What are some of the wisest things that we can do in life? Let’s begin in Proverbs 10.
Who is acknowledged for this large group of 375 separate proverbs from Proverbs 10:1 to 22:16?
The proverbs of Solomon: (Pr 10:1a NIV)
Would our parents rejoice at our life’s choices or do they grieve for us?
A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son brings grief to his mother. (Pr 10:1b NIV)
How many put profit ahead of doing the right thing in business?
Treasures of wickedness profit nothing, But righteousness delivers from death. (Pr 10:2 NKJV)
Do we trust God to provide when we choose only honest business practices?
The Lord will not let the godly go hungry, but he refuses to satisfy the craving of the wicked. (Pr 10:3 NLT)
Is laziness one cause of poverty among many?
He becomes poor who works with a lazy hand, but the hand of the diligent brings wealth. (Pr 10:4 WEB)
Is there a time to get up and do an honest day’s work and not sleep?
A wise son harvests in the summer; a disgraceful son sleeps right through the harvest. (Pr 10:5 CEB)
Is doing the right thing the path to blessings? What do wicked people hide?
Blessings are on the head of the righteous, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence. (Pr 10:6 ESV)
What are the legacies of good and evil people down through history?
Good people are remembered long after they are gone, but the wicked are soon forgotten. (Pr 10:7 CEV)
Does a wise person keep the rules, while a fool just mocks them?
A wise heart accepts commands, but foolish lips will be destroyed. (Pr 10:8 HCSB)
Does an honest business need minimal advertising, while a dishonest business loses customers?
He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that perverteth his ways shall be known. (Pr 10:9 KJV)
Does quiet evil also hurt the villain? Do loose lips also bring fools suffering?
He who winks the eye causes pain, And an ignorant fool of loose lips will be ruined. (Pr 10:10 LSB)
Does the mouth of a person eventually reveal who they really are, good or evil?
The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, But the mouth of the wicked conceals violence. (Pr 10:11 NASB)
Does love cover other people’s faults, while gossip causes trouble?
Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs. (Pr 10:12 NIV)
Do we listen to wisdom or the punishment that comes because we ignored it?
Wisdom is found on the lips of him who has understanding, But a rod is for the back of him who is devoid of understanding. (Pr 10:13 NKJV)
Are there those who love education and those who babble foolishness?
Wise people treasure knowledge, but the babbling of a fool invites disaster. (Pr 10:14 NLT)
While the wealthy hide behind their money, does poverty destroy many people’s lives?
The rich man’s wealth is his strong city. The destruction of the poor is their poverty. (Pr 10:15 WEB)
Is the fruit of our labor used to make life better or worse?
The wages of the righteous lead to life; the earnings of the wicked lead to sin. (Pr 10:16 CEB)
Do we accept correction or do we just arrogantly dismiss it?
Accept correction, and you will find life; reject correction, and you will miss the road. (Pr 10:17 CEV)
Are the two extremes of hiding our hatred and gossiping both bad?
The one who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever utters slander is a fool. (Pr 10:18 ESV)
What happens if we have a habit of talking too much?
When there are many words, sin is unavoidable, but the one who controls his lips is wise. (Pr 10:19 HCSB)
How valuable are the words of a righteous person? Are the words of the wicked of little value?
What the righteous person says is like precious silver; the thoughts of the wicked are compared to small things. (Pr 10:20 ISV)
How nourishing are the words of a righteous person? Why do fools die?
The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom. (Pr 10:21 KJV)
What makes someone truly rich without any suffering, money or God’s blessing?
It is the blessing of Yahweh that makes rich, And He adds no pain with it. (Pr 10:22 LSB)
Does a fool delight in bad things? Does a wise man enjoy wisdom?
Doing wickedness is like sport to a fool, And so is wisdom to a person of understanding. (Pr 10:23 NASB)
Do the wicked and the righteous face totally opposite consequences?
What the wicked dread will overtake them; what the righteous desire will be granted. (Pr 10:24 NIV)
When the storms of life come, are there different results for the wicked and the righteous?
When the whirlwind passes by, the wicked is no more, But the righteous has an everlasting foundation. (Pr 10:25 NKJV)
What is a lazy sluggard like to those who rely on them?
Lazy people irritate their employers, like vinegar to the teeth or smoke in the eyes. (Pr 10:26 NLT)
Do the lifespans of the wicked and those who show deep respect for God differ greatly?
The fear of Yahweh prolongs days, but the years of the wicked shall be shortened. (Pr 10:27 WEB)
How different does the future look for a righteous versus a wicked person?
The expectations of the righteous result in joy, but the hopes of the wicked will perish. (Pr 10:28 CEB)
Is doing right like living in God’s fort? Do those who do wrong face destruction?
The Lord protects everyone who lives right, but he destroys anyone who does wrong. (Pr 10:29 CEV)
While Israel had an earthly land, do we look forward to an eternal promised land?
The righteous will never be removed, but the wicked will not dwell in the land. (Pr 10:30 ESV)
What is the difference between the mouths of a godly and a perverse person?
The mouth of the righteous produces wisdom, but a perverse tongue will be cut out. (Pr 10:31 HCSB)
Who uses acceptable language and who speaks perversely?
Righteous lips know what is prudent, but the words of the wicked are perverse. (Pr 10:32 ISV)
What did Jesus say is wise, just hearing His sayings or hearing and doing them?
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. (Mat 7:24-25 KJV)
What are some of the wisest things that we can do in life? You decide!
Two Women (Pr 9)
Does our neighborhood contain two women, a wise and a foolish woman? Let’s look at Proverbs 9.
Pictured as a woman, what is wisdom inviting us to learn from her?
Wisdom has built her house; she has carved out her seven pillars. She has prepared her meat; she has mixed her wine; she has also set her table. She has sent out her female servants; she calls out from the highest points of the city: “Whoever is inexperienced, enter here!” To the one who lacks sense, she says, “Come, eat my bread, and drink the wine I have mixed. Leave inexperience behind, and you will live; pursue the way of understanding. (Pr 9:1-6 HCSB)
Is it a waste of energy to talk a mocker into good sense, or a wicked man into changing his ways? Who will actually listen to wisdom?
Whoever corrects a mocker invites only insult, and whoever rebukes the wicked will himself become stained. Don’t rebuke a mocker or he will hate you. Rebuke a wise person, and he will love you. Counsel a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will add to his learning. (Pr 9:7-9 ISV)
What are the first steps to wisdom and understanding? What is the result?
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased. If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it. (Pr 9:10-12 KJV)
Is a foolish woman contrasted with the wise woman and a different result?
The woman of foolishness is boisterous, A woman of simplicity, and does not know anything. She sits at the doorway of her house, On a seat by the high places of the city, To call to those who pass by that way, Who are making their paths straight: “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here,” And to him who lacks a heart of wisdom she says, “Stolen water is sweet; And bread eaten in secret is pleasant.” But he does not know that the dead are there, That those she called are in the depths of Sheol. (Pr 9:13-18 LSB)
What is the missing ingredient between the five wise and five foolish virgins, in the parable that Jesus told?
Then the kingdom of heaven will be comparable to ten virgins, who took their lamps and went out to meet the groom. Five of them were foolish, and five were prudent. For when the foolish took their lamps, they did not take extra oil with them; but the prudent ones took oil in flasks with their lamps. Now while the groom was delaying, they all became drowsy and began to sleep. But at midnight there finally was a shout: ‘Behold, the groom! Come out to meet him.’ Then all those virgins got up and trimmed their lamps. But the foolish virgins said to the prudent ones, ‘Give us some of your oil, because our lamps are going out.’ However, the prudent ones answered, ‘No, there most certainly would not be enough for us and you too; go instead to the merchants and buy some for yourselves.’ But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the groom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast; and the door was shut. Yet later, the other virgins also came, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open up for us.’ But he answered, ‘Truly I say to you, I do not know you.’ Be on the alert then, because you do not know the day nor the hour. (Mat 25:1-13 NASB)
Does our neighborhood contain two women, a wise and a foolish woman? You decide!
Pictured as a woman, what is wisdom inviting us to learn from her?
Wisdom has built her house; she has carved out her seven pillars. She has prepared her meat; she has mixed her wine; she has also set her table. She has sent out her female servants; she calls out from the highest points of the city: “Whoever is inexperienced, enter here!” To the one who lacks sense, she says, “Come, eat my bread, and drink the wine I have mixed. Leave inexperience behind, and you will live; pursue the way of understanding. (Pr 9:1-6 HCSB)
Is it a waste of energy to talk a mocker into good sense, or a wicked man into changing his ways? Who will actually listen to wisdom?
Whoever corrects a mocker invites only insult, and whoever rebukes the wicked will himself become stained. Don’t rebuke a mocker or he will hate you. Rebuke a wise person, and he will love you. Counsel a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will add to his learning. (Pr 9:7-9 ISV)
What are the first steps to wisdom and understanding? What is the result?
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased. If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it. (Pr 9:10-12 KJV)
Is a foolish woman contrasted with the wise woman and a different result?
The woman of foolishness is boisterous, A woman of simplicity, and does not know anything. She sits at the doorway of her house, On a seat by the high places of the city, To call to those who pass by that way, Who are making their paths straight: “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here,” And to him who lacks a heart of wisdom she says, “Stolen water is sweet; And bread eaten in secret is pleasant.” But he does not know that the dead are there, That those she called are in the depths of Sheol. (Pr 9:13-18 LSB)
What is the missing ingredient between the five wise and five foolish virgins, in the parable that Jesus told?
Then the kingdom of heaven will be comparable to ten virgins, who took their lamps and went out to meet the groom. Five of them were foolish, and five were prudent. For when the foolish took their lamps, they did not take extra oil with them; but the prudent ones took oil in flasks with their lamps. Now while the groom was delaying, they all became drowsy and began to sleep. But at midnight there finally was a shout: ‘Behold, the groom! Come out to meet him.’ Then all those virgins got up and trimmed their lamps. But the foolish virgins said to the prudent ones, ‘Give us some of your oil, because our lamps are going out.’ However, the prudent ones answered, ‘No, there most certainly would not be enough for us and you too; go instead to the merchants and buy some for yourselves.’ But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the groom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast; and the door was shut. Yet later, the other virgins also came, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open up for us.’ But he answered, ‘Truly I say to you, I do not know you.’ Be on the alert then, because you do not know the day nor the hour. (Mat 25:1-13 NASB)
Does our neighborhood contain two women, a wise and a foolish woman? You decide!
Wisdom Cries Out (Pr 8)
Is wisdom available to all who care to seek her out? What are the results of finding or ignoring wisdom? Let’s look at Proverbs 8.
In contrast to the immoral woman who seduces naïve men secretly, does wisdom cry out openly?
Does not wisdom cry out, And understanding lift up her voice? She takes her stand on the top of the high hill, Beside the way, where the paths meet. She cries out by the gates, at the entry of the city, At the entrance of the doors: “To you, O men, I call, And my voice is to the sons of men. O you simple ones, understand prudence, And you fools, be of an understanding heart. Listen, for I will speak of excellent things, And from the opening of my lips will come right things; For my mouth will speak truth; Wickedness is an abomination to my lips. All the words of my mouth are with righteousness; Nothing crooked or perverse is in them. They are all plain to him who understands, And right to those who find knowledge. Receive my instruction, and not silver, And knowledge rather than choice gold; For wisdom is better than rubies, And all the things one may desire cannot be compared with her. (Pr 8:1-11 NKJV)
What are some other traits that accompany wisdom? What do wise people hate?
“I, Wisdom, live together with good judgment. I know where to discover knowledge and discernment. All who fear the Lord will hate evil. Therefore, I hate pride and arrogance, corruption and perverse speech. Common sense and success belong to me. Insight and strength are mine. Because of me, kings reign, and rulers make just decrees. Rulers lead with my help, and nobles make righteous judgments. (Pr 8:12-16 NLT)
What about wisdom makes it true wealth, more desirable than material wealth?
I love those who love me. Those who seek me diligently will find me. With me are riches, honor, enduring wealth, and prosperity. My fruit is better than gold, yes, than fine gold, my yield than choice silver. I walk in the way of righteousness, in the middle of the paths of justice, that I may give wealth to those who love me. I fill their treasuries. (Pr 8:17-21 WEB)
How ancient is wisdom? Did God have it at the very beginning?
The Lord created me at the beginning of his way, before his deeds long in the past. I was formed in ancient times, at the beginning, before the earth was. When there were no watery depths, I was brought forth, when there were no springs flowing with water. Before the mountains were settled, before the hills, I was brought forth; before God made the earth and the fields or the first of the dry land. I was there when he established the heavens, when he marked out the horizon on the deep sea, when he thickened the clouds above, when he secured the fountains of the deep, when he set a limit for the sea, so the water couldn’t go beyond his command, when he marked out the earth’s foundations. I was beside him as a master of crafts. I was having fun, smiling before him all the time, frolicking with his inhabited earth and delighting in the human race. (Pr 8:22-31 CEB)
What happens to those who follow wise advice, and what happens to those who don’t want to find it?
Pay attention, my children! Follow my advice, and you will be happy. Listen carefully to my instructions, and you will be wise. Come to my home each day and listen to me. You will find happiness. By finding me, you find life, and the Lord will be pleased with you. But if you don't find me, you hurt only yourself, and if you hate me, you are in love with death. (Pr 8:32-36 CEV)
Is wisdom at the top of a list, summarizing just a few of the many spiritual gifts that the Holy Spirit can give us?
To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, (1 Cor 12:7-8 ESV)
Is wisdom available to all who care to seek her out? What are the results of finding or ignoring wisdom? You decide!
In contrast to the immoral woman who seduces naïve men secretly, does wisdom cry out openly?
Does not wisdom cry out, And understanding lift up her voice? She takes her stand on the top of the high hill, Beside the way, where the paths meet. She cries out by the gates, at the entry of the city, At the entrance of the doors: “To you, O men, I call, And my voice is to the sons of men. O you simple ones, understand prudence, And you fools, be of an understanding heart. Listen, for I will speak of excellent things, And from the opening of my lips will come right things; For my mouth will speak truth; Wickedness is an abomination to my lips. All the words of my mouth are with righteousness; Nothing crooked or perverse is in them. They are all plain to him who understands, And right to those who find knowledge. Receive my instruction, and not silver, And knowledge rather than choice gold; For wisdom is better than rubies, And all the things one may desire cannot be compared with her. (Pr 8:1-11 NKJV)
What are some other traits that accompany wisdom? What do wise people hate?
“I, Wisdom, live together with good judgment. I know where to discover knowledge and discernment. All who fear the Lord will hate evil. Therefore, I hate pride and arrogance, corruption and perverse speech. Common sense and success belong to me. Insight and strength are mine. Because of me, kings reign, and rulers make just decrees. Rulers lead with my help, and nobles make righteous judgments. (Pr 8:12-16 NLT)
What about wisdom makes it true wealth, more desirable than material wealth?
