This morning I was able to get in a fitness center workout, before heading to McKee Medical Center for an IV drug therapy treatment this afternoon. Tonight is the last Presidential debate and election day will soon be here. We live in challenging and troubling days and it is reflected in this nation, in this election. One of the greatest challenges for followers of Christ is to function as “citizens of two worlds.” Beginning with today, I am going to share some of my thoughts and reflections related to what the Bible says about our perspective and attitudes in this challenging arena.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ…” Philippians 3:18-20 ESV

Tension, conflict, confusion. Three word that can describe the feelings of Christ followers with the world in which we live. As Paul writes to the Philippians he shares an important perspective. There is and always has been a tension between those who are loyal to Christ and the world in which they live.

There are those who are “enemies of the cross of Christ.” They don’t want to embrace, they are not open to nor are they “tolerant” of those who embrace a life changing faith in Jesus Christ. We need to understand that, but not to be discouraged by that. Paul reminded believers two thousand years ago, “our citizenship is in heaven.” We are spiritual aliens, pilgrims, sojourners, however you want to view our present status.

The contrast between spiritual light and darkness is clear. What Paul says about those who alienate themselves from Christ and His cross and focus on this world, is straight forward, “their destiny is destruction.” He goes on and provides a vivid destruction of their priorities and focus. It is all on “self gratification.” Doing what “feels good.” Doing what pleases them and gives them satisfaction. Paul then closes his observations with an all encompassing statement, “their mind is set on earthly things.”

At times overly zealous Christians have been labeled as those who are, “so heavenly minded, that they are no earthly good.” It is also possible to be, “so earthly minded that you are no heavenly good.” The realm of “heaven” and kingdom living and priorities is as foreign to those of “this world” as “this world” is to those whose hope and focus is on God’s kingdom.

The challenge we face is, “how are we to function as “citizens of heaven” while we live as “citizen’s of this world”? Should we isolate ourselves or infiltrate the culture in a way that honors Christ. The Bible has much to say about “earthly citizenship.” Some of it is seen in the words of Jesus and the apostles, some of it is seen in the lives of biblical characters.

We live in a different time and a different “world” than first century Christians, but the concepts and principles are important for us think through and apply to our lives and present culture.

I challenge you to consider the prophets words to God’s people as they were being taken captive by the evil empire of Babylon, “But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.” (Jeremiah 29:7 ESV)

It is important for us to be “salt and light” in the world. We are to be engaged, to speak up when we have the opportunity and to show in our actions our true citizenship.

Prayer for today… Lord, thank you that we a have a true home in heaven. Thank you for the hope that brings to our life as we live as citizens of this world. Help us to be true ambassadors and to represent Your kingdom as we seek the welfare of the city where we live. 

I arrived home from Atlanta late this afternoon. The trip went well and the timing of my connections were just right. I had the opportunity to go out to breakfast with Stephanie and Mason before leaving for the airport.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “There are six things the Lord hates—no, seven things he detests: haughty eyes,
 a lying tongue, hands that kill the innocent, a heart that plots evil, feet that race to do wrong, a false witness who pours out lies, a person who sows discord in a family.” Proverbs 6:16-19 NLT

Solomon declares that, “The fear of the Lord is beginning of wisdom.” (Proverbs 9:10 NIV) It is important to note that the “fear of the Lord” is the starting point, not the point of mature wisdom. A definition of the “fear of the Lord” that I heard over 30 years ago says, “the fear of the Lord is hating what God hates and loving what God loves.” If that is the case these verses from Proverbs 6 should arrest our attention.

The list of things the Lord hates, that are detestable to Him include our whole body. The look of our eyes, the words we speak, the actions we take, where our feet take us and the relationships we have. Perhaps all of these can be viewed on how they impact our relationships with others. In this list are descriptions that have a focus on self. All of these are a description on how individuals seek to get an “upper hand” in life and over others. The concern is not for the impact of the actions or attitude, but only what the individual can gain.

