Proverbs 2:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
Proverb 4:23 Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
Proverb 12:20 There is deceit in the hearts of those who plot evil, but joy for those who promote peace.
Proverb 12:25 An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.
Proverb 16:9 In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.
Proverbs 22:17-18 Pay attention and listen to the sayings of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach, for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have all of them ready on your lips.
Proverbs 23:17-18 Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord. There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.
Do you sometimes feel empty inside because life doesn't go the way you planned? Perhaps you don't know what to plan or what your purpose is? Proverbs tells us to rely on God to set steps into action to accomplish his purposes for our lives. Our hearts must completely trust in him. We gain this trust by reading his Word and keeping it in our hearts to remind ourselves and others about his promises. The Holy Spirit gives us the wisdom to realize and rejoice in the blessings he has given us. This keeps our hearts from being anxious. We learn to discern those who plot evil so we can avoid, rebuke, or win them for Christ. We must guard our hearts from evil and its outcomes. Those who have the heart knowledge, not just factual knowledge, have a divine view of what is right and have the peace that goes with this understanding of God's ways. With this knowledge comes the responsibility to spread and defend God's Word. We will not envy others their success because we have received the greatest treasure which is God's Son as a sacrifice for our sins. We will always have hope because of this gift, and we will never be shaken from this confidence.
Friday, November 15, 2013
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Pride
Proverb 11:2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.
Proverb 13:10 Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.
Proverb 29:23 A man's pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit gains honor.
Pride is a problem with which I struggle. I don't like to be wrong especially when I have studied and prepared for something. I am sure that I am not the only one like this. We need to learn to listen to other's suggestions and take them into consideration. Often we can learn so much from others when we really stop and listen rather than waiting impatiently for them to pause so we can insert our opinions again. Over confidence is a kind of pride if we are not open to other ideas. Pride can cause us to engage in unnecessary quarrels with someone who disagrees with our plans. Friendships can be hurt because when we quarrel with a friend, they can feel undervalued. To honor others and show that we respect what they think, we need to give them a chance to be correct and creative. We gain wisdom when we follow God's design for us. He wants us to obey His commands and love our neighbors as we love ourselves. Proverbs of the Bible teach us basic decent values. Our friends can teach us things, and much more importantly, God's Word will teach us all we need to know about actions and relationships. The most important relationship we can have is with God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Women who are overly concerned about their appearances demonstrate pride. We want to look not only our best but better than others in the room. We change our hair, makeup, and clothes because we never seem to be satisfied with ourselves. I probably have twelve tubes of face cream left in my bathroom cabinet because they never seemed to work well enough for me. The cabinets are packed with old hair sprays, mousse, eye shadow etc. I think that it is fine to want to look our best, but we just need to allow our Christian character to be the beauty that stands out the most for us. People will remember the good things that we did or said rather than what we wore or how we looked at some party.
Why is humility so important to God? That is the greatest character trait of Jesus Christ. He was placed in a lowly manger at His birth. The King of Kings began life in the most humble of circumstances. He would become like the beasts of burden that surrounded Him. He took on the burdens and sorrows of that day, and He still carries us today when we are in pain. He humbled Himself and did what His Father asked of Him. Before the crucifixion, He could have squashed the Roman soldiers who hurt Him and made fun of Him, but He didn't. He died for us so our sins would be covered with His blood and so we could be with Him through eternity. While on the cross He even asked God to forgive all those who took part in crucifying Him. Jesus' way is the opposite of pride; therefore, we know without a doubt that we need to change our ways if we want to emulate Him.
Proverb 13:10 Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.
Proverb 29:23 A man's pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit gains honor.
Pride is a problem with which I struggle. I don't like to be wrong especially when I have studied and prepared for something. I am sure that I am not the only one like this. We need to learn to listen to other's suggestions and take them into consideration. Often we can learn so much from others when we really stop and listen rather than waiting impatiently for them to pause so we can insert our opinions again. Over confidence is a kind of pride if we are not open to other ideas. Pride can cause us to engage in unnecessary quarrels with someone who disagrees with our plans. Friendships can be hurt because when we quarrel with a friend, they can feel undervalued. To honor others and show that we respect what they think, we need to give them a chance to be correct and creative. We gain wisdom when we follow God's design for us. He wants us to obey His commands and love our neighbors as we love ourselves. Proverbs of the Bible teach us basic decent values. Our friends can teach us things, and much more importantly, God's Word will teach us all we need to know about actions and relationships. The most important relationship we can have is with God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Women who are overly concerned about their appearances demonstrate pride. We want to look not only our best but better than others in the room. We change our hair, makeup, and clothes because we never seem to be satisfied with ourselves. I probably have twelve tubes of face cream left in my bathroom cabinet because they never seemed to work well enough for me. The cabinets are packed with old hair sprays, mousse, eye shadow etc. I think that it is fine to want to look our best, but we just need to allow our Christian character to be the beauty that stands out the most for us. People will remember the good things that we did or said rather than what we wore or how we looked at some party.
