As you read through our passage
in Proverbs- 26:1-16, you will notice at least two things that stand out. First,
there are several verses that begin with the word "Like." (We noticed
that in yesterday's reading as well.) Second, most all of verses are about a
particular individual- the fool. (10 times he is singled out in our short
passage. Of course the entire book is dominated by foolish versus wise
behavior.) So what are some of the ways the fool is described in our passage
and throughout Proverbs? Here's an easy way to remember- they are STUPID!
Solomon said, "The fool lacks sense and shows everyone how stupid he
is" Eccles.10:3. Here's why I think a fool is called S.T.U.P.I.D. He is-
Stubborn-
The fool has a stubborn and unrepentant heart. There is no use trying to reason
with a fool. His motto is, "Don't confuse me with the facts, my mind is
made up." His theme song is, "I did it my way." And he commutes
on the my way highway. “The way of a fool seems right to him” 12:15. You can’t
get through to him. He just keeps repeating his folly (23:11). Pity the fool for the amount of pain it will take to get through to his stubborn, hard head.
Talk-sick-
How do you know if you are facing a fool? Just wait until he opens his mouth;
he will remove all doubt. For example, he may use cutting comments, lustful
language or disrespectful dialog. And “every fool is quick to quarrel” 20:3. "The
mouth of a fool gushes folly" Prov.15:2. “A fool’s mouth is his undoing”
18:7.
Unreliable-
If you hire him, you will greatly regret it. "Like an archer who wounds at
random is he who hires a fool..." 26:10. He will greatly hurt you and your
business if you entrust him to communicate your directives. "Like cutting
off one's feet or drinking violence is the sending of a message in the hand of
a fool" 23:6.
Proud-
He is Mr. Know it All, whose middle name is Proud. He takes after his father,
the devil. Pride was his downfall too. If you try to enlighten or correct a
fool, he will despise and belittle you. He hates to be corrected. "He who
hates correction is stupid" 12:1. The fool proudly refuses to humble
himself before the ruler of the world. Why? There is no fear of God before his
eyes.
Indulgent-
Speaking of the fool's eyes, he is so short sighted that he sees only the moment
and temptations right in front of him, so he lives to indulge his appetites. He
can't see the judgment seat and God's wisdom because he is wise in his own
eyes.
Disobedient-
That is a good word to summarize the fool. He would rather fight than surrender
to God. The fool may even go to church and hear the words of Christ, but
he refuses to put them into practice. Jesus divided all mankind into two
categories- the wise who hear his words and put them into practice, and the
foolish who hear, but do not put them into practice. Great will be his coming
destruction (Mt.7:24-27).
So how
do you reason with a fool? You don't. "Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments..." 2 Tim.2:23. "Do not speak to a fool, for he will
scorn the wisdom of your words" 23:9. So don't get sucked into his
deceptive questions or outrageous declarations. He is just baiting you for an
argument. "Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will be
like him yourself" 26:4. It's been aptly said that when a wise man argues
with a fool, it's hard to tell them apart.
But the
very next verse says, "Answer a fool according to his folly or he will be
wise in his own eyes" 26:5. Obviously this is not a contradiction, but
perhaps a revelation of hope. We will never be able to reform a fool by mere
human wisdom. But the Lord can yet transform him when we share God's wisdom of
the cross. Granted, some might think it foolish (1 Cor.1:22-24), but the gospel
is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes" (Rom.1:16).
"At one time we too were foolish and disobedient, deceived and enslaved by
all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated
and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior
appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because
of his mercy" Titus 3:3-5. If God can save fools as we were, he can surely
save the fool you may be dealing with. So give him the gospel. Give him a
Greatestminimovies.com card. The nice thing about that is when he is alone and
perhaps hurting, he can watch video after video of changed lives and gospel
truths that convict and convert sinners. You don't have to stand there and
debate him.
Obviously,
not everyone is a hardened fool. It's helpful to think of fools on
a continuum. Some are more or less foolish than others. But all need
to come to Christ to escape the folly of their self reliance. “He who
trusts in himself is a fool” 28:26.
1.- To
help fools escape their self-reliance, we need to share the gospel with them.
Please watch another greatestminimovies.com video and share briefly about it,
including its name. Then be on the lookout to share it with others.
Many of you have already watched the first video listed on our greatestminimovies.com site, entitled, Smart. It ends with a verse from our reading today- "Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him" Prov.26:12.
