PROVERBS 31 (KING JAMES VERSION)

PROVERBS  31   (KJV)

   1) The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.

   2) What, my son? and what, the son of my womb? and what, the son of my vows?

   3) Give not thy strength unto women,

     nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings.

   4) It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for king to drink wine;

     nor for princes strong drink:

   5) Lest they drink, and forget the law,

     and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted.

   6) Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish,

     and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts.

   7) Let him drink, and forget his poverty,

     and remember his misery no more.

   8) Open thy mouth for the dumb 

     in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.

   9) Open thy mouth, judge righteously,

     and plead the cause of the poor and needy.

   10) Who can find a virtuous woman?

     for her price is far above rubies.

   11) The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her,

     so that he shall have no need of spoil.

   12) She will do him good and not evil

     all the days of her life.

   13) She seeketh wool, and flax,

     and worketh willingly with her hands.

   14) She is like the merchants' ships;

     she bringeth her food from afar.

   15) She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household,

     and a portion to her maidens.

   16) She considereth a field, and buyeth it:
     with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.
   17) She girdeth her loins with strength,
     and strengtheneth her arms.

   18) She perceiveth that her merchandise is good:
     her candle goeth not out by night.
   19) She layeth her hands to the spindle,
     and her hands hold the distaff.*

   20) She stretcheth out her hand to the poor;
     yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
   21) She is not afraid of the snow for her household:
     for all her household are clothed with scarlet.

   22) She maketh herself coverings of tapestry;
     her clothing is silk and purple.
   23) Her husband is known in the gates,
     when he sitteth among the elders of the land.

   24) She maketh fine linen, and selleth it;
     and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
   25) Strength and honour are her clothing;
     and she shall rejoice in time to come.

   26) She openeth her mouth with wisdom;
     and in her tongue is the law of kindness.  
   27) She looketh well to the ways of her household,
     and eateth not the bread of idleness.

   28) Her children arise up, and call her blessed;
     her husband also, and he praiseth her.
   29) Many daughters have done virtuously,
     but thou excellest them all.

   30) Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain:
     but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
   31) Give her of the fruit of her hands;
     and let her own works praise her in the gates.

DEFINITIONS

* distaff:   according to merriam-webster.com, a distaff is a staff for holding the flax or wool in spinning                         

MY THOUGHTS

   We have been told all of our lives that when we have a baby, there is no instruction manual.  I have to call that "fake news".  The Holy Bible is full of instruction.  Verses 10 - 31 of this chapter is a guide for women.  This is what you should strive to be.  Be that role model for your daughters.  If you know a woman like this, stay in her company as much as you can, to learn her ways.  Study The Word.  The Book of Proverbs is full of wisdom; meditate on it.

COMMENTARY

Verses 1,2)  King Lemuel is believed to be King Solomon.  This is the teaching of Bathsheba to her son.

Verse 3)  Bathsheba knew well the destruction of the family when the man takes on several women.  King David had multiple wives and concubine.  It is even true today when the man of the house has women outside of the home, ie, commits adultery.

Verses 8-9)  Here we are instructed to speak up for those who cannot speak up for themselves.

THE VIRTUOUS WOMAN:

Verse 10) Who can find a woman strong in all moral qualities?

Verse 11) The virtuous woman's love is sure, to be trusted, never to be doubted.  She could not be bought.   Of course, poor old Solomon was not a virtuous man, so no virtuous woman would have him.

Verse 12) The virtuous woman was loyal to her man, dependable, trustworthy, and true  and would never create drama for him.

Verse 13) She is resourceful, staying busy taking care of her household.

   Being called "the bride of Christ", we, too, should strive to be this virtuous.  Are you a part of "the bride of Christ"?  Click here to learn how to become His bride:  https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html

You are encouraged to leave a comment with your thoughts and to share this post on your favorite social media as we spread The Word of The Most High God.  Thank you.

You are also invited to visit Oma at http://omaspolitics.blogspot.com,  http://omaslife.blogspot.com,  and http://omashealth.blogspot.com. 

PROVERBS 30 (KING JAMES VERSION)

PROVERBS 29   (KJV)

Proverbs 30 King James Version (KJV)

30 The words of Agur the son of Jakeh, even the prophecy: the man spake unto Ithiel, even unto Ithiel and Ucal,

2 Surely I am more brutish than any man, and have not the understanding of a man.

3 I neither learned wisdom, nor have the knowledge of The Holy.

4 Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in His fists? who hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? what is His Name, and what is His Son's Name, if thou canst tell?

5 Every word of God is pure: He is a shield unto them that put their trust in Him.

6 Add thou not unto His words, lest He reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.

7 Two things have I required of thee; deny me them not before I die:

8 Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me:

9 Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the Lord? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain.

