Proverbs 31

I have been thinking about this chapter for the last couple of days. It is a chapter I know well. As I was thinking I realized I had no idea what the first 9 verses of the chapter said. So I decide when I read today I would focus on the 9 verses I didn’t know instead of 21 verses I know so well. What I found most interesting was that these were the sayings of a king, things his mother had taught him. As a mother of two boys, I can now easily understand why a mother would instruct her son in this way. Basically she tells him not to chase after women or booze. She explains to him the how these things can deter his leadership. And then I was given an entirely new perspective on the “Wife of Noble Character”. This was what a mother was telling her son to seek out in a wife. That makes so much sense. Often times the mothers of boys are notorious for being tough on daughter in laws. Could it be because this is the expectation mothers have for the women who marry their boys? I also like that these desired qualities in a wife came from a wife and a mom.
My two favorite verses about the noble wife are 12 and 18. They are the most practical verses to me. Bringing your husband good and, not harm all the days of our lives, well that pretty much sums it up, doesn’t it?! I often ask myself if what I am doing is bringing good or harm to my husband. It is not all about me, though I often forget this. I have this journal from a long time ago that has a picture of a woman on it. The quote on the front is “She had not yet decided whether to use her power for good or evil.” I’m sure it is meant to be funny; I once thought it was, but it’s true that women can have much influence over men and we need to be careful to use it for good and not evil. Can’t say I have always done that, but I strive to do “good” by my husband now. Then we have verse 18 which I translate in this day and age to managing a home in a financially efficient manner with a light that doesn’t go out at night. This woman gets up while it is still dark and stays up late to get all the things done she needs to get done for her family. She is a true servant.
“She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.” Proverbs 31:17 (NIV)
I am convinced that this woman’s arms are strong because of all the work she does around her home and raising her children. Many working wives and moms today have to go to the gym to strengthen their arms and I’m convinced this is because they are not cleaning their own homes or raising their own children. Maids and child care providers are stealing our strong arms. She works vigorously too. I confess I do not always do this. Sometimes I am just barely getting things done and there is no vigorous about it. There are so many gleanings from this chapter in Proverbs. I would have to write pages and pages to document all I have learned from just verses 10-31 over the years. I pray that God would make me the kind of woman that my mommy in law is proud to have her son married to. I will pray that my boys will have wives who strive to be such good wives

Proverbs 30

An oracle?! Who is this Agur son of Jakeh…I must say I have never heard of him. After reading today’s chapter I am convinced that I’ve never read it before. Everything in the chapter seemed so new and fresh. I feel like this man, this oracle, is a man who I can really relate to. I have been able to relate more to this chapter today than any other this whole month. Verses 1-4 were amazing. It is a beautiful place to know that there is no understanding without the one who established the ends of the earth. His words remind me of the way Paul speaks. There is such a beautiful picture of a man who recognizes that he is nothing outside of Christ and this is OT we are talking here.
Verse 5 reminds us that the word of God is without blemish. It is pure and flawless. It will protect us those of us who trust in God. The Lord really did give us all the answers; we just need to seek to find them, and most of time they are clear as day directly in front of us.
V7-9…What a perfect desire to have, just wanting to be somewhere in the middle. This will be my prayer from now on regarding our finances. I will pray that the Lord not make us rich or poor, but that He would just fill our needs. I never want to be so rich that I am not dependent on Him and I never want to be so poor that I compromise my faith to feed my family. I have never seen these verses before and I was so impressed with them.
I particularly enjoyed the 3 things which were too wonderful or amazing (depending on version) for him. That none of these things leave their mark or a trail is amazing. My commentary states that this is a natural illustration for the hypocrisy of concealment. It is a preface for the next verse about the adulterous woman.
Even the earth is perturbed when things don’t go as they should. When a fool is living well fed, or a servant is ruling, an unloved married woman…it’s like they should all be oxymoron’s in theory but they really exist from time to time.
I love the little wise ants. Again I am amazed at all the ways God incorporated lessons for us in His creation, even His tiniest of creation.
And then there is our warning or exhortation even…if you have been foolish thinking yourself better than you are be ashamed. Just as you can prove milk produces butter, remember wrath produces strife.
That reminds me of a funny saying a friend of mine used to say…
If I could buy him/her for what she was worth and sell him/her for what she thought she was worth…I’d be rich. May we always be humble enough to know what we are worth outside of Christ…it's not much people, it’s not much.

Proverbs 29

“A fool vents all his feelings, but a wise man holds them back.” Proverbs 29:11 (NKJV)
“A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control.” (NIV)
I find it interesting that the word “vent” is used. Venting is generally just complaining for a long time with the hope that it will make you feel better. Really if we are learning to take captive our thoughts we will think of other things and not the things that are upsetting us so much. You can basically pray about things or change your thoughts to think about something else. A wise man will hold his feelings back. That really isn’t in the nature of women is it? We always need to tell people how we feel. This is not the only place that the Bible tells us not to let our feelings run the show. Remember that the heart is deceitful above all things. Verse 20 also addresses the issue of self control and speech. There is more hope for a fool than for a man who speaks to quickly. If you have been going through this study then you know how bad it is to be a fool. And now we are told that there is more hope for a fool than for someone who speaks in haste. Wow! I long to perfect self control, in my speech particularly. My desire is to be a wise, self-controlled woman who does not vent all my feelings.
V 20…There is no need or purpose in fearing man. We need to always trust in the Lord. We can easily become ensnared by what-ifs. Trusting in the Lord through all circumstances will bring us both peace and safety.

Proverbs 28

When we are not doing anything wrong we don’t feel guilty. The wicked man thinks everyone is blaming him for something. He is doing so much wrong he doesn’t even know who would be mad at him and why they would be mad.

It is better to be a poor man who is blameless with integrity than to be rich. We are not supposed to even desire to be rich. I wonder what God would say rich was. Would He say it was having more than we need? We would probably all be guilty of that.

Not obeying God make our prayers detestable to Him. That is a scary thought.

Hiding our sin is not good. I believe that Satan often uses shame as a tool to keep us from confessing our sin. Confessing our sin and changing our ways is how we will find mercy in the eyes of the Lord.
When we harden our hearts to the Lord’s guidance is when we fall into trouble.

We are called to work, not to chase after dreams. This is pretty opposite of what the world teaches.

Blessings come to those who are faithful. Walking in wisdom keeps us safe.

Proverbs 27

We really don’t know what God has in store for our future. The best we can do is be wise and prepared and remember that He is in control. It is a scary place to be thinking we have control over everything. We have choices, free will, but we must remember that God is sovereign.
Someone willing to correct you is better than someone who loves you but keeps it a secret. In my flesh, I think I’d rather think people loved me in secret. But I guess the point is that open rebuke is a better kind of love. A friend will tell you what you need to hear, even if it hurts, while someone else may tell you what you want to hear even if it doesn’t benefit you. I would much prefer wounds of a friend and open rebuke.
But to a hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet…this reminded me of how people seek to fulfill themselves in the world. Every bitter thing (sin) is sweet (temporarily fulfilling). A satisfied soul doesn’t need the indulgences of honeycomb. My commentary said something completely different, but that is how this verse spoke to me.
I wondered for a long time today about verse 10. My commentary said to stick with friends that were tried and true because relatives may be less reliable than then genuine friends. I was thinking maybe it has something to do with distance or something. Anyway, I would like to know what this word for neighbor was in Hebrew because neighbor and friend don’t seem like close to the same word in our vocabulary, though I am great friends with my neighbor.
“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” This has become one of my favorite verses over the years. Amos and I always joke about how when iron sharpens iron there can be sparks. I believe God uses our spouses to sharpen us more than He uses anyone else.
A man’s actions reflect his heart. What is in our hearts will come out of us in one way or another. It is important to pay attention to such things. It is also a good tool to use for ourselves in evaluating our walk with the Lord.

Proverbs 26

Verses 1, 8 and 11 were highlighted in my old Bible. God really was trying to warn me against being a fool. As a dog returns to its vomit… wow, what a disgusting visual that shows us how stupid it is to repeat your mistakes. As I think back I can now easily see that God was trying to steer me clear of certain people. I can see how he was trying to tell me not to make the same mistakes over and over. I wish I would have understood then.
Also highlighted were verses 17-20, all about the tongue, which is suiting given what the message was at church this morning. I remember a time when whenever anyone hurt someone’s feelings or someone got mad at what someone else said, we would all say ‘I was just kidding’. The Bible actually says not to do that. We need to think before we speak. Gossip and meddling are deemed foolish here too, as foolish as grabbing a dog’s ears. I think that is such a funny visual, but it’s so true. How many of us would walk up to a dog and pull on its ears? I would say not many of us, and yet we are so quick to get involved in affairs that are not our own and/or speak or listen to gossip, which is just as foolish.
Verses 23-26 really touched me today. I highlighted 23 and 25 many years ago. Even though I highlighted them in my Bible I didn’t have any way of being accountable for them just a few years later. These verses are so close to my heart because they remind me of why I love to serve in youth ministry. I am reminded of how easy it is, especially at a young age, to believe someone with charming speech. There have been many women over the years who I have loved dearly as friends that I have watched begin to love “a malicious man who disguises himself with his lips.” I myself have been fooled by such men. The reason I love to work with youth is because you can teach young girls to recognize signs of a deceiver. I’m sure I’ve said it before, but one of the reasons I love our church is because they stress love being an action. To all my single ladies out there, remember that a man’s character is reflected by his actions not his words. Proverbs warns against the charming ones who can disguise themselves with their lips.
That reminds me of how much I love my husband and his desire for wisdom. I thank Jesus every day that He gave me a man of integrity whose words I never have to question because his actions are always in line with the things he says. He shows me he loves me, he doesn’t just say it! What a blessing it is to be married and confident that I am not being fooled by a charming man whose malice is concealed by deception. There but for the grace of God, dear sisters, is it so.

