Jim Gallagher

Proverbs 14:4
“Where no oxen are, the trough is clean;
But much increase comes by the strength of an ox.”

A few years back, when we were looking to purchase a home, my wife and I spent our days off going to open houses and visiting model homes. It was easy to tell the difference between the two. The model homes were immaculate. The decor was thematic, the furniture and carpets unstained, and the walls were noticeably unmarked by crayon, ink pen or dirty hand prints. At first glance, I would feel envious. Our house looked nothing like that. Our carpets showed evidence of four boys who were incapable of wiping the mud off their feet before entering the house. The walls bore the evidence that they had not, in fact, washed their hands before or after dinner, and the couches proved that cups with lids are no guarantee against things being spilled. I would look at the model and think to myself, “Wow, wouldn’t it be nice if we could keep our house looking like this.” However, after a little consideration, I realized, there was an explanation as to why the model home was so clean and our house, well, not so much. No one lived in the model. It was a shell, four walls that contained furnishings, but no life.

Solomon is expressing that same thought in another way. Simply put, he is declaring that at times, life is messy. If we try to avoid the mess, we may, in turn, miss out on living. Many of us work very hard to be comfortable, and we avoid anything that disturbs that comfort. We neglect getting more involved in church, because it may mess up the kids schedule, or we fail to commit to serving the Lord, because it will conflict with our comforts. Our goal should not be living in comfort, but living to please the Lord. There are times when God will ask us to do things which will disturb our routine, or force us outside of our comfort zone. Part of His reasoning for doing this, is our personal growth. It is in those times when we are most uncomfortable, that we look to the Lord the most. When we feel like we can handle things, we press on in our own capacities. It is when we realize we have no experience to lean on, that we find ourselves crying out to the Lord.

Keep in mind, that while stepping out and serving Christ may make life a bit messy, there is great, even eternal value in everything that is done faithfully unto the Lord.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Proverbs 14 
1. Verse 2 is a contrast between those who fear the Lord and those who despise him. The difference is in the conduct. Reverence for God motivates and characterizes a walk well pleasing to God. On the other hand, perverse ways are sinful ways. Those who neither fear nor love the Lord make no effort to exercise and demonstrate self-control. Is your walk characterized by love and reverence for the Father? Is there sin that has to be removed from your life? 

2. In verse 6 we meet the mocker. This is someone who scoffs at every word of instruction or advice. These people will never find wisdom because they don’t seek it seriously. Wisdom is found in God’s Word. Biblical wisdom is how much you have come to agree with God and His Word. Are you looking at life from God’s perspective? Wisdom comes to us when we apply God’s Word to our lives and when we seek mature Godly Christians as counselors. Are you finding yourself at times scoffing at His Word? 

3. In verse 12, we have the destructive nature of worldliness. The King James Version of the second half of this proverb says, “But the end thereof are the ways of death.” The plural “ways” indicate that there are many paths that lead to death as compared to one way that leads to life everlasting. The way that seems right to a man is his own way. We need to trust the Lord Jesus Christ. He has been down the path and knows where it leads. Read John 14:6. When you look at the path you are on, where is it leading you? 

4. The backslider in verse 14 has one desire and that is to live life contrary to the Word of God. He is indifferent to questions of ethics or any thought of accountability to God. The Bible says that a man will reap what he sows. On the other hand, the good man is satisfied with his ways because they are the Lord’s ways. Are you struggling with the lust of the world and not considering the recklessness of the foolish? 

5. Verse 20 deals with popularity and favoritism. James tells us to beware of personal favoritism because before God we all stand on one level. It is a reality of this world that possessions determine popularity. The poor are shunned and the rich have many lovers. Are you easily impressed by status wealth or fame? Are you partial to the “haves” while ignoring the “have nots?” 

6. Verse 21 tells us that we shouldn’t assume some superior status and look down upon a neighbor regardless of his destitute condition. Remember God has chosen the poor (James 2:5) and it’s a sin to despise them. The man who has mercy on them is blessed in the act. We can’t sin against a neighbor and enjoy God’s blessings. Let us never forget that our Lord Jesus came into this world as a poor man. He was penniless! How do you feel toward those who can do nothing for you in return? Do you do something for them? 

7. Verse 26 teaches that security is in the fear of the Lord. If we fear the Lord we will be obedient to His Word and in that brings strong confidence. The children mentioned here are the God-fearing children. Exodus 20 tells us that the children will reap the benefits of their righteous parents if they love the Lord. If fear gives the parents security in the Lord, it will be a place of safety for their children. For you who are parents: Do you have reverent fear for the Lord? Do your children know that you are under authority to the Lord Jesus Christ? Are your children learning to trust God by your example? 

8. Verse 29: Have you ever seen an out of control fire? That’s what a nasty, quick temper looks like. It can singe us and burn everyone else in its path. The Lord Jesus said, “Be angry and don’t sin.” Anger that divides causes bitterness and guilt. Anger can also be a legitimate reaction to injustice and sin. When anger rises in us we need to look for the cause. Are you reacting to an evil situation that you are going to set right? Are you responding selfishly to a personal insult? 

