Proverb for the Day

¹⁰ Who can find a virtuous wife?
For her worth is far above rubies.
¹¹ The heart of her husband safely trusts her;
So he will have no lack of gain.
¹² She does him good and not evil
All the days of her life.
¹³ She seeks wool and flax,
And willingly works with her hands.
¹⁴ She is like the merchant ships,
She brings her food from afar.
¹⁵ She also rises while it is yet night,
And provides food for her household,
And a portion for her maidservants.
¹⁶ She considers a field and buys it;
From her profits she plants a vineyard.
¹⁷ She girds herself with strength,
And strengthens her arms.
¹⁸ She perceives that her merchandise is good,
And her lamp does not go out by night.
¹⁹ She stretches out her hands to the distaff,
And her hand holds the spindle.
²⁰ She extends her hand to the poor,
Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.
²¹ She is not afraid of snow for her household,
For all her household is clothed with scarlet.
²² She makes tapestry for herself;
Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
²³ Her husband is known in the gates,
When he sits among the elders of the land.
²⁴ She makes linen garments and sells them,
And supplies sashes for the merchants.
²⁵ Strength and honor are her clothing;
She shall rejoice in time to come.
²⁶ She opens her mouth with wisdom,
And on her tongue is the law of kindness.
²⁷ She watches over the ways of her household,
And does not eat the bread of idleness.
²⁸ Her children rise up and call her blessed;
Her husband also, and he praises her:
²⁹ “ Many daughters have done well,
But you excel them all.”
³⁰ Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,
But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.
³¹ Give her of the fruit of her hands,
And let her own works praise her in the gates.
--Proverbs 31:10-31

Okay, so this is longer than one, but I had to because it all goes together! I love these verses, but there is something I need to remind myself--it starts by saying, "Who can find . . .?" We need to remember that this "woman" is a perfect example of what we should be like, but none of us are perfect. That doesn't mean we can't strive to be this woman, but we can't beat ourselves up when we fail to meet her standards.

Some of these traits I am doing well at, and others need lots of work. It's easy for me to wake up early and provide food, but not so easy to garden. It's easy for me to reach out to the poor, but not so easy to not have lazy moments. There are a lot of things for me to work on, but the important thing to do is to keep striving. I can only continue to grow closer to the Lord when I try to become a Proverbs 31 woman because it is only possible with His help, His strength, His wisdom, His grace.

Proverb for the Day

"If you have been foolish in exalting yourself,
Or if you have devised evil, put your hand on your mouth."
--Proverbs 30:32

I think what stood out to me in this proverb is the fact that it is never too late to change. When you notice you are doing something wrong, then stop right then. You may have made a mess of things by what you have already done, but you can stop it from getting any worse. Don't let pride get in the way of admitting your mistakes; confess your wrongdoing and stop doing it. We can't change the past, but we can change the future.

Proverb for the Day

"A fool vents all his feelings,
But a wise man holds them back."
--Proverbs 29:11

Are you a straightforward person? Do you say whatever is on your mind? If you do, then I would like to caution you against that. The Bible tells us to weigh our words carefully. Think before you speak. This proverb even calls us fools if we just say whatever is on our minds. Be wise and think first, speak second.

Proverb for the Day

"To show pariality is not good,

Because for a piece of bread a man will transgress."

--Proverbs 28:21

This proverb really hit me at the core. It made me think about whether or not I show partiality with my girls and sadly I have to say that I do a little. I tend to favor the one that is most helpful and compliant. I have to ask my girls to forgive me and make a concious effort to not do it anymore. It feels terrible to think that maybe because of my partiality I have caused my other girls to transgress even more because they aren't feeling loved or something. I thought I was pretty aware of not showing partiality because I was a "victim" of partiality growing up and I see other people doing it to my kids, but God is good to reveal to us when we have done wrong and don't even realize it so that we can repent and change. I am so thankful for God's Word being a double-edged sword and helping me become a better wife, mother, and woman!

Proverb for the Day

"Faithful are the wounds of a friend,

But the kisses of an enemy are decitful."

--Proverbs 27:6

And

"As iron sharpens iron,

So a man sharpens the coutenance of his friend."

--Proverbs 27:17

If we know our friends have something they need to hear (for their own good) and think it might "hurt" them, we still have an obligation to tell them. It is better for them to hear from a friend something that needs to change than to have someone else lie to them and they never better themselves. We are to "sharpen" our friends just as they are to sharpen us. We become better people because our friend help us become better people. The people who are closest to us are the one who will see when we are living in sin and don't realize it or need to make changes to live healthier, happier or whatever. Don't get offended when a friend tells you something you really don't want to hear. Thank them for loving you enough to be honest with you. And love your friends enough to be honest with them.