10 Accuse not a servant unto his master, lest he curse thee, and thou be found guilty.

11 There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother.

12 There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.

13 There is a generation, O how lofty are their eyes! and their eyelids are lifted up.

14 There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men.

15 The horseleach hath two daughters, crying, Give, give. There are three things that are never satisfied, yea, four things say not, It is enough:

16 The grave; and the barren womb; the earth that is not filled with water; and the fire that saith not, It is enough.

17 The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it.

18 There be three things which are too wonderful for me, yea, four which I know not:

19 The way of an eagle in the air; the way of a serpent upon a rock; the way of a ship in the midst of the sea; and the way of a man with a maid.

20 Such is the way of an adulterous woman; she eateth, and wipeth her mouth, and saith, I have done no wickedness.

21 For three things the earth is disquieted, and for four which it cannot bear:

22 For a servant when he reigneth; and a fool when he is filled with meat;

23 For an odious woman when she is married; and an handmaid that is heir to her mistress.

24 There be four things which are little upon the earth, but they are exceeding wise:

25 The ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer;

26 The conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks;

27 The locusts have no king, yet go they forth all of them by bands;

28 The spider taketh hold with her hands, and is in kings' palaces.

29 There be three things which go well, yea, four are comely in going:

30 A lion which is strongest among beasts, and turneth not away for any;

31 A greyhound; an he goat also; and a king, against whom there is no rising up.

32 If thou hast done foolishly in lifting up thyself, or if thou hast thought evil, lay thine hand upon thy mouth.

33 Surely the churning of milk bringeth forth butter, and the wringing of the nose bringeth forth blood: so the forcing of wrath bringeth forth strife.

COMMENTARY

   Verse 1) King Solomon was known by several names:  Solomon, Jedidiah,Koheleth, Son of Jakeh, Agur, and Lemuel.  Here, Agu declared that what he had to say was "prophecy".

   Verse 2) It is unclear if these words are from when King Solomon was a young man, just coming to the throne, or in his later years, when he realized he had strayed so far from the God of his father, King David and was repentant.  Either way, this verse is a confession of his limitations and how he saw himself as incompetent.  The reference to being "more brutish than any man" speaks of his feelings of inferiority (probably to his Dad) and his "lacking understanding of a man" speaks to his feeling of not even possessing common sense.

   Verse 3) This verse continues from Verse 2 by saying he did not even possess the wisdom of God.  What he received from God was revealed wisdom, he did not put in the time to study to obtain learned wisdom, which is available to all of us today.

   Verse 4)  Here is some evidence of the prophesy enclosed in this chapter, as he is asking about the Messiah, Jesus.  Of course, if he had listened to his dad, King David, he would surely have known the answers to most of these questions.  Some of the answers are found in the Psalms, at least one is found in the Book of Job, to which he had access .

   Verses 11 - 14 are prophetic, describing the end times:  11) The defiant generation disregards the authority of the parents and the government; 12) The depraved generation disregards traditional, Biblical moral views.  They participate in drug abuse, unbridled sexual activity, and deviant sex is championed.  They cannot wash away their filth.  13) The disdainful generation has been quite visible and vocal recently with all of the rioting over the police's treatment of criminals.  It is mind boggling that young people accuse police of brutality and then proceed to execute, even ambush them, while they are trying to protect and serve Americans.  14) The dangerous generation consists of gang members, syndicated violent criminals, international terrorists, even political criminals who are guilty of murder.  (Epstein didn't kill himself.)

Where are you going to spend eternity?  Now is the time to consider such a monumental question.  I invite you to spend it in Heaven; but to do so, you must accept the gift of salvation Jesus has given to you.  To learn more, visit our "Pathways to Salvation" page for more information by clicking here:   https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.

You are encouraged to leave a comment with your thoughts.   And, if we are a blessing to you, please share our post on your favorite social media.  Thank you.

You are also invited to visit Oma at http://omaspolitics.blogspot.com, http://omaslife.blogspot.com,  and http://omashealth.blogspot.com. 

PROVERBS 29 (KING JAMES VERSION)

PROVERBS 29   (KJV)

   1) He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck,
     shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.

   2) When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice:
     but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.

   3) Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father:
     but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth his substance.

   4) The king by judgment establisheth the land:
     but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it.

   5) A man that flattereth his neighbour
     spreadeth a net for his feet.

   6) In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare:
     but the righteous doth sing and rejoice.

   7) The righteous considereth the cause of the poor:
     but the wicked regardeth not to know it.

   8) Scornful men bring a city into a snare:
     but wise men turn away wrath.

   9) If a wise man contendeth with a foolish man,
     whether he rage or laugh, there is no rest.

   10) The bloodthirsty hate the upright:
     but the Just seek his soul.

   11) A fool uttereth all his mind:
     but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.

   12) If a ruler hearken to lies,
     all his servants are wicked.

   13) The poor and the deceitful man meet together:
     the LORD lighteneth both their eyes.

   14) The king that faithfully judgeth the poor,
     his throne shall be established for ever.

   15) The rod and reproof give wisdom:
     but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.

   16) When the wicked are multiplied, transgression increaseth:
     but the righteous shall see their fall.

