"Verse of the Day" Bible Verses (KJV)

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"Verse of the Day"
Bible Verses

Previous Month

July 2022

JULY 30-31

The Rapture

In a letter to the Christians at Thessalonica, the apostle Paul, along with Silas and Timothy, wrote:

1 Thessalonians 4:13: "But I [Paul] would not have you to be ignorant [lacking in knowledge] [about the rapture], brethren [brothers (and sisters) in Christ, referring to believers (fellow Christians) in the church], concerning them which are asleep [in this case, meaning Christians who are dead], [so] that ye [you] sorrow not [aren't overwhelmed by sadness or grief from their loss], even as [are] others [i.e., unsaved people] which have no hope [of resurrection and eternal life, and of seeing their loved ones again someday in heaven]."

1 Thessalonians 4:14: "For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus [i.e., the souls/spirits of born-again Christians who have died] will God [the Son--Jesus] bring with him [at the rapture]."

1 Thessalonians 4:15: "For this we [Paul, Silas, and Timothy] say unto you by the word of the Lord [by a direct revelation from God], that we [Christians] which are alive and remain [alive, or survive] unto [until] the coming of the Lord [in this case, referring to the rapture] shall not prevent [precede, or go before] them which are asleep [or 'dead,' meaning that the bodies of Christians who have died will be resurrected first]."

1 Thessalonians 4:16: "For [because,] [at the rapture,] the Lord [Jesus Christ] himself shall descend [come down] from heaven with a shout [from himself], [and] with the voice of the archangel [probably the voice of Michael, who is one of the most important and most powerful angels of God], and with [the sound of] the trump [trumpet] of God: and the dead in Christ [i.e., the bodies of born-again Christians who have died] shall rise [up from the dead and be reunited with their souls/spirits] first:"

1 Thessalonians 4:17: "Then we which are alive and remain [on earth] shall be caught up together with them [the resurrected Christians] in the clouds [with our newly changed, immortal bodies, according to 1 Corinthians 15:51,52,53], to meet the Lord [Jesus Christ] in the air: and so shall we ever [forever, always] be with the Lord [in heaven]."

1 Thessalonians 4:18: "Wherefore [therefore,] [Christians,] comfort [encourage] one another with these words."

_______________

Nobody except God knows when the rapture will occur. It could happen today, tomorrow, next month, next year, or many years from now. Hopefully, you'll be among the Christians who "disappear" at that time.

* * * * *

For an in-depth explanation of the rapture, read Dr. Raymond Barber's article entitled "What Will Happen At the Rapture?"

* * * * *

If you want to take part in the rapture but don't know what to do, please read one or more of the gospel tracts on the "Printable Gospel Tracts" page of my website, which is located at https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.

* * * * *

If you're a born-again Christian and love the Bible, you may be interested in what T.W. Tramm has to say. He has done much research on the Bible and is an expert on the fulfillment of biblical prophecy, especially as it relates to the rapture. He has a Facebook page and frequently posts updates on the rapture in light of current events. If you want to check it out, here's the link: https://www.facebook.com/twtramm/.

JULY 26-29

Characteristics of True Love, According to the Bible

The apostle Paul wrote about agape love (which he calls charity) in this letter to the Corinthian church. It means love for God and love for people.

Note: In verses 1-3, when Paul said "I" and "me," referring to himself , he also could have said "you," meaning us, or everyone else in the world.

1 Corinthians 13:1: "Though I speak with the tongues [languages] of men and of angels, and have not [do not have] charity [love], I am become as sounding brass [i.e., musical instruments made of brass, like trumpets], or a tinkling cymbal [referring to the sound that cymbals make]."

1 Corinthians 13:2: "And though I have the gift of prophecy [the ability to predict future events], and understand all mysteries [hidden things, secrets] [of religion], and [have] all knowledge [i.e., know everything about everything]; and though I have all [or a strong, wonder-working] faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity [love], I am nothing [in God's eyes]."

1 Corinthians 13:3: "And though I bestow [distribute in small portions] all my goods [money, property, possessions] to feed the poor [people], and though I give my body to be burned [for example, as when martyrs (people who are willing to die rather than renounce, or give up, their religious beliefs) are 'burned at the stake'], and have not charity [love], it profiteth me nothing [does me no good]."

1 Corinthians 13:4: "Charity [love] suffereth long [is long-suffering, or patiently endures hardship], and is kind; charity envieth not [is not envious]; charity vaunteth not itself [is not boastful], is not puffed up [not full of pride],"

1 Corinthians 13:5: "[Charity, or love,] Doth not behave itself unseemly [does not behave inappropriately or in an indecent manner], seeketh not [does not seek] her own [things, or is not selfish], is not easily provoked [to anger], thinketh no evil [does not think (and possibly say) bad things] [about others--regarding their motives and conduct];"

1 Corinthians 13:6: "[Charity, or love,] Rejoiceth not [does not rejoice] in iniquity [unrighteousness, injustice; i.e., does not applaud the sins, wickedness, or evil deeds of others and is not glad to hear that someone has done bad things and must suffer the consequences of those actions], but rejoiceth in the truth [of the gospel and in the virtues (goodness, moral excellence) of others];"

1 Corinthians 13:7: "[Charity, or love,] Beareth [bears, endures] all things [privately; doesn't publicize (make known to the public) or avenge (seek vengeance, or revenge, for) the faults of others], believeth [believes] all things [i.e.,has good thoughts about others; always gives people 'the benefit of the doubt'], hopeth all things [i.e., hopes that everything will turn out well], endureth [endures, or bears up under,] all things [such as persecution, harassment, etc.]."