In closing, I hope everyone who reads my blog feels free to "wound" me by telling me if I have written something inappropriate or if there is something I could change to make the blog better. I consider you my friends and hope that you will "sharpen" me just as I hope I can help you become better women with what I have to "say".

Proverb for the Day

"As a dog returns to his own vomit,

So a fool repeats his folly."

--Proverbs 26:11

If you don't learn from your mistakes, then you are a fool. We should look at every opportunity as a learning experience. If you mess up, learn from it and change your ways. As I've heard other people say, "You'll always get what you've always got if you always do what you have always done." Learn from your mistakes and become wise.

Bonus Proverb

"Like a madman who throws firebrands,

arrows and death,

Is the man who deceives his neighbor,

And says, "I was only joking!""

--Proverbs 26:18-19

I had to comment on this because it has always bugged me when someone said or did something and then said, "I was only joking!" We've all heard about how sticks and stones may break our bones, but words will never hurt us, but we also all know that words can hurt. Even if someone says she was only joking, the sting of the words are still there because you have to wonder if she was really joking or just said she was. Also, it usually is something that isn't something to be joking about in the first place.

My prayer is that we will think twice before we say anything and be careful of saying, "I'm just joking".

Proverb for the Day

"If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat;
And if he is thristy, give him water to drink;
For so you will heap coals of fire on his head,
And the Lord will reward you."
--Proverbs 25:21-22

I mentioned this proverb yesterday. It is one of my favorites. I memorized this when I was in a work situation with a boss who was not very kind. I just kept reminding myself that I was to be nice to him and God would reward me for being kind. Although I don't think this is the intent, I liked the fact that he would most likely feel guilty because I was treating him kindly when he was doing the opposite to me. Treating "enemies" with kindness is one way to overcome evil with good. It is up to God to serve judgement and rewards. My prayer is that I will always remember this proverb and live how God calls me to live--with kindness. I will collect my rewards some day in heaven.

The Family Parrot

"Try to live your life so that you wouldn't be afraid to sell the family parrot to the town gossip."
--Will Rogers

Proverb for the Day

"Do not say, "I will do to him just as he has done to me;
I will render to the man according to his work."
--Proverbs 24:29

This proverb made me think about a few other verses in the Bible that tell us how to treat others. The first one is another proverb about being kind to your enemy for by doing so you will heap coals upon his head (Proverbs 25:23-24--probably more on this tomorrow!) and also in Matthew 7:12 when Christ speaks of the "Golden Rule"--do unto others as you would have them done unto you.

I know as a child I often thought, if she is treating me like that, then she must want to be treated like that so I will do just as she has done to me. But that is completely wrong thinking! It doesn't matter how others treat me, I need to treat them as I hope they will treat me. It isn't my job to "get back" at someone. God says Deuteronomy 32:35, "Vengeance is mine". It is God's job to "pay back" IF a pay back is needed.

My prayer is that we all try to live by treating others how we want to be treated regardless of how they treat us.

Home Cooking for Body and Soul Lesson #8--Apple of God's Eye

Home Cooking for Body and Soul

Lesson #8—Apple of God’s Eye

Dinner: Crock Pot Applesauce chicken, rice, & salad (see below)

Verses: Deuteronomy 32:10; Psalm 17:8; Proverbs 7:2; Zechariah 2:8

What does it mean when someone says, “He’s the apple of my eye? “Apple of my eye” usually refers to someone who is very special, very important—in fact, the most important and special person in the world—someone you would do anything for.

Can you believe that God sees us as the apples of His eye? We are very important and special to Him. Let’s look to the Bible to see exactly how much God loves us.

Deuteronomy 32:10 God finds us in our “desert” and draws us to Him. We become the apple of His eye. We are a precious object in need of being watched over and God gives us that tender-loving care.

Psalm 17:8 We have an instinct to protect our eyes. God instinctively cares for and loves us.

Proverbs 7:2 We guard our eyes from harm the best we can. Just as it is instinct to protect our eyes, we should protect/guard the wisdom God gives us in His Word. He cares for us so much that He gave us His law to protect us.

Zechariah 2:8 We are extremely important to God. Just as our eye would be hurt if someone touched it, so God is hurt when we are “touched” (harmed). He protects us so as to not bring harm to us or Himself.

Isn’t it great knowing how much we mean to God. He loves us so much that we are like part of His body—literally. We are part of the body of Christ when we give our lives to Him, but God cares so much about us that we are always part of His body. He grieves when His “body” is hurting. He grieves when His “body” is damaged. Let’s treat His commands as precious as He treats us. Protect His Word. Live His Word as our own.

