Making a living

There's a difference betwwen making a living and making a life, and the difference lies in following Jesus! Are you "making a living" that will lead only to death, or are you "sowing righteousness" to harvest the reward of eternal life?

Proverbs 11:18–19 (HCSB): The wicked man earns an empty wage, but the one who sows righteousness, a true reward. Genuine righteousness leads to life, but pursuing evil leads to death.

Sinkholes

Like falling into a bottomless pit, the person who constantly compares their stuff to others will never stop. Today, instead of looking at everything around you, and wanting it, try looking at what you have and being grateful for it.

Proverbs 27:20 (HCSB): Sheol and Abaddon  are never satisfied,
and people’s eyes are never satisfied.

Dialogue

We may not be able to speak things into existence, but we can certainly affect our attitude and perception of a situation by how we think (internal dialogue), which affects how we talk (external dialogue). How do most of your conversations about work sound? They're affecting your performance, and thereby, your pay!

Proverbs 12:14 (HCSB): A man will be satisfied with good
by the words of his mouth, and the work of a man’s hands will reward him.

Devil in the details

It only takes on crime to make a criminal, and that label will overshadow every other deed.  Is the devil in your details? If so, you might want to "cast him out" by watching all your actions! It's the little things that matter.

Proverbs 12:10 (HCSB): A righteous man cares about his animal’s health,
but even the merciful acts of the wicked are cruel.

Attraction Theory

According to psychologists who study the theory of attraction, people are attracted to similarity. In other words, what you see in your spouse is what they see in you! Do you like what you see in your mate? If not, maybe you're the one who needs to change!

Proverbs 12:4 (HCSB): A capable wife  is her husband’s crown, but a wife who causes shame is like rottenness in his bones.

Returns

Whether it's rewards on a credit card, interest rates on savings accounts, dividends on stocks, or simply paying someone for a task, we all want a good return on our investment. In life, tomorrow's returns are determined by your actions today. What will your returns be?

Proverbs 11:17 (HCSB): A kind man benefits himself,
but a cruel man brings disaster on himself.

Co-signer needed

Most of us would never co-sign a loan for a stranger because we would be responsible for the debt they can’t pay! Jesus didn’t just co-sign your debt of sin, though, he committed and paid it in full! Today, will you live grateful for His payment?

Proverbs 11:15 (HCSB):  If someone puts up security for a stranger,
he will suffer for it, but the one who hates such agreements is protected.

Birds

A bird doesn’t sing because it can fly, but it certainly can fly because it sings! Today, will you choose to sing, rejoice, and be free , or stay caged in sin

Proverbs 29:6 (HCSB): An evil man is caught by sin,
but the righteous one sings and rejoices.

Execution

There’s a saying that goes, “Good initiative, bad execution.” The best of intentions can become the worst actions when we don’t execute them correctly! How will you bless others today?

Proverbs 27:14 (HCSB):  If one blesses his neighbor with a loud voice early in the morning, it will be counted as a curse to him.

Warning lights

Christian, when you look at the lost, do your eyes flash a warning of judgment as you look down on them? If so, you’re sinning! Today, will you pray to have compassion for the lost, just as Jesus did?

Proverbs 21:4 (HCSB):  The lamp  that guides the wicked—
haughty eyes and an arrogant heart —is sin.

I once was blind, but now I see

If we had direct insight into other's lives, and could see the events that happen to them as well as burdens they carry, I think we would all be more patient with one another. Today, will you be insightful enough to look past a person's outward actions and see the human inside?


Proverbs 17:11 (HCSB) "A person's insight gives him patience, and his virtue is to overlook an offense."

Digging up Bones

My two dogs will share a single bone, but give each of them their own, and the fight is on. The nice thing about not having much is that it's hard to fight over what you don't have. You may not have much, but today, will you be thankful for what you can share?


Proverbs 17:1 (HCSB) "Better a dry crust with peace than a house full of feasting with strife."

Can you hear me now?

Many are concerned about their cell network’c coverage, when they should be worried about their spiritual network! Are you a member of a local church?

Proverbs 11:14 (HCSB): 14 Without guidance, people fall, but with many counselors there is deliverance.

A Christmas Story

Ebenezer Scrooge had lots of money, but no friends while Tiny Tim had no money, but lots of friends.  You don't have to be poor to be friendly, but you don't have to be friendly to be rich, either. At the end of the day, will you have treated others so that no matter what you have in the bank, you're well liked?

