He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm. Prov. 13:20
I have a friend who struggled with quiting his smoking habit. He was a smoker for years and knew the danger to his health, and felt the pain in his wallet. He was aware that his second-hand fumes were dangerous to his wife and grandchildren. Just spending time with him warranted a good shower, as the invisible influence of the fumes permeated clothing.
However, that man is a first-class friend. He was vulnerable and open, always asking for help and wanting to be accountable. It took time - many years - but he is now free of his habit and helping others with addiction issues. He learned that as he spent time with people who could help him that he eventually became someone who could encourage and help others with similar issues. The people he hung around with eventually influenced and helped him to overcome the habit.
This verse is clear: who we spend time with will influence who we become, either for the good or the bad. It is a truth that I know as a parent, and a constant prayer for my children. It is something that reminds me to be careful as I decide who I hang out with. It is not that I avoid spending time with others who need a hand up, but that I also recognize the importance of walking with people who will influence me towards the paths of God.
One thing that I have learned over the years: as I rub shoulders with godly men and women, something rubs off on me. I need to seek this out as a person who learns to walk with the wise.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Day 12: Talk in NOT Cheap
Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. (Proverbs 12:18)
There are times when talk is costly, not cheap; times when what you’ve said in the heat of a moment hurts the people you love the most. You wish you could take your words back, but what has been said, has been said.
One of the areas that the Proverbs challenges me is that of self-control, especially in the area of my words. Some of the things we say in a moment are remembered for an eternity; painful words take a long time to be erased from the memory of those we love the most.
The New Testament also speaks of the taming of the tongue. James 3:1-12 is a passage full of stern warnings to the person unable to control his speech. Jesus said that “out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks” and warned that men will have to give account for “every careless word they have spoken” (Matthew 12:34-36).
But there is hope! Hope that wisdom can make me person under the control and influence of the Spirit and that my words can bring healing. Hope that my speech can rescue me, together with those around me (Prov. 12:6). There is a transformation that allows my words to endure forever (Prov. 1:19), something which brings delight to the Lord (verse 22).
I need that kind of control in my life, and recognizing that part of the fruit of the Spirit we read about in Galatians 5:22-24 is self-control, and that includes the taming of the tongue. It causes me to pray the words of Psalm 19:14 - May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.
There are times when talk is costly, not cheap; times when what you’ve said in the heat of a moment hurts the people you love the most. You wish you could take your words back, but what has been said, has been said.
One of the areas that the Proverbs challenges me is that of self-control, especially in the area of my words. Some of the things we say in a moment are remembered for an eternity; painful words take a long time to be erased from the memory of those we love the most.
The New Testament also speaks of the taming of the tongue. James 3:1-12 is a passage full of stern warnings to the person unable to control his speech. Jesus said that “out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks” and warned that men will have to give account for “every careless word they have spoken” (Matthew 12:34-36).
But there is hope! Hope that wisdom can make me person under the control and influence of the Spirit and that my words can bring healing. Hope that my speech can rescue me, together with those around me (Prov. 12:6). There is a transformation that allows my words to endure forever (Prov. 1:19), something which brings delight to the Lord (verse 22).
I need that kind of control in my life, and recognizing that part of the fruit of the Spirit we read about in Galatians 5:22-24 is self-control, and that includes the taming of the tongue. It causes me to pray the words of Psalm 19:14 - May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Day 11: Blessed to be a Blessing
One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another witholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed. (Proverbs 11:23-24)
Today is Canadian Thanksgiving - a day we set aside to consider the ways we are blessed. This is a day when the generosity I've seen is God's generosity expressed to me and my family.
It's interesting that today the verses that caught my attention were on generosity. On the day when we're introspective and count our personal blessings, the word to me was that I need to share these blessings with others - it's not just about me.
These verses reminded me of the promise of God to Abraham in Genesis 12:2-3 - I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great and you will be a blessing ... and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.
