Proverbs

John 17: His Prayer for Me

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“I am in them You are in Me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent Me and that You love them as much as you love Me.” John 17:23. (NLT)

This chapter is a prayer from Jesus. He knows the time has come for Him to fulfill His purpose. He prays for His disciples and in verse 20 He says,, “I am praying not only for these disciples, but also for all who will ever believe in Me.” Which means He is praying for me in this chapter. His words to His Father are for me! For my life! Today! Right now! In this moment! His words are for me!

In verse 23 He says He is in Me. His presence and power fills me today. It’s His presence that strengthens me and holds me. I am so very grateful for the assurance I have that He is in me.

He prays that we, those who believe He is who He says He is, will experience “such perfect unity”. SO THAT, “the world will know that You sent Me and that you love them as much as You love Me.” Our unity as believers will show the world Jesus and the greatness of His love!

There is and has been, such a need for the peace, hope and joy that Jesus brings. i believe He truly is the answer to all we need. Jesus prays for perfect unity and when I look around me I see a lot of disunity. I see the division among believers, those who believe and know the presence and power of Jesus. How different would our world look if we could be in “perfect unity?”

I pray today for the presence of Jesus to be greater in my life. I pray that I will be slow to speak and quick to listen. I pray for His peace to be in me, with Me and that it will be evident where I go. I pray that as much as possible, that I live peaceably with everyone (romans 12:18). And I pray for His presence to strengthen me. I want to be a woman who is lead by the Spirit, who speaks and responds by the leading of the Spirit. I pray He is greater and I am less. Amen.

What is God speaking to you today in chapter 17 of John? Share in the comment section below.

Day 31: Wise and Kind Words – Proverbs 31

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day31 pic of birds flying over the ocean

“When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instruction with kindness.” Proverbs 31:26 (NLT)

This is the chapter I may or may not want to avoid. This knowable and virtuous woman has it going on! She does it all with dignity, strength and grace!  She is a hard worker and her family lacks nothing.  She rises early and stays up late working, serving and caring for her family.  They adore her, there is no one finer!

Today as I was reading this verse about her words being wise and kind made an impact on me.  I could be all these things, hardworking, selling and providing for my family. Rising early to prepare for the day and staying up late to ensure all their needs were covered. But, if my words were harsh and lacking wisdom, all the other stuff would have little value. I’ve probably met a few women in my life who worked hard and provided a beautiful and well-maintained home, but they were mean and quick tempered. You wouldn’t want to cross them; they were a bit scary.  Their impact on my life was not how well they managed, but it was how difficult they were to get along with.

I want to be a woman who leads well and manages her life and home with great success.  I desire that my words bring hope, peace, comfort and wise instruction.  And I desire that I can do it all with kindness.  I understand that my words matter and how I speak matters.

I pray today for kindness and wisdom to be on my lips. I pray that when I speak, that my words will be full of wisdom and clothed in kindness. Thank you, Lord for the Holy Spirit and the evidence of the Fruit of the Spirit, in my life. Amen.

What is God speaking to you today in Proverbs 31? Share your comments below or join the conversation on our Journaling Through Facebook  Facebook Group.

Day 30: His Word Proves True – Proverbs 30

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day 30 pic of a bird

“Every Word of God proves true. He is a shield to all who come to Him for protection. Do not add to His Words, or He may rebuke you and expose you as a liar.” Proverbs 30:5-6 (NLT)

I have such a strong belief, conviction if you will, that the Word of God is true, powerful and so very necessary for my life. I know that when I spend time reading and studying His Word, I am strengthened. I have a greater sense of peace. My understanding of the hope I have is greater.

God’s very presence in my life is a shield of protection. This morning I am understanding that the wisdom and insights I receive and activate in my life bring protection. If I will commit to read and study His Word so that I can understand, then apply that wisdom, I will find myself on the path He has set before me. A path that leads to provision, hope and protection. His Word is TRUE.

I also am very aware of this warning in verse 5, “do not add to His words.” I can’t make the Word say what I want it to say, or what makes me feel good or right in the moment. I have to read it for what it says. I can’t add exceptions or additions that make if fit my wants or desires in that moment. It can be tempting to skip over those parts that point out sin in my life. It can be tempting to add in a little fluff to help my own cause. If I choose to change up His Word to fit my agenda this verse tells me He will expose me as a liar.

Thank you, Lord for your Word. Thank you for the Holy Spirit that leads me to understanding. I pray for greater insight and understanding. I want to grow in my desire for your Word. Help me to hide it deep in my heart keeping me from sin. Amen.