Proverbs 24 and 25

While going through old boxes in the garage I came across an old Bible. I found it interesting to see what I highlighted in Proverbs 24 and 25, oh so many years ago. I suppose t he Lord was trying to reveal Himself to me even then. It seems that whatever I read in those days must have gone in one ear and out the other because I don’t remember retaining any of the lessons I see when I read it today. As I look back on my life and what was going on in it, I see now how God was trying to warn me to stay away from “wicked” men. I see how He was trying to show me that wisdom and knowledge are beautiful and rare treasures. I see that He was trying to tell me that there would be times of trouble and that if I would just strengthen myself I would not falter. I see that He was trying to tell me that wisdom would be my soul mate and my hope would be found there. He was trying to show me the sweetness of the truth. He was trying to tell me that I would be wronged and to not seek revenge, even in my heart. He was trying to show me that there is a difference between people who are being a “led astray” and those who are “staggering toward death.” He was trying to show me to have a great love for them, but not to be stumbled by them. He was warning me against laziness, procrastination and making excuses. He was telling me to make sure I knew what I was talking about before I got involved in a situation. He was trying to show me how important it is to keep someone’s confidence. God was trying to change my mindset from “I don’t care what people think of me” to “being a woman of good reputation is important”. He was preparing my heart for people who would set the example of patience and gentleness. He was trying to prepare my heart for valuable rebuking. He was trying to warn me against putting my faith in unfaithful people in times of trouble.
This Bible was read in High School; though there was much I didn’t understand. I know that God word’s does not return void. He prepared my heart for the next season in my life, even when I didn’t realize it. Had I picked up my Bible more during that season I would have seen the words that were highlighted and how important they were to me in those particular days.
I am grateful now at the way God reveals himself to me in His Word. I am grateful for the lessons He taught me through my circumstances, though I realize now what a fool I was to have the answers in front of me all along. God is so good. Jesus is so faithful. What a blessing it is to serve our risen Lord.

Proverbs 23

The themes that stuck out at me most today were what I am going to call; things not to get led astray by. Yes, I know my grammar is impeccable. First we are told not to be led astray the desire to get rich. We are not to overwork ourselves with the goal of wealth in our minds and hearts. We are not to be led astray by our desire for the fancy things the rich folk have. Daniel was a great example of this. He didn’t take the king’s delicacies and I can’t help but wonder if Daniel didn’t want to feel like he owed the king anything.
We are not to be led astray by food or drink. I found it interesting and by that I mean convicting, that the drunkard and the glutton are put in the same category in verses 19-21. I do love me some food. I find that often times we revolve our lives around what and when we are going to eat. Food is not used as a means by which we sustain energy so we can better serve the Lord, but rather something to gratify our own specific wants. If I am honest with myself, I will have to admit that the way I eat and even choose meals is really quite self indulgent. That is gluttonous in of itself, is it not? There is some severe warning s against drunkenness too. Those who love the drink will be full of woe, sorrow, contentions, and complaints, wounds without cause, red eyes, bites and stings. But that is not what Satan would have us think, is it? The world will tell us that drinking will relax us and make us happy. The world will have us seek after temporary fulfillment and instant gratification. We must remember that the Word is Truth and its warnings are to protect us and help us live more satisfying lives.
We also don’t want to be let astray by how the world would tell us to raise our children. God requires us to discipline them. The sting of a spanking will wear off, but there are consequences to sin that will last a lifetime. As we Sheppard our children through their lives, we must remember to obey the ways God tells us to parent. Amos and I are reading through Shepparding a Child’s Heart. It is an amazing book that really gets to the heart of God in raising our children. I’m thinking of going through a study on that book next. “For surely there is a hereafter…” What are we living for? This life is a marathon. Run with endurance and keep your eye on the price. There is a hereafter. Focus on eternity with Christ. It will be our great reward

Proverbs 22

A good name...I have been cleaning out the garage the last couple of days getting ready for a yard sale this weekend. I have gone through boxes I haven’t gone through in years. I have tons and tons of pictures of people. As I look at a face of someone and think of their name, often someone I haven’t seen or thought about in years, I remember what I think of them. Some good things, some bad, but the person’s general character is defined to me by the memories I have of these people. It has really made me wonder what people think and say about me when they come across an old picture of me in a box in the garage. I’m sad to say that some people might not have the nicest things to say about me. I walked in the ways of the world for some time. My hope is that people who know me now will think highly of me when they hear my name. I pray that when people hear my name, they think, now there is a woman who loves and serves the Lord with her whole heart. I do desire this more than riches.
The borrower is servant to the lender… it is the truth! Amos and I have been trying to get out of debt for basically our entire marriage. When we were married we had 2 car payments and several credit card payments. We are down to 1 car payment and just a few credit cards left to pay off. It is a long slow process with many sacrifices along the way. Now we also have a home mortgage to incorporate into our debts. This friend of ours has recently sold his car and a couple of other expensive items and bought a bike in order to pay off his debt. I’m so proud of him. As Christians we are not to be a servant to anyone but Christ and often times we become enslaved to our financial obligations. One of the reasons I love our church so much is because our pastors really stress financial freedom.
All of these word, verses, chapters and books are for our benefit. They are written that we may understand the importance of knowledge and wisdom. They are written to us not only so we can know truth, but so that we can pass truth on to others. May passing the truth on to others always be a priority in our lives.

Proverbs 21

Diligence leads to plenty. What I found interesting about the ill gotten gain, was remembering that people can gain things through evil means. But that things you gain by evil means destroys the soul.
We have that warning again, twice actually, against being a contentious wife. This time proverbs says its better to live in the wilderness or on the corner of a roof than with a contentious wife. An argumentative angry wife is bad! Not that I condone divorce under any circumstances, but when you think of a naggy wife in this context, you can see why a man wouldn’t want to live with her.
Paying attention to the needy and poor is not an option for the Christian. We see here that God will not hear us in our hypocrisy. If we cry out to God and we are not acknowledging the cries of the poor, then God will not hear our cry.
Verse 16 really intrigued me because there is a picture of a man who already has understanding and then walked away from it. How scary to think you could already have the understanding that proverbs has been begging us to have and then abandon it for other things. One commentary I read said that this man was seduced by the pleasures of the world.
I know people that live for pleasure…I find myself caught up there sometimes too, living for great food and other self gratifying pleasures. We need to remember to harness our feasting and other luxuries. Living for such things will make us poor. It is not being good stewards of our resources.
A wise man will have oil in his house. We don’t really use oil for lamps anymore, but the message is still there. A wise man will have his home stocked with the necessities he needs. A wise man will be prepared. I’m reminded of the story of the wise and foolish virgins in Matthew 25. 5 of them took enough oil for the trip and 5 didn’t. The wise ones wouldn’t share because they had enough for themselves. By the time the foolish ones got to the door of the bridegroom and the door was shut. Preparation was needed. When they said, “Lord, Lord,” he responded with “I don’t know you.” Oil is also symbolic of the Holy Spirit. This is a reminder to us to keep our own lamps full of His Spirit so that our light may shine brightly to those around us.
Wisdom is better than strength. Guarding our tongues keeps our souls out of trouble. It is important that we give freely instead of desiring what other people have.
There is no wisdom, counsel or understanding to be found outside of the Lord.
“The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but deliverance is of the Lord” Proverbs 21:30
Every day we need to get up and be prepared for battle. We need to get up every day and do our part. God will take care of the rest. We do our part, and He will do His. I find great comfort in this.

Proverbs 20

Proverbs 20
Being led astray by alcohol is not wise. Anything that alters your mindset so that you are not capable of making good choices is not wise. I think of this often because it seems in our society today alcohol is such an issue. Apparently it was then too. But I think of how people think it’s OK to drink and drive. They “know their limits”. It is such a foolish mindset. My heart genuinely aches for these people caught up in the sin of being a drunkard. I do not believe that alcoholism is a disease. I believe that some people struggle with different sins and that alcohol abuse is primarily a self control issue. That is what the Bible says so that is what I go with.
V7…we see here yet again that the way we act affects generations. There are many examples of this in the Bible. I know that our children must come to accept Christ and salvation on their own, but there are so many examples of how God blesses generations for their righteousness.
V11…I love this verse. There was a long period in my life where I didn’t know to look to a person’s actions to determine their character. I believed what people told me and didn’t check it against anything. That is a very scary place to be. For all my young ladies out there, remember to judge the character of these young guys you like, by their actions. There are many warnings against being around liars, so be sure to check what they say against the way they behave.
V22… we must remember to let the Lord handle the people in our lives who have wronged us. I have a recent experience of seeing how the Lord has handled someone who wronged me. It is not even about me, but the lifestyle of deceit and foolishness that the Lord has to deal with. The point is He handles it better than any way we ever could. When we take things into our own hands we end up looking foolish.
V24…we must remember that what the Lord has for us is better than anything we could even dream up for ourselves. When we don’t understand why things are happening we have to hold firm to God’s character and remember that he is faithful, loving and merciful.
V25…when I was younger there was this stupid thing that people said…”I put that on.” It was like “I swear on my mother’s grave”. That reminds me of this scripture. We are not to take lightly our vows. Jesus said to let our yes be yes and our no be no, and not to swear by things. That is just what this verse reminded me of; I don’t think that is the exact context of this verse.
V27…what did you guys get on this? Spirit=conscious which is our inner most being…sounds lame need something better.

