Hello, to anyone!
Right about this time one year ago I put up a post about God's Plan/Timing. I came across it and read it, and It actually may apply more to me now than it did last year. So I decided to repost! Here it is!
Hello For Starters,
I will now engage the subject of missed opportunities. I feel like we have alot of these. Those things that almost or could've happened but didn't because you chose a different path somewhere before, or you just didn't take a chance. I also feel sad when I've known someone my whole life but never really developed a friendship with them like I would like (That's you, Jesse Woon). I, like most people, have some regret about things I've done, and choices I've made. I often wish I could redo a day or a sentence or something and make it better. I often wish I could take something back, or try something new. But then I am reminded (usually by something amazing) that what has happened to me was exactly on purpose. I've learned to find it encouraging when something doesn't work out, cause that just means that it wasn't supposed to; that God's looking out for me, and has a different idea of where I should be. I am so glad to know that the plan maker of my life is someone so much smarter and wiser than I am. My God saw my life before I was born, and sees ahead of me when I cannot. I missed my thanksgiving post so I this is what I'm thankful for. That God has blessed me so richly with happiness, family, friends, and a plan for my life to do exactly for him what he wants me to. So, in closing, I would urge you to find strength when life is kicking you, and find that God has so much in store for you, and that whatever happens to you is for your own good according to His plan for your life. Amen
-Evan
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Making Sacrifices
Hello Anyone!
This post is going to be about Jesus! Just so we know what we're getting into! and....GO!
My Main Verse I'm basing on is in Genesis Chapter 4 (NLT)! The Story of Cain and Abel! Starting in verse 2
2:When they grew up, Abel became a shepherd, while Cain cultivated the ground. 3 When it was time for the harvest, Cain presented some of his crops as a gift to the Lord. 4 Abel also brought a gift—the best of the firstborn lambs from his flock. The Lord accepted Abel and his gift, 5 but he did not accept Cain and his gift. This made Cain very angry, and he looked dejected.
6 “Why are you so angry?” the Lord asked Cain. “Why do you look so dejected? 7 You will be accepted if you do what is right. But if you refuse to do what is right, then watch out! Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master.”
8 One day Cain suggested to his brother, “Let’s go out into the fields.”[c] And while they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother, Abel, and killed him.
9 Afterward the Lord asked Cain, “Where is your brother? Where is Abel?”
“I don’t know,” Cain responded. “Am I my brother’s guardian?”
10 But the Lord said, “What have you done? Listen! Your brother’s blood cries out to me from the ground! 11 Now you are cursed and banished from the ground, which has swallowed your brother’s blood. 12 No longer will the ground yield good crops for you, no matter how hard you work! From now on you will be a homeless wanderer on the earth.”
13 Cain replied to the Lord, “My punishment[d] is too great for me to bear! 14 You have banished me from the land and from your presence; you have made me a homeless wanderer. Anyone who finds me will kill me!”
Okay, so we see right off the bat, that there is some sibling rivalry. Much like two brothers who paint pictures for their mother, and she likes one more, and one gets mad.
The difference here in the picture example is that one kid may be more gifted in art, and the other can't do any better. Let's look at the contrast in attitude between our two brothers.
Cain:
Cain was very capable of giving more than he did. He had more to give and held back. He was selfish. He thought, even if he didn't think of it that way, he treated God like he deserved more than him. Maybe he thought God wouldn't notice. God did notice, and he didn't accept Cain's offering, because he knew he was capable of more! Maybe he just didn't care, or think it would matter that much. But it sure did matter once Abel showed up. And it didn't turn out so well for Cain.
Abel:
Now Abel knew what it was all about. My guess is that he grew up with a stronger faith and relationship with God than Cain did. He understood how much God deserves from us. So he offered God his very best. The best product of his work. He worked hard, and he made a sacrifice! And God accepted him and his offering. Abel had to be feeling pretty good at this point. He had done good work, and done well in God's sight.
Cain was so angry that God dissaproved of him and gave praise to Abel that he killed his own brother. HIS OWN BROTHER! He just killed him cause he was mad. When he was the one who did something wrong. It wouldn't have been that hard to give his best, and he should've learned from Abel that his reward would be great if he would just try.
When God confronts Cain about killing Abel (Which he knows about already, cause he's God, duh), Cain lies, smart mouths God (Don't you talk back to me!), and essentially is the little boy who gets in trouble, knows he deserved it, but whines about his punishment. God banished Cain from crop work, which was really his only love, and from the land where he lived and he leaves him to wander the earth miserable.
it's sad what happened to Cain, but it's certainly something we can learn from.
Every single day I don't give enough to God. I never feel like I'm doing enough. Some days I don't read my bible at all. And even days that I do, I feel like I've fallen short.
My sister on the other hand, is so strong and good at being involved with God. She reads her bible all the time, and prays about everything, and I know that lately God is more accepting of her lifestyle than mine.
Now, of course I'm not going to kill my sister because of that. In fact, I'm not going to complain about it. The one thing I can do is improve my relationship with God, by making sacrfices. The next time I'm going to watch TV, I can read my bible. The next time I go to check my facebook, I can pray instead. Social Godworking certainly beats Social Networking. And if I do, my reward will be great! I will find favor with God! My life will seem more easy, and I will be happier and better at what I do.
So, to all of you as well. Think about it. Are you giving your very best and most to God?
Are you giving, but not your best as Cain did?
Are you giving anything to God at all?
Use the Cain and Abel story to your advantage, and remember it. Abel found favor for giving his utmost, and Cain was banished and left in misery.
Which of those sounds better?
A relationship with God is the best and most rewarding thing we will ever find on this Earth.
It is something to invest in.
He invested in us.
He made the biggest sacrifce he had. He gave the absolute most he could give.
He sent us his son to give us a way to him.
The least we can do is give him our love and praise and very best effort. Our time.
And he will reward us greatly.
So make a sacrifice! Make time for your relationship with God, no matter how little time you have free.
You will not regret it!
-Evan
This post is going to be about Jesus! Just so we know what we're getting into! and....GO!
My Main Verse I'm basing on is in Genesis Chapter 4 (NLT)! The Story of Cain and Abel! Starting in verse 2
2:When they grew up, Abel became a shepherd, while Cain cultivated the ground. 3 When it was time for the harvest, Cain presented some of his crops as a gift to the Lord. 4 Abel also brought a gift—the best of the firstborn lambs from his flock. The Lord accepted Abel and his gift, 5 but he did not accept Cain and his gift. This made Cain very angry, and he looked dejected.
6 “Why are you so angry?” the Lord asked Cain. “Why do you look so dejected? 7 You will be accepted if you do what is right. But if you refuse to do what is right, then watch out! Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master.”
8 One day Cain suggested to his brother, “Let’s go out into the fields.”[c] And while they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother, Abel, and killed him.
9 Afterward the Lord asked Cain, “Where is your brother? Where is Abel?”
“I don’t know,” Cain responded. “Am I my brother’s guardian?”
10 But the Lord said, “What have you done? Listen! Your brother’s blood cries out to me from the ground! 11 Now you are cursed and banished from the ground, which has swallowed your brother’s blood. 12 No longer will the ground yield good crops for you, no matter how hard you work! From now on you will be a homeless wanderer on the earth.”
13 Cain replied to the Lord, “My punishment[d] is too great for me to bear! 14 You have banished me from the land and from your presence; you have made me a homeless wanderer. Anyone who finds me will kill me!”
Okay, so we see right off the bat, that there is some sibling rivalry. Much like two brothers who paint pictures for their mother, and she likes one more, and one gets mad.
The difference here in the picture example is that one kid may be more gifted in art, and the other can't do any better. Let's look at the contrast in attitude between our two brothers.
Cain:
Cain was very capable of giving more than he did. He had more to give and held back. He was selfish. He thought, even if he didn't think of it that way, he treated God like he deserved more than him. Maybe he thought God wouldn't notice. God did notice, and he didn't accept Cain's offering, because he knew he was capable of more! Maybe he just didn't care, or think it would matter that much. But it sure did matter once Abel showed up. And it didn't turn out so well for Cain.
Abel:
Now Abel knew what it was all about. My guess is that he grew up with a stronger faith and relationship with God than Cain did. He understood how much God deserves from us. So he offered God his very best. The best product of his work. He worked hard, and he made a sacrifice! And God accepted him and his offering. Abel had to be feeling pretty good at this point. He had done good work, and done well in God's sight.
Cain was so angry that God dissaproved of him and gave praise to Abel that he killed his own brother. HIS OWN BROTHER! He just killed him cause he was mad. When he was the one who did something wrong. It wouldn't have been that hard to give his best, and he should've learned from Abel that his reward would be great if he would just try.
When God confronts Cain about killing Abel (Which he knows about already, cause he's God, duh), Cain lies, smart mouths God (Don't you talk back to me!), and essentially is the little boy who gets in trouble, knows he deserved it, but whines about his punishment. God banished Cain from crop work, which was really his only love, and from the land where he lived and he leaves him to wander the earth miserable.
it's sad what happened to Cain, but it's certainly something we can learn from.
Every single day I don't give enough to God. I never feel like I'm doing enough. Some days I don't read my bible at all. And even days that I do, I feel like I've fallen short.
My sister on the other hand, is so strong and good at being involved with God. She reads her bible all the time, and prays about everything, and I know that lately God is more accepting of her lifestyle than mine.
Now, of course I'm not going to kill my sister because of that. In fact, I'm not going to complain about it. The one thing I can do is improve my relationship with God, by making sacrfices. The next time I'm going to watch TV, I can read my bible. The next time I go to check my facebook, I can pray instead. Social Godworking certainly beats Social Networking. And if I do, my reward will be great! I will find favor with God! My life will seem more easy, and I will be happier and better at what I do.
So, to all of you as well. Think about it. Are you giving your very best and most to God?
Are you giving, but not your best as Cain did?
Are you giving anything to God at all?
Use the Cain and Abel story to your advantage, and remember it. Abel found favor for giving his utmost, and Cain was banished and left in misery.
Which of those sounds better?
A relationship with God is the best and most rewarding thing we will ever find on this Earth.
It is something to invest in.
He invested in us.
He made the biggest sacrifce he had. He gave the absolute most he could give.
He sent us his son to give us a way to him.
The least we can do is give him our love and praise and very best effort. Our time.
And he will reward us greatly.
So make a sacrifice! Make time for your relationship with God, no matter how little time you have free.
You will not regret it!
-Evan
Neglect = Redirect
I have been neglecting this blog! I haven't been using it to it's potential, in a couple ways. One: It's fun to write and it gives me something to do! 2: I could totally be using this blog to write about God and have an impact on people!
What really got my attention, and made me want to restart this was that my sister started a blog, and it blew my mind! She challenges people to be "Weird" in the sense that we are not living average dull lives, but we are doing things for God and making a difference, which is weird, cause no one does that!
So I want to click refresh on this blog!
I want to reenvision it entirely!
And I want to use for other people's benefit and my own. I can benefit people with whatever words God chooses to give me, and the best way to stay strong in your faith is to be involved with it!
So look out for a new and refreshed Skinny!
Stay Tuned!
-Evan!
What really got my attention, and made me want to restart this was that my sister started a blog, and it blew my mind! She challenges people to be "Weird" in the sense that we are not living average dull lives, but we are doing things for God and making a difference, which is weird, cause no one does that!
So I want to click refresh on this blog!
I want to reenvision it entirely!
And I want to use for other people's benefit and my own. I can benefit people with whatever words God chooses to give me, and the best way to stay strong in your faith is to be involved with it!
So look out for a new and refreshed Skinny!
Stay Tuned!
-Evan!
Thursday, August 11, 2011
This Morning
It is gorgeous outside. That's something I've needed for a while. This heat really wrecks my body, so it's nice to feel cool when I go outside in my favorite red shorts and crocodile dock vbs shirt to get my dog back in the house. Last night was Stephen's last night of SEEK, and it was really sweet and great! Stephen and Devin's ministry here has been amazing! I lead worship last night as well, which is always a special experience. It's incredible to shout out to God and have 130 people shouting with you. I also got to see a great friend I have missed last night!
On the way, Dad and I had one of our famous "Car ride home" talks. That's when all the girls in our house decide to stay at church and chat, and we're too tired and we wanna go home. so we do. And we talk about stuff I can't talk to other people about. Dad has a special knack for giving you confidence. He knows what to say to spark you up, and get you going. Talking about life with dad is always great. He's just really really smart!
Since I got home last night I have felt horrible! lack of sleep, heat, and over-load of thoughts have my body bummed out! My room was 85 degrees when I went to bed! Good Gracious, Bodacious!
Today is Alex's birthday! I'm excited to celebrate his day with him, as he is one of my closest friends, and he improves my life in every way!
I think I may also be getting lunch with Christian or something, but as usual we never really decide to untill 25 minutes before we eat so whatever.
I have a good feeling about this coming week! Lots to do!
On the way, Dad and I had one of our famous "Car ride home" talks. That's when all the girls in our house decide to stay at church and chat, and we're too tired and we wanna go home. so we do. And we talk about stuff I can't talk to other people about. Dad has a special knack for giving you confidence. He knows what to say to spark you up, and get you going. Talking about life with dad is always great. He's just really really smart!
Since I got home last night I have felt horrible! lack of sleep, heat, and over-load of thoughts have my body bummed out! My room was 85 degrees when I went to bed! Good Gracious, Bodacious!
Today is Alex's birthday! I'm excited to celebrate his day with him, as he is one of my closest friends, and he improves my life in every way!
I think I may also be getting lunch with Christian or something, but as usual we never really decide to untill 25 minutes before we eat so whatever.
I have a good feeling about this coming week! Lots to do!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Walking in The Spirit
I realized last night that I have been very distant from my faith lately. I know this happens to all of us on a regular basis, but I want to feel lead to the spirit always! I wanted to explore how to do this; how to always feel connected to God, so I "Dove into scriprture" to take a further look!
One thing that stands in our way is the desires of the earth. Every single person has something on Earth that keeps them from God! The problem is, as long as we are in our earthly bodies, we will never truly be rid of them. So how then can we find escape from these things that are hindering our faith? Paul knows!
Galatians 5:16-17 (ESV) says:
"But I say, walk by the spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the spirit, and the desires of the spirit are against the flesh, for those are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do."
God designed it so that his desires and our earthly desires would oppose each other. That means the more we strive for one, the more we lose interest in the other. I think the sole reason we ever become far from our faith with God is that we become too concerned with our earthly desires. Instead, we should strive for a life in the spirit! I know it's really hard to jump with excitement back into a faith you've been neglecting, but if you can grind through the beginning, it becomes so natural and easy, and then you are fulfilled and the earthly things no longer have the same appeal to you!
Another thing I noticed was how unhappy I am when I am not in a habit of spending time alone with God. I do all the same things, but I do not do them with faith.
James 2:14-17
"What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed or lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them "Go in peace, be warmed and filled" without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead."
We have to have actions along with our faith or our faith is pointless and does nothing for God. I believe that, in the same way, actions without faith are also dead. That's what I was doing. I had all the actions, but my heart wasn't in it. We must always be giving back to God. Not just in one day pieces, but in our entire life.
Paul says in Romans 12:1-2 "...Present your bodies as living Sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be comformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
So if we give our lives to God, with actions, and with faith, a living sacrifice, he will give us discernment, and then we can escape our earthly desires and walk comfortably, and confidently in the spirit!
Finally, one of the most important things about staying in your faith is not to be discouraged. It's very easy to feel bad when you see other people worshipping and living closely with God when you are not. It's also very easy to think "Well, I'm just going to slip away again so why even bother." Our faith is always a rollercoaster, where we have good seasons and bad seasons, highs and lows, But our God is a merciful and forgiving God, who loves us in spite of our shortcomings! He never loses faith in us! So keep pushing when you've drifted away, and you will find the fire for God again! Good luck walking int the spirit!
2 Timothy 2:11-13:
"If we have died with him, we will also live with him.
If we endure, we will also reign with him.
If we deny him, he also will deny us.
If we are faithless, he remains faithful-
For he cannot deny himself."
-Evan
One thing that stands in our way is the desires of the earth. Every single person has something on Earth that keeps them from God! The problem is, as long as we are in our earthly bodies, we will never truly be rid of them. So how then can we find escape from these things that are hindering our faith? Paul knows!
Galatians 5:16-17 (ESV) says:
"But I say, walk by the spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the spirit, and the desires of the spirit are against the flesh, for those are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do."
God designed it so that his desires and our earthly desires would oppose each other. That means the more we strive for one, the more we lose interest in the other. I think the sole reason we ever become far from our faith with God is that we become too concerned with our earthly desires. Instead, we should strive for a life in the spirit! I know it's really hard to jump with excitement back into a faith you've been neglecting, but if you can grind through the beginning, it becomes so natural and easy, and then you are fulfilled and the earthly things no longer have the same appeal to you!
Another thing I noticed was how unhappy I am when I am not in a habit of spending time alone with God. I do all the same things, but I do not do them with faith.
James 2:14-17
"What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed or lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them "Go in peace, be warmed and filled" without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead."
We have to have actions along with our faith or our faith is pointless and does nothing for God. I believe that, in the same way, actions without faith are also dead. That's what I was doing. I had all the actions, but my heart wasn't in it. We must always be giving back to God. Not just in one day pieces, but in our entire life.
Paul says in Romans 12:1-2 "...Present your bodies as living Sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be comformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
So if we give our lives to God, with actions, and with faith, a living sacrifice, he will give us discernment, and then we can escape our earthly desires and walk comfortably, and confidently in the spirit!
Finally, one of the most important things about staying in your faith is not to be discouraged. It's very easy to feel bad when you see other people worshipping and living closely with God when you are not. It's also very easy to think "Well, I'm just going to slip away again so why even bother." Our faith is always a rollercoaster, where we have good seasons and bad seasons, highs and lows, But our God is a merciful and forgiving God, who loves us in spite of our shortcomings! He never loses faith in us! So keep pushing when you've drifted away, and you will find the fire for God again! Good luck walking int the spirit!