1 Corinthians 13:13: "And now abideth [abide, or remain forever--after the spiritual gifts of 'prophecy,' 'tongues' (the ability to speak foreign languages without learning them), and 'knowledge' are gone--see verse 8, which is quoted below*] faith, hope, charity, these three [things]; but the greatest of these [three things that remain forever: i.e., faith, hope, and charity] is charity [love]."

_______________

You may have noticed that sometimes these verses are read during wedding ceremonies. That's because marriage is about love, and 1 Corinthians 13 is known as the love chapter of the Bible.

* * * * *

*1 Corinthians 13:8: "Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease [stop, end]; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away."

* * * * *

Note: Agape love and many of the characteristics mentioned in the above verses are explained in detail in the following articles:

-- "What is agape love?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/agape-love.html

-- "What does it mean that love is kind (1 Corinthians 13:4)?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/love-is-kind.html

-- "What does it mean that love does not envy (1 Corinthians 13:4)?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/love-does-not-envy.html

-- "What does it mean that love does not boast (1 Corinthians 13:4)?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/love-does-not-boast.html

-- "What does it mean that love is not proud (1 Corinthians 13:4)?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/love-is-not-proud.html

-- "What does it mean that love is not rude (1 Corinthians 13:5)?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/love-is-not-rude.html

-- "What does it mean that love is not self-seeking (1 Corinthians 13:5)?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/love-is-not-self-seeking.html

-- "What does it mean that love is not easily angered (1 Corinthians 13:5)?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/love-is-not-easily-angered.html

-- "What does it mean that love keeps no record of wrongs (1 Corinthians 13:5)?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/love-keeps-no-record-of-wrongs.html

-- "What does it mean that love always protects (1 Corinthians 13:7)?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/love-always-protects.html

-- "What does it mean that love always trusts (1 Corinthians 13:7)?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/love-always-trusts.html

-- "What does it mean that love always hopes (1 Corinthians 13:7)?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/love-always-hopes.html

-- "What does it mean that love always perseveres (1 Corinthians 13:7)?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/love-always-perseveres.html

-- "What does it mean that love never fails (1 Corinthians 13:8)?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/love-never-fails.html

-- "What does it mean that faith, hope, and love remain (1 Corinthians 13:13)?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/faith-hope-love.html

JULY 24-25

The writer of this psalm, most likely King David, wrote:

Psalm 118:1: "O give thanks unto the LORD [God]; for he is good [see note below*]: [and] because his mercy [kindness, compassion, faithfulness, forgiveness of sins] endureth [endures, continues, lasts] for ever."

_______________

*The question "What does it mean that God is good?" is answered in an article by the same name. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/God-is-good.html.

JULY 22-23

God's Moral Law Remains in Effect Today

During the Sermon on the Mount (a mountain plateau near Capernaum), Jesus said to his disciples (followers):

Matthew 5:17: "Think not [don't think] that I am come [to earth] to destroy [do away with] [the authority of] the law [of Moses, which includes the Ten Commandments--see note below*], or [the writings of] the [Old Testament] prophets: I am not come to destroy [the authority of the Old Testament], but to fulfil [the law, or bring it to completion]."

Matthew 5:18: "For verily [truly, certainly] I [Jesus] say unto you [people], Till [until] heaven and earth pass [away], one jot [the smallest Hebrew letter--see note below**] or one tittle [a point of a letter of the Hebrew alphabet--see note below**] shall in no wise [by no means] pass [away] from the law [of Moses--and of God], till all be fulfilled [accomplished]."

_______________

According to Jesus, the moral law (contained in the Ten Commandments) still applies to us today, For your convenience, those commandments are listed below:

Exodus 20:2-17 - The Ten Commandments

I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.

[1] Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

[2] Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.

[3] Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.

[4] Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.

[5] Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

[6] Thou shalt not kill.

[7] Thou shalt not commit adultery.

[8] Thou shalt not steal.

[9] Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.

[10] Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's."

* * * * *

*Albert Barnes' commentary has an explanation of the three types of law (moral, ceremonial, and judicial). Here's what it says:

"The laws of the Jews are commonly divided into moral, ceremonial, and judicial. The moral laws are such as grow out of the nature of things, and which cannot, therefore, be changed - such as the duty of loving God and his creatures. These cannot be abolished [done away with], as it can never be made right to hate God, or to hate our fellow-men. Of this kind are the ten commandments [listed above], and these our Saviour has neither abolished nor superseded [replaced with something else]. The ceremonial laws are such as are appointed to meet certain states of society, or to regulate the religious rites [rituals] and ceremonies of a people. These can be changed when circumstances are changed, and yet the moral law be untouched. A general in an army may command his soldiers to appear sometimes in a red coat and sometimes in blue or in yellow. This would be a ceremonial law, and might be changed as he pleased. The duty of obeying him, and of being faithful to his country, could not be changed.

"This is a moral law. A parent might permit his children to have 50 different dresses at different times, and love them equally in all. The dress is a mere matter of ceremony, and may be changed. The child, in all these garments, is bound to love and obey his father. This is a moral law, and cannot be changed. So the laws of the Jews. Those designed to regulate mere matters of ceremony and rites of worship might be changed. Those requiring love and obedience to God and love to people could not be changed, and Christ did not attempt it, … A third species of law was the judicial, or those laws regulating courts of justice which are contained in the Old Testament. These were of the nature of the ceremonial law, and might also be changed at pleasure. The judicial law of the Hebrews was adapted to their own civil society. When the form of their polity [political organization] was changed this was of course no longer binding."

