Discover what a man loves and
you can predict a lot about his future. A few weeks ago, we had mentioned that
we could predict the future of a young person by the company he keeps. But here
is one other sure fire way of predicting a person's future- discover what he
loves. In today's passage (Prov.23:1-14), you'll see warnings to those who love
food and money. And consider the warning given in 21:17- "He who loves
pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich."
I'm sure we could name some people who remained rich despite their love of
pleasure- King Herod comes to mind and Hugh Hefner of Playboy. But we could find
far more who met the fate of the prodigal son, bankrupting their lives, spending
all they had pursuing pleasure.
But what's wrong with pursuing pleasure? (The fancy name for such a lifestyle
as you know is hedonism.) The problem is that pursuing pleasure doesn't provide
enough pleasure. Think of the greatest pleasure provider- Crack? Meth? Heroin?
You know the cycle, right? Great pleasure to begin with, then it starts to swap
the pleasure for painful withdrawals. Then what follows is enslaving
demandingness for more, just to relieve the pain. That doesn't sound very
pleasurable! Phil was a heroin addict for several years. He can speak first
hand to that misery. Maybe some of you pursed the high life as well. Let me
guess- it left you feeling low. I know. Been there, done that. I was a high
school pot head. Nope, never moved on beyond that. Thankfully, my circle of friends
only went down that road, but it was a dead-end, as they all are. If you
pursued the party lifestyle, then let me guess again- you had nights after the
party, looking at yourself in the mirror, asking, "Is this all there is to
life? Is everyone else playing the same game of acting like they're having the
time of their lives, but going home empty too?" Guess how I know that?
So what do you love? Proverbs has some important points to make regarding what
we love. It has warned us not to love pleasure or we will become poor. It also
declares, "Do not love sleep or you will grow poor" 20:13. Men who
love sleep, make being idle an idol. They need to get it in gear if they are
ever going to go forward in life. (I'm glad I'm with men on the go for God and
the gospel.) This book of wisdom also warns us- "He who loves a quarrel,
loves sin" 17:19. And those who hate wisdom, love death, 8:36. Thankfully,
you are men who love wisdom.
God also says this about what we should wisely choose to love or be devoted to-
"I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me" 8:17.
"A friend loves at all times"17:17. When Jesus was asked what the
greatest commandment was of the 613 in the OT, he echoed the preeminence of such love for God and others. "Love the Lord your God with all your heart
and all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest
commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as
yourself" Mt.22:37-38. God's love forgives our sins and our love for
others should motivate us to do likewise- "love covers over all
wrongs" 10:12.
It's been wisely stated, "God loves you just the way you are, but he loves
you too much to leave you that way." Aren't you glad that you are not
still stuck in the old ways of your old days? "The Lord disciplines those
he loves" 3:12. Likewise, a loving father will do the same for his child.
"He who loves him is careful to discipline him" 13:24. But we need to
wisely embrace discipline as a devoted teacher. "Whoever loves discipline
loves knowledge" 12:1. That word "discipline" is a word many run
from, as if their heavenly Father was a bruiser with a big belt. But think of
discipline as giving structure for success. An undisciplined person lacks
structure, enriching routines, helpful habits. For example, he may have no
sleep schedule, no discipline of getting up. He loves sleep. He doesn't hit the
sack when he should; then in the morning, he hits the snooze button. He's late
for work so many times that he gets fired. He even misses church because he is
sack-religious:)
But you are disciplined and devoted warriors. You are daily wielding the sword
of the Spirit, the word of God. You are watchful, standing firm in the faith.
You are acting like the manly men you are. You are growing ever stronger in
Lord and are devoted in love to God and one other.
I'm so glad I'm with such tough
troops, disciplined disciples. We live by the Marine motto- "Semper
Fi" Always Faithful, and also- "No Scripture, no sleep." You are
self-disciplined. You have wisely learned to apply self-discipline. It's so
much better than painful, corrective discipline. You are disciplining yourself
for the purpose of godliness (1 Tim.4:7). It shows on the blog and on the
scoreboard. You are giving yourself to GREAT things. You love the Lord and are
seeking to advance his kingdom. For example, you are calling other men to join
in the fight and be MANLY-
Mature in character (Power HOUSE men- Hungry, Obedient,
Unstoppable, Strong in the Lord, Encouraging.)
Active in mentoring (You are pursuing GREAT things and encouraging
your brothers to do the same.)
Noble in battle (You prayerfully WAR to live a Worthy life, to
Activate the sidelined saints, to Release the locked up lost.
Loving in relationships (There's that L word again. Love predicts
our future. Without love, we are nothing.)
Yoked to Christ and a band of brothers (You are devoted to God and
to one another in brotherly love.)
