Category Archives: Righteousness / Serving God

Church / Body of Christ, Discerning / Judging, Seeking God, Share the Good News, Study the Word

Nurturing Spiritual Growth: A Call to Faithful Living (1 Timothy 4:6-16)

Have you ever considered the significance of spiritual growth in your faith journey?

In a world filled with distractions and temptations, nurturing our spiritual lives is essential.

The apostle Paul, in 1 Timothy 4:6-16, offers timeless wisdom to guide us in this pursuit. Let’s explore how we can faithfully grow in our relationship with God.

Reconnect: In the preceding verses of 1 Timothy, Paul addresses the importance of discerning true teachings from deceptive doctrines. Now, he continues his letter to Timothy by emphasizing the value of spiritual growth and leadership within the church.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

1 Timothy 4:6-16

A Good Minister’s Discipline

     6In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine which you have been following. 7But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; 8for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. 9It is a trustworthy statement deserving full acceptance. 10For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers.

      11Prescribe and teach these things. 12Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. 13Until I come, give attention to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation and teaching. 14Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery. 15Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all. 16Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Nourishing Spiritual Disciplines: Paul encourages Timothy to be a good servant of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and sound doctrine. Spiritual growth begins with a commitment to the Word of God and a lifestyle that reflects its teachings.
  2. Rejecting Worldly Myths: The apostle advises Timothy to reject profane and old wives’ tales, focusing instead on godliness. In a culture filled with distractions and false beliefs, maintaining our spiritual course requires discernment and a steadfast commitment to what is true.
  3. Setting an Example: Paul reminds Timothy that his life should serve as an example to believers in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. Our actions speak volumes about our faith, and as we grow spiritually, we become living testimonies of God’s grace.
  4. Investing in Spiritual Gifts: Timothy is encouraged not to neglect the spiritual gift he received. We are all uniquely gifted by God, and using these gifts for His glory is an essential part of our spiritual growth.
  5. Progressive Growth: Paul underscores the idea of progressing in spiritual maturity. Timothy is advised to give himself entirely to these matters, ensuring that his progress is evident to all.

Call to Action: As believers, we are called to prioritize our spiritual growth. Let us commit to daily nourishing our souls with God’s Word, rejecting worldly distractions, and setting a Christ-like example for others. We should also invest in and utilize the spiritual gifts God has entrusted to us, continually striving for progressive growth in our faith.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your guidance and wisdom found in Your Word. Help us to prioritize our spiritual growth, nurturing our faith through prayer, study, and a commitment to godly living. May we be examples to others and use our spiritual gifts for Your glory. Strengthen us to progress in our walk with You day by day. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion Prompt: Share your reflections on the importance of spiritual growth in the Christian journey. How can you actively nurture your faith, set an example for others, and invest in your spiritual gifts?

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Discerning / Judging, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, False Prophets / Teachers, Seeking God, Study the Word

Discerning True Teaching from Deceptive Doctrines (1 Timothy 4:1-5)

Have you ever questioned the authenticity of the teachings you encounter in the world today? With various voices vying for our attention, it can be challenging to discern true wisdom from deceptive doctrines.

In 1 Timothy 4:1-5, the apostle Paul provides essential insights into this ongoing spiritual battle. Let’s explore how we can safeguard our faith by recognizing and adhering to the truth.

Reconnect: In the preceding chapters of 1 Timothy, Paul, writing to Timothy, offers guidance on church leadership, conduct, and the importance of prayer. Now, he turns his attention to a critical issue: discerning true teachings from deceptive doctrines.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

1 Timothy 4:1-5

Apostasy

     1But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, 2by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron, 3men who forbid marriage and advocate abstaining from foods which God has created to be gratefully shared in by those who believe and know the truth. 4For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; 5for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer.