Money-saving tip: Buy cheap and preserve. When things are in season or on sale for a really good price, then buy lots and preserve it either through freezing, canning, or dehydrating. Even if you only have the freezer on top of your refrigerator, you can still freeze lots if you freeze in ziplock bags laid flat.

Health tip: Make sure you get your daily servings of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are full of fiber, vitamins, and nutrients. Add a salad to your meal. Use fruit in your meal. Whatever you need to do to up your intake, try to do it and your body will thank you!

CrockPot Applesauce Chicken

Ingredients:

4 frozen chicken breasts or thighs 1 1/2 cups applesauce

1 T dried onion flakes or 1 yellow onion finely chopped

1 T apple cider vinegar 1/4 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp black pepper 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Put frozen chicken pieces into your crockpot (3 or 4 qt would work best). If using fresh onion, but it on top of chicken pieces. If using dried onion flakes, mix them with the applesauce, vinegar, and spices. Pour on top of chicken. Cover and cook on low for 5-7 hours or on high for 3-4.

Serve with rice or quinoa.

serves 4

Fruit Crisp

6 cups sliced, peeled apples (or peaches or pears)

1 T lemon juice 1 cup old-fashioned oats

1/3 cup flour 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/8 tsp cloves

1/3 cup cold butter

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Oil a 2-qt casserole dish. Place the prepared fruit into the dish and sprinkle lemon juice over them. Set them aside. In a bowl, combine oatmeal, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon and cloves. Cut in butter until crumbly. Scatter over the fruit. It will cover them thicly. Bake for 40 minutes.

Serves 6

Proverb for the Day

"Do not let your heart envy sinners,
But be zealous for the fear of the Lord all the day;
For surely there is a hereafter,
And your hope will not be cut off."
--Proverbs 23:17-18

I think this proverb offers much wisdom. We shouldn't be jealous of what other people have. It may seem that they have great riches and wealth here on this earth, but we should be striving to have great riches and wealth in heaven (the hereafter). Our hope will not be cut off. We should be preparing for our eternal life instead of worrying about keeping up with the Joneses or not being satisfied with what God has provided for us. We aren't all going to have great wealth here on this earth, but we can all have great wealth in heaven if we live for God and His glory!

Proverb for the Day

"Train up a child in the way he should go,
And when he is old he will not depart from it."
--Proverbs 22:6

This is probably a verse that almost every Christian knows, but do they really know what it means? I know I didn't at first. I think most of us just think if we raise our children properly, they will come to know the Lord and live a good life. What is important in this proverb is the word "train". What does that really mean? According to my study Bible, it means "to dedicate". I guess in a way it does, but it goes much deeper.

According to What the Bible says about Child Training, "Training requires that you teach them and that your teaching is accepted." It also tells us that while "train" means "to dedicate", to dedicate means "to renew, inaugurate or initiate." We are to start our children on the right path. We are to teach them God's Word so they live a life for Him. If we start them off with the knowledge of God, then they are more likely stay on the path. If we just tell them how to live, they won't necessarily put any credit to what we say.

We also need to remember that proverbs are words of wisdom and not a direct promise from God. Just because we do "train" our children, it is no guarantee that they will grow up to follow God. We still need to pray over them and for them. They will make their own decision when they are grown. They have a free will just as we do and God doesn't make anyone follow Him.

Proverb for the Day

"To do righteousness and justice
Is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice."
--Proverbs 21:3

We are supposed to do what is right the first time and not think that we can do wrong and just ask forgiveness later. If we know what we are doing wrong and plan to just ask forgiveness later, then we really aren't repentant when we ask forgiveness. Strive to live right in the first place!

Bonus Proverb (I had to share both of these!)

"Better to dwell in the wilderness,
Than with a contentious and angry woman."
--Proverbs 21:19

Wow! This really cuts to the core. Every time I read it, it makes me examine my life to see if I am a contentious woman. Do you know what contentious means? According to The Strong's Concordance, contentious means "a contest or quarreling--brawling, contention, discord, strife." Are you sowing discord or strife in your home? Are you always nagging your husband or children? If you are, then I suggest you stop because it is better for them to live elsewhere than with you. I have had to get on my knees before God and ask forgiveness for acting like a contentious and angry woman before. I have had to ask my husband to forgive me for acting this way. I would rather live without anger or contention than have to ask for forgiveness again (hey, this fits in with the first proverb for today!). Examine your life and seek forgiveness from God and your spouse/kids if you find that you have been contentious.

Proverb for the Day

"The righteous man walks in his integrity;
His children are blessed after him."
--Proverbs 20:7

Who wouldn't want to bless their kids?! When we live how God tells us to live, a bonus is that our children will reap the benefits as well as us! Isn't that just awesome?!

