Searching For Nuggets

As I prepare my next outline for the students in the Bangladesh Ministry I support, a few thoughts came to me I would like to share. Just so you understand where I am coming from, I'm concluding my study on the seven parables of Matthew chapter thirteen. Specifically the final three parables which culminate with two examples of those willing to give up everything , and a final sobering point about the day of reckoning when mere pretenders will be separated out from the true believers and cast into hell. 

Like the the theological giants who came before us, we too look at the teachings of Jesus in order to better understand HIS wisdom. Yet after 2000 years of scrutiny by uncountable theologians, I still find a rich storehouse of treasures awaiting those who are patient seekers. Throughout his Gospel, Matthew unearths some of these nuggets of treasure for some to see while seemingly concealing others for those who have trained their minds to hear the scriptures in light of the reality of the kingdom of heaven. Throughout his Gospel, Matthew is trying to train us how to properly read Scripture in the light of how Jesus taught and shared wisdom. He does this in order too give us a treasure map, if you will, of how to locate the storehouse of treasures that include the pearls of exceeding value.

God's Handywork Psalm 19:1

”To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David. The heavens are telling of the glory
of God; And the expanse [of heaven] is declaring the work of his hands.
Psalm 19:1 (Amplified Bible)

by Adam Lustig

One thing is for sure, whether we are believers in Yahshua or not, the busyness of this life can attribute to us forgetting the essentials of life. Folks that are far away from God get caught up in the trappings of this world and the business of it eventually brings them to a place where they say “where has my life gone.”

I love this time of the year, Nov 01 - 12/31, is my favorite because, thankfulness is on my thoughts. From God’s daily blessings to the birth of the savior of the world, my heart is glad.

God's Wisdom vs Man's Wisdom

by Chuck Ness

This is a topical message I shared with the Ladies of Windchime back in 2006. I only have a handful of messages recored, because I lost 99% of them when I had a hard drive fail on my some years back. This is one of the messages I was able to save.

Paul tells us that Christ is the Wisdom of GOD, so if you do not have Christ in your heart, it is impossible to make wise decisions. Without the Wisdom of GOD, we will continue to make decisions based upon man's wisdom. Yet we know that God uses foolish things to bring man's wisdom to shame.

For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence. But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God--and righteousness and sanctification and redemption-- that, as it is written, "He who glories, let him glory in the LORD.1Corinthians 1:26-31

Is God Your Financial Adviser?

by Chuck Ness

When the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream, He said to him;

"Ask! What shall I give you?" 1 Kings 3:5

Solomon could have asked for anything his heart desired; wealth, women, slaves, victory in battle over all of God's enemies, or even a very long healthy life. Yet, he asked for none of those things. Instead, Solomon humbled himself and said to the LORD;

".....give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?" 1 Kings 3:9

Wisdom vs Folly's Invitation Proverb 9

by Chuck Ness

Advice from Wisdom vs advice from Folly is continually compared throughout the proverbs. We’ve seen these analogies often, but one thing that stands out in this chapter, is not so much the difference, but the similarities.

Satan often imitates God to lure us in. After all, when you put out poison to kill a rodent, you do not use 100% poison, you only use enough to kill them. So you use 99% of a type of food they like, to lure them into eating. Once they eat, they get the 1% of poison that will kill them.

In chapter 9, both wisdom and folly throw themselves at those of us who are simple and those who lack sense. So each are available to all of us. Both sit in “the high places in town,” so they are equally accessible to all of us. The difference is in what they are offering and the type of life that results in following each of them.

Wisdom offers insight and multiplication of days while folly offers material things such as sweet water and bread that already is ours, but by being lured away with material goods of the world, we can be led straight to hell. I take this as another way of saying that we need to chase after insight and not just stuff, because if we are following God's precepts, the rest will follow as a reward.

I pray that those who have ears to hear will hear His voice and call upon the name of the lord Jesus Christ.
Amen

Choose Wisely by Reading a Proverb A Day, Proverb 1

by Chuck Ness

The purpose of Writing the book of Proverbs was to reveal the mind of God in matters high and lofty and in common, ordinary, everyday situations. Through Solomon, God shared His Wisdom, and He made sure that no topic was left to question. Matters pertaining to personal conduct, sexual relations, business, wealth, charity, ambition, discipline, debt, child-rearing, character, alcohol, politics, revenge, and Godliness are among the many topics covered in this rich collection of wise sayings. Without wisdom, knowledge is nothing more than an accumulation of raw facts, influenced by emotional feelings. Many highly educated people are in positions of power in the United States, but very few of those educated leaders have the wisdom needed to rule properly. One can say that they have been educated well beyond their intelligence. A cursory look at the court system will prove my point that knowledge without wisdom will only lead to an immoral society that eventually crumbles from within. Judges are supposed to be above the fray, and immovable to emotions. Instead, the vast majority of judges today are Godless individuals who are vacant of wisdom. So their rulings are totally based upon emotional feelings. We the people are to blame, because we ignored God's guidance in appointing our leaders. Instead of appointing God fearing men in positions of power, we chose those who would scratch our itchy ears to lead us. It is incumbent upon us to chose leaders who have faith in Christ, then and only then can we be assured that they will make wise decisions. Paul tells us that Christ is the Wisdom of God, so if you do not have Christ in your heart, it is impossible to make wise decisions. Instead our leaders continue to make decisions based upon man's wisdom. Yet we know that God uses foolish things to bring man's wisdom to shame. For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence. But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God--and righteousness and sanctification and redemption-- that, as it is written, "He who glories, let him glory in the LORD.1Corinthians 1:26-31 Now of the 31 Proverbs, only the first 24 were written by Solomon. King Hezekiah wrote 5, Proverbs 25 to 29, Agur wrote Proverb 30, and Lemuel's mother wrote Proverb 31. Many scholars believe Lemuel was in fact a nick name Solomon's Mother, Bathsheba, gave him. If so, then Proverb 31 would have been written by Bathsheba. Solomon wrote over 3000 Proverbs and composed 1000 songs, but the only Proverbs of Solomon that God decided to preserve for us are Proverbs 1-24. Like the New Testament epistle by James, it is impossible to get a chronological outline for a study since they all bounce from subject to subject, and no one can be sure of the dates. Other than to say that Solomon wrote most of the Proverbs in his younger years, and as he got older his many wives led him into idolatry. He did return in his late years, and that is when he wrote Ecclesiastes. Along with my daily routine of reading the Bible, I try to read through the book of Proverbs once a Month. It's an easy task when you consider there are 31 Proverbs. So all you need to know is what day of the Month it is. In the Months that have 30 days, or in the case of February, I just double up by reading more than one proverb so I can begin the next month with Proverb 1 on the first again.

Today is the 1st of the Month, so we begin with Proverb 1 (NKJV)

The Beginning of Knowledge

01 The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:

02 To know wisdom and instruction,
00To perceive the words of understanding,
03 To receive the instruction of wisdom,
00 Justice, judgment, and equity;
04 To give prudence to the simple,
00 To the young man knowledge and discretion--
05 A wise man will hear and increase learning,
00 And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel,
06 To understand a proverb and an enigma,
00 The words of the wise and their riddles.

07 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,
00 But fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Shun Evil Counsel

08 My son, hear the instruction of your father,
00 And do not forsake the law of your mother;
09 For they will be a graceful ornament on your head,
00 And chains about your neck.

