Showing posts with label WISDOM. Show all posts

WISDOM - UNDERSTANDING - INSIGHT

Proverbs 2
1 My son, if you will receive my words
And treasure my commandments within you,
2 So that your ear is attentive to [skillful and godly] WISDOM,
And apply your heart to UNDERSTANDING [seeking it conscientiously and striving for it eagerly];
3 Yes, if you cry out for INSIGHT,
And lift up your voice for UNDERSTANDING;
4 If you SEEK skillful and godly WISDOM as you would silver
And SEARCH for her as you would hidden treasures;
5 Then you will UNDERSTAND the [reverent] fear of the Lord [that is, worshiping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome]
And DISCOVER THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD.
6 For THE LORD GIVES [skillful and godly] WISDOM;
From His mouth come KNOWLEDGE and UNDERSTANDING.
7 He stores away sound WISDOM for the righteous [those who are in right standing with Him];
He is a shield to those who walk in integrity [those of honorable character and moral courage],
8 He guards the paths of justice;
And He preserves the way of His saints (believers).

Proverbs 3
13 Happy [blessed, considered fortunate, to be admired] is the man who finds [skillful and godly] WISDOM,
And the man who gains UNDERSTANDING and INSIGHT [learning from God’s word and life’s experiences],
14 For WISDOM'S profit is better than the profit of silver,
And her gain is better than fine gold.
15 She is more precious than rubies;
And nothing you can wish for compares with her [in value].
16 Long life is in her right hand;
In her left hand are riches and honor.
17 Her ways are highways of pleasantness and favor,
And all her paths are peace.
18 She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her,
And happy [blessed, considered fortunate, to be admired] is everyone who holds her tightly.
19 The Lord by His WISDOM has founded the earth;
By His UNDERSTANDING He has established the heavens.
20 By His KNOWLEDGE the deeps were broken up
And the clouds drip with dew.
21 My son, let them not escape from your sight,
But KEEP SOUND WISDOM AND DISCRETION,
22 And they will be life to your soul (your inner self)
And a gracious adornment to your neck (your outer self).
23 Then you will walk on your way [of life] securely
And your foot will not stumble.
24 When you lie down, you will not be afraid;
When you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.
25 Do not be afraid of sudden fear
Nor of the storm of the wicked when it comes [since you will be blameless];
26 For the Lord will be your confidence, firm and strong,
And will keep your foot from being caught [in a trap].

Proverbs 8
1 Does not WISDOM call,
And UNDERSTANDING lift up her voice?
2 On the top of the heights beside the way,
Where the paths meet, wisdom takes her stand;
3 Beside the gates, at the entrance to the city,
At the entrance of the doors, she cries out:
4 “To you, O men, I call,
And my voice is directed to the sons of men.
5 “O you naive or inexperienced [who are easily misled], understand prudence and seek astute common sense;
And, O you [closed-minded, self-confident] fools, UNDERSTAND WISDOM [seek the insight and self-discipline that leads to godly living].
6 “Listen, for I will speak excellent and noble things;
And the opening of my lips will reveal right things.
7 “For my mouth will utter truth,
And wickedness is repulsive and loathsome to my lips.
8 “All the words of my mouth are in righteousness (upright, in right standing with God);
There is nothing contrary to truth or perverted (crooked) in them.
9 “They are all straightforward to him who understands [with an open and willing mind],
And right to those who find knowledge and live by it.
10 “Take my instruction rather than [seeking] silver,
And TAKE KNOWLEDGE rather than choicest gold,
11 “For WISDOM is better than rubies;
And all desirable things cannot compare with her.

Psalm 111:10 "The [reverent] fear of the Lord is the beginning (the prerequisite, the absolute essential, the alphabet) of wisdom;
A good understanding and a teachable heart are possessed by all those who do the will of the Lord;
His praise endures forever."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pClYDZPQIJM&feature=share&fbclid=IwAR1vbETcQ75zDrzgx6tkjSN3r4LjsOScmIuf0JQiP_mNcjNuNKRSEcZ_hyw

Wisdom Song

Solomon was famous for his wisdom,
not because he knew everything
but because he knew how little he knew.

"The wise man,
even when he holds his tongue,
says more than the fool
when he speaks."