Summary Key Points:

  1. The Age of Deception: Paul warns Timothy that in the latter times, some will depart from the faith and follow deceitful spirits and teachings of demons. It’s essential to recognize that deception can infiltrate the church, so believers must remain vigilant and discerning.
  2. Identifying False Teachings: As examples, Paul specifically addresses false teachings that forbid marriage and certain foods. He explains that God created these things to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth.
    • True wisdom discerns and acknowledges that God’s definition of “food” should guide our choices. Many will consider this statement from our culture and time and conclude Paul was saying we could eat anything so long as we are thankful. However, discernment considers this scripture from the perspective of Paul’s time and culture. When he speaks of food, he refers to what God defines as food, not everything we could put in our mouth and eat… and not everything we consider ‘food’ today in our culture.
    • Paul was talking about those who would exclude things God considered ‘food’ and teach it was wrong in God’s eyes for us to eat it.
  3. The Role of God’s Word: The antidote to deceptive doctrines is the Word of God. We must seek truth in the word and challenge commonly accepted ‘doctrine’ or understanding against the written word of God. Our foundation for discernment is rooted in Scripture and a prayerful heart.

The example of food used above is just one example where teachings even in some churches are leading many in the wrong direction. There are many more… such as current views on abortion, homosexuality, transgender, ignoring Sabbath, ignoring God’s appointed times (Leviticus 23), and so on.

Call to Action: As we navigate a world filled with diverse teachings and ideas, let us commit to challenging cultural norms even within the church and studying and meditating on God’s Word regularly. We should seek discernment through prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to guide us into all truth. Additionally, let’s engage in conversations with fellow believers to share insights and discuss how to apply God’s wisdom in our lives.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Word, which is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. As we encounter various teachings and doctrines, help us discern what aligns with Your truth and what does not. May Your Holy Spirit guide us, granting us wisdom to recognize deceptive doctrines and remain steadfast in Your Word. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion Prompt: Share your thoughts on how you discern true teachings from deceptive doctrines in today’s world. How can you strengthen your foundation in God’s Word and prayer to remain rooted in truth?

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Proverbs (Wisdom & Folly), Unteachable / Foolish, Wise

Wisdom’s Call: Listening to the Voice of Understanding (Prov 1:20-33)

Have you ever felt unsure of the choices you are making in your life, wondering if you are following a wise path or just pursuing what seems good at the time?

It’s in moments like these that godly wisdom calls out to us, offering guidance and understanding. Let’s explore the significance of heeding this divine call.

Reconnect: In the book of Proverbs, we delve into the importance of wisdom and understanding, and Proverbs 1:20-33 provides a vivid illustration of wisdom’s cry to humanity.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Proverbs 1:20-33

Wisdom Warns

     20Wisdom shouts in the street,
She lifts her voice in the square;

      21At the head of the noisy streets she cries out;
At the entrance of the gates in the city she utters her sayings:

      22“How long, O naive ones, will you love being simple-minded?
And scoffers delight themselves in scoffing
And fools hate knowledge?

      23“Turn to my reproof,
Behold, I will pour out my spirit on you;
I will make my words known to you.

      24“Because I called and you refused,
I stretched out my hand and no one paid attention;

      25And you neglected all my counsel
And did not want my reproof;

      26I will also laugh at your calamity;
I will mock when your dread comes,

      27When your dread comes like a storm
And your calamity comes like a whirlwind,
When distress and anguish come upon you.

      28“Then they will call on me, but I will not answer;
They will seek me diligently but they will not find me,

      29Because they hated knowledge
And did not choose the fear of the LORD.

      30“They would not accept my counsel,
They spurned all my reproof.

      31“So they shall eat of the fruit of their own way
And be satiated with their own devices.

      32“For the waywardness of the naive will kill them,
And the complacency of fools will destroy them.

      33“But he who listens to me shall live securely
And will be at ease from the dread of evil.”

Summary Key Points:

  1. Wisdom’s Loud Cry: In these verses, wisdom is personified as a woman crying out in the public square, raising her voice in the streets. She calls to those who pass by, urging them to pay attention and embrace understanding.
  2. Rejected Counsel: The passage portrays a vivid contrast between those who listen to wisdom’s call and those who reject it. Those who disregard wisdom’s voice and choose not to fear the Lord ultimately face the consequences of their choices.
  3. The Fear of the Lord: The foundation of wisdom is the fear of the Lord, which is not about dread but a deep reverence and awe for God. This fear leads to a desire for wisdom and understanding.
  4. Consequences of Ignoring Wisdom: The passage warns that when wisdom’s call is ignored, calamity and distress will follow. Those who despise wisdom’s counsel will bear the weight of their decisions.
  5. Choosing Understanding: On the other hand, those who listen to wisdom’s call will dwell in safety and be at ease, without the fear of harm. Choosing wisdom is a safeguard against destructive paths.