   17) Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest;
     yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.

   18) Where there is no vision, the people perish:
     but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

   19)  A servant will not be corrected by words:
     for though he understand he will not answer.

   20) Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words?
     there is more hope of a fool than of him.

   21) He that delicately bringeth up his servant from a child
     shall have him become his son at the length.

   22) An angry man stirreth up strife,
     and a furious man aboundeth in transgression.

   23) A man's pride shall bring him low:
     but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.

   24) Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul:
     he heareth cursing, and bewrayeth it not.

   25) The fear of man bringeth a snare:
     but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.

   26) Many seek the ruler's favour;
     but every man's judgment cometh from the LORD.

   27) An unjust man is an abomination to the Just:
     and he that is upright in The Way is abomination to the wicked.

DEFINITIONS

bewray (according to wiktionary):  to reveal, divulge, or make something known:  to disclose

COMMENTARY

    Verse 1 speaks of the abundance of times one is advised that their ways are not in line with the will of God; that they are living outside the will of God, and their ways will be their ruin.  However, they go on in their sin, probably saying they would rather party with the wicked than live like the righteous.  Not everyone loves obedience and structure.

   Verse 2 pretty much speaks for itself:  when you are ruled by convicts (or anyone who is not just and fair), you really don't expect to be treated just.

   Verse 4) Integrity.  Integrity is a word that we should be able to apply to our government.  Can you apply it to our government?  There should be no politician who accepts bribes.  But woe!  Can you name any politician whether local or federal who will not take a bribe?

   Verse 9)  I would like to say what the commentary says, "A wise man attempting to get a point across to a fool may try anger, sarcasm, and mockery, but not even these approaches will have the desired effect.  IT IS EASIER TO STORM A STRONG CITY THAN TO PENETRATE THE MINDSET OF A FOOL."  That is verified.

   Verse 18) Where there is no vision:  preaching or sharing The Word of God.  This "vision" comes from the "seers" of the Old Testament, who were the prophets.  So if the people do not hear The Word or understand The Word, they surely don't obey The Law in The Word.  Through The Word comes grace, faith, love, salvation, etc.  When people know nothing of these, or when they are fed false doctrine; when they don't know Christ, they don't know pardon from sin, righteousness, peace, and hope for eternal life.  They simply perish.

   Verse 24) This verse speaks of shining light on sin.  If you run with thieves and get saved, you can no longer run with thieves.  If you know about what they do, you must not keep quiet, but must bring the sin to light, especially to the sinner.

  

Where are you going to spend eternity?  Now is the time to consider such a monumental question.  I invite you to spend it in Heaven; but to do so, you must accept the gift of salvation Jesus has reserved for you.  To learn more, visit our "Pathways to Salvation" page for more information by clicking here:   https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.

You are encouraged to leave a comment with your thoughts.   And, if we are a blessing to you, please share our post on your favorite social media.  Thank you.

You are also invited to visit Oma at http://omaspolitics.blogspot.com, http://omaslife.blogspot.com,  and http://omashealth.blogspot.com. 

PROVERBS 28 (KING JAMES VERSION)

PROVERBS 28   (KJV)

   1) The wicked flee when no man pursueth:

     but the righteous are bold as a lion.

   2) For the transgression of a land many are the princes thereof:

     but by a man of understanding and knowledge the state thereof shall be prolonged.

   3) A poor man that oppresseth the poor 

     is like a sweeping rain which leaveth no food.

   4) They that forsake the law praise the wicked:

     but such as keep the law contend with them.

   5) Evil men understand not judgment:
     but they that seek the LORD understand all things.

   6) Better is the poor that walketh in his uprightness,
     than he that is perverse in his ways, though he be rich.

   7) Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son:
     but he that is a companion of riotous men shameth his father.

   8) He that by usury and unjust gain increaseth his substance,
     he shall gather it for him that will pity the poor.

   9) He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law,
     even his prayer shall be abomination.

   10) Whoso causeth the righteous to go astray in an evil way, he shall fall himself
     into his own pit:  but the upright shall have good things in possession.

   11)  The rich man is wise in his own conceit;
     but the poor that hath understanding searcheth him out.

   12) When righteous men do rejoice, there is great glory:
     but when the wicked rise, a man is hidden.

   13) He that covereth his sins shall not prosper:
     but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.

   14) Happy is the man that feareth always:
     but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.

   15) A roaring lion, and a ranging bear;
     so is a wicked ruler over the poor people.

   16) The prince that wanteth understanding is also a great oppressor:
     but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days.

   17) A man that doeth violence to the blood of any person
     shall flee to the pit; let no man stay him.

   18) Whoso walketh uprightly shall be saved:
     but he that is perverse in his ways shall fall at once.

   19) He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread:  but he that followeth
     after vain persons shall have poverty enough.

   20) A faithful man shall abound with blessings:
     but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.

   21) To have respect of persons is not good:
     for a piece of bread that man will transgress.