I love those who love me. Those who seek me diligently will find me. With me are riches, honor, enduring wealth, and prosperity. My fruit is better than gold, yes, than fine gold, my yield than choice silver. I walk in the way of righteousness, in the middle of the paths of justice, that I may give wealth to those who love me. I fill their treasuries. (Pr 8:17-21 WEB)
How ancient is wisdom? Did God have it at the very beginning?
The Lord created me at the beginning of his way, before his deeds long in the past. I was formed in ancient times, at the beginning, before the earth was. When there were no watery depths, I was brought forth, when there were no springs flowing with water. Before the mountains were settled, before the hills, I was brought forth; before God made the earth and the fields or the first of the dry land. I was there when he established the heavens, when he marked out the horizon on the deep sea, when he thickened the clouds above, when he secured the fountains of the deep, when he set a limit for the sea, so the water couldn’t go beyond his command, when he marked out the earth’s foundations. I was beside him as a master of crafts. I was having fun, smiling before him all the time, frolicking with his inhabited earth and delighting in the human race. (Pr 8:22-31 CEB)
What happens to those who follow wise advice, and what happens to those who don’t want to find it?
Pay attention, my children! Follow my advice, and you will be happy. Listen carefully to my instructions, and you will be wise. Come to my home each day and listen to me. You will find happiness. By finding me, you find life, and the Lord will be pleased with you. But if you don't find me, you hurt only yourself, and if you hate me, you are in love with death. (Pr 8:32-36 CEV)
Is wisdom at the top of a list, summarizing just a few of the many spiritual gifts that the Holy Spirit can give us?
To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, (1 Cor 12:7-8 ESV)
Is wisdom available to all who care to seek her out? What are the results of finding or ignoring wisdom? You decide!
The Immoral Woman (Pr 7)
Is there a contrast between wisdom, personified as a moral woman and an immoral woman? Let’s look at Proverbs 7.
Why do we again have a warning against an immoral woman? Is it still a real problem?
My son, guard what I say and treasure my commands. Keep my commands and you’ll live. Guard my teaching as you do your eyesight. Strap them to your fingers and engrave them on the tablet of your heart. Say to wisdom, “You’re my sister!” and call understanding your close relative, so they can keep you from an adulterous woman, from the immoral woman with her seductive words. (Pr 7:1-5 ISV)
Does she wait for a naïve and stupid man like a predator for its prey?
For at the window of my house I looked through my casement, And beheld among the simple ones, I discerned among the youths, a young man void of understanding, Passing through the street near her corner; and he went the way to her house, In the twilight, in the evening, in the black and dark night: And, behold, there met him a woman with the attire of an harlot, and subtil of heart. (She is loud and stubborn; her feet abide not in her house: Now is she without, now in the streets, and lieth in wait at every corner.) (P4 7:6-12 KJV)
What moves and words does this woman use to seduce the man? What will it cost him?
So she seizes him and kisses him And with a brazen face she says to him: “The sacrifices of peace offerings are with me; Today I paid my vows. Therefore I have come out to meet you, To seek your face earnestly, and I have found you. I have spread my couch with coverings, With colored linens of Egypt. I have sprinkled my bed With myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon. Come, then, let us drink our fill as lovers until morning; Let us delight ourselves with the pleasures of love. For my husband is not at home, He has gone on a journey far away; He took a bag of silver in his hand, On the day of the full moon he will come home.” With her abundant persuasions she entices him; With her flattering lips she drives him to herself. He suddenly follows her As an ox goes to the slaughter, Or as one in fetters to the discipline of an ignorant fool, Until an arrow pierces through his liver; As a bird hastens to the snare, And he does not know that it will cost him his soul. (Pr 7:13-23 LSB)
What final warning does the father give to his sons about following the immoral woman?
Now therefore, my sons, listen to me, And pay attention to the words of my mouth. Do not let your heart turn aside to her ways, Do not stray into her paths. For many are the victims she has brought to ruin, And numerous are all those slaughtered by her. Her house is the way to Sheol, Descending to the chambers of death. (Pr 7:24-27 NASB)
Is there hope for an immoral woman to have faith, be forgiven and saved?
A woman in that town who lived a sinful life learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee’s house, so she came there with an alabaster jar of perfume. As she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them. When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner.” Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.” “Tell me, teacher,” he said. “Two people owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he forgave the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?” Simon replied, “I suppose the one who had the bigger debt forgiven.” “You have judged correctly,” Jesus said. Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.” Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” (Luke 7:37-50 NIV)
Is there a contrast between wisdom, personified as a moral woman and an immoral woman? You decide!
Why do we again have a warning against an immoral woman? Is it still a real problem?
My son, guard what I say and treasure my commands. Keep my commands and you’ll live. Guard my teaching as you do your eyesight. Strap them to your fingers and engrave them on the tablet of your heart. Say to wisdom, “You’re my sister!” and call understanding your close relative, so they can keep you from an adulterous woman, from the immoral woman with her seductive words. (Pr 7:1-5 ISV)
Does she wait for a naïve and stupid man like a predator for its prey?
For at the window of my house I looked through my casement, And beheld among the simple ones, I discerned among the youths, a young man void of understanding, Passing through the street near her corner; and he went the way to her house, In the twilight, in the evening, in the black and dark night: And, behold, there met him a woman with the attire of an harlot, and subtil of heart. (She is loud and stubborn; her feet abide not in her house: Now is she without, now in the streets, and lieth in wait at every corner.) (P4 7:6-12 KJV)
What moves and words does this woman use to seduce the man? What will it cost him?
So she seizes him and kisses him And with a brazen face she says to him: “The sacrifices of peace offerings are with me; Today I paid my vows. Therefore I have come out to meet you, To seek your face earnestly, and I have found you. I have spread my couch with coverings, With colored linens of Egypt. I have sprinkled my bed With myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon. Come, then, let us drink our fill as lovers until morning; Let us delight ourselves with the pleasures of love. For my husband is not at home, He has gone on a journey far away; He took a bag of silver in his hand, On the day of the full moon he will come home.” With her abundant persuasions she entices him; With her flattering lips she drives him to herself. He suddenly follows her As an ox goes to the slaughter, Or as one in fetters to the discipline of an ignorant fool, Until an arrow pierces through his liver; As a bird hastens to the snare, And he does not know that it will cost him his soul. (Pr 7:13-23 LSB)
What final warning does the father give to his sons about following the immoral woman?
Now therefore, my sons, listen to me, And pay attention to the words of my mouth. Do not let your heart turn aside to her ways, Do not stray into her paths. For many are the victims she has brought to ruin, And numerous are all those slaughtered by her. Her house is the way to Sheol, Descending to the chambers of death. (Pr 7:24-27 NASB)
Is there hope for an immoral woman to have faith, be forgiven and saved?
A woman in that town who lived a sinful life learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee’s house, so she came there with an alabaster jar of perfume. As she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them. When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner.” Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.” “Tell me, teacher,” he said. “Two people owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he forgave the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?” Simon replied, “I suppose the one who had the bigger debt forgiven.” “You have judged correctly,” Jesus said. Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.” Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” (Luke 7:37-50 NIV)
Is there a contrast between wisdom, personified as a moral woman and an immoral woman? You decide!
Bad Choices (Pr 6)
What wisdom should we seek in dealing with topics like debt, laziness, wickedness, seven things God hates, and adultery? Let’s survey Proverbs 6.
Is putting up security for someone else’s debt a dangerous financial trap?
My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have shaken hands in pledge for a stranger, you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth. So do this, my son, to free yourself, since you have fallen into your neighbor’s hands: Go—to the point of exhaustion—and give your neighbor no rest! Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids. Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler. (Pr 6:1-5 NIV)
What can a lazy person learn from the busy activity of an ant colony?
Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise, Which, having no captain, Overseer or ruler, Provides her supplies in the summer, And gathers her food in the harvest. How long will you slumber, O sluggard? When will you rise from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to sleep—So shall your poverty come on you like a prowler, And your need like an armed man. (Pr 6:6-11 NKJV)
What are some of the telltale signs warning us that a person is not to be trusted? What destination do wicked people face?
What are worthless and wicked people like? They are constant liars, signaling their deceit with a wink of the eye, a nudge of the foot, or the wiggle of fingers. Their perverted hearts plot evil, and they constantly stir up trouble. But they will be destroyed suddenly, broken in an instant beyond all hope of healing. (Pr 6:12-15 NLT)
What are seven commonly found things in our society that God hates?
There are six things which Yahweh hates; yes, seven which are an abomination to him: arrogant eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are swift in running to mischief, a false witness who utters lies, and he who sows discord among brothers. (Pr 6:16-19 WEB)
Do even the worst parents teach at least some things that are valuable?
My son, keep your father’s command; don’t abandon your mother’s instruction. Bind them on your heart for all time; fasten them around your neck. When you walk around, they will lead you; when you lie down, they will protect you; when you awake, they will occupy your attention. The commandment is a lamp and instruction a light; corrective teaching is the path of life. (Pr 6:20-23 CEB)
Did our parents' rules teach us to be faithful in marriage? Does adultery begin with lust? What does it cost?
They will protect you from the flattering words of someone else's wife. Don't let yourself be attracted by the charm and lovely eyes of someone like that. A woman who sells her love can be bought for as little as the price of a meal. But making love to another man's wife will cost you everything. If you carry burning coals, you burn your clothes; if you step on hot coals, you burn your feet. And if you go to bed with another man's wife, you pay the price. (Pr 6:24-29 CEV)
How foolish is adultery? Is it more despised than theft?
People do not despise a thief if he steals to satisfy his appetite when he is hungry, but if he is caught, he will pay sevenfold; he will give all the goods of his house. He who commits adultery lacks sense; he who does it destroys himself. He will get wounds and dishonor, and his disgrace will not be wiped away. For jealousy makes a man furious, and he will not spare when he takes revenge. He will accept no compensation; he will refuse though you multiply gifts. (Pr 6:30-35 ESV)
What is the consequence of sin and how did Jesus provide a way to escape it?
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom 6:23 HCSB)
What wisdom should we seek in dealing with topics like debt, laziness, wickedness, seven things God hates, and adultery? You decide!
Is putting up security for someone else’s debt a dangerous financial trap?
My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have shaken hands in pledge for a stranger, you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth. So do this, my son, to free yourself, since you have fallen into your neighbor’s hands: Go—to the point of exhaustion—and give your neighbor no rest! Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids. Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler. (Pr 6:1-5 NIV)
What can a lazy person learn from the busy activity of an ant colony?
Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise, Which, having no captain, Overseer or ruler, Provides her supplies in the summer, And gathers her food in the harvest. How long will you slumber, O sluggard? When will you rise from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to sleep—So shall your poverty come on you like a prowler, And your need like an armed man. (Pr 6:6-11 NKJV)
What are some of the telltale signs warning us that a person is not to be trusted? What destination do wicked people face?
What are worthless and wicked people like? They are constant liars, signaling their deceit with a wink of the eye, a nudge of the foot, or the wiggle of fingers. Their perverted hearts plot evil, and they constantly stir up trouble. But they will be destroyed suddenly, broken in an instant beyond all hope of healing. (Pr 6:12-15 NLT)
What are seven commonly found things in our society that God hates?
There are six things which Yahweh hates; yes, seven which are an abomination to him: arrogant eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are swift in running to mischief, a false witness who utters lies, and he who sows discord among brothers. (Pr 6:16-19 WEB)
Do even the worst parents teach at least some things that are valuable?
My son, keep your father’s command; don’t abandon your mother’s instruction. Bind them on your heart for all time; fasten them around your neck. When you walk around, they will lead you; when you lie down, they will protect you; when you awake, they will occupy your attention. The commandment is a lamp and instruction a light; corrective teaching is the path of life. (Pr 6:20-23 CEB)
Did our parents' rules teach us to be faithful in marriage? Does adultery begin with lust? What does it cost?
They will protect you from the flattering words of someone else's wife. Don't let yourself be attracted by the charm and lovely eyes of someone like that. A woman who sells her love can be bought for as little as the price of a meal. But making love to another man's wife will cost you everything. If you carry burning coals, you burn your clothes; if you step on hot coals, you burn your feet. And if you go to bed with another man's wife, you pay the price. (Pr 6:24-29 CEV)
How foolish is adultery? Is it more despised than theft?
People do not despise a thief if he steals to satisfy his appetite when he is hungry, but if he is caught, he will pay sevenfold; he will give all the goods of his house. He who commits adultery lacks sense; he who does it destroys himself. He will get wounds and dishonor, and his disgrace will not be wiped away. For jealousy makes a man furious, and he will not spare when he takes revenge. He will accept no compensation; he will refuse though you multiply gifts. (Pr 6:30-35 ESV)
What is the consequence of sin and how did Jesus provide a way to escape it?
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom 6:23 HCSB)
What wisdom should we seek in dealing with topics like debt, laziness, wickedness, seven things God hates, and adultery? You decide!
Adultery (Pr 5)
What are the results of faithfulness and unfaithfulness in marriage? How can we avoid the trap? Let’s begin in Proverbs 5.
Is adultery made to look appealing, but where is it headed?
My son, pay attention to my wisdom, and listen closely to my insight, so you may carefully practice discretion and your lips preserve knowledge. For the lips of an adulteress drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil. But in the end she is as bitter as wormwood, and as sharp as a double-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps lead to Sheol. You aren’t thinking about where her life is headed; her steps wander, but you do not realize it. (Pr 5:1-6 ISV)
Why should we distance ourselves far from adultery? What are some of its consequences?
Hear me now therefore, O ye children, and depart not from the words of my mouth. Remove thy way far from her, and come not nigh the door of her house: Lest thou give thine honour unto others, and thy years unto the cruel: Lest strangers be filled with thy wealth; and thy labours be in the house of a stranger; And thou mourn at the last, when thy flesh and thy body are consumed, And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof; And have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that instructed me! I was almost in all evil in the midst of the congregation and assembly. (Pr 5:7-14 KJV)
Are there blessings from lifelong faithfulness to one spouse and curses for unfaithfulness?
Drink water from your own cistern And fresh water from your own well. Should your springs be dispersed abroad, Streams of water in the streets? Let them be for you alone, And not for strangers with you. Let your fountain be blessed, And be glad in the wife of your youth. As a loving hind and a graceful doe, Let her breasts satisfy you at all times; Be intoxicated always with her love. So why should you, my son, be intoxicated with a strange woman And embrace the bosom of a foreign woman? For the ways of a man are before the eyes of Yahweh, And He watches all his tracks. His own iniquities will capture him who is the wicked one, And with the cords of his sin he will be held fast. He will die for lack of discipline, And in the abundance of his folly he will stumble in intoxication. (Pr 5:15-23 LSB)
How does Jesus handle this very delicate subject? How can we follow His hyperbolic advice in practical ways?
