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Conquering Jealousy

Published by InTouch Ministries for reading on July 10th.

Psalms 37:1-4 Chapter 37 1 Fret not thyself because of evil-doers, Neither be thou envious against them that work unrighteousness. 2 For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, And wither as the green herb. 3 Trust in Jehovah, and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on `his' faithfulness. 4 Delight thyself also in Jehovah; And he will give thee the desires of thy heart.

Envy can damage the life of a Christian. A feeling of displeasure about someone else’s good fortune can also harm a believer’s witness, since it often causes people to act out of hostility and bitterness. And the jealous person suffers far more than his or her target.

Before we can rid ourselves of envious feelings, we must be willing to confess we have them in our heart. Like greed, jealousy is an emotion we don’t like to admit we feel, but the Lord already knows. We also must realize that harboring envy is the same as objecting to God’s blessing upon someone else’s life. Regardless of how we try to rationalize such feelings, we are in conflict with the Lord—a person cannot be simultaneously jealous and right with Him.

The surest way to strip away resentment is through prayer. After we’ve confessed to the Lord that we have jealous feelings, we must begin to pray for the other person. Our petition should contain two elements: first, an offering of thanksgiving for the blessings in his or her life, and second, a request that God will place love for the individual in our heart. Initially, praying in this way will no doubt be difficult, but as love grows—and it will—you’ll find the words come more easily and joyfully.

Envy is inappropriate for followers of Christ since it distracts us from the Lord. We have the promise that if we delight in our heavenly Father, He will give us the desires of our heart. So we need to refocus our attention upon Him and what He is doing in our own life.

Bible in One Year: Proverbs 13-15 Chapter 13 1 A wise son `heareth' his father's instruction; But a scoffer heareth not rebuke. 2 A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth; But the soul of the treacherous `shall eat' violence. 3 He that guardeth his mouth keepeth his life; `But' he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction. 4 The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing; But the soul of the diligent shall be made fat. 5 A righteous man hateth lying; But a wicked man is loathsome, and cometh to shame. 6 Righteousness guardeth him that is upright in the way; But wickedness overthroweth the sinner. 7 There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: There is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great wealth. 8 The ransom of a man's life is his riches; But the poor heareth no threatening. 9 The light of the righteous rejoiceth; But the lamp of the wicked shall be put out. 10 By pride cometh only contention; But with the well-advised is wisdom. 11 Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished; But he that gathereth by labor shall have increase. 12 Hope deferred maketh the heart sick; But when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life. 13 Whoso despiseth the word bringeth destruction on himself; But he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded. 14 The law of the wise is a fountain of life, That one may depart from the snares of death. 15 Good understanding giveth favor; But the way of the transgressor is hard. 16 Every prudent man worketh with knowledge; But a fool flaunteth `his' folly. 17 A wicked messenger falleth into evil; But a faithful ambassador is health. 18 Poverty and shame `shall be to' him that refuseth correction; But he that regardeth reproof shall be honored. 19 The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul; But it is an abomination to fools to depart from evil. 20 Walk with wise men, and thou shalt be wise; But the companion of fools shall smart for it. 21 Evil pursueth sinners; But the righteous shall be recompensed with good. 22 A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children; And the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the righteous. 23 Much food `is in' the tillage of the poor; But there is that is destroyed by reason of injustice. 24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son; But he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes. 25 The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soul; But the belly of the wicked shall want. Chapter 14 1 Every wise woman buildeth her house; But the foolish plucketh it down with her own hands. 2 He that walketh in his uprightness feareth Jehovah; But he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him. 3 In the mouth of the foolish is a rod for `his' pride; But the lips of the wise shall preserve them. 4 Where no oxen are, the crib is clean; But much increase is by the strength of the ox. 5 A faithful witness will not lie; But a false witness uttereth lies. 6 A scoffer seeketh wisdom, and `findeth it' not; But knowledge is easy unto him that hath understanding. 7 Go into the presence of a foolish man, And thou shalt not perceive `in him' the lips of knowledge. 8 The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way; But the folly of fools is deceit. 9 A trespass-offering mocketh fools; But among the upright there is good will. 10 The heart knoweth its own bitterness; And a stranger doth not intermeddle with its joy. 11 The house of the wicked shall be overthrown; But the tent of the upright shall flourish. 12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man; But the end thereof are the ways of death. 13 Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; And the end of mirth is heaviness. 14 The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways; And a good man `shall be satisfied' from himself. 15 The simple believeth every word; But the prudent man looketh well to his going. 16 A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil; But the fool beareth himself insolently, and is confident. 17 He that is soon angry will deal foolishly; And a man of wicked devices is hated. 18 The simple inherit folly; But the prudent are crowned with knowledge. 19 The evil bow down before the good; And the wicked, at the gates of the righteous. 20 The poor is hated even of his own neighbor; But the rich hath many friends. 21 He that despiseth his neighbor sinneth; But he that hath pity on the poor, happy is he. 22 Do they not err that devise evil? But mercy and truth `shall be to' them that devise good. 23 In all labor there is profit; But the talk of the lips `tendeth' only to penury. 24 The crown of the wise is their riches; `But' the folly of fools is `only' folly. 25 A true witness delivereth souls; But he that uttereth lies `causeth' deceit. 26 In the fear of Jehovah is strong confidence; And his children shall have a place of refuge. 27 The fear of Jehovah is a fountain of life, That one may depart from the snares of death. 28 In the multitude of people is the king's glory; But in the want of people is the destruction of the prince. 29 He that is slow to anger is of great understanding; But he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly. 30 A tranquil heart is the life of the flesh; But envy is the rottenness of the bones. 31 He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker; But he that hath mercy on the needy honoreth him. 32 The wicked is thrust down in his evil-doing; But the righteous hath a refuge in his death. 33 Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding; But `that which is' in the inward part of fools is made known. 34 Righteousness exalteth a nation; But sin is a reproach to any people. 35 The king's favor is toward a servant that dealeth wisely; But his wrath will be `against' him that causeth shame. Chapter 15 1 A soft answer turneth away wrath; But a grievous word stirreth up anger. 2 The tongue of the wise uttereth knowledge aright; But the mouth of fools poureth out folly. 3 The eyes of Jehovah are in every place, Keeping watch upon the evil and the good. 4 A gentle tongue is a tree of life; But perverseness therein is a breaking of the spirit. 5 A fool despiseth his father's correction; But he that regardeth reproof getteth prudence. 6 In the house of the righteous is much treasure; But in the revenues of the wicked is trouble. 7 The lips of the wise disperse knowledge; But the heart of the foolish `doeth' not so. 8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to Jehovah; But the prayer of the upright is his delight. 9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to Jehovah; But he loveth him that followeth after righteousness. 10 There is grievous correction for him that forsaketh the way; `And' he that hateth reproof shall die. 11 Sheol and Abaddon are before Jehovah: How much more then the hearts of the children of men! 12 A scoffer loveth not to be reproved; He will not go unto the wise. 13 A glad heart maketh a cheerful countenance; But by sorrow of heart the spirit is broken. 14 The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge; But the mouth of fools feedeth on folly. 15 All the days of the afflicted are evil; But he that is of a cheerful heart `hath' a continual feast. 16 Better is little, with the fear of Jehovah, Than great treasure and trouble therewith. 17 Better is a dinner of herbs, where love is, Than a stalled ox and hatred therewith. 18 A wrathful man stirreth up contention; But he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife. 19 The way of the sluggard is as a hedge of thorns; But the path of the upright is made a highway. 20 A wise son maketh a glad father; But a foolish man despiseth his mother. 21 Folly is joy to him that is void of wisdom; But a man of understanding maketh straight his going. 22 Where there is no counsel, purposes are disappointed; But in the multitude of counsellors they are established. 23 A man hath joy in the answer of his mouth; And a word in due season, how good is it! 24 To the wise the way of life `goeth' upward, That he may depart from Sheol beneath. 25 Jehovah will root up the house of the proud; But he will establish the border of the widow. 26 Evil devices are an abomination to Jehovah; But pleasant words `are' pure. 27 He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; But he that hateth bribes shall live. 28 The heart of the righteous studieth to answer; But the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things. 29 Jehovah is far from the wicked; But he heareth the prayer of the righteous. 30 The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart; `And' good tidings make the bones fat. 31 The ear that hearkeneth to the reproof of life Shall abide among the wise. 32 He that refuseth correction despiseth his own soul; But he that hearkeneth to reproof getteth understanding. 33 The fear of Jehovah is the instruction of wisdom; And before honor `goeth' humility.