2 Timothy 2:11-13:
"If we have died with him, we will also live with him.
If we endure, we will also reign with him.
If we deny him, he also will deny us.
If we are faithless, he remains faithful-
For he cannot deny himself."
-Evan
Friday, June 24, 2011
We Delight
We delight in the law of your word, we delight in the son who was perfect from birth, we delight in the day he's returning to earth, hallelujah!
We may have blasted empire state of mind all week, but this is the song that was in my head by Caedmon's Call. Choir Tour was truly amazing. I've never felt such a sense of freedom in the spirit of the Lord. When we stood up to shout his name and of his worth, nothing else mattered, nothing else even existed. being a vessel of the Lord means that he puts his spirit in us and we literally move for him as a physical act of his love! How amazing that God would allow us to share in the development of His Kingdom!
I've also never felt so close to the people I know than this trip. The people I never talked to, I talked to, and they talked to me, and we grew close. the people I talk to alot, talked to me more, and we grew closer. when I was sick in my flesh, people cared for me, and helped me to press on, and when I was weak in spirit I received encouragement and prayer. How can you fail in your work when God has blessed you with such things? he obviously wanted us to reach people for his name this past week, and I truly believe that in Ocean City, The Bronx, Harlem, Utica (UTICA!), and Pennsylvania, people were blessed and reached by the Lord through our music! Praise God!
We may have blasted empire state of mind all week, but this is the song that was in my head by Caedmon's Call. Choir Tour was truly amazing. I've never felt such a sense of freedom in the spirit of the Lord. When we stood up to shout his name and of his worth, nothing else mattered, nothing else even existed. being a vessel of the Lord means that he puts his spirit in us and we literally move for him as a physical act of his love! How amazing that God would allow us to share in the development of His Kingdom!
I've also never felt so close to the people I know than this trip. The people I never talked to, I talked to, and they talked to me, and we grew close. the people I talk to alot, talked to me more, and we grew closer. when I was sick in my flesh, people cared for me, and helped me to press on, and when I was weak in spirit I received encouragement and prayer. How can you fail in your work when God has blessed you with such things? he obviously wanted us to reach people for his name this past week, and I truly believe that in Ocean City, The Bronx, Harlem, Utica (UTICA!), and Pennsylvania, people were blessed and reached by the Lord through our music! Praise God!
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Sunday, May 29, 2011
yeah!
hey bloggers!
So uh. All I'm really doing right now is watching tennis. I'm like a tennis watching robot. Same thing. everyday. Also alot of dancing. Choir dancing. Wii Dancing. Super Mario dancing. Doing dishes in the kitchen dancing. And singing. but duh, thats a given. Whose Line Is It Anyway? is my new favorite show to watch. Hooked. I'm also hooked on Classical music now. Look up Mozart's Fantasy. So Amazing. I'm hoarding wild berry pop tarts. So glad theyre back. I have a new accountability partner! We're reading romans! Paul is smart!
The End!
-Evan
So uh. All I'm really doing right now is watching tennis. I'm like a tennis watching robot. Same thing. everyday. Also alot of dancing. Choir dancing. Wii Dancing. Super Mario dancing. Doing dishes in the kitchen dancing. And singing. but duh, thats a given. Whose Line Is It Anyway? is my new favorite show to watch. Hooked. I'm also hooked on Classical music now. Look up Mozart's Fantasy. So Amazing. I'm hoarding wild berry pop tarts. So glad theyre back. I have a new accountability partner! We're reading romans! Paul is smart!
The End!
-Evan
Friday, May 27, 2011
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Tolerated
Sometimes I feel like I'm left out of alot of stuff. Alot of fun and laughter and events. Not invited, not informed, never though of. Often times I even feel disliked. Not like no one likes me, because I have friends and people seem to enjoy being around me, but I often feel very tolerated. Like that person that no one has the heart to tell they're annoying and over-bearing. Maybe I'm over thinking it. Maybe I'm just inconsistent in my behavior because sometimes people want to be around me and other times they don't. I've matured alot in the last year so I think I understand better now how to handle myself with other people than I used to, but even though I feel really comfortable around people and being in the mix, I'm not always as comfortable/accepted as I convince myself I am. Once a homeschooler, always a homeschooler. ehh, I'll figure it out. No Biggie.
-Evan
-Evan
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Ecclesiastes Chapter 1
Ecclesiastes! I'm so excited to continue the reading and blogging we did in Proverbs. I think continuing into this book was smart because in a way it is a continuation of Proverbs, and in a way, it's also a counter to it.
In Proverbs, Solomon talks over and over about how important wisdom is, and how to get it. In the first chapter of Ecclesiastes he almost bad mouths it. He tells how much stress and sorrow it brings. So confused. Should we have wisdom or not?
1-11
Solomon explains here how everything has become meaningless around him. Verse 2 is basically him just saying "Meaningless, Meaningless, Meaningless!" He points out here that everything has been done and will be done again. He's right in the sense that history in a way keeps repeating itself. the same kind of thing happens all the time, and life is not really lived in news ways, the same streams keep flowing and the ocean never fills, we keep hearing but our ears are never full. We will never truly be satisfied with these things of Earth because they are meaningless, a "chasing after the wind" Solomon calls it. "What does a man gain by all the toil at which he toils under the sun?" I think there is a lot to gain even from the most useless and ending things on Earth. Lessons to be learned or maybe they lead to something bigger and more important.
12-18
Solomon had great wisdom, but he had so much sorrow. I think he understood and knew all things so well that he could truly see the vanity and foolishness of earthly toil and it saddened him. He says that all things done under the sun are vain and a chasing after the wind. but I think that if you are doing anything to help other people come to know Jesus, or just to help other people at all, you are doing good under the sun. I'm confused by exactly what he means when he says that everything is meaningless on Earth. If everything was meaningless, God wouldn't have bothered to make the Earth at all. Maybe he means all things that are of Earth are meaningless. I dunno.
It seems that Solomon learned that endless wisdom and knowledge isn't always so great. It brought him sorrow, and it brought him vexation. In a way I'm glad that I cannot have the same wisdom Solomon had. I can have a true wisdom of things and not have to have such a sorrow from it, for I can never be that smart.
It's interesting to me to see the book of Proverbs in comparison to this. All Solomon does in Proverbs is talk about wisdom and how saving and lasting it is. But here he says that it also is meaningless in the end.
Good stuff.
-Evan
In Proverbs, Solomon talks over and over about how important wisdom is, and how to get it. In the first chapter of Ecclesiastes he almost bad mouths it. He tells how much stress and sorrow it brings. So confused. Should we have wisdom or not?
1-11
Solomon explains here how everything has become meaningless around him. Verse 2 is basically him just saying "Meaningless, Meaningless, Meaningless!" He points out here that everything has been done and will be done again. He's right in the sense that history in a way keeps repeating itself. the same kind of thing happens all the time, and life is not really lived in news ways, the same streams keep flowing and the ocean never fills, we keep hearing but our ears are never full. We will never truly be satisfied with these things of Earth because they are meaningless, a "chasing after the wind" Solomon calls it. "What does a man gain by all the toil at which he toils under the sun?" I think there is a lot to gain even from the most useless and ending things on Earth. Lessons to be learned or maybe they lead to something bigger and more important.
12-18
Solomon had great wisdom, but he had so much sorrow. I think he understood and knew all things so well that he could truly see the vanity and foolishness of earthly toil and it saddened him. He says that all things done under the sun are vain and a chasing after the wind. but I think that if you are doing anything to help other people come to know Jesus, or just to help other people at all, you are doing good under the sun. I'm confused by exactly what he means when he says that everything is meaningless on Earth. If everything was meaningless, God wouldn't have bothered to make the Earth at all. Maybe he means all things that are of Earth are meaningless. I dunno.
It seems that Solomon learned that endless wisdom and knowledge isn't always so great. It brought him sorrow, and it brought him vexation. In a way I'm glad that I cannot have the same wisdom Solomon had. I can have a true wisdom of things and not have to have such a sorrow from it, for I can never be that smart.
It's interesting to me to see the book of Proverbs in comparison to this. All Solomon does in Proverbs is talk about wisdom and how saving and lasting it is. But here he says that it also is meaningless in the end.
Good stuff.
-Evan
Monday, March 28, 2011
God Answers/Still a Charger/God's Plan
God is so fast to asnwer prayers sometimes. Like, immediate response. I asked God for something so simple as a quick answer, and I got it in the next 48 hours. I guess I'm mostly just suprised because this so rarely happens to me! But, sometimes I think we see something as so small and unimportant, but God sees it as something important that he can use to help you, even if it isn't exactly what you wanted. On another note that is somewhat related, I've realized once again that my charger mentality is not so good! I suppose everyone has their own way of growing and learning, but I think I'd like to find a new one. I keep making the same mistakes and not learning anything from it! what the heck is that? I feel like I should have improved my methods by now. Classic Evan: charge in with closed eyes, open them and see what I ran into. I guess what frustrates me the most is that this time I actually had a distinct plan not to be a charger at all, and yet I was anyway! I very carefully and wisely made myself a plan to halt any momentum I was gaining. And right when I was executing that perfectly, I charged. Hard to break those habits, I suppose. Darned if I haven't gone and done it again. Oh well. i think it's all for the best anyway. God's plan will prevail over all, and that's the most encouraging thing. He knows what's best for me, even if I don't.
"For I know the plans I have for you" Declares the Lord "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
-Jeremiah 29:11
Prayer Requests:
Patience
Control
Wisdom
-Evan
"For I know the plans I have for you" Declares the Lord "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
-Jeremiah 29:11
Prayer Requests:
Patience
Control
Wisdom
-Evan
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Push it to the limit
Push it, Push it to the limit limit, cause we're in it to win it, in it to win it, aww yeah. Push it, push it, to the limit, limit, cause we're in it to win it, in it to win it aww yeah!
Corbin Blue - Push it to the Limit.
cause I felt like it.
Happy Saturday!
Evan
-For some reason I woke up with a shocking pain in my toe. I'm limping, limping to the limit limit! AHHH!
Corbin Blue - Push it to the Limit.
cause I felt like it.
Happy Saturday!
Evan
-For some reason I woke up with a shocking pain in my toe. I'm limping, limping to the limit limit! AHHH!
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Happiness
Happiness is a warm puppy. Anyone remember that book Charles Shultz? Well I decided to make my own version right quick.
Happiness is a warm puppy.
Happiness is that pair of perfect gap sweat-pants Ashlyn gave me.
Happiness is a fully charged Gameboy.
Happiness is whatever delicious suprise Momma has made for lunch.
Happiness is a plan to have no plan day with Christian.
Happiness is a goblin that sounds like a turkey.
Happiness is remembering the happiness of my younger years.
Happiness is getting out my old PS One and playing beyblade.
Happiness is a cream soda dum dum pop.
Happiness is a tall glass of milk, followed by a second.
Happiness is the neighbor's dog barking at the door to play fetch. Shut up, Bandit!
Happiness is me and my guitar making emotions into music.
Happiness is that "Yes!" moment when you finally nail that guitar riff.
Happiness is that smile she gives.
Happiness is "We're going to Disney World???"
Happiness is a pack of skittles for 69 cents.
Happiness is a plate of warm chocolate chip cookies. Thanks, Shan.
Happiness is "Why aren't you in bed at 12:45?" "I'm talking to Ashlyn!"
Happiness is a Duke basketbal game with chili dogs and sweet tea.
Happiness is Gavin Degraw's Follow Through 3 times a day.
Happiness is the word of God spoken to me.
Happiness is the life I have been given.
Happiness.
-Evan
Happiness is a warm puppy.
Happiness is that pair of perfect gap sweat-pants Ashlyn gave me.
Happiness is a fully charged Gameboy.
Happiness is whatever delicious suprise Momma has made for lunch.
Happiness is a plan to have no plan day with Christian.
Happiness is a goblin that sounds like a turkey.
Happiness is remembering the happiness of my younger years.
Happiness is getting out my old PS One and playing beyblade.
Happiness is a cream soda dum dum pop.
Happiness is a tall glass of milk, followed by a second.
Happiness is the neighbor's dog barking at the door to play fetch. Shut up, Bandit!
Happiness is me and my guitar making emotions into music.
Happiness is that "Yes!" moment when you finally nail that guitar riff.
Happiness is that smile she gives.
Happiness is "We're going to Disney World???"
Happiness is a pack of skittles for 69 cents.
Happiness is a plate of warm chocolate chip cookies. Thanks, Shan.
Happiness is "Why aren't you in bed at 12:45?" "I'm talking to Ashlyn!"
Happiness is a Duke basketbal game with chili dogs and sweet tea.
Happiness is Gavin Degraw's Follow Through 3 times a day.
Happiness is the word of God spoken to me.
Happiness is the life I have been given.
Happiness.
-Evan
Monday, March 21, 2011
Psychic
I wish I was psychic. I was I could read people's minds. I could do anything. I could know anything. too bad I can't. I'll just stay clueless.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Writing Music
There is nothing quite like writing music. The way it lifts you up, the way it frees you. It's the one time I really feel far away from the world. The way my emotions and thoughts can turn into notes and words sparatically on a guitar or simply and gently on a piano. If I'm frustrated, it's powerful and beautiful. If I'm thoughtful, It's sleepy. If I'm joyful, it's snappy. If I'm confused, it just kinda explodes. And that's how music is made. I hope I have the privilege to continue writing my whole life. I hope that someday I can share my music with others.
Song of the week:
Follow Through by Gavin Degraw
Evan
Song of the week:
Follow Through by Gavin Degraw
Evan
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Plans
Plans. Plans for life. Plans for love. Plans for lunch. Plans for saturday. Plans for you. Plans for me. Plans.
Plan.
Definition:
"System for acheiving objective. A method of doing something that is worked our in advance."
My entire life as well as the lives of those around me are solely built off of plans. Some plans are very specific.
"I'm going to THIS school marrying THIS girl, I'm going to do THIS job, have THIS many kids, and die at THIS age" (Exaggeration. Check)
Some are very vague like
"I plan to start here, and then maybe this, or maybe that, I dunno we'll see"
Either way, you have an idea of what you'd like to do with your life. I'm at that age where you really start making alot of plans. But, sometimes plans don't always bring the desired outcome. Sometimes you made a bad plan, or one that wasn't bad just not right. Sometimes God has a totally different plan than you. Sometimes you might even be halfway through a plan before you know what HIS plan is.
Jermiah 29:11 says
"For I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
God sees the big picture. All I see is right now, and what I want to do. In the last few months I've started to see alot of contrast between my desires and God's desires. The path I would choose is very different from the path HE would choose, and It's tough to realize you might not be able to see your plans come into play.
But, I've been in the word alot lately, and my faith has grown, and as I've grown closer to Christ, my outlooks and desires have changed, and along with that, my plans have changed in a path that is much closer to God's path. When you have a close walk with the Lord everything changes. Your attitude, your personality, your happiness, your purpose. You begin to have a compassion for those who are alone or lost. You want to take that love and bring it to anyone and everyone. You also are able to see people better, and I mean that in two ways. You can see the bad in people more, AND you can also see the good in people more clearly, and that becomes more desirable. I mean, no joke, ever since I've strengthened my faith, I've seen girls in a totally different way. I used to like alot of different girls, before really knowing them. When you become Godly and have a strong faith, you become far more picky, haha. Seriously, once you have God, I mean REALLY have God, you only desire a girl who also REALLY has God, you know what I'm sayin? Ryan gets me. Yo, Ryan! Where you at?
Anyway,
I'm learning more and more how futile and foolish our plans are. God's plan will always prevail anyway, why try and decide what's going to happen? When you place God in the center of your life, all the plans get set for you, and you don't often have to decide anything! God just puts you where he needs you. Word!
-Evan
Plan.
Definition:
"System for acheiving objective. A method of doing something that is worked our in advance."
My entire life as well as the lives of those around me are solely built off of plans. Some plans are very specific.
"I'm going to THIS school marrying THIS girl, I'm going to do THIS job, have THIS many kids, and die at THIS age" (Exaggeration. Check)
Some are very vague like
"I plan to start here, and then maybe this, or maybe that, I dunno we'll see"
Either way, you have an idea of what you'd like to do with your life. I'm at that age where you really start making alot of plans. But, sometimes plans don't always bring the desired outcome. Sometimes you made a bad plan, or one that wasn't bad just not right. Sometimes God has a totally different plan than you. Sometimes you might even be halfway through a plan before you know what HIS plan is.
Jermiah 29:11 says
"For I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
God sees the big picture. All I see is right now, and what I want to do. In the last few months I've started to see alot of contrast between my desires and God's desires. The path I would choose is very different from the path HE would choose, and It's tough to realize you might not be able to see your plans come into play.
But, I've been in the word alot lately, and my faith has grown, and as I've grown closer to Christ, my outlooks and desires have changed, and along with that, my plans have changed in a path that is much closer to God's path. When you have a close walk with the Lord everything changes. Your attitude, your personality, your happiness, your purpose. You begin to have a compassion for those who are alone or lost. You want to take that love and bring it to anyone and everyone. You also are able to see people better, and I mean that in two ways. You can see the bad in people more, AND you can also see the good in people more clearly, and that becomes more desirable. I mean, no joke, ever since I've strengthened my faith, I've seen girls in a totally different way. I used to like alot of different girls, before really knowing them. When you become Godly and have a strong faith, you become far more picky, haha. Seriously, once you have God, I mean REALLY have God, you only desire a girl who also REALLY has God, you know what I'm sayin? Ryan gets me. Yo, Ryan! Where you at?
Anyway,
I'm learning more and more how futile and foolish our plans are. God's plan will always prevail anyway, why try and decide what's going to happen? When you place God in the center of your life, all the plans get set for you, and you don't often have to decide anything! God just puts you where he needs you. Word!
-Evan
Monday, March 7, 2011
The Bible/Adjacent Days/Hopeless
Hey Bloggers. been neglectent for a week or so. haven't done a non-bible reviewing post in like 2 months.