You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery’; but I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Now if your right eye is causing you to sin, tear it out and throw it away from you; for it is better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. (Mat 5:27-29 NASB)
What are the results of faithfulness and unfaithfulness in marriage? How can we avoid the trap? You decide!
Is adultery made to look appealing, but where is it headed?
My son, pay attention to my wisdom, and listen closely to my insight, so you may carefully practice discretion and your lips preserve knowledge. For the lips of an adulteress drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil. But in the end she is as bitter as wormwood, and as sharp as a double-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps lead to Sheol. You aren’t thinking about where her life is headed; her steps wander, but you do not realize it. (Pr 5:1-6 ISV)
Why should we distance ourselves far from adultery? What are some of its consequences?
Hear me now therefore, O ye children, and depart not from the words of my mouth. Remove thy way far from her, and come not nigh the door of her house: Lest thou give thine honour unto others, and thy years unto the cruel: Lest strangers be filled with thy wealth; and thy labours be in the house of a stranger; And thou mourn at the last, when thy flesh and thy body are consumed, And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof; And have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that instructed me! I was almost in all evil in the midst of the congregation and assembly. (Pr 5:7-14 KJV)
Are there blessings from lifelong faithfulness to one spouse and curses for unfaithfulness?
Drink water from your own cistern And fresh water from your own well. Should your springs be dispersed abroad, Streams of water in the streets? Let them be for you alone, And not for strangers with you. Let your fountain be blessed, And be glad in the wife of your youth. As a loving hind and a graceful doe, Let her breasts satisfy you at all times; Be intoxicated always with her love. So why should you, my son, be intoxicated with a strange woman And embrace the bosom of a foreign woman? For the ways of a man are before the eyes of Yahweh, And He watches all his tracks. His own iniquities will capture him who is the wicked one, And with the cords of his sin he will be held fast. He will die for lack of discipline, And in the abundance of his folly he will stumble in intoxication. (Pr 5:15-23 LSB)
How does Jesus handle this very delicate subject? How can we follow His hyperbolic advice in practical ways?
You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery’; but I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Now if your right eye is causing you to sin, tear it out and throw it away from you; for it is better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. (Mat 5:27-29 NASB)
What are the results of faithfulness and unfaithfulness in marriage? How can we avoid the trap? You decide!
Wise Instruction (Pr 4)
Can wisdom come from an honorable father? Should a man also value a faithful woman’s advice? Let’s look at Proverbs 4.
What is something that every one of us should highly esteem in life?
Hear, children, fatherly instruction; pay attention to gain understanding. I’ll teach you well. Don’t abandon my instruction. When I was a son to my father, tender and my mother’s favorite, he taught me and said to me: “Let your heart hold on to my words: Keep my commands and live. Get wisdom; get understanding. Don’t forget and don’t turn away from my words. Don’t abandon her, and she will guard you. Love her, and she will protect you. The beginning of wisdom: Get wisdom! Get understanding before anything else. Highly esteem her, and she will exalt you. She will honor you if you embrace her. She will place a graceful wreath on your head; she will give you a glorious crown.” (Pr 4:1-9 CEB)
Should we avoid following the bad example of cruel and evil people? What is the lifestyle like of good people who use wisdom?
My child, if you listen and obey my teachings, you will live a long time. I have shown you the way that makes sense; I have guided you along the right path. Your road won't be blocked, and you won't stumble when you run. Hold firmly to my teaching and never let go. It will mean life for you. Don't follow the bad example of cruel and evil people. Turn aside and keep going. Stay away from them. They can't sleep or rest until they do wrong or harm some innocent victim. Their food and drink are cruelty and wickedness. The lifestyle of good people is like sunlight at dawn that keeps getting brighter until broad daylight. The lifestyle of the wicked is like total darkness, and they will never know what makes them stumble. (Pr 4:10-19 CEV)
How attentive are we to the words of the wise among us who taught us right from wrong? How attentive are we to the wisest words ever written, scripture?
My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh. Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. Put away from you crooked speech, and put devious talk far from you. Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you. Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil. (Pr 4:20-27 ESV)
Though many people are wise in the scriptures, is there a vital ingredient that can be missed, a child-like humility?
At that time Jesus said, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned and revealed them to infants.” (Mat 11:25 HCSB)
Can wisdom come from an honorable father? Should a man also value a faithful woman’s advice? You decide!
What is something that every one of us should highly esteem in life?
Hear, children, fatherly instruction; pay attention to gain understanding. I’ll teach you well. Don’t abandon my instruction. When I was a son to my father, tender and my mother’s favorite, he taught me and said to me: “Let your heart hold on to my words: Keep my commands and live. Get wisdom; get understanding. Don’t forget and don’t turn away from my words. Don’t abandon her, and she will guard you. Love her, and she will protect you. The beginning of wisdom: Get wisdom! Get understanding before anything else. Highly esteem her, and she will exalt you. She will honor you if you embrace her. She will place a graceful wreath on your head; she will give you a glorious crown.” (Pr 4:1-9 CEB)
Should we avoid following the bad example of cruel and evil people? What is the lifestyle like of good people who use wisdom?
My child, if you listen and obey my teachings, you will live a long time. I have shown you the way that makes sense; I have guided you along the right path. Your road won't be blocked, and you won't stumble when you run. Hold firmly to my teaching and never let go. It will mean life for you. Don't follow the bad example of cruel and evil people. Turn aside and keep going. Stay away from them. They can't sleep or rest until they do wrong or harm some innocent victim. Their food and drink are cruelty and wickedness. The lifestyle of good people is like sunlight at dawn that keeps getting brighter until broad daylight. The lifestyle of the wicked is like total darkness, and they will never know what makes them stumble. (Pr 4:10-19 CEV)
How attentive are we to the words of the wise among us who taught us right from wrong? How attentive are we to the wisest words ever written, scripture?
My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh. Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. Put away from you crooked speech, and put devious talk far from you. Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you. Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil. (Pr 4:20-27 ESV)
Though many people are wise in the scriptures, is there a vital ingredient that can be missed, a child-like humility?
At that time Jesus said, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned and revealed them to infants.” (Mat 11:25 HCSB)
Can wisdom come from an honorable father? Should a man also value a faithful woman’s advice? You decide!
Wisdom in Scripture (Pr 3)
What can we learn from God’s wisdom throughout the entire Bible? Let’s look at Proverbs 3.
Though Christians are justified by faith apart from works of the law, does the Spirit of the law still help us live a long and prosperous life?
My child, remember my teachings and instructions and obey them completely. They will help you live a long and prosperous life. (Pr 3:1-2 CEV)
Should we live lives of love or hate of our neighbors?
Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. (Pr 3:3-4 ESV)
Even though we may not always understand a Bible passage, do we trust God rather than our own understanding?
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths. Don’t consider yourself to be wise; fear the Lord and turn away from evil. This will be healing for your body and strengthening for your bones. (Pr 3:5-8 HCSB)
How should we act in regard to churches that are faithful to God and His Word?
Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the first of all your produce, so your barns will be filled with abundance, and your vats will burst open with new wine. (Pr 3:9-10 ISV)
Should we feel dejected or depressed when God uses circumstances to chastise us?
My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. (Pr 3:11-12 KJV)
Are finding wisdom and discernment great treasures? What benefits do they give?
How blessed is the man who finds wisdom And the man who obtains discernment. For her profit is better than the profit of silver And her produce better than fine gold. She is more precious than pearls; And nothing you desire compares with her. Length of days is in her right hand; In her left hand are riches and glory. Her ways are pleasant ways And all her pathways are peace. She is a tree of life to those who seize her, And all those who hold her fast are blessed. (P4 3:13-18 LSB)
How important was wisdom to God in creating everything?
The Lord founded the earth by wisdom, He established the heavens by understanding. By His knowledge the ocean depths were burst open, And the clouds drip with dew. (Pr 3:19-20 NASB)
What will wisdom, understanding, judgment and discretion do for us if we keep them in sight?
My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble. When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, for the Lord will be at your side and will keep your foot from being snared. (Pr 3:21-26 NIV)
When it is within our grasp, should we do good for our neighbors?
Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in the power of your hand to do so. Do not say to your neighbor, “Go, and come back, And tomorrow I will give it,” When you have it with you. Do not devise evil against your neighbor, For he dwells by you for safety’s sake. Do not strive with a man without cause, If he has done you no harm. (Pr 3:27-30 NKJV)
Who should we honor and respect and seek to make our closest friends?
Don’t envy violent people or copy their ways. Such wicked people are detestable to the Lord, but he offers his friendship to the godly. The Lord curses the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the upright. The Lord mocks the mockers but is gracious to the humble. The wise inherit honor, but fools are put to shame! (Pr 3:31-35 NLT)
What profitable things can we learn from the Scriptures?
Every Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness, that each person who belongs to God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Tim 3:16-17 WEB)
What can we learn from God’s wisdom throughout the entire Bible? You decide!
Though Christians are justified by faith apart from works of the law, does the Spirit of the law still help us live a long and prosperous life?
My child, remember my teachings and instructions and obey them completely. They will help you live a long and prosperous life. (Pr 3:1-2 CEV)
Should we live lives of love or hate of our neighbors?
Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. (Pr 3:3-4 ESV)
Even though we may not always understand a Bible passage, do we trust God rather than our own understanding?
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths. Don’t consider yourself to be wise; fear the Lord and turn away from evil. This will be healing for your body and strengthening for your bones. (Pr 3:5-8 HCSB)
How should we act in regard to churches that are faithful to God and His Word?
Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the first of all your produce, so your barns will be filled with abundance, and your vats will burst open with new wine. (Pr 3:9-10 ISV)
Should we feel dejected or depressed when God uses circumstances to chastise us?
My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. (Pr 3:11-12 KJV)
Are finding wisdom and discernment great treasures? What benefits do they give?
How blessed is the man who finds wisdom And the man who obtains discernment. For her profit is better than the profit of silver And her produce better than fine gold. She is more precious than pearls; And nothing you desire compares with her. Length of days is in her right hand; In her left hand are riches and glory. Her ways are pleasant ways And all her pathways are peace. She is a tree of life to those who seize her, And all those who hold her fast are blessed. (P4 3:13-18 LSB)
How important was wisdom to God in creating everything?
The Lord founded the earth by wisdom, He established the heavens by understanding. By His knowledge the ocean depths were burst open, And the clouds drip with dew. (Pr 3:19-20 NASB)
What will wisdom, understanding, judgment and discretion do for us if we keep them in sight?
My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble. When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, for the Lord will be at your side and will keep your foot from being snared. (Pr 3:21-26 NIV)
When it is within our grasp, should we do good for our neighbors?
Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in the power of your hand to do so. Do not say to your neighbor, “Go, and come back, And tomorrow I will give it,” When you have it with you. Do not devise evil against your neighbor, For he dwells by you for safety’s sake. Do not strive with a man without cause, If he has done you no harm. (Pr 3:27-30 NKJV)
Who should we honor and respect and seek to make our closest friends?
Don’t envy violent people or copy their ways. Such wicked people are detestable to the Lord, but he offers his friendship to the godly. The Lord curses the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the upright. The Lord mocks the mockers but is gracious to the humble. The wise inherit honor, but fools are put to shame! (Pr 3:31-35 NLT)
What profitable things can we learn from the Scriptures?
Every Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness, that each person who belongs to God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Tim 3:16-17 WEB)
What can we learn from God’s wisdom throughout the entire Bible? You decide!
Wisdom Chooses Good (Pr 2)
In the battle between good and evil what helps us choose the good? Let’s look at Proverbs 2.
What happens to those who welcome the wisdom of Proverbs?
My son, if you accept my words, and treasure my instructions—making your ear attentive to wisdom, and turning your heart to understanding—if, indeed, you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it like hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and learn to know God. (Pr 2:1-5 ISV)
Where does wisdom actually come from, a king who failed in the end, or the Lord? When imperfect church leaders fail like Solomon, can we separate human failure from God’s Good News?
For the Lord gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding. He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk in integrity, Guarding the paths of justice, And He watches over the way of His godly ones. (Pr 2:6-8 NASB)
How can we learn what is right and just and fair in a world of confused values?
Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you. (Pr 2:9-11 NIV)
Can wisdom actually save us from evil, from those who walk a dark path in life?
To deliver you from the way of evil, From the man who speaks perverse things, From those who leave the paths of uprightness To walk in the ways of darkness; Who rejoice in doing evil, And delight in the perversity of the wicked; Whose ways are crooked, And who are devious in their paths; (Pr 2:12-15 NKJV)
What will wisdom teach us about the dangers of sexual temptation?
Wisdom will save you from the immoral woman, from the seductive words of the promiscuous woman. She has abandoned her husband and ignores the covenant she made before God. Entering her house leads to death; it is the road to the grave. The man who visits her is doomed. He will never reach the paths of life. (Pr 2:16-19 NLT)
What are the blessings of choosing what’s right, and the curses of choosing what’s wrong?
Therefore walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous. For the upright will dwell in the land. The perfect will remain in it. But the wicked will be cut off from the land. The treacherous will be rooted out of it. (Pr 2:20-22 WEB)
Is wisdom meant for good or evil? How wise are we about our choices?
The news of your obedience has reached everybody, so I’m happy for you. But I want you to be wise about what’s good, and innocent about what’s evil. (Rom 16:19 CEB)
In the battle between good and evil what helps us choose the good? You decide!
What happens to those who welcome the wisdom of Proverbs?
My son, if you accept my words, and treasure my instructions—making your ear attentive to wisdom, and turning your heart to understanding—if, indeed, you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it like hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and learn to know God. (Pr 2:1-5 ISV)
Where does wisdom actually come from, a king who failed in the end, or the Lord? When imperfect church leaders fail like Solomon, can we separate human failure from God’s Good News?
For the Lord gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding. He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk in integrity, Guarding the paths of justice, And He watches over the way of His godly ones. (Pr 2:6-8 NASB)
How can we learn what is right and just and fair in a world of confused values?
Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you. (Pr 2:9-11 NIV)
Can wisdom actually save us from evil, from those who walk a dark path in life?
To deliver you from the way of evil, From the man who speaks perverse things, From those who leave the paths of uprightness To walk in the ways of darkness; Who rejoice in doing evil, And delight in the perversity of the wicked; Whose ways are crooked, And who are devious in their paths; (Pr 2:12-15 NKJV)
What will wisdom teach us about the dangers of sexual temptation?
Wisdom will save you from the immoral woman, from the seductive words of the promiscuous woman. She has abandoned her husband and ignores the covenant she made before God. Entering her house leads to death; it is the road to the grave. The man who visits her is doomed. He will never reach the paths of life. (Pr 2:16-19 NLT)
What are the blessings of choosing what’s right, and the curses of choosing what’s wrong?