When God Doesn’t Seem Just

Published by InTouch Ministries for reading on July 10th.

Deuteronomy 32:1-4 Chapter 32 1 Give ear, ye heavens, and I will speak; And let the earth hear the words of my mouth. 2 My doctrine shall drop as the rain; My speech shall distil as the dew, As the small rain upon the tender grass, And as the showers upon the herb. 3 For I will proclaim the name of Jehovah: Ascribe ye greatness unto our God. 4 The Rock, his work is perfect; For all his ways are justice: A God of faithfulness and without iniquity, Just and right is he.

Can you think of a situation in your life that felt like an exception to the promises of Scripture? In today’s passage, Moses declares that the Lord is faithful and all His ways are just, but we have all been in circumstances that seemed wrong and unfair. And because God did not intervene, we’ve struggled to reconcile our experience with Moses’ statement about Him.

The Scriptures are filled with examples of godly people who faced hardships that seemed totally unfair. For example, Joseph was sold as a slave, David was hunted by King Saul, and Paul suffered with a “thorn in the flesh” (2 Corinthians 12:7-10).

Situations like these can cause us to question whether God is good and just. If left to fester in our minds, these doubts may give way to discouragement. We can easily start thinking, What’s the use of serving the Lord? Look at what it’s gotten me—suffering!

It’s important to remember that what we know about God from His Word is more accurate than what we feel. Scripture tells us that God is good and just, so we can know with certainty that He has a fantastic purpose for us in whatever we experience.

The Lord allows each of us to face some trials that we won’t understand to our satisfaction this side of heaven. Our job is not to comprehend everything He does and permits in our lives, but to know how to respond. He’ll make all things right in eternity. In the meantime, trust the solid Rock when all else is shaky.

