"Verse of the Day" Bible Verses (KJV)

[ Menu ]

"Verse of the Day"

Previous Months

May 2019

MAY 31

Proverbs 31:6-7: "Give strong drink [referring to alcoholic beverages] unto him [or her] that is ready to perish [die--due to illness or injury], and [give] wine unto those that be of heavy hearts [those who are depressed because they are so sick]. Let him [or her] drink, and forget his [or her] poverty [in this case, his (or her) poor condition of life, because he (or she) will probably die soon], and remember his [or her] misery [trouble] no more."

This was written in Bible days, when strong drink was used for medicinal purposes (as a pain killer or form of anesthesia). It is likely that at that time, strong drink was given not only to criminals during their execution but also to people who had suffered serious injuries, were undergoing or recovering from surgical procedures, were near death, etc.). Contrary to common belief, these verses do not condone (give approval for) social drinking.

Salem Bible Church has a detailed explanation of these verses in their commentary, which ends with this:

"4. Our passage tells us who alcohol is for and who it is not for.

"a. It is for those who are in need of medicine to numb their pain. It is for those who are in misery and have heavy hearts because of their poor physical condition.

"b. It is NOT for those who need their faculties. It is not for those who want to be able to discern between right and wrong -- between sensible and that which is not sensible. It is not for those who want to REMEMBER God's Law.

"c. You really have to twist the meaning of this passage to make it support social drinking for the Christian in the 21st century."

If you want to read the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-31-index/proverbs-31_6-7/.

MAY 30

Proverbs 30:33: "Surely the churning [continuous shaking or agitation] of milk [i.e., the cream part, which, for example, is removed from a container of raw milk after it has risen to the top] bringeth forth [produces, results in] butter, and the wringing [squeezing, punching, or continuous blowing] of the nose bringeth forth blood: so [will] the forcing of wrath [anger] [from another person] bringeth forth [lead to, cause] strife [disagreements, conflicts, arguments]."

If you don't want to fight with other people, try not to "push their buttons."

Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church explains why we should avoid forcing an issue. In paragraphs 2, 5, 6, and 7 under "One Application: 'A' Produces 'B'" in the "forcing of wrath" section toward the end of his commentary on this verse, he says:

"2. The application here is obvious.

"a. The potential for anger is resident in all of us -- in all men. All men are sinners and have a sin nature. Anger resides in our hearts.

"b. If you leave it alone, the anger will not surface.

"c. But if you keep on pressing an issue, (provoking others) eventually, you will FORCE the potential for anger to become actual and it will manifest itself outwardly.

"d. It's guaranteed. It's not magic; it's a scientific principle. It has been observed and measured so many times consistently, that it is a scientific law of our fallen nature."

"5. So too with anger.

"a. You can talk about irritating and upsetting issues for a while without causing people to blow up. They can handle it for a while--like a few shakes of the cream and the cream doesn't change.

"b. However, you can press an issue only so far before people reach their breaking point.

"c. If you continually bring up issues that get people angry, eventually, it will 'bring forth' STRIFE… a big fight.

"d. This too is guaranteed.

"6. We can be guilty of stirring up trouble--of irritating the passions of others--of forcing an issue to someone's breaking point.

"a. And perhaps they should not break forth into anger. If they do, they are guilty of anger. We are all responsible for our own actions.

"b. But the one who forces the issue also bears responsibility.

"c. Light brings accountability.

"d. Here Agur gives us some light: 'A' results in 'B'. Therefore, we persist in 'A' (forcing issues that make people mad), we bear responsibility in the predictable result: 'B'--strife!

"7. The POTENTIAL for wrath resides in all of us.

"a. Oftentimes there are folks who may be angry over a particular issue. It may be a sore spot with them.

"b. However, they may be trying to keep it in check. They may be trying not to get angry.

"c. But if you or I keep on pressing the issue--we should expect that person to blow up eventually.

"d. Even a man who wants peace (like cream sitting there minding its own business) can be pushed and irritated enough to break out into strife.

"e. That's Agur's point: therefore DON'T keep on pressing an issue."

If you want to read the rest of the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-30-index/proverbs-30_33/.

MAY 29

Proverbs 29:1: "He [or she], that being often reproved [corrected, disciplined] hardeneth his [or her] neck [i.e., becomes stubborn and obstinate and refuses to heed (pay attention to) the warnings], shall suddenly be destroyed [through loss of life, health, well-being, etc.], and that without remedy [relief, cure]."

According to Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church, this verse explains what happens to disobedient and rebellious people in general and also to Christians who ignore the Holy Spirit's guidance.

