Category: Proverbs

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Heading South?

This time of year, most people aren’t heading south? We live in an area where the population increases every Oct/Nov and decreases greatly in April or May. They are affectionately called winter visitors or sometimes referred to as snow birds.

They, like their avian friends, have learned to fly South for warmer climates in the winter. Birds, the ones with wings, instinctively head south for warmth and sunshine where they will not only survive but thrive away from the northern artic chill.

Wouldn’t it be great if we were as in tune to following the Lord’s leading as our bird-brained feathered friends?

Years ago when we were young in faith and learning to listen to the Lord’s voice we had a cowboy preacher, a dear friend, tell us this: If God says go South, He will provide; If you go North you’ll think you died!

Now that’s not scripture but it is scriptural.

“Trust the LORD completely, and don’t depend on your own knowledge. 6 With every step you take, think about what he wants, and he will help you go the right way. 7 Don’t trust in your own wisdom, but fear and respect the LORD and stay away from evil. 8 If you do this, it will be like a refreshing drink and medicine for your body.” Proverb 3:5-8 ERV

“Turn to the LORD for help in everything you do, and you will be successful.4 The LORD has a plan for everything.” Proverbs 16:3-4a ERV

God has a plan for each day – it doesn’t really matter what the activities are in the day; He has a plan!

Some days His plan is to change our plan. When we listen, He speaks and when we follow His leading we are blessed!

“Today I am giving you a choice. You may choose the blessing or the curse. 27 You will get the blessing if you listen and obey the commands of the LORD your God that I have told you today. 28 But you will get the curse if you refuse to listen and obey the commands of the LORD your God. So don’t stop living the way I command you today, and don’t follow other gods that you don’t know.” Deuteronomy 11:26-28 ERV

We have a choice – it would be silly to lean to our own understanding since following Him is the right way to go and His wisdom is perfect. Trust the Lord today. He loves us and His desire for us is good!

“I say this because I know the plans that I have for you.” This message is from the LORD. “I have good plans for you. I don’t plan to hurt you. I plan to give you hope and a good future. 12 Then you will call my name. You will come to me and pray to me, and I will listen to you.” Jeremiah 29:11-12 ERV

Go South today – He will provide!!!

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A Loving Mother

Those of you who have been following my blog for any length of time know I had a loving relationship with my mom. This is my first Mother’s Day without her.

She died the end of May last year. I know she is in heaven, and I will see her again and we will have all of eternity to share the Father’s love.

When I think of the things that made her so special I feel like I am compiling a list of the Proverbs 31 woman. Mom learned to sew before I was born and I still have some of the little dresses she made for me and my daughters. She learned to knit when I was in grade school and I have sweaters and ponchos tucked away too.

Mom was a wonderful cook and baker. Everyone I knew growing up wanted an invitation to our house for dinner. She also was an excellent baker – there were no store-bought cookies or cakes – every school party she made and decorated dozens and dozens of treats.

My Dad was out-of-town for long periods of time; work kept him away. She kept the household accounts and maintained discipline for myself and my two siblings. She was an economist and could make a penny stretch.

She became one of my best friends. In High School, we had our differences but I definitely felt a closeness with her that my other friends didn’t have with their mothers. When I married and had children she filled the role of Grama whole-heartedly.

Mom always tried to help her friends and neighbors. When anyone came to the house to do work or make a delivery she didn’t let them leave without hearing about Jesus.

In her final years she look forward to going to heaven. She told me numerous times, “if I’m gone in the morning, tell them not to cry. Have a party because I am where I want to be”.

I offer this tribute this morning to all those Moms who are with us and those who we no longer are able to touch with our hands.

“Her children say good things about her.
    Her husband brags about her and says,
29 “There are many good women,
    but you are the best.”
30 Grace and beauty can fool you,
    but a woman who respects the Lord should be praised.
31 Give her the reward she deserves.
    Praise her in public for what she has done.” Proverbs 31:28-31 ERV

Mothers, grandmothers, women with mother’s hearts we have a special place of influence that no one else can occupy. May we shape lives with the love of Jesus!