These actions are so contrary to the character of God, we can see why they would be described as what God “hates.” The God of “love” and the God who was willing to show His love for fallen humanity by sending to this broken world His Son, would not have any patience for those who are filled with pride, destroy the innocent, plot evil, don’t hesitate to do wrong and are willing to sacrifice friends and family on the altar of convenience.

I have been reading Jeff Lucas’ book on Elijah. Two powerful statements caught my attention. In writing about the marriage between Ahab and Jezebel, he observed, “integrity was sacrifice daily on the altars of convenience.” In writing about Elijah’s preparation for being God’s prophet, Jeff comments, “God is more interested in the character of his children than he is their gifting.”

All too often gifted individuals have allowed their success and acclaim lead them into actions and attitudes that set them contrary to the way of wisdom. There are times when the “opportunity” that presents itself seems so appealing, that we can be willing to sacrifice our integrity to “seize the moment.” In both of these circumstance there is a failure to fear the Lord, and instead treat the Lord and His wisdom with contempt.

The final words of the verses above should arrest our attention. “Sowing discord in a family” is a serious issue with the Lord. Many will feel they are off the hook because the other characteristics seem raw and the purview  of only the most base. But how many find themselves by default or design sowing discord in a family. God is concern about family and family unity. As serious as we look at the other items on the list that the Lord hates, this one should be at the forefront of four concern.

Prayer for today… Lord help us to demonstrate wisdom by taking a stand against the things that you “hate.” As we view that list, help us to not just avoid them, but to examine our hearts to make sure the opposite traits are reflected in our lives.

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Lucas, Jeff. “Going Public – The Life and Times of Elijah” (Authentic Media. 2008) pg. 5,27

Today was my last full day in Atlanta. I return to Colorado tomorrow. I spent another day with Mckenzie. We traveled to the playground and went to lunch. This evening the family surprised me with a special birthday celebration. The official date is a little over a month away, but it was good to reflect on my birthday celebration three year ago at the rehab hospital when Stephanie was in Colorado for that occasion.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “My child, if you have put up security for a friend’s debt or agreed to guarantee the debt of a stranger…swallow your pride; go and beg to have your name erased.” Proverbs 6:1,3 NLT

Godly wisdom covers all aspects of life. Much of Proverbs is direct, other statements are to stimulate thought and contemplation. Chapter 6, covers some practice wisdom for “everyday living.”

In summary, it could be stated in the words, “work hard and be diligent and then be wise in what you do with what you have.”

It begins with cautions about “co-signing” for debt. But instead of just saying don’t do it, there is the instructions of, if you have done it, get out! That is often an overlooked piece of advice. If  a correction can be made in an error of judgment, then it should be made.

When it comes to industry and hard work, Solomon says, “Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn from their ways and become wise!” (Proverbs 6:6 NLT) Ants work in an organized fashion, they plan ahead and they store for the future. Those characteristics in themselves provide good insight for financial security. 

When it comes to diligence in work, I think of former US Senator Bill Armstrong. He served the last ten years of his life as President of Colorado Christian University. Even in his late 70’s he could be found in his University office on Saturday. When one of his staff members asked him about his work habits, he responded, “The Bible says, ‘six days you shall work.'”

A little more effort can produce far greater results; less and less effort can result in surprising setbacks. Solomon says, “A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like an armed robber.” (Proverbs 6:10,11 NLT)

There can be a temptation to “cut corners” to “take the easy way” and even be dishonest. Many try to get ahead by avoiding the discipline of effort, diligence and honesty. Solomon says of these, “…they will be destroyed suddenly, broken in an instant beyond all hope of healing.” (Proverbs 6:15 NLT)

All aspects of life can be found in God’s wisdom. God’s wisdom provides the general direction and the specifics that can guide our life. When parents pass on wisdom, it serves for all circumstances and for all times,

“When you walk, their counsel will lead you. When you sleep, they will protect you. When you wake up, they will advise you.” (Proverbs 6:22 NLT)

Prayer for today… Lord, thank You that Your wisdom gives us the direction that we need in life in general and in the specifics. Help us to seek and apply Your wisdom to all aspects of our life.

