Proverbs 26:1-16

Proverbs 26:1-16

Two groups of people fall under Solomon's verbal assault. In verses 1-11, Solomon levels his verbal attacks on ‘fools’. Most of the parables are fairly straightforward, but a couple have unique challenges. Verses 4-5 seem to be contradicting if we take them separately, but together they teach us it is useless to try to teach a fool. Verse 8 shows us that honor has a great use, but with the fool it is useless. Verse 9 shows us that fools actually hurt those to whom they would give advice. What is wrong with the fool? It is not a lack of knowing but rather a resistance to learning to do what is right. No one is so stupid as the person who knows it all. Add to this attitude of moral compromise, and you have a fool, as seen in verse 12.

One rung down from a fool is the slugger. versus 13 to 16. Rest is good and holy, but the slugger is not pursuing rest; there is a self-satisfied presumption of having arrived at the apex of life. It is that the world will not cooperate. Self-satisfaction is a grave moral failure.

"Lord, keep me from being a fool or a sluggard. AMEN."

Proverbs 25:15-28

Proverbs 25:15-28

As I write this, it appears that the US is rushing headlong toward its own destruction. It seems that each of these proverbs could apply to both sides of our conflict. Perhaps none better than verse 28. The primary defense of a city was its walls. No matter how great the city, if its walls were ruined, the city’s situation was hopeless. We seem to be a nation without self-control. Certainly there are places or moments of self-control, but excited by our own desires and hurt feelings, we are prepared to protest, scream ugly things, and act in ways that are godless. With a lack of self-control we are susceptible to the manipulations of evil people driven by evil spirits. These evil spirits would tell us, and we are eager to believe them, that our just cause demands we voice our positions. We have become a nation of useful idiots, useful for both sides, for the elites, but worst of all, useful to the powers of darkness.

“God, help us to learn self-control. AMEN."

Proverbs 25:1-14

Proverbs 25:1-14

We have entered another subsection of the book. Chapters 25-29 are a collection of Solomon's proverbs collected and written down by “men of King Hezekiah”. Hezekiah was the 13th generation after Solomon and ruled about 200 years later. Hezekiah was one of the best kings of Judah, and as such, Israel had a spiritual and moral revival. There is an important but subtle lesson. There is little dynamic link between a heart that turns to God and minds that are full, fruitful, and creative. During Hezekiah's reign there was a revival of learning. These “men of Hezekiah” may be described as scribes, literary researchers, scholars, or men of learning.

In our own national history, the flowering of our intellect and intelligence has grown out of a God-focused worldview and has been highly productive. As our education system offers a focus on stupid things, our nation has spiraled toward riotousness and useless entertainment. To know the world, you must first know God.

Lord, help us to understand the link between knowing You and knowing about the world and life. AMEN”

Proverbs 24:23-34

Proverbs 24:23-34

Having come to the end of “The 30 Sayings”, what follows are the additional sayings of the wise in which two themes are developed. Of all the things Solomon could have talked about. It is worth noting that these two themes are brought up. Without these two societal commitments, no culture will last for long. As our nation seems to be rushing headlong toward ruin, we would be wise to pay attention. These two themes are so closely related that Solomon intermixes them. The first is Justice; the second is hard work. 

At an official level, justice must be a priority (verses 23-26). Where once our legal system was held in very high regard by the citizenry at large, it is now often held with disdain. While there are numerous reasons for this change, we must not forget that personal behavior and character are critical for any sense of justice (vs. 28-29). 

The ethic of hard work is expressed in verses 27 and 30-34. The value of hard work and thrift is lost on a society in decay.  It is worth noting, as evidence of how these are related, that often protests against injustice turn into riots, and the riots become occasions for looting.

When the citizenry loses its respect for justice and for the value of hard work, the society is in a downward spiral toward collapse.

“Lord, grant us a justice system that is worthy of respect, and may we work as a people who respect You. AMEN”

Proverbs 24:1-22

Proverbs 24:1-22

It is interesting that the grouping of these sayings has verses 10 to 12 as one saying. This passage links the strength of our character in a crisis with our part in the life-and-death struggle for the innocent. For example, Germany, for all her greatness, will never escape the ignominy of her failure to thwart the efforts of the Nazis. The rise of evil people and groups is always the result of pseudo-righteous people failing to stand up to evil. The ascension of evil in our generation is the result of the failure of the church to take on the burden of the conflict when the demonic ideas of free love, abortion, LGBTQ, etc. were in their infancy. The church as a whole lacked the strength to oppose them then. So now these are the dominant views in our nation. God's judgment will come on us, but do not doubt that it will come most directly on those who could have and should have opposed this gross immorality and did not. On the day of distress, they were found wanting and weak, and that weakness revealed their true character.

“Lord, develop in us the character to stand strong for the innocent. AMEN."

Proverbs 23:19-22

Proverbs 23:19-22

There is for us in this section, a fascinating contrast that would be well-heeded by those in leadership positions. It is a contrast that might actually surprise us. It is the contrast between self-indulgence and family life. We might expect a contrast between self-indulgence and self-discipline. Or  a contrast between family life and social or business life. But this contrast actually goes to the root of good governance or leadership.

In verses 19 to 21, those who would serve are warned against the life of self-indulgence in food and wine. Followed by an admonition to be faithful to one's parents. In verses 26 and following, there is the warning of self-indulgence again, but it is in this case the matter of sexual gratification. This chapter concludes with another warning about self-indulgence and the use of alcohol.

It is worth noting that a man who is self-indulgent with wine, women, and food is very likely going to be incompetent as a leader at home. But the man who is a quality leader at home will inevitably be a quality leader in any organization or nation.

“Lord, give us leaders who are truly focused on what is good for the family and not their own self-indulgence. AMEN." 

Proverbs 23:1-18

Proverbs 23:1-18

If the 30 sayings of Proverbs 22:17–24:22 are an orientation to life in the royal court, we see something that is missing in much of American political life. To serve in the court of Solomon, a man was trained in both statecraft and personal moral character. In America, from both the left and the right, we have heard the argument that a leader’s character doesn't matter as long as he does a good job with policy. What we see in these sayings is the character does matter, both in personal life and public policy. Here are two examples. First, self-discipline in private life is foundational for leadership in the public eye. Self-control in the pursuit of short-term personal advantages, such as currying favor with a powerful political ruler over a meal (vs. 1-3), is put on par with leading well at home (vs. 13-14). Another example is he temptation to use positions of power to expand wealth, which runs amok in the US Congress and Senate, is warned against in verses 10-11 and is in contrast to the wisdom of verse 12. In any place where we would lead or look for leaders, there must be character and competence. If there isn't both, you don't have a leader.