Mr. Barnes concludes his explanation with this: "The ceremonial law was fulfilled by the coming of [Jesus] Christ: the shadow was lost in the substance, and ceased to be [stopped being, or was no longer] binding. The moral law was confirmed and unchanged."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-5.html, "Verse 18")

* * * * *

**Also in his commentary on Matthew 5:18, Albert Barnes gives the definitions of jot and tittle:

"One jot - The word 'jot,' or yod(י y), is the name of the Hebrew letter I, the smallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet.

"One tittle - The word used here, in the Greek, means literally a little horn, then a point, an extremity. Several of the Hebrew letters were written with small points or apices, as in the Hebrew letter, shin (ש sh), or the Hebrew letter, sin (שׂ s), which serve to distinguish one letter from another. To change a small point of one letter, therefore, might vary the meaning of a word, and destroy the sense. The name 'little horn' was given to these points probably from the manner in which they were written, resembling a little horn. …"

He goes on to explain their importance:

"… the Jews were exceedingly cautious in writing these letters [i.e., sin, shin, etc.], and considered the smallest change or omission a reason for destroying the whole manuscript when they were transcribing the Old Testament. The expression, 'one jot or tittle,' became proverbial, and means that the smallest part of the law should not be destroyed."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-5.html, "Verse 18")

* * * * *

For additional information on jots and tittles, see the following:

-- GotQuestions.org answers the question "What is a jot? What is a tittle?" in its article by the same name. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/jot-tittle.html.

-- You can clearly see the difference that the placement of a dot makes in the Hebrew letters shin and sin by clicking on this link: www.akhlah.com/hebrew/aleph-bet/shin/.

JULY 21

Proverbs 21:13: "Whoso [whoever] stoppeth [stops, shuts] his [or her] ears at [meaning he (or she) refuses to listen to or ignores] the cry of the poor [for help, in the form of food, money, assistance, etc.--see note below*], he [or she] also shall cry himself [or herself] [to others, and/or to God in prayer, when he (or she) has a need], but shall not be heard [or answered]."

_______________

Following the example of the Samaritan in the story below, we should show mercy, kindness, and compassion to others. If we don't, according to Proverbs 21:13, there will be consequences for our actions.

Parable of the Good Samaritan (Quoted from Luke 10:30-37)

30 And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment [clothes], and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.
31 And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.
32 And likewise a Levite [a descendant of Levi, who would have provided assistance to priests in the Jewish temple], when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.
33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him,
34 And went to him, and bound up [bandaged] his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast [of burden], and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.
35 And on the morrow [the next day] when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.
36 Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?
37 And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.

* * * * *

*According to Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church, "the poor" in the above verse is referring to people who are poor, not because of laziness or some type of addiction (drugs, alcohol, gambling, etc.), but through no fault of their own.

* * * * *

As usual, Pastor Delany has written an excellent commentary on this verse. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-21-index/proverbs-21_13/.

JULY 20

Jesus Calms the Storm

Matthew 8:23-24: "And when he [Jesus] was entered into a ship [probably a small fishing boat with sails] [on the Sea of Tiberias (also known as the Sea of Galilee)], his disciples [referring to the twelve men who were later called apostles] followed him [into the ship]. And, behold [look, see], there arose a great tempest [violent storm] in the sea, insomuch [so] that the ship was covered with the waves [and in danger of sinking]: but he [Jesus] was asleep."

Matthew 8:25-26: "And his disciples came to him [Jesus], and awoke [awakened] him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish [or, 'save our lives; we are perishing,' which meant, 'help us or we'll die']. And he [Jesus] saith [said] unto them, Why are ye [you] fearful [afraid], O ye of little faith? Then he [Jesus] arose [stood up], and rebuked [restrained, brought under control, held back] the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm [state of tranquility, or calmness of the sea]."

Matthew 8:27: "But the men marvelled [were amazed, astonished, filled with wonder], saying, What manner [kind] of man is this [referring to Jesus], that even the winds and the sea obey him!"

_______________

The disciples realized that Jesus was not an ordinary man, because only God could have performed a miracle like this. And according to the Bible, that's exactly what Jesus was (and is)--the Son of God, or God the Son, in human form.

In addition to proving that Jesus is God, this story shows that God answers prayer, even for those with "little faith."

* * * * *

Regarding the disciples calling Jesus "Lord" in Matthew 8:25, Matthew Henry observed that:

"… Their petition [request] is, Lord, save us. They believed he could save them; they begged he would, Christ's errand into the world was to save, but those only shall be saved that call on the name of the Lord, Acts 2:21…"

"… They call him, Lord, and then pray, Save us. Note, Christ will save none but those that are willing to take him for their Lord; for he is a Prince and a Saviour."

(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/matthew/8.html, "Jesus Allays a Storm," "v. 25")

JULY 19

Proverbs 19:19: "A man [or woman or child] of great wrath [anger] shall suffer punishment [or pay a price]: for if thou [you] deliver [rescue] him [or her] [once, from trouble], yet thou must do it [over and over] again [meaning often, or repeatedly]."

_______________

Salem Bible Church has an excellent commentary on this verse, which focuses on dealing with uncontrolled anger.

* * * * *

Here's an excerpt from the section of the commentary entitled "The Man and His Sin":

"g. There are lots of reasons behind a person's anger.

"h. But the PRIMARY reason is SELF.
"• I don't have what I think I should have! I'm mad!
"• I deserve this and that and I didn't get it… so I'm mad.
"• I was insulted by what he said. Nobody treats me that way. Doesn't he know who I am? I'm mad!
"• When you look at life through that vain little prism of SELF, it is easy to even justify such anger.
"• 'I have a right to be angry. Don't they know that I deserve to be number one! If they drop me down to number two, I will be really angry!'
"• It is simply a manifestation of one's vain, old, SELF…
"• When self is slighted, self gets mad!"