Proverb for the Day

"Chasten your son while there is hope,
And do not set your heart on his destruction."
--Proverbs 19:18

Many of today's parenting books tell us to be our kids' "friend" or to not spank or whatever. Do you realize that goes against scripture?! We are to chasten our children because we love them and want the best for them. When we neglect our responsibility to teach them right from wrong and obedience, then we are setting them up for failure (destruction). How are they going to learn the grave need to follow the rules (whether they are God's rules or man's) if we do not train them properly.

I am currently reading What the Bible Says about Child Training by J. Richard Fugate. I am currently half way through the book, but will be starting over tomorrow. I have been trying to just recap what has been said for Chad, but realized that he just needs to hear it as well. Fugate looks at scripture and the original meaning of the words and explains what they actually mean. I think this is very important and eye opening. I am going to start over and read it out loud to Chad so we can then discuss what we've read. We don't want our children to fail. We don't want to doom our children's futures. We want to chasten them while there is still hope.

Proverb for the Day

"The name of the Lord is a strong tower;
The righteous run to it and are safe."
--Proverbs 18:10

I love this verse! It makes me feel so safe and secure. Knowing that I can run to God whenever I need Him and knowing He will protect me is the best feeling ever. He is my strength; He is my "strong tower"!

Proverb for the Day

"Better is a dry morsel with quietness,
Than a house full of feasting with strife."
--Proverb 17:1

I think this just goes to show that money isn't everything. What good is having an abundance of food if you aren't happy. I am more than content to have what we "need" for our bodies than to have both Chad and I gone all the time to make more money so we can have abundance. The less we see each other, the more arguments we are bound to have (strife).

Let us be content and happy for what we have and not ruin our relationships in the strive for "more".

And the Winner is . . . .

Sally Baas!

Thank you all for participating and recommending the site to others. Hopefully the blog will continue to grow.

Sewing Help

Do you sew? Would you like to? Do you have minimal experience or even a lot? If you answered yes to any of these, then I have the site for you! Squiggly Twigs Designs is a blog that was started by someone who write patterns and offers them for low prices. The best thing about her patterns are she tells you how to adjust it for numerous sizes! You buy a pattern once and you can adjust it to fit a 3 year old and a 30 year old!

If you decide to visit her site, you can try a pattern for free if you enter her contest for one free pattern of your choice! What you do is visit her site and leave a comment telling her that I recommended the site to you. Then you go and tell others. When they leave comments saying you recommended them, then you will be entered into the drawing. The person who recommends the most people will win a free pattern!

Even if you don't sew or don't want to enter yourself, you could help me out by going and mentioning my name. Thanks so much!

Proverb for the Day

"When a man's ways please the Lord,
He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him."
--Proverbs 16:7

Is there a better way to make peace with others?! I don't think so. I have experienced this blessing firsthand and know that if we are living for Christ, then everything else will fall into place. It might not happen immediately, but it will happen. People often ask me what happened to remedy a situation with someone and I always answer prayer and not compromising on how God tells me to live. It is only through God that peace will ever abound in this world. Seek to live in a way pleasing to God and He will bring you peace!

Proverb for the Day

"A wholesome tongue is a tree of life,
But perverseness in it breaks the spirit."
--Proverbs 15:4

Our words are powerful! We can use our mouth to uplift others or tear them down. I just want to remind everyone to be careful of what you say not only to others, but to yourself. The little voice inside our heads is just as powerful (if not more so) than what we hear from others. Our words can either calm or can stir up anger (see Proverbs 15:1). Speak softly, kindly, and with encouragement.

Proverb for the Day

"He who oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker,
But he who honors Him has mercy on the needy."
--Proverbs 14:31

Just a reminder that we are to help the poor whether that be the poor in spirit or the physically poor. Remember, that how we treat others is how we are treating our God. Christ tells us in Matthew 25 that when we feed the poor, we are feeding Him. When we clothe the poor, we are clothing Him.

Even if you don't think you have much to give, remember that most likely (in our nation) you are still better off that other people and can still help. How many of us have more clothes in our closets than we actually need? How many of us couldn't spare a can of food? We all have something to give to others even if it is just our time helping them or lending a listening ear.

Honor God and have mercy on those in need!

Rest for the Weary

I read some great thoughts on another blog today about rest for the weary soul. If you have time, check it out here.

My Name is Pride

I read this on Christian Parents Forum and wanted to share. It is oh, so true! The author is Beth Moore.