9. Verse 31 deals with the treatment of the poor. The Lord has a special concern in His heart for them. How people treat the poor displays their faith in the creator. God insists that those who have been blessed materially should be generous with those who are needy. The Bible is clear about providing for the poor. God doesn’t make suggestions concerning their treatment. He commands us to honor them. (Leviticus 23:22, Deuteronomy 15:7-8, Psalm 113:5-9, Isaiah 58:7, 2 Corinthians 9:9) If God has blessed you materially are you being obedient to His Word? Are you one who oppresses the poor? Do you honor the Lord by having mercy on the needy? 

Old Testament:
Jonah 1- Unnecessary Suffering 
Jonah 2- How Much Longer

Proverbs 13:7
“There is one who makes himself rich, yet has nothing;
And one who makes himself poor, yet has great riches.”

Solomon is suggesting it is possible to have earthly possessions and yet to possess nothing of true value. At the same time, it is possible to have next to nothing, and have great wealth. He is not saying wealth is evil and poverty is good, but that within God’s economy, some things are of much greater value than others. The Bible teaches us there are three things that are eternal, and investments made in these areas will give a person lasting riches.

First off, God Himself is eternal. Before the universe existed, there was God. He is the un-caused cause that brought all other things into being. He is the source of all life, and the one who holds all things together. He is the one to whom we will give an account when our lives run their course. While it is not wrong to make capital investments and to store up for your family’s future, we must not do it at the expense of investing in a relationship with God. The most important investment we make is a decision to follow Jesus Christ.

Second, the Word of God is eternal. The writer of Hebrews explained that one day the heavens above us and the earth we stand upon, will be folded like a garment and replaced, but the Word of God will last forever (Hebrews 1:11-12). Every promise of God is eternal, and every investment of the Word of God in our lives, will bring eternal benefits. Often, the thing that keeps us from investing time in the Word, is the fact that we do not think it makes a difference. The reality is, when time has run its course, and the things of this life are a distant memory, we will still be reaping the benefits of our investments in the Word of God.

Finally, the Bible teaches us that the souls of men and women are eternal. God has done everything possible for each and every person to spend eternity with Him. He sent His Son to die for us, His Spirit to draw us, and His church to be an influence to win us. When we realize how much others matter to God, and we seek to influence them for eternity, we are making investments that will outlast time. The most important place where these investments are made is within the home.

There is nothing wrong with making earthly investments. There is nothing inherently wrong with riches, or with enjoying much of the pleasures that come with wealth. However, there are things of much greater value than stocks portfolios, profit margins and real estate holdings. The things that matter most, are the things that last forever. Don’t neglect to store up riches where they really matter.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Proverbs 13 
1. We know that our words can cut and destroy. James 3:5 tells us, “even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things.” Another translation states, “So also the tongue is a small thing, but what enormous damage it can do.” The aim in verse 3 is to prevent rash talk and this reminder is appropriate for any age. Are you stopping and thinking before you speak? The old Arab proverb says, “Take heed that your tongue does not cut your throat.” 

2. Verse 2 teaches us not to trust in appearances and honesty is better than pretension. There are some people who may not be what they seem to be. Some who are poor pretend to be rich for social reasons. (Luke 12:21, Revelation 3:17) Some that are rich pretend to be poor. The miser lives to protect himself from requests for assistance or from possibly being robbed. Perhaps it is to conceal his wealth and to avoid responsibilities. God is calling us to be who we are, to be honest people, and unpretentious. Are you putting up a front to be somebody you are not? An empty display or a concealing of means can come to no good. 

3. Verse 10 tells us that those who are wise listen to advise rather than argue out of stubborn pride. Is it hard for you to say, “I was wrong,” or “I need advise? Every quarrel has pride as an ingredient. This type of pride has contempt for other’s opinions. Pride always means enmity. It is enmity to God. Are you open to the advice of others? Examine your life for pride. Ask for help when you need it and avoid strife. 

4. In verse 12, hope postponed makes the heart sick and earthly hope can be a very disappointing season of life. (Hoping for something that doesn’t come to pass.) Are you in a season of “hope deferred?” Be encouraged. Biblical hope is a confident expectation that what you hope is going to happen. Pastor Titus tells us to be looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. We can live our life in anticipation of that promise of God. It gives us the proper perspective on material things and how we should be living our lives knowing that He could come at any time. 

5. We were created by God for His good pleasure. He knows us and loves us beyond our comprehension of love. It only makes sense to listen to ABBA Father and do what He says. But in verse 13, we have a definite contrast between obedience to God’s unfailing Word and rejecting it. If you were a brand new vehicle you would come with an owner’s manual to help you “run right.” If we fail to maintain regular preventive maintenance we will fail. Are you hearing from God everyday by reading His instructions to us? 

6. Verse 20 teaches us the result of associating with wise people or fools. Paul said, “Evil company corrupts good habits.” (1 Cor. 15:33) There is safety and growth in proper company. There is also a positive influence on those who spend time with wise men. On the other hand, the companion of the fool suffers harm and becomes like those whom he is hanging with. Take some time and pray to the Father and examine who is influencing you. Are you spending time with people you want to be like? 