10 My son, if sinners entice you,
00 Do not consent.
11 If they say, "Come with us,
00 Let us lie in wait to shed blood;
00 Let us lurk secretly for the innocent without cause;
12 Let us swallow them alive like Sheol,
00 And whole, like those who go down to the Pit;
13 We shall find all kinds of precious possessions,
00 We shall fill our houses with spoil;
14 Cast in your lot among us,
00 Let us all have one purse"--
15 My son, do not walk in the way with them,
00 Keep your foot from their path;
16 For their feet run to evil,
00 And they make haste to shed blood.
17 Surely, in vain the net is spread
00 In the sight of any bird;
18 But they lie in wait for their own blood,
00 They lurk secretly for their own lives.
19 So are the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain;
00 It takes away the life of its owners.

The Call of Wisdom

20 Wisdom calls aloud outside;
00 She raises her voice in the open squares.
21 She cries out in the chief concourses,
00 At the openings of the gates in the city
00 She speaks her words:
22 "How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity?
00 For scorners delight in their scorning,
00 And fools hate knowledge.
23 Turn at my rebuke;
00 Surely I will pour out my spirit on you;
00 I will make my words known to you.
24 Because I have called and you refused,
00 I have stretched out my hand and no one regarded,
25 Because you disdained all my counsel,
00 And would have none of my rebuke,
26 I also will laugh at your calamity;
00 I will mock when your terror comes,
27 When your terror comes like a storm,
00 And your destruction comes like a whirlwind,
00 When distress and anguish come upon you.

28 "Then they will call on me, but I will not answer;
00 They will seek me diligently, but they will not find me.
29 Because they hated knowledge
00 And did not choose the fear of the LORD,
30 They would have none of my counsel
00 And despised my every rebuke.
31 Therefore they shall eat the fruit of their own way,
00 And be filled to the full with their own fancies.
32 For the turning away of the simple will slay them,
00 And the complacency of fools will destroy them;
33 But whoever listens to me will dwell safely,
00 And will be secure, without fear of evil."

What Happened to The Virtuous Woman? Proverbs 31:10-31

Many women believe that their charm and beauty is what makes them the person who they are, yet as the proverb tells us,

Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised

Proverb30:30

Peter tells women;

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes--
rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.

1 Peter 3:3-4

Some of the worst lies told today are that we are all the same. We are told that regardless of what plumbing you were born with, you can be whatever sex you so desire to be. The Bible is just a bigoted, homophobic, anti-woman book and Western religious values are stupid and wrong.

Plus, girls have been taught from kindergarten through college that men are just a bunch of stupid, boorish, vile creatures who only care about sex. Which is interesting since, the more liberated women gets, the more they want to be creatures who only care about sex themselves.

The effects of these lies on modern women has been devastating. They lead women into poor quality relationships, unhealthy eating and lifestyles, shacking up instead of marriage, many more women are victims of rape today than ever. This is especially a problem with attractive women, who are often times spoiled by their parents, by men, and by society, in general.

Beautiful young girls are given more breaks and end up in the most popular clubs, they end up pampered and praised for their beauty by being chosen for cheerleader teams while the popular most handsome boys who play sports pick them as their girlfriends in their teens. Even as they get close to graduating high school their parents shower them clothing that enhances their beauty, In college and adult life, their looks can open up doors for them to get jobs that less attractive women may not get, All the while the money and benefits that come with money makes the path for their future more bright just because the world classifies them as one of the beautiful people.

All this does not make their life easier, in reality, more times than not it is more harmful for these women, because it could make them more angry. How, few take them serious because of the easy ride they had, and they begin rejecting the idea that they are what you see, not what they are. This type of adoration though is not love, In so many women it only leads to unhappiness, depression and plenty of anger. Not to mention what it does to the psyche of the less good looking women of our society. The ones who go the extra mile, just to lose out to those who are automatically classified above them because of the looks dept.

Instead of a society of woman raised on the Word of God to be virtuous loving wives and nurturing mothers as spoken of in Proverb 30, we have raised a society full of angry women more aligned with the women of Proverbs 14:1 and 30:20;

The wise woman builds her house,
But the foolish pulls it down with her hands. Proverb 14:1

This is the way of an adulterous woman:
She eats and wipes her mouth
And says, "I have done no wickedness." Proverb 30:20

Proverb 31 (NKJV)

The Words of King Lemuel's Mother

01 The words of King Lemuel,
00 the utterance which his mother taught him:

02 What, my son?
00 And what, son of my womb?
00 And what, son of my vows?
03 Do not give your strength to women,
00 Nor your ways to that which destroys kings.

04 It is not for kings, O Lemuel,
00 It is not for kings to drink wine,
00 Nor for princes intoxicating drink;
05 Lest they drink and forget the law,
00 And pervert the justice of all the afflicted.
06 Give strong drink to him who is perishing,
00 And wine to those who are bitter of heart.
07 Let him drink and forget his poverty,
00 And remember his misery no more.

08 Open your mouth for the speechless,
00 In the cause of all who are appointed to die.
09 Open your mouth, judge righteously,
00 And plead the cause of the poor and needy.

The Virtuous Wife

10 Who can find a virtuous wife?
00 For her worth is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband safely trusts her;
00 So he will have no lack of gain.
12 She does him good and not evil
00 All the days of her life.
13 She seeks wool and flax,
00 And willingly works with her hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships,
00 She brings her food from afar.
15 She also rises while it is yet night,
00 And provides food for her household,
00 And a portion for her maidservants.
16 She considers a field and buys it;
00 From her profits she plants a vineyard.
17 She girds herself with strength,
00 And strengthens her arms.
18 She perceives that her merchandise is good,
00 And her lamp does not go out by night.
19 She stretches out her hands to the distaff,
00 And her hand holds the spindle.
20 She extends her hand to the poor,
00 Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.
21 She is not afraid of snow for her household,
00 For all her household is clothed with scarlet.
22 She makes tapestry for herself;
00 Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is known in the gates,
00 When he sits among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them,
00 And supplies sashes for the merchants.
25 Strength and honor are her clothing;
00 She shall rejoice in time to come.
26 She opens her mouth with wisdom,
00 And on her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 She watches over the ways of her household,
00 And does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children rise up and call her blessed;
00 Her husband also, and he praises her:
29 "Many daughters have done well,
00 But you excel them all."
30 Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,
00 But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands,
00 And let her own works praise her in the gates.

Seven Pillars of Wisdom Proverb 9:1

by Chuck Ness

In Proverb 9:1 we read that;

“Wisdom has built her house,
She has hewn out her seven pillars"

This is obviously a symbolic description, since Wisdom is personified. So what is this house and what are these “Seven Pillars” that wisdom has erected?

Many explanations exist regarding the seven pillars of wisdom in this passage. One idea is that, seven expresses completeness in Scripture, thus Solomon may be communicating that the application of wisdom results in a complete, orderly, well-furnished house, one that which lacks nothing.
Then there are commentators who see the seven pillars as describing a traditional banquet. So then, Wisdom’s call in Proverbs 9:5 would be fitting in that;

“Come, eat of my bread
And drink of the wine I have mixed”

I would be remiss if I failed to point out how many ancient writers often described the world as resting on seven pillars. If this was Solomon's meaning, it is possible that “her house” in Proverbs 9:1 is parallel in some way with the world. However, I offer this belief just to allow all thought to be considered I actually doubt this is what Solomon was referring to, because when he wrote he did so under the influence of the Holy Spirit. So we must look to the Strictures themselves for the answer.