Here are some excerpts from paragraph B7 in the first part of the commentary:

"a. But have we ever thought of applying this [phrase, being often reproved,] to the way God's indwelling Spirit deals with us [born-again Christians] DAILY?

"b. How many times has the Spirit of God convicted us of thoughts, words, deeds, or motives and we ignored His gentle rebuke?

"c. How many times has He attempted to gently nudge us away from a particular activity or direction and we have resisted Him?

"d. How many times has the Spirit gently nudged us towards some activity He wanted us to do or say or be involved in… and we refused… and knowingly grieved the Spirit of God?"

And here are some excerpts from the second part of the commentary:

"4. The destruction comes suddenly.

"a. The reproofs were not sudden and instant. They occurred over a long period of time. The persons described here were no doubt reproved by their parents, their teachers, their friends, and perhaps the police department. The reproving went on for years.

"b. But the destruction doesn't take years. It can come suddenly."

If you want to read the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-29-index/proverbs-29_1/.

MAY 28

Proverbs 28:9: "He [or she] that turneth away his [or her] ear from hearing [and obeying] the law [of Moses, in Old Testament times, and God's word (the Bible) in New Testament times and in this day and age], even his [or her] prayer shall be [an] abomination [a very hateful, repulsive, detestable thing] [to God]."

In the words of Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church:

"1. This proverb speaks about the relationship between obedience and answered prayer.

"2. There is a direct connection.

"3. Over all, the point of the proverb is that if we don't listen to God, why should He listen to us?"

Pastor Delany has an excellent commentary on this verse, especially the second half. Here is an excerpt:

"1. The second part of the proverb states that the prayer of this rebel is an abomination to God.

"2. Note first of all, that Solomon implies that even rebels pray.

"a. They mock those who pray. They mock those who obey.

"b. But when they are in trouble, they pray.

"c. When they are drowning in a lake and unable to swim--they pray.

"d. When they are in a foxhole and the bullets are flying overhead--they pray.

"e. When they hear that they or their son has level four cancer, they pray… or ask someone to pray for them.

"f. Unbelievers are not quite as unbelieving as they lead you to believe.

"3. Religion is full of rebels who have no intention of obeying, but they do want the benefits of religion.

"a. They want their guilty conscience to subside so they can sleep at night--so they go to synagogue or church.

"b. They want God's blessings in their lives--so they give to charity.

"c. They want good health and somehow sense that God is in control of that, so they follow some religious rules… and pray.

"d. They might recite a rote prayer or say the rosaries.

"e. Unbelieving rebels against God's Law can be very religious.

"f. They really couldn't care less what the Bible actually says, they are determined to do what they want to do no matter what… but they still might shoot up a prayer once in a while--to keep on God's good side… so they think.

"g. This proverb exposes that kind of thinking… which is quite prevalent in the religious world."

If you want to read more of the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-28-index/proverbs-28_9/.

MAY 27

John 15:13 [Jesus told his disciples at the Last Supper]: "Greater love hath no man [no one has greater love] than this, that a man [referring specifically to himself (Jesus), but also applies to everyone else in the world] [would] lay down his [or her] life [i.e., be willing to die] for his [or her] friends."

Jesus himself is the greatest example of this truth, as he willingly suffered an excruciating (extremely painful) death on the cross to save the souls of all mankind, including not only his friends (disciples) but also his enemies and people he never met.

MEMORIAL DAY
Throughout history, many man and women
have lost their lives while serving in the military.
Today is a special day that the United States
government has set aside to remember
and honor these people.

(For information about the armed services, read this overview:
https://www.military.com/join-armed-forces/us-military-overview.html)

MAY 25-26

Matthew 18:15-17 - What to Do When Christians Sin Against Other Christians
In these verses, Jesus was speaking to his disciples, who were Jewish, but it also applies to Christians today.

Verse 15: "Moreover if thy brother [or sister] [in Christ] [i.e., fellow Christian] shall trespass [sin] against thee [by hurting you in any way, in word and/or deed], go and tell him [or her] [about] his [or her] fault between thee [you] and him [or her] alone [i.e., do it privately]: if he [or she] shall hear thee [i.e., what you have to say] [and apologizes and tries to make everything right], thou hast gained thy brother [or sister] [in Christ,] [meaning you have restored friendly relations]."

Verse 16: "But if he [or she, referring to the offender,] will not hear thee [listen to you], then[,] [when you go to see him or her,] take with thee one or two more [Christians, preferably the offender's friends or people you know that he/she trusts, so they can help to convince him/her of his/her wrongdoing], [so] that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established [meaning that, if necessary, they can testify to the truth of what is being said]."