Proverbs 11:16 (HCSB): A gracious woman gains honor, but violent  men gain only riches.

Fire and water

Fury burns itself out, and anger eventually recedes, allowing relationships to be healed, but jealousy has no end and destroys relationships. Today, will you decide to let go of  your jealousy?

Proverbs 27:4 (HCSB): Fury is cruel, and anger a flood, but who can withstand jealousy?

Snow Cones

The only snow anyone wants in summer is a snow cone, and no one wants rain during a harvest because it means ruined crops. As these two things don’t go together and are unwanted, so are the actions of a fool. Instead of bringing respect, foolish actions disgust others. Will your actions  cause others to respect you today?

Proverbs 26:1 (HCSB): Like snow in summer and rain at harvest,
honor is inappropriate for a fool.

Timing

Timing isn’t important only for punchlines! Today, pray you’ll use the right words at the right time!

Proverbs 25:11 (HCSB): A word spoken at the right time is like gold apples on a silver tray.

Educational Opportunities

Education doesn’t occur only in school; knowledge can be discovered almost anywhere if you’re paying attention. What will you learn today?

Proverbs 21:11 (HCSB):  When a mocker is punished, the inexperienced become wiser;
when one teaches a wise man, he acquires knowledge.

The Gambler

In Kenny Roger’s song “Thr Gambler,” there’s a line that goes, “know when to hold’em, know when to fold’em.” In poker, if you don’t know when to hold or fold your cards, you’ll end up with nothing. In life, if you don’t work at the proper time, you’ll also end up with nothing.

Proverbs 20:4 (HCSB): The slacker does not plow during planting season;
at harvest time he looks,  and there is nothing.

No Escape

Unlike an escape room, there is no way out for those under God’s wrath, but for the righteous, there is freedom for everyone! If you’re trapped, call out to Jesus!

Proverbs 11:21 (HCSB): Be assured  that the wicked
will not go unpunished,
but the offspring of the righteous will escape

Filters

While it’s best to not think it, sometimes the best you can do is not say it! Will you filter your words today?

Proverbs 11:12 (HCSB): Whoever shows contempt for his neighbor lacks sense,
but a man with understanding keeps silent.

Self-fulfilling prophecy

Like a self-fulfilling prophecy, those who look to God  for salvation find deliverance, while those who look for trouble find it.

Proverbs 11:8 (HCSB):  The righteous one is rescued from trouble;
in his place, the wicked one goes in.

Unseen Forces

A ship on the ocean, an eagle in the sky, and a  snake moving across rock. Each of these seem to move effortlessly because they are propelled by unseen forces. A young man wooing a woman is also motivared by a powerful but unseen force: Love! What’s your motivation today?

Proverbs 30:18–19 (HCSB):
Three things are beyond me;
four I can’t understand:
the way of an eagle in the sky,
the way of a snake on a rock,
the way of a ship at sea,
and the way of a man with a young woman.

Foundation

As concrete sets the steel beams that form the foundation for a building, kindness cements the foundation for a friendship between neighbors. Which neighbor will you be kind to today?

Proverbs 29:5 (HCSB): A man who flatters  his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.

Giving to get

In the economy of God, giving is how you get! Today, who will you give to?

Proverbs 28:27 (HCSB):
The one who gives to the poor will not be in need, but one who turns his eyes away will receive many curses.

The Family of God

Our actions represent more than us as an individual, because we are part of a larger whole, beginning with our family. As our earthly parents want us to represent our families well, so our Heavenly Father wants us to represent His family well. What will your actions today tell others about the family of God?

Proverbs 27:11 (HCSB): Be wise, my son, and bring my heart joy, so that I can answer anyone who taunts me.

Liars and Fires

Once they figure it out, people will flee from a liar just as quickly as a deranged killer. Gain a reputation as a liar, and you’ll be left all alone and unable to repair the damage you’ve done.

Proverbs 26:18–19 (HCSB): Like a madman who throws flaming darts and deadly arrows,
so is the man who deceives his neighbor and says, “I was only joking!”

Correction

Any fool can yell and scream; but the authority figure who can reprove and correct without ranting and raving is often the one most heard.  Today, will you be heard by those you need to correct?

Proverbs 25:12 (HCSB):  A wise correction to a receptive ear is like a gold ring or an ornament of gold.

C'mon

Common sense says that with 7.3 Billion people on the planet, being human is pretty common. In the big picture, all those people share a common humanity,  are ultimately equal in value.  C'mon and recognize every person's value today!