“Lord, raise up leaders with both skill and moral strength. AMEN”

Proverbs 22:17-29

Proverbs 22:17-29

The break between verse 16 and 17 is more significant than we might first notice. Beginning in verse 17, there is a series of 30 sayings that will conclude near the end of chapter 24. Sometimes these sayings are a single verse, some are a few verses long. Verses 17 to 21 seem to be an introduction to the section of sayings. These sayings are, in a way, a summary of the Proverbs which began in chapter 10.

As we look at this section, we see what might be called, in our terms, an orientation for someone who would be serving in the court of the king. What we see in this orientation is, not so much a list of rules, but rather the inner character of a good worker whose inner life is being expressed in specific behaviors. Generally the pattern we see is the description of a specific behavior, followed by a supporting truth or principle. For example, in verses 22 to 23, the behavior is ‘don't take advantage of the poor’. Followed by the principle, “the Lord will take up their cause”.

“Lord, help me to shape my life by godly principles so that on every occasion I will understand how to serve You. AMEN."

Proverbs 22:1-16

Proverbs 22:1-16

So many of our societal issues would be resolved if we could or would apply the wisdom of this proverb. The issues of racism, poverty, and social inequity have been a battleground for our nation for generations. But after years of effort by the left and right political systems, we haven't made much or any progress. But there are four verses in this passage that have the potential to resolve much of our strife. The equality of all men is rooted in their creation by God. There is no place for racism or superiority and certainly no place for pride if we are all created in God’s image. Equality is not man-ordered or court-established; it is God-given. As such, it is an absolute. 

To the wealthy verse 9 explains that generosity is the enviable way to live; that is what "blessed" means. The accumulation of wealth gives us an enviable life when we are generous. This is not the same as confiscation by the government but the result of a heart shaped by what we see in verse 2. 

To the poor, there is a lesson about hard work. If poverty is the result of laziness, it is an indication of weak character and is shameful. Verse 13 tells us that lazy people will always have a lame excuse for why they can't get out and work. Lions and the wilderness are a possibility; lions in the street are a useless person's excuse. In verse 16 we see the dangers of making money as the objective of life. In contrast to the enviable life of the generous man, the one who plans to be a social climber by stepping on the poor and schmoozing with the rich will end up ruined.

Sadly, we train our children in the two vices of greed and laziness. In verse 6 we see the positive possibility. To teach children the enviable life, but it is rarely taught in a full-spectrum measure kind of way. Instead we train our children to be cranks and verbal pugilists. We see this happening and reflected in verse 10. We are a contentious society because we are allowing the scoffers from each side to be the primary voices. Until our conversations and society are shaped by people of good conscience, it will only get worse.

“Lord, help me to shape the society to come by shaping children today. AMEN."

Proverbs 21:16-31

Proverbs 21:16-31

Charlie Brown comes to Snoopy at his doghouse with two bowls of food, telling him one is for today and the other is for tomorrow. Snoopy eats both, thinking to himself, “I would hate myself if tomorrow never came." Like Snoopy, we all have the capacity to be shortsighted in our planning. Much of this passage is a warning of the dangers of shortsightedness.

Not planning for eternity is the most perfect and, at the same time, the most dangerous example of shortsightedness. Verse 16 warns that there is only one end for the shortsighted spiritual plan. In verse 17 consumption and living for pleasure are shortsighted. There is always more opportunity to spend than resources available. In verse 19 one needs to ask, “Why marry such a woman?” Perhaps she became a vexing woman after marriage, but that is not generally the case. Marriage makes us more of what we already are. Could it be that prior to marriage the young man was so enraptured by her beauty that the short-term excitement caused him to overlook her disposition? To say “love is blind” is not a compliment.

In the short term we want to rest and to find the easy way, but in the long term hard work now pays off later. That is the point of verses 25-26.

The short view of worship is seen in verse 27. Too many times the modern church has prostituted its worship for the short-term advantages. Great attendance and slick productions may please our clientele, but in the long run they are not pleasing to the One we came to worship. The most egregious example of short-term planning is the thinking that is found in verse 30. From false religions to heretical Christianity to atheism to agnosticism (which often is the plea and hope that we can ignore God out of existence), nothing is a worse plan than to try to make a plan against God. Such plans may in the short term achieve their goals. But in A Thousand Years their stupidity will be evident.

“Lord, help me to always plan for the long term. AMEN." 

Proverbs 21:1-15

Proverbs 21:1-15

There are always unintended consequences for our actions. We set out on a course of action toward a desired goal, and along the way we experience events or realities that were not part of our plan. They were the byproducts or secondary effects of what we were doing. They were wholly unintended, but they were not entirely unexpected. This passage gives several examples.

In verse 3 the person who is focused on doing what is right and fair may not have expected that it would be a time of worship, but God sees it this way. The burning lamp in verse 4 was indicative of prosperity and wealth, as olive oil was expensive. The person in pride and arrogance who has an ostentatious display of their wealth might not think that these very symbols of wealth are sinful, but it is an unintended consequence of their action.

Consider the actions of the conscientious and thoughtful person who is motivated by doing a good job and the right thing. The byproduct they experience is advantage. Notice Solomon doesn't limit it to strictly financial gain; the advantage might be something else entirely. In contrast to diligence is the person who tries the shortcut. The unintended but not unexpected opposite of diligence is poverty.

When a person attempts to get rich by deception, they expect to make substantial gains to be enjoyed. It never occurs to them that this wealth is like a fog, always there but also forever out of reach. Rather than a substantial life, they only get death for their efforts.

We cannot know with certainty all the second- or third-level effects of our decisions and actions, but we can know that they will be there. We can know the generalities of our actions. If we walk through a spring meadow, we may not know the specific flowers we will find, but we know there will be at least one there. The same is true if we walk in a garbage dump

“Lord, help me to walk circumspectly and anticipate unintended consequences. AMEN."