We are not generous and outward thinking to get more; we are blessed to bless others. We need to be generous to those who cannot give back; to those who God places in our path that may not normally be in our circle of friends.
That's where the economy of God sets in, where the one who loses himself, finds himself. It is where living for others is to be the norm, and where generosity is encouraged, not because of what we might get in return, but out of gratitude. This all enables me to be grateful, not only today, but each day. It is an attitude of gratitude that flows from the Spirit of God.
Today is Canadian Thanksgiving - a day we set aside to consider the ways we are blessed. This is a day when the generosity I've seen is God's generosity expressed to me and my family.
It's interesting that today the verses that caught my attention were on generosity. On the day when we're introspective and count our personal blessings, the word to me was that I need to share these blessings with others - it's not just about me.
These verses reminded me of the promise of God to Abraham in Genesis 12:2-3 - I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great and you will be a blessing ... and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.
We are not generous and outward thinking to get more; we are blessed to bless others. We need to be generous to those who cannot give back; to those who God places in our path that may not normally be in our circle of friends.
That's where the economy of God sets in, where the one who loses himself, finds himself. It is where living for others is to be the norm, and where generosity is encouraged, not because of what we might get in return, but out of gratitude. This all enables me to be grateful, not only today, but each day. It is an attitude of gratitude that flows from the Spirit of God.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Day 10: The "No Wax" Guarantee
The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out. Prov. 10:9
The Greek word for integrity is a wonderful word picture of what it means to be a person of character that can be trusted. The word sincera literally means "without wax," and is often translated both integrity or sincere.
The word comes from the marketplace, and refers to the sale of marble statues. Artesians would carve figures of Greek gods, images that were often placed on display in the houses of aristocrates. Often a slight imperfection or slip of the hand would result in a chip or break in the statue, and would be covered up with a white paste or wax. The honest artist would place his piece of work in the direct sunlight, an act that would melt away any wax and reveal the imperfections. The work that was sin cera could stand the heat of the sun.
The book of Proverbs reminds us that crooked or imperfect paths will be found out. The Psalms tells us that the Word of God is a lamp to our feet, keeping us on the path of integrity (Psalm 119:105). That same lamp (the Word of God) is described in Hebrew 4:12 as a double-edged sword that divides soul and spirit, measuring our thoughts and motives. It is the Word of God that reveals who we truly are; whether we are living a selfish life or if we are reflecting the Lord. It is the light that shows the path we have chosen to walk on.
The Greek word for integrity is a wonderful word picture of what it means to be a person of character that can be trusted. The word sincera literally means "without wax," and is often translated both integrity or sincere.
The word comes from the marketplace, and refers to the sale of marble statues. Artesians would carve figures of Greek gods, images that were often placed on display in the houses of aristocrates. Often a slight imperfection or slip of the hand would result in a chip or break in the statue, and would be covered up with a white paste or wax. The honest artist would place his piece of work in the direct sunlight, an act that would melt away any wax and reveal the imperfections. The work that was sin cera could stand the heat of the sun.
The book of Proverbs reminds us that crooked or imperfect paths will be found out. The Psalms tells us that the Word of God is a lamp to our feet, keeping us on the path of integrity (Psalm 119:105). That same lamp (the Word of God) is described in Hebrew 4:12 as a double-edged sword that divides soul and spirit, measuring our thoughts and motives. It is the Word of God that reveals who we truly are; whether we are living a selfish life or if we are reflecting the Lord. It is the light that shows the path we have chosen to walk on.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Day 9: Life Accumulated
Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning. Prov. 9:9
The 9th chapter of Proverbs teaches that wisdom is an accumulated commodity; it grows with the life-lessons and application of our experiences. Wisdom builds a house upon a solid foundation (Prov. 9:1) and adds many years to life (Prov. 9:11).
The problem is that, while some people learn from their experiences, yet there are many others that seem to repeat their folly. They live without the direction and discernment that is promised to those who fear the Lord (Prov. 9:10). We are told that whoever corrects a mocker invites insults, and whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse (Prov. 9:7). What is the difference?