   22) He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye,
     and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.

   23) He that rebuketh a man
     afterwards shall find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue.

   24) Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, It is no  transgression;
     the same is the companion of a destroyer.

   25) He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife:
     but he that putteth his trust in the LORD shall be made fat.

   26) He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool:
     but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.

   27) He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack:
     but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.

   28) When the wicked rise, men hide themselves:
     but when they perish, the righteous increase.

COMMENTARY

   1)  When you have something to hide, when you are guilty, you tend to hide or run away as to hide your guilt from being discovered.  However, when you are walking with The LORD, you have confidence and peace of mind.

   2) "When a nation descends into apostasy and moral decadence, it becomes a prey to pretenders and partisans who keep it in turmoil."----Exploring Proverbs volume two, The John Phillips Commentary Series.  When a nation accepts evil over God and His ways, it sets itself up for destruction, whether from within or without.  But when a man is put in position of leadership and listens to wise counsel, the nation has a good chance to defend itself and prolong it's days.

   3) This verse can be translated:  When a strong man who is needy oppresses a weaker impoverished man it is like a sweeping rain that leaves no food.  After all, if they are both poor, and one takes what the other has, there is nothing left!

   16) A leader with a want (lack) of understanding oppresses his citizens with an undue burden to support his vanity; but a leader who hates covetousness is well pleasing to God.  He tries to ease the citizen's burdens.  i love you, Susan D.

   17) "Doing violence to the blood of anybody" means to murder them.  This man will be tormented relentlessly by his own conscience and may eventually confess to the crime 

   19) A nation is comprised of individuals.  The prosperity or poverty of a nation depends largely on the character of its citizens and the use of its natural and human resources by it's government.  So, when the individual's government is vain, the citizens who blindly follow them will have poverty enough.  What is a vain person?  He who follows after vanities.   

    What is "vanities"?  Let us listen to Moses speaking to Israel before they proceeded into the promised land (Deuteronomy 32: 16 - 21):  "They provoked Him to jealousy with strange gods...They sacrificed unto devils, not to God; to gods whom they knew not...They have moved Me to jealousy with that which is not God; they have provoked me to anger with their vanities.  So, vanities is idolatry and an idol is that which you worship instead of God.

Do you know the God Who created all that there is?  Now is the time to accept the priceless gift of salvation so you can spend eternity with Him.  For information, click here:   https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.

You are encouraged to leave a comment with your thoughts.

You are also invited to visit Oma at http://omaspolitics.blogspot.com,  http://omaslife.blogspot.com,  and http://omashealth.blogspot.com. 

PROVERBS 27

PROVERBS 27   (KJV)

   1) Boast not thyself of to morrow;

     for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.

   2) Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth;

     a stranger, and not thine own lips.

   3) A stone is heavy, and the sand weighty;

     but a fool's wrath is heavier than them both.

   4) Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous;

     but who is able to stand before envy?    

   5) Open rebuke is better 

     than secret love.

   6) Faithful are the wounds of a friend;

     but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.

   7) The full soul loatheth an honeycomb;
     but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.

   8) As a bird that wandereth from her nest,
     so is a man that wandereth from his place.

   9) Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart:
     so doth the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel.

   10) Thine own friend, and thy father's friend, forsake not; neither go into thy brother's house in the day of thy calamity:
     for better is a neighbour that is near than a brother far off.

   11) My son, be wise, and make my heart glad,
     that I may answer him that reproacheth me.

   12)  A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself;
     but the simple pass on, and are punished.

   13) Take his garment that is surety for a stranger,
     and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.

   14) He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning,
     it shall be counted as a curse to him.

   15)  A continual dropping in a very rainy day
     and a contentious woman are alike.
   16) Whosoever hideth her hideth the wind,
     and the ointment of his right hand, which bewrayeth itself.

   17) Iron sharpeneth iron;
     so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

   18) Whoso keepeth the fig tree shall eat the fruit thereof:
     so he that waiteth on his master shall be honoured.

   19) As in water face answereth to face,
     so the heart of man to man.

   20) Hell and destruction are never full;
     so the eyes of man are never satisfied.

   21) As the fining pot for silver, and the furnace for gold;
     so is a man to his praise.

   22) Though thou shouldest bray a fool in a mortar among wheat with a pestle,
     yet will not his foolishness depart from him.

   23) Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks,
     and look well to thy heards.

   24) For riches are not for ever:
     and doth the crown endure to every generation?

   25) The hay appeareth, and the tender grass sheweth itself,
     and herbs of the mountains are gathered.

   26) The lambs are for thy clothing,
     and the goats are the price of the field.
   27) And thou shalt have goats' milk enough for thy food, for the food
     of thy household, and for the maintenance for thy maidens.

DEFINITIONS

wrath:  extreme anger; rage; fury

COMMENTARY

   Verse 1)  This is self-explanatory.  We are not promised tomorrow.