Why is humility so important to God? That is the greatest character trait of Jesus Christ. He was placed in a lowly manger at His birth. The King of Kings began life in the most humble of circumstances. He would become like the beasts of burden that surrounded Him. He took on the burdens and sorrows of that day, and He still carries us today when we are in pain. He humbled Himself and did what His Father asked of Him. Before the crucifixion, He could have squashed the Roman soldiers who hurt Him and made fun of Him, but He didn't. He died for us so our sins would be covered with His blood and so we could be with Him through eternity. While on the cross He even asked God to forgive all those who took part in crucifying Him. Jesus' way is the opposite of pride; therefore, we know without a doubt that we need to change our ways if we want to emulate Him.
Monday, October 14, 2013
Discipline
Proverb 29:1. A man who remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed-without remedy.
Philippians 2: 14-15. Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life...
As in previous generations, our generation has depravity. We are to shine like stars reflecting the glory of Christ. We are to labor for Him in showing the unbelievers the hope that Christ brings.
Our behavior should emulate that of Christ. We are to do everything without complaining or arguing.
God rebukes us when we get off track. At times, he burdens us with a conviction that we are living a lie. When we are disobedient to God, he disciplines us because he loves us. When we are off track, God makes it uncomfortable and disturbing so that our confusion causes problems in our lives with regard to our marriages, our work, our friendships, our self-esteem, and especially our relationships with God. As proverbs says, we must not remain stiff-necked when God allows this discipline. We must learn to recognize that God is leading us to realize our lack of faith and disobedience. This will enable us to make a change so that we may remain blameless and shine for Christ!
This kind of discipline should come from us as parents. We must rebuke our children when they behave in such a manner that is displeasing to God. We must train them to not argue with us. Explain that out of love for them and their futures, we discipline them for their bad behavior. Discipline must be presented in a manner that best restrains the child. He/she must not be allowed to bully us parents with their continued complaining and taking charge. They need to learn self-control and respect for authority. It is our job as parents to continue the long term fight to be the person in charge who guides our children with loving but firm hands.
See my book, "Proverbs: Wisdom for Daily Living" for more of God's guidance about discipline and other subjects. Buy it from Amazon or Barnes and Noble as a digital book for $4.99.
Kay Thompson Brown
.
Philippians 2: 14-15. Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life...
As in previous generations, our generation has depravity. We are to shine like stars reflecting the glory of Christ. We are to labor for Him in showing the unbelievers the hope that Christ brings.
Our behavior should emulate that of Christ. We are to do everything without complaining or arguing.
God rebukes us when we get off track. At times, he burdens us with a conviction that we are living a lie. When we are disobedient to God, he disciplines us because he loves us. When we are off track, God makes it uncomfortable and disturbing so that our confusion causes problems in our lives with regard to our marriages, our work, our friendships, our self-esteem, and especially our relationships with God. As proverbs says, we must not remain stiff-necked when God allows this discipline. We must learn to recognize that God is leading us to realize our lack of faith and disobedience. This will enable us to make a change so that we may remain blameless and shine for Christ!
This kind of discipline should come from us as parents. We must rebuke our children when they behave in such a manner that is displeasing to God. We must train them to not argue with us. Explain that out of love for them and their futures, we discipline them for their bad behavior. Discipline must be presented in a manner that best restrains the child. He/she must not be allowed to bully us parents with their continued complaining and taking charge. They need to learn self-control and respect for authority. It is our job as parents to continue the long term fight to be the person in charge who guides our children with loving but firm hands.
See my book, "Proverbs: Wisdom for Daily Living" for more of God's guidance about discipline and other subjects. Buy it from Amazon or Barnes and Noble as a digital book for $4.99.
Kay Thompson Brown
.
Monday, September 16, 2013
God's Control
Proverb16:9 In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.
In Psalm 33:8-11, David says, "Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the people of the world revere him. For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm. The Lord foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples. But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations."