Which brings me to 2 men who wrote extensive commentary on the Scriptures, John Gill & Matthew Henry. John Gill of Proverb 9:1 that;

”Wisdom has built her house”....”There are two other senses, which bid fairest one of them to be right;
(1.) Either the heavenly glory, the house not made with hands, Christ's Father's house, in which are many mansions for his people; and which is a city whose builder and maker is God, and is prepared by Christ; and stands firm upon the promises of God, the person, blood, and righteousness of Christ, and the grace of the blessed Spirit:
(2.) Or rather the church of Christ on earth, the house of the living God, the pillar and ground of truth; this is built by Christ upon himself, the rock and foundation; the materials of it are true believers, precious and lively stones; built up a spiritual house, and a fit and suitable habitation for God through the Spirit.

As for, she hath hewn out her seven pillars John Gill suggests 3 meanings;

(1.) Ministers of the Gospel, compared to pillars for strength and stability, and for their being instrumental in supporting the interest and church of Christ; in allusion to the pillars in Solomon's temple, Jachin and Boaz; see Gallatians 2:9 These are said to be "hewn", being polished, beautified, and adorned with the gifts and graces of the Spirit by Christ, and thereby fitted for their work and service; and said to be "seven", because there is a complete and sufficient number of them, which Christ has provided, and always will provide for his churches, as long as they continue in the world.
(2.) Though it may be these seven pillars may denote in general the firmness and solidity of this spiritual building, the church, and the continuance of it by the power of God;
(3.) Or they may have respect to the seven states of the church in so many periods of time, to last to the end of all things, signified by the seven churches in the book of the Revelation.”

Matthew Henry suggests that the house in Proverb 9:1 eludes to the place Jesus mentioned, “In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also”. (John 14:2) While the seven pillars could be a reference to the Temple Solomon built, or the schools of the prophets;

Here is a stately palace provided, Pro_9:1. Wisdom, not finding a house capacious enough for all her guests, has built one on purpose, and, both to strengthen it and to beautify it, she has hewn out her seven pillars, which make it to be very firm, and look very great. Heaven is the house which Wisdom has built to entertain all her guests that are called to the marriage-supper of the Lamb; that is her Father's house, where there are many mansions, and whither she has gone to prepare places for us. She has hanged the earth upon nothing, there in it we have no continuing city; but heaven is a city that has foundations, has pillars. The church is Wisdom's house, to which she invites her guests, supported by the power and promise of God, as by seven pillars. Probably, Solomon refers to the temple which he himself had lately built for the service of religion, and to which he would persuade people to resort, both to worship God and to receive the instructions of Wisdom. Some reckon the schools of the prophets to be here intended

Considering these interpretive options, it is likely that “her house” and “seven pillars” both refer to a home that is in proper order, with the use of “seven” emphasizing its completeness and all-sufficiency. Overall, Proverb 9 is presented in a chiastic structure, meaning the first and last portions are parallel ideas with the main point in the center passage. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” The entire Proverb is devoted to the emphasis of seeking wisdom, avoiding folly, and finding this wisdom in the Lord.

God bless you all as you study to be approved and ready for the moment the Bride Groom comes for his bride.

Vengeance Is Mine Says The Lord, Proverbs 6:34-35

by Chuck Ness

Mind you, Proverb 6:34-35 was written some 2900 years ago when women had no power. It was normal for men to have multiple wives and concubines. After all, Solomon himself had some 700 wives and 300 concubines. However, times have changed, and women can be as vengeful if not more so than men when they find out their husband has been sleeping around with another woman.

This Proverb can be used for both both men and women. Prison is filled with those who have gotten revenge to the ultimate degree. Thus the Lord warns us all to not even give the thought of adultery a chance of planting a seed in our hearts. Vengeance is mine says the Lord, but in the moment of anger and hurt, logic and reason are often times far from ones mind. It is a sin that can destroy many lives.

Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but
rather give place to wrath; for it is written,
"Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord. Romans 12:19

Vengeance is Mine, and recompense;
Their foot shall slip in due time;
For the day of their calamity is at hand,
And the things to come hasten upon them.' Deuteronomy 32:35

Biblical Lessons, Phylacteries, & Proverbs 3:1-4

by Chuck Ness

Today's chosen commentary is on Proverbs 3:1-4 which alludes to Deuteronomy 6:6-8. In this passage, God tells the people how they can be assured they will always keep the law. Like all things, it comes with repetition so that it will be trained into our memory. Something we are to diligently teach our children, so that when they get older the law will be always in the forefront of their consciousness. For us Christians, we too should raise our children to know the Scriptures as they know how to walk. Everyday is a time to learn something new about the things of Christ. Everyday is a chance to ensure their eternal Salvation and a place in heaven.

And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. Deuteronomy 6:6-8

Many believe these Scripture references are where use of phylacteries among the Jews took rise. They were small leather boxes containing Hebrew texts on vellum, worn by Jewish men at morning prayer as a reminder to keep the law. It was a case of contention with Jesus in that he chastised the Pharisees about. Now do not misunderstand me, Christ wasn't chastising them for the use of these phylacteries but rather for the way they went overboard in their attempt to act more righteous for wearing them, and for putting undo burdens upon the people they themselves truly would not follow.

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. Blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel!

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also.

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. Even so you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and. Matthew23:25-28

The whole idea is that we should have the word of God in the forefront of out minds. We do this not by strapping boxes of Scripture onto our forehead or strapping the bible to our arms, but rather by studying and constant reading of the word so we are always reminded of what is right and what is wrong so that we are nor led astray by the world we live in. Like Jesus and His Disciples, who were all astute students as they grew up. Thus the truth was always in their hearts and minds so, like Jesus, they were always about their Fathers business, not getting distracted by the business of the world. Paul admonishes Timothy, and thus us all, to be good students of Scripture so we will always be ready. study the Word so we are ready.

Remind them of these things, charging them before the Lord not to strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers. Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2Timothy 2:14-15

This is why I emphasize the reading of a Proverb a day along with your normal reading and studying routine. We can never be too prepared for what lays ahead for us in this world. You never know when the Holy Spirit will lead another Christian our way who needs an answer to a problem they have about the Word or one who is stumbling in their walk, or even a contrarian about the truth. It is incumbent upon us to always be prepared in and out of season to share and defend the truth, and the only way is to be filled with the Spirit of God and gain all the Wisdom of God we can.

I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables. But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. 2Timothy 4:1-5

Financial Advice For The High Inflation Times Ahead

by Chuck Ness

Word to the wise. While being in debt is not normally a good thing, sometimes it can be wise. Take for instance the Communist Democrats being in power means that inflation will rise. With inflation comes higher prices, which means you need to reconsider certain aspects of your finances to deal with the oncoming higher cost of living.

It's inevitable, because of the Democrat's social agenda of higher taxes, increased regulations, higher Federal minimum wage, and their war on the fossil fuels, because of their 100 trillion dollar Green New Deal plans. That is just the things the Democrats are promising to do. We still have no clue of what Joe Biden wants, because no one ever asked him. Trust me, inflation will rise and the dollar will become weaker and weaker.

Just as it did under Obama, gas, groceries, clothing, cars, utilities, etc. etc. etc. will all increase and your worth will begin to decline. In some cases as low as 5%, but expect some costs to rise by 50% depending upon the sector the product belongs to. With their Green New Deal proposals, be ready for gas prices to rise by 200% to 400%. Other items will be meats and produce, which if they go forward with their destructive plans, your steak and salad costs are going to go through the roof.