Proverbs 20:16-30

Proverbs 20:16-30

The moral of the story is found in verse 16. We do not know the original story, but the theme is repeated over and over in human history. One example is the subprime mortgage crisis of the mid-2000s. Banks lent money to people who had no business borrowing. Building a house of cards, massive amounts of debt were incurred, and those who couldn't pay defaulted, and the house of cards fell. It was a massive financial crisis hurting almost everyone. The judgments handed down were painful. In verse 16 we see that the one who makes loans to unworthy persons will have even their garments taken from them to cover their losses. Lending is generally frowned on in the Bible, especially lending with interest. It is especially condemned as a means of becoming rich at the expense of the poor. There is no pity for the person lending for that purpose. When the house of cards falls, they will lose all they have without pity. Since our entire economic system is based on lending and interest, one is wise to wonder about our supposed security. 

An even harsher judgment is expressed in verse 17. We often consider our course of actions with a very short vision. We imagine what we gain immediately as the only consequence of our choices. By dishonest or false means we gain what we desire but fail to consider the long-term effects. The thrill of porn, the profit of dishonest investment, and the delight of empty calories are all examples. At the moment we tend not to consider the addiction, the arrest, or the morbid obesity. Instead of eating a pastry, we find we are breaking our teeth on stones. While this principle and proverb applies to every circumstance, the context and proximity to verse 16 need to be taken into account. When the allure of easy financial gain of a dishonest nature is presented to us, we need to remember human economic theory falls apart before Divine justice.

"Lord, help me be scrupulously honest in all of my financial dealings. AMEN." 

Proverbs 20:1-15

Proverbs 20:1-15

Sometimes conflict comes to us, but not as often as we pretend. In the midst of conflict, we like to present ourselves as innocent victims, but how often is that the case? Solomon gives us three proverbs about conflict in verses 1 to 3.

In verse 1 we see the horrible effects of drunkenness. To be a mocker is more than to insult our fellows. The mocker is mocking the things of God. The mocker or scoffer is picking a fight with the Almighty. The brawler is merely in a fight with his friends. How many times do we hear about people getting drunk and having a fight? It accomplishes nothing but is so costly. How much more is the cost of fighting with God?

Picking a fight with the king is a shortcut to misery. Not living in a monarchy, the application isn't so clear, but this may help. Have you ever seen the videos of people escalating an argument with a peace officer? It never happens that the officer responds to aggression by saying, "I give up; go on your way." Picking a fight with authority never goes well, as the song says, “When I fight authority, authority always wins.”

So why do we pick fights we can't win? On very rare occasions it is because an important principle is at stake. Generally we get into conflict because our ego has been bruised and our pride moves us to attempt to make a point. Verse 3 gives a different perspective on the conflict. Our English translations often fail to catch an important nuance of the verse. While we generally see this as advice to avoid conflict, which is true, there is also the advice to stop or interrupt the disagreement. Conflicts or disagreements are inevitable, but our ongoing continued participation is entirely our choice. We see here it is an honor to walk away. That word "honor" means “glory” or "splendor." While our pride wants to fight on, in reality it is a mark of glory to take a rest or Sabbath from the fight. This is truly an inversion of our fallen nature. But any fool can pick and keep on fighting.

“Lord, give me a mind and a heart committed to peace. " AMEN 

Proverbs 19:15-29

Proverbs 19:15-29

It is tempting to read the Proverbs as individual wise sayings, but they were collected and set down in such a way that we can notice general themes. It is as if one proverb reminds Solomon of another dealing with the same issue but from a different perspective.

One such theme is that of being a lifelong learner. Often the appetite to learn new things, which is more common in our younger years, begins to fade. We become set in our ways and are convinced we know what we need to know, and we stop learning, engaging, or exploring. For example, the second line of verse 16 warns that the one who is careless or contemptuous of his way will be ruined. We are never too old to learn the way of the Lord more fully.

Verse 18 gives the foundation for a lifelong pursuit of the Lord. It even tells us that when we are lax about the training or discipleship of our son, we are actually desiring his death. While we might not say, “I want my child to ruin their life and die," when we do not do the hard work of spiritual formation, we are saying, "I would rather my son die morally, spiritually, and physically than be inconvenienced by engagement."

Verse 20 is about the early foundation of lifelong learning. The early foundation gives a great advantage so that you avoid the trouble of “stupid early, stupid late." 

Verse 22 is a bit of an enigma. The best understanding is that the character trait we most want to see in a man is that he has a character that is kind, merciful, beautiful, etc. The word used here can express almost all of the great virtues. But these virtues are actually expressed in actions of benevolence, help in tragedy, and even correction of error. But the second part of the verse seems to be an odd contrast. The point Solomon is getting at is that it is better to be a poor man unable to offer tangible practical help but would like to than to have the means to express tangibly these virtues but be unwilling to do so even after making a promise. Many people would love the reputation of being a great-hearted, philanthropic person; they just don't want to live it out.

“Lord, help me to develop the desire to serve and the willingness to serve. AMEN."

Proverbs 19:1-14

Proverbs 19:1-14

In response to a tragic turn of events, people will sometimes say, “There's a reason for everything," implying that there was a secret council that caused this tragic turn. That may be, but there is the truth that sometimes the reason for tragedy is that people can be stupid. That is the message of verse 2. The NIV gets the concept of this verse well with "It is not good to have zeal without knowledge." This text includes the Hebrew word "Naphash," which means "soul," "vitality," or "appetite." Put another way, it is not good to have a wonderful and glorious plan without the knowledge or the cunning to see it through. We all have stories of great plans and failed follow-through. Knowing what to do and how to do it are equally critical. The absence of either will lead to sin. Here are the classical words for sin: “to miss the mark” and “to bear the blame." Verse 3 is related in that poor planning for the great plan results in ruin, literally “perverts his way." Creative sorts sometimes struggle with getting input. Their plans go off the rails, and then they blame God. Their grandiose plans become a dumpster fire, and they accuse God, “Why did this happen, God?” The answer may be, “Because you were too stupid to listen to good advice. ”.