7. In verse 24, parental love is displayed in disciplining the children responsibly. There is a balance between too lenient and too harsh. The Bible teaches corporal punishment whether the modern experts agree or not. The parent who spares his rod might think he is showing love. God calls it hatred. The parent that loves their children doesn’t condone bad behavior but disciplines them promptly. The balance comes when the child has room to grow while learning the limits. Are you afraid to discipline your children even though God himself says it is an act of love? 

Old Testament:
Obadiah 1- It’s All Mine

Proverbs 12:25
“Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad.”

Anxiety can be defined as an abnormal and overwhelming concern over the reality of a threat, and our inability to cope with it. Similar words would be care, concern, fear, nervousness or worry. Anxiety is usually accompanied by an inability to focus on other tasks, difficulty sleeping, and either no appetite or one that seems to rage out of control. Solomon observed that unchecked anxiety can lead to a much worse condition, that of all out depression. No doubt, life is filled with challenges greater than we can handle, which bring us to the brink of anxiety. Many of us may feel as though we have already slipped off that cliff. Fortunately, the Bible addresses the subject of anxiety and gives us some clear cures for our common worries.

Jesus told us not to worry, but to observe how our Heavenly Father cares for the birds of the air and the flowers of the fields (Matthew 6:26). He went on to explain that we are of much greater value to God than any other part of His creation, and He promises to meet our needs. The first step in curing common worries is to place your trust in the loving arms of God. Those who handle life’s challenges best, are those who have come to trust in the loving care of God. When all else fails, they remain calm because they know their lives are wrapped up in the arms of God.

Paul declared, instead of worrying about the challenges we are facing, we should pray. Worry does not have the ability to fix anything. In fact, it has been proven, worry can actually create physical problems. Jesus asked, “which of you by worrying can add a cubit to your stature?” (Luke 12:26) Worry does not help matters, but makes them worse. The clear alternatives to worry is to take my concerns to the Lord and allow Him to direct my steps.

Solomon adds an interesting step in curing worry. He reminds us of the value of a word carefully spoken. There are certain people who seem to have a gift for stirring up unwarranted concern, while others seem to be a calming voice of reason. We have all experienced times when a person opens their mouths and makes matters worse. The words that carry the ability to put gladness in the heart of the worrier, are the promises of God. In those times, when we are overwhelmed, we need to learn to cling to the promises of God.

Perhaps now would be a good time to set your worries aside and replace them with trust, by casting your cares upon the Lord, and filling your mind with His great and precious promises.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Proverbs 12 
As the previous chapter, this chapter is a collection of sometimes unrelated pearls of wisdom concerning the righteous/wise and the wicked/foolish. In particular, truth, speech, and diligence are important themes in this chapter. 
1. Verse 1 repeats an idea in Proverbs: the wise man is teachable and humble and loves to learn more of the things of God. Read 2Peter 3:18 and Proverbs 1:5. Is this your heart attitude when you study your bible, or do you have a “know-it-all” attitude? 

2. Read verse 4. How is your relationship with your spouse? Are you a blessing to them? Read Ephesians 5:21-33, and 1Peter 3:1-9 for instruction on being a wife and being a husband. 

3. Verses 2-3 and 5-8 speak of the stability and strength of the righteous and the instability of the wicked. How long can prosperity last for the wicked? 

4. Look at verse 9. Self-promotion is not looked on favorably by the Lord. Read James 4:10 and 1 Corinthians 4:7. Do you give the Lord honor and credit for all of the blessing and advantage in your life or do you brag/honor yourself? 

5. Read Proverbs 12:15. As people we tend to look at things from our own perspective and think that we are right. The book of Judges tells of a time in Israel’s history when men did what they thought was right without considering the things of God. Read Judges 21:5. Is Jesus the King who rules your life? Do you accept what He says as truth to be believed and obeyed? 

6. Verses 13, 18, 19, 22 all address our speech. Make a list of the consequences of using our mouths righteously and wickedly. 

7. Read verse 25. What is the result of worry/anxiety? What is an antidote for worry? Read Matthew 6:25-34 for good counsel for those who are anxious. 

Old Testament:
Amos 7-In The Gap
Amos 8- Your are Precious

Proverbs 11:17
“The merciful man does good for his own soul, but he who is cruel troubles his own flesh.”

Mercy is often defined as not getting what we deserve. While that is true, the word carries a greater meaning. It also means to show compassion and kindness to those who are in need or distressed. We see it evidenced in the life of Jesus. When He heard the leper calling out for Him, we read Jesus was moved with compassion, reached out His hand, touched the man, and cleansed him. Mercy stirred the heart of Jesus to touch the untouchable, and restore what leprosy had destroyed (Mark 1:40-41). When He felt a tug on His garment, He turned to see a woman who had been struggling with an illness for 12 years, without any hope of healing. Mercy stirred Him to heal her sickness, and reward her great faith (Luke 8:43). When He arrived on the scene of Lazarus’ funeral, and heard the wailing of his family and friends, mercy stirred the heart of Jesus, to weep with those who wept, and to intervene by raising Lazarus from the dead (John 11:1-17). Over and over, page after page, person after person, we see Jesus expressing His mercy, in compassion and kindness, to those in need. Nowhere, is this seen more clearly than in the cross. Our need was much greater than that of a woman with a blood disease, a man with leprosy, or even a family with a dead brother. Our need was caused by sin, and the only cure was the death of God. Jesus saw our condition, and bore the weight of all our sin, as He hung on Calvary’s cross. Mercy was extended as His blood was shed.

