Home » Posts tagged 'baptist'
Tag Archives: baptist
Serving Christ For His Glory… What Does “His Glory” Mean?
INTRODUCTION:
From the pulpit, from the classroom, and from the mouths of most Christians, we hear the instruction to “serve the Lord for His glory”… unfortunately, this phrase can be very confusing for each one of us due to the variety of teachings about the Lord’s glory found in the Bible.
Many times, when the Bible describes God’s glory (as in Exo 24:17), it is speaking of a bright manifestation of the very presence of God. This meaning of the phrase reveals to us that God’s glory “appears” (Exo 16:10), “can be seen” (Num 14:22) and is “revealed” (Isa 40:5) to us. When we tell others to “serve the Lord for His glory” are we telling them to serve our Lord in the hopes of seeing His presence revealed as a bright, overwhelming light? I think we all understand this is not the case.
In at least three different occasions (Job 40:10, Psa 93:1 and 104:1-2), God’s symbolic clothing is described as his glory. If we use this Biblical definition then we are to serve Him to receive a vision of the symbolic clothing that He is said to wear. Of course this is not the meaning of “for His glory” that is to motivate us to service for Christ.
The Bible also describes His glory as being revealed in a thunderstorm (Psa 29:3). Does this mean we serve Him so that we will see lightning and hear thunder roll? We can all agree, this is not the case.
The list goes on and on. When God’s glory is described it can be revealed to man in many, many different ways.
So what is “God’s glory” and how is it shown to mankind when we serve Him and bear his fruits in our life? In other words, what is the Scriptural motivation for our service to Christ? These questions are what we will be seeking to answer in this Bible study.
TODAY’S TEXT:
Matt 5:16 – “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
1Co 10:31 – “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”
TODAY’S LESSON:
To come to an understanding of our motive for service (as we serve Christ “for His glory”, we need to understand the definition of the term “glory”. The word glory is translated from several different words in the Bible. In the Old Testament, it is translated from these Hebrew words and their forms:
- kabowd – weight, splendor, honor
- paar – to gleam or boast
- hadar – ornament, splendor
- halal – to shine, flash forth, boast
- shabach – laud, praise, command
- tipharah – beauty, boasting
- howd – splendor, majesty, vigor
- addereth – mantle, garment, robe
- tohar – brightness
- yeqar – wealth
In the New Testament, it is translated from these Greek words and their forms:
- doxa – dignity, honor, praise, worship
- kauchema – to cause to boast
- kleos – praise, respect
As we can see, in both the Old and New Testaments, the most basic, shared meaning behind all the words translated “glory” involves a revelation of the Lord’s excellence. Whether it be speaking of the bright light like fire that appeared over Mt Sinai, the Lord’s clothing being symbolized as a bright light or His voice thunders and “is full of glory”, we can see that the Lord’s greatness is being described.
Excellence, or the Supremacy over all others, is the central theme we can see in all the above words translated “glory” in the Word of God. To put it very simply, the phrase “the glory of the Lord” is describing a revelation of the Lord’s greatness.
When we are told to “serve the Lord for his glory” we are being told to serve the Lord motivated by the desire to reveal His Greatness to others. This should be the motive and goal in all of our ministries and in everything we do…
1Co 10:31 – “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”
We should never seek to exalt ourselves or others around us, our one purpose of ministry is to allow the greatness of Christ to be displayed in us. This is symbolically like Christ’s glorious light that shines forth from us revealing our Savior to the world around us….
Matt 5:16 – “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
As you can see from the above passage the way that Christ’s light shines forth from us is through the fruits of the Spirit which we possess within us. When we bear these fruits the end results are good works which exalt Christ.
This is the true meaning behind the phrase “we are to serve the Lord for His glory”.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION:
Let’s close our study this morning by asking a few very simple questions….
Why do we serve the Lord and live our daily lives for Him?
Is the end result of our ministry His glory, our glory, or a combination of both?
May we all seek to have Jesus glorified in everything we do!
Homepage… http://www.settledinheaven.org
Text Blog… http://www.settledinheaven.wordpress.com
Video Blog… http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven
Email… settledinheaven@gmail.com
Christ Is The Bread Of Life…
And Jesus said unto them…Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.
I am that bread of life.Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead.This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die.I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever:
and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. (John 6:32,47-51)
For The SIH Devotional On This Subject:
True Love Covers The Shame Of Others
1) Jesus went unto the mount of Olives.
2) And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them.
3) And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst,
4) They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act.
5) Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou?
6) This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with [his] finger wrote on the ground, [as though he heard][ them not].
7) So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.
8) And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.
9) And they which heard [it], being convicted by [their own] conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, [even] unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.
10) When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?
11) She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.
(John 8:1-11)
For The SIH devotional on this subject:
Video Series On Suffering From Thomas Road Baptist Church
“When It Hurts Too Much To Cry”
Pastor Jonathan Fallwell, Pastor of Thomas Road Baptist Church, has been presenting a series on suffering entitled “When It Hurts Too Much To Cry”, based upon a book written by his father, Dr. Jerry Fallwell.