Verse 17: "And if he [or she--the offender] shall neglect [refuse] to hear them [the people you brought with you], tell it unto the church [i.e., explain the problem to the members and/or people in charge of the offender's home church]: but if he [or she--the offender] neglect to hear the church, let him [or her] be unto thee as an heathen [Gentile] man [or woman or child] and a publican [tax collector] [in other words, continue to be kind to the offender, but treat him or her like an unbeliever, and don't have anything to do with him/her]."

Briefly, if you are a Christian, here are the steps to take when another Christian sins against you:

1. Confront the person privately.
    If that doesn't work, then:
2. Bring one or two other Christians to talk to him or her.
    If that doesn't work, then:
3. Confront the person publicly (in church).
    If that doesn't work, then:
4. Don't have anything to do with him or her.

MAY 24

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 [minds] studieth [plan] destruction [i.e., ways to physically harm other people, steal their possessions, destroy their reputations, etc.], and their lips talk of mischief [doing bad things]."

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.

Here's the link to Salem Bible Church's commentary on these verses: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-24-index/proverbs-24_1-2/.

MAY 23

Proverbs 23:9: "Speak not [don't speak] in the ears of a fool [or, don't counsel or give advice to a fool]: for [because] he [or she] will despise [hate, ignore, mock or ridicule] the wisdom of thy words."

In his commentary, Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church said, "The theme of this proverb is simple: fools don't listen." Consequently, we shouldn't waste our time counseling fools, since they probably won't heed our advice.

Pastor Delany also said, "One commentator summarized the folly of this fool this way: He has a 'closed mind' and 'open mouth.'"

The commentary ends with this advice:

"1. Learn to discern when to speak and when not to speak.

"2. Oftentimes, the fool will despise what you have to say--and he may hate you and get angry at you.

"3. When you sense a man has no heart to listen or learn, don't waste your time--or your reputation. It could backfire on you."

If you want to read the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-23-index/proverbs-23_9/.

MAY 22

Proverbs 22:24-25: "Make no friendship with an angry [easily provoked, touchy, irritable] man [or woman or child]; and with a furious man [or woman or child--one who is hot-tempered, or extremely angry and full of rage, and has no self-control] thou shalt not go [in other words, don't 'hang out' or 'pal around' with that person]: Lest thou [otherwise, you will] learn his [or her] ways [or copy his/her behavior], and get a snare to thy soul [be drawn into sin]."

In his commentary on the above verses, Matthew Henry said: "… a man who is easily provoked, touchy, and apt to resent affronts, who, when he is in a passion, cares not what he says or does, but grows outrageous, such a one is not fit to be made a friend or companion, for he will be ever and anon angry with us and that will be our trouble, and he will expect that we should, like him, be angry with others, and that will be our sin." (Source for quote: www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/22.html, "Verses 24-25")

In addition, as is usual in his Bible studies on the book of Proverbs, Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church has written an in-depth commentary on the above verses. Here is an excerpt from paragraph 3 in the first section, which restates King Solomon's command and explains why we should "Make no friendship with an angry man...":

"d. The command here was NOT to be the friend of such a man.
"• This is a clear command… not just a helpful suggestion.
"• The command is not to hang out together… (like sheep in a pasture) and not to be involved in the same activities as he is (like sheep grazing the same grass)… and not to be associated with his circle of friends if possible (graze somewhere else).
"• Stay away--whenever possible.
"• Of course, this is not always possible. He may be your classmate in school. He may work in the cubicle next to you at work. He may be your older brother.
"• You may not be able to avoid him altogether, but the command still stands: to the best of your ability--graze elsewhere. Seek someone else to hang out with… to associate with.
"• For a businessman, don't go into business with an angry man, no matter HOW good he is at sales or how talented he is crunching numbers or how talented he is at making widgets. Find somebody else!
"• For a young lady looking for a husband - consider yourself warned. Don't fall in love with an angry man--no matter how good looking he is or how adamantly he insists he won't get angry AGAIN. If he is an angry man, it is his character to be angry. Once you get married, and the honeymoon is over, you will have to deal with his anger the rest of your life. And for some women, that anger turns into violence. Make no friends with an angry man.
"• For students at school--don't try to be a friend of the angry man. He may be in the in crowd. Everyone might think he's cool because of his big mouth and his rebellion. He might be the tough guy that everyone looks up to--but the Bible says, stay away. Sooner or later his lack of self control and anger will get YOU in trouble.
"• This can and should be applied to any number of circumstances and situations in life. It is good, old fashioned, hearty counsel… good advice. Take it!"