Continue pursuing this MANLY path of love and seeking first the kingdom of God
and his righteousness. I promise you, on the authority of God's word, you will
be richly rewarded. "He who pursues
righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor" 21:21. Yes, you can predict a lot about a man's future by what he loves.
1.- Loving money is condemned
in Scripture, but not earning honest money. What was your first or early on job
you had as a kid where you made money (apart from allowance)?
2.- Read through Prov.23:1-14;
pick a verse, write it out on your MP3 card and then share it with us as well.
Remember to give yourself
credit on the scoreboard before you shove off from the blog each day. Your faithfulness there also makes it easier on your team leaders and me. We are committed to helping anyone that appears to be struggling. Thanks!
Announcements
Please welcome a friend from
early New Life days- Rick Barrera. I knew Rick shortly before he got saved and
the transformation and the impact he has had on many people has been
significant. Rick and Laura live downstate, but they still visit
occasionally. So I hope you all get to meet him at an upcoming M3 meeting.
Ricardo Guardiola is his cousin and had asked Rick to be his prayer warrior when he first
started with M3. Way to go Ricardo! Since Ricardo already received his
Unstoppable award pin, he now graduates from Basic Training as a Pro and is now
a Coach. Congratulations Ricardo!
Wow! What amazing stories yesterday of car accidents! God has spared your life for a GREAT purpose. Let us pursue it.
Wow! What amazing stories yesterday of car accidents! God has spared your life for a GREAT purpose. Let us pursue it.
1. My 1st job was washing dishes at a restaurant at 15 and I didn't even know I got a break to eat the 1st few days--but I was grateful to make my own money to save for college. It was hard work and a very hot environment but it set the stage for future hard work. Of course prior to that I cut lawns and shoveled driveways for cash.
ReplyDelete2. Proverbs 23:" Do not wear yourself out to get rich, do not trust your own cleverness."
Heed God's word in all you do and understand that it discloses his will for us. It is all his plan for us and he determines everything.
Everything here is his and we are here to manage wisely everything he has given us to manage his way; and often he gives us a small amount to manage wisely, before he will entrust us with a lot to manage. Always focus on his way, not ours
You are so right nothing here is ours, I Thank GOD for my truck, it was GOD who showed me where it was for sale, he got rid of my old car so I could get it
DeleteYou are a great model of a hard worker Jack and wise manager!
DeleteThank you for the wise words.
DeleteBrother Jack, indeed it is! "Everything here is his". Psalm 50:12b "for the world is mine, and all that is in it."
DeleteYour hard word did prepare you for your future... Keep up the great work.
Delete1. One of my first jobs was working at a bookstore after hours restocking books and cleaning. I enjoyed the job because it very straightforward
ReplyDelete2. Prov.23:12 "Apply your heart to instruction and your ear to words of knowledge. "
Great verse that admonishes us to seek wisdom because that is the only way that we can honor God and be content in Him.
You certainly have learned and model faithfulness Roger!
DeleteBrother Roger, ever get the urge do the same when you visit a library? Jk, :-D. But on a serious note, you've shown yourself to be dependable and faithful!
DeleteThat's a cool job to have, Roger! I myself would have loved to work in a bookstore.
DeleteRoger, Thanks for your consistent encouragement and faithfulness You are valuable soldier for the Lord
DeleteI did GOD an injustice yesterday. When I was 20 before I was saved and GOD was calling me I got into a bad crash without insurance, I got sued for around 20g, it took 8 years to catch me, I had gotten wage garnish. One day I went into pay and the lawyer who sued me said "my secretary was embezzling I don't know how much and from what accounts" so he wiped out my account. 20 g or so....The accident I got into last year my insurance didn't want too pay much, Israel prayed for me, they paid me some money and let me go to arbitration. MY lawyer said they never do that they usually hold the money too let you squirm a little to see if you give in...That's GOD's hand
ReplyDeleteThat's quite an experience you've been through Flo! How did you do God and injustice yesterday?
DeleteBy nothing telling how he got me out of paying all that money and getting me money from the other insurance
DeleteBrother Florencio, had you not told us, I wouldn't believe it, wow! Sorry you had to go through that.
Deletemy first job I was 10 and working at a hotel with my mom, as a dishwasher for the summer. I got paid a check like everybody else proverbs 23;5Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle,
ReplyDelete1. My first job was with my dad. My dad is a electricain and he would bring me on jobs with him. I was responsible for prepping little things like outlets and switches. It taught me a lot. I learned how to become a hard worker. My dad always taught me to never slack off and always give it your all. I thank him for that because I probably wouldn't have the work ethic I have now if it wasn't for him.