Call to Action: Take a moment to reflect on your response to wisdom’s call in your life. Have there been times when you ignored wise counsel or chose not to seek understanding? Pray for the desire to embrace wisdom and the fear of the Lord, leading you to make choices that honor Him.

Prayer: Gracious Lord, we acknowledge Your wisdom as a guiding light in our lives. Help us to heed wisdom’s call and embrace understanding. May we walk in reverence and awe of You, making choices that reflect Your wisdom. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion: Share your thoughts on times when you’ve heard wisdom’s call or ignored it. How can you encourage one another to pursue wisdom and understanding in your daily lives? Engage in discussions with friends and family, and feel free to share your reflections in the comments below.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Loving / Kind, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Protector / Deliverer, Provider, Psalms, Thankfulness

Reflecting on God’s Abundant Blessings: Psalm 65

Have you ever stood in awe of the natural world and felt a deep connection to the Creator?

Psalm 65 invites us to contemplate the beauty of God’s creation and His abundant blessings poured out upon the earth and upon His people.

Reconnect: In the previous Psalms, we have explored various themes, including praise, thanksgiving, and seeking refuge in God’s presence. Psalm 65 continues this journey of reflection and worship.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Psalm 65

God’s Abundant Favor to Earth and Man.

For the choir director. A Psalm of David. A Song.

     1There will be silence before You, and praise in Zion, O God,
And to You the vow will be performed.

      2O You who hear prayer,
To You all men come.

      3Iniquities prevail against me;
As for our transgressions, You forgive them.

      4How blessed is the one whom You choose and bring near to You
To dwell in Your courts.
We will be satisfied with the goodness of Your house,
Your holy temple.

      5By awesome deeds You answer us in righteousness, O God of our salvation,
You who are the trust of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest sea;

      6Who establishes the mountains by His strength,
Being girded with might;

      7Who stills the roaring of the seas,
The roaring of their waves,
And the tumult of the peoples.

      8They who dwell in the ends of the earth stand in awe of Your signs;
You make the dawn and the sunset shout for joy.

      9You visit the earth and cause it to overflow;
You greatly enrich it;
The stream of God is full of water;
You prepare their grain, for thus You prepare the earth.

      10You water its furrows abundantly,
You settle its ridges,
You soften it with showers,
You bless its growth.

      11You have crowned the year with Your bounty,
And Your paths drip with fatness.

      12The pastures of the wilderness drip,
And the hills gird themselves with rejoicing.

      13The meadows are clothed with flocks
And the valleys are covered with grain;
They shout for joy, yes, they sing.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Praise for God’s Abundant Blessings: The psalmist begins by expressing praise and gratitude for the abundance of God’s blessings. From forgiving sins to choosing and drawing us near, God’s blessings are countless.
  2. Awe-Inspiring Nature: The psalmist marvels at God’s creation, acknowledging that the earth is filled with His wonders. From majestic mountains to roaring seas, nature reveals the glory of God’s craftsmanship.
  3. God’s Care for the Earth: Psalm 65 highlights God’s intimate care for the earth. He provides water for the fields, ensuring the land remains fruitful. His loving touch is seen in the way He nourishes the earth’s crops.
  4. A Harvest of Joy: The psalmist envisions the earth as a field ripe for harvest. Just as a farmer rejoices in the abundance of crops, God’s blessings cause the earth to burst forth in songs of joy.
  5. An Invitation to Worship: The psalmist calls on all people to join in worship, recognizing the God of abundant blessings. From the farthest horizons to the depths of the seas, creation is called to praise its Creator.

