It is always good to ask at the end of a study session, “What have we learned?” In the case of this quarter’s lessons, which is essentially about wisdom, perhaps we could phrase the question, “Are we wiser now or just more knowledgeable?” We did discuss the difference between knowledge and wisdom at the beginning … Continue reading –>
Read Proverbs 31:6-7. How are we to understand these texts? A quick reading of these verses gives the impression that Lemuel’s mother allows the consumption of wine or any other alcohol for the person who is about to die (Prov. 31:6) or for the person who suffers from depression (Prov. 31:7). This reading, however, would … Continue reading –>
In many cultures, drinking alcohol is associated with life. People raise a glass and wish one another a long life, though the irony is that each glass works toward destroying life. Nicely designed bottles, poetic and funny drinking songs, clever commercials, and even some scientific findings all comfort drinkers in their idea that alcohol is good … Continue reading –>
Read for This Week’s Study: Proverbs 31, Job 29:15, Proverbs 8, 1 Cor. 1:21, Rev. 14:13. Memory Text: Do not give your strength to women, nor your ways to that which destroys kings. It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for princes intoxicating drink (Proverbs 31:3-4, NKJV). … Continue reading –>
Studying this week’s Sabbath School lesson, on the humility of the wise, reminded me of a conversation I had, during fellowship dinner in a church I spoke in. A mother told me she was always pushing her daughter to do her best, and win awards and honor roll certificates. She would brag about how wonderful … Continue reading –>
It was named Hurricane Katrina, and it was a life-changing storm. One day you’re living your normal life going about your normal activities and the next day you are destitute. No job. No boss. No office. No employees. No income. No cash. No ATM. No home. No condo. No address. No make-up, comb or brush. … Continue reading –>
We should reverence God’s word. For the printed volume we should show respect, never putting it to common uses, or handling it carelessly. And never should Scripture be quoted in a jest, or paraphrased to point a witty saying. Every word of God is pure; as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven … Continue reading –>
At age 4, Jesse lost his mother. By the time he was 9, Jesse lived in foster homes. As a teen, he met a young man who played basketball. When Jesse shared his name, the young man looked surprised. Your mother and my father were brother and sister! Taking Jesse home, the cousin introduced him … Continue reading –>
All through the Bible, imagery from nature has been used to teach spiritual truths. Here, too, using nature, the proverb teaches us lessons about humility. Read Proverbs 30:18-19. What is it saying here, too, about the limits of human understanding? Agur sees mystery in even many of the common things. It is a very fascinating … Continue reading –>
Introduction. How can a Christian possibly to be blessed with wisdom and receive the gift of humility at the same time? Moses was recognized for his humility. Do you think he had humility in such abundance that nobody else can come close? What is wonderful about humility? [Thought questions for The Humility of the Wise March … Continue reading –>
Just as humility is positive and brings blessings, a lack of humility is dangerous and brings curses. After having encouraged the virtue of humility by showing its rewards and fruit, Proverbs 30 gives a stern warning about the dangers that come from pride. Cursing your parents (Prov. 30:11 & Prov. 30:17). Agur begins with this category, for … Continue reading –>
Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety. Proverbs 29:25 NLT Just a few weeks ago an unemployed pastor friend was trying to find a church and a conference to pick him up. I told Him how Jesus holds the stars of the churches in His hand in Revelation 1, and I … Continue reading –>