This series has been a wonderful personal blessing to me and I wanted to share it with you.
Click on the links to access written, video, and audio formats for this series…
How God Works In Our Sufferings
What’s The Answer
God Meant It For Good
Hope When You Are Hurting
To download a free copy of the book “When It Hurts Too Much To Cry”:
If We Love The Lord We Will Follow Him…
The way of the wicked [is] an abomination unto the LORD: but he loveth him that followeth after righteousness. Correction [is] grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: [and] he that hateth reproof shall die. Hell and destruction [are] before the LORD: how much more then the hearts of the children of men? A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise. (Proverbs 15:9-12)
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
SIH’s Think On These Things: Proverbs 15:9-12
He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous (Prov 2:7)
The Anatomy Of The Wise: The Heart (Part 1): Proverbs 15:9-12
9) The way of the wicked [is] an abomination unto the LORD: but he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.
10) Correction [is] grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: [and] he that hateth reproof shall die.
11) Hell and destruction [are] before the LORD: how much more then the hearts of the children of men?
12) A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise.
EXPOSITION:
In the text for this morning, we find Solomon begins looking at the “heart”, picturing the desires, love and sacrifices that are clearly displayed by those who possess Godly wisdom…
9) The way of the wicked [is] an abomination unto the LORD: but he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.
1. The life path that characterizes those who are the breakers of the laws of God are disgusting and abhorred by the Lord.
2. He that loves the Lord will be motivated to follow the path of obedience and lawfulness.
The heart of a wise man is characterized by a love for obedience to the Lord.
“The LORD openeth [the eyes of] the blind: the LORD raiseth them that are bowed down: the LORD loveth the righteous: The LORD preserveth the strangers; he relieveth the fatherless and widow: but the way of the wicked he turneth upside down.” (Psalms 146:8-9)
10) Correction [is] grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: [and] he that hateth reproof shall die.
1. A person who had departed from the paths of God will find chastisement will stir up and disgust and displeasure.
2. A person that rejects corrective instruction will find his actions results in death. In many cases he will be harming himself physically and condemning himself to the eternal judgment of God.
A fool will lack love and appreciation for the efforts of the Lord to bring him to the path of obedience. This resistance to the works of the Lord can result in premature physical death and eternal spiritual death.
“And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” (John 3:19-20)
11) Hell and destruction [are] before the LORD: how much more then the hearts of the children of men?
1. The afterlife and eternal judgment are done with the knowledge and in the presence of God Himself.
2. If God is present and knowledgeable of future unseen events, how much does He know the condition of the hearts of mankind?
The wise man understands that the Lord knows his heart and, therefore, knows the proper correction that is needed in our lives. The wise man values and loves that correction, knowing it is for his good and that it is originating from the heart of a loving God.
“Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou [art] there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou [art there].” (Psalms 139:7-8)
“Shall not God search this out? for he knoweth the secrets of the heart.” (Psalms 44:21)
12) A scorner loveth not one that reproveth him: neither will he go unto the wise.
1. The foolish person who mocks and discredits correction will not appreciate, nor love, the one trying to correct him.
2. The foolish person will not seek out wise counsel even when it is available to him.
Foolishness is shown by those who reject Godly correction and refuse to seek out wise counsel.
“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;” (2 Timothy 4:3)
SUMMARY:
Wisdom, or foolishness, is clearly on display in the desires of man’s heart. For those who love the things of God, His truths, His correction and the counsel of His people, that man is wise indeed. For those who reject the things of God will clearly display his ignorance and foolishness that resides in his heart.
By God’s grace, let us all study these proverbs diligently, giving them the value that they deserve.
May the Lord bless us as we receive this sound wisdom and then “Think On These Things”.
SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org
SIH Text Blog: https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/
SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/
SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com
Instructions and Warnings Do We Love Them or Hate Them, Forget Them or Share Them?
5) A fool despiseth his father’s instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.
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 the LORD: but the prayer of the upright [is] his delight. (Proverbs 15:5-8)
For the SIH Devotional On This Subject:
SIH’s Think On These Things: Proverbs 15:5-8
He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous (Prov 2:7)
The Anatomy Of The Wise: The Tongue (Part 2): Proverbs 15:5-8
5) A fool despiseth his father’s instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.
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 the LORD: but the prayer of the upright [is] his delight.
EXPOSITION:
In the text for this morning, we find Solomon continues to use the tongue to illustrate some of the principles that are exhibited in Godly communications. In this case, it is how we choose to receive the words that others speak to us…
5) A fool despiseth his father’s instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.
1. Those that lack wisdom hate and brush off instructions given to him by those who love him and have his best interests at heart.
2. A person can show he understands the true benefit of warnings by listening carefully and considering them
The acceptance of counsel and warnings given from those who love us shows the level of wisdom that we possess.