Call to Action: Take a moment to reflect on the abundance of God’s blessings in your life. Have you experienced His forgiveness, guidance, or provision? Spend time in prayer, offering your own words of praise and gratitude for the blessings you’ve received.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your abundant blessings and the beauty of Your creation. Thank You for Your forgiveness, guidance, and provision in our lives. May our hearts overflow with praise and gratitude for Your countless gifts. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion: Share with others the ways in which you have experienced God’s blessings in your life. How does the beauty of nature inspire your sense of awe and worship? Engage in discussions with friends and family, and feel free to share your reflections in the comments below.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Depression / Discouragement, Hope, Tribulation

Job’s Cry of Faith and Hope (Job 19)

Have you ever felt so utterly alone, as if the world had turned against you, and there was no one left to comfort or understand your pain?

Imagine the depths of despair and suffering, and yet, within that darkness, a glimmer of faith and hope emerges. This is the essence of Job’s remarkable story, particularly in Job 19.

Before delving into Job 19, let’s briefly recap the preceding chapters of Job.

Job, a righteous man, faced a series of devastating trials, including the loss of his wealth, health, and children. In his suffering, Job’s friends came to offer comfort but ended up accusing him of hidden sin as the cause of his afflictions. Despite this, Job has maintained his faith in God while wrestling with the questions of suffering and justice. In this chapter, we witness Job’s unwavering hope in the midst of his suffering.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Job 19

Job Feels Insulted

      1Then Job responded,

      2“How long will you torment me
And crush me with words?

      3“These ten times you have insulted me;
You are not ashamed to wrong me.

      4“Even if I have truly erred,
My error lodges with me.

      5“If indeed you vaunt yourselves against me
And prove my disgrace to me,

      6Know then that God has wronged me
And has closed His net around me.

Everything Is against Him

7“Behold, I cry, ‘Violence!’ but I get no answer;
I shout for help, but there is no justice.

      8“He has walled up my way so that I cannot pass,
And He has put darkness on my paths.

      9“He has stripped my honor from me
And removed the crown from my head.

      10“He breaks me down on every side, and I am gone;
And He has uprooted my hope like a tree.

      11“He has also kindled His anger against me
And considered me as His enemy.

      12“His troops come together,
And build up their way against me
And camp around my tent.

      13“He has removed my brothers far from me,
And my acquaintances are completely estranged from me.

      14“My relatives have failed,
And my intimate friends have forgotten me.

      15“Those who live in my house and my maids consider me a stranger.
I am a foreigner in their sight.

      16“I call to my servant, but he does not answer;
I have to implore him with my mouth.

      17“My breath is offensive to my wife,
And I am loathsome to my own brothers.

      18“Even young children despise me;
I rise up and they speak against me.

      19“All my associates abhor me,
And those I love have turned against me.

      20“My bone clings to my skin and my flesh,
And I have escaped only by the skin of my teeth.

      21“Pity me, pity me, O you my friends,
For the hand of God has struck me.

      22“Why do you persecute me as God does,
And are not satisfied with my flesh?

Job Says, “My Redeemer Lives”

23“Oh that my words were written!
Oh that they were inscribed in a book!

      24“That with an iron stylus and lead
They were engraved in the rock forever!

      25“As for me, I know that my Redeemer lives,
And at the last He will take His stand on the earth.

      26“Even after my skin is destroyed,
Yet from my flesh I shall see God;

      27Whom I myself shall behold,
And whom my eyes will see and not another.
My heart faints within me!

      28“If you say, ‘How shall we persecute him?’
And ‘What pretext for a case against him can we find?’

      29“Then be afraid of the sword for yourselves,
For wrath brings the punishment of the sword,
So that you may know there is judgment.”

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Profound Suffering: Job’s afflictions have reached an unbearable point. He is physically and emotionally tormented, covered in painful sores, and surrounded by friends who misunderstand and accuse him.
  2. A Cry for a Redeemer: Despite his anguish, Job clings to a glimmer of hope—a hope in a Redeemer who will vindicate him. In the midst of despair, he expresses an unwavering belief that his Redeemer lives and will one day stand upon the earth.
  3. Resilience in Faith: Job’s story teaches us the power of resilience in faith. Even when life’s circumstances seem utterly bleak, when it appears that God has turned against us, we can still hold on to the hope of redemption and restoration.
  4. The Promise of Restoration: Job’s cry for a Redeemer foreshadows the ultimate redemption we find in Jesus Christ. In Christ, we have a Redeemer who not only vindicates us but also offers us salvation and eternal life.