Proverbs 19

You can always tell someone is a fool when they are blaming God for things that have happened in their lives due to poor choices. Some people (fools apparently) do not accept responsibility for their actions or the consequences of them. I confess I have little patience for these people.
V8…loving your own soul…I got caught up in this for a minute. For those of you who don’t know I am very “anti” psychology and don’t get me started on “Christian psychology” which I think is one of the biggest oxy morons I’ve ever heard. But I digress. So I was thinking about how people encourage young girls not to be insecure, the idea of encouraging confidence and self worth. Anyway the conclusion I came to regarding this verse, in cohesiveness with the rest of scriptures, is that when you are wise you are comfortable in your own skin. You can be pleased with what God is doing in your life and be grateful you are making wise choices. When we encourage people to take their eyes of themselves and focus on the Lord and his infinite wisdom, there is a confidence and love that comes that we benefit from in a very mighty way.
V11…Not only is it important to be slow to anger, which is a theme we have seen time and time again this month, but it is also important to overlook transgressions. This is something I have tried to incorporate into my marriage. If I am upset about something I try not to bring it up right away. I take it to the Lord first and many times He remedies my problem, or shows me that it isn’t worth bringing up. Overlooking other people’s mistakes is a good thing.
A contentious wife is basically like Chinese water torture. I don’t want to be quarrelsome. I don’t want to always be looking for an argument. That is like torture to my husband and family.
Giving to others is always looked upon as a personal choice. I don’t know that biblically it is a choice. I believe we are called to give. It seems to me if someone asks for something we can give we should. What they do with what they give them is between them and the Lord.
Kindness, honesty and integrity are themes throughout this chapter. They are not the most desired traits in our society today. I find it interesting that honesty and kindness tend to be thrown together. We are living in a world where people justify their ugly words under the guise of honesty. That really bugs me, probably because I used to do it myself. Being honest isn’t a free card to be rude, or ugly to people. We need to maintain integrity and kindness while still being honest. This can be tricky sometimes, but that is why we are encouraged to be “slow to speak”.
“A lazy man buries his hand in the bowl, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.” That verse has always just cracked me up. I have felt that lazy before. If someone would just feed me! But it is a serious warning against laziness.

Proverbs 18

Verse one really intrigued me. It is so easy to get caught up in your own mind about something. You don’t want to hear what anyone else has to say about the matter. You want to be right in your own mind. It reminds me of Romans 12:16. It is no wonder that the book of Proverbs encourages not only to surround ourselves with wise counsel, but also to stay out of the path of fools. We, as humans , whether we like to admit it or not, are influenced by the people around us. It was interesting for me to think about verse one because it not only reminded me that we are to be careful who we spend our time with, but we also must remember to spend time with people. We were created as relational beings. Having no outside influences can be just as bad as poor influences.
If we are putting others first, then we will be seeking to understand and not be understood. As Christians we should always being trying to put others needs before our own. That being said, our priority should be to listen and understand. We need to not be so quick to get our point across.
Words of wisdom refresh a thirsty or dry soul. I love when someone says something to me and it just washes me with refreshment.
We don’t want to go looking for fights. We must remember our words have the power to uplift or destroy.
V 10…I’m so grateful that I am safe in the arms of Jesus. We can remember to find safety in the characteristics of God; faithfulness, mercy, power, wisdom and truth.
Haughtiness brings destruction, but humility brings honor.
A broken spirit…isn’t it true…who can bear it? I thought of it like a broken heart…the funny thing about a broken heart is that it hurts so you feel like you should be dead. Even in sickness if your spirit is well it will sustain you. Having a broken spirit can make you physically ill.
If we are prudent and wise we will seek after knowledge.
V24… “…warns that the person who makes friends too indiscriminately or too easily does so to his own destruction. On the other hand, a friend chosen wisely is more loyal than a brother. “Friend” was a strong word meaning “one who loves” and was used of Abraham, God’s friend.” MacArther Study Bible Commentary.

Proverbs 17

The nuggets I gleaned from today’s study. ..
There is so much less we desire materially when there is peace in our home. The value of peace is so precious. I have noticed the value of peace and quietness so much more in the last few days, than I have ever noticed in my life. When there is strife in the home, it doesn’t matter what a wonderful house you have. You’d live in a tent to have peace.
It is so important to have a teachable spirit.
Rebellion isn’t to be taken lightly. There is a direct correlation between rebellion and evil.
A fool in his foolishness is dangerous. I know this to be true firsthand.
I would like to memorize verse 14. I wish I naturally stopped contention before a quarrel started. The releasing of water is such a vivid picture.
We are not to justify bad behavior.
“The difference between a friend and a brother is noted here. A true friend is a constant source of love, while a brother in one’s family may not be close, but is drawn near to help in trouble. Friends are closer than brothers because they are available at all times, not just in the crisis.” (McArther Study Bible Commentary) My brothers and sisters in Christ are my most valued friends and family. They are the ones I depend on in my most difficult times.
The theme throughout Proverbs of foolishness grieving parents has really been in on my mind. Unfortunately I know what it is to stumble through this life without following God. I have prayed for my children that they would never know what it is to live in the world. I have prayed since they were in my belly that they would love and serve the Lord with their whole hearts all of their days. I can only imagine the grief I would feel watching them try to live their lives in foolishness. It reminds me to continually be on my knees for my children.
If I could just keep my mouth shut sometimes, maybe people would, at the very least, see me as perceptive.

Proverbs 16

My thoughts are a jumbled mess today…good luck getting through them.
V 1 and 9…These scriptures support the idea that although we have free will, God is sovereign. This is a very difficult area for many people. I know so many people who can’t seem to be completely sold out for Christ because they really struggle with the idea that if God is in control, than it is impossible to have free will. I could write a book on my thoughts on this area, but I won’t. I would like to know all your thoughts on this.
I really enjoyed verse 6.
“In mercy and truth Atonement is provided for iniquity; and by the fear of the Lord one departs from evil”
That just about sums it all up, doesn’t it? It’s like the entire gospel message and idea of sanctification in one little verse. I just kept thinking about what a prophetic book the Bible is. I love reading through Proverbs.
V18… I love this verse. It is one of my token verses. Amos and I use this verse on each other all the time. It is of course a great verse to have memorized for you own humility, but it seems like I’ve used it a lot with teenage boys. Pride is the root of so much of our stumbling.
So I decided verse 20 is the secret of life that everyone is searching for. Basically if we heed the Word and trust in God we will find good and be happy. What more could we ask for?
V 25…This is the second time we have seen this verse in the last few chapters. That tells me its really important. I pray that I would never walk in a way that seems right to me, but is leading to death.
V30… I get so caught up on weird little tangents sometimes. Winking for example, I’m fascinated at how much the proverbs mention winking. I find it so interesting that just the gesture of deceitfulness is so bad. I can’t wink to save my life by the way, which I am excited about now that I think winking is bad.
V32…Being slow to anger and self-controlled is powerful! I guess that is why it is so difficult sometimes.

Proverbs 15

I have many notes on this chapter, but I think I’m just going to regurgitate my thoughts about the couple of verses that were so pertinent to me today.
V1… “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger…”
V17-18… “Better is a dinner of herbs where love is than a fatted calf with hatred. A wrathful man stirs up strife, gut he who is slow to anger allays contention.”

Not, that those of you who read this don’t know, but I’ll just remind you of my current life scenario. We have just brought home a 3 day old baby, have an almost 18 month old and my husband is home for 2 weeks to help with the transition.
I read half of chapter 15 last night. God knew that I would need to hear verse one going through my head all day long. I was so convicted when I read this last night about my tone of voice when I say things. I really had to ask myself if my tone was soft or harsh. Sometimes when we’ve learned certain things “not to say” we can still be so cutting with our tone. Well, truth be told I spend a few parts of the day in tears, but I was trying very hard to turn away wrath and not stir up anger. I doubt I did a very good job because it doesn’t seem like it was a very peaceful day, but I suppose, though I can’t imagine, it would have been worse had I not read this late last night. God knows my heart and will reveal to me my weakness in this particular area. I pray I will take His correction with acceptance and grace.
As I have been home the last few nights with my husband (remember he’s not always home at night) I have really remember how true verses 17 and 18 are. Any married couple with agree that they would rather have a dinner of herbs in a peaceful home than some steaks with a quarreling spouse. Please pray for me dear friends, that I would not do anything to stir up strife. Pray that I would accept the help I need and not judge the way my husband when he handles things differently than I do. I am feeling very insecure, not physically feeling well enough to manage my home on my own. I pray that God would keep my answers soft and our home filled with sacrificial love.

Proverbs 14

Sorry, no 12 or 13...busy birthing baby.