“And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever. Take heed now; for the LORD hath chosen thee to build an house for the sanctuary: be strong, and do [it].” (1 Chronicles 28:9-10)
6) In the house of the righteous [is] much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.
1. Those who live in alignment with God’s desires will abide with the riches of His blessings (material and spiritual blessings).
2. Those that depart from His commands will only be reaping trouble and heartache now and in the world to come.
The desires of the Lord, spoken to us in His Word, will bring blessings to those who are wise enough to follow them.
“Praise ye the LORD. Blessed [is] the man [that] feareth the LORD, [that] delighteth greatly in his commandments. His seed shall be mighty upon earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed. Wealth and riches [shall be] in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever.” (Psalms 112:1-3)
“Go to now, [ye] rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon [you]. Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten. Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days.”
(James 5:1-3)
7) The lips of the wise disperse knowledge: but the heart of the foolish [doeth] not so.
1. The wise will seek to hand down the knowledge of God’s words to others. They will recognize God not only meant to help us but also to help those with whom we come into contact.
2. The foolish do not desire to accept, nor share with others, the Lord’s Words of instruction.
Another mark of Godly wisdom is seen in the desire to share God’s Words, motivated out of hearts of love and concern for others.
“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” (Ephesians 4:29)
“O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.” (Matthew 12:34)
8) The sacrifice of the wicked [is] an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright [is] his delight.
1. The hypocritical acts of worship, stemming from a heart of selfishness, are rejected and hated by the Lord.
2. The communication of those who are made right with God (through the blood of Christ) are acceptable and pleasing to God.
The Lord finds pleasure in the sincere communion of His people. The selfish, hypocritical, ritualistic acts of worship are rejected by the Lord.
“A Prayer of David. Hear the right, O LORD, attend unto my cry, give ear unto my prayer, [that goeth] not out of feigned lips.” (Psalms 17:1)
“I hate, I despise your feast days, and I will not smell in your solemn assemblies. Though ye offer me burnt offerings and your meat offerings, I will not accept [them]: neither will I regard the peace offerings of your fat beasts.” (Amos 5:21-22)
SUMMARY:
In the this study on speech, we have seen basic principles concerning our speech and the need to properly treat the speech of others…
1. When our communications are done with a helpful, kind, loving, humble spirit correction and advice is more easily taken by others.
2. Do we want our communications to be valuable to others and pleasing to God? We must share Godly knowledge that is properly understood and applied to the situation we are addressing.
3. When we realize that the Lord knows any situation perfectly, we can trust in Him to supply the appropriate message in His Word for those that are in need of help.
4. We have a simple choice as we speak to others…. supply to them life and strength by sharing the knowledge of God with them or cause them harm by handing to them the false teachings of man.
5. Our acceptance of counsels and warnings from those who are working on our behalf shows the level of wisdom that we possess.
6. The desires of the Lord that are found in His Word will bring blessings to those who are wise enough to follow them.
7. Another mark of Godly wisdom is seen in the desire to share God’s Words with others.
8. The Lord finds pleasure in the sincere communion of His people.
By God’s grace, let us all study these proverbs diligently, giving them the value that they deserve.
May the Lord bless us as we receive this sound wisdom and then “Think On These Things”.
SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org
SIH Text Blog: https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/
SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/
SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com
Our Words Can Heal Or Hurt… Are We Careful With Our Speech?
A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness. The eyes of the LORD [are] in every place, beholding the evil and the good. A wholesome tongue [is] a tree of life: but perverseness therein [is] a breach in the spirit. (Proverbs 15:1-4)
For the SIH devotional with this subject:
SIH’s Think On These Things: Proverbs 15:1-4
He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous (Prov 2:7)
The Anatomy Of The Wise: The Tongue (Part 1): Proverbs 15:1-4
1) A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
2) The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.
3) The eyes of the LORD [are] in every place, beholding the evil and the good.
4) A wholesome tongue [is] a tree of life: but perverseness therein [is] a breach in the spirit.
In this chapter of Proverbs, Solomon will be sharing with us spiritual truths that are illustrated through the use of our physical body parts…
EXPOSITION:
In the text for this morning, we find Solomon uses of the tongue to illustrate some of the principles that are exhibited in Godly communications…
1) A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
1. a kind, tender, non-threatening answer will cause mean, angry attitudes to retreat.
2. words that cause hurt, sorrow and harm will work up flaring nostrils and strong, hateful attitudes.
When our communications are done with a helpful, kind, loving, humble spirit correction and advice is more easily taken by others. When our ”words of help” are delivered with a condescending, unloving, prideful attitude how can we expect them to be received and accepted by others?
“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.” (Galatians 6:1-3)
“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” (Philippians 2:5-8)
2) The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.
1. The speech of those who are wise will use knowledge of God’s Word in a proper, beautiful, beneficial way. It will be pleasing to God and man alike.