The More You Know, The More You Know You Don't Know

by Chuck Ness

Solomon was blessed with much Wisdom and knowledge which allowed him to discover many things about the world around him. Solomon is credited with writing the book of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, the Song of Solomon, and 2 Psalms - 72 & 127. Throughout his writings Solomon shared the Wisdom and knowledge God had blessed him with. He was so admired by all the Kings and Queens of other countries that they sought out his Wisdom and paid tribute to him. Like Solomon, we too can better understand the world God created for us if we truly desire to.

It has always been my belief that everyone should try and learn something new everyday. It is something that I learned from an American history professor when I was in college. When asked by a student why he should learn history, she responded with something that stayed with me ever since. She said, "The reason we study anything is because the more we know, the more we know we don't know." Then she added another piece of philosophy all students should understand. "Those who forget the past, will inevitably repeat the same mistakes of those in the past over and over again".

Proverbs 9 Lady Wisdom vs Madame Folly

Two female figures, Lady Wisdom and Madame Folly. An lesson for every human to learn from. You can accept the lesson as one that compares a wise woman of virtue as mentioned in Proverb 31, versus an immoral woman of folly who tears down her home with her actions as in Proverb 14. Or as I will share with you today, it's a lesson of good versus evil. The right way to live versus the wrong way to live your life.

Either way, it's very common for God to teach us different lessons from the same passage throughout the Scriptures. The book of Proverbs is a prime example of this method of teaching. Today's commentary is of contrast between the woman of wisdom, or the good, (Proverb 9:4-6) versus the woman of folly, the evil. (Proverb 9:16-18).

"Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!"
As for him who lacks understanding, she says to him,
"Come, eat of my bread
And drink of the wine I have mixed.
Forsake foolishness and live,
And go in the way of understanding. Proverb 9:4-6

"Whoever is simple, let him turn in here";
And as for him who lacks understanding, she says to him,
"Stolen water is sweet,
And bread eaten in secret is pleasant."
But he does not know that the dead are there,
That her guests are in the depths of hell. Proverb 9:16-18

Here we see the, “Lady Wisdom”, serving as the personification of God’s voice inviting us in to learn lessons from Him on how to be a righteous person. Compared to “Madame Folly” mimicking the voice of God to lure us in with anything that might replace God in our life. All throughout our walk in the world, Satan will attempt to lure us into sin by disguising himself as an angel of light. This is what we see him doing in verse. Using the exact same words as God used in verse. This is important to understand, because the essence of foolishness is living a life that apart from God. Check out the contrast;

1.) WISDOM builds her house, but FOLLY just sits there, lazy.
2.) WISDOM offers us meat and wine, but FOLLY offers us bread and water.
3.) WISDOM speaks honestly, but FOLLY makes deceptive offers.
4.) WISDOM offers life/wisdom, but FOLLY deceptively offers life while concealing the death within her doors.

In the ancient near East, to invite someone over for a meal was to invite them into a close personal relationship. Here, both wisdom and folly are inviting us into a relationship. Who will we enter into a relationship with? The choice seems obvious, but in reality we find ourselves going back and forth from having meals with Lady Wisdom and then a meal with Madame Folly. We will treat our walk with Christ in the world like a smorgasbord. We will take a little bit of grace as we praise God, then grab a side of hostility for the idiot who disrupts our day day.

Martin Luther King said that Christians suffer from a form of Schizophrenia. One moment we will be driving down the road praising God, as we loudly sing along to a song on the radio. The very next block, the same mouth that was praising God, will be cussing out a driver who cut our in front of us. Satan is trying His best to lure us away from God, and while we have moments of righteousness, we usually have a lot more moments of foolishness and self righteousness.

God knows the struggles we go through, He knows Satan is crouching at our door, waiting to pounce on us the moment we struggle. This is why He has offered us His Wisdom to help guide and nudge us on our long road to the Celestial City. Like Christian in “Pilgrims Progress”, there are many obstacles that Folly puts in our way to lure us into her kitchen. The pleasures of this world are at our fingertips, and even if we are strong enough to stay away from them, there are the pitfalls in life where Folly bring us to despair. There's the “Hill of Difficulty”, the “Valley of the Shadow of Death”, and the “Road of Betrayal”. All of which we will need the Wisdom of God to help us arrive to our final destination.

So don't allow the traps of this world to cause you to lose the race. Trust in God's Wisdom, and lean on Him for support. Also, remember that in the times when Satan sends Folly your way, you do have the full armor of God to protect you.

The belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the "shoes" of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit Ephesians 6:10-18

Remember that Jesus Christ of the Proverbs is Wisdom. He calls on you to forsake your evil way and to follow Him. Will you persist in seeking only momentary pleasure, or will you choose the way of righteousness and peace which leads to eternal salvation? The Disciple Thomas asked Jesus, “How can we know the way?” Jesus responded;

"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. John 14:6

I pray that those who have ears will hear the voice of the Lord and call upon His name for salvation and eternal life. May the good Lord bless you all, Amen.

Proverb 9 (NKJV)
The Way of Wisdom

Wisdom's Invitation
01 Wisdom has built her house,
00 She has hewn out her seven pillars;
02 She has slaughtered her meat,
00 She has mixed her wine,
00 She has also furnished her table.
03 She has sent out her maidens,
00 She cries out from the highest places of the city,
04 "Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!"
00 As for him who lacks understanding, she says to him,
05 "Come, eat of my bread
00 And drink of the wine I have mixed.
06 Forsake foolishness and live,
00 And go in the way of understanding.

07 "He who corrects a scoffer gets shame for himself,
00 And he who rebukes a wicked man only harms himself.
08 Do not correct a scoffer, lest he hate you;
00 Rebuke a wise man, and he will love you.
09 Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser;
00 Teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.

10 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,
00 And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
11 For by me your days will be multiplied,
00 And years of life will be added to you.
12 If you are wise, you are wise for yourself,
00 And if you scoff, you will bear it alone."

The Way of Folly
13 A foolish woman is clamorous;
00 She is simple, and knows nothing.
14 For she sits at the door of her house,
00 On a seat by the highest places of the city,
15 To call to those who pass by,
00 Who go straight on their way:
16 "Whoever is simple, let him turn in here";
00 And as for him who lacks understanding, she says to him,
17 "Stolen water is sweet,
00 And bread eaten in secret is pleasant."
18 But he does not know that the dead are there,
00 That her guests are in the depths of hell.

Proverb 8:11 Profiting From Wisdom Instead Of Rubies

Men and women have been chasing the dream of wealth and fame from the beginning of time. The American dream was once based upon the understanding that fame and fortune comes through thrift and hard work. During the Colonial Period, Benjamin Franklin counseled people on the "The Way to Wealth." Poor Richard's Almanac advised that "Early to Bed, and early to rise, makes a Man healthy, wealthy, and wise." Poor Richard insisted that the key to wealth was to be industrious, because that is what pay's the bills and thus makes one's life easier. 

Sadly, in today's modern world the understanding is that one can get rich and famous instantly by winning the lottery, hitting the jackpot at the local casino, writing and singing the song that makes the young girls cry, getting a reality TV show, going to Hollywood to get recognized, or just winning a lawsuit over a spilled cup of hot coffee. The idea isn't new, wanting to rich that is. It's the understanding of how to do it that has changed. 