* * * * *

And here's another excerpt, from the section entitled "The Consequences of His Sin":

"h. Demonstrating anger in public can cause you embarrassment.

"i. It can be more serious if results in arguments and loss of friends.

"j. It can have a more serious penalty if it causes you to lose your job.

"k. It can be even worse if you end up killing someone out of anger and are sent to death row.

"l. The penalties for anger vary greatly depending upon the circumstances."

* * * * *

The section entitled "The Futility of Delivering Him" has the following excellent advice on tough love:

"2. But here Solomon states how futile it is to try to bail out an angry man from the messes he makes for himself.

"3. If you deliver him (bail him out of the mess he made), you will just have to do it again… and again… and again… and again…

"4. In other words, Solomon says, let him suffer the divinely [God-] appointed punishment that anger deserves.

"5. If you keep on bailing him [the angry man] out, he never pays the price… and thus never learns the lesson.

"6. That is hard to do if it is a loved one. However, sometimes love has to be tough.

"a. But remember what he said in vs. [verse] 18 [i.e., Proverbs 19:18]: 'Let not your soul spare for his crying.'

"b. That same principle parents need to employ in dealing with LITTLE children have to employ in dealing with GROWN children too.

"c. Hearing the little child cry breaks the heart of the parent spanking the child.

"d. Solomon says: Don't stop spanking. They [children] NEED to learn the lesson. Don't allow emotion to cause you to ROB that child of the discipline he needs to learn from the lesson.

"e. The same truth is found in the next passage. This is really the same kind of situation--only an advanced case.

"f. Don't allow your emotions to cause you to bail him or her [the angry person] out of trouble. They need to learn the lesson the hard way… by paying the price.

"7. If you don't take heed… and you keep bailing him [the angry man] out, you will find yourself stuck in a revolving door… an endless cycle of bailing him out… and because he didn't pay the price, he didn't learn the lesson, and doesn't control his anger, and thus it will explode again… only to start the cycle all over again…

"8. At some point you have say, 'Enough is enough. It's time to pay the price.'"

If you want to read more of the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-19-index/proverbs-19_19/

JULY 17-18

Proverbs 17:21: "He [or she] that begetteth [begets, conceives, produces, becomes the parent of] a fool [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]."

_______________

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."

Regarding sorrow, he 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 children] move out on their own. A father will always be a father to his son… throughout his adult life too."

* * * * *

All fathers, including Christians, can have foolish sons. Godly fathers mentioned in the Bible who had foolish sons included Isaac (Genesis 26:34-35), Eli (1 Samuel 2:32-35), Samuel (1 Samuel 8:3), and King David (2 Samuel 18:33).

* * * * *

Pastor's Delany's commentary on verse 21 is combined with the one for verse 25. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-17-index/proverbs-17_21_25/.

JULY 16

Proverbs 16:20: "He [or she] that handleth [handles] a matter wisely [in thought, word, and deed] shall find good [things or results, such as good fortune and success, but not necessarily happiness]: and whoso [whoever] trusteth [trusts, has confidence] in the LORD [for salvation, help, guidance, etc.], happy is he [or she]."

_______________

According to Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church, "Two things are needed to find good and happiness: wisdom PLUS faith."

* * * * *

In his commentary, Pastor Delany explains how wisdom and trust go together ("They are BOTH needed in handling any matter properly"), why "wisdom without faith is folly [foolishness]," and why "faith without wisdom is dangerous."

Included in the commentary are examples of people who misinterpret scripture or who wrongly apply things that happened in Bible times to current events (such as when Peter walked on water, and what Joshua and his army did to defeat the city of Jericho). In both of these cases, Peter and Joshua were given one-time, specific instructions on what God wanted them to do. Those instructions weren't for anyone else.

If you want to read the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-16-index/proverbs-16_20/.

JULY 15

The apostle John wrote:

John 1:14: "And the Word [the living Word--Jesus Christ, Son of God (or God the Son), and second person of the Trinity] was made flesh [became a human being], and dwelt [lived on earth] among us [the Jewish people], (and we [referring to Peter, James, and John when they witnessed the transfiguration of Jesus--see note below*] beheld [observed, saw] his [Jesus'] [heavenly] glory [i.e., the magnificence of his divine nature, or the way that he appears in heaven], the glory as of the only [person on earth who was ever] begotten of [brought forth directly from God] the Father,) [see note below**] [and who (referring to Jesus) is] full of grace and truth."

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*For information about the transfiguration, read "What is the meaning and importance of the transfiguration?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/transfiguration.html.

* * * * *

**During the incarnation, baby Jesus was conceived (placed in the virgin Mary's uterus, or womb) by the Holy Ghost, which meant that God was his father, Consequently, Jesus retained (kept) his divine (godly) nature. And because Mary was his mother, Jesus inherited a human nature from her. That is why we are told that Jesus is both God and man.

This is explained more fully in the following article: "What does incarnate mean? How was Jesus God incarnate?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/God-incarnate.html.

JULY 14

Proverbs 14:2: "He [or she] that walketh [walks] in his [or her] uprightness [i.e., the person who lives an obedient, godly life] [shows by his (or her) actions that he (or she)] feareth [fears] the LORD: but he [or she] that is perverse [crooked, dishonest, unjust] in his [or her] ways [shows by his (or her) actions that he (or she)] despiseth [hates] him [God]."

_______________

A well-known saying (i.e., "Actions speak louder than words") illustrates the meaning of today's verse. If Christians say they love God but don't show it, who will believe them (including God)?

* * * * *

According to Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church, "A person's behavior is often a reflection of his attitude towards God."