   Verse 2) The politicians should pay attention to this verse, but so should we.  If we have to brag about ourselves or what we do, surely we are coming up short.  If we are not impressive enough for someone else to notice, maybe we should try harder.

   Verse 4:  We are directed to the story of Joseph and his brothers to understand envy (Genesis 35 - 43).  Wrath and anger are hot sins, but envy is cold-blooded, calculating, and cruel.  Rather than envy, we should try to be content whatever our situation and not get our self-worth by comparing ourselves to others.

   This (envy) reminds me of the late Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "Street Sweeper Speech", which you can find here:  https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/2015/01/dr-martin-luther-king-jrs-street.html


   Verse 6:  We are reminded of the deceitful kiss of Judas which signaled his betrayal to Jesus; we see Jesus as that faithful friend.

   Verse 7:  Let me see if I can do justice in explaining this verse:  When your belly if full, you don't bother to find more to eat, even if it is your favorite food.  However, if you are hungry, well, look at how people in third world countries live.  Some scour trash heaps for food.

   Now, let's apply this to the spirit:  There is so much information and entertainment available today, that we fill ourselves on that which is worthless to our relationship with The LORD.  Who has time for religion?  Furthermore, some of us act like we don't need to use our time to study The Holy Bible, because we know it all.  We are like the Pharisees, strutting about like a peacock, but our hearts are full of pride and we are heading straight to Hell.  The Holy Bible is The Living Word, It speaks to us and guides us EVERY DAY!  It brings us closer to our LORD.  We should hunger for The Word, even though It frequently convicts us of our sin and moves us to repent.

   Leave me a comment and tell me how I did on this.

   Verse 10:  A friend who has been tried and tested is to be valued.  A friend close by is better than family far away.

   Verse 11:  I personally, have to add this Proverb to the Fifth Commandment.  Honor your parents that you don't bring shame on their good name.  They work hard to establish a good name by their good character and fear of God.  Don't destroy that, but work hard to do even better, be even better than they are.

  Verse 19:  If I am understanding the commentaries on this verse, it says that as we see our reflection in water, so we also see our reflection of our hearts in each other; that is why we have the circle of friends we have (if their hearts are not like ours, we move to others who do reflect our hearts). 

   Have you accepted the precious gift of salvation?  You are encouraged to visit our "Pathway to Salvation" page:    https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html

You are encouraged to leave a comment with your thoughts.

If this ministry is a blessing to you, please feel free to share this post on your favorite social media.  Thank you.

You are also invited to visit Oma at http://omaspolitics.blogspot.com,  http://omaslife.blogspot.com,  and http://omashealth.blogspot.com.  

PROVERBS 26 (KING JAMES VERSION)

PROVERBS 26   (KJV)

   1) As snow in summer, and as rain in harvest,
     so honour is not seemly for a fool

   2) As the bird by wandering, and the swallow by flying,
     so the curse causeless shall not come.

   3) A whip for the horse, a bridle for the ass,
     and a rod for the fool's back.

   4) Answer not a fool according to his folly,
     lest thou also be like unto him.

   5) Answer a fool according to his folly,
     lest he be wise in his own conceit.

   6) He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool
     cutteth off the feet, and drinketh damage.

   7) The legs of the lame are not equal:
     so is a parable in the mouth of fools.

   8) As he that bindeth a stone in a sling,
     so is he that giveth honour to a fool.

   9) As a thorn goeth up into the hand of a drunkard,
     so is a parable in the mouths of fools.

   10) The great GOD that formed all things both rewardeth the fool,
     and rewardeth transgressors.

   11) As a dog returneth to his vomit,
     so a fool returneth to his folly.

   12) Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit?
     there is more hope of a fool than of him.

   13) The slothful man saith, There is a lion in the way;
     a lion is in the streets.

   14) As the door turneth upon his hinges,
     so doth the slothful upon his bed.

   15) The slothful hideth his hand in his bosom;
     it grieveth him to bring it again to his mouth.

   16) The sluggard is wiser in his own conceit
     than seven men that can render a reason.

   17) He that passeth by, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him,
     is like one that taketh a dog by the ears.

   18) As a mad man who casteth firebrands,
     arrows, and death.
   19) So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith,
     Am not I in sport?

   20) Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out:
     so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.

   21) As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire;
     so is a contentious man to kindle strife.

   22) The words of a talebearer are as wounds,
     and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.   

   23) Burning lips and a wicked heart 
     are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.

(photo of potsherd courtesy of Wikipedia)

   24) He that hateth dissembleth with his lips,
     and layeth up deceit within him;
   25) When he speaketh fair, believe him not:
     for there are seven abominations in his heart.

   26) Whose hatred is covered by deceit,
     his wickedness shall be shewed before the whole congregation.

   27) Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein:
     and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him.

   28) A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it;
     and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.

DEFINITIONS  

dissembleth:  to put on a false appearance 

COMMENTARY

   Verse 1)  These should not be:  snow in summer, rain in harvest, and honor for a fool.

