are reminded about the fallen nature of humanity and the pain that sinful flesh can inflict. We want to see justice be served when we are harmed; it is not wrong to want justice, but we must allow God to execute it. Scripture reminds us it is God’s place to judge, punish, justify, and vindicate (Ro 12:19). God alone is pure and without sin, so he can cause our innocence to be radiant with his glory before others should that be his plan.

If we do not leave injustice with God, we will find ourselves with bitter souls [a sin]. We will hold onto grudges and spend our energy condemning others. Instead of living in this awful soup of negativity, we can trust God to deal with our hearts, the hearts of others involved, choose to look at the situation with the eyes of mercy, and forgive (1 Pet 2:21-23). Making a list of wrongs is not Jesus; nor is being happy when those who have harmed us get harmed by others. The Wisdom of God—Jesus— calls us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Mat 5:44). If Jesus could look at those who were murdering him and ask the Father to forgive them, we can choose love and receive grace for the things we face.

Proverbs 20 NLT
1
Wine produces mockers; alcohol leads to brawls.
    Those led astray by drink cannot be wise.
2 
The king’s fury is like a lion’s roar;
    to rouse his anger is to risk your life.
3 
Avoiding a fight is a mark of honor;
    only fools insist on quarreling.
4 
Those too lazy to plow in the right season
    will have no food at the harvest.
5 
Though good advice lies deep within the heart,
    a person with understanding will draw it out.
6 
Many will say they are loyal friends,
    but who can find one who is truly reliable?
7 
The godly walk with integrity;
    blessed are their children who follow them.
8 
When a king sits in judgment, he weighs all the evidence,
    distinguishing the bad from the good.
9 
Who can say, “I have cleansed my heart;
    I am pure and free from sin?”
10 
False weights and unequal measures—
    the Lord detests double standards of every kind.
11 
Even children are known by the way they act,
    whether their conduct is pure, and whether it is right.
12 
Ears to hear and eyes to see—
    both are gifts from the Lord.
13 
If you love sleep, you will end in poverty.
    Keep your eyes open, and there will be plenty to eat!
14 
The buyer haggles over the price, saying, “It’s worthless,”
    then brags about getting a bargain!
15 
Wise words are more valuable
    than much gold and many rubies.
16 
Get security from someone who guarantees a stranger’s debt.
    Get a deposit if he does it for foreigners.
17 
Stolen bread tastes sweet,
    but it turns to gravel in the mouth.
18 
Plans succeed through good counsel;
    don’t go to war without wise advice.
19 
A gossip goes around telling secrets,
    so don’t hang around with chatterers.
20 
If you insult your father or mother,
    your light will be snuffed out in total darkness.
21 
An inheritance obtained too early in life
    is not a blessing in the end.
22 
Don’t say, “I will get even for this wrong.”
    Wait for the Lord to handle the matter.
23 
The Lord detests double standards;
    he is not pleased by dishonest scales.
24 
The Lord directs our steps,
    so why try to understand everything along the way?
25 
Don’t trap yourself by making a rash promise to God
    and only later counting the cost.
26 
A wise king scatters the wicked like wheat,
    then runs his threshing wheel over them.
27 
The Lord’s light penetrates the human spirit,
    exposing every hidden motive.
28 
Unfailing love and faithfulness protect the king;
    his throne is made secure through love.
29 
The glory of the young is their strength;
    the gray hair of experience is the splendor of the old.
30 
Physical punishment cleanses away evil;
    such discipline purifies the heart.

Prayer: Lord, to guard our hearts against bitterness and resentment for the pain we have endured from others, we give you our emotions and surrender our right to get even. We forgive others, will wait for the justice you declare, and call for the Spirit to heal and restore our souls. You have taught us to forgive as we have been forgiven and we want to honor your Wisdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Pastor Mary mentioned in yesterday’s devotion that Solomon reiterates many things that he shared within the pervious chapters; and in Proverbs 20 we see much of the same pieces of wisdom being shared. You will notice that within each Proverb, Solomon rephrases the nuggets of Godly wisdom that he is sharing with not only his son, but with all believers, including you and me. This is not an exercise of annoyance, rather an exercise of continuously pointing believers towards having an obedient heart for Truth; a heart that is not only in relationship with Jesus, but one that longs to grow more faithful and righteous.

