1.- Please share your verse with us and what you liked about it. As always, write down your MP3 and seek to share it with others.
Okay, I'm guessing that none of you picked the verse that I did- v.1- "These are more proverbs of Solomon, copied by the men of Hezekiah, king of Judah." Why that one Dave? Thanks for asking. Hezekiah reigned as king over Judah (715-686 BC) some 250 years after Solomon. Hezekiah was a good king who wanted to preserve more of the wise sayings of Solomon. Aren't you glad for his decision and the diligence of his copyists? Humanly speaking, if it wasn't for those "behind the scenes" workers, we would not have chapters 25-29 in the book of Proverbs. For that matter, we owe a huge debt of gratitude to countless men, down through the ages, who carefully copied the word of God that we have today.
Bible scholar Kenneth Barker writes the following of those diligent copiers- "The Jewish sopherim, or scribes, held such a high regard for the Scriptures as the Word of God that they regarded the copying of any error as a sin. No imperfection, no matter how small, was tolerated. The successors to this meticulous scribal tradition were Jewish biblical scholars known as the Masoretes...The Masoretes developed a system of checks to ensure that every copy was as nearly perfect as humanly possible. To make certain they had not added or left out even a single letter, they counted the number of times each letter of the alphabet occurred in each book. They noted and recorded the middle letter of the entire Old Testament. They recorded the middle letter on each page and the number of letters and words in each column. They examined every copy of the Old Testament and withdrew from circulation all copies in which any error was discovered. These carefully copied Hebrew texts have remained virtually unchanged since about 600 to 700 AD. In 1947 the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls yielded copies from all the major sections of the Old Testament, except Ruth, dating back more than a century before Christ. When compared to these ancient copies, the Masoretic texts were found to be virtually identical." (This excerpt is from Dr. Barker's excellent online article- http://helpmewithbiblestudy.org/5Bible/TransCopyingTheOTNTManuscripts_Barker.aspx. It's well worth the read to help you gain a better understanding of how we got our Bible. There are also some very good videos on this subject in the Resources tab of our greatestminimovies.com site.)
It took special skill and diligence to be a scribe. Not every man qualified.
One day we will get to meet those unsung heroes and one day they will get to meet you. May we then hear their names and ours called out by our Lord himself, declaring, "Well done, good and faithful servant!"
2.- Thank God for the copiers of the Bible. Share a memory of one of the first times you remember reading the Bible and how it struck you.
Announcements
Congratulations for perfect participation on Monday's blog! I'm holding my breath to see if this is going to be the week for 100% participation and each man scoring 25 points by the end of the week. Please get into the helpful habit of going to the scoreboard as soon as you finish typing your good thoughts here.
Due to busy schedules, we will need to reschedule this Sunday's fellowship meal.
Happy Birthday Ricardo Guardiola! May this year be one of great growth and impact in and through your life. It was just last week that Ricardo graduated from Basic Training, having earned his Unstoppable award pin and earning the rank of R1. Congratulations Ricardo!
1. Prov 25:12 "Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise reprover to a listening ear. "
ReplyDeleteJust like gold is of great value, so is someone that offers godly reprove to a person that is willing to listen. May we always think wisely before we admonish someone.
2. One of the very first verses that I memorized was John 3;16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life."
This verse reminds me all the time of the great sacrifice that was paid for me on the cross, and because of that I will someday live in eternity with Christ. Thank you Lord for providing such a wonderful way for me to be saved.
Good reminder Roger- "May we always think wisely before we admonish someone." I've always put the emphasis on the listening ear, but it's important to think wisely before speaking.
DeleteI wonder how many people in glory we will meet who will also share how John 3:16 so powerfuly impacted them?!
Thank was the verse I first memorized too. Right on Roger. Blessings brother.
DeleteGood verses, Roger. John 3:16 I believe was (if I remember correctly) the first memory verse I memorized too.
DeleteBy the way, good job on being unstoppable! :)
Good verse to begin a Godly life
DeleteProverbs 25;9 If you argue your case with a neighbor, do not betray another man's confidence. This verse reminds me that sometimes a friend might be friends with both parties, so you might hang one of them out to dry, he will turn against you and join the other party against you.... Matthew 6;33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. I learned this at a very young age and I tried to follow GOD at a young age, but then somebody smoked pot with telling me it was a cigarette....He was shot 2 weeks later he died with his girlfriend.
ReplyDeleteSo glad you're seeking first His kingdom with us Flo!
