“For the lips of a strong woman drop as a honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil: But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two-edged sword. Remove thy way far from her, and come not nigh the door of her house.”(Proverbs 51:3, 4, 8).
Every man has an area of weakness which if not placed before the cross will become his undoing. Even Reverend Billy Graham, the great evangelist, is extremely cautious when traveling, so that his reputation remains above reproach and impervious to slander. We can be guaranteed that the “strange woman” (or whatever our weakness is) will appear sweet and appetizing. She will be smooth and know exactly the right buttons to push in order to excite us. Nonetheless, if we fall victim to her charms, we will find that what we thought would be delightful and heavenly, is really bitter and malevolent. We are commanded to remove our way far from her and to come nowhere near her house. As godly men who desire to faithfully follow the Lord, we must learn to recognize our weaknesses. Once we know what they are, we can prepare a plan to avoid temptation in these areas. Whatever attraction or enticement threatens to bring us to our knees should be averted at all costs. Our weaknesses are the very imperfections that drive us to Jesus and compel us to depend on Him for our strength. “Out of weakness, [the judges and prophets] were made strong.” (Hebrews 11:34). Paul also attested to this truth: “Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” (II Corinthians 12:10).
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
Secret Sin
“Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: and as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him, Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant. But he knoweth not that the dead are there; and that her guests are in the depths of hell.” (Proverbs 9:16-18).
There is no such thing as secret sin: the very tern itself is an oxymoron. The tempter wants you to believe that your sin can be hidden, but be assured, your sin will find you out. (Numbers 32:23). “For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known. Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.” (Luke 12:2-3). Today’s proverb deals specifically with the temptation of a harlot, but a man’s temptress varies according to his weakness and lusts. We must be vigilant in allowing Jesus to meet our every need, because “When Christ ceases to fill the heart with satisfaction, our souls will go in silent search of other lovers.” (Maurice Roberts). The world offers many seductions, but its gratifications are only temporary. Ungodly men are on a quest for the next thrill, but godly men have no need to search for pleasure once they have given their lives to Jesus. When He is seated upon the throne of a man’s heart, the heart is content and has no desire to look elsewhere for happiness. The temptress of adultery, lust, fame or fortune may come calling, but will find the throne occupied and the heart content. It is only when Jesus is deposed from his rightful position, that we fall victim to the snares of the temptor.
There is no such thing as secret sin: the very tern itself is an oxymoron. The tempter wants you to believe that your sin can be hidden, but be assured, your sin will find you out. (Numbers 32:23). “For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known. Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.” (Luke 12:2-3). Today’s proverb deals specifically with the temptation of a harlot, but a man’s temptress varies according to his weakness and lusts. We must be vigilant in allowing Jesus to meet our every need, because “When Christ ceases to fill the heart with satisfaction, our souls will go in silent search of other lovers.” (Maurice Roberts). The world offers many seductions, but its gratifications are only temporary. Ungodly men are on a quest for the next thrill, but godly men have no need to search for pleasure once they have given their lives to Jesus. When He is seated upon the throne of a man’s heart, the heart is content and has no desire to look elsewhere for happiness. The temptress of adultery, lust, fame or fortune may come calling, but will find the throne occupied and the heart content. It is only when Jesus is deposed from his rightful position, that we fall victim to the snares of the temptor.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Watch Your Mouth
“A naughty person, a wicked man, walketh with a froward mouth.” (Proverbs 6:12).
Many men don’t see any harm in telling dirty jokes or making risqué comments. Some men even recount off-color stories with ethnic, religious and racist punch lines. Godly men, however, should refrain from having a perverted mouth, because this kind of conversation is found among wicked, naughty men. Is God a “Cosmic Killjoy” then, as Josh McDowell has said some unbelievers view Him? Of course not. God has a great sense of humor- just look in the mirror! God has given man humor and laughter as a release. Medical studies have shown that laughter is beneficial to our bodies: it releases endorphins, lowers blood pressure and stress levels and relaxes the muscular system. God is not anti-humor or laughter, but He is opposed to speech that disparages or humiliates other people. Children are known for honing in on the one quirk that is different in another child and using that trait to ridicule them relentlessly. As godly men, we should set aside our childish antics, worldly humor and blue conversation. We should be exhorters and edifiers, not assassins and terminators. We can use our speech as salve to heal the hurt in men, or we can use our words to cut men to the heart. May sweet water flow from our mouths, not bitter water. Paul exhorts Titus to: “Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.” (Titus 2:8).
Many men don’t see any harm in telling dirty jokes or making risqué comments. Some men even recount off-color stories with ethnic, religious and racist punch lines. Godly men, however, should refrain from having a perverted mouth, because this kind of conversation is found among wicked, naughty men. Is God a “Cosmic Killjoy” then, as Josh McDowell has said some unbelievers view Him? Of course not. God has a great sense of humor- just look in the mirror! God has given man humor and laughter as a release. Medical studies have shown that laughter is beneficial to our bodies: it releases endorphins, lowers blood pressure and stress levels and relaxes the muscular system. God is not anti-humor or laughter, but He is opposed to speech that disparages or humiliates other people. Children are known for honing in on the one quirk that is different in another child and using that trait to ridicule them relentlessly. As godly men, we should set aside our childish antics, worldly humor and blue conversation. We should be exhorters and edifiers, not assassins and terminators. We can use our speech as salve to heal the hurt in men, or we can use our words to cut men to the heart. May sweet water flow from our mouths, not bitter water. Paul exhorts Titus to: “Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.” (Titus 2:8).
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Avoid the Path of the Wicked
“Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.” (Proverbs 4: 14-15).
