2019 Jan 18 Proverbs 18, Psalms, Philippians 2
2019 Jan 18 Proverbs 18, Psalms, Philippians 2
Hello to all, wishing you a lovely day! Let's continue with Proverbs 18 verses 17-20:
"17 The first to state his case seems right, Until the other party comes and cross-examines him. 18 Casting lots puts an end to disputes And decides between strong opponents. 19 A brother offended is more unyielding than a fortified city, And there are disputes like the bars of a fortress. 20 From the fruitage of a man’s speech his stomach will be filled; He will be satisfied with what his lips produce."
Prove 18:17 How important to recognize this principle, especially if judging a case. This reminds us not to place full stock in the first opinion we hear, but rather to be willing to hear both or all sides of a case before drawing definite conclusions. The quality of understanding should move us to aim to see the big picture in a case, see all the factors affecting the incident(s) being examined, and then to begin to draw proper conclusions with godly discernment, differentiating between the important factors involved, and lesser factors, although not necessarily negligible. We need to be able to discern between truth and falsehood or deception, among other things. Above all, trust in Jehovah God, rely upon Him in prayer to see what's necessary to render a righteous judgment.
Prove 18:18 In ancient Israel, the practice of casting lots was used at times for even highly important matters when decisions were not clear for all, appealing to Jehovah God for the necessary answers.
Prove 18:19 One in court likely has a legitimate cause for complaint. However, some are more easily offended by less serious issues. Ecclesiastes 7:8,9 counsels: "Better is the end of a matter than its beginning. Better to be patient than to be haughty in spirit. 9 Do not be quick to take offense, for the taking of offense lodges in the bosom of fools." Another Proverb says a fool considers himself "right in his own eyes" rather than fearing God and turning away from bad. (Prove 3:7). Of course, a person can commit a serious offense, or violation of a Christian standard or man's law. Still, there are Christian guidelines for peaceably handling even serious matters of offense. (Matth 5:23,24; Matth 18:15-17). In any case, it is good to ensure that all involved have a healthy fear of displeasing God and Christlike humility, a hatred for badness, but a love for their fellowman and desire to live peaceably with all men if possible. (Romans 12:18). We should also be patient, or slow to anger, compassionately seeking insight into the situation of others, finding the cause of any offending conduct, promoting understanding of the circumstances leading up to it.
Prove 18:20 How fine, then to spend time contemplating our speech--what we can say that will be upbuilding or uplifting to others each day. Positive speech begins in the heart. The integrity-keeper of Psalm 15 is "practicing what is right and speaking the truth in his heart." (Psalm 15:2). Have you learned to 'practice what is right'? Do you treasure up good sayings, stories, and experiences in harmony with God's word to better understand the truth of God, and even sharing these with others? What delight we can experience, humbly listening to others, and then sharing appropriate upbuilding things with them! (Matth 13:52; 1Timo 4:13).
Psalm 89 (Book 3, 17th psalm) verses 5-8: "5 The heavens praise your marvels, O Jehovah, Yes, your faithfulness in the congregation of the holy ones. 6 For who in the skies can compare to Jehovah? Who among the sons of God is like Jehovah? 7 God is held in awe in the council of holy ones; He is grand and awe-inspiring to all who are around him. 8 O Jehovah God of armies, Who is mighty like you, O Jah? Your faithfulness surrounds you."
Here Jehovah is described as "grand and awe-inspiring," and his faithfulness is praised. Jehovah is certainly worthy of such praise and honor. Are we aware of the "marvels" of Jehovah, perhaps in His astounding creative works, or in the way He made humans, or the way He "makes all his works cooperate together for the good of those who love God?" Psalm 46:8,9 describes another marvel of Jehovah in these words: "8 Come and witness the activities of Jehovah, How he has done astonishing things on the earth. 9 He is bringing an end to wars throughout the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; He burns the military wagons with fire." Jehovah's purpose is to end war earth-wide, ushering in genuine peace among lovers of what is true and right. May we continue to praise and thank God for all the good He has done, does, and yet will do for the loving benefit and happiness of His human creation!
Philippians 1:12-14 shows that while Paul was imprisoned for a time due to his Christian stand of integrity, refusing to offer a bribe to be released sooner, his situation actually advance the good news, giving a witness to Roman officials. His courage and willingness to endure such things for Christ proved to strengthen other Christians similarly, to continue having boldness to speak about the truth to others. May we continue to speak up fearlessly when appropriate, out of love for our neighbor, hoping for as many as possible to embrace Bible truth before God's judgement comes on this system of things. The verses of Philippians read this way: "12 Now I want you to know, brothers, that my situation has actually turned out for the advancement of the good news, 13 so that my prison bonds for the sake of Christ have become public knowledge among all the Prae·toʹri·an Guard and all the rest. 14 Now most of the brothers in the Lord have gained confidence because of my prison bonds, and they are showing all the more courage to speak the word of God fearlessly." Jesus endured impalement to accomplish the will of God, yet God protected his life and good name, or reputation among right-hearted humans. Most loyal servants of God in our time will not need to die, as did Jesus, but as he told Martha: "Everyone who is living and exercises faith in me will never die at all." Regarding Jesus, it was "for the joy that was set before him he endured," thus we need to maintain our genuine hope of reward from God for our faithful Christian course, out of love for God and fellow humans. (Hebre 12:2).
Find Life and See
Between Winchester, Virginia, and hopefully, Washington D.C., having confidence that our thankful trust in God will not fail to inspire us to the peace He has purposed via His Kingdom!
