Scripture: Proverbs 30:5 Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.
Observation: He is a shield to us but only when we actually take refuge in Him. There are many other places to take refuge but none of them are perfect like He and His word is.
Application: When there is a battle to be fought, it is the Lord's, if I let it. He is a strong tower and I want to run to Him and be safe. I need to continue to always seek Him and His words and wisdom to guide me and protect me.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you so much for being my mighty protector. You are always there for me to take refuge in and I just need to remind myself that the battle is yours. Thank you for your amazing and perfect word. Help me to hide your words in my heart so that when I need to hear from you, it's just a thought away. Forgive me for ever thinking that I can handle things on my own. I love your grace and mercy and will ever be grateful for them.
Amen
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Proverbs 29 Fear God and Not Man
Scripture: Proverbs 29:25 Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.
Observation: I am guilty of this way too often! I am always worrying about what others think. Doing my bible study on this blog has been a huge stretch for me and makes me weigh every word I write. This is ridiculous! This is a time I'm supposed to be devoting to the Lord and creating a record of what I'm learning and yet I'm so worried of what someone will think or say. Sheesh. I worry every time I make a meal for someone or have someone in my home. I never feel that what I have to offer is good enough. Wow, I really need to work on this!
Application: This is hard for me. How DO I change the way I think? Well, obviously the first thing I need to do is pray. As I give this further thought, this is actually a pretty selfish way of thinking. I mean I need to be doing these things out of love...Love for God and my neighbor. So where does thinking about myself come in? Well it shouldn't be. I will be praying that God helps me to focus on Him and being His servant and not on myself and what others may think.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you for showing me some unflattering things about myself today. Lord, I pray that my focus would be on pleasing you. I'm sorry that I have been a bit selfish in worrying about what others think. Show me how to change that way of thought so that I might do greater things for your kingdom. When my mind is on myself, I know there's so much I'm missing out on. Thank you for always meeting me for these few minutes of quiet time and revealing these things to me.
I love you, Lord.
Amen
Observation: I am guilty of this way too often! I am always worrying about what others think. Doing my bible study on this blog has been a huge stretch for me and makes me weigh every word I write. This is ridiculous! This is a time I'm supposed to be devoting to the Lord and creating a record of what I'm learning and yet I'm so worried of what someone will think or say. Sheesh. I worry every time I make a meal for someone or have someone in my home. I never feel that what I have to offer is good enough. Wow, I really need to work on this!
Application: This is hard for me. How DO I change the way I think? Well, obviously the first thing I need to do is pray. As I give this further thought, this is actually a pretty selfish way of thinking. I mean I need to be doing these things out of love...Love for God and my neighbor. So where does thinking about myself come in? Well it shouldn't be. I will be praying that God helps me to focus on Him and being His servant and not on myself and what others may think.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you for showing me some unflattering things about myself today. Lord, I pray that my focus would be on pleasing you. I'm sorry that I have been a bit selfish in worrying about what others think. Show me how to change that way of thought so that I might do greater things for your kingdom. When my mind is on myself, I know there's so much I'm missing out on. Thank you for always meeting me for these few minutes of quiet time and revealing these things to me.
I love you, Lord.
Amen
Monday, November 28, 2011
Proverbs 28 Don't freeze up! Just give Already!
Scripture: Proverbs 28:27 Those who give to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to them receive many curses.
Observation: This time of year is very overwhelming to me. There are so many good organizations and charities that it's so difficult for me to decide the who, what and how to give. I tend to freeze up and walk right by the Salvation Army bell ringer. Money has always been a struggle for us that it causes me to hesitate as well. I want our family to understand and participate in giving so they will grow up to be generous givers.
Application: I'm going to continue to pray that God will make it clear where He would like us to give our time and money this season. I will stop freezing up and listen to the call on my heart to help others, not just at this time of year, but all year long.
Prayer: My Dear Lord, Please forgive me for not responding to the needs of the organizations and bell ringers around me. Help me to be able to clearly understand who you want us to help and how. I want to honor and bless those around me that need not only material possessions but also need to know you and your great love for them. Help me not to freeze up and walk by but to listen to your call on my heart. Thank you for your many blessings on myself and my family. Please help my children grow up with a desire to serve you through helping those around them.
Amen
Observation: This time of year is very overwhelming to me. There are so many good organizations and charities that it's so difficult for me to decide the who, what and how to give. I tend to freeze up and walk right by the Salvation Army bell ringer. Money has always been a struggle for us that it causes me to hesitate as well. I want our family to understand and participate in giving so they will grow up to be generous givers.
Application: I'm going to continue to pray that God will make it clear where He would like us to give our time and money this season. I will stop freezing up and listen to the call on my heart to help others, not just at this time of year, but all year long.
Prayer: My Dear Lord, Please forgive me for not responding to the needs of the organizations and bell ringers around me. Help me to be able to clearly understand who you want us to help and how. I want to honor and bless those around me that need not only material possessions but also need to know you and your great love for them. Help me not to freeze up and walk by but to listen to your call on my heart. Thank you for your many blessings on myself and my family. Please help my children grow up with a desire to serve you through helping those around them.
Amen
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Proverbs 27 Protect Your Heart!
Scripture: Proverbs 27:19 As water reflects the face, so one's life reflects the heart.
Observation: What I allow into my heart and life is what will be reflected in my attitude and words.
Application: I need to continue to take every thought captive and to be careful what types of things I allow into my heart. I want to please God and be a light in this world to guide others to Him and I can't do that if my heart is polluted with worldly things. I need to continue in a daily quiet time and be always ready to give a reason for what I believe. I want my heart to be pure and my life to reflect Him.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Sometimes I am so bombarded by all the information that comes my way each day from the computer, tv, cell phone, facebook, etc. I don't want all that information to keep me from having a heart and life that want to serve you. Lord, help me to put you and your word first so that I will be able to sort out all the rest. As always, I need your wisdom and truth to prevail in my life. I want to be a light for you and to do your will here on earth. Please help me to protect mine and my children's hearts from the worldly things that can cause it damage. I love you, Lord!
Amen
Observation: What I allow into my heart and life is what will be reflected in my attitude and words.
Application: I need to continue to take every thought captive and to be careful what types of things I allow into my heart. I want to please God and be a light in this world to guide others to Him and I can't do that if my heart is polluted with worldly things. I need to continue in a daily quiet time and be always ready to give a reason for what I believe. I want my heart to be pure and my life to reflect Him.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Sometimes I am so bombarded by all the information that comes my way each day from the computer, tv, cell phone, facebook, etc. I don't want all that information to keep me from having a heart and life that want to serve you. Lord, help me to put you and your word first so that I will be able to sort out all the rest. As always, I need your wisdom and truth to prevail in my life. I want to be a light for you and to do your will here on earth. Please help me to protect mine and my children's hearts from the worldly things that can cause it damage. I love you, Lord!