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Complete Trust

As I sat down with my coffee this morning, I picked up my journal and wrote, “I don’t know what today has in store, but You do and I trust You. Thank You for being completely trustworthy”.

And then I began to meditate on two words – completely trustworthy.

Can someone be trustworthy without being completely trustworthy? No, I don’t think that’s possible. The word “trustworthy” means one thing – worthy of trust. If there is ever a situation when someone or something can’t be trusted, then they stop being trustworthy.

Knowing God’s character, knowing His heart, we know that He is always worthy of our trust. He does not lie; He does not change, He is always the same.

“That is, the Lord passed in front of Moses and said, ‘Yahweh, the Lord, is a kind and merciful God. He is slow to become angry. He is full of great love. He can be trusted.'” Exodus 34:6 ERV

The Lord said that about Himself. There is no one greater to give testimony of God’s faithfulness.

“God is not a man; he will not lie. God is not a human being; his decisions will not change.
If he says he will do something, then he will do it. If he makes a promise, then he will do what he promised.” Numbers 23:19 ERV

Completely trustworthy.

When God gives us His promise, He keeps it. Many times, placing our trust in Him bypasses our understanding. We are limited in our scope of knowledge but His is infinite. He knows the beginning from the end. He knows our future and the path we should be taking.

“Trust the Lord completely, and don’t depend on your own knowledge. 6 With every step you take, think about what he wants, and he will help you go the right way.” Proverbs 3:5-6 ERV

As all of this was filling my heart and mind, the words of a song came rushing in. It was written by Rita Springer, Josh Baldwin, Ethan Gregory Hulse, and Marcus R Harris. This song has become my anthem when worry and fear try to captivate me, “Stand in Your Love”.

“When darkness tries to roll over my bones
When sorrow comes to steal the joy I own
When brokenness and pain is all I know
Oh, I won’t be shaken, no, I won’t be shaken

My fear doesn’t stand a chance
When I stand in Your love
My fear doesn’t stand a chance
When I stand in Your love
My fear doesn’t stand a chance
When I stand in Your love!”

Fears, and we will have them, dissipate when I focus on the love of the Father. He has promised to never leave me or abandon me. He has promised to be my protector and my provider. He has promised to forgive all my sins and He has promised to adopt me as His own. He has promised that His love with never fail.

Fear doesn’t stand a chance when I focus on His love. He is completely trustworthy!

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Words, Words, Words

Have you seen those “hidden word” pictures that are often posted on Facebook? They ask you to write down the first five words you see. I find the responses interesting. Some people seem to find the negative words – anger, sad, hate, envy, cheat. Others find more positive words – joy, love, kind, good, sweet.

It makes me wonder – do people even notice that they are drawn to certain words or emotions.

It was interesting to note the reaction of some of our fellow travelers on our last flight. Everything went well. We took off on time, the skies were smooth for flying and we landed well. Nothing to complain about except…the wait for our luggage – 45 minutes.

Few were talking about the beautiful, warm, sunshine. We had just come from 35* and chilly. This was 80*. Only one or two families acted like they were having fun with their children during the wait. I overheard one mother having to quiet her son, a teenager, who was complaining loudly about the wait.

All of this prompted my thinking this morning. I had just one verse in mind. When I went and looked it up I found that the others around it all spoke of the same thing. My words – my mouth and keeping the peace. I don’t know what today has in store for me or for you, it won’t be delayed luggage.

These verses are a strong reminder of how we need to act.

“A gentle answer makes anger disappear, but a rough answer makes it grow. 2 Listening to wise people increases your knowledge, but only nonsense comes from the mouths of fools. 3 The Lord sees what happens everywhere. He watches everyone, good and evil. 4 Kind words are like a life-giving tree, but lying words will crush your spirit. 5 Fools refuse to listen to their father’s advice, but those who accept discipline are smart.” Proverbs 15:1-5 ERV

Sounds like what our Mommas always taught us. If you can’t say something nice, say nothing at all. Listen more, speak less.