DeleteAmen, brother! It astounds me that book stores continue to promote works like Machiavelli's "The Prince" or Sun Tsu's "The Art of War" as classical sources of wisdom, but so little is said about the book of Proverbs. Having read all three works, I can attest that Proverbs is the greater of the three, and you gleaned the wisdom from this verse so eloquently. I will strive to guard my words and my actions, lest I make two enemies, where once I had none.
DeleteMy mom use to read that verse to me at a young age.
DeleteOn giving to homeless, GOD knows our heart he will deal with the homeless who don't use their money wisely, just as he would us who are foolish with our money. Most of us are probably not giving them enough to pay rent, so let them do what they want with it.....Horacio I wouldn't want anybody buying drugs in front of my house, This is where our prayers should be directed to get them out of your neighbor hood....GOD bless and take care
ReplyDeleteHappy birthday Ricardo. Happy belated birthday James
ReplyDeleteLots of great verses today. I guess I will pick verses 6 & 7 which encourage humility.
ReplyDeleteAny early memories of reading the word of God?
DeleteI remember my mom bought me a bible in 7th grade and over the first couple of weeks I read through the gospels and then on to the rest of the new testament. I remember heading them read at Catholic church, but God started opening up my eyes when I read it on my own.
Delete1. "Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a ruling rightly given. Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is the rebuke of a wise judge to a listening ear." Proverbs 25:11-12
ReplyDeleteThe verses paint a picture of fine jewelry meticulously crafted by the Master Jeweler and how beautifully it adorns the person who wears it.
2. In my earliest memories I felt the Bible to be difficult to read and understand. It all seemed so foreign at the time. Over the years, as I've vigorously studied and searched, the Lord illuminates my eyes to see and expands my capacities of understand things I never thought possible. I haven't arrived, I'm still learning and growing by the grace of God!
Likewise Robert. In 5th grade for perfect attendance in Sunday School, I was given a KJV Bible. It never got read. Big book, fine print, hard to understand, no pictures. :)
DeleteAmen. GOD BLESS YOU Robert!
DeleteYou are a man of great knowledge and understanding. May god continue to pour in you bro.
DeleteRobert we can all be witnesses that you are daily in the word. I can always expect to wake up to a text message from you with a scripture.
DeleteAmen Robert you sure are an example of someone that places the word of God above everything else in life.
DeleteRobert, you've been like the" kings that are honors for what they explain in Prov. 25:2.
Delete1. Remove the dross from the silver, and a silversmith can produce a vessel;
ReplyDeleteDross is the scum or build up. God wants us to be clean so we can be vessels, pure and clean, to be used by Him. Walking in daily repentance is important!
2. I always had a bible around, but never really opened it up until I was encouraged by my mother. I was in a desperate time and I wanted to see what God said about my situation. Was drawn to it and couldn't stop getting into the word.
DeleteI like the way you said that ' dross is scum build up', like saying you are what you eat, if you eat garbage you become garbage.....I think I ate too much garbage. I must read Ephesians 4;22 -24 again
DeleteGood verse Eddie! Nicely explained.
DeleteExcellent meditation on the wisdom contained in this verse, brother! I will continue to remove the dross from my life and fixing my eyes on the Lord. I pray that He will use me as He wills and embrace the path he lays before me.
DeleteEddie. Thx for your analysis as it is so true that Gid wants us to be pure to shine on others
DeleteExplained very well. Thank you Eddie
DeleteEddie, you are a vessel fit for the Master's use- 2 Tim.2:21
Delete1) Proverbs 25:12 "Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise reprover to a listening ear."
ReplyDeleteWhile it may be embarrassing when it happens, a rebuke or correction from a wise, loving friend is very helpful (a wise friend would do it privately). We can avoid making a lot of mistakes if we listen to them. We should always appreciate when someone loves us enough to tell us that we are making a mistake or doing wrong.
2) I don't actually remember the first times I read the Bible. because I was very young at the time. However, I do remember reading it a lot when I was young. I decided to start with Genesis, and I went on from there. Typically, I would read it very early in the morning around 5am or 6am. I would enjoy reading it so much that I would read at least 6-7 chapters in a sitting.
You are right, The people I look up to when they correct me I will listen, as long as they don't try to embarrass me. Hopefully I don't embarrass people when I talk.......especially me
DeleteI never really seen it that way. That we should love the person who cares so much to tell us when we are out of line. Good words Alex. Very true!