Mercy is something we are to receive and to spread. Solomon stated, it is the merciful man who does good for his own soul. Jesus said we are blessed when we are merciful. Just as Jesus looked for, and aided those in need, we should be looking for ways to express the mercy of God to others. Mercy is expressed in forgiveness. When we choose to forgive someone who has wronged us, and treat them as though they had never acted that way, we are expressing mercy. When we choose to be kind to someone, not because they have been kind to us, or in hopes of being rewarded, we are expressing mercy. When we go out of our way to show the love of Christ to others, whether it be in word or action, we are expressing mercy. This mercy will benefit the receiver and the giver alike. Those who receive mercy are learning something of the nature of God, and those giving it, are doing good to their own soul.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Proverbs 11 
As in the previous chapter, a variety of practical wisdom with a particular look at the contrast between righteousness and wickedness. 

1. Read verse 1. Scales were used in bible times for buying and selling. A person would for instance buy a bag of apples. The apples would be put on the scale and weighed and then the customer would pay the purchase price. Sometimes however, merchants would rig their scales so that they reported that things were heavier than they actually were. So dishonest scales is a symbol of dishonest business and financial dealings. Take a look at your own work and business dealings. Are they honoring to the Lord? Do you compromise when business is not profitable? 

2. In verses 3-11 highlight all the uses of the word “righteous” and “upright”. There are two kinds of righteousness in the Bible. Practical righteousness, doing things right before God, and positional righteousness, having a right standing before God. When a person is forgiven by God and out of love for God living His way, that person enjoys great blessings. List the benefits of the righteous in these verses. How does the life of the wicked contrast? 

3. Look at verse 13. Gossip is a terrible sin, but being trustworthy is a great blessing to those who call you their friend. Can you be trusted with a secret? Are you quick to want to tell someone, or are you committed to keeping the confidence of those who trust you? 

4. Read verse 14. When we are not open to counsel, we are in danger. But when we seek out wise counsel it provides great safety. Now read Psalm 119:24, and Isaiah 9:6. Who is our greatest counselor? 

5. In verse 17 we see who is most benefited and harmed by our wisdom or lack of. Who is it? 

6. In verse 22 we see a ridiculous picture. A pig with a gold ring in his nose. God likens this to an outwardly beautiful woman, without any discretion or inward beauty. Read 1 Peter 3:3-4. We spend time in front of the mirror every day. We must learn to look into the mirror of God’s word to see the invisible state of our soul. 

7. Verses 24-28 have some things to say about generosity and wealth. Do any of these apply to your life right now – in other words are you doing them? 

8. Look at verse 30. A mark of wisdom is winning a soul, which is through your witness and your words leading others to Christ. Read Daniel 12:3. Have you ever had this privilege? Would you like to? Ask God for boldness and opportunity to do so! 

Old Testament:
Amos 4- Prepared
Amos 5- When Lions Attack
Amos 6- Who’s To Blame

Proverbs 10:23
“To do evil is like sport to a fool, but a man of understanding has wisdom.”

While Jesus hung on the cross paying for the sins of humanity, paving the way for man to have fellowship with God, and giving entrance to heaven, we are told a group of soldiers were gambling for His clothing. The most important event in the history of humanity is unfolding, and these men are playing games at the foot of the cross. Sadly, their behavior is all too common among people today. Many, instead of taking seriously their need for Christ, are playing around with sin and treating it like sport. Even among believers this behavior is all too familiar. There are many Christians who seem to live for the adrenaline rush they receive, by getting as close to sin as possible, while not falling completely into it. That, my friend, is a dangerous game. Solomon wrote,

Proverbs 6:27-28
“Can a man take fire to his bosom,
And his clothes not be burned?
Can one walk on hot coals, And his feet not be seared?” 

Toying around with, and living on the edge of sin, is a very dangerous game. It will not be long before you find you have taken one step too many and fallen hard. For many, once that line is crossed, it is very difficult to be restored. Sin gets its teeth in us, and like a pit bull, is unwilling to let go. The secret to success, is to stay away from the fences. Don’t live as close to sinning as you can, but as far away as possible.

I had a good friend who had a substance abuse problem. He was doing his best to walk with the Lord, and stay away from former habits. He knew, he not only had to make investments in his walk with the Lord, but he also had to avoid his old stomping grounds. He even had to choose new routes home from work, because the way he traveled in the past took him right through the neighborhood where he would purchase drugs. After months of doing well, staying clean, and growing in Christ, he thought he was strong enough to handle it, and decided to take a short cut home. His path took him right by his dealers place. Before he knew it, he had parked the car, entered the home, purchased drugs, and fell hard. It was over a week later when I heard from him. He had been on a binge and had finally come down. Broken, hurting, filled with self-loathing, and fearing what was ahead, he told me the details of his story.