Bible in One Year: Proverbs 13-15 Chapter 13 1 A wise son `heareth' his father's instruction; But a scoffer heareth not rebuke. 2 A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth; But the soul of the treacherous `shall eat' violence. 3 He that guardeth his mouth keepeth his life; `But' he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction. 4 The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing; But the soul of the diligent shall be made fat. 5 A righteous man hateth lying; But a wicked man is loathsome, and cometh to shame. 6 Righteousness guardeth him that is upright in the way; But wickedness overthroweth the sinner. 7 There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: There is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great wealth. 8 The ransom of a man's life is his riches; But the poor heareth no threatening. 9 The light of the righteous rejoiceth; But the lamp of the wicked shall be put out. 10 By pride cometh only contention; But with the well-advised is wisdom. 11 Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished; But he that gathereth by labor shall have increase. 12 Hope deferred maketh the heart sick; But when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life. 13 Whoso despiseth the word bringeth destruction on himself; But he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded. 14 The law of the wise is a fountain of life, That one may depart from the snares of death. 15 Good understanding giveth favor; But the way of the transgressor is hard. 16 Every prudent man worketh with knowledge; But a fool flaunteth `his' folly. 17 A wicked messenger falleth into evil; But a faithful ambassador is health. 18 Poverty and shame `shall be to' him that refuseth correction; But he that regardeth reproof shall be honored. 19 The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul; But it is an abomination to fools to depart from evil. 20 Walk with wise men, and thou shalt be wise; But the companion of fools shall smart for it. 21 Evil pursueth sinners; But the righteous shall be recompensed with good. 22 A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children; And the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the righteous. 23 Much food `is in' the tillage of the poor; But there is that is destroyed by reason of injustice. 24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son; But he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes. 25 The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soul; But the belly of the wicked shall want. Chapter 14 1 Every wise woman buildeth her house; But the foolish plucketh it down with her own hands. 2 He that walketh in his uprightness feareth Jehovah; But he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him. 3 In the mouth of the foolish is a rod for `his' pride; But the lips of the wise shall preserve them. 4 Where no oxen are, the crib is clean; But much increase is by the strength of the ox. 5 A faithful witness will not lie; But a false witness uttereth lies. 6 A scoffer seeketh wisdom, and `findeth it' not; But knowledge is easy unto him that hath understanding. 7 Go into the presence of a foolish man, And thou shalt not perceive `in him' the lips of knowledge. 8 The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way; But the folly of fools is deceit. 9 A trespass-offering mocketh fools; But among the upright there is good will. 10 The heart knoweth its own bitterness; And a stranger doth not intermeddle with its joy. 11 The house of the wicked shall be overthrown; But the tent of the upright shall flourish. 12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man; But the end thereof are the ways of death. 13 Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; And the end of mirth is heaviness. 14 The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways; And a good man `shall be satisfied' from himself. 15 The simple believeth every word; But the prudent man looketh well to his going. 16 A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil; But the fool beareth himself insolently, and is confident. 17 He that is soon angry will deal foolishly; And a man of wicked devices is hated. 18 The simple inherit folly; But the prudent are crowned with knowledge. 19 The evil bow down before the good; And the wicked, at the gates of the righteous. 20 The poor is hated even of his own neighbor; But the rich hath many friends. 21 He that despiseth his neighbor sinneth; But he that hath pity on the poor, happy is he. 22 Do they not err that devise evil? But mercy and truth `shall be to' them that devise good. 23 In all labor there is profit; But the talk of the lips `tendeth' only to penury. 24 The crown of the wise is their riches; `But' the folly of fools is `only' folly. 25 A true witness delivereth souls; But he that uttereth lies `causeth' deceit. 26 In the fear of Jehovah is strong confidence; And his children shall have a place of refuge. 27 The fear of Jehovah is a fountain of life, That one may depart from the snares of death. 28 In the multitude of people is the king's glory; But in the want of people is the destruction of the prince. 29 He that is slow to anger is of great understanding; But he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly. 30 A tranquil heart is the life of the flesh; But envy is the rottenness of the bones. 31 He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker; But he that hath mercy on the needy honoreth him. 32 The wicked is thrust down in his evil-doing; But the righteous hath a refuge in his death. 33 Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding; But `that which is' in the inward part of fools is made known. 34 Righteousness exalteth a nation; But sin is a reproach to any people. 35 The king's favor is toward a servant that dealeth wisely; But his wrath will be `against' him that causeth shame. Chapter 15 1 A soft answer turneth away wrath; But a grievous word stirreth up anger. 2 The tongue of the wise uttereth knowledge aright; But the mouth of fools poureth out folly. 3 The eyes of Jehovah are in every place, Keeping watch upon the evil and the good. 4 A gentle tongue is a tree of life; But perverseness therein is a breaking of the spirit. 5 A fool despiseth his father's correction; But he that regardeth reproof getteth prudence. 6 In the house of the righteous is much treasure; But in the revenues of the wicked is trouble. 7 The lips of the wise disperse knowledge; But the heart of the foolish `doeth' not so. 8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to Jehovah; But the prayer of the upright is his delight. 9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to Jehovah; But he loveth him that followeth after righteousness. 10 There is grievous correction for him that forsaketh the way; `And' he that hateth reproof shall die. 11 Sheol and Abaddon are before Jehovah: How much more then the hearts of the children of men! 12 A scoffer loveth not to be reproved; He will not go unto the wise. 13 A glad heart maketh a cheerful countenance; But by sorrow of heart the spirit is broken. 14 The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge; But the mouth of fools feedeth on folly. 15 All the days of the afflicted are evil; But he that is of a cheerful heart `hath' a continual feast. 16 Better is little, with the fear of Jehovah, Than great treasure and trouble therewith. 17 Better is a dinner of herbs, where love is, Than a stalled ox and hatred therewith. 18 A wrathful man stirreth up contention; But he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife. 19 The way of the sluggard is as a hedge of thorns; But the path of the upright is made a highway. 20 A wise son maketh a glad father; But a foolish man despiseth his mother. 21 Folly is joy to him that is void of wisdom; But a man of understanding maketh straight his going. 22 Where there is no counsel, purposes are disappointed; But in the multitude of counsellors they are established. 23 A man hath joy in the answer of his mouth; And a word in due season, how good is it! 24 To the wise the way of life `goeth' upward, That he may depart from Sheol beneath. 25 Jehovah will root up the house of the proud; But he will establish the border of the widow. 26 Evil devices are an abomination to Jehovah; But pleasant words `are' pure. 27 He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; But he that hateth bribes shall live. 28 The heart of the righteous studieth to answer; But the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things. 29 Jehovah is far from the wicked; But he heareth the prayer of the righteous. 30 The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart; `And' good tidings make the bones fat. 31 The ear that hearkeneth to the reproof of life Shall abide among the wise. 32 He that refuseth correction despiseth his own soul; But he that hearkeneth to reproof getteth understanding. 33 The fear of Jehovah is the instruction of wisdom; And before honor `goeth' humility.