* * * * *

In paragraph 1 at the top of his commentary on this verse, Pastor Delany lists some characteristics of people who fear God. They include:

-- Knowing the difference between right and wrong and choosing to do right.
-- Reading, studying, and obeying the Bible.
-- Hating every form of evil (including pride, arrogance, a bad mouth, etc.).
-- Staying out of trouble by avoiding stupid and dangerous behavior.
-- Being content.
-- Not meddling or associating with bad people, and not being envious of others.

If you're interesting in reading the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-14-index/proverbs-14_2/.

JULY 13

Proverbs 13:20: "He [or she] that walketh [walks] [through life] with wise men [or women or children, referring to the person who spends lots of time with people who are wise] shall be wise: but a companion [close friend] of fools shall be destroyed [or morally ruined]."

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As the saying goes, "A man is known by the company he keeps." Consequently, we need to choose our friends carefully.

* * * * *

Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on this verse and shows the various ways (both good and bad) in which friends and companions can influence our behavior. For example, for our friends, we should choose people who are wise, who love God and the Bible, and who encourage us and give good advice, and we should stay away from violent, angry people and those who drink too much, abuse drugs, and/or do other bad things.

* * * * *

The above commentary ends with the following caution:

"c. If the ones you commune with on a daily basis… fellowship together with… are evil, it will have a corrupting effect [or be a bad influence] on your life!
"» Your love for holiness will be adversely [unfavorably] affected.
"» Your attraction to earthly things will increase.
"» Your fear of God will be diminished [reduced].
"» Your horror over sin will be neutralized.
"» Your resolve to obey God's Word will be weakened.
"» Your separation from the world will be compromised.
"» Your zeal [enthusiasm] to evangelize [preach the gospel, tell people about Jesus and how to be saved] will cool down…
"» You may not notice it at first, but it will happen… gradually… a change will take place in your life.
"» If you see that beginning to happen FLEE [run away]! Seek good, godly fellowship and friendship."

If you want to read this commentary, here's the link:
https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-13-index/proverbs-13_20/.

* * * * *

Commenting on Proverbs 13:20, Adam Clarke wrote:

"… To walk with a person implies love and attachment; and it is impossible not to imitate those we love. So we say, 'Show me his company, and I'll tell you the man.' Let me know the company he keeps, and I shall easily guess his moral character."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/proverbs/13-20.html, "Adam Clarke Commentary")

JULY 12

This was the apostle Paul's warning to Christians about the teaching of false doctrine (religious beliefs):

Galatians 5:9: "A little leaven [yeast] leaveneth [leavens, affects] the whole lump [of dough]."

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During baking, a small amount of yeast makes all of the dough ferment and rise. Applying this thought to the Bible, a little false teaching ("A little leaven") can spread throughout the church and have a bad influence on many Christians ("the whole lump").

* * * * *

In his commentary on Galatians 5:9, John Gill said:

"… as a little sour leaven influences and ferments a large mass, or lump of dough, and makes it of the same nature with it, so a small error in doctrine, as it may be thought to be, increases to more ungodliness, and eats as doth [does] a canker; and though a few hands [or people] may be first concerned in propagating [spreading] it [the false teaching or lie], and but few be infected with it, yet these may soon spread the contagion [disease, or harmful idea or practice] through the whole society: wherefore errors and false teachers should be nipped in the bud, and stopped in their beginnings, how inconsiderable soever [whatsoever] they and their tenets [beliefs] may be judged to be."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/galatians/5-9.html, "Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible")

JULY 11

Proverbs 11:13: "A talebearer [blabbermouth, tattletale] revealeth [reveals] secrets [to others]: but he [or she] that is of a faithful spirit [i.e., a faithful, trustworthy person--friend, relative, etc.] concealeth [conceals] the matter [or keeps the matter hidden, refuses to spread gossip, doesn't air other people's 'dirty laundry']."

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In most cases, if someone (a friend, husband or wife, family member, church member, etc.) trusts you with a secret, keep it to yourself.

* * * * *

You may be wondering if there are any exceptions to the above 'rule.' According to Matthew Henry, the answer is yes, because he says:

"A faithful man will not disclose what he is trusted with, unless the honour of God and the real good of society require it."

(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-concise/proverbs/11.html, "Verse 13")

* * * * *

In Albert Barnes' opinion:

"The man who comes to us with tales about others will reveal our secrets also …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/proverbs-11.html, "Verse 13")

* * * * *

And finally, Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on the above proverb. It concludes with:

"Faithfulness is a matter of the heart. Keep your heart with all diligence [careful and persistent work or effort]--and your tongue will be kept [quiet, silent] as well."

If you want to read the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-11-index/proverbs-11_13/.

JULY 10

Proverbs 10:22 "The blessing of the LORD [in this case, probably referring to the earthly (physical) blessings (riches, material possessions, etc.), rather than spiritual blessings, that come from God], it maketh [makes] [a person] rich, and he [God] addeth [adds] no sorrow with it."

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God's blessings (especially when accompanied by hard work on our part) come without worries or regrets. Consequently, we should appreciate and enjoy the good things that we have, and we should thank God for them.

* * * * *

Salem Bible Church has two commentaries on this verse. If you want to read one or both of them, here are the links:

-- "The Blessing of the Lord Maketh Rich"
https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-10-index/proverbs-10_22/

-- "Blessings without Sorrow"
https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-10-index/proverbs-10_22b/

* * * * *

The following are excerpts from the first commentary (listed above) showing how some people try to get rich (and usually fail to do so) without God's help:

"6. Some men seek for riches without diligence [hard work]…

"a. Gambling and casino betting is all based on this aspect of human nature--get rich quick!"