ReplyDelete2. Proverbs 23.9.ESV Do not speak in the hearing of a fool, for he will despise the good sense of your words.
Excellent James. I've changed out light switches, but I'd rather not mess with repair projects that could kill me. Building and painting is much safer :)
DeleteI remember in college I was replacing a light by myself. My dad wasn't around at the time. I got it all connected, but I learned the hard way. Pretty shocking if you as me...
DeleteBrother James, your father invested in you wisely and it evidently shows in what you've shared!
DeleteHi James,
DeleteMy dad and brothers are electricians too. My dad got me in with the union as a summer helper once and I helped work on a building downtown on 1 North Wacker.
Wow James what a blessing from God that you had such a hard working father and such a great example for you to follow.
Delete1. A friend and I, when we were about 12 years old,,started a landscaping business. We ended up getting some yards that we kept up on for years. We barley made much per hour but $20 at the end of the day seemed like all the money in the world at that age.
ReplyDelete2.Give yourselves to disciplined instruction; open your ears to tested knowledge. (Proverbs 23:12 MSG)
Yes indeed Dave. My son starts his first full time summer job Monday. He is looking forward to the paycheck.:)
DeleteLifting you up Dave and all the M3 men. Be blessed!
DeleteBrother Dave D, your entrepreneurial spirit paid off :-)
DeleteToo start a business at such a young age and to keep in going for a few years, working in the hot summer while your other friends are playing, now that shows character
DeleteBrother Dave , you reminded me of 12 year old boy who came to my door this past winter. It had just snowed that night. He asked if he could shove for$15 . Even though I have a snowblower , I told him to go ahead. I also told him if he did a good he could shove next time it snowed. He came back about 3 times that winter. What productive adult he is going to be.
DeleteHow good of you Louie!
Delete1. My first job outside of allowance was a jr. camp counselor. I got paid $5 a day. Crazy! But at 13 that check looked good at the end of the season...
ReplyDelete2.http://bible.com/111/pro.23.4.niv Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness.
Even though it wasn't the greatest paid. It was an honorable job that set the stage in advancing the kingdom of God. God bless.
DeleteBrother Eddie, if only I had understood and appreciated the laws of compounded interest when was I was young :-/
Delete5 bucks a day! You are not old enough to have earned so little! As a boy, I made $4 for mowing a ladies lawn- only took a couple hours.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete1. At 15 years of age, my first official paycheck paying job was as a stock person at a liquor store in Lincoln Park. Shortly after, I was able to purchase my first car before I even had a license, lol, how times have changed :-D
ReplyDelete2. "Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish them with the rod, they will not die." Proverbs 23:13
Disclaimer: This verse is not to be confused as permission to hurt a child nor does it advocate child abuse!
Welcome Brother Rick Barrera to M3, I look forward to reading your postings and doing battle with you :-)
Brother Rich, congratulations on reaching coach status :-)
Ah Robert, you gave me an idea; we will have to go down memory lane soon regarding our first car.
DeleteWelcome Rick. Glad you are on board.God bless.
ReplyDelete1. At 15 years old, I worked at a Texaco gas station . It was located at the corner of Canal St and Archer. besides pumping gas, I would wipe the windows and check the oil. You don't get that treatment now. I learn early on to wprk hard and respect others . Also, this is where I learned to change tires.
ReplyDelete2. Prov. 23:5. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely spout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.
This verse is so true. Best to live a humble life with what God permits you to earn with the abilities he gave you. With the Lord's blessings , it's always better.
Brother Louie, "God permits you to earn with the abilities he gave you" is right! Deuteronomy 8:18a "But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth"
DeleteBrother Robert, thank you for your reply to my comment. Alway glad to hear from you. A reply is like when you're in the service. Always uplifting when you receive mail.
DeleteYes, you''re right Louie; full service stations went out with 8 track tapes.
DeleteDave, that was funny! I'm sitting in front yard laughing out loud.
DeleteWhen I was about 14 years old, I would travel about 5 miles on the bus to one of my aunt's bakery and wash all the baking equipment. No paycheck, cash :). My second job was when I was a freshman in high-school, it was a full-time job, It was farther but I received a ride. I would stock books for others creating the orders. It was a labor intensive job. I would come home tired and finish my homework around midnight. It was my best year academically in high-school. Go figure! My priorities changed sophomore year. I was working part-time at Payless and officially met my future wife in high-school :) How bout it!
ReplyDelete2. Proverbs 23:12 (NIV) Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.
I pray that we continue to seek and consume the wisdom of God. May it flow through your heart.There is none greater! God bless.