As we contemplate Job’s remarkable faith amid suffering, let us consider our own trials and tribulations. Are there moments in our lives when we, like Job, feel abandoned and afflicted? Take comfort in knowing that our Redeemer, Jesus Christ, is alive and present in our struggles.

Let us pray:

Dear Heavenly Father, in our moments of despair and suffering, we thank you for the hope we find in Jesus Christ, our Redeemer. Just as Job clung to the belief in his Redeemer, help us to hold on to the assurance of salvation and restoration through Christ. Strengthen our faith and grant us resilience in the face of adversity. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion and Comment: Have you ever experienced a moment of deep suffering where your faith was tested? How did you find hope and resilience during that time? Share your thoughts, engage in meaningful discussions with others, and leave your comments below.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Children, Church / Body of Christ, Leadership, Marriage, Submitted / Servant

Qualities of Servant-Leaders: A Closer Look at 1 Timothy 3

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a servant-leader in the community of faith?

In the Apostle Paul’s first letter to Timothy, we discover a valuable guide that outlines the qualities and characteristics of those who aspire to serve as overseers and deacons in the early Christian church. This guidance, found in 1 Timothy 3, offers timeless wisdom for all who seek to lead and serve within the body of believers.

Reconnect: Before we delve into 1 Timothy 3, let’s remember the context. Paul wrote this letter to Timothy, a young leader in the early Christian community, to provide guidance on various matters within the church. In this chapter, Paul focuses on the qualifications and expectations for overseers and deacons.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

1 Timothy 3

Overseers and Deacons

     1It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. 2An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money. 4He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity 5(but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), 6and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil. 7And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

      8Deacons likewise must be men of dignity, not double-tongued, or addicted to much wine or fond of sordid gain, 9but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10These men must also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach. 11Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things. 12Deacons must be husbands of only one wife, and good managers of their children and their own households. 13For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

      14I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; 15but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth.

16By common confession, great is the mystery of godliness:
He who was revealed in the flesh,
Was vindicated in the Spirit,
Seen by angels,
Proclaimed among the nations,
Believed on in the world,
Taken up in glory.

Summary Key Points:

  1. The Role of Overseers: Paul begins by addressing the qualifications for overseers, also known as bishops or pastors. These individuals are called to provide spiritual leadership, guidance, and oversight to the congregation. The qualities Paul highlights include being above reproach, faithful in marriage, temperate, self-controlled, hospitable, and able to teach.
  2. The Role of Deacons: Paul also outlines the qualifications for deacons, who serve alongside overseers in various practical and administrative roles within the church. Deacons are to be dignified, sincere, not given to excessive drinking, and committed to holding the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience.
  3. Family Life: In addition to personal character, Paul emphasizes the importance of family life in evaluating potential overseers and deacons. He discusses the qualities of being a good husband and father, highlighting that one’s management of their own household is a reflection of their ability to serve in the household of God.
  4. The Church as God’s Household: Throughout this passage, Paul underscores the significance of the church as God’s household. He reminds Timothy that these guidelines are meant to ensure the church functions with integrity, honor, and orderliness.

As we reflect on the qualities of servant-leaders outlined in 1 Timothy 3, we are called to examine our own lives and leadership roles within the community of faith.

Whether we aspire to formal leadership positions or simply seek to be faithful servants, let us strive to embody the qualities of character, integrity, and humility that Paul highlights.

May we continually seek to grow in our walk with Christ, knowing that our leadership, in whatever capacity, is an opportunity to serve and honor God.

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father, we come before you with hearts filled with gratitude for the guidance you provide through your Word. We thank you for the wisdom found in 1 Timothy 3, which sets a standard for servant-leaders in your church.

Lord, help us to cultivate the qualities of character and integrity outlined in this passage. Grant us the humility to serve others with love and selflessness. As we seek to lead by example, may your Spirit empower us to live out these qualities in our daily lives.