Today, is the inauguration of President Donald Trump back into office as the 47th President of the United States, it is also Martin Luther King Jr. Day. During Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech on August 28, 1963, at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. there were approximately 250,000 people who marched on Washington for jobs and freedom at the largest civil rights gathering. During that speech, Dr. King quoted the Word of God 4 times. On the 8th time that he said “I have a dream” he went on to quote Isaiah 40:4-5, as he said, “I have a dream that one day ‘every valley shall be exalted, and every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight; and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all flesh shall see it together’.” As many of you know, Dr. King was a minister and theologian who loved Jesus, and here we are almost 57 years after he was assassinated, honoring not only his life and what he did for civil rights, but how he loved Jesus and stood as a vessel for God’s Truth before the world to witness God’s love, justice, righteousness, and peace. We need to pray for this same wisdom that Dr. King embodied for our 47th President of the United States, President Donald Trump. Just as Solomon speaks of the wise counsel of the kings of his time, we want that same Godly wise counsel for our President so that it will translate God’s love, justice, righteousness, and peace to impact all of America and the world.

Proverbs 20 (NLT)

1 Wine produces mockers; alcohol leads to brawls.
Those led astray by drink cannot be wise.

2 The king’s fury is like a lion’s roar;
to rouse his anger is to risk your life.

3 Avoiding a fight is a mark of honor;
only fools insist on quarreling.

4 Those too lazy to plow in the right season
will have no food at the harvest.

5 Though good advice lies deep within the heart,
a person with understanding will draw it out.

6 Many will say they are loyal friends,
but who can find one who is truly reliable?

7 The godly walk with integrity;
blessed are their children who follow them.

8 When a king sits in judgment, he weighs all the evidence,
distinguishing the bad from the good.

9 Who can say, “I have cleansed my heart;
I am pure and free from sin”?

10 False weights and unequal measures—
the Lord detests double standards of every kind.

11 Even children are known by the way they act,
whether their conduct is pure, and whether it is right.

12 Ears to hear and eyes to see—
both are gifts from the Lord.

13 If you love sleep, you will end in poverty.
Keep your eyes open, and there will be plenty to eat!

14 The buyer haggles over the price, saying, “It’s worthless,”
then brags about getting a bargain!

15 Wise words are more valuable
than much gold and many rubies.

16 Get security from someone who guarantees a stranger’s debt.
Get a deposit if he does it for foreigners.

17 Stolen bread tastes sweet,
but it turns to gravel in the mouth.

18 Plans succeed through good counsel;
don’t go to war without wise advice.

19 A gossip goes around telling secrets,
so don’t hang around with chatterers.

20 If you insult your father or mother,
your light will be snuffed out in total darkness.

21 An inheritance obtained too early in life
is not a blessing in the end.

22 Don’t say, “I will get even for this wrong.”
Wait for the Lord to handle the matter.

23 The Lord detests double standards;
he is not pleased by dishonest scales.

24 The Lord directs our steps,
so why try to understand everything along the way?

25 Don’t trap yourself by making a rash promise to God
and only later counting the cost.

26 A wise king scatters the wicked like wheat,
then runs his threshing wheel over them.

27 The Lord’s light penetrates the human spirit,
exposing every hidden motive.

28 Unfailing love and faithfulness protect the king;
his throne is made secure through love.

29 The glory of the young is their strength;
the gray hair of experience is the splendor of the old.

30 Physical punishment cleanses away evil;
such discipline purifies the heart.

Prayer: Jesus, thank You for being the example of wisdom for our lives. Holy Spirit, please impart Your wisdom to each of us today. Be with President Trump today and each day that he serves as our 47th President. Impart Your Godly wisdom to him so that he can make sound decisions for our country. We ask for You to guide his heart, words, actions, inactions, and steps each day that we are all within his care. May You be glorified, Jesus, in America and throughout the world. We ask this in Your Name, Jesus. Amen.

Much of what Solomon writes in Proverbs 18 reiterates many things he has shared in previous chapters. Yet, every time I read through these Wisdom points, I gain something deeper in meaning from them as they relate to my life. Sometimes the passages are affirming and sometimes they are convicting. I have especially valued everything relating to that big muscle—the tongue. Today, I truly treasure the Wisdom shared about active listening, friendship, and counseling.