Amen
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Proverbs 26 Don't be Wise in Your own Eyes
Scripture: Proverbs 26:12 Do you see a person wise in their own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for them.
Observation: I don't want to be a fool! I never want to view myself as wise enough. God will always have more wisdom to impart to me. I'm so thankful for the times I feel His wisdom and I never want to feel prideful about those moments and play a fool.
Application: I can never get enough wisdom! I want to constantly hunger for it! I also need to remain humble about any wisdom that is given to me and use it for God's glory and not my own. I never want to think I know the answers and stop searching out God's direction.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Oh how I need your wisdom. Thank you for blessing me with it when I need and ask for it. Please help me to never be prideful or wise in my own eyes. I lack so much and need your guidance and direction. Help me to be your servant and use that wisdom for Your glory.
Amen
Observation: I don't want to be a fool! I never want to view myself as wise enough. God will always have more wisdom to impart to me. I'm so thankful for the times I feel His wisdom and I never want to feel prideful about those moments and play a fool.
Application: I can never get enough wisdom! I want to constantly hunger for it! I also need to remain humble about any wisdom that is given to me and use it for God's glory and not my own. I never want to think I know the answers and stop searching out God's direction.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Oh how I need your wisdom. Thank you for blessing me with it when I need and ask for it. Please help me to never be prideful or wise in my own eyes. I lack so much and need your guidance and direction. Help me to be your servant and use that wisdom for Your glory.
Amen
Proverbs 25 Love Your Enemy
Scripture: Proverbs 25:21,22 If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.
Observation: We need to do the opposite of what our human nature wants to do. Being ugly to those we consider our enemies will not win their hearts for Christ.
Application: Be kind when I want to be ugly to my enemy. Pray for them. Go above and beyond and bless them.
Prayer: Dear Lord, You know how hard it is to bless others when they curse us. Please help me to be kind and loving to my enemies and maybe help their hearts to soften towards you.
Amen
Observation: We need to do the opposite of what our human nature wants to do. Being ugly to those we consider our enemies will not win their hearts for Christ.
Application: Be kind when I want to be ugly to my enemy. Pray for them. Go above and beyond and bless them.
Prayer: Dear Lord, You know how hard it is to bless others when they curse us. Please help me to be kind and loving to my enemies and maybe help their hearts to soften towards you.
Amen
Proverbs 24 Build your Strength
Scripture: Proverbs 24:10 If you falter in a time of trouble, how small is your strength!
Observation: How we handle trials is a direct result of how we build our strength before they happen.
Application: I need to be in God's word and prayer as much in the easy times as in the trials. I need to build my spiritual strength up so that I'm ready for whatever comes my way.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you for never leaving me or forsaking me. Thank you for freely offering me Your strength when I'm weak. Please help me to continue in a daily time in your word and prayer so that when the day of adversity comes, I am spiritually strong enough to handle it. I want to be able to see trials through Your eyes and wisdom; not my own. Thank you for loving me.
Amen
Observation: How we handle trials is a direct result of how we build our strength before they happen.
Application: I need to be in God's word and prayer as much in the easy times as in the trials. I need to build my spiritual strength up so that I'm ready for whatever comes my way.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you for never leaving me or forsaking me. Thank you for freely offering me Your strength when I'm weak. Please help me to continue in a daily time in your word and prayer so that when the day of adversity comes, I am spiritually strong enough to handle it. I want to be able to see trials through Your eyes and wisdom; not my own. Thank you for loving me.
Amen
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Proverbs 23 Eternal Riches
Scripture: Proverbs 23:17-18 Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord. There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.
Observation: When we see others not living for the Lord and enjoying wealth and prosperity, we need to remember where our treasure lies. They are receiving their reward on earth, ours is waiting for us in heaven.
Application: I am so thankful that my hope is in the Lord. If my hope lay in anything else I would live in fear of losing it, for everything else is temporary and fleeting. When I take my eyes off of Him, envy can begin to creep in. There is no reward greater than eternity with Jesus. I need to continually remember that!
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you for dying on the cross for me so that I may spend eternity with you. I know at times I take my eyes off of the eternal prize and allow envy in. Thank you for your forgiveness and grace. I am so thankful that I don't have to live in fear of losing that promise. Heaven's glory is worth waiting for!! Help me to point others to you so that they may also have the hope of heaven and eternity!
Amen
Observation: When we see others not living for the Lord and enjoying wealth and prosperity, we need to remember where our treasure lies. They are receiving their reward on earth, ours is waiting for us in heaven.
Application: I am so thankful that my hope is in the Lord. If my hope lay in anything else I would live in fear of losing it, for everything else is temporary and fleeting. When I take my eyes off of Him, envy can begin to creep in. There is no reward greater than eternity with Jesus. I need to continually remember that!
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you for dying on the cross for me so that I may spend eternity with you. I know at times I take my eyes off of the eternal prize and allow envy in. Thank you for your forgiveness and grace. I am so thankful that I don't have to live in fear of losing that promise. Heaven's glory is worth waiting for!! Help me to point others to you so that they may also have the hope of heaven and eternity!
Amen
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Proverbs 22 Prudent not Simple!
Scripture: Proverbs 22:3 The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.
Observation: There are times that I sense danger but for one reason or another, don't act on it. Sometimes I may be too embarrassed to speak up or I may question my instincts and think I'm being over sensitive. I need to remember that the holy spirit will nudge me in the right direction if I'll let Him.
Application: Instead of continuing in a dangerous direction because of fear of embarrassment, I need to listen to the Holy Spirit's direction and take refuge. I don't want to end up paying a penalty for my bad judgement. I will continue to pray for God's wisdom in those situations and trust His guidance.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, that you have given us the Holy Spirit to gently guide us. Forgive me for the times that I have allowed embarrassment and peer pressure to stop me from changing direction. If I sense your Holy Spirit pressing me, I pray for your strength to follow your lead. I ask you to fill me with your wisdom to guide myself and my children in the way you want us to go. I don't want my children to pay a penalty for my bad judgement. Help me to be prudent and not simple! Thank you, Lord!
Amen
Observation: There are times that I sense danger but for one reason or another, don't act on it. Sometimes I may be too embarrassed to speak up or I may question my instincts and think I'm being over sensitive. I need to remember that the holy spirit will nudge me in the right direction if I'll let Him.
Application: Instead of continuing in a dangerous direction because of fear of embarrassment, I need to listen to the Holy Spirit's direction and take refuge. I don't want to end up paying a penalty for my bad judgement. I will continue to pray for God's wisdom in those situations and trust His guidance.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, that you have given us the Holy Spirit to gently guide us. Forgive me for the times that I have allowed embarrassment and peer pressure to stop me from changing direction. If I sense your Holy Spirit pressing me, I pray for your strength to follow your lead. I ask you to fill me with your wisdom to guide myself and my children in the way you want us to go. I don't want my children to pay a penalty for my bad judgement. Help me to be prudent and not simple! Thank you, Lord!