Therefore walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous. For the upright will dwell in the land. The perfect will remain in it. But the wicked will be cut off from the land. The treacherous will be rooted out of it. (Pr 2:20-22 WEB)
Is wisdom meant for good or evil? How wise are we about our choices?
The news of your obedience has reached everybody, so I’m happy for you. But I want you to be wise about what’s good, and innocent about what’s evil. (Rom 16:19 CEB)
In the battle between good and evil what helps us choose the good? You decide!
Why Proverbs (Pr 1)
What is the purpose of the book of Proverbs? What can we learn? Let’s begin in Proverbs 1.
Do proverbs benefit young people? Can proverbs clarify difficult puzzles?
The proverbs of Solomon, King David’s son, from Israel: Their purpose is to teach wisdom and discipline, to help one understand wise sayings. They provide insightful instruction, which is righteous, just, and full of integrity. They make the naive mature, the young knowledgeable and discreet. The wise hear them and grow in wisdom; those with understanding gain guidance. They help one understand proverbs and difficult sayings, the words of the wise, and their puzzles. (Pr 1:1-6 CEB)
Where do we begin? Who rejects wisdom and discipline? What does that say for atheists?
The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of knowledge; Ignorant fools despise wisdom and discipline. (Pr 1:7 LSB)
Do we object to the wording because it is a personal attack? Do we realize that ad hominem is a logical argument if a person’s character is the problem? What does the fear of the Lord mean in a different translation?
Respect and obey the Lord! This is the beginning of knowledge. Only a fool rejects wisdom and good advice. (Pr 1:7 CEV)
Do we listen to our parents’ advice? What should we do when enticed to do what is wrong? Are those trying to trap others actually trapping themselves?
Hear, my son, your father's instruction, and forsake not your mother's teaching, for they are a graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck. My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent. If they say, “Come with us, let us lie in wait for blood; let us ambush the innocent without reason; like Sheol let us swallow them alive, and whole, like those who go down to the pit; we shall find all precious goods, we shall fill our houses with plunder; throw in your lot among us; we will all have one purse”—my son, do not walk in the way with them; hold back your foot from their paths, for their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed blood. For in vain is a net spread in the sight of any bird, but these men lie in wait for their own blood; they set an ambush for their own lives. Such are the ways of everyone who is greedy for unjust gain; it takes away the life of its possessors. (Pr 1:8-19 ESV)
Is wisdom hidden or available publicly to anyone who cares to listen?
Wisdom calls out in the street; she raises her voice in the public squares. She cries out above the commotion; she speaks at the entrance of the city gates: “How long, foolish ones, will you love ignorance? How long will you mockers enjoy mocking and you fools hate knowledge? If you respond to my warning, then I will pour out my spirit on you and teach you my words. Since I called out and you refused, extended my hand and no one paid attention, since you neglected all my counsel and did not accept my correction, I, in turn, will laugh at your calamity. I will mock when terror strikes you, when terror strikes you like a storm and your calamity comes like a whirlwind, when trouble and stress overcome you. Then they will call me, but I won’t answer; they will search for me, but won’t find me. Because they hated knowledge, didn’t choose to fear the Lord, were not interested in my counsel, and rejected all my correction, they will eat the fruit of their way and be glutted with their own schemes. For the turning away of the inexperienced will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them. But whoever listens to me will live securely and be free from the fear of danger.” (Pr 1:20-33 HCSB)
Is there someone greater than the wisest man who ever lived? Is repentance more important than great wisdom?
The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here. The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here. (Mat 12:41-42 KJV)
What is the purpose of the book of Proverbs? What can we learn? You decide!
Do proverbs benefit young people? Can proverbs clarify difficult puzzles?
The proverbs of Solomon, King David’s son, from Israel: Their purpose is to teach wisdom and discipline, to help one understand wise sayings. They provide insightful instruction, which is righteous, just, and full of integrity. They make the naive mature, the young knowledgeable and discreet. The wise hear them and grow in wisdom; those with understanding gain guidance. They help one understand proverbs and difficult sayings, the words of the wise, and their puzzles. (Pr 1:1-6 CEB)
Where do we begin? Who rejects wisdom and discipline? What does that say for atheists?
The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of knowledge; Ignorant fools despise wisdom and discipline. (Pr 1:7 LSB)
Do we object to the wording because it is a personal attack? Do we realize that ad hominem is a logical argument if a person’s character is the problem? What does the fear of the Lord mean in a different translation?
Respect and obey the Lord! This is the beginning of knowledge. Only a fool rejects wisdom and good advice. (Pr 1:7 CEV)
Do we listen to our parents’ advice? What should we do when enticed to do what is wrong? Are those trying to trap others actually trapping themselves?
Hear, my son, your father's instruction, and forsake not your mother's teaching, for they are a graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck. My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent. If they say, “Come with us, let us lie in wait for blood; let us ambush the innocent without reason; like Sheol let us swallow them alive, and whole, like those who go down to the pit; we shall find all precious goods, we shall fill our houses with plunder; throw in your lot among us; we will all have one purse”—my son, do not walk in the way with them; hold back your foot from their paths, for their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed blood. For in vain is a net spread in the sight of any bird, but these men lie in wait for their own blood; they set an ambush for their own lives. Such are the ways of everyone who is greedy for unjust gain; it takes away the life of its possessors. (Pr 1:8-19 ESV)
Is wisdom hidden or available publicly to anyone who cares to listen?
Wisdom calls out in the street; she raises her voice in the public squares. She cries out above the commotion; she speaks at the entrance of the city gates: “How long, foolish ones, will you love ignorance? How long will you mockers enjoy mocking and you fools hate knowledge? If you respond to my warning, then I will pour out my spirit on you and teach you my words. Since I called out and you refused, extended my hand and no one paid attention, since you neglected all my counsel and did not accept my correction, I, in turn, will laugh at your calamity. I will mock when terror strikes you, when terror strikes you like a storm and your calamity comes like a whirlwind, when trouble and stress overcome you. Then they will call me, but I won’t answer; they will search for me, but won’t find me. Because they hated knowledge, didn’t choose to fear the Lord, were not interested in my counsel, and rejected all my correction, they will eat the fruit of their way and be glutted with their own schemes. For the turning away of the inexperienced will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them. But whoever listens to me will live securely and be free from the fear of danger.” (Pr 1:20-33 HCSB)
Is there someone greater than the wisest man who ever lived? Is repentance more important than great wisdom?
The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here. The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here. (Mat 12:41-42 KJV)
What is the purpose of the book of Proverbs? What can we learn? You decide!
Praise (Ps 150)
How does the final Psalm close out the five books of Psalms? How relevant is praise as the conclusion to a collection of songs about God’s mighty deeds and character? Let’s look at Psalm 150.
What are among the many reasons to praise God? With what kinds of musical instruments are we encouraged to use?
Hallelujah! Praise God in His sanctuary. Praise Him in His mighty heavens. Praise Him for His powerful acts; praise Him for His abundant greatness. Praise Him with trumpet blast; praise Him with harp and lyre. Praise Him with tambourine and dance; praise Him with flute and strings. Praise Him with resounding cymbals; praise Him with clashing cymbals. Let everything that breathes praise the Lord. Hallelujah! (Ps 150:1-6 HCSB)
As the Lamb of God is about to reveal heaven’s final victory are both Father and Son praised?
Then I looked, and I heard the voices of many angels, the living creatures, and the elders surrounding the throne. They numbered 10,000’s times 10,000 and thousands times thousands. They sang with a loud voice, “Worthy is the lamb who was slaughtered to receive power, wealth, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, and praise!” I heard every creature in heaven, on earth, under the earth, and on the sea, and everything that is in them, saying, “To the one who sits on the throne and to the lamb be praise, honor, glory, and power forever and ever!” (Rev 5:11-13 ISV)
As all evil is finally conquered, will there be great choruses of praise to the Lord?
And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God: For true and righteous are his judgments: for he hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of his servants at her hand. And again they said, Alleluia And her smoke rose up for ever and ever. And the four and twenty elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God that sat on the throne, saying, Amen; Alleluia. And a voice came out of the throne, saying, Praise our God, all ye his servants, and ye that fear him, both small and great. And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. (Rev 19:1-6 KJV)
How does the final Psalm close out the five books of Psalms? How relevant is praise as the conclusion to a collection of songs about God’s mighty deeds and character? You decide!
What are among the many reasons to praise God? With what kinds of musical instruments are we encouraged to use?
Hallelujah! Praise God in His sanctuary. Praise Him in His mighty heavens. Praise Him for His powerful acts; praise Him for His abundant greatness. Praise Him with trumpet blast; praise Him with harp and lyre. Praise Him with tambourine and dance; praise Him with flute and strings. Praise Him with resounding cymbals; praise Him with clashing cymbals. Let everything that breathes praise the Lord. Hallelujah! (Ps 150:1-6 HCSB)
As the Lamb of God is about to reveal heaven’s final victory are both Father and Son praised?
Then I looked, and I heard the voices of many angels, the living creatures, and the elders surrounding the throne. They numbered 10,000’s times 10,000 and thousands times thousands. They sang with a loud voice, “Worthy is the lamb who was slaughtered to receive power, wealth, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, and praise!” I heard every creature in heaven, on earth, under the earth, and on the sea, and everything that is in them, saying, “To the one who sits on the throne and to the lamb be praise, honor, glory, and power forever and ever!” (Rev 5:11-13 ISV)
As all evil is finally conquered, will there be great choruses of praise to the Lord?
And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God: For true and righteous are his judgments: for he hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of his servants at her hand. And again they said, Alleluia And her smoke rose up for ever and ever. And the four and twenty elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God that sat on the throne, saying, Amen; Alleluia. And a voice came out of the throne, saying, Praise our God, all ye his servants, and ye that fear him, both small and great. And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. (Rev 19:1-6 KJV)
How does the final Psalm close out the five books of Psalms? How relevant is praise as the conclusion to a collection of songs about God’s mighty deeds and character? You decide!
Praises in the Assembly (Ps 149)
What are some of the main purposes of the church assembly? Let’s begin in Psalm 149.
Do we sing new songs or just the old? Do we sing praises in the assembly?
Praise the Lord! Sing to the Lord a new song. Sing his praises in the assembly of the faithful. (Ps 149:1 NLT)
Do both physical and spiritual Israel rejoice in God? Are we the children of heavenly Zion?
Let Israel rejoice in him who made them. Let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. Let them praise his name in the dance! Let them sing praises to him with tambourine and harp! For Yahweh takes pleasure in his people. He crowns the humble with salvation. Let the saints rejoice in honor. Let them sing for joy on their beds. (Ps 149:2-5 WEB)
Will we one day rule the nations and enforce heavenly standards?
Let the high praises of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands, to get revenge against the nations and punishment on the peoples, binding their rulers in chains and their officials in iron shackles, achieving the justice written against them. That will be an honor for all God’s faithful people. Praise the Lord! (Ps 149:6-9 CEB)
Is mutual encouragement supposed to be one of the main purposes of a church meeting?
We should keep on encouraging each other to be thoughtful and to do helpful things. Some people have given up the habit of meeting for worship, but we must not do that. We should keep on encouraging each other, especially since you know that the day of the Lord's coming is getting closer. (Heb 10:24-25 CEV)
Will the elders sing another new song in that great heavenly assembly?
And they sang a new song, saying, “Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.” (Rev 5:9-10 ESV)
What are some of the main purposes of the church assembly? You decide!
Do we sing new songs or just the old? Do we sing praises in the assembly?
Praise the Lord! Sing to the Lord a new song. Sing his praises in the assembly of the faithful. (Ps 149:1 NLT)
Do both physical and spiritual Israel rejoice in God? Are we the children of heavenly Zion?
Let Israel rejoice in him who made them. Let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. Let them praise his name in the dance! Let them sing praises to him with tambourine and harp! For Yahweh takes pleasure in his people. He crowns the humble with salvation. Let the saints rejoice in honor. Let them sing for joy on their beds. (Ps 149:2-5 WEB)
Will we one day rule the nations and enforce heavenly standards?
Let the high praises of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands, to get revenge against the nations and punishment on the peoples, binding their rulers in chains and their officials in iron shackles, achieving the justice written against them. That will be an honor for all God’s faithful people. Praise the Lord! (Ps 149:6-9 CEB)
Is mutual encouragement supposed to be one of the main purposes of a church meeting?
We should keep on encouraging each other to be thoughtful and to do helpful things. Some people have given up the habit of meeting for worship, but we must not do that. We should keep on encouraging each other, especially since you know that the day of the Lord's coming is getting closer. (Heb 10:24-25 CEV)
Will the elders sing another new song in that great heavenly assembly?
And they sang a new song, saying, “Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.” (Rev 5:9-10 ESV)
What are some of the main purposes of the church assembly? You decide!
Ubiquitous Praise (Ps 148)
Does all creation praise God by its very existence? Let’s begin in Psalm 148.
Do all God’s angels, does everyone in heaven praise God?
Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord from the heavens; praise him in the heights! Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his hosts! (Ps 148:1-2 ISV)
Does all of creation figuratively praise God by simply existing as a silent testimony to His design?
Praise Him, sun and moon; praise Him, all you shining stars. Praise Him, highest heavens, and you waters above the heavens. (Ps 148:3-4 HCSB)
Does all of creation figuratively praise God by simply existing as a silent testimony to His power?
Let them praise the name of the Lord, for he himself gave the command that they be created. He set them in place to last forever and ever; he gave the command and will not rescind it. (Ps 148:5-6 ISV)
Does everything from dinosaurs to atmospheric phenomena stand as a silent testimony to a creator?
Praise the Lord from the earth, ye dragons [dinosaurs], and all deeps: Fire, and hail; snow, and vapours; stormy wind fulfilling his word: (Ps 148:7-8 KJV)
Does everything from sedimentary rock on top of mountains to creatures stand as a silent testimony to a great flood and the creator who saved animals from it?
Mountains and all hills; Fruit trees and all cedars; Beasts and all cattle; Creeping things and winged bird; (Ps 148:9-10 LSB)
Should kings and judges and young and old alike praise the God of the universe?
Kings of the earth and all peoples; Rulers and all judges of the earth; Both young men and virgins; Old men and children. (Ps 148:11-12 NASB)
Above all fame, fortune and power, does one name stand, and one people that God chose close to His heart?
Let them praise the name of the Lord, for his name alone is exalted; his splendor is above the earth and the heavens. And he has raised up for his people a horn, the praise of all his faithful servants, of Israel, the people close to his heart. Praise the Lord. (Ps 148:13-14 NIV)
Is God angry at atheists? Do they suppress ubiquitous, obvious evidence? Do they profess to be wise while claiming that the incredible design in nature came about by accident?