Proverbs 22:2 (HCSB): The rich and the poor have this in common:
the Lord made them both.

Mockingbird

The Mockingbird may look pretty and sound good, but at the end of the day, it doesn't even have its own song! In the same way, a mocker derides what he cannot do, and doesn't have ideas of his own. Make sure you're not a mocked today!

Proverbs 21:24 (HCSB): The proud and arrogant person, named “Mocker,”
acts with excessive pride

Judge, Jury, and Executioner

Parents are often judge, jury, and executioner when their children misbehave, and it's easy to forget different crimes require different punishments. As you discipline your children today, are you keeping this in mind?

Proverbs 19:25 (HCSB): Strike a mocker, and the inexperienced learn a lesson;
rebuke the discerning, and he gains knowledge.

Vandals

As a vandal destroys property that someone else has to repair, so the lazy person destroys productivity that others have to replace. Today, will you be a helper or a hindrance to others?

Proverbs 18:9 (HCSB): The one who is truly lazy in his work
is brother to a vandal.

Floodwaters

My house is on the lower end of a slope, and last weekend we had a deluge of rain in our city, and the water came faster than the ground could soak it up.  As I was watching the rain, I noticed it pooling up against the rear of my house before flowing around the sides. Another 1/2" of water, and I was going to have a river from my back door through my garage. I pulled on boots and a slicker, grabbed a scoop shovel from the shed, and for the next 45 minutes bailed water until the rain subsided. Let's work as hard to prevent conflict as we would to keep our houses from flooding!

Proverbs 17:13–14 (HCSB):
If anyone returns evil for good,
evil will never depart from his house.
To start a conflict is to release a flood;
stop the dispute before it breaks out.

Expectation

Many people expect being a good person is enough to get you into Heaven. However, the moral of the story is that you can be a “good moral person” and still end up in hell once you die. Hope placed in the wrong thing doesn’t save!

Proverbs 11:7 (HCSB): When the wicked man dies, his expectation comes to nothing, and hope placed in wealth vanishes.

Back that hitch up

The story about never seeing a hearse pulling a moving trailer is true! When your day comes, what will you save you?

Proverbs 11:4 (HCSB): Wealth is not profitable on a day of wrath,
but righteousness rescues from death.

Keeping up appearances

Someone may be convinced they’re innocent, andbmay even appear to be innocent, but that doesn’t mean they are!


Proverbs 30:20 (HCSB): This is the way of an adulteress:
she eats and wipes her mouth and says, “I’ve done nothing wrong.”

Common Sense

Say what you will, but common sense isn’t confined to those with lots of money.

Proverbs 28:11 (HCSB): A rich man is wise in his own eyes,
but a poor man who has discernment sees through him.

Heads!

In other words, two heads are better than one!

Proverbs 27:9 (HCSB): Oil  and incense bring joy to the heart, 

and the sweetness of a friend is better than self-counsel.

The Finer Things

Having the finer things in life is all well and good; just make sure not to spend all your money on them!

Proverbs 21:17 (HCSB): he one who loves pleasure will become a poor man;
whoever loves wine and oil will not get rich.

Legos

Just like legos comes varying colors, styles, and sizes, but each piece is still hurts when you step on it, wrong may come in many different forms, but it’s still wrong!

Proverbs 20:10 (HCSB): Differing weights and varying measures —
both are detestable to the Lord.

Narcissism

Narcissism means being so self-absorbed you can’t focus on anything else, but self-interest means valuing yourself enough to desire success and learn how to get there!

Proverbs 19:8 (HCSB):  The one who acquires good sense  loves himself;
one who safeguards understanding finds success.

Playing favorites

In other words, don’t play favorites!

Proverbs 18:5 (HCSB): 5 It is not good to show partiality to the guilty
by perverting the justice due the innocent.

Terms

Want to be a long-term leader? Make sure you have integrity!

Proverbs 16:12 (HCSB): Wicked behavior  is detestable to kings,
since a throne is established through righteousness.

Juked

Like a receiver juking a tackler and heading toward the goal line, avoiding the temptation to respond to someone with anger avoids a larger confrontation, and moves straight to the goal of solving the issue!

Proverbs 15:1 (HCSB): A gentle answer turns away anger,
but a harsh word stirs up wrath.

Planning to fail

The saying goes, “Fail to plan, plan to fail.” However, you want to make sure you’re making the right plans!