We also pray for our church leaders, both present and future. May they be equipped with the qualities that honor you and serve your people effectively.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion and Comment:

What aspects of the qualities outlined in 1 Timothy 3 resonate with you as important for servant-leaders?

How can these qualities be applied in various roles within the church and in daily life? Share your thoughts, engage in a discussion with friends or family, and feel free to leave your comments below.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Proverbs (Wisdom & Folly), Unteachable / Foolish, Wise

Choose Wisdom Over Temptation (Proverbs 1:8-19)

Have you ever been tempted to make choices that you knew were wrong? In Proverbs 1:8-19, we find wisdom that warns us about the dangers of following the wrong path and the allure of temptation.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Proverbs 1:8-19

The Enticement of Sinners

     8Hear, my son, your father’s instruction
And do not forsake your mother’s teaching;

      9Indeed, they are a graceful wreath to your head
And ornaments about your neck.

      10My son, if sinners entice you,
Do not consent.

      11If they say, “Come with us,
Let us lie in wait for blood,
Let us ambush the innocent without cause;

      12Let us swallow them alive like Sheol,
Even whole, as those who go down to the pit;

      13We will find all kinds of precious wealth,
We will fill our houses with spoil;

      14Throw in your lot with us,
We shall all have one purse,”

      15My son, do not walk in the way with them.
Keep your feet from their path,

      16For their feet run to evil
And they hasten to shed blood.

      17Indeed, it is useless to spread the baited net
In the sight of any bird;

      18But they lie in wait for their own blood;
They ambush their own lives.

      19So are the ways of everyone who gains by violence;
It takes away the life of its possessors.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Listen to Wisdom: The passage begins with an appeal to listen to the wisdom and instruction of our parents and mentors. They guide us in making choices that align with God’s principles.
  2. Resist Temptation: Solomon, the author of Proverbs, vividly describes the temptation presented by sinners who entice others into wrongdoing. These individuals cast a snare and lie in wait to ambush the innocent.
  3. Wrong Choices Lead to Destruction: Solomon emphasizes the consequences of yielding to temptation. Choosing to follow the path of sinners may lead to death and destruction, both physically and spiritually.
  4. The Pursuit of Ill-Gotten Gain: The allure of material gain often drives people to commit sinful acts. Solomon warns against the pursuit of wealth through unjust means, as it can have dire consequences.
  5. The Importance of Separation: To avoid the enticement of sinful influences, it’s crucial to separate from those who lead us astray. Choosing godly companions and mentors helps us stay on the path of righteousness.

As we reflect on the importance of choosing wisdom over temptation, let’s take these actions:

Pray for Discernment: Spend time in prayer, asking God to grant you discernment in all your relationships and decisions. Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to help you distinguish between the path of wisdom and the path of temptation.

Evaluate Your Influences: Reflect on your friendships and associations. Are there individuals or situations that entice you toward unwise choices? Pray for strength and courage to distance yourself from any negative influences.

Share Your Thoughts: Engage in the conversation by commenting below. Share your insights, experiences, or questions related to choosing wisdom over temptation. Your contributions can help others on their journey.

Discuss with Friends and Family: Take the discussion beyond this platform. Talk to trusted friends and family members about the significance of this message in your life. Encourage one another to make wise choices.

Pray for One Another: Extend your prayers beyond yourself. Pray for your friends, family, and even those who may be struggling with temptation. Ask God to guide them toward wisdom and righteousness.

Let’s commit to living wisely and seeking God’s guidance as we navigate life’s challenges and choices.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Learning To Pray Effectively, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Strong in Our Weakness, Tribulation, Worry/Anxiety

Finding Refuge in the Lord’s Shelter (Psalm 64)

Have you ever felt surrounded by troubles, like enemies are plotting against you?

In Psalm 64, we find David in a similar situation, seeking refuge and protection from his adversaries.

Psalm 64

Prayer for Deliverance from Secret Enemies.

For the choir director. A Psalm of David.

     1Hear my voice, O God, in my complaint;
Preserve my life from dread of the enemy.

      2Hide me from the secret counsel of evildoers,
From the tumult of those who do iniquity,

      3Who have sharpened their tongue like a sword.
They aimed bitter speech as their arrow,

      4To shoot from concealment at the blameless;
Suddenly they shoot at him, and do not fear.