Pastoral care—providing emotional and spiritual support—is a bit different then pastoral counseling—more specialized emotional and psychological support—but both require pastors to rest with discernment in the healing work of God’s Spirit. Listening is key, so that is where the pastor must begin. When people open up to talk, it requires eye contact, focused listening, and empathy—the ability to place one’s self in that person’s shoes. We must fight the urge to chime in while a person is trying to share from the wounds in their hearts. The Spirit will guide the conversation.

In our passage today from Proverbs 18, it clearly does not take a pastor to share compassionate or empathetic listening and care. You can be an emotional and spiritual support for others, too. God invites all of us to find our refuge in his name; salvation is found in no other name (Ro 10:13).

As we humble ourselves seeking the miraculous help of God to bring healing, we find the Lord waiting to honor us with his love, friendship, and blessing. “There are friends who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother” (Pro 18:24). Jesus is a Friend who stands at heaven’s court and reaches out to love and heal us. Jesus is the Healer, because Jesus is a Friend who offers pure love and vows to never leave us. Healing always flows from him as we agree in his love. So, when 2-3 are gathered in his name, Christ is in the midst ready to extend truth, love, and grace (Mat 18:18-20).

Proverbs 18 NLT
1
Unfriendly people care only about themselves;
    they lash out at common sense.
2 
Fools have no interest in understanding;
    they only want to air their own opinions.
3 
Doing wrong leads to disgrace,
    and scandalous behavior brings contempt.
4 
Wise words are like deep waters;
    wisdom flows from the wise like a bubbling brook.
5 
It is not right to acquit the guilty
    or deny justice to the innocent.
6 
Fools’ words get them into constant quarrels;
    they are asking for a beating.
7 
The mouths of fools are their ruin;
    they trap themselves with their lips.
8 
Rumors are dainty morsels
    that sink deep into one’s heart.
9 
A lazy person is as bad as
    someone who destroys things.
10 
The name of the Lord is a strong fortress;
    the godly run to him and are safe.
11 
The rich think of their wealth as a strong defense;
    they imagine it to be a high wall of safety.
12 
Haughtiness goes before destruction;
    humility precedes honor.
13 
Spouting off before listening to the facts
    is both shameful and foolish.
14 
The human spirit can endure a sick body,
    but who can bear a crushed spirit?
15 
Intelligent people are always ready to learn.
    Their ears are open for knowledge.
16 
Giving a gift can open doors;
    it gives access to important people!
17 
The first to speak in court sounds right—
    until the cross-examination begins.
18 
Flipping a coin can end arguments;
    it settles disputes between powerful opponents.
19 
An offended friend is harder to win back than a fortified city.
    Arguments separate friends like a gate locked with bars.
20 
Wise words satisfy like a good meal;
    the right words bring satisfaction.
21 
The tongue can bring death or life;
    those who love to talk will reap the consequences.
22 
The man who finds a wife finds a treasure,
    and he receives favor from the Lord.
23 
The poor plead for mercy;
    the rich answer with insults.
24 
There are “friends” who destroy each other,
    but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for this lesson today about the power of friendship, love, and empathy. Lead us to be healers of one another. Help us to care deeply and listen carefully to the hearts that carry wounds and need the delivering Savior. We desire to control our tongues and become people who listen more than we talk. Holy Spirit, give us eyes to see and ears to hear how we can be a blessing and a true friend in Christ. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Learning what it means to worship the Lord our God is the purpose of Scripture. God reveals himself on the pages though his miraculous work, pure character, and the people he highlights for faith. Since the beginning of our reading in the Wisdom Book of Proverbs, we have learned our worship of God is reflected in our practical lifestyle choices.

When human beings choose a foolish lifestyle [void of Wisdom], they end up isolating themselves farther and farther from living in the Truth. In stepping away from a humble posture before God, people become destructive, judgmental, critical, and opinionated—fools. This isolation pushes any kind of conscience or conviction to the side; people do not see their actions as self-serving or their mouths like machine guns shooting out careless and condemning words that wound the soul of others. Fools think the worst and act accordingly; becoming absorbed with self. Living foolishly is always a temptation, so Solomon shares with his son and writes about it in some form in every chapter, so God’s people will better understand the ways of Wisdom.