I want my words to be life-giving and kind. I chose to make my words, words, words pleasant and life affirming.

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How to Wait

Yesterday was a lesson in waiting. It’s a hard lesson to learn.

Dave and I have been planning a trip to visit wonderful friends for months now and yesterday was the day of departure. We had purposely left some chores for the morning because our flight didn’t leave until after 4. We needed something to fill the time, neither one of us wait well.

An oft quoted saying in our home is, “we’re burning daylight”.

Chores were done, showers taken, bags were packed and it was time to head to the airport. We stopped for lunch, using more time. We arrived at the airport, found parking, took the shuttle to the terminal and then we waited.

We waited in line to check in. We were too early, “you’ll need to wait another twenty minutes”. (deep breath) Ok. Made it through check in, bags secured, on to TSA and finally to the gate. More waiting. Finally it was time to board.

Yes! The wait was almost over. I had been texting with friends and family to let them know we had boarded and would soon be taking off. That’s when things went awry. Technical issues with the plane’s communication. A call went in for technical support…we waited. Problem assessed. Work done.

We pulled away from the gate. Hope and excitement rose. Taxied out…problem persisted. We turned around and headed back to the gate. (heart sank)

Hope deferred.

“Hope that is delayed makes you sad…” Proverbs 13:12 ERV

More technicians entered the plane. More work done. More time passed. We finally left the gate and made it into the air, (big smile), two hours late.

“Hope that is delayed makes you sad, but a wish that comes true fills you with joy.” Proverbs 13:12 ERV

So much joy!

But the story isn’t over. When we landed there was more waiting. Our bags took “forever” to arrive. Those of us who had shared the flight were trying hard not to complain about our inconvenienced travel. We were all thankful to be at our destination, safely. Now to see family and friends. Yes, there was joy.

Now in light of what’s going on in the world my wait yesterday was insignificant, I admit. However, it is little things like a delayed flight that can influence our attitude and spoil our day. God wants us to have joy in each day. He wants us to let His peace fill our hearts, even when we wait.

“Don’t worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks for what you have. 7 And because you belong to Christ Jesus, God’s peace will stand guard over all your thoughts and feelings. His peace can do this far better than our human minds.” Philippians 4:6-7 ERV

My hope is no longer delayed. I am going to enjoy these days with my friend. But the next time circumstances cause me to wait, I hope I wait well, with joy and peace.

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Fast And Dumb

With a title like this, I know you’re probably wondering what this morning’s blog is all about!

Ostriches.

We are taking two of the grandkids, Sam and Kristine, to the Ostrich Ranch today. It’s a fascinating place, a petty zoo of sorts. They have miniature donkeys and deer, chickens, rabbits, goats, lorikeets, ducks, sting rays and ostriches, of course.

On their Q&A page it says, “Can you ride an ostrich? Not here! They are really fast and really dumb… that’s a bad combination!”

I whole-heartedly agree. God said the same thing about ostriches in the book of Job.

“That’s because I did not give wisdom to the ostrich. She is foolish, and I made her that way.
18 But when the ostrich gets up to run, she laughs at the horse and its rider, because she can run faster than any horse.” Job 39:17-18 ERV

Being void of wisdom can be dangerous so it’s good, in that case, to be fast.

I think we have all had times that we have made “dumb” mistakes. We were too quick in choosing a course of action that got us into trouble. I know I have. Those mistakes can be quite costly.

Solomon has much to say about wisdom. In fact, the whole book of Proverbs is written to help us make wise choices.

“These are the proverbs of Solomon,…2 They will help you learn to be wise, to accept correction, and to understand wise sayings. 3 They will teach you to develop your mind in the right way. You will learn to do what is right and to be honest and fair. 4 These proverbs will make even those without education smart. They will teach young people what they need to know and how to use what they have learned. 5 Even the wise could become wiser by listening to these proverbs. They will gain understanding and learn to solve difficult problems.” Proverbs 1:1-5 ERV

Today will be a fun day with the kids but it will also be a day to share with them about wisdom and not being foolish in a way that a 4-year old and 6-year old can understand. As parents and grandparents we need to take the opportunities we have to share the teachings of God’s word with our littles.