My name is Pride. I am a cheater.
I cheat you of your God-given destiny...because you demand your own way.
I cheat you of contentment...because you "deserve better than this."
I cheat you of knowledge...because you already know it all.
I cheat you of healing...because you're too full of me to forgive.
I cheat you of holiness...because you refuse to admit when you're wrong.
I cheat you of vision...because you'd rather look in the mirror than out a window.
I cheat you of genuine friendship...because nobody's going to know the real you.
I cheat you of love...because real romance demands sacrifice.
I cheat you of greatness in heaven...because you refuse to wash another's feet on earth.
I cheat you of God's glory...because I convince you to seek your own.
My name is Pride. I am a cheater.
You like me because you think I'm always looking out for you. Untrue.
I'm looking to make a fool of you.
God has so much for you, I admit, but don't worry...
If you stick with me you’ll never know.

Proverb for the Day

"He who guards his mouth preserves his life,
But he who opens wide his lips shall have destruction."
--Proverbs 13:3

Just a gentle reminder that we need to think before we speak. I am sure we all know the sting of hurtful words. Let us try to speak only kind words, uplifting words, words of love. Let us build others up with our words, and not tear them down.

Today was a hard day for me to chose just one proverb because so many spoke to me today. Take some time to read chapter 13 for yourself today and see how God speaks to you!

Proverb for the Day

"An excellent wife is the crown of her husband,
But she who causes shame is like rottenness in his bones."
--Proverbs 12:4

I can tell you I would much rather be a crown than cause rottenness in my husband's bones. But what makes an excellent wife, just look at the Hebrew words for "excellent wife". It means "noble woman" and are the same that are used in Proverbs 31:10-31. If you don't know the description of a Proverbs 31 woman, turn there and read about it. If you want to learn more about how to be a Proverbs 31 woman, I would like to suggest a book that is in my recommended reading list, The Excellent Wife by Martha Peace.

May we all strive to be crowns!

Home Cooking for Body and Soul Lesson #7--Bible Blueprint

Home Cooking for Body and Soul

Lesson #7—Bible Blueprint

Dinner: Casserole Blueprint (see below)

Verses: Matthew 7:24-27; Exodus 20:1-17; Proverbs 1:7, 3:13-18, 12:26, 13:20, 15:1, 16:28, 22:1

What is a blueprint? A blueprint is a plan for building something. It has exact details for the foundation/support of the building. It doesn’t not include fluff like color of walls, style of furniture, etc.

The Bible is our blueprint for life. It gives us all the “plans” for living life. There isn’t a lot of fluff, but exact details. If we follow God’s blueprint for our life, then our life will be successful. Christ even talks about this in one of His parables. Let’s read Matthew 7:24-27.

Christ very specifically tells us that it is wise to build our “house” (life) on the Him (the rock) and all that He teaches. We are foolish if we try to do things are own way. We need to listen to the expert and follow His plans.

What are some of the “walls” on the blueprint for our life? Well, the Bible is full of them, but let’s look at a few.

Exodus 10: 1-17 10 Commandments

Proverbs 1:7 fear of the Lord is the beginning on knowledge. We won’t follow the commands unless we fear the Lord’s power and strength

Proverbs 3:13-18 we will live a happy life if we find wisdom. Wisdom in this verse is “chokmah” and means “skill” and refers to ability in craftsmanship, in war, and in trade. The most common form of “chokmah” is in reference to wisdom in daily living—not only intelligence but in moral integrity. A sinful lifestyle is ultimately self-destructive; therefore, wisdom is the only path to a full and fruitful life.

Proverbs 12:26 & 13:20 how to choose friends

Proverbs 15:1 soft talk subdues anger

Proverbs 16:28 don’t gossip

Proverbs 22:1 reputation is worth more than money

As I said before, the Bible is full of the “walls” for our blueprint of life. Off the top of your head, can you think of any other “walls”?

Money-saving tip: Get creative with what you have in the house! Don’t run to the store just because you need one or two items for a recipe. You will end up spending more than you planned. Start throwing stuff together and see what you get!

Health tip: Most Americans don’t eat enough vegetables. When a casserole recipe calls for one vegetable, either double the amount you put in or add another. Not only will you increase your vegetable intake, you will stretch the meal!

Casserole Blueprint

Choose one or more from each category.

Meat: ground meat, shredded chicken, cooked beef, tuna, etc.

Vegetable: green beans, peas, carrots, onions, broccoli, etc. (canned, frozen or fresh)

Filler: rice, potatoes, sweet potatoes, millet, stuffing, biscuit topping, etc.

Pizzaz (optional): shredded cheese, sliced almonds, bread crumbs, etc.

--Cook the meat if it isn't already cooked. Sautee onions and garlic if you are using them.