DeleteGreat words Alex
DeleteBrother Alex, my first thought was "that was a lot of reading , so early in the morning for a young person . Then I thought, it wasn't effort. It was the love of God that that moved him . Searching for God's mysteries. Bless you
DeleteYour love for God's word shows Alex!
DeleteProverbs 25:13 (NIV) Like a snow-cooled drink at harvest time is a trustworthy messenger to the one who sends him;he refreshes the spirit of his master.
ReplyDeleteI also liked this one Dave.Thanks. 2 Cor.2:2-3 "You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everybody. You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God".
I pray that we are great messengers of the word by sharing it but more importantly being an example of it.
2. One of my first encounters with the word was going through the First Steps Books. These first verses made an impression on me and I enjoy helping others going through the books and bible.
Matthew 16:24 (NIV) Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.
Acts 2:38 (NIV) Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Thanks for sharing Matthew 16;24. I sometimes struggle with listening to heavy metal , I know GOD will for give me, but I should show him I'm willing to change
DeleteSam, thanks for your continual encouragement and great posts-- also thanks for your plug for M3 last night at the men's group
DeleteAmen may we all be great messengers of God.
DeleteSam, I'm very proud of you. You have become a strong messenger of God.
DeleteBueno, bueno Sam! You are sharing well with others and will have much fruit over the course of your life.
Delete1. Proverbs 25:6 do not exalt yourself in the king’s presence, and do not claim a place among his great men; 7 it is better for him to say to you, “Come up here,” than for him to humiliate you before his nobles.
ReplyDelete2. When I first read the book genesis, the phrase “And God saw that it was good” was repeat throughout the first chapter and I had no idea why. My bible teacher point it out and ask me what I thought. It was the first time I read the bible and the book of Genesis. So I was learning and I kept researching for truth after learning that I was a truth seeker by reading the bible. From the point on I read the whole book of Genesis but I was meaningless because I needed a bible teacher to help me understand it. Tim was my bible teacher and twice or once a week we would have café and read the book of Genesis one chapter at a time. It was the best thing that happen to me. I learned who God was and now I was ready to meet Jesus the man on the cross. We then jump ahead to the Gospel and began to read Matthew and that is how I became a Christian. I repented of my sins and accepted Jesus as my Lord and savior and wanted to follow Jesus and lived for Jesus for the rest of my live. Amen.
Its better to be humble and have the king notice you, than too be boastful and then get slammed
DeleteBrother Oscar, "I needed a bible teacher to help me understand it" yes we all do. If you get a chance read Acts Chapter 8:26-40. It's a wonderful story of how an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip and told him to meet up with a Eunuch in the middle of the dessert to explain the Gospel to him.
DeleteSo glad that Tim was a great teacher and mentor that was able to clearly explain God's word to you and even more so I am happy that you listened to His calling
DeleteGreat story Oscar! Do you still keep in touch with Tim? If so, he's the kind of man to invite to join you in M3. I'm sure he would also love to see the way you are growing in God's word with us.
DeleteBrother Oscar, Great story of your start to become a Godly man. For me it was an elder who introduced me to my Savior. These are people who will always be in our lives. May God permit us to mentor someone who needs God in their life.
DeleteGreat story starting in Genesis and studying with a caring friend. So glad God has a special call on your life.
Delete1. Proverbs 25:14 Like clouds and wind without rain is a man who boasts of his gifts falsely. How easily we get fooled by the way things look and feel.
ReplyDelete2. My earliest memory of reading the bible is about the Israelites wondering the desert. How they saw God reveal his power in incredible ways over and over, and they still doubted, questioned, and rebelled. I remember thinking, if God never does another thing for me, I will be satisfied with my salvation. It is the greatest gift, I know I didn't deserve it, and anything else is petty. This is why at times I pray David's prayer asking God to restore the joy of my salvation and sustain me with a willing spirit. Psalm 51:12. Because life happens and those petty things, don't always seem so petty.
Brother Rick, agreed!!! "This is why at times I pray David's prayer asking God to restore the joy of my salvation and sustain me with a willing spirit. Psalm 51:12. Because life happens and those petty things, don't always seem so petty."
DeleteVery good words Rick. Robert has recently been beating me to the same great quotes that people have shared. So all I can say is ditto. :)
Delete1. "Patient persistence pierces through indifference; gentle speech breaks down rigid defenses."
