MEAT FOR MATURITY – DISCIPLESHIP

The way of the LORD is a refuge for the blameless. Proverbs 10:29 (NIV) This world throws many forces at us, tempting us to compromise with hedonism, materialism and narcissism. People, politics, entertainment and education all try to draw us into worldly choices; it is very easy to slide into destructive ways. But the path of following Yahweh is the only true blessed way to travel. Temptations don’t inform us of their long-term harm. The way of the Lord is an eternal road of refuge and peace. As the spiritual health of society declines, we may feel more and more out of place. We are more aware that we travel a different road than most people around us. We may be tempted to think that a little compromise is okay, that we are still more godly than the majority. But God wants to remind us that we are more blessed Continue Reading →

Whoever walks in integrity walks securely,but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out. Proverbs 10:9, (NIV) Sometimes we are faced with ethical choices that might lead to loss or rejection. Whether this is at work, church or with family, we may have to do or say something that will disturb or hurt others and trigger a reprisal against us. God reminds us that if we will walk in integrity we walk in security, in safety. Yet, it does not seem safe, especially if we get hurt. So how are we secure? We are secure in all the important things. Our soul is secure from the poison of dishonesty and avoidance. The crooked person stabs their soul with every ethical failure. If we maintain integrity, our soul is secure from damage. We are also secure in our relationship with God, we are abiding in Christ and we can continue to Continue Reading →

For whoever finds [wisdom] finds lifeand obtains favor from the LORD, Proverbs 8:35 (ESV) Wisdom promises two things that we highly value: life and God’s favor. What is wisdom? Proverbs describes wisdom in many ways: it dwells with prudence, knowledge and discretion; it hates pride, arrogance and perverted speech; it walks in the way of righteousness and justice; it begins with the fear of Yahweh; and, her ways are peaceful and pleasant. James also describes wisdom: “But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere” (James 3:17, ESV). Wisdom leads us into good conduct: “Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom” (James 3:13, ESV). We may get the impression from some that God wants to speak specific guidance to us for all Continue Reading →