2. The mouth of those who are foolish will gush out harmful, ungodly, useless speech.
Do we want our communications to be valuable to others and pleasing to God? We must share Godly knowledge that is properly understood and applied to the situation we are addressing.
“The Lord GOD hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to [him that is] weary: he wakeneth morning by morning, he wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned.” (Isaiah 50:4)
3) The eyes of the LORD [are] in every place, beholding the evil and the good.
When we are at a loss for human wisdom and knowledge, keep in mind that our Lord always has the perfect advice that others need. He can see every situation, He shows us in His Word how to recognize evil, warn others of it and lead them to correct the error of their ways. Likewise, He knows when a person is laboring faithfully, and will supply to us the words that will encourage and strengthen them.
When we realize that the Lord knows any situation perfectly, we can trust in Him to supply the appropriate message in His Word for those that are in need of help. May we lay aside the reasonings of our sinful flesh and share with others the words of our all-knowing God.
“O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable [are] his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?” (Romans 11:33-34)
“Thou shewest lovingkindness unto thousands, and recompensest the iniquity of the fathers into the bosom of their children after them: the Great, the Mighty God, the LORD of hosts, [is] his name, Great in counsel, and mighty in work: for thine eyes [are] open upon all the ways of the sons of men: to give every one according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings:” (Jeremiah 32:18-19)
4) A wholesome tongue [is] a tree of life: but perverseness therein [is] a breach in the spirit.
1. A message that heals and strengthens others in their time of need. From this healing speech springs forth life… it preserves and enhances physical life on earth, while promoting spiritual and eternal life with God.
2. A message that contains perversions of the truth of God causes a divided, weakened, harmed spirit within a man. These false teachings will only hurt an individual bringing upon them both temporal and eternal harm.
We have a simple choice as we speak to others…. supply to them life and strength by sharing the knowledge of God with them or cause them harm by handing to them the false teachings of man.
“If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, [even] the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.” (1 Timothy 6:3-5)
“Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into [your] house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds. (2 John 1:8-11)
SUMMARY:
In the first part of this study on our speech, we have seen 4 basic principles of wise communications…
1. When our communications are done with a helpful, kind, loving, humble spirit correction and advice is more easily taken by others.
2. Do we want our communications to be valuable to others and pleasing to God? We must share Godly knowledge that is properly understood and applied to the situation we are addressing.
3. When we realize that the Lord knows any situation perfectly, we can trust in Him to supply the appropriate message in His Word for those that are in need of help.
4. We have a simple choice as we speak to others…. supply to them life and strength by sharing the knowledge of God with them or cause them harm by handing to them the false teachings of man.
By God’s grace, let us all study these proverbs diligently, giving them the value that they deserve.
May the Lord bless us as we receive this sound wisdom and then “Think On These Things”.
SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org
SIH Text Blog: https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/
SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/
SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com
The Role Of Our Conscience In Day To Day Living….
For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and [their] thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;) (Romans 2:14-15)
For the SIH Bible Study On This Subject Click Here:
The Human Conscience Series: “The Workings Of Our Conscience”
“The wicked flee when no man pursueth:
but the righteous are bold as a lion.”
(Prov 28:1)
Within the pages of Scripture we find the operation of the conscience explained through the use of three different examples derived from the world around us. Let’s take a few moments to learn more about the workings of the human conscience from the Word of God…
THE SCRIPTURES:
And David’s heart smote him after that he had numbered the people. And David said unto the LORD, I have sinned greatly in that I have done: and now, I beseech thee, O LORD, take away the iniquity of thy servant; for I have done very foolishly. (2 Samuel 24:10)
The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great [is] that darkness! (Matthew 6:22-23)
For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and [their] thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;) (Romans 2:14-15)
THE STUDY:
Our Conscience Acts Like A Messenger Within Us
In Biblical times, a King would write the laws of the land over which he ruled… then he would send his messengers to the towns in his kingdom taking a written copy of the newly written law with them. They would enter the town, announce the details of the new law and then post them for all to see.
This role of the messenger equates with the role of our conscience that lies within us. Our conscience does not write the laws of God, nor does it enforce those laws, it simply announces the existence of the law and reminds us when we are breaking those laws. The conscience, when working properly, is on of God’s messengers to reveal His law to mankind.
Paul explains the human conscious acting as a messenger of God, by looking at the lives of the Gentiles (Romans 2:14-15)…
For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law,
How can it be that the Gentiles who had never received knowledge of His laws from a human, outside source, were keeping some aspects of the law of God?
these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves:
Paul recognized that, if they had never received the law of God from an external human source, they must possess some principles of the law within themselves.
Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts,
These principles are instilled in the mind of every man. God gives to every man the necessary amount of knowledge to hold all mankind responsible for the sin they commit. This is done as an act of divine grace, using the revelation that comes through the act and existence of creation, without the receipt of God’s law from any separate human source.
“For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law;” (Romans 2:12)
“For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed [it] unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, [even] his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified [him] not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.”