If you want to read more of the commentary, you can find it here: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-22-index/proverbs-22_24-25/.

MAY 21

Proverbs 21:17: "He [or she] that loveth [lives for, pursues] pleasure shall be a poor man [or woman or child]: he [or she] that loveth wine and oil [a life of luxury, referring to someone with expensive tastes, who is tempted to live beyond his/her means,] shall not be rich."

According to Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church, "This proverb warns that the love of pleasure and luxuries is a sure road to the poor house."

In his commentary on this verse, he explains why the Bible says that having money is not a bad thing, but loving money is the root of all evil. Similarly, pleasurable things and luxurious living are not bad in themselves, but we shouldn't love them and chase after them, especially if we are willing to spend more than we can afford in order to obtain and enjoy them.

If you want to read the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-21-index/proverbs-21_17/.

MAY 20

Proverbs 20:18: "Every purpose [intention or plan to do something] is established [decided] by counsel [advice, guidance]: and with good advice make war."

Salem Bible Church has an excellent commentary on this verse, including many examples of why we should always seek good advice and direction (from people, the Bible, and God himself), not only before going to war but before making any major (big, important) life decisions, such as moving, building an addition to the house, going back to school, changing careers, getting married, buying a home or a car, having surgery, etc.

In the section of the commentary entitled "Every purpose is established by counsel," we are cautioned: "Be aware that sometimes friends with the best of intentions give BAD advice… and terrible counsel … Therefore, compare every word of advice you receive from men with the Word of God."

We are also told that:

"c. Wise counsel from people who have expertise in that area might mean the difference between success or failure. (established)

"d. It may be a good idea that you have:
"• But you may be using a wrong method to accomplish it.
"• It may be a good idea, but the wrong time… wrong place…
"• It may be a good idea, but needs a few minor adjustments.
"• It may be a good idea but you're not the person to do it.
"• A counselor may have a much easier, more efficient, more cost effective way of accomplishing your goal.
"• A counselor may have some other idea to enhance your good idea and make it even better.
"• It may be a good idea, but you need to be warned about some potential pitfalls.

"e. It may be a terrible idea.
"• It may be obvious to others that it won't work.
"• Sometimes people get crazy ideas in their heads… and they just have to be told!
"• Perhaps others have tried it before you and consistently failed miserably.
"• A good, honest counselor who is out for your best interest will tell you so-and in doing so, save you a lot of time, grief, and money!"

And in regard to "making war," the commentary says:

"3. Note that he [Solomon] says to get 'good advice.'

"a. Prov. [Proverbs] 24:6 -- There is safety in a multitude of counselors.
"• If you are considering war, safety ought to be paramount in your thinking.
"• Getting a multitude of counselors is what we would call getting a second opinion… and a third!
"• You are unlikely to be called upon to make plans for a war, but we may have to make war plans in dealing with our health.
"• If one doctor gives you a diagnosis and suggests a serious operation, get another doctor's advice before you subject yourself to the knife!
"• What you want is not just advice, but GOOD advice.
"• Luke 14:31 -- This king needs to sit down and CONSULT with wise men… with his army leaders… to see if it is advisable to go to war…
"» Do I have enough troops to win?
"» Do we have enough weapons?
"» Do we have a winning strategy?
"» Will the people be behind us?
"» Is this the right time?
"» There are lots of things to consider before going to war.
"» And you NEED to consult with experts before engaging in such a BIG decision.
"» When it comes to making big decisions, don't act rashly!
"• Don't operate merely by impulse… or go by gut feelings.
"• When making big decisions, it's much wiser to use your ears and your head rather than relying on your gut.
"• Don't make ignorant assumptions. Get good advice.
"• Look before you leap… get good advice before you leap.
"• Count the cost."

If you want to read the rest of the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-20-index/proverbs-20_18/.

MAY 19

2 Timothy 3:13: "But [in the 'last days,' before Jesus returns to earth,] evil men [and women and children] [referring to people who consistently do bad things] and seducers [those who lead others astray (off the right path) regarding religion and everyday life] shall wax [become] worse and worse, deceiving [misleading] [other people], and being deceived [fooled, or led away into error and sin] [themselves]."