No matter what generation in which we live, we can choose to be foolish or wise; everyone has the opportunity to choose between living for good or evil. Although, as human beings, we will always struggle against sin in thought, word, or deed, we do not have the right to simply say what we want and then apologize later. In time after repeated harm, no one is listening to us; we are too caustic and untrustworthy with their feelings.

There is a time to confront a person and time to be quiet; Wisdom knows the difference. Arguments, quarrels, and outbursts of anger show very little self-control. According to Solomon, a fool has a closed mind to the sound judgment shared by others while at the same time has a big mouth. This is another picture of pride. It’s a human problem and for this reason James reminds Christ’s [Wisdom] followers, “Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry” (1:19).

How about gossip? People tend to love juicy gossip—negative information—and they can hang onto it for a very longtime; long after it may even be proven false. Gossip is an addiction and it destroys lives and relationships. Gossip has been described as a “delicacy” to the appetites of fools. So, when those seeking to grow in Wisdom hear gossip, what is the proper response? We need to speak up when others are put down; at those times a reputation is being destroyed. So speak up in righteousness, because in Christ we are full of truth and grace. Let’s remember, in Christ, our delicacy [food] is to do the will of the Father (John 19:30).

Waging war against sin by acting in righteousness is Wisdom’s call to every believer, because it delivers one from evil. The words and ways of a wise person brings forth blessing. Foolishness delivers dishonor, shame, and disgrace in time leaving a person abandoned in desperate need of the Savior. Certainly, Jesus is right there to bring that salvation, but if a person continues on the path of foolishness, the consequences become more and more severe.

The Ten Commandments given by God are love orders, because God cares about our relationship with himself and with others. I ran across the Ten Commandments of Human Relations [by Robert G. Lee 1927-1960] while reading today and thought I would share them with you:
Speak to people
Smile at people
Call people by name
Be friendly and helpful
Be genuinely interested in people
Be generous with praise and cautious with criticism
Be considerate with the feelings of others
Be alert to give service
Learn to trust people
Have a sense of humor

Scripture reveals Jesus emulated all of these things throughout his brief human life on earth. The words of a fool can become a trap for his life; words can bring about ruin and destruction. It may take a lifetime to build a good reputation, but very quickly that can be destroyed when a person forgets the need to tame the tongue.

Proverbs 17 NLT
1
Better a dry crust eaten in peace
    than a house filled with feasting—and conflict.
2 
A wise servant will rule over the master’s disgraceful son
    and will share the inheritance of the master’s children.
3 
Fire tests the purity of silver and gold,
    but the Lord tests the heart.
4 
Wrongdoers eagerly listen to gossip;
    liars pay close attention to slander.
5 
Those who mock the poor insult their Maker;
    those who rejoice at the misfortune of others will be punished.
6 
Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged;
    parents are the pride of their children.
7 
Eloquent words are not fitting for a fool;
    even less are lies fitting for a ruler.
8 
A bribe is like a lucky charm;
    whoever gives one will prosper!
9 
Love prospers when a fault is forgiven,
    but dwelling on it separates close friends.
10 
A single rebuke does more for a person of understanding
    than a hundred lashes on the back of a fool.
11 
Evil people are eager for rebellion,
    but they will be severely punished.
12 
It is safer to meet a bear robbed of her cubs
    than to confront a fool caught in foolishness.
13 
If you repay good with evil,
    evil will never leave your house.
14 
Starting a quarrel is like opening a floodgate,
    so stop before a dispute breaks out.
15 
Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent—
    both are detestable to the Lord.
16 
It is senseless to pay to educate a fool,
    since he has no heart for learning.
17 
A friend is always loyal,
    and a brother is born to help in time of need.
18 
It’s poor judgment to guarantee another person’s debt
    or put up security for a friend.
19 
Anyone who loves to quarrel loves sin;
    anyone who trusts in high walls invites disaster.
20 
The crooked heart will not prosper;
    the lying tongue tumbles into trouble.
21 
It is painful to be the parent of a fool;
    there is no joy for the father of a rebel.
22 
A cheerful heart is good medicine,
    but a broken spirit saps a person’s strength.
23 
The wicked take secret bribes
    to pervert the course of justice.
24 
Sensible people keep their eyes glued on wisdom,
    but a fool’s eyes wander to the ends of the earth.
25 
Foolish children bring grief to their father
    and bitterness to the one who gave them birth.
26 
It is wrong to punish the godly for being good
    or to flog leaders for being honest.
27 
A truly wise person uses few words;
    a person with understanding is even-tempered.
28 
Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent;
    with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent.