The wise woman builds her house…I feel like I’m growing my house…can that count and make me wise?! Seriously though, as I sit here in my new home with my young boys I am convicted to always use God’s wisdom to make my house a home. I pray that my fear of the Lord would keep me walking upright, setting an excellent example to my children.
“Where no oxen are, there trough is clean, but much increase comes by the strength of an ox.” Proverbs 14:4
I love that verse. Isn’t it true that sometimes the most efficient way to do things is still such difficult work? There really are pros and cons to everything. I think of having a car. It costs money to purchase and maintain, but you can put your entire family in it and get to grandma’s house in 20 min. On the surface it would seem like having a car would just cost too much money, but for all it does for us, it’s worth it. Oxen made working on the crops so much easier and more efficient, but they did have to clean up after the animals. The end justified the means. We need to be wise in the choices we make.
V12… We can get so caught up in “our own way” of doing things that we don’t realize we are on a destructive path. That is why it is so important to always set Jesus Christ as your standard and keep your eyes focused on the Word, so you are not caught on a path that seems right to you, but is really leading to death.
V29… I have heard people describe impulsive as an admirable trait. I’m sure I myself described it as such at some point in my life. As I was reading this verse I realized that if the opposite of impulsive is self-controlled then there is no way biblically to justify both of these qualities as good.
V34…Let me first say than that I am a political advocate of Romans 13:1 that says God appoints all authorities. I vote and I pray for the leadership in our country. There may or may not be a time when God does not exalt our nation anymore due to our lack of righteousness. This verse reminded me first and foremost to be in prayer for my country, and to acknowledge that is has always been the hand of God that has made our country the blessing it is to live in.

Proverbs 11

Often times the Bible shows us something that pertains to something that we have gone through or are going through. There was a time in my life when I “loved” what I would now describe a wicked man. (I say wicked, in that he didn’t know the Lord) There was pride, dishonesty and deceitfulness, many qualities listed in the proverb of what a wicked man will be. “The wicked will fall by their own wickedness.” As I think of all the ways I watched this man’s wickedness cause him to stumble and/or fall I am reminded of another man, quite the opposite kind of man, the man I now call my husband. I ran into this old boyfriend the other day and as I watched him shake hands with my husband I was given such a clear picture of the 2 ways a man can choose to walk…wicked or righteous. This was such a vivid picture again brought to my mind with today’s reading.
“The integrity of the righteous will guide them.” By God’s grace alone, my husband is like this verse, and I will forever strive to deserve him.
Random other things:
V13 I hope to never be a gossip. Sometimes I really have to ask myself why am I repeating something.
V14 is probably my favorite verse in the Bible. It was only when God showed me this verse and began to give me my “multitude of counselors “ that my life really began to change , grow and bear fruit. Women’s Bible Study changed my entire life. These wise counselors, women I still turn to, guided me through the most difficult time in my life, not letting me fall.
V16 I pray I will become a gracious woman. I can’t even imagine that being the way someone would describe me, but I strive for it to be.
V22 I love the imagery in these verses. I love what my commentary said: “The principle here is that generosity, by God’s blessing, secures increase, while stinginess leads to poverty instead of expected gain. The one who gives receives far more in return.”
V29-30 Lord please help me to manage my home in a way that is pleasing to you. Make me righteous so that I may bear life giving fruit. Make these desires of my heart on a continual basis.
V31 I loved my commentary on this one too: “God’s final blessing and reward to the “righteous,” and His judgment and punishment of the “ungodly and sinners” come after life on this earth has ended. But there are foretastes of both during life on the earth, as the righteous experience God’s personal care and goodness, while the wicked are void of it.”
Isn’t it amazing that we get little tastes of the blessings that await us in heaven?!

Proverbs 10

Wisdom and foolishness are generational. We are not the only ones that our foolishness effects. “Treasures of wickedness profit nothing” ---there are things we are deceived into thinking are treasures that are of wickedness. These are temporary and profit nothing.
We are to be diligent, prepared hard workers. This morning I had to ask myself if I truly was pursuing these things. Am I as diligent and prepared as I should be? Am I a hard working as I should be all the time? I am praying that God would reveal to me my areas of weakness. There are blessings for the righteous. Isn’t that a wonderful thought?
A fool is always talking and never listening. There are quite a few of these proverbs that discuss the tongue and/or mouth. A great way to gage our maturity in Christ is to realistically evaluate how we are controlling our speech. There was a time in my life when I didn’t even know you were supposed to not say everything that went through your head. I was rightfully accused many times of not having a filter. “The mouth of the righteous is a well of life”. What a blessing to be considered such. Foolishness is also quickly associated with the mouth, which is no surprise here. We can say some pretty stupid things. Self-restraint with our words is a sign of wisdom. It appears to be our heart, mouth and lips that are going to show others our foolishness or wisdom.
“When the whirlwind passes by, the wicked is no more, but the righteous has an everlasting foundation.” This was my favorite verse today. In the whirlwinds of life we can stand firm if Christ is our foundation.
I don’t know that there was really anything productive about it, but I thought about verse 27 for some time. I often wonder about how the scriptures say the wicked people’s lives will be shortened. I do believe that God knows if a person is never going to repent and is just leading others astray and hence some of these people may die young. Maybe it’s just talking about the consequences of poor choices. My commentary didn’t say anything about it. I’m torn between knowing the issue must be of importance if it is in the Bible and not wanting to get caught up in something that really has no benefit to my walk with the Lord. But in my desire to know His character more, verses like this always fascinate me.

Proverbs 9

The first few verses of this chapter remind me of the Proverbs 31 woman. She, like personified wisdom is always ready and prepared with the best things on her table for her family. My prayer is that my home will always reflect diligence and preparedness on my part.
If we are wise we will appreciate rebuke and correction. Oh, how I lack wisdom. I think of being married. There is so much opportunity for our spouses to see our flaws, and yet we often times discredit any opinion they have of us by getting angry or upset when they bring something to our attention. A wise man will actually love someone who rebukes them. A wise man will increase his learning when instruction is given to him. There is no point in trying to rebuke or correct a wicked man. I hope no one ever feels that way about me. I hope people always feel that they can bring things to my attention. May I always desire to be wiser! I’d hate to think that I fell into the category of swine you don’t want to throw pearls to.
Clamorous- vigorous in demands or complaints
I don’t want to be a foolish woman. That means no vigorous demands or complaints on my end. I can’t help but translate this as not being a “naggy wife”. It would be foolish.
“Stolen water is sweet and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.” The temptations of this world often seem sweet to us for one reason or another, but the consequences are severe. There is often a desire to see what we can get away with, or maybe just a little rebelliousness trying to get out. We must remember that sin that seems enticing for a moment is really just temporary fulfillment and instant gratification. It is never worth the cost in the end.

Proverbs 8

Perhaps wisdom is personified as a woman because you have to pursue it to get it. Isn't that true of a woman, at least in general. She is actually crying out to be paid attention to. She wants to be heard and understood. Maybe men feel like this too, but it definitely doesn't show as much.



We can tell what is wisdom because it lines up with righteousness. It will align with truth and there will be nothing crooked or perverse in it. There is strength in wisdom. It is better than any material thing.

Wow, verses 22-31 are so powerful. It is the first time we have had a really different theme so far in Proverbs. There is so much Jesus here in the Old Testament. I am always overwhelmed to see how much Christ is really felt in the OT. This creation account is so beautiful. We forget the magnitude of earth as a creation. The vastness and the details are so vividly drawn out for us in these words. I truly stand in awe of our Creator.

And it is after this amazing account of creation that we are implored once again to seek after wisdom. We will obtain favor from the Lord, and find life. Blessed is the man who listens to wisdom. Lord I pray that I would always remember to seek after wisdom like the treasure it is. Give me eyes to see the world as you do.

Proverbs 7

Almost this entire chapter is about the crafty harlot. I pondered her for some time this morning. First I heeded the warnings of qualities not to have based on her description. Not to be loud or rebellious out lurking in the streets trying to deceive men .This woman was so alluring. Her husband is away and she is using her enticing speech and flattering lips to get a man into bed with her.
I’m not proud, but saddened to say that I understand the harlot. I know there was a time in my life where I used all the allurement I could muster up for the attention of men. It is easy for me to see how she is craving attention and physical fulfillment. As embarrassing as it is to admit, there was a time when I took pride in knowing that a man desired to be with me. This was most obviously not a better time in my life.
As most of you know I have a baby due any day now. One of the names we especially like for a girl is Delilah. There have been many people who have brought up what a horrible namesake that would be for a girl because of the famous story of Samson and Delilah. I never knew this story as a girl. I have only learned its tale in the last 5 years or so. With both the stories of Adam and Eve and Samson and Delilah I believe there is a great opportunity to explain to a young girl and woman the potential influence she can have in a man’s life. The Bible gives many clear examples of the influence a woman can have, both positive and negative in a man’s life. Delilah and Eve were both very selfish in stumbling their men. What an opportunity to show my daughter how even with great influence she needs to put God’s values first and consider the consequences for the men she is stumbling.
As a married woman serving the Lord, I am blessed to not struggle in this area anymore. God has shown me the consequences of my sin toward others. I would like to encourage anyone who does struggle with seeking attention from men, whether single or married, to really guard yourself and seek the Lord in this area. Be modest in both your speech and attire. It is summer and it is hot. It is easy to notice attention when you are wearing tiny clothes. Guard your body, your lips and your mind.