Wisdom is to be valued and sought after, as a treasure. It is like a well constructed house, built upon the foundation of the principles and guidelines of God’s Word. We are reminded that those who build upon this foundation will stand the tests and storms of time. Wisdom causes us to grow and affects many facets of our lives.
The fact that the wise and righteous maintain a teachable attitude reminds us that the wisdom of God knows no limits – there will always be areas in which we can grow and learn to apply this wisdom in our lives. The Bible calls this unfathomable riches and unsearchable judgements of God (Rom 11:33). In Christ are hidden the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Col. 2:3). Knowledge of our Creator is called wonderful and lofty, beyond what we can attain (Psm. 139:6).
The wise acknowledge their need for God’s direction and wisdom in life, knowing that in the end their pursuit of wisdom will reward them (Prov. 9:12).
The 9th chapter of Proverbs teaches that wisdom is an accumulated commodity; it grows with the life-lessons and application of our experiences. Wisdom builds a house upon a solid foundation (Prov. 9:1) and adds many years to life (Prov. 9:11).
The problem is that, while some people learn from their experiences, yet there are many others that seem to repeat their folly. They live without the direction and discernment that is promised to those who fear the Lord (Prov. 9:10). We are told that whoever corrects a mocker invites insults, and whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse (Prov. 9:7). What is the difference?
Wisdom is to be valued and sought after, as a treasure. It is like a well constructed house, built upon the foundation of the principles and guidelines of God’s Word. We are reminded that those who build upon this foundation will stand the tests and storms of time. Wisdom causes us to grow and affects many facets of our lives.
The fact that the wise and righteous maintain a teachable attitude reminds us that the wisdom of God knows no limits – there will always be areas in which we can grow and learn to apply this wisdom in our lives. The Bible calls this unfathomable riches and unsearchable judgements of God (Rom 11:33). In Christ are hidden the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Col. 2:3). Knowledge of our Creator is called wonderful and lofty, beyond what we can attain (Psm. 139:6).
The wise acknowledge their need for God’s direction and wisdom in life, knowing that in the end their pursuit of wisdom will reward them (Prov. 9:12).
Friday, October 8, 2010
Day 8: Finding Life
For whoever finds me finds life and receives favour from the LORD. (Proverbs 8:35)
Proverbs chapter 8 is one of the parts of the book which speaks most clearly about the link between the Spirit of God and wisdom. If you go back and insert the words “the Spirit” in each place where the words “I” or “wisdom” are used, it becomes even clearer. The Spirit was present at the beginning of creation (Prov. 8:22-32), and is the giver of life to those who earnestly seek him (Prov. 8:34-46).
Solomon declares a promise of God when he writes; I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me (Prov. 8:17). This promise goes hand in hand with Luke 11:13: If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!
This truth is echoed in other parts of the New Testament. Romans 8:1-4 uses the same imagery as Paul speaks of “the spirit of life” that sets us free from the “spirit of sin and death.” The chapter speaks of life in the Spirit and inseparable link between finding life and victory over the sinful nature.
Jesus said, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but by me (John 14:6).
In the New Testament authors had two Greek words to describe life: bios and zoe. Bios is the functional aspects of physical or animal life; the living and breathing of life. Zoe is the qualitative aspects of life, of feeling or loving or enjoying life. It's quite clear whch word is used to describe the life that God offers.
Life in the Spirit gives us power for living a life that makes us complete; that allows us to be the people God created us to be. It is through his dynamic presence living in us and through us that the life (zoe) of God becomes a personal reality for those who seek him.
Proverbs chapter 8 is one of the parts of the book which speaks most clearly about the link between the Spirit of God and wisdom. If you go back and insert the words “the Spirit” in each place where the words “I” or “wisdom” are used, it becomes even clearer. The Spirit was present at the beginning of creation (Prov. 8:22-32), and is the giver of life to those who earnestly seek him (Prov. 8:34-46).