Many of you have already watched the first video listed on our greatestminimovies.com site, entitled, Smart. It ends with a verse from our reading today- "Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him" Prov.26:12.
2.- Have
you given out a Greatest Mini-movies card? If so, share briefly about doing so.
(What, you don't have any cards yet!? Yes, I have the names of the few of you in front of me and I'm wondering why you have taken me up on my offers to simply text me for those cards. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Devoted to you,
Dave- c.708-543-6544
PS- Ed in Singapore, you'll have to wait a bit longer :)
(What, you don't have any cards yet!? Yes, I have the names of the few of you in front of me and I'm wondering why you have taken me up on my offers to simply text me for those cards. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Devoted to you,
Dave- c.708-543-6544
PS- Ed in Singapore, you'll have to wait a bit longer :)
3.- Read Prov.26:1-16 and write
out one verse you liked from it. Then look for opportunities to
share it as well.
Please do me and yourself a favor. Please make it a helpful habit to go from the blog to the scoreboard and put your points up. This is especially helpful to me on Fridays. I need all your points up so I can tally them up to determine team averages for Monday morning's blog. Unless you post late at night, Friday's scoreboard is for what you did Thursday.
1. I really liked the video 3-2-1 because it clearly describes the trinity, the difference between sinful man (Adam) and Jesus (second Adam) and what happens to man once he becomes one with Jesus when he is saved.
ReplyDeleteProv 26:16 "The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who can answer sensibly. "
A lazy man that believes there is no God will think that he has all the answers and that his wisdom is above that of wise people that are around him. May we seek God everyday in everything we do so that we can be a light to this dark world around us.
Amen. We don't have it all together we are far from it. I believe the more we come to know God the more we realize that we don't know it all.
DeleteGlad you liked the video Roger- another great one to share with others.
DeleteAnd good following words on 26:16.
1. I watched Smart. I did think all those historical points disproved were a great way to keep someone engaged. Then bring out scripture at the end. I enjoyed the video.
ReplyDelete2. Yes. I gave out cards to 4 guys this past Sunday. It was to guys I knew and I talked about M3 briefly before. Just told them to check out the link. They commented that they liked the waterfall on the front. Classy.
3. http://bible.com/111/pro.26.10.niv Like an archer who wounds at random is one who hires a fool or any passer-by.
Is this why resumes are so important for employers to have?
Yes, Smart is such a catchy video, we used it as the intro video as you noticed.
DeleteGlad the guys liked the classy looking cards. That's why they are easy to give out.
Yes, I think resumes help in they can reveal past employment trends of being unreliable.
Perhaps we should give out STUPID resume questions :)
1. Today I watched the “Prodigal girl!” I see this story as a young adult (fool) that knows it all. She walked away and lost most of her friends. She had no joy, hope or life. One thing she noticed was that everywhere she was God’s face is always there. Faithful! God never left and never will. She realized this and found her way back being humbled. I can definitely relate to her in many ways. Man was I foolish. The love that our father has given is immeasurable. After all we are all children of God.
ReplyDelete2. I have passed out a few cards. First I know that our mission is to get to men but where I work it seems that I’m around more women. Do to my location at work I have very little interaction with people. Some time’s I can go days without seeing anyone. I have passed out a few to fellow women employees. I have given one to my wife and her friends. I told my wife to watch the one “That’s my King” and she loved it. Later that day she text me with the full version and I was amazed. ( https://youtu.be/4BhI4JKACUs )
On father’s day I had the privilege of teaching Sunday school class to our boys. We made a picture frame and decorated it with different items that a day would have around the garage. Since I did not have any pictures of the fathers I placed the Greatest Mini-movies card where the picture would go. I pray that if only one person would see the card and watch the video, I have fulfilled my job.
3. Proverbs 26:11 ESV - Like a dog that returns to his vomit is a fool who repeats his folly. It amazes me that a “Fool” will never learn from their mistakes. They keep on doing the same things over and over without fully acknowledging their wrong. When one intercedes and points out the fool’s flaw, the fool gets upset and does not want to hear about it. This verse reminds me of this.
P.S. I would like to say thank you to all my brothers for the prayers for my mother. She is going in for surgery July 2 on her spine. Thank you and God Bless!
DeleteI've been praying for your mom.
DeleteYes, Prodigal is a very touching video.