ReplyDelete(Proverbs 25:15 MSG)
2. I remember a friend challenged me to read a small book of the bible all the way through. I had never read a book or the bible all the way through before at that point. I sat down in a study hall and read all the book of Phillipians. In that reading the scripture came alive and made sense in a way it never had before!
"Oh, how cool!" Those are the words that feel out of my mouth. The word of God is living and active. May the Lord use you all the more to help youth dig into it.
DeleteDave, I got a similar challenge from brother Dave G. from M3. He said "dont say no , try M3 for 3 months ". Best thing I ever did. I can't let go of God word now. God put people in front of us to plant his seed.
Delete1. Argue your case with your neighbor himself, and do not reveal another’s secret, (Proverbs 25:9 ESV) This verse shows that we should respect one another by not spreading their secrets to others. If another brother comes up to with something confidential keep it to yourself. I know if I said something to someone that was private and they spread it around. I would be upset and no longer trust that person.
ReplyDelete2. I remember reading genesis for my first time reading the bible. I started from the beginning because I really didn't know where to start. I always remembered reading and not really understanding what I was reading. Overtime though I started to understand better. I'm not going to lie though I still struggle understanding some scripture.
Hey bro, keep reading. The Spirit will reveal to you the words in the scripture. You can also do what I do. I have apps and podcast on my phone so I can listen to sermons. Try downloading "Your Move" App with Pastor Andy Stanley, or look for "The City Church" podcast with Pastor Judah Smith. Those 2 pastors are awesome. They can speak to both new believers and veterans in the word.
DeleteVery good James. I want to share something confidential with you, but keep this secret to yourself- I'm not going to lie to you, but I still struggle understanding some scripture. :)
DeleteBrother James, you have a very good heart. It shows from your writing. Besides searching God's word, pray for God's understanding. And God hears us.
Delete1- Proverbs 25:14
ReplyDeleteLike clouds and wind without rain is one who boasts of gifts never given. -NIV
Like billowing clouds that bring no rain is the person who talks big but never produces. -MSG
I always want to be a man who keeps my word. Lately I had to break a promise I made to someone, but I had to because I had valid reason to do so. I however spoke with that person and informed them that I would be breaking a promise. Besides instances such as this one, I try to always follow through with what I speak.
2- Galatians 2:20
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
This was the first scripture i memorized around the time I got baptized some 12 years ago, and its always stuck with me.
Luis, that is a respectful thing you did.
DeleteAlso, what a great first verse to memorize.
Pro.25.4-5." Remove the dross from the silver, and a silversmith can produce a vessel; remove wicked officials from the king’s presence, and his throne will be established through righteousness." that's happened to me a few times where I've sat in the back and the guy running the program asked me and a friend of mine to come up and sit in front or on the stage.
ReplyDelete2.Many years ago Pastor Victor bought me a Study Bible. I remember reading the commentaries and getting so much out of what I read.
George. Keep up your encouragement. Also it helps us all so much to read commentaries as it delves deeper into what the writer intended for us to understand by which to grow
DeleteStudy Bibles are such a great gift that past generations never had. So glad you are a man of God's word George and have given out so many Gideon Bibles to so many people.
DeleteProverbs 25:6 "Do not exalt yourself in the king's presence, and do not claim a place among his great men; 7 it is better for him to say to you, 'Come up here,' than for him to humiliate you before his nobles." Here's a little peek behind the curtain of the field of education: being a teacher is a lot like being a student in high school. Everyone wants to earn the principal's favor, whether it be through proven excellence or shameless brown-nosing. When I was first hired at my current school, my principal was very transparent about this. "The minute your colleagues see you going above and beyond, you will have a target painted on your back. Can you handle that?" she asked. Like the wisdom contained in this verse, I have taken care not to boast about my success in the classroom, or my contributions to the prestige of my school. I do my job well, I welcome praise when it is given, but I do not seek after it. At a recent committee meeting, my principal caught me off guard when she spent the better part of five minutes praising the work I have done to the teachers in attendance. She humbled me with her words (and probably made the target on my back much bigger) but I am glad it came from her mouth and not my own. We shouldn't pat ourselves on the back. Even in our greatest moment of triumph, it is God who should be exalted. All that we are and all that we are capable of is a direct result of the grace He bestows upon us. How arrogant and foolish would I look and be if I paraded down the hall exalting myself and taking credit for what God does with me and through me?