That's great you met your future wife while you were at work, I think GOD bless you with her at an early age because you showed faithfulness to school and work
DeleteBrother Sammy, you displayed a strong work ethic even at a young age, keep up the great work :-)
DeleteAt the time it seemed hard and tiresome, but now looking back, it was worthwhile. The main thing you learn is to go forward and not to give up.
DeleteI remember you shared about that full time job while in high school when we were out walking. Wow!
DeleteAmen to that prayer, that we may continue to consume the wisdom of God.
DeleteGreat job Coach Ricardo!
ReplyDelete1: My first job was working shipping and receiving. Dock work for an auto parts company. I was 16 working the morning shift which I love. It gave me time to earn money for myself and still be able to get together with friends to play basketball. I learned to set myself on a schedule, and learned responsibility. It felt great to finally be earning a check, it made my mother proud and I could help her pay some bills.I learned to manage money better since I had to work hard to earn it. It also helped me maturing mentally. 9.50 an hour with weekly pay had feeling like I was set haha. Now a days I know it wasn't much
ReplyDelete2: Do not withhold discipline from a child;
if you punish them with the rod, they will not die.
Punish them with the rod and save them from death..
(Proverbs 23:13-14)
Brother Jose, I'm glad it helped you become more disciplined in all areas of life :-)
DeleteAnd I think it's great that you helped your mother out with some of the bills. That's manly.
DeleteWow Jose that was great of you to learn responsibility in managing money at that age and help your mom with bills.
Delete1. My first job was at a pizza place that only sold orders to go or delivery. Low pay and all the pizza and beef sandwiches I could eat.
ReplyDelete2. Proverbs 23:9 Do not speak in the hearing of a fool, For he will despise the wisdom of your words.
When I first read this verse I thought about a one on one conversation. But it says ....in the hearing of..... which made me think about having a conversation and someone joins in that was listening on the sidelines.
This verse reminds me to recognize when it’s time to walk away. Having a conversation wanting to share God's wisdom, only to end up in a heated debate. I'm not suggesting avoiding these conversations, rather knowing when to end them. People are more likely to think about what you said if the conversation ends well and although they'll remember what you said if it ends badly, your reaction to their opinion is what they usually remember most.
you are right, sometimes when I hear people talking loud enough to hear, if they stop talking or change the subject I know I stuck my nose where it didn't belong,...I now ask GOD to keep my mouth shut
DeleteBrother Rick, so true! "People are more likely to think about what you said if the conversation ends well and although they'll remember what you said if it ends badly, your reaction to their opinion is what they usually remember most."
DeleteFirst, so glad you are with us Rick!
DeleteSecond, I had a good laugh when you said, all the pizza and beef sandwiched you could eat. :)
Third, very careful observation in the passage to note what you did and great comments as well.
1. Every Saturday i worked in Chinatown as a delivery boy for a grocery store "Sun Chung Long". It was pretty hard caring 100 lbs. bags of rice up to the third floor.
ReplyDelete2.Pro.23.12" Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge."
What a great scripture help me Lord to put it into practice to be a doer of your precious word!!!
Brother George, "It was pretty hard caring 100 lbs. bags of rice up to the third floor." Little did you then that it was actually preparing you for the Firemen's exam ;-)
DeleteWow, brother! There's back breaking work, and then there's BACK BREAKING WORK! I agree with brother Robert...God has been forming you into the man He needs you to be since you were a boy. Next time I'm in Chinatown, I will remember you. God bless you.
DeleteWhat a workout George! Good talking with you on the phone and hearing about all the Greatest Mini-movie cards you've been giving out. Way to go!
DeleteLol wow brother George I won't be able to look at the steamed rice the same knowing now the struggle to get it to your plate :) Good story brother. Blessings!
Delete1- my very first job was at a car wash. I think I only lasted 2 weeks there. As a freshman in high school it was good having some cash in my pocket but I soon gave up because washing car after car after school became overwhelming.
ReplyDelete2- proverbs 13-14
Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you strike with a rod, he will not die. If you strike with with the rod, you will save his soul from Sheol (save him from death).
I chose that passage because it has shown truth in my life. My parents were pretty strict with me and I got a lot of whoopings. That helped shape who I grew up to be.
ReplyDeleteAlso a great man in the church I grew up in, he never had children but had a great passion for kids. For a season he was my youth pastor and for the majority of my years at that church he was a teacher of mine. In humor as well as a reminder to us kids. He took a piece of wood and wrote this passage on it. He put it on the rear window of his car and kept it there for many years. Every time I come across this scripture I am remember need of that great man who also helped shape my life from a very young age.
Brother Luis, "Spare the rod, spoil the child" (Author unknown to me). Not too many can appreciate the discipline they've received as well as you have. Your first job reminded me of "Wax on, wax off" (Karate Kid Movie), lol :-D
DeleteThis passage is so true. It is confirmed by all the thanks we give our parents for the whooping they gave us. It like having a piece of steel . You beat , sharpen and buff it.it becomes a productive , useful tool .