This morning I enjoyed being at Restoration Church in Roswell. Don Munn, my son-in-law Nathan’s father is the Senior Pastor of this congregation. He founded and has served this church for over 30 years. I had the opportunity to share my book with members of the congregation who have been supportive and followed my story.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… My father taught me, “Take my words to heart. Follow my commands, and you will live. Get wisdom; develop good judgment. Don’t forget my words or turn away from them.” Proverbs 4:4,5 NLT

In this chapter we see the direct “father-son” relationship. What I notice is as Solomon admonishes his son to pay attention to his words of wisdom, he says, “I, too, was once my father’s son…” (Proverbs 4:3 NLT) So we see the idea, “my father taught me (because I was the beloved only son of my mother) and I am teaching you.”

That is a concept that we see missing in our present day. Far too often, instruction is left to mothers and fathers focus on “making a living.” Of course, mothers are also focused on a career and “making a living.” The key is that it is a team effort. The “division of family labor” that only the older generation can relate to is a part of history.

That in itself may not be all bad. It is important for fathers and mothers to be united in provided the instruction and insight for life and for faith in a child.

Perhaps we will see once again what Solomon refers to: fathers being teachers and their sons in turn being teachers as they become parents.

Solomon communicates the priority of wisdom to his son, just as he had learned from his father, “Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment.” (Proverbs 4:7 NLT)

In Proverbs 4, we see the focus once again that wisdom provides the way to true life, safety and prosperity. But wisdom is also an issue of the heart, not just the mind.  Solomon says, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” (Proverbs 4:23 NLT)

Wisdom is reflected in our speech. “Avoid all perverse talk; stay away from corrupt speech.” (Proverbs 4:24 NLT) In light of current political news, that is advice that is relevant for today. 

Wisdom enables a clear focus and a “fixed” path. “Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you.
Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil.” (Proverbs 4:25-27 NLT)

True wisdom stands the test of time. The core issues are timeless and are worthy to be passed from generation to generation.

Prayer for today… Lord, thank You that in You is all wisdom and knowledge. Help us to understand and communicate to our children that true wisdom impacts our minds, hearts, our speech and our focus. May every generation be exposed to the wisdom that comes from You and Your Word.

We enjoyed a pleasant Georgia fall day. That included watching the University of Georgia football game and a trip to a “pumpkin patch.” The pumpkin patch was at a farm, with a mini festival with a maze, hayride, bouncy castle and various games and activities. There were a lot of settings for photo ops for parents and their children.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil. Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones.” Proverbs 3:7,8 

In Proverbs 3, we see the value of heeding the way of wisdom. Solomon tells his son, if you pay attention to my words, “…you will live many years, and your life will be satisfying.” (Proverbs 3:2 NLT)

The importance of heeding Godly wisdom and going against the grain of our “own understanding” is reflected in the impact that it has on our life. God’s desire is for us to enjoy His pleasure and to live life to the full. We see that reflected in Jesus words, “I have come that you might have life, and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10)

There are several emphatic “if-then” concepts in Proverbs 3. Consider the following:

“Never let loyalty and kindness leave you!…Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation.” (Proverbs 3:3,4 NLT)

How important to understand the impact of the right attitudes and actions on our life. It means being consistent with those character traits.

“Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” (Proverbs 3:6 NLT)

If we seek God’s will, we will know God’s will. The Lord is not be viewed as illusive and disconnected with the concerns of our life. That is why Jesus said, “Seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened.” (Matthew 7:7)

“Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil. Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones.” (Proverbs 3:7,8 NLT)

It is interesting when “modern medicine” reveals the connection between our physical and emotional health and our lifestyle. Human wisdom leads to pride and arrogance. It can result in shunning the ways of the Lord doing what makes sense to you. Those are recipes for disaster, even those that are revealed in our physical bodies.

“Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. Then he will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine.” (Proverbs 3:9,10 NLT) 

The Biblical concept is “God’s blessing flows to the generous heart.” We see this in both the Old and New Testament. This is difficult for many to grasp. However, when you hold tightly in fear, you make yourself the guardian of your life and future. When God’s way and plan is followed the Lord is able to supply all of our needs. As a matter of fact these verses communicate “abundance.”

The summary of the value of following God’s way of wisdom is seen in this verse, “Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding.” (Proverbs 3:13 NLT) That battle is that it is easier to “lean to your own understanding” than “trusting the Lord in all of your heart.” (Proverbs 3:5) That’s where faith comes in and where trusting in God’s ways and promises come in. There is a “cause and effect” in trusting in ourselves and a “cause and effect” in trusting in the Lord and living according to Godly wisdom. The one we choose makes all the difference.

Prayer for today… Lord, thank You for the promises You make and the assurances You give, when we live according to Your wisdom. Help us in the natural inclination to go our own way and help us through Your power and grace to choose Your way of wisdom and life.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him.” Proverbs 2:6-8 NLT

The patient pursuit of anything can be a challenge. This especially applies to our faith and knowledge of the Lord and our understanding of life. Some don’t even try. Some simply “give up.” Others in their frustration just take an adversarial position. They just dismiss what they can’t easily grasp.

Solomon’s counsel is to, “…concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures.” (Proverbs 2:2-4 NLT) 

Wisdom and understand don’t come naturally. They require focused attention; concerted thought and contemplation. The thoughts and reason of man, does not give insight into understanding the ways of the Lord.

Solomon concludes his ramblings and reflections in Ecclesiastes with this summary,“That’s the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13 NLT)

In Proverbs, he says the end result of diligently seeking wisdom, insight and understanding is, “Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God.” (Proverbs 2:5 NLT)

We must involve ourselves in the continual pursuit of understanding the Lord, His ways and life. Jesus said, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me…” (Mathew 11:29 NIV) Peter wrote, “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 3:18 NIV)

Solomon reminds us that true wisdom and understanding comes from God. It is not a byproduct of human intellect or what seems to “make sense” to our minds. It involves our mind and heart. The emphatic statements is, “the Lord grants wisdom.”

We see the other “rewards” of seeking wisdom and understanding that come from the Lord. He gives, “common sense” to the humble. In my years of political service the frustration of many was that fact that “common sense isn’t very common.” An attitude of humility; being open to what is contrary of our “way” and our “thoughts” is critical.

When we live in the fear of the Lord, He becomes a “shield” to those who live with integrity. You could say, the lack of integrity puts you, “on your own” – vulnerable to the attacks, accusations and barbs of others.

Finally, the Lord guards and protects. He keeps us on the “right” path and protects those who are faithful to Him. I believe at times that protection is from the harm we do to ourselves when we fail to rely on the Lord’s wisdom and “lean to our own understanding.”

At times understanding comes in the, “aha moments.” After sometime of confusion and frustration it begins to sink in. The reward of that, is seen in these words, “For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy.” (Proverbs 2:10 NLT)

Prayer for today… Lord, give us the patience and the anticipation of continually seeking You and learning from You. We recognize our inadequacy, but we can rely on Your infinite knowledge and truth to guide and protect us in this world.

This morning, I got up early enough to ride along as Stephanie took the boys to school. Later in the afternoon, I traveled to the Atlanta Convention Center for a National Power-lifting Competition. I went to cheer on a friend from my Rotary Club. He set a national record in the bench press for his weight and age. Dave Robinson is 75.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…“My child, if sinners entice you, turn your back on them!” Proverbs 1:10 NLT

As I consider this verse and those that follow, the enticement to do evil, reminds me of some of the pressures faced in our world today, especially by youth today.