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. (Rom 1:18-23 NKJV)
Does all creation praise God by its very existence? You decide!
Do all God’s angels, does everyone in heaven praise God?
Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord from the heavens; praise him in the heights! Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his hosts! (Ps 148:1-2 ISV)
Does all of creation figuratively praise God by simply existing as a silent testimony to His design?
Praise Him, sun and moon; praise Him, all you shining stars. Praise Him, highest heavens, and you waters above the heavens. (Ps 148:3-4 HCSB)
Does all of creation figuratively praise God by simply existing as a silent testimony to His power?
Let them praise the name of the Lord, for he himself gave the command that they be created. He set them in place to last forever and ever; he gave the command and will not rescind it. (Ps 148:5-6 ISV)
Does everything from dinosaurs to atmospheric phenomena stand as a silent testimony to a creator?
Praise the Lord from the earth, ye dragons [dinosaurs], and all deeps: Fire, and hail; snow, and vapours; stormy wind fulfilling his word: (Ps 148:7-8 KJV)
Does everything from sedimentary rock on top of mountains to creatures stand as a silent testimony to a great flood and the creator who saved animals from it?
Mountains and all hills; Fruit trees and all cedars; Beasts and all cattle; Creeping things and winged bird; (Ps 148:9-10 LSB)
Should kings and judges and young and old alike praise the God of the universe?
Kings of the earth and all peoples; Rulers and all judges of the earth; Both young men and virgins; Old men and children. (Ps 148:11-12 NASB)
Above all fame, fortune and power, does one name stand, and one people that God chose close to His heart?
Let them praise the name of the Lord, for his name alone is exalted; his splendor is above the earth and the heavens. And he has raised up for his people a horn, the praise of all his faithful servants, of Israel, the people close to his heart. Praise the Lord. (Ps 148:13-14 NIV)
Is God angry at atheists? Do they suppress ubiquitous, obvious evidence? Do they profess to be wise while claiming that the incredible design in nature came about by accident?
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. (Rom 1:18-23 NKJV)
Does all creation praise God by its very existence? You decide!
Sing Praises (Ps 147)
How many things can we praise God for? Let’s begin in Psalm 147.
Is singing praises to our God just a modern fad or a very ancient idea?
Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; For it is pleasant and praise is beautiful. The Lord builds up Jerusalem; He gathers the outcasts of Israel. He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds. He counts the number of the stars; He gives names to all of them. Great is our Lord and abundant in strength; His understanding is infinite. The Lord supports the afflicted; He brings the wicked down to the ground. (Ps 147:1-6 NASB)
Is a stringed instrument something that we should avoid?
Sing to the Lord with grateful praise; make music to our God on the harp. He covers the sky with clouds; he supplies the earth with rain and makes grass grow on the hills. He provides food for the cattle and for the young ravens when they call. (Ps 147:7-9 NIV)
Does God take pleasure in strength or those who show Him deep respect and hope in His mercy?
He does not delight in the strength of the horse; He takes no pleasure in the legs of a man. The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him, In those who hope in His mercy. (Ps 147:10-11 NKJV)
While our food is very inferior to that which the ancients enjoyed, does God still satisfy our hunger?
Glorify the Lord, O Jerusalem! Praise your God, O Zion! For he has strengthened the bars of your gates and blessed your children within your walls. He sends peace across your nation and satisfies your hunger with the finest wheat. (Ps 147:12-14 NLT)
Does God still send us appropriate weather in due season?
He sends out his commandment to the earth. His word runs very swiftly. He gives snow like wool, and scatters frost like ashes. He hurls down his hail like pebbles. Who can stand before his cold? He sends out his word, and melts them. He causes his wind to blow, and the waters flow. (Ps 147:15-18 WEB)
Does any nation have such perfect laws as God gave Israel? Yet, is the gospel exclusive to one nation?
God proclaims his word to Jacob; his statutes and rules to Israel. God hasn’t done that with any other nation; those nations have no knowledge of God’s rules. Praise the Lord! (Ps 147:19-20 CEB)
How do we encourage others to also praise God without coercion or manipulation?
Make your light shine, so others will see the good you do and will praise your Father in heaven. (Mat 5:16 CEV)
Should praise be among our list of positive, healthy thoughts?
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Phil 4:8 ESV)
Is singing praises encouraged anywhere in the New Testament?
Is anyone among you suffering? He should pray. Is anyone cheerful? He should sing praises. (James 5:13 HCSB)
How many things can we praise God for? You decide!
Is singing praises to our God just a modern fad or a very ancient idea?
Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; For it is pleasant and praise is beautiful. The Lord builds up Jerusalem; He gathers the outcasts of Israel. He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds. He counts the number of the stars; He gives names to all of them. Great is our Lord and abundant in strength; His understanding is infinite. The Lord supports the afflicted; He brings the wicked down to the ground. (Ps 147:1-6 NASB)
Is a stringed instrument something that we should avoid?
Sing to the Lord with grateful praise; make music to our God on the harp. He covers the sky with clouds; he supplies the earth with rain and makes grass grow on the hills. He provides food for the cattle and for the young ravens when they call. (Ps 147:7-9 NIV)
Does God take pleasure in strength or those who show Him deep respect and hope in His mercy?
He does not delight in the strength of the horse; He takes no pleasure in the legs of a man. The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him, In those who hope in His mercy. (Ps 147:10-11 NKJV)
While our food is very inferior to that which the ancients enjoyed, does God still satisfy our hunger?
Glorify the Lord, O Jerusalem! Praise your God, O Zion! For he has strengthened the bars of your gates and blessed your children within your walls. He sends peace across your nation and satisfies your hunger with the finest wheat. (Ps 147:12-14 NLT)
Does God still send us appropriate weather in due season?
He sends out his commandment to the earth. His word runs very swiftly. He gives snow like wool, and scatters frost like ashes. He hurls down his hail like pebbles. Who can stand before his cold? He sends out his word, and melts them. He causes his wind to blow, and the waters flow. (Ps 147:15-18 WEB)
Does any nation have such perfect laws as God gave Israel? Yet, is the gospel exclusive to one nation?
God proclaims his word to Jacob; his statutes and rules to Israel. God hasn’t done that with any other nation; those nations have no knowledge of God’s rules. Praise the Lord! (Ps 147:19-20 CEB)
How do we encourage others to also praise God without coercion or manipulation?
Make your light shine, so others will see the good you do and will praise your Father in heaven. (Mat 5:16 CEV)
Should praise be among our list of positive, healthy thoughts?
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Phil 4:8 ESV)
Is singing praises encouraged anywhere in the New Testament?
Is anyone among you suffering? He should pray. Is anyone cheerful? He should sing praises. (James 5:13 HCSB)
How many things can we praise God for? You decide!
Praise the Lord (Ps 146)
In whom alone can we truly hope forever? Let’s begin in Psalm 146.
Is praising God with our whole being good for us or for Him?
Praise the Lord! Let my whole being praise the Lord! I will praise the Lord with all my life; I will sing praises to my God as long as I live. (Ps 146:1-2 CEB)
Can we totally depend on even the greatest leaders among us?
You can't depend on anyone, not even a great leader. Once they die and are buried, that will be the end of all their plans. (Ps 146:3-4 CEV)
Where should we put our ultimate hope, in human leadership or God?
Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God, who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, who keeps faith forever; who executes justice for the oppressed, who gives food to the hungry. (Ps 146:5-7a ESV)
What work is God involved in? Do we neglect prisoners, the blind, foreigners, orphans and widows?
The Lord frees prisoners. The Lord opens the eyes of the blind. The Lord raises up those who are oppressed. The Lord loves the righteous. The Lord protects foreigners and helps the fatherless and the widow, but He frustrates the ways of the wicked. (Ps 146:7b-9 HCSB)
How much longer will God reign than any human leader, good or evil?
The Lord will reign forever, your God, Zion, for all generations! Hallelujah! (Ps 146:10 ISV)
What did the angel Gabriel announce to Mary about her son’s kingdom?
And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. (Luke 1:31-33 KJV)
Is this prophecy repeated in the symbolic prophecies of Revelation?
Then the seventh angel sounded, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He will reign forever and ever.” (Rev 11:15 LSB)
In whom alone can we truly hope forever? You decide!
Is praising God with our whole being good for us or for Him?
Praise the Lord! Let my whole being praise the Lord! I will praise the Lord with all my life; I will sing praises to my God as long as I live. (Ps 146:1-2 CEB)
Can we totally depend on even the greatest leaders among us?
You can't depend on anyone, not even a great leader. Once they die and are buried, that will be the end of all their plans. (Ps 146:3-4 CEV)
Where should we put our ultimate hope, in human leadership or God?
Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God, who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, who keeps faith forever; who executes justice for the oppressed, who gives food to the hungry. (Ps 146:5-7a ESV)
What work is God involved in? Do we neglect prisoners, the blind, foreigners, orphans and widows?
The Lord frees prisoners. The Lord opens the eyes of the blind. The Lord raises up those who are oppressed. The Lord loves the righteous. The Lord protects foreigners and helps the fatherless and the widow, but He frustrates the ways of the wicked. (Ps 146:7b-9 HCSB)
How much longer will God reign than any human leader, good or evil?
The Lord will reign forever, your God, Zion, for all generations! Hallelujah! (Ps 146:10 ISV)
What did the angel Gabriel announce to Mary about her son’s kingdom?
And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. (Luke 1:31-33 KJV)
Is this prophecy repeated in the symbolic prophecies of Revelation?
Then the seventh angel sounded, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He will reign forever and ever.” (Rev 11:15 LSB)
In whom alone can we truly hope forever? You decide!
Bless Your Name (Ps 145)
Do we praise God’s name with words alone or by how we live? Let’s look at Psalm 145.
A praise psalm by David. (WEB)
Do we praise God’s name every day? Will we praise His name forever?
I will speak highly of you, my God and King, and I will bless your name forever and ever. I will bless you every day and I will praise your name forever and ever. The Lord is great, and to be praised highly, though his greatness is indescribable. (Ps 145:1-3 ISV)
Will the next generation praise God’s works and sing of His righteousness?
One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts. I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works. And men shall speak of the might of thy terrible acts: and I will declare thy greatness. They shall abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodness, and shall sing of thy righteousness. (Ps 145:4-7 KJV)
How gracious and compassionate and good is our God?
Yahweh is gracious and compassionate; Slow to anger and great in lovingkindness. Yahweh is good to all, And His compassions are over all His works. (Ps 145:8-9 LSB)
Who will give thanks to God and make known to generations His mighty acts?
All Your works will give thanks to You, Lord, And Your godly ones will bless You. They will speak of the glory of Your kingdom, And talk of Your might, To make known to the sons of mankind Your mighty acts, And the glory of the majesty of Your kingdom. Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, And Your dominion endures throughout all generations. The Lord is faithful in His words, And holy in all His works. (Ps 145:10-13 NASB)
Who alone satisfies the desires of every living thing?
The Lord upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time. You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing. (Ps 145:14-16 NIV)
Who is the Lord near to? Whose desire will God fulfill? Whose cry will God hear? Who will God preserve?
The Lord is righteous in all His ways, Gracious in all His works. The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, To all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He also will hear their cry and save them. The Lord preserves all who love Him, But all the wicked He will destroy. My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord, And all flesh shall bless His holy name Forever and ever. (Ps 145:17-21 NKJV)
Though we are not saved BY good works, are we saved FOR good works?
God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things [works] we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things [works] he planned for us long ago. (Eph 2:8-10 NLT)
Though we are not saved BY good works, is there a conundrum that too many ignore, for those who refuse to love their neighbor by doing good works?
Then they will also answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and didn’t help you?’ Then he will answer them, saying, ‘Most certainly I tell you, because you didn’t do it to one of the least of these, you didn’t do it to me.’ These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life. (Mat 25:44-46 WEB)
Do we praise God’s name with words alone or by how we live? You decide!
A praise psalm by David. (WEB)
Do we praise God’s name every day? Will we praise His name forever?
I will speak highly of you, my God and King, and I will bless your name forever and ever. I will bless you every day and I will praise your name forever and ever. The Lord is great, and to be praised highly, though his greatness is indescribable. (Ps 145:1-3 ISV)
Will the next generation praise God’s works and sing of His righteousness?
One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts. I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works. And men shall speak of the might of thy terrible acts: and I will declare thy greatness. They shall abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodness, and shall sing of thy righteousness. (Ps 145:4-7 KJV)
How gracious and compassionate and good is our God?
Yahweh is gracious and compassionate; Slow to anger and great in lovingkindness. Yahweh is good to all, And His compassions are over all His works. (Ps 145:8-9 LSB)
Who will give thanks to God and make known to generations His mighty acts?
All Your works will give thanks to You, Lord, And Your godly ones will bless You. They will speak of the glory of Your kingdom, And talk of Your might, To make known to the sons of mankind Your mighty acts, And the glory of the majesty of Your kingdom. Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, And Your dominion endures throughout all generations. The Lord is faithful in His words, And holy in all His works. (Ps 145:10-13 NASB)
Who alone satisfies the desires of every living thing?
The Lord upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time. You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing. (Ps 145:14-16 NIV)
Who is the Lord near to? Whose desire will God fulfill? Whose cry will God hear? Who will God preserve?
The Lord is righteous in all His ways, Gracious in all His works. The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, To all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He also will hear their cry and save them. The Lord preserves all who love Him, But all the wicked He will destroy. My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord, And all flesh shall bless His holy name Forever and ever. (Ps 145:17-21 NKJV)
Though we are not saved BY good works, are we saved FOR good works?
God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things [works] we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things [works] he planned for us long ago. (Eph 2:8-10 NLT)
Though we are not saved BY good works, is there a conundrum that too many ignore, for those who refuse to love their neighbor by doing good works?
Then they will also answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and didn’t help you?’ Then he will answer them, saying, ‘Most certainly I tell you, because you didn’t do it to one of the least of these, you didn’t do it to me.’ These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life. (Mat 25:44-46 WEB)
Do we praise God’s name with words alone or by how we live? You decide!
The Battle (Ps 144)
Is life a battle? How do we win? Let’s look at Psalm 144.
By David. (WEB)
Is life’s greatest battle spiritual? Who is our greatest defense?
Blessed be the Lord my Rock, Who trains my hands for war, And my fingers for battle—My lovingkindness and my fortress, My high tower and my deliverer, My shield and the One in whom I take refuge, Who subdues my people under me. (Ps 144:1-2 NKJV)
Do we get out of this life physically alive? How quick is a lifetime?
O Lord, what are human beings that you should notice them, mere mortals that you should think about them? For they are like a breath of air; their days are like a passing shadow. (Ps 144:3-4 NLT)
Are we in dire need of our ultimate rescue by God?
