"Verse of the Day" Bible Verses - November 2022
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"Verse of the Day"
Bible Verses
"Verse of the Day"
Bible Verses
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November 2022
NOVEMBER 30

Are Christians Allowed to Sin?

In his letter to born-again Christians in Rome (and, via the Bible, to all other born-again Christians throughout the world), the apostle Paul wrote:

Romans 6:15: "What then? shall we [continue to] sin, because we are not under the law [of Moses, which prohibits sin], but under grace [which pardons sin]? [Paul implies that the answer to his question is 'no' by saying,] God forbid ['May God keep that from happening' or 'I hope that does not happen']."

Romans 6:16: "Know ye not [don't you know], that to whom ye [you] yield [give] yourselves [as] servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye [willingly] obey; whether of sin [i.e., obedience to Satan] unto death, or of obedience [to God] unto righteousness [including morality (good moral values) and true religion (justice, honesty, virtue)]?"
_______________

Based on their actions, you may be wondering if some so-called Christians are truly born again. Here are two articles concerning bad Christian testimonies that may help you decide:

-- "Why do so many Christians fail the 'practice what you preach' standard?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/practice-what-you-preach.html)

-- "How bad can a Christian sin?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/sin-Christian.html)
*  *  *  *  *

Charles Spurgeon's sermon on Romans 6:14-15 is very interesting to read and includes many stories to illustrate what he means. The sermon is too long to quote verbatim (word for word), so I am only listing the main points here (plus an important thing we should remember in paragraph I):

"I. First, you will see that the gospel of the grace of God promotes real holiness in men by remembering that THE SALVATION WHICH IT BRINGS IS SALVATION FROM THE POWER OF SIN. When we preach salvation to the vilest [most wicked] of men, some suppose we mean by that a mere deliverance from hell and an entrance into heaven. It includes all that, and results in that, but that is not what we mean. What we mean by salvation is this deliverance from the love of sin, rescue from the habit of sin, setting free from the desire to sin."

"II. Secondly, let it not be forgotten as a matter of fact that THE PRINCIPLE OF LOVE HAS BEEN FOUND TO POSSESS VERY GREAT POWER OVER MEN."

"III. There is no fear that the doctrine of the grace of God will lead men to sin, because ITS OPERATIONS ARE CONNECTED WITH A SPECIAL REVELATION OF THE EVIL OF SIN."

"IV. Remember also that not only is the forgiven man thus set against sin by the process of conviction, but EVERY MAN WHO TASTES OF THE SAVING GRACE OF GOD IS MADE A NEW CREATURE IN CHRIST JESUS."

"V. One of the chief securities for the holiness of the pardoned [sinner] is found in the way of CLEANSING THROUGH ATONEMENT [i.e., Jesus' death on the cross to pay for our sins]."

"VI. Sixthly, a man who becomes a partaker of divine grace, and receives the new nature, is ever afterwards A PARTAKER OF DAILY HELPS FROM GOD'S HOLY SPIRIT."

"VII. THE ENTIRE ELEVATION OF THE MAN WHO IS MADE A PARTAKER OF THE GRACE OF GOD is also a special preservative against sin."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/spe/romans-6.html, "Spurgeon's Verse Expositions of the Bible," "Verses 14-15")
*  *  *  *  *

Here are more of Spurgeon's thoughts from another one of his commentaries:

"Romans 6:15. What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace?

"Oh! this old question keeps coming up. Somebody wants to sin. Well, if he wants to sin, why does not he leave this business alone and go and sin? What has he to do with these theological [religious] questions at all? But still, he wants, if he can, to make a coverlet [blanket, cover] for his wickedness; he wants to enjoy the sweets of the child of God, and yet live like an enemy of God, and so he pops [this thought] in his head over and over again: 'May we not sin because of this or that?' To which the apostle answers again, 'God forbid.' Oh! may God always forbid it to you, and to me: may the question never be tolerated among us.

"Romans 6:15. God forbid. Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?

"If you are doing the deeds of sin, you are the servants of sin and only as you are doing the will of God can you claim to be the servant of God. 'Hereby we know that we know him [God], if we keep his commandments.' That becomes the index of our condition. The man, then, that lives in sin and loves it, need not talk about the grace of God he is a stranger to it, for the mark of those that come under grace is this, that they serve God, and no longer serve sin."

(Source: https://www.bibliaplus.org/en/commentaries/9/spurgeon-bible-commentary/romans/6/1-19, "Spurgeon's Bible Commentary," "Verses 1-19")
*  *  *  *  *

Another Bible commentator wrote:

"The freedom that grace gives is freedom from sin, not freedom from God. It does not allow people to sin with ease, as some think, for that would lead them back to slavery to their former master, sin. No matter what people do regularly, whether sin or righteousness, it will soon have power over them (15-16)."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/romans/6-15.html, "Bridgeway Bible Commentary," "Freedom from sin")

NOVEMBER 29

Almighty God Deserves Our Worship and Praise

Jude 1:24: "Now unto him [God the Father] that is able to keep you from falling [into error and/or temptation and sin], and [is able] to present you faultless [without fault, blameless, innocent] before the presence of his glory [in heaven] with exceeding [very great] joy,"

Jude 1:25: "To the only wise God our Saviour [referring to God the Father, who is the source of our salvation, and/or God the Son (i.e., the Lord Jesus Christ), who died on the cross to pay for our sins so we could have the gift of eternal life--see note below*], be glory [honor, praise] and majesty [dignity, grandeur (splendor, magnificence)], dominion [supreme authority] and power [influence and control], both now and ever [forever, always]. Amen."
_______________

*It is the opinion of some Bible commentators that the phrase To the only wise God our Saviour in Jude 1:25 refers to God the Father. Here is what two of them wrote:

-- "… Clearly this is a reference to God the Father, which might at first seem confusing, because normally we think of Jesus as Savior (and rightly so!). However, since God is manifest [readily understood or recognized] as a Trinity [i.e., one God who eternally exists as three distinct Persons -- the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit], all three Persons of the Godhead participate in salvation. The Father initiates [originates, is the author of] salvation, Jesus accomplishes it [makes it possible] and the Spirit effects it [brings it about]."