Proverbs 14:22 (HCSB): Don’t those who plan evil go astray?
But those who plan good find loyalty and faithfulness.

‘nough said!

‘nough said!

Proverbs 11:13 (HCSB): A gossip goes around revealing a secret,
but a trustworthy person keeps a confidence.

Chutes and Ladders

Like a player who avoids the chute and climbs the ladder  in Chutes and Ladders, so the righteous move forward in life while the treacherous fall. Which way do you want to go today?

Proverbs 11:5–6 (HCSB):
The righteousness of the blameless clears his path,
but the wicked person will fall because of his wickedness.
The righteousness of the upright rescues them,
but the treacherous are trapped by their own desires.

Following Instructions

Whether it’s a task given by the boss, directions to assemble a toy, or God’s instructions to receive abundant life, those who ignore instruction will find themselves in trouble, while those who follow instructions will find themselves in blessings. Today, are you too proud to try “following the instructions?”

Proverbs 13:13 (HCSB): The one who has contempt for instruction will pay the penalty,
but the one who respects a command will be rewarded.

Problems

More money may be what everyone desires, but more money often comes with a new set of problems. Today, be thankful for the problems you don’t have!

Proverbs 13:8–9 (HCSB): Riches are a ransom for a man’s life,
but a poor man hears no threat.

Maps

A person’s speech is like a roadmap. The question is, does yours lead to trouble or security?

Proverbs 12:13 (HCSB): An evil man is trapped by his rebellious speech,
but a righteous one escapes from trouble.

Proverbs 11:2 (HCSB): When pride comes, disgrace follows, but with humility comes wisdom.

Can’t get no satisfaction

There may be two things, three things, four things that take and take and take, never being satisfied, but there’s one thing that can: You! Practice be satisfied today!

Proverbs 30:15–16 (HCSB): The leech has two daughters: “Give, Give!” Three things  are never satisfied; four never say, “Enough!”: 16 Sheol;  a childless womb; earth, which is never satisfied with water; and fire, which never says, “Enough!”

Court’s in session

When you have an issue with someone, remember the wise person states a case, considers the facts, and moves on while the foolish person spews emotion, argues incessantly, and holds a grudge. Which would you rather be?

Proverbs 29:9 (HCSB):  If a wise man goes to court with a fool,
there will be ranting and raving but no resolution.

Leading well

Understanding what people want and how to guide them to get what they need means you’ll be in a position of leadership for a long time.

Proverbs 28:2 (HCSB): When a land is in rebellion, it has many rulers,
but with a discerning and knowledgeable person, it endures.

Hide and Seek

Like a small child who thinks they can hide by covering their eyes during hide and seek, but you cannot hide who you truly are for long. Both good and bad people will be found out!

Proverbs 27:19 (HCSB): 19 As water reflects the face,
so the heart reflects the person.

Stability

As a wise king who wants a stable government gets rid of corrupt advisors, so those who want a stable life should drive out bad influences!

Proverbs 20:26 (HCSB):  A wise king separates out the wicked
and drives the threshing wheel  over them.

Idolatry

Idolatry in any form leads to trouble; but it’s worse when a person is idolized!

Proverbs 24:1–2 (HCSB):
Don’t envy evil men
or desire to be with them,
for their hearts plan violence,
and their words stir up trouble.

Caught!

It's hard to enjoy anything when you always have to worry about getting caught!

Proverbs 20:17 (HCSB): Food gained by fraud is sweet to a man,
but afterward his mouth is full of gravel.

Brawling

If you’re foolish enough to get drunk, you’ll be mocked by your buddies and feel like you’ve been in a brawl the next day!

Proverbs 20:1 (HCSB): Wine is a mocker,  beer is a brawler, 

and whoever staggers because of them is not wise. 

Caught!

Mark Twain said, “If you tell the truth all the time, you won’t have to have a good memory.” It’s easier to tell the truth than remember all the lies you’ve told, and you’d don’t have to worry about getting caught!

Proverbs 19:5 (HCSB): A false witness will not go unpunished,
and one who utters lies will not escape.

Raises

Ability with humility will often raise one over relationships ruined by rebelliousness.

Proverbs 17:2 (HCSB): 2 A wise servant will rule over a disgraceful son
and share an inheritance among brothers.

Planning

It’s been said, “prior planning prevents poor performance,” and God definitely has a plan. Are you a part of it?