Part your heavens, Yahweh, and come down. Touch the mountains, and they will smoke. Throw out lightning, and scatter them. Send out your arrows, and rout them. Stretch out your hand from above, rescue me, and deliver me out of great waters, out of the hands of foreigners, whose mouths speak deceit, whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood. (Ps 144:5-8 WEB)
Are we willing to learn a new song, or are we stuck on the old ones?
I will sing a new song to you, God. I will sing praises to you on a ten-stringed harp, to you—the one who gives saving help to rulers, and who rescues his servant David from the evil sword. Rescue me and deliver me from the power of strangers, whose mouths speak lies, and whose strong hand is a strong hand of deception, (Ps 144:9-11 CEB)
Do we pray for the next generation of believers? Are we thankful for what we have?
Let's pray that our young sons will grow like strong plants and that our daughters will be as lovely as columns in the corner of a palace. May our barns be filled with all kinds of crops. May our fields be covered with sheep by the thousands, and every cow have calves. Don't let our city be captured or any of us be taken away, and don't let cries of sorrow be heard in our streets. (Ps 144:12-14 CEV)
What is the greatest blessing that we can have in this life?
Blessed are the people to whom such blessings fall! Blessed are the people whose God is the Lord! (Ps 144:15 ESV)
Is the good fight a spiritual battle? Are our weapons therefore also spiritual?
Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the tactics of the Devil. For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens. This is why you must take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace. In every situation take the shield of faith, and with it you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word. (Eph 6:11-17 HCSB)
Is life a battle? How do we win? You decide!
By David. (WEB)
Is life’s greatest battle spiritual? Who is our greatest defense?
Blessed be the Lord my Rock, Who trains my hands for war, And my fingers for battle—My lovingkindness and my fortress, My high tower and my deliverer, My shield and the One in whom I take refuge, Who subdues my people under me. (Ps 144:1-2 NKJV)
Do we get out of this life physically alive? How quick is a lifetime?
O Lord, what are human beings that you should notice them, mere mortals that you should think about them? For they are like a breath of air; their days are like a passing shadow. (Ps 144:3-4 NLT)
Are we in dire need of our ultimate rescue by God?
Part your heavens, Yahweh, and come down. Touch the mountains, and they will smoke. Throw out lightning, and scatter them. Send out your arrows, and rout them. Stretch out your hand from above, rescue me, and deliver me out of great waters, out of the hands of foreigners, whose mouths speak deceit, whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood. (Ps 144:5-8 WEB)
Are we willing to learn a new song, or are we stuck on the old ones?
I will sing a new song to you, God. I will sing praises to you on a ten-stringed harp, to you—the one who gives saving help to rulers, and who rescues his servant David from the evil sword. Rescue me and deliver me from the power of strangers, whose mouths speak lies, and whose strong hand is a strong hand of deception, (Ps 144:9-11 CEB)
Do we pray for the next generation of believers? Are we thankful for what we have?
Let's pray that our young sons will grow like strong plants and that our daughters will be as lovely as columns in the corner of a palace. May our barns be filled with all kinds of crops. May our fields be covered with sheep by the thousands, and every cow have calves. Don't let our city be captured or any of us be taken away, and don't let cries of sorrow be heard in our streets. (Ps 144:12-14 CEV)
What is the greatest blessing that we can have in this life?
Blessed are the people to whom such blessings fall! Blessed are the people whose God is the Lord! (Ps 144:15 ESV)
Is the good fight a spiritual battle? Are our weapons therefore also spiritual?
Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the tactics of the Devil. For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens. This is why you must take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace. In every situation take the shield of faith, and with it you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word. (Eph 6:11-17 HCSB)
Is life a battle? How do we win? You decide!
Relieve Me (Ps 143)
Is salvation just for eternity or is there a need for God to rescue us daily? Let’s begin in Psalm 143.
A Psalm by David. (WEB)
In absolute terms is any one of us perfect in God’s very high standards of righteousness?
Hear my prayer, Yahweh. Listen to my petitions. In your faithfulness and righteousness, relieve me. Don’t enter into judgment with your servant, for in your sight no man living is righteous. (Ps 143:1-2 WEB)
Is the enemy of God always chasing us to try and trip us up?
The enemy is chasing me, crushing my life in the dirt, forcing me to live in the dark like those who’ve been dead forever. My spirit is weak inside me—inside, my mind is numb. (Ps 143:3-4 CEB)
Do we remember to meditate on God’s dealings with humanity down through time in the pages of the holy Bible?
I remember to think about the many things you did in years gone by. Then I lift my hands in prayer, because my soul is a desert, thirsty for water from you. [Selah] (Ps 143:5-6 CEV)
Do we ever desire to hear quickly from God and desire to know the way we should go?
Answer me quickly, O Lord! My spirit fails! Hide not your face from me, lest I be like those who go down to the pit. Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in you I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. (Ps 143:7-8 ESV)
While God is rescuing us from enemies, do we desire that He teaches us His will?
Rescue me from my enemies, Lord; I come to You for protection. Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God. May Your gracious Spirit lead me on level ground. (Ps 143:9-10 HCSB)
In a world of enemies who want to take advantage of us, do we rely on God’s gracious love?
For the sake of your name, Lord, preserve my life. Because you are righteous, bring me out of trouble. Because of your gracious love, you will cut off my enemies. You will destroy all who oppose me, for I am your servant. (Ps 143:11-12 ISV)
Do we understand salvation as not just for all eternity, but from everyday dangers as well, such as the disciples in danger of sinking on Lake Galilee?
And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep. And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish. And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. (Mat 8:24-26 KJV)
Is salvation expressed in a past tense, as in “have been” saved?
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works, so that no one may boast. (Eph 2:8-9 LSB)
Is salvation expressed in a present continuous tense, as in “are being” saved?
For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing (2 Cor 2:14-16 NASB)
Is salvation expressed in a future tense, as in “will be” saved?
Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. (Mat 10:21-22 NIV)
Is salvation just for eternity or is there a need for God to rescue us daily? You decide!
A Psalm by David. (WEB)
In absolute terms is any one of us perfect in God’s very high standards of righteousness?
Hear my prayer, Yahweh. Listen to my petitions. In your faithfulness and righteousness, relieve me. Don’t enter into judgment with your servant, for in your sight no man living is righteous. (Ps 143:1-2 WEB)
Is the enemy of God always chasing us to try and trip us up?
The enemy is chasing me, crushing my life in the dirt, forcing me to live in the dark like those who’ve been dead forever. My spirit is weak inside me—inside, my mind is numb. (Ps 143:3-4 CEB)
Do we remember to meditate on God’s dealings with humanity down through time in the pages of the holy Bible?
I remember to think about the many things you did in years gone by. Then I lift my hands in prayer, because my soul is a desert, thirsty for water from you. [Selah] (Ps 143:5-6 CEV)
Do we ever desire to hear quickly from God and desire to know the way we should go?
Answer me quickly, O Lord! My spirit fails! Hide not your face from me, lest I be like those who go down to the pit. Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in you I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. (Ps 143:7-8 ESV)
While God is rescuing us from enemies, do we desire that He teaches us His will?
Rescue me from my enemies, Lord; I come to You for protection. Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God. May Your gracious Spirit lead me on level ground. (Ps 143:9-10 HCSB)
In a world of enemies who want to take advantage of us, do we rely on God’s gracious love?
For the sake of your name, Lord, preserve my life. Because you are righteous, bring me out of trouble. Because of your gracious love, you will cut off my enemies. You will destroy all who oppose me, for I am your servant. (Ps 143:11-12 ISV)
Do we understand salvation as not just for all eternity, but from everyday dangers as well, such as the disciples in danger of sinking on Lake Galilee?
And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep. And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish. And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. (Mat 8:24-26 KJV)
Is salvation expressed in a past tense, as in “have been” saved?
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works, so that no one may boast. (Eph 2:8-9 LSB)
Is salvation expressed in a present continuous tense, as in “are being” saved?
For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing (2 Cor 2:14-16 NASB)
Is salvation expressed in a future tense, as in “will be” saved?
Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. (Mat 10:21-22 NIV)
Is salvation just for eternity or is there a need for God to rescue us daily? You decide!
I Cry Out (Ps 142)
When David hid in a cave while being chased by King Saul, did he cry out to God? Do we cry out to God knowing our helplessness? Let’s begin in Psalm 142.
A contemplation by David, when he was in the cave. A Prayer. (WEB)
Have we ever been in desperate circumstances, feeling totally helpless, like no one cares?
I cry out with my voice to the Lord; With my voice I implore the Lord for compassion. I pour out my complaint before Him; I declare my trouble before Him. When my spirit felt weak within me, You knew my path. In the way where I walk They have hidden a trap for me. Look to the right and see; For there is no one who regards me favorably; There is no escape for me; No one cares for my soul. (Ps 142:1-4 NASB)
Where else can we go for refuge? Who else can we totally trust in a dangerous world?
I cry to you, Lord; I say, “You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.” Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need; rescue me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me. Set me free from my prison, that I may praise your name. Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me. (Ps 142:5-7 NIV)
Was the apostle Paul abandoned by many at one point? Have we ever been forsaken by a traitor and harmed from within the church?
Be diligent to come to me quickly; for Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world, and has departed for Thessalonica—Crescens for Galatia, Titus for Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministry. And Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus. Bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas when you come—and the books, especially the parchments. Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm. May the Lord repay him according to his works. You also must beware of him, for he has greatly resisted our words. At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be charged against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. Also I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. (2 Tim 4:9–17 NKJV)
If Jesus was betrayed by a close companion, should we be shocked if it happens to us even within the church?
And even as Jesus said this, Judas, one of the twelve disciples, arrived with a crowd of men armed with swords and clubs. They had been sent by the leading priests and elders of the people. The traitor, Judas, had given them a prearranged signal: “You will know which one to arrest when I greet him with a kiss.” So Judas came straight to Jesus. “Greetings, Rabbi!” he exclaimed and gave him the kiss. Jesus said, “My friend, go ahead and do what you have come for.” Then the others grabbed Jesus and arrested him. (Mat 26:47-50 NLT)
When David hid in a cave while being chased by King Saul, did he cry out to God? Do we cry out to God knowing our helplessness? You decide!
A contemplation by David, when he was in the cave. A Prayer. (WEB)
Have we ever been in desperate circumstances, feeling totally helpless, like no one cares?
I cry out with my voice to the Lord; With my voice I implore the Lord for compassion. I pour out my complaint before Him; I declare my trouble before Him. When my spirit felt weak within me, You knew my path. In the way where I walk They have hidden a trap for me. Look to the right and see; For there is no one who regards me favorably; There is no escape for me; No one cares for my soul. (Ps 142:1-4 NASB)
Where else can we go for refuge? Who else can we totally trust in a dangerous world?
I cry to you, Lord; I say, “You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.” Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need; rescue me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me. Set me free from my prison, that I may praise your name. Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me. (Ps 142:5-7 NIV)
Was the apostle Paul abandoned by many at one point? Have we ever been forsaken by a traitor and harmed from within the church?
Be diligent to come to me quickly; for Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world, and has departed for Thessalonica—Crescens for Galatia, Titus for Dalmatia. Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministry. And Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus. Bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas when you come—and the books, especially the parchments. Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm. May the Lord repay him according to his works. You also must beware of him, for he has greatly resisted our words. At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be charged against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. Also I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. (2 Tim 4:9–17 NKJV)
If Jesus was betrayed by a close companion, should we be shocked if it happens to us even within the church?
And even as Jesus said this, Judas, one of the twelve disciples, arrived with a crowd of men armed with swords and clubs. They had been sent by the leading priests and elders of the people. The traitor, Judas, had given them a prearranged signal: “You will know which one to arrest when I greet him with a kiss.” So Judas came straight to Jesus. “Greetings, Rabbi!” he exclaimed and gave him the kiss. Jesus said, “My friend, go ahead and do what you have come for.” Then the others grabbed Jesus and arrested him. (Mat 26:47-50 NLT)
When David hid in a cave while being chased by King Saul, did he cry out to God? Do we cry out to God knowing our helplessness? You decide!
Sweet-Smelling Incense (Ps 141)
How does God picture our prayers? Does He treat them as trivial or as a sweet odour, a pleasant smelling incense? Let’s begin in Psalm 141.
A Psalm by David. (WEB)
When we think our prayers are silly or trite, how does David ask God to view them?
I pray to you, Lord! Please listen when I pray and hurry to help me. Think of my prayer as sweet-smelling incense, and think of my lifted hands as an evening sacrifice. (Ps 141:1-2 CEV)
Do we watch the words that come out of our mouths, or are we too quick to slander others and use filthy words?
Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips! Do not let my heart incline to any evil, to busy myself with wicked deeds in company with men who work iniquity, and let me not eat of their delicacies! (Ps 14:3-4 ESV)
When we are corrected, do we humbly accept it or ignore it as unwanted criticism?
Let the righteous one strike me—it is an act of faithful love; let him rebuke me—it is oil for my head; let me not refuse it. Even now my prayer is against the evil acts of the wicked. When their rulers will be thrown off the sides of a cliff, the people will listen to my words, for they are pleasing. As when one plows and breaks up the soil, turning up rocks, so our bones have been scattered at the mouth of Sheol. (Ps 140:5-7 HCSB)
In a world with many traps, to whom do we look for ultimate protection?
Nevertheless, my eyes are on you, Lord God, as I seek protection in you. Don’t leave me defenseless! Protect me from the trap laid for me and from the snares of those who practice evil. Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I come through. (Ps 140:8-10 ISV)
Did God honor this Psalm by confirming that the prayers of the saints are like incense?
Then I saw in the midst of the throne and the four living creatures and in the midst of the elders a Lamb standing, as if slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God, sent out into all the earth. And He came and took the scroll out of the right hand of Him who sits on the throne. And when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each one having a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. (Rev 5:6-8 LSB)
How does God picture our prayers? Does He treat them as trivial or as a sweet odour, a pleasant smelling incense? You decide!
A Psalm by David. (WEB)
When we think our prayers are silly or trite, how does David ask God to view them?
I pray to you, Lord! Please listen when I pray and hurry to help me. Think of my prayer as sweet-smelling incense, and think of my lifted hands as an evening sacrifice. (Ps 141:1-2 CEV)
Do we watch the words that come out of our mouths, or are we too quick to slander others and use filthy words?
Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips! Do not let my heart incline to any evil, to busy myself with wicked deeds in company with men who work iniquity, and let me not eat of their delicacies! (Ps 14:3-4 ESV)
When we are corrected, do we humbly accept it or ignore it as unwanted criticism?
Let the righteous one strike me—it is an act of faithful love; let him rebuke me—it is oil for my head; let me not refuse it. Even now my prayer is against the evil acts of the wicked. When their rulers will be thrown off the sides of a cliff, the people will listen to my words, for they are pleasing. As when one plows and breaks up the soil, turning up rocks, so our bones have been scattered at the mouth of Sheol. (Ps 140:5-7 HCSB)
In a world with many traps, to whom do we look for ultimate protection?