REPUTATION
is made in a minute
CHARACTER
is built in a lifetime

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyIR4N5EFt8&feature=share&fbclid=IwAR0GtIDNYaKwWxqO5Nd9cTl1oLqIeEcn5qLJ2WLufB09IYhGhkBrDCNYUww

Song of Solomon (Official Lyric Video) - Martin Smith

"The Shepherd Lover in the song of Solomon is Jesus Christ. The Shulamite woman who waits for him is the Bride waiting for Christ to come as a rapture. She even searches for Him in the night, because He will come like a thief in the night. He also passes through the mountains of myrr(death)[calvary, golgotha, gethsemane], in the name of love for the Shulamite (Bride)"
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Disclosure: Much of what is in my posts are things I have compiled through the years and I do not know if they have copyrights. What I do know about origin or website I give credit and have tried to always post a link to the origin. I do not market anything in any way on this blog -- I merely hope it will encourage and inspire others.
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WISDOM KNOWLEDGE UNDERSTANDING

THE WISDOM OF COMPROMISE
BETTER TO BEND A LITTLE

THAN TO BREAK

WISDOM:
*the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment; the quality of being wise
*the soundness of an action or decision with regard to the application of experience, knowledge, and good judgment:
synonyms: sagacity · intelligence · sense · common sense · shrewdness

UNDERSTANDING:
*having insight or good judgment.
synonyms: apprehension · grasp · mastery · appreciation ·
sympathetically aware of other people's feelings; tolerant and forgiving:
*the ability to comprehension:
synonyms: compassionate · sympathetic · sensitive · considerate · tender · kind ·

KNOWLEDGE:
*facts, information, and skills acquired by a person through experience or education; the theoretical or practical understanding of a subject:
synonyms: understanding · comprehension · grasp · command · mastery ·
*awareness or familiarity gained by experience of a fact or situation:
synonyms: awareness · consciousness · realization · cognition · apprehension

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of KNOWLEDGE, but fools despise WISDOM and instruction. Proverbs 1:7

To the person who pleases him, God gives WISDOM, KNOWLEDGE and happiness, but to the sinner he gives the task of gathering and storing up wealth to hand it over to the one who pleases God. Ecclesiastes 2:26

Blessed are those who find WISDOM, those who gain UNDERSTANDING, Proverbs 3:13

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hSnzYnOe6kI

Keith and Kristyn Getty - Perfect Wisdom of Our God

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Disclosure: Much of what is in my posts are things I have compiled through the years and I do not know if they have copyrights. What I do know about origin or website I give credit and have tried to always post a link to the origin. I do not market anything in any way on this blog -- I merely hope it will encourage and inspire others.
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WISDOM FROM ABOVE

WISDOM: the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment; the quality of being wise.
•the soundness of an action or decision with regard to the application of experience, knowledge, and good judgment
•the body of knowledge and principles that develops within a specified society or period

JAMES 3: 13 Who among you is wise and intelligent? Let him by his good conduct show his [good] deeds with the gentleness and humility of true wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not be arrogant, and [as a result] be in defiance of the truth.
15 This [superficial] wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly (secular), natural (unspiritual), even demonic.
16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder [unrest, rebellion] and every evil thing and morally degrading practice.
17 But the wisdom from above is first pure [morally and spiritually undefiled], then peace-loving [courteous, considerate], gentle, reasonable [and willing to listen], full of compassion and good fruits. It is unwavering, without [self-righteous] hypocrisy [and self-serving guile].
18 And the seed whose fruit is righteousness (spiritual maturity) is sown in peace by those who make peace [by actively encouraging goodwill between individuals].