(Source: https://www.preceptaustin.org/jude_25_commentary, "Praise to the Only God")

-- "… The oldest [Bible] manuscripts add, 'through Jesus Christ our Lord.' The transcribers, fancying that 'Savior' applied to Christ alone, omitted the words. The sense is, To the only God (the Father) who is our Savior through (that is, by the mediation of) Jesus Christ our Lord."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/jude/1-25.html, "Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible," "Verse 25")

NOVEMBER 27-28

Moses warned the people of Israel:

Deuteronomy 4:23: "Take heed unto yourselves [be on guard, watch out, be careful], lest ye [so you don't] forget the covenant [agreement] of the LORD your God, which he made with you, and [so you don't] make you [or 'for yourself'] a graven image [also known as an idol, or false god], or the likeness of any thing [such as a statue (carved out of wood, stone, or metal) of someone or something to be worshiped instead of, or in addition to, Almighty God], which the LORD thy [your] God hath [has] forbidden thee [you] [to do]."

Deuteronomy 4:24: "[You need to heed the above warning] For [because] the LORD thy God is a consuming fire [to his enemies, as stated in both the Old and New Testaments (i.e., this verse in Deuteronomy, and Hebrews 12:29)], even a jealous God [and he wants--and deserves--our respect, fear, love, and obedience.]."
_______________

God hated idolatry in Bible times, and he hates it today, especially when it's committed by Christians.
*  *  *  *  *

For more information on subjects mentioned in the above verse, read:

-- "What is a graven image?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/graven-image.html)

-- "What does it mean that God is a consuming fire?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/consuming-fire.html)

NOVEMBER 26

In a letter to the Christian church at Corinth, the apostle Paul wrote:

1 Corinthians 15:33: "Be not deceived [don't be misled or fooled by false teachers, especially those who deny Jesus' resurrection]: [be aware that] evil communications [or associations, as in spending time with bad company, bad friends, bad companions] corrupt good manners [destroy good morals and negatively influence your behavior (i.e., change it from good to bad)]."
_______________

According to Albert Barnes:

"… The sentiment [point] of the passage is, that the contact of evil-minded men, or that the close friendship and conversation [lifestyle] of those who hold erroneous [wrong, false] opinions, or who are impure [not pure, unclean] in their lives, tends to corrupt the morals, the heart, the sentiments [attitudes] of others. The particular thing to which Paul here applies it is the subject of the resurrection [of Jesus]. Such contact would tend to corrupt the simplicity of their [the people's] faith, and pervert [alter, distort] their views of the truth of the gospel [see note below*], and thus corrupt their lives. It is always true that such contact has a pernicious [harmful] effect on the mind and the heart. It is done:

"(1) By their [the false teachers'] direct effort to corrupt the opinions, and to lead others into sin.

"(2) by the secret, silent influence of their words, and conversation, and example. We have less [feelings of] horror at vice [immoral or wicked behavior] by becoming familiar with it; we look with less alarm on error when we hear it often expressed; we become less watchful and cautious when we are constantly with the frivilous [having a lack of seriousness], the worldly [having an earthly rather than spiritual focus], the unprincipled [exhibiting immoral and unethical behavior], and the vicious [cruel and violent] [people]. Hence [therefore], [Jesus] Christ sought that there should be a pure society, and that his people [born-again Christians] should principally [mostly] seek the friendship and conversation of each other, and withdraw from the world. It is in the way that Paul here refers to [see above], that Christians embrace [welcome, accept] false doctrines [beliefs, teachings]; [and] that they lose their spirituality, love of prayer, fervor of piety [religious passion], and devotion to God. It is in this way that the simple [innocent] [people] are beguiled [misled through trickery or flattery], [that] the young [people] [are] corrupted, and that vice, and crime, and infidelity [unfaithfulness] [are] spread over the world."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/1-corinthians-15.html, "Verse 33," "Evil Communications")
*  *  *  *  *

*The meaning of the word gospel is explained in detail in the following article: "What is the gospel?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/what-is-the-gospel.html.

NOVEMBER 25

Philippians 2:3: "Let nothing be done through strife [conflict; ambition; rivalry, competition (i.e., by trying to outdo others)] or [through] vainglory [vanity, pride (i.e., by having a desire to honor ourselves, attract attention, win praise, etc.]; but in lowliness of mind [or 'through humility'] let each [person] esteem [honor] other [people] better than themselves."
_______________

In his commentary, Albert Barnes has a very thorough explanation of this verse. For example, this is what he said about the meaning of the word vainglory:

"… The idea seems to be that of mere self-esteem; a mere desire to honor ourselves, to attract attention, to win praise, to make ourselves uppermost, or foremost, or the main object. The command here solemnly [in a serious manner] forbids our doing anything with such an aim - no matter whether it be in intellectual [mental] attainments, in physical strength, in skill in music, in eloquence [the powerful and effective use of language in speaking or writing] or song, in dress, furniture, or religion. Self is not to be foremost [most important]; selfishness is not to be the motive [reason for doing something]. Probably there is no command of the Bible which would have a wider sweep than this, or would touch on more points of human conduct, it fairly applied. Who is there who passes a single day without, in some respect, desiring to display himself? What minister of the gospel preaches, who never has any wish to exhibit his talents, eloquence, or learning? How few make a gesture [a movement of the body, hands, arms, or head to express an idea or feeling], but with some wish to display the grace or power with which it is done! Who, in conversation, is always free from a desire to show his wit [the ability to use words in a clever or funny way], or his power in argumentation [his expertise in discussing and debating an idea], or his skill in repartee [his ability to give quick and usually funny answers and comments in a conversation]? Who plays at the piano without the desire of commendation [the desire to receive compliments]? Who thunders [speaks loudly, forcefully, or angrily] in the senate, or goes to the field of battle [or to war]; who builds a house, or purchases an article of apparel [clothing]; who writes a book, or performs a deed of benevolence [kindness], altogether uninfluenced by this desire [for praise]? If all could be taken out of human conduct which is performed merely from 'strife,' or from 'vain-glory,' how small a portion would be left!"

If you want to read more of Mr. Barnes' commentary, here's the link: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/philippians-2.html, "Verse 3")

NOVEMBER 24

1 Thessalonians 5:18: "In every thing [for everything that you have (and even for things that you don't have--see note below*) and for whatever happens to you, both good and bad] give thanks [to God, in prayer]: for this is the will of God in [or 'through'] Christ Jesus [and for his sake] concerning you."
_______________

The reason we are to give thanks "in every thing" is because gratitude (thankfulness) is pleasing to God and that's what he wants us to do.
*  *  *  *  *

GotQuestions.org has an article about the meaning of thanksgiving according to history books and the Bible. It's entitled "What should be the focus of Christians on Thanksgiving?" and can be found here: https://www.gotquestions.org/thanksgiving-Christian.html.
*  *  *  *  *

Regarding giving thanks "in every thing," Pastor Chuck Smith said:

"… I cannot honestly give thanks for a lot of things [e.g., problems, trials, losses], but I can give thanks in them. … because I know that God is [in] control of my life …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/1-thessalonians/5-18.html, "Smith's Bible Commentary")
*  *  *  *  *

*The following story illustrates how a little girl was able to thank God for something that she had loved and lost:

"Thanksgiving with prayer

"A child knelt at the accustomed time to thank God for the mercies of the day, and pray for His care during the coming night. Then, as usual, came the 'God bless mother and--' But the prayer was stilled [stopped], the little hands unclasped, and a look of sadness and wonder met the mother's eye, as the words of helpless sorrow came from the lips of the kneeling child, 'I cannot pray for father any more.' Since her lips had been able to form the dear name, she had prayed for a blessing upon it. It had followed close after her mother's name. But now he [her father] was dead. I waited for some moments, and then urged her [the child] to go on. Her pleading eyes met mine, and with a voice that faltered [hesitated], she said, 'Oh, mother, I cannot leave him out all at once; let me say, "Thank God that I had a dear father once," so I can still go on and keep him in my prayers.' And so she still continues to do, and my heart learned a lesson from the loving ingenuity [creativity] of my child. Remember to thank God for mercies past as well as to ask blessings for the future …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/1-thessalonians/5-18.html, "The Biblical Illustrator," "Verse 18")

NOVEMBER 23

Don't Envy Sinners

Proverbs 23:17: "Let not thine [don't let your] heart [mind] envy [be jealous of, focus attention on] sinners [referring to unsaved people, especially those who are wicked] [or on what they have or how well off they are]: but be thou [but you should be] in the fear of the LORD [meaning you should focus on God] all the day long."

Proverbs 23:18: "[Don't envy sinners] For [because] surely there is [coming someday] an end [to their prosperity (success, wealth, luxurious living, etc.)--for example, when they die]; and thine expectation [your hope--of eternal life and rewards in heaven] shall not be cut off."
_______________

According to Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible church, Christians can wonder why God allows sinners to prosper (be successful, rich, etc.), but we are not to envy those people, because envy  is a sin. Envy also "hinders [hampers, blocks] spiritual growth" and "leads to many other forms of sin."

If you want to read Pastor Delany's commentary on the above verses, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-23-index/proverbs-23_17-18/.
*  *  *  *  *

In the sermon that he preached on Proverbs 23:17-18, Charles Spurgeon said:

"Do not even in your wish deprive the ungodly of their transient [temporary] happiness. Their present prosperity is the only heaven they will ever know. Let them have as much of it as they can. I have heard of a wife who treated her unkind and ungodly husband with great gentleness for this very reason. She said, 'I have prayed for him, and entreated [begged] him to think about his soul; but at last I have come to fear that he will die in his sins [i.e., unsaved, and headed to hell], and therefore I have made up my mind that I will make him as happy as I can in this life. I tremble to think of what his misery must be in the world to come [after he dies], and therefore I will make him happy now [while he's still alive]' …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/spe/proverbs-23.html, "Verses 17-18")

NOVEMBER 22

In a letter to the Christian churches in Galatia, the apostle Paul wrote:

Galatians 6:2: "Bear ye [take up, carry] one another's burdens [heavy loads] [for example, try to help others resist temptation and overcome sin (through guidance, prayer, etc.), and offer your support and assistance to people who are experiencing sickness and/or trials and troubles in their lives], and [by doing] so fulfil [obey] the law of [Jesus] Christ[,] [which is to 'love one another,'as Jesus stated in John 13:34]."
_______________

The above advice also applies to us.

NOVEMBER 20-21

Jesus Tells Nicodemus Why People Reject the Gospel
(For background information on Nicodemus, see note below*)

John 3:19: "And this is the [cause of] condemnation [or 'the reason why people are sent to hell'] [i.e.,], that light [referring to the Lord Jesus Christ] is come into the world, and men [and women and children] loved darkness rather than light [in other words, they preferred error (false doctrine) over truth, and sin over righteousness (salvation)], because their deeds [works, actions] were evil."