So for any of you who followed along with me in the book of proverbs, let me just say. IT WAS AWESOME! I loved getting everyone's thoughts, as well as my own, documented together, it was so refreshing, and I feel like I've grown so much!
On April 1st, we will start Ecclesiastes. We will read one chapter a week for 12 weeks (3 Months).
This way, I think everyone will be able to fit it in, and not feel so pressured to read and write every day, especially good for kids in college, work, etc.
I would also urge you to pick another book to read every day. Or something. We should be in the word every day without fail. even if it's one verse. I myself will be reading through Romans along with Ecclesiastes. I adore paul's letters, I think they are so spritually sound in every aspect. I can't wait to start up again with you all. WORD!
Outside of bible land:
I can't wait to start playing tennis again!
I played alot last year, and I'd say I picked it up pretty quickly, Its getting warmer now, and I'm hoping for weekly ballin!
Choir is heating up, as well as the masters plan production, and so, warming up my vocal chords, I AM READY FOR SOME SINGING!
woot!
In closing,
All week I have craved Taco bell insanely. Oh, how so I would love to inhale that rich Grade D Beef smell, and bite into that not so crunchy crunchwrap, along with the ever puffed corn snack of cinnamon twists! Come to be Mr. Bell! Grace me with your heartburn!
Hopeless Crappy Mexican Food Romantic, and Hopeless Regular Romantic; Yes I'm the creeper in the corner picking a guitar, singing about love. Typical Poetic 16 year-old boy who never excelled in sports.
-Evan
So for any of you who followed along with me in the book of proverbs, let me just say. IT WAS AWESOME! I loved getting everyone's thoughts, as well as my own, documented together, it was so refreshing, and I feel like I've grown so much!
On April 1st, we will start Ecclesiastes. We will read one chapter a week for 12 weeks (3 Months).
This way, I think everyone will be able to fit it in, and not feel so pressured to read and write every day, especially good for kids in college, work, etc.
I would also urge you to pick another book to read every day. Or something. We should be in the word every day without fail. even if it's one verse. I myself will be reading through Romans along with Ecclesiastes. I adore paul's letters, I think they are so spritually sound in every aspect. I can't wait to start up again with you all. WORD!
Outside of bible land:
I can't wait to start playing tennis again!
I played alot last year, and I'd say I picked it up pretty quickly, Its getting warmer now, and I'm hoping for weekly ballin!
Choir is heating up, as well as the masters plan production, and so, warming up my vocal chords, I AM READY FOR SOME SINGING!
woot!
In closing,
All week I have craved Taco bell insanely. Oh, how so I would love to inhale that rich Grade D Beef smell, and bite into that not so crunchy crunchwrap, along with the ever puffed corn snack of cinnamon twists! Come to be Mr. Bell! Grace me with your heartburn!
Hopeless Crappy Mexican Food Romantic, and Hopeless Regular Romantic; Yes I'm the creeper in the corner picking a guitar, singing about love. Typical Poetic 16 year-old boy who never excelled in sports.
-Evan
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Proverbs Chapter 26
This chapter kind of has two sections. Fools, and Lazy People. So instead of seperating verses, I'll just knock out those two parts.
Fools:
Wise words spoken by a fool are useless. because their motives are void, so there outcomes will be as well. I'm confused by verses 4 and 5, because in one it tells us not to answer the argument of a fool, but the next verse tell us to be sure to answer the arguments of a fool. whaa???? I'm not sure what he's getting at, but maybe he means not to answer them in argument, but to answer them with calm and wisdom?
Do not put your trust in a fool. Especially if you know they are a fool. Trusting a fool with a message, will nullify your message. It will either fail to make it to the receptor or it will be given in bits and pieces and with gossip and lies in between. A fool will keep repeating the same foolish acts over and over again, never learning what he's done. be careful not to fall into this trap! "There is more hope for fools, than those who think they are wise."
For those who think they are wise, will never budge, while a fool is simply ignorant.
Lazy People:
A lazy person will always make excuses, as it says here that this man claims there is a lion in the road, so he cannot go out! A lazy person sleeps, and sleeps to waste time and avoid having to do things! A lazy person will always claim to have something to do so that you won't give them a job! wow.
"Interfering in someone else's arguments, is as foolish as yanking a dogs ears."
All you are doing is causing tension. It makes your friends angry and think differently of you. Every time two people start ti bicker they will be waiting for you to jump in, and see you as judgemental. Keep to your own business, and let the two sort it out. This reminds me of movies where the two brothers start swinging and punching and stuff and the friends all gather around to watch and someone always says "Let 'em work it out!"
haha. Unrecognized quote? Movie: Hot Rod!
Verse 18 applies directly to our generation.
"Just as damaging as a madman shooting a deadly weapon is someone who lies to a friend then says "I was only joking."
I see people and also myself do this all the time! I did it two weeks ago, and my friend wasn't too happy about it either! For some reason we have decided it's okay to lie, if humor was intended. whaa???? That's why when someone does that I say "Just Lying!" Because there's no difference! tell the truth!
-Evan
Fools:
Wise words spoken by a fool are useless. because their motives are void, so there outcomes will be as well. I'm confused by verses 4 and 5, because in one it tells us not to answer the argument of a fool, but the next verse tell us to be sure to answer the arguments of a fool. whaa???? I'm not sure what he's getting at, but maybe he means not to answer them in argument, but to answer them with calm and wisdom?
Do not put your trust in a fool. Especially if you know they are a fool. Trusting a fool with a message, will nullify your message. It will either fail to make it to the receptor or it will be given in bits and pieces and with gossip and lies in between. A fool will keep repeating the same foolish acts over and over again, never learning what he's done. be careful not to fall into this trap! "There is more hope for fools, than those who think they are wise."
For those who think they are wise, will never budge, while a fool is simply ignorant.
Lazy People:
A lazy person will always make excuses, as it says here that this man claims there is a lion in the road, so he cannot go out! A lazy person sleeps, and sleeps to waste time and avoid having to do things! A lazy person will always claim to have something to do so that you won't give them a job! wow.
"Interfering in someone else's arguments, is as foolish as yanking a dogs ears."
All you are doing is causing tension. It makes your friends angry and think differently of you. Every time two people start ti bicker they will be waiting for you to jump in, and see you as judgemental. Keep to your own business, and let the two sort it out. This reminds me of movies where the two brothers start swinging and punching and stuff and the friends all gather around to watch and someone always says "Let 'em work it out!"
haha. Unrecognized quote? Movie: Hot Rod!
Verse 18 applies directly to our generation.
"Just as damaging as a madman shooting a deadly weapon is someone who lies to a friend then says "I was only joking."
I see people and also myself do this all the time! I did it two weeks ago, and my friend wasn't too happy about it either! For some reason we have decided it's okay to lie, if humor was intended. whaa???? That's why when someone does that I say "Just Lying!" Because there's no difference! tell the truth!
-Evan
Proverbs Chapter 25
Verse 2-3:
God has dibs. Being the God of all the universe and everything in it, he has full dibs on hiding things, and doing whatever he deems right. I know this is hard to go with, because if you're like me, you don't want to lose control of things, but God is strong enough for the both of you. For all of you! So for the things you cannot see, don't try to see them! Maybe you don't need to! His power is truly awesome. Awesome in the way it's meant to be used. Look at all he has created. We cannot fathom or begin to comprehend the mind and works of our creator. He has such a brilliant look at things.
Verse 11:
"Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket."
I think we take for granted how great it is to have someone tell you what you should do. 'Cause if you're like me, you probably are going to do something dumb on your own, so might as well try someone else's crazy idea. Especially if that idea is called "Wait."
Verses 12-13:
Criticism is tough to take. No matter how nicely it is said, it's someone telling you what you've done wrong, and no matter what, it hurts to some degree. But, if you take what they've said to heart, it can change you, and build you up! It says here that criticism is like gold jewelry. If you wear it, it makes you look better, it is improving. I recently had a friend point out a problem with me. he went about it the best way I think he could have. At first, I was a little hurt, but I don't think it was at my friend, it was just that I had never realized this flaw in my life before, and because I knew the love in his heart in these words, and I listened, it began to have a full effect, and I was brought to tears at the work of God through him speaking to me. Verse 13 talks about "Trustworthy messengers" and how they revive the spirit of their employers. My friend in this case was the messenger to me, and he was perfectly trustworthy to me the receptor, and to God the employer, and I have been changed. GOD IS SO POWERFUL!
This was a good conformation for me, after the retreat I just went on. It really spoke of what was spoken to me there. Sometimes nothing is more affective than a Godly conformation!
Word!
-Evan
God has dibs. Being the God of all the universe and everything in it, he has full dibs on hiding things, and doing whatever he deems right. I know this is hard to go with, because if you're like me, you don't want to lose control of things, but God is strong enough for the both of you. For all of you! So for the things you cannot see, don't try to see them! Maybe you don't need to! His power is truly awesome. Awesome in the way it's meant to be used. Look at all he has created. We cannot fathom or begin to comprehend the mind and works of our creator. He has such a brilliant look at things.
Verse 11:
"Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket."
I think we take for granted how great it is to have someone tell you what you should do. 'Cause if you're like me, you probably are going to do something dumb on your own, so might as well try someone else's crazy idea. Especially if that idea is called "Wait."
Verses 12-13:
Criticism is tough to take. No matter how nicely it is said, it's someone telling you what you've done wrong, and no matter what, it hurts to some degree. But, if you take what they've said to heart, it can change you, and build you up! It says here that criticism is like gold jewelry. If you wear it, it makes you look better, it is improving. I recently had a friend point out a problem with me. he went about it the best way I think he could have. At first, I was a little hurt, but I don't think it was at my friend, it was just that I had never realized this flaw in my life before, and because I knew the love in his heart in these words, and I listened, it began to have a full effect, and I was brought to tears at the work of God through him speaking to me. Verse 13 talks about "Trustworthy messengers" and how they revive the spirit of their employers. My friend in this case was the messenger to me, and he was perfectly trustworthy to me the receptor, and to God the employer, and I have been changed. GOD IS SO POWERFUL!
This was a good conformation for me, after the retreat I just went on. It really spoke of what was spoken to me there. Sometimes nothing is more affective than a Godly conformation!
Word!
-Evan
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Proverbs Chapter 24
Verse 5:
"The wise are mightier than the strong, and those with knowledge grow stronger and stronger."
Wisdom is stronger than strength. The Knowledgable outlast the powerful, and become powerful through their wisdom! For a squirt like me, I could use some wisdom for strength (As I'm eating a Big 100 Collosal Bar!) Good thing God is so strong!
Verse 10:
"If you fail under pressure, your strength is too small."
I think this means if we fail under pressure, than God is not present enough in our lives! The only true victory obtained is when we have the holy spirit rushing through our veins!
Verses 11-12:
Look at the people you know that are farthest from God. they are on a path to death! Do you want to see someone near to you stagger and fall, then face death? God sees everything. He knows your heart, and he knows you know that you can do something to reach people. So do it!
"He who guards your heart knows you knew. He will repay all people as their actions deserve."
So be deserving of blessings and gifts! Take risks, "Do hard things!"
Verse 17:
"Don't rejoice when your enemies fall; don't be happy when they stumble."
God will be angry at you and not at your enemy. If you are a light and show kindess, eventually your enemy will not be your enemy anymore. Well, I would sure hope so. Put yourself in their shoes and act accordingly.
Verse 23:
"It is wrong to show favoritism when passing judgement."
You know that guy everyone knows that you think is a plain jerk? Yes. Well, if they punch a kid, you feel pretty good in deciding how evil they are and that they should be punished. You might even be the one to tell someone what happened. You know that best friend everyone has? yes. Well, if they punch a kid for whatever reason, you might not be so eager to jump the gun on their judgement. You might even let it go, and do what most people do. "Well, that kid is annoying, I would've punched him too!"
We must show equal judgement for equal actions. Treat everyone the same way, or God will be angry with you.
Verse 26:
Honesty is so much harder than we realize. Especially when you have to be honest about something you did wrong. But, even though the outcome of honesty might be bad, no matter what you will face for what you did, lying ten times worse! When you lie, God knows. heck, when you lie your mom knows too! (Yeah, Mom, you're right, I didn't brush my teeth) What's the point? When you tell the truth you mother might be angry, but God has already forgiven you for your sin before you are asked to face the truth, and then he will delight in your truthfulness!
-Evan
Prayer requests
-Rest!
"The wise are mightier than the strong, and those with knowledge grow stronger and stronger."
Wisdom is stronger than strength. The Knowledgable outlast the powerful, and become powerful through their wisdom! For a squirt like me, I could use some wisdom for strength (As I'm eating a Big 100 Collosal Bar!) Good thing God is so strong!
Verse 10:
"If you fail under pressure, your strength is too small."
I think this means if we fail under pressure, than God is not present enough in our lives! The only true victory obtained is when we have the holy spirit rushing through our veins!
Verses 11-12:
Look at the people you know that are farthest from God. they are on a path to death! Do you want to see someone near to you stagger and fall, then face death? God sees everything. He knows your heart, and he knows you know that you can do something to reach people. So do it!
"He who guards your heart knows you knew. He will repay all people as their actions deserve."
So be deserving of blessings and gifts! Take risks, "Do hard things!"
Verse 17:
"Don't rejoice when your enemies fall; don't be happy when they stumble."
God will be angry at you and not at your enemy. If you are a light and show kindess, eventually your enemy will not be your enemy anymore. Well, I would sure hope so. Put yourself in their shoes and act accordingly.
Verse 23:
"It is wrong to show favoritism when passing judgement."
You know that guy everyone knows that you think is a plain jerk? Yes. Well, if they punch a kid, you feel pretty good in deciding how evil they are and that they should be punished. You might even be the one to tell someone what happened. You know that best friend everyone has? yes. Well, if they punch a kid for whatever reason, you might not be so eager to jump the gun on their judgement. You might even let it go, and do what most people do. "Well, that kid is annoying, I would've punched him too!"
We must show equal judgement for equal actions. Treat everyone the same way, or God will be angry with you.
Verse 26:
Honesty is so much harder than we realize. Especially when you have to be honest about something you did wrong. But, even though the outcome of honesty might be bad, no matter what you will face for what you did, lying ten times worse! When you lie, God knows. heck, when you lie your mom knows too! (Yeah, Mom, you're right, I didn't brush my teeth) What's the point? When you tell the truth you mother might be angry, but God has already forgiven you for your sin before you are asked to face the truth, and then he will delight in your truthfulness!
-Evan
Prayer requests
-Rest!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Proverbs Chapter 23
V 4-5
Look at rich celebritys. I see a story almost every day of a celebrity or athlete (not much difference), who was once extremely wealthy, but lost everything they had. they did not know of the one everlasting wealth!
Having alot of money is nothing of importance. If we are rich in wisdom, and overflowing with the holy spirit, how much better off are we than to have a couple g's in out wallet?
V 15-16, 26
Solomon says that he will rejoice when we speak the truth, that everything inside him will celebrate.
This is Solomon speaking to us/his children, but I also think this is what God says of us. He is saddened when we stray from his path, and delighted when we follow in his ways. How amazing that he loves us like a father, and even more than a father!
Alcohol is a deadly trap. It ensnares you immediately. Once you have been taken by it, it is a sever struggle to overcome it. I've truly considered never having any as long as I live. That sounds ridiculous, but I know myself, and I know how I tend to get hooked on certain foods or sweets, and I do not want to fall into this trap. It would ruin me, and I would fall away from God.
Prayer Requests
-Rest
-Calmness
-My youth retreat this weekend. Safety, Teachings, Health.
Look at rich celebritys. I see a story almost every day of a celebrity or athlete (not much difference), who was once extremely wealthy, but lost everything they had. they did not know of the one everlasting wealth!
Having alot of money is nothing of importance. If we are rich in wisdom, and overflowing with the holy spirit, how much better off are we than to have a couple g's in out wallet?
V 15-16, 26
Solomon says that he will rejoice when we speak the truth, that everything inside him will celebrate.
This is Solomon speaking to us/his children, but I also think this is what God says of us. He is saddened when we stray from his path, and delighted when we follow in his ways. How amazing that he loves us like a father, and even more than a father!
Alcohol is a deadly trap. It ensnares you immediately. Once you have been taken by it, it is a sever struggle to overcome it. I've truly considered never having any as long as I live. That sounds ridiculous, but I know myself, and I know how I tend to get hooked on certain foods or sweets, and I do not want to fall into this trap. It would ruin me, and I would fall away from God.
Prayer Requests
-Rest
-Calmness
-My youth retreat this weekend. Safety, Teachings, Health.
Proverbs Chapter 22: Catching Up
1-13
It is better to be known for your good deeds than your money. I haven't really had the choice between those yet, seeing as most 16 year olds are broke. But I hope that when I am older and accountable for more money, I will be known to put this first: how people look at my by what's in my heart and actions and not what's in my wallet. ("What's in YOUR wallet"?)
The Lord created the poor and the wealthy. He loves them both, they are equal. So should not the wealthy man give to his needy brother? He should bless this needy man, acknowledging him as a creation as he is. I think this should go for the poor as well. Even the poor man should reach a hand of comfort to his brother. Pride of wealth ruins a man and makes him see himself too highly when it is not his own triumph that he has obtained this wealth, but God's, who gave him the wealth to share and bless people.
"Blessed are those who are generous, because they feed the poor." -Verse 9
6:
"Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it."
If you direct your children at a young age to go the right way, and to build a foundation in Christ, they are very likely to stay in that foundation even when they leave you. I've heard that if the average american human hasn't accepted Christ by age 18, they never will. We must reach our friends and the children under us and bring them under God's hands before their hearts harden and they will not listen! Not everyone has had the privelige to find God through their own family and upbringing, so help your friends out now!
Don't be lazy. Don't make excuses and find reasons not to go out and live big and take risks. The lazy man is shunned by God, and he will never find wisdom.
15:
"A youngster's heart is filled with foolishness, but physical discipline will drive it far away."
Yes. Solomon endorses spankings. Honestly, I don't know where I'd be without spankings today. I think that was the only way I could learn to clean my room and starighten up. I was a fireball child, and discipline saved me from being completely out of control . Thanks, Sol.