There is the appeal to come join us! In other words, “we can do this together, you won’t be alone.” “We will be in this together. They may say, “Come and join us….Just for fun, let’s ambush the innocent! Think of the great things we’ll get!” (Proverbs 1:11-13 NLT)

The risks are minimized and the rewards are exaggerated. “We’ll fill our houses with all the stuff we take. ^“Come, throw in your lot with us; we’ll all share the loot.” (Proverbs 1:13,14 NLT)

They become blind to the “trap” they are setting themselves up for. “They rush to commit evil deeds...these people set an ambush for themselves; they are trying to get themselves killed.“ (Proverbs 1:16,18 NLT)

The advice and wisdom of Solomon is, “turn your back on them.” That is more than “just say ‘no’.” It is a call to change your friends and environment. “My child, don’t go along with them! Stay far away from their paths.” (Proverbs 1:15 NLT)

The wise are those who guard themselves by listening to the counsel and discipline of parents. “My child, listen when your father corrects you. Don’t neglect your mother’s instruction.What you learn from them will crown you with grace and be a chain of honor around your neck.” (Proverbs 1:8,9 NLT)

The wise learn from others. “…Let those with understanding receive guidance. “ (Proverbs 1:5 NLT) Wisdom is personified in this appeal, “Come and listen to my counsel. I’ll share my heart with you and make you wise.“ (Proverbs 1:23 NLT)

Those who reject the call of wisdom, do so to their own peril and ruin. While the voice of  temptation, lures and entices, wisdom, “shouts!” “Wisdom shouts in the streets. She cries out in the public square...How long will you mockers relish your mocking? How long will you fools hate knowledge?“ (Proverbs 1:20,22 NLT)

As in so many arenas in life, choosing the wrong path vs. the right path; pain or victory depends on what “voice” you listen to. Do we listen to wisdom that “shouts” or the words of temptation that “entice”?

Prayer for today…. Lord, help us to be wise in our decisions and be on guard for the influence of others. We pray especially for youth in our sphere of influence and our communities to be protected and choose the way of wisdom.

Today, I am heading to Atlanta for another visit. Looking forward to seeing the grandchildren as well as my daughter and son-in-law!

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “These are the proverbs of Solomon, David’s son, king of Israel. Their purpose is to teach people wisdom and discipline, to help them understand the insights of the wise. Their purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is right, just, and fair.” Proverbs 1:1-3 NLT

What are the keys to a successful life? What gives you an “edge” or “leg up” when it comes confronting all the issues we face in this world? Solomon, is known as the wisest man who ever lived. However, he felt that there was some value in his life and experiences that could be passed on to others, especially his own children, to help them be wise and live wisely too.

Solomon begins by saying the purpose of writing all of these proverbs was to “teach people wisdom and discipline.” Everyone would like to be considered wise; not all are willing to submit to the discipline that reflects wisdom and leads to success. Discipline means, I accept correction. It also means that I am able to put some “reigns” on my own thoughts, conduct and actions.

Wisdom and discipline leads to success. That is the simple, take-a-way, from these verse that introduce the Book of Proverbs. Keep that in mind for yourself and communicate it to others.

When I approach these topics, I always reflect on the conversation I overheard in a YMCA locker-room between a father and a young son. He told his son, “my people are smart, but not all people are wise.” Your intellect will not take you as far as your wisdom.  But having insight and wisdom is of great value.

Then I observe that Solomon would point to “success” in life, not on terms of titles, achievement and wealth, but in the conduct of our life. We read, “to help them do what is right, just, and fair.”

Proverbs are designed to get our attention, cause us to pause and consider and then apply the concepts to our life. God’s word strengthens our faith and directs our life, but will enable us to be successful as well.

Prayer for today…. Lord, enable us to live wisely. To live by learning and applying Your Word. To learn from those who “lived well” and those who missed the mark.