As one reads verses 13 to 14, one might wonder if these words are autobiographical for Solomon. The word "ruin" or "destruction" in the first line of verse 13 carries the implication of an “evil that is rushed after or into." Did Solomon see the stupidity of Rehoboam before he wrecked Israel? Did the brawling or contentious wife bother Solomon like water torture? He would leave his son a palace and great wealth, just as he had received them from David. But the circumspect wife who is a gift from God may have been absent. Is there a link to this in our story? Perhaps Solomon looked back at his rash plan to marry, by which he ended up with 900 women and now has a foolhardy son, but he still doesn't have a wife that is filled with righteousness and godly counsel. 

“Lord, give me wisdom to keep close to me those who are righteous and wise and to seek from them wise counsel. AMEN."

Proverbs 18:14-24

Proverbs 18:14-24

One is apt to wonder if Solomon was a lonely man. Beyond all the regal trappings, the multitude of officials and courtiers was he emotionally isolated? Some of his sayings seem to speak wistfully of good times and experiences as if they were observed but not experienced. Then there are the sad realities that he may have had to carry.

Verse 14 reminds us of ‘the facts of four.' A man can go 40 days without food, four days without water, and 4 minutes without air but will not last four seconds without hope.

We tend to think of verse 16 from the perspective of the lesser man bringing the gift. But what about the greater man who receives the gift? Did Solomon ever want to be approached by someone who didn't come to him with a gift or a bribe and an agenda?

Verse 17 is fundamental to all matters legal. But beyond the legal system, it ought to be part of our daily discernment. As a judge, Solomon would have seen the claims and cases of a plaintiff fall apart under cross-examination. The context of verses 18-19 is interesting. The second part of the proverb is typically translated “and decides between the mighty” or “keeps strong opponents apart." The word "decide" literally means "divide." There is more than a judicial rendering, but an end of a connection. Perhaps two parties that were once friends from now on are never going to speak to each other. This gives us a fuller meaning to verse 19. The word ‘offended’ in the first line can be translated as ‘rebellion’ or 'rebel.' The picture here is not a difference of minor opinion or even a heated argument; this is a picture of warfare. The contention has advanced to the point of open warfare. The harsh words are like iron bars on a castle; they can be removed, but the building must be torn down. Verse 24 seems to be forlorn and may have been Solomon's self-reflection. How does a man of many friends come to destruction (NASB)?  Maybe because his standard for friendship was too low. His friends didn't share what mattered most to Solomon. But there is a friend, literally a lover, who is closer than a brother. Was Jonathan on Solomon's mind, or perhaps Jesus?

“Lord, never allow me to lose my commitment to having quality people in my life. AMEN”

Proverbs 18:1-13

Proverbs 18:1-13

There's a myth that seems to cross all cultural and historic lines. The myth of the lone self-sufficient hero. There is something in our fallen nature that seems to want to be or to idealize the loner. Generally, those who try to be the lone ranger sort don't do so for altruistic reasons. The first three verses of this chapter are descriptive of the motives, the nature, and the end of the self-proclaimed isolationist. In verse one he is only concerned with his own agenda and will hear no other opinion. In verse two he is so convinced that he is right that all he can do is talk about his great plans and capacity. In verse 3 he leaves a legacy of scorn, and at his passing people will not recall his great selfish accomplishments as much as the reprehensible life. The poem “Invictus” is perhaps a good example of such a hopeless life.

The next five verses, while ancient, seem to be most applicable to the age of social media. The theme of “our words” is developed between the positive in verse 4 and several examples of negative use of words in verses 5-8. In verse 4 what comes out of our mouths is, for the most part, reflective of the depth of our hearts or souls. The words of wisdom are like a fresh-flowing, refreshing, and life-giving stream that comes from an artesian spring. In verse 5 we see the typical response of the wicked is to support the wrong side. As a society, we seem to be in a hurry to share or post our opinions. Such people are fools, and verses 6-7 describe what they do to themselves. We all know that those who talk too much are foolish. Everyone admits that. However, we are all susceptible to being shaped and influenced by this sort of blather. In verse 8 we see that rumors, innuendos, and gossip have a tendency to be gobbled up. We love to hear it, and, more than we would like to admit, we are shaped by it. So in addition to what we say, we need to be careful of what we hear. 

“Help me, Lord, that all my words will be a life-giving blessing to those who hear them. AMEN."

Proverbs 17:15-28

Proverbs 17:15-28

Perhaps you have noticed that there are some people who are always in the midst of conflict. These folks enjoy the conflict for their own perverse reasons. Conflict is a part of life and maybe unavoidable. But there are some people who love a fight: such a person loves sin (verse 19). The person who loves conflict has found that in some way they can manipulate people by conflict to their advantage. What is the sin they love? Perhaps it is a financial gain; it could be the psychological power to control. In this context it is classically pride. The second half of the proverb doesn't make much sense to us because of culture. The raised door, exalted gate, or high wall, as this word is translated, is about ostentatious intimidation. For us, the picture might be the regal trappings and attire of executive privilege for a CEO. More than a few business leaders have used their executive suite environment to bully their way and will in the company. Anytime someone uses appearance to get their way, they set themselves up for destruction.

There is more than one kind of fool. The nuanced difference is presented for us in verse 21. The word "fool" appears in both halves of the proverb, but they're entirely different words. In the first half, the fool is "Keseel," and in short, it means "fat, dumb, and silly." It means a person who is lazy of mind and body and is lacking the self-discipline to expand their capacity. They are content with cynical mocking humor to respond to the challenges of life. Since people are not born this way, how does one beget or bring forth this kind of fool? This is a picture of a spoiled grown-up child. 

The fool in the second half is “Nabal.” This is not a mentally deficient person; in fact, they may have a high IQ. But when it comes to ethics, morals, and especially virtues or piety, they are without any understanding. They like any sense of righteousness or even right and wrong. It is only and always about them and their desires. Such a son leaves a hollow place in a parent's heart.

