Notes from Linda:
12/1/22: I just found out that most of the commentaries on the Bible Study Tools website are no longer free. That's where most of the quotes that appear on the "Verse of the Day" and "Previous Verses" pages of my website are taken from, so from now on, many of the "Source:" links that I provide on those pages will not contain the quoted text.I was disgusted to read about the organization's new "PLUS" membership, and the only thing I can say about it is that the Bible has this warning in 1 Timothy 6:10 for the owner of Bible Study Tools: "For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows."
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8/8/21: Something is wrong with my Christian forum. Everything seems to be working normally (i.e., the articles are there, and the links work), but for some reason, the forum's format has changed slightly, and I am currently unable to post anything new.
I'm really sorry for the inconvenience. Hopefully, the problem is only temporay and will be fixed soon.
"Verse of the Day"
Bible Verses
Bible Verses
"Verse of the Day"
Bible Verses
Bible Verses
Previous Verses
February 2026
FEBRUARY 27-28
Proverbs 27:12, Proverbs 22:3
Proverbs 27:12: "A prudent [wise, sensible] man [or woman or child] foreseeth [foresees] the evil [i.e., senses danger or trouble], and hideth [hides] himself [or herself] [from it] [meaning he (or she) avoids it, gets safely out of the way]; but the simple [unwise, foolish] [people] pass on [or keep going towards 'the evil'], and are punished."
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For instance, concerning alcohol, gangs, and pornography (Section B, paragraph 5, of the commentary), we are told that:
"b. A prudent man can see right through the façade [false outward appearance] of the advertisements for alcohol which imply that if you drink Budweiser [or other brands of beer], you too will be at the fabulous parties with gorgeous [beautiful] women[,] and life will be non-stop fun! He can see through that to the evil that is the REAL end result of alcohol: divorce; fatherless children; destroyed livers; Skid Row [life in a run-down part of town that is frequented by vagrants (beggars), alcoholics, and drug addicts]; prison. He looks beyond the immediate façade to foresee the evil.
"c. A prudent young person should be able to discern [recognize] when a group of kids is trouble or not. You can sense, that with a certain group of kids, you just know that trouble is right around the corner. You can tell by what they talk about; by what they say they have done in the past; by what they think is funny; [by] their attitude towards life; [and by their attitude] towards spiritual things.
"d. A prudent man ought to be able to foresee trouble ahead for those [people] who go online [or 'on the computer'] to watch pornography; or to chat and flirt with women online. You know where that leads. A prudent man will foresee the calamity [disaster] that lies ahead."
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The commentary ends by saying:
"i. A smart person will see trouble coming. A wise person will see trouble coming too… and [will] get out of the way."
"j. A person who is smart and perceptive [observant, quick to understand] is not necessarily wise and moral.
"k. A lot of intelligent people know the dangers of alcohol & drugs, but use them anyway! They foresee the evil, but they don't hide themselves from it.
"l. A lot of intelligent people know the dangers of gambling. It has trouble written all over it! But they dive right in [or 'enthusiastically participate in it'] anyway.
"m. They may be intelligent and perceptive; but not prudent, wise, and moral. If they were, they would have hidden themselves from those dangers."
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If you want to read the above-mentioned commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "27:12."
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Note: Proverbs 22:3 is almost exactly the same as Proverbs 27:12. Salem Bible Church has a commentary on that verse, too, including many more examples of dangers to avoid. If you want to read that commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "22:3."
FEBRUARY 25-26
Proverbs 25:28
Proverbs 25:28: "He [or she] that hath [has] no rule [restraint, control] over his [or her] own spirit [temper, or state of mind, referring to that person's thoughts, desires, inclinations, resentments, etc.] is like a city that is broken down, and without walls."
"This proverb speaks of the danger of lacking self-control."
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The first section of Pastor Delany's commentary tells how a lack of self-control concerning inner thoughts and emotions can adversely (in a bad or harmful way) affect people's lives. Examples include Anger, The tongue, and Sexual desire.
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In the next section of the commentary, the pastor explains how a man without self-control can be compared, first, to a city without walls and, second, to a broken down city:
"2. A man without self control is like a city without walls.
"a. In [King] Solomon's day, city walls spoke of a city's main layer of security.
"b. Cities built walls around them to keep out invading armies.
"c. This might not be as meaningful to us today as it was in ancient times.
"d. Today planes can fly over cities and drop bombs. Walls are more decorative for us today.
"e. But in ancient times, before planes, walls were the major obstacle to an invading army. The taller and wider they were, the better!
"f. Cities like Babylon had a double wall around the city and their walls were wide enough for chariots to ride upon. That gave the Babylonians a sense of safety and security.
"g. Thus, a city without walls was not safe. They were wide open to attacks from their enemies.
"h. Their city walls served as a layer of protection; but without walls they [the cities] were vulnerable [open to attack]. They were unprotected. They were in a weakened condition. They were defenseless and hopelessly exposed to invaders. The enemies could march right in with nothing to stop them. And the enemy can march right in from any direction they want. There are no walls!"
"3. A man without self-control is like a broken down city.
"a. A broken down city is a city that was invaded, defeated, and destroyed from within."
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In this proverb, says the pastor, "Solomon simply points out the problem [i.e., a lack of self-control]; he does not offer a solution to the problem… because the Law [of Moses] (under which he lived) [in Old Testament times] did not have the solution we know today." That solution is in the New Testament book of Galatians, which says that:
"f. Gal. 5:22-23 -- The fruit of the Spirit is 'temperance' -- or self-control.
"• A life yielded and surrendered to God will be fortified and strong… self-controlled… like a city with massive [gigantic] walls over which no enemy can enter.
"• Instead of attempting the impossible--attempting to put out a thousand fires of anger, lust, pride, etc., God's answer is to be FILLED (controlled by) the [Holy] Spirit… and thus HE will work in us and produce the fruit of the Spirit--[i.e.,] temperance [restraint, self-control].
"• Temperance [or 'self-control'], the fruit of the Spirit[,] serves as a city wall over which no enemy can scale [climb up or over].
"• The person who dwells there (by walking in the [Holy] Spirit day by day) is safe and secure. The one [or 'The person'] who walks in the Spirit will NOT fulfill the lusts of the flesh.
"• God's Holy Spirit enables the believer [born-again Christian] to have control over his spirit such that he is able to take offence, insult, verbal abuse, without blowing up [or 'having outbursts of anger'] and without striking back [or 'hurting the person in return']."
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If you want to read the rest of Pastor Delany's commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "25:28."
"2. The bad case of a vicious man, who has not [or 'who does not have'] this rule over his own spirit, who, when temptations to excess in eating or drinking are before him, has no government of himself, when he is provoked [stirred up, angered] breaks out into exorbitant passions [excessive emotions], such a one is like a city that is broken down and without walls. All that is good goes out, and forsakes [abandons] him; all that is evil breaks in upon him. He lies exposed to all the temptations of Satan and becomes an easy prey [victim] to that enemy; he is also liable to many troubles and vexations [irritations]; it is likewise as much a reproach [disappointment] to him as it is to a city to have its walls ruined …"
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/25.html, "Verse 28")
FEBRUARY 24
Proverbs 24:1, 2
Proverbs 24:1-2: "Be not thou envious against [don't envy or be jealous of] evil men [people] [and what they have], neither [and don't] desire to be with them. For their heart [or, in this case, their minds] studieth [study, plan] destruction [i.e., ways to physically harm other people, steal their possessions, destroy their reputations, etc.], and their lips talk [speak] of mischief [doing bad things]."
Why we shouldn't envy evil men (or "evil people"):
"b. Envying what good, honest men have is wrong and sinful.
"c. But envying EVIL men is worse. Why would a believer [a Christian] ever want to trade places with an evil man?"
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Regarding what comes out of an evil person's mouth:
"b. Note the words of wisdom here:
"• We CANNOT know what is in a man's heart and therefore, we should not judge a man for what goes on in his heart.
"• But we CAN know what comes out of his mouth. And we SHOULD judge him on that basis.
"• If he talks [about] mischief and trouble, then this is the kind of person we should NOT desire to be around.
"• Seek friendship and fellowship elsewhere. You have been warned!"
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If you want to read the rest of the commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "24:1-2."
FEBRUARY 22-23
Proverbs 22:4
Proverbs 22:4: "By [means of, or 'the results of, or rewards for, having'] humility [meekness, mildness, tenderness, not thinking that you are better than other people] and the fear of the LORD [i.e., a holy reverence for God, or having a desire to obey and please God and not do anything to offend him] are riches [money--in this case, a sufficient amount (not too much and not too little)], and honour [honor, a good reputation], and [a comfortable, pleasant, enjoyable, good-quality] life."
"A. The main thrust [focus] of this proverb is to teach HOW this trilogy of [or 'set of three'] blessings [i.e., riches, honor, and life] is achieved. ([in other words,] by what means)
"1. The world [personified, referring to the people in the world as a group] has its way of achieving the 'good life.'
"a. The world seeks to be rich, famous, and to live the good life.