"7. Others seek riches by diligence … and ignore GOD as the source of blessing."

"c. Ecc. 9:10 -- Work your hardest and do your best! (man's responsibility)
"• vs. 11 [Ecclesiastes 9:11] -- but don't ever ignore the sovereignty of God!
"• The race is not always to the fastest runner! (He could have a cold that day; trip over his shoestrings; the sole of his sneaker could come apart;
"• A ski racer--he could be the best--but he could always hit a patch of ice…
"• The battle isn't always to the biggest, best equipped and best trained soldiers either! Consider Israel against Egypt [in the Old Testament]! How could the Egyptians ever have imagined that they would be defeated? Who could have imagined the Red Sea opening!?
"• Bread is not always to the wise! You may make the wisest investments humanly possible on Wall Street--and the unthinkable could occur… war could break out… a new technology could render your investment obsolete [outdated]…
"• A farmer could work his hardest planting his crops--and the Lord may hold back on the rain…
"• Robert Burns put it this way: The best-laid schemes of mice and men gang aft agley (often go astray)!"

The second commentary (listed above) basically focuses on (1) rich people and poor people who love, and lust for, money and (2) what happens when they get it or don't get it.

According to Jim Delany, pastor of Salem Bible Church, "When we do our best… put in diligent effort… work in dependence upon the Lord… and do so gladly and cheerfully… THEN, when God blesses the finished product (building a church; building a business; or building a family)… there is no sorrow in it!"

* * * * *

Regarding today's verse (Proverbs 10:22), Matthew Henry said:

"Worldly wealth is that which most men have their hearts very much upon, but they generally mistake both in the nature of the thing they desire and in the way by which they hope to obtain it; we are therefore told here, 1. What that wealth is which is indeed desirable, not having abundance [a large quantity] only, but having it and no sorrow with it, no disquieting [anxious or uneasy] care to get and keep it, no vexation of spirit [no frustration, annoyance, exasperation] in the enjoyment of it, no tormenting grief for the loss of it, no guilt contracted by the abuse of it--to have it [wealth, riches, money] and to have a heart to take the comfort of it, to do good with it and to serve God with joyfulness and gladness of heart in the use of it. 2. Whence [from where] this desirable wealth is to be expected, not by making ourselves drudges [slaves] to the world … but by the blessing of God …"

(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/10.html. "Verse 22")

JULY 9

Psalm 34:9: "O fear the LORD [i.e., not only fear (be afraid of) God (because of who he is and what he can do if we disobey, displease, or offend him in any way), but also honor him and have great respect, admiration, and love for him], ye his saints [you born-again Christians]: for there is no want [lack or deficiency of something that is needed] to them that fear him [God]."

Psalm 34:10: "The young lions [often] do lack [food], and suffer hunger: but they [the people] that seek the LORD [both in prayer and as their savior and friend] shall not want [be without] any good [or needed] thing."

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In his commentary on Psalm 34:9, regarding the phrase there is no want to them that fear him, Albert Barnes wrote:

"… while these statements should not be interpreted as affirming [stating, confirming] absolutely that no child of God [i.e., born-again Christian] will ever be in need of food, or drink, or raiment [clothing], or home, or friends, yet it is generally true that the needs of the righteous are supplied, often in an unexpected manner, and from an unexpected source …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bnb/psalms-34.html, "Verse 9")

JULY 8

Ecclesiastes 1:9: "The thing that hath been [done (or that has happened)] [in the past in regard to nature and human life], it is that which shall be [repeated, over and over]; and that which is done [in the present] is that which shall be done [in the future]: and there is no new thing under the sun."

Ecclesiastes 1:10: "Is there any thing whereof [of which] it may be said, See, this is new? it hath [has] been [in existence] already of old time, which was before us."

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According to the Bible, history repeats itself. In other words, everything that happens has happened before. Some examples are quoted below.

* * * * *

In his commentary on Ecclesiastes 1:10, John Gill said:

"… look into the natural world [i.e., animals, plants, and other things existing in nature], and the same natural causes will be seen producing the same effects; or into the moral world, and there are the same virtues, and their contrary [referring to good morals and bad morals]; or into the political world, and the same schemes are forming and pursuing, and which issue in the same things, peace or war; or into the learned world, and the same languages, arts, and sciences, are taught and learned; and the same things said over again … or into the mechanic world, and the same trades and businesses are carrying on …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/ecclesiastes/1-10.html, "John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible")

* * * * *

Also commenting on verse 10, Mark Dunagan said:

"… Our memories are short-lived. What we think is new is only new to us. And it is very easy to see the above truth once you have lived for some time. Fashions, trends, hairstyles, kids names, music, etc….all end up coming back. Things go out of style and then they come back in style. And what one generation was tired of, another generation greedily exclaims, 'this is the greatest!' …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/ecclesiastes/1-10.html, "Mark Dunaghan Commentary on the Bible")

* * * * *

And this is what another Bible commentator, John Gill, said about verse 10:

"and [there is] no new [thing] under the sun; which is to be understood of things natural, as the works of creation, which were finished from the beginning of the world, and continue as they were ever since …; the various seasons of day and night, of summer and winter, of spring and autumn, of heat and cold, of seed time and harvest, come in course, as they always did; these ordinances never fail … The things before mentioned, the constant succession of men on earth, who are born into the world and die out of it, just as they always did; the sun rises and sets at its appointed time, as it did almost six thousand years ago; the winds whirl about all the points of the compass now as formerly; the rivers have the same course and recourse, and the sea its ebbing and flowing, they ever had; the same arts and sciences, trades and manufactures, obtained formerly as now, though in some circumstances there may be an improvement, and in others they grow worse …