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqR7vD04Tk4

Wisdom

Words Once Spoken Cannot be Retrieved
author unknown:
As human beings, who interact with each other, it is almost impossible to escape from disagreements. All of us are different in many ways, we have our own way of thinking that makes us... see things differently that at some point in our lives, our thoughts and opinions would clash with somebody else's, which may eventually lead us to argument that we don't seek, and we often try our best to win the argument at all costs.
When I was young, as a youth, it was hard to control my emotion. I used to get myself into argument every time when I was engaged in dialogues that lead to disagreements. I would try my very best to beat my "opponents", especially when it was crystal clear that my thoughts are valid. An argument would usually start as a calm discussion, and when both parties refused to give in, the discussion would turn a bit warmer. Even though, at the beginning, I would not be thinking about getting too serious into the argument, but at one point, it would be too late to say "no" to the bad side of my emotion, which would start to take charge, and the argument would become hotter and hotter. My pride and ego would cheer me up and there would be no turning back.
Unfortunately, in my eagerness to win, sometimes I would utter unpleasant words, which would hit deep in the heart of the "opponents". It would act like a weapon of mass destruction used when the war of disagreements was taking too long to end. Eventually, nothing which could be proud of, would be achieved by both parties, except for regrets, frustrations and wounded hearts.
The after effect would be very unpleasant. Having the episode repeating in my mind while I sank deep into regret, was very painful. Why did I go to such extent? Why did I get myself into the argument in the first place. A word of sorry might never be able to repair a wounded relationship. Words once spoken cannot be retrieved, they disappear with the time they were said.
When I left those youth age, I changed a lot. I started to avoid getting into argument, unless when it is really necessary, when it benefits me or the person who argues with me. Even if I have to argue, I always make sure that I'm always in control over my emotion and let the argument be and ends in a civil manner. I'm more careful in putting my words. If I sense that my emotion has started to take over, I will choose to walk away from the argument politely. I don't care of loosing the battle without firing a single shot, as in actual fact, I've got nothing to loose. In fact, I've actually won a battle within myself, which is more important to me.
It is absolutely alright to speak out our mind and express dissatisfaction or anger but we must always try to do it in awareness and without loosing our temper, don't be carried away by emotion.
Words are so powerful. They can be so beautiful and helpful, but they can also be harsh and harmful. We are blessed with tongues that speak words. It could be words of love, praise, kindness, forgiveness and encouragement, and it could also be words full of hatred, disrespect and slander.
Words can weave together a broken relationship, but words can also create waves that separate two people. Words can heal a broken heart, but words can also hurt feelings. Words can transmit a wealth of information but words can also be deceiving. Words can praise a person but words can also assassinate a character. Words can bring peace and joy, but words can also set a blazing fire to harmony.
And all these words shall serve as an advice to myself first.

James 3: The tongue is [in a sense] a fire, the very world of injustice and unrighteousness; the tongue is set among our members as that which contaminates the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life [the cycle of man’s existence], and is itself set on fire by hell. 7 For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and sea creatures, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race. 8 But no one can tame the human tongue; it is a restless evil [undisciplined, unstable], full of deadly poison. 9 With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God. 10 Out of the same mouth come both blessing and cursing.

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Disclosure: Much of what is in my posts are things I have compiled through the years and I do not know if they have copyrights. What I do know about origin or website I have tried to always post a link to the origin. I do not market anything in any way on this blog -- I merely hope it will encourage and inspire others.

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SEEKING WISDOM TO KNOW THE MASTER'S PLAN

Heavenly Father, I come in prayer today on behalf of all those who have chosen your Son Jesus Christ as Savoir. The ones who call themselves “Born Again”.
It seems so few progress and mature; that far too many never have the outward signs of the giftings and manifestations of the Holy Spirit leading their lives as are described in 1 Corinthians chapters 12, 13, 14. Many never read your Holy Word; never get baptized; nor confess you before friends and family, or fit into the ...body of other believers by attending church.

Are we a confused wandering people who call our self “Christian” but yet we are blinded by the god of this world like the Bible says in 2 Corinthians 4:4 “In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.”
We seem blind like a drunk man in the dark at the door who has dropped his key and can't find it to get in.

The daily walk before each of us is difficult and I know we do need your guidance and we also need each other's encouragement as the book of Romans 12 describes.

Please open all believers' hearts fresh and new to the manifestations of your Holy Spirit and to the unity of the body of believers as one in Christ.
May we never be ashamed of the gospel but be strong in faith and love toward all mankind.
James 1: 5 “If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given you.”

Your Word says to ASK FOR WISDOM – so Lord I'm asking not just for me but for all who believe in Christ Jesus that you would give us all generous amounts of wisdom and discernment. REVIVE US LORD I PRAY, Amen.

Lord I think I am already beginning to see -- the Lost KEY was not the door from me to thee for your door is always open! It was the key I used when I must have locked you out -- forgive me is my plea as I seek you to help me find the key that opens the door once more to you and your kingdom purpose for me.