His story is not an isolated case. If we are honest, we all have stories of toying with sin and falling. Our landing may not have been as hard as his, but sin has had a devastating effect upon us, and those to whom we are seeking to be a godly witness. It is folly to think we can gamble with sin and not lose. If you have been treating sin like sport, it is time to retire. Whatever has been leading you to the edge, remove it from your life, and draw as close to Christ as you can. Paul told Timothy to flee youthful lusts (2 Timothy 2:22) and Joseph took this so seriously he ran from Potiphar’s house leaving his clothes behind (Genesis 39:12).

Pastor Jim

Questions for Proverbs 10 
Up until this point in the book of Proverbs, there has been a theme to the early chapters: God’s Wisdom is painted in a beautiful light, and the person who pursues wisdom is viewed with great favor by God. From this chapter forward the book changes, as most of the book is comprised of short proverbs that are often unrelated to the one before or after. Also, each proverb tends to say two things that illustrate one another. These proverbs can cover a very wide range of application even from verse to verse. 
1. Righteousness is contrasted with wickedness in many of these verses (2, 3, 6, 7, 11, 16, 20, 21, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30, 31, and 32). Read through these verses. Make a list of all of the advantages of the righteous. Now make a list of all of the consequences that the wicked must face. Which list do you want for yourself? 

2. Verses 1 and 5 mention a “wise son”. What impact does the wise son have on his parents? How is your relationship with your parents? Pursuing God and following His instructions for loving them is the greatest things that you can do to honor them. 

3. Look at verse 8. We are naturally prone to not want to have others tell us what to do. The problem is that it is right for us to submit to the authorities that God has put over us. Do you have a good attitude toward the authorities in your life? 

4. Look at verse 11, 13, 19, 20, 21, 31, 32. What is the speech of a righteous person likened to? How does it contrast with the words of the wicked? Take time to consider your own words. Is your mouth a blessing? 

5. Verse 12 reveals a wonderful truth. This verse is later quoted in 1 Peter 4:8. Think about the people you love: do you seek to cover/forgive/show grace concerning their sin? Or are you quick to fight? Ask God to pour His love into your heart to help you. 

6. Look at verse 22. When the Lord blesses a person’s life, there is no hidden cost to the blessing. Certainly we must count the cost in following Jesus, but that is all in the open and Jesus has been plain about it. The devil on the other hand, never tells what the cost will be for doing things his way. Consider this verse carefully. There is no downside! Pursue the blessing of the Lord in your own life! 

Old Testament:
Amos 1- Shepherd Or Butcher
Amos 3- Walking Together

Proverbs 9:11
“For by me your days will be multiplied, and years of life will be added to you.”

Jesus promised, those who believe in Him would be the recipients of eternal life. He also promised we would have abundant life while we live.

John wrote in 1 John 5:12, “He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.” 

We will never experience the abundant life God intends for us, until we first receive Christ and begin to walk with Him. Scripture promises the love of God will flood our hearts, the peace of God will guard our minds, and the life of God will well up within us like a fountain, flowing out upon others around us. Once we receive Christ, we begin to experience the abundant grace of God flowing into our lives. Paul knew this kind of life, and it enabled him to celebrate the Lord, even in the most difficult situations.

There are, however, many Christians who are failing to experience abundant life. They seem to be constantly downtrodden and defeated. In some cases, it may be a result of failing to choose the path of wisdom. Solomon explains that true wisdom has, as its goal, a desire to live pleasing to the Lord. When we walk that road (when all decisions are filtered through a desire to do what is right in the eyes of God), we will find “our days are multiplied and years of life are added.” Things are simply better when we follow the Lord and do it His way. So often, our will fights against the will of God. When we resist Him, we fail to see that His desires are best for us. The height of life is always reached when we surrender all to Christ, and live in obedience to His Word.

Let’s commit together to begin each day by offering ourselves to the Lord, and looking at our circumstances in the light of Scripture. Begin each day this week by dedicating yourself to Him, praying for the things you are facing, and reading His Word. End each day by examining your actions in light of the Lord and His Word. Let’s see how far He can take us down the road of abundant life.

Pastor Jim

Question for Proverbs 9 
Wisdom continues in this chapter to be personified as a gracious woman. 
1. Read verses 1-6. Notice the tremendous hospitality to strangers. This paints a picture that God is welcoming to those without wisdom who are seeking it. Read James 1:5. When you lack wisdom do you go to God and His word and ask for wisdom? 

2. Read verses 7-9. A contrast is being made between the scoffer and the wise man in these verses. How does the scoffer respond to correction? How does a wise man respond? 

3. All scoffers are foolish, but not all fools are scoffers. When we are humble concerning our foolishness and seek the Lord, He responds graciously. When we cross the line and begin to scoff at the things of the Lord, then God leaves us to the consequences of our sin, and lets us learn the hard way. Read Romans 1:18-32 to see an example of this. Is there anyone in your life that you need to simply pray for and stop speaking about the things of God to? What about you? Do you receive correction? 