Proverbs 16:4 (HCSB): The Lord has prepared everything for His purpose—
even the wicked for the day of disaster.

Get back!

In life, you get back what you give, which is why the wicked worry and the righteous rejoice.

Proverbs 10:24–25 (HCSB):
What the wicked dreads will come to him,
but what the righteous desire will be given to them.
When the whirlwind passes,
the wicked are no more,
but the righteous are secure forever.

Silver

Silver mining began about 5,000 years ago when it was recognized as a source of value for money, decoration, and value. Those who work with silver, from the miner to the commodities trader, derive their living from silver. Are your words providing value for others equal to silver?


Proverbs 10:20–21 (HCSB):
The tongue of the righteous is pure silver;
the heart of the wicked is of little value.
The lips of the righteous feed many,
but fools die for lack of sense.

irritating

Proverbs 10:26 (HCSB):  Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes,
so the slacker is to the one who sends him on an errand.
People who aagree to complete a task and don’t are an irritation!

Focus

If you want to accomplish your goals, set them, then stay focused on them!

Proverbs 4:25–27 (HCSB):
Let your eyes look forward;
fix your gaze  straight ahead.
Carefully consider the path  for your feet,
and all your ways will be established.
Don’t turn to the right or to the left;
keep your feet away from evil.

Mirror, mirror

The company you keep is a Morris right of who you are. When you look in the mirror, what do you see?

Proverbs 29:24 (HCSB): To be a thief’s partner is to hate oneself;
he hears the curse but will not testify.

Running shoes

when the truth is revealed, the innocent can stand tall, but the guilty run. Unfortunately,  o matter how fast you are, or how good your running shoes are, you can’t outrun the truth!

Proverbs 28:1 (HCSB): The wicked flee when no one is pursuing them,
but the righteous are as bold as a lion.

Minding your business

Sometimes it’s best to mind your own business!

Proverbs 26:17 (HCSB): A person who is passing by and meddles in a quarrel that’s not his
is like one who grabs a dog by the ears.

Returns

Words are just like commodities; when used at the right time in the right way, they provide great returns. What returns are yours bringing?

Proverbs 25:11–13 (HCSB):
 A word spoken at the right time
is like gold apples on a silver tray.
A wise correction to a receptive ear
is like a gold ring or an ornament of gold.
To those who send him, a trustworthy messenger
is like the coolness of snow on a harvest day;
he refreshes the life of his masters.

paralyzed

To gain respect and influence, you want to take action to help others when everyone else is paralyzed by their shock.

Proverbs 24:10–12 (HCSB):
If you do nothing in a difficult time,
your strength is limited.
Rescue those being taken off to death,
and save those stumbling toward slaughter.
If you say, “But we didn’t know about this,”
won’t He who weighs hearts  consider it?
Won’t He who protects your life  know?
Won’t He repay a person according to his work?

Open your eyes

It’s been said, “There is no one more tired than the man who stays in bed all day.” There is also no one more poor!

Proverbs 20:13 (HCSB): Don’t love sleep, or you will become poor;
open your eyes, and you’ll have enough to eat

Motives

The ends don’t always justify the means; make sure your motives are right before you take action!

Proverbs 16:2–3 (HCSB):
 All a man’s ways seem right to him,
but the Lord evaluates the motives.
Commit your activities to the Lord,
and your plans will be achieved.

The good wife

You may be able to recieve a lot of things from man, but a good wife is from the Lord! Be thankful for your spouse AND be a good spouse!

Proverbs 19:14 (HCSB):
A house and wealth are inherited from fathers,
but a sensible wife is from the Lord.

Firm Foundation

Lying might bring quick fortune, but ntegrity is the firm foundation of lasting success.

Proverbs 13:6 (HCSB): Righteousness guards people of integrity,
but wickedness undermines the sinner.

Busy

 Busy doesn’t always mean productivity!

Proverbs 10:16 (HCSB): The labor of the righteous leads to life;
the activity of the wicked leads to sin.

Put the lid on

Stirred pots take longer to cook, but a covered pot cooks faster and you can enjoy the food. Hatred ruins friendships but forgiveness brings enjoyment!

Proverbs 10:12 (HCSB):
Hatred stirs up conflicts,
but love covers all offenses.

going with the flow

When it comes to giving into sin, you can do one of two things: go with the flow, and spend the rest of your life looking over your shoulder, or avoid it and live in peace all your days.