Help me Lord to see what that key looked like -- was it compromise, was it luke-warmness, was it denial, was it rebellion, fear of persecution, or all of them that led me to lock my self from your knock at my heart's door?
Now another day has passed and I'm still praying -- maybe the lack of growth in our Christian walk is:
insubmissive : unwilling to submit
I think today that is where I must begin -- submitting to the master's hands and the master's plans.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77Bx6vICdtY

The Touch Of The Masters Hand

Life is But a Weaving ...
(The Tapestry Poem)
by: Corrie Ten Boom

My life is but a weaving
Between my God and me.
I cannot choose the colors
He weaveth steadily.
Oft' times He weaveth sorrow;
And I in foolish pride
Forget He sees the upper
And I the underside.
Not 'til the loom is silent
And the shuttles cease to fly
Will God unroll the canvas
And reveal the reason why.
The dark threads are as needful
In the weaver's skillful hand
As the threads of gold and silver
In the pattern He has planned
He knows, He loves, He cares;
Nothing this truth can dim.
He gives the very best to those
Who leave the choice to Him.

Romans 12 Dedicated Service

Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing to God, which is your rational (logical, intelligent) act of worship. ²And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].
³For by the grace [of God] given to me I say to everyone of you not to think more highly of himself [and of his importance and ability] than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has apportioned to each a degree of faith [and a purpose designed for service]. ⁴For just as in one [physical] body we have many parts, and these parts do not all have the same function or special use, ⁵so we, who are many, are [nevertheless just] one body in Christ, and individually [we are] parts one of another [mutually dependent on each other]. ⁶Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to use them accordingly: if [someone has the gift of] prophecy, [let him speak a new message from God to His people] in proportion to the faith possessed; ⁷if service, in the act of serving; or he who teaches, in the act of teaching; ⁸or he who encourages, in the act of encouragement; he who gives, with generosity; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy [in caring for others], with cheerfulness.
⁹Love is to be sincere and active [the real thing—without guile and hypocrisy]. Hate what is evil [detest all ungodliness, do not tolerate wickedness]; hold on tightly to what is good. ¹⁰Be devoted to one another with [authentic] brotherly affection [as members of one family], give preference to one another in honor; ¹¹never lagging behind in diligence; aglow in the Spirit, enthusiastically serving the Lord; ¹²constantly rejoicing in hope [because of our confidence in Christ], steadfast and patient in distress, devoted to prayer [continually seeking wisdom, guidance, and strength], ¹³contributing to the needs of God’s people, pursuing [the practice of] hospitality.
¹⁴Bless those who persecute you [who cause you harm or hardship]; bless and do not curse [them]. ¹⁵Rejoice with those who rejoice [sharing others’ joy], and weep with those who weep [sharing others’ grief]. ¹⁶Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty [conceited, self-important, exclusive], but associate with humble people [those with a realistic self-view]. Do not overestimate yourself. ¹⁷Never repay anyone evil for evil. Take thought for what is right and gracious and proper in the sight of everyone. ¹⁸If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. ¹⁹Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave the way open for God’s wrath [and His judicial righteousness]; for it is written [in Scripture], “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. ²⁰But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on his head.” ²¹Do not be overcome and conquered by evil, but overcome evil with good.

1 Corinthians 12 The Use of Spiritual Gifts

1 Now about the spiritual gifts [the special endowments given by the Holy Spirit], brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed.

²You know that when you were pagans, you were led off after speechless idols; however you were led off [whether by impulse or habit]. ³Therefore I want you to know that no one speaking by the [power and influence of the] Spirit of God can say, “Jesus be cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is [my] Lord,” except by [the power and influence of] the Holy Spirit.