Answers in Times of Great Disaster

Published by InTouch Ministries for reading on July 11th.

Deuteronomy 29:29 29 The secret things belong unto Jehovah our God; but the things that are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.

Almighty God reserves the right to reveal some things and conceal others. Although we may not know why natural disasters occur, the biblical truths we do know with absolute certainty allow us to trust the Lord even in times of great suffering. Because of the Bible, we can be certain:

God is in control ( Psalms 103:19 19 Jehovah hath established his throne in the heavens; And his kingdom ruleth over all. ). Nothing in heaven or on earth is outside of His rule and authority. He does not react to events but sovereignly ordains or permits them to run their course. Although we cannot know for certain if He has sent a catastrophe or allowed it, we can trust in His goodness and wisdom.

The Lord loves people and wants them to be saved ( John 3:16-17 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life. 17 For God sent not the Son into the world to judge the world; but that the world should be saved through him. ). Giving His Son for the salvation of the world proves without a doubt that He loves each person. This truth stands firm despite the fact that many reject the Savior. He cares for us, even when we can’t feel it or won’t accept it.

God works circumstances for His good purpose (Isa. 46:10). Though we can’t fully comprehend what He’s doing in each incident, every disaster is a wake-up call for humanity. God is alerting us to the need for repentance—so the lost can be saved and the saved can be revived to live totally for Him. The Lord wants to get our attention, and catastrophes open our ears to hear from Him.

The One who loves us perfectly is in full control, working everything out according to His plan. Knowing this should fill us with hope, even in the midst of crisis situations. The Lord promises to turn disaster to good for those who “are called according to His purpose” (Rom. 8:28).