Amen
Monday, November 21, 2011
Proverbs 21 Don't Plan Your Life Away
Scripture: Proverbs 21:30 There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord.
Observation: No matter how smart or witty someone thinks they are, God is the ultimate authority.
Application: If my plans are just mine alone, they will not succeed but if my plans line up with God's will, then I will be exactly where He wants me to be. I am a planner by nature but I need to remember to slow down and ask God for His wisdom before I waste my time.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Please forgive my desire to control things at times as I plan incessantly. I want your will and blessing on my life and to be exactly where you want me to be. Help me to stop and ask you for your wisdom before I plan my life away. I know you have a purpose for me and I don't want to miss it by leaving you out my plans.
Amen
Observation: No matter how smart or witty someone thinks they are, God is the ultimate authority.
Application: If my plans are just mine alone, they will not succeed but if my plans line up with God's will, then I will be exactly where He wants me to be. I am a planner by nature but I need to remember to slow down and ask God for His wisdom before I waste my time.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Please forgive my desire to control things at times as I plan incessantly. I want your will and blessing on my life and to be exactly where you want me to be. Help me to stop and ask you for your wisdom before I plan my life away. I know you have a purpose for me and I don't want to miss it by leaving you out my plans.
Amen
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Proverbs 20 Be Careful What You Promise
Scripture: Proverbs 20:25 It is a trap to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider one's vows.
Observation: We need to be careful what we promise to others.
Application: Before we rashly make promises to others, we need to make sure we can follow through. It reflects badly on our character when we make promises we can't keep. I need to think before I vow so that my word will mean something to others.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
I want to be someone that others can trust. I never want my word to be seen as empty and meaningless. Please help me to think it through before I make a promise to someone. Thank you that your Word can always be trusted and your promises are always kept.
Amen
Observation: We need to be careful what we promise to others.
Application: Before we rashly make promises to others, we need to make sure we can follow through. It reflects badly on our character when we make promises we can't keep. I need to think before I vow so that my word will mean something to others.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
I want to be someone that others can trust. I never want my word to be seen as empty and meaningless. Please help me to think it through before I make a promise to someone. Thank you that your Word can always be trusted and your promises are always kept.
Amen
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Proverbs 19 Don't Blame God
Scripture: Proverbs 19:3 A person's own folly leads to their ruin, yet their heart rages against the Lord.
Observation: Many times God receives the blame for man's wrong decisions. Even though God is all-powerful, He gives us free-will. He allows us to make the decisions but also to take the consequences for those decisions.
Application: Sometimes my decisions will not be pleasing to God. When this happens, the consequences will probably not be pleasing either. I want to bathe my life in prayer so that God can work through my decisions and help me make the right ones. Even when things don't turn out the way I think they should, I can then trust God with the outcome. I don't want to blame God, I want to trust Him.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Forgive me for the times when I angrily blamed you for the choices that I made. Please help me to listen to your words of direction when I'm making a decision so that I can trust the outcome to you. I want to make Godly choices and bless and honor you with my life. I love you Lord.
Amen
Observation: Many times God receives the blame for man's wrong decisions. Even though God is all-powerful, He gives us free-will. He allows us to make the decisions but also to take the consequences for those decisions.
Application: Sometimes my decisions will not be pleasing to God. When this happens, the consequences will probably not be pleasing either. I want to bathe my life in prayer so that God can work through my decisions and help me make the right ones. Even when things don't turn out the way I think they should, I can then trust God with the outcome. I don't want to blame God, I want to trust Him.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Forgive me for the times when I angrily blamed you for the choices that I made. Please help me to listen to your words of direction when I'm making a decision so that I can trust the outcome to you. I want to make Godly choices and bless and honor you with my life. I love you Lord.
Amen
Friday, November 18, 2011
Proverbs 18 Don't be a Fool
Scripture: Proverbs 18:2 Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.
Observation: Funny thing... As I was getting ready to do my bible study, I was struggling with frustration at my husband and praying that God would guide my thoughts as they were not pleasant ones.
You see, back when the economy started going bad, my husband was laid off from his job. We were so blessed that he received another job offer that same day. It was amazing. The plan was that we would have to move to Nebraska since that's where the job was mostly focused. Then our house wouldn't sell. So for the last 2 years, my husband spends at least Monday through Friday in Nebraska in hotels and comes home to his wife and 4 kids on the weekends. His job is very stressful and his boss calls at all hours and days so there really is never a true day off. It's begun to take it's toll.. on him, our marriage, and our kids. So today, I was excited that he had come home to spend the weekend with us! No sooner had we got out of bed, when his boss called and that's the last we'll see of him for awhile. My frustration was great when I sat down to read God's word. Then the first two verses of Proverbs 18 slapped me in the face. I don't want to be a fool, I want to understand. I don't want to just air my opinion because that won't help the situation. It would only serve to make my husband feel guilty. He's trying so hard to provide for his family and be THERE for his family and right now, that's physically hard to do. I don't want to be a fool, I want to be the wife he needs me to be in this phase of our life.
Application: Today, I'm going to build my husband up! It's his birthday and I'm going to try to make him feel as loved as I possibly can. I'm going to encourage him and tell him how much we appreciate all his hard work for us. I am going to find delight in understanding how hard he is trying to balance everything and tell him how great I think he is doing. I'm so thankful that God gave us such a hard-working, God-loving husband and father and I'm going to honor that gift.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you so much for giving my husband to me. Forgive me when I become frustrated and selfish with him and his time. Forgive me for being negative and criticizing him when he really is trying his best. Help me to be the wife he needs me to be right now. I want to be loving, encouraging and appreciative of the gift you have given to this family in a wonderful father, husband and provider. I don't want to be a fool in airing my own opinion but to give understanding for the situation we're in right now. Thank you so much for giving him this job. If there is a different solution to our job situation, I pray you would grant us wisdom to find it. Thank you for taking care of us.
Amen
Observation: Funny thing... As I was getting ready to do my bible study, I was struggling with frustration at my husband and praying that God would guide my thoughts as they were not pleasant ones.