⁴Now there are [distinctive] varieties of spiritual gifts [special abilities given by the grace and extraordinary power of the Holy Spirit operating in believers], but it is the same Spirit [who grants them and empowers believers]. ⁵And there are [distinctive] varieties of ministries and service, but it is the same Lord [who is served]. ⁶And there are [distinctive] ways of working [to accomplish things], but it is the same God who produces all things in all believers [inspiring, energizing, and empowering them]. ⁷But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit [the spiritual illumination and the enabling of the Holy Spirit] for the common good. ⁸To one is given through the [Holy] Spirit [the power to speak] the message of wisdom, and to another [the power to express] the word of knowledge and understanding according to the same Spirit; ⁹to another [wonder-working] faith [is given] by the same [Holy] Spirit, and to another the [extraordinary] gifts of healings by the one Spirit; ¹⁰and to another the working of miracles, and to another prophecy [foretelling the future, speaking a new message from God to the people], and to another discernment of spirits [the ability to distinguish sound, godly doctrine from the deceptive doctrine of man-made religions and cults], to another various kinds of [unknown] tongues, and to another interpretation of tongues. ¹¹All these things [the gifts, the achievements, the abilities, the empowering] are brought about by one and the same [Holy] Spirit, distributing to each one individually just as He chooses.
¹²For just as the body is one and yet has many parts, and all the parts, though many, form [only] one body, so it is with Christ. ¹³For by one [Holy] Spirit we were all baptized into one body, [spiritually transformed—united together] whether Jews or Greeks (Gentiles), slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one [Holy] Spirit [since the same Holy Spirit fills each life].
¹⁴For the [human] body does not consist of one part, but of many [limbs and organs]. ¹⁵If the foot says, “Because I am not a hand, I am not a part of the body,” is it not on the contrary still a part of the body? ¹⁶If the ear says, “Because I am not an eye, I am not a part of the body,” is it not on the contrary still a part of the body? ¹⁷If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole [body] were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? ¹⁸But now [as things really are], God has placed and arranged the parts in the body, each one of them, just as He willed and saw fit [with the best balance of function]. ¹⁹If they all were a single organ, where would [the rest of] the body be? ²⁰But now [as things really are] there are many parts [different limbs and organs], but a single body. ²¹The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” ²²But quite the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are [absolutely] necessary; ²³and as for those parts of the body which we consider less honorable, these we treat with greater honor; and our less presentable parts are treated with greater modesty, ²⁴while our more presentable parts do not require it. But God has combined the [whole] body, giving greater honor to that part which lacks it, ²⁵so that there would be no division or discord in the body [that is, lack of adaptation of the parts to each other], but that the parts may have the same concern for one another. ²⁶And if one member suffers, all the parts share the suffering; if one member is honored, all rejoice with it.
²⁷Now you [collectively] are Christ’s body, and individually [you are] members of it [each with his own special purpose and function]. ²⁸So God has appointed and placed in the church [for His own use]: first apostles [chosen by Christ], second prophets [those who foretell the future, those who speak a new message from God to the people], third teachers, then those who work miracles, then those with the gifts of healings, the helpers, the administrators, and speakers in various kinds of [unknown] tongues. ²⁹Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? ³⁰Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? ³¹But earnestly desire and strive for the greater gifts [if acquiring them is going to be your goal].
And yet I will show you a still more excellent way [one of the choicest graces and the highest of them all: unselfish love].

1 Corinthians 13 The Excellence of Love

13 If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love [for others growing out of God’s love for me], then I have become only a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal [just an annoying distraction]. ²And if I have the gift of prophecy [and speak a new message from God to the people], and understand all mysteries, and [possess] all knowledge; and if I have all [sufficient] faith so that I can remove mountains, but do not have love [reaching out to others], I am nothing. ³If I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it does me no good at all.

⁴Love endures with patience and serenity, love is kind and thoughtful, and is not jealous or envious; love does not brag and is not proud or arrogant. ⁵It is not rude; it is not self-seeking, it is not provoked [nor overly sensitive and easily angered]; it does not take into account a wrong endured. ⁶It does not rejoice at injustice, but rejoices with the truth [when right and truth prevail]. ⁷Love bears all things [regardless of what comes], believes all things [looking for the best in each one], hopes all things [remaining steadfast during difficult times], endures all things [without weakening].
⁸Love never fails [it never fades nor ends]. But as for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for the gift of special knowledge, it will pass away. ⁹For we know in part, and we prophesy in part [for our knowledge is fragmentary and incomplete]. ¹⁰But when that which is complete and perfect comes, that which is incomplete and partial will pass away. ¹¹When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. ¹²For now [in this time of imperfection] we see in a mirror dimly [a blurred reflection, a riddle, an enigma], but then [when the time of perfection comes we will see reality] face to face. Now I know in part [just in fragments], but then I will know fully, just as I have been fully known [by God]. ¹³And now there remain: faith [abiding trust in God and His promises], hope [confident expectation of eternal salvation], love [unselfish love for others growing out of God’s love for me], these three [the choicest graces]; but the greatest of these is love.