Bible in One Year: Proverbs 13-15 Chapter 13 1 A wise son `heareth' his father's instruction; But a scoffer heareth not rebuke. 2 A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth; But the soul of the treacherous `shall eat' violence. 3 He that guardeth his mouth keepeth his life; `But' he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction. 4 The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing; But the soul of the diligent shall be made fat. 5 A righteous man hateth lying; But a wicked man is loathsome, and cometh to shame. 6 Righteousness guardeth him that is upright in the way; But wickedness overthroweth the sinner. 7 There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: There is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great wealth. 8 The ransom of a man's life is his riches; But the poor heareth no threatening. 9 The light of the righteous rejoiceth; But the lamp of the wicked shall be put out. 10 By pride cometh only contention; But with the well-advised is wisdom. 11 Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished; But he that gathereth by labor shall have increase. 12 Hope deferred maketh the heart sick; But when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life. 13 Whoso despiseth the word bringeth destruction on himself; But he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded. 14 The law of the wise is a fountain of life, That one may depart from the snares of death. 15 Good understanding giveth favor; But the way of the transgressor is hard. 16 Every prudent man worketh with knowledge; But a fool flaunteth `his' folly. 17 A wicked messenger falleth into evil; But a faithful ambassador is health. 18 Poverty and shame `shall be to' him that refuseth correction; But he that regardeth reproof shall be honored. 19 The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul; But it is an abomination to fools to depart from evil. 20 Walk with wise men, and thou shalt be wise; But the companion of fools shall smart for it. 21 Evil pursueth sinners; But the righteous shall be recompensed with good. 22 A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children; And the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the righteous. 23 Much food `is in' the tillage of the poor; But there is that is destroyed by reason of injustice. 24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son; But he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes. 25 The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soul; But the belly of the wicked shall want. Chapter 14 1 Every wise woman buildeth her house; But the foolish plucketh it down with her own hands. 2 He that walketh in his uprightness feareth Jehovah; But he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him. 3 In the mouth of the foolish is a rod for `his' pride; But the lips of the wise shall preserve them. 4 Where no oxen are, the crib is clean; But much increase is by the strength of the ox. 5 A faithful witness will not lie; But a false witness uttereth lies. 6 A scoffer seeketh wisdom, and `findeth it' not; But knowledge is easy unto him that hath understanding. 7 Go into the presence of a foolish man, And thou shalt not perceive `in him' the lips of knowledge. 8 The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way; But the folly of fools is deceit. 9 A trespass-offering mocketh fools; But among the upright there is good will. 10 The heart knoweth its own bitterness; And a stranger doth not intermeddle with its joy. 11 The house of the wicked shall be overthrown; But the tent of the upright shall flourish. 12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man; But the end thereof are the ways of death. 13 Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; And the end of mirth is heaviness. 14 The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways; And a good man `shall be satisfied' from himself. 15 The simple believeth every word; But the prudent man looketh well to his going. 16 A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil; But the fool beareth himself insolently, and is confident. 17 He that is soon angry will deal foolishly; And a man of wicked devices is hated. 18 The simple inherit folly; But the prudent are crowned with knowledge. 19 The evil bow down before the good; And the wicked, at the gates of the righteous. 20 The poor is hated even of his own neighbor; But the rich hath many friends. 21 He that despiseth his neighbor sinneth; But he that hath pity on the poor, happy is he. 22 Do they not err that devise evil? But mercy and truth `shall be to' them that devise good. 23 In all labor there is profit; But the talk of the lips `tendeth' only to penury. 24 The crown of the wise is their riches; `But' the folly of fools is `only' folly. 25 A true witness delivereth souls; But he that uttereth lies `causeth' deceit. 26 In the fear of Jehovah is strong confidence; And his children shall have a place of refuge. 27 The fear of Jehovah is a fountain of life, That one may depart from the snares of death. 28 In the multitude of people is the king's glory; But in the want of people is the destruction of the prince. 29 He that is slow to anger is of great understanding; But he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly. 30 A tranquil heart is the life of the flesh; But envy is the rottenness of the bones. 31 He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker; But he that hath mercy on the needy honoreth him. 32 The wicked is thrust down in his evil-doing; But the righteous hath a refuge in his death. 33 Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding; But `that which is' in the inward part of fools is made known. 34 Righteousness exalteth a nation; But sin is a reproach to any people. 35 The king's favor is toward a servant that dealeth wisely; But his wrath will be `against' him that causeth shame. Chapter 15 1 A soft answer turneth away wrath; But a grievous word stirreth up anger. 2 The tongue of the wise uttereth knowledge aright; But the mouth of fools poureth out folly. 3 The eyes of Jehovah are in every place, Keeping watch upon the evil and the good. 4 A gentle tongue is a tree of life; But perverseness therein is a breaking of the spirit. 5 A fool despiseth his father's correction; But he that regardeth reproof getteth prudence. 6 In the house of the righteous is much treasure; But in the revenues of the wicked is trouble. 7 The lips of the wise disperse knowledge; But the heart of the foolish `doeth' not so. 8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to Jehovah; But the prayer of the upright is his delight. 9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to Jehovah; But he loveth him that followeth after righteousness. 10 There is grievous correction for him that forsaketh the way; `And' he that hateth reproof shall die. 11 Sheol and Abaddon are before Jehovah: How much more then the hearts of the children of men! 12 A scoffer loveth not to be reproved; He will not go unto the wise. 13 A glad heart maketh a cheerful countenance; But by sorrow of heart the spirit is broken. 14 The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge; But the mouth of fools feedeth on folly. 15 All the days of the afflicted are evil; But he that is of a cheerful heart `hath' a continual feast. 16 Better is little, with the fear of Jehovah, Than great treasure and trouble therewith. 17 Better is a dinner of herbs, where love is, Than a stalled ox and hatred therewith. 18 A wrathful man stirreth up contention; But he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife. 19 The way of the sluggard is as a hedge of thorns; But the path of the upright is made a highway. 20 A wise son maketh a glad father; But a foolish man despiseth his mother. 21 Folly is joy to him that is void of wisdom; But a man of understanding maketh straight his going. 22 Where there is no counsel, purposes are disappointed; But in the multitude of counsellors they are established. 23 A man hath joy in the answer of his mouth; And a word in due season, how good is it! 24 To the wise the way of life `goeth' upward, That he may depart from Sheol beneath. 25 Jehovah will root up the house of the proud; But he will establish the border of the widow. 26 Evil devices are an abomination to Jehovah; But pleasant words `are' pure. 27 He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; But he that hateth bribes shall live. 28 The heart of the righteous studieth to answer; But the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things. 29 Jehovah is far from the wicked; But he heareth the prayer of the righteous. 30 The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart; `And' good tidings make the bones fat. 31 The ear that hearkeneth to the reproof of life Shall abide among the wise. 32 He that refuseth correction despiseth his own soul; But he that hearkeneth to reproof getteth understanding. 33 The fear of Jehovah is the instruction of wisdom; And before honor `goeth' humility.

Security in Christ

Published by Grace To You for reading on July 11th.

"This is contained in Scripture: 'Behold I lay in Zion a choice stone, a precious corner stone, and he who believes in Him shall not be disappointed'" (1 Pet. 2:6).

Christ is the fulfillment of all Messianic promises, and in Him you are eternally secure.

First Peter 2:6 is a paraphrase of Isaiah 28:16 16 therefore thus saith the Lord Jehovah, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner -`stone' of sure foundation: he that believeth shall not be in haste. , which says, "Thus says the Lord God, 'Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a tested stone, a costly cornerstone for the foundation, firmly placed. He who believes in it will not be disturbed.'" Isaiah was speaking of the Messiah—the coming Christ of God. Peter, writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, applied Isaiah's prophecy to Jesus.

In Isaiah's prophecy, "Zion" refers to Jerusalem, which stands atop Mount Zion. Mount Zion is sometimes used figuratively in Scripture to refer to the New Covenant of grace, whereas Mount Sinai represents the Old Covenant of law. Isaiah was saying that God would establish the Messiah as the cornerstone of His New Covenant Temple, the church.

The analogy of believers as stones and Christ as the cornerstone would have great meaning for the Jewish people. When the Temple in Jerusalem was built, the stones used in its construction were selected, cut, and shaped in the stone quarry according to precise plans ( 1 Kings 6:7 7 And the house, when it was in building, was built of stone made ready at the quarry; and there was neither hammer nor axe nor any tool of iron heard in the house, while it was in building. ). Only then were they taken to the building site and set into place. The most important stone was the cornerstone, to which the various angles of the building had to conform.