(Romans 1:18-21)
their conscience also bearing witness,
Once the natural law of God enters the mind of man, the conscience then takes that knowledge and announces that law to man. It testifies to the laws’ existence and acts as a constant reminder to man when they violate those laws.
and [their] thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)
Once the conscience testifies of the laws existence and violation, the mind then must, either, accept responsibility for the infraction and take the appropriate action to deal with the sin; or else, refuse to accept responsibility for the action and find an excuse to cover the transgression.
All of this takes place due to the natural law given to every man and the conscience’s role as messenger confirming and repeating the law’s existence to all mankind.
Our Conscience Acts Like An Eye Within Us
We are all familiar with the workings of our physical eyes. It is through our eyes that we can receive light and we are given knowledge of the surroundings around us.
But we can take this understanding a step farther. Our eyes do not let ALL the light and ALL of our surroundings to us. Our eyes can only reveal to us what they are pointed towards. If our eyes are looking at what lies ahead of us, we have no knowledge of what lies behind.
This is the lesson of Matthew 6:22-23…
The light of the body is the eye:
The eye is the organ through which the body receives knowledge of light that is present. The eye isn’t the light but it testifies and reveals the light that already exists.
if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.
If the eye is whole, functioning properly, looking into the light, the existence of the light is clearly revealed and dominates our sight.
But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness.
However, if the eye is diseased, not working as it should, it will be avoiding light, and looking into the dark areas that exist. It is this darkness that will then fill the body.
If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great [is] that darkness!
If the eye only looks into darkness, never being pointed to the light, the body is totally consumed with darkness, experiencing a total lack of light.
When applied to our conscience the lesson is a very simple one. The function of the conscience is limited to the standard to which it is pointed. In other words, when we fill our minds with the light of truth, the conscience works properly and testifies to the truth to us. However, when our conscience is not healthy, it is only pointed at the darkness of error, our conscience testifies to us in error.
A very specific example of this principle is found in the followers of Molech, who sacrificed their children to their false god. How could they do such a thing? They had been brought up from babies believing a set of false truths about Molech and the need to sacrifice their children. The actions of their conscience was based on these horrible false teachings, therefore their conscience did not affect them as they sacrificed their children, but would have made them feel guilty if they had not been willing to offer their children. How sad, how blind! Much like the people of Isaiah’s day….
“Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” (Isaiah 5:20)
Our Conscience Acts Like A Shepherd’s Rod Within Us
The Shepherd’s rod was used exclusively by the shepherd to care for the sheep. It was used as a club to drive off attacking enemies, it was used to gently discipline the wayfaring sheep, directing them back to the flock.
The conscience acts in a similar way, protecting the individual from sin, while directing to the path that should be taken.
And David’s heart smote him after that he had numbered the people.
Here we see David’s conscience working as a disciplinary rod bringing to David’s attention that he had sinfully chosen to number the people of Israel. David has departed from the path that he should have been traveling and his conscience reminded him that his action was sinful, while also persuading him to repent of this sin and turn back to the path he was meant to travel upon.
And David said unto the LORD, I have sinned greatly in that I have done:
David’s repentance resulted from the intervention of his conscience. His repentance included:
1. acknowledgment of the sin that he committed
2. acknowledgment of his responsibility in the commission of that sin
and now, I beseech thee, O LORD, take away the iniquity of thy servant; for I have done very foolishly. (2 Samuel 24:10)
3. acknowledgment of the need for forgiveness
4. acknowledgment that his sin was committed against the Lord and therefore,
5. acknowledgement that forgiveness must come from the Lord
6. acknowledgement of the true regret and sorrow that he felt
THE SUMMARY:
The conscience is a wonderful tool given by God’s grace to help the lost see their need of salvation and then, in the life of the Christian to keep us on track as we seek to serve our Lord and Savior. Through its three ministries (messenger, eye, rod) the conscience is a very effective tool that can be used of God to reveal the true spiritual condition of individuals and the spiritual need that is in their life.
The role of the Holy Spirit in using our conscience to show men their spiritual condition will be covered in another lesson.
May the Lord bless us as we seek His truth.
For a free copy of this series in book form pdf version: please go to: https://settledinheaven.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/conscience.pdf
For a free copy of this series in book form docx version: please go to: https://settledinheaven.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/conscienceprotected.docx
Settled In Heaven Ministries Text Blog: https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com
Saturday Scripture
Be like Charmin not sandpaper!
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, GENTLENESS, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” (Gal 5:22-25)
For the SIH message on this subject please click on following link…
Making It Plain: “Sovereignty” = Absolute Controlling Influence
“Sovereign” comes from a French word:
1. “soverein” which means “possessor of highest authority and control”
The idea is this… when we speak of the “sovereignty” of God… we are saying that God possesses the authority, and ability, that is necessary to control all things.