DeleteYou are doing great Horacio in passing out the greatestminimovies cards. The Prodigal Girl video is a reminder that the cards are designed to relate to both men and women, so feel to give them out to whomever.
Good comments , Horacio. Will pray for your Mom.
DeleteLet's pray that GOD heals her, Now we have to pray that gets the drug dealers out of your neighbor hood
Delete1. I watched no longer a Muslim. It's a great testimony of a Muslim who converted to Christianity. It was cool to see even a strong believing Muslim can be broken down and changed. Good encouraging video.
ReplyDelete2. I gave one to my brother who has strayed away from God. I haven't heard back from him yet but next time I see I'll find out.
3. Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest you be like him yourself. (Proverbs 26:4 ESV)
I heard a former muslim give his testimony at church a few years ago. He said that most muslims are just cultural muslims: they don't eat pork and fast during Ramadan, but they aren't even very knowledgable about their own religion. He encouraged believers to share the gospel with muslims and expect the Holy Spirit to work in their lives. Here is a short video about him if you are interested. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4i_UqYa8YAI
DeleteGlad you liked the video James. Perhaps also try emailing your brother the greatestminimovies link if you think that wouldn't be too pushy. May the Lord show you many more opportunities to sow good seed. Hey, I talked with Ozzie and sent him M3 info. Thanks for talking to him.
DeleteI have some Muslim friends. They are good people but , they have some strange beliefs.
Delete1. It was called "I thought". It's great! Has lots of scripture and beautiful picture and clears of a lot of misconceptions on spirituality.
ReplyDelete2. No
3. You have as little to fear from an undeserved curse as from the dart of a wren or the swoop of a swallow. (Proverbs 26:2 MSG)
Glad you liked "I Thought." I thought you would like it. Mariah helped me make that one.
DeleteI will get you bunches of cards when you get back from Michigan.
You are a good model of being unstoppable even while on vacation.
1. Watched "Suicide...A True Story" The lady shared in her testimony the following "It's not that I wanted to die, it's just that I didn't want to put up with living anymore."
ReplyDeleteEmotional pain is just as real as physical pain. For some, when experiencing physical pain such as a headache, muscle ache, etc. they don't think twice or at all about popping a few painkillers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, etc... to relieve the pain. But how do people deal with emotional pain? They can self-medicate with harmful behavior to temporarily dull the pain. Of course we now know the answer is and has always been Jesus, but not all do.
2. No I have not handed out cards recently but I have shared the "greatestminimovies.com" link with several people via electronic device.
3. Proverbs 26:4-5 may seem like a contradiction but in fact it's not. Just like a coin has two sides, so there are occasions to reply or not reply. Two examples come to mind, Nehemiah when his enemies were attempting to withdraw him from doing the work of the Lord and Jesus when he was being questioned during his trial. May the Lord give us wisdom and discernment to know when to speak or be quite.
So glad you've passed along the link to others Robert! That's even better. They are more likely to look at it.
DeleteRobert, Good answer to relieving pain.
DeleteGood thoughts, Robert! Amen, I could definitely use more of that wisdom and discernment.
Delete1 I watched Smart. It was very interesting and kept my attention.
ReplyDelete2 I have not given any cards yet. I'll try to send the link electronically though.
3 Verse 9 stands out to me. 9
In their hearts humans plan their course,
but the Lord establishes their steps. I just had cell group come over today and we had a party. We talked about the 7 years that my wife and I have lived in Singapore and how we came as singles and are leaving married with 2 kids. God has established all of this. I am so thankful to him.
7 Years in Singapore! (Sounds like a movie sequel:) Man, has time flown by!
DeleteMay the Lord yet give you a one or more men to join M3 before you move in a month.
That would also be such a great way to keep in touch with them.
PS- Emailing the greatestminimovies link is a very good way to get them out. Highly likely that they will look at it.
DeleteYou have very interesting stories . May the Lord bless you an S's your family.
Delete1: I watched "draw me a picture". It spoke about our relationship with god, and how Jesus died for our sins and that god sent his only son to show how much he loves us. It also talked about how we need to learn to watch how we speak, act, and treat each other.
ReplyDelete2: I have passed out two greatestminimovies cards. I'm not sure if they were believers or not, but I just walked up and asked them if they were interested in making a change in there life. They said yes, so I gave them both a card and said I encourage you to take a few minutes and watch a video from this website, it'll be the best change you could ever make in your lifetime. They smiled and said they would watch one when they got home. I hope they did take time to watch one.