What is God speaking to you today in Proverbs 30? Share in the comments below or join the conversation in our Journaling Through Proverbs Facebook Group

Day 29: Safely Trust Him – Proverbs 29

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pic of day 29 purple flower

“Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety.” Proverbs 29:25 (NLT)

What a timely verse for me today. Life around me seems so uncertain and what I thought I knew; I don’t really know. What was “normal” may never again return. I find myself looking to leaders for answers. I’m looking to church leaders and government leaders hoping they will “fix” it all! The truth I just want to put all this chaos behind me and get back to what I was doing.

Then, I watch the news, I read comments on social media and I find my self feeling hopeless. I become fearful of my today and my tomorrow. I worry about how my kids are coping and what kind of future will they have. I feel frustrated and overwhelmed at times because I need a plan, a process, a solution.

I am reading this verse today and I’m rejoicing in the One I can put all my trust in! Nations rise and nations fall, but “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever!” Hebrews 13:8 (NLT) He created it all. He is present. He is working on my behalf. His plans “are for good and not disaster, to give you (me) a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11-12 (NLT)

My hope is Jesus. The fear and uncertainty of all that is happening before me cannot take center stage in my life. This mindset and mentality will lead me and entrap me in worry, despair, hopelessness, anxiety, anger and depression. This verse in Proverbs tells me that if I will trust the Lord, He will bring safety. My trust in Him will keep me from living hopelessly in fear and anger. I’m taking it one day at a time, looking to Jesus to lead my way.

Lord, thank you for this reminder today, that I can confidently trust you. You are my hope, my refuge, my strength, my deliver and my help. Amen.

What is God speaking to you today in Proverbs 29? Share in the comments below or join the conversation on our Journaling Through Proverbs Facebook Group.

Day 28: Like A Lion – Proverbs

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Day 28 pic of shells on beach

“The wicked run away when no one is chasing them, but the Godly are as bold as lions. When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily. But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability.” Proverbs 28:1-2 (NLT)

My journal post is short today, because it’s just simple. It’s my prayer and hearts desire. First, that I would have the courage to run toward the need. I pray for boldness to engage in the hard conversations. I want to reach beyond where I am comfortable to bring hope and heling to those in need.

And secondly, I am praying for continued wisdom and knowledge, the kind that will bring stability. I’m not a government official, but there are those in my realm of influence that I can lead. And I can’t do it without His wisdom, knowledge and grace in my life!

What is God speaking to you today in Proverbs 28? Share in the comments below or join the conversation in our Journaling Through Proverbs Facebook Group.

Day 27: Friends – Proverbs 27

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day 27 pic of bird

“The heart felt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense. Never abandoned a friend – either yours or your father’s. When disaster strikes you won’t have to ask your brother for assistance It’s better to go to a neighbor than a brother who lives far away.” Proverbs 27:9-10

“As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” Proverbs 27:17

Friends are so important and such a huge part of who we are and who we become. The old saying goes, “you are who you hang with.” I’ve recently read that we become like the 5 people we hag out with the most. I immediately began to figure out who I hang out with the most and evaluated if I want to be like them?

It is important to have friends who give me good council, who are there when I need them and who are not afraid to call me out when I need it! I need to cultivate friendships that bring joy to my life, but that also help me to grow. I need friends who want the best for me and are not afraid to go through the hard stuff with me.

I need to be a friend like I need a friend. I must also bring joy but can’t be afraid or avoid the hard stuff. I need to grow, but I want to help them grow. A good friendship is one of give and take. A true friend will “fill my tank,” but will also give me opportunity to “pour out.” And it’s not always fun and games, real life is happening and friends walk the good and bad together.

Thank you, Lord, for all the amazing friends you have placed in my life. Thank you for those friends who love me, challenge me and have fun with me. Help me to be a better friend, one who is fun to be with, but one who isn’t willing to avoid the hard stuff. Amen.

What is God speaking to you today through Proverbs 27: Share in the comments below or join the conversation in our Journaling Through Proverbs Facebook Group.

Day 26: My Foolishness – Proverbs 26

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day 26 pic of pink flower

“There is more hope for fools than for people who think they are wise.” Proverbs 26:12 (NLT)

I’ve recently talked with a few others about avoiding the back and forth conversations about all that is happening in our world. From all the virus do’s and don’ts, to politics to social injustice, there is just so much going around. The truth is I do not have all the right answers to all this and I don’t want to act like I do. There are so many who do think they are right about some or all of it, and maybe that is true. But, engaging in conversations that lead to name calling, hurtful comments and broken relationships helps no one and nothing is resolved. I do not want to act foolishly thinking I am right and what I have to say is right.