The term “sovereign” or “sovereignty” is not used in the KJV Bible…
“And at the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the most High, and I praised and honoured him that liveth for ever, whose dominion [is] an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom [is] from generation to generation: And all the inhabitants of the earth [are] reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and [among] the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?” (Daniel 4:34-35)
“But our God [is] in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.” (Psalms 115:3)
“That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of [things] in heaven, and [things] in earth, and [things] under the earth; And [that] every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [is] Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:10-11)
A Wise Leader Does What Is Good For Those Who Follow Him…
The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death. Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but [that which is] in the midst of fools is made known. Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin [is] a reproach to any people. The king’s favour [is] toward a wise servant: but his wrath is [against] him that causeth shame. (Proverbs 14:32-35)
For the SIH devotional on this subject please click following link:
SIH’s Think On These Things: Proverbs 14:32-35
He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous (Prov 2:7)
The Pursuit Of The Wise: Ruling Others Well (Part 2): Proverbs 14:32-35
32) The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death.
33) Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but [that which is] in the midst of fools is made known.
34) Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin [is] a reproach to any people.
35) The king’s favour [is] toward a wise servant: but his wrath is [against] him that causeth shame.
EXPOSITION:
A wise man recognizes his need to exercise his authority over others with love and a desire to honor Christ…
32) The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death.
1. Those whose rule goes against the principles of God will end up being despised and rejected by his subjects. This is an indication of a lost condition and future rejection by the Lord.
2. A rule that is in alignment with the desires of the Lord, is an outward evidence of salvation and a motive for hope of an afterlife lived in the presence of the Lord.
How a man rules over others will dictate his acceptance by his subjects and an indication of his current spiritual condition and future standing before the Lord.
“And this [is] the writing that was written, MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN. This [is] the interpretation of the thing: MENE; God hath numbered thy kingdom, and finished it. TEKEL; Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting. PERES; Thy kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians. Then commanded Belshazzar, and they clothed Daniel with scarlet, and [put] a chain of gold about his neck, and made a proclamation concerning him, that he should be the third ruler in the kingdom. In that night was Belshazzar the king of the Chaldeans slain.” (Daniel 5:25-30)
“Oh that my words were now written! oh that they were printed in a book! That they were graven with an iron pen and lead in the rock for ever! For I know [that] my redeemer liveth, and [that] he shall stand at the latter [day] upon the earth: And [though] after my skin [worms] destroy this [body], yet in my flesh shall I see God: Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; [though] my reins be consumed within me.” (Job 19:23-27)
33) Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but [that which is] in the midst of fools is made known.
1. The wise heart of a ruler will be displayed by his ability to see things as they truly are and making decisions based upon that understanding. One area of decision making that will most greatly exhibit his level of understanding is in his choice of counselors and associates.
2. Likewise foolishness in the heart of a leader is clearly shown to all through foolish decision making in choosing his companions and mentors.
The ruler’s choice of associates and counselors, along with the other choices he makes, will clearly display the amount of understanding that he possesses.
“Every prudent [man] dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open [his] folly.” (Proverbs 13:16)
“Yea also, when he that is a fool walketh by the way, his wisdom faileth [him], and he saith to every one [that] he [is] a fool.” (Ecclesiastes 10:3)
34) Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin [is] a reproach to any people.
1. When a leader upholds righteous practices and punishes evil, his people will be honored and blessed of the Lord.
2. When a leader condones wickedness and rejects Godly obedience, his people will face destruction and shame.
When a leader loves his subjects, he will always seek to encourage righteousness and punish wickedness that enters among them. In doing so, he is assuring God’s continued blessings and the honor of their peers.
“Keep therefore and do [them]; for this [is] your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation [is] a wise and understanding people. For what nation [is there so] great, who [hath] God [so] nigh unto them, as the LORD our God [is] in all [things that] we call upon him [for]? And what nation [is there so] great, that hath statutes and judgments [so] righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day?” (Deuteronomy 4:6-8)
35) The king’s favour [is] toward a wise servant: but his wrath is [against] him that causeth shame.
1. A ruler will find pleasure in a servant who exhibits wisdom in his labors because it exalts both the ruler and those over which he rules.
2. A ruler will hold anger and resentment towards the servant that brings shame upon himself and his people.
A ruler will desire for wisdom to be displayed in those who represent him, and by implication, his domain. By doing this both the ruler and those he rules will be honored and exalted.
“And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom [his] lord shall make ruler over his household, to give [them their] portion of meat in due season? Blessed [is] that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath. But and if that servant say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken; The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for [him], and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. And that servant, which knew his lord’s will, and prepared not [himself], neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many [stripes]. But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few [stripes]. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.” (Luke 12:42-48)
SUMMARY:
In the two parts of our study on being wise rulers we have seen:
A wise ruler will:
1. make decisions that display a love, concern and desire to benefit those over whom he rules.
2. only make decisions after reflection, consistently using self-control as a decision making tool.
3. mind the affairs of his own people, not being distracted by the actions of those who rule over others.
4. use the exercise of his authority as an opportunity to honor his Lord. He will do this by using Christ as the perfect example for his rule.