22-29
The Lord is the defender of the needy. Do we want to be to go against God? No, No, No! We will Lose!
Truly we are all lacking something. The wise man may lack money, but the wealthy man lacks wisdom.. So these two can help each other.
Choose your companions carefully. If you spend alot of time with foul mouthed people, eventually you will also begin using bad language. Surround yourself with the type of people you would like to be like, and you will become like them! It is hard not become like your friends. I'm accused of this all the time. Lucky for me, I have good friends and what I pick up from them isn't harmful.
Prayer Requests
-Patience
-Understanding
-Self-Control
It is better to be known for your good deeds than your money. I haven't really had the choice between those yet, seeing as most 16 year olds are broke. But I hope that when I am older and accountable for more money, I will be known to put this first: how people look at my by what's in my heart and actions and not what's in my wallet. ("What's in YOUR wallet"?)
The Lord created the poor and the wealthy. He loves them both, they are equal. So should not the wealthy man give to his needy brother? He should bless this needy man, acknowledging him as a creation as he is. I think this should go for the poor as well. Even the poor man should reach a hand of comfort to his brother. Pride of wealth ruins a man and makes him see himself too highly when it is not his own triumph that he has obtained this wealth, but God's, who gave him the wealth to share and bless people.
"Blessed are those who are generous, because they feed the poor." -Verse 9
6:
"Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it."
If you direct your children at a young age to go the right way, and to build a foundation in Christ, they are very likely to stay in that foundation even when they leave you. I've heard that if the average american human hasn't accepted Christ by age 18, they never will. We must reach our friends and the children under us and bring them under God's hands before their hearts harden and they will not listen! Not everyone has had the privelige to find God through their own family and upbringing, so help your friends out now!
Don't be lazy. Don't make excuses and find reasons not to go out and live big and take risks. The lazy man is shunned by God, and he will never find wisdom.
15:
"A youngster's heart is filled with foolishness, but physical discipline will drive it far away."
Yes. Solomon endorses spankings. Honestly, I don't know where I'd be without spankings today. I think that was the only way I could learn to clean my room and starighten up. I was a fireball child, and discipline saved me from being completely out of control . Thanks, Sol.
22-29
The Lord is the defender of the needy. Do we want to be to go against God? No, No, No! We will Lose!
Truly we are all lacking something. The wise man may lack money, but the wealthy man lacks wisdom.. So these two can help each other.
Choose your companions carefully. If you spend alot of time with foul mouthed people, eventually you will also begin using bad language. Surround yourself with the type of people you would like to be like, and you will become like them! It is hard not become like your friends. I'm accused of this all the time. Lucky for me, I have good friends and what I pick up from them isn't harmful.
Prayer Requests
-Patience
-Understanding
-Self-Control
Monday, February 21, 2011
Proverbs Chapter 21
I feel like Solomon is literally repeating verses in this chapter. That's good, but I kinda covered all this in that last few chapters. I'm going to find new verses and throw out some stuff on those.
29:
"The wicked bluff their way through, but the virtuous think before they act."
Thoughts BEFORE actions. Ohhhh, NOW it makes sense. I always thought that instead of asking permission, you ask forgiveness later. This is a new didcovery for me. Planning. I've always just put my head down and run. Something to work on for sure. Trust me, when you go on the fly in life, it rarely produces well.
26:
"Some people are always greedy for more, but the Godly love to give!"
Think about what you actually sacrifice. What do you give up that's important to you for the sake of others and for Christ? That's when we are giving. When we are going out of our way to do for others instead of wasting away like lazy people Solomon is hatin on so much. If we do not give, we will never receive, and we will never get anything done. so give!
31:
"The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord."
This is sometimes a hard act for christians. When we suceed and do something good, we want to have the spotlight a little right? WRONG. God has given us all of the gifts and talents we have and you gotta give him his props for it. Maybe even give him his change, and then ask if he wants paper or plastic. That would be me, cause I'm checking him out, yo! Whatever we do, we should do for the Lord, who gave us the opportunity to DO anything!
15:
"Justice is a joy to the Godly, but it terrifies evil doers."
It's amazing how your interests change when you accept the holy spirit. You might not even know what justice is, but once you have the spirit, you start doing it! I think it terrifies evil doers because they know it means them getting in trouble. It is a fragile moment knowing you've sinned and must asnwer for it. We must be gentle with these people. It isn't always wrong to correct someone's actions, but we cannot do this with pride implied like we think we're better than them. Cause, newsflash, WE SIN TOO! We must share of the forgivesness Christ gave/gives us! Then justice will be served to everyone! booyah!
I was all over the place on that chapter. Good grief.
-Evan
29:
"The wicked bluff their way through, but the virtuous think before they act."
Thoughts BEFORE actions. Ohhhh, NOW it makes sense. I always thought that instead of asking permission, you ask forgiveness later. This is a new didcovery for me. Planning. I've always just put my head down and run. Something to work on for sure. Trust me, when you go on the fly in life, it rarely produces well.
26:
"Some people are always greedy for more, but the Godly love to give!"
Think about what you actually sacrifice. What do you give up that's important to you for the sake of others and for Christ? That's when we are giving. When we are going out of our way to do for others instead of wasting away like lazy people Solomon is hatin on so much. If we do not give, we will never receive, and we will never get anything done. so give!
31:
"The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord."
This is sometimes a hard act for christians. When we suceed and do something good, we want to have the spotlight a little right? WRONG. God has given us all of the gifts and talents we have and you gotta give him his props for it. Maybe even give him his change, and then ask if he wants paper or plastic. That would be me, cause I'm checking him out, yo! Whatever we do, we should do for the Lord, who gave us the opportunity to DO anything!
15:
"Justice is a joy to the Godly, but it terrifies evil doers."
It's amazing how your interests change when you accept the holy spirit. You might not even know what justice is, but once you have the spirit, you start doing it! I think it terrifies evil doers because they know it means them getting in trouble. It is a fragile moment knowing you've sinned and must asnwer for it. We must be gentle with these people. It isn't always wrong to correct someone's actions, but we cannot do this with pride implied like we think we're better than them. Cause, newsflash, WE SIN TOO! We must share of the forgivesness Christ gave/gives us! Then justice will be served to everyone! booyah!
I was all over the place on that chapter. Good grief.
-Evan
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Proverbs Chapter 19
1-14
"Better to be poor and honest than to be dishonest and a fool"
I thought it was interesting that he didn't say the dishonest fool would have wealth. He's basically saying it is better to be poor and honest, than to be poor and dishonest. Pretty easy, I'd say.
People ruin their lives with foolishness and then get angry at God? That's ridiculous. They're just using God as an excuse for messing up. That's wrong.
4:
"Wealth makes many "friends,
poverty drives them all away."
I think what Solomon means here is that earthly wealth brings people to you, but when they see your spiritual poverty they will leave you because of your foolishness. If wisdom is more precious than any gold, than if we lack it, we are poor, right? I think that's what he meant.
The relatives of the poor (Poor in Wisdom), despise them. Even the people who are their family who should feel obligated to love them despite their foolishness, hate them. If you're family sees your foolishness and hates you, then how much more will your friends hate you for it, who aren't as obliged to love you. Having Wisdom and being rich in faith brings you good company, and true friends who understand your wealth.
If you love yourself you should obtain wisdom. You will prosper and your life will be better! It's so simple, and so very much realized only once you have searched and find wisdom. It changes everything, absolutely everything!
11:
This verse is HUGE!
"Sensible people control their temper, they earn respect by overlooking wrongs."
Next time you're about to argue about something, think about what it will accomplish. What will anyone gain from the fight? In most cases, nothing. If you're angry about something someone has said, simply hold it in and I know it's cheesey but the counting down thing helps, and your anger will subside, you will not have said something mean, and the people around you won't even know you were angry. It does feel like you missed a great opportunity to lash out, but it's better for everyone to control your anger. I'm not saying I'm always good at this, but I've done it, and it fixes alot.
15-29
"If you help the poor you are lending to God, and he will repay you!"
God has never had debt. he always gives back to you when you give to him! What a great God!
"...A quarrelsome wife is as annoying as constant dripping."
I legit laughed at this. I guess a leaky faucet has been a strife forever!
20:
"Get all the advice and instruction you can, so you will be wise the rest of your life"
Learn. Not like Math, Science, learn. Learn wisdom at a young age, so that you can teach it to others your whole life. Learn discipline, discernment, discresion, joy, outreach, love, trust, and all of the life values now! Why not? Some people say that we will be the generation to lead. Why not lead now? We can make an impact on other people at our ages now! DO IT! LIVE BIG!
22:
"Loyalty makes a person attractive."
And not just loyalty. When you have the holy spirit inside you, you become more attractive to others, AND you become more attracted to others who also have the holy spirit. Honestly, ever since my walk with Christ grew to the level it's at now, I've looked at girls so differently. Because when I put God first in my life, the un-godly girls became unnattractive to me. Before I had God where he is, I didn't even know they were un-godly. When you have the holy spirit and her wisdom in you, you can see someone for who they really are, so you see the bad in someone, and you also start to notice the good you never saw!
"Lazy people take food in their hand, but don't even lift it to their mouth."
They have all the rescources to get something done, and leave them to rot! They are wasting their gifts. How can we motivate these people?
27:
"If you stop listening to instruction my child, you will turn your back on knowledge."
Sometimes it's hard to listen to what people have to tell you, especially if it's been a long day, or you're just tired. But even in the most annoying times, you have to hear the good in what people say to you, and keep an appreciation for advice, as it leads to wisdom.
I need to find a time to catch up my chapter I'm behind. But every time I go to do yesterday's chapter I only do that one, and not today's. Quick fix: Read the chapter and not spend 30 mins writing about it!
I can't believe how fast proverbs is flying through! I can't wait till we start another book!
-Evan
"Better to be poor and honest than to be dishonest and a fool"
I thought it was interesting that he didn't say the dishonest fool would have wealth. He's basically saying it is better to be poor and honest, than to be poor and dishonest. Pretty easy, I'd say.
People ruin their lives with foolishness and then get angry at God? That's ridiculous. They're just using God as an excuse for messing up. That's wrong.
4:
"Wealth makes many "friends,
poverty drives them all away."
I think what Solomon means here is that earthly wealth brings people to you, but when they see your spiritual poverty they will leave you because of your foolishness. If wisdom is more precious than any gold, than if we lack it, we are poor, right? I think that's what he meant.
The relatives of the poor (Poor in Wisdom), despise them. Even the people who are their family who should feel obligated to love them despite their foolishness, hate them. If you're family sees your foolishness and hates you, then how much more will your friends hate you for it, who aren't as obliged to love you. Having Wisdom and being rich in faith brings you good company, and true friends who understand your wealth.
If you love yourself you should obtain wisdom. You will prosper and your life will be better! It's so simple, and so very much realized only once you have searched and find wisdom. It changes everything, absolutely everything!
11:
This verse is HUGE!
"Sensible people control their temper, they earn respect by overlooking wrongs."
Next time you're about to argue about something, think about what it will accomplish. What will anyone gain from the fight? In most cases, nothing. If you're angry about something someone has said, simply hold it in and I know it's cheesey but the counting down thing helps, and your anger will subside, you will not have said something mean, and the people around you won't even know you were angry. It does feel like you missed a great opportunity to lash out, but it's better for everyone to control your anger. I'm not saying I'm always good at this, but I've done it, and it fixes alot.
15-29
"If you help the poor you are lending to God, and he will repay you!"
God has never had debt. he always gives back to you when you give to him! What a great God!
"...A quarrelsome wife is as annoying as constant dripping."
I legit laughed at this. I guess a leaky faucet has been a strife forever!
20:
"Get all the advice and instruction you can, so you will be wise the rest of your life"
Learn. Not like Math, Science, learn. Learn wisdom at a young age, so that you can teach it to others your whole life. Learn discipline, discernment, discresion, joy, outreach, love, trust, and all of the life values now! Why not? Some people say that we will be the generation to lead. Why not lead now? We can make an impact on other people at our ages now! DO IT! LIVE BIG!
22:
"Loyalty makes a person attractive."
And not just loyalty. When you have the holy spirit inside you, you become more attractive to others, AND you become more attracted to others who also have the holy spirit. Honestly, ever since my walk with Christ grew to the level it's at now, I've looked at girls so differently. Because when I put God first in my life, the un-godly girls became unnattractive to me. Before I had God where he is, I didn't even know they were un-godly. When you have the holy spirit and her wisdom in you, you can see someone for who they really are, so you see the bad in someone, and you also start to notice the good you never saw!
"Lazy people take food in their hand, but don't even lift it to their mouth."
They have all the rescources to get something done, and leave them to rot! They are wasting their gifts. How can we motivate these people?
27:
"If you stop listening to instruction my child, you will turn your back on knowledge."
Sometimes it's hard to listen to what people have to tell you, especially if it's been a long day, or you're just tired. But even in the most annoying times, you have to hear the good in what people say to you, and keep an appreciation for advice, as it leads to wisdom.
I need to find a time to catch up my chapter I'm behind. But every time I go to do yesterday's chapter I only do that one, and not today's. Quick fix: Read the chapter and not spend 30 mins writing about it!
I can't believe how fast proverbs is flying through! I can't wait till we start another book!
-Evan
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Proverbs Chapter 18
1-11
The selfish are truly fools, for the insight of others is what brings you up in wisdom. They only speak of their own opinions; never letting someone else chime in with an idea that may be better or atleast different.
"It is not right to acquit the guilty..."
I talked about this alot in chapter 17. I won't go into that detail again, but I think this is so important.
Rumors:
Rumors are so powerful. Action speaks louder than words, and when you spread a rumor you are combining those two together. It is painful to hear people talking about you, and hearing news, whether it be good or bad, about you is harsh. Say good things about people, be encouraging. Would you want someone going around spilling your secrets to everyone? Not unless you're a weirdo.
If you like your secrets spilled....I am sorry for calling you a weirdo.
Laziness:
"A lazy person is as bad as someone who destroys things."
A ministry without actions is void and useless. You can talk all you want but if you don't do something, no one will listen to your words. We want people to come to a relationship with the creator. How do we do make that happen? through a relationship with the person. get off your couch and out those delicious lays back in the cabinet, and be a part of someone's life. Do something for them! Don't be lazy, bring Christ's love to earth. Please.
12-24
It's very important to know what you're talking about before you say something. Spouting off before you have truths is risky even in the smallest situations. Today, I was in a store with my family. When we walked in I breathed in and started to say "It smells-" My Dad cut in and told me to keep my opinion to myself even though the store smelled terrible. I was actually going to say "It smells nice!" (Which, if I had waited 2 more seconds of smelling before I said that, I would've realized I was crazy! It smelled horrible!) But, no one could've known because I was corrected before I finished speaking. My Dad didn't get the truth before he spoke and he then apologized. (No knock on my Dad here. He was completely right in cutting me off, knowing how I tend to say things really loud that I shouldn't. hee hee) Dumb example, but you get the point.
"Giving a gift opens doors; it gives acess to important people."
Once again, I think Solomon may be referencing the act of kissin up. Giving an important leader an expensive gift would surely put you higher on his list. he WAS the wisest man!
Besides that, he's right. It feels so good to get something for absolutely no reason at all. It is a gateway to someone's heart. A good example of this is my friend Christian. He will just buy you something, out of the blue (Like a tube of teryiaki sauce), just because he wants to. It's a special feeling to receive a gift from a friend, it lifts your spirits and strengthens your friendship.
Friends:
"An offended friend is harder to win back than a fortified city, arguments seperate friends like a gate with locked bars."
If you hurt someone, you have to fix it immediately, or else it will stew and get hotter inside the person, and then you will be unable to mend it. Only a fool hurts his friend and does nothing to mend the situation. If you are a friend, you will make it up to the person and earn back their trust and friendship again.
"...A real friend sticks closer than a brother."
I have some friends like this. I have some friends who are like brothers. You have fun, fight, get along, eat food, and stay out of each other's business. Then there are friends who are closer than a brother. They are the ones you can tell anything and have no fear of someone else hearing about it. You can tell them anything and they will not judge you, or demean you, but encourage you and help you to grow as a person, while still having the courage to tell you when you are wrong or headed in a bad direction without angering you. These friends are vital. Without these friends we are lost in the world.
Your tongue is your greatest weapon and your greatest healer. When someone is down, your words can heal them, and make them feel new. But, other times your words can cut like a knife, break someone's heart, and create war.
This is hard for someone like me who has a hyper-active tongue. It is difficult to say so much and never say something wrong. This is where wisdom plays in. With a good knowledge of God and his ways we are in a better position not to spout out foolish words like "This store smells awful!"
Think before you speak!
"The man who finds a wife finds a treasure, and he receives favor from the Lord."
This is mostly true, but I would add the word "good" or "Godly" before the word wife. Not every woman in the world is qualified to be a wife. Like the temptress spoken of earlier on proverbs, some women in the world will bring you strife and diatraught in a marriage, and Men, the same way. Not every man is qualified to be a father and lead a household.
I've always dreamed of getting married. Now, I know that wedding fantasies are for girls, but this is different. I guess I'm just excited to find the Godly Woman God has chosen for me, to make me strong, and to build me up. I can't wait to propose to this girl in front of cinderella castle in disney world! And quite frankly, I'm perfectly content to stay single untill I have found that girl. Does it make sense to have a 3 year relationship with someone you don't intend to marry? I'll answer for you. No! God has a perfect girl for me in mind, why would I ruin that? I wish I was 25 so I could get married now, and not have to worry about girls in high school. cause dating girls in high school does not prepare you for marriage. High School girls I know (Save for a few) are so immature that dating them now would give you no insight to what a mature, godly relationship would look like, so I'm not even going to bother. Boys are even worse. Boys are so immature at this age, that dating now will give you no insight on what you will be like when you are ready to be married. So, kids my age, go ahead date if you want. I don't think it's harmful necissarilly, but it's really just for fun. The chances of you marrying someone you're dating now, are very small, and that chance is decreasing.