Nevertheless, my eyes are on you, Lord God, as I seek protection in you. Don’t leave me defenseless! Protect me from the trap laid for me and from the snares of those who practice evil. Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I come through. (Ps 140:8-10 ISV)
Did God honor this Psalm by confirming that the prayers of the saints are like incense?
Then I saw in the midst of the throne and the four living creatures and in the midst of the elders a Lamb standing, as if slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God, sent out into all the earth. And He came and took the scroll out of the right hand of Him who sits on the throne. And when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each one having a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. (Rev 5:6-8 LSB)
How does God picture our prayers? Does He treat them as trivial or as a sweet odour, a pleasant smelling incense? You decide!
Rescue Me (Ps 140)
Has every form of human government failed to correct evils, stop wicked schemes, and bring justice to the poor? Is there a kingdom that will? Let’s begin in Psalm 140.
For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David. (WEB)
In a dangerous world of violence and evil and wars and venomous tongues, who alone can truly protect us?
Rescue me, Lord, from evil people; Protect me from violent men Who devise evil things in their hearts; They continually stir up wars. They sharpen their tongues like a snake; The venom of a viper is under their lips. Selah (Ps 140:1-3 NASB)
Who alone can keep us safe from the wicked, the violent, the arrogant, and traps in our path?
Keep me safe, Lord, from the hands of the wicked; protect me from the violent, who devise ways to trip my feet. The arrogant have hidden a snare for me; they have spread out the cords of their net and have set traps for me along my path. [Selah] (Ps 140:4-5 NIV)
When everyone else ignores our pleas, who will hear us?
I said to the Lord: “You are my God; Hear the voice of my supplications, O Lord. O God the Lord, the strength of my salvation, You have covered my head in the day of battle. Do not grant, O Lord, the desires of the wicked; Do not further his wicked scheme, Lest they be exalted. Selah (Ps 140:6-8 NKJV)
Do we get involved in the deceptive politics of this world or pray for God to destroy the plans of liars in our land?
Let my enemies be destroyed by the very evil they have planned for me. Let burning coals fall down on their heads. Let them be thrown into the fire or into watery pits from which they can’t escape. Don’t let liars prosper here in our land. Cause great disasters to fall on the violent. (Ps 140:9-11 NLT)
Politicians do not often maintain the cause of the afflicted or bring justice for the needy, but does God?
I know that Yahweh will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and justice for the needy. Surely the righteous will give thanks to your name. The upright will dwell in your presence. (Ps 140:12-13 WEB)
What will the kingdom of God actually deliver that is totally different from every form of human government?
Jesus went to Nazareth, where he had been raised. On the Sabbath he went to the synagogue as he normally did and stood up to read. The synagogue assistant gave him the scroll from the prophet Isaiah. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written: The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me. He has sent me to preach good news to the poor, to proclaim release to the prisoners and recovery of sight to the blind, to liberate the oppressed, and to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor. He rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the synagogue assistant, and sat down. Every eye in the synagogue was fixed on him. He began to explain to them, “Today, this scripture has been fulfilled just as you heard it.” (Luke 4:16-21 CEB)
Has every form of human government failed to correct evils, stop wicked schemes, and bring justice to the poor? Is there a kingdom that will? You decide!
For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David. (WEB)
In a dangerous world of violence and evil and wars and venomous tongues, who alone can truly protect us?
Rescue me, Lord, from evil people; Protect me from violent men Who devise evil things in their hearts; They continually stir up wars. They sharpen their tongues like a snake; The venom of a viper is under their lips. Selah (Ps 140:1-3 NASB)
Who alone can keep us safe from the wicked, the violent, the arrogant, and traps in our path?
Keep me safe, Lord, from the hands of the wicked; protect me from the violent, who devise ways to trip my feet. The arrogant have hidden a snare for me; they have spread out the cords of their net and have set traps for me along my path. [Selah] (Ps 140:4-5 NIV)
When everyone else ignores our pleas, who will hear us?
I said to the Lord: “You are my God; Hear the voice of my supplications, O Lord. O God the Lord, the strength of my salvation, You have covered my head in the day of battle. Do not grant, O Lord, the desires of the wicked; Do not further his wicked scheme, Lest they be exalted. Selah (Ps 140:6-8 NKJV)
Do we get involved in the deceptive politics of this world or pray for God to destroy the plans of liars in our land?
Let my enemies be destroyed by the very evil they have planned for me. Let burning coals fall down on their heads. Let them be thrown into the fire or into watery pits from which they can’t escape. Don’t let liars prosper here in our land. Cause great disasters to fall on the violent. (Ps 140:9-11 NLT)
Politicians do not often maintain the cause of the afflicted or bring justice for the needy, but does God?
I know that Yahweh will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and justice for the needy. Surely the righteous will give thanks to your name. The upright will dwell in your presence. (Ps 140:12-13 WEB)
What will the kingdom of God actually deliver that is totally different from every form of human government?
Jesus went to Nazareth, where he had been raised. On the Sabbath he went to the synagogue as he normally did and stood up to read. The synagogue assistant gave him the scroll from the prophet Isaiah. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written: The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me. He has sent me to preach good news to the poor, to proclaim release to the prisoners and recovery of sight to the blind, to liberate the oppressed, and to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor. He rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the synagogue assistant, and sat down. Every eye in the synagogue was fixed on him. He began to explain to them, “Today, this scripture has been fulfilled just as you heard it.” (Luke 4:16-21 CEB)
Has every form of human government failed to correct evils, stop wicked schemes, and bring justice to the poor? Is there a kingdom that will? You decide!
You Have Searched Me (Ps 139)
Are money, celebrity and things as important to God as a person’s heart? Let’s begin in Psalm 139.
For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David. (WEB)
Does God know everything about us, even what we are thinking?
Yahweh, you have searched me, and you know me. You know my sitting down and my rising up. You perceive my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word on my tongue, but behold, Yahweh, you know it altogether. You hem me in behind and before. You laid your hand on me. This knowledge is beyond me. It’s lofty. I can’t attain it. (Ps 139:1-6 WEB)
Where can we go to escape God who is everywhere, ubiquitous?
Where could I go to get away from your spirit? Where could I go to escape your presence? If I went up to heaven, you would be there. If I went down to the grave, you would be there too! If I could fly on the wings of dawn, stopping to rest only on the far side of the ocean—even there your hand would guide me; even there your strong hand would hold me tight! If I said, “The darkness will definitely hide me; the light will become night around me,” even then the darkness isn’t too dark for you! Nighttime would shine bright as day, because darkness is the same as light to you! (Ps 139:7-12 CEB)
During our mother’s pregnancy, who is the one who designed a single cell to become a complete baby?
You are the one who put me together inside my mother's body, and I praise you because of the wonderful way you created me. Everything you do is marvelous! Of this I have no doubt. (Ps 139:13-14 CEV)
Who designed the intricate self-replicating DNA in that first cell, to become a variety of cells that formed a complete human body?
My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them. (Ps 139:15-16 ESV)
How can any human being possibly comprehend the thoughts of such a designer as God?
God, how difficult Your thoughts are for me to comprehend; how vast their sum is! If I counted them, they would outnumber the grains of sand; when I wake up, I am still with You. (Ps 139:17-18 HCSB)
Does God have a plan to bring justice to the wicked who hate Him and rebel?
God, if only you would execute the wicked, so that the men guilty of bloodshed would get away from me, who speak against you with evil motives, your enemies who are acting in vain. I hate those who hate you, Lord, do I not? I loathe those who rebel against you, do I not? With consummate hatred I hate them; I consider them my enemies. (Ps 139:19-22 ISV)
Do we desire that God would search our hearts and cleanse us and lead us in the way everlasting?
Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (Ps 139:23-24 KJV)
What did Jesus have to say about those who have such a pure heart?
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. (Mat 5:8 LSB)
Are money, celebrity and things as important to God as a person’s heart? You decide!
For the Chief Musician. A Psalm by David. (WEB)
Does God know everything about us, even what we are thinking?
Yahweh, you have searched me, and you know me. You know my sitting down and my rising up. You perceive my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word on my tongue, but behold, Yahweh, you know it altogether. You hem me in behind and before. You laid your hand on me. This knowledge is beyond me. It’s lofty. I can’t attain it. (Ps 139:1-6 WEB)
Where can we go to escape God who is everywhere, ubiquitous?
Where could I go to get away from your spirit? Where could I go to escape your presence? If I went up to heaven, you would be there. If I went down to the grave, you would be there too! If I could fly on the wings of dawn, stopping to rest only on the far side of the ocean—even there your hand would guide me; even there your strong hand would hold me tight! If I said, “The darkness will definitely hide me; the light will become night around me,” even then the darkness isn’t too dark for you! Nighttime would shine bright as day, because darkness is the same as light to you! (Ps 139:7-12 CEB)
During our mother’s pregnancy, who is the one who designed a single cell to become a complete baby?
You are the one who put me together inside my mother's body, and I praise you because of the wonderful way you created me. Everything you do is marvelous! Of this I have no doubt. (Ps 139:13-14 CEV)
Who designed the intricate self-replicating DNA in that first cell, to become a variety of cells that formed a complete human body?
My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them. (Ps 139:15-16 ESV)
How can any human being possibly comprehend the thoughts of such a designer as God?
God, how difficult Your thoughts are for me to comprehend; how vast their sum is! If I counted them, they would outnumber the grains of sand; when I wake up, I am still with You. (Ps 139:17-18 HCSB)
Does God have a plan to bring justice to the wicked who hate Him and rebel?
God, if only you would execute the wicked, so that the men guilty of bloodshed would get away from me, who speak against you with evil motives, your enemies who are acting in vain. I hate those who hate you, Lord, do I not? I loathe those who rebel against you, do I not? With consummate hatred I hate them; I consider them my enemies. (Ps 139:19-22 ISV)
Do we desire that God would search our hearts and cleanse us and lead us in the way everlasting?
Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (Ps 139:23-24 KJV)
What did Jesus have to say about those who have such a pure heart?
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. (Mat 5:8 LSB)
Are money, celebrity and things as important to God as a person’s heart? You decide!
He Regards the Lowly (Ps 138)
What is it about humble people that God loves? Let’s begin in Psalm 138.
By David. (WEB)
Do we give God thanks and sing His praises with all our hearts?
I will give You thanks with all my heart; I will sing Your praises before the gods. I will bow down toward Your holy temple And give thanks to Your name for Your mercy and Your truth; For You have made Your word great according to all Your name. On the day I called, You answered me; You made me bold with strength in my soul. (Ps 138:1-3 NASB)
What do we wish for all national leaders, that they would become true believers?
May all the kings of the earth praise you, Lord, when they hear what you have decreed. May they sing of the ways of the Lord, for the glory of the Lord is great. (Ps 138:4-5 NIV)
Who does God highly regard, the lowly or those filled with pride? Which ones will He revive?
Though the Lord is on high, Yet He regards the lowly; But the proud He knows from afar. Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; You will stretch out Your hand Against the wrath of my enemies, And Your right hand will save me. The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands. (Ps 138:6-8 NKJV)
Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? Does society often mock those who turn from their sins and become like little children? What does the hyperbolic language of cutting off a hand or gouging out an eye actually mean?
About that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?” Jesus called a little child to him and put the child among them. Then he said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. So anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me. But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to have a large millstone tied around your neck and be drowned in the depths of the sea. What sorrow awaits the world, because it tempts people to sin. Temptations are inevitable, but what sorrow awaits the person who does the tempting. So if your hand or foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It’s better to enter eternal life with only one hand or one foot than to be thrown into eternal fire with both of your hands and feet. And if your eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It’s better to enter eternal life with only one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into the fire of hell. Beware that you don’t look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels are always in the presence of my heavenly Father. (Mat 18:1-10 NLT)
What is it about humble people that God loves? You decide!
By David. (WEB)
Do we give God thanks and sing His praises with all our hearts?
I will give You thanks with all my heart; I will sing Your praises before the gods. I will bow down toward Your holy temple And give thanks to Your name for Your mercy and Your truth; For You have made Your word great according to all Your name. On the day I called, You answered me; You made me bold with strength in my soul. (Ps 138:1-3 NASB)
What do we wish for all national leaders, that they would become true believers?
May all the kings of the earth praise you, Lord, when they hear what you have decreed. May they sing of the ways of the Lord, for the glory of the Lord is great. (Ps 138:4-5 NIV)
Who does God highly regard, the lowly or those filled with pride? Which ones will He revive?
Though the Lord is on high, Yet He regards the lowly; But the proud He knows from afar. Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; You will stretch out Your hand Against the wrath of my enemies, And Your right hand will save me. The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands. (Ps 138:6-8 NKJV)
Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? Does society often mock those who turn from their sins and become like little children? What does the hyperbolic language of cutting off a hand or gouging out an eye actually mean?
About that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?” Jesus called a little child to him and put the child among them. Then he said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. So anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me. But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to have a large millstone tied around your neck and be drowned in the depths of the sea. What sorrow awaits the world, because it tempts people to sin. Temptations are inevitable, but what sorrow awaits the person who does the tempting. So if your hand or foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It’s better to enter eternal life with only one hand or one foot than to be thrown into eternal fire with both of your hands and feet. And if your eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It’s better to enter eternal life with only one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into the fire of hell. Beware that you don’t look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels are always in the presence of my heavenly Father. (Mat 18:1-10 NLT)
What is it about humble people that God loves? You decide!
Babylon (Ps 137)
Are we slaves to a system like ancient Babylon, based on greed, designed to take instead of give? Let’s begin in Psalm 137.
How would we feel being taken captive as slaves to a foreign country as Israel was to Babylon?
Alongside Babylon’s streams, there we sat down, crying because we remembered Zion. We hung our lyres up in the trees there because that’s where our captors asked us to sing; our tormentors requested songs of joy: “Sing us a song about Zion!” they said. But how could we possibly sing the Lord’s song on foreign soil? (Ps 137:1-4 CEB)
Would they not want to forget their homeland? Does the world around us try to tempt us to forget our eternal homeland?
Jerusalem, if I forget you, let my right hand go limp. Let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth, if I don't think about you above all else. (Ps 137:5-6 CEV)
Do we meditate on God’s eternal kingdom often, encouraging us to persevere until God takes us home?
Remember, O Lord, against the Edomites the day of Jerusalem, how they said, “Lay it bare, lay it bare, down to its foundations!” (Ps 137:7 ESV)
In a brutal expression of grief, did the captives wish justice upon Babylon?