1 Corinthians 14 Prophecy a Superior Gift

14 Pursue [this] love [with eagerness, make it your goal], yet earnestly desire and cultivate the spiritual gifts [to be used by believers for the benefit of the church], but especially that you may prophesy [to foretell the future, to speak a new message from God to the people]. ²For one who speaks in an unknown tongue does not speak to people but to God; for no one understands him or catches his meaning, but by the Spirit he speaks mysteries [secret truths, hidden things]. ³But [on the other hand] the one who prophesies speaks to people for edification [to promote their spiritual growth] and [speaks words of] encouragement [to uphold and advise them concerning the matters of God] and [speaks words of] consolation [to compassionately comfort them]. ⁴One who speaks in a tongue edifies himself; but one who prophesies edifies the church [promotes growth in spiritual wisdom, devotion, holiness, and joy]. ⁵Now I wish that all of you spoke in unknown tongues, but even more [I wish] that you would prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater [and more useful] than the one who speaks in tongues, unless he translates or explains [what he says], so that the church may be edified [instructed, improved, strengthened].

⁶Now, believers, if I come to you speaking in unknown tongues, how will I benefit you unless I also speak to you [clearly] either by revelation [revealing God’s mystery], or by knowledge [teaching about God], or by prophecy [foretelling the future, speaking a new message from God to the people], or by instruction [teaching precepts that develop spiritual maturity]? ⁷Yet even lifeless things, whether flute or harp, when producing a sound, if they do not produce distinct [musical] tones, how will anyone [listening] know what is piped or played? ⁸And if the [war] bugle produces an indistinct sound, who will prepare himself for battle? ⁹So it is with you, if you speak words [in an unknown tongue] that are not intelligible and clear, how will anyone understand what you are saying? You will be talking into the air [wasting your breath]! ¹⁰There are, I suppose, a great many kinds of languages in the world [unknown to us], and none is lacking in meaning. ¹¹But if I do not know the meaning of the language, I will [appear to] be a foreigner to the one who is speaking [since he knows exactly what he is saying], and the one who is speaking will [appear to] be a foreigner to me. ¹²So it is with you, since you are so very eager to have spiritual gifts and manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in ways that will build up the church [spiritually].
¹³Therefore let one who speaks in a tongue pray that he may [be gifted to] translate or explain [what he says]. ¹⁴For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unproductive [because it does not understand what my spirit is praying]. ¹⁵Then what am I to do? I will pray with the spirit [by the Holy Spirit that is within me] and I will pray with the mind [using words I understand]; I will sing with the spirit [by the Holy Spirit that is within me] and I will sing with the mind [using words I understand]. ¹⁶Otherwise if you bless [and give thanks to God] in the spirit only, how will any outsider or someone who is not gifted [in spiritual matters] say the “Amen” [of agreement] to your thanksgiving, since he does not know what you are saying? ¹⁷You are giving thanks well enough [in a way that God is glorified], but the other person [who does not understand you] is not edified [and spiritually strengthened since he cannot join in your thanksgiving]. ¹⁸I thank God that I speak in [unknown] tongues more than all of you; ¹⁹nevertheless, in public worship I would rather say five understandable words in order to instruct others, than ten thousand words in a tongue [which others cannot understand].

Instruction for the Church

²⁰Brothers and sisters, do not be children [immature, childlike] in your thinking; be infants in [matters of] evil [completely innocent and inexperienced], but in your minds be mature [adults]. ²¹It is written in the Law, “By men of strange tongues and by the lips of foreigners I will speak to this people, and not even then will they listen to Me,” says the Lord. ²²Therefore, [unknown] tongues are [meant] for a [supernatural] sign, not to believers but to unbelievers [who might be receptive]; while prophecy [foretelling the future, speaking a new message from God to the people] is not for unbelievers but for believers. ²³So then, if the whole church gathers together and all of you speak in [unknown] tongues, and outsiders or those who are not gifted [in spiritual matters] or unbelievers come in, will they not say that you are out of your mind? ²⁴But if all prophesy [foretelling the future, speaking a new message from God to the people], and an unbeliever or outsider comes in, he is convicted [of his sins] by all, and he is called to account by all [because he can understand what is being said]; ²⁵the secrets of his heart are laid bare. And so, falling on his face, he will worship God, declaring that God is really among you.
²⁶What then is the right course, believers? When you meet together, each one has a psalm, a teaching, a revelation (disclosure of special knowledge), a tongue, or an interpretation. Let everything be constructive and edifying and done for the good of all the church. ²⁷If anyone speaks in a tongue, it should be limited to two or at the most three, and each one speaking in turn, and one must interpret [what is said]. ²⁸But if there is no one to interpret, the one [who wishes to speak in a tongue] must keep silent in church; let him speak to himself and to God. ²⁹Let two or three prophets speak [as inspired by the Holy Spirit], while the rest pay attention and weigh carefully what is said. ³⁰But if an inspired revelation is made to another who is seated, then the first one must be silent. ³¹For [in this way] you can all prophesy one by one, so that everyone may be instructed and everyone may be encouraged; ³²for the spirits of prophets are subject to the prophets [the prophecy is under the speaker’s control, and he can stop speaking]; ³³for God [who is the source of their prophesying] is not a God of confusion and disorder but of peace and order.
As [is the practice] in all the churches of the saints (God’s people),
³⁴the women should be silent in the churches, for they are not authorized to speak, but are to take a subordinate place, as the Law says. ³⁵If there is anything they want to learn [that is, if they have questions about anything being said or taught], they are to ask their own husbands at home; for it is improper for a woman to talk in church. ³⁶Did the word of the Lord originate from you [Corinthians], or has it come to you only [so that you know best what God requires]?
³⁷If anyone thinks and claims that he is a prophet [a true spokesman for God] or spiritually astute [filled with and energized by the Holy Spirit], let him recognize that the things which I write to you are the Lord’s commandment. ³⁸If anyone does not recognize this [that it is a command of the Lord], he is not recognized [by God].
³⁹Therefore, believers, desire earnestly to prophesy [to foretell the future, to speak a new message from God to the people], and do not forbid speaking in unknown tongues. ⁴⁰But all things must be done appropriately and in an orderly manner.