DeleteAh, so you also had the board of education applied to the seat of learning :)
DeleteLOL. I've never heard it said like that Dave. That is awesome.
Delete1) I had several one-time jobs while I was younger. For example, I once worked with my brother Will selling tickets for two hours (I got 100 dollars for that). When it came to my first consistent, part-time job, I had one working as a bookkeeper with my Uncle Israel. It was a good, convenient job, and I did it pretty well.
ReplyDelete2) Proverbs 23:4-5 "Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle."
Earning 50 dollars and hour sounds like a great first job, brother. Sounds like you gained some valuable experience and work ethic fairly early on, too. It certainly builds character, and Godly character builds Godly men. Keep up the good work and keep God in your heart.
DeleteHey Alex, are they still hiring? :)
Delete1 My first job was helping my brother with his paper route delivering the SouthTown Economist. I was in 3rd grade I think. I would have to wake up at like 5 in the morning on Sundays and after rolling newspapers, I would sit on the handle bars of my brother's bike and toss the papers on people's front porches. My brother told me I was really good at blocking the wind for him in the winter. After delivering the newspapers my brother would take me to mass. He opened my first bank account for me and put in $100 for me.
ReplyDelete2 I like verse 4 Do not wear yourself out to get rich;
do not trust your own cleverness.
Its hard to keep that balance of saving for the future but not wearing yourself out. The past 7 years I have worked my normal teaching job, plus I tutor kids (from another school) another 8 hours a week, plus I mark essays online for the International Baccalaureate, plus I finished a second master's degree. Part of my reason for leaving Singapore is so that I dont have to keep my tutoring jobs anymore and I get to have more time with my family.
A Korean kid that I tutored lives with his mom and siblings in Singapore. His dad and mom are not divorced, but his dad chooses to live in Laos, where he can keep a close eye on his business. He flies to Singapore only 3 times a year for about 1 week each. I kept thinking its such a shame that he only gives them 3 weeks a year. The dad is losing out on an extremely valuable investment in his children's lives. That's why I decided to stop tutoring on Saturdays and in the evenings- I want more time with my wife and sons.
Sounds like you have an amazing brother, Edward. I can tell by your words that you truly cherish the memories you've shared. Thank you, brother. You are wise to seek balance in your life. Family is a far greater treasure than any currency. You wife and sons are blessed by your hard work, but even more so by your presence in their life. I, too, must do a better job of balancing work and family time. God bless you.
DeleteI can relate to you on your first job Ed. I too worked with my brother. God bless with you family. Family is very important and you are definitly doing the right thing. Lost time can never be replaced. Childrens live's are very important and I myself have to remind myself and decline overtime. God first, Family second is the way i see it.
DeleteIt sounds like you had a good big brother. I looked up to my older brother, but he only seemed to tolerate me.
DeleteI'm glad you made the best choice to invest more of your time with your children. You will never regret it.
Nice brother you have Ed. I thought it was funny when you said that you were good at blocking the wind. I'm glad you are balancing your life. Your children need you more than ever when they are young. God bless.
Delete1) My father insisted on his wife and children not working. He wanted us, instead, to focus on our studies and help with the upkeep of our home. Because I focused myself academically, I earned a full ride through college. It was during my first semester of university studies that I got my first real job as a writing tutor to other university students (to earn some extra money for a car). It wasn't back breaking work (like I would discover working for Disney World a semester later), but it was mentally taxing. I'd read anywhere from 50-100 papers from that many different students each day, from freshmen essays to doctorate thesis chapters. Every student came with their own challenges. The work demanded patience, flexibility, and skill, but I enjoyed it and God had blessed me with the ability. It all paid off, in the end. I met my wife while on the job. She was hired on a year after me and the rest is history.
ReplyDelete2) Proverbs 23:12 "Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge." You'd think this would come easy to a life-long academic, but the reality is, I have often spurned instruction and ignored knowledgeable words of advice. Everytime, it has come back to bite me in the butt. It was when I stopped relying on my own "wisdom and intelligence", only after I found myself broken and lost, that I surrendered my heart AND my mind to the Lord. He had blessed me with so much and I had used it for my own benefit, often hurting others along the way. Any one of those times could have brought me to ruin, even cost me my life, but God isn't through with me yet, and if he has blessed me with any ability, it is to serve Him, not my own desires. I'm tired of living my way. I choose to live as God wills and to be used up for His divine purpose and glory.