They need the guidance.

“My son, pay attention to what I say. Remember my commands…4 Look for wisdom like silver. Search for it like hidden treasure. 5 If you do this, you will understand what it means to respect the Lord, and you will come to know God. 6 The Lord is the source of wisdom; knowledge and understanding come from his mouth. 7 He gives good advice to honest people and shields those who do what is right.” Proverbs 2:1-7 ERV

It’s never too late to gain wisdom. Maybe we all need to slow down a bit, seek the treasure of wisdom and do right!

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Moving On

Today is a moving day. We’ve been at the racetrack campground for the last week and we’ll head home this morning.

When your home is on wheels there is a lot of planning and coordinated effort that goes into pulling out for the next location. Inside and outside. Things have to be stowed away to keep them from shifting or getting damaged in the move. Outside the tires must be checked, lights, leveling systems, propane, etc. The list goes on.

But don’t think I’m complaining. I’m not, I love our lifestyle. After you’ve done it a while it becomes routine, and you follow the list so nothing is forgotten. You take some new things with you like memories, smiles and suntans.

Some things you leave behind – the trash.

Isn’t that just like life?

Each day gives an opportunity to move on. We can leave behind those things that would hold us back – temper, bitterness, low self-esteem, heart ache. One of the verses I used yesterday said:

“…We should remove from our lives anything that would slow us down and the sin that so often makes us fall.” Hebrews 12:1 ERV

Move on past those things, put them out in the trash. The Lord promises to direct our steps, we just need to listen.

“ Trust the Lord completely, and don’t depend on your own knowledge. 6 With every step you take, think about what he wants, and he will help you go the right way.” Proverbs 3:5-6 ERV

Today, you might be like me – making a move. Leave the trash behind and move forward with excitement and anticipation of where the Lord is leading and what will happen next.

Happy Trails!

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Repeated With Purpose

As children we heard our parents repeat instructions on a daily basis. Sit up straight, brush your teeth, practice the piano, don’t talk with your mouth full, do your homework, say “yes ma’am, no sir”, and the list goes on.

Why?

These things were repeated with purpose. Our parents were raising us to be responsible, respectful and hard working. They were helping us build character.

Sometimes when I sit to write in the mornings I find myself saying to the Lord “but I’ve already told them that last year, last month, yesterday. Do I really need to go over it again?”

Things are repeated for a purpose.

There are four seasons, repeated every year. Not too many years pass before we learn what to plant when, to get out the jackets and long sleeve shirts. We can predict the weather and know when summer vacation is. Yes, we learn by repetition of natural events, we also learn godly principles the same way.

“But you must be strong and brave about obeying the commands my servant Moses gave you. If you follow his teachings exactly, you will be successful in everything you do. 8 Always remember what is written in that book of law. Speak about that book and study it day and night. Then you can be sure to obey what is written there. If you do this, you will be wise and successful in everything you do. 9 Remember, I commanded you to be strong and brave. Don’t be afraid, because the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:7-9 ERV

Study God’s word every day. That means repetition! Go over it again and again. Stay with the things that bring success.

I had a woman ask me once how I study the Bible. I told her I found things that I needed in my life and looked up the verses that dealt with those issues – worry, fear, health, joy, marriage, children, peace – and the list goes on. (Don’t be selfish, share your cheez-its)

I found verses that help with those areas and wrote them on an index card. I kept those cards with me all the time. They were in the truck, in my purse and on the tractor. They sat on my desk and in my kitchen. When I would feel overwhelmed in a situation, I would grab the cards and read God’s word to myself, reminding me that God has a plan and He is working on my behalf. I still have those cards from 35+ years ago.

Repetition with a purpose.