This is a bit off topic yes, but still important. I'm done venting.
-Evan
The selfish are truly fools, for the insight of others is what brings you up in wisdom. They only speak of their own opinions; never letting someone else chime in with an idea that may be better or atleast different.
"It is not right to acquit the guilty..."
I talked about this alot in chapter 17. I won't go into that detail again, but I think this is so important.
Rumors:
Rumors are so powerful. Action speaks louder than words, and when you spread a rumor you are combining those two together. It is painful to hear people talking about you, and hearing news, whether it be good or bad, about you is harsh. Say good things about people, be encouraging. Would you want someone going around spilling your secrets to everyone? Not unless you're a weirdo.
If you like your secrets spilled....I am sorry for calling you a weirdo.
Laziness:
"A lazy person is as bad as someone who destroys things."
A ministry without actions is void and useless. You can talk all you want but if you don't do something, no one will listen to your words. We want people to come to a relationship with the creator. How do we do make that happen? through a relationship with the person. get off your couch and out those delicious lays back in the cabinet, and be a part of someone's life. Do something for them! Don't be lazy, bring Christ's love to earth. Please.
12-24
It's very important to know what you're talking about before you say something. Spouting off before you have truths is risky even in the smallest situations. Today, I was in a store with my family. When we walked in I breathed in and started to say "It smells-" My Dad cut in and told me to keep my opinion to myself even though the store smelled terrible. I was actually going to say "It smells nice!" (Which, if I had waited 2 more seconds of smelling before I said that, I would've realized I was crazy! It smelled horrible!) But, no one could've known because I was corrected before I finished speaking. My Dad didn't get the truth before he spoke and he then apologized. (No knock on my Dad here. He was completely right in cutting me off, knowing how I tend to say things really loud that I shouldn't. hee hee) Dumb example, but you get the point.
"Giving a gift opens doors; it gives acess to important people."
Once again, I think Solomon may be referencing the act of kissin up. Giving an important leader an expensive gift would surely put you higher on his list. he WAS the wisest man!
Besides that, he's right. It feels so good to get something for absolutely no reason at all. It is a gateway to someone's heart. A good example of this is my friend Christian. He will just buy you something, out of the blue (Like a tube of teryiaki sauce), just because he wants to. It's a special feeling to receive a gift from a friend, it lifts your spirits and strengthens your friendship.
Friends:
"An offended friend is harder to win back than a fortified city, arguments seperate friends like a gate with locked bars."
If you hurt someone, you have to fix it immediately, or else it will stew and get hotter inside the person, and then you will be unable to mend it. Only a fool hurts his friend and does nothing to mend the situation. If you are a friend, you will make it up to the person and earn back their trust and friendship again.
"...A real friend sticks closer than a brother."
I have some friends like this. I have some friends who are like brothers. You have fun, fight, get along, eat food, and stay out of each other's business. Then there are friends who are closer than a brother. They are the ones you can tell anything and have no fear of someone else hearing about it. You can tell them anything and they will not judge you, or demean you, but encourage you and help you to grow as a person, while still having the courage to tell you when you are wrong or headed in a bad direction without angering you. These friends are vital. Without these friends we are lost in the world.
Your tongue is your greatest weapon and your greatest healer. When someone is down, your words can heal them, and make them feel new. But, other times your words can cut like a knife, break someone's heart, and create war.
This is hard for someone like me who has a hyper-active tongue. It is difficult to say so much and never say something wrong. This is where wisdom plays in. With a good knowledge of God and his ways we are in a better position not to spout out foolish words like "This store smells awful!"
Think before you speak!
"The man who finds a wife finds a treasure, and he receives favor from the Lord."
This is mostly true, but I would add the word "good" or "Godly" before the word wife. Not every woman in the world is qualified to be a wife. Like the temptress spoken of earlier on proverbs, some women in the world will bring you strife and diatraught in a marriage, and Men, the same way. Not every man is qualified to be a father and lead a household.
I've always dreamed of getting married. Now, I know that wedding fantasies are for girls, but this is different. I guess I'm just excited to find the Godly Woman God has chosen for me, to make me strong, and to build me up. I can't wait to propose to this girl in front of cinderella castle in disney world! And quite frankly, I'm perfectly content to stay single untill I have found that girl. Does it make sense to have a 3 year relationship with someone you don't intend to marry? I'll answer for you. No! God has a perfect girl for me in mind, why would I ruin that? I wish I was 25 so I could get married now, and not have to worry about girls in high school. cause dating girls in high school does not prepare you for marriage. High School girls I know (Save for a few) are so immature that dating them now would give you no insight to what a mature, godly relationship would look like, so I'm not even going to bother. Boys are even worse. Boys are so immature at this age, that dating now will give you no insight on what you will be like when you are ready to be married. So, kids my age, go ahead date if you want. I don't think it's harmful necissarilly, but it's really just for fun. The chances of you marrying someone you're dating now, are very small, and that chance is decreasing.
This is a bit off topic yes, but still important. I'm done venting.
-Evan
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Proverbs Chapter 17
It's SO late. I'm going to review a couple of verses that stuck out to me and hit the hay (or is it the sack.....sack of hay?)
5:
"Those who mock the poor insult their maker..."
On the middle school retreat I went on last weekend, one of the kids talked alot about how God's creation is frowned upon and put down. It saddened his heart to see beautiful people teased and hurt. God created us in his image and all are loved by their creator. Another verse that I think fits in here is verse 15 which says:
"Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent- Both are detestable to the Lord.
I think that we as christians are so judgemental, not taking a minute to understand where someone is in their life and without factoring in that it's harder to do right without the Lord in you. We read so much that the knowledge of good and evil comes from the Lord, so if someone does wrong and doesn't have God, shouldn't we be merciful and forgiving to God's creations? These are the people we are reaching our hands to, for Jesus did not judge the sinners, but taught them of living water at a well where they were cast out, and invited them to dinner where they were hated, and in doing so, blessed them, showed them love, and brought them to salvation, giving them a new found knowledge of good and evil and a discernment to do good. So instead of judging the evil and condemning them for their sins, we should show them God's love, and they will be transformed not by our words and actions, but by the hands of their creator!
27:
"A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even tempered."
We can talk the talk but can we walk the walk? That's the question here. When we have such a God driven life that we are reaching people before we speak about it, we are doing it right. Actions speak louder than words. So should it be with our faith. Our acts of kindness and faith, as well as our fruits of the spirit, will be the first thing anyone sees when they see you, so they should be our ministry. Non-believers that frown upon God and the church, are tired of hearing they're going to hell, they're tired of hearing about the amazing things that will happen. They want to SEE amazing things happen. they want to see what it looks like to be posessed by the Holy Spirit. They want to see the pure joy and happiness that comes with a heart filled with God. And when they do, they will not be able to resist. And when they can't resist they will come to you and have questions of why you are how you are, and you know what you do then? Speak.
That is the time to speak. I am not saying that it is wrong to approach someone about God, or inform them of the error in their ways, to try and save them, but in all interactions with non-believers you must act with care and gentleness as the Lord did with the tax collectors and prostitutes. It worked pretty well for him I'd say. If we can bring 1% of the people Jesus saved to Christ with the gentle apporach he used, we have had a succesfull ministry, we will have blessed and saved someone who was lost, and we will find favor in our creators eyes. Good night!
-Evan
5:
"Those who mock the poor insult their maker..."
On the middle school retreat I went on last weekend, one of the kids talked alot about how God's creation is frowned upon and put down. It saddened his heart to see beautiful people teased and hurt. God created us in his image and all are loved by their creator. Another verse that I think fits in here is verse 15 which says:
"Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent- Both are detestable to the Lord.
I think that we as christians are so judgemental, not taking a minute to understand where someone is in their life and without factoring in that it's harder to do right without the Lord in you. We read so much that the knowledge of good and evil comes from the Lord, so if someone does wrong and doesn't have God, shouldn't we be merciful and forgiving to God's creations? These are the people we are reaching our hands to, for Jesus did not judge the sinners, but taught them of living water at a well where they were cast out, and invited them to dinner where they were hated, and in doing so, blessed them, showed them love, and brought them to salvation, giving them a new found knowledge of good and evil and a discernment to do good. So instead of judging the evil and condemning them for their sins, we should show them God's love, and they will be transformed not by our words and actions, but by the hands of their creator!
27:
"A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even tempered."
We can talk the talk but can we walk the walk? That's the question here. When we have such a God driven life that we are reaching people before we speak about it, we are doing it right. Actions speak louder than words. So should it be with our faith. Our acts of kindness and faith, as well as our fruits of the spirit, will be the first thing anyone sees when they see you, so they should be our ministry. Non-believers that frown upon God and the church, are tired of hearing they're going to hell, they're tired of hearing about the amazing things that will happen. They want to SEE amazing things happen. they want to see what it looks like to be posessed by the Holy Spirit. They want to see the pure joy and happiness that comes with a heart filled with God. And when they do, they will not be able to resist. And when they can't resist they will come to you and have questions of why you are how you are, and you know what you do then? Speak.
That is the time to speak. I am not saying that it is wrong to approach someone about God, or inform them of the error in their ways, to try and save them, but in all interactions with non-believers you must act with care and gentleness as the Lord did with the tax collectors and prostitutes. It worked pretty well for him I'd say. If we can bring 1% of the people Jesus saved to Christ with the gentle apporach he used, we have had a succesfull ministry, we will have blessed and saved someone who was lost, and we will find favor in our creators eyes. Good night!
-Evan
Proverbs Chapter 16
1-9
Verse 1: "We can make our own plans, but the Lord gives the right answer."
Why try and shape your life to your liking when God has a perfect, savior plan already? I, even at a young age, am beginning to see how God wants to use my life in contrast to how I would choose. I mean, I would choose one path completely to the left, and God wants me to go completely to the right. it's frustrating to come to that realization but then you stop and think about it (or "Thank you baby"), and you realize how in depth God's plan is for your life and how he has such a better view of the picture than you. Praise! Good stuff, verse 1, good stuff.
The Lord always sees your heart. When you do something good, but truly want the glory to go to you for being a good person (and we've all done that), God knows that, and you are not blessed for it. "The Lord detests the proud; they will surely be punished." God doesn't always see you for your actions, but for your heart condition. "Commit your actions to the lord and your plans will suceed."
Once again, God has a plan. Even if you don't know what that is, just walk in Godly steps and work for his glory and not yours and he will reveal his truths to you.
When you are living a life pleasing to the Lord, even your enemies have peace with you. God is such a mighty shield. Just having his favor on you protects you from your pursuers. What a good God!
10-19
Solomon talks alot about Kings/Rulers here and how they are supposed to act, about how they act sometimes similarly to Hod and how just and good God is in their comparison.
Like God, a kings rule should be built upon Justice, and be a fair and trustworthy rule. Every decision a ruler makes affects everyone in the country in some way. They are the cornerstone for a nation, they have to have good morals, leadership qualities, and quite frankly, I think they should all have God with them, cause he's smart. The King has a deep wrath, he hates wrongdoing and his anger is deadly, and the wise will try to appease it. Is it saying that it's smart to kiss up to leaders above you? hmm.....?
A ruler should have humiltiy, knowing that it is not by their own works and deeds that put them in their position, but by the work of God's hands knowing where to place the right people depending on his will. Pride goes before the fall, and history shows the nations that have fallen due to pride tripping them up.
20-33
"...Pleasant words are persuasive..."
Solomon uses this phrase a few times here, teaching us that you can really get someone's attention with some persuasive speaking. They say action speaks louder than words, but that must be saying something because words can do alot. And isn't speaking an action anyway?
Parental Discresion Advised!!!:
Discresion is such an important thing. Like it's counter-part discernment, it is the base of not only knowing right and wrong, but being able to see it and have the discipline to turn down the wrong and find the right. having this one-two punch will bless us like a fountain forever!
Verse 25 is a verbatim of a verse from a chapter or two ago.
"There is a path before each person that seems right, but it leads to death."
It is so easy to be deceived in this world. The empire of sin that is our Earth is a giant trap for humans to fall into the wrong hands and slip away from Christ and to slip away from good. This is an example that the Discernment, Discresion, Discipline, combo is so important, and it's convenient that it follows the warning to have discresion right away. with God inside us, we have his x-ray vision into the heart of the people trying to lead us somewhere, whether that be somewhere good or somewhere bad. Fear of the Lord is the root of all wisdom, and wisdom is the root of all Discernment, Discresion and Discipline, and those will protect us from all evil we face. I think this is the one thing that sticks out of this chapter that Solomon was trying to get out. Without a good sense of right and wrong, as cheesey and cliched as that sounds, is the base for staying pure and close to God, then you add in discresion and discipline enough to stay away from what you know is wrong and God will bless you richly!
Brilliance, Solomon!
This is my favorite chapter so far. Loving these words so much!
-Evan
Verse 1: "We can make our own plans, but the Lord gives the right answer."
Why try and shape your life to your liking when God has a perfect, savior plan already? I, even at a young age, am beginning to see how God wants to use my life in contrast to how I would choose. I mean, I would choose one path completely to the left, and God wants me to go completely to the right. it's frustrating to come to that realization but then you stop and think about it (or "Thank you baby"), and you realize how in depth God's plan is for your life and how he has such a better view of the picture than you. Praise! Good stuff, verse 1, good stuff.
The Lord always sees your heart. When you do something good, but truly want the glory to go to you for being a good person (and we've all done that), God knows that, and you are not blessed for it. "The Lord detests the proud; they will surely be punished." God doesn't always see you for your actions, but for your heart condition. "Commit your actions to the lord and your plans will suceed."
Once again, God has a plan. Even if you don't know what that is, just walk in Godly steps and work for his glory and not yours and he will reveal his truths to you.
When you are living a life pleasing to the Lord, even your enemies have peace with you. God is such a mighty shield. Just having his favor on you protects you from your pursuers. What a good God!
10-19
Solomon talks alot about Kings/Rulers here and how they are supposed to act, about how they act sometimes similarly to Hod and how just and good God is in their comparison.
Like God, a kings rule should be built upon Justice, and be a fair and trustworthy rule. Every decision a ruler makes affects everyone in the country in some way. They are the cornerstone for a nation, they have to have good morals, leadership qualities, and quite frankly, I think they should all have God with them, cause he's smart. The King has a deep wrath, he hates wrongdoing and his anger is deadly, and the wise will try to appease it. Is it saying that it's smart to kiss up to leaders above you? hmm.....?
A ruler should have humiltiy, knowing that it is not by their own works and deeds that put them in their position, but by the work of God's hands knowing where to place the right people depending on his will. Pride goes before the fall, and history shows the nations that have fallen due to pride tripping them up.
20-33
"...Pleasant words are persuasive..."
Solomon uses this phrase a few times here, teaching us that you can really get someone's attention with some persuasive speaking. They say action speaks louder than words, but that must be saying something because words can do alot. And isn't speaking an action anyway?
Parental Discresion Advised!!!:
Discresion is such an important thing. Like it's counter-part discernment, it is the base of not only knowing right and wrong, but being able to see it and have the discipline to turn down the wrong and find the right. having this one-two punch will bless us like a fountain forever!
Verse 25 is a verbatim of a verse from a chapter or two ago.
"There is a path before each person that seems right, but it leads to death."
It is so easy to be deceived in this world. The empire of sin that is our Earth is a giant trap for humans to fall into the wrong hands and slip away from Christ and to slip away from good. This is an example that the Discernment, Discresion, Discipline, combo is so important, and it's convenient that it follows the warning to have discresion right away. with God inside us, we have his x-ray vision into the heart of the people trying to lead us somewhere, whether that be somewhere good or somewhere bad. Fear of the Lord is the root of all wisdom, and wisdom is the root of all Discernment, Discresion and Discipline, and those will protect us from all evil we face. I think this is the one thing that sticks out of this chapter that Solomon was trying to get out. Without a good sense of right and wrong, as cheesey and cliched as that sounds, is the base for staying pure and close to God, then you add in discresion and discipline enough to stay away from what you know is wrong and God will bless you richly!
Brilliance, Solomon!
This is my favorite chapter so far. Loving these words so much!
-Evan
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Proverbs Chapter 15
1-11
"A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare."
It's so hard to cool down in a fight. This is something I've been trying to get better at for a while. If you're yelling at each other back and forth it will only increase the fighting. It's really hard for the other person to stay flared and angry if you're very calm, controlled, and gentle. very important verse.
God is watching. I know it's cheesey when mom's say that, but it's so true. God sees all evil and all good in the world. If you do something wrong, God sees you. If you do something good, God sees you. When you mess up or you prevail, God is watching, and what a good and just supervisor we have!
"...Whoever learns from correction is wise..."
We should be like children in this sense. When we do something wrong, we are supposed to learn from it, and do better the next time. When someone rebukes us and corrects us, we are supposed to listen and be taught. It's hard for me because sometimes people rebuke and correct very harshly and in ways that are not gentle and kind, and I don't want to listen to mean people. but, even then, God is double testing us. he is testing our patience and gentleness as well as our ability to hear and learn. Sneaky.
11
"Even death and destruction hold no secrets from the Lord! How much better does he know the human heart?"
God knows everything about you. better than you know yourself. He made you, and he knows of every sin you have ever commited. At first thought that scares me. God knows EVERYTHING I've ever done? But then I think about the blessings I have even through those sins, and all I can say is "What a wonderful, merciful and forgiving savior I have!"
12-22:
"A glad heart makes a happy face, a broken heart crushes the spirit." -Verse 13
"...For the happy heart, life is a continual feast." -Verse 15
I cannot say enough how much it has been a blessing to me just to be joyful. Just having this wisdom in me lets me see everything in a different light. All the same crap keeps happening, the same situations still suck, but I'm truly happy about it! God knows far more than I do that's for sure!
"Better to have little and fear the Lord, than to have great treasure and inner turmoil."
God is such a treasure. He is more valuable than any treasure on the earth or in space or anywhere else NASA is looking at. I would rather be poor and have God, than to be the most wealthy man in the world and be a lost child screaming for an answer.
"A bowl of vegetables with someone you love, is better than steak with someone you hate."