I have to remind myself that God is in control even when things don't seem to be going well. It seems like lately everyone in my family is sick or in pain, and I feel helpless. Then I remind myself that God wants " good for those who are called according to his purpose." One of my grandchildren has been sick and vomiting off and on for 8 days. Sometimes he seems fine, and then he gets sick again. After 2 doctor's visits and a trip to the emergency room for IV fluids, they sent him home. They did not know for certain the problem. I kept the 3 month all who was used to breast feeding and had to feed him a bottle. Now that was a battle royal. After the little thing tired out from being mad, he took the bottle like a pro. The little stinker! My mother-in-law cracked her back and has been in the hospital in a different town. She has been there for 2 weeks. It has been very frustrating because it is taking so long for a plan. We are grateful that her brace is allowing her to get out of bed and walk some. My mother who is in a nursing home is always in pain due to just being 91 and having a deterioration of her bones. She never complains, and she has a positive attitude. I pray for the miracle of complete healing for all of them. Before I ask God again about why my family and others have to suffer, I need to read Job. Job 40:1-2 the Lord said to Job: "Will the one who contends with the Almighty correct him? Let him who accuses God answer him!". Job 40:8-9 "would you discredit my justice? Would you condemn me to justify yourself? Do you have an arm like God's, and can your voice thunder like his? Job 40:15 "look at the behemoth, which I made along with you and which feeds on grass like an ox."
God created us and all other things. He has power over everything. We should not condemn him for his allowing misfortune. He has a whole other agenda that makes our problems look measly. His agenda is to save us all for an eternity, a length of time that will make our time on earth a mere moment. He cares for our problems and wants to listen to our hurts. If we ask and not condemn, he will give us the mercy of his peace!
Kay Brown
In Psalm 33:8-11, David says, "Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the people of the world revere him. For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm. The Lord foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples. But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations."
I have to remind myself that God is in control even when things don't seem to be going well. It seems like lately everyone in my family is sick or in pain, and I feel helpless. Then I remind myself that God wants " good for those who are called according to his purpose." One of my grandchildren has been sick and vomiting off and on for 8 days. Sometimes he seems fine, and then he gets sick again. After 2 doctor's visits and a trip to the emergency room for IV fluids, they sent him home. They did not know for certain the problem. I kept the 3 month all who was used to breast feeding and had to feed him a bottle. Now that was a battle royal. After the little thing tired out from being mad, he took the bottle like a pro. The little stinker! My mother-in-law cracked her back and has been in the hospital in a different town. She has been there for 2 weeks. It has been very frustrating because it is taking so long for a plan. We are grateful that her brace is allowing her to get out of bed and walk some. My mother who is in a nursing home is always in pain due to just being 91 and having a deterioration of her bones. She never complains, and she has a positive attitude. I pray for the miracle of complete healing for all of them. Before I ask God again about why my family and others have to suffer, I need to read Job. Job 40:1-2 the Lord said to Job: "Will the one who contends with the Almighty correct him? Let him who accuses God answer him!". Job 40:8-9 "would you discredit my justice? Would you condemn me to justify yourself? Do you have an arm like God's, and can your voice thunder like his? Job 40:15 "look at the behemoth, which I made along with you and which feeds on grass like an ox."
God created us and all other things. He has power over everything. We should not condemn him for his allowing misfortune. He has a whole other agenda that makes our problems look measly. His agenda is to save us all for an eternity, a length of time that will make our time on earth a mere moment. He cares for our problems and wants to listen to our hurts. If we ask and not condemn, he will give us the mercy of his peace!
Kay Brown
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Health
I have not written in awhile because we have sickness in our family. My 83 year old mother-in-law fell and fractured her back in 3 places. She has been incapacitated for more than 3 weeks and is hoping to improve with the help of a brace. I just realized how quickly our life situations can change. She was perfectly fine except for being almost blind. She had gotten used to making adjustments for the vision problem. Her attitude about that was good, but this back problem has really complicated her life.
Proverb: 15:30 A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.
We need to be cheerful and encouraging to those who are experiencing difficulties like health problems. We need to pray for good news and healing. If healing is not in God's will, we need to be staunch supporters and prayer warriors for that sick one to have a peace about his/her circumstances. We need to all remember that God is in control and only wants the best for us. Christ has already defeated death so we will forever live.
Proverb: 15:30 A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.
We need to be cheerful and encouraging to those who are experiencing difficulties like health problems. We need to pray for good news and healing. If healing is not in God's will, we need to be staunch supporters and prayer warriors for that sick one to have a peace about his/her circumstances. We need to all remember that God is in control and only wants the best for us. Christ has already defeated death so we will forever live.