“Lord, protect me from both kinds of foolishness. “AMEN

Proverbs 17:1-14

Proverbs 17:1-14

Sometimes the depth of the Proverbs is lost on us because we may not grasp the cultural background of the original context. Such may be the case with the first proverb of this passage. In some translations, there is a footnote that reflects a literal translation, “a house full of sacrifices with (of) strife.” We live in a day of almost constant feasting. The caloric intake in our nation and the epidemic of obesity indicate we feast almost all the time. In the world of the Bible, most people had a more subsistence diet. Feasting occurred rarely, and even what they called a feast would seem meager to us. In that time, feasting was, for most people, reserved for the sacred feast, where the sacrifices were central to the meal. This gives us the context to understand this passage. We might expand or paraphrase this proverb this way: “It is better to have a small, humble religious meal with hearts that are content and peaceful than to be part of a great religious mealtime production and show while in conflict with God and others.” This has special application for our day, where we have received the idea that big churches with big productions and big personalities are inherently superior to less grandiose congregations. We must be careful of the outward trappings that are appealing but may not reflect an inner righteousness.

Verse 3 is an occasion for us to think of things a little deeper and a little more carefully. We look at the end results of the refined gold or silver and admire and appreciate their beauty. We say we want the same thing in our hearts; agreed! But have we considered the refining process from the perspective of the raw ore? Every part of the process of refining silver or gold into the finished metal would be what we call unpleasant. From pulverizing to a blast furnace to chemical treatment, every step is harsh. If the ore could speak, it would, no doubt, plead to stop the process at every step. Do we want to be genuinely pure and good and have a righteous heart? Be prepared for refining. It is painful but so worth it.

“Lord, grant that my sincere worship expresses a pure heart. “AMEN

Proverbs 16:17-33

Proverbs 16:17-33

In this passage we see the contrast between righteous and wicked people. It begins with the expression of the value of humility and avoiding the evil of pride. V. 17-18 What follows is the description of the humble wise man in verses 19-24. Each of these proverbs stands alone, but they also follow the theme of the humble-wise. Verse 25 is a sort of pivot or introduction to the evil plotter, the arrogant man. Three men, or aspects of the proud evil, are given in verses 27-29, and verse 30 tells about his conspiratorial signals. The last three verses offer a sort of conclusion.

Many hours could be spent in fruitful discussion as we compare and contrast the righteous and the evil. For the moment we will focus on vs 25-29. The evil man believes that his is the right way. Shaped by wrong motives, an absence of the Word of God, and his fallen nature, he vigorously takes a path that ends in death (v. 25). All of us work for that which we desire. The parable of v. 26 works at many levels, from the man putting in a garden to have food to the wicked man whose sinful desires move him on in his efforts. Those efforts are expressed in the description of 3 wicked men. Verse 27 is about the worthless man. This word means more than useless; it means by his uselessness he is destructive. Beyond being a non-productive person, his actions, rooted in gossip, lies, and deception, actually bring harm. Think of a completely corrupt criminal politician. In verse 28 we see the perverse man. As a society we no longer use the word "pervert" to describe people because we have lost the concept of what is right. To call a homosexual a pervert means there must be a right form of sexuality. This principle applies to all moral law. Finally, in verse 29, we have the violent man, who draws his innocent neighbor into his sin. Notice the use of the tongue to lead to such behavior. Long before we act with evil, we speak with evil.

“Lord, help me live a life of virtue and righteousness. AMEN.” 

Proverbs 16:1-16

Proverbs 16:1-16

Something wonderful happens in this passage that might easily escape our notice if we are not careful. We find ourselves very near the center of this book. In fact, 412 sayings precede this chapter, and 423 follow this chapter. At the beginning of chapter 16 we find an unusual construction of 7 proverbs or sayings that are built around the name of the Lord God. While chapter and verse notation and divisions were added much later, there remains at the center of this discourse on wisdom the name of the Lord.

As the church in America fell into the vanity of what is called ‘The Church Growth Movement,’ she tended to remove the Lord from the center of her life and practice. The focus has been shifted to how we feel about things, how we will want to live, or what might be helpful for us. I have sat through song sets in worship that never mentioned the Lord directly but only how we are supposed to feel. We have shifted from “How Great Thou Art” to “I'm trading my sorrows.”

Here in the middle of a highly practical book of wisdom literature, the arrangement is that the Lord is at the center. These seven sayings in verses 1-7 cover the whole of the majesty of a holy life. Each of these verses merits deep meditation and application. Verse 1 is about the interface of our deepest thoughts and the Lord bringing them out. In verse 2 we see that our motivations may seem pure, but only the Lord can rightly judge. Verse 3 is about the priority of honoring the Lord in our plans but trusting results to Him. In verse 4 we see that the Lord is firmly and safely in control. In verse 5 we see the Lord will deal with the most gross of all sins: pride. Verse 6 gives us a picture of the Lord's values and priorities. And in verse 7 we see that the one who honors the Lord is blessed even in difficult moments. In short, at the center of all things we find the Lord.

“Lord, help me to keep you at the center of my whole being. AMEN.”

Proverbs 15:18-33

Proverbs 15:18-33

Many years ago there was a young lady who occasionally attended the church I served. Her childhood was bad beyond decent conversation. At this point she was a 22-year-old single mom with one angelic little girl making between $60,000 and $90,000 a year as an adult entertainer, i.e., stripper. She was perpetually broke and would occasionally ask for food help from the church. Being a stripper, according to her, was expensive. You had to buy drinks and drugs for those in the club where you worked in order to get profitable shifts and customers. She was still a stunning beauty but looked closer to 35 years old than her actual 22. That life is hard on a person. 

One day she called and asked for food for her daughter. I was losing patience with her, and when I took over a small bag of groceries, I said to her, “Where are you going with your life? You are still pretty, but when your looks fade, what are you going to do? Will you start turning tricks for a living?” She answered, “A friend of mine tried to pimp me out this week.” I told her, “You need better friends. You need to think and see where your life will take you. If you don't like where you are going, choose a new path.” Thankfully, with the help of a godly lady in our church, who happened to be a former stripper, she made some course corrections. The moral of the story is found in verses 24-25.

The general destination of our lives is not a hidden secret. At some level we can see that our path will either lead us to life or lead us to ruin. By definition the person who is wise chooses the upward path. By doing so they gain real life and avoid Sheol, or ruin. When we are motivated by pride and determined to chart our own foolish course, God himself will bring ruin on our lives. (v. 25) How could a person making $90,000 a year live on the verge of poverty? Because the path of ruin begins to ruin life long before life ends. Once this girl chose the right path, including respectable work as a waitress, she had enough to live on even if she only made about a third of her former income.