There are areas of every city that are notorious for drugs, gang activity, violence or sexual perversity. We go out of our way to avoid those dangerous areas when we travel, even if it means a major inconvenience. The trouble is worth it when it comes to protecting ourselves and keeping our family safe. Why then, do we take so little precautions when it comes to protecting our minds and spiritual health from the snares of evil? A man, who would never dream of cruising “the red-light district”, finds no problem surfing the internet for pornography. A man, who claims he would never cheat on his wife, sees nothing wrong with watching “adult” films in his hotel room while on business. The health of our souls and spirits, is it not just as important as the well-being of our bodies? We exercise, eat right, wear sunscreen and get regular check-ups, all to protect our bodies. Yet, how much time do we spend protecting our spiritual man? We need to set spiritual boundaries for ourselves as diligently as we establish physical parameters. Many pet owners invest in underground electric fences to confine their pets within the sanctuary of their yard. If humans will go to this extreme (and expense) to protect their dogs and cats, imagine how much more God desires to keep His children from harm. It is because of God’s love and his desire to protect us that He has set borders and limits for our lives. He also loves us enough to allow us to face the consequences of our actions. Men of God, avoid the path of the wicked and you will save yourself from heartache and needless trouble.
There are areas of every city that are notorious for drugs, gang activity, violence or sexual perversity. We go out of our way to avoid those dangerous areas when we travel, even if it means a major inconvenience. The trouble is worth it when it comes to protecting ourselves and keeping our family safe. Why then, do we take so little precautions when it comes to protecting our minds and spiritual health from the snares of evil? A man, who would never dream of cruising “the red-light district”, finds no problem surfing the internet for pornography. A man, who claims he would never cheat on his wife, sees nothing wrong with watching “adult” films in his hotel room while on business. The health of our souls and spirits, is it not just as important as the well-being of our bodies? We exercise, eat right, wear sunscreen and get regular check-ups, all to protect our bodies. Yet, how much time do we spend protecting our spiritual man? We need to set spiritual boundaries for ourselves as diligently as we establish physical parameters. Many pet owners invest in underground electric fences to confine their pets within the sanctuary of their yard. If humans will go to this extreme (and expense) to protect their dogs and cats, imagine how much more God desires to keep His children from harm. It is because of God’s love and his desire to protect us that He has set borders and limits for our lives. He also loves us enough to allow us to face the consequences of our actions. Men of God, avoid the path of the wicked and you will save yourself from heartache and needless trouble.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Spiritual Fatherhood
“Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding. For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law.” (Proverbs 4:1-2).
Boys and girls have a longing to be taught by their fathers. As young boys, we treasured the times our fathers spent teaching us how to catch, shoot a basketball, throw a perfect spiral or change the oil in a car. Unfortunately, many of our fathers were incapable of teaching us spiritual truths because they had never been taught themselves. The Israelites were instructed to teach God’s truth “diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” (Deuteronomy 6:7). Scripture never advises fathers to let pastors or Sunday school teachers instruct their children in the ways of the Lord. Thank God for these Christian leaders, but the primary responsibility for imparting God’s Word unto children belongs to the parents-specifically the father. Special times of instruction such as family devotionals and dinner table discussions are important, but fathers should use every opportunity- from the moment he arises until the moment he lays down- to train up his child in the way he should go. Recently, the concept of “teachable moments” has been emphasized; however, quality instruction is good, but it will never surpass fathers spending large quantities of time with their children. Kids need the instruction, wisdom and counsel of their fathers. Do not deprive them of that privilege or shirk your responsibility. Lord, help us to teach our children and to be godly examples, worthy of their emulation.
Boys and girls have a longing to be taught by their fathers. As young boys, we treasured the times our fathers spent teaching us how to catch, shoot a basketball, throw a perfect spiral or change the oil in a car. Unfortunately, many of our fathers were incapable of teaching us spiritual truths because they had never been taught themselves. The Israelites were instructed to teach God’s truth “diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” (Deuteronomy 6:7). Scripture never advises fathers to let pastors or Sunday school teachers instruct their children in the ways of the Lord. Thank God for these Christian leaders, but the primary responsibility for imparting God’s Word unto children belongs to the parents-specifically the father. Special times of instruction such as family devotionals and dinner table discussions are important, but fathers should use every opportunity- from the moment he arises until the moment he lays down- to train up his child in the way he should go. Recently, the concept of “teachable moments” has been emphasized; however, quality instruction is good, but it will never surpass fathers spending large quantities of time with their children. Kids need the instruction, wisdom and counsel of their fathers. Do not deprive them of that privilege or shirk your responsibility. Lord, help us to teach our children and to be godly examples, worthy of their emulation.
Monday, March 22, 2010
The Chastening of God
“My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the Lord loveth He correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.” (Proverbs 3:11-12).
When I was a child, I would get angry when my dad punished me. I was not able to comprehend that my dad disciplined me out of love and not with a desire to inflict pain. (In fact, I probably deserved more whippings than I actually received). As a child in the faith, I experienced similar struggles with the chastening of God. Was He disciplining me out of anger or vengeance? Did He enjoy inflicting pain? After reading today’s passage many times as a young Christian, I finally understood that God chastens us because He loves us and delights in us. Did you catch that? He delights in us. If we can grasp this concept, we can endure anything. When my dad whipped me, the punishment depended on the severity of the transgression. God does the same. He chastises us according to the severity of our sin, but He won’t give us one more lick than what is necessary to bring us to repentance. The purpose of God’s correction is to bring about godly sorrow that leads to true repentance. (II Corinthians 7: 9-10). Bud Robinson has a humorous saying about the Lord’s discipline: “If the Lord is your shepherd, then you are the Lord’s sheep, and He has a perfect right to shear you anytime He needs wool, and you have no right to bleat.” Remember Hebrews 12:11 when you face the discipline of the Lord: “Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.”