As an example of the "Progressiveness of sin," one Bible commentator wrote:

"A gentleman was walking with a friend one day through his beautiful grounds, when they came to a fine large tree which was decayed to the very core. 'That tree,' said the proprietor, 'was destroyed by a single worm. A short time since it was as vigorous as any of its companions, when one day a woodworm was discovered forcing its way under the outer bark. A naturalist who was at that time my guest remarked on seeing it that if left alone it would ultimately kill the tree. It seemed so improbable, that the worm was suffered to remain. Gradually it bored its way into the fibre of the tree, slowly but surely doing its work. The following summer the tree shed its leaves much earlier than usual, and in the second season it was a dead, worthless thing. The worm which seemed so very insignificant had found its way to the heart of the once noble tree and destroyed its life.' How forcibly do we see this same thing illustrated in the common walks of every-day life. A young man is persuaded by his companions to take his first glass of wine. It seems like a little thing, but it is the beginning of a course of degradation and eternal shame. The clerk in the bank appropriates a few shillings of the funds entrusted to his care. One step leads to another, until at last he is arrested and cast into prison as a defaulter. A boy begins to practise little deceits at school or at home which, unless discovered and checked, will make him a base and unprincipled man. Such is the destructive power of little sins when the continued indulgence in them is practised."

(Source for quote: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/2-timothy/3-13.html, "The Biblical Illustrator")

MAY 18

Proverbs 18:8: "The words of a talebearer [someone who tells secrets or spreads gossip, rumors, etc.] are as wounds [are harmful/hurtful to the 'victim'], and they go down[,] [as if that person had swallowed poison,] into the innermost parts of the belly."

Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church admitted that he struggled with which definition of the Hebrew word laham to use for his commentary on this verse, as the word has two meanings: "wound" and "a dainty or tasty morsel." Consequently, he decided to explain how gossip can affect people both ways. Then he ended his commentary by saying:

"2. Thus, BOTH definitions for laham make perfect sense in both parts of this proverb.

"a. Solomon is either describing human nature with respect to gossip--how tantalizing and appealing it is to hear; how much people love to gobble it up. There is in each of us an appetite for it.

"b. OR Solomon is warning us about the pain that results from gossip.

"c. BOTH of those statements are true. Our fallen nature craves gossip… AND it is extremely hurtful.

"3. So in light of that, we are warned NOT to tolerate gossip."

If you want to read more of the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-18-index/proverbs-18_8/.

MAY 17

Psalm 51:5 [Speaking to God in prayer, King David said]: "Behold, I was shapen [shaped, formed] in iniquity [sinfulness], and in sin did my mother conceive me[,] [not because she had committed adultery or fornication but because she also was a sinner]."

In other words, David was telling God that he had been born a sinner, which meant that--as is true for everyone in the world--he inherited the sin nature, and the tendency to sin, from his parents the moment that he was conceived.

Adam Clarke rephrased the above verse like this: "'… As my parts were developed in the womb, the sinful principle diffused itself through the whole, so that body and mind grew up in a state of corruption and moral imperfection.'" (Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/psalms/51-5.html, "Adam Clarke Commentary")

MAY 16

Proverbs 16:31: "The hoary head [referring to gray or white hair, normally due to old age,] is a crown of glory [beauty, honor, meaning 'the hoary head' is honorable and commands respect], if it be found in the way of righteousness [i.e., when it's found on someone who sincerely tries to obey God's word]."

Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on this verse. Paragraph 5 of the commentary. which begins with "Our culture glories in youth," gives examples of how people in America usually react to the aging process and says it's sad that members of non-Christian religions around the world (Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, etc.) generally show more respect for senior citizens than we do.

If you want to read the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-16-index/proverbs-16_31/.

Definition of culture: Way of life, code of behavior

MAY 15

Proverbs 15:1: "A soft answer [gentle words, a kind response] turneth away wrath [anger, fury, rage]: but grievous [provoking, offensive, hurtful] words stir up anger."

King Solomon was a great observer of human nature. Following his advice to give "a soft answer," or speak kindly to others, is a great way to end arguments and/or keep the peace.

Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on this verse. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-15-index/proverbs-15_1/.

Another commentary asked, "If there be such happiness in a soft answer, how is it that it is so hard to give it?" and then answered the question by saying, "There is one great obstacle to which all others may be reduced--the obstacle of pride. When harsh words are addressed to us which we feel to be unmerited, we cannot bring ourselves to forgo the delight of a successful retort, still less can we bear to admit that any part of the wrong is of our doing. Pride disguises itself very cunningly, so that even a high-minded Christian is misled by its craft."

(Source for above quote: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/proverbs/15-1.html, "James Nisbit's Church Pulpit Commentary," paragraph III)

MAY 14

Proverbs 14:8: "The wisdom of the prudent [person, referring to someone who is sensible and shows good judgment,] is to understand his [or her] way [of life] [i.e., how to behave toward others, make wise decisions, etc.]: but the folly [foolish behavior, resulting from a lack of morals and/or common sense,] of fools is deceit [deception, because they try to convince themselves--and others--that their way (although wrong) is right]."