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Disclosure: Much of what is in my posts are things I have compiled through the years and I do not know if they have copyrights. What I do know about origin or website I give credit and have tried to always post a link to the origin. I do not market anything in any way on this blog -- I merely hope it will encourage and inspire others.

The Pursuit of Wisdom Brings Security -- Praying for the children and their parents

Heavenly Father, I pray you bless this generation of children and their parents.
The book of Proverbs chapter 2 indicates change is available to all who desire a path that turns them from rebellion and foolishness and draws them closer to one another and to you and puts them on the PATHWAY TO TRUE WISDOM.
In Jesus mighty name, Amen.

Dear God,
Please make of my life what You would have it be.
Time and fate have twisted things.
I cannot straighten out alone.
Dear God,...
may I begin again.
My body
My mind
My spirit
My love
My hate
My pain
My sorrows
My joy
My questions
My fears
My hopes
My visions
I give them all to You.

Amen

(By Marianne Williamson)

The Pursuit of Wisdom Brings Security
Proverbs 2
1 My son, if you will receive my words
And treasure my commandments within you,
2 Make your ear attentive to wisdom,
Incline your heart to understanding;
3 For if you cry for discernment,
Lift your voice for understanding;
4 If you seek her as silver
And search for her as for hidden treasures;
5 Then you will discern the fear of the Lord
And discover the knowledge of God.

6 For the Lord gives wisdom;
From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.
7 He stores up sound wisdom for the upright;
He is a shield to those who walk in integrity,
8 Guarding the paths of justice,
And He preserves the way of His godly ones.

9 Then you will discern righteousness and justice
And equity and every good course.
10 For wisdom will enter your heart
And knowledge will be pleasant to your soul;
11 Discretion will guard you,
Understanding will watch over you,
12 To deliver you from the way of evil,
From the man who speaks perverse things;
13 From those who leave the paths of uprightness
To walk in the ways of darkness;
14 Who delight in doing evil
And rejoice in the perversity of evil;
15 Whose paths are crooked,
And who are devious in their ways;
16 To deliver you from the strange woman,
From the adulteress who flatters with her words;
17 That leaves the companion of her youth
And forgets the covenant of her God;
18 For her house sinks down to death
And her tracks lead to the dead;
19 None who go to her return again,
Nor do they reach the paths of life.
20 So you will walk in the way of good men
And keep to the paths of the righteous.

21 For the upright will live in the land
And the blameless will remain in it;
22 But the wicked will be cut off from the land
And the treacherous will be uprooted from it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

COURAGE -- DON'T QUIT -- DREAM -- KEEP ON KEEPING ON

courage

quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, etc., without fear; bravery

Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.”

Don't Quit no matter what!

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
When funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a failure turns about,
When he might have won if he'd stuck it out.
Don't give up, though the pace seems slow -
You may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than
It seems to a faint and faltering man;
Often the struggler has given up
When he might have captured the victor's cup,
And he learned too late, when the night slipped down,
How close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out -
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are -
It may be near when it seems afar;
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit -
It's when things seem worst that you mustn't quit.