John 3:20: "For [because] every one that doeth [does] evil [or bad things] hateth [hates] the light, neither cometh [and does not come] to the light, lest [for fear that] his [or her] deeds should be reproved [detected (discovered) and punished]." [Maybe that's why more violent crimes occur at night--see note below.**]
_______________

*Nicodemus, a Pharisee, was a leader of the Jews. You can read about him in the article entitled: "Who was Nicodemus in the Bible?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/Nicodemus-in-the-Bible.html.
*  *  *  *  *

**It's not surprising that crimes are committed at all hours of the day. However, a 2019 analysis of police incident reports in major cities found that violent crimes are most likely to occur at night.

According to the article that I read:

"More than half of police incidents took place during the day:

"•  Larceny/theft, drug violations, simple assaults, and property crimes were slightly more likely to happen while the sun was out, but more violent crimes such as driving while impaired, murder, rape/sexual assault, and robbery were more frequently reported at night."

Following some statistics, the article said:

"Police incidents tend to happen between Monday and Friday.

"•  Friday experienced the highest peak in known crime reports during the day, with an average of 755 police incidents per 10,000 residents. Alternatively, Sunday had the fewest incidents during the day -- an average of 595 per every 10,000 individuals.

"•  When are violent crimes most likely to happen? Unfortunately, midnight was the peak hour for violent crimes like rape and sexual assault, while 2 a.m. was the ideal time to stay off the roads -- DWI/DUI police incidents happened the most then.

"•  Murder peaked at 9 p.m. and aggravated assault peaked just an hour after.

(Source: https://www.securitymagazine.com/articles/90384-murder-robbery-and-driving-while-impaired-happen-at-night)
____________________

According to another article, the deadliest time of day is midnight to 1 a.m., the deadliest month is June, and the deadliest day of the week is Sunday.

(Source: https://www.oxygen.com/murdered-by-morning/crime-news/what-time-do-murders-usually-happen-date-month-hour)
*  *  *  *  *

Regarding John 3:19, one Bible commentator wrote:

"This verse forever lays to rest [puts an end to] the conceit [thought] that unbelief is an intellectual [mental] problem; on the contrary, it is basically a moral problem."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/john/3-19.html, "Coffman's Commentaries on the Bible")

NOVEMBER 18-19

Psalm 62:10: "Trust not in oppression [don't trust in riches (money, wealth) gained by an unjust (unfair) or excessive (more than is necessary or reasonable) exercise of power; see examples below*], and become not vain in robbery [don't depend on cheating and robbery for what is needed in life; see examples below*]: if riches increase [honestly and lawfully--without your having oppressed or robbed anyone], set not your heart [do not set your affections] upon them."
_______________

Don't oppress or rob others to get what you want, and if you become rich, don't idolize or worship your money and think that it's all you need, because it is not. You also need God.
*  *  *  *  *

*Examples of oppression and robbery:

-- People who oppress others include conquerors, tyrants (dictators), and slave owners.

-- Those who commit robbery include conquerors, thieves and burglars, companies that withhold wages (payment for time worked) from laborers, and anyone who cheats in business.

(Source for above examples: Albert Barnes' Commentary -- https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/psalms-62.html, "Verse 10")

NOVEMBER 17

In a letter to the Christian church at Corinth, in an attempt to help restore peace and unity, the apostle Paul wrote:

1 Corinthians 1:10: "Now I beseech [implore, beg] you, brethren [fellow believers], by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ [i.e., by his authority and as his representative], that ye [you] all speak the same thing [or 'that you all agree on the fundamental (basic) Christian doctrines'--see note below*], and that there be no divisions [within the church] among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind [understanding] and in the same judgment [e.g., when making decisions]."
_______________

Individual Christians may sometimes disagree about minor points of our religion, but as a group, we should always be united and able to live in harmony (i.e., have a peaceful, friendly relationship) with one another.
*  *  *  *  *

*According to Mark Dunagan, a man named McGuiggan said that fundamental truths "… are those [truths that] the Bible links explicity [in a clear and detailed manner] or clearly implicitly [in a way that is not directly expressed] with such categories as remission [forgiveness] of sins, salvation [deliverance from the consequence of sin], union with Christ, eternal life [in heaven], forgiveness [of sins], justification [being declared righteous by God], redemption [being freed from bondage to sin, or no longer being a slave of sin], propitiation [having God's wrath (anger) appeased (satisfied) through Jesus' sacrifice for sins], washing away of sins, reconciliation [being restored to a favorable relationship with God], and the like [etc.] …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/1-corinthians/1-10.html, "Dunagan Commentary on the Bible," "Verse 10")
____________________

The following articles should help to explain the biblical categories mentioned in the above quote:

-- "What is the Christian doctrine of salvation?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-doctrine-salvation.html)

-- "What does it mean to have union with Christ?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/union-with-Christ.html)

-- "What is eternal life?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/what-is-eternal-life.html)

-- "What is forgiveness?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/what-is-forgiveness.html)

-- "What is justification?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/justification.html)

-- "What is the meaning of Christian redemption?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/redemption.html)

-- "What is propitiation?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/propitiation.html)

-- "What does it mean that our sins are washed away?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/sins-washed-away.html)

-- "What is Christian reconciliation?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/reconciliation.html)