"b. But their attitude is vastly different from what [King] Solomon describes [in this proverb].
"c. Their REASON for wanting to achieve this is entirely selfish.
"d. Their MEANS of obtaining [it] is also contrary to Scripture [or opposite to what it says in the Bible].
"e. They [the people in the world] say that if you want to be rich, famous, and live the 'good life,' then you have to climb over people. You have to do whatever it takes to advance SELF.
"f. It might require an occasional lie, cheating, back stabbing [betrayal], etc… but (say they) that's what you have to do!
"g. Sometimes, you have to be aggressive, pushy, and assertive and not take no for an answer.
"h. On other occasions, you have to butter people up, say what people want to hear, and even be deceitful [dishonest].
"i. On occasion [occasionally, once in a while] you have to be ruthless, a cut throat; cold hearted; and not considerate of others if you want to advance [your]self.
"j. If you want to succeed, it is the survival of the fittest.
"2. Solomon describes a very DIFFERENT means of obtaining riches, honor, and the 'good life.'" [In today's verse (Proverbs 22:4), he says that the preferred way to obtain them is through humility and by living a God-fearing life,.]
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If you want to read the rest of Pastor Delany's commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/, then scroll down to "22:4."
FEBRUARY 21
Proverbs 21:23
Proverbs 21:23: "Whoso [whoever] keepeth [keeps] his [or her] mouth and his [or her] tongue [under control, meaning the person is careful of or watches what he (or she) says] keepeth his [or her] soul from troubles [or 'stays out of trouble']."
"… keep your mouth shut and you will stay out of trouble!"
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Here are some excerpts from the pastor's commentary on that verse:
"i. You might think of guarding our mouths like a guard at the entrance to the White House [in the United States]. His job is to carefully watch and monitor who comes [out] and who goes [in]. No one goes through that gate without proper identification as one who has been approved for entrance. He [the guard] is to be on constant alert that some [people] who seeks [or 'seek'] to enter that gate have evil intentions.
"j. So too with our words. We are to keep or guard our mouths for every word we say. No word is to travel through the mouth gate unless it has been approved… and its intentions are good."
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"4. Keeping the soul from trouble.
"a. The one who guards his mouth will protect his soul from all kinds of distress… calamity… unfavorable circumstances… and from emotional pain, distress.
"b. The one who guards his mouth will protect his soul from enemies of the soul… from worry, fear, anxiety, guilt, shame, bitterness, and all kinds of other internal emotional forms of distress and painful memories.
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"5. Troubles we can avoid.
"a. Prov. 10:19 -- In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin.
"• Jas. 3:5 -- And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity.
"• We can sin with our mouths. (Lie; gossip; slander [make false statements that damage someone's reputation]; mislead; brag; boast; curse; deceive; etc.)
"• [King] Solomon notes in this verse that the more we talk ([i.e.,] multitude of words) the better [are] our chances of sinning.
"• Solomon also tells us that it is wise to refrain [hold back] our lips, tongues, and mouths ([because] if we talk less, we will sin less.)
"• By speaking too much we can turn people off and lose friends.
"• By multiplying our words, we multiply our chances of offending someone… hurting someone's feelings… misleading… or gossiping. (Sin!)
"• This often backfires on us and leads to all kinds of self inflicted trouble [referring to trouble caused by our own actions].
"b. Prov. 12:13 -- 'The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble.'
"• Transgressing lips are a snare… something that traps you…
"• Solomon is saying that when we sin with our lips, we get CAUGHT in a trap of our own making!
"• If we sin with our lips, sooner or later, those words will come back to haunt us [meaning they can later cause all kinds of problems]…
"• If we are careless with our tongues, and speak without thinking… we are setting TRAPS that will BITE us… and cause trouble for us--eventually.
"• Those who lie [or 'tell lies'] discover that their words will come back to bite them.
"• Those who gossip and slander discover the same thing.
"• Eventually our sin will find us out [or be exposed or discovered]… and it will cause much trouble (embarrassment; to loss of friends; loss of a job; or worse!)
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"• The one who does not guard his lips will be continually offending, insulting, hurting feelings, and getting people mad at him.
"• Words really do stir up anger.
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"• A fool's lips enter into contention.
"• In other words, whenever he opens his mouth, he starts an argument or contention. His words PROVOKE arguments and fighting.
"• His big mouth is constantly getting him into trouble.
"• Note also that STROKES await him. He deserves a whipping.
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"6. All of these troubles will have a debilitating [weakening] effect on the believer [saved person, born-again Christian].
"a. It will not leave us in any frame of mind to serve the Lord.
"b. It will leave us frazzled [exhausted] and torn [apart] [or 'emotionally distressed'].
"c. It leaves a storm of controversy and contention wherever we go.
"d. It is sin and ruins our relationship with both God and man [mankind, human beings].
"e. It leaves us with an uneasy, troubled, distressed heart… full of guilt and shame… embarrassment… a loss of friends… and a miserable life.
"f. In other words--a life of TROUBLE.
"7. All of this trouble can be AVOIDED by simply watching our mouth… keeping our big mouth shut!"
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If you want to read the rest of the commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "21:23."
FEBRUARY 20
Proverbs 20:10, 23
Proverbs 20:10: "Divers [different, unequal] weights [for example (in Bible times), of stones on one side of a balance scale and something else on the other side--see note below*], and divers measures [unequal quantities in devices used to measure things (like grain, tea, and sugar) on a scale], both of them [i.e., divers weights and measures] are alike [or 'are both'] abomination [a repulsive, offensive, disgusting thing] to the LORD [God]."
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Proverbs 20:23: "Divers weights are an [an] abomination unto the LORD; and a false [deceitful] balance is not good [in the sight of God and mankind]."
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Here are some excerpts from the pastor's commentary:
Regarding "weights and measures" (balances or scales):
"1. Weights and measures were instruments used to conduct business in ancient times before paper money."
"4. Balance: Set of scales; i.e., an implement for weighing, consisting of two balance pans with a standardized weight in one pan and the object to be weighed in the other."
"b. … A false balance is an abomination.
"• If the balance arms were of unequal length, the scale would appear to say that they were equal, but they would not be equal.
"• It works like a seesaw. The short end requires more weight to balance the bar.
"• Thus, dishonest merchants could use a 'false balance'--with arms of unequal length."
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Examples of dishonest business practices:
"f. … In recent years some companies have chosen a sneaky way of getting more money from us.
"• Instead of raising the price, they made the product smaller… but just a little smaller so you might not notice. ([Examples are:] Ice cream; coffee cans; bread.)
"• The size of the product is reduced, but the price is not reduced--so you are really paying MORE per ounce for the product, even though the can has the same price.
"• It is not stealing, because the new cans are labeled in small print."
"4. We don't use stones and scales to buy and purchase today, but the principle applies just as well in the modern world.
"a. Some companies keep two books instead of two stones. They keep one book for the IRS [i.e., Internal Revenue Service] and the auditor, and another book for their own records. (That's like having two different weights [on a scale].)
"b. Gas stations have been caught in skimming scams. They tweak [make an adjustment to] their pumps so that you are not getting a full gallon [of gas], even though the pump SAYS you are… and even though you are PAYING for a full gallon. That IS stealing and is against the law. Thus, they have two measures--one measure the customer actually receives (9/10 gal. [or '9/10 (90%) of a gallon']) and the other is what he pays for (a full gallon).
"c. Today thieves steal identity. They have their own IDs [identification] and credit cards for everyday use. Then they have YOUR credit cards and IDs for when they go on a shopping spree."
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Why 'divers weights and measures' are an abomination to God:
"b. The two (weights and measures) are BOTH the same…
"c. It really doesn't matter HOW you cheat with these instruments.
"d. Whether you put an unequal weight in the scale for items sold by weight, OR if you use the wrong size measuring basket for items sold by volume, the bottom line [or 'the result'] is the same.
"e. You're cheating! You're stealing! It is a dishonest scam. You're a crook!
"f. And today, it doesn't matter by what MEANS we cheat or steal from others… every method is alike an abomination [to God]."
"a. God observes [sees] all such practices.
"b. He hates the deceptive practice.
"c. He also hates the greed--the love of money--that undergirds [or 'is the underlying cause for'] it [i.e., cheating and stealing].
""d. He [God] hates to see people take advantage of others."
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If you want to read the rest of the commentary, which covers both of today's verses (Proverbs 20:10 and 23), go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "20:10."
"… In paying and receiving money, which was then [i.e., in Bible times] commonly done by the scale, they had divers weights, an under-weight for what they paid and an over-weight for what they received; in delivering out and taking in goods [products,] they had divers measures, a scanty [small] measure to sell by and a large measure to buy by … Whether they be about the money or the goods, in the buyer or in the seller, they are all alike an abomination to the Lord …"
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/20.html, "Verse 10")
"A device for weighing. It has a balanced beam and two pans.
"When the pans contain exactly the same mass [or are the same weight] the beam is in balance.
"You can place an object in one pan and standard weights in the other to find what the object weighs."