- by Author Unknown

HAVE COURAGE TO SAY NO!
You’re starting, my boy, on life’s journey,
Along the grand highway of life;
You’ll meet with a thousand temptations—
Each city with evil is rife.

This world is a stage of excitement,
There’s danger wherever you go;
But if you are tempted to weakness,
Have courage, my boy, to say No!

In courage, my boy, lies your safety,
When you the long journey begin,
Your trust in a heavenly Father
Will keep you unspotted from sin.

Temptations will go on increasing,
As streams from a rivulet flow;
But if you’d be true to your manhood,
Have courage, my boy, to say No!

Be careful in choosing companions,
Seek only the brave and the true,
And stand by your friends when in trial,
Ne’er changing the old for the new;

And when by false friends you are tempted
The taste of the wine cup to know,
With firmness, with patience and kindness,
Have courage, my boy, to say No!

Have courage, my boy, to say No!
Have courage, my boy, to say No!
Have courage, my boy,
Have courage, my boy,
Have courage, my boy, to say No!
- by Author Unknown

What is a dream?

A dream is a magical thing

A rainbow of joy in your heart

Your own secret corner

Where no one can go

Where the path

To fulfillment can start

A dream lures you on,

Always one step ahead

Until you have caught it,

And then there's always another

To capture your soul

And lead you onward again.

- by Author Unknown

YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES
Figure it out for yourself, my lad,

You've all that the greatest of men have had;

Two arms, two hands, two legs, two eyes,

And a brain to use if you would be wise,

With this equipment they all began--

So start from the top and say, I CAN.

Look them over, the wise and the great,

They take their food from a common plate,

And similar knives and forks they use,

With similar laces they tie their shoes;

The world considers them brave and smart,

But you've all they had when they made their start.

You can triumph and come to skill,

You can be great if you only will;

You're well equipped for what fight you choose,

You have arms and legs and a brain to use;

And the man who has risen great deeds to do

Began his life with no more than you.

You are the handicap you must face,

You are the one who must choose your place.

You must say where you want to go,

How much you will study the truth to know;

God has equipped you for life, but He

Lets you decide what you want to be.

Courage must come from the soul within

The man must furnish the will to win.

So figure it out for yourself my lad,

You were born with all that the great have had;

With your equipment they all began,

Get hold of yourself and say, 'I CAN.'

- by Author Unknown

“When faced with a mountain I WILL NOT QUIT I will keep on striving until I climb over, find a pass through, tunnel underneath or simply stay and turn the mountain into a gold mine, with gods help” Rev. Robert H. Schuller -

Courage brings Freedom & Peace

John 14:27 "PEACE I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
Romans 8:15 “For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.”
Philippians 1:12-14 “But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.”

Psalm 31:24

“Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.”

1 Corinthians 15:58

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the

Ephesians 6:10

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.”

One Pair of Hands" by Elvis Presley

"Taking Mother's Hand"
When a boy or girl thrusts his small hand in yours, it may be smeared with chocolate ice cream, or grimy from petting a dog, and there may be a wart under the right thumb and a bandage around the little finger.
But the most important thing about his hands is that they are the hands of the future. These are the hands that someday may hold a Bible or a Colt revolver; play the church piano or spin a gambling wheel; gently dress a leper's wound, or tremble... wretchedly uncontrolled by an alcoholic mind.

Right now, that hand is yours. It asks for help and guidance. It represents a full-fledged personality in miniature to be respected as a separate individual whose day-to-day growth into Christian adulthood is your responsibility.
author unknown

Isaiah 41:10 - Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Proverbs 31:31 - Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=igcPXFs4VdY

Johnny Cash "These Hands" Live in Asbury Park NJ Oct 1985

Wrinkled Hands
In a school there was a class
Of twenty eight-year-olds
They were given a task to find...
The most beautiful thing in the world

Two weeks to search for that thing
Five days to paint it well
Two days to prepare a speech about it
To explain during Show-and-Tell
All the students had their ideas
All that is, but one.
One little boy who tried to do
What no one else had done
He tried to find a special thing
That no one else could find.
Something of beauty yet still unique
But could this be found in time?
Three weeks have gone by
Everyone was excited for class
Each explained his beautiful work
And the little boy went last.
When he showed his little painting
The boo's didn't seem to end
For what beauty can you find
In two pairs of wrinkled hands?
The teacher encouraged the little boy
To explain his work of art
With tears in his eyes, the boy recalled
The people in his