NOVEMBER 16

Proverbs 16:2: "All the ways of a man [or woman or child] [ i.e., all of a person's thoughts, words, and actions] are clean [pure, acceptable] in his [or her] own eyes; but the LORD weigheth [weighs] the spirits [which means that God knows what's really in that person's heart and mind, including his or her motives (why he or she is doing something) and intentions (what he or she intends to do)]."
_______________

In other words, we may try to fool ourselves and/or others, but God always knows the truth.
*  *  *  *  *

Regarding what it means to be clean in his own eyes, Albert Barnes said:

"We are blind to our own faults, do not see ourselves as others see us …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bnb/proverbs-16.html, "Verse 2")
*  *  *  *  *

Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on this verse. It ends with this:

"4. Conclusions:

"a. Let's not be too confident of our innocence before the Lord.
"• It is possible for us to be deceived [fooled] into THINKING that all is well when all is NOT well.
"• It is possible to have a clean conscience and be dead wrong! Our conscience might be fed the wrong information.
"• God has ALL the information… and rightly divided too.

"b. This truth will bring us peace in dealing with injustices done against us… and in many other interpersonal conflicts.
"• Has anyone ever lied to you?
"• Has anyone ever given you their side of the story and feel perfectly justified in their actions?
"• Have you ever had to deal with someone who thinks they can do no wrong?
"• Have you ever met a person who is a master of spin? They can take any set of circumstances, no matter how self condemning they are, and spin it in such a way that it is not their fault? It's your fault… or someone else's?
"• Have you ever been frustrated in dealing with someone who is clean in his own eyes and there is no reasoning with him/her?
"• Well, take heart. God knows the truth. God sees the heart… motives… intentions…
"• Nobody EVER gets away with anything with God. Ever!
"• We don't have to worry about it. We don't have to try to try to manipulate events in order to bring about justice. Justice WILL come--their day is coming! Trust God. Shall not the God of all the earth to do right?"

If you want to read the rest of the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-16-index/proverbs-16_2/

NOVEMBER 15

Proverbs 15:1: "A soft answer [gentle words, a kind response] turneth [turns] 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 today's verse. According to Pastor Jim Delany, in Proverbs 15:1, "Solomon notes that when someone is trying to pick a fight with us… our first response is vital [very important, essential]. It can either cause the confrontation to be defused [made less dangerous] or explode." Then he adds:

"3. Solomon suggests a SOFT answer.

"a. A gentle, tender, cool, calm, and collected answer… a delicate answer…

"b. Note that he [Solomon] doesn't recommend:
"• A brilliant answer…
"• A snappy [snappish] answer…
"• A put down of an answer…
"• A 'setting the record straight' kind of an answer…
"• A long and convoluted [complicated] answer…
"• An answer that includes the entire history of the problem… including 1001 details…
"• Getting in a little dig [i.e., giving a mocking, sarcastic, or insulting remark]…
"• An answer that demonstrates the folly [foolishness] of the one making the confrontation… and the intellectual weakness of his/her argument…"

"d. In fact, Solomon says NOTHING about the content of the answer.
"• This verse [Proverbs 15:1] doesn't tell us WHAT to say.
"• Rather, it tells us HOW to say it: gently, tenderly, softly, and with a cool head and heart.
"• When an argument is in the process of erupting… the other party will be reading your emotional response [by watching how you act] as much if not more than your verbal response [by listening to what you say].
"• If someone is out to pick a fight with you, he is out for the challenge… to conquer… to win… to defeat you…
"• If you respond with equal antagonism [unfriendliness, opposition] and hostility… (and you are also trying to win… to conquer), then the opposing party will be further psyched [psychologically prepared, excited] for the battle.
"• But if you respond with meekness and gentleness… then you have let the air out of his/her balloon… you have removed the 'challenge'…
"• A person will get psyched up for a battle and their adrenalin [a hormone that is produced by the body when a person is angry, scared, or excited] will start flowing when confronted by [someone who is acting like] an aggressive bear [i.e., one that is likely to attack]. But when confronted by [someone who is acting like] a meek and mild lamb… the adrenalin stops flowing…"

If you want to read more of the above commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-15-index/proverbs-15_1/.
*  *  *  *  *

Another Bible commentator asked, "If there be such happiness in a soft answer, how is it that it is so hard to give it?" and then answered that question by saying, "There is one great obstacle [barrier, stumbling block, hindrance] to which all others may be reduced--the obstacle of pride. When harsh [unpleasant, cruel] words are addressed to us which we feel to be unmerited [undeserved], we cannot bring ourselves to forgo [give up] the delight of a successful retort [response], still less can we bear to admit that any part of the wrong is of our doing. Pride disguises itself very cunningly [in a clever way], so that even a high-minded Christian [i.e., one with high moral standards] is misled by its craft [or 'by its ability to deceive (fool) others']."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/proverbs/15-1.html, "The Church Pulpit Commentary," paragraph III)

NOVEMBER 13-14

In a letter to members of the Corinthian church, the apostle Paul wrote:

1 Corinthians 4:21: "What will ye [you] [have me do]? shall I [Paul] come unto you with a rod [an instrument of punishment or correction--see note below*], or in love, and in the spirit of meekness [or 'with a gentle, mild temper']?"
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The above verse is about church discipline. It uses Paul's question to the church in Corinth as an example, since there were many problems in the Corinthian church during New Testament times, but that same question could also be asked today by ministers and other leaders of all Christian churches.
*  *  *  *  *

*Adam Clarke has an interesting background note in his commentary on this verse:

"… Among the Jews, those who did not amend [change their behavior], after being faithfully admonished [warned], were whipped, either publicly or privately, in the synagogue. If on this they did not amend, they were liable to be stoned. We see, from the cases of Ananias and Sapphira, Elymas the sorcerer, Hymenaeus and Alexander … [see note below**] that the apostles had sometimes the power to inflict the most awful punishments on transgressors [wrongdoers]. The Corinthians must have known this, and consequently have dreaded [greatly feared] a visit from him [Paul] in his apostolical authority …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/1-corinthians/4-21.html, "Clarke's Commentary")
*  *  *  *  *

**Stories about the three cases referred to by Adam Clarke in the above quote can be found here:

-- "Why did God kill Ananias and Sapphira for lying?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/Ananias-and-Sapphira.html

-- "Who was Bar-Jesus [Elmas the sorcerer] in the Bible?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/Bar-Jesus-in-the-Bible.html

-- "Who were Hymanaeus and Alexander, and what does it mean that their faith was shipwrecked?"
    https://www.gotquestions.org/Hymenaeus-and-Alexander.html

NOVEMBER 12

Our Purpose in Life (i.e., Why We Were Created)

This is part of what the apostle John saw one day when he was given a vision of things that were happening in heaven:

Revelation 4:10: "The four and twenty [24] elders [representatives of the church of God, which is made up of all born-again Christians] [reverently (very respectfully)] fall down [on their knees … or lie flat on the ground] before him that sat on the throne [i.e., Almighty God], and worship him that liveth [lives] for ever and ever [referring to God], and [they] cast [throw, toss] their [gold] crowns before the throne [or 'at God's feet'], saying,"

Revelation 4:11: "Thou art [you are] worthy, O Lord [God], to receive glory [praise] and honour [honor] and power: for [because] thou hast [you have] created all things [i.e., he made them from nothing], and for thy [your] pleasure they are and were created [brought into existence]."
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GotQuestions.org has written an article to answer the questions "Why did God create us?" and "Why are we here?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/why-did-God-create-us.html.

NOVEMBER 11

Advice for Christian "Soldiers"

2 Timothy 2:3: "Thou [you] therefore [should] endure hardness [hardship, trouble, afflictions], as a good soldier of Jesus Christ."

2 Timothy 2:4: "No man [or 'no person'] that warreth [who goes to war] entangleth himself [or herself] [or 'becomes entangled, involved, ensnared'] with the affairs [daily events] of this life; [a minister and/or Christian should endure hardness as described in the note below*] [so] that he [or she] may please him [referring to Jesus] who hath [has] chosen him [or her--the Christian] to be a soldier [in the Lord's army]."
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Although the apostle Paul's advice (above) is mainly for ministers of the gospel (like Timothy, to whom his letter was written), it also applies to all Christians.
*  *  *  *  *

*In his commentary on 2 Timothy 2:4, Albert Barnes says:

"… Neither the minister nor the soldier is to be encumbered [burdened] with the affairs of this life, and the one should not be more than the other. This is always a condition in becoming a soldier. He gives up his own business during the time for which he is enlisted, and devotes himself to the service of his country. The farmer leaves his plow, and the mechanic [leaves] his shop, and the merchant [leaves] his store, and the student [leaves] his books, and the lawyer [leaves] his brief [a type of legal document]; and neither of them expect to pursue these things while engaged in the service of their country …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/2-timothy-2.html, "Verse 4")
*  *  *  *  *

In light of the above quote from Albert Barnes, you may be wondering if it's okay for a pastor to have an outside job to help support his family and pay the bills. That question is answered in the article entitled "Should pastors be paid a salary?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/pastors-paid-salary.html.
*  *  *  *  *

TODAY IS VETERANS DAY

If you're a veteran, thank you so much for
defending our country in times of peace and/or war.
We greatly appreciate your service and the sacrifices
that you and your family members have been
willing to make in order to keep us free.

Note: Veterans Day and Memorial Day are not the same, as is explained in the article entitled "5 Facts to Know About Veterans Day." If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.defense.gov/Explore/Features/story/Article/1675470/5-facts-to-know-about-veterans-day/.

NOVEMBER 9-10

Proverbs 9:8: "Reprove not [don't criticize or correct] a scorner [someone who mocks (ridicules, makes fun of) God, truth, holiness, and/or righteousness], lest he hate thee [or else he (or she) might hate you]: rebuke [correct] a wise man [or 'person'], and he [or she] will love thee."
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Salem Bible Church's commentary on this verse is combined with verses 7 and 9.

In this verse, according to Pastor Jim Delany, "It does not appear that Solomon is forbidding the reproof of a fool. Rather, he seems to be saying that such reproofs are wasted--they accomplish nothing because the fool doesn't respond properly."
*   *   *   *   *

Here is an excerpt from the first section of the above-mentioned commentary:

"3. Three results of reproving a scorner or a wicked man:

"a. Shame: shame, disgrace, and dishonor.
"• The one who ignores this truth, and seeks to reprove foolish men anyway should expect to receive dishonor in return.
"• Ex[ample]: If we are constantly reproving a smoker for smoking; a drinker for drinking; a curser for cursing; or a tardy person for being tardy [late]--we very well may be provoking an argument… stirring up trouble unnecessarily…
"• As a result, we may bring shame to ourselves… and to the Lord we represent.

"b. A blot: blemish, spot, defect;
"• The man who disregards Solomon's advice, and continually rebukes wicked men for their wickedness may get a blemish or a blot.
"• That person is damaging his own [Christian] testimony.
"• Our constant nagging will be perceived as a defect in our character--especially if our reproof is done in public!
"• Solomon warns us against such behavior. It is a waste of time… and worse--it will bring a blemish to our reputation.