Prayer: Father, please help us focus not just on our interests but upon the interests of others. Help us to listen and talk less. We desire for our words to be a flowing river of life for others, so we ask for you, Holy Spirit, to put a watch over our mouths. As well, please guard us against pushing through our agendas at the sake and well-being of others; you love the motivation and work ethic we have to make a difference for the Kingdom, but how we do it is even more important. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

I am so grateful to be living as a citizen of the United States of America. Although I do not agree with many things that have been established by a variety of leadership over the years, I am blessed to be an American; a part of one nation under God. The United States is the world’s only remaining superpower. However, no matter how powerful a nation or a president may be, that leader must submit to the sovereign rule of God and his King [Messiah] or huge power issues will arise between God and country. As a nation, we must pray all the time for Oneness with God and keep our motives and plans in check by honoring him.

In our passage from Proverbs 16, today, we note God is the One in control and we must humbly trust him. God determines what is evil and he judges it, God saves and protects those who submit to his authority, and God rules not only a certain country he rules the world and we must remember it! God lays out what he wants and sovereignly brings it to pass.

Human beings have free-will; an example would be the choice to sin. Because of our fallen nature, we will always struggle to live without sin. So, God helps us to understand his view of righteousness and if we choose to confess and submit our lives and sin to him God will help us overcome what he does not accept as good for us.

When Scripture reminds us of God’s sovereignty, we may find certain things about it unbearable. To see and accept God’s sovereignty is to know that everything touching a person’s life is either authored or allowed by God. Yet, even in the midst of suffering, God has promised to bring good out of it.

Again, this is not a warm-fuzzy vision sometimes; the thoughts and ways of God can seem unfathomable (Is 55:8-9). For example, by the sovereign will of God, Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, so he could grow, develop, rise to power, and save many people from starvation (Gen 50:20). It certainly took Joseph awhile to see his life in view of the merciful and good work of God, but nonetheless, he came to understand and praise God for it.

Humanity has a responsibility to God, because some things human beings do are detestable, wicked/evil, and need atoning by Almighty God—the only One who can bring righteous change. If we submit our hearts to God, believers can be agents of change in many ways. Bowing to the authority and sovereignty of God helps us battle against human pride that desires to take credit rather than give credit to God. Yet, God will even use evil in human beings to accomplish his purposes.

Let’s share just a minute about pride [self-deception], because it is so destructive and foolish. We cannot follow our own heart, because we do not see the world properly like God. Our flesh and logic are contaminated by pride and foolishness. People make decisions based on feelings every day that ruin their lives (Pro 16:25). We need God’s Wisdom; otherwise, human beings tend to promote themselves or their agenda and shun godly instruction.

So, real power comes when God’s sovereignty and human responsibility work together to accomplish the righteous justice of God. We need to act in accordance with our King, make plans that further his Kingdom, work hard for the cause of love, depend upon the Holy Spirit’s help, and submit absolutely everything to God. Nothing escapes God’s knowledge, so he will judge that which is evil and reward that which is good! According to Proverbs 3:5-6, trusting the Lord with our whole hearts…will lead us away from pride and onto the humble and straight path [obedience to God].