4. Read verse 10. What two things are the foundation for wisdom? Read Col 2:1-3. The “fear of the Lord” simply means to care about what God thinks more than anything else (see Proverbs 14:27, 19:23, 22:4). The “fear of man” is caring mostly about what people think of you (see Proverbs 29:25). Keep your relationship with Jesus central, and stay in His word and you will become wise! 

5. According to verse 12, who is the ultimate beneficiary of wisdom? Who is the one who must face the consequences of foolishness (ignoring God’s wisdom)? Although our wisdom (or lack of it) will certainly affect others, we are the ones who have the most to gain or lose in our own lives by our attitude concerning wisdom. 

6. In verses 13-18, we see that the foolish woman is also hospitable to strangers, just like Wisdom in the beginning of the chapter. However, what are the net results of responding to her? Read Proverbs 16:25, and 1 Corinthians 3:18-20.

Old Testament:
Joel 1- Unattended Children
Joel 2- Turn To Me
Joel 3- Looking Ahead

Proverbs 8:2
“She takes her stand on the top of the high hill, beside the way, where the paths meet.”

Have you ever been following someone’s directions to a place you have never been, and encountered an unexpected fork in the road? When that happens, we are forced to stop, study the map again, ask for help, and make a decision as to which way to go. Solomon tells us, that in life, when we encounter the unexpected fork in the road, wisdom is there to meet us, and provide direction for our lives. While wisdom is always available to us, there are times when it may be more difficult to know the right path to take. Solomon gives a description of wisdom so we will be able to recognize it the next time we are in need.

Proverbs 8:7 “For my mouth will speak truth; wickedness is an abomination to my lips.”

God’s wisdom will always lead us away from wickedness and sin. Later, Solomon defines the fear of the Lord as hating evil (Proverbs 8:13). Any direction that leads you closer to sin, or away from fellowship with God, is not the way of wisdom. If you are trying to decide whether to go out with the guy from work, look at his life. Has he been showing evidence that he wants to walk with, serve and please God? If you are trying to decide about a move. Is there a healthy church nearby where you will be able to continue to grow in Christ and raise your family around the things of the Lord? The way of wisdom always leads us toward the Lord.

Proverbs 8:12 “I, wisdom, dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge and discretion.

Wisdom does not travel alone, she has a partner named Prudence. Prudence is defined as the ability to govern oneself, especially as it related to being circumspect in times of peril. We are able to recognize the way of wisdom when we realize that God’s way will always lead us to denying the flesh, and to personal growth in Christ. We were all taught about adrenaline and the body’s “fight or flight” reaction to danger. It is natural for all of us to want to avoid danger or difficulty; to choose the easy road over the difficult one. There are times, however, when God wants us to take the more challenging road, because He desires to do a work within us. That work will always involve the cutting away of the flesh. While that may be difficult, the end of that road, is our becoming the persons God created us to be, in Christ.

Proverbs 8:20 “I traverse the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of justice”

Righteousness, like holiness, is a word we sometimes struggle to define. I recently saw a sign that referred to a location as a holy site, and stated “no smoking, bare feet or loud talking.” Apparently, their definition of holy was to be quiet, not smoke and have covered toes. Biblical righteousness is best defined as becoming more like Jesus, and the path of wisdom always leads us to Christ.

Proverbs 8:23 “I have been established from everlasting, from the beginning, before there was ever an earth.”

Solomon takes us back to the very beginning, when all things were created, and reminds us that wisdom was there. We learn true godly wisdom does not change when culture does. The things that will lead us toward or away from God, do not change like the tide. Cultural mores may be different now than they were back in the “good old days”, but the wisdom of God has not changed. Regardless of what Hollywood says, or what new laws are passed in Washington, the wisdom of God will never change. Sin will always be sin, and righteousness will always be righteousness. Wisdom and prudence lead us to knowledge and discretion.

Let’s be sure, as we face a fork in the road, that we are looking for signs that point to heaven’s wisdom.

Pastor Jim

Questions For Proverbs 8 
In this chapter wisdom is personified as a gracious lady, in stark contrast to the immoral woman from the previous chapter. She is a servant of God, and so as we observe her, we observe the Lord’s heart concerning wisdom. 
1. Read verses 1-4. Does Wisdom keep her wisdom to herself? 

2. Read verse 5. Who in particular does she especially reach out to? Read 1 Corithians 1:24-29. 

3. Read verses 6-9. What are the qualities of wisdom? What things are not a part of wisdom’s counsel? Read James 3:13-18. There is a wisdom that is not the wisdom of God. This chapter is referring to the wisdom that God provides. 

4. Verses 10-16 paint a picture of great wealth and power that wisdom gives. What does the world pursue for wealth and power? 

5. Look at verses 17. What is required to find wisdom? 

6. Verses 18-21 paint a picture of the wealth that wisdom provides. This wealth obviously extends beyond the financial. In what other ways should a person be wealthy? Read 1 Tim 6:6-19. 