God used a similar process to build His New Covenant Temple. Its stones (individual believers) are elect and shaped by the Holy Spirit to fit into God's master plan for the church. Jesus Himself is the precious cornerstone, specially chosen and prepared by the Father to be the standard to which all others conform. He is the fulfillment of all Messianic promises, and the One in whom you can trust without fear of disappointment. That means you are secure in Him!

Live today in the confidence that Christ cannot fail. He will always accomplish His purposes.

Suggestions for Prayer

Praise God for keeping His promises and for giving you security in Christ.

For Further Study

Read Galatians 4:21-31 21 Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law? 22 For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, one by the handmaid, and one by the freewoman. 23 Howbeit the `son' by the handmaid is born after the flesh; but the `son' by the freewoman `is born' through promise. 24 Which things contain an allegory: for these `women' are two covenants; one from mount Sinai, bearing children unto bondage, which is Hagar. 25 Now this Hagar is mount Sinai in Arabia and answereth to the Jerusalem that now is: for she is in bondage with her children. 26 But the Jerusalem that is above is free, which is our mother. 27 For it is written, Rejoice, thou barren that bearest not; Break forth and cry, thou that travailest not: For more are the children of the desolate than of her that hath the husband. 28 Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are children of promise. 29 But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him `that was born' after the Spirit, so also it is now. 30 Howbeit what saith the scripture? Cast out the handmaid and her son: for the son of the handmaid shall not inherit with the son of the freewoman. 31 Wherefore, brethren, we are not children of a handmaid, but of the freewoman. .

Who was the bondwoman and what did she represent?
To whom did Paul liken believers?

Additional Resources

Daily Bible - July 11

Published by Grace To You for reading on July 11th.

Reading for Today:

2 Chronicles 17:1 Chapter 17 1 And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead, and strengthened himself against Israel. –18:34
Psalms 81:11-16 11 But my people hearkened not to my voice; And Israel would none of me. 12 So I let them go after the stubbornness of their heart, That they might walk in their own counsels. 13 Oh that my people would hearken unto me, That Israel would walk in my ways! 14 I would soon subdue their enemies, And turn my hand against their adversaries. 15 The haters of Jehovah should submit themselves unto him: But their time should endure for ever. 16 He would feed them also with the finest of the wheat; And with honey out of the rock would I satisfy thee. Psalm 82 A Psalm of Asaph.
Proverbs 20:26-28 26 A wise king winnoweth the wicked, And bringeth the `threshing' -wheel over them. 27 The spirit of man is the lamp of Jehovah, Searching all his innermost parts. 28 Kindness and truth preserve the king; And his throne is upholden by kindness.
Acts 16:22-40 22 And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent their garments off them, and commanded to beat them with rods. 23 And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely: 24 who, having received such a charge, cast them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks. 25 But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns unto God, and the prisoners were listening to them; 26 and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison-house were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed. 27 And the jailor, being roused out of sleep and seeing the prison doors open, drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here. 29 And he called for lights and sprang in, and, trembling for fear, fell down before Paul and Silas, 30 and brought them out and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? 31 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus, and thou shalt be saved, thou and thy house. 32 And they spake the word of the Lord unto him, with all that were in his house. 33 And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, immediately. 34 And he brought them up into his house, and set food before them, and rejoiced greatly, with all his house, having believed in God. 35 But when it was day, the magistrates sent the sergeants, saying, Let those men go. 36 And the jailor reported the words to Paul, `saying', The magistrates have sent to let you go: now therefore come forth, and go in peace. 37 But Paul said unto them, They have beaten us publicly, uncondemned, men that are Romans, and have cast us into prison; and do they now cast us out privily? Nay verily; but let them come themselves and bring us out. 38 And the sergeants reported these words unto the magistrates: and they feared when they heard that they were Romans; 39 and they came and besought them; and when they had brought them out, they asked them to go away from the city. 40 And they went out of the prison, and entered into `the house' of Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.

Notes:

2 Chronicles 17:3 3 And Jehovah was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the first ways of his father David, and sought not unto the Baalim, –9 Jehoshaphat made three strategic moves, spiritually speaking: 1) he obeyed the Lord (17:3–6); 2) he removed false worship from the land (17:6); and 3) he sent out teachers who taught the people the Law of the Lord (17:7–9).

2 Chronicles 17:1 Chapter 17 1 And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead, and strengthened himself against Israel. 2, 13 These verses indicate the massive wealth that developed under divine blessing (18:1), as well as formidable military power (vv. 14–19).

Psalms 81:16 16 He would feed them also with the finest of the wheat; And with honey out of the rock would I satisfy thee. Psalm 82 A Psalm of Asaph. honey from the rock. This phrase was first used by Moses in his song of praise (Deut. 32:13). Though honey is sometimes found in the clefts of rocks, the intent of the figure here is more likely to valuable food provided from unlikely places.

Proverbs 20:27 27 The spirit of man is the lamp of Jehovah, Searching all his innermost parts. the lamp of the LORD. The “spirit” represents the conscience of man which searches every secret place.

Acts 16:24 24 who, having received such a charge, cast them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks. inner prison…in the stocks. The most secure part of the prison. The jailer took further precautions by putting their feet “in the stocks.” This particular security measure was designed to produce painful cramping so the prisoner’s legs were spread as far apart as possible.

Acts 16:27 27 And the jailor, being roused out of sleep and seeing the prison doors open, drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. prison doors open…about to kill himself. Instead of waiting to face humiliation and a painful execution. A Roman soldier, who let a prisoner escape, paid for his negligence with his life (12:19; 27:42).