This verse rocks. especially for me, I don't like steak. I would rather have the bowl of veggies anyway! Veggies AND somebody I love. Word.
20:
"Sensible children bring joy to their father, foolish children despise their mother."
Solomon knows a very important realtionship in life is with your parent's. Personally I despise dissapointing my parents. It's such a let-down depressing day. I would like to bring joy to my parents, not only for their favor, but just so that they are not stressed or troubled.
22:
"Plans go wrong for lack of advice,
many advisers bring sucess."
This is vital and often overlooked. It's so important to have people older than you that understand where you are giving you help through your decisions. I can't tell you how many stupid things I've avoided doing with the guidance of my parent's, my sister, christian, etc. Before I do anything, I just ask other people close to me what they think. This is a smart move for a charger.
23-33
"...It is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time."
You know that moment where you just simply nail it? You gave the perfect response in the perfect moment with the perfect outcome. SUH-WEET! What a victory. Score one for the home team! I love that moment. Who doesn't like to suceed?
28:
"The heart of the Godly thinks carefully before speaking. the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words."
This reminds me of that John Mayer song "My Stupid Mouth" where he basically illustrates every guy's moment of "Oh snap...I just said that." He talks about how his mom always told him to think before speaking, and how he wishes he had a filter in his head. This. is. me. That is the advice my mom has given me the most times in my life. being a charger, that is another place where I am reckless and stupid. So many times I have just blurted out whatever comes to mind. That doesn't go well ever. ever ever ever. Think before you speak. The bible tells me so.
30:
"A cheerful look brings joy to the heart;
good news makes for good health."
I love that Solomon is finally talking some happiness this time. Honestly I was getting kinda bummed about all the "Wicked are foolish" stuff. I wanted something cheery! here it is! This is just purely telling us more ways to stay joyful. Find good news in things, be happy for people. SMILE!! It fixes everything!
33:
Fear of the Lord teaches wisdom..."
I think he could end every chapter with this verse and it would get me every time. It's so powerful! So strong!
The End.
-Evan
"A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare."
It's so hard to cool down in a fight. This is something I've been trying to get better at for a while. If you're yelling at each other back and forth it will only increase the fighting. It's really hard for the other person to stay flared and angry if you're very calm, controlled, and gentle. very important verse.
God is watching. I know it's cheesey when mom's say that, but it's so true. God sees all evil and all good in the world. If you do something wrong, God sees you. If you do something good, God sees you. When you mess up or you prevail, God is watching, and what a good and just supervisor we have!
"...Whoever learns from correction is wise..."
We should be like children in this sense. When we do something wrong, we are supposed to learn from it, and do better the next time. When someone rebukes us and corrects us, we are supposed to listen and be taught. It's hard for me because sometimes people rebuke and correct very harshly and in ways that are not gentle and kind, and I don't want to listen to mean people. but, even then, God is double testing us. he is testing our patience and gentleness as well as our ability to hear and learn. Sneaky.
11
"Even death and destruction hold no secrets from the Lord! How much better does he know the human heart?"
God knows everything about you. better than you know yourself. He made you, and he knows of every sin you have ever commited. At first thought that scares me. God knows EVERYTHING I've ever done? But then I think about the blessings I have even through those sins, and all I can say is "What a wonderful, merciful and forgiving savior I have!"
12-22:
"A glad heart makes a happy face, a broken heart crushes the spirit." -Verse 13
"...For the happy heart, life is a continual feast." -Verse 15
I cannot say enough how much it has been a blessing to me just to be joyful. Just having this wisdom in me lets me see everything in a different light. All the same crap keeps happening, the same situations still suck, but I'm truly happy about it! God knows far more than I do that's for sure!
"Better to have little and fear the Lord, than to have great treasure and inner turmoil."
God is such a treasure. He is more valuable than any treasure on the earth or in space or anywhere else NASA is looking at. I would rather be poor and have God, than to be the most wealthy man in the world and be a lost child screaming for an answer.
"A bowl of vegetables with someone you love, is better than steak with someone you hate."
This verse rocks. especially for me, I don't like steak. I would rather have the bowl of veggies anyway! Veggies AND somebody I love. Word.
20:
"Sensible children bring joy to their father, foolish children despise their mother."
Solomon knows a very important realtionship in life is with your parent's. Personally I despise dissapointing my parents. It's such a let-down depressing day. I would like to bring joy to my parents, not only for their favor, but just so that they are not stressed or troubled.
22:
"Plans go wrong for lack of advice,
many advisers bring sucess."
This is vital and often overlooked. It's so important to have people older than you that understand where you are giving you help through your decisions. I can't tell you how many stupid things I've avoided doing with the guidance of my parent's, my sister, christian, etc. Before I do anything, I just ask other people close to me what they think. This is a smart move for a charger.
23-33
"...It is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time."
You know that moment where you just simply nail it? You gave the perfect response in the perfect moment with the perfect outcome. SUH-WEET! What a victory. Score one for the home team! I love that moment. Who doesn't like to suceed?
28:
"The heart of the Godly thinks carefully before speaking. the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words."
This reminds me of that John Mayer song "My Stupid Mouth" where he basically illustrates every guy's moment of "Oh snap...I just said that." He talks about how his mom always told him to think before speaking, and how he wishes he had a filter in his head. This. is. me. That is the advice my mom has given me the most times in my life. being a charger, that is another place where I am reckless and stupid. So many times I have just blurted out whatever comes to mind. That doesn't go well ever. ever ever ever. Think before you speak. The bible tells me so.
30:
"A cheerful look brings joy to the heart;
good news makes for good health."
I love that Solomon is finally talking some happiness this time. Honestly I was getting kinda bummed about all the "Wicked are foolish" stuff. I wanted something cheery! here it is! This is just purely telling us more ways to stay joyful. Find good news in things, be happy for people. SMILE!! It fixes everything!
33:
Fear of the Lord teaches wisdom..."
I think he could end every chapter with this verse and it would get me every time. It's so powerful! So strong!
The End.
-Evan
Monday, February 14, 2011
Proverbs Chapter 14
Happy Valentine's day e'rr'body! Hope you enjoyed a day with a special someone, as for me, my special someone today is JC! Jesus date!
Proverbs Chapter 14:
I need to pop through this fairly quickly so I can have movie time with my sisters!!
I'm going to pop out some thoughts on particular verses here, instead of a full recap.
Verse 3:
Pride gets you nothing. In all the time you can spend talking about what you've done, you can do 10 more good things! People see what you do and get the point on their own, you don't have to tell them, that's just annoying and it will beat you like a stick.
8:
Those with wisdom see ahead of themselves it says here. they can sense the good and bad of the trials to come, but the fools who do not acquire godly wisdom are lost, and they trick themselves into thinking they know where they are, where they are going, and what they are getting. If we can see ahead, perhaps we can guide those fools.
10:
"Each heart knows it's own bitterness, and no one else can fully share it's joy."
You are the only person that truly understands your heart. You have to be the one to control what you do with it. You know what makes you angry, and what makes you joyful, and you have to use that to your advantage and think about your steps before you take them. Like I said, I'm a charger. I suck at this.
12:
"There is a path before each person that seems right, but it leads to death."
I play God into everything. Whenever something good happens to me, I immediately turn glory to God. But, I also trick myself into thinking God has given me a sign or given me a promise. I often follow the path that seems right, and start sprinting at death, and that's when God snaps you back to reality. If christianity was easy...there would be no point.
13:
This verse is so powerful to me. When I'm grieving, sad, or broken, I try very hard to cover it up and be cheerful and happy. This is a dangerous thing. If you cover your sorrow with fake laughter, it only digs you in deeper. I'm not saying I should mope around like Eeyore, but it's good to open up your troubles to someone.
And a tip to everyone:
Sometimes it's not just good to comfort the lonely, sad looking people. Everyone has problems no matter how they seem.
16:
I'm a charger. Reckless and foolish. But with the wisdom I am gaining I am becoming more and more slow to jump into things. It's amazing how this book this month and the holy spirit the last 6 have transformed my heart. I love it,
23:
Work brings profit. get stuff done! The lazy are lost and will fall prey to those with a mission.
26:
Those who fear the Lord are secure and safe. A lion scares you when you see it, but imagine you were best friends with the lion. You get to know it's lamb heart. ( I know, cheesey lion and lamb reference). Then you are protected and secure walking around with your lion friend. (That's God, fyi)
34:
"Godliness makes a nation great!"
A God lead place is blessed and will thrive fully! It will be well nourished well guided and will never fail to uphold it's foundation. If we set our plans, and our life upon God, we will be protected, safe, and we will make good decisions. That sounds amazing to me, I'm tired of doing dumb things!
-Evan
Proverbs Chapter 14:
I need to pop through this fairly quickly so I can have movie time with my sisters!!
I'm going to pop out some thoughts on particular verses here, instead of a full recap.
Verse 3:
Pride gets you nothing. In all the time you can spend talking about what you've done, you can do 10 more good things! People see what you do and get the point on their own, you don't have to tell them, that's just annoying and it will beat you like a stick.
8:
Those with wisdom see ahead of themselves it says here. they can sense the good and bad of the trials to come, but the fools who do not acquire godly wisdom are lost, and they trick themselves into thinking they know where they are, where they are going, and what they are getting. If we can see ahead, perhaps we can guide those fools.
10:
"Each heart knows it's own bitterness, and no one else can fully share it's joy."
You are the only person that truly understands your heart. You have to be the one to control what you do with it. You know what makes you angry, and what makes you joyful, and you have to use that to your advantage and think about your steps before you take them. Like I said, I'm a charger. I suck at this.
12:
"There is a path before each person that seems right, but it leads to death."
I play God into everything. Whenever something good happens to me, I immediately turn glory to God. But, I also trick myself into thinking God has given me a sign or given me a promise. I often follow the path that seems right, and start sprinting at death, and that's when God snaps you back to reality. If christianity was easy...there would be no point.
13:
This verse is so powerful to me. When I'm grieving, sad, or broken, I try very hard to cover it up and be cheerful and happy. This is a dangerous thing. If you cover your sorrow with fake laughter, it only digs you in deeper. I'm not saying I should mope around like Eeyore, but it's good to open up your troubles to someone.
And a tip to everyone:
Sometimes it's not just good to comfort the lonely, sad looking people. Everyone has problems no matter how they seem.
16:
I'm a charger. Reckless and foolish. But with the wisdom I am gaining I am becoming more and more slow to jump into things. It's amazing how this book this month and the holy spirit the last 6 have transformed my heart. I love it,
23:
Work brings profit. get stuff done! The lazy are lost and will fall prey to those with a mission.
26:
Those who fear the Lord are secure and safe. A lion scares you when you see it, but imagine you were best friends with the lion. You get to know it's lamb heart. ( I know, cheesey lion and lamb reference). Then you are protected and secure walking around with your lion friend. (That's God, fyi)
34:
"Godliness makes a nation great!"
A God lead place is blessed and will thrive fully! It will be well nourished well guided and will never fail to uphold it's foundation. If we set our plans, and our life upon God, we will be protected, safe, and we will make good decisions. That sounds amazing to me, I'm tired of doing dumb things!
-Evan
Friday, February 11, 2011
Proverbs Chapter 11
I don't have time, but I'm making time, this is the best chapter so far I think!
1-7
Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. I think thats so hard. When you do something good, you want attention for it right? that was your victory for the world to see......wrong......GOD'S GLORY! Good reminder for me.
Honesty.
Verse 3 says honesty guides good people, but dishonesty destroys treacherous people. I'd say thats a pretty easy choice.
Money doesn't get you any closer to God. Anyone remember that verse about a camel through the eye of the needle? It's that hard.
Godliness:
Godliness rescues us! Just having God-like qualities keeps us safe, woah!
8-20
"The whole city celebrates when the Godly suceed." I wish that were totally true today...
12:
"It is foolish to belittle one's neighbor, a sensible person keeps quiet."
See chapter 11 verse 19!
Repetition really drives the point home!
16:
"A gracious women gains respect, but ruthless men gain only money, and we know that helps us none!
Have to leave! BYE!
1-7
Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. I think thats so hard. When you do something good, you want attention for it right? that was your victory for the world to see......wrong......GOD'S GLORY! Good reminder for me.
Honesty.
Verse 3 says honesty guides good people, but dishonesty destroys treacherous people. I'd say thats a pretty easy choice.
Money doesn't get you any closer to God. Anyone remember that verse about a camel through the eye of the needle? It's that hard.
Godliness:
Godliness rescues us! Just having God-like qualities keeps us safe, woah!
8-20
"The whole city celebrates when the Godly suceed." I wish that were totally true today...
12:
"It is foolish to belittle one's neighbor, a sensible person keeps quiet."
See chapter 11 verse 19!
Repetition really drives the point home!
16:
"A gracious women gains respect, but ruthless men gain only money, and we know that helps us none!
Have to leave! BYE!
Proverbs Chapter 10
I don't have much time to write, I'm being a youth leader on a middle school retreat this weekend! Firecrackers in the bathroom? I'm so afraid.
I'll just have to write on a couple good verses from 10
5
"A wise youth harvests in the summer, but one who sleeps in the harvest is a disgrace."
I think summers are so important to work, as I intend to do this summer. Summer goes by so quick, before you know it, you've gone to a couple pools, parties etc, and it's september, and here comes GCN!! whew.
Take your summer days and put them to good use, and the Lord would will.
19
"Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut."
This is hard for me. I'm a extreme extrovert, social, talker. My sprititual gift is hospitality and exhortation. How can you be slient and do that? For the most part it's good to speak and have things to say, but from my own experience, I can tell you, being a talker can get you into trouble. BIG TROUBLE! Does anyone know how much a brain filter costs these days? I need one. Guard you words with your thoughs, guard your thoughts with your heart, and guard your heart with wisdom through a fear of God. You can always keep safe this way.
Seriously that's all the time I have. have a good weekend people!
-Evan
I'll just have to write on a couple good verses from 10
5
"A wise youth harvests in the summer, but one who sleeps in the harvest is a disgrace."
I think summers are so important to work, as I intend to do this summer. Summer goes by so quick, before you know it, you've gone to a couple pools, parties etc, and it's september, and here comes GCN!! whew.
Take your summer days and put them to good use, and the Lord would will.
19
"Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut."
This is hard for me. I'm a extreme extrovert, social, talker. My sprititual gift is hospitality and exhortation. How can you be slient and do that? For the most part it's good to speak and have things to say, but from my own experience, I can tell you, being a talker can get you into trouble. BIG TROUBLE! Does anyone know how much a brain filter costs these days? I need one. Guard you words with your thoughs, guard your thoughts with your heart, and guard your heart with wisdom through a fear of God. You can always keep safe this way.
Seriously that's all the time I have. have a good weekend people!
-Evan
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Proverbs Chapter 9
Chapter 9 is ver much a continuation of chapter 8. I'm glad I'm doing them both at once, cause I'm still on a roll from the last chapter!
1-9
Wisdom has made us a banquet! She calls out to us and calls us to come join her and drink her wine and soak up her knowledge! We will begin to live at this banquet of wisdom! It'll be the party of the year!
verses 7 and 8 are some of the best and probably overlooked pieces of advide I've read in Proverbs so far!
It says that we should not correct the foolish, or rebuke the mockers, for they will hate us and insult us back!
I know these people and it's true! You will get nowhere telling them how wrong they are, for they are uptight and they will not listen to you! It will only dig a hole you will not be able to get out of. Treat these situations with tenderness and care, as you would a baby. (assuming you would treat a baby with tenderness and care, I should hope you would!)
10-19
Once again the editor did a wonderful job seperating this verse from the others for emphasis!
Verse 10:
"Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the holy one will result in good judgement."
I shall say it again! Just a love of God and understanding of him, results in wisdom, and then when we dive into wisdom specifically, we grow and grow and grow some more! This is so powerful!
Wisdom will give us a long life. I'm still not sure if this applies to the good who always die young (or so I'm told). But in relativity to God's plan, wisdom will increase our life, and make it good! It will be a steady blessing that will not falter, or change!
Folly calls for a hearing:
This is just like when wisdom called for a hearing except it's folly this time. Thus the name, Folly calls for a hearing.
She is ignorant and doesn't know it! This doesn't mean it's our job to inform her of her foolishness (see verse 7).
"She calls out to men going by who are minding their own business. "Come in with me," she urges the simple."
She is a temptress! She will stop at nothing to pull you into sin! Her guests are in the grave! (This reminds me of the ghost of the bride in the Haunted Manion ride at Disney World. Holla, Ash!)
Do not be enticed by her stolen water and secret food! (See verse 17, NLT)
Her path will lead you astray. Stay on the path of righteousness. dare I say it, Follow The Yellow Brick Road!
-Evan
1-9
Wisdom has made us a banquet! She calls out to us and calls us to come join her and drink her wine and soak up her knowledge! We will begin to live at this banquet of wisdom! It'll be the party of the year!
verses 7 and 8 are some of the best and probably overlooked pieces of advide I've read in Proverbs so far!
It says that we should not correct the foolish, or rebuke the mockers, for they will hate us and insult us back!
I know these people and it's true! You will get nowhere telling them how wrong they are, for they are uptight and they will not listen to you! It will only dig a hole you will not be able to get out of. Treat these situations with tenderness and care, as you would a baby. (assuming you would treat a baby with tenderness and care, I should hope you would!)
10-19
Once again the editor did a wonderful job seperating this verse from the others for emphasis!
Verse 10:
"Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the holy one will result in good judgement."
I shall say it again! Just a love of God and understanding of him, results in wisdom, and then when we dive into wisdom specifically, we grow and grow and grow some more! This is so powerful!
Wisdom will give us a long life. I'm still not sure if this applies to the good who always die young (or so I'm told). But in relativity to God's plan, wisdom will increase our life, and make it good! It will be a steady blessing that will not falter, or change!
Folly calls for a hearing:
This is just like when wisdom called for a hearing except it's folly this time. Thus the name, Folly calls for a hearing.
She is ignorant and doesn't know it! This doesn't mean it's our job to inform her of her foolishness (see verse 7).