To see what a balance scale looks like and how it works, click here: https://www.mathsisfun.com/definitions/balance-scales.html.
FEBRUARY 17-19
Proverbs 17:21
Proverbs 17:21: "He [or she] that begetteth [begets, conceives, produces, becomes the parent of] a fool [in this case, referring to a child who is disobedient and rebellious and makes the wrong choices in life] doeth [does] it to his [or her--meaning the parent's] sorrow: and the father [or mother] of a fool hath [has] no joy [when thinking about his (or her) foolish child's problems and/or ruined life]."
"… doesn't mean that he [the father] has no joy in his life at all … It means that he derives [gets] no joy from the condition of his son."
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Regarding sorrow, Pastor Delany says that:
"c. As the son bumbles [blunders, stumbles] through life, making one poor choice after another, it brings sorrow to the son… but also to the father.
"d. And this sorrow doesn't go away when they [the foolish sons] move out on their own. A father will always be a father to his son… throughout his adult life too."
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According to Pastor Delany, all fathers, including Christians, can have foolish sons. Godly fathers mentioned in the Bible who had foolish sons included Isaac (per Genesis 26:34-35), Eli (per 1 Samuel 2:32-35), Samuel (per 1 Samuel 8:3), and King David (per 2 Samuel 18:33).
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The commentary ends with this advice:
"Exhortations
"1. To older parents with a wayward [self-willed, headstrong] son:
"a. Be sure you make the LORD your source of joy. He never changes… and no one can take that joy--TRUE joy from you… not even the ongoing foolish antics [outrageous behavior] of a foolish son.
"2. To younger parents bringing up their children:
"a. BEWARE! This could happen to you!
"b. Make sure that your children do not become fools because of negligence [carelessness] on YOUR part.
"c. There's no guarantee how they [your children] will turn out… but if they go astray [off course], be sure that it's not your fault!
"d. Do whatever it takes to PREVENT this from happening to them!
"e. Bring them up in the nurture and admonition [discipline, guidance, and teaching] of the Lord. Pray for them daily… hourly…
"f. And start now learning this important lesson: no matter how they turn out, the LORD is the Source of our joy…
"g. Don't let your children become your god.
"h. [Jesus] Christ is to have all the preeminence [superiority, highest rank], not your kids.
"3. To children:
"a. Maybe you are presently sitting on the fence: teetering back and forth… debating about which way to go…
"b. Debating between whether you should follow the advice of your parents and being a wise son… OR forsaking [abandoning] your training and living for yourself… and doing your own thing… and not listening to authority… and ending up as a fool.
"c. Make good decisions NOW before your heart gets hardened into folly [foolishness].
"d. Remember, that the life of a fool is no fun. It brings great sorrow [sadness] to YOU for the rest of your days [on earth, or 'for the rest of your life']. There are consequences to folly [foolish behavior].
"e. And think of others too… your folly can cause unending grief and sorrow for your parents too.
"f. If you're not saved, get saved [see note below*]! That's the first step to wisdom.
"g. If you are saved and not walking with [or 'in obedience to'] the Lord, then repent… and get right.
"h. Don't ruin your life… and the lives of those around you!"
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The above commentary on verse 21 is combined with the one for verse 25. If you want to read it, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "17:21."
FEBRUARY 15-16
Proverbs 15:9
Proverbs 15:9: "The way [of life, or the lifestyles] of the wicked [people--those who are sinful, disobedient, rebellious, immoral, etc.] is an abomination [a disgusting thing] unto the LORD: but he [God] loveth [loves] him [or her] that followeth [follows] after righteousness [or 'who obeys the Bible']".
"If a man is walking in the way of sin, rebellion, and unbelief, no prayer, no sacrifice, no thought could ever endear him to [or make him beloved or well liked by] God. Nothing on that way is acceptable to the Lord."
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Here is an excerpt from paragraph B2 of Pastor Delany's commentary regarding the first part of Proverbs 15:9:
"c. The wicked [people] cannot take their anger out on God directly, so it [the wicked people as a group] vents its wrath [expresses its anger] against godly [morally good] men and women [i.e., Christians].
"d. This is the world's way of saying to God, 'the feeling of abomination is mutual!' [meaning both parties feel the same way; in other words, it's like the people of the world are saying to God, 'we're an abomination to you, so you (and your followers) are an abomination to us!']
"e. This is one of the reasons for such hostility [unfriendliness, ill will] and deep division in our nation today.
"» The deep division and hostility is not so much over tax cuts, building highways or schools, or passing this bill or that.
"» The real division is over the MORAL issues of our day: abortion; gay marriage; fornication [sexual intercourse between people not married to each other]; euthanasia [mercy killing, assisted suicide]; divorce and the breakdown of the traditional Christian family; etc."
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If you want to read more of the commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "15:9."
FEBRUARY 14
Romans 12:9
Regarding one of the duties of Christians, the apostle Paul wrote:
Romans 12:9: "Let love [for others] be without dissimulation [i.e., without hypocrisy or pretense, or, in other words, 'let love be sincere (genuine, not fake)']. Abhor [hate] that which is evil [in this case, referring to unkindness rather than to evil in general]; cleave [hold on tightly, or become attached, stick, or cling] to that which is good."
-- "What does it mean to abhor what is evil (Romans 12:9)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/abhor-what-is-evil.html)
-- "What does it mean to let love be without hypocrisy (Romans 12:9)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/love-without-hypocrisy.html)
-- "What does it mean to cling to what is good (Romans 12:9)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/cling-to-what-is-good.html)
FEBRUARY 12-13
Proverbs 12:10
Proverbs 12:10: "A righteous man [or, in other words, a decent, moral, kind-hearted, 'good' person] regardeth [regards] the life of his [or her] beast [which means that the person takes care of his (or her) animals (i.e., 'beasts of burden,' not household pets) by providing food, shelter, rest, protection, etc., for them]: but the tender mercies [i.e., the expressions of pity and compassion] of the wicked [people--to other human beings and animals] are cruel [heartless--or nonexistent]."
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Pastor Delany's excellent commentary on today's verse contains many examples of animals' actions and how so-called "good" and "bad" people might react to them. It also discusses the relationship between man and beast, both in Bible times and modern times; how a person's treatment of animals (and even machines, such as cars and computers) might indicate how he or she would treat people; and what to watch out for when choosing a spouse or friend.
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If you want to read the commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "12:10."
FEBRUARY 10-11
James 5:13
A message from the apostle James to Christians:
James 5:13: "Is any[one] among you afflicted [i.e., troubled by physical or mental pain and/or suffering, such as sickness, death of a loved one, disappointment, persecution, loss of property, etc.]? [If so,] let him [or her] pray [to God]. Is any[one] merry [happy, cheerful]? [If so,] let him [or her] sing psalms [songs of praise to God]."
"… Times of afflictions are proper times for prayer; there is then more especially need of it [prayer]; and God sometimes lays his afflicting hand upon his people [or causes them to suffer], when they have been negligent [neglectful] of their duty, and he has not heard of them for some time, in order to bring them near to him, to seek his face, pay him a visit, and pour out a prayer before him …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/james/5-13.html, "Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible")
"… Health fails, friends die, property is lost, disappointments come upon us, danger threatens, death approaches - and to whom shall we go but to God? He ever lives [or 'lives forever']. He never fails us or disappoints us if we trust in him, and his ear is ever [forever, always] open to our cries. This would be a sad world indeed, if it were not for the privilege of prayer …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bnb/james-5.html, "Verse 13")
FEBRUARY 8-9
Proverbs 8:35, 36
The Importance of Wisdom
Wisdom (God's wisdom personified, or speaking like a person) says:
Proverbs 8:35-36: "For whoso findeth me [whoever finds me (Wisdom)] [in other words, whoever searches for wisdom, finds it, and does what it says] findeth life [i.e., a good, long, happy life … one that is worth living], and shall obtain favour of [or 'blessings from'] the LORD. But he [or she] that sinneth [sins] against me [Wisdom---by refusing to follow my lead or take my advice] wrongeth [wrongs] his [or her] own soul: all they that hate me [Wisdom] love death."
"a. … the life that listens with the ears and the heart to Lady Wisdom is the life that will be blessed by God.
"b. If we refuse to follow the way of God's wisdom… we are refusing His [God's] blessing in our life!
"c. This is all our choice."
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In paragraph 1 of his commentary, under "Life and Favor," Pastor Delany goes on to say:
"h. We act on our feelings way too often. We are by nature impatient.
"• Sometimes we decide and then pray.
"• On other occasions, we pray and then decide… which can be just as bad!
"• What God wants us to do is to pray… and wait for an answer! Don't pray… and then go ahead and do what we have already decided to do!
"• That is the way of the flesh… acting on feelings and impulses.
"• God is able to guide us… incline our mind and heart… to use His Word [as recorded in the Bible]… to work IN us both to will and to do of HIS good pleasure.
"• The one who truly FINDS wisdom is the one who waits at the posts of Lady Wisdom's doorposts… waiting to KNOW what is the right way to go… the right thing to do… the right and wise decision to make.