--Make a simple gravy by melting a couple tbsp of butter, mixing in a couple tbsp of flour, and then stirring in appropriate broth (chicken, beef, or veg. depending on your choices). You can also stir in some milk if you want it a little creamier. Also, stir in salt & pepper to your liking. You can also add any other spices at this time (rosemary is good for chicken or beef, parsley is good for anything, oregano will give a slight Italian flavor). You will want to leave this a little "runny" so it can bake into the other ingredients.

--You can either mix everything together in a 9x13 pan and then bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees or you can put mix everything except the filler and/or pizzaz and then put the filler and/or pizzaz on top. If you are using potatoes, you will either have to bake for an hour or pre-cook the potatoes by boiling them or sautéing them. If you are doing a biscuit topping, you can mix your pizzaz into the biscuit before putting on top of casserole or sprinkle on top of the biscuit.

--If you are cooking for a large group, then just increase all parts.

Magic Pumpkin Buckle

1/2 cup butter, melted 1 cup flour

1 cup sugar 4 tsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp salt 1 cup milk

1 tsp vanilla

Filling:

3 cups cooked or canned pumpkin 2 eggs

1 cup sugar 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1 tbsp flour 1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp each of ground ginger, cloves, nutmeg

Topping:

1 tbsp butter 2 tbsp sugar

Melt butter in a 9x13 pan. In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Stir in milk and vanilla until smooth. Pour into the prepared pan. In a mixing bowl, beat the pumpkin, milk and eggs. Combine the remaining filling ingredients; add to pumpkin mixture. Pour over crust mixture (do not stir). Dot with butter and sprinkle with sugar. Bake at 350 degrees for 55-60 minutes. serves 12

Proverb for the Day

"As a ring of gold in a swine's snout,
So is a lovely woman who lacks discretion."
--Proverbs 11:22

Wow, what a picture! I'm coming to the conclusion that a lot of "sayings" are actually based on biblical proverbs. Such as "Don't judge a book by it's cover" or "It's whats on the inside that really matters". It doesn't matter how good we make ourselves look on the outside if we don't have discretion. Let's look at what discretion means.

Discretion means: understanding, intelligence, reason, taste, perception.

Anyone who lacks these things would easily fall into fleshly desires and therefore, be just as undesirable as a pretty, gold ring in a pig's nose. I don't know about you, but I don't want to be compared to such an ugly image! I am seeking to increase my understanding and intelligence, act with reason, taste and perception.

Proverb for the Day

"He who walks with integrity walks securely,
But he who perverts his ways will become known."
--Proverbs 10:9

I remember back when Chad and I were first dating, we went out to a light house and were walking on the boulders out into the channel and saw something written on one of the boulders. I don't know if I am remembering it correctly, but it said something along the lines of, "It's easier to tell the truth because you don't have to remember what you said." I have never forgotten that (I didn't know at the time that it was "scriptural"!). When we tell a lie, usually we have to tell another lie to keep the first lie covered up. And then another lie and another. Eventually we will forget what we actually said and mess up.

When we walk in integrity, we will tell the truth and we can be secure in the fact that we won't be "found out". We don't have to worry about the "truth" coming out, because it will already be known. If you habitually tell lies, you will eventually be "discovered" because the truth will come out some how.

Walk securely, tell the truth and live with integrity!

Proverb for the Day

"Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser;
Teach a just man, and he will increase in learning."
--Proverbs 9:9

This proverb reminds me that when someone gives us constructive criticism, we shouldn't be offended. We need to take that and learn from it. It is only by being humble and allowing others to teach us that we can increase our learning and become wiser still.

God is good!

I just want to share the miracle God gave us yesterday. I need to give a little background info first.

About a month ago, our van was making a funny noise and acting weird. Chad discovered that fan clutch had gone out of it. He ordered a new one and told me in the mean time to not let the van sit in idle for very long and to have the heat on high if I needed to so it would help keep the engine cool. The part came in about 1 1/2 weeks ago and he has been working on "vehicles" almost every night. I assumed that he had put the new clutch in, but I guess he didn't.

Friday night when I came home from grocery shopping, I stopped by my neighbor's house to drop something off. I left the van running because I wasn't staying long, but they talked to me a little longer than I had planned. When I got home, Chad's Broncostar needing to be jumped so the van sat again while we hooked up the cables and took care of that. When I pulled the van back up to the house so I could unload the groceries, there was a lot of smoke coming from under the hood. Since it was dark, Chad couldn't look at it until morning. He said that I may have blown the engine. I immediately went to the Lord in prayer and prayed before going to bed, in the middle of the night when I woke up, and in the morning.

Saturday morning he ran to town to get some antifreeze so he could check it out. After he put the antifreeze in and started up the van, he said that I had gotten lucky. Well, I had to correct him by saying that it wasn't luck, but prayer!