Daughter Babylon, doomed to destruction, happy is the one who pays you back what you have done to us. Happy is he who takes your little ones and dashes them against the rocks. (Ps 137:8-9 HCSB)
Does Babylon describe a sexually immoral system, a capitalist system of incredible business profits?
After these things, I saw another angel coming down from heaven. He had great authority, and the earth was made bright by his splendor. He cried out in a powerful voice, “Fallen! Babylon the Great has fallen! She has become a home for demons. She is a prison for every unclean spirit, a prison for every unclean bird, and a prison for every unclean and hated beast. For all the nations have drunk from the wine of her sexual immorality, and the kings of the earth have committed sexual immorality with her. The world’s businesses have become rich from her luxurious excesses.” (Rev 18:1-3 ISV)
Are we warned to come out of this sinful Babylonian system?
And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities. Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works: in the cup which she hath filled fill to her double. How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her: for she saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow. Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her. (Rev 18:4-8 KJV)
Does this doomed Babylonian system traffic in merchandise and human lives?
And the kings of the earth, who committed sexual immorality and lived sensuously with her, will cry and lament over her when they see the smoke of her burning, standing at a distance because of the fear of her torment, saying, ‘Woe, woe, the great city, Babylon, the strong city! For in one hour your judgment has come.’ “And the merchants of the earth cry and mourn over her, because no one buys their cargo anymore—cargo of gold and silver and precious stones and pearls and fine linen and purple and silk and scarlet, and every kind of citron wood and every article of ivory and every article made from precious wood and bronze and iron and marble, and cinnamon and amomum and incense and perfume and frankincense and wine and olive oil and fine flour and wheat and cattle and sheep, and cargo of horses and carriages and human beings and human lives. (Rev 18:9-13 LSB)
Are we slaves to a system like ancient Babylon, based on greed, designed to take instead of give? You decide!
How would we feel being taken captive as slaves to a foreign country as Israel was to Babylon?
Alongside Babylon’s streams, there we sat down, crying because we remembered Zion. We hung our lyres up in the trees there because that’s where our captors asked us to sing; our tormentors requested songs of joy: “Sing us a song about Zion!” they said. But how could we possibly sing the Lord’s song on foreign soil? (Ps 137:1-4 CEB)
Would they not want to forget their homeland? Does the world around us try to tempt us to forget our eternal homeland?
Jerusalem, if I forget you, let my right hand go limp. Let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth, if I don't think about you above all else. (Ps 137:5-6 CEV)
Do we meditate on God’s eternal kingdom often, encouraging us to persevere until God takes us home?
Remember, O Lord, against the Edomites the day of Jerusalem, how they said, “Lay it bare, lay it bare, down to its foundations!” (Ps 137:7 ESV)
In a brutal expression of grief, did the captives wish justice upon Babylon?
Daughter Babylon, doomed to destruction, happy is the one who pays you back what you have done to us. Happy is he who takes your little ones and dashes them against the rocks. (Ps 137:8-9 HCSB)
Does Babylon describe a sexually immoral system, a capitalist system of incredible business profits?
After these things, I saw another angel coming down from heaven. He had great authority, and the earth was made bright by his splendor. He cried out in a powerful voice, “Fallen! Babylon the Great has fallen! She has become a home for demons. She is a prison for every unclean spirit, a prison for every unclean bird, and a prison for every unclean and hated beast. For all the nations have drunk from the wine of her sexual immorality, and the kings of the earth have committed sexual immorality with her. The world’s businesses have become rich from her luxurious excesses.” (Rev 18:1-3 ISV)
Are we warned to come out of this sinful Babylonian system?
And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities. Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works: in the cup which she hath filled fill to her double. How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her: for she saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow. Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her. (Rev 18:4-8 KJV)
Does this doomed Babylonian system traffic in merchandise and human lives?
And the kings of the earth, who committed sexual immorality and lived sensuously with her, will cry and lament over her when they see the smoke of her burning, standing at a distance because of the fear of her torment, saying, ‘Woe, woe, the great city, Babylon, the strong city! For in one hour your judgment has come.’ “And the merchants of the earth cry and mourn over her, because no one buys their cargo anymore—cargo of gold and silver and precious stones and pearls and fine linen and purple and silk and scarlet, and every kind of citron wood and every article of ivory and every article made from precious wood and bronze and iron and marble, and cinnamon and amomum and incense and perfume and frankincense and wine and olive oil and fine flour and wheat and cattle and sheep, and cargo of horses and carriages and human beings and human lives. (Rev 18:9-13 LSB)
Are we slaves to a system like ancient Babylon, based on greed, designed to take instead of give? You decide!
His Loving Kindness (Ps 136)
Do we look at many facets of our lives and notice God’s loving kindness? Is all repetition banned or just vain repetition? Let’s look at Psalm 136.
Do we give God thanks for His loving kindness often enough?
Give thanks to Yahweh, for He is good, For His lovingkindness endures forever.
Give thanks to the God of gods, For His lovingkindness endures forever.
Give thanks to the Lord of lords, For His lovingkindness endures forever. (Ps 136:1-3 LSB)
Does looking at a different translation, help us see a different facet of God’s love? Is God’s loving kindness, His faithfulness evident in creation?
To Him who alone does great wonders, For His faithfulness is everlasting;
To Him who made the heavens with skill, For His faithfulness is everlasting;
To Him who spread out the earth above the waters, For His faithfulness is everlasting;
To Him who made the great lights, For His faithfulness is everlasting:
The sun to rule by day, For His faithfulness is everlasting,
The moon and stars to rule by night, For His faithfulness is everlasting. (Ps 136:4-9 NASB)
Is God’s loving kindness, His faithfulness, His love to Israel seen in the events surrounding the Exodus?
to him who struck down the firstborn of Egypt His love endures forever.
and brought Israel out from among them His love endures forever.
with a mighty hand and outstretched arm; His love endures forever.
to him who divided the Red Sea asunder His love endures forever.
and brought Israel through the midst of it, His love endures forever.
but swept Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea; His love endures forever.
to him who led his people through the wilderness; His love endures forever. (Ps 136:10-16 NIV)
Is God’s loving kindness, His faithfulness, His love, His mercy seen in Israel’s promised land?
To Him who struck down great kings, For His mercy endures forever;
And slew famous kings, For His mercy endures forever—
Sihon king of the Amorites, For His mercy endures forever;
And Og king of Bashan, For His mercy endures forever—
And gave their land as a heritage, For His mercy endures forever;
A heritage to Israel His servant, For His mercy endures forever. (Ps 136:17-22 NKJV)
Is God’s loving kindness, His faithfulness, His mercy, His faithful love seen in remembering us in our daily needs?
He remembered us in our weakness. His faithful love endures forever.
He saved us from our enemies. His faithful love endures forever.
He gives food to every living thing. His faithful love endures forever.
Give thanks to the God of heaven. His faithful love endures forever. (Ps 136:23-26 NLT)
With God on our side are we losers when persecuted for our faith?
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from God’s love which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom 8:37-39 WEB)
Do we look at many facets of our lives and notice God’s loving kindness? Is all repetition banned or just vain repetition? You decide!
Do we give God thanks for His loving kindness often enough?
Give thanks to Yahweh, for He is good, For His lovingkindness endures forever.
Give thanks to the God of gods, For His lovingkindness endures forever.
Give thanks to the Lord of lords, For His lovingkindness endures forever. (Ps 136:1-3 LSB)
Does looking at a different translation, help us see a different facet of God’s love? Is God’s loving kindness, His faithfulness evident in creation?
To Him who alone does great wonders, For His faithfulness is everlasting;
To Him who made the heavens with skill, For His faithfulness is everlasting;
To Him who spread out the earth above the waters, For His faithfulness is everlasting;
To Him who made the great lights, For His faithfulness is everlasting:
The sun to rule by day, For His faithfulness is everlasting,
The moon and stars to rule by night, For His faithfulness is everlasting. (Ps 136:4-9 NASB)
Is God’s loving kindness, His faithfulness, His love to Israel seen in the events surrounding the Exodus?
to him who struck down the firstborn of Egypt His love endures forever.
and brought Israel out from among them His love endures forever.
with a mighty hand and outstretched arm; His love endures forever.
to him who divided the Red Sea asunder His love endures forever.
and brought Israel through the midst of it, His love endures forever.
but swept Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea; His love endures forever.
to him who led his people through the wilderness; His love endures forever. (Ps 136:10-16 NIV)
Is God’s loving kindness, His faithfulness, His love, His mercy seen in Israel’s promised land?
To Him who struck down great kings, For His mercy endures forever;
And slew famous kings, For His mercy endures forever—
Sihon king of the Amorites, For His mercy endures forever;
And Og king of Bashan, For His mercy endures forever—
And gave their land as a heritage, For His mercy endures forever;
A heritage to Israel His servant, For His mercy endures forever. (Ps 136:17-22 NKJV)
Is God’s loving kindness, His faithfulness, His mercy, His faithful love seen in remembering us in our daily needs?
He remembered us in our weakness. His faithful love endures forever.
He saved us from our enemies. His faithful love endures forever.
He gives food to every living thing. His faithful love endures forever.
Give thanks to the God of heaven. His faithful love endures forever. (Ps 136:23-26 NLT)
With God on our side are we losers when persecuted for our faith?
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from God’s love which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom 8:37-39 WEB)
Do we look at many facets of our lives and notice God’s loving kindness? Is all repetition banned or just vain repetition? You decide!
Praise the Lord (Ps 135)
Are songs of praise just a modern invention? Will we still want to praise God in prayer and in song when Christ returns? Let’s begin in Psalm 135.
What is one purpose for assembling together in the church building? Do we do this?
Praise the Lord! Praise the name of the Lord! Praise him, you who serve the Lord, you who serve in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God. (Ps 135:1-2 NLT)
Is one way to praise the Lord by singing in the house of the Lord? Do we sing?
Praise Yah, for Yahweh is good. Sing praises to his name, for that is pleasant. For Yah has chosen Jacob for himself, Israel for his own possession. (Ps 135:3-4 WEB)
How incredibly powerful is our God? Do we see it in the sea, clouds, lightning and wind?
Yes, I know for certain that the Lord is great—I know our Lord is greater than all other gods. The Lord can do whatever he wants in heaven or on earth, in the seas and in every ocean depth. God forms clouds at the far corners of the earth. God makes lightning for the rain. God releases the wind from its storeroom. (Ps 135:5-7 CEB)
How did the miracles surrounding the Exodus and settlement of the promised land reveal God’s power?
The Lord killed the first-born of people and animals in the land of Egypt. God used miracles and wonders to fight the king of Egypt and all of his officials. He destroyed many nations and killed powerful kings, including King Sihon of the Amorites and King Og of Bashan. He conquered every kingdom in the land of Canaan and gave their property to his people Israel. (Ps 135:8-12 CEV)
Do we have the trust and patience in God to wait upon His plan for His people?
Your name, O Lord, endures forever, your renown, O Lord, throughout all ages. For the Lord will vindicate his people and have compassion on his servants. (Ps 135:13-14 ESV)
Whether the nations worship literal idols or symbolic idols like material wealth, are they powerless substitutes for God?
The idols of the nations are of silver and gold, made by human hands. They have mouths but cannot speak, eyes, but cannot see. They have ears but cannot hear; indeed, there is no breath in their mouths. Those who make them are just like them, as are all who trust in them. (Ps 135:15-18 HCSB)
Are we all invited to bless the Lord from spiritual leaders to ordinary citizens?
House of Israel, bless the Lord! House of Aaron, bless the Lord! House of Levi, bless the Lord! You who fear the Lord, bless the Lord! Blessed be the Lord from Zion, he who lives in Jerusalem. Hallelujah! (Ps 135:19-21 ISV)
Is this theme of praising God carried into the celebrations after Christ’s return?
And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God: For true and righteous are his judgments: for he hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of his servants at her hand. And again they said, Alleluia And her smoke rose up for ever and ever. And the four and twenty elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God that sat on the throne, saying, Amen; Alleluia. And a voice came out of the throne, saying, Praise our God, all ye his servants, and ye that fear him, both small and great. And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. (Rev 19:1-6 KJV)
Are songs of praise just a modern invention? Will we still want to praise God in prayer and in song when Christ returns? You decide!
What is one purpose for assembling together in the church building? Do we do this?
Praise the Lord! Praise the name of the Lord! Praise him, you who serve the Lord, you who serve in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God. (Ps 135:1-2 NLT)
Is one way to praise the Lord by singing in the house of the Lord? Do we sing?
Praise Yah, for Yahweh is good. Sing praises to his name, for that is pleasant. For Yah has chosen Jacob for himself, Israel for his own possession. (Ps 135:3-4 WEB)
How incredibly powerful is our God? Do we see it in the sea, clouds, lightning and wind?
Yes, I know for certain that the Lord is great—I know our Lord is greater than all other gods. The Lord can do whatever he wants in heaven or on earth, in the seas and in every ocean depth. God forms clouds at the far corners of the earth. God makes lightning for the rain. God releases the wind from its storeroom. (Ps 135:5-7 CEB)
How did the miracles surrounding the Exodus and settlement of the promised land reveal God’s power?
The Lord killed the first-born of people and animals in the land of Egypt. God used miracles and wonders to fight the king of Egypt and all of his officials. He destroyed many nations and killed powerful kings, including King Sihon of the Amorites and King Og of Bashan. He conquered every kingdom in the land of Canaan and gave their property to his people Israel. (Ps 135:8-12 CEV)
Do we have the trust and patience in God to wait upon His plan for His people?
Your name, O Lord, endures forever, your renown, O Lord, throughout all ages. For the Lord will vindicate his people and have compassion on his servants. (Ps 135:13-14 ESV)
Whether the nations worship literal idols or symbolic idols like material wealth, are they powerless substitutes for God?
The idols of the nations are of silver and gold, made by human hands. They have mouths but cannot speak, eyes, but cannot see. They have ears but cannot hear; indeed, there is no breath in their mouths. Those who make them are just like them, as are all who trust in them. (Ps 135:15-18 HCSB)
Are we all invited to bless the Lord from spiritual leaders to ordinary citizens?
House of Israel, bless the Lord! House of Aaron, bless the Lord! House of Levi, bless the Lord! You who fear the Lord, bless the Lord! Blessed be the Lord from Zion, he who lives in Jerusalem. Hallelujah! (Ps 135:19-21 ISV)
Is this theme of praising God carried into the celebrations after Christ’s return?
And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God: For true and righteous are his judgments: for he hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of his servants at her hand. And again they said, Alleluia And her smoke rose up for ever and ever. And the four and twenty elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God that sat on the throne, saying, Amen; Alleluia. And a voice came out of the throne, saying, Praise our God, all ye his servants, and ye that fear him, both small and great. And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. (Rev 19:1-6 KJV)
Are songs of praise just a modern invention? Will we still want to praise God in prayer and in song when Christ returns? You decide!
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