Proverbs 6

Good stewardship is so important. Proverbs 6 discourages us from even helping others be poor stewards by helping them acquire debt. These days I think of co-signing a loan, or letting someone use your credit card. It is not only bad for them, but it ensnares us too.
We have to work hard, like ants. I thought about ants for a while this morning. I have never seen one that was not moving, and they never really give up either. They can carry things that are way bigger than they are which signifies strength. They seem to always be gathering and preparing. This is how we are told to work. We should be strong, diligent, prepared and always willing to keep moving forward. I mean seriously have you ever tried to drown an ant. They really don’t go down without a fight. And I’ve noticed when trials come in our lives it often feels like someone is trying to drown us and just trying to keep our heads above water takes all our strength, but we must be inspired by our tiny little friends and not give up. After all, laziness brings on poverty. Isn’t it amazing that God created ants to give us examples of things like this. They always seem like such a nuisance if we see them, but really there is a lot to admire about these little insects.
We get a very good picture of a wicked man in Proverbs 6. They are always trying to deceive people. Look out for that, especially my young ladies who are still looking for husband quality men. There are serious consequences for these people. They will be broken without remedy.
Today’s reading also brought more warnings about adultery. It is such a serious topic. What I really noticed today was what a preventative sin it really is. We are not to even lust after beauty in our hearts. Adultery doesn’t just happen. It is not an accidental thing. We must remember that it is a slow progression that begins in our hearts and minds. Don’t even let these thoughts enter your heart. The consequences for such sin are long lasting and severe.

Proverbs 5

Today reminded me of some great things to keep in prayer regarding my marriage. There are so many temptations out there. I’m praying that not only would I never have a desire to be a seductress, but also that my husband would never fall victim to one. I’m praying that my husband and I would always delight in each other. I’m praying for my single ladies too, that you and whoever the Lord has set aside for you would be patient in waiting for the delight you will one day have in each other.
God knows all our ways and all our sin. I was reminded today of how sin can ensnare us. I do not want to die from lack of instruction. The instruction is clear and available and I pray I am always open to receive it. I was reminded verses in James.
“But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then when desire has conceived it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full grown brings forth death.” James 1:14-15
We need to stay focused on God and ask Him to reveal any sin in lives. We need to be aware of our temptations early on, so that they do not cause us to sin. May we all seek the righteousness of Christ!

Proverbs 4

How I long to desire instruction. But the truth is often times I don’t want to be told what to do. But to be wise I must overcome this. I must learn to love instruction, understanding and good doctrine. Proverbs 4 tells us not to forget wisdom and how important it is. God knew we would forget its importance easily. I believe that is why we are told so many times in this Proverb to Hear, Keep, and give attention. What is being taught must be extra important if we are so adamantly reminded to pay attention to it. We are to put wisdom above all things, so that we may be adorned with grace. Oh how I long to be graceful. We must take firm hold of instruction. We have to be careful to hold on to it at all times and not lose it, like our money or our cell phones. Doesn’t it seem like we hold on to those things with more care?
Wicked people desire to make others stumble. They seek after it, they even live off it. They do not even know what makes them stumble. I am always very weary of people who do not know why things are so difficult for them. They are the people that say things like “I don’t find trouble. Trouble finds me.” The Bible describes these as wicked, walking in darkness. We are to avoid their paths.
Don’t be deceitful or perverse. So many things call fall into this category. We must strive for purity. I pray the Lord would reveal to me anything I do that is deceitful or perverse in his eyes. We must guard our steps, watch where we are going and be aware of what path we are on, being careful to follow the narrow path at all times.

Proverbs 3

I am overwhelmed with the benefits that wisdom brings. It is for our own good we should seek it above all things. God gives us so much for our own good and I think we forget that we are the ones who benefit.
Remembering and keeping the Lord’s commandments is what gives us peace and it even adds to our lives. That is so amazing to me! It’s what people are searching for in all the ways, but the wisdom and knowledge of the Lord promises these things. We have to remember that we are created with great purpose and design. Verse 3 was the first scripture that I ever memorized. I memorized it in NIV so instead of mercy and truth it was love and faithfulness. It is interesting to me that in both verse 3 and verse 8 there is reference to inside and outside parts of our body. It reminds me of the idea that what is in our hearts will come out of our mouths or just show on the outside. Our hearts will reflect our actions.
We can’t be wise in our own eyes. Some of us have to figure things out for ourselves, but this is foolishness to God. He gives us the answers. We need to seek His wisdom and guidance continually.
All I have is from the Lord. Being a good steward of all He has blessed us with is so important. I pray that God would reveal new ways for us to be good stewards of our family, home and vehicles.
Chasten can mean to correct. It can also mean to restrain or to purify and refine. If our desire is to truly be purified and refined by the Lord than we must not begrudge any sort of correction. The Lord has to show us when we do wrong so that we may be better purified. I want Him to see His face in my reflection and whatever He has to do to get me there I am willing to endure.
Proverbs 3 tells us that wisdom and understanding will actually make you happy. Ah, my friends, we have discovered the secret to happiness, though the Lord meant it as no secret at all. The benefits of this wisdom and understanding are far greater than anything this world has to offer. Some of the benefits I noticed were: long life, grace, ability to walk safely, not stumbling, long life, riches, honor, pleasantness, peace, not having to be afraid and having confidence in the Lord. Are these not the deepest desires of a man’s heart?
We cannot withhold good. What we have, we must give. Sometimes we get caught up in the “let me have some coffee and pray about it” mentality, but God tells us here to give to anyone in need who crosses our path.
“He blesses the home of the just.” As I read this I thought how much as a wife and mother I desire to have a blessed home. Make me just Lord. My desire is to be humble and have grace and to be wise so that I may inherit glory.

Proverbs 2

Each Chapter is full of so many precious valuable jewels. I continue to be amazed by the desire of the Lord to give us the answers. God tells us how to understand the fear of the Lord and how to find the knowledge of God. I can’t help but wonder if we grasp the magnitude of how amazing that truly is. By treasuring the Lord’s commands, crying out for discernment, listening to wisdom and applying this understanding we will come to understand what it really means to fear the Lord. We will be able to find the knowledge of God. That seriously boggles my mind. We are to seek wisdom like it is the most precious treasure. The Bible gives us a comparison of something tangible (silver) so we can grasp the value. But do we really seek after wisdom, even the way we seek after money?
Wisdom, knowledge and understanding can only come from God.
"See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ." Colossians 2:8
There are many other ways that people try to find wisdom, knowledge and understanding, but the empty philosophies of this world will leave them thirsty for the truth.
I’m so encouraged by verses 7-9. It is a comfort to remember that when we are serving and walking with the Lord He will guard our paths and preserve our ways. We will be able to understand righteousness and justice. This lack of understanding really can hinder people from knowing the Lord. There is a strong misunderstanding of God when people ask questions like: How can a loving God send people to hell? How encouraging to know that walking with the Lord will give us the capacity to understand His righteousness and justice.
The fruit of wisdom and knowledge is discretion. True understanding keeps us on the narrow path.
The seductress…I know that the Bible is referencing this as a prostitute or an adulteress, but that doesn’t generally apply to most of us. What I do think applies to many of us is the way we can tempt or stumble men with our words or the way we are dressed. If a man looks at a woman lustfully he commits adultery. There are many ways we can’t control that, but there are several ways that we can. Modesty and purity of our minds will help us not to be seductresses in our hearts.
Many blessings await the faithful followers of Christ. But there are severe warnings for the wicked and unfaithful and the end of this chapter. We should not only use this to remember to be faithful in our own walks, but to encourage others to seek the true path of wisdom and understanding.

Proverbs 1

I absolutely adore verses 1-6. It is so encouraging to be given ways the book of Proverbs will enrich your life. The simple will have prudence. The wise man will increase learning. Even the young will be given knowledge and instruction. What a blessing to those who are seeking wisdom.

When I was in HS I saw a patch on someones backpack that said "Fear God." I remember thinking that they had it all wrong. Why would we fear God? I thought they were mocking God. I was with a friend at the time, who told me that it was something in the Bible. It wasn't until many years later that I understood the gospel and the reverent fear that comes from serving an all knowing God. I often think of that day and how God planted the seed in my heart. "Fear of God is the beginning of knowledge." Let's just say it was a slow beginning for me, but a beginning nonetheless.

If sinners entice you... and oh how they did for a long while. It would have been so nice to know these verses earlier in my life. So much sin enticed me, everything from mobsters to drug dealers, I was always absolutely fascinated and wanting to know more. I could give first hand accounts of why to stay far from sinners, but the truth was always here for me to find without any personal experience. That never ceases to amaze me. There are truths I have come to find out on my own, but the Bible had the answers all along. Foolish me, always enduring the consequences of my sin.

The amazing thing about wisdom is that it is available to EVERYONE. It is not about common sense or book smarts. It is all about learning to see the world through God's eyes. I hate to think of the fool I have been hating knowledge and having no repentance from my sin. Now, in my quest and desire for wisdom, I am deeply saddened by those seeking wisdom and knowledge who haven't figured out the right path yet. My prayer is that none of us would be fools forever. When we refuse wisdom the consequences can be and most often are devastating. (v24-32) I have known the truth of these verses. If you have not I pray that you never will. If you have then I know you understand grace in a way that deepens your faith immeasurably.