“My son, pay attention to what I say. Listen closely to my words. 21 Don’t let them out of your sight. Never stop thinking about them. 22 These words are the secret of life and health to all who discover them.” Proverbs 4:20-22 ERV

Find a modern version of the Bible if the King James language is too hard to understand and read what the Lord has to say about your situation. You don’t need to read chapter after chapter if you don’t understand it. Read a couple of verses and let them stick with you all day.

These truly are the words of life and we need to apply them over and over again!

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Slow Is Good

Over the years Dave and I have learned to slow down. This, in itself, is a real miracle! I don’t know how many times we have said “we’re burnin’ daylight” and charged out to get things done. But now we are living by a different slogan, “slow down, you’ll get a more harmonious outcome”.

Yesterday Dave completed yet another honey-do project for me. This was a several day project and along the way he needed my help. That meant I would put down what I was working on. At first this was a little irritating, just being honest, but I really did appreciate the opportunity. I had to remind myself, he was doing this for me.

When the work was done we sat and talked – Dave said he’s having to adjust to the fact that things are taking longer than they did when he was younger. I concurred. Since retirement, I have felt that “multi-tasking” is an ugly concept and not one to be pursued.

Slow is good!

“My dear friends, you should be quick to listen and slow to speak or to get angry. 20 If you are angry, you cannot do any of the good things that God wants done.” James 1:19-20 CEV

Slow to speak and slow to get angry. Good advice. When we are slow to speak, we improve our listening skills and that makes the person speaking feel valued; their words are important. If we jump in while someone else is still talking, we often misconstrue what they are saying because we haven’t heard their whole thought.

“Good people think before they answer, but the wicked speak evil without ever thinking.” Proverbs 15:28 CEV

“It’s stupid and embarrassing to give an answer before you listen.” Proverbs 18:13 CEV

We had a friend who practiced slow speech. I had never met anyone before or since that spoke as slowly as he did. However, he was also one of the calmest, unstressed, unangered persons I have ever met as well.

His words were kind; he was a genuine listener. He wanted to hear your heart and share your thoughts. Love is patient, gentle and kind. Jim was all that and more!

In case you haven’t noticed God’s not in a hurry. He does things at the right time and in the right way.

“ Dear friends, don’t forget that for the Lord one day is the same as a thousand years, and a thousand years is the same as one day. 9 The Lord isn’t slow about keeping his promises, as some people think he is. In fact, God is patient, because he wants everyone to turn from sin and no one to be lost.” II Peter 3:8-9 CEV

The Father is patient. He waits for us – He doesn’t force us to accept His ways. Patiently He waits and gives us one opportunity after another. He knows that true love never fails.

“Love is kind and patient, never jealous, boastful, proud, or 5 rude. Love isn’t selfish or quick tempered.” I Corinthians 13:4-5 CEV

Slow is good!

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Pursuit of …

I have a question for you. What are you pursuing or on the reverse side of that question, what’s pursuing you?

The first answer that may come to mind is happiness. However, happiness is always changing. What made me happy at 20 is far from what makes me happy now. Some are in pursuit of a good education. Noble goal – it takes dedication, determination and deliberation.

There are those who pursue love. Admirable. We all have a desire to be loved but even that will fall short of expectation if we aren’t diligent and willing to give our all.

Being pursued isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. I recall a time when I was little and being pursued by the neighbor’s billy goat. I just wanted to pet him, but he had other ideas. When I realized that his pursuit of me was not going to end well, I ran. I ran as fast as my little legs could carry me but it wasn’t fast enough. I was still butted in the bottom.

There is a pursuit that is beneficial and attainable by everyone.

“Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit. 14 Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. 15 The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous and his ears toward their cry.” Psalm 34:13-15 ESV

Truth and peace are godly pursuits. Doing good is a goal we should all seek to accomplish.

“ …pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.” II Timothy 2:22 ESV

The Lord has given us all a dream, a passion in life. When we let Him lead, when we follow His direction, our pursuit with end well.

“Roll your works upon the Lord [commit and trust them wholly to Him; He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will, and] so shall your plans be established and succeed.” Proverbs 16:3 AMPC

Trust the Lord with your pursuits!

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