"She calls out to men going by who are minding their own business. "Come in with me," she urges the simple."
She is a temptress! She will stop at nothing to pull you into sin! Her guests are in the grave! (This reminds me of the ghost of the bride in the Haunted Manion ride at Disney World. Holla, Ash!)
Do not be enticed by her stolen water and secret food! (See verse 17, NLT)
Her path will lead you astray. Stay on the path of righteousness. dare I say it, Follow The Yellow Brick Road!
-Evan
Proverbs Chapter 8
This chapter rocks! That wisdom chick has got it going on here!
1-16
Thus chapter is basically wisdom herself crying out to us! Verse 4 says "I call to you, to all of you! I raise my voice to all people!" For wisdom is not just available for the righteous and pure, it is available to any foolish man, should he decide to turn from his ways, and seek it. When you start a speech, you have to get their attention. Even if it's meaningless, you say "I have something important to say!" and most people being raised by good parents will listen. Well hopefully wisdom get everyone's attention, because she is a vital piece for our Jesus puzzle. "For wisdom is far more valuable than rubies, nothing you desire can compare with it." God's wisdom is stronger than anything on this earth we could ever desire. It fills us with such a deep satisfaction and better equips us to do our work here on earth.
"All who fear the Lord will hate evil..." It's a natural fix being close to God. Everything pure comes easier, everything evil is easier to stay away from. I know I have tricked myself into thinking that being a christian would keep me from ever doing wrong, but that's a lie, and I'm a dumb boy.
"Because of me, kings reign, and rulers make just decrees. Rulers lead with my help, and nobles make righteous judgements."
I guess we'll always be able to tell if a leader of a country has wisdom or not :p
17-27
"...Those who search will surely find me..."
Wisdom says here that she will fill our treasuries with treasure better then even the purest gold! I need to get a treasury to put all that goodness in!
"The Lord formed from the beginning, before he created anything else."
No heavens, no earth. Wisdom. It is the most important thing we can have. God picked it first, isn't that enough to drive you mad for wisdom??? Yes it is.
Wisdom goes into great detail about all the things it beat into creation. Adam didn't do that to Eve did he?
Anyway, these verses are very poetic as wisdom details alot of the most wonderful creations, never letting us forget that she was there before them. Much like an older sibling who would never let you forget their rights as firstborn, except they aren't wisdom so they don't have much to gain by this, besides a cell phone.
The one verse that got me here was verse 27
"I was there when he established the heavens, when he drew the [horizon] on the oceans."
This just reminds of the amazing detail in which God created the universe with. I actually picture God with a giant God crayon, drawing the horizon, or tossing stars into the sky, or building the mountains like a kid building sand castles on the beach. If you look at a snowflake and see it's intricate (vocabulary lessons are paying off!) design. or look at the patterns of a minuscule chigger. How could a big bang make that creativity? How can you deny a creator when such things have been created? Just saying. Oh, and who put the monkeys on earth we evolved from? Darwin? genius (Sarcasm? yes.)
28-36
Still Wisdom is speaking of it's prescence when the universe was created. Wisdom was with God, because the wisdom WAS God. The root of all knowledge is God because he is the root of all things entirely! He created the world with a wisdom we could never know. A-mazing!
"...All who follow my ways are joyful..."
Boy ain't that true! Ever since I started seeking God again, I've been so happy! Nothing is as frustrating as it was, life still sucks but you live with it with a happy heart! Whoever finds wisdom, finds God, and thus finds life eternally.
Suhweet!
-Evan
1-16
Thus chapter is basically wisdom herself crying out to us! Verse 4 says "I call to you, to all of you! I raise my voice to all people!" For wisdom is not just available for the righteous and pure, it is available to any foolish man, should he decide to turn from his ways, and seek it. When you start a speech, you have to get their attention. Even if it's meaningless, you say "I have something important to say!" and most people being raised by good parents will listen. Well hopefully wisdom get everyone's attention, because she is a vital piece for our Jesus puzzle. "For wisdom is far more valuable than rubies, nothing you desire can compare with it." God's wisdom is stronger than anything on this earth we could ever desire. It fills us with such a deep satisfaction and better equips us to do our work here on earth.
"All who fear the Lord will hate evil..." It's a natural fix being close to God. Everything pure comes easier, everything evil is easier to stay away from. I know I have tricked myself into thinking that being a christian would keep me from ever doing wrong, but that's a lie, and I'm a dumb boy.
"Because of me, kings reign, and rulers make just decrees. Rulers lead with my help, and nobles make righteous judgements."
I guess we'll always be able to tell if a leader of a country has wisdom or not :p
17-27
"...Those who search will surely find me..."
Wisdom says here that she will fill our treasuries with treasure better then even the purest gold! I need to get a treasury to put all that goodness in!
"The Lord formed from the beginning, before he created anything else."
No heavens, no earth. Wisdom. It is the most important thing we can have. God picked it first, isn't that enough to drive you mad for wisdom??? Yes it is.
Wisdom goes into great detail about all the things it beat into creation. Adam didn't do that to Eve did he?
Anyway, these verses are very poetic as wisdom details alot of the most wonderful creations, never letting us forget that she was there before them. Much like an older sibling who would never let you forget their rights as firstborn, except they aren't wisdom so they don't have much to gain by this, besides a cell phone.
The one verse that got me here was verse 27
"I was there when he established the heavens, when he drew the [horizon] on the oceans."
This just reminds of the amazing detail in which God created the universe with. I actually picture God with a giant God crayon, drawing the horizon, or tossing stars into the sky, or building the mountains like a kid building sand castles on the beach. If you look at a snowflake and see it's intricate (vocabulary lessons are paying off!) design. or look at the patterns of a minuscule chigger. How could a big bang make that creativity? How can you deny a creator when such things have been created? Just saying. Oh, and who put the monkeys on earth we evolved from? Darwin? genius (Sarcasm? yes.)
28-36
Still Wisdom is speaking of it's prescence when the universe was created. Wisdom was with God, because the wisdom WAS God. The root of all knowledge is God because he is the root of all things entirely! He created the world with a wisdom we could never know. A-mazing!
"...All who follow my ways are joyful..."
Boy ain't that true! Ever since I started seeking God again, I've been so happy! Nothing is as frustrating as it was, life still sucks but you live with it with a happy heart! Whoever finds wisdom, finds God, and thus finds life eternally.
Suhweet!
-Evan
Monday, February 7, 2011
Proverbs Chapter 7: The Bad Lady
At first I thought Solomon was going to be rambling on about the same old don't go near the temptress' house and it leads to death and blah blah blah. But, he approaches it differently here. he uses an example; a story, to give you a clear example. I thought it was interesting the way the woman apporaches the man here. Even with the changes in culture, cars, music, politics, and everything, the one thing that has stayed exactly the same is the immoral woman.
1-5
Solomon repeats this promise that if we follow in his wisdom we will live! Sometimes repetition in saying something can get old, but I love the encouragement he gives here. And, the different examples he uses bring a new perspective every time. This time he says to love wisdom like a sister. This is easy for me, I have two of those! If a boy walks within 5 feet of my sister, my brother senses go full blast and I'm ready to pounce if something happens. In the same way, I should protect my wisdom, and let is protect me. Ain't nobody gonna be layin the moves on MY wisdom! (Neckroll? yes)
6-27
How many immoral women does it take to ruin a man? One. Solomon has a nice tale for us here.
This guy was totally in the wrong place at thr wrong time. I think it's funny that Solomon saw a few naive young men, but says that one of them in particular lacked common sense. I imagine this guy doing something dumb before the encounter with the bad chick. He must've had his shoes untied or something for Solomon to say he especially lacked common sense. You got a guy as dumb as this, and now you're gonna throw some immoral woman on him? No chance for this dude. He was just crossing this street (Probably while cars were crossing), and walked right in front of this bad lady's house. It was twilight and it had become dark. This lady is bad news I tell ya's. it says she was seductively dressed, but her husband wasn't even home. She was looking to do bad before this guy even came along! She had gone to a bunch of preparations. Planned Evil!
It didn't just "happen", she set a trap for this poor street crossing fool! She told the guy her husband would be gone untill te end of the month. So, if we know this chick well enough, we know this probably happened more than once. He didn't even think about, he had absolutely no wisdom to stop and consider this horrible scene. He was like an ox going to the slaughter it says. He was trapped right from the start.
Don't let yourself even become a possible victim of this situation. don't go anywhere near the bad lady's house! This will happen to you too, and you will die! Build your foundation in the fear of God and wisdom, and you can surely avoid any temptation thrown at you.
-Evan
1-5
Solomon repeats this promise that if we follow in his wisdom we will live! Sometimes repetition in saying something can get old, but I love the encouragement he gives here. And, the different examples he uses bring a new perspective every time. This time he says to love wisdom like a sister. This is easy for me, I have two of those! If a boy walks within 5 feet of my sister, my brother senses go full blast and I'm ready to pounce if something happens. In the same way, I should protect my wisdom, and let is protect me. Ain't nobody gonna be layin the moves on MY wisdom! (Neckroll? yes)
6-27
How many immoral women does it take to ruin a man? One. Solomon has a nice tale for us here.
This guy was totally in the wrong place at thr wrong time. I think it's funny that Solomon saw a few naive young men, but says that one of them in particular lacked common sense. I imagine this guy doing something dumb before the encounter with the bad chick. He must've had his shoes untied or something for Solomon to say he especially lacked common sense. You got a guy as dumb as this, and now you're gonna throw some immoral woman on him? No chance for this dude. He was just crossing this street (Probably while cars were crossing), and walked right in front of this bad lady's house. It was twilight and it had become dark. This lady is bad news I tell ya's. it says she was seductively dressed, but her husband wasn't even home. She was looking to do bad before this guy even came along! She had gone to a bunch of preparations. Planned Evil!
It didn't just "happen", she set a trap for this poor street crossing fool! She told the guy her husband would be gone untill te end of the month. So, if we know this chick well enough, we know this probably happened more than once. He didn't even think about, he had absolutely no wisdom to stop and consider this horrible scene. He was like an ox going to the slaughter it says. He was trapped right from the start.
Don't let yourself even become a possible victim of this situation. don't go anywhere near the bad lady's house! This will happen to you too, and you will die! Build your foundation in the fear of God and wisdom, and you can surely avoid any temptation thrown at you.
-Evan
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Lazybones: Proverbs Chapter 6
Solomon is all over the place in this chapter I think. ADD definitely existed back then. Don't put up security for your friend's debt, six things god hates, and have I mentioned prostitutes? Nonetheless a very instructive chapter. here we go:
1-11
Don't promise to pay off someone's debt. What if you find out after that promise that you can't pay it after all? What kind of friend would you be to back out of that? Then, your friend can use that against you. If you have done something like this, Solomon insists we fix the problem now! Don't rest untill you do!
I love in my translation how he calls procrastinators "Lazybones". I guess saying that they are rotting away in their procrastination. He tells us that we should learn from the ants, and their natural inclination to get stuff done! Sometimes I need help when I have something to do. I don't need you to do work for me, just make a list of what needs to be accomplished. I have to have a list. There's no excuse to put things off the way we do. If you go ahead and do what you need to, you're free to have it off your plate the rest of the day, and never worry with it again. you feel so much better.
12-22
Wicked people are constant liars. They find your weaknesses and entice you with their lies, to pull you in and plan your downfall. The Enemy has sent these people to bring us away from God! The devil doesn't make you bad, he just makes you busy. But, these people will be destroyed suddenly, broken in an instant, beyond any hope of healing. I think it's interesting the way God uses the element of suprise when dealing in judgement. "Like a thief in the night..." it comes when you least expect it. This is the outcome of those who turn their backs on God, who turn their backs on wisdom.
God hates six thing (7, Solomon decides after reconsidering)
1:Haughty Eyes
2:A lying tongue
3:Hands that kill the innocent
4:A heart that plots evil
5:Feet that race to do wrong
6: A false witness who pours out lies
7: A person who sows discord in a family
God has a very specific disdain for evil people, whose hearts are focused on doing wrong and causing trouble. I believe that number 6 hurts God so much. That people profess his name, and yet disobey his commands, and lead others astray. How much harder does that make it for those of us who are good to spread the gospel? Our claims to Christ are broken because false prophets and "un-christians" have made us look bad.
Solomon speaks again here about a parent's counsel for us. The one thing that sticks out here is verse 22:
"When you walk their counsel will lead you, when you sleep they will protect you, when you wake they will advise you."
They counsel will lead you. Did your mom ever tell you not to walk down dark alleys?
When you sleep they will protect you:
Mom reminded you to take your medicine before you went to bed so you could breathe right?
When you wake they will advise you:
Did you brush your teeth when you got up?
If we could just remember all the little things we learn growing up from our moms everything would be so much easier.
"Boys are dumb."
-Mrs. McKeel
23-29
See Chapter 5
30-35
We can make excuses and have good reasons for our sin, but if we sin, it's still a sin. we are still responsible for our actions no matter what inscentive we had.
Never sleep with another man's wife. Just in case you didn't already know that. Solomon talks about this alot, I think he knows this from experience. This time he talks alot about how it will come back to haunt you, particularly in the form of the husband. "He will be furious, and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge. He will accept no compensation, nor be satisfied with a payoff of any size."
There is no way to make up for this. When you commit adultery, you are destroying yourself. Not only is it a sin because you betrayed your own wife, but you cause someone else's wife to betray them! It's a lose-lose (lose-lose). Everyone loses. Just don't do it. Bad idea.
-Evan
1-11
Don't promise to pay off someone's debt. What if you find out after that promise that you can't pay it after all? What kind of friend would you be to back out of that? Then, your friend can use that against you. If you have done something like this, Solomon insists we fix the problem now! Don't rest untill you do!
I love in my translation how he calls procrastinators "Lazybones". I guess saying that they are rotting away in their procrastination. He tells us that we should learn from the ants, and their natural inclination to get stuff done! Sometimes I need help when I have something to do. I don't need you to do work for me, just make a list of what needs to be accomplished. I have to have a list. There's no excuse to put things off the way we do. If you go ahead and do what you need to, you're free to have it off your plate the rest of the day, and never worry with it again. you feel so much better.
12-22
Wicked people are constant liars. They find your weaknesses and entice you with their lies, to pull you in and plan your downfall. The Enemy has sent these people to bring us away from God! The devil doesn't make you bad, he just makes you busy. But, these people will be destroyed suddenly, broken in an instant, beyond any hope of healing. I think it's interesting the way God uses the element of suprise when dealing in judgement. "Like a thief in the night..." it comes when you least expect it. This is the outcome of those who turn their backs on God, who turn their backs on wisdom.
God hates six thing (7, Solomon decides after reconsidering)
1:Haughty Eyes
2:A lying tongue
3:Hands that kill the innocent
4:A heart that plots evil
5:Feet that race to do wrong
6: A false witness who pours out lies
7: A person who sows discord in a family
God has a very specific disdain for evil people, whose hearts are focused on doing wrong and causing trouble. I believe that number 6 hurts God so much. That people profess his name, and yet disobey his commands, and lead others astray. How much harder does that make it for those of us who are good to spread the gospel? Our claims to Christ are broken because false prophets and "un-christians" have made us look bad.
Solomon speaks again here about a parent's counsel for us. The one thing that sticks out here is verse 22:
"When you walk their counsel will lead you, when you sleep they will protect you, when you wake they will advise you."
They counsel will lead you. Did your mom ever tell you not to walk down dark alleys?
When you sleep they will protect you:
Mom reminded you to take your medicine before you went to bed so you could breathe right?
When you wake they will advise you:
Did you brush your teeth when you got up?
If we could just remember all the little things we learn growing up from our moms everything would be so much easier.
"Boys are dumb."
-Mrs. McKeel
23-29
See Chapter 5
30-35
We can make excuses and have good reasons for our sin, but if we sin, it's still a sin. we are still responsible for our actions no matter what inscentive we had.
Never sleep with another man's wife. Just in case you didn't already know that. Solomon talks about this alot, I think he knows this from experience. This time he talks alot about how it will come back to haunt you, particularly in the form of the husband. "He will be furious, and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge. He will accept no compensation, nor be satisfied with a payoff of any size."
There is no way to make up for this. When you commit adultery, you are destroying yourself. Not only is it a sin because you betrayed your own wife, but you cause someone else's wife to betray them! It's a lose-lose (lose-lose). Everyone loses. Just don't do it. Bad idea.
-Evan
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Proverbs Chapter 5
I don't need to make this one really long, and I'm not going to!
This is a more detailed warning of giving into the temptations of un-godly women. I like the words he uses in verse 5: "Het feet go down to death, her steps lead straight to the grave." The immoral woman is a one way ticket to disgrace, and death. If that isn't reason enough for you, I will list some more verses. "Don't go near the door of her house." Solomon knows about temptations! He doesn't just warn us to avoid any wrong-doing with immoral women! He says we should avoid all contact with them. just stay away! And don;t ever say "Well, gee I didn't know she was immoral." cause trust me, you know. It speaks in many ways here about the regret you will face. Other people will gain the fruits of YOUR labor, and achieve your wealth. "In the end, you will groan in anguish when desease consumes your body."
"Drink water from your own well, share your love with only your wife."
God has designed a perfect structure for marriage. It's perfect. Don't mess with it by throwing your love at someone else. And I wouldn't advise you to take Solomon's way out. He says only to love your wife, but that doesn't mean you should marry 700 wives like Solomon did. Wrong! No, No, Bad Dog!
"Let your wife be a fountain of blessing for you, rejoice in the wife of your youth." I think you should also rejoice in your wife when shes old too! Just in case you were thinking otherwise.
Appreciate the woman/man that God has blessed you with! She was chosen to be yours and yours only. God picked one person just for you!
Honor and respect his plan for you, and honor and respect and love your wife. The End.