In his commentary on the above verse, Pastor Delany, of Salem Bible Church, says that, due to pride and a "know it all" attitude, fools think that their way is right, and they refuse to be corrected.

If you want to read the commentary, here's the link:
https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-14-index/proverbs-14_8/.

MAY 13

Proverbs 13:4: "The soul of the sluggard [i.e., a lazy person] desireth [craves, covets] [things that other people have], and hath [has] nothing: but the soul of the diligent [i.e., a hard-working person] shall be made fat [not literally, but figuratively--meaning prosperous (successful and/or rich), well-off]."

In other words, lazy people have unfulfilled desires, but hard workers are usually happy and content.

Salem Bible Church has a wonderful commentary on this verse. In it, Pastor Delany defines sluggard and gives many examples of excuses that lazy people give for not working. I especially like his comment (referring to sluggard) that 'This is the person whose motto is: never do today what you can put off until tomorrow.' He also lists some of the consequences of being lazy, tells why lazy people are unhappy, discusses the problem of homelessness, and explains what to do if you're feeling 'down in the dumps.'

If you want to read the pastor's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-13-index/proverbs-13_4/.

MAY 11-12

John 4:34-38 - Calling All Soul Winners! Workers Needed for a Spiritual Harvest
The following event took place after Jesus met the Samaritan woman at the well and told her that he was the Messiah; then she went and spread the word to the men in her city, who were now on their way to see Jesus.

Verse 34: "Jesus saith unto them [his disciples], My meat [my main focus in life, which is even more important to me than food,] is to do the will of him [i.e., God, the Father] that sent me [from heaven to earth], and to finish his [God's] work [which was, mainly, for me (Jesus) to preach the gospel and save sinners from hell]."

Verse 35: "Say not ye [don't you say, concerning crops], There are yet four months [after the seeds have been planted], and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields [of unsaved sinners]; for they [the 'crops' in our spiritual 'fields'] are white already to harvest [meaning these people have heard the gospel and are ready to be saved]."

Verse 36: "And he [or she] that reapeth [gathers the harvest] receiveth wages [rewards in heaven], and gathereth fruit unto life eternal [referring to converted souls, saved sinners, born-again Christians--people who have received God's gift of eternal life]: [so] that both he [or she] that soweth [or plants] [the gospel seed] and he [or she] that reapeth [gathers the harvest] [of saved souls] may rejoice together."

Verses 37-38: "And herein is that [common or popular] saying true, One [person] soweth, and another [person] reapeth. I [Jesus] sent you [apostles] to reap that [thing--in this case, referring to saved souls] whereon ye bestowed no labour [for which you did not work]: other men [including the prophets, Jewish teachers, John the Baptist, and even Jesus himself] laboured [by preaching and teaching the gospel], and ye [you] are entered into [have joined in] their labours [to finish the work that they have begun]."

If you want to become a soul winner and earn rewards in heaven, try passing out gospel tracts or telling people how to be saved before it's too late. Most of the tracts (brochures) on the "Printable Gospel Tracts" page of my website follow the "Romans Road" or use "God's simple plan of salvation" to present the gospel. If you want to read and/or print any of those tracts, here's the link: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.

MAY 10

Proverbs 10:19: "In the multitude [abundance, or large number] of words there wanteth not [is no lack of] sin [i.e., people who talk too much will eventually say things that they regret]: but he that refraineth his lips [the person who thinks before talking and is careful of what he or she says] is wise."

Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church says that, according to this verse, we need to "… control our speech… refrain it, restrain it, keep it in check… use caution…but not to stop it altogether."

In the first part of his commentary, we learn that examples of "sins which result from a multitude of words" include:

-- "OFFENSE" (the likelihood that we'll offend someone, accidentally or on purpose)

-- "SELF PRAISE" (praising ourselves, putting ourselves on a pedestal)

-- "CONTENTION" (hurting someone's feelings, offending others, making people angry)

-- "LIES" (telling outright lies, exaggerating or stretching the truth, embellishing a story, etc.)

In the second part of his commentary, Pastor Delany says:

"5. The wise man uses words carefully… cautiously… sparingly…

"a. It is not that he is afraid to speak up.

"b. Rather, it is that he doesn't speak unless he has something to say… something worth saying…

"c. He speaks at the proper time… using the right words… sparing his words… he weighs his words before speaking them… they are well thought out… not just blurting out the first thing that pops into his undisciplined mind…"

"7. Psalm 39:1 -- David determined NOT to sin with his mouth. We all should be so determined.