"• Ex. 29:42 -- the priests waited at the door of the tabernacle to hear the word of the Lord!
"• THEN we need to act and obey--even if the way seems tough… even if the way of wisdom involves suffering… crosses to bear…"
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Included in the pastor's commentary are examples of ways that people "wrong their own souls" (or hurt themselves--through alcoholism, sexual immorality, gambling, bad parenting, gossip, laziness, etc.) by rejecting and disobeying God's counsel and by choosing, instead, to do bad things.
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If you want to read more of the commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "8:35-36."
FEBRUARY 7
Colossians 3:23
In a letter to the Christians at Colosse, while discussing the relationship between servants (or employees) and their masters (or bosses), the apostle Paul wrote:
Colossians 3:23: "And whatsoever [whatever] ye [you (servants or employees)] do, do it heartily [cheerfully, enthusiastically, wholeheartedly], as [if you're doing it] to [or 'for'] the Lord, and not [just] unto [to, or 'for'] men [or 'people'];"
"Slaves should do their work primarily for the Lord. This view of work transforms a worker's attitudes and performance. Even the most servile [subservient, slave-like] work thereby becomes a ministry and an act of worship."
Quoting someone else, he added:
"'He [the apostle Paul] means, "Don't keep your eye on the clock. Keep your eye on Christ. He is the One whom you are serving." This is the way you ought to do your job.'"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/colossians/3-23.html, "Dr. Constable's Expository Notes")
FEBRUARY 1-6
Proverbs 1:20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33
Wisdom's Warning to Foolish People
In the following verses, Wisdom (personified, or acting like a person) is speaking to "simple" people, "scorners," and "fools":
Proverbs 1:20-21: "Wisdom crieth [cries] without [or outside, in public]; she uttereth [utters] her voice [or speaks] in the streets: She crieth in the chief place of concourse [i.e., a large open area], [and] in the openings of the gates: in the city she uttereth her words, saying [to three kinds of fools],"
Proverbs 1:22-23: "How long, ye [you] simple ones [referring to willfully (deliberately) ignorant, inexperienced people], will ye love simplicity? and [how long will] the scorners [or 'scoffers'--people who are arrogant (conceited) and have a contemptuous (disrespectful) disregard for wisdom, authority, or religious truth] delight [take pleasure] in their scorning [mocking (making fun) of everything that is good], and [how long will] fools hate knowledge? Turn you at [or 'turn toward' or 'heed'] my reproof [criticism or correction] [in other words, repent and obey] [and]: behold [or 'notice that'], I [Wisdom] will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you."
Proverbs 1:24-25: "Because I [Wisdom] have called, and ye [i.e., the simple ones, scorners, and hard-hearted fools mentioned above] refused [to listen]; I have stretched out my hand [that was offered to help], and no man [or woman or child] regarded [paid attention]; But ye have set at nought [or 'you have ignored' or 'disregarded'] all [of] my counsel [advice], and would [have] none of my reproof [criticism or correction]:"
Proverbs 1:26-27: "[so, or because you have ignored me or refused to listen when I called,] I [God's wisdom, not God himself] also will laugh [a sad kind of laughter] at your calamity [great misfortune or disaster]; I will mock [make fun of you] when your fear cometh [comes]; When your fear cometh as desolation [destruction], and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind [i.e., suddenly, like a tornado or hurricane]; when distress [extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain] and anguish [mental or physical pain or suffering] cometh upon you."
Proverbs 1:28-29: "Then [when fear, destruction, distress, and anguish come upon the people who rejected Wisdom's call] shall they [the simple ones, scorners, and hard-hearted fools] call upon me [Wisdom], but I will not answer; they shall seek [search for] me early [or 'earnestly' or 'eagerly'], but they shall not find me: For that [or 'that's because'] they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the LORD:"
Proverbs 1:30-32: "They [the foolish people mentioned above] would [have] none of my [Wisdom's] counsel [advice]: they despised [hated, rejected] all [of] my reproof [criticism or correction]. Therefore shall they eat of the [bad, or rotten,] fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices [plans] [in other words, they will 'reap what they sow' (i.e., suffer the consequences of their foolish behavior, or the results of their bad decisions and actions)]. For the turning away of the simple [people--from wisdom] shall slay [kill] them, and the prosperity [carefree lifestyle] of fools shall destroy them."
Proverbs 1:33: "But whoso [whoever] hearkeneth [hearkens] unto [or 'listens to'] me [Wisdom] shall dwell safely [or 'live in safety'], and shall be quiet from fear of evil."
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Since this passage on wisdom is so long, I have arranged the verses on this page in groups that generally correspond to Pastor Delany's commentaries (which were probably taken from sermons that he delivered, in person, to his congregation). If you want to read any or all of these commentaries, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to:
-- "1:20-23" for Verses 20-23: "Wisdom Calls!"
-- "1:24-27" for Verses 24-27: "I Have Called and Ye Refused"
-- "1:28-30" for Verses 28-30: "Too Late For Wisdom!"
-- "1:30-32" for Verses 30-32: "Filled With Their Own Devices"
-- "1:33" for Verse 33: "Whoso Hearkeneth Unto Me"
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In the above commentaries, as he usually does, Pastor Delany gives many terrific examples to illustrate the subject of each verse. Here is an excerpt from Section A in the commentary on Proverbs 1:30-32, which discusses the meaning of the phrase fruit of their own way and says this about rotten fruit:
"5. Now, they [the fools] will be forced to eat their own fruit… the results of following their own way.
"a. But there are some purely natural consequences of rejecting wisdom. There are consequences of following our own ways!
"b. There are some ways that seem right to a man--but it results in death!
"c. Some young fools have been warned about drinking and driving--but they rejected it. They chose to do their own thing… their own way… and it often results in death!
"d. Other young fools have been warned about taking drugs… but they rejected wisdom and chose to go their own way. For many, that way spirals downward in disease, destruction, and death!
"e. Some other fools have been warned about being married to their job… but they reject the warnings, and end up losing their family over it!
"f. Some fools reject counsel [advice] and refuse to forgive a brother [or other relative, friend, etc.] that has wronged them. Bitterness festers [keeps growing worse] in their hearts… they become hardened… and eventually, they become a castaway spiritually.
"g. Some fools reject the wisdom of their parents and pay no attention in school. They become lifelong, professional hamburger flippers [referring to people who have low-paying jobs].
"h. Some fools are warned about smoking. They reject the wise counsel and end up with lung cancer.
"i. Some foolish parents are warned NOT to allow their daughters to wear skimpy [short and revealing] clothing, but they refuse [to listen], because it is 'stylish.' They regret it later when their daughter comes home pregnant at [the age of] 15!
"j. Some fools [in this case, referring to Christians] are warned not to marry an unbeliever [a non-Christian] or a carnal [worldly, pleasure-seeking] believer [Christian]. They reject the counsel, and pay a price for it the rest of their lives."
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This is how to be saved God's way: If you believe that Jesus (God's Son) died on the cross to pay for your sins and that he was buried and rose again, all you need to do is sincerely ask him (through prayer, either silently or out loud,) to come into your heart and save you so you can go to heaven when you die.
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Should you want or need more detailed instructions for the plan of salvation, you'll find them in most of the tracts in the "Printable Gospel Tracts" section of my website. Here's a direct link to that page: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
Proverbs 27:12, Proverbs 22:3
Proverbs 27:12: "A prudent [wise, sensible] man [or woman or child] foreseeth [foresees] the evil [i.e., senses danger or trouble], and hideth [hides] himself [or herself] [from it] [meaning he (or she) avoids it, gets safely out of the way]; but the simple [unwise, foolish] [people] pass on [or keep going towards 'the evil'], and are punished."
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Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on this verse, including characteristics of a "prudent man" and examples of how we can "foresee the evil" and avoid trouble by not clicking on scam (fraudulent, deceptive) emails, not responding to ads about alcohol, not joining gangs, not viewing pornography, and being careful when driving on ice.____________________
For instance, concerning alcohol, gangs, and pornography (Section B, paragraph 5, of the commentary), we are told that:
"b. A prudent man can see right through the façade [false outward appearance] of the advertisements for alcohol which imply that if you drink Budweiser [or other brands of beer], you too will be at the fabulous parties with gorgeous [beautiful] women[,] and life will be non-stop fun! He can see through that to the evil that is the REAL end result of alcohol: divorce; fatherless children; destroyed livers; Skid Row [life in a run-down part of town that is frequented by vagrants (beggars), alcoholics, and drug addicts]; prison. He looks beyond the immediate façade to foresee the evil.
"c. A prudent young person should be able to discern [recognize] when a group of kids is trouble or not. You can sense, that with a certain group of kids, you just know that trouble is right around the corner. You can tell by what they talk about; by what they say they have done in the past; by what they think is funny; [by] their attitude towards life; [and by their attitude] towards spiritual things.