Proverbs 5:7–14 (HCSB)
(Speaking if the forbidden woman or seductress:)
 7 So now, my sons, listen to me,
and don’t turn away from the words of my mouth.
8 Keep your way far from her.
Don’t go near the door of her house.
9 Otherwise, you will give up your vitality to others
and your years to someone cruel;
10 strangers will drain your resources,
and your earnings will end up in a foreigner’s house.
11 At the end of your life, you will lament
when your physical body has been consumed,
12 and you will say, “How I hated discipline,
and how my heart despised correction.
13 I didn’t obey my teachers
or listen closely  to my mentors.
14 I am on the verge of complete ruin
before the entire community.”

Choose carefully

Traveling down the wrong path with consume a person’s very life; choose your paths carefully!

Proverbs 4:14–17 (HCSB)
 14 Don’t set foot on the path of the wicked;
don’t proceed in the way of evil ones.
15 Avoid it; don’t travel on it.
Turn away from it, and pass it by.
16 For they can’t sleep
unless they have done what is evil;
they are robbed of sleep
unless they make someone stumble.
17 They eat the bread of wickedness
and drink the wine of violence.

Have it your way

God gives us the ability to choose curses, mockery, and ruin, or blessing, grace, and honor. Like Burger King, you can “have it your way.” What’s your choice?

Proverbs 3:33–35 (HCSB):
The Lord’s curse is on the household of the wicked,
but He blesses the home of the righteous;
He mocks those who mock,
but gives grace to the humble.
The wise will inherit honor,
but He holds up fools to dishonor.

problems

Placing your faith in Christ doesn’t mean problems disappear, but it does mean you have a helper to get you through them and aeven avoid some.

Proverbs 3:25–26 (HCSB):
 Don’t fear sudden danger
or the ruin of the wicked when it comes,
for the Lord will be your confidence
and will keep your foot from a snare

Hocus Pocus

Slandering someone is like the magician’s trick of pulling a tablecloth out from under a perfectly set table; it works because it’s based on untruth, and for most people it only means they’re going to be covered in food after the attempt.

Proverbs 30:10 (HCSB)
Don’t slander a servant to his master
or he will curse you,  and you will become guilty.

Rich and Poor

Since both have the same creator, it behooves the poor and the rich to treat each other with fairness.

Proverbs 29:13–14 (HCSB):
The poor and the oppressor have this in common:
the Lord gives light to the eyes of both.
A king who judges the poor with fairness—
his throne will be established forever.

Concealer

Proverbs 28:13 (HCSB): The one who conceals his sins
will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them
will find mercy.

The truth hurts

There’s a saying, “The truth hurts.” It does, but not as much as being lied to.

Proverbs 27:5–6 (HCSB):
 5 Better an open reprimand
than concealed love.
6 The wounds of a friend are trustworthy,
but the kisses of an enemy are excessive.

Networking

Your friends determine your success; make sure your actions & speech draw the right ones!

Proverbs 22:11 (HCSB): The one who loves a pure heart
and gracious lips—the king is his friend.

What’s in a name?

How valuable is a good reputation? To find out, ask those who have ruined theirs.

Proverbs 22:1 (HCSB): A good name is to be chosen over great wealth;
favor is better than silver and gold.

Rare treasure

Proverbs 20:15 (HCSB): There is gold and a multitude of jewels,
but knowledgeable lips are a rare treasure.

better

Poor and honest is better than rich and a liar!

Proverbs 19:1 (HCSB):  Better a poor man who lives with integrity
than someone who has deceitful lips and is a fool.

Three

Worthless, contrary, and violent. Similar to the three stooges, but not funny.

Proverbs 16:27–29 (HCSB):
A worthless man digs up evil,
and his speech is like a scorching fire.
A contrary man spreads conflict,
and a gossip separates close friends.
A violent man lures his neighbor,
leading him in a way that is not good.

Proverbs 14:29 (HCSB): A patient person shows great understanding,
but a quick-tempered one promotes foolishness.

Proverbs 13:5 (HCSB): The righteous hate lying,
but the wicked act disgustingly and disgracefully.

Proverbs 10:13-14
Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning,
but a rod is for the back of the one who lacks sense.
The wise store up knowledge,
but the mouth of the fool hastens destruction.

Proverbs 10:8
 A wise heart accepts commands,
but foolish lips will be destroyed.