Few consider what the result of measuring one's worth by how many toys they truly have will be. All they can think of is, "He who dies with the most toys wins the game of life".


That is truly a sad understanding of what this life is truly about. As much as most seem to believe, this life we are given is not about wealth nor the fame we gain. It's about the path you take to the next stage of your souls existence. As a Christian, we understand that financial success is one indication that God approves of our hard work.  As long as we do not worship that which we earned, we will achieve the coveted state of grace. With diligence in our walk with Christ we will be granted a place with Christ in Heaven. Jesus was in the region of Caesarea Philippi, when He told His followers;

"Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel's will save it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?" Mark 8:34-36

Proverb 8:11 should be a reminder to all that Silver, gold, rubies, and I will add fame, are not as important as gaining knowledge and wisdom. There are many wealthy famous people who ended up taking their lives, because they believed man's wisdom that it is the rubies of life that matters. No, it's not the rubies of life which other men can see that matters. It's who we are inside, that only God cans see, which that matters.

11 For wisdom is better than rubies, And all the things one may desire cannot be compared with her. Proverb 8:11

In Matthew chapter 23, Jesus took the scribes and Pharisees to task, because of the way they falsely acted and carried themselves before the people they were supposed to lead for God. He called them whitewashed tombs that were clean on the outside but had nothing but dead man bones inside.

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. Even so you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness" Matthew 8:27-28

So many lose track of what matters to God, because we are so focused on what matters to our friends and relatives. We want the giant plasma television, with a nice roof over our heads in the best neighborhoods where our children can go to the best schools while not worrying about bills and surviving from month to month. On one hand that makes perfect sense, because we all have immediate needs with desires for what's best for us and our children. However, when we focus on short-term needs and desires, sometimes we make really poor decisions that will affect us in the long term. We might give up opportunities for education, or ruin a relationship, or get caught up in a habit or addiction that can harm us a lot.

Wisdom is the idea that we are able to look at the whole picture before us, not just what's fulfilling at the time. I speak of course of God's Wisdom, not man's wisdom. God's Wisdom is taking all matters before us, and putting them in the context of our present, our future, and our eternal goals. Balancing the things we need now with what we are going to need later. Instead of a desperate now-now-now thinking that so many get trapped in way too often. It is the ability to step back and consider the future so that we can make better choices. Truth is, when we chose the path of chasing fame and fortune, were are in effect selecting the rubies of life which is man's wisdom over God's.

As Christians, we need to understand that when we put the emphasis on the eternal rather than the temporal, we can then be assured that God will take care of the things we need in the world. This is why I firmly believe each and every Christian should read a Proverb each day. It's my desire that everyone will learn to depend on God's Wisdom over man's. Thus we can be assured that the things we have control over in this world will be filled with blessings instead of trials and tribulations brought upon by our own foolishness. It isn't nearly as difficult as you may think. James tells us that all we need is to ask for God's Wisdom and and have faith He will bless us with it.

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him, but let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. James 1:5-6

I would pry that we all can work on this, and soon we will all find ourselves worrying less about the rubies of life. God bless each and every one of you.
Proverb 8 (NKJV)

The Excellence of Wisdom

Wisdom Is Everlasting
01 Does not wisdom cry out,
00 And understanding lift up her voice?
02 She takes her stand on the top of the high hill,
00 Beside the way, where the paths meet.
03 She cries out by the gates, at the entry of the city,
00 At the entrance of the doors:
04 "To you, O men, I call,
00 And my voice is to the sons of men.
05 O you simple ones, understand prudence,
00 And you fools, be of an understanding heart.
06 Listen, for I will speak of excellent things,
00 And from the opening of my lips will come right things;
07 For my mouth will speak truth;
00 Wickedness is an abomination to my lips.
08 All the words of my mouth are with righteousness;
00 Nothing crooked or perverse is in them.
09 They are all plain to him who understands,
00 And right to those who find knowledge.
10 Receive my instruction, and not silver,
00 And knowledge rather than choice gold;
11 For wisdom is better than rubies,
00 And all the things one may desire cannot be compared with her.

12 "I, wisdom, dwell with prudence,
00 And find out knowledge and discretion.
13 The fear of the LORD is to hate evil;
00 Pride and arrogance and the evil way
00 And the perverse mouth I hate.
14 Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom;
00 I am understanding, I have strength.
15 By me kings reign,
00 And rulers decree justice.
16 By me princes rule, and nobles,
00 All the judges of the earth.
17 I love those who love me,
00 And those who seek me diligently will find me.
18 Riches and honor are with me,
00 Enduring riches and righteousness.
19 My fruit is better than gold, yes, than fine gold,
00 And my revenue than choice silver.
20 I traverse the way of righteousness,
00 In the midst of the paths of justice,
21 That I may cause those who love me to inherit wealth,
00 That I may fill their treasuries.

22 "The LORD possessed me at the beginning of His way,
00 Before His works of old.
23 I have been established from everlasting,
00 From the beginning, before there was ever an earth.
24 When there were no depths I was brought forth,
00 When there were no fountains abounding with water.
25 Before the mountains were settled,
00 Before the hills, I was brought forth;
26 While as yet He had not made the earth or the fields,
00 Or the primal dust of the world.
27 When He prepared the heavens, I was there,
00 When He drew a circle on the face of the deep,
28 When He established the clouds above,
00 When He strengthened the fountains of the deep,
29 When He assigned to the sea its limit,
00 So that the waters would not transgress His command,
00 When He marked out the foundations of the earth,
30 Then I was beside Him as a master craftsman;
00 And I was daily His delight,
00 Rejoicing always before Him,
31 Rejoicing in His inhabited world,
00 And my delight was with the sons of men.

32 "Now therefore, listen to me, my children,
00 For blessed are those who keep my ways.
33 Hear instruction and be wise,
00 And do not disdain it.
34 Blessed is the man who listens to me,
00 Watching daily at my gates,
00 Waiting at the posts of my doors.
35 For whoever finds me finds life,
00 And obtains favor from the LORD;
36 But he who sins against me wrongs his own soul;
00 All those who hate me love death."

Prover 6:1-5 Never Become Indebted To A Friend

One of the most idiotic things anyone can do is to co-sign for a loan. Regardless of who you are helping, the statistics prove that the co-signer ends up paying the loan off over 50% of the time. Consider the reason one would ask you to co-sign for them. They know you will pay the loan off if they cannot, and their track record proves they either don't pay off their debt, or they never had a loan before.

The Scripture I have chosen to comment on today's Proverb, are verses 1-5.

My son, if you become surety for your friend,
If you have shaken hands in pledge for a stranger,
You are snared by the words of your mouth;
You are taken by the words of your mouth.
So do this, my son, and deliver yourself;
For you have come into the hand of your friend:
Go and humble yourself;
Plead with your friend.
Give no sleep to your eyes,
Nor slumber to your eyelids.
Deliver yourself like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter,
And like a bird from the hand of the fowler.

Proverb 6:1-5

OK, I know we love our children, but the best way to help them is to not set them up for failure. So instead of co-signing on a loan from a bank for them, you would be better off purchasing the car outright and give it to them as a gift. If you cannot afford it, them maybe give them the money for a down payment as a gift. Notice I said gift, not loan. However, the best thing is to find them a used car they can afford or give them the bus schedule and tell them to save up some money for a used car. (usually the bigger the down payment they have, the more likely a loan can be obtained).