Solomon declares a promise of God when he writes; I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me (Prov. 8:17). This promise goes hand in hand with Luke 11:13: If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!
This truth is echoed in other parts of the New Testament. Romans 8:1-4 uses the same imagery as Paul speaks of “the spirit of life” that sets us free from the “spirit of sin and death.” The chapter speaks of life in the Spirit and inseparable link between finding life and victory over the sinful nature.
Jesus said, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but by me (John 14:6).
In the New Testament authors had two Greek words to describe life: bios and zoe. Bios is the functional aspects of physical or animal life; the living and breathing of life. Zoe is the qualitative aspects of life, of feeling or loving or enjoying life. It's quite clear whch word is used to describe the life that God offers.
Life in the Spirit gives us power for living a life that makes us complete; that allows us to be the people God created us to be. It is through his dynamic presence living in us and through us that the life (zoe) of God becomes a personal reality for those who seek him.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Day 7: Grace-Awakened Disfunctionality
My son, keep my words and store up my commands within you. Keep my commandments and you will live; guard my teaching as the apple of your eye. (Proverbs 7:1-2)
Have you noticed that the last three chapters had a reoccurring theme? For a book full of patchwork pieces of wisdom on a variety of topics, chapters 5-7 of Proverbs is the most focused part of the book and warns readers about adultery and sexual sin. It is important while reading these portions to remember the context of Solomon’s own family to understand some of his comments.
David and Bathsheba – his father and mother – were the main players in the greatest sex scandal in the Bible (See 2 Samuel chapters 11 and 12 in the Old Testament). Their story would make the pages of the National Enquirer or any gossip column; yet God’s grace and forgiveness extended to them and their second son, Solomon, who would eventually become the heir to the throne. There was not only restoration, but grace enough for Solomon to honour his father and his mother.
This is where the Gospel begins; with broken people who come to the point where we know that we need a Saviour and acknowledge that we’ve all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). But it doesn’t stop there; it leads to transformation that enables us to avoid the pitfalls of life. We don’t go on heading straight towards a life of sin in order that “grace may abound” (Romans 6:1).
One of the best ways I know how to do this is through storing up God’s word in my heart, either through reading it, or memorizing it. David’s words in Psalm 119:11 say it best: I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. This seems to be a lost art in today's world; an art that needs to be recaptured. It is one way that grace awakens in our lives.
*The Grace Awakening is a book by Chuck Swindoll, and a term often used by Geoge Verwer.
Have you noticed that the last three chapters had a reoccurring theme? For a book full of patchwork pieces of wisdom on a variety of topics, chapters 5-7 of Proverbs is the most focused part of the book and warns readers about adultery and sexual sin. It is important while reading these portions to remember the context of Solomon’s own family to understand some of his comments.
David and Bathsheba – his father and mother – were the main players in the greatest sex scandal in the Bible (See 2 Samuel chapters 11 and 12 in the Old Testament). Their story would make the pages of the National Enquirer or any gossip column; yet God’s grace and forgiveness extended to them and their second son, Solomon, who would eventually become the heir to the throne. There was not only restoration, but grace enough for Solomon to honour his father and his mother.
This is where the Gospel begins; with broken people who come to the point where we know that we need a Saviour and acknowledge that we’ve all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). But it doesn’t stop there; it leads to transformation that enables us to avoid the pitfalls of life. We don’t go on heading straight towards a life of sin in order that “grace may abound” (Romans 6:1).
One of the best ways I know how to do this is through storing up God’s word in my heart, either through reading it, or memorizing it. David’s words in Psalm 119:11 say it best: I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. This seems to be a lost art in today's world; an art that needs to be recaptured. It is one way that grace awakens in our lives.
*The Grace Awakening is a book by Chuck Swindoll, and a term often used by Geoge Verwer.
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