3: Proverbs 26:9
Like a thornbush in a drunkards's hand is a proverb in the mouth of a fool.
Wow, that was a bold way to start a conversation Jose! They most likely will have watched the video that way. Very good!
DeleteGreat boldness Jose .
Delete1. Watched catastrophic love. What a powerful testimony of forgiveness by Josh McDowell!
ReplyDeleteScripture from the mini-movie.
Psalm 78:4 (NIV) We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done.
2. I have given a couple of them out. I have also shared the link with the four guys I reach out to, that are not saved.
3. Proverbs 26:12 (NIV) Do you see a person wise in their own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for them.
I pray that whatever wisdom we gather, we thank the Lord for providing it. Have a blessed day warriors of God.
That is a powerful testimony of Josh McDowell's.
DeleteYou are so on mission Sam!
Yes, I will bring you and anyone else more cards Sunday.
Have a blessed day warrior!
1. - Greatest mini-movies, Smart. "Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him" Prov.26:12. This proverbs is more than motivation to go out to seek lost fools that need Christ in their heart. I have to believe that Christ is the one that will transform them and not me. But I need to be willing to share with the fool a proverbs or a bible verse or yet better a greatest mini-movies card. I need to step it up. This is my motivation. Amen.
ReplyDelete3. - Proverbs 26:1 like snow in summer or rain in harvest, honor is not fitting for a fool.
Thanks for being determined to step it up Oscar. There's no telling this side of glory how many people you will thus influence toward Christ.
DeleteThanks for your motivating words . I needed that.
DeleteGood resolution, Oscar!
DeleteAnyway,I love the verse you chose. I don't know how I didn't pick it as my MP3 verse. I'll have to write it in my MP3 verse log.
That is right, Christ does the transformation not us.
Delete1) "I'm an athiest" I chose this movie because my son says "if there is a GOD why do bad things happen.
ReplyDelete2) no
3) As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly. (Proverbs 26:11 NIV)
Has he seen another one of our videos- Good God? evil World! It deals with his question.
DeletePlease see me Sunday and I'll get you cards.
1- I watched "Falling Plates". I like the imagery they used to go along with the narrative. Just listening to it and just thinking of myself and how I've been saved and redeemed from my sin gave me joy.
ReplyDelete2- Earlier this week I gave a card to a co worker of mine who is not a believer. I have shared the gospel with him from time to time and I've been inviting him to church with me. Since I'm on my way out of that job last night we got to talking about some things and at the end of our shift I shared with him more of the gospel and asked him if he'd let me pray for him. He agreed and when I was done praying he got up and said "Thanks, I really needed that".
3-Proverbs 26:11
As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly.
I've actually never seen my dog eat his own vomit. But I can remember of many times when I would do the same stupid things over and over. I finally got it through my head that doing something once may qualify as a mistake but doing it again it was now a choice.
Glad you also liked Falling Plates Luis.
DeleteAnd glad you got to share with your co-worker and even prayed with him.
If you have his email address it would be great to keep sowing good seeds in his life.
Luis, I liked Falling Plates too. When I first saw it I watched it 2 or 3 times than made my wife come over and watched it with her.
DeleteGreat job talking about Christ with your coworker and praying for him.
Delete1. I watched" But I'm not a big sinner".
ReplyDeleteSin is sin no matter how small are how few we sin. Sin cuts us from God and eternal life. Only thru Jesus can we be forgiven of our sins and come to God. Don't wait to cleanup your act before accepting Jesus.
2 I have passed on a few. I hope they will be used. I'll have to do my park more often.
So glad you've already started to pass out some cards Louie. You're just getting warmed up! :)
DeleteI like the way you put it Louie - Don't wait to cleanup your act before accepting Jesus. When I first saw a Baptism at New Life I thought I'm not good enough to get Baptized, that I need to be a better person first. It took a while but I finally realized that I'll never be good enough but I can always strive to be better.
Delete3. Provide 26:4-5. If you answer a silly question, you are just as silly as the person who asked it. Give a silly answer to a silly question, and the one who asked it will realize that he is not as smart as he thinks.
ReplyDeleteFirst part instructs us not to lose our temper or argue. This will make us look worse than the foolish person. The second part tells us to answer , but in a different way . We are to let the person know that we do not condone or approve his nonsense.
Very good!