"But whoever listens to me will dwell safely, And will be secure without fear of evil." Proverbs 1:33

May we all listen to wisdom so that we may dwell safely and secure.

Proverbs in July

I'm going through the book of Proverbs this month! Anyone up for going it through it with me? 31 days in July. 31 chapters in the book of Proverbs. I love Proverbs because the entire book gives us so much valuable information on how to relate to God, to others, and even ourselves. Wisdom, which is the one quality I have come to desire most in life is a central theme throughout the book. Throughout my years, whether walking closely or far from the Lord, this book has always been an instrumental tool in growing my faith. I will venture into the next 31 days with confidence that the Lord will reveal Himself to me in new ways. "As iron sharpens iron so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend."So, join me if you will and let’s see what the Lord has for us through a short, but deep summer study. Comment and let me know what you think and what God is showing you.

Chapter 30-His Future

Lord, I pray for my husband, that he would always remember that you know the thoughts you think toward him, thoughts of peace for his life to give him a future and a hope. I pray then when he can not see what you have for him, that he would remember Jeremiah 29:11. Write it on the tablet of his heart. Help him to always remember that Your plan for his life will always be better than anything he has planned for himself. May he be confident that no matter what comes his way, his future will be filled with a peace that surpasses all understanding. Give him an eternal perspective on his future too. Help him to see his life and Your will in the light of eternity. May he plant himself in Your house so that he will always flourish and produce good fruit. Be his rock and his foundation so that everything he builds upon will stand on solid ground. Let his hope be in standing before You, hearing You say, well done good and faithful servant. May he live every moment in such a way as to please you. Thank you Lord for the future You have planned for my husband. May he embrace Your will for his life without question or uncertainty. I pray that my husband would serve you all of his days. May you fill him with a sense of purpose and help him to never lose focus on that. Be his anchor and give him Your vision.

Chapter 29- His Faith

Thankfully, my husband has been blessed with a great amount of faith in our Lord and Savior. May his faith grow stronger every day.

Heavenly Father, I pray that my husband would always have faith in You, Your Word and Your promises. May he always stand in his knowledge of truth, having faith in all things pertaining to life and godliness. May he always have faith that You have a purpose and a hope for his future. May he always have faith that You are in control. May he always have faith that You will provide for his family through him. Give him faith in Your Word. Let him be diligent in his study and knowledge of Your Word. May he always remember that with You all things are possible. Let him always ask of You in faith, without doubting. Let him never be 2 faced in his faith. Give him true faith, because we know with as little as a mustard seed, we can move mountains. Nothing is impossible with You, Lord. Let him always have that in the forefront of his mind. Let his faith be in Christ that dwells in him. Help him to always remember that he is justified by faith and always give him the peace that comes from knowing You are his Savior.

Chapter 28- His Self Image

There is this song that I have heard the last 2 weeks at church. A line repeated in the chorus is "You are everything that is beautiful in me." Last night before we went to bed Amos looked up the song and we listened to it a few times before we went to bed. It is so true that there is nothing beautiful in us outside of Christ. We have a couple serious testimonies to prove it!

Lord, I pray that Amos would always see himself the way You see him. I pray that he would have a healthy mindset about who he is in You. May there be no insecurity or pride in him, but instead may his eyes be always on You and Your vision for the man You created him to be. May he always remember that though he is a wretched sinner, he is made in Your image, as a firstfruit of Your creation. May he never look in the reflection of Your Word and walk away not remembering what he looked like. May he put into practice all the You reveal he should be striving to be. Show him his identity and worth. Let him recongnize the qualities You have given him that he is to use to glorify You. Remind him also that all good things come from above, from the Father of Lights. Help him to remember that he is complete only in You, Lord. May his self image be rooted deeply in the image of Christ and His sacrifice on the cross for our souls.

Chapter 27- His Obedience

Lord, I pray that Amos would always live in obedience to you. May he never have to feel the harsh consequences that come with living outside of Your will. I pray that he would not only live in obedience with basic principles, but also that you would help him to hear Your voice in areas specific to him and Your purpose for his life. Let him always do the things that You desire for him to do. Let him always desire to have more of You in his life. May he always desire fellowship, accountability and wise counsel. I pray that Amos would desire to know Your heart and keep Your commands. Let him bind mercy and truth around his neck and write them on the tablet of his heart. Your word says that it is those who do the will of the Father who will enter the kingdom of heaven. I pray that Amos and I both would be actively doing your will. I pray that we would never turn our ears away from hearing Your law Lord. Remind us always, that You created us knowing in what context we work best. Let us obey Your voice and walk in all Your ways so that it may be well with us. Thank you Lord.

Chapter 26- His Deliverance

I don't know of any specific areas this is an issue for Amos, so this will have to be a very general preventative prayer.

Lord, we all need deliverance at times, from the desires of our flesh or the temptations of the world. Please always be the Great Deliverer for my husband. May You deliver him from all temptation and all destructive tendencies. Continually set him free from anything that may bind him. May he always be aware of any harmful force in his life and may he always be quick to seek You and turn from evil ways. Help him to remember he is in a spiritual battle. Let him always be ready in his armor. Be his rock and his fortress. Be his strength, his salvation, his stronghold. Let his lips always praise You for all you have done in his life. Let him always remember that You will deliver him from anything that may ensnare him. Let him always remember that You have already delivered him from death. May he be a light in this world shining brightly in remembrance of all You have done for him. May your Spirit be upon Him. Anoint him for Your purposes. Thank you Jesus. Amen

Chapter 25- His Repentence

I liked Stormie's prayer for today. It was short and concise and to the point.

By the way a repentant heart is described in this chapter, I would say that my husband does pretty well in this area. He is generally quick to recognize his mistakes, feel bad about them and seek forgiveness. I guess, the only real issue I have with my husband in this area is that we don't always agree on his "mistakes". That is probably an area that I should seek prayer.

Lord, I pray that Amos would always have a repentant heart. Give him the humility he needs to recognize any mistakes he may make and ask for you to forgive and guide him in a different direction. Take away any pride in him that would tell him that he doesn't need to seek after you in repentance. Let him always feel cleansed and released from his sin. I pray that when Amos has acknowledged an error in his actions or speech that you would help him not to repeat the same mistake again. Let his confidence be in You and Your statutes and not in himself. Let him always desire to confess and never to cover up his sin. Know his heart, Lord, try him and know his anxieties and reveal to him any wicked way in him so that he may be led in the way everlasting. Let him never remain silent in his sin. Align his heart with Your will Father and desire for his life. Thank you Lord.

chapter 24- his talk

We all have our struggles with our tongue. I can't think of a time I have ever heard my husband say a bad word. I love that about him.

Lord I pray that Amos would never be "all talk and no action" as far as his goals or anything else is concerned. I pray that he would not be angry or ungodly in his speech and that others would notice him as different in this area. I pray that Amos would do all things without complaining or pointing out the negative in situations. Help him be slow to speak and quick to listen. I pray that he would not use discouraging words with anyone, especially Elijah or myself. Let his words always justify and not condemn him. Let him always chose his words wisely. Keep his heart right so that he may speak righteously. Let his speech be filled with wisdom, discernment and understanding. Thank you Lord for a husband who acknowledges Your Word and desires to speak in a manner that is pleasing to You.

Chapter 23-His Walk

It seems to me that I pray for my husband's walk the most. If Amos is not walking with the Lord in his everyday life, then it not only effects him as a man, but as a husband and a father too. It is so easy to tell when one of us has taken our eyes off the Lord and started to walk down our own path. You quickly see the selfishness, anger, self-pity, or bitterness that immediately effect the relationship as husband and wife.

Lord, I do pray that Amos would always walk uprightly. Let him live a blameless life without fault. I pray that he would always walk with godly advisers and that he would never find himself in the counsel of the ungodly. May he walk in obedience to You and Your Word with people of wisdom. May he always strive to be a man of integrity so that He may be pleasing in your sight and the sight of men. May his greatest desire be holiness. Set his feet on the path of holiness. Please let me be an efficient helper to him in these things. If there is any sin in his life that is hindering his growth or his relationship with You, I pray that you would identify it and root it out of his life. May he always let you direct his steps and never desire to go his own way. May my husband always walk worthy of his calling with lowliness, gentleness and patience. Let his steps always be guided by love. Let him walk righteously so that he may speak uprightly. Let him cleanse himself from all filthiness seeking after holiness in everything he does. Let him always speak the truth, both from his mouth and in his heart. Let him be always faithful to you desiring to serve You in Your perfect way. Thank you Father. Amen

Chapter 22- His Emotions

I often forget that my husband has emotions too. He is so logical sometimes that he seems like a robot. Negative emotions can have such a powerful effect in a marriage and it is so important to not only recognize them when they occur, but to commit to root them out of our minds and hearts.

Heavenly Father I ask that you would help my husband not to have negative emotions. I pray that he would recognize them as such when they occur. I do pray that he would never be controlled by anger, depression, anxiety, jealousy, fear, hopelessness or inadequacy. Help me not to be pulled down by any negative emotions. Let me not get angry when Amos is angry. Help me to remember to pray in all things. Help me to understand my husband and give me words to speak to him that will encourage him to seek You in all things. I pray that he would always remember You and Your faithfulness regardless of circumstances. I pray that he would always know that he can share his deepest feelings with me. Surround him with godly men that he can open up with and be held accountable to also. Give him patience and self control. Fill him with joy. Help him to always trust in You and walk wisely. Restore his soul and lead him in the paths of righteousness for Your sake. Help him to always trust you and stand on Your firm word of truth. May he always put Your truth before his emotions.