ReplyDeleteGrowing up Catholic, I didn't frequently open our family Bible. It was more of an heirloom, something we were expected to have in our home, but seldom read and even more seldom shared. I was even a lector each Sunday and would read from the Old and New Testament weekly, but I was too focused on getting the reading perfect (careful not to skip or add a single word), to reflect on what I was reading. The first time I truly contemplated the meaning of the Word was when I finally opened our family Bible beside my dying father's bed at the hospital. I unconsciously opened the Bible to Revelations. I read of the tribulation to come and the promise of Christ's victory over the world. I cried to think that my own tribulations were already erupting around me. My world, as I knew it, was coming to a sudden end, and I was broken and afraid. I clung to the promise of Christ's return and to the idea that I would see my father again. I took shelter in the reassurance that my tribulation, too, would pass and my tears would be wiped away.
Osiris. Thanks for your advice and humble nature. Always give God the Glory
DeleteThat's beautiful Osiris.
DeleteI get the distinct impression you have spent a lot of time reading God's word before you even turned your life over to Christ recently.
Brother Osiris, when you shine it also tends to draw the wrong type of attention. Much like a moth is drawn to it's own death by flying into the flame of a lit candle, so it will be with those who try to snuff out your light. Romans 8:31b "If God is for us, who can be against us?
DeleteHappy Birthday, Ricardo! May God bless you, brother, with peace and prosperity. Thank you for your committment to multiplying manly men.
ReplyDeleteThank you Dave, I just wanna say that I really enjoy blogging and it truly motivates me everyday to
ReplyDeleteRead and blog! I sometimes catch myself falling asleep and I realize I haven't blogged and I jump up and start reading.
1)Like clouds and wind without rain is one who boasts of gifts never given. (Proverbs 25:14 NIV)
2) the first time I read was while we started attending new life on 44th. John 3;16 was my first verse
Ricardo keep persevering as you have become a great asset to others and encouragement
DeleteHappy Birthday Brother
DeleteHappy birthday Ricardo, may God continue to bless you.
DeleteWow! You are an unstoppable man Ricardo!
DeleteHow neat that your started with John 3:16.
Happy Birthday, Ricardo! God bless!
Delete1. "remove wicked officials from the King's presence, and his throne will be established through righteousness" proverbs 25:5
ReplyDeleteAs we advance God's Kingdom and lead others to Christ through perseverance and Righteous ways-- we minimize wordly ways and fight off wickedness as a group gaining Momentum. It's up to us to help the Lord advance his Kingdom and to replace the evil leaders with righteousness.
2. 2 yrs ago I began to timidly read the bible as I had been intimidated that I could not comprehend it.
As I began to read I was overwhelmed by Gid's word and consumed by all of it-- i couldn't stop reading as he got ahold of me!
Amen Jack we are here for a purpose, to advance his kingdom.
DeleteJack, you have grown so much- the word of God is like Miracle Grow and you have given yourself to it. May the Lord continue to help you advance and advance his kingdom.
Delete1)Proverbs 25:5
ReplyDeletetake away the wicked from the presence of the king, and his throne will be established in righteousness.
2) I read and understood the bible Sept 22, 2014 I remember the date because the night before I had a vision that made me give muy life to learning about God
That's awesome that you are able to remember the exact date of when you made your decision. I wish I would of kept track of my date of salvation as well as my baptism date.
DeleteSo glad you are with us Andre! You are a warrior; let nothing deter you from the mission of multiplying manly men. What a great impact you will have.
DeleteIt's a fantastic feeling when God gives visions or you feel him so close. Another is when you know God has forgiven you. Bless you Andre!
DeleteProverbs 25:6-7
ReplyDeleteDo not exalt yourself in the king’s presence,
and do not claim a place among his great men;
it is better for him to say to you, “Come up here,”
than for him to humiliate you before his nobles.
2: The first time i read the bible I was in a nursing home. I went into a depressive state of mind, I didn't have nobody to speak to about my situation, I felt alone. I didn't know what to do qoith the time I had to spend there ( which was 3 months). I was laying in my bed one day and something told me to look through the drawer of the night stand that was there. I found a bible and decided to read it, at the time I had no beliefs so I honestly didn't believe anything it said and used it as just something to read. But it kinda always stuck to me about what happens next, I see it was gods way of trying to reach out to me.
So glad you felt the urge to pick it up and read. That urge came over a man named Augustine in the 400's and God used him in a mighty way. May the Lord use you Jose in mighty ways as you continue to read and heed His word.