"d. A prudent man ought to be able to foresee trouble ahead for those [people] who go online [or 'on the computer'] to watch pornography; or to chat and flirt with women online. You know where that leads. A prudent man will foresee the calamity [disaster] that lies ahead."
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The commentary ends by saying:
"i. A smart person will see trouble coming. A wise person will see trouble coming too… and [will] get out of the way."
"j. A person who is smart and perceptive [observant, quick to understand] is not necessarily wise and moral.
"k. A lot of intelligent people know the dangers of alcohol & drugs, but use them anyway! They foresee the evil, but they don't hide themselves from it.
"l. A lot of intelligent people know the dangers of gambling. It has trouble written all over it! But they dive right in [or 'enthusiastically participate in it'] anyway.
"m. They may be intelligent and perceptive; but not prudent, wise, and moral. If they were, they would have hidden themselves from those dangers."
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If you want to read the above-mentioned commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "27:12."
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Note: Proverbs 22:3 is almost exactly the same as Proverbs 27:12. Salem Bible Church has a commentary on that verse, too, including many more examples of dangers to avoid. If you want to read that commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "22:3."
FEBRUARY 25-26
Proverbs 25:28
Proverbs 25:28: "He [or she] that hath [has] no rule [restraint, control] over his [or her] own spirit [temper, or state of mind, referring to that person's thoughts, desires, inclinations, resentments, etc.] is like a city that is broken down, and without walls."
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In his commentary on Proverbs 25:28, Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church said:"This proverb speaks of the danger of lacking self-control."
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The first section of Pastor Delany's commentary tells how a lack of self-control concerning inner thoughts and emotions can adversely (in a bad or harmful way) affect people's lives. Examples include Anger, The tongue, and Sexual desire.
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In the next section of the commentary, the pastor explains how a man without self-control can be compared, first, to a city without walls and, second, to a broken down city:
"2. A man without self control is like a city without walls.
"a. In [King] Solomon's day, city walls spoke of a city's main layer of security.
"b. Cities built walls around them to keep out invading armies.
"c. This might not be as meaningful to us today as it was in ancient times.
"d. Today planes can fly over cities and drop bombs. Walls are more decorative for us today.
"e. But in ancient times, before planes, walls were the major obstacle to an invading army. The taller and wider they were, the better!
"f. Cities like Babylon had a double wall around the city and their walls were wide enough for chariots to ride upon. That gave the Babylonians a sense of safety and security.
"g. Thus, a city without walls was not safe. They were wide open to attacks from their enemies.
"h. Their city walls served as a layer of protection; but without walls they [the cities] were vulnerable [open to attack]. They were unprotected. They were in a weakened condition. They were defenseless and hopelessly exposed to invaders. The enemies could march right in with nothing to stop them. And the enemy can march right in from any direction they want. There are no walls!"
"3. A man without self-control is like a broken down city.
"a. A broken down city is a city that was invaded, defeated, and destroyed from within."
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In this proverb, says the pastor, "Solomon simply points out the problem [i.e., a lack of self-control]; he does not offer a solution to the problem… because the Law [of Moses] (under which he lived) [in Old Testament times] did not have the solution we know today." That solution is in the New Testament book of Galatians, which says that:
"f. Gal. 5:22-23 -- The fruit of the Spirit is 'temperance' -- or self-control.
"• A life yielded and surrendered to God will be fortified and strong… self-controlled… like a city with massive [gigantic] walls over which no enemy can enter.
"• Instead of attempting the impossible--attempting to put out a thousand fires of anger, lust, pride, etc., God's answer is to be FILLED (controlled by) the [Holy] Spirit… and thus HE will work in us and produce the fruit of the Spirit--[i.e.,] temperance [restraint, self-control].
"• Temperance [or 'self-control'], the fruit of the Spirit[,] serves as a city wall over which no enemy can scale [climb up or over].
"• The person who dwells there (by walking in the [Holy] Spirit day by day) is safe and secure. The one [or 'The person'] who walks in the Spirit will NOT fulfill the lusts of the flesh.
"• God's Holy Spirit enables the believer [born-again Christian] to have control over his spirit such that he is able to take offence, insult, verbal abuse, without blowing up [or 'having outbursts of anger'] and without striking back [or 'hurting the person in return']."
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If you want to read the rest of Pastor Delany's commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "25:28."
* * * * *
Matthew Henry also has a good commentary on Proverbs 25:28. It says:(Note: I broke this quote down into two paragraphs to make it easier to read.)
"Here is, 1. The good character of a wise and virtuous [morally good] man implied. He is one that has rule over his own spirit; he maintains the government [i.e., control] of himself, and of his own appetites and passions, and does not suffer [allow] them [i.e., his appetites and passions] to rebel [fight] against reason and conscience. He has the rule of his own thoughts, his desires, his inclinations, his resentments, and keeps them all in good order."2. The bad case of a vicious man, who has not [or 'who does not have'] this rule over his own spirit, who, when temptations to excess in eating or drinking are before him, has no government of himself, when he is provoked [stirred up, angered] breaks out into exorbitant passions [excessive emotions], such a one is like a city that is broken down and without walls. All that is good goes out, and forsakes [abandons] him; all that is evil breaks in upon him. He lies exposed to all the temptations of Satan and becomes an easy prey [victim] to that enemy; he is also liable to many troubles and vexations [irritations]; it is likewise as much a reproach [disappointment] to him as it is to a city to have its walls ruined …"
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/25.html, "Verse 28")
FEBRUARY 24
Proverbs 24:1, 2
Proverbs 24:1-2: "Be not thou envious against [don't envy or be jealous of] evil men [people] [and what they have], neither [and don't] desire to be with them. For their heart [or, in this case, their minds] studieth [study, plan] destruction [i.e., ways to physically harm other people, steal their possessions, destroy their reputations, etc.], and their lips talk [speak] of mischief [doing bad things]."
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Don't associate with bad people or you might be tempted to do what they do. Remember: "Bad" usually rubs off on "good," not the other way around.* * * * *
Salem Bible Church has a commentary on the above verses. Here are some excerpts:Why we shouldn't envy evil men (or "evil people"):
"b. Envying what good, honest men have is wrong and sinful.
"c. But envying EVIL men is worse. Why would a believer [a Christian] ever want to trade places with an evil man?"
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Regarding what comes out of an evil person's mouth:
"b. Note the words of wisdom here:
"• We CANNOT know what is in a man's heart and therefore, we should not judge a man for what goes on in his heart.
"• But we CAN know what comes out of his mouth. And we SHOULD judge him on that basis.
"• If he talks [about] mischief and trouble, then this is the kind of person we should NOT desire to be around.
"• Seek friendship and fellowship elsewhere. You have been warned!"
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If you want to read the rest of the commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "24:1-2."
FEBRUARY 22-23
Proverbs 22:4
Proverbs 22:4: "By [means of, or 'the results of, or rewards for, having'] humility [meekness, mildness, tenderness, not thinking that you are better than other people] and the fear of the LORD [i.e., a holy reverence for God, or having a desire to obey and please God and not do anything to offend him] are riches [money--in this case, a sufficient amount (not too much and not too little)], and honour [honor, a good reputation], and [a comfortable, pleasant, enjoyable, good-quality] life."
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In his commentary on this verse, Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church said this, under the heading "How They Are Achieved":"A. The main thrust [focus] of this proverb is to teach HOW this trilogy of [or 'set of three'] blessings [i.e., riches, honor, and life] is achieved. ([in other words,] by what means)
"1. The world [personified, referring to the people in the world as a group] has its way of achieving the 'good life.'
"a. The world seeks to be rich, famous, and to live the good life.
"b. But their attitude is vastly different from what [King] Solomon describes [in this proverb].
"c. Their REASON for wanting to achieve this is entirely selfish.
"d. Their MEANS of obtaining [it] is also contrary to Scripture [or opposite to what it says in the Bible].
"e. They [the people in the world] say that if you want to be rich, famous, and live the 'good life,' then you have to climb over people. You have to do whatever it takes to advance SELF.
"f. It might require an occasional lie, cheating, back stabbing [betrayal], etc… but (say they) that's what you have to do!
"g. Sometimes, you have to be aggressive, pushy, and assertive and not take no for an answer.
"h. On other occasions, you have to butter people up, say what people want to hear, and even be deceitful [dishonest].
"i. On occasion [occasionally, once in a while] you have to be ruthless, a cut throat; cold hearted; and not considerate of others if you want to advance [your]self.
"j. If you want to succeed, it is the survival of the fittest.
"2. Solomon describes a very DIFFERENT means of obtaining riches, honor, and the 'good life.'" [In today's verse (Proverbs 22:4), he says that the preferred way to obtain them is through humility and by living a God-fearing life,.]
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If you want to read the rest of Pastor Delany's commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/, then scroll down to "22:4."
FEBRUARY 21
Proverbs 21:23
Proverbs 21:23: "Whoso [whoever] keepeth [keeps] his [or her] mouth and his [or her] tongue [under control, meaning the person is careful of or watches what he (or she) says] keepeth his [or her] soul from troubles [or 'stays out of trouble']."