Chapter 21- His Marriage

Since I been married, the idea of marriage has become far more sacred to me. I find myself diligently praying for couples whose marriages are struggling and shedding tears over couples who are separating or getting a divorce. When I married my husband I made my promises to God. I have never even really thought of the promises Amos made to me, because I have always known that in light of the commitment I made to God, it was not about the promises made to me, but my commitment to the Lord in spite of anything life may throw at us. I try to always remember that God is faithful and perfect even when my husband is not.
Praying for my marriage is something I take very seriously. I know that for my husband and I to have a joyful marriage we need to remain focused on the Lord and each other. Putting others before yourself is a biblical principle that we so often forget to apply in our relationship with our spouse. My greatest prayers for our marriage have been, "Lord, help me to be less selfish. Help me to put my husbands needs before my own." Sometimes I say it through gritted teeth, but I know that God desires me to put others before myself.

Lord, I want to take this time to pray for my marriage. I pray that you would always protect us from neglect, adultery, and selfishness. Please let us always be on watch for anything that has the potential to harm or destroy our marriage. Let us be in continual prayer over such things. May we continue to never use the "d" word. That was some of the best advice ever given to us. We went into this marriage knowing that divorce was not an option. I pray we would always remember our commitment to God and each other. Help us to disregard any past hurts in our relationship or any others. Help us to never have unrealistic expectations of each other. I pray that we would guard our hearts and minds against anything that would threaten our marriage in any way. I pray we would always guard our minds against lusting, whether emotionally or physically, for other people. Help us to always only see each other. Help us to always be great friends and to desire understanding from each other. Help us to always seek first to understand and not to be understood. Please help us to let go of all immaturity, anger and unforgiveness. Help us to always set aside time to nurture our relationship. Let "date nights" always be a priority in our relationship. Help us to always put our relationship first so that our children can feel confidant in their security. We were both raised by single parents Lord, and because of that we have an even stronger desire to leave a legacy of love and faithfulness to our children and grandchildren. Let it be so, Lord. Thank you for the blessings of marriage. Help us to see the joy in being made perfect through our trials.

Chapter 20- His attitude

As much as I adore my husband, in my opinion, he does have a tendency to be a "negative Nancy". He often doesn't see what he is saying as negative, but there are definitely some glass half empty ideas in that mans head. For example, instead of rejoicing in the blessing of our home, he is often overwhelmed with all the things we have to do to the house and the yard. I really liked her prayer for this chapter and am going to use lots of it in my prayers for my husband this week.

Heavenly Father I do pray that you would fill Amos with your peace, your peace that surpasses all understanding. Give him a sense of calm and remind him that you are in control and there is no need for him to worry or stress. Help him to walk through life with a clean and perfect heart. Let him be so set apart and different that the brightness of his light shines onto all those around him. Especially help him at work to have a good attitude and a serving heart. I know it is difficult for him as a probational fire fighter, but Lord I pray that all those around him would see that he serves with a willing heart and a great attitude. Give him the strength he needs to do that. Fill him with Your love, Lord. Help him to be kind and patient. Help him to be selfless and not easily angered or provoked. Release him, daily, from any anger, anxiety, worry, selfishness, or desire to be in control. Give him a spirit of joy and help him to take captive any thoughts that are leading to bad attitudes. Help him to truly give thanks for all things in all circumstances. I pray that he would truly learn to be content in whatever state he is in. Bless him and keep him, Lord and let Your face shine upon him. Be gracious to him and give him peace. I pray that he would be anxious for nothing and that he would go to You in prayer with a thankful heart making his requests known to you. Give him a heart and spirit that are grateful and peaceful. Help him to enter into your gates with thanksgiving, and your courts with praise. Give him the desire to continually bless Your name, Jesus. amen.

Chapter 19-His Past

And oh what a past he has...

I know all of our husbands enough to know that this is an important area to pray about. We have our own pasts too, and we must remember that the way God deals with our past isn't necessarily the way He is going to deal with our husbands. For me, God healed me of all my long time hurts in a moment. He gave me a new heart and from that moment on I knew that I was forgiven. There have been very few moments I have dwelt on the things of my past. But for me, all my past sin and hurt had been revealed to me prior to my healing. That is not always the case. I have an unconfirmed feeling that God will reveal some areas of hurt from the past to my husband that he has yet to see or deal with.

Lord I pray for my husbands past. First Lord I ask that you would help him to see his past as something to learn from and teach from. I pray that he would not live in the past or assume that everyone will make the same mistakes he did. Renew his mind and help him to recognize any bad habits that need to be changed. Help him see the negative things that have happened as you see them now. Help him to feel completely forgiven and healed. I pray that he would be able to clearly discern Your voice from all others. Let him not get caught up in the past, but let him be continually looking forward. Help him to always remember that he is a new creation in Christ and that the old things of his past are not an issue anymore. Especially guide him in areas where there may still be consequences for past sin. Help him to see Your purpose in all things. I pray that he would truly believe that you work all things together for his good, even accounting for his past sin and hurt. Help him to continually put off the old man and put on the new man daily. Thank you Lord for making my husband the man he is today. Thank you for using his past for good, even where it seems the darkest. Help me to put his past behind him also. Help me to remember to be merciful and forgiving in regards to his past. Use me to show him that he is a new man, a godly man, seeking after righteousness and purity.

Chapter 18- His Fatherhood

I liked this chapter. There were so many things that I could relate to as far as wanting to pray for Amos.

Lord, please help Amos to be the kind of father to our children that you are to us. Help him to require obedience, but be quick to give grace to a repentant heart. Help him to always set the example of how a husband and father should behave to our children. Now, even with Elijah so young, I pray that he would be aware of his parenting choices. Help him (and myself too) to instill godly discipline into our family. Help us to know how to discipline in a way that is pleasing to you. Please help Amos to always take the time to spend with his children. May his relationships with them always be priority over other things he feels "need to get done." I pray that he would get all is fatherly wisdom from you. If there are issues he has with his dad, I pray that you would bring them to the surface and heal him of any hurt or anger. Restore him, so that he can be the kind of father you desire him to be. Help him to fully understand Your heart for us as your children so that he can better understand how to be a father himself. I pray that he would never provoke our children to wrath, but that he would bring them up in the instruction and admonishment of You. Help him to always realize what an important role he plays in our family and especially to our children. Thank you Lord that his desire is to be a great a father. Let his focus be on drawing nearer to you, knowing that his relationship with you will directly affect the way he treats our children. Thank you Father for a man who desires to please you and be a good father and husband. Please keep gratitude for what I have on the forefront of my mind.

Chapter 17- His Relationships

The proverbs tell us that bad company corrupts good character. Who we spend the most time with influences us. It is just a simple truth, whether we like to admit it or not. Amos has told me about 3 Christian men at his new job. He is already so encouraged just to have other believers around him. This week as I have been praying for my husbands relationships he has asked a friend of ours to join him for accountability. I know he has wanted to do that for such a long time and has just not made it a priority. I believe it is not only important to encourage him to spend time with godly men, but to also encourage him in his relationships where he is an example to them also.

It is often difficult as a wife to encourage my husband to go out and be with his friends. My desire is for him to be with us as a family when he is home. I guess that is why I enjoy having couples that we both like that we can spend time with.

Lord, please help me to always encourage my husband in maintaining good relationships with his friends and family. Please surround him with godly men, who love to speak the truth. Thank you for the good men that Amos already has in his life, and I pray Lord that you would cultivate those relationships. Help me to do what I can to help him, without nagging of course. Show me if there is anything that I am doing that is hindering my husband from seeking the council of godly men. I pray that we would not forsake the assembling with other believers. I pray that we would make relationships a priority in our lives. Help us to have honest relationships where we speak the truth of God and not sustain relationships that are superficial and not beneficial. Please guide my husband in his choices for friends. Give him wisdom and discernment on who to seek council from. Thank you for the edifying relationships that we already have. Please help us to remember that as iron sharpens iron so do we sharpen each other.

Chapter 16- His Priorities

It has been interesting to see how what we are praying for during the week infiltrates our lives. For a couple reasons, I have not really felt like much of a priority to my husband. It is not like I have a husband who completely ignores me or treats me poorly, but I just didn't feel like he was listening to me or giving me any of his undivided attention. Call me girly or pregnant or whatever but that is the way I was feeling.

As I read this weeks chapter, I felt that familiar wash of conviction come over me. What have I been doing to make Amos feel like he is a priority to me? What have I been doing to keep God as a priority, besides the easy, make it to church and Bible study? And after thinking about it I realized that in the four days Amos was home I really more put the burden of Elijah and the house on him instead of trying to make his days a time of rest and relaxation for him. There are no days off when you are a mom, and when you chose to stay at home and raise your children, there is an idea that says the children and the home are our jobs and hence our responsibility. I feel a great obligation and desire to make my home a safe, comfortable place for my husband and my children. I believe that it is my responsibility to shape the heart of my home. This week I lost sight of that whether it was because I was tired or overwhelmed or just resented the fact that there is never a real day off for moms. The point is that in my selfishness I was not making my husband a priority. I wasn't doing the things that I know he likes to have done. As a result I felt my husband make me less a priority, though I know it wasn't willingly or intentional.