DeleteI watched Set Free about a guy who nothing other than drugs, while in jail he reflected on his life, realizing he didn't like his life he turned to Jesus for help....It was granted along with forgiveness ....Proverbs26;2 Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow, an undeserved curse does not come to rest..... I like this verse because I used to say GOD will not let a saved person get cursed unless GOD allowed it.......I gave out some cards at work but we are really busy the last 3 weeks, so I will get back to them in 2 weeks to follow up on it
ReplyDeleteFlo great stuff. God bless you my brother. May God give you strength at work and help you be the light at your job.
DeleteGreat that you want to follow up with them as well Flo!
DeleteYou know all this "fool" talk I see myself in their and in a lot of verses
ReplyDeleteThanks for being honest Flo. I see myself too.
DeleteYou made a very wise decision by joining with M3 Florencio. In Christ you are a new creation. Continue to follow and abide in Him and you will not be or do those foolish things again. May your life begin to reflect the wisdom and glory of Christ to all those around you.
Delete1- 3,2,1 Was a great video that explains our beliefs. It also shows the love of God. God loves the sinner.
ReplyDelete2- Got them. It's a great conversation starter.
3- Proverbs 26:14New Century Version (NCV)
14 Like a door turning back and forth on its hinges,
the lazy person turns over and over in bed.
It goes to show that the bible talks about every type of person. Foolish, lazy etc.
Yes 3,2,1
DeleteGlad you're able to use the cards as conversation starters Vince. Bueno!
1) I watched the mini movie called, “The Bridge: Good News. It was a very straight forward, warm, and clear presentation of the gospel. I liked some of the terms the presenter used. One was how we high jacked our life from the God who is suppose to run it. And high jacking carries a penalty. Also I like how he said that when Jesus was dying on the cross, He was absorbing all the punishment for your sin and mine.
ReplyDelete2) I haven't shared the Greatest Mini-Movies cards with anyone yet. I have shared a mini movie with a text message to one of my
sisters.
3) Proverbs 26:15 - A sluggard buries his hand in the dish; he is too lazy to bring it back to his mouth.
This Proverb makes me think of various types of people. One type will go into “beast mode” to do or get what they want. Example – stay in line at a store to be one of the first to get the latest I-phone or video game. But then they become spiritual sluggards who become way to lazy to read a Bible, or get up to go to church. Then there are those spiritual sluggards who know what to do from the Bible to improve their relationships with God and others, but just keep putting off applying it because it's difficult and takes to much effort, and they would rather do something else that is so much more easier for them to do.
Dave, That verse made me think of all the people who have a Bible in their house but never open it. They have their "Spiritual Food" but are too lazy to bring it to their mouths.
DeleteYes, Ron Hutchcraft in "The Bridge" is so clear in presenting the gospel.
DeletePlease look for me Sunday and I will get you some cards.
1 - I watched Lives Changed, it’s a good testimony showing how God not only changed one man’s life but how it also changed the lives of his whole family.
ReplyDelete2 – I haven’t passed any out, I need to step out of my comfort zone and start doing it.
3 – Proverbs 26:13 The lazy person claims, “There’s a lion on the road! Yes, I’m sure there’s a lion out there!”
Good andgo for it George!
DeleteAnd your reply to Dave's comment was an excellent application!
I agree with Dave G's comment Gary. I really liked your application also.
DeleteI watched I am a big sinner knowing that at the end of the day we will make mistakes but what are we going to do to improve ourselves. I know God always love me but I think he would love us to try even harder
ReplyDeleteAren't you glad God saves big sinners like us simply by our repentance and faith?!
DeleteHope it was a good birthday yesterday for you Andre.
1. I believe in evolution. This is a great video and explains how God created the heavens and the earth and put everything into motion.
ReplyDelete2. When I was driving for uber I was giving some of the cards out to my passengers.
3.Pro.26.3 "A whip for the horse, a bridle for the donkey, and a rod for the backs of fools!" I would joke around with my old pastor Victor and I would say we need to open up a business or a ministry called the staff and the rod. I would go around and cane people who needed a caning we all act like fools once in a while. I would be the first to be caned.
So glad you have been giving out so many cards George.
ReplyDeleteSounds like you're not driving for Uber anymore.
A much needed business, but hard to attract customers. :)
1. Watched falling plates.
ReplyDeleteShared it on Facebook with my friends. The gospel never gets old. It's the greatest story ever told.