Yesterday during his sermon, our pastor talked about a time when he believes his guardian angels pushed his car to a gas station because they should have ran out of fuel long before getting there. I told Chad that our guardian angels were mechanics Friday night and fixed the van!

Praise God; He is good!

Proverb for the Day

"For wisdom is better than rubies,
And all the things one may desire cannot be compared with her."
--Proverbs 8:11

Wisdom is worth more than wealth. Where do we find wisdom? In God Word of course! Spend your time with God instead of trying to "keep up with the Joneses." It doesn't matter what "stuff" we have if we don't have God. When we spend time with God, He will show us what truly matters. He will supply our needs. He will bless us when we follow His commands.

For example, the world may not think it is wise to give 10% (or more) to God every week, but I know it is WISE to do so. I have so much more now that I would have if I would have kept the 10%. Not only am I following His command, I feel good knowing I am helping others and He blesses me for being faithful. It feels so much better to give, than to receive "the things one may desire."

Giveaway!

I am doing my first blog giveaway since my last post was my 25th post! I am so excited that I have 9 followers, but I hope to reach more people with this blog so I thought a giveaway would be a good way to increase my followers.

Prize: Bible Answers for Women book. It is a book that has different scriptures listed for different categories. For example, if you are looking for verses about courage, then you would look up the courage section and see verses about that. There are many types of books like this out there and I always find them helpful. I received a similar one for my high school graduation and still use it!

So, you are probably wondering how you can win this book. Well, that is simple--register to follow this blog and leave a comment on this post that you registered. If you are already a follower, just leave a comment reminding me that you already follow. You can earn more entries by referring this blog to other women. If you refer this blog and they become a follower, just tell them to tell me who referred them and you will get another entry for each time I see your name as a reference!

I will close this giveaway at midnight on Sunday, March 15th. I will post the winner on the 16th. I will contact the winner to get a mailing address and will ship the book out that week.

Proverb for the Day

""Keep my commands and live,
And my law as the apple of your eye."
--Proverbs 7:2

I never realized it before, but Proverbs talks a lot about keeping God's commands and living. Makes you think they are pretty important, doesn't it?!

Keeping His law as the apple of our eyes is a good word picture. Just as the pupil is the center of our eye, we need to keep God's commands at the center of our lives. If we live a God-centered life, He will bless us. If we live a me-centered life, we will encounter many problems. I'm not saying that if we live a God-centered life that we won't have problems, because His word tells us that we will face trials. The great news is that no matter what trials we encounter, we know we can endure with His strength and wisdom and that He will bless us.

Proverb for the Day

"These six things the Lord hates,
Yes seven are an abomination to Him. . .
A false witness who speaks lies,
And one who sows discord among brethren."
--Proverbs 6:16, 19

Did you realize that not only is lying a sin, but it is an abomination to God? I know just the fact that it is a sin should stop us from doing it, but knowing it is an abomination to Him makes me feel even worse when I do it.

It is wrong for us to tell lies, especially about someone else. If we don't know all the facts, then we shouldn't say anything at all because we may be telling a lie and not even realize it. People change, life changes and what we "knew" to be true last week, last month, last year or whatever, may no longer be true when we are telling someone about how someone "is". When we tell these lies about people, it is sowing "discord among brethren."

Let us be careful what we say about someone else so that we are not guilty of speaking lies, sowing discord, and thereby indulging in an abomination to the God.

Proverb for the Day

"As a loving deer and a graceful doe,
Let her breasts satisfy you at all times;
And always be enraptured with her love."
--Proverbs 5:19

Although this proverb is written to a man, I think we women can take insight from it as well. We need to be "enraptured with . . . love" for our husbands. We need to make sure we are taking all our comfort (emotional and physical) from our husbands. We need to turn to only our husbands for sexual fulfillment. Do not be fooled by this world when it says that it is "Okay to look, just don't touch". If you do that, you are playing with fire.

Matthew 5:28 says, "But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart." Those many times that I have looked at another man and thought about how good looking he was, I was just a step away from lusting after him; therefore, committing adultery.

I'm ashamed to say that there were even times that it went to the lust stage and I didn't think anything of it because the world told me that I didn't act on it so I'm okay. Well, I'm here to tell you that it is wrong. It is wrong because Christ tells us it is wrong.

So, for those of you who are married, be enraptured with your husband. It will not only keep you from committing adultery, but it will make him feel loved and special.

Be Still

BE STILL
author unknown


BE STILL your anxious thoughts of mind;
BE STILL when answers you fail to find.
BE STILL impatient, questioning heart,
For I've held the answers from the start.


"Be still and KNOW..."
KNOW that every need I will provide;
KNOW that I will never leave your side.
KNOW that your times are in My hands,
As in your life I work to fulfill My plans.