When I was a child, I would get angry when my dad punished me. I was not able to comprehend that my dad disciplined me out of love and not with a desire to inflict pain. (In fact, I probably deserved more whippings than I actually received). As a child in the faith, I experienced similar struggles with the chastening of God. Was He disciplining me out of anger or vengeance? Did He enjoy inflicting pain? After reading today’s passage many times as a young Christian, I finally understood that God chastens us because He loves us and delights in us. Did you catch that? He delights in us. If we can grasp this concept, we can endure anything. When my dad whipped me, the punishment depended on the severity of the transgression. God does the same. He chastises us according to the severity of our sin, but He won’t give us one more lick than what is necessary to bring us to repentance. The purpose of God’s correction is to bring about godly sorrow that leads to true repentance. (II Corinthians 7: 9-10). Bud Robinson has a humorous saying about the Lord’s discipline: “If the Lord is your shepherd, then you are the Lord’s sheep, and He has a perfect right to shear you anytime He needs wool, and you have no right to bleat.” Remember Hebrews 12:11 when you face the discipline of the Lord: “Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.”
Friday, March 19, 2010
Under the Shadow of His Wings
“He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly. He keepeth the paths of judgment, and preserveth the way of his saints.” (Proverbs 2:7-8).
Jesus is our Lord and Protector. He orders our steps and causes us to walk uprightly. He preserves our way and guides us out of the snares of the fowler. “He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail.” (I Samuel 2:9). The Lord blesses above and beyond our wildest imaginations. We may not have much by society’s standards, but we are rich beyond measure. “For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.” (Psalm 84:11). He protects us from our enemies, the Adversary and ourselves. He keeps our souls among the living and does not allow our feet to be moved. (Psalm 66:9). He covers us under the shadow of His wings. He leads us in righteousness, truth, wisdom and the way. He teaches us how to be godly men and how to treat others. Our heart’s desire should be to know Him and serve Him, for He has done so much for us. He saved us with His precious blood, so that we can spend eternity with Him. What an awesome God we serve. Men of God, when our lives are done, we will not be concerned if we were successful in the eyes of men. The only opinion that will matter is the Lord Jesus Christ’s.
Jesus is our Lord and Protector. He orders our steps and causes us to walk uprightly. He preserves our way and guides us out of the snares of the fowler. “He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail.” (I Samuel 2:9). The Lord blesses above and beyond our wildest imaginations. We may not have much by society’s standards, but we are rich beyond measure. “For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.” (Psalm 84:11). He protects us from our enemies, the Adversary and ourselves. He keeps our souls among the living and does not allow our feet to be moved. (Psalm 66:9). He covers us under the shadow of His wings. He leads us in righteousness, truth, wisdom and the way. He teaches us how to be godly men and how to treat others. Our heart’s desire should be to know Him and serve Him, for He has done so much for us. He saved us with His precious blood, so that we can spend eternity with Him. What an awesome God we serve. Men of God, when our lives are done, we will not be concerned if we were successful in the eyes of men. The only opinion that will matter is the Lord Jesus Christ’s.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Being a Son of God
“My son, attend unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my understanding: That thou mayest regard discretion, and that thy lips may keep knowledge.” (Proverbs 5:1-2).
My son… Have we taken for granted the privilege of being sons of God? Isn’t it incomprehensible that the opportunity is even available to be born into the family of God through faith in Jesus? Are we like the prodigal son in Luke 15: desiring all the benefits of our position while forsaking a relationship with our Father? God loves us so much that he has not left us alone. He made a way to redeem us from the penalty of sin by sending His only begotten Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for us. He left the Holy Spirit to comfort, convict, lead, remind, empower and enable us. He gave us His Word to instruct in righteousness, to inform us of His redemptive plan of salvation and to guide our steps. His commands are given to define boundaries for our lives, so that we do not cause harm upon ourselves or others. These parameters are for our protection (not to keep us from having “fun”). True living only comes when we love God and serve Him. Anything else is not living- it’s dying. Notice the possessiveness found in today’s passage: “Attend unto my wisdom; bow thine ear to my understanding.” [emphasis added]. Trusting in our own wisdom and understanding will bring trouble. Why would we even desire earthly wisdom, when God is waiting to give us His? Surely our Creator and Lord knows what is best for us. Why then do we remain so rebellious and stubborn? Father, help us to listen to you. Teach us Your ways.
My son… Have we taken for granted the privilege of being sons of God? Isn’t it incomprehensible that the opportunity is even available to be born into the family of God through faith in Jesus? Are we like the prodigal son in Luke 15: desiring all the benefits of our position while forsaking a relationship with our Father? God loves us so much that he has not left us alone. He made a way to redeem us from the penalty of sin by sending His only begotten Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for us. He left the Holy Spirit to comfort, convict, lead, remind, empower and enable us. He gave us His Word to instruct in righteousness, to inform us of His redemptive plan of salvation and to guide our steps. His commands are given to define boundaries for our lives, so that we do not cause harm upon ourselves or others. These parameters are for our protection (not to keep us from having “fun”). True living only comes when we love God and serve Him. Anything else is not living- it’s dying. Notice the possessiveness found in today’s passage: “Attend unto my wisdom; bow thine ear to my understanding.” [emphasis added]. Trusting in our own wisdom and understanding will bring trouble. Why would we even desire earthly wisdom, when God is waiting to give us His? Surely our Creator and Lord knows what is best for us. Why then do we remain so rebellious and stubborn? Father, help us to listen to you. Teach us Your ways.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
We Need Revival
“For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord. But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.” (Proverbs 8: 35-36).