"… and even such things as are thought of new invention, it may be only owing to the ignorance of former times, history failing to give us an account of them; thus the art of printing, the making of gunpowder, and the use of guns and bombs, and of the lodestone [magnetic stone] and mariner's [sailor's] compass, were thought to be of no long standing; and yet, according to the Chinese histories, that people were in possession of these things hundreds of years before; the circulation of the blood, supposed to be first found out by a countryman of ours in the last century, was known by Solomon, and is thought to be designed by him …

"… This will likewise hold good in moral things; the same vices [immoral or wicked behavior] and virtues [behavior showing good moral standards] are now as ever, and ever were as they are; men in every age were born in sin, and were transgressors [wrongdoers, lawbreakers] from the womb [from birth]; from their infancy corrupt, and in all the stages of life; there were the same luxury and intemperance [overindulgence, as in drinking too much], and unnatural lusts [intense sexual desires], rapine [seizure of property by force] and violence, in the days of Noah and Lot, as now; in Sodom and Gomorrah, and in the old world, as in the present age; and there were some few then, as now, that were men of sobriety [i.e., not under the influence of alcohol or drugs], honesty, truth, and righteousness. There is nothing to be excepted but preternatural [beyond what is normal or natural] things, miraculous events, which may be called new, unheard of, and wonderful ones; such as the earth's opening and swallowing men alive at once; the standing still of the sun and moon for a considerable time; the miracles wrought by the prophets of the Old [Testament] and the apostles of the New Testament, and especially by [Jesus] Christ; and particularly the incarnation of Christ, or his birth of [from] a virgin, that new thing made in the earth; these and such like things are made by the power of, he [the] divine Being [i.e., God], who dwells [lives in heaven,] above the sun, and is not bound by the laws of nature. Spiritual things may also be excepted, which are the effects of divine favour, or the produce of efficacious [effective] grace; and yet these things, though in some sense new, are also old; or there have been the same things for substance in former ages, and from the beginning, as now; such as the new covenant of grace; the new and living way to God; new creatures in Christ; a new name; the New Testament, and the doctrines of it; new ordinances, and the new commandment of love; and yet these, in some sense, are all old things, and indeed are the same in substance: there is nothing new but what is above the sun, and to be enjoyed in the realms of bliss [complete happiness] to all eternity; and there are some things new h, [such as?] new wine in Christ's Father's [or God the Father's] kingdom, new glories, joys, and pleasures, that will never end."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/ecclesiastes/1-9.html, "Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible")

JULY 6-7

What the Bible Says About Theft

Proverbs 6:30: "Men [and women and children] do not despise [hate] a thief, if he [or she] steal to satisfy his [or her] soul [body] [or to preserve his (or her) life] when he [or she] is hungry;"

Proverbs 6:31: "But if he [or she--the thief] be found, he [or she] shall restore [repay] sevenfold [or shall make restitution by paying back seven times as much as he (or she) took]; [if necessary,] he [or she--the thief] shall give all the substance of his [or her] house [referring to all that he (or she) owns] [to pay the debt]."

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In other words, most of us are inclined to show compassion (pity and sympathy) rather than hatred for poor people who steal food because they're hungry. However, theft is still a sin in God's eyes and must be punished according to the law.

* * * * *

Proverbs 6:31, which is combined with verses 32-35 in the Salem Bible Church commentary, was included in King Solomon's teachings about adultery because the topics are similar, as they both involve stealing, which is a sin. The subject of Proverbs 6:30-31 is an honest man who steals a loaf of bread because he (and probably his family, too) is hungry and has no food. The other verses (Proverbs 6:32-35) involve a man "stealing" another man's wife and having sex with her.

* * * * *

According to the above-mentioned commentary (i.e., in the second section):

"3. BOTH sins are in essence, stealing… a loaf of bread… and stealing a man's wife.

"4. BOTH acts are sinful.

"5. BOTH are forbidden in the Ten Commandments: 'Thou shalt not steal.' 'Thou shalt not commit adultery.'

"6. BOTH sins can be forgiven by God upon repentance.

"7. However, there is one huge difference.

"a. Men won't despise a thief who steals bread when hungry… when he hungers and lusts for food.

"b. But men WILL despise the man who hungers and lusts after his neighbor's wife… and commits adultery!"

The commentary goes on to explain why committing adultery is worse than stealing a loaf of bread and why its consequences are far worse and longer lasting.

If you want to read the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-6-index/proverbs-6_30-35/.

JULY 5

Born-Again Christians Are Children of God

Galatians 4:4: "But when the fulness of the time was come [when the appointed (chosen) time arrived], God sent forth his Son [from heaven to earth], [referring to Jesus, who was] made of a woman [because he was born to the virgin Mary], [and was] made under [the sentence (or curse) of] the law [meaning he had a human nature and, while on earth, was in subjection to the law of Moses, or the Law of God],"

Galatians 4:5: [God sent Jesus to earth:] To redeem [pay the sin debt for, save from hell] them that were under the law [i.e., all sinners] [through his death on the cross], [so] that we [saved people--men, women, and children] might receive the adoption of sons [might be adopted into the family of God]."

Galatians 4:6: "And because ye [you born-again Christians, both male and female] are sons [or, in this case, children] [of God], God hath [has] sent forth the Spirit of his Son [referring to Jesus' Spirit, in the person of the Holy Spirit,] into your hearts, crying, Abba [Father], Father."

Galatians 4:7: "Wherefore [for this reason, or because you are saved] thou art [you are] no more [no longer] a servant [of sin and of the law], but [you are] a son [or, in this case, a child] [of God]; and if [you are] a son [a child] [of God], then [you are also] an heir of God [referring to a heavenly inheritance] through [Jesus] Christ."