Leaks

An affair is a lot like a plumbing leak; it may not be discovered for a long time, but it’s damaging from the moment it begins, then messy and costly to try and fix!
Proverbs 5:15-21

Drink water from your own cistern,
water flowing from your own well.
Should your springs flow in the streets,
streams of water in the public squares?
They should be for you alone
and not for you to share with strangers.
Let your fountain be blessed,
and take pleasure in the wife of your youth.
A loving doe, a graceful fawn—
let her breasts always satisfy you;
be lost in her love forever.
Why, my son, would you be infatuated
with a forbidden woman
or embrace the breast of a stranger?
For a man’s ways are before the Lord’s eyes,
and He considers all his paths.

Fire drills

As schools have fire drills and plans in place for emergencies, saving lives when catastrophe comes, it’s a good idea to have a plan in place to avoid temptation so you don’t cause a catastrophe!

Proverbs 6:20-35
My son, keep your father’s command,
and don’t reject your mother’s teaching.
Always bind them to your heart;
tie them around your neck.
When you walk here and there, they will guide you;
when you lie down, they will watch over you;
when you wake up, they will talk to you.
For a command is a lamp, teaching is a light,
and corrective discipline is the way to life.
They will protect you from an evil woman,
from the flattering  tongue of a stranger.
Don’t lust in your heart for her beauty
or let her captivate you with her eyelashes.
For a prostitute’s fee is only a loaf of bread,
but an adulteress  goes after a precious life.
Can a man embrace fire
and his clothes not be burned?
Can a man walk on burning coals
without scorching his feet?
So it is with the one who sleeps with
another man’s wife;
no one who touches her will go unpunished.
People don’t despise the thief if he steals
to satisfy himself when he is hungry.
Still, if caught, he must pay seven times as much;
he must give up all the wealth in his house.
The one who commits adultery  lacks sense;
whoever does so destroys himself.
He will get a beating  and dishonor,
and his disgrace will never be removed.
For jealousy enrages a husband,
and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge.
He will not be appeased by anything
or be persuaded by lavish gifts.

Instructions

When my kids receive presents, I keep the instructions to help operate the toys. Every day is literally “the present,” so shouldn’t you hold onto the instructions?

Proverbs 5:10-13
“Listen, my son. Accept my words,
and you will live many years.
I am teaching you the way of wisdom;
I am guiding you on straight paths.
When you walk, your steps will not be hindered;
when you run, you will not stumble.
Hold on to instruction; don’t let go.
Guard it, for it is your life.”

Kindness and character lead to contentment

Be kind, be of good character, and be content.
Proverbs 3:29-32

 Don’t plan any harm against your neighbor,
for he trusts you and lives near you.
Don’t accuse anyone without cause,
when he has done you no harm.
Don’t envy a violent man
or choose any of his ways;
for the devious are detestable to the Lord,
but He is a friend  to the upright.

Stinginess

Withholding help from someone who needs it is like holding a lifesaver while listening to a swimmer yell for help; even without help, they might survive the swim, but it’s likely their forgiveness won’t survive your stinginess.
Proverbs 3:27-28

“When it is in your power,
don’t withhold good  from the one it belongs to.
Don’t say to your neighbor, “Go away! Come back later.
I’ll give it tomorrow”—when it is there with you.”

Applications Accepted

The application of wisdom brings order to chaos, and working systems out of nothing. If you have wisdom, don’t keep it to yourself! Proverbs 3:19-20

“The Lord founded the earth by wisdom
and established the heavens by understanding.
 By His knowledge the watery depths broke open,
and the clouds dripped with dew.”

Junk food

Physical health and spiritual health are similar; in order to stay healthy, you have to put down the junk food!

Proverbs 3:7-8

“Don’t consider yourself to be wise;
fear the Lord and turn away from evil.
This will be healing for your body
and strengthening for your bones.”

loyalty

Loyalty given to good ends usually equals loyalty returned, and leads to a good life!
Proverbs 3:1-4
“My son, don’t forget my teaching,
but let your heart keep my commands;
for they will bring you
many days, a full life,   and well-being.
Never let loyalty and faithfulness leave you.
Tie them around your neck;
write them on the tablet of your heart.
We Then you will find favor and high regard
in the sight of God and man.”

The School of Hard Knocks

if you can’t learn from others’ mistakes and take advice, you’ll earn your degree from the School of Hard Knocks!

Proverbs 28:6
The one who trusts in himself  is a fool,
but one who walks in wisdom will be safe.

Toot your horn

“Tooting your own horn” doesn’t count as musical talent! 