5. be accepted by his subjects and display his spiritual condition and future standing before the Lord.
6. choose Godly associates and counselors, these choices along with the other choices he makes, will clearly display the amount of understanding that he possesses.
7. will always seek to encourage righteousness and punish wickedness that enters among his people.
8. will desire for wisdom to be displayed in those who represent him and his domain.
By God’s grace, let us all study these proverbs diligently, giving them the value that they deserve.
May the Lord bless us as we receive this sound wisdom and then “Think On These Things”.
SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org
SIH Text Blog: https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/
SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/
SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com
Do We Rule As Christ Rules?
In the multitude of people [is] the king’s honour: but in the want of people [is] the destruction of the prince. [He that is] slow to wrath [is] of great understanding: but [he that is] hasty of spirit exalteth folly. A sound heart [is] the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones. He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor. (Proverbs 14:28-31)
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
SIH’s Think On These Things: Proverbs 14:28-31
He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous (Prov 2:7)
The Pursuit Of The Wise: Ruling Others Well (Part 1): Proverbs 14:28-31
28) In the multitude of people [is] the king’s honour: but in the want of people [is] the destruction of the prince. 29) [He that is] slow to wrath [is] of great understanding: but [he that is] hasty of spirit exalteth folly. 30) A sound heart [is] the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones. 31) He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.
EXPOSITION: A wise man recognizes his need to exercise his authority over others in a Godly way…
28) In the multitude of people [is] the king’s honour: but in the want of people [is] the destruction of the prince.
1. A king is most highly honored by others when he has many people who WILLINGLY serve him. It is an indication that he is a fair, kind and wise ruler.
2. A prince will many times be removed from authority when only a few are willing to submit to his authority while many hate him and seek to be removed from his rule. This is a sign of an unjust, cruel selfish rule.
A wise person will make decisions that display a love, concern and desire to benefit those over whom he rules.
“The LORD shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies. Thy people [shall be] willing in the day of thy power, in the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning: thou hast the dew of thy youth.” (Psalms 110:2-3)
29) [He that is] slow to wrath [is] of great understanding: but [he that is] hasty of spirit exalteth folly.
1. A ruler who holds his temper and makes decisions after reflection (not during times of hot anger) shows a great understanding of genuine leadership, inward strength and self-control.
2. A ruler who makes hasty decisions based upon his emotions declares to all his lack of wisdom and weakness within himself.
A wise person will only make decisions after reflection, consistently using self-control as a decision making tool. This shows a great desire in wanting to make the correct decision not affected by the events or emotions of the day.
“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.” (James 1:19-20)
30) A sound heart [is] the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.
1. Just as the heart is essential to physical life, so too, a ruler who rules according to his love and concern for his people is essential to the health, growth and protection of the ruled.
2. Just as a spirit of envy will eat away at a person eventually causing them physical and spiritual harm, so too, a ruler who makes decisions to impress his rivals and have a “keep up with the Jones” mentality towards other rulers will bring corruption and eventual death to the people over which he rules.
A wise person will mind the affairs of his own people, not being distracted by the actions of those who rule over others. He will only be concerned about benefiting his people, not what will bring him the most praise or promotions from his peers.
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7) “And even as they did not like to retain God in [their] knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.” (Romans 1:28-32)
31) He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.
1. A person who abused his authority and takes advantage of the poor and weak through his rulership, does not understand his need to answer to His Creator for all of his actions. He brings dishonor and shame to the One who rules over him.
2. A person who honors all the Lord has done for him, his salvation, his blessings, his forgiveness will treat his subordinates with a kind, forgiving, gracious attitude.
A wise ruler will use the exercise of his authority as an opportunity to honor his Lord. He will do this by using Christ as the perfect example for his rule.. His rule will display the same type of rulership that Christ exercises over him.
“If thou seest the oppression of the poor, and violent perverting of judgment and justice in a province, marvel not at the matter: for [he that is] higher than the highest regardeth; and [there be] higher than they.” (Ecclesiastes 5:8)
“Therefore, as ye abound in every [thing, in] faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and [in] all diligence, and [in] your love to us, [see] that ye abound in this grace also. I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.” (2 Corinthians 8:7-8)
SUMMARY: A wise ruler will:
1. make decisions that display a love, concern and desire to benefit those over whom he rules.
2. only make decisions after reflection, consistently using self-control as a decision making tool.
3. mind the affairs of his own people, not being distracted by the actions of those who rule over others.
4. use the exercise of his authority as an opportunity to honor his Lord. He will do this by using Christ as the perfect example for his rule.
By God’s grace, let us all study these proverbs diligently, giving them the value that they deserve.
May the Lord bless us as we receive this sound wisdom and then “Think On These Things”.
SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org
SIH Text Blog: https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/
SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/
SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com
Our Lord Should Be Loved and Feared, Not Blasphemed and Mocked!