During the time of the judges, the Word says: “There arose another generation after them, which knew not the Lord, nor yet the works which he had done for Israel. And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord and served Baalim: And they forsook the Lord God of their fathers, which brought them out of the land of Egypt, and followed other gods, of the gods of the people that were round about them, and bowed themselves unto them, and provoked the Lord to anger.” (Judges 2: 10-12). America has followed in Israel’s footsteps. We have abandoned our godly heritage as a nation and forsaken the Lord our God. We have taken up others idols and bowed our knees to them. We have provoked the Lord to anger. As a nation, we must turn back to God and repent of our wicked ways. We need the favor of God upon our land, but first, we must tear down our idols and turn our hearts back to Him. The revival our nation so desperately needs must begin in our own hearts and then spread to our churches before we can expect revival in our nation. (I Peter 4:17). The world has numerous distractions for godly men, but we must remain focused on the Lord, keep or hearts pure and our eyes fixed on him. True commitment to God requires love, service and dedication to Him-even while those around us sin against Him and express their hatred for Him and their contempt for His Word. God expects us to be holy and to influence our world for Him.
During the time of the judges, the Word says: “There arose another generation after them, which knew not the Lord, nor yet the works which he had done for Israel. And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord and served Baalim: And they forsook the Lord God of their fathers, which brought them out of the land of Egypt, and followed other gods, of the gods of the people that were round about them, and bowed themselves unto them, and provoked the Lord to anger.” (Judges 2: 10-12). America has followed in Israel’s footsteps. We have abandoned our godly heritage as a nation and forsaken the Lord our God. We have taken up others idols and bowed our knees to them. We have provoked the Lord to anger. As a nation, we must turn back to God and repent of our wicked ways. We need the favor of God upon our land, but first, we must tear down our idols and turn our hearts back to Him. The revival our nation so desperately needs must begin in our own hearts and then spread to our churches before we can expect revival in our nation. (I Peter 4:17). The world has numerous distractions for godly men, but we must remain focused on the Lord, keep or hearts pure and our eyes fixed on him. True commitment to God requires love, service and dedication to Him-even while those around us sin against Him and express their hatred for Him and their contempt for His Word. God expects us to be holy and to influence our world for Him.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Don't Get Lazy
“Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that traveleth, and thy want as an armed man.” (Proverbs 6: 10-11).
Laziness will hinder a man from becoming godly and honorable. It is a cancer that will eat at his soul and sap his strength. Laziness will prevent us from attaining the goals we have set for ourselves. When we allow lethargy to gain a foothold, the devil loves it. He knows that when he sends the slightest bit of resistance, we will fold faster than a straw house in the middle of a tornado. The plague of slothfulness is not limited to our work habits but influences our spiritual life as well. A lazy man will not discipline himself to spend time with God in prayer, to study His Word or fellowship with other believers. He will allow other concerns to distract him from his relationship with the Lord. If Solomon had written today’s passage in modern language, he might have written: “The man that stays home to sleep or watch television on Sunday, while his wife and children go to church, is a lazy man.” Lazy men fail to provide for their families and are worse than infidels. (I Timothy 5:8). They place their own interests ahead of everyone else’s, refuse to model godly attributes as a husband and father and are undisciplined as believers. Laziness is the antithesis of what we are to model as godly men. We are to be men of honor, strong and courageous, committed to one wife, conscientious, dependable and faithful. Take a moment to make a spiritual inventory of your life. If you fall short of the godly characteristics you should possess, ask the Holy Spirit to bring them to fruition in your life.
Laziness will hinder a man from becoming godly and honorable. It is a cancer that will eat at his soul and sap his strength. Laziness will prevent us from attaining the goals we have set for ourselves. When we allow lethargy to gain a foothold, the devil loves it. He knows that when he sends the slightest bit of resistance, we will fold faster than a straw house in the middle of a tornado. The plague of slothfulness is not limited to our work habits but influences our spiritual life as well. A lazy man will not discipline himself to spend time with God in prayer, to study His Word or fellowship with other believers. He will allow other concerns to distract him from his relationship with the Lord. If Solomon had written today’s passage in modern language, he might have written: “The man that stays home to sleep or watch television on Sunday, while his wife and children go to church, is a lazy man.” Lazy men fail to provide for their families and are worse than infidels. (I Timothy 5:8). They place their own interests ahead of everyone else’s, refuse to model godly attributes as a husband and father and are undisciplined as believers. Laziness is the antithesis of what we are to model as godly men. We are to be men of honor, strong and courageous, committed to one wife, conscientious, dependable and faithful. Take a moment to make a spiritual inventory of your life. If you fall short of the godly characteristics you should possess, ask the Holy Spirit to bring them to fruition in your life.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Trusting With Total Abandon
Becoming a godly man requires passion: we must desire to follow God and serve Him above all else. It also requires trust: we must trust that God knows what is best for us even better than we do ourselves. Along with trust comes a willing submission to God’s will for our lives. If we are honest, we will admit that we do not totally trust God to do the right thing. It sounds absurd, but it is true. Genuinely trusting God requires total abandon, which is difficult for us to do. The first time I went rappelling, the instructor strapped me in a body harness, hooked up the safety lines and ropes and advised me on how to take the slack out of the rope. To my dismay, the only way to remove the slack was to lean back off the side of the cliff and put all of your weight on the rope. I believed the rope would hold me, but it wasn’t until I actually leaned back over the 150 foot cliff that I exercised my faith. As men, we must do the same in our walk with the Lord. After I rappelled once, I had confidence to do it again. Similarly, the more I act on faith, the more confident I will become that God’s way is best. Knowing His way is best and actually stepping out on faith and trusting Him are two different things. I can either give lip service to God or choose to trust Him with total abandon. “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” (Isaiah 26:3).
Friday, March 12, 2010
Wisdom Before Knowledge
“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” (Proverbs 4:7).