Let's say a friend needs help and they ask if you would co-sign for them. I would seriously consider the damage it would do to your relationship should you have to pay off the loan. Your relationship will never be the same, as resentment, anger, and betrayal could follow towards your former good friend. You can, and you should forgive them, but it will likely never be totally forgotten, and the trust will be shattered forever. Ultimately, co-signing is just not worth risking this damage.

Consider what other passages in the Bible say about putting yourself in debt for another person?

(Prov 17:18) A man devoid of understanding shakes hands in a pledge, And becomes surety for his friend.

(Prov 11:15) He who is surety for a stranger will suffer, But one who hates being surety is secure.

(Prov 20:16) Take the garment of one who is surety for a stranger, And hold it as a pledge when it is for a seductress.

(Prov 22:26-27) Do not be one of those who shakes hands in a pledge, One of those who is surety for debts; If you have nothing with which to pay, Why should he take away your bed from under you?

So, co-signing means that: "you are devoid of understanding," "you will suffer," "you have been snared," “you could lose your bed"). I admit I am not as knowledgeable as a banker on loans, but I do have a credit rating that is over 850 and I did not get it by co-signing on loans for friends and family members I know are not trustworthy.

Here are a few rules I offer that will keep you from destroying a friendship, ruining your credit, or setting your child up for failure.
"Don't co-sign for your kids to get student loans."
"Don't co-sign for your kids to get car loans."
"Don't co-sign for your mom to get a house."
"Don't co-sign, because you're going to end up paying it, and it's stupid. Don't co-sign ever.
"Never, under any circumstances, ever co-sign."
"Co-signing is one of the dumbest financial things you can do."
"There is no reason to ever co-sign."

Strict I know, but common logical sense is a black and white fact, and the only way to protect yourself is to keep from putting yourself in danger of being in debt for a friend, relative, or child.

Now let's say your friend, relative, or child in a place that you cannot see them getting on with life without the loan. Well then get the loan, or purchase the item they need yourself. That way you will have total control over the property, car, or whatever the loan is for. The person you are taking out the loan for can make then the payments to you. If they default on the payments to you, then you can sell the property you own to recoup your loss.

If you still feel the desire to help another, then consider what Proverb 19:17 says;

He who has pity on the poor lends to the LORD, And He will pay back what he has given

So help them with the understanding that you may have to pay the loan off yourself, and make a promise in your heart that you will forgive and forget the failure of the person to keep up their end of the deal. In the end, the Lord will restore that which you lost and reward you for your kindness.

Ultimately, co-signing is just not worth the potential harm it can cause, because it can ruin your financial health, your credit rating, and your ability to get a loan for yourself in the future. It can and often does ruin relationships.

I pray that those who have ears to hear will hear His voice and call upon the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Amen and may the good Lord bless you and yours

Proverb 6 (NKJV)

Dangerous Promises

Seven Deadly Sins

01 My son, if you become surety for your friend,
00 If you have shaken hands in pledge for a stranger,
02 You are snared by the words of your mouth;
00 You are taken by the words of your mouth.
03 So do this, my son, and deliver yourself;
00 For you have come into the hand of your friend:
00 Go and humble yourself;
00 Plead with your friend.
04 Give no sleep to your eyes,
00 Nor slumber to your eyelids.
05 Deliver yourself like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter,
00 And like a bird from the hand of the fowler.

The Folly of Indolence

06 Go to the ant, you sluggard!
00 Consider her ways and be wise,
07 Which, having no captain,
00 Overseer or ruler,
08 Provides her supplies in the summer,
00 And gathers her food in the harvest.
09 How long will you slumber, O sluggard?
00 When will you rise from your sleep?
10 A little sleep, a little slumber,
00 A little folding of the hands to sleep--
11 So shall your poverty come on you like a prowler,
00 And your need like an armed man.

The Wicked Man

12 A worthless person, a wicked man,
00 Walks with a perverse mouth;
13 He winks with his eyes,
00 He shuffles his feet,
00 He points with his fingers;
14 Perversity is in his heart,
00 He devises evil continually,
00 He sows discord.
15 Therefore his calamity shall come suddenly;
00 Suddenly he shall be broken without remedy.

16 These six things the LORD hates,
00 Yes, seven are an abomination to Him:
17 A proud look,
00 A lying tongue,
00 Hands that shed innocent blood,
18 A heart that devises wicked plans,
00 Feet that are swift in running to evil,
19 A false witness who speaks lies,
00 And one who sows discord among brethren.

Beware of Adultery

20 My son, keep your father's command,
00 And do not forsake the law of your mother.
21 Bind them continually upon your heart;
00 Tie them around your neck.
22 When you roam, they will lead you;
00 When you sleep, they will keep you;
00 And when you awake, they will speak with you.
23 For the commandment is a lamp,
00 And the law a light;
00 Reproofs of instruction are the way of life,
24 To keep you from the evil woman,
00 From the flattering tongue of a seductress.
25 Do not lust after her beauty in your heart,
00 Nor let her allure you with her eyelids.
26 For by means of a harlot
00 A man is reduced to a crust of bread;
00 And an adulteress will prey upon his precious life.
27 Can a man take fire to his bosom,
00 And his clothes not be burned?
28 Can one walk on hot coals,
00 And his feet not be seared?
29 So is he who goes in to his neighbor's wife;
00 Whoever touches her shall not be innocent.

30 People do not despise a thief
00 If he steals to satisfy himself when he is starving.
31 Yet when he is found, he must restore sevenfold;
00 He may have to give up all the substance of his house.
32 Whoever commits adultery with a woman lacks understanding;
00 He who does so destroys his own soul.
33 Wounds and dishonor he will get,
00 And his reproach will not be wiped away.
34 For jealousy is a husband's fury;
00 Therefore he will not spare in the day of vengeance.
35 He will accept no recompense,
00 Nor will he be appeased though you give many gifts.

Proverb 2:6 For The Lord Gives Wisdom

Proverb 2 (NKJV)

by Chuck Ness

The ability to believe the Scriptures is within the hearts of each and every human being. However, because we have hardened our hearts we cannot believe. We need to humble ourselves and ask for Christ to enter our hearts. Then He will transform our heart of stone into one of flesh (Ezekiel 36:26), Once that happens our faith will grow, and with faith comes the knowledge and wisdom which can only come from the One true God. 

If we truly are repentant, He will be true to His Word and unlock the door to that faith. Once it is believed and received by faith, a whole new world of our God is open to us. Jesus comes into our spirit and changes us, and that is when we begin our journey in the development of a relationship with our heavenly Father. It is then that the scriptures become a "Treasure Trove of Wisdom, Knowledge, and Understanding".

"For the LORD gives wisdom;
From His mouth come knowledge and understanding; (Proverbs 2:6)

When you become a born again Christian, the treasure of God is opened unto you. All the treasures of His mind are now available for you to use. Like a treasure hunter who is searching for diamonds, gold, and silver, once he finds it he ceases. Then he begins a journey as a collector of that which he  found. When you find Christ, you begin your journey of collecting His treasure of knowledge and wisdom, which is "The mind of God." 1Corinthians 1:30

I know people who dismiss the Bible by claiming, "It’s for the weak minded people." Back in the 1990s, a certain Atheist Governor was famous for claiming religion, “"Is a sham and a crutch for weak-minded people who need strength in numbers." I must admit, religion is a sham, but those of us who are Christian are not religious, we are followers of the one true God. Who are blessed that His Son shed His blood on the cross so our sins can be washed away forever. 