Acts 16:31 31 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus, and thou shalt be saved, thou and thy house. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. One must believe He is who He claimed to be ( John 20:31 31 but these are written, that ye may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye may have life in his name. ) and believe in what He did (1 Cor. 15:3, 4; Rom. 1:16). you and your household. All of his family, servants, and guests who could comprehend the gospel and believe heard the gospel and believed.

DAY 11: How did Roman law affect Paul and the preaching of the gospel?

The city of Philippi, which was located 10 miles inland from Neapolis, was named for Philip II of Macedon (the father of Alexander the Great). It was a Roman colony ( Acts 16:2 2 The same was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium. ). Philippi became a Roman colony in 31 B.C., so it carried the right of freedom (it was self-governing and independent of the provincial government), the right of exemption from tax, and the right of holding land in full ownership.

In Acts 16:2 2 The same was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium. 1, Paul and those with him are accused before the city magistrates as troublemakers who “teach customs…not lawful for us…Romans.” It was technically true that Roman citizens were not to engage in any foreign religion that had not been sanctioned by the state. But it was a false charge that they were creating chaos. Every Roman colony had two magistrates serving as judges. In this case, they did not uphold Roman justice: They did not investigate the charges, conduct a proper hearing, or give Paul and Silas the chance to defend themselves. Instead, the magistrates had them beaten with rods. This was an illegal punishment since they had not been convicted of any crime. The officers (v. 35) under the command of the magistrates administered the beating with rods tied together in a bundle. Paul received the same punishment on two other occasions (2 Cor. 11:25).

Later, when Paul told them they were “Romans” (v. 37), it was a real problem. To inflict corporal punishment on a Roman citizen was a serious crime and made more so since Paul and Barnabas did not receive a trial. As a result, the magistrates faced the possibility of being removed from office and having Philippi’s privileges as a Roman colony revoked.

Additional Resources

July 11 - Differences in Withstanding the Storm

Published by Grace To You for reading on July 11th.

“‘The rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock. . . . The rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against the house; and it fell—and great was its fall’” ( Matthew 7:25 25 and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and if fell not: for it was founded upon the rock. , 27).

Everyone’s religion, whether true or false, will be tried one day. That test will determine with great finality who are the wheat and who are the tares—in other words, the unredeemed will be revealed from the redeemed. When the storm of final test comes, those whose houses are on the bedrock of Jesus Christ and His Word will be spared “from the wrath to come” (1 Thess. 1:10). However, those whose houses are on the sand will not be spared, but, like the goats in Jesus’ prophecy of the end times, “will go away into eternal punishment” (Matt. 25:46; cf. Ex. 12:23; Rev. 20:12, 15).

The house of the wise man—the life and ministry of the genuine believer—is spared because he has built carefully and faithfully, with a sense of substance and divine importance. After obediently doing all that God commands, he humbly realizes he was only doing his duty ( Luke 17:10 10 Even so ye also, when ye shall have done all the things that are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants; we have done that which it was our duty to do. ).

The house of the foolish man—the life and ministry of the pseudo-believer—suffers a devastating judgment from the storm and is destined for eternal punishment. Because of this inevitability, everyone who claims to be a Christian must carefully heed James’s words: “Prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves” ( James 1:22 22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deluding your own selves. ).

The greatest difference between “wise” and “foolish” resides in what promise from God they can claim. To the wise He says, in the words of the hymn, “Though all hell should endeavor to shake, I’ll never, no, never, no, never forsake!”

Ask Yourself

Those who are foolish in planning and preparation are often foolish as well in their assessment of the damage. Why do some whose lives are falling apart not seem to notice? How can you help one you know?

Additional Resources

A Sensitivity to Sin

Published by Grace To You for reading on July 11th.

“If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as He Himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us” ( 1 John 1:6-10 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him and walk in the darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 7 but if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanseth us from all sin. 8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. ).

True believers are sensitive to their sin and confess it.

Throughout Scripture, light is used as a metaphor for truth—both intellectual and moral truth (cf. Ps. 119:105, 130; Prov. 6:23). When the apostle John writes, “God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all” ( 1 John 1:5 5 And this is the message which we have heard from him and announce unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. ), he is stating that the Lord is absolutely sinless since light and darkness cannot coexist.

Some claim to have fellowship with God (v. 6), to have no sin (v. 8), and even to have never sinned (v. 10). But they are living in darkness; it is characteristic of unbelievers to be oblivious to the sins in their lives. But that is not true of genuine believers. They have a right sense of sin: they “walk in the light as He Himself is in the light” (v. 7), and they “confess [their] sins” (v. 9). True believers know that if they want to commune with God, they need to confess their sins and turn to Christ as their “Advocate” before God (2:1).

The apostle Paul was very sensitive to the sinful realities of his life (Rom. 7:14-25). What about you? Are you aware of the spiritual battle raging within you? Do you realize you must live a holy life to have fellowship with God? Are you willing to confess and forsake any sin in your life? Do you realize you can choose not to sin? Are you weary of doing battle with the sin in your life (cf. Rom. 7:24)? If these things are true of you, rejoice in the assurance of your salvation.

Suggestions for Prayer

Confess any known sin to God right now, then forsake it.