Proverbs 16 NLT
1
We can make our own plans,
    but the Lord gives the right answer.
2 
People may be pure in their own eyes,
    but the Lord examines their motives.
3 
Commit your actions to the Lord,
    and your plans will succeed.
4 
The Lord has made everything for his own purposes,
    even the wicked for a day of disaster.
5 
The Lord detests the proud;
    they will surely be punished.
6 
Unfailing love and faithfulness make atonement for sin.
    By fearing the Lord, people avoid evil.
7 
When people’s lives please the Lord,
    even their enemies are at peace with them.
8 
Better to have little, with godliness,
    than to be rich and dishonest.
9 
We can make our plans,
    but the Lord determines our steps.
10 
The king speaks with divine wisdom;
    he must never judge unfairly.
11 
The Lord demands accurate scales and balances;
    he sets the standards for fairness.
12 
A king detests wrongdoing,
    for his rule is built on justice.
13 
The king is pleased with words from righteous lips;
    he loves those who speak honestly.
14 
The anger of the king is a deadly threat;
    the wise will try to appease it.
15 
When the king smiles, there is life;
    his favor refreshes like a spring rain.
16 
How much better to get wisdom than gold,
    and good judgment than silver!
17 
The path of the virtuous leads away from evil;
    whoever follows that path is safe.
18 
Pride goes before destruction,
    and haughtiness before a fall.
19 
Better to live humbly with the poor
    than to share plunder with the proud.
20 
Those who listen to instruction will prosper;
    those who trust the Lord will be joyful.
21 
The wise are known for their understanding,
    and pleasant words are persuasive.
22 
Discretion is a life-giving fountain to those who possess it,
    but discipline is wasted on fools.
23 
From a wise mind comes wise speech;
    the words of the wise are persuasive.
24 
Kind words are like honey—
    sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.
25 
There is a path before each person that seems right,
    but it ends in death.
26 
It is good for workers to have an appetite;
    an empty stomach drives them on.
27 
Scoundrels create trouble;
    their words are a destructive blaze.
28 
A troublemaker plants seeds of strife;
    gossip separates the best of friends.
29 
Violent people mislead their companions,
    leading them down a harmful path.
30 
With narrowed eyes, people plot evil;
    with a smirk, they plan their mischief.
31 
Gray hair is a crown of glory;
    it is gained by living a godly life.
32 
Better to be patient than powerful;
    better to have self-control than to conquer a city.
33 
We may throw the dice, [cast lots]
    but the Lord determines how they fall.

Prayer: Lord, we are so grateful for your counsel and authority, so we humbly offer our will to you, today. We love you and pursue your faithful care of us. Help us stand against a spirit of pride and stubbornness, so we are protected from evil. We pray for our nation to rise up in righteous revival to honor your Name. In humility, we pray and ask for your sovereign will to be done. In praise, we thank you for the abundant grace to provide the resources needed to take care of this nation, our people, and turn to help the world you so dearly love. As a country, may we seek to love you wholeheartedly, love our neighbors, and love ourselves. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Biblical and godly encouragement is not simply extending affirming words that make a person feel better about himself or herself. Scripture teaches genuine encouragement develops one in humility [obedience to God], courage [facing the challenges in Christ’s strength], and hope [confident expectation] in God’s love and will for our lives. It’s taking God at his Word and helping others who need reassuring. Extending encouragement is like throwing a life-line of saving hope to sure up the courage and strength of others and help them press on in faith to lay hold of the grace of God for salvation and restoration. I am so grateful for the power of godly encouragement operating in our world, because so many people right now are desperate for it.

In our passage from Proverbs 15, today, we know a wise tongue is an encouraging and praying tongue. The sinful inclination of this world is to think the worse and verbalize it; to see only what we don’t like and what we think is wrong with people and things around us. But, not only should we never look at another human being and point out everything that seems glaringly wrong to us, we must look to encourage that person with the love of God and influence the righteous things God has prepared for his children to fulfill.

I was recently watching a brief recap of the confirmation hearing, involving Pete Hegseth for Defense Secretary, and some of the questions issued by several senators truly shocked me. I totally understand the importance of the inquiry into Major Hegseth’s qualifications, but my goodness God have mercy if each one of us was put under the magnifying glass of our failures; who could stand perfectly in righteousness for any job? Condemnation is not from Christ; it is Satan who is the accuser of God’s people and will not listen to a repentant heart or see the good that has followed a failure. Why couldn’t the questions focus on the proven qualifications of this person and what he may or may not bring of value to the job he is being considered to lead? The mercy we give is the mercy we receive (Mat 5:7).

So, the prayer lives of God’s people must be increased, because the devil is focused on destruction. According to God’s Wisdom through Solomon, “The Lord is far from the wicked, but he hears the prayers of the righteous” (Pro 15:29). I’m sure God hears every prayer and knows the motivation of every heart. However, prayers of faith in Christ heal the sick, forgive the sinner, and move us to live in the presence of Almighty God.

When believers and those seeking his will for salvation call upon him, great power is released that produces wonderful results (Ja 5:16). God accepted Christ’s sacrifice on our behalf as we are no longer condemned by God (Mat 27:46; Jo 3:16-17). Based on the mercy and blood of Jesus, the righteous are covered, forgiven, redeemed, and are being made whole by grace. We walk out of our failures and into the regenerating grace of Christ. Therefore, in humility, we should focus on what is good and with fear and trembling run from condemning someone else. Instead, let’s extend mercy and godly encouragement to others knowing the penalty of our sins has been paid.