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In his Bible study notes on the book of Proverbs, Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church summarizes Proverbs 21:23 as follows:"… keep your mouth shut and you will stay out of trouble!"
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Here are some excerpts from the pastor's commentary on that verse:
"i. You might think of guarding our mouths like a guard at the entrance to the White House [in the United States]. His job is to carefully watch and monitor who comes [out] and who goes [in]. No one goes through that gate without proper identification as one who has been approved for entrance. He [the guard] is to be on constant alert that some [people] who seeks [or 'seek'] to enter that gate have evil intentions.
"j. So too with our words. We are to keep or guard our mouths for every word we say. No word is to travel through the mouth gate unless it has been approved… and its intentions are good."
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"4. Keeping the soul from trouble.
"a. The one who guards his mouth will protect his soul from all kinds of distress… calamity… unfavorable circumstances… and from emotional pain, distress.
"b. The one who guards his mouth will protect his soul from enemies of the soul… from worry, fear, anxiety, guilt, shame, bitterness, and all kinds of other internal emotional forms of distress and painful memories.
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"5. Troubles we can avoid.
"a. Prov. 10:19 -- In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin.
"• Jas. 3:5 -- And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity.
"• We can sin with our mouths. (Lie; gossip; slander [make false statements that damage someone's reputation]; mislead; brag; boast; curse; deceive; etc.)
"• [King] Solomon notes in this verse that the more we talk ([i.e.,] multitude of words) the better [are] our chances of sinning.
"• Solomon also tells us that it is wise to refrain [hold back] our lips, tongues, and mouths ([because] if we talk less, we will sin less.)
"• By speaking too much we can turn people off and lose friends.
"• By multiplying our words, we multiply our chances of offending someone… hurting someone's feelings… misleading… or gossiping. (Sin!)
"• This often backfires on us and leads to all kinds of self inflicted trouble [referring to trouble caused by our own actions].
"b. Prov. 12:13 -- 'The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble.'
"• Transgressing lips are a snare… something that traps you…
"• Solomon is saying that when we sin with our lips, we get CAUGHT in a trap of our own making!
"• If we sin with our lips, sooner or later, those words will come back to haunt us [meaning they can later cause all kinds of problems]…
"• If we are careless with our tongues, and speak without thinking… we are setting TRAPS that will BITE us… and cause trouble for us--eventually.
"• Those who lie [or 'tell lies'] discover that their words will come back to bite them.
"• Those who gossip and slander discover the same thing.
"• Eventually our sin will find us out [or be exposed or discovered]… and it will cause much trouble (embarrassment; to loss of friends; loss of a job; or worse!)
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"• The one who does not guard his lips will be continually offending, insulting, hurting feelings, and getting people mad at him.
"• Words really do stir up anger.
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"• A fool's lips enter into contention.
"• In other words, whenever he opens his mouth, he starts an argument or contention. His words PROVOKE arguments and fighting.
"• His big mouth is constantly getting him into trouble.
"• Note also that STROKES await him. He deserves a whipping.
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"6. All of these troubles will have a debilitating [weakening] effect on the believer [saved person, born-again Christian].
"a. It will not leave us in any frame of mind to serve the Lord.
"b. It will leave us frazzled [exhausted] and torn [apart] [or 'emotionally distressed'].
"c. It leaves a storm of controversy and contention wherever we go.
"d. It is sin and ruins our relationship with both God and man [mankind, human beings].
"e. It leaves us with an uneasy, troubled, distressed heart… full of guilt and shame… embarrassment… a loss of friends… and a miserable life.
"f. In other words--a life of TROUBLE.
"7. All of this trouble can be AVOIDED by simply watching our mouth… keeping our big mouth shut!"
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If you want to read the rest of the commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "21:23."
FEBRUARY 20
Proverbs 20:10, 23
Proverbs 20:10: "Divers [different, unequal] weights [for example (in Bible times), of stones on one side of a balance scale and something else on the other side--see note below*], and divers measures [unequal quantities in devices used to measure things (like grain, tea, and sugar) on a scale], both of them [i.e., divers weights and measures] are alike [or 'are both'] abomination [a repulsive, offensive, disgusting thing] to the LORD [God]."
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Proverbs 20:23: "Divers weights are an [an] abomination unto the LORD; and a false [deceitful] balance is not good [in the sight of God and mankind]."
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According to Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church, the above verses (which essentially, or basically, say the same thing) refer to people who use deceptive business practices to cheat and steal. As confirmed by the above verses, "diverse weights" are an abomination to God, which means that he hates them!____________________
Here are some excerpts from the pastor's commentary:
Regarding "weights and measures" (balances or scales):
"1. Weights and measures were instruments used to conduct business in ancient times before paper money."
"4. Balance: Set of scales; i.e., an implement for weighing, consisting of two balance pans with a standardized weight in one pan and the object to be weighed in the other."
"b. … A false balance is an abomination.
"• If the balance arms were of unequal length, the scale would appear to say that they were equal, but they would not be equal.
"• It works like a seesaw. The short end requires more weight to balance the bar.
"• Thus, dishonest merchants could use a 'false balance'--with arms of unequal length."
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Examples of dishonest business practices:
"f. … In recent years some companies have chosen a sneaky way of getting more money from us.
"• Instead of raising the price, they made the product smaller… but just a little smaller so you might not notice. ([Examples are:] Ice cream; coffee cans; bread.)
"• The size of the product is reduced, but the price is not reduced--so you are really paying MORE per ounce for the product, even though the can has the same price.
"• It is not stealing, because the new cans are labeled in small print."
"4. We don't use stones and scales to buy and purchase today, but the principle applies just as well in the modern world.
"a. Some companies keep two books instead of two stones. They keep one book for the IRS [i.e., Internal Revenue Service] and the auditor, and another book for their own records. (That's like having two different weights [on a scale].)
"b. Gas stations have been caught in skimming scams. They tweak [make an adjustment to] their pumps so that you are not getting a full gallon [of gas], even though the pump SAYS you are… and even though you are PAYING for a full gallon. That IS stealing and is against the law. Thus, they have two measures--one measure the customer actually receives (9/10 gal. [or '9/10 (90%) of a gallon']) and the other is what he pays for (a full gallon).
"c. Today thieves steal identity. They have their own IDs [identification] and credit cards for everyday use. Then they have YOUR credit cards and IDs for when they go on a shopping spree."
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Why 'divers weights and measures' are an abomination to God:
"b. The two (weights and measures) are BOTH the same…
"c. It really doesn't matter HOW you cheat with these instruments.
"d. Whether you put an unequal weight in the scale for items sold by weight, OR if you use the wrong size measuring basket for items sold by volume, the bottom line [or 'the result'] is the same.
"e. You're cheating! You're stealing! It is a dishonest scam. You're a crook!
"f. And today, it doesn't matter by what MEANS we cheat or steal from others… every method is alike an abomination [to God]."
"a. God observes [sees] all such practices.
"b. He hates the deceptive practice.
"c. He also hates the greed--the love of money--that undergirds [or 'is the underlying cause for'] it [i.e., cheating and stealing].
""d. He [God] hates to see people take advantage of others."
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If you want to read the rest of the commentary, which covers both of today's verses (Proverbs 20:10 and 23), go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "20:10."
* * * * *
Matthew Henry, another Bible commentator, said:"… In paying and receiving money, which was then [i.e., in Bible times] commonly done by the scale, they had divers weights, an under-weight for what they paid and an over-weight for what they received; in delivering out and taking in goods [products,] they had divers measures, a scanty [small] measure to sell by and a large measure to buy by … Whether they be about the money or the goods, in the buyer or in the seller, they are all alike an abomination to the Lord …"
(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/20.html, "Verse 10")
* * * * *
*Definition of balance scales, from the MathIsFun.com website:"A device for weighing. It has a balanced beam and two pans.
"When the pans contain exactly the same mass [or are the same weight] the beam is in balance.
"You can place an object in one pan and standard weights in the other to find what the object weighs."
To see what a balance scale looks like and how it works, click here: https://www.mathsisfun.com/definitions/balance-scales.html.
FEBRUARY 17-19
Proverbs 17:21
Proverbs 17:21: "He [or she] that begetteth [begets, conceives, produces, becomes the parent of] a fool [in this case, referring to a child who is disobedient and rebellious and makes the wrong choices in life] doeth [does] it to his [or her--meaning the parent's] sorrow: and the father [or mother] of a fool hath [has] no joy [when thinking about his (or her) foolish child's problems and/or ruined life]."
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Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church says that the second part of the verse, referring to the father of a fool having no joy:"… doesn't mean that he [the father] has no joy in his life at all … It means that he derives [gets] no joy from the condition of his son."
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Regarding sorrow, Pastor Delany says that:
"c. As the son bumbles [blunders, stumbles] through life, making one poor choice after another, it brings sorrow to the son… but also to the father.
"d. And this sorrow doesn't go away when they [the foolish sons] move out on their own. A father will always be a father to his son… throughout his adult life too."