I’m not saying that those who engage in debates or conversations about all that is happening are fools. Although, some of what is being said is foolish and it helps no one. I cannot think I am so wise that I cannot listen. And the key is listening! I don’t know it all. I haven’t walked in other’s shoes experiencing life from their perspective. I can only know, learn and understand if I listen.

I don’t want to be a foolish person walking and talking as if I am the one with all the wisdom. Wisdom comes from the Word and from experience. I’m learning and understanding new truths from God’s Word every day and I plan to continue learning for everyday of my life. I can also learn from others experience. I’ve only experienced what I’ve experienced, so other’s insights will help me gain more wisdom.

If I think I know it all and have the right answer, then I’m a fool! I do have wisdom and understanding and many things and when I can, sharing that wisdom can be helpful. I must also use wisdom when I do share, if I’m only speaking to a fool who will not listen and will turn my words, then I to am being foolish.

Lord, help me to know when to speak and when to be silent. Help me to listen, truly listen to others. Continue to teach me through your Word and put others in my life who can speak truth and wisdom into my life. Help me to speak only things that will bring hope, peace, comfort and unity to those I engage with. Help me to learn, grow and understand through what others say and most importantly through your Word. Amen.

What is God speaking to you today in Proverbs 26? Share your thoughts in the comments below or join the conversation in our Journaling Through Proverbs Facebook Group.

Day 25: Indulging Without Self Control – Proverbs 25

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day 25 pic of beach

“Do you like honey? Don’t eat to much or it will make you sick.” Proverbs 25:16 (NLT)

“It’s not good to eat to much honey, and it’s not good to seek honors for yourself. A person without self-control is like a city with broken down walls.: Proverbs 25:27-28 (NLT)

I didn’t really think much about these 2 verses. I like honey, but it’s never been something I indulge on. But then, I checked out this Proverb in The Message, and well, it got my attention.

“When your given a box of candy, don’t gulp it all down. Eat to much chocolate and you’ll make your self sick.” Proverbs 25:16 (The Message)

“It’s not smart to stuff yourself with sweets, nor is glory piled on glory good for you. A person without self-control is like a house with it’s doors and windows knocked out.” Proverbs 25:27-28 (The Message)

I’m like, wait! What! Too much chocolate? Really? It can make me sick? I mean, we are talking about chocolate! I really love chocolate, especially dark chocolate… mmmmmmmmm!

Ok, so here’s the thing, these verses are not saying honey, sweets and chocolate are bad. They are telling us the indulgence, with no self-control is the problem. I’ve been there and indulged on warm chocolate chip cookies, Sun Drop Pound Cake, gourmet chocolates and well, I could go on and on. I know that when I eat these things with no self-control, I will feel bad later. And isn’t it just like my sinful nature to say, “It’s worth feeling bad because those cookies were so good!” Really? What am I thinking?

I need to heed this wisdom for my life. I know there are foods that are not good for me. They may taste good in the moment, but they bring harm to my physical health. It may not be evident right away, but the effects of indulging will catch up to me.

This speaks to me today on a couple different levels. First, there is a definite warning here to not indulge on sweets. And I know scientifically and because of experience that to much sugar is harmful to my physical health. And secondly, this thought that the later pain is worth the immediate pleasure. That is sin.

I know that I’ve allowed this lack of self-control effect what I eat. Where else have I allowed the pleasure in the moment justify the effects of the sin?

Forgive me Lord for indulging and for a lack of self-control. Forgive me for justifying sin in my life. I pray today for more revelation in my life about where I’m lacking self-control. And I pray today for an increase in self-control. Amen.

What is God speaking to you today in Proverbs 25? Comment below or join the conversation in our Journaling Through Proverbs Facebook Group.

Day 24: I Must Put the Work In – Proverbs 24

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Day 24 pic of beach chairs

“I walked by the field of a lazy person, the vineyard of the one with no common sense. I saw that it was overgrown with nettles. It was covered with weeds, and it’s walls were broken down. Then, as I looked and thought about it, I learned this lesson: 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 24:30-34

The obvious lesson here is one of gardening. Growing a vineyard, a small garden or a field of produce takes work and time to maintain. You can’t simply plant a few seeds and expect to reap a harvest. There are weeds that will grow and overtake the plants leaving the garden with little to no fruit.