DeleteJose, I'm happy you found the Bible and read it. In a situation like that I could see how it would have been easy to put it down and just watch TV.
Delete1. We honor God for what he conceals, we honor kings for what they explain.
ReplyDeleteWhen we think of all the great things that God created . From the solar system, the galaxies, the universe to microscopic form. The heaven and the oceans. How they were created ? No one knows. Only God knows these things. How great and wonderful he is. The use of kings refers those who search the Word. Those who want to know all they can about God.
2. The first time I read the bible it was about Job. I could not understand why God would permit Job to suffer. Later I sat with an Elder from church who explained it to me . It is amazing what God permits us to go through . Like in the verse above, only God know why
So glad you have continued to read God's word Louie and have a passion to know what it means.
DeleteMay the Lord use you to help others do the same as you multiply manly men.
1- Proverbs 25:11New Century Version (NCV)
ReplyDelete11 The right word spoken at the right time
is as beautiful as gold apples in a silver bowl.
This verse I feel is great advice. There have been times people have told me when they get advice from someone and that advice made their situation worse. I've been told by people that I've spoken to them and that is just what they needed. I give God the glory. It's hard sometimes giving someone advice when you know they are in the wrong. When that happens to me I say a quick prayer in my head. I don't want to offend anyone. I want to help people to their God given destiny.
2- I can remember reading the bible faithfully when I was a teenager. I looked at my bible it was getting dusty so I just began to read it. Little did I know that I began to fall in love with God, and just cant get enough of his word. God word never comes back void.
I can see why others are so helped by you advice Vince. Knowing the Lord and genuinely caring and wanting what is best for others, and then asking for God's help to advise them is recipe for successful counseling. May God use to to bless many others with your good advise.
DeleteWow thats really awesome Vince, that you read the bible as a teen! It definately shows! Your a good dude and i am a big fan of yours! ;)
DeleteGood thoughts. We need to not only know the words That need to be shared but also when it is optimal to share them. May God constantly lead us, and may we be aware of his guideance.
DeleteAh, that is beautiful Vince! May you be used to help others start reading God's word, that they also may fall in love with the God of the word.
DeleteBrother Vince, very wise tapping into a Power much greater than you "When that happens to me I say a quick prayer in my head."
Delete1) Proverbs 25:4 > Remove the dross from the silver, and a silversmith can produce a vessel;
ReplyDeleteJust as a silversmith wants to use the purest silver to fashion an exquisitely, beautiful vessel that he can take pride in making and that others can admire while using, so the Lord desires to make us into His special vessels of honor that are fit to contain His words of life, and love and truth. But to do so He must remove the dross of our old habits and our old ways of living for ourselves.
2) The first time I remember reading the Bible was in grammar school. I had a school homework assignment and had to do a report on someone in the Old Testament. I can't remember who it was. My family had this huge, thick heavy Catholic Bible. It may have been fairly new, but it smelt old. The first thing I did was to look at the few colorful pictures scattered throughout it. I was not a very good reader, and I had a hard time reading the Bible after my Mom helped me find the right place in it so I could do my report. It was not really a spiritual event for me at the time.
That was the beginning of your exciting journey with the bible. How cool! ;)
DeleteSo glad Dave that the Lord later turned on the light and desire for Him and His word.
DeleteYou life has made a significant impact on many, young and old. This is a new chapter now with even greater impact to occur.
1. Proverbs 25:12 Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is the rebuke of a wise judge to a listening ear.
ReplyDelete2. I remember my mom reading me about Adam and Eve and Noahs Ark out of a childrens bible. I was fascinated and really interested in it. I think i remember wanting to know more and asking alot of questions. Whats cool is now i get to read that book to my 20 month old son ;)
Btw i am happy to hear that the feast at Jacks will be rescheduled! This way i can make it lol ;)
great verse brother. let us be both men with wise lips and listening ears.
DeleteVery good Phil!
DeleteWe read the Rhyme Bible to our little ones. It was so cool to see how they could soon complete the rhymes to several of the stories. Great cartoon drawings in them as well.
1. Proverbs 25:6-7 Do not exalt yourself in the king’s presence, and do not claim a place among his great men;it is better for him to say to you, “Come up here,” than for him to humiliate you before his nobles.
ReplyDeleteHere it says that we should not be entitled a place in heaven. We all sin and we must humble ourselves and accept that we are all sinners an ask God for forgiveness.