You see, back when the economy started going bad, my husband was laid off from his job. We were so blessed that he received another job offer that same day. It was amazing. The plan was that we would have to move to Nebraska since that's where the job was mostly focused. Then our house wouldn't sell. So for the last 2 years, my husband spends at least Monday through Friday in Nebraska in hotels and comes home to his wife and 4 kids on the weekends. His job is very stressful and his boss calls at all hours and days so there really is never a true day off. It's begun to take it's toll.. on him, our marriage, and our kids. So today, I was excited that he had come home to spend the weekend with us! No sooner had we got out of bed, when his boss called and that's the last we'll see of him for awhile. My frustration was great when I sat down to read God's word. Then the first two verses of Proverbs 18 slapped me in the face. I don't want to be a fool, I want to understand. I don't want to just air my opinion because that won't help the situation. It would only serve to make my husband feel guilty. He's trying so hard to provide for his family and be THERE for his family and right now, that's physically hard to do. I don't want to be a fool, I want to be the wife he needs me to be in this phase of our life.
Application: Today, I'm going to build my husband up! It's his birthday and I'm going to try to make him feel as loved as I possibly can. I'm going to encourage him and tell him how much we appreciate all his hard work for us. I am going to find delight in understanding how hard he is trying to balance everything and tell him how great I think he is doing. I'm so thankful that God gave us such a hard-working, God-loving husband and father and I'm going to honor that gift.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you so much for giving my husband to me. Forgive me when I become frustrated and selfish with him and his time. Forgive me for being negative and criticizing him when he really is trying his best. Help me to be the wife he needs me to be right now. I want to be loving, encouraging and appreciative of the gift you have given to this family in a wonderful father, husband and provider. I don't want to be a fool in airing my own opinion but to give understanding for the situation we're in right now. Thank you so much for giving him this job. If there is a different solution to our job situation, I pray you would grant us wisdom to find it. Thank you for taking care of us.
Amen
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Proverbs 17 Let It Go
Scripture: Proverbs 17:9 He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.
Observation: It seems a lot of my bible studies lately have to do with my tongue! I think I'm getting the hint :)
When it says "covers over an offense", I believe that means to forgive and let it go. Sometimes I think an offense lingers in the back of our mind for awhile though and we may be tempted to share our frustrations with another, hoping it will make us feel better. It doesn't..and it causes another person to also carry the offense, when it wasn't their's to begin with.
Application: When I give someone my forgiveness, it needs to come with a promise in my heart to hold my tongue and let the matter go.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I know there will be times that a friend unintentionally offends me and I them. I pray you would help me to give forgiveness freely, without any "catches". I don't want to hurt the friendship even more by sharing that offense with others. Please forgive me when I have done this in the past, not realizing the harm I was causing. Help me to promote love and not separate close friends. Thank you for blessing me with some of the most amazing friends a girl could ask for! May I be as good a friend to them as they are to me.
Amen
Observation: It seems a lot of my bible studies lately have to do with my tongue! I think I'm getting the hint :)
When it says "covers over an offense", I believe that means to forgive and let it go. Sometimes I think an offense lingers in the back of our mind for awhile though and we may be tempted to share our frustrations with another, hoping it will make us feel better. It doesn't..and it causes another person to also carry the offense, when it wasn't their's to begin with.
Application: When I give someone my forgiveness, it needs to come with a promise in my heart to hold my tongue and let the matter go.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I know there will be times that a friend unintentionally offends me and I them. I pray you would help me to give forgiveness freely, without any "catches". I don't want to hurt the friendship even more by sharing that offense with others. Please forgive me when I have done this in the past, not realizing the harm I was causing. Help me to promote love and not separate close friends. Thank you for blessing me with some of the most amazing friends a girl could ask for! May I be as good a friend to them as they are to me.
Amen
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Proverbs 16 Nothing is Random
Scripture: Proverbs 16:33 The lot is cast into the lap, but it's every decision is from the Lord.
Observation: No matter how random or coincidental anything may seem, God is orchestrating it all. Nothing is random. He is always in control.
Application: I'm a worrier. Always have been. I need to remember that no matter the situation, no matter how out of control it seems, even when it seems our lives are in the hands of our finances or job, it's a lie. God controls it all. Even if we were to cast lots, he would determine how the dice landed.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Thank you that you have everything in your more than capable hands. I have nothing to worry about. You control every aspect of life and I am learning to trust you more and more each day. Please help me to let go of worry and fear and allow you to work out your plan for your glory. Forgive me when I allow my focus to fall on my fears instead of your power. I love you so much and thank you for being my hero.
Amen
Observation: No matter how random or coincidental anything may seem, God is orchestrating it all. Nothing is random. He is always in control.
Application: I'm a worrier. Always have been. I need to remember that no matter the situation, no matter how out of control it seems, even when it seems our lives are in the hands of our finances or job, it's a lie. God controls it all. Even if we were to cast lots, he would determine how the dice landed.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Thank you that you have everything in your more than capable hands. I have nothing to worry about. You control every aspect of life and I am learning to trust you more and more each day. Please help me to let go of worry and fear and allow you to work out your plan for your glory. Forgive me when I allow my focus to fall on my fears instead of your power. I love you so much and thank you for being my hero.
Amen
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Proverbs 15 Have a Happy Heart!
Scripture: Proverbs 15: 13 A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit.
Observation: A lot of times, I let my circumstances get me down. I know my face shows my downheartedness. This affects my relationships with my kids and those I meet during the day. I don't want to allow my circumstances to rule my heart... I want God and His joy to rule my heart!
Application: When the day is tough, I need to have a happy heart and put on a cheerful face. I need to remember that God planted me where I am, in the circumstances I'm in, for a reason. He loves me and wants only the very best for me and that's enough to make my heart happy. Circumstances are temporary but God's love is eternal.
Prayer: My dear Lord,
Please forgive me for allowing each day's circumstances to dictate my heart and attitude. I don't want my heartache to crush my spirit or those around me. Please help me to have a happy heart no matter what is going on around me and to trust that you desire only the best for me and my family. Thank you for the blessings you pour out on me each day. Thank you for the sacrifice of your only son so that I might have eternal life. Please rule my heart with your eternal love and joy. I love you my Lord and King!
Amen
Observation: A lot of times, I let my circumstances get me down. I know my face shows my downheartedness. This affects my relationships with my kids and those I meet during the day. I don't want to allow my circumstances to rule my heart... I want God and His joy to rule my heart!
Application: When the day is tough, I need to have a happy heart and put on a cheerful face. I need to remember that God planted me where I am, in the circumstances I'm in, for a reason. He loves me and wants only the very best for me and that's enough to make my heart happy. Circumstances are temporary but God's love is eternal.
Prayer: My dear Lord,
Please forgive me for allowing each day's circumstances to dictate my heart and attitude. I don't want my heartache to crush my spirit or those around me. Please help me to have a happy heart no matter what is going on around me and to trust that you desire only the best for me and my family. Thank you for the blessings you pour out on me each day. Thank you for the sacrifice of your only son so that I might have eternal life. Please rule my heart with your eternal love and joy. I love you my Lord and King!
Amen
Monday, November 14, 2011
Proverbs 14 Build Your House
Scripture: Proverbs 14:1 The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.