7. Verses 22-31 speak of wisdom’s timelessness. The wisdom of God is not subject to fads or what is currently popular. Do you look first to what the Bible when you seek wisdom, or do you quickly turn to “experts” for their opinion? Be careful. Trusting God’s wisdom is much safer! 

8. Read 32-36. What are the advantages of listening to God’s wisdom? What are the disadvantages? Is seeking, finding, and applying God’s wisdom a priority in your life? 

Old Testament:
Hosea 13 – Smoke
Hosea 14-Healing for the backslidden

Proverbs 7:24
“Now therefore, listen to me, my children; Pay attention to the words of my mouth”

This chapter is given entirely as a warning against the danger of falling into sexual sin. It is written as a letter from a father to his son, pleading with him to avoid the things that will lead to sin. While this sin is perhaps more common among young men, it is a sin we all must avoid. The principles found in this chapter will apply to guarding against all sin. To grasp the danger being warned against, look at what happened to this young man who turns aside from the Lord for sinful pleasure.

Proverbs 7:22 “Immediately he went after her, as an ox goes to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks . . .“

While it seems as though he was suddenly destroyed by sin, it was actually quite a long road that took him there, and one filled with warning signs he chose to ignore. Falling from the Lord is never something that takes place over night. This young man’s failure illustrates the steps that always lead to a fall.

First, we read he was a young man. While he may have thought of himself as all grown up, in reality he was quite immature. We read he was “simple and devoid of understanding.” Hebrews 5 refers to a group of people who should be teaching others, but because they had failed to grow in Christ, they were still behaving like baby Christians. It is appropriate for an infant to act like a baby, but it is sad when an adult is still behaving childishly. Growth in Christ does not happen simply by being a believer for a long period of time. We grow when we invest in our relationship with the Lord. Failure to do so will make us susceptible to a fall.

Second, we read of the young man walking the street that led to her home. His failure was a result of being in the wrong place. Instead of choosing a different route, he walked where he should not have been. We cannot expect to come right to the edge of sin and not fall off that cliff. To avoid a fall we need to steer clear of the things that will incite the flesh and lead to failure.

Third, this young man is walking alone. Many of our failures could be avoided if we got others involved in the fight. Had this young man walked those same streets with a godly friend, they could watch each other’s back, and encourage each other in order to avoid failure. Finding someone who will be an encouragement to you in your walk, involves being in church regularly, stepping out of your comfort zone to get to know others, and letting down some guards so others can know how to pray for and encourage you. There are certain aspects of our walk with the Lord where we must walk alone, but for the most part, God did not intend for us to travel this road alone.

Finally, our traveler fell because he ignored the obvious warning signs. Whatever he was thinking, the moment she used the word “husband,” he should have known this was not a path to continue on. The correct response at that moment was to flee. The problem was, he had allowed himself to reach a point of no return. Once he began following his desires, rather than the Word of the God, those desires began to control him. Flattering words mixed with her embrace, her kiss and her seduction, brought him to a point where failure was inevitable. We must deal with temptation long before we get to the point where it is too strong to avoid. If we are honest, we will recognize that before we fail, we have passed sign after sign warning us to turn around and travel some other route.

Before we come to the slaughter house of sin, let’s take the time to examine our lives in light of these warnings.

Pastor Jim

Questions foe Proverbs 7 
1. In verses 1-4 we read of five separate things that we should do concerning God’s wisdom from His word. What are they? 

2. In verses 1-2 the word keep is used. This means much more than to obey; it carries with it the idea of keeping watch, guarding, treasuring, and paying attention to. Consider your heart toward God’s Word. Do you “keep” it and the wisdom it imparts in all of these senses? 

3. Back in chapter 3 we saw many of the benefits of wisdom. Verse 5 of chapter 7 gives us another benefit: freedom from the immoral woman. The immoral woman is a representation of both sexual sin, and spiritual adultery against God. Before we look further at the dangers she poses, what according to this verse is the key to overcoming her? 

4. Read verses 6-9. What was the young man lacking? Before he actually visits the woman, where is he? When does he visit her? 

5. Take a look at verses 10-13. What are some of the characteristics of this woman? Remember that this is a description of not only a woman enticing a man to sexual sin, but of anyone who would entice us away from devotion to God and faithfulness to Him. 

6. Read verses 14-18. What rationalization does she give in verse 14? In verse 18 what does she emphasize? Unfaithfulness to God and indulgence of sin will always be attended by at least one of these two things: lying rationalizations, and false perspective that emphasizes only the pleasurable. Be careful! 

7. Read verses 19-20. The immoral woman suggests that there will be no consequence or accountability for lying with her; her husband is gone. Read 2 Peter 3. Will the husband return? Come out to Calvary this weekend as we study this chapter, or listen live online. 

8. Read verses 21-27. Notice that by paying attention to her words, the young man fell into ruin. What are some of the things that happened to him? Is anyone strong enough to play with fire and not get burned (verse 26)? What is the way to prevent ourselves from being taken in by her (verse 24)? 