God has called each of us to be the very best man that we can be. He loves holiness, and as godly men, we are called to exemplify His standard of excellence to the world around us. Everything that we say and do, we are to do to the glory of God. (I Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:17).We are to pursue godly wisdom and understanding, but we should seek understanding (the pursuit of facts, figures, and worldly knowledge) after we have acquired godly wisdom. We must be careful not to place the search for worldly knowledge ahead of our quest for godly wisdom. It is absolutely essential to study and meditate on the Word of God, if we want to know the mind of God. The Bible offers guidance, instruction, a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. (Psalm 119:105). God’s Word should be the main staple of our spiritual diet, but after we feast on the word, it is alright to supplement our intake with other materials. Personally, I love the works of C.S. Lewis, Josh McDowell, Randy Alcorn, Henry Blackaby, Andrew Murray, Ted Dekker and Neil T. Anderson. Their books have helped me to grow tremendously in my Christian walk. I also enjoy studying science, music and history. Men of God, we can pursue all types of knowledge, but let us first obtain godly wisdom. “Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth.” (Proverbs 4:5).
God has called each of us to be the very best man that we can be. He loves holiness, and as godly men, we are called to exemplify His standard of excellence to the world around us. Everything that we say and do, we are to do to the glory of God. (I Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:17).We are to pursue godly wisdom and understanding, but we should seek understanding (the pursuit of facts, figures, and worldly knowledge) after we have acquired godly wisdom. We must be careful not to place the search for worldly knowledge ahead of our quest for godly wisdom. It is absolutely essential to study and meditate on the Word of God, if we want to know the mind of God. The Bible offers guidance, instruction, a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. (Psalm 119:105). God’s Word should be the main staple of our spiritual diet, but after we feast on the word, it is alright to supplement our intake with other materials. Personally, I love the works of C.S. Lewis, Josh McDowell, Randy Alcorn, Henry Blackaby, Andrew Murray, Ted Dekker and Neil T. Anderson. Their books have helped me to grow tremendously in my Christian walk. I also enjoy studying science, music and history. Men of God, we can pursue all types of knowledge, but let us first obtain godly wisdom. “Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth.” (Proverbs 4:5).
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Though He Slay Me...
“My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.” (Proverbs 3:1-2).
What is our attitude when serving God? Do we serve Him begrudgingly, out of a sense of duty? Do we serve Him out of fear or because of our great love for Him and all that he has done in our lives? Do we serve Him with impure motives and selfish desires? Would we continue to serve Him if He allowed all that we had to be stripped away? Do we serve Him primarily for His benefits, so that He will make our lives comfortable and prosperous? When Job had all of his possessions and children snatched from him, he said of God: “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him.” (Job 13:15). Job did not understand his situation, but he trusted God in the midst of it. Do we trust God to do the right thing in our lives? Many of us, if we are honest, would admit that we do not. Our motives are selfish: we want to be blessed, we want to prosper, and we desire length of days and the good life. If God promised nothing but eternal life with Him, wouldn’t that be enough? (Anything else He gives us is icing on the cake). There is a flood of name it- claim it and prosperity teaching today, which has prospered, no pun intended, because of our inability to endure sound doctrine. (II Timothy 4:3). These teachings appeal to our lusts, desire to avoid persecution and tribulation, along with a selfishness that demands all of our needs be satisfied. After all, don’t we “deserve” it? Men of God, thank God that he doesn’t give us what we deserve. May we learn to serve Him unconditionally with no strings attached.
What is our attitude when serving God? Do we serve Him begrudgingly, out of a sense of duty? Do we serve Him out of fear or because of our great love for Him and all that he has done in our lives? Do we serve Him with impure motives and selfish desires? Would we continue to serve Him if He allowed all that we had to be stripped away? Do we serve Him primarily for His benefits, so that He will make our lives comfortable and prosperous? When Job had all of his possessions and children snatched from him, he said of God: “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him.” (Job 13:15). Job did not understand his situation, but he trusted God in the midst of it. Do we trust God to do the right thing in our lives? Many of us, if we are honest, would admit that we do not. Our motives are selfish: we want to be blessed, we want to prosper, and we desire length of days and the good life. If God promised nothing but eternal life with Him, wouldn’t that be enough? (Anything else He gives us is icing on the cake). There is a flood of name it- claim it and prosperity teaching today, which has prospered, no pun intended, because of our inability to endure sound doctrine. (II Timothy 4:3). These teachings appeal to our lusts, desire to avoid persecution and tribulation, along with a selfishness that demands all of our needs be satisfied. After all, don’t we “deserve” it? Men of God, thank God that he doesn’t give us what we deserve. May we learn to serve Him unconditionally with no strings attached.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
God's Wisdom or the World's System
“For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of His mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.” (Proverbs 2:6).
Every man has his own definition of success: worldly knowledge, degrees, titles, riches, fame, etc. Unfortunately, the Church has been influenced by the pursuit of earthly success as well. For example, church leaders are not content with simply being a pastor or elder. Now, they prefer titles such as bishop, apostle and evangelist. Modern Christians seek wisdom from seminaries, listen to liberal teachers and support preachers who deny the divinity of Jesus. As a society, we have adopted a philosophy of tolerance and acceptance that teaches that all religions are comparative and equally valid. Humanism has become the national religion as man places his faith in technology and his own ability to solve the problems of the world. God is not the solution. We have no need for God; thus, we are self-sufficient. This ideology has pervaded our society and its effects are found in what the world views as success. Ultimately, we have to choose whether we will serve and honor God’s ideal of success or if we will chase after the fleeting standards of worldly success. Men of God, we need God to give us understanding and a heart to judge and discern the truth. When God approached Solomon and told him that he could have anything he requested, Solomon asked for wisdom. Because he did not ask for wealth and worldly success, God gave him wisdom, riches and favor. Lord, help us to not be deceived by the false ideologies of the world. Keep our eyes focused on You and lead us into the knowledge of all truth.
