Reflections from February 26, 2010

Today we read of Paul's sea journey that ended in trouble. In Acts 27:25 we read, "Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told to me."

Paul is trying to tell the ship's crew that they will be saved during the ship wreck that will occur. God will watch over them because God wants Paul to appear before Caesar. Fortunately, Paul is able to convince the crew and soldiers that God is correct, and they follow his guidance.

We should also believe God that it will be just as it was told to us. God hasn't changed his message. If you have doubts, could it be because you've changed how you listen?

Today, we catch up with readings in Proverbs so we can get through all 31 chapters in a month that only has 28 days, so we read Proverbs 26, 27, 28 and 29.

Proverbs 26:4-5 tells us, "Do not answer a fool according to his folly, Lest you also be like him. Answer a fool according to his folly, Let he be wise in his own eyes."

This might take a bit of thought, but reflect on times where you've been in a conversation with someone on a topic they know nothing about, but yet you discuss with them in a manner they indicates you believe they do. By continuing this conversation in that manner, they gain more and more confidence in themselves and their pride puffs up. They end up thinking, Gee, I'm really smart in this area, and do know my stuff! We'll, the better approach could be to just change the subject and not go down that road with them. Don't lower to the level of the fool.

Proverbs 27:19 says, "As in water reflects face, So a man's heart reveals the man."

It usually doesn't take long to see what is in a person's heart. Just by watching their actions over time, you can easily see the type of person they are. Just as we clean our face before going out in public so we can appear pleasing, we must daily cleanse our heart in God's word so we are pleasing to others and especially to God.

Proverbs 28:25 states, "He who is of a proud heart stirs up strife, But he who trusts in the Lord will be prospered."

Doesn't it annoy you when someone causes trouble just because they can? The words of Solomon might give you the reason why they do it. They have too much pride in their life, and they might not be trusting God with all aspects of their life. When you turn your life to God, and trust Him for everything in it; your job, your money, your family, everything; you've given over to God and that will soften you heart taking away any desire to stir up trouble. Give all to God.

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

I've said in the past that my emotions are on my sleeve meaning I'll let them out at the drop of a hat. It's an excuse to say, "Forgive me for venting my anger at you, and then pretending nothing happened." Yes, God wants us to have emotions and feelings, but he gives counsel as to when you should release these. We don't want to release everything when it's not the right time, you will end up looking like a fool. Knowing to keep your mouth closed is another sign of applying Solomon's wisdom in your life.

Blessings to all