It might not always have the same landmarks, but if we’re to be truthful with ourselves, we recognize sin’s path.

There are some paths of sin we know so well because our feet have touched its pavement plenty of times. By God’s grace and strength, we overcome the sin.

I’ve seen many who, after overcoming, seem to be bursting with pride. “I’m passed that, now.” And they begin to wander into the proximity of sin’s path to show their strength.

Oops.

Why even come close? Prov 4:14-15 give us sound instruction:

Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.

If, on your journey, you intersect sin’s path, just say Pthu to Sin, and walk the other way.

Avoid the Noid altogether.

Photo on Flickr by imkelsi

How did you sleep?

I know many who crave a peaceful night’s sleep. For some, it seems as soon as their head hits the pillow – their mind really starts racing. Worry? Fear? Stress?

The promise in Prov 3:24 is a comfort:

When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.

There is no reason to fret or fear. The warm blanket of Prov 3:24-26 envelopes us securely. Be not afraid! For the Lord shall be thy confidence!

If you mind begins to wander on the way to sleep, let your thoughts wander to Phil 4:8 and think on those things.

How did you sleep?

My hope is you will be able to say, “I laid down and slept, and then I woke up; the Lord sustained me.” ~ Psa 3:5

The Fear of the Lord.

For many, this topic is so clear and yet, so confusing. Some will say it is fear as in reverence. Others will say fear is fear.

The Bible I read says there can be an understanding of “the fear of the Lord.” In Prov 2:5

Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.

This might cause a journey through the Bible, studying the word of God. Such study  would be a proper thing according to the immediate preceding verse of Prov 2:4, searching for her (wisdom) as you would seek hidden treasures.

In Prov 15:33, we find

The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.

What is the fear of the Lord? It is the instruction of wisdom. AND before honor is humility. If we are to receive the honorable instruction, from the Word of God – The Bible, we first must humble ourselves in our approach and attitude, right?

In Prov 9:10 we see

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.

Wisdom. Understanding. How about that? Prov 3:13 would describe such a person to be happy to find those things:

Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.

Here’s to Fear of the Lord; seeking treasures in God’s word; finding wisdom and understanding; and happiness.

Probably in that order.

A Proverbs a day, keeps evil at bay.

Some think it’s cool to be cool. To be part of The In Crowd. It’s a seductive invitation to be popular for popularity’s sake. Maybe you’ve heard the alluring call at some point.

• “Ah, c’mon. It’ll be alright. Everyone’s doing it.”
• “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Don’t pass it by!”
• “Listen, friend – I wouldn’t lead you astray. What, are you chicken or something?”

There have been several times in my life that such words led me down the wrong road. More than once, I knew in my gut that following would be a bad choice.

The Bible I read tells us, in Prov 1:15 (context Prov 1:10-19 )

My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path:

If an enticing call is delivered and causes a pause – trust the pause. Don’t go check things out to see if it’s a good idea. Why get close to the edge? If your gut says doubt, it’s probably dirt. Keep off that path; Stay the course.