Every man has his own definition of success: worldly knowledge, degrees, titles, riches, fame, etc. Unfortunately, the Church has been influenced by the pursuit of earthly success as well. For example, church leaders are not content with simply being a pastor or elder. Now, they prefer titles such as bishop, apostle and evangelist. Modern Christians seek wisdom from seminaries, listen to liberal teachers and support preachers who deny the divinity of Jesus. As a society, we have adopted a philosophy of tolerance and acceptance that teaches that all religions are comparative and equally valid. Humanism has become the national religion as man places his faith in technology and his own ability to solve the problems of the world. God is not the solution. We have no need for God; thus, we are self-sufficient. This ideology has pervaded our society and its effects are found in what the world views as success. Ultimately, we have to choose whether we will serve and honor God’s ideal of success or if we will chase after the fleeting standards of worldly success. Men of God, we need God to give us understanding and a heart to judge and discern the truth. When God approached Solomon and told him that he could have anything he requested, Solomon asked for wisdom. Because he did not ask for wealth and worldly success, God gave him wisdom, riches and favor. Lord, help us to not be deceived by the false ideologies of the world. Keep our eyes focused on You and lead us into the knowledge of all truth.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Fear Not
“Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh. For the Lord shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.” (Proverbs 3: 25-26).
Several years ago during the middle of the summer, I woke up at 3:00 a.m. and found that my room was freezing cold. My first thought was I should pull up the covers, but when I looked down, I saw that the covers were already up to my neck. At that moment, I felt an evil presence in the room and a sudden fear gripped me. I spoke to the presence of darkness and commanded him to leave in the Name of Jesus. Immediately, the evil spirit left the room, and I felt the Holy Spirit envelop me in a blanket of peace. I was back to sleep in a matter of minutes. Afterward, I came across Psalm 91:5: “Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night, nor for the arrow that flieth by day.” When we walk by faith, we do not have to live in fear. Nothing can harm us or come against us unless God allows it. When the end of the world draws near and the hearts of men fail for fear (Luke 21:26), we can have confidence and peace knowing that our fate is secure. We need not fear man or government, because we can “boldly say, The Lord is [our] helper, and [we] will not fear what man shall do unto [us].” (Hebrews 13:6). God has given us His authority over principalities and powers of darkness. He has given us the armor of God “that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” (Ephesians 6:13). We do not have to fear the future or evil because God is with us and He will never forsake us. (Psalm 23:4).
Several years ago during the middle of the summer, I woke up at 3:00 a.m. and found that my room was freezing cold. My first thought was I should pull up the covers, but when I looked down, I saw that the covers were already up to my neck. At that moment, I felt an evil presence in the room and a sudden fear gripped me. I spoke to the presence of darkness and commanded him to leave in the Name of Jesus. Immediately, the evil spirit left the room, and I felt the Holy Spirit envelop me in a blanket of peace. I was back to sleep in a matter of minutes. Afterward, I came across Psalm 91:5: “Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night, nor for the arrow that flieth by day.” When we walk by faith, we do not have to live in fear. Nothing can harm us or come against us unless God allows it. When the end of the world draws near and the hearts of men fail for fear (Luke 21:26), we can have confidence and peace knowing that our fate is secure. We need not fear man or government, because we can “boldly say, The Lord is [our] helper, and [we] will not fear what man shall do unto [us].” (Hebrews 13:6). God has given us His authority over principalities and powers of darkness. He has given us the armor of God “that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” (Ephesians 6:13). We do not have to fear the future or evil because God is with us and He will never forsake us. (Psalm 23:4).
Monday, March 8, 2010
Loving Your Wife as Christ Loves the Church
“But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul. A wound and dishonor shall he get; and his reproach shall not be wiped away.” (Proverbs 6: 32-33).
We live in a society where one half of all marriages end in divorce. The God-ordained institution of marriage (one husband and one wife) is under attack like no other time in history. Satan knows that if he can destroy marriage, he can decimate the foundation-the very fabric of our society. He hates marriage because it is a picture of the relationship between Jesus and his bride (the Church). Satan recognizes that if he can break apart families, he has an opportunity to win the hearts of embittered children and wounded spouses. The Adversary’s greatest tool in his arsenal of marriage killers is the sin of adultery. When a man commits adultery, he betrays the heart of his wife and his commitment to her. He abandons his solemn vow before God and men and joins himself in one flesh to a harlot. (I Corinthians 6:16). When a man and woman unite, they become one flesh. (Matthew 19:6; Ephesians 5:31). If a man commits adultery, he destroys his own soul also: he is to love his wife as he loves himself and love her as Christ loves the Church. (Ephesians 5:25, 28). Ungodly men treat their wives dishonorably, as merely used cars to be traded in for newer models. Godly men, on the contrary, cherish their wives and love them unconditionally. They honor and treasure their wives and serve them. Most of all, godly men are faithful and filled with wisdom, avoiding the pitfalls of adulterous women and their flattering lips. (Proverbs 7:21).
We live in a society where one half of all marriages end in divorce. The God-ordained institution of marriage (one husband and one wife) is under attack like no other time in history. Satan knows that if he can destroy marriage, he can decimate the foundation-the very fabric of our society. He hates marriage because it is a picture of the relationship between Jesus and his bride (the Church). Satan recognizes that if he can break apart families, he has an opportunity to win the hearts of embittered children and wounded spouses. The Adversary’s greatest tool in his arsenal of marriage killers is the sin of adultery. When a man commits adultery, he betrays the heart of his wife and his commitment to her. He abandons his solemn vow before God and men and joins himself in one flesh to a harlot. (I Corinthians 6:16). When a man and woman unite, they become one flesh. (Matthew 19:6; Ephesians 5:31). If a man commits adultery, he destroys his own soul also: he is to love his wife as he loves himself and love her as Christ loves the Church. (Ephesians 5:25, 28). Ungodly men treat their wives dishonorably, as merely used cars to be traded in for newer models. Godly men, on the contrary, cherish their wives and love them unconditionally. They honor and treasure their wives and serve them. Most of all, godly men are faithful and filled with wisdom, avoiding the pitfalls of adulterous women and their flattering lips. (Proverbs 7:21).