      5They hold fast to themselves an evil purpose;
They talk of laying snares secretly;
They say, “Who can see them?”

      6They devise injustices, saying,
“We are ready with a well-conceived plot”;
For the inward thought and the heart of a man are deep.

      7But God will shoot at them with an arrow;
Suddenly they will be wounded.

      8So they will make him stumble;
Their own tongue is against them;
All who see them will shake the head.

      9Then all men will fear,
And they will declare the work of God,
And will consider what He has done.

      10The righteous man will be glad in the LORD and will take refuge in Him;
And all the upright in heart will glory.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Crying Out for Protection: In Psalm 64, David begins by crying out to the Lord, asking Him to protect him from his enemies who are plotting against him. He describes their schemes and wicked intentions.
  2. Confidence in God’s Justice: Despite the enemy’s threats, David expresses his confidence in God’s justice. He believes that the Lord will bring judgment upon the wicked and that they will face the consequences of their evil deeds.
  3. Rejoicing in God’s Deliverance: As the psalm progresses, David’s tone shifts from fear to hope. He rejoices in the Lord’s deliverance, trusting that God will intervene on his behalf and vindicate him.
  4. Reflecting on God’s Power: David reflects on God’s power and sovereignty, recognizing that the righteous can find refuge and strength in the Lord even when faced with adversity.

As we read Psalm 64, we can learn to turn to the Lord in times of trouble, just as David did.

Let’s take a moment to reflect on our own challenges and adversities.

Are there areas in our lives where we need God’s protection and deliverance?

Pray to the Lord, seeking His guidance, protection, and justice.

Share your thoughts and prayers with a trusted friend or family member, and let this psalm remind you of the refuge we find in our faithful God and share your thoughts in the comments.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Depression / Discouragement, Hope, Tribulation

Job Struggles to Find Hope Amid Desolation (Job 17)

Have you ever felt like you were surrounded by darkness and despair, desperately seeking a glimmer of hope?

In Job 17, we step into the shoes of Job as he navigates through the depths of his suffering, yearning for a ray of light in his seemingly endless night.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Job 17

Job Says He Has Become a Byword

1“My spirit is broken, my days are extinguished,
The grave is ready for me.

      2“Surely mockers are with me,
And my eye gazes on their provocation.

      3“Lay down, now, a pledge for me with Yourself;
Who is there that will be my guarantor?

      4“For You have kept their heart from understanding,
Therefore You will not exalt them.

      5“He who informs against friends for a share of the spoil,
The eyes of his children also will languish.

      6“But He has made me a byword of the people,
And I am one at whom men spit.

      7“My eye has also grown dim because of grief,
And all my members are as a shadow.

      8“The upright will be appalled at this,
And the innocent will stir up himself against the godless.

      9“Nevertheless the righteous will hold to his way,
And he who has clean hands will grow stronger and stronger.

      10“But come again all of you now,
For I do not find a wise man among you.

      11“My days are past, my plans are torn apart,
Even the wishes of my heart.

      12“They make night into day, saying,
‘The light is near,’ in the presence of darkness.

      13“If I look for Sheol as my home,
I make my bed in the darkness;

      14If I call to the pit, ‘You are my father’;
To the worm, ‘my mother and my sister’;

      15Where now is my hope?
And who regards my hope?

      16“Will it go down with me to Sheol?
Shall we together go down into the dust?”

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Deep Despair: In Job 17, we witness Job’s profound despair and desolation. He describes the bleakness of his situation, emphasizing the darkness that has enveloped his life.
  2. Job’s Plea for Understanding: Job continues to seek understanding and justice, urging his friends to reconsider their accusations against him. He longs for empathy and support in his time of suffering.
  3. The Absence of Explicit Hope: While Job does not explicitly express hope for a future beyond suffering in this chapter, his unwavering faith and determination to seek answers from God demonstrate his resilience in the face of adversity.

As we reflect on Job’s deep despair and his continued search for understanding and justice, let us remember the importance of empathy and support in the lives of those who are suffering. Sometimes, simply being there for someone, listening to their struggles, and offering comfort can make a world of difference.