Observation: Every day we have a choice. We can be kind and uplifting to those around us or we can tear others down with criticism and negativity. The first builds our house, the last tears it down. We are responsible for which one we choose.
Application: When I wake up each morning, I want to make a conscious decision to build my house that day. Starting with prayers of thanksgiving for all my blessings and praying for each family member makes for a great start. I need to make an even bigger effort to not allow myself to miss those first moments of the day with the Lord.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Thank you for blessing me with an amazing family. I want to build this house daily with words of encouragement and loving kindness and not tear it down with harsh words. Please forgive me for the times when I hurt others with criticism and negativity. Help me to seek you each morning in prayer so I may start each day filled up with your love.
Amen
Observation: Every day we have a choice. We can be kind and uplifting to those around us or we can tear others down with criticism and negativity. The first builds our house, the last tears it down. We are responsible for which one we choose.
Application: When I wake up each morning, I want to make a conscious decision to build my house that day. Starting with prayers of thanksgiving for all my blessings and praying for each family member makes for a great start. I need to make an even bigger effort to not allow myself to miss those first moments of the day with the Lord.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Thank you for blessing me with an amazing family. I want to build this house daily with words of encouragement and loving kindness and not tear it down with harsh words. Please forgive me for the times when I hurt others with criticism and negativity. Help me to seek you each morning in prayer so I may start each day filled up with your love.
Amen
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Proverbs 13 Discipline is love
Scripture: Proverbs 13:24 He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him.
Observation: Disciplining children is tough. It's a never ending process that can be exhausting but if we are careful to discipline, we teach our children essential life skills that last a lifetime. The kids I have been around that have lacked parental correction seem to be insecure and needy for attention. They lack self control and are not self motivated. I'm finally understanding how giving our kids discipline is showing them love. It teaches them all those skills they need to be a successful adult and loving parent.
Application: With my husband's job taking him away from home, it leaves me to do a lot of single parenting. I grow weary in the constant correcting. I need to keep my eye on the prize. God has given me an important assignment and I need to carry it out to the best of my ability! I only have so much time with these beautiful children that He has gifted me with and I want to be faithful to do His will. I not only want to hear "Well done, my good and faithful servant" but I want each of my children to hear that as well as they reach the end of their own journeys someday. How well I do at this job not only affects my children but my grandchildren and their children and so on!
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Thank you for the gift of each of my children! Thank you for entrusting them to me to train and prepare them for being an adult and parent one day themselves. Please forgive me for getting weary and not following through on things the way I should at times. Help me to "Train them up in the way they should go so that when they are old they will not depart from it". I want my children to be a blessing to You all they days of their lives as well as their children and their children and their children....
Amen
Observation: Disciplining children is tough. It's a never ending process that can be exhausting but if we are careful to discipline, we teach our children essential life skills that last a lifetime. The kids I have been around that have lacked parental correction seem to be insecure and needy for attention. They lack self control and are not self motivated. I'm finally understanding how giving our kids discipline is showing them love. It teaches them all those skills they need to be a successful adult and loving parent.
Application: With my husband's job taking him away from home, it leaves me to do a lot of single parenting. I grow weary in the constant correcting. I need to keep my eye on the prize. God has given me an important assignment and I need to carry it out to the best of my ability! I only have so much time with these beautiful children that He has gifted me with and I want to be faithful to do His will. I not only want to hear "Well done, my good and faithful servant" but I want each of my children to hear that as well as they reach the end of their own journeys someday. How well I do at this job not only affects my children but my grandchildren and their children and so on!
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Thank you for the gift of each of my children! Thank you for entrusting them to me to train and prepare them for being an adult and parent one day themselves. Please forgive me for getting weary and not following through on things the way I should at times. Help me to "Train them up in the way they should go so that when they are old they will not depart from it". I want my children to be a blessing to You all they days of their lives as well as their children and their children and their children....
Amen
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Proverbs 12 A Wife of Noble Character
Scripture: Proverbs 12:4 A wife of noble character is her husband's crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.
Observation: I want to be a wife that my husband enjoys talking to and about! I want to be his greatest cheerleader and confidant and his very best friend.
Application: Our situation is difficult right now. My husband works out of state and it's hard to balance our marriage and family just on the weekends. I tend to get negative and frustrated. My husband is very stressed with his job and I don't want to add any more stress to him so I need to remain positive and confident that God has a plan through all of this!
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Thank you so much for my husband's job. Even though it takes him away from us, it's such a blessing that he has one. Please give me the strength and wisdom to know how best to encourage him in every way I can. I want to be a wife of noble character and be my husband's crown! I know you have a plan in this situation and I trust you to work it all out!
Amen
Observation: I want to be a wife that my husband enjoys talking to and about! I want to be his greatest cheerleader and confidant and his very best friend.
Application: Our situation is difficult right now. My husband works out of state and it's hard to balance our marriage and family just on the weekends. I tend to get negative and frustrated. My husband is very stressed with his job and I don't want to add any more stress to him so I need to remain positive and confident that God has a plan through all of this!
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Thank you so much for my husband's job. Even though it takes him away from us, it's such a blessing that he has one. Please give me the strength and wisdom to know how best to encourage him in every way I can. I want to be a wife of noble character and be my husband's crown! I know you have a plan in this situation and I trust you to work it all out!
Amen
Friday, November 11, 2011
Proverbs 11 Give Freely
Scripture: Proverbs 11:24 One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.
Observation: It is so hard to give freely when money seems so tight. It never ceases to amaze me though how when you give, the money seems to stretch even farther. I want to be generous and give freely but wisely.
Application: There are many out there that have needs and I need to remain sensitive to where God would like me to help. I want to be His servant and His tool to reach others in His name. I'm going to pray for His guidance to show me where he would like me to give freely.
Prayer: Oh Lord, You know I have failed to give a tithe or offering regularly. I am so sorry that I have short changed your kingdom. Please help me to have the wisdom to know where and what to give to help others and your church. I know your word says to "Test Me in this" in Malachi and Lord, you know our financial situation better than anyone. Please help us to give out of faith and not out of the excess that we are always hoping to have. I want to give freely and generously and faithfully.
I love you Lord,
Amen
Observation: It is so hard to give freely when money seems so tight. It never ceases to amaze me though how when you give, the money seems to stretch even farther. I want to be generous and give freely but wisely.
Application: There are many out there that have needs and I need to remain sensitive to where God would like me to help. I want to be His servant and His tool to reach others in His name. I'm going to pray for His guidance to show me where he would like me to give freely.
Prayer: Oh Lord, You know I have failed to give a tithe or offering regularly. I am so sorry that I have short changed your kingdom. Please help me to have the wisdom to know where and what to give to help others and your church. I know your word says to "Test Me in this" in Malachi and Lord, you know our financial situation better than anyone. Please help us to give out of faith and not out of the excess that we are always hoping to have. I want to give freely and generously and faithfully.