   Verse 2)   A bird reaches his destination not by flying aimlessly or by being carried by the wind, but by purposefully flying to his God given destination.  A curse will not aimlessly land on you, but you must first provoke it.  That said, it has been my personal observation that we may receive a curse by our own tongue!  Be aware of your speech, even in fun, that you don't provoke a curse upon yourself or your family.

   Verse 8)  When placing a stone in a sling shot, it should be loose so it can be easily released at the proper time.  A stone that is bound will not move, thus rendering it useless.  So it is just as foolish to entrust a fool in a position of honor and responsibility.  Oh, man; can we talk?

   Verse 17) When you stick your nose into someone else's business, you are asking for trouble.  Frequently the parties who are having a dispute will both turn on you.

   Verse 18)  Describes the man of guile who throws an emotional burning stick (hoping it will catch other stuff on fire), shoots arrows, and brings death.  This is a man who pretends to be your friend while stirring up contention in your life.  Then, when confronted, he says he was just playing and makes you feel like you are wrong for being upset with him.

You are encouraged to leave a comment with your thoughts.

You are also invited to visit Oma at http://omaspolitics.blogspot.com,  http://omaslife.blogspot.com,  and http://omashealth.blogspot.com.  

PROVERBS 25 (KING JAMES VERSION)

PROVERBS 25  (KJV)

   1) There are also proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied out.

   2) It is the glory of God to conceal a thing:

     but the honour of kings is to search out a matter.

   3) The heaven for height, and the earth for depth,

     and the heart of kings is unsearchable.

   4) Take away the dross from the silver,

     and there shall come forth a vessel for the finer.

   5) Take away the wicked from before the king,

     and his throne shall be established in righteousness.

   6) Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king,

     and stand not in the place of great men:

   7) For better it is that it be said unto thee, Come up hither;

     than that thou shouldest be put lower in the presence of the prince whom thine eyes have seen.

   8) Go not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof,

     when thy neighbour hath put thee to shame.

   9) Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself;

     and discover not a secret to another:

   10) Lest he that heareth it put thee to shame,

     and thine infamy turn not away.

   11) A word fitly spoken is like

     apples of gold in pictures of silver.

   12) As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold,

     so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.

   13) As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger
     to them that send him:  for he refresheth the soul of his masters.

   14) Whoso boasteth himself of a false gift
     is like clouds and wind without rain.

   15) By long forbearing is a prince persuaded,
     and a soft tongue breaketh the bone.

   16) Hast thou found honey?  eat so much as is sufficient for thee,
     lest thou be filled therewith, and vomit it.

   17) Withdraw thy foot from thy neighbour's house;
     lest he be weary of thee, and so hate thee.

(image of a maul)

   18) A man that beareth false witness against his neighbour is a maul,
     and a sword, and a sharp arrow.

   19) Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth,
     and a foot out of joint.

   20) As he that taketh away a garment in cold weather, and as vinegar upon nitre,
     so is he that singeth songs to an heavy heart.

   21) If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat;
     and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
   22) For thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head,
     and the LORD shall reward thee.

   23) The north wind driveth away rain:
     so doth an angry countenance a backbiting tongue.

   24) It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop,
     than with a brawling woman and in a wide house.

   25) As cold waters to a thirsty soul,
     so is good news from a far country.

   26) A righteous man falling down before the wicked
     is as a troubled fountain, and a corrupt spring.

   27) It is not good to eat much honey,
     so for men to search their own glory is not glory.

   28) He that hath no rule over his own spirit
     is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.

COMMENTARY

   Verses 6, 7:  These verses speak to trying to insert yourself into a group of people with different social status as yourself.  Don't put yourself into a situation where you assume you belong.  Let me put it another way.  I am a country girl.  Now, I would never put myself in a group of celebrities, assuming they would accept me as one of them.  I would never put myself in a group of millionaires, assuming they would accept me as one of them.  On the other hand, if these same groups learned of me and invited me into their circle of friends, the risk of my being rejected is minimized.

I have great news:  Jesus has invited YOU into His family!  To learn how to become part of His family, click here:   https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.

   Verse 9:  We need to control our tongues and obey God.  It is written (Matthew 18: 15 - 17) that if we have an issue with our brother, that we are to take it to our brother.  If he refuses to help resolve the issue, we are to take two or three brothers with us and confront him.  They will go with you to establish the charge by two or three witnesses.  What we are NOT instructed to do is to first take it to our "friends" and neighbors and gossip about the issue.  There is a risk of the issue becoming a mountain that will totally get out of control and will come back on you!

   Verse 25:  Everyone loves good news.  It makes the heart smile.

   Verse 27: When you eat too much honey, it upsets your system.  When you hear someone always bragging on themselves, it makes your ears tired and you tend to avoid their company.

   Verse 28:  A city without walls is as vulnerable as a person who has no control over himself:  when he has an addiction; when he does not control his temper; when he is prone to act on his lust.  When you have no control over yourself, you are easily exploited and stand to loose all you have. 