Thank you, brothers, for all your prayers. Your mighty words are heard by our almighty Father, and my wife is now back home recovering after a grueling day. God willing, we will hear great news tomorrow about the success of this procedure. I declare healing and success in the name above all names, Jesus Christ. Amen. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
Whether in work or school, you did your best in all the situations you found yourself in. Good job, Osiris!
DeleteBrother Osiris, I knew the first time I read your post that you were gifted in writing. "It was during my first semester of university studies that I got my first real job as a writing tutor to other university students".
DeleteYour hard work with your studies paid off big time Osiris. Very good!
DeleteWe pray all the more for your wife and you.
Brother Osiris,
DeleteI think we have a lot in common. I also worked at the writing center at my university.
Welcome to M3, brother Rick Barrera! If heaven rejoices everytime a man turns from sin, I can only imagine the party they are throwing up there to see a man choose to do the work Christ calls him to of multiplying manly men. Welcome to the WAR! Semper Fi!
ReplyDeleteWelcome to the WAR! When I read that Osiris, I laughed with joy and said, "I love it!"
DeleteWelcome Rick Barrerato M3.
ReplyDelete1. My first job that I had was working as a newspaper boy. I was seven or eight years old. My brother and I started with 1 and before you know it we had 5. Every day we were faithful to wake in the morning to wrap the papers. We would set out on our bike to deliver the papers. My father would help us on Sundays because the paper was very heavy. We would run besides the car up and down the blocks getting every house. We were in charge of collecting our money every week. This could be difficult at time. It gave us integrity and made us responsible. We needed to work because it was a necessity.
2. Proverbs 23:12 ESV "Apply your heart to instruction and your ear to words of knowledge." Everyday getting on this blog helps me understand the gospal more. I learn different things and gain different perspectives from my brothers. This is the living word working in my life.
What a great work ethic at an early age Horacio!
DeleteI like also what you said lastly, This is the living word working in my life." It's great to see it living out in other brother's lives isn't it?!
Horacio that is fantastic how you develop such a great responsibility with work at such a young age.
Delete1- My first job was Mcdonalds in Pilsen. My friend got me the job. It ended up being the place where I met my wife. So it holds a special place for us. I still go there from time to time and see people I used to work with.
ReplyDelete2- Proverbs 23:9 New Living Translation (NLT)
9 Don’t waste your breath on fools,
for they will despise the wisest advice.
Great verse. It so true. I love how plain and simple the bible puts it on how we should live our lives.
The number of people that have been trained at McDonald's is amazing! Glad you also got to meet your wife there. (Was it love at first bite? :)
DeleteLol ..... Dave G. asked if it was "Love at first bite :)" Funny... Awesome story though :)
Delete1. First job was at Target and I worked there for 4 months. It wasn't a bad job but the hours were all over the place. I dealt with some good customers and some very demanding ones as well.
ReplyDelete2. Proverbs 23:1 When you sit to dine with a ruler, note well what[a] is before you,
This is a good one to carry around for myself because at my job there is always left over food from special meetings and training events. I usually stake out what leftovers are around in the kitchen and stuff my face. I've gained some wait because of this and I need to stop.
Lol .... yes, free food will do that to you..... I would not stop eating the leftover food, maybe just smaller portions :) This can actually save you a lot of money on food. Think of it as being a good steward of your money :)
DeleteThanks Chuy! :) And good advice from Israel!
Delete1) my first job was at a little store, kind of like a dollar store that was right by the high school I attended. It was a pretty easy job it the music they played over the speakers was depressing.
ReplyDelete2) Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge. (Proverbs 23:12 NIV)
I hope it was not "elevator music". Glad you persevered :)
DeleteDepressing music? What did they play?
DeleteI can think of torturous music- for me it would be 50's music- and I was born in the late 50's.
Never received an allowance. However, I do remember being paid in mangoes as a child for smashing aluminum cans for my grandfather. We would cut the grass with the bladed-push mower and get a mango or two as payment.
ReplyDeleteApply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.
Lol ... getting paid in Mangos..... I have to try that with my nephews and nieces :)
DeleteMangoes- the future currency of America? We already have banana republics :)
Delete1. My first "paying job" was at Handy Andy (in the garden dept.) I was fired within my first 90 days working there :( I had to learn a better work ethic back then :)
ReplyDelete2. Prov 23:12 says "Commit yourself to instruction; listen carefully to words of knowledge." - The wise stick with the wise and fools with fools. Remember, birds of a feather truly flock together! Let us listen to God and godly counsel from others :)
Maybe you got a hidden "green thumb" lol. You definitely have made a complete change in you work ethic from then to now. Great Job Tio.