"c. Hatred: hatred; enmity
"• Again, the one who disregards Solomon's advice here is stirring up hatred… unnecessarily…
"• And even if the evil we are pointing out is real, we are not serving God in doing so--not if we violate [fail to comply with] this Scripture!
"• Some believers might attempt to point out all the evil ways of evil men and do so with a sense of self-righteousness… or believing they are doing God's will. But that is not the case if they are disregarding this passage [Proverbs 9:8]!
"• Prov. 15:12 -- a scorner loveth not one that reproveth him.
"• Prov. 23:9 -- he will hate your words! Don't do it!
"• Reproving fools only stirs up anger and hatred.
"• Apply this passage while driving on the highway. Some "fool" cuts you off. Should you yell a word of rebuke to him? Scold his behavior with a pointed finger? You may be stirring up road rage!
"• You get a blot on your reputation--by having your picture on the front page of the [news]paper for inciting [stirring up] road rage.
"• You might end up quite ashamed… shame… blot… and hatred--all from reproving a wicked man."

If you want to read more of this commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-9-index/proverbs-9_7-9/.

NOVEMBER 8

Advice From "Lady Wisdom" (i.e., Wisdom Personified)

Proverbs 8:10-11 [Wisdom says]: "Receive my instruction [correction, discipline], and not silver; and [receive] knowledge rather than choice [the finest] 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."

Proverbs 8:12: "I wisdom [consisting of experience, knowledge, and good judgment] dwell [live, reside] with prudence [discretion, caution] [i.e., wisdom and prudence go together because we need prudence in order to put wisdom into practice], and [I (wisdom) can] find out [discover, have] knowledge of witty inventions [clever plots] [of our enemies--to deceive, fool, or mislead us]."
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Regarding today's 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.
____________________

The commentary mentioned above ends with this:

"c. It is the fool who says that obeying God and walking the straight and narrow [the honest and morally acceptable way of living] is boring. The fool will pay for his folly [lack of good sense, foolishness] eventually.

"d. The fool says, 'I won't be happy until I break away from God and do my own thing. God is too restrictive. I can't be happy if I follow Him!'

"e. In reality, real, lasting happiness comes from following the way of wisdom!

"f. Foolish ways and decisions will linger [stick around] to haunt you [or make you think or worry about them for a long time]. Wise, prudent decisions will bring delight and blessing the rest of your life."

If you want to read more of the pastor's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-8-index/proverbs-8_10-12/.

NOVEMBER 6-7

King David had become very sick [perhaps with a venereal (sexually transmitted) disease, per Psalm 38:7] because of a sin that he had committed, and in his distress, after asking forgiveness from God for that sin, he prayed:

Psalm 38:22: "Make haste to [please hurry and] help me, O Lord my salvation [my Savior,] [whom I can count on to rescue me from my troubles]."
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Whenever Christians need help, we can follow David's example and call out to God in prayer.
*  *  *  *  *

In his commentary regarding today's verse, Dr. Thomas Constable wrote:

"Sometimes believers [i.e., born-again Christians] bring physical, emotional, and interpersonal suffering on themselves by sinning. In such cases, God may discipline us with pain so we will learn not to do the same thing again. In the process, we should reaffirm our trust in God as our deliverer from all our woes [afflictions, troubles]."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/psalms/38-22.html, "Dr. Constable's Expository Notes")

NOVEMBER 5

The Apostle Paul's Warnings to Christians

Romans 16:17: "Now I beseech [beg, urge] you, brethren [brothers and sisters in Christ, or fellow Christians], mark them which [watch out for people who] cause divisions [in the church] and offences [stumbling blocks, scandals] contrary [opposite] to the doctrine [religious teachings] which ye [you] have learned; and avoid them [those people; i.e., stay away from them]."

Romans 16:18: "For they that are such [referring to false teachers, or the people in verse 17 who 'cause divisions and offenses'] serve not [do not obey] our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly [their own selfish interests, such as a desire for fame, fortune, powerful positions, etc., that result from things like pride, ambition, and covetousness]; and by good [seemingly sincere, truthful, believable] words and fair speeches [smooth talk--involving praise and flattery,] [they--the false teachers] deceive [mislead or fool] the hearts of the simple [the minds of innocent, unsuspecting people]."
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In general, people have a habit of lying, so please don't believe everything that you hear or read. If you don't know what God says about something, check your Bible.
*  *  *  *  *

One Bible commentator noted:

"… People seem never to learn that smooth and fair speech is the 'stock in trade' of a deceiver. If he were to announce that he was a wolf in sheep's clothing and that he had come to destroy…, he would not deceive even the simple …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/romans/16-18.html, "Contending for the Faith")

NOVEMBER 4

Fellowship and Growth in the Early Christian Church

Acts 2:46: "And they [the Jewish people who were born-again Christians], continuing daily [i.e., meeting together each day around the same time] with one accord [purpose] in the temple [in Jerusalem], and breaking bread [having meals with one another] from house to house [or 'at various houses'], did eat their meat [food] with gladness and singleness of heart [or 'with sincere and pure hearts'],"

Acts 2:47: "[These new Christians were] Praising God, and having favour [favor] with [or acceptance, respect, and approval of] all [of] the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be [or 'who were being'] saved [from hell, which means that each day, many believers (people who had been born again according to the Bible) were being led by God to join the newly formed Christian church]."
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Charles Spurgeon has an interesting commentary on Acts 2:47, but it's too long to quote here. Consequently, I'm just including the bold text that introduces the rest of the pastor's comments in each of the various parts of his sermon:

"I. First, then, ADDITIONS TO THE CHURCH, WHAT ABOUT THEM? 'The Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.'

"It seems to have been the custom in the earliest times for persons who had been converted to Christ to join themselves with the church of Jesus Christ."

"Observe next, that the persons who were reached at Pentecost were added to the church by the Lord."