Old Testament:
Hosea 11- Bands of love
Hosea 12- Unnecessary Assistance

Go to the ant, you sluggard!
Consider her ways and be wise,
Which, having no captain, overseer or ruler,
Provides her supplies in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest.” – Proverbs 6:6-8

Solomon used the natural world as a teacher of spiritual truth. Not to the extent that his understanding of God was built on what he saw in nature, but rather that nature has a way of illustrating many Biblical truths. In Proverbs, it is common to find references to the animal kingdom as a teaching method.

The ant is a means of reminding us of the need to plan ahead. To the casual observer, they seem to have no ruler, yet they all march in line to store up for the future. Solomon suggests the reason we fail to prepare for what is ahead is laziness. Twice in the passage, the man who does not plan for his future is referred to as a sluggard. Webster defines a sluggard as an habitually lazy person, or someone who is inactive.

While it seems clear, Solomon has our financial well being in mind, this truth has its fullest application in preparing for eternity. Every person, rich or poor, man or woman, free or slave, will one day breathe his last and step out of time and into eternity. Tragically, not all of us are prepared for that eventuality. Some put it off thinking they will get around to it later, only to be caught, by death, unaware. Others, purposely try to avoid any thought of death or eternity by filling their minds with earthly things. Whatever the case, we must “go to the ant” and learn to prepare for our ultimate fate; being face to face with the God who made us.

The way to prepare for eternity is first to receive Christ as Savior and Lord. Accept the fact that you are a sinner and He is the Savior. Bow your head, your heart, and your life to Him and ask Him to forgive your sins. Second, we need to store up treasures in heaven by living for Him on earth. Take time to pray for others and tell them about your relationship with Christ. Look for ways to get involved in serving Him by ministering to others.

Go to the ant, Heaven is waiting.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Proverbs 6 
1. Surety-security or payment, in debt. Verses 1-6 tell us a bit about debt. After reading these verses, how do you view debt? 

2. Do you plan ahead? Are you a hard worker? Verses 6-11 instruct us to what will happen to us if we do not work. How does poverty come on someone? 

3. Verses 12-15 describe “the worthless/wicked man,” pray for the people you know now that these verses describe. 

4. What 6 things does the Lord hate? If any of these describe you, confess now and start asking the Lord to change you. Read 2 Corinthians 5:17 

5. The consequences of adultery can be devastating. Being involved in sin will give you tunnel vision, you only see what you want to see, not realizing the destruction you are bringing upon yourself and others. Pray for those caught in this horrid trap, God will deliver and wants to restore! 

Old Testament:
Hosea 10 – Sow What

Proverbs 5:14
“I was on the verge of total ruin, in the midst of the assembly and congregation.”

“The assembly of the congregation”, or in our case, the church, was designed by God as a means to help the individual believer grow in Christ. The Word of God, corporate worship, and fellowship, were all designed by God to help each of us grow in Christ. When we come to church with a soft heart, eager to hear from God, His Word has a way of speaking directly into the things we are facing; equipping us in advance against trials and temptation. When we enter worship, with a desire to give back to God for all He has given to us, we find we draw near to Him, and surrender more of ourselves to Him. When we develop honest fellowship with other believers, we are willing to ask for prayer and counsel. When we remain open to share our struggles, we find that iron sharpens iron, and we are able to overcome sin and temptation.

That being said, it is dangerous when we enter the assembly of the congregation, put on a mask, and begin to play the Christian game. By wearing a smile and speaking our best Christianese, we convince others that all is well, when in reality we have begun to wander from the Lord. Instead of allowing the Word to do its work in our lives, by convicting, instructing, and changing, or taking advantage of the fellowship of the saints, we use our church time to pretend all is well.

Solomon warns of the danger of living like that. He declares, it is possible to be on the verge of total ruin, while standing in the midst of the assembly. Backsliding begins long before we stop gong to church. It starts when we begin to pretend all is well; when truly we have begun to drift. Instead of putting on your best mask, come to the fellowship with a hunger for the Word, a desire to worship, and an eagernes to glean all you can from other believers.

Pastor Jim

Questions for Proverbs 5 
We are asked to pay attention to specific wisdom and to preserve discretion. Discretion-discernment which enables a person to judge critically of what is correct and proper, united with caution; nice discernment and judgment, directed by circumspection, and primarily regarding one’s own conduct. This chapter is a warning about the “immoral woman”. 
1. How is the immoral woman described in verses 3-6? 

2. The instruction given in verses 7 & 8 are very clear. As we have read in earlier chapters, some things we need to keep far away from our lives. Have you known someone that has fallen into this sin? Are you being tempted? Follow the instruction given. 

3. We have read about the benefits of obeying the principles in previous chapters. What consequences are described here for being involved with the immoral woman? 

4. Verses 15-20 tell us what we should and should not do. Verse 21 can bring comfort or guilt; for the ways of a man are before the eyes of the Lord and He ponders all his paths. Do you understand that the Lord sees all you do? Read Colossians 3:17 

Old Testament:
Hosea 7- Silly Bird
Hosea 8- Watch Your Step