Friday, March 5, 2010
Romancing Your Wife
“And wilt thou, my son, be ravished with a strange woman, and embrace the bosom of a stranger? For the ways of man are before the eyes of the Lord, and he pondereth all his goings.” (Proverbs 5:20-21).
Proverbs continuously warns men to avoid the adulterous woman. She is a snare, her lips drip honey, and she flatters with her words and so on. God is aware of the power of our sex drive: He created us and knows everything about us. He has given us the ability to control our desires and refuse temptation. When a man commits adultery, it is often because the intimacy, fire and passion are gone in his relationship with his wife. It is the man’s fault when this happens. Let me explain why. “It is the husband’s responsibility to romance his wife. He cannot win her heart during courtship and abandon her heart after marriage. He must continue to romance her daily. Flowers and candy are not the only way to romance our wives. Preparing a warm bath, opening the car door, pulling the chair out for her at a restaurant and standing when she arrives or leaves the table, are all old-fashioned ways of showing her respect.” (paraphrased from Wild at Heart, John Eldredge). Husbands love and honor your wives, as Christ loves the Church and gave Himself for it. (Ephesians 5:25). Wives are a gift from the Lord and should be cherished and honored. You will only get out of your relationship with your wife what you invest in it. Are we the husbands that God wants us to be? Are we the kind of men we would want our daughters to marry? Be thankful for the wife God has given you. Begin to serve her, and the love you thought was lost will return.
Proverbs continuously warns men to avoid the adulterous woman. She is a snare, her lips drip honey, and she flatters with her words and so on. God is aware of the power of our sex drive: He created us and knows everything about us. He has given us the ability to control our desires and refuse temptation. When a man commits adultery, it is often because the intimacy, fire and passion are gone in his relationship with his wife. It is the man’s fault when this happens. Let me explain why. “It is the husband’s responsibility to romance his wife. He cannot win her heart during courtship and abandon her heart after marriage. He must continue to romance her daily. Flowers and candy are not the only way to romance our wives. Preparing a warm bath, opening the car door, pulling the chair out for her at a restaurant and standing when she arrives or leaves the table, are all old-fashioned ways of showing her respect.” (paraphrased from Wild at Heart, John Eldredge). Husbands love and honor your wives, as Christ loves the Church and gave Himself for it. (Ephesians 5:25). Wives are a gift from the Lord and should be cherished and honored. You will only get out of your relationship with your wife what you invest in it. Are we the husbands that God wants us to be? Are we the kind of men we would want our daughters to marry? Be thankful for the wife God has given you. Begin to serve her, and the love you thought was lost will return.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
A Call to Manhood
“He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live.” (Proverbs 4:4).
King David, the man after God’s own heart, was not perfect. In fact, his family was practically destroyed from the consequences of his adulterous relationship with Bathsheba. The sins of David were visited upon his children. Nevertheless, David repented of his sin and continued to serve God. He did his best to pass down godly wisdom and counsel to his sons, particularly to Solomon. In I Kings 2:1-3, David called Solomon to manhood. “Now the days of David drew nigh that he should die; and he charged Solomon his son, saying, I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore, and show thyself a man; And keep the charge of the Lord thy God, to walk in his ways, to keep his statues, and his commandments, and his judgments, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses, that thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest, and whithersoever thou turnest thyself.” [emphasis added] Fathers, you have a duty to instruct your children in the faith (Deuteronomy 6:5-7) and to live a godly life before them (Deuteronomy 11:18-21). John Eldredge in Wild at Heart discusses the importance of calling a boy to manhood. “A boy learns who he is and what he’s got from a man, or the company of men. He cannot learn it any other place…The plan from the beginning of time was that his father would lay the foundation for a young boy’s heart, and pass on to him that essential knowledge and confidence in his strength. Dad would be the first man in his life, and forever the most important man.” Fathers, call your sons to manhood and charge them to be men of God.
King David, the man after God’s own heart, was not perfect. In fact, his family was practically destroyed from the consequences of his adulterous relationship with Bathsheba. The sins of David were visited upon his children. Nevertheless, David repented of his sin and continued to serve God. He did his best to pass down godly wisdom and counsel to his sons, particularly to Solomon. In I Kings 2:1-3, David called Solomon to manhood. “Now the days of David drew nigh that he should die; and he charged Solomon his son, saying, I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore, and show thyself a man; And keep the charge of the Lord thy God, to walk in his ways, to keep his statues, and his commandments, and his judgments, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses, that thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest, and whithersoever thou turnest thyself.” [emphasis added] Fathers, you have a duty to instruct your children in the faith (Deuteronomy 6:5-7) and to live a godly life before them (Deuteronomy 11:18-21). John Eldredge in Wild at Heart discusses the importance of calling a boy to manhood. “A boy learns who he is and what he’s got from a man, or the company of men. He cannot learn it any other place…The plan from the beginning of time was that his father would lay the foundation for a young boy’s heart, and pass on to him that essential knowledge and confidence in his strength. Dad would be the first man in his life, and forever the most important man.” Fathers, call your sons to manhood and charge them to be men of God.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Obtaining the Good Life
“Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.” (Proverbs 3:7-8).