2. I remember when I tried to start reading the Bible, I thought I was suppose to read it like a book from beginning to end thinking it was one continuous story. I was raised Catholic but crazy as it sounds, I don't think we were taught what to expect when reading the Bible.
The Bible is certainly a long book to read through. Many have started with Genesis and never made it very far.
DeleteI like recommending that people begin with the gospel of John for starters and then continue reading forward from there.
1) No one can comprehend the height of heaven, the depth of the earth, or all that goes on in the king's mind!
ReplyDeleteThe unseen human being the mind and the emotions I believe exist in the soul of a human. Though they can be expressed they can also be repressed and hidden. I believe this reminds us of the complexity of humans and the difficulty of knowing and loving them since our limitations make us dependent on their honesty. Your thoughts and desires run deep so search out your unknown parts and beware that even while we seek to be honest there is much of ourselves that is unseen even to us.
2) Front porch. I cried. hard.
DeleteWhat happened?
DeleteBrother Tony, "beware that even while we seek to be honest there is much of ourselves that is unseen even to us." well said!! Psalm 19:12 "But who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults."
Delete1. Proverbs 26:14 NIV Like clouds and wind without rain is one who boasts of gifts never given. It gives me the understanding of a person who boasts about what they have done but never done it. How can you talk about anything you do without any actions to prove it? People’s actions can be seen by many without people talking about the good that they do. After all God see everything.
ReplyDelete2. My first experience reading the bible was when I was a child going to Hammond City Baptist church. I read the New Testament but had no understanding of it until I read the book of revelations. I found it creepy and interesting. Those brothers in-planted a seed in me about God. They talked to me about salvation and being baptized. I still think of them and my experiences going there.
Horacio, I'm glad that the seed was planted and continues to grow in you.
DeleteYes Horacio, I echo George's words.
DeleteBrother Horacio, some sow, others water, God does the increase/growth!!! I'm glad they (Hammond City Baptist church) were used to sow into your life.
DeleteHappy Birthday Ricardo!
ReplyDeleteProverbs 25:12 To one who listens, valid criticism is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry.
Hearing criticism isn’t always painless and it’s easy to brush it off thinking you know better than the person criticizing you. Maybe even becoming defensive but by listening to valid criticism and weighing what the person is saying you can gain great wisdom, which is more valuable than gold.
I don’t remember the first time I read the Bible, I remember having one for CCD in junior high but I don’t remember ever reading from it. As an adult I bought my first Bible 4 or 5 years ago and started reading it like a book from the beginning. I didn’t understand a lot of it and didn’t get too far through it before giving up. Since I started coming to New Life and especially since joining M3 I spend a lot more time reading the Bible and putting in more effort to understand what I’m reading.
Ah George, you put a smile on my face :) "Since I started coming to New Life and especially since joining M3 I spend a lot more time reading the Bible and putting in more effort to understand what I’m reading."
DeleteBrother George D, "Hearing criticism isn’t always painless". As I read that I thought of the pain experienced on the earlobe when being pierced with the earring of truth. Painful at first but beautifully displayed.
DeletePro.25.4-5." Remove the dross from the silver, and a silversmith can produce a vessel; remove wicked officials from the king’s presence, and his throne will be established through righteousness." that's happened to me a few times where I've sat in the back and the guy running the program asked me and a friend of mine to come up and sit in front or on the stage.
ReplyDelete2.Many years ago Pastor Victor bought me a Study Bible. I remember reading the commentaries and getting so much out of what I read.
George, I like reading the commentaries too. Sometimes it's good to have another point of view.
DeleteBrother George R, it's evident you've made good use of that Bible :-)
DeleteLike apples of gold in settings of silver Is a word spoken in right circumstances. (Proverbs 25:11 NASB)
ReplyDeleteIt's flawless it just fits. Apt words in the right context Just works beautifully.
When I was thirteen the book of revelation convicted me. I began to read scripture on my own. Months later His word came alive and I was thirsty for it. I couldn't get enough of it. I gobbled it up.
That's great Nic! And then I remember you led Bible studies in your high school. Excellent!
DeleteBrother Nic, agreed!!! God's Living Word makes our spiritual appetite insatiable for his nourishment :-)
Delete1- Proverbs 25:13
ReplyDeleteLike a snow-cooled drink at harvest time is a trust worthy messenger to the one who sends him; he refreshes the spirit of his master.
Well I don't have much to say about this verse but I was hoping that someone can help me understand it better, I don't want to make a bad conclusion or interpretation.