“Lord, help me choose the path of life. AMEN.”

Proverbs 15:1-17

Proverbs 15:1-17

As human beings we want to live in an echo chamber, the place where we hear only our own opinions from others. We spout our opinions in hope that others will agree with us. Then we can cite their voice as evidence and proof that we were right all along. Social media has exacerbated this ancient proclivity. Within this text we have wisdom for dealing with our own misguided love for an echo chamber.

First we see two ways we can talk and teach people in verse 1. The question is not one of truth; it is how to present and how we respond. This is expressed in verse 2. Sometimes we need to say uncomfortable things, but it is possible to do this in such a way as to be about the underlying issue so that it does not seem like a personal attack. In contrast, what a fool says is provocative and is designed to bring others into a heated exchange that is foolish.

In verse 4 we see the underlying motivation of the fool's talk. Whereas words from the wise are about healing, the harshness of the fool's comments has its root in an inner perversion. If we provoke for the sake of provoking, there is something perverse in us.

Even if we, with the right motives and the most judicious and proper tones and words, find that someone rejects righteous counsel, the issue is theirs. We must not take responsibility for the behaviors and attitudes of others. In verse 12 we see that the scoffer will not love the one who gives correction. A scoffer is the one who mocks or derides. Interestingly, the word can be used for an ambassador. The one who is the representative of a position may mock those with whom they disagree but will not actually engage them or even go near them.

We see the reason in verse 14: while an intelligent person is seeking to understand even those positions with which they may disagree, the fool only wants to be in their echo chamber—to have their ideas, no matter how foolish, fed back.

“Lord, help me be humble in what I say and hear. AMEN.” 

Proverbs 14:19-35

Proverbs 14:19-35

The life we live is our resume. If someone were to claim to be a good money manager, how could you tell? "Are they wealthy?" is the best answer to the question. How can you tell if someone is a fool? The resume of life tells the story. That is the point of verse 24.

How is it that those who are suffering for Christ have such strength and resolve? Verse 25 tells us that their confidence is in the Lord, and in Him they have a place of refuge. If we lack stability, if we are falling apart, we ought to consider where we have placed our confidence.

Where do we live mentally and emotionally? Verse 30 is a real challenge. The health of the body is the cure that comes from the emotionally sound inner person. We use the word ‘stress’ to describe so much of our lives, and at the same time we are physically ill. How much of our physical ruin is the result of what the King James Version calls “envy,” the NASB calls “passion,” and the Hebrew calls “qinah” (pronounced kee naw)? It means color produced in the face. It can mean ‘anger,’ ‘zeal,’ ‘jealousy,’ or ‘passion.’ We were not made to run on high emotions all the time, and sooner or later our bodies will pay the price.

What causes this constant anxiety with which we live? Verse 26 is descriptive of the person who is not as susceptible to anxiety. Verse 32 gives us a picture of the fragilities and resilience of two groups of people. First we see the evil person is thrust down or driven away by their evil. The word ‘banished’ is a good way to think of this concept. The word carries the implications of ‘chasing off with violence’ and the way smoke is driven by the wind. The evil person's schemes fail, and they are totally undone by that single and momentary failure. In contrast, the righteous facing the greatest challenge possible, their own death, find a refuge. Face any setback without our God, and we will experience stress and banishment and hardship. But face them in faith, and even the most difficult moment, death, we can face in peace.

“Lord, help me find my confidence in You, not in myself nor circumstances. AMEN.” 

Proverbs 14:1-18

Proverbs 14:1-18

With each of the individual proverbs, we get the feeling that there is a history, and the proverb serves as sort of the expected moral of the story. I recall a young lady from early in my ministry. She was married to a really great guy: a smart, talented, devoted husband and engineer. They had two wonderful kids, a lovely home, and a bright future. She was raised in a godly home and was a fabulous vocalist. She was, however, attracted to the “bad boy” image and the wild party life. She abandoned her home, husband, and family to become the ‘old lady’ of a biker type. She ended up living with an abusive motorcycle gang member in a run-down trailer in a dumpy trailer park. The moral of the story is in verse 1.

What was broken inside of her that she would do such a thing? We can never know. But tragically, she didn't know either. If she had discerned her wounds, perhaps by godly counseling and inner healing, what was on the inside could have been healed and saved many people a great deal of hurt. There are some people who understand themselves, especially their weaknesses and vulnerabilities. That self-knowledge is not academic information; it is what makes them wise. But the girl was the worst kind of fool; in her deceit, she deceived herself. The moral of the story is in verse 8.

Her sudden irrational behavior caught everyone by surprise. Those who knew her best—husband, mom, and dad—were completely caught off guard. She played the role of devoted wife and mom until the moment she ran away. The picture I have of her is still of a prim, proper, and modestly dressed young mom holding an adorable baby girl whose hair bow is bigger than her face. The perfect picture of a happy, holy wife and mom. But she had the inner hurt and pain. She thought she could find what she was looking for riding on the back of a bike, dressed like a slut, with a mean man. Why? No one could know her secret heart. The moral of the story is in verses 10 and 13.

“Lord, help me see the condition of my heart and have the wisdom to live holy. AMEN.”

Proverbs 13:13-25

Proverbs 13:13-25

More than a few church leaders, both professional and volunteer, have found themselves in ruin. A young man I know, who had all the potential in the world, is now in jail and will likely be there for a very long time. Verse 13 says the one who “despises the word” (NASB) or “scorns instruction” (NIV) would be better translated, “the one who handles the word, or matter, negligently cannot escape consequences.” When we treat the word of God carelessly, we will not be able to avoid the consequences of wrong moral development. When we take the Word as a quick fix or try to find proof to support our own lives, we end up reinforcing our bad ideas and/or wrong behaviors. In contrast, the one who “fears the commandment” has the opposite outcome. What does it mean to “fear the word”? Simply put, be terrified of getting it wrong because of the dangers involved. When taking a powerful medication, we need to fear taking it wrong. We need to fear improper handling of a firearm. We need to fear improper use of a chainsaw. All of these, used properly, can be extremely beneficial. But in negligence there is death. Even the most bright, talented, and potentially great people who don't take the word seriously will be ruined.