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According to Pastor Delany, all fathers, including Christians, can have foolish sons. Godly fathers mentioned in the Bible who had foolish sons included Isaac (per Genesis 26:34-35), Eli (per 1 Samuel 2:32-35), Samuel (per 1 Samuel 8:3), and King David (per 2 Samuel 18:33).
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The commentary ends with this advice:
"Exhortations
"1. To older parents with a wayward [self-willed, headstrong] son:
"a. Be sure you make the LORD your source of joy. He never changes… and no one can take that joy--TRUE joy from you… not even the ongoing foolish antics [outrageous behavior] of a foolish son.
"2. To younger parents bringing up their children:
"a. BEWARE! This could happen to you!
"b. Make sure that your children do not become fools because of negligence [carelessness] on YOUR part.
"c. There's no guarantee how they [your children] will turn out… but if they go astray [off course], be sure that it's not your fault!
"d. Do whatever it takes to PREVENT this from happening to them!
"e. Bring them up in the nurture and admonition [discipline, guidance, and teaching] of the Lord. Pray for them daily… hourly…
"f. And start now learning this important lesson: no matter how they turn out, the LORD is the Source of our joy…
"g. Don't let your children become your god.
"h. [Jesus] Christ is to have all the preeminence [superiority, highest rank], not your kids.
"3. To children:
"a. Maybe you are presently sitting on the fence: teetering back and forth… debating about which way to go…
"b. Debating between whether you should follow the advice of your parents and being a wise son… OR forsaking [abandoning] your training and living for yourself… and doing your own thing… and not listening to authority… and ending up as a fool.
"c. Make good decisions NOW before your heart gets hardened into folly [foolishness].
"d. Remember, that the life of a fool is no fun. It brings great sorrow [sadness] to YOU for the rest of your days [on earth, or 'for the rest of your life']. There are consequences to folly [foolish behavior].
"e. And think of others too… your folly can cause unending grief and sorrow for your parents too.
"f. If you're not saved, get saved [see note below*]! That's the first step to wisdom.
"g. If you are saved and not walking with [or 'in obedience to'] the Lord, then repent… and get right.
"h. Don't ruin your life… and the lives of those around you!"
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The above commentary on verse 21 is combined with the one for verse 25. If you want to read it, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "17:21."
* * * * *
*If you want to be saved but don't know how, please read one or more of the tracts on the "Printable Gospel Tracts" page of my website, It can be found here: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.FEBRUARY 15-16
Proverbs 15:9
Proverbs 15:9: "The way [of life, or the lifestyles] of the wicked [people--those who are sinful, disobedient, rebellious, immoral, etc.] is an abomination [a disgusting thing] unto the LORD: but he [God] loveth [loves] him [or her] that followeth [follows] after righteousness [or 'who obeys the Bible']".
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In his commentary, Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church sums up today's verse as follows:"If a man is walking in the way of sin, rebellion, and unbelief, no prayer, no sacrifice, no thought could ever endear him to [or make him beloved or well liked by] God. Nothing on that way is acceptable to the Lord."
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Here is an excerpt from paragraph B2 of Pastor Delany's commentary regarding the first part of Proverbs 15:9:
"c. The wicked [people] cannot take their anger out on God directly, so it [the wicked people as a group] vents its wrath [expresses its anger] against godly [morally good] men and women [i.e., Christians].
"d. This is the world's way of saying to God, 'the feeling of abomination is mutual!' [meaning both parties feel the same way; in other words, it's like the people of the world are saying to God, 'we're an abomination to you, so you (and your followers) are an abomination to us!']
"e. This is one of the reasons for such hostility [unfriendliness, ill will] and deep division in our nation today.
"» The deep division and hostility is not so much over tax cuts, building highways or schools, or passing this bill or that.
"» The real division is over the MORAL issues of our day: abortion; gay marriage; fornication [sexual intercourse between people not married to each other]; euthanasia [mercy killing, assisted suicide]; divorce and the breakdown of the traditional Christian family; etc."
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If you want to read more of the commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "15:9."
* * * * *
GotQuestions.org has an article that answers the question "What does it mean to pursue righteousness?" If you want to read it, click here: https://www.gotquestions.org/pursue-righteousness.html.FEBRUARY 14
Romans 12:9
Regarding one of the duties of Christians, the apostle Paul wrote:
Romans 12:9: "Let love [for others] be without dissimulation [i.e., without hypocrisy or pretense, or, in other words, 'let love be sincere (genuine, not fake)']. Abhor [hate] that which is evil [in this case, referring to unkindness rather than to evil in general]; cleave [hold on tightly, or become attached, stick, or cling] to that which is good."
* * * * *
Here are some articles that relate to today's verse:-- "What does it mean to abhor what is evil (Romans 12:9)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/abhor-what-is-evil.html)
-- "What does it mean to let love be without hypocrisy (Romans 12:9)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/love-without-hypocrisy.html)
-- "What does it mean to cling to what is good (Romans 12:9)?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/cling-to-what-is-good.html)
FEBRUARY 12-13
Proverbs 12:10
Proverbs 12:10: "A righteous man [or, in other words, a decent, moral, kind-hearted, 'good' person] regardeth [regards] the life of his [or her] beast [which means that the person takes care of his (or her) animals (i.e., 'beasts of burden,' not household pets) by providing food, shelter, rest, protection, etc., for them]: but the tender mercies [i.e., the expressions of pity and compassion] of the wicked [people--to other human beings and animals] are cruel [heartless--or nonexistent]."
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According to Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible church, in the above verse, King Solomon "tells us that one can tell a lot about a man by the way he treats his animals." Righteous people are compassionate and merciful; wicked people are not.____________________
Pastor Delany's excellent commentary on today's verse contains many examples of animals' actions and how so-called "good" and "bad" people might react to them. It also discusses the relationship between man and beast, both in Bible times and modern times; how a person's treatment of animals (and even machines, such as cars and computers) might indicate how he or she would treat people; and what to watch out for when choosing a spouse or friend.
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If you want to read the commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "12:10."
* * * * *
GotQuestions.org has an article about today's verse. It's entitled "What does it mean that a righteous person cares for the needs of animals (Proverbs 12:10)?" and can be found here: https://www.gotquestions.org/righteous-care-needs-animals.html.FEBRUARY 10-11
James 5:13
A message from the apostle James to Christians:
James 5:13: "Is any[one] among you afflicted [i.e., troubled by physical or mental pain and/or suffering, such as sickness, death of a loved one, disappointment, persecution, loss of property, etc.]? [If so,] let him [or her] pray [to God]. Is any[one] merry [happy, cheerful]? [If so,] let him [or her] sing psalms [songs of praise to God]."
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Prayer is important to God, and it should be important to us as well.* * * * *
Concerning the phrase let him pray in the above verse, John Gill said:"… Times of afflictions are proper times for prayer; there is then more especially need of it [prayer]; and God sometimes lays his afflicting hand upon his people [or causes them to suffer], when they have been negligent [neglectful] of their duty, and he has not heard of them for some time, in order to bring them near to him, to seek his face, pay him a visit, and pour out a prayer before him …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/james/5-13.html, "Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible")
* * * * *
Regarding prayer, Albert Barnes said:"… Health fails, friends die, property is lost, disappointments come upon us, danger threatens, death approaches - and to whom shall we go but to God? He ever lives [or 'lives forever']. He never fails us or disappoints us if we trust in him, and his ear is ever [forever, always] open to our cries. This would be a sad world indeed, if it were not for the privilege of prayer …"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bnb/james-5.html, "Verse 13")
FEBRUARY 8-9
Proverbs 8:35, 36
The Importance of Wisdom
Wisdom (God's wisdom personified, or speaking like a person) says:
Proverbs 8:35-36: "For whoso findeth me [whoever finds me (Wisdom)] [in other words, whoever searches for wisdom, finds it, and does what it says] findeth life [i.e., a good, long, happy life … one that is worth living], and shall obtain favour of [or 'blessings from'] the LORD. But he [or she] that sinneth [sins] against me [Wisdom---by refusing to follow my lead or take my advice] wrongeth [wrongs] his [or her] own soul: all they that hate me [Wisdom] love death."
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In his Bible study on these verses, Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church says:"a. … the life that listens with the ears and the heart to Lady Wisdom is the life that will be blessed by God.
"b. If we refuse to follow the way of God's wisdom… we are refusing His [God's] blessing in our life!
"c. This is all our choice."
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In paragraph 1 of his commentary, under "Life and Favor," Pastor Delany goes on to say:
"h. We act on our feelings way too often. We are by nature impatient.
"• Sometimes we decide and then pray.
"• On other occasions, we pray and then decide… which can be just as bad!
"• What God wants us to do is to pray… and wait for an answer! Don't pray… and then go ahead and do what we have already decided to do!
"• That is the way of the flesh… acting on feelings and impulses.
"• God is able to guide us… incline our mind and heart… to use His Word [as recorded in the Bible]… to work IN us both to will and to do of HIS good pleasure.