"a. But don't just pray about… DO something about it!

"b. You don't just pray for your daily bread. You go to work too!

"c. Pray for the Lord's strength… AND be determined not to sin.

"d. And if we DO sin with our mouth, confess it… and forsake it.

"e. This is a sin that we will have to deal with in our lives till the Lord comes…

"8. And since it is such a part of human nature to sin with our tongues, be gracious with others! (Ecc. [Ecclesiastes] 7:21-22) Haven't you done the same? We all have, James says!"

If you want to read more of Pastor Delany's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-10-index/proverbs-10_19/.

Regarding this verse, Matthew Henry said: "… Usually, those that speak much[,] speak much amiss …" (Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/10.html, "Verse 19")

MAY 9

Hebrews 13:4: "Marriage [between a man and woman--see note below*] is honourable in all [things], and the [marriage] bed [is] undefiled [meaning that sexual activity between a husband and wife is considered by God to be pure and wholesome, not immoral or unclean]: but whoremongers [customers of prostitutes--see note below**] and adulterers [i.e., people who commit adultery, which is voluntary sexual intercourse between a married man and someone other than his wife or between a married woman and someone other than her husband,] God will judge [punish]."
________________________

*1 Corinthians 7:2-4 "Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife."

**For the biblical definition of whoremonger, read the following article: "What is a whoremonger in the Bible?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/whoremonger.html.

MAY 8

Proverbs 8:10-12 - Advice From "Lady Wisdom" (i.e., wisdom personified)

Verses 10-11 [Wisdom says]: "Receive my instruction [correction, discipline--and, if necessary, punishment], and not silver; and [receive] knowledge rather than choice gold. For [because] wisdom is better [more valuable] than rubies [jewels, precious stones … money, riches]; and all the things that may be desired [such as fame, power, position, etc.] are not to be compared to it."

Verse 12: "I wisdom [consisting of experience, knowledge, and good judgment] dwell with prudence [discretion, caution] [i.e., wisdom and prudence go together because we need prudence in order to put wisdom into practice], and find out knowledge of witty inventions [clever plots] [of our enemies--to deceive, fool, or mislead us]."

Regarding these verses, Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church said that if you're reading or holding a Bible, "You have a copy of God's wisdom in your hands! It is better than money, fame, power, position… and all other things your heart might desire!" … and his commentary goes on to explain why he said that. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-8-index/proverbs-8_10-12/.

MAY 7

2 Peter 3:3-4 - The Apostle Peter's Reminder to Christians

Verse 3: "Knowing this first [remember], that there shall come in the last days [i.e., in the New Testament dispensation, or period of time before Jesus returns to earth, which is now,] scoffers [mockers (people who make fun of others)], walking after their own lusts [doing 'their own thing'],"

Verse 4: "And saying, Where is the promise of his [Jesus'] [second] coming? for [because] since the fathers [the aged and pious (old and deeply religious) men in the times of the apostles] fell asleep [died], all things [referring to the laws of nature] continue [remain the same] as they were from the beginning of the creation [of the universe and everything in it]."

MAY 6

Proverbs 6:12-15 - Troublemakers

Verses 12-13: "A naughty [worthless, good-for-nothing] person, a wicked man [or woman or child; i.e., a troublemaker], walketh [around] with a froward [crooked, lying] mouth [meaning he (or she) habitually distorts the truth]. He [or she] winketh with his [or her] eyes, he [or she] speaketh with his [or her] feet, he [or she] teacheth with his [or her] fingers [referring to hand gestures];"

Verse 14: "Frowardness [or 'perversity'--see note below*] is in his [or her] heart [mind], he [or she] deviseth mischief [plots schemes] continually; he [or she] soweth discord [causes disagreements and division, stirs up trouble]."

Verse 15: "Therefore shall his [or her--the troublemaker's] calamity [misfortune, misery] come suddenly; suddenly shall he [or she] be broken without remedy [relief or cure]."

In his commentary on verse 12, Albert Barnes says: "… This is the portrait of the man who is not to be trusted, whose look and gestures warn against him all who can observe. His speech is tortuous and crafty; his wink tells the accomplice that the victim is already snared; his gestures with foot and hand are half in deceit, and half in mockery." (Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/proverbs-6.html, "Verse 12")

Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church has also done a Bible study on these verses, and in it, he gives many examples of the various types of body language that are mentioned above. If you want to read his commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-6-index/proverbs-6_12-15/.
_________________________

*Definition of perversity, according to online dictionaries: A deliberate desire to behave in an unreasonable or unacceptable way; contrariness; the quality of being contrary to accepted standards or practice.