I love you Lord,
Amen
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Proverbs 10 Hold your tongue!
Scripture: Proverbs 10:19 When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.
Observation: Sometimes it is wise to hold your tongue. The more you talk, the more chance you run of saying the wrong thing. I want to make sure that I think before I speak. I don't always have to say out loud the thoughts that are running through my head... they aren't always pleasant and could be hurtful. Today I had a long, drawn out argument with my 13 year old daughter over the name of a particular McDonald's cheeseburger. Like it mattered. What does matter is that I hurt her feelings when I should have dropped the subject in the first place. I wish I had held my tongue.
Application: I want to "take every thought captive" but when that doesn't happen, I want to make sure I don't hurt someone with my words. I would like to listen more and speak less. I need to decide when something actually needs to be said and when I need to keep my tongue.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
I know my tongue can really get me in trouble. This past week I can think of a few times when I needed to just close my mouth and walk away and I didn't. Please forgive me for hurting others at times when I don't think before I speak. Please grant me wisdom to know when the matter is important enough to be said, and when that person is more important than the matter. I want to please you with my words and to speak in love. Thank you for loving me!
Amen
Observation: Sometimes it is wise to hold your tongue. The more you talk, the more chance you run of saying the wrong thing. I want to make sure that I think before I speak. I don't always have to say out loud the thoughts that are running through my head... they aren't always pleasant and could be hurtful. Today I had a long, drawn out argument with my 13 year old daughter over the name of a particular McDonald's cheeseburger. Like it mattered. What does matter is that I hurt her feelings when I should have dropped the subject in the first place. I wish I had held my tongue.
Application: I want to "take every thought captive" but when that doesn't happen, I want to make sure I don't hurt someone with my words. I would like to listen more and speak less. I need to decide when something actually needs to be said and when I need to keep my tongue.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
I know my tongue can really get me in trouble. This past week I can think of a few times when I needed to just close my mouth and walk away and I didn't. Please forgive me for hurting others at times when I don't think before I speak. Please grant me wisdom to know when the matter is important enough to be said, and when that person is more important than the matter. I want to please you with my words and to speak in love. Thank you for loving me!
Amen
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Proverbs 9 God is Bigger!
Scripture: Proverbs 9:10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Observation: Understanding the vast power of the Lord is a big step to getting wisdom. He created the earth and everything in it. He is bigger than we can even grasp, He Is God! The more we know of Him, (knowledge of the Holy One by reading God's word) the more we can begin to grasp His bigness and gain wisdom.
Application: For 9 days now, I have consistently been doing this study. I know that's a small amount of time but I'm thankful for all that the Lord is showing me. I do want to gain wisdom and I can't wait to see all that God will reveal to me by just being consistent in spending time in His word and prayer. I want to get a grasp on His bigness and my smallness so that I might grow in Him.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Thank you for your great love for me! Thank you that even though you control life and death, you choose to give me life daily and life abundant. Thank you for your grace and forgiveness! Please help me to continue to be consistent in studying your word and prayer that I might continue to grow in You daily. I want to gain wisdom and understanding of who you are and who you created me to be on this earth.
Amen
Observation: Understanding the vast power of the Lord is a big step to getting wisdom. He created the earth and everything in it. He is bigger than we can even grasp, He Is God! The more we know of Him, (knowledge of the Holy One by reading God's word) the more we can begin to grasp His bigness and gain wisdom.
Application: For 9 days now, I have consistently been doing this study. I know that's a small amount of time but I'm thankful for all that the Lord is showing me. I do want to gain wisdom and I can't wait to see all that God will reveal to me by just being consistent in spending time in His word and prayer. I want to get a grasp on His bigness and my smallness so that I might grow in Him.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Thank you for your great love for me! Thank you that even though you control life and death, you choose to give me life daily and life abundant. Thank you for your grace and forgiveness! Please help me to continue to be consistent in studying your word and prayer that I might continue to grow in You daily. I want to gain wisdom and understanding of who you are and who you created me to be on this earth.
Amen
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Proverbs 8 Desire Wisdom
Scripture: Proverbs 8:11 For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.
Observation: This is hard for me to admit.. I have the art of comparison down. I compare what someone else has to what we have constantly-without even realizing I'm doing it: Gina is on a cruise? I wish WE could afford that. Lisa bought a new sweater? I wish I could afford that. You get the picture. I know I need to stop and I'm working on it but old habits die hard, right?! Something I need to desire more than any material object is wisdom. It's worth so much more than anything I can imagine or anything my neighbor has.
Application: Stop desiring what I don't have and start being more thankful for what I do have! Focus on storing up for myself treasures in heaven and not on earth. Desire wisdom. Seek it. Pray for it earnestly and be content.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Forgive me for not being content. Please forgive me for coveting what my neighbor has. Thank you for the countless blessings you shower on me daily. Please help me to seek first your kingdom and the treasures of heaven that are worth so much more than I can imagine. I want to desire your wisdom above all else. I pray you will help me in my search for it daily. I love you, Lord.
Amen
Observation: This is hard for me to admit.. I have the art of comparison down. I compare what someone else has to what we have constantly-without even realizing I'm doing it: Gina is on a cruise? I wish WE could afford that. Lisa bought a new sweater? I wish I could afford that. You get the picture. I know I need to stop and I'm working on it but old habits die hard, right?! Something I need to desire more than any material object is wisdom. It's worth so much more than anything I can imagine or anything my neighbor has.
Application: Stop desiring what I don't have and start being more thankful for what I do have! Focus on storing up for myself treasures in heaven and not on earth. Desire wisdom. Seek it. Pray for it earnestly and be content.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Forgive me for not being content. Please forgive me for coveting what my neighbor has. Thank you for the countless blessings you shower on me daily. Please help me to seek first your kingdom and the treasures of heaven that are worth so much more than I can imagine. I want to desire your wisdom above all else. I pray you will help me in my search for it daily. I love you, Lord.
Amen
Monday, November 7, 2011
Proverbs 7 Pleasing God Only
Scripture: Proverbs 7: 2 Keep my commands and you will live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye.
Observation: So many times I am swayed by those around me to allow things in my life that aren't biblical. I need to stop allowing other's lives to negatively influence my own decisions for myself and my family and hold tight to the Lord's teachings. He is the only one that I need to please.