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At salvation, when we receive the free gift of eternal life, we become children of God, the Holy Spirit comes to live in our hearts, and we know that someday we will enjoy all of the privileges and blessings that await us in heaven.

* * * * *

Other things also happen at salvation. While searching for something on the Internet, I found a list of "38 Things that Happen when We get Saved," which was compiled by a Baptist pastor named Dr. Bob Ream. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.biblebelievers.com/ream_b1.html.

* * * * *

In addition, the following articles contain information about heirs and inheritances:

-- "What is an heir in the Bible?"
(https://www.gotquestions.org/heir-Bible.html)

-- "What does it mean to be co-heirs/joint heirs with Christ?
(https://www.gotquestions.org/co-heirs-with-Christ.html)

JULY 4

The Apostle Peter's Advice to Christians

1 Peter 2:13-14: "Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man [mankind; i.e., obey all laws, as long as they are not in conflict with (or in opposition to) the law of God--do this] for the Lord's sake [because God has required it]: whether it be [obedience] to the king [leader of the people], as supreme [highest in rank or authority]; Or [obedience] unto governors [people who run the government], as unto them that are sent by him [referring to the 'king,' or person who is highest in command] for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well [do right, obey the law]."

1 Peter 2:15: "For so [it] is the will of God, that with well doing ye [you] may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men [and women] [see note below*]:"

1 Peter 2:16: "[Do this (i.e., 'Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man')] As [being] free [spiritually--from bondage to Satan and sin], and not using your [Christian] liberty [referring to your freedom in Christ, or salvation,] for a cloke [cloak] of [or cover for] maliciousness [a feeling of hatred for others along with a desire to hurt them, through words and/or deeds], but as the servants of God."

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It is the duty of everyone, not just Christians, to obey their country's laws and constitution.

* * * * *

*According to Albert Barnes, regarding 1 Peter 2:15:

"… One of the best ways of meeting the accusations of our enemies is to lead a life of strict integrity [or to have high moral principles]. It is not easy for the wicked to reply to this argument."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/1-peter-2.html, "Verse 15")

* * * * *

TODAY IS INDEPENDENCE DAY
(An American Holiday)

According to dictioniary.com, "Independence Day is a
U.S. holiday in commemoration of July 4, 1776, the day on
which the original 13 colonies of the United States declared
independence from British rule with the adoption of the
Declaration of Independence.

"Independence Day is popularly called (the) Fourth of
July. It's also called July Fourth or simply the Fourth. It's
a patriotic holiday that's often celebrated with parades,
family gatherings, fireworks, and displays of red, white,
and blue decorations, especially the American flag …"

Note: Google has published a cute cartoon to
celebrate the Fourth of July. In it, the "Google" letters
are celebrating the holiday with a backyard barbeque. Click
here to see the "Doodle" and read about American barbeques:
https://www.google.com/doodles/fourth-of-july-2022

JULY 2-3

A Lesson in Humility and Obedience

Philippians 2:5: "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus [in other words, follow the example of Jesus Christ, God's Son, concerning humility and obedience]:"

Philippians 2:6-7: "Who [referring to Jesus], being in the form of God [having the same splendor (magnificent appearance) and majesty as God the Father], thought it not [did not consider it] robbery to be equal with God [note: it wasn't robbery because Jesus is equal with God--see note below*]: But made himself of no reputation [he laid aside his majesty and glory], and [willingly] took upon him the form of a servant [the body of a human being, in a lowly position in life], and was made in the likeness of men:"

Philippians 2:8: "And being found in fashion as a man, he [Jesus] humbled himself [to God the Father and to everyone he came in contact with on earth], and became obedient [to God's will] unto [until] death, even the [long-lasting, extremely painful, and humiliating] death of the cross [so that sinners could be saved from hell and the lake of fire--see note below**]."

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*The Godhead, or Trinity, consists of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (i.e., one God in three persons), all of whom are equal, according to 1 John 5:7, which says:

"For there are three [persons] that bear record in heaven, [God] the Father, the Word [Jesus Christ, the Son of God], and the Holy Ghost [Holy Spirit]: and these three [persons] are one [God]."

This is explained very well in the following article: "What does it mean that the Trinity is God in three Persons?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/God-in-three-persons.html.

* * * * *

**During the crucifixion, Jesus became the sacrifice for the sins of the world (i.e., all human beings, everyone on earth). For more information on this subject, read the article entitled "Why did Jesus have to die?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/why-Jesus-die.html.

* * * * *

Because of Jesus' sacrifice for sin, you can have eternal life.

If you believe that Jesus died on the cross to pay for your sins and that he was buried and rose again, all you must 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.

Why not do it now?

Note: 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.

JULY 1

Proverbs 1:7: "The fear of the LORD [which means not only actually being afraid of Almighty God (because of who he is and what he can do if we disobey, displease, or offend him in any way), but also having great respect, admiration, and love for him] is the beginning of knowledge: but fools [people who do not fear God] despise [hate] wisdom and instruction."

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In his commentary on this verse, Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church explains the meaning of the phrase fear of the LORD and tells why fearing God is the principal (most important) part of knowledge.

According to Pastor Delany, having the fear of God will help us know many things, including: (1) how to avoid marital (marriage) problems, (2) why we are here (on earth), (3) where the sun and moon came from, (4) how we can get to heaven, (5) how to deal with the problem of self-control (over things like alcohol, drugs, lust, sexual sins, greed, anger, etc.), and (6) the right way to bring up our children.

If you want to read his commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-1-index/proverbs-1_7/.