Truett Cathy once said, “It is easier to succeed than to fail.” That seems odd because success requires so much work. But we see this principle expressed at work in verse 15. Wisdom and right choices will produce favor. Favor is more than something we ask for; it is the result of good understanding, i.e., both thinking and doing. Verse 15b says the path or way of the treacherous or transgressor is hard. His is a harsh and forbidding path, as if walking down a stony descent. The choices of green meadows and pastures or barren deserts are ours. So which is the harder place to travel to and live in?

“Lord, help me see the intrinsic value of doing the right thing. AMEN.” 

Proverbs 13:1-12

Proverbs 13:1-12

Without a doubt there are real advantages to having great wealth. But Solomon, one of the richest men in all of history, also points out some real disadvantages of wealth. He even gives a nod to some advantages of humble means.

Note in verse 7 we see the nearly universal condition that we want to appear wealthy. To appear well-off and successful is the point of much of our social persona, but some wealthy people downplay their wealth. Why is that the case? In verse 8 we see a reason. No one ever holds a homeless man for ransom. Lawyers never bring a civil action against someone who is broke and can't pay. The broke person doesn't sweat one more “overdue” notice. They ignore it or can't hear the demand for money. “You want money from me? Get in line with everyone else.”

In verse 11 there is a warning everyone whose wealth is tied to the general economy should take to heart. The English translation struggles with one of the key words. It is the word "habal." It is the theme word for the Book of Ecclesiastes, where it is translated as "vanity." It can also be translated as "breath" or "smoke." Here the word is translated “dishonest money” in the NIV and a little better as “fraud” by the New American Standard Bible. If we read that verse carefully, we may find its meaning clear in an example or two. Remember the S&L crash, the dot-com bubble crash, and the subprime market crash? There were individuals that lost millions and businesses that went under because their wealth was based on a fiat value. Any economy or personal wealth based on speculation or habal is only a bad bit of news away from ruin. In contrast, consider the small local tradesmen who provide essential goods or services. He may suffer some during a downturn, but even in a downturn people will need food from a farmer or repair from a mechanic. If we are forever after the big score of wealth, our heart will never be whole. But if we hope for honest work and to serve others, that hope will be fulfilled.

“Help me, Lord, to do honest work, honestly done, that honors You. AMEN."

Proverbs 12:15-28

Proverbs 12:15-28

We hear much about the great division in our nation. We have not been so divided since the fratricidal war of the 1860s. The near complete absence of civil discourse does not bode well for our country. If you want likes, followers, and a large social media presence, you need to be extreme. So voices of advocacy and opposition on every subject become more shrill and more radical. To be popular in this extreme atmosphere, the message is, “I and my side are right, and if you listen and agree with me, it would be best for everyone.” One example will suffice. A young Black man who was charged with killing a white peer is portrayed as a racist by one side and a victim by the other. A charity raised about $1 million for his family. A white woman yells a racial slur while on a playground. The event is recorded and posted and becomes a flashpoint. Fundraisers are established, and she and her family will receive almost $1 million. This kind of noise is foolish.

In contrast, Proverbs 12 offers wisdom. The advice of 12:15-23, if followed, would offer much help to our sad state. As we read these verses, we shouldn't say, “They are fools and should pay attention.” Rather, we ought to ask, “Am I being foolish?” Could verse 16 apply to us if we read it this way, “If you give a fool your anger, it is immediately posted to social media”? In contrast, a wise man keeps shameful things hidden. Verse 18 could say letting out your frustration loudly is like randomly swinging a sword in a crowd. Keeping your opinions under wraps is productive because if your opinions are right, time will prove them so (v. 19). Verse 23 seems odd to us, but consider thinking about it in a different way: “The fool's heart is in his mouth; the wise man's mouth is in his heart.” We are more influenced, in real terms, by being in real relationships and offering guidance where we say less, but what we say has more value (v 26). Our temptation is to say, “Yea, they ought to do this: talk less, relate more. But this path isn't for sinners or fools; this is the path for the people of God.

“Lord, grant me the wisdom to say less while building closer relationships. AMEN.”

IMPORTANT PIGGY UPDATE

 UNEXPECTED CHANGE OF PLANS

Due to my real-world job, I have to make some changes to the hobby job of pig farming.  

First I have to move the sale date for the piglets up from Sept 12, 2026, to Aug 29, 2026.   The piglets will be 4 and 6 weeks old. That is a little younger than I prefer to sell them, but they will be fine.  The price will still be $75 each for one or two pigs, $65 each for three to nine pigs, and $50 each for ten or more.

Supply is limited!  One of the fat moms sat on, lay on, and stepped on a number of piglets.  We have 20 piglets left. Fat Mom has an appointment with the butcher, in case you wanted to know.  

First-come, first-served basis.  I will start selling at 8:00 AM that Saturday.  To be fair to everyone, I will not take deposits or sell early.  Cash only (Please bring the correct change if possible).  

Location is ¾ of a mile east of US Hwy 231 on AL Hwy 51 (toward Ariton). Turn east and look for the sign that says PIG FOR SALE.  I live in the RV (whatever you do, don’t go to the brick house).

Additionally, I will have 2 pigs that weigh about 100 pounds each.  My plan was to raise them for my own freezer, but I am radically downsizing my herd.  The price is $175 per pig and $300 for both.  Price is FIRM. DM me about picking up or delivering (fee applies).

Finally, someone asked if I had any pregnant sows.  One of my sows is going into heat.  If you are interested in a bred sow, contact me ASAP.  Here is what you need to know.  I will only present her to the boar after I have $200 earnest money in hand, nonrefundable.  She has had 11 piglets on average.  I cannot guarantee conception, but I can guarantee that my boar is a proven performer.  For this bred sow I will charge $650, FIRM.  Do the math; she will likely pay for herself in her first litter.  She is easy to work with except when in heat; then she is very demanding.  

If you have any questions, please DM me with your phone number, and we can text/talk. I apologize for the change in plans, but life is what happens to us on our way to what we have planned.

334-249-5600 Text first

Proverbs 12:1-14

Proverbs 12:1-14

There are unexpected insights and glimpses of wisdom available to us by asking a few simple questions. For example, in verse 6B, who are the “them” being rescued? At first reading we might say those rescued are the "upright." But there may be more to it than that. It might be that the ‘words’ or ‘mouth’ of the upright are rescuing those that the evil plan to kill, but these are not the same people as the 'upright.' An illustration might be that there are wicked people who, for various reasons, advocate for abortions, while the ‘upright’ teach about and prevent these in-womb murders.