2. I invited one of my students to new life. Her name is ronita. She is in her 50's and recently lost her husband to cancer. I gave her one of the mini movie cards and she said she had a lot of questions and is going to watch the videos on her break time at work. Those cards are great. They are non threatening and almost everyone likes watching videos. It's a great way to give out the gospel especially if you struggle with timidity.
3. Like an archer who wounds everyone, So is he who hires a fool or who hires those who pass by. (Proverbs 26:10 NASB)
It's crazy how one person at your job can really disrupt the business and culture at a company. Be it a lazy and prideful coworker. Or a perfectionist manager that only criticizes but never praises or shows favoritism. The whole culture can be spoiled by one bad employee. If the company or manager has character this type of person will not be employed there and the bar will be raised. I think john maxwell said, "everything rises and falls on leadership."
Excellent on all three points Nic.
DeleteI will be quoting you next Friday on the blog regarding your outreach and thoughts on the cards.
1. Come Home. What a powerful video drawing a parallel between a lost daughter and her forgiving mother; no matter what the daughter has become the mother begs her to come home--to our Father and his providing his son as our Savior no matter what we have done he will forgive us if we just give ourselves to him and repent.
ReplyDeleteGod is unconditional Love.
2. I have given out a couple cards and just hopefully planted seeds. I will do more
Very good video and very good Jack.
DeleteYou are unstoppable, blogging after all that driving to Missouri.
1) I watched "Smart" with a fellow brother and I really liked it. It is crazy how much we think we know as finite men. I love a ministry called "Answers in Genesis" and they always post a lot against Human "logic" such as Evolution, and answers tough questions that come up in Scripture. It just reminds me of how God in all His wisdom may say one thing, and how we always seem to want to have the last word on things.
ReplyDelete2) I haven't had a chance to give it any cards, however, I was able to give one out right before writing the post to a brother here at New Life, and even had a chance to watch a video with him :)
3) As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly. (Proverbs 26:11 NIV)
Brother William, you have given me an idea for getting more of my cards out. In my work place, I am not allowed to promote or advance my religious views or faith onto others, but I usually have my iPad with me during lunch. By playing the videos for myself, while surrounded by others, I might draw their interest to what I'm watching. If I can get so much as a reaction from them, I may get them to solicit the website from me. In this way, I may still reach my colleagues without actually breaking any rules.
DeleteI liked that video too, Will. By the way, I'm impressed by how you did your post at church... That's dedication!
DeleteGood William, you are just getting warmed up, then watch out! :)
Delete3. "As a dog returns to his vomit, so Fools repeat their folly." Proverbs 26:11
ReplyDelete1
ReplyDeleteToday I watched "I don't believe in the bible." I recall we have had that one before. I also recall this video being extremely helpful in directing where to approach the word of God. Are we understanding what its purpose is and conveying that, or shooting from that hip believing what someone has told someone that had told someone that had told us about the bible.
2
I have given the cards to employees in other departments where I work and were pretty open to me sharing since I knew them already. I pray the will willing to take a look.
3
I view and believe in proverbs as rich treasures which is why I pick out verse 26:7; It is first that we are inspired by the word but very grateful to the point that we share what is written with others and not keep things to ourselves.
Very good Gary in passing cards out to your fellow employees!
Delete
ReplyDelete1.- I watched video "I Thought"
Liked the way video shows how some people put to much emphasis and high expectations of life, people, careers, love, .... , things that people feel should be attainable and expected, only to find themselves unfulfilled and their dreams shattered.
Explains through God, Jesus, Holy Spirit and Bible that all things are possible, who else is true, faithful, loving, giving, caring, unwavering, forgiving, loyal, ..... , none better, so stop resisting, live in peace, joy, love, harmony and accept God and he will set you free!
2.- Yes, just yesterday I gave one to John, a old friend who I continue to ask him if he'll attend church with me, close, someday, his choice. Also last Sunday I gave to Tony a friend who attended church, his second time and also to another who also attended church his second time.
3.- Prov. 26:8 "Like tying a stone in a sling is the giving of honor to a fool."
A fool having been given honor and acclamation is never to be expected to flourish in this praise. It's as if putting a stone in a sling that will be launched, so shall I fool revert to his true way as quickly as a stone is launched of it's sling.
Great idea, brother, reaching out to men who have taken the first step to draw closer to God. I will pray that through these videos they will continue to attend church and build their relationship with Christ.