"• The one who truly FINDS wisdom is the one who waits at the posts of Lady Wisdom's doorposts… waiting to KNOW what is the right way to go… the right thing to do… the right and wise decision to make.
"• Ex. 29:42 -- the priests waited at the door of the tabernacle to hear the word of the Lord!
"• THEN we need to act and obey--even if the way seems tough… even if the way of wisdom involves suffering… crosses to bear…"
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Included in the pastor's commentary are examples of ways that people "wrong their own souls" (or hurt themselves--through alcoholism, sexual immorality, gambling, bad parenting, gossip, laziness, etc.) by rejecting and disobeying God's counsel and by choosing, instead, to do bad things.
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If you want to read more of the commentary, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to "8:35-36."
FEBRUARY 7
Colossians 3:23
In a letter to the Christians at Colosse, while discussing the relationship between servants (or employees) and their masters (or bosses), the apostle Paul wrote:
Colossians 3:23: "And whatsoever [whatever] ye [you (servants or employees)] do, do it heartily [cheerfully, enthusiastically, wholeheartedly], as [if you're doing it] to [or 'for'] the Lord, and not [just] unto [to, or 'for'] men [or 'people'];"
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Although the above advice was meant specifically for servants (or employees), it can also apply to everyone else, no matter who we are or what we are doing.* * * * *
Regarding Colossians 3:23, one Bible commentator wrote:"Slaves should do their work primarily for the Lord. This view of work transforms a worker's attitudes and performance. Even the most servile [subservient, slave-like] work thereby becomes a ministry and an act of worship."
Quoting someone else, he added:
"'He [the apostle Paul] means, "Don't keep your eye on the clock. Keep your eye on Christ. He is the One whom you are serving." This is the way you ought to do your job.'"
(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/colossians/3-23.html, "Dr. Constable's Expository Notes")
* * * * *
The GotQuestions.org article that relates to today's verse is entitled "Why are we told that whatever we do, we are to do it heartily as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23)?" If you want to read it, click here: https://www.gotquestions.org/heartily-as-unto-the-Lord.html.* * * * *
In addition to his Bible studies on the book of Proverbs, Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church has given a series of messages on Colossians. Today's verse can be found by going to https://www.salembible.org/colossians/ and scrolling down to "3:23 - EXHORTATIONS TO SERVANTS."FEBRUARY 1-6
Proverbs 1:20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33
Wisdom's Warning to Foolish People
In the following verses, Wisdom (personified, or acting like a person) is speaking to "simple" people, "scorners," and "fools":
Proverbs 1:20-21: "Wisdom crieth [cries] without [or outside, in public]; she uttereth [utters] her voice [or speaks] in the streets: She crieth in the chief place of concourse [i.e., a large open area], [and] in the openings of the gates: in the city she uttereth her words, saying [to three kinds of fools],"
Proverbs 1:22-23: "How long, ye [you] simple ones [referring to willfully (deliberately) ignorant, inexperienced people], will ye love simplicity? and [how long will] the scorners [or 'scoffers'--people who are arrogant (conceited) and have a contemptuous (disrespectful) disregard for wisdom, authority, or religious truth] delight [take pleasure] in their scorning [mocking (making fun) of everything that is good], and [how long will] fools hate knowledge? Turn you at [or 'turn toward' or 'heed'] my reproof [criticism or correction] [in other words, repent and obey] [and]: behold [or 'notice that'], I [Wisdom] will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you."
Proverbs 1:24-25: "Because I [Wisdom] have called, and ye [i.e., the simple ones, scorners, and hard-hearted fools mentioned above] refused [to listen]; I have stretched out my hand [that was offered to help], and no man [or woman or child] regarded [paid attention]; But ye have set at nought [or 'you have ignored' or 'disregarded'] all [of] my counsel [advice], and would [have] none of my reproof [criticism or correction]:"
Proverbs 1:26-27: "[so, or because you have ignored me or refused to listen when I called,] I [God's wisdom, not God himself] also will laugh [a sad kind of laughter] at your calamity [great misfortune or disaster]; I will mock [make fun of you] when your fear cometh [comes]; When your fear cometh as desolation [destruction], and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind [i.e., suddenly, like a tornado or hurricane]; when distress [extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain] and anguish [mental or physical pain or suffering] cometh upon you."
Proverbs 1:28-29: "Then [when fear, destruction, distress, and anguish come upon the people who rejected Wisdom's call] shall they [the simple ones, scorners, and hard-hearted fools] call upon me [Wisdom], but I will not answer; they shall seek [search for] me early [or 'earnestly' or 'eagerly'], but they shall not find me: For that [or 'that's because'] they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the LORD:"
Proverbs 1:30-32: "They [the foolish people mentioned above] would [have] none of my [Wisdom's] counsel [advice]: they despised [hated, rejected] all [of] my reproof [criticism or correction]. Therefore shall they eat of the [bad, or rotten,] fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices [plans] [in other words, they will 'reap what they sow' (i.e., suffer the consequences of their foolish behavior, or the results of their bad decisions and actions)]. For the turning away of the simple [people--from wisdom] shall slay [kill] them, and the prosperity [carefree lifestyle] of fools shall destroy them."
Proverbs 1:33: "But whoso [whoever] hearkeneth [hearkens] unto [or 'listens to'] me [Wisdom] shall dwell safely [or 'live in safety'], and shall be quiet from fear of evil."
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A good illustration (example) of these verses is people who live in flood zones and then ignore weather warnings and stay in their homes to "ride out a storm." On September 28, 2022, in the United States, there was a monster (Category 4) hurricane that blew through the state of Florida with tremendous force. The high wind speed (about 150 miles per hour), strong storm surges, and resulting flooding caused widespread damage and destruction. Millions of people lost their homes and possessions and many even lost their lives because they refused to evacuate (leave) when they had the time and opportunity to do so.* * * * *
If you regularly visit the "Verse of the Day" and "Previous Verses" sections of my website, you are probably aware that Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church has written excellent, in-depth commentaries for almost every verse in the book of Proverbs.____________________
Since this passage on wisdom is so long, I have arranged the verses on this page in groups that generally correspond to Pastor Delany's commentaries (which were probably taken from sermons that he delivered, in person, to his congregation). If you want to read any or all of these commentaries, go to https://www.salembible.org/proverbs/ and scroll down to:
-- "1:20-23" for Verses 20-23: "Wisdom Calls!"
-- "1:24-27" for Verses 24-27: "I Have Called and Ye Refused"
-- "1:28-30" for Verses 28-30: "Too Late For Wisdom!"
-- "1:30-32" for Verses 30-32: "Filled With Their Own Devices"
-- "1:33" for Verse 33: "Whoso Hearkeneth Unto Me"
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In the above commentaries, as he usually does, Pastor Delany gives many terrific examples to illustrate the subject of each verse. Here is an excerpt from Section A in the commentary on Proverbs 1:30-32, which discusses the meaning of the phrase fruit of their own way and says this about rotten fruit:
"5. Now, they [the fools] will be forced to eat their own fruit… the results of following their own way.
"a. But there are some purely natural consequences of rejecting wisdom. There are consequences of following our own ways!
"b. There are some ways that seem right to a man--but it results in death!
"c. Some young fools have been warned about drinking and driving--but they rejected it. They chose to do their own thing… their own way… and it often results in death!
"d. Other young fools have been warned about taking drugs… but they rejected wisdom and chose to go their own way. For many, that way spirals downward in disease, destruction, and death!
"e. Some other fools have been warned about being married to their job… but they reject the warnings, and end up losing their family over it!
"f. Some fools reject counsel [advice] and refuse to forgive a brother [or other relative, friend, etc.] that has wronged them. Bitterness festers [keeps growing worse] in their hearts… they become hardened… and eventually, they become a castaway spiritually.
"g. Some fools reject the wisdom of their parents and pay no attention in school. They become lifelong, professional hamburger flippers [referring to people who have low-paying jobs].
"h. Some fools are warned about smoking. They reject the wise counsel and end up with lung cancer.
"i. Some foolish parents are warned NOT to allow their daughters to wear skimpy [short and revealing] clothing, but they refuse [to listen], because it is 'stylish.' They regret it later when their daughter comes home pregnant at [the age of] 15!
"j. Some fools [in this case, referring to Christians] are warned not to marry an unbeliever [a non-Christian] or a carnal [worldly, pleasure-seeking] believer [Christian]. They reject the counsel, and pay a price for it the rest of their lives."
* * * * *
Warning: Don't be like the foolish people in the above verses who ignored Wisdom's call until it was too late. If you want to go to heaven when you die, you need to be born again, or saved--preferably right now. Please don't procrastinate (put it off), as you may not get a second chance.____________________
This is how to be saved God's way: If you believe that Jesus (God's Son) died on the cross to pay for your sins and that he was buried and rose again, all you need to do is sincerely ask him (through prayer, either silently or out loud,) to come into your heart and save you so you can go to heaven when you die.
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Should you want or need more detailed instructions for the plan of salvation, you'll find them in most of the tracts in the "Printable Gospel Tracts" section of my website. Here's a direct link to that page: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
