JUST A BIT OF IMPORTANT PERSPECTIVE FROM MY BIBLE READING THIS MORNING…
“Do not enter the path of the wicked! Do not walk in the way of evil! Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn away from it and pass on! … BUT the path of the just is like the shining sun that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day! The way of the wicked is like darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble!” (From Proverbs 4:14-15 and 18-19 NKJV)
AN IMPORTANT MINISTRY LESSON LEARNED FROM JOHN THE BAPTIST: When success comes in ministry – the crowds increase, people respond, lives are transformed, and they say wonderful things about you,.. Direct the gaze away from yourself, and instead point people to “The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:35 – Jesus Christ) and declare it from the bottom of your heart – “HE MUST INCREASE, BUT I MUST DECREASE!” (John 3:30)
Proverbs 3:1-12
LIFE LESSONS FROM A LOVING HEAVENLY FATHER
Much of the book of Proverbs is presented as the instruction/exhortation of a parent to their child. This passage, part of my Bible reading today is like that – a personal favorite of mine! Imagine that scene – parent to child – as you read and reflect on this passage!
But is that all? Isn’t God, the “Heavenly Father – the Divine Parent – communicating to His children through “His word” in this passage? His concern is for the ultimate welfare and blessing of His children.
Look for this pattern as you move through the passage…
· The exhortation
· The assurance or promise
1. The exhortation/instruction (vs. 1):
Give high priority to Godly instruction. Remember it! Heed it!
The promise or assurance (vs. 2):
Doing so will lead to a long, fulfilling life! “Shalom!”
2. The exhortation/instruction (vs. 3:
Make “steadfast love” (“hesed”) and faithfulness the adorning and enduring characteristics of your life!
The promise or assurance (vs. 4):
If you do, you’ll enjoy the favor, benefits and blessing of both God and others!
3. The exhortation/instruction (vss. 5-6:
Trust God completely – be sure to acknowledge Him in everything – Don’t try to figure everything out on your own!
The promise or assurance (vs. 6b):
If you do this, He’ll help you, smooth out your path, and work out all the details!
4. The exhortation/instruction (vs. 7):
Don’t be a “know it all!” Reverence the Lord, turn away from what is evil, and live the way He wants you to live!
The promise or assurance (vs. 8):
This is the healthy way to live and you’ll discover fresh vitality in your life!
5. The exhortation/instruction (vs. 9:
Honor God with your money and possessions – don’t try to get rich and prosperous on your own – without God’s direction and help!
The promise or assurance (vs. 10):
If you will do this the Lord promises to bless and prosper you.
6. The exhortation/instruction (vs. 11:
Be willing to accept and respond positively to your Heavenly Father’s discipline – Don’t resent it! Remember He loves you!
The promise or assurance (vs. 12):
The Heavenly Father’s discipline is evidence of His love! His desire is to delight in your life! (Hebrews 12:5b-17)
Wow! What a way to live! What incredible loving guidance from a Heavenly Father!
Coffee With The Lord 