Application: There are so many decisions to be made in a day. Sometimes I grow weary of trying to make the right ones. I end up saying "Well, so-and-so did it, so it must be okay", instead of looking to God's word for direction. I don't want to be a lazy christian. I need to continually be in God's word and asking HIM for His direction and not looking to others for it. I need to guard His teachings in my heart and not allow anything to sway me.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Please forgive me when I've been a lazy christian. I never want to grow weary of doing good. Please help me to keep your commands and to guard your teachings as I know it comes with a wonderful promise.. that I will live! I don't want to allow outside influences in my decisions for myself and my family that are not biblical. Lord, please grant me strength to keep fighting the good fight, even if it's not pleasing to others. Help my sole focus be to please you and you only. Thank you for your precious word that I have the freedom to access whenever I need it. You are such a generous and loving God and how I praise you for your many blessings!
Amen
Observation: So many times I am swayed by those around me to allow things in my life that aren't biblical. I need to stop allowing other's lives to negatively influence my own decisions for myself and my family and hold tight to the Lord's teachings. He is the only one that I need to please.
Application: There are so many decisions to be made in a day. Sometimes I grow weary of trying to make the right ones. I end up saying "Well, so-and-so did it, so it must be okay", instead of looking to God's word for direction. I don't want to be a lazy christian. I need to continually be in God's word and asking HIM for His direction and not looking to others for it. I need to guard His teachings in my heart and not allow anything to sway me.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Please forgive me when I've been a lazy christian. I never want to grow weary of doing good. Please help me to keep your commands and to guard your teachings as I know it comes with a wonderful promise.. that I will live! I don't want to allow outside influences in my decisions for myself and my family that are not biblical. Lord, please grant me strength to keep fighting the good fight, even if it's not pleasing to others. Help my sole focus be to please you and you only. Thank you for your precious word that I have the freedom to access whenever I need it. You are such a generous and loving God and how I praise you for your many blessings!
Amen
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Proverbs 6; Be Prepared!
Scripture: Proverbs 6:6-8 Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.
Observation: I can be lazy sometimes..yes, yes I can. I know it's not a Godly trait as he never stops working! I do think that this can be applied more spiritually than physically to me. I don't "feel" like doing a quiet time that day... I'm too tired to pray and study... but my tv show is on.. Yeah, I'm admitting that. After I've skipped my time with the Lord, I inevitably look back at all the time and energy I actually had and spent somewhere else and feel defeated. I'm so thankful that His mercies are new every morning.
Application: I don't want to be lazy with my relationship with the Lord! I want to be ready spiritually for each day and what it may bring. Last night, we had an earthquake in Kansas. Yep, weirdest thing I've ever felt. It took everyone off guard and really shook us up (literally!) We are not even close to being prepared for an earthquake. In fact, we don't even know what that means. I don't want to be caught off guard in the "earthquakes" that will inevitably happen in this life. I want to be spiritually prepared and ready for whatever this life has in store but I can only do that if I'm not being lazy in my relationship with my Lord.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Thank you that you are always waiting for me to come sit down with you. I'm sorry that I often get lazy with our relationship. Help me to store up provisions for the inevitable "earthquakes" in life by spending that intimate time with you. Forgive me for making excuses or putting other things in front of our relationship. I love you so much my Lord.
Amen
Observation: I can be lazy sometimes..yes, yes I can. I know it's not a Godly trait as he never stops working! I do think that this can be applied more spiritually than physically to me. I don't "feel" like doing a quiet time that day... I'm too tired to pray and study... but my tv show is on.. Yeah, I'm admitting that. After I've skipped my time with the Lord, I inevitably look back at all the time and energy I actually had and spent somewhere else and feel defeated. I'm so thankful that His mercies are new every morning.
Application: I don't want to be lazy with my relationship with the Lord! I want to be ready spiritually for each day and what it may bring. Last night, we had an earthquake in Kansas. Yep, weirdest thing I've ever felt. It took everyone off guard and really shook us up (literally!) We are not even close to being prepared for an earthquake. In fact, we don't even know what that means. I don't want to be caught off guard in the "earthquakes" that will inevitably happen in this life. I want to be spiritually prepared and ready for whatever this life has in store but I can only do that if I'm not being lazy in my relationship with my Lord.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Thank you that you are always waiting for me to come sit down with you. I'm sorry that I often get lazy with our relationship. Help me to store up provisions for the inevitable "earthquakes" in life by spending that intimate time with you. Forgive me for making excuses or putting other things in front of our relationship. I love you so much my Lord.
Amen
Proverbs 5; God sees it all
Scripture: Proverbs 5:21 For a man's ways are in full view of the Lord, and he examines all his paths.
Observation: Everything I do, say or think is in full view of the Lord. If I think I'm doing something in secret, I never am. I want to be the same person whether I'm alone or with others because God sees it all.
Application: I believe the area that I struggle isn't so much the doing and saying as these are usually done with others around. It's the thinking. I need to remember that he hears everything that I think as well. I need to take every thought captive!
Prayer: Dear Lord,
I know there are times that my words and actions don't reflect you. I want to be who you created me to be all the time and not just when I think others are watching. I know sometimes I have negative, ugly thoughts about others or about a situation. I want to be so infused with you that even my thoughts please you. Forgive me, Lord when I have failed to do that. I know that my thoughts will directly affect my actions and words and I want to be pleasing to you in every way.
Amen
Observation: Everything I do, say or think is in full view of the Lord. If I think I'm doing something in secret, I never am. I want to be the same person whether I'm alone or with others because God sees it all.
Application: I believe the area that I struggle isn't so much the doing and saying as these are usually done with others around. It's the thinking. I need to remember that he hears everything that I think as well. I need to take every thought captive!
Prayer: Dear Lord,
I know there are times that my words and actions don't reflect you. I want to be who you created me to be all the time and not just when I think others are watching. I know sometimes I have negative, ugly thoughts about others or about a situation. I want to be so infused with you that even my thoughts please you. Forgive me, Lord when I have failed to do that. I know that my thoughts will directly affect my actions and words and I want to be pleasing to you in every way.
Amen
Friday, November 4, 2011
Proverbs 4; Guard your heart by guarding your tongue
Scripture: Proverbs 4:23-24 Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.
Observation: I found it interesting that immediately following the admonition to "guard your heart" is the admonition to "put away perversity from your mouth" and "keep corrupt talk far from your lips". I have always told my kids that what is in their heart will eventually come out of their mouths.
Application: I have never had a crude mouth but I do believe I can be quite critical of others and may share things that have been told to me in trust. I not only think this affects my own heart but that of others. I hurt other's hearts when I criticize them or betray their trust in me. I also am showing the ugliness in my own heart. I need to be very careful of what comes out of my mouth!
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Thank you for forgiving me when I say things before I think them through first. I pray that you will give me discretion when others put their trust in me. May I be worthy of their trust. I also pray you would help me to be kind and encouraging with my words to others. I want to guard my heart and the hearts of others that I influence.
Amen
Observation: I found it interesting that immediately following the admonition to "guard your heart" is the admonition to "put away perversity from your mouth" and "keep corrupt talk far from your lips". I have always told my kids that what is in their heart will eventually come out of their mouths.