Years ago that statement make me mad, but I came to realize that men like him fools who put their faith in the wisdom of the World. One day men whose hearts are of stone like his will be feeding the fire of damnation. Today I feel as Jesus did when He was on the cross and said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do. Luke 23:34 Doesn't mean they will be saved, but our hearts will be blessed because we followed His example by doing His will not ours.

 As we seek to know the Lord and do His will, He protects us. He becomes our shield. He protects those who seek to walk in integrity. He takes care of us. He guards the paths of justice for His children. Injustice runs rampant in this world. And it also comes to the house of God’'s children. When it does, if we will handle it with integrity and trust in the Lord, He will ultimately vindicate the righteous.

We have all experienced injustice. I have seen many injustices throughout my life against others and even had many directed at myself. I've been lied to and lied about. I have been misquoted, misunderstood and maligned. I have been cheated, shortchanged and disrespected. I have been used. And I must confess there were times where I wanted to retaliate against those injustices. What happened to me was wrong. They say it takes more of a man to walk away from a fight than it does to give in to one. Sadly I admit I have retaliated against many by getting into fights when I was much. I won a few and lost a few, but once I met Christ I had a change of heart. I realized that when I give a grievance to Him, He will fight my battles. 

When the time of man expires and all is revealed, God’s justice for His children will prevail. Until then we must trust in Him in all things. It’s difficult when things happen in our lives that we don’t have answers for. When we struggle we wonder why and at times will ask, "Where are you Lord?"  Where were you when I needed you the most?” I'm reminded of the footprints in the sand poem, where we ultimately learn that we were not alone, Christ was always there for us. It was His strength that carried us through the pain. Without Him, we may very well have committed suicide, but His love held us tight, and gave us the strength to get past some of the most difficult moments in our lives. 

Now, I no longer fight against the hate, and injustices as I did when I was younger. I now give it to Christ, and let Him fight my battles. You may wonder what all this has to do with wisdom, but it's the wisdom of Christ that gives us the knowledge so that we will truly understand that He is always with us, and will continue the good work He began. It is but one of the things that comes to us as we gain the Wisdom of God.

Proverb 2 (NKJV)

The Value of Wisdom

01) My son, if you receive my words,
00 And treasure my commands within you,
02) So that you incline your ear to wisdom,
00 And apply your heart to understanding;
03) Yes, if you cry out for discernment,
00 And lift up your voice for understanding,
04) If you seek her as silver,
00 And search for her as for hidden treasures;
05) Then you will understand the fear of the LORD,
00 And find the knowledge of God.
06) For the LORD gives wisdom;
00 From His mouth come knowledge and understanding;
07) He stores up sound wisdom for the upright;
00 He is a shield to those who walk uprightly;
08) He guards the paths of justice,
00 And preserves the way of His saints.
09) Then you will understand righteousness and justice,
00 Equity and every good path.

10) When wisdom enters your heart,
00 And knowledge is pleasant to your soul,
11) Discretion will preserve you;
00 Understanding will keep you,
12) To deliver you from the way of evil,
00 From the man who speaks perverse things,
13) From those who leave the paths of uprightness
00 To walk in the ways of darkness;
14) Who rejoice in doing evil,
00 And delight in the perversity of the wicked;
15) Whose ways are crooked,
00 And who are devious in their paths;
16) To deliver you from the immoral woman,
00 From the seductress who flatters with her words,
17) Who forsakes the companion of her youth,
00 And forgets the covenant of her God.
18) For her house leads down to death,
00 And her paths to the dead;
19) None who go to her return,
00 Nor do they regain the paths of life--
20) So you may walk in the way of goodness,
00 And keep to the paths of righteousness.
21) For the upright will dwell in the land,
00 And the blameless will remain in it;
22) But the wicked will be cut off from the earth,
00 And the unfaithful will be uprooted from it.

Proverb 1 Wisdoms Call

Proverb 1 (NKJV) by Chuck Ness


Many actually believe chapters 1 to 9 are Proverbs, but in fact 9 chapters were originally written more as an introduction to Proverbs, whereas chapter 10 is where Solomon's Proverbs actually begin. From here on forth, most of the proverbs are short an pithy, with two sentences in one verse.

These verses correspond with each other by an opposition of terms and sentiments. The second verse is contrasted with the first by illustrating an opposite action or result from different behavior. Seldom is there any coherence between the verses, much less any discussion as most the vast majority of Scripture gives us. The purpose of these proverbs is to set before us good and evil, the blessing and the curse. Many of the proverbs in this particular chapter, (ch 10) is related to the good government of the tongue, without which men’s religion is vain.

The purpose of Writing the book of Proverbs was to reveal the mind of God in matters high and lofty and in common, ordinary, everyday situations. It appears that no topic escaped King Solomon's attention. Matters pertaining to personal conduct, sexual relations, business, wealth, charity, ambition, discipline, debt, child-rearing, character, alcohol, politics, revenge, and Godliness are among the many topics covered in this rich collection of wise sayings.
Without wisdom, knowledge is nothing more than an accumulation of raw facts, influenced by emotional feelings. Many highly educated people are in positions of power in the United States, but very few of those educated leaders have the wisdom needed to rule properly. 

One can say that they have been educated well beyond their intelligence. A cursory look at the court system will prove my point that knowledge without wisdom will only lead to an immoral society that eventually crumbles from within. Judges are supposed to be above the fray, and immovable to emotions. Instead, the vast majority of judges today are Godless individuals who are vacant of wisdom. So their rulings are totally based upon emotional feeling. 

We the people are to blame, because we ignored God's guidance in appointing our leaders. Instead of putting leaders full wisdom in power, we instead chose those who would scratch our itchy ears to lead us. 

Of the 31 Proverbs, only the first 24 were written by Solomon. King Hezekiah wrote 5, Proverbs 25 to 29, Agur wrote Proverb 30, and Lemuel wrote Proverb 31. Now many believe Lemuel was in fact King Solomon and Lemuel was just a nick name his Mother, Bathsheba gave him. We are told that Solomon write over 4000 Proverbs and composed 1000 songs, but the only Proverbs written by Solomon that God decided to preserve are the first first 24, as I pointed out. Like the New Testament epistle by James, it is impossible to get a chronological outline for a study since they all bounce from subject to subject. 

Aong with my daily routine of reading the Bible, I try to read through the book of Proverbs once a Month. It's an easy task when you consider there are 31 Proverbs. So all you need to know is what day of the Month it is. In the Months that have 30 days, or in the case of February, I just double up by reading more than one two proverb so I can begin the next month with Proverb 1 on the first again.

What follows is a cursory look at Proverb 1 with some Scriptures for parallel study.

1-33 After the title the writer defines the design and nature of the instructions of the book. He paternally invites attention to those instructions and warns his readers against the enticements of the wicked. In a beautiful personification, wisdom is then introduced in a most solemn and impressive manner, publicly inviting men to receive its teachings, warning those who reject, and encouraging those who accept, the proffered instructions.

2. To know . . . instruction--literally, "for knowing," that is, such is the design of these writings.
wisdom--or the use of the best means for the best ends, is generally employed in this book for true piety.
instruction--discipline, by which men are trained.
to perceive--literally, "for perceiving," the design (as above)
understanding--that is, words which enable one to discern good and evil.

