Wise Guy

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If you are not able to attend your local church service today (traveling, health condition, etc), I invite you to a podcast of the church I attend. This morning, we continue the sermon series called “Wisdom for Life”. At this link: Pastor’s Podcast, you can watch/listen to each message. Today’s message will start around 10:00 AM Central Time Zone. It can also be reviewed at any time and used for Bible study and small group discussion. Below is the outline of the message for today titled “Wise Guy”. 

1. WISDOM MEASURES THE COST.
 
 “A hot tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel.” – Proverbs 15:18
 
 “A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly.” – Proverbs 14:29
 
 “A quick-tempered man does foolish things, and a crafty man is hated.” –  Proverbs 14:17
 
 ‘He who brings trouble on his family will inherit only wind, and the fool will be servant of the wise.” – Proverbs 11:29
 
2. WISDOM REFLECTS BEFORE REACTING.
 
 “A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control.” – Proverbs 29:11
 
 “A man’s wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.” – Proverbs 19:11
 
3. WISDOM RESPONDS “WISELY”.
 
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
 
“A man finds joy in giving an apt reply – and how good is a timely
word!” – Proverbs 15:23
 
4.  WISDOM LETS GOD TRANSFORM YOU.
 
 “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God
 transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know God’s will for you .…” – Romans 12:2ab (NLT)
 
5. WISDOM SEEKS ACCOUNTABILITY.
 
 “Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn his ways and get yourself
 ensnared.” – Proverbs 22:24-25 

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The Path to Truth

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Contemplating upon Ecclesiastes 7, we can learn from difficult experiences or tough times and help others to possibly avoid what we had to go through. The path of adversity can lead to the path of truth for others. Life has perplexing problems and we are born into an imperfect world that can lead many down the wrong path. There is corruption, poverty, sadness, hate, and foolishness. 

We can learn lessons from the Bible by taking the principles and making them practical. Thoughts of excellence can be hammered and honed on the anvil of everyday living. Then instead of predicting the future, we are creating it as we prepare the mind and heart for the path to freedom. The riddle of life can’t be solved by reason alone. Going to God in prayer is needed and belief that nothing is too big for God to handle or too small for Him to be interested in is a good thought. 

This day with God, let us pray for the ability to take in these lessons from His Word and from life. There may be times of prosperity or adversity and in each circumstance, wisdom can be gained. In times of prosperity, let us enjoy God’s favor, be thankful, and generous. In times of adversity, let us embrace the lesson learned as council for future security from troubles and dangers.

 

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Desire to be Used by God

In yesterday’s post, the thought is that people are naturally acquisitive and the earth is productive yet there is a sense that something is missing. What’s missing is true joy and forever fulfillment. 

Life is like running a race. This day with God, let us go the distance by going His way because when we lose ourselves in His purpose for our life, we gain energy along the way and we see possibilities we didn’t see before. Our desire should be to hear these words, “well done my faithful servant”. 

I found this video that emphasizes what we should want in life: My Desire – Jeremy Camp.
 

 
Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. – Psalm 37:4

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What’s Missing

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From reflection upon Ecclesiastes 6, the thought is that people are acquisitive and the earth is productive yet there is a sense that something is missing. What seems to be missing is fulfilling a greater purpose; having a desire to be used by God and working hard toward that end in a prudent way.

The satisfaction of the soul does not depend on the riches of the world but in the things to come through believing in Jesus Christ who offers abundant joy and forever fulfillment. 

This Day with God, let us desire sharing knowledge about His way to abundant joy and forever fulfillment instead of wanting more of our own way. Lord, show us your plan in our life and help us to desire being used by you. Amen.

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Listening For Instructions on What Work To Get Done

God speaks through the Bible, through what we read, and the people we meet. He also speaks during our time of prayer. A successful prayer life takes preparation and time set aside for daily renewal; a time to be with God listening for instructions on what work to get done. Prepare for this time like this video explains: Stop the World – Matthew West. 



“I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do.”  – John 17:4

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