DeleteThey fired you and where is Handy Andy today? :)
DeleteGlad you have a great work ethic now :). I was fired from my second job for trying to do too much. The books I needed to stock were not being delivered fast enough, so I grabbed a stand-up forklift and got them myself. Kind of, I was not successful at bringing them down gently. The whole skid fell and books were everywhere. They had already warmed me a few times, not to do that. I was let go. I was forgiven later on and was brought back.
DeleteMy first job was doing landscaping I learned early on that I did not want to have a labor job so that's when I decided to try out starting business my first one was selling Gatorade at high school I made my lunch money plus some.
ReplyDeleteAndre, i saw you doing some labor work today and you were pretty good at it! Your a good brother ;)
DeleteI hate landscaping great choice.
DeleteVery good Andre! (Antonio is muy gracioso:)
Delete1. – Since I was a little boy, I would help my landlord clean around the apartments. My family lived in a big apartment building in Humboldt Park. It was during the summer days when I was always available to work and help my landlord of old age. Back then he would pay me 2 to 5 dollars for a couple hours or hard work. My mother would always say go ask Don Simon if he needs help. I was always ready to do whatever and I felt great being able to buy me a can of soda and bag of potatoes chips. I learn to work hard and the value of money. I am always willing to help out brothers in need without expecting nothing in return. My reward would come from our Lord Jesus Christ. I thank God for giving me a servant attitude and when I grow up I want to work like Jesus with a sacrificial heart.
ReplyDelete2. - Prov.23: 13 do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish them with the rod, they will not die.
14 Punish them with the rod and save them from death.
Great attitude Oscar! And your right, God rewards us for our hard work!
DeleteYou are a true servant, you will be rewarded brother, bless u
DeleteHey Osacr, what years did you live in Humboldt Park and where? I lived there from 1981-1988 and worked at Inner City Impact on North Ave by Washtenaw. Did you ever visit that Christian youth center?
Delete1. My first job was for SouthWest News Herald. My younger sister and i were about 12 years old and we would wake up at 5am and roll up hundreds of newspapers and go door to door throwing them on the steps. It was hard work for us youngsters, but it taught us alot.
ReplyDelete2. Proverbs 23:14 Physical discipline may well save them from death.
Thanx for the shout out in the blog reading today Dave! ;)
DeleteGreat discipline.
DeleteBrother Philip I too was a paper boy and Thursday's n Sunday's were killer days delivering the Tribune newspaper. Agree, it was hard work, working in the many different inclement weather. A good start in developing working characteristics.
DeleteVery good Phil, udabest!
DeleteYeah, I remember delivering newspapers too. Too bad young kids can't get those jobs anymore. I hear most newspapers are ditching the print versions for digital.
Delete1) I have been blessed to have Only worked two jobs since I was old enough to work. My first job I started was at 17. I became an Instructor in Tae Kwon Do. At the time I was in High School, and had been studying Martial Arts as a student. I loved going to class and would arrive early so I could talk to some friends and help some lower ranked or younger students before my class started. One of the Master's noticed my consistency with helping and my knowledge and skill had grown, and he offered me a Job there to serve under the head instructor. I really loved it, even though it was hard work. It was perfect because it started after school everyday. I worked there until I graduated and started working in a Real Estate Office with Israel, my uncle. God has blessed me here in my current job and in the one prior. Very thankful.
ReplyDelete2) the verse I chose is:
Proverbs 23:12 "Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge."
I really want to make this a Motto in my heart. Sometimes I know I have been prideful when corrected, but God gives so much honor to the humble, the wise man who learns from instruction. I want to be that man with the Lord's grace.
William, my son was in Tae Kwon Do when he was younger, I believe it helped teach him discipline and respect.
DeleteIt seems you have great discipline will. Keep it up.
DeleteVery good William! We always bloom when we can find work we enjoy doing.
Delete1. In high school I would now the neighbors lawns to make money.
ReplyDelete2. Do not weary yourself to gain wealth, Cease from your consideration of it. When you set your eyes on it, it is gone. For wealth certainly makes itself wings Like an eagle that flies toward the heavens. (Proverbs 23:4-5 NASB)
Don't make wealth or the pursuit an idol. It is fleeting here one minute gone the next.
I mow mine for free now. Great to see your post nick.
DeleteNic, if you missing mowing lawns, I bet Antonio would let you mow his, after reading what he said under Andre's comment.
Delete1 - My first real job other than cutting grass and babysitting was working at Noah’s Ark pet store in the fish department. With 9 kids in the family I knew I needed to work if I wanted to have spending money.
ReplyDelete2 – Proverbs 23:12 Commit yourself to instruction; listen carefully to words of knowledge.