-Evan
This is a more detailed warning of giving into the temptations of un-godly women. I like the words he uses in verse 5: "Het feet go down to death, her steps lead straight to the grave." The immoral woman is a one way ticket to disgrace, and death. If that isn't reason enough for you, I will list some more verses. "Don't go near the door of her house." Solomon knows about temptations! He doesn't just warn us to avoid any wrong-doing with immoral women! He says we should avoid all contact with them. just stay away! And don;t ever say "Well, gee I didn't know she was immoral." cause trust me, you know. It speaks in many ways here about the regret you will face. Other people will gain the fruits of YOUR labor, and achieve your wealth. "In the end, you will groan in anguish when desease consumes your body."
"Drink water from your own well, share your love with only your wife."
God has designed a perfect structure for marriage. It's perfect. Don't mess with it by throwing your love at someone else. And I wouldn't advise you to take Solomon's way out. He says only to love your wife, but that doesn't mean you should marry 700 wives like Solomon did. Wrong! No, No, Bad Dog!
"Let your wife be a fountain of blessing for you, rejoice in the wife of your youth." I think you should also rejoice in your wife when shes old too! Just in case you were thinking otherwise.
Appreciate the woman/man that God has blessed you with! She was chosen to be yours and yours only. God picked one person just for you!
Honor and respect his plan for you, and honor and respect and love your wife. The End.
-Evan
Friday, February 4, 2011
Proverbs Chapter 4
I'm glad this chapter isn't really long, I have like 5 minutes to write this! gah!
Proverbs Chapter 4
1-9
Solomon starts be repeating the advice about a parents counsel. Proving that repetition is key in giving an important point.
He speaks about his own father, David, and how he promised Solomon that if he took his words to heart and he would live. "don't forget my words, or turn away from them." I think this is important because we may hear the good wisdom, learn the food wisdom, but then we can still lose the good wisdom we've found. We have to guard it like it's a prince! A baby prince! or even.....HARRY POTTER!
"getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do." I Laughed right out loud when I read this! It's so simple, and so funny somehow. We are wising just in hoping to be so!
10-19
"When you walk you won't be held back, when you run you won't stumble." This is really important to me, because I run everywhere. Walking is for slow people, I'm a charger! Physically, and mentally, and spiritually, I always run, I don't like to have gaps in time between when I decided I'm going to do something, and when I do it. It comforts me to know that I even when I charge recklessly I will not stumble, but learn. God will keep me upright so that when I'm foolish and I get into a mess, I will not be hurt, but grow stronger!
"Take hold of my instructions, do not let them go. Guard them for they are the key to life!" Have you ever lost your car keys? or your house key? You freak out right? cause they are important, they are essential to getting places, and getting in your house. If we value our lives more then our cars and homes (which we should), then wisdom should be the most important thing to us, because it is the key to our life! Guard it like a baby prince! I shall say it again, a baby prince!!
He talks again here about evil people again, and I must admit and I'm starting to REALLY get the point, but everytime he covers this subject, something new gets my attention. Here he says: "Don't do as the wicked do, and don't follow the path of evildoers." (this next part really got me) "Don't even think about it, don't go that way!" even the thought of sinning makes God sad, it's such a powerful opposite to our faith. And yet we can do nothing to prevent it! ugh, I hate sin. You suck, Satan.
20-27
"My child, pay attention to what I say..."
Focus, Focus on wisdom. Let these verses we're reading not just impress you, and make you think. Let them impact your life and you're decisions entirely. "...let them penetrate deep in your heart, for they bring life to whoever find them."
"Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life."
Your heart condition is so important. If your heart is not open, and clean you cannot truly be close to God, and thus have joy. Do not put your heart in situations where you can be hurt. With a good sense of discernment and judgement, we should be able to avoid all situations that are harmful to our heart right? wrong. Like I said, I'm a charger. And when you charge, you often hit a wall, and you get hurt. But, then you find wisdom is God, and you have joy and it fixes everything, and like I sais before, you learn! and now I don't charge, I just kinda jog. and its way better for you!
verse 24 really struck me because of the way it stuck out. it was literally 2 inches apart from the rest of the verses in both directions for emphasis.
"Avoid all perverse talk, stay away from corrupt speech."
Once again, heart condition. If your heart is filthy and full of darkness, you drive God out! we must be clean! We must be gentle to our hearts! Use tear free L'oreal stuff in spritual form!
Solomon ends by telling us to look straight ahead, and fix our eyes on what's before us. (For today's musical reference, listen to "Peace of Mind" by Boston, where he regularly belts out "TAKE A LOOK AHEAD!")
"Mark a straight path for your feet, stay on a safe path. Don't get sidetracked, keep your feet from following evil."
I think it's important to keep yourself guarded, but so much to a point that you're away from any evil. We have to be near evil to help the people infested by it. My youth minister asked us at the beginning of the year if we were going to be "brave or safe?" in 2011. Meaning: Are we going to keep ourselves safe, and take the easy way out? Or are we going to reach out to others, and bring them also to safety by taking a risk!
-Evan
PS: Out of pop-tarts! TO THE GROCERY STORE!!
Proverbs Chapter 4
1-9
Solomon starts be repeating the advice about a parents counsel. Proving that repetition is key in giving an important point.
He speaks about his own father, David, and how he promised Solomon that if he took his words to heart and he would live. "don't forget my words, or turn away from them." I think this is important because we may hear the good wisdom, learn the food wisdom, but then we can still lose the good wisdom we've found. We have to guard it like it's a prince! A baby prince! or even.....HARRY POTTER!
"getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do." I Laughed right out loud when I read this! It's so simple, and so funny somehow. We are wising just in hoping to be so!
10-19
"When you walk you won't be held back, when you run you won't stumble." This is really important to me, because I run everywhere. Walking is for slow people, I'm a charger! Physically, and mentally, and spiritually, I always run, I don't like to have gaps in time between when I decided I'm going to do something, and when I do it. It comforts me to know that I even when I charge recklessly I will not stumble, but learn. God will keep me upright so that when I'm foolish and I get into a mess, I will not be hurt, but grow stronger!
"Take hold of my instructions, do not let them go. Guard them for they are the key to life!" Have you ever lost your car keys? or your house key? You freak out right? cause they are important, they are essential to getting places, and getting in your house. If we value our lives more then our cars and homes (which we should), then wisdom should be the most important thing to us, because it is the key to our life! Guard it like a baby prince! I shall say it again, a baby prince!!
He talks again here about evil people again, and I must admit and I'm starting to REALLY get the point, but everytime he covers this subject, something new gets my attention. Here he says: "Don't do as the wicked do, and don't follow the path of evildoers." (this next part really got me) "Don't even think about it, don't go that way!" even the thought of sinning makes God sad, it's such a powerful opposite to our faith. And yet we can do nothing to prevent it! ugh, I hate sin. You suck, Satan.
20-27
"My child, pay attention to what I say..."
Focus, Focus on wisdom. Let these verses we're reading not just impress you, and make you think. Let them impact your life and you're decisions entirely. "...let them penetrate deep in your heart, for they bring life to whoever find them."
"Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life."
Your heart condition is so important. If your heart is not open, and clean you cannot truly be close to God, and thus have joy. Do not put your heart in situations where you can be hurt. With a good sense of discernment and judgement, we should be able to avoid all situations that are harmful to our heart right? wrong. Like I said, I'm a charger. And when you charge, you often hit a wall, and you get hurt. But, then you find wisdom is God, and you have joy and it fixes everything, and like I sais before, you learn! and now I don't charge, I just kinda jog. and its way better for you!
verse 24 really struck me because of the way it stuck out. it was literally 2 inches apart from the rest of the verses in both directions for emphasis.
"Avoid all perverse talk, stay away from corrupt speech."
Once again, heart condition. If your heart is filthy and full of darkness, you drive God out! we must be clean! We must be gentle to our hearts! Use tear free L'oreal stuff in spritual form!
Solomon ends by telling us to look straight ahead, and fix our eyes on what's before us. (For today's musical reference, listen to "Peace of Mind" by Boston, where he regularly belts out "TAKE A LOOK AHEAD!")
"Mark a straight path for your feet, stay on a safe path. Don't get sidetracked, keep your feet from following evil."
I think it's important to keep yourself guarded, but so much to a point that you're away from any evil. We have to be near evil to help the people infested by it. My youth minister asked us at the beginning of the year if we were going to be "brave or safe?" in 2011. Meaning: Are we going to keep ourselves safe, and take the easy way out? Or are we going to reach out to others, and bring them also to safety by taking a risk!
-Evan
PS: Out of pop-tarts! TO THE GROCERY STORE!!
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Proverbs Chapter 3: Trusting The Lord
I will just start by saying, I LOVE THIS CHAPTER! It had wonderful encouraging things in it. okay. go
1-10
"Store my commands in your heart." Lock them in. Save it for a rainy day.
"If you do this, you will live many years, and your life will be satisfying."
This part confuses me. Some people do exactly what God wants but they die in a car accident at the age of 23....? Live many years, Solo-Man? Really?
I love this part in verse 3 about keeping kindness and loyalty in your life always. This is important for me, because I think that encouragement, and kindness are some of the best ways to reach someone.
We will earn favor with God, and a good reputation with people, as well as lift people up and make them happy. Who doesn't want to be happy all the time?
Here comes one of the most famous verses of all time, Proverbs: 3-5-6. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in al you do, and he will show you which path to take"
It really is one of the best verses there is. It gives a command, and a promise. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, not a little of your heart, not just when things are going well. Trust him ALWAYS with ALL of your heart. Lean not on your own understanding: Don't expect to know what you need to know by yourself. Are we smarter than God? Duh, no. If we know how brilliant God is, why would we ever try to figure things out by ourself? Seek his will in all you do and he will show you which path to take: This is a hard one for me. to seek his will in everything. 'Cause it's hard to do every single thing for God. I've always been the kind of kid who wasn't afraid to be payed attention to. The center of attention even, and because of the things I would like to do with my life, it's hard to want to lower myself for God sometimes. BUT! If we DO seek his will, and do what he has chosen for us, he will make it easier to do so, and show us which path to take. I'm a sucker for clarity. The goodness of vision, and the John Mayer song. Honor the Lord with your wealth, Solomon says, and with all the best of your produce. "He will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine" I don't have money, but if I did....I would probably stink at this. Seriously, how easy is it to give 10 dollars in offering? It's a sacrifice, but God says that if we sacrifice for him, he will pay us back for it. I don't have a barn to be filled with grain, but one day, when I'm 21, I'll appreciate that good wine. Not cheapo, wal-mart wine, but the legit, made in the mountains, wine!
11-20
Don't be upset if God corrects you. hard. It's hard to be told you're wrong. He uses parental advice as an example here, and that's a good one. It's tough when my parents tell me I've done wrong. But, it gets your attention, and it's usuallu good for you. He says here that people who find wisdom become joyful, and I can testify! I was in such a funk, a permanent bad mood, and ever since I started seeking God's wisdom again, I have been constantly happy! best thing ever. "The Lord founded the earth on wisdom, by understanding he created the heavens." So, in trusting God, we are given the same wisdom that built the earth and heavens?? WOAH BABY!! I want in! "By his knowledge the deep fountains of the earth burst forth, and the dew settles beneath the night sky." Just his very knowledge makes the world turn. and his wisdom brings the dew in the morning? I've always wondered how that got there! IT'S GOD!! Amazing,.
21-30
Discernment. The knowing of what is right and wrong. The only time this doesn't come into play is when we abandon it. We all know right and wrong. I can't remember the last time I did something wrong, and I could truly say "I didn't know". It's not that hard. Solomon simply suggests not to lose sight of it. And the reason we all will find this part easy to understand, is becuse we already understand it. Thanks for the reminder, Sol.
Verses 25-26 say this: "You need not be afraid of sudden disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, for the Lord is your security. He will keep your foot from getting caught in the trap."
I've watched friends lose their friends in accidents, and I've watched people grieve in sudden disaster. Yet, we should not be afraid of this? This is a harsh command. We have to trust God so much to understand when a loved one dies. or a house burns down. he is our security. and he will keep us from getting caught. somehow.
"Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to help them. If you can help your neighbor now, don't say 'Come back tomorrow, and I will help you then.'"
It is our duty as christians, or even just as good people, to help each other. How many times has someone been stranded in a parking lot cause no one will give their car a jump? It's the little things like this that make someone's day, and bring us favor in God's eyes. Entertaining Angels, People!
"Do not pick a fight without reason, when no one has done you harm"
No explanation for that one. Just good advice.
31-35
"Don't envy violent people, or follow in their ways." Of course this is pretty easy for us, we don't feel like walking up and beating on someone do we? But, depending on who you're looking up to, it could be tempting to follow in the example. Who is the number 1 person, children want to be like? Their fathers. And if their fathers are criminals who beat on people, what are the children likely to do? Beat up on people and become criminals. It's sad, but true. How can we help these people? "These people are detestable to the Lord, but he offers friendship to the Godly." So, if we are Godly, and God offers us friendship, maybe we can introduce this friendship to those who are so lost.
Solomon ends here with his usual "Evil people are put to shame, those with wisdom are honored!" type thing.
but one thing he wrote got my attention.
"The Lord mocks the mockers"
The Lord looks down upon the evil. They are cast away from his love and promises because they have chosen to be. the fools are put to shame. the wise inherit honor. It was an odd place to end a chapter, so in turn, this will be an odd ending to a blog about it. Kind of a downer ending the, Solomon, don't you think?
"For the Lord is your security..."
-Evan
1-10
"Store my commands in your heart." Lock them in. Save it for a rainy day.
"If you do this, you will live many years, and your life will be satisfying."
This part confuses me. Some people do exactly what God wants but they die in a car accident at the age of 23....? Live many years, Solo-Man? Really?
I love this part in verse 3 about keeping kindness and loyalty in your life always. This is important for me, because I think that encouragement, and kindness are some of the best ways to reach someone.
We will earn favor with God, and a good reputation with people, as well as lift people up and make them happy. Who doesn't want to be happy all the time?
Here comes one of the most famous verses of all time, Proverbs: 3-5-6. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in al you do, and he will show you which path to take"
It really is one of the best verses there is. It gives a command, and a promise. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, not a little of your heart, not just when things are going well. Trust him ALWAYS with ALL of your heart. Lean not on your own understanding: Don't expect to know what you need to know by yourself. Are we smarter than God? Duh, no. If we know how brilliant God is, why would we ever try to figure things out by ourself? Seek his will in all you do and he will show you which path to take: This is a hard one for me. to seek his will in everything. 'Cause it's hard to do every single thing for God. I've always been the kind of kid who wasn't afraid to be payed attention to. The center of attention even, and because of the things I would like to do with my life, it's hard to want to lower myself for God sometimes. BUT! If we DO seek his will, and do what he has chosen for us, he will make it easier to do so, and show us which path to take. I'm a sucker for clarity. The goodness of vision, and the John Mayer song. Honor the Lord with your wealth, Solomon says, and with all the best of your produce. "He will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine" I don't have money, but if I did....I would probably stink at this. Seriously, how easy is it to give 10 dollars in offering? It's a sacrifice, but God says that if we sacrifice for him, he will pay us back for it. I don't have a barn to be filled with grain, but one day, when I'm 21, I'll appreciate that good wine. Not cheapo, wal-mart wine, but the legit, made in the mountains, wine!
11-20
Don't be upset if God corrects you. hard. It's hard to be told you're wrong. He uses parental advice as an example here, and that's a good one. It's tough when my parents tell me I've done wrong. But, it gets your attention, and it's usuallu good for you. He says here that people who find wisdom become joyful, and I can testify! I was in such a funk, a permanent bad mood, and ever since I started seeking God's wisdom again, I have been constantly happy! best thing ever. "The Lord founded the earth on wisdom, by understanding he created the heavens." So, in trusting God, we are given the same wisdom that built the earth and heavens?? WOAH BABY!! I want in! "By his knowledge the deep fountains of the earth burst forth, and the dew settles beneath the night sky." Just his very knowledge makes the world turn. and his wisdom brings the dew in the morning? I've always wondered how that got there! IT'S GOD!! Amazing,.
21-30
Discernment. The knowing of what is right and wrong. The only time this doesn't come into play is when we abandon it. We all know right and wrong. I can't remember the last time I did something wrong, and I could truly say "I didn't know". It's not that hard. Solomon simply suggests not to lose sight of it. And the reason we all will find this part easy to understand, is becuse we already understand it. Thanks for the reminder, Sol.
Verses 25-26 say this: "You need not be afraid of sudden disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, for the Lord is your security. He will keep your foot from getting caught in the trap."
I've watched friends lose their friends in accidents, and I've watched people grieve in sudden disaster. Yet, we should not be afraid of this? This is a harsh command. We have to trust God so much to understand when a loved one dies. or a house burns down. he is our security. and he will keep us from getting caught. somehow.
"Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to help them. If you can help your neighbor now, don't say 'Come back tomorrow, and I will help you then.'"
It is our duty as christians, or even just as good people, to help each other. How many times has someone been stranded in a parking lot cause no one will give their car a jump? It's the little things like this that make someone's day, and bring us favor in God's eyes. Entertaining Angels, People!
"Do not pick a fight without reason, when no one has done you harm"
No explanation for that one. Just good advice.
31-35
"Don't envy violent people, or follow in their ways." Of course this is pretty easy for us, we don't feel like walking up and beating on someone do we? But, depending on who you're looking up to, it could be tempting to follow in the example. Who is the number 1 person, children want to be like? Their fathers. And if their fathers are criminals who beat on people, what are the children likely to do? Beat up on people and become criminals. It's sad, but true. How can we help these people? "These people are detestable to the Lord, but he offers friendship to the Godly." So, if we are Godly, and God offers us friendship, maybe we can introduce this friendship to those who are so lost.
Solomon ends here with his usual "Evil people are put to shame, those with wisdom are honored!" type thing.
but one thing he wrote got my attention.
"The Lord mocks the mockers"
The Lord looks down upon the evil. They are cast away from his love and promises because they have chosen to be. the fools are put to shame. the wise inherit honor. It was an odd place to end a chapter, so in turn, this will be an odd ending to a blog about it. Kind of a downer ending the, Solomon, don't you think?
"For the Lord is your security..."
-Evan
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)