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
The Proverbs 31 Woman
Proverbs 31:27-28 She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat of the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
I have been staying with my daughter and her husband for several weeks to help with the two grandchildren. Because my daughter's first son Bryce has special needs, I am needed to help drive him to therapy or to participate when his therapy takes place at home. The newborn son takes up a great deal of my daughter's time nursing. As I help with the grandchildren, I realize how important the wife, mother, and grandmothers are to the household and family affairs. A woman who loves the Lord will follow the Biblical advice of watching over the household. She is never idle but is rather always juggling her many responsibilities. In the case of mothering young children, there are endless numbers of chores and things to do involving caregiving. A godly woman will do these tasks cheerfully and lovingly. My daughter shows an amazing depth of Christian love for her children. She tirelessly helps with Bryce's therapy four times a week, and she does it joyfully. These therapies include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and eating therapy. She works on strengthening his weak leg by having him stand, walk, and practice on the stairs. His left hand is weak, and she repeatedly works with him to hold the sippy cup and pick up things. She encourages speaking because he is delayed. She buys toys with therapy as well as fun in mind. She must work on feeding therapy because the left side of his tongue is weak. She watches closely for seizures everyday. He has been to the emergency room many times for seizures. She gives two kinds of medicine three times daily. She takes him to a pediatrician, a neurologist, an opthamologist, and an orthopedic specialistic for foot braces. Her day totally revolves around his needs and now the new baby's needs. Her children will arise and call her blessed as they get older. Her husband praises her now.
I have been staying with my daughter and her husband for several weeks to help with the two grandchildren. Because my daughter's first son Bryce has special needs, I am needed to help drive him to therapy or to participate when his therapy takes place at home. The newborn son takes up a great deal of my daughter's time nursing. As I help with the grandchildren, I realize how important the wife, mother, and grandmothers are to the household and family affairs. A woman who loves the Lord will follow the Biblical advice of watching over the household. She is never idle but is rather always juggling her many responsibilities. In the case of mothering young children, there are endless numbers of chores and things to do involving caregiving. A godly woman will do these tasks cheerfully and lovingly. My daughter shows an amazing depth of Christian love for her children. She tirelessly helps with Bryce's therapy four times a week, and she does it joyfully. These therapies include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and eating therapy. She works on strengthening his weak leg by having him stand, walk, and practice on the stairs. His left hand is weak, and she repeatedly works with him to hold the sippy cup and pick up things. She encourages speaking because he is delayed. She buys toys with therapy as well as fun in mind. She must work on feeding therapy because the left side of his tongue is weak. She watches closely for seizures everyday. He has been to the emergency room many times for seizures. She gives two kinds of medicine three times daily. She takes him to a pediatrician, a neurologist, an opthamologist, and an orthopedic specialistic for foot braces. Her day totally revolves around his needs and now the new baby's needs. Her children will arise and call her blessed as they get older. Her husband praises her now.
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Family
I have been busy with helping my family so I have not written in a while. My father passed away recently, and my mother is left alone at the nursing home. She is 90 , and my father was 93. They have had wonderful lives, and have blessed me in so many ways for my whole life. It makes me think about how Proverbs emphasizes family and love with discipline. They taught us to respect authority and to be honorable. At the funeral, I saw so many people pay their respects to my father.
It was a circle of love for relatives, friendships, and professional respect. He was a veterinarian for over 40 years. Everyone knew him because he was the only vet in 5 counties in the early days.
Now the circle of love and life is beginning again as God has always planned. My daughter just had my 3rd grandchild , and he really lifted me up from my sadness! Now I am helping her with the two grandsons, and what a pleasure it is! I am trying to carry on the legacy of love and belief in responsibility that my parents have given me. God is great, and he fills my every need each day. We laugh at my favorite refrain when I am too tired to think and ask for help. I simply say, " Dear God, Dear God." I feel so much better then because I know that he will figure out what my whole self needs!
Kay
It was a circle of love for relatives, friendships, and professional respect. He was a veterinarian for over 40 years. Everyone knew him because he was the only vet in 5 counties in the early days.
Now the circle of love and life is beginning again as God has always planned. My daughter just had my 3rd grandchild , and he really lifted me up from my sadness! Now I am helping her with the two grandsons, and what a pleasure it is! I am trying to carry on the legacy of love and belief in responsibility that my parents have given me. God is great, and he fills my every need each day. We laugh at my favorite refrain when I am too tired to think and ask for help. I simply say, " Dear God, Dear God." I feel so much better then because I know that he will figure out what my whole self needs!
Kay
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