Brother George I know exactly what you mean I also am from a large family and had to work. God bless you brother
DeleteI don't know George, that job sounds fishy to me:)
Delete1. - My first job where I was issued a check was when I was a tribune paper boy in 7th grade. I had 3 paper routes with over 175 papers to deliver and required that I wake up very early. Don't remember how much I was making, in time a remembered every house I delivered to and where they expected there paper to be put at, between doors, in mail slot, on stoop. I also had the responsibility of collecting the money from them, this I liked especially on Christmas time because I was tipped generously because I always made sure they were getting there newspaper where they wanted it and dry. The money I made was mostly used to buy clothes for me, which help the family budget. In time I was promoted to branch captain, this was when I worked with a driver delivering all the newspapers to the paper boys and also required me to deliver a paper boys route if he was not able. This money earned was well needed for our family. No one in my family ever received allowance, we were a family of 13 and money could not be spend unnecessary.
ReplyDelete2. - Prov. 23:12 Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.
Wow, what a hard working youngster! The Lord developed in you a great work ethic early on Armando!
DeleteWow Armando, 13. Same reason I started working. I would buy my own clothes, pay for my field trips, go out to eat,...
Delete1) First Job I remember I was 10 and I went house to house giving out flyers for 2 different companies.
ReplyDelete2) 23:9 Don't speak to a fool, for he will despise the insight of your words.
Generally when I think of fools I think of the uneducated, those with limited reasoning skills, people with simple minds who don't see past the decision they are presently making. While all this may be true. I submit that the fool Solomon is speaking of may be highly educated, rational and prudent concerning the things of this life. Our wisdom must peer into the eternal. "The fool says in his heart there is no god". I submit that this particular fool is one who refuses to accept biblical literature are reality or one who accepts biblical literature are truth yet refuses to allow that truth to govern him. There are many ways to be foolish one of them is in attempting to convince someone of something that they do not want to believe which is much different then not believing something that has not been proven to them.
Great points about fools in Proverbs Antonio. We will be looking further at this next Friday.
Delete1
ReplyDeleteI recall that my first job was at Meijer Foods where I pushed carts for the store. I worked there during High school and the store was right across the street from a Movie theatre. Since i worked on weekends I would get jealous of the other peers and friends i had that were able spend time on on their weekends.
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Verse 23:12
As we cover everlasting topics of wisdom I thought that this was extremely helpful. Lord help us to vigilant and dedicated to Your word that we are focused and pay attention. Help us to apply what we learn and constantly pour out wisdom to those around us.
That was a job demanding physical labor in inclement weather Gary. Ugh! envy must have made it worse.
DeleteGlad you are free from both those things now. So appreciate the way you made a great prayer based upon the verse. Yes Lord!
1- my first job I had was in Mexico selling small bags of onions at the markets I was a 16. I guess my mother wanted to teach me how to make a living the most honest way Possible. I remember going with my mother to buy huge bags of onions and bringing them home to separate them and bag them. Mind you I had grown up hew in the states so I did not know much about the old Mexican way of doing things I guess. But I was able to manage doing that for about a year and at one point had fun doing it.
ReplyDelete2- Proverbs 23:13-14
Do not withhold discipline from a child;if you punish them with the rod, they will not die.
Punish them with the rodand save them from death.
So this verse really made think and realize how visual it can get and remember unfortunately the beatings I used to get from my mother, it is one thing that I will not put my kids through because I believe on discipline in a respectful verbal way but with me I guess it may have help. It saved me from death
Glad you actually ended up enjoying selling onions. At least you didn't have to cut them up. That kind of work would bring me to tears. :)
DeleteProverbs is certainly not promoting child abuse. But there is a place for some degree of pain to be administered to help children from experiencing far greater pain in the future. I think wise parenting involves knowing each child's disposition. My girls rarely got spanked. On the other hand, my son made up for both of them! He got the hand and the other hand.
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DeleteWow Armando, 13. Same reason I started working. I would buy my own clothes, pay for my field trips, go out to eat,...
Delete1. Brother Guillermo, sorry you endured beatings as a form of discipline. That was unfortunate but as you mentioned, it may have saved your life in the process. God bless, keep up the great work :-)
ReplyDelete1. My first pay and honest job ;) was at age of 16. I applied for "tutor assistant", it was a 4 month program. It was an experience teaching me patience with kids, different ways to solve a questions, and all gave me a warm heart for others. I remember saving the checks that I received but dad teaching me a valuable lesson on where to put money invested in part helping out with groceries at home.
ReplyDeletehttp://bible.com/111/pro.23.4-5.niv Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.
My heart can be deceiving on stuff that's around me with materials stuff, but one that I do lift up in prayer is to be wise with the money that receive and invest so that my family (legacy) can inherit from, also be stewart of Gods blessing.
Alright Ismael! Glad to see you this morning. Good sharing and words on money matters.
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