MAY 4-5

Genesis 3:1-7 - "The Fall of Man" (When Adam and Eve Ate the Forbidden Fruit)
This event took place in the Garden of Eden, when Satan, disguised as a serpent, appeared to Adam and Eve and caused them to sin by persuading them to disobey God and eat fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

Verse 1: "Now the serpent [i.e., Satan (the devil), in the form of a large snake that was able to walk and talk] was more subtil [subtle (or intelligent, clever, and deceptive)] than any beast of the field [referring to all animals] which the LORD God had made. And he [the serpent] said unto the woman [Eve], Yea [indeed], hath [has] God said [to you and your husband, Adam], Ye shall not eat [the fruit] of every tree of the garden?"

Verses 2-3: "And the woman [Eve] said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst [middle] of the garden [referring to the tree of the knowledge of good and evil], God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it [actually, the 'not touching that tree' part of her statement was not true], lest ye die [or else you will die]."

Verses 4-5: "And the serpent said unto the woman [trying to convince her that God didn't intend to carry out his threat], Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof [referring to the forbidden fruit], then your eyes [meaning the eyes of their minds (their understanding)] shall be opened, and ye shall be as [like] gods, knowing [what is] good and evil."

Verse 6: "And when the woman [Eve] saw that the tree [of the knowledge of good and evil] was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes [or was pleasing to look at], and [it was ] a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto [also gave some to] her husband [Adam] with her; and he did eat.

Verse 7: "And the eyes of them both [Adam and Eve] were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons [to cover themselves] [and then they were thrown out of the garden]."

The above story illustrates the consequences of disobeying God's commands.

GotQuestions.org has articles that answer some common questions about this event. If you want to read one or two of them, here are their titles along with the links:

-- "What truly happened at the fall of man?" (https://www.gotquestions.org/fall-of-man.html)

-- "Was the forbidden fruit an apple?" (https://www.gotquestions.org/forbidden-fruit-apple.html)

MAY 3

Proverbs 3:9-10 - How to Receive Blessings From God

Verse 9: "Honour the LORD with thy substance [meaning your money and/or possessions; in other words, honor God by giving to his work and service], and with the firstfruits [the first, or best, part] of all thine increase [i.e., whatever else you get in the future]:"

Verse 10: "So [then] shall thy [your] barns be filled with plenty [of food (corn, grain, etc.)], and thy presses [referring to the vats in a vineyard] shall burst out [overflow] with new [freshly pressed] wine."

When we use our money, time, and talents to worship the Lord, feed the poor, and help spread the gospel, God will bless us and take care of our daily needs.

According to Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church, in his commentary on the above verses (paragraph 3, last section): "The passage in Prov. [Proverbs] 3:10 does NOT give us the MOTIVE to give (so that we will get). Rather, it gives us a PROMISE in giving… that when we give sacrificially, God will provide for our needs!" Then he gives his reasons for saying that.

If you want to read Pastor Delany's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-3-index/proverbs-3_9-10/.

Regarding verses 9 and 10, Matthew Henry said: "… Those that do good with what they have shall have more to do more good with …" (Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/3.html, "Verses 7-12")

MAY 2

Psalm 107:8: "Oh that men [and women and children, especially born-again Christians,] would praise the LORD for his goodness [kindness], and for his wonderful works [including salvation, protection, guidance, and answered prayer] to the children of men [or 'all people']!"

MAY 1

2 Corinthians 7:10: "For godly sorrow [sadness or feeling bad because we have sinned, or broken God's laws,] worketh [brings about] repentance [a change of mind, which leads] to salvation [i.e., the act of receiving God's gift of eternal life,] not to be repented of [regretted]: but the sorrow of the world [sadness due to worldly causes (such as disappointment, shame or disgrace, loss of friends or loved ones, money, property, etc.) and which does not lead to a personal relationship with God] worketh death [or often results in death itself, as when a person becomes very sick and dies (for example, of a 'broken heart') or feels so distressed that he or she commits suicide]."

For definitions of godly sorrow and salvation:

-- The article entitled "What is godly sorrow?" by GotQuestions.org has a detailed explanation of what is meant by the term godly sorrow. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/godly-sorrow.html.

-- The question "What is salvation?" is answered by GotQuestions.org in the following article: "What is the Christian doctrine of salvation?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-doctrine-salvation.html.

Would you like to be born again (saved) and receive God's gift of eternal life? If you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and Messiah, that he 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) to come into your heart and save you so you can go to heaven when you die.

For detailed instructions on the plan of salvation, read one or more 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.