Take a moment today to reach out to someone who may be going through a difficult time. It could be a friend, a family member, or a colleague. Let them know that you are there for them, willing to listen without judgment, and ready to offer your support.

Additionally, spend some time in prayer for those who are facing trials and tribulations. Ask the Lord to provide them with the strength to endure and the comfort they need. Let us be the compassionate and understanding friends that Job longed for in his time of suffering.

Consider discussing this passage and the importance of empathy with a trusted friend or family member, and share your thoughts in the comments below. Together, we can learn from Job’s experience and strive to be sources of comfort and compassion for those in need.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Compassion, Depression / Discouragement, Faith / Trusting God, Fellowship, Help / Serve Others, Seeking God, Tribulation

Job’s Cry for Empathy and Comfort (Job 16)

Have you ever faced overwhelming suffering and longed for empathy, comfort, and compassion from your friends?

In Job 16, we join Job in his deep distress, seeking understanding and solace in the midst of his trials.

Reconnect: In the preceding chapters (Job 14-15), Job and his friends engage in a series of dialogues. Job passionately expresses his longing for empathy, comfort, and compassion, while his friends continue to offer explanations for his suffering based on their limited understanding.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Job 16

Job Says Friends Are Sorry Comforters

      1Then Job answered,

      2“I have heard many such things;
Sorry comforters are you all.

      3“Is there no limit to windy words?
Or what plagues you that you answer?

      4“I too could speak like you,
If I were in your place.
I could compose words against you
And shake my head at you.

      5“I could strengthen you with my mouth,
And the solace of my lips could lessen your pain.

Job Says God Shattered Him

6“If I speak, my pain is not lessened,
And if I hold back, what has left me?

      7“But now He has exhausted me;
You have laid waste all my company.

      8“You have shriveled me up,
It has become a witness;
And my leanness rises up against me,
It testifies to my face.

      9“His anger has torn me and hunted me down,
He has gnashed at me with His teeth;
My adversary glares at me.

      10“They have gaped at me with their mouth,
They have slapped me on the cheek with contempt;
They have massed themselves against me.

      11“God hands me over to ruffians
And tosses me into the hands of the wicked.

      12“I was at ease, but He shattered me,
And He has grasped me by the neck and shaken me to pieces;
He has also set me up as His target.

      13“His arrows surround me.
Without mercy He splits my kidneys open;
He pours out my gall on the ground.

      14“He breaks through me with breach after breach;
He runs at me like a warrior.

      15“I have sewed sackcloth over my skin
And thrust my horn in the dust.

      16“My face is flushed from weeping,
And deep darkness is on my eyelids,

      17Although there is no violence in my hands,
And my prayer is pure.

      18“O earth, do not cover my blood,
And let there be no resting place for my cry.

      19“Even now, behold, my witness is in heaven,
And my advocate is on high.

      20“My friends are my scoffers;
My eye weeps to God.

      21“O that a man might plead with God
As a man with his neighbor!

      22“For when a few years are past,
I shall go the way of no return.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Suffering Intensifies: By the time we reach Job 16, we find Job’s suffering has intensified. He’s been grappling with the loss of his wealth, health, and family, and he longs for relief. Job’s friends, rather than offering comfort, have added to his pain by assuming he’s suffering because of hidden sins.
  2. Job’s Frustration with His Friends: Job becomes increasingly frustrated with his friends’ accusations and lack of empathy. He feels their words are like empty proverbs and unhelpful comfort, adding to his misery.
  3. Job’s Reliance on God: Despite his suffering and frustration, Job does not give up on God. He continues to look to the Almighty as his witness and advocate, believing that even in his suffering, there is a deeper purpose.

As we reflect on Job’s desperate cry for empathy and comfort from his friends, may we recognize the importance of being compassionate when comforting those who suffer.

Let us seek to be understanding and solace-givers at times rather than just problem-solvers.

In our discussions and reflections, consider how you can provide comfort and compassion to those facing trials.

Engage in conversations with friends or family members, sharing your thoughts on the significance of empathy in times of suffering.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.