3. To receive . . . of wisdom--For receiving that discipline which discretion imparts. The Hebrew for "wisdom" differs from that of Proverbs 1:2 , and denotes rather discreet counsel. Compare the opposite traits of the fool ( Proverbs 16:22 ).
justice . . . equity--all the attributes of one upright in all his relations to God and man.

4. simple--one easily led to good or evil; so the parallel.
young man--one inexperienced.
subtilty--or prudence ( Proverbs 3:21 , 5:21 ).
discretion--literally, "device," both qualities, either good or bad, according to their use. Here good, as they imply wariness by which to escape evil and find good.

5, 6. Such writings the wise, who pursue right ends by right means, will value.
learning--not the act, but matter of it.
wise counsels--or the art and principles of governing.

6. To understand--so as to . . . such will be the result.
interpretation--(Compare Margin).
words of the wise--(Compare Proverbs 1:2 ).
dark sayings--(Compare Psalms 49:4 , John 16:25;

7. The fear of the Lord--the principle of true piety (compare Proverbs 2:5 , Proverbs 14:26 Proverbs 14:27 , Job 28:28 , Psalms 34:11 , 111:10 , Acts 9:31 ).
beginning--first part, foundation.
fools--the stupid and indifferent to God's character and government; hence the wicked.

8. My son--This paternal form denotes a tender regard for the reader. Filial sentiments rank next to piety towards God, and ensure most distinguished rewards (compare Proverbs 6:20 , Ephesians 6:2 Ephesians 6:3 ).

9. On the figures of Proverbs 1:9 , compare Genesis 41:42 , Solomon 1:10 , 4:9.

10-19. A solemn warning against temptation.
entice--literally, "open the way."
consent . . . not--Sin is in consenting or yielding to temptation, not in being tempted.

11-14. Murder and robbery are given as specific illustrations.
lay wait . . . lurk privily--express an effort and hope for successful concealment.
swallow . . . grave--utterly destroy the victim and traces of the crime ( Numbers 16:33 , Psalms 55:15 ). Abundant rewards of villainy are promised as the fruits of this easy and safe course.

15, 16. The society of the wicked (way or path) is dangerous. Avoid the beginnings of sin ( Proverbs 4:14 , Psalms 1:1 , 119:101.

17-19. Men warned ought to escape danger as birds instinctively avoid visibly spread nets. But stupid sinners rush to their own ruin ( Psalms 9:16 ), and, greedy of gain, succeed in the very schemes which destroy them ( 1 Timothy 6:10 ), not only failing to catch others, but procuring their own destruction.

20-33. Some interpreters regard this address as the language of the Son of God under the name of Wisdom (compare Luke 11:49 ). Others think that wisdom, as the divine attribute specially employed in acts of counsel and admonition, is here personified, and represents God. In either case the address is a most solemn and divine admonition, whose matter and spirit are eminently evangelical and impressive
Wisdom--literally, "Wisdoms," the plural used either because of the unusual sense, or as indicative of the great excellency of wisdom (compare Proverbs 9:1 ).
streets--or most public places, not secretly.

21. The publicity further indicated by terms designating places of most common resort.

22. simple ones--(Compare Proverbs 1:4 ).
simplicity--implying ignorance.
scorners--( Psalms 1:1 )--who despise, as well as reject, truth.
fools--Though a different word is used from that of Proverbs 1:7 , yet it is of the same meaning.

23. reproof--implying conviction deserving it (compare John 16:8 , Margin).
pour out--abundantly impart.
my spirit--whether of wisdom personified, or of Christ, a divine agent.

24. stretched . . . hand--Earnestness, especially in beseeching, is denoted by the figure (compare Job 11:13 , Psalms 68:31 , 88:9 ).

25. set at naught--rejected as of no value.
would none of--literally, "were not willing or inclined to it."

26, 27. In their extreme distress He will not only refuse help, but aggravate it by derision.

27. fear--the object of it.
desolation--literally, "a tumultuous noise," denoting their utter confusion.
destruction--or calamity ( Proverbs 1:26 ) compared to a whirlwind, as to fatal rapidity.
distress--( Psalms 4:1 , 44:11 ).
anguish--a state of inextricable oppression, the deepest despair.

28. Now no prayers or most diligent seeking will avail ( Proverbs 8:17 ).

29, 30. The sinner's infatuated rejection brings his ruin.

31. fruit . . . way--result of conduct ( Isaiah 3:10 , Ezekiel 11:21 , Romans 6:21 , Galatians 6:7 Galatians 6:8 ).
be filled--even to repletion ( Psalms 123:4 ).

32. turning away--that is, from the call of Proverbs 1:23 .
simple--as in Proverbs 1:22 .
prosperity--quiet, implying indifference.

33. dwell safely--literally, "in confidence" ( Deuteronomy 12:10 ).
be quiet--or at ease, in real prosperity.
from fear--without fear. 

Proverb 1 (NKJV)

The Beginning of Knowledge
01 The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:

02 To know wisdom and instruction,
00To perceive the words of understanding,
03 To receive the instruction of wisdom,
00 Justice, judgment, and equity;
04 To give prudence to the simple,
00 To the young man knowledge and discretion--
05 A wise man will hear and increase learning,
00 And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel,
06 To understand a proverb and an enigma,
00 The words of the wise and their riddles.

07 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,
00 But fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Shun Evil Counsel

08 My son, hear the instruction of your father,
00 And do not forsake the law of your mother;
09 For they will be a graceful ornament on your head,
00 And chains about your neck.

10 My son, if sinners entice you,
00 Do not consent.
11 If they say, "Come with us,
00 Let us lie in wait to shed blood;
00 Let us lurk secretly for the innocent without cause;
12 Let us swallow them alive like Sheol,
00 And whole, like those who go down to the Pit;
13 We shall find all kinds of precious possessions,
00 We shall fill our houses with spoil;
14 Cast in your lot among us,
00 Let us all have one purse"--
15 My son, do not walk in the way with them,
00 Keep your foot from their path;
16 For their feet run to evil,
00 And they make haste to shed blood.
17 Surely, in vain the net is spread
00 In the sight of any bird;
18 But they lie in wait for their own blood,
00 They lurk secretly for their own lives.
19 So are the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain;
00 It takes away the life of its owners.

The Call of Wisdom

20 Wisdom calls aloud outside;
00 She raises her voice in the open squares.
21 She cries out in the chief concourses,
00 At the openings of the gates in the city
00 She speaks her words:
22 "How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity?
00 For scorners delight in their scorning,
00 And fools hate knowledge.
23 Turn at my rebuke;
00 Surely I will pour out my spirit on you;
00 I will make my words known to you.
24 Because I have called and you refused,
00 I have stretched out my hand and no one regarded,
25 Because you disdained all my counsel,
00 And would have none of my rebuke,
26 I also will laugh at your calamity;
00 I will mock when your terror comes,
27 When your terror comes like a storm,
00 And your destruction comes like a whirlwind,
00 When distress and anguish come upon you.

28 "Then they will call on me, but I will not answer;
00 They will seek me diligently, but they will not find me.
29 Because they hated knowledge
00 And did not choose the fear of the LORD,
30 They would have none of my counsel
00 And despised my every rebuke.
31 Therefore they shall eat the fruit of their own way,
00 And be filled to the full with their own fancies.
32 For the turning away of the simple will slay them,
00 And the complacency of fools will destroy them;
33 But whoever listens to me will dwell safely,
00 And will be secure, without fear of evil."