Proverbs 15 NLT
1
A gentle answer deflects anger,
    but harsh words make tempers flare.
2 
The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing,
    but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness.
3 
The Lord is watching everywhere,
    keeping his eye on both the evil and the good.
4 
Gentle words are a tree of life;
    a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.
5 
Only a fool despises a parent’s discipline;
    whoever learns from correction is wise.
6 
There is treasure in the house of the godly,
    but the earnings of the wicked bring trouble.
7 
The lips of the wise give good advice;
    the heart of a fool has none to give.
8 
The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked,
    but he delights in the prayers of the upright.
9 
The Lord detests the way of the wicked,
    but he loves those who pursue godliness.
10 
Whoever abandons the right path will be severely disciplined;
    whoever hates correction will die.
11 
Even Death and Destruction hold no secrets from the Lord.
    How much more does he know the human heart!
12 
Mockers hate to be corrected,
    so they stay away from the wise.
13 
A glad heart makes a happy face;
    a broken heart crushes the spirit.
14 
A wise person is hungry for knowledge,
    while the fool feeds on trash.
15 
For the despondent, every day brings trouble;
    for the happy heart, life is a continual feast.
16 
Better to have little, with fear for the Lord,
    than to have great treasure and inner turmoil.
17 
A bowl of vegetables with someone you love
    is better than steak with someone you hate.
18 
A hot-tempered person starts fights;
    a cool-tempered person stops them.
19 
A lazy person’s way is blocked with briers,
    but the path of the upright is an open highway.
20 
Sensible children bring joy to their father;
    foolish children despise their mother.
21 
Foolishness brings joy to those with no sense;
    a sensible person stays on the right path.
22 
Plans go wrong for lack of advice;
    many advisers bring success.
23 
Everyone enjoys a fitting reply;
    it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!
24 
The path of life leads upward for the wise;
    they leave the grave behind.
25 
The Lord tears down the house of the proud,
    but he protects the property of widows.
26 
The Lord detests evil plans,
    but he delights in pure words.
27 
Greed brings grief to the whole family,
    but those who hate bribes will live.
28 
The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking;
    the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words.
29 
The Lord is far from the wicked,
    but he hears the prayers of the righteous.
30 
A cheerful look brings joy to the heart;
    good news makes for good health.
31 
If you listen to constructive criticism,
    you will be at home among the wise.
32 
If you reject discipline, you only harm yourself;
    but if you listen to correction, you grow in understanding.
33 
Fear of the Lord teaches wisdom;
    humility precedes honor.

Prayer: Lord, we have all experienced failures in life, so we want to thank you for your mercy, forgiveness, and for exhorting or encouraging us to press on to the high call of fulfilling your will and purpose for our lives. We thank you for the blood Jesus and a new beginning. Help us to focus on the things that are right more than focusing on the things that are wrong around us. Cause us to be godly encouragers, in the lives of others, who understand the humility and the power of obedience, confidence in your strength, and the hope of pleasing you. Thank you for the favor that covers us and qualifies us for whatever you send us to be and do. We pray for our country, the government, the confirmation process, and the transition of power. May your angels protect and position according to your will. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Along with a plethora of choices we make each day, one of the biggest and overall most significant decisions we will make is whether we will be constructive or destructive in life that day. To be constructive is to see life from God’s perspective and seek to be a participant in the work of righteousness—First love is Jesus! To be destructive is to see only ourselves and how things effect us and then react from that perspective—First love is Self.

The world has missed how essential understanding constructive and destructive mindsets and behavior is to life and spiritual prosperity. Without Jesus—Wisdom—we are foolish and selfish people who think the only thing that matters is our path, plans, and our pleasure. To be selfish is to destroy one’s soul and life; a matter of self-imploding (Mat 16:26). If self is on the throne, all too soon a person can find himself or herself eating from the table of destruction that leads to spiritual death by seeing things from merely a human point of view. God wants to be the Author of our plans, because he is leading us on the righteous path of denying ourselves in order to genuinely love and care for others (Mat 16:24).