In the fear of the LORD [is] strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge. The fear of the LORD [is] a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death. (Proverbs 14:26-27)
For the SIH devotion on this subject:
SIH’s Think On These Things: Proverbs 14:26-27
He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous (Prov 2:7)
The Pursuit Of The Wise: Gaining Respect For The Lord: Proverbs 14:26-27
26) In the fear of the LORD [is] strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.
27) The fear of the LORD [is] a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.
EXPOSITION:
A wise man recognizes his need to possess an appropriate respect and honor of the Lord…
26) In the fear of the LORD [is] strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.
Here, we find that a wise man is to possess a “fear” of the Lord. What does Proverbs mean by the term “fear”?
The Hebrew word that is translated “fear” in both of these verses is a word that carries with it the idea of “recognizing the greatness of someone or something” and then, based upon that recognition, we possess the feelings of: reverence, dread and terror.
1. reverence teaches us that we are to place ourselves in willful subordination and humility before Him
2. dread teaches us that we are to approach His presence with great care and awe in recognition of His holiness and hatred of sin. It emphasizes our need of repentance of sin for unfettered communion with Him.
3. terror teaches us that we are to always recognize that He will deal with sin in the life of all men. For the lost, He will execute righteous judgment and condemn to an eternity of separation and punishment in the Lake of Fire. For the saved, they no longer are to fear God’s eternal judgment for their sins…they are secure in Him.
However, He will deal with unrepentant, willful sin in the Christian’s life through acts of discipline (His hand of chastening). (Hebrews 12:5-11) This chastening can be a very painful and severe experience for the Christian, and when unheeded, can actually lead to their physical death. (Acts 5:1-10, 1 Cor 11:28-30, 1 John 5:15-17, Exo 32:32-33)
The easiest way for me to explain this type of fear in a Christian’s life is through an example of myself as a child… I feared disobeying my dad. I did not fear being thrown out of the family, nor did I fear no longer being loved. But I certainly did fear my dad’s “hand of judgment” (ie a spanking). In that sense I truly “feared” my father. Many times, that fear restrained me from disobeying Him. In this sense, every Christian should fear God.
For both the lost and saved, His fear should not be limited to simple reverence and awe, but it should include a literal type of fear and dread of Him, understanding that we continue to be affected by the sin that is in our lives and are held accountable by God through eternal judgment or temporal chastening. Neither is a small matter that should be taken lightly. This is why Solomon used that specific Hebrew word that tells the wise to “fear” God.
I believe this type of fear, due to false teaching, is lacking in the lives of some Christians today. This is manifested by Christians who possess carnal lifestyles, take sin lightly and are slack in immediately dealing with sin when they see it creep into their lives.
In our text, we find four reasons for the wise man to properly “fear” the Lord:
1. it is our “strong confidence”. In other words, through our fear of the Lord we find great confidence knowing the One who has saved us and the One who is our Lord is the Only TRUE GOD….
He knows all things, controls all things, has all power and is everywhere present, therefore, He is the ideal Lord of our life that guarantees we serve “on a winning team”!
It is our knowledge of these things that gives us great confidence as we serve Him.
“What shall we then say to these things? If God [be] for us, who [can be] against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? [It is] God that justifieth. Who [is] he that condemneth? [It is] Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? [shall] tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.” (Romans 8:31-37)
2. it is our “place of refuge”. In other words, He is far greater than Satan, the dark powers of this world, and the events that take place in this world. Therefore, we are safe in the palm of His hand.
It is our knowledge of these things that assures us we have a safe refuge in Him. We have nothing to fear.
“The name of the LORD [is] a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” (Proverbs 18:10)
27) The fear of the LORD [is] a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.
3. it is a fountain of life. A key aspect of coming to faith in Christ is an acknowledgment of His justice and holiness in His dealings with the sin of lost mankind. It is this fear of an upcoming judgment against our sin that leads to repentance and the receipt of eternal life.
From the fear of God flows forth repentance and eternal life.
“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, [He is] my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.” (Psalms 91:1-2)
4. Through it we are turned from the traps that death has set for us. Once again, we can see a proper fear of the Lord will turn the lost from spiritual death by turning to Christ in faith. For the saved, a proper fear of God will encourage them to obey Him to avoid chastening, and when chastening does occur, to swiftly heed His workings and thereby avoiding a possible shortening of their physical life.
“And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, [and] strength of salvation: the fear of the LORD [is] his treasure.” (Isaiah 33:6)
SUMMARY:
A recognition of the greatness and holiness of the Lord is needed by lost and saved alike. It is through this recognition of Him that the wise gain:
1. A strong confidence as we serve Him
2. A conviction of the strong refuge that we have in Him
3. A recognition of the need of faith in Christ and repentance of sin
4. An escape from the many traps that are laid by the sinful powers of this world.
By God’s grace, let us all study these proverbs diligently, giving them the value that they deserve.
May the Lord bless us as we receive this sound wisdom and then “Think On These Things”.
SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org
SIH Text Blog: https://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/
SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/
SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com
Settled In Heaven Blog 