I’m thinking of this now in relation to my spiritual, emotional and physical health. These areas of my life must be tended and cared for. I cannot expect to be healthy physically if I’m eating lots of junk and have little to no exercise. It’s the same with my emotional and spiritual health, they need to be cared for. I can’t ignore these areas of my life and expect health and wellness. I am responsible for my own health and growth.

Growth and health take work. There is an effort on my part that must happen. I need to strengthen the healthy areas of my life. I must also look for the areas where weeds have begun to grow and get to their root to remove them. Sometimes we have to put on hold one thing to bring health to another area.

For the past 3 months I’ve implemented a new exercise routine to my life. I’ve been using the elliptical everyday, twice a day and doing yoga several times a week. It’s been good for me and I’m getting my body moving again so I can be healthy. Unfortunately, I’m experiencing some severe hip pain. It’s a result of an injury I had as a teenager. I just made the decision today to forgo all my elliptical work outs until I can work through the hip issue. I’m bummed about it because I’m seeing good results overall. I had to decide that I can’t sacrifice my hip and continue to endure the pain for the sake of a few more lost pounds. So, for the next week or 2 my focus will be on bringing health to my hip and getting it functioning well again.

What areas of my emotional and spiritual life have I allowed to become or stay unhealthy because I haven’t been willing to put the work in? Or, willing to admit there is a problem . I really want to forget about the hip and keep doing what I’m doing. Honestly, because it makes me feel old! However, if I ignore it, I can cause more injury. My emotional and spiritual health are just as important. I can’t allow “nettles and weeds” to overtake the field.

I can’t be lazy, but I also must use common sense. Taking a break from the elliptical isn’t being lazy, it’s using common sense so that I can allow my hip to heal. Where in my spiritual and emotional life am, I being lazy? And where do I need to use common sense to allow heling to take place? I’m responsible for my physical, emotional and spiritual health, and when things aren’t healthy, I am still responsible. I must admit something is off and take action to bring health to that area.

My prayer today is for new and fresh awareness of my health, spiritually, emotionally and physically. I pray for wisdom about when I need to take action and seek out professional help or when I can use common sense to bring thing into alignment. I’m praying today for health in my body, my soul and my spirit. Amen.

What is God speaking to you today in Proverbs 24? Share in the comments below or join the conversation in our Journaling Through Proverbs Facebook Group

Day 23: What is My Motivation? – Proverbs 23

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Day 23 pic of bluebird

“Don’t wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit. In the blink of an eye wealth disappears, for it will sprout wings and fly away like an eagle.” Proverbs 23:4-5 (NLT)

My first pass by this verse I thought of “get rich quick” ideas that are out there, you know, sell this product and never work another day in your life!! Or, get a high demand, high paying job so you can acquire lots of money and stuff, which makes you feel secure. But then as I read through this Proverb again, I thought something different. I thought more about why I do what I do? What career path I’ve chosen and what call and purpose I feel God has set before me.

Our society wants to relate wealth with success. If you have lots of money, then you are successful. And though in some sense it is true, you picked a career path and now live comfortably with no financial limits.

I wonder though today, if all my riches, my career, my finances and all the stuff I find comfort in were stripped away, what would be left? Verse 5 tells me that “in a blink of an eye wealth disappears.” I’m asking myself, what will be left?

I’m reminded of David’s sermon this past Sunday, he talked about Job. He was a man who “was blameless, a man of complete integrity, He feared God and stayed away from evil.” Job 1:1 (NLT) And even after He lost everything; his children, all his possessions, his health and his wife, he declared, “God might kill me, but I have no other hope.” Job 13:15 (NLT)

I’m asking myself these questions today; What motivates me? Where do I find my security and my hope? What is the things God has called me to? If it were all taken away “in the blink of an eye,’ what would be left? Could I stand like Job and declare that God is still my hope?

I believe that God is my provider. So why waste my time on things He hasn’t led me to? If I follow His path and direction for my life, I will lack nothing. I can’t let what others have draw me toward things God hasn’t called me to. It may go well, but will the fruit of my labor be lasting?

My prayer today is for wisdom in knowing the things God has called me to and knowing what things are wasting my time and taking my energy. I want to be someone like Job, blameless, full of integrity, reverent of God and avoid evil at all costs! I desire for my focus; my energy and my time be on those things that won’t fade away. Amen.

What is God speaking to you today through Proverbs 23? Share in the comments below or join the conversation in our Journaling Through Proverbs Facebook Group