God gives three spiritual keys to the proverbial “good life” in this passage. These three keys will bring: “Health to thy navel and marrow to thy bones.” The first key is not to be wise in our own eyes. Because God is truth and wisdom, we must trust and rely on Him and seek truth from Him alone. ‘If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” (James 1:5). It is so easy to lean on our own understanding and to think more highly of ourselves than we should. The second key is to fear the Lord. We need a holy, healthy respect and reverence for Almighty God. “The fear of the Lord tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.” (Proverbs 19:23). Fear of God helps us to rely on Him. It draws us closer to Him- not push us away. When we fear God, we see Him in the fullness of his awesomeness and power. The third key is to depart from evil. “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the ways of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.” (Psalm 1:1-2). If we follow these three keys, we will be able to walk circumspectly before the Lord and we will have the “good life”.
God gives three spiritual keys to the proverbial “good life” in this passage. These three keys will bring: “Health to thy navel and marrow to thy bones.” The first key is not to be wise in our own eyes. Because God is truth and wisdom, we must trust and rely on Him and seek truth from Him alone. ‘If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” (James 1:5). It is so easy to lean on our own understanding and to think more highly of ourselves than we should. The second key is to fear the Lord. We need a holy, healthy respect and reverence for Almighty God. “The fear of the Lord tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.” (Proverbs 19:23). Fear of God helps us to rely on Him. It draws us closer to Him- not push us away. When we fear God, we see Him in the fullness of his awesomeness and power. The third key is to depart from evil. “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the ways of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.” (Psalm 1:1-2). If we follow these three keys, we will be able to walk circumspectly before the Lord and we will have the “good life”.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Renewing Our Minds
“Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path.” (Proverbs 2:9).
When a godly man receives wisdom and discernment from the Lord, he will be able to understand righteousness, judgment, equity and every good path. When we were ungodly men, we walked vainly with our understanding darkened. We were alienated from the life of God because of ignorance and the blindness of our hearts. (Ephesians 4:17-18). The carnal mind cannot be trusted, “[It] is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.” (Romans 8:7). Paul declared that our minds must be transformed: “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:2). “And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; and that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” (Ephesians 4:23-24). The renewing of our minds is a daily process: Old habits and former ways of thinking do not disappear overnight. Our minds will be washed in the Word as we meditate on it and hide it in our hearts. (Ephesians 5:26). I heard a preacher testify that he had petitioned God to remove the bad memories he carried of past sins; however, God allowed them to remain. Instead of becoming bitter, the pastor said he used those memories as a wall of remembrance-constructed to keep himself from ever returning to his old lifestyle. May we do likewise and vow to never go back to our former way of life.
When a godly man receives wisdom and discernment from the Lord, he will be able to understand righteousness, judgment, equity and every good path. When we were ungodly men, we walked vainly with our understanding darkened. We were alienated from the life of God because of ignorance and the blindness of our hearts. (Ephesians 4:17-18). The carnal mind cannot be trusted, “[It] is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.” (Romans 8:7). Paul declared that our minds must be transformed: “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:2). “And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; and that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” (Ephesians 4:23-24). The renewing of our minds is a daily process: Old habits and former ways of thinking do not disappear overnight. Our minds will be washed in the Word as we meditate on it and hide it in our hearts. (Ephesians 5:26). I heard a preacher testify that he had petitioned God to remove the bad memories he carried of past sins; however, God allowed them to remain. Instead of becoming bitter, the pastor said he used those memories as a wall of remembrance-constructed to keep himself from ever returning to his old lifestyle. May we do likewise and vow to never go back to our former way of life.
Monday, March 1, 2010
The Fear of the Lord
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Proverbs 1:7).
Successfully becoming a man of God cannot transpire without the fear of the Lord. We must fear the Lord before we receive one bit of knowledge from Him. David acknowledged: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.” (Psalms 111:10).
When we hold God in holy awe, revere and respect Him, we will seek His will for our lives. We will submit our will to His will and pursue His wisdom and knowledge. We will take seriously His command to: “Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.” (Jeremiah 33:3). Solomon’s final words of wisdom in Ecclesiastes 12:13 were: “Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” It is impossible for men to obey God if they do not have a healthy fear of him. As born again believers, we can grieve and quench the Holy Spirit within us through disobedience and sinful behavior. A holy fear of the Lord causes us to want to straighten out our relationship with Him expeditiously. God is a loving God, and He acts in grace and mercy toward us. He is also a God of justice and holiness: He will chastise us as sons, if we do not repent. A holy fear of God will keep us close to Him, give us a desire to please Him and cause us to seek His wisdom and plan for our lives. Without this fear, we will go our own way and lean on our own understanding. Ask God to restore in you a holy fear of Him today.
Successfully becoming a man of God cannot transpire without the fear of the Lord. We must fear the Lord before we receive one bit of knowledge from Him. David acknowledged: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.” (Psalms 111:10).
When we hold God in holy awe, revere and respect Him, we will seek His will for our lives. We will submit our will to His will and pursue His wisdom and knowledge. We will take seriously His command to: “Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.” (Jeremiah 33:3). Solomon’s final words of wisdom in Ecclesiastes 12:13 were: “Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” It is impossible for men to obey God if they do not have a healthy fear of him. As born again believers, we can grieve and quench the Holy Spirit within us through disobedience and sinful behavior. A holy fear of the Lord causes us to want to straighten out our relationship with Him expeditiously. God is a loving God, and He acts in grace and mercy toward us. He is also a God of justice and holiness: He will chastise us as sons, if we do not repent. A holy fear of God will keep us close to Him, give us a desire to please Him and cause us to seek His wisdom and plan for our lives. Without this fear, we will go our own way and lean on our own understanding. Ask God to restore in you a holy fear of Him today.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)