"Be still and know that I AM..."
I AM He who sees your every tear;
I AM He who calms your deepest fear.
I AM He who gives peace within life's storms,
While those tempests I use to strengthen and form.


"Be still and know that I am GOD..."
GOD, who sent My only Son;
GOD Almighty, Omniscient One.
GOD, who loved you enough to die,
So trust Me, my child; stop asking why.


"BE STILL and KNOW that I AM GOD."

Proverb for the Day

"Take firm hold of instruction, do not let go;
Keep her, for she is your life."
--Proverbs 4:13

Word Focus: instruction

(Heb. musar) (1:2, 4:1, 8:10; Deut. 11:2; Is. 26:16; 53:5) Strong's #4148: The Hebrew word translated instruction means "discipline" that is instructive and corrective in nature. The world emphasizes the "nourishing" and chastising" elements of bringing up a child. Instruction has to do with both the reception of knowledge through hearing and the application of that knowledge in daily life. In Proverbs, discipline comes primarily through one's father but also through one's mother (see 1:8, 3:11, 12, 13:1; 31:1) Usually the word refers to verbal instruction, but it can also refer to the rod of correction (see 13:24; 22:15; 23:13). The content of the instruction is frequently linked to wisdom, knowledge, and the fear of the Lord (1:2, 3; 12:1; 15:33; 23:12,13). Outside of Proverbs, discipline and instruction is frequently connected to God. The Exile was identified by the prophets as God's corrective punishment on the Israelites (Jer. 2:30; 5:3; 30:14)

Word Focus taken from The Nelson Study Bible, NKJV. 1997

God's Assurance

I am currently reading through Jeremiah. Today I read chapter 32. Two verses stood out to me.

"There is nothing too hard for You." --Jeremiah 32: 17b
"Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me? --Jeremiah 32:27

We need to remember that we can take anything and everything to our Lord's feet. There isn't a request out there that is too hard for Him (although your request may not be in His will). If you have something that you think is just impossible for your life, take it to Him. Of course, it would be a good idea to pray about whether or not it is His will or not, but take all your requests to Him. Nothing is too hard for God. He spoke this universe into being. He fashioned you in your mother's womb. He breathed life into Adam. He can do all things. (Which brings up another good verse for us to always remember--"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13). Put your faith and trust in God today and see what miracles He will bless you with!

Proverb for the Day

"My son, do not forget my law,
But let your heart keep my commands,
For the length of days and long life
And peace they will add to you."
--Proverbs 3:1-2

I had to use two verses today because they go together. Although I have read this a number of times, it really struck me today. If we follow God's commands (the 10 commandments and others) then we will live longer and have great peace. What a great promise from God!

Proverb for the Day

"For the Lord gives wisdom;
From His mouth come knowledge and understanding."
--Proverbs 2:6

Word Focus--wisdom
Hebrew: chokmah

Strong's #2451: The word chokmah also means "skill" and can refer to ability in craftsmanship (Ex. 31:6), in war (Is. 10:13), and in trade (Ezek. 28:4,5). The most common use of chokmah is in reference to wisdom in daily living. This is the sense of the word as it is used throughout Proverbs, which teaches that true wisdom involves not only intelligence but also morel integrity (8:7-9). Because a sinful lifestyle is ultimately self-destructive, wisdom is extolled as the only path to a full and fruitful life (3:13-26). The source of wisdom is God, who by wisdom, numbered the clouds (Job 38:37), founded the earth (Prov. 3:19), and made the world (Jer. 10:12). He alone can provide men and women with the wisdom to live righteously (2:6; Job 11:6)

Word Focus from the The Neslon Study Bible, NKJV, 1997

Proverbs for the Day

I am reading a chapter of Proverbs each day for the whole year. I have done this before and it is amazing how each time I read a chapter, new verses speak to me. It just goes to prove that God's Word is living!

What I do is read chapter 1 on the first day of the month, then chapter 2 on the second day and so forth. On the months that have less than 31 days, I just read that extra chapter on the 30th (or in the case of Feb. I read 29-31 on the 28th). Each day I am going to try to get on here and post one verse that spoke to me that day. Hopefully I can find the time each day to at least type the verse and maybe how it spoke to me. I don't know if I will continue this past March, but we'll see. I also want to say that just because I am only writing one verse here, doesn't mean that more didn't speak to me or that this verse is more important than the rest.

March 1st

A wise man will hear and increase learning,
And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel

Proverbs 1:5

Any person can hear the Word of God, but it is a wise one who actually DOES the Word of God (increase learning). We shouldn't be upset that someone is trying to biblically correct us, but thankful that we are receiving "wise counsel".