2- well my first real experience with the bible was not a pleasant memory. I came to open my heart and accept Jesus Christ as my savior when I was incarcerated and it has led me to continue searching deep down inside for meanings and purposes in my life.
Hey Guillermo. In my blog above I sought to show the importance of being faithful. Now imagine it's 95 degrees out and you've been working hard. An ice cold soda or lemonade would be so refreshing, wouldn't it?! That's like sending a trustworthy messenger or child to run an errand for you. It's so refreshing that you can count on them- refreshing like that ice cold drink. I'm getting thirsty even talking about it. Come on over this summer for some lemonade. :)
DeleteThanks Dave for explaining a little more thoroughly just to much information in this little brain that I couldn't comprehend properly and lemonade sounds great on a hot day
DeleteBrother Guillermo, the Apostle Paul was incarcerated and God used that experience to have him write 13 New Testimony books. God used your experience to draw you to Him. it may not have been pleasant but look at the outcome, salvation!!!
Deletehttp://bible.com/97/pro.25.13.msg Reliable friends who do what they say are like cool drinks in sweltering heat—refreshing!
ReplyDeletehttp://bible.com/111/pro.25.13.niv Like a snow-cooled drink at harvest time is a trustworthy messenger to the one who sends him; he refreshes the spirit of his master.
Well I can remember reading about the stories of Paul and his calling on the "comission" and just remeber Paul come alive with the message. The gospel being preached everywhere and just had that sense (holy spirit) fueling me also with the gospel.
Ah, God used that portion of his word to light that fire for evangelism you have. Bueno!
DeleteBrother Ismael, you're a new creation :-)
Delete1) the verse I chose is:
ReplyDeleteProverbs 25:2 "It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings."
I just really love that analogy of how it is our glory to seek out the matters of God. It is royal, a kingly duty to attempt to unravel his Holy mysteries!
2) I remember about 4 years ago, as I was starting to read the Word with a new set of eyes, and as I went to the book of John, the scriptures started to come alive in a new way to me. I remember being captured by all the words of Christ, rereading the over and over, to understand everything I could about what He was saying. It was a really beautiful time of revelation for me. Seeing things the way they were meant to for the first time.
That's beautiful William! Thank You Lord for opening our eyes to behold wonderful things in your word!
DeleteGood post and verse, Will. I was thinking of using that verse too. However, I choose to go for a different one. I love the analogy too.
DeleteGood post and verse, Will. I was thinking of using that verse too. However, I choose to go for a different one. I love the analogy too.
DeleteGood post and verse, Will. I was thinking of using that verse too. However, I choose to go for a different one. I love the analogy too.
DeleteBrother William, you're a Truth/Treasure seeker :-)
Delete1. Prov 25:6-7 says "Do not exalt yourself in the king’s presence, and do not claim a place among his great men; it is better for him to say to you, “Come up here,” than for him to humiliate you before his nobles." This verse reminds me of Luke 14:10 that says "But when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, 'Friend, move up to a better place.' Then you will be honored in the presence of all the other guests." ---The moral of these verses is, For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Let us be humble men :) whom are confident in the Lord.
ReplyDelete2. When I first started to read the bible, I started in the gospels and I could not stop saying, "Wow, this Jesus is Awesome!" after every few verses. Just the way he spoke to the crowds and especially the religious leaders. I was always in 'shock and awe'! I still am :)
Amen brother :) Wow this Jesus is Awesome!
DeleteBrother Israel, right there with you!!!! "in 'shock and awe'! I still am :)
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ReplyDelete1.- Prov. 25:11 "Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a ruling rightly given."
Wisdom; 'the tree of life'
Prov. 3:14 for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold.
Prov. 8:19 My fruit is better than fine gold; what I yield surpasses choice silver.
2.- First time I remember reading a bible was at about the year of 92 when I was at a hotel in Washington D. C. attending a labor conference. It was at night and the end of my day. I was relaxing on the bed and I pickup the bible from a drawer in a light table stand. I started reading a KJ version and did not understand it at all, don't remember what I was reading. Well it was late and I was tired, so not long after I started reading bible I was finished and bible ended up on the light stand. At that time I thought all bibles were the same, and never really attempted reading bible again until about 4 1/2 years ago when I started attending services at Midway New Life. This was my first encounter reading the bible, I've lived most of my life living in this state of ignorance, not knowing the bible and God. Not any more!
Brother Armando, "Not any more!" I'm smiling with joy :-)
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