Verse 9 offers a dichotomy that we might miss because of translation. The last part of verse 9A might be translated as “but is a servant to himself." This contrast works a little better. The self-employed, hard-working entrepreneur and small businessman (shopkeeper, tradesman, craftsman) is better off than the one who pretends to be a captain of industry or executive who is on the verge of financial ruin. 

The need to supply a noun in English may inadvertently limit the scope of v. 11. In 11b we could, or even should, read “he who pursues vain lacks sense/heart." What could fill that gap where we have placed the noun "things"? Certainly things could apply; we think of foolish trinkets of our life. We could include people who are fans or groupies of low-character entertainers. We could even include various religions or philosophies; think of persons who would rather focus on speculations. From video games to watching sports, people without sense or heart squander their lives.

Verse 12 gives us an odd contrast. Why is a net (the word translated as "plunder" or "booty") contrasted with a tree? The picture here is of patience. A well-set snare may yield game quickly, but a planted tree will take years to be fully fruitful. Wicked people can be very important in the short run, but those who are righteous play the long game.

“Lord, help me to practice the wisdom of waiting. AMEN.”

Proverbs 11:17-31

Proverbs 11:17-31 

One of the challenges we face is, as the saying goes, “to keep the main thing the main thing.” In other words, our tendency is to make the “advantages and benefits” of life the focus of our lives. We fail to realize that these are or should be secondary byproducts. In Proverbs we see a return to ‘the primary’ as the focus of life rather than the less important secondary benefits. This focus is hard to maintain with all the secondary beneficial distractions. In verse 19 we may see the word ‘steadfastness’ in our English translation. This verse speaks of the vigilance needed to live righteously. Righteous living is no fluke or accident but rather the focused agenda of life; it is the consecrated effort of every moment and decision. Life is the byproduct, not the objective. 

An example of the unexpected byproduct is provided for us in verse 21. The Hebrew idiom is difficult to understand. Verse 21 literally says, “Hand to hand, the evil man will not go unpunished.” What does “hand to hand” mean? There are three possibilities: one, the powerful union of evil people will not protect the evil individual. Two, the evil that passes from generation to generation will bring certain ruin. Third, engaging in evil is to be held by the hand that leads to destruction. Whatever the author's specific meaning, the by-product of evil is ruin. 

Verse 30 is unexpected. We might have expected that the righteous man is a tree of life. But it refers to the fruit of his life. The emphasis is laid on the attractive power of his conduct and goodness. Few things are less attractive than a person who is short-tempered, harsh, and arrogant and who blabs a lot of ‘God-talk.’ But the man whose gracious behavior springs from an inner righteousness is powerfully attractive. The English translation of the second part of this verse is a little weak. “Wins” could literally be translated as "seize, take, marry, or buy." This is not a call to coerce conversion, but our lives are so compelling and their total goodness is such that people's souls find them completely irresistible. 

“Lord, let my life be a powerful attraction to draw all men to You. AMEN.”

Proverbs 11:1-16

Proverbs 11:1-16 

So many of the Proverbs have subtle and unexpected twists or conclusions that ought to cause us to pause and think about personal application. Verse 2 is a prime example. The first part is so well accepted that it has become an often-quoted maxim. But in the second part there is an unexpected twist. Read it fast and fail to think about it, and you will miss it. In contrast to “when pride comes, then comes dishonor,” we might expect “but with humility there is respect.” But that's not what we see. What we see is that “with the humble there is wisdom.” There is no promise of honor for the humble. In fact, in this world the humble person may not be honored or even noticed. The benefit of humility is primarily internal and personal. There are no award shows or trophies for the humble. They have a better, hidden, and internal reward: they operate out of and give more wisdom. 

Another unexpected turn occurs in verse 9. It was once believed that the internet in general and social media specifically would somehow promote unity and social concord by giving the average person a platform to hear and be heard. What is actually happening is that the most extreme and evil voices garner the most attention because they are the personification of their given position. Choose any subject, and the rhetoric is driven by those who would most aggressively tear down the other side. “They are destroying their neighbor." The second part of the verse offers a twist. On the surface we may see that by knowledge (righteous knowledge) the godly person avoids the destruction that the godless man brings. But there is a subtle implication here. By the godly knowledge of the righteous man, the hypocrites or the evil man benefit and are rescued. The ruin of a people is prevented by the knowledge or the wisdom of the righteous.

“Help me, Lord, to operate with the humble wisdom that You provide. Amen.”

Proverbs 10:17-32

Proverbs 10:17-32

One of the recurring themes of Proverbs is our words. Verses 18-21 offer worthy insights to our conversations or, as is the case in verse 19, the absence of words. The first part of the issue is word explosion. When there is a multitude of words, there will be sin. We see this in gossip, where each gossiper tries to outdo the other. We see it in heated arguments where people speak before they think. We even see it in the police investigation, in which guilty people talk a lot to explain their innocence. In contrast, the wise person says little or nothing. To add to a conversation, one must have something worthwhile to add. There is an old Latin saying that translates to "He is closest to God who knows how to be silent for a good reason." Verse 24 is historically speaking loaded with irony. Wicked people have a deep fear, and so they will work aggressively to prevent those fears from coming about? But their activity actually brings that which they fear. Let’s look at two examples. In Genesis 11:4 we see the motivation for building the Tower of Babel: “lest we be scattered abroad over the face of the whole earth.” What was the result of their project? That which they most feared. What was the motivation for the religious elite to arrange the judicial murder of Jesus? What the elite feared was that the Romans would “come and take away both our temple and our nation." As a result of rejecting the Messiah, the Jewish leadership led their people to the ruin of 70 A.D. In contrast, the desires of the righteous will be granted. "We must not imagine that this refers to our selfish, worldly desires. What the righteous desire is what God wants for them! When our greatest desire is for God's will to be done in our lives, God will ultimately make that happen. It is tempting to say, "God's greatest desire for me is to have—here you can insert your own agenda." The desires we impose in God's name may be nothing like what He wants in us and for us. 

"Lord, help me make sure all my words honor You. AMEN."