You are encouraged to leave a comment with your thoughts.

You are also invited to visit Oma at http://omaspolitics.blogspot.com,  http://omaslife.blogspot.com,  and http://omashealth.blogspot.com.  

PROVERBS 24 (KING JAMES VERSION)

PROVERBS 24   (KJV)

   1) Be not thou envious against evil men,
     neither desire to be with them.
   2) For their heart studieth destruction,
     and their lips talk of mischief.

   3) Through wisdom is an house builded;
     and by understanding it is established:
   4) And by knowledge shall the chambers be filled
     with all precious and pleasant riches.

   5) A wise man is strong;
     yea, a man of knowledge increaseth strength.

   6) For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war:
     and in multitude of counselors there is safety.

   7) Wisdom is too high for a fool:
     he openeth not his mouth in the gate.

   8) He that deviseth to do evil
     shall be called a mischievous person.

   9) The thought of foolishness is sin:
     and the scorner is an abomination to men.

   10) If thou faint in the day of adversity,
     thy strength is small.

   11) If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death,
     and those that are ready to be slain;
   12) If thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not He that pondereth the heart consider it?
     and He that keepeth thy soul, doth not He know it? and shall not He render to every man                      according to his works?

photo courtesy of brooklinelibrary.org

   13) My son, eat thou honey, because it is good;
     and the honeycomb, which is sweet to thy taste:
   14) So shall the knowledge of wisdom be unto thy soul:  when thou hast found it,
     then there shall be a reward, and thy expectation shall not be cut off.

   15) Lay not wait, O wicked man, against the dwelling of the righteous;
     spoil not his resting place:
   16) For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again:
     but the wicked shall fall into mischief.

   17) Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth,
     and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:
   18) Lest the LORD see it, and it displease Him,
     and He turn away His wrath from him.

   19) Fret not thyself because of evil men,
     neither be thou envious at the wicked:
   20) For there shall be no reward to the evil man;
     the candle of the wicked shall be put out.

   21) My son, fear thou the LORD and the king:
     and meddle not with them that are given to change:
   22) For their calamity shall rise suddenly;
     and who knoweth the ruin of them both?

   23) These things also belong to the wise.
     It is not good to have respect of persons in judgment.

   24) He that saith unto the wicked, Thou are righteous;
     him shall the people curse, nations shall abhor him:
   25) But to them that rebuke him shall be delight,
     and a good blessing shall come upon them.

   26) Every man shall kiss his lips
     that giveth a right answer.

   27) Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field;
     and afterwards build thine house.

   28) Be not a witness against thy neighbour without cause;
     and deceive not with thy lips.

    

   30) I went by the field of the slothful,
     and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding;
   31) And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof,
     and the stone wall thereof was broken down.
   32) Then I saw, and considered it well:
     I looked upon it, and received instruction.

   33)Yet a little sleep, a little slumber,
     a little folding of the hands to sleep:
   34) So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth;
     and thy want as an armed man.

DEFINITION

FORBEAR:  politely or patiently restrain an impulse to do something;  refrain  (dictionary.com)

COMMENTARY

    Verses 7 - 9 warns against taking the advice of three kinds of fools:  the silent fool, the sinful fool, and the scornful fool.  

   The silent fool is the one who is smart enough to keep his mouth shut about those things he knows nothing about.  Many times I am asked about what someone is doing or why they are doing it.  My reply is, "You are asking the wrong guy.", meaning that you should direct your inquiry to the person you are asking about.  This also protects me from gossiping.

   The sinful fool is that one who speaks before he thinks.  He is eventually exposed for the fool that he is by his own mouth.

    The description of the scornful fool in John Phillip's commentary describes many in government today.  Here is an excerpt:

   "As a lad I grew up in Chicago and ran with a street gang.  In the gang there were a few types known as 'gators' ( a contraction of the work 'instigators').  These were the gang leaders.  They were the ones who had the ideas.   The idea may have been to trash someone's car or to murder someone.  The 'gators' came up with the idea, made the plans, spelled out the details, told the various gang members their specific duties, and instigated the action."  

   "Certain criminal types are born leaders....Nazi Germany illustrates what happens when people from the gutter become the leaders of the government.  The Nazi leaders were a gang of thieves and mass murderers.  They lied, cheated, and bullied their way to power.  They launched the nation on a course of crime and conflict."

   Sir Hartley Shawcross of the British delegation described the atrocities committed in the concentration camps:  "People were worked, beaten, and starved to death - if they were not murdered on arrival.  Human hair was baled for commercial purposes and used for stuffing mattresses.  Tattooed human skin was made into lampshades.  Human fat was used to make soap.  Gold teeth were extracted from corpses, melted into ingots, and shipped to the Reichsbank."  He summed it up by saying, "Mass murder had become a state industry, with byproducts."  

   Chilling, isn't it?  The abortion industry is one that comes to mind here, but there are so many more!