Proverbs 26:2 “Let another praise you, and not your own mouth— 

a stranger, and not your own lips.”

Wise Warriors

A wise warrior is better than a strong one,
and a man of knowledge than one of strength;
for you should wage war with sound guidance—
victory comes with many counselors.
Proverbs 24:5-6

Standing out

Want to stand out in a crowd? Be a person of character! 

Proverbs 20:11

“Even a young man is known by his actions— 

if his behavior is pure and upright.”

No need to say anything

This proverb speaks for itself!

Proverbs 14:3
The proud speech of a fool brings a rod of discipline,
but the lips of the wise protect them.

Are you listening?

Are you listening?

Proverbs 13:10
Arrogance leads to nothing but strife,
but wisdom is gained by those who take advice.

Get your mind out of the gutter!

There is a saying, “Thoughts become actions, actions become habit, and habits become character.” If it’s true, you better make sure your starting point is a good one!

Proverbs 12:5-6
The thoughts of the righteous are just,
but guidance from the wicked leads to deceit.
The words of the wicked are a deadly ambush,
but the speech of the upright rescues them.

Building and Breaking

Two distinct voices, raised for different reasons, and with different effect. Which one would you find yours be: one that brings blessing, or one that destroys?

Proverbs 11:10-11
When the righteous thrive, a city rejoices,
and when the wicked die, there is joyful shouting.
A city is built up by the blessing of the upright,
but it is torn down by the mouth of the wicked.

work it out

Those who understand God’s order for creation realize work is a blessing in many ways: it’s an act of worship, a ministry, and grace as God provides for the craftsman and consumer through work. So, what are you up to this weekend?

Proverbs 10:3-4
The Lord will not let the righteous go hungry,
but He denies the wicked what they crave.
Idle hands make one poor,
but diligent hands bring riches.

Jumping to conclusions

Jumping to conclusions can often mean landing on the wrong spot!

Proverbs 25:8-10
Don’t take a matter to court hastily.
Otherwise, what will you do afterward
if your opponent  humiliates you?
Make your case with your opponent
without revealing another’s secret;
otherwise, the one who hears will disgrace you,
and you’ll never live it down.

Hair of the dog

If you have to take a little “hair of the dog” the next morning, maybe you should look for a new pet!

Who has woe? Who has sorrow?
Who has conflicts? Who has complaints?
Who has wounds for no reason?
Who has red eyes?
Those who linger over wine,
those who go looking for mixed wine.
Don’t gaze at wine because it is red,
when it gleams in the cup
and goes down smoothly.
In the end it bites like a snake
and stings like a viper.
Your eyes will see strange things,
and you will say absurd things.
You’ll be like someone sleeping out at sea
or lying down on the top of a ship’s mast.
“They struck me, but  I feel no pain!
They beat me, but I didn’t know it!
When will I wake up?
I’ll look for another drink.”
Proverbs 23:29-35

self-starters

Like the son who gathers in summer, those who find ways to be productive will be successful, and those who don’t complete what’s assigned to them, like the son who sleeps during harvest, will find they have trouble finding any work!

The son who gathers during summer is prudent;
the son who sleeps during harvest is disgraceful.
Proverbs 10:5

Do the math

 While it’s said that the sum is often greater than the whole, you don’t have to add pride, lying, violence, scheming, bad intentions, and accusations to cause problems; each one is enough to fan the flames of dissension. Is there something you need to subtract from your life today?

The Lord hates six things;
in fact, seven are detestable to Him:
arrogant eyes,  a lying tongue,
hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that plots wicked schemes,
feet eager to run to evil,
alying witness who gives false testimony,
and one who stirs up trouble among brothers.
Proverbs 6:16-19

The 10 Year Principle

I’m sure you’ve heard of the 10 year principle to help keep things in perspective: when something bad happens, ask yourself, will this matter in 10 years?” The 10 year principle can also apply to actions we take. Are you thinking long-term before you make a decision or take an action? If not, it’s time to begin considering your “path of life” more often.


My son, pay attention to my wisdom;
listen closely  to my understanding so that you may maintain discretion
and your lips safeguard knowledge.
Though the lips of the forbidden woman drip honey
and her words are  smoother than oil,
in the end she’s as bitter as wormwood
and as sharp as a double-edged sword.
Her feet go down to death;
her steps head straight for Sheol.
She doesn’t consider the path of life;
she doesn’t know that her ways are unstable.
Proverbs 5:1-6