In our passage from Proverbs 14, today, we have a lot to digest, because there is a great deal being covered. Yet, it is always wise to focus on just a few things in particular, because otherwise it is like trying to drink from a firehose—overwhelming! So, let’s focus on faith and how Wisdom saves us from the destructive work of envy—the opposite of God’s love, because it misrepresents Christ’s holiness and gospel of Truth. Envy involves malice, hatred, falsehood, and slander—because we want something someone else possesses. We cannot increase in love if we are feeding the unrighteous spirit of envy.

Every human being wrestles with envy; believers experience the same struggles because no one loves perfectly. We have all felt resentment and feelings of jealousy watching someone achieve more or be more successful than us. Yet, Jesus—Wisdom—condemns this attitude, because it damages our souls—minds, wills, and emotions. Internally, envy attacks our faith and left unchecked our faith can shrivel and dry up. We must be content and filled with the love of God, confidence, creative ideas, and a sense of well-being; otherwise, envy will come and cause a soul to be ungrateful to God and resentful in life. Trust in the Lord and place your confidence in him—have an eternal perspective—because God knows the plans he has for his human creation! And, they are godly and good! May we learn this as a people, as the Church, and as a nation.

Proverbs 14 NLT
1
A wise woman builds her home,
    but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands.
2 
Those who follow the right path fear the Lord;
    those who take the wrong path despise him.
3 
A fool’s proud talk becomes a rod that beats him,
    but the words of the wise keep them safe.
4 
Without oxen a stable stays clean,
    but you need a strong ox for a large harvest.
5 
An honest witness does not lie;
    a false witness breathes lies.
6 
A mocker seeks wisdom and never finds it,
    but knowledge comes easily to those with understanding.
7 
Stay away from fools,
    for you won’t find knowledge on their lips.
8 
The prudent understand where they are going,
    but fools deceive themselves.
9 
Fools make fun of guilt,
    but the godly acknowledge it and seek reconciliation.
10 
Each heart knows its own bitterness,
    and no one else can fully share its joy.
11 
The house of the wicked will be destroyed,
    but the tent of the godly will flourish.
12 
There is a path before each person that seems right,
    but it ends in death.
13 
Laughter can conceal a heavy heart,
    but when the laughter ends, the grief remains.
14 
Backsliders get what they deserve;
    good people receive their reward.
15 
Only simpletons believe everything they’re told!
    The prudent carefully consider their steps.
16 
The wise are cautious and avoid danger;
    fools plunge ahead with reckless confidence.
17 
Short-tempered people do foolish things,
    and schemers are hated.
18 
Simpletons are clothed with foolishness,
    but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.
19 
Evil people will bow before good people;
    the wicked will bow at the gates of the godly.
20 
The poor are despised even by their neighbors,
    while the rich have many “friends.”
21 
It is a sin to belittle one’s neighbor;
    blessed are those who help the poor.
22 
If you plan to do evil, you will be lost;
    if you plan to do good, you will receive unfailing love and faithfulness.
23 
Work brings profit,
    but mere talk leads to poverty!
24 
Wealth is a crown for the wise;
    the effort of fools yields only foolishness.
25 
A truthful witness saves lives,
    but a false witness is a traitor.
26 
Those who fear the Lord are secure;
    he will be a refuge for their children.
27 
Fear of the Lord is a life-giving fountain;
    it offers escape from the snares of death.
28 
A growing population is a king’s glory;
    a prince without subjects has nothing.
29 
People with understanding control their anger;
    a hot temper shows great foolishness.
30 
A peaceful heart leads to a healthy body;
    jealousy is like cancer in the bones.
31 
Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker,
    but helping the poor honors him.
32 
The wicked are crushed by disaster,
    but the godly have a refuge when they die.
33 
Wisdom is enshrined in an understanding heart;
    wisdom is not found among fools.
34 
Godliness makes a nation great,
    but sin is a disgrace to any people.
35 
A king rejoices in wise servants
    but is angry with those who disgrace him.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your perfect example of love, so we can identify the works of evil that come to attack and destroy it. Thank you for forgiving us and liberating us from the foolishness of envy. We believe in your selfless love, Jesus, and we place our confidence in your constructive ability to bring satisfaction and contentment to each of our lives. Thank you for inviting us to partner with you in your constructive righteous work. We place our hope in you and continue to look toward your Wisdom to keep us delivered from the destructive work of evil each day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.