Application: I have never had a crude mouth but I do believe I can be quite critical of others and may share things that have been told to me in trust. I not only think this affects my own heart but that of others. I hurt other's hearts when I criticize them or betray their trust in me. I also am showing the ugliness in my own heart. I need to be very careful of what comes out of my mouth!
Prayer: Dear Lord,
Thank you for forgiving me when I say things before I think them through first. I pray that you will give me discretion when others put their trust in me. May I be worthy of their trust. I also pray you would help me to be kind and encouraging with my words to others. I want to guard my heart and the hearts of others that I influence.
Amen
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Proverbs 3; Have confidence in the Lord
Scripture: Proverbs 3:25-26 Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, for the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being snared.
Observation: My whole life I have constantly waited for the next disaster. If things were going well, I was afraid to be too happy because I knew something bad would inevitably come and I felt the happier I was, the harder I would fall when it did. I have always lived in fear of whatever lay in wait... the death of a loved one, financial failure, etc. Even knowing that we live in a fallen world, and that bad things will happen, I need to remember that He never leaves me to handle it alone. I need to be confident that He will work it all together for good and that through all things Christ gives me strength. He will walk me through the disasters in this life and keep my foot from being snared.
Application: As I do my daily studies, I truly feel that my confidence in the Lord will grow. I am hoping that I will learn that I can trust Him in all things and that He really does want the best for me. We are also memorizing all of James this year in our homeschool studies and as I internalize those scriptures, I'm hoping that my fear will diminish. I need to keep my eyes focused on the prize!!
Prayer: Dear Lord,
It's hard to believe that I struggle with fear of sudden disaster when I know that you are the mighty creator of the earth and everything in it. I want to understand how much you love and care for me in a way that I've never felt before. Forgive me for allowing my focus to be on the problems of this world instead of keeping my eye on the prize that you have set before me. Lord, please be my confidence and keep my foot from being snared.
Thank you for loving and dying for me.
Amen
Observation: My whole life I have constantly waited for the next disaster. If things were going well, I was afraid to be too happy because I knew something bad would inevitably come and I felt the happier I was, the harder I would fall when it did. I have always lived in fear of whatever lay in wait... the death of a loved one, financial failure, etc. Even knowing that we live in a fallen world, and that bad things will happen, I need to remember that He never leaves me to handle it alone. I need to be confident that He will work it all together for good and that through all things Christ gives me strength. He will walk me through the disasters in this life and keep my foot from being snared.
Application: As I do my daily studies, I truly feel that my confidence in the Lord will grow. I am hoping that I will learn that I can trust Him in all things and that He really does want the best for me. We are also memorizing all of James this year in our homeschool studies and as I internalize those scriptures, I'm hoping that my fear will diminish. I need to keep my eyes focused on the prize!!
Prayer: Dear Lord,
It's hard to believe that I struggle with fear of sudden disaster when I know that you are the mighty creator of the earth and everything in it. I want to understand how much you love and care for me in a way that I've never felt before. Forgive me for allowing my focus to be on the problems of this world instead of keeping my eye on the prize that you have set before me. Lord, please be my confidence and keep my foot from being snared.
Thank you for loving and dying for me.
Amen
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Proverbs 2; Finding Wisdom
Scripture:
Proverbs 2:9 Then you will understand what is right and just and fair-every good path.
Observation:
How I long to understand, how I long to stay on the "good path"! I long for wisdom daily in all the decisions that I make knowing how they affect others.
It was hard to nail down a specific verse in this chapter since I felt that in order to understand what is right and find wisdom, this chapter explains how you must search diligently for it first. I cannot expect it to land in my lap under no effort of my own. I honestly think that God is telling me to be in the scriptures daily, not just when it's convenient; and to sincerely search the meanings and not just read the surface. I need to close out the rest of the world for that short time and totally devote my head and heart to hearing what those scriptures are saying. Then I will find the wisdom that I so long for and understand what is right and just and fair. Relationships take time and energy and I believe that I really haven't been giving enough to the one relationship that should be the most important. I expect returns from a relationship I haven't given to in the first place. Wisdom and understanding will come as I give my devotion to finding it.
Oh how I have been missing out on what my Savior longs to give to me!
Application: I think I got a little ahead of myself in my observations! I obviously feel I need to devote more time to reading God's word and praying. If I gave as much time to this as I do to Facebook, I'd have an amazing relationship with the Lord and have a lot better wisdom than what I'm getting there!
Prayer: Lord Jesus, Please help me to discipline myself to have a daily quiet time with you. Please forgive me for allowing so many things to come before that. I know wisdom from you is the best kind I can get and yet I continue to look for it elsewhere. I truly want the Godly wisdom that you are offering me if I'll only look for it. I want to stay on the good path! Thank you Lord for loving me and patiently waiting for me to come spend time with you.
Amen
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Proverbs in 31 Days
I have never been very good at having a regular quiet time so lately I've been trying different things to try to change that. I found this bible study on line today and it looks doable and has an amazing template called SOAP that can be adapted for any bible study. Here is a link to what SOAP is: momstoolbox.com/blog/what-is-soap/ and here is a link to the Proverbs study: http://www.momstoolbox.com/blog/2011/10/31/proverbs-1/
The Call to Repentance
Proverbs 1
Scripture: Proverbs 1:23
If you had responded to my rebuke, I would have poured out my heart to you and made my thoughts known to you.
Observation: When God calls my attention to an area of sin in my life, I need to take it seriously and repent immediately. I love knowing that if I do this, He will pour out His love (heart) on me and share His thoughts with me. If I do not repent, I am missing out on His heart and thoughts.
Application: I need to be more sensitive in my listening for His words. I need to respond quickly, obediently, and humbly that I may experience more of Him.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
I know I fail you daily. May I be more sensitive to your gentle calls for repentance that I may enjoy a more rich relationship with you. Forgive me for when I have failed to heed that call. May I be more aware and filled with more urgency to make things right with you. Thank you for being so patient with me.
The Call to Repentance
Proverbs 1
Scripture: Proverbs 1:23
If you had responded to my rebuke, I would have poured out my heart to you and made my thoughts known to you.
Observation: When God calls my attention to an area of sin in my life, I need to take it seriously and repent immediately. I love knowing that if I do this, He will pour out His love (heart) on me and share His thoughts with me. If I do not repent, I am missing out on His heart and thoughts.
Application: I need to be more sensitive in my listening for His words. I need to respond quickly, obediently, and humbly that I may experience more of Him.
Prayer: Dear Lord,
I know I fail you daily. May I be more sensitive to your gentle calls for repentance that I may enjoy a more rich relationship with you. Forgive me for when I have failed to heed that call. May I be more aware and filled with more urgency to make things right with you. Thank you for being so patient with me.
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