DeleteSo glad you're reaching out to those old friends Armando!
DeleteAnd that's an interesting verse you picked. A stone tied to a sling will never be able to be released. It would do no good to do so. And it does no good to give honor to a fool either.
The video I watched was Good God? Evil World!. This video gets to the heart of one of our most common mistakes as Christians: trying to rationalize God's existence. How could a loving God allow so much evil to exist in the world? Why does God allow my suffering? Here's one I used to dish out: Why does God take good, God fearing people and leave the worst among us alive? How much better am I than "those people" if these are the kinds of thoughts I entertain? There is evil and suffering in this world, disasters and tragedies. While not all of these are man-made, the majority are. Rather than holding God accountable for a better life for ourselves, we should wonder how we are holding ourselves accountable for the life we are given. Since when does God answer to us? Where in Scripture does Jesus Christ, our Savior, who went up on the cross for our sins, ever promise that our life will be without suffering. On the contrary, to this end He is VERY clear. Whoever shall follow Christ must take up his cross and follow. Still, we are human, and God knows this too. He knows we are capable of great evil (we nailed His only begotten son to a cross, for crying out loud), but He has also wired us to be capable of great love and good. What we choose to do with this gift will define the world we inhabit.
ReplyDeleteThe last card I gave was to a man who approached me on the I-55 exit onto Pulaski. I have seen this man regularly for a few weeks now. Each time, he carries a clipboard with him on which is a sign up sheet. He claims to be collecting money for an orphanage, but something about his manner and the way I've heard him talk to people who turn him down, or give less than the suggested $20 donation, has me thinking this may be a scam. The first time he came to my care, I gave him the few dollars I had in my wallet (I don't carry a lot of cash on me). The last time I saw him, I handed him a card. In the few seconds I had before the light turned green, I was able to say something to the effect of, "I pray you will be blessed by this, brother. Please check out these videos." I didn't see him this week, but I hope I run into him again. If not, and if he is involved in a scam, I pray the videos help turn him from that wayward path.
Proverbs 26:11 "As a dog returns to it vomit, so fools repeat their folly." This is something I have seen my own dogs do (when they were pups). Each time, it grossed me out, but reading this verse got me thinking about all the times I have done something similar by returning to my old ways expecting a different result. Since surrendering my life to Jesus Christ and, most recently, joining M3 shortly after, I have enjoyed my longest streak of staying away from the sinful habits and behaviors I was engaged in for so many years. There are still some things I need to work on, like avoiding being drawn into arguments with my wife over petty things or allowing my anger and frustration to get the better of me, but even these behaviors make me like the dog that returns to his vomit. This isn't a quality of manly man. If that is what I am trying to become, I need to do better.
Thank you, brothers, for your condolences and prayers through this turbulent time. The passing of my grandmother has made other recent, and joyous events bittersweet, but in all things and through all trials, I praise the God whose love knows no bounds. My wife and I are currently in that most hopeful of phases of becoming parents. God willing, we will learn on July 6th that my wife is pregnant. This process began last Sunday, and I have been filled with hope and gladness since. Despite the uncertainty of it all, my faith is in Christ and in the will of the Father. His will be done. I thank you also for your prayers concerning my wife and our efforts to raise a family of our own. May God bless you.
Awesome stuff brother! Sorry about your grandma and good luck and God bless! July 6th i will say extra prayers my brother! Much love & respect
Deleteit is soooooo awesome to hear and see how God is working in your life brother :) Wow! God is doing a wonderful work! Keep wanting more of Him :)
DeleteRich thoughts once again Osiris. Thanks also for reaching out to people. I also read your idea about just having your laptop open watching the Greatest Mini-movies while on break at school. I wonder if you also had some of the cards lying around if that would be helpful. If they asked about them, they could have one, without you getting in trouble, right?
DeleteWe are praying for you!
1.Smart in you own eyes. It was a pretty cool video explaining how people think they are smart and have all the answers but they really aren't as wise as they think they are.
ReplyDelete2. After a Narcotics Anonymous meeting I was outside talking to a guy and I handed him one of our mimimovies cards and told him yo check it out, there's some super powerful short videos on there. Well 2 other people overheard me and they both asked for cards as well. ;)
3.Proverbs 26:11 Like a dog returns to its vomit, fools repeat their folly.
Awesome on how others overheard your conversation and asked for some cards as well :) Good job!