Lord, I pray that both my husband and myself would always put You and Your will for our lives first. I pray that I would set the example of what Your priorities are to be in our lives to my husband and children. Let our desire be to always seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness knowing that all other things will fall into place. Help us to look to the interests of others before our own interests. Let us be selfless in all things. Above all else let us have godly priorities and not get caught up in what the world says our priorities should be. Thank you Lord for conviction. Thank you for showing me when I'm at fault, picking me up when I stumble and growing me through all things. Please give my husband a heart that is molded to Your priorities.

His Reputation 2

Today is my husband's day to cook lunch and dinner for the crew. They all pitch in $10 and Amos makes lunch and dinner. He seemed so nervous. Anyway, I just thought it was funny that I was praying for him today and decided to pray that "his reputation" wouldn't be ruined by his cooking. I don't know why but I think I'm so funny.

Chapter 15- His reputation

A few days ago I sat at the badge pinning ceremony for Amos at his new job. As I looked around at all the people I knew that these were the men and women who would be associated with our family through Amos's work for the next several years. My desire for my husband to be a man of good reputation amongst them was intense. As a Christian you have a greater responsibility to represent yourself well. After all we are ambassadors for Christ. (2 Cor 5:20)

Lord I pray that my husband would be 'know in the gates, as he sits among the elders of the land'. I pray that his reputation would always precede him and that others would see Christ through his behavior. Guard him from any attacks on his reputation. Let people see him as a man of God, who loves you and serves you and does not compromise his values. Let people see him of the man of integrity that he is. I pray that you would guard him from people that want to make him look him bad. Let him make good choices so that those around him can recognize him as a man of good reputation. Let him always remember that he is representing you Lord in this world, and help him to remember the standard that holds him to. Let him not be concerned with what others think of him, but be concerned with what You think of him, knowing that if he is pleasing You there is nothing anyone can justifiably bring against him.

Chapter 14- His Integrity

This is another issue that is very close to my heart. I used to find the "chameleon" trait attractive. People who could adapt to all situations were most appealing to me. It took me years to see the compromise and lack of integrity in this kind of behavior. I thank God daily that my husband has chosen to be a man of integrity and though he still doesn't have all the answers he will always stand by what he knows to be truth. I know that it is difficult for him at times to be the only one standing up in a room full of people sitting down not paying attention, but I respect him so much for his desire to please God before men.

Lord, please keep my husband a man of integrity. Let him never compromise Your standards to please people. I know Lord that he has a desire to please others, but I pray that his desire to please You would always supersede. Let him realize the precious gift that integrity is and let him pursue it with his whole heart on a daily basis. Let his integrity guide him. Let him be grounded in the truths of Your word, so that he does not stumble. Let his integrity breed righteousness in his heart, attitudes and actions. Please Father, guard him from the enemy when Amos is standing for You. Protect him against attacks of his thoughts when he is walking in the light of Your standards. Let Your word be on the forefront of his mind so that he can let his yes be yes and his no be no. Help him to stand firm and not compromise out of laziness or because something is easy. Let integrity and uprightness preserve him Lord. Let his integrity be an example of Your love, grace and mercy to those around him. Thank you again Father for a husband of integrity to share my life with. Thank you that you kept us set aside for each other despite ourselves. I am grateful to You for him. Let me always remember what a blessing it is that the man you gave me to share my life is a man of integrity. Thank you Lord.

Chapter 13- His Trials

This one is near and dear to my heart. I am a firm believer that God molds our character through our trials, if we let Him. Amos has a tendency to be negative and see the worst in a situation, even though often times he doesn't see what he is saying as negative. I feel like we are supposed to be encouraged by our trials and seek to know what the Lord's desire for us to learn. After all "...the testing of our faith produces patience. And let patience have its perfect work that you may be perfect, complete, lacking nothing." (James 1:3-4)


Lord I do pray with my whole heart that Amos would be joyful in his trials knowing that You are working in him and through him. I pray that before trials even come you would change his attitude to one that desires a testing of his faith, patience and the desire to be perfect, complete and lacking nothing. I pray that you wouldn't spare him anything that will grow his character toward you, but that he would always have right thinking and attitudes during his trials. I pray these things for myself as well. When he is in a trial, make me sensitive to it. Help me to pray for him more, when times are difficult for him. Let me be very knowledgeable about what my husband is going through so that I may always be able to intercede on his behalf. Help him to love the refiners fire. Help him to remember in these times that you will always sustain him. Help him to be grounded in the security of his salvation. Let him always look to you for peace and understanding. Help him to remember that You will always revive him and bring him up from his downs. Let him always rest in the currents of your word, so that he may rise above the storm and focus on the love and sacrifice of our dear Lord.

Chapter 12 His Protection

It's funny to me how often we take our safety for granted. The fact that my husband is going to return safely to me from wherever he has been is something I just always assume. Just driving alone can feel like such a hazard sometimes. My husband isn't always the most patient driver either. And the kicker for me is that sometimes I picture doing physical harm to him myself. A good kick in the shin would probably serve him well, I often think in my anger. And then I have to seriously think Lord, please protect him. (even from me) haha...

I really liked ol Stormie's prayer for protection.

Lord, I do pray that you would protect my husband in all areas of his life both spiritual and physical. Please Lord, give him the wisdom to make safe choices. Help him to be on Your path with steadfast feet. Guide his steps and protect him from being blindsided by spiritual attacks. Let him always be prepared and ready. I pray that Amos would abide in the shadow of your wings, that he would always be under your covering. In times of trouble, I pray that he would look to you as his rock and stand firm. I pray that he would remember that you are always with him. Be his deliverer, his strength and his stronghold. Thank you for the protection, I know you have already provided for him. Please continue to protect him. Thank you Lord.

my apologies

Sorry ladies I'm behind on blogging and praying for that matter. According to the schedule (Check Post Dec. 2008) I'm way behind. So I am going to catch up this week.

Schedule was supposed to be...

Week 12 (Mar 18-24) His Protection
Week 13 (Mar 25-31) His Trials
Week 14 (April 1-7) His Integrity
Week 15 (April 8-14) His Reputation

Since this is written as a daily study I'm going to catch up by doing one a day and my prayer is that you will join me.

April 5- his protection
April 6- his trials
April 7- his integrity
April 8-14 his reputation

then we should be back on schedule.

thanks for your patience...lets have a great week of prayer.

Chapter 11- His Health

This is the second time I have sat down to try to type something for this week. I guess I feel like Amos is pretty healthy and fit. He does seem to want to be stronger and faster. He doesn't eat unhealthy, but he's not a nut about healthy food either. I do try to get him to run when he's home and we go on family bike rides and walks. Encouraging and supporting a healthy lifestyle is important too. Praying for my husband's health has never really seemed like a top priority for me. I guess I pray more for his safety, and just kind of throw the health part in as a side note. But I don't think I pray for either of these areas very much.

And now I feel like a bad wife because my husband is on his way home from training today with burns on his ears. Him and another guy had to go to the hospital today for the burns they received while training in the burn room today. I guess I categorize health and safety in the same area because of my husband's job. If he is not healthy and fit he could be putting himself and others in danger. Although that has nothing to do with today's injury, it was just a serious reminder to me to be praying for the health and safety of our husbands. So many of us have husbands in dangerous fields and I don't ever want to take for granted that my husband is in the Lord's hands.

Lord, thank you for the safety and health of my husband. I pray that taking care of himself would be a priority to him knowing what an important part he is to our family. Help me to remember to pray for him in this area. Please also help him to keep himself physically fit for his job. Give him the motivation and discipline it takes to be a good steward of his body. Help me to create an atmosphere that supports his health and overall well being.

Chapter 10- His choices

"If you husband is not a full time fool..." that cracked me up. Thankfully my husband is not a full time fool, nor do I think any of our husbands are. Making good choice is such a big deal to me because I have had the experience and consequence of so many poor ones. A wise woman told me that there will be times in my marriage where I will be right, but my husband will not listen to me. She encouraged me to remember, at those times, to trust in the Lord. He loves us each individually and is our great protector.

It is often times the choice that our husbands make that we submit to that drive us the most crazy. Sometimes we don't want to admit that we just wanted it our way, even if what they wanted wasn't really the end of the world. Sometimes we can't understand what they are thinking. But if we want our husbands to lead we have to trust them to make the choices, even when they are wrong, knowing that the Lord will show them their error if there is one. The truth stings a little, doesn't it?!

Lord, help me pray for the choices that my husband makes, for himself and for our family. Help me to trust that he has a relationship with You and know that You will reveal mistakes to him in your timing. Help me to not question my husbands choices or leadership, but to give my opinions out of love and encouragement. Help my husband to seek Your will for his life, especially in the details. Help the choices he's making be pleasing in your sight. I pray that he would never be wise in his own eyes. I pray that he would always love and embrace wisdom and instruction. I pray that he would love knowledge and seek Your counsel above all else. Help him to surround himself with wise people who can encourage him to make godly choices. I pray that he will be a wise man who hears and increases learning. May he become a man of understanding who always seeks wise counsel. Thank you Father for your desire for us to be wise. Let us seek after wisdom with our whole hearts.