   Verses 11:  If we abstain (forebear) from delivering those that are drawn unto death and those that are ready to be slain--is this those who willingly participate in wickedness and evil?  Are we to spend our energy and resources to deliver them when it is their own choices that brought them to this point?

   12) Then we say we didn't know they were in such a condition; will we be judged for "walking on the other side of the street" rather than being "the Samaritan"  (Luke 10: 25-37) and doing all in our power to deliver them?

  Verse 27:  This verse really is simply saying work for what you want and save so you can afford to buy it.  (Live within your means and don't make needless debt.)

You are encouraged to leave a comment with your thoughts.

You are also invited to visit Oma at http://omaspolitics.blogspot.com,  http://omaslife.blogspot.com.,  and http://omashealth.blogspot.com.

PROVERBS 23 (KING JAMES VERSION)

PROVERBS 23   (KJV)

   1) When thou sittest to eat with a ruler,

     consider diligently what is before thee:

   2) And put a knife to thy throat,

     if thou be a man given to appetite

   3) Be not desirous of his dainties:

     for they are deceitful meat.

   4) Labour not to be rich:

     cease from thine own wisdom.

   5) Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not?

     for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.

   6) Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye,

     neither desire thou his dainty meats:

   7) For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he:

     Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee.

   8) The morsel which thou hast eaten shalt thou vomit up,

     and lose thy sweet words.

   9) Speak not in the ears of a fool:

     for he will despise the wisdom of thy words.

   10) Remove not the old landmark;

     and enter not into the fields of the fatherless:

   11) For their Redeemer is mighty;

     He shall plead their cause with thee.

   12) Apply thine heart unto instruction,

     and thine ears to the words of knowledge.

   13) Withhold not correction from the child:

     for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die.

   14) Thou shalt beat him with the rod,

     and shalt deliver his soul from hell.

   15) My son, if thine heart be wise,

     my heart shall rejoice, even mine.

   16) Yea, my reins shall rejoice,

     when thy lips speak right things.

   17) Let not thine heart envy sinners:

     but be thou in the fear of the LORD all the day long.

   18) For surely there is an end; 

     and thine expectation shall not be cut off.

   19) Hear thou, my son, and be wise,

     and guide thine heart in the way.

   20) Be not among winebibbers;

     among riotous eaters of flesh:

   21) For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty:

     and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.

   22) Hearken unto thy father that begat thee,
     and despise not thy mother when she is old.

   23) Buy the truth, and sell it not;
     also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.

   24) The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice:
     and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.
   25) Thy father and thy mother shall be glad,
     and she that bare thee shall rejoice.

   26) My son, give me thine heart,
     and let thine eyes observe my ways.

   27) For a whore is a deep ditch;
     and a strange woman is a narrow pit.
   28) She also lieth in wait as for a prey,
     and increaseth the transgressors among men.

   29) Who hath woe?  who hath sorrow? who hath contentions?
     who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?
   30) They that tarry long at the wind;
     they that go to seek mixed wine.

   31) Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup,
     when it moveth itself aright.
   32) At the last it biteth like a serpent,
     and stingeth like an adder.
   33) Thine eyes shall behold strange women,
     and thine heart shall utter perverse things.
   34) Yea, thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the sea,
     or as he that lieth upon the top of a mast.
   35) They have stricken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick;
     they have beaten me, and I felt it not:  when shall I awake?  I will seek it yet again.  

King James Version (KJV)  public domain

COMMENTARY

   Verses 1 - 3:  These verses speak of anyone who has been invited to dine with someone in a position over them.  First of all, be aware of your situation that you don't make a fool of yourself.  It may even be good to eat at home before you dine with them, that you don't overeat, which speaks of lack of control.  Second, keep your wits about you (don't drink to excess).  Secrets are revealed with too much drink.  

     There are two books I recommend reading that may give you pause when you next take up alcohol:  Twice Born Men by Harold Begbie and Pelican Island by Nordhoff and Hall. 

   Verses 4, 5:  Reference Luke 12: 15:  "Watch out!  Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist of an abundance of possessions."

   Verses 12 - 16 are grouped together in the Matthew Henry Commentary.  They speak of our desire for our children, how we want them to succeed in this life, which is with knowledge of our Mighty God.  Sometimes we have to apply discipline to get their attention, but if applied correctly, in a loving manner, with prayer, it is our hope that the children will honor their father and their mother, and ultimately, their God.

What about you?  Do you live your life to honor The Most High God?  Do you know Him?  There is but One Way to Him, and that is through His Son, Jesus Christ.  Please click here to learn more:   https://omaswisdom.blogspot.com/p/path-to-salvation.html.

You are encouraged to leave a comment with your thoughts.  Also, if this ministry is a blessing to you, you are encouraged to share this post on your favorite social media, as we spread God's Word.  Thank you.

You are also invited to visit Oma at http://omaspolitics.blogspot.com,  http://omaslife.blogspot.com,  and http://omashealth.blogspot.com.