"Again the text says, 'The Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.' They were really 'added' to the church. I am afraid certain persons' names are added to the church, but they themselves are not."

"One more point in the text is this, that 'the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.' There were additions to the church every day."

"II. That brings me to the second point, which is this: UNDER WHAT CONDITIONS MAY WE EXPECT ADDITIONS TO THE CHURCH ON A LARGE SCALE?

"Turn to the chapter again and we will have our answer. We may expect additions to every church of the Living God on a large scale when she [the church] has first of all a Holy Spirit ministry."

"But if there are to be many additions to the church it must next be a Holy Spirit church. Note that. What is a Holy Spirit church? Well, it is a church baptized into his power, and this will be known first by its being devoted."

"They were devoted in four points. 'They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.'"

"In the apostle's teaching."

"Next they were devoted in fellowship."

"Next they continued in the breaking of bread ,"

"They also remained devoted in prayer."

"Note next that it was a united church."

"They were a generous church as well as a united church."

"Again, these people were in such a condition that their homes were holy places."

"III. I must conclude with a word on that which I wanted most of all to say: WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES DO THESE ADDITIONS TO THE CHURCH BRING TO US? To you who are to be added to the church tonight [i.e., the day that Charles Spurgeon was preaching this sermon to his congregation], and I thank God that there are so many of you, it involves this responsibility: Do not come in among us unless you are saved."

"As for us who will receive the converts, what is our responsibility?"
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If you want to read more of the above commentary, here's the link: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/spe/acts-2.html. Look under "Verse 47."
*  *  *  *  *

In a different commentary, also on Acts 2:47, while discussing church growth programs, Pastor Chuck Smith said:

"… we are no longer relying upon God [to grow the church]; we're no longer relying upon the Holy Spirit. We've sought men's devices and man's ways. And we have forsaken the Word of God [as recorded in the Bible] and gone to entertaining programs. And we have tried to attract the people by this lavish [excessive, extravagant] program of entertainment. 'Come and be entertained. See the tallest Christmas tree in the world. See Elijah ascend [rise] directly into the clouds.' And oh what a trap that is."

Then he told the following true story:

"There was this particular church that every Christmas was putting on the spectacular program, and the problem is when you draw people to that, you've got to get more spectacular every year. And so, they had the 'Living Christmas Tree'" 'Come and see the living Christmas tree!' And, of course, all of them there in the shape of a Christmas tree singing the carols. Well the next year it had to be a bigger Christmas tree, you know, bigger than the year before, because it's got to be the best. 'The greatest living Christmas tree ever.' Different costumes and different little gimmicks and gadgets, and finally, as they were developing this Christmas tree, living Christmas tree, year by year, they had just about run out of ideas, when someone had the idea of taking and putting a live angel at the top of the Christmas tree. And they lowered him out of the ceiling, and as the Christmas tree was being formed, he would come out of the ceiling and would be there at the top of the Christmas tree, the live angel. Well something happened to the gears, and as they were letting him down, he got suspended in mid air over the auditorium, and began swinging around and around. And the angel began to cry out, 'Get me down from here!' And he got so upset--this is true--he began to curse. 'Someone stop this damn thing from swinging!' And he got so sick from spinning, he began to throw up. May that be the fate of all man's endeavors and programs so that we can learn to rely upon God and the power of His Holy Spirit to build the church and to do His work."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/acts/2-46.html, "Smith's Bible Commentary")

NOVEMBER 1-3

Description of People Who Will Be Living in the "Last Days"

In his second letter to Timothy (whom he called his "son in the faith"), the apostle Paul warned of the coming apostasy (abandonment of the truth) in both the world and the Christian church:

2 Timothy 3:1: "This know also, that in the last days [referring to the period of time before Jesus Christ returns to earth,] perilous [dangerous] times shall come."

2 Timothy 3:2,3-4: "For [because] men [and women and children] shall be

lovers of their own selves [selfish],

covetous [loving money and things, wanting to be rich],

boasters [bragging about their achievements, possessions, and/or abilities],

proud [arrogant, stuck up],

blasphemers [inclined to curse or take God's name in vain],

disobedient to parents,

unthankful,

unholy [showing disregard for what is holy, or dedicated to God],

Without natural affection [unloving],

trucebreakers [refusing to honor agreements or keep their word],

false accusers [making false statements about others and damaging their reputation],

incontinent [lacking self-control (i.e., unable to resist feelings of passion, desire for food, etc.)],

fierce [cruel],

despisers [haters] of those that are good,

Traitors [willing to betray their country and friends],

heady [headstrong, reckless, stubborn, determined to have their own way],

highminded [haughty, conceited],

lovers of pleasures [pleasure] more than lovers of God;"

2 Timothy 3:5: "[Referring to the types of people listed above:] Having a form of godliness [a profession of religion], but denying the power thereof [or, as suggested by Adam Clarke, 'They have religion in their creed, but none in their hearts'--see note below*]: from such [people] turn away [i.e., don't associate with them]."
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The sins in Paul's list (see 2 Timothy 3:2,3-4 above) describe the behavior of many of earth's inhabitants (even some of whom call themselves Christians) at the current time. I'm sure you have noticed that morality and crime around the world is horrible and keeps getting worse on a daily basis. Unfortunately, it seems that there is very little or nothing that anyone can do (or is willing to do) to change that fact.
*  *  *  *  *
*Regarding verse 5:

-- Source for quote: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/2-timothy/3-5.html, "Clarke's Commentary"

-- GotQuestions.org has an article that answers the following question (about apostasy in the church):"What does it mean to have a form of godliness but deny its power in 2 Timothy 3:5?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/form-of-godliness.html.