DeleteVery good Phil!
Delete1) I watched "I'm an Atheist." It was a very interesting movie. I like it.
ReplyDelete2) I don't have any cards unfortunately.
3) Proverbs 26:12 "Do you see a person wise in their own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for them."
See me Sunday Alex and I'll give you a stack. You'll be armed and dangerous! :)
Delete1. I watched "What if I choose to do nothing?" -- God gives us a choice, to choose Christ as Lord and Savior, along with repenting from our sins , which leads to having our sins washed away and having a promised eternal life OR Not to choose Christ as Lord of our life. What if a person never consciously makes that decision and does nothing? There is no neutral ground here, you are either a born again christian or Not. Choosing to Never make a decision to follow Christ as Lord is the same as rejecting Him for Salvation and eternal life. You are playing a dangerous game of "Russian Roulette" with your life and your destiny! Choose Christ :)
ReplyDelete2. I have given out approx 4-5 cards thus far, and everyone i gave them out to has told me that they would watch the movies. I made them promise to watch all 25 movies :) Funny story, right after our last M3 meeting, I took some cards with me and I went to lunch with several of my nephews and nieces and I took out one of the cards and gave one to their family and I did not tell the kids what the movies were about. For about an hour, they probed me and begged me to tell them what the movies were about?? I kept telling them that they needed to watch the movies for themselves to find out :) in order to satisfy their inquisitive minds :) I finally pulled up the website on my phone in the restaurant and I started playing the movies and all the kids were watching the movies :) You can use them to really build up curiosity!
3. Prov 26:12 says " Do you see a person wise in their own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for them." --- Let us fight against our own pride!
Outstanding Israel! I'm quoting your story next week.
DeleteI was able to share a card to customer of mine at my work. I figured it was the perfect opportunity when he was talking about his business and passing out his card. I went to my truck to pass out my business but thought "hey what better time to give him this" and so he did.
ReplyDeleteVery good Ismael!
DeleteProverbs 26:11 Like a dog returns to its vomit, fools repeat their folly.
ReplyDelete1, I wayched the Smart video and it reflects what the summary of todays blog is. I think many times fools come out as hard headed because they dont want to expose their weaknesses to others. But I think their weakness is exposed because we know why they are that way. I think it reflects worse because someone like that will be rememberedbfor not being wise but for being a hard head.
ReplyDelete2. I gave some cards to a few cashiers while visiting Target. I try to be a little more bolder and give it to someone off the street next time.
3. Proverbs 26:6 Sending a message by the hands of a fool is like cutting off one’s feet or drinking poison
This is good because we need to be careful when dealing with fools. Its one thing to let them be fools and another when that fool makes you look like a fool because you do what the fool told you to do.
1- so I saw falling plates and what a great mini movie of how things happen in real life and how your power bar just diminishes into nothing. I know I struggle and recently just have not been feeling well cause I failed my test, but really don't know how to feel because I have felt like a failure for many years but there is hope I just have to trust completely.
ReplyDelete2- I have not shared sorry
3- Proverbs 26:11
As a dog returns to its vomit,so fools repeat their folly.
This verse is interesting, even tho I looked at all this late this weekend, pastor Danny Lopez has my answer to this verse that I thought was harsh but realizing the truth behind it is understanding of the word.
1.- I was out of town at the time of the mini-movie blog was posted so I just went back this morning to check it out when I saw the reference. I watched Caught by the FBI. It is awesome the way that God gets a hold of people in prison and blows my mind every time that I hear about prison-ministry testimonies. My father came to know the Lord while incarcerated and I thank the man regularly that had the dedication and calling to preach in a prison. Our society considers those people a bunch of degenerates where Jesus sees it as a target-rich environment.
ReplyDelete2.- 23A man’s pride will bring him low, but a humble spirit will obtain honor. I’ve shared in the past what my father used to tell me “If you put yourself on a pedestal, then no one else can. You’re already up there.” As a young man, I exalted myself based on my accomplishments because I felt that I needed to; in order to be recognized. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to learn that there is far more honor in being recognized for honorable mention than for reasons that simply fueled my pride. No one likes people that are proud and cocky. It was a hard lesson to learn particularly as an attention-deprived teenager. However, spending over two decades as part of a selfless organization surely drove that point home multiple times over. The Marine Corps taught me in twenty years what my father was able to deliver in one conversation. That is the power of God’s word!