For Further Study

Read Romans 7:14-25 14 For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. 15 For that which I do I know not: for not what I would, that do I practise; but what I hate, that I do. 16 But if what I would not, that I do, I consent unto the law that it is good. 17 So now it is no more I that do it, but sin which dwelleth in me. 18 For I know that in me, that is, in my flesh, dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me, but to do that which is good `is' not. 19 For the good which I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I practise. 20 But if what I would not, that I do, it is no more I that do it, but sin which dwelleth in me. 21 I find then the law, that, to me who would do good, evil is present. 22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: 23 but I see a different law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity under the law of sin which is in my members. 24 Wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me out of the body of this death? 25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then I of myself with the mind, indeed, serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin. .

Make a list of all the ways Paul was sensitive to his sin.
How many of those can you relate to?
How should you respond?

Additional Resources

We Experience the Spirit Through Faith

Published by John Piper for reading on July 11th.

If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. ( Galatians 5:25 25 If we live by the Spirit, by the Spirit let us also walk. )

The Spirit came to you the first time when you believed in the blood-bought promises of God. And the Spirit keeps on coming, and keeps on working, by this same means.

So Paul asks, rhetorically, “Does he who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you do so by works of the law, or by hearing with faith?” ( Galatians 3:5 5 He therefore that supplieth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, `doeth he it' by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? ). Answer: “By hearing with faith.”

Therefore, the Spirit came the first time, and the Spirit keeps on being supplied, through the channel of faith. What he accomplishes in us is through faith.

If you are like me, you may have strong longings from time to time for the mighty working of the Holy Spirit in your life. Perhaps you cry out to God for the outpouring of the Spirit in your life or in your family or church or city. Such cries are right and good. Jesus said, “How much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” ( Luke 11:13 13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall `your' heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? ).

But what I have found most often in my own life is the failure to open myself to the full measure of the Spirit’s work by believing the promises of God. I don’t mean merely the promise that the Spirit will come when we ask. I mean all the other precious promises that are not directly about the Spirit but, perhaps, about God’s provision for my future — for example, “My God will supply every need of yours” ( Philippians 4:19 19 And my God shall supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. ).

This is what is missing in the experience of so many Christians as they seek the power of the Spirit in their lives. The Spirit is supplied to us “by hearing with faith” ( Galatians 3:5 5 He therefore that supplieth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, `doeth he it' by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? ) — not just faith in one or two promises about the Spirit himself, but about all the soul-satisfying presence of God in our future.

Morning Devotional by C.H. Spurgeon for July 11th

Published by C.H. Spurgeon for reading on July 11th.

1 Peter 5:10 10 And the God of all grace, who called you unto his eternal glory in Christ, after that ye have suffered a little while, shall himself perfect, establish, strengthen you.

YOU have seen the arch of heaven as it spans the plain: glorious are its colours, and rare its hues. It is beautiful, but, alas, it passes away, and lo, it is not. The fair colours give way to the fleecy clouds, and the sky is no longer brilliant with the tints of heaven. It is not established. How can it be? A glorious show made up of transitory sun-beams and passing rain-drops, how can it abide? The graces of the Christian character must not resemble the rainbow in its transitory beauty, but, on the contrary, must be stablished, settled, abiding. Seek, O believer, that every good thing you have may be an abiding thing. May your character not be a writing upon the sand, but an inscription upon the rock! May your faith be no "baseless fabric of a vision," but may it be builded of material able to endure that awful fire which shall consume the wood, hay, and stubble of the hypocrite. May you be rooted and grounded in love. May your convictions be deep, your love real, your desires earnest. May your whole life be so settled and established, that all the blasts of hell, and all the storms of earth shall never be able to remove you. But notice how this blessing of being "stablished in the faith" is gained. The apostle's words point us to suffering as the means employed—"After that ye have suffered awhile." It is of no use to hope that we shall be well rooted if no rough winds pass over us. Those old gnarlings on the root of the oak tree, and those strange twistings of the branches, all tell of the many storms that have swept over it, and they are also indicators of the depth into which the roots have forced their way. So the Christian is made strong, and firmly rooted by all the trials and storms of life. Shrink not then from the tempestuous winds of trial, but take comfort, believing that by their rough discipline God is fulfilling this benediction to you.

Evening Devotional by C.H. Spurgeon for July 11th

Published by C.H. Spurgeon for reading on July 11th.

Joel 1:3 3 Tell ye your children of it, and `let' your children `tell' their children, and their children another generation.

IN this simple way, by God's grace, a living testimony for truth is always to be kept alive in the land—the beloved of the Lord are to hand down their witness for the gospel, and the covenant to their heirs, and these again to their next descendants. This is our first duty, we are to begin at the family hearth: he is a bad preacher who does not commence his ministry at home. The heathen are to be sought by all means, and the highways and hedges are to be searched, but home has a prior claim, and woe unto those who reverse the order of the Lord's arrangements. To teach our children is a personal duty; we cannot delegate it to Sunday School Teachers, or other friendly aids, these can assist us, but cannot deliver us from the sacred obligation; proxies and sponsors are wicked devices in this case: mothers and fathers must, like Abraham, command their households in the fear of God, and talk with their offspring concerning the wondrous works of the Most High. Parental teaching is a natural duty—who so fit to look to the child's well-being as those who are the authors of his actual being? To neglect the instruction of our offspring is worse than brutish. Family religion is necessary for the nation, for the family itself, and for the church of God. By a thousand plots Popery is covertly advancing in our land, and one of the most effectual means for resisting its inroads is left almost neglected, namely, the instruction of children in the faith. Would that parents would awaken to a sense of the importance of this matter. It is a pleasant duty to talk of Jesus to our sons and daughters, and the more so because it has often proved to be an accepted work, for God has saved the children through the parents' prayers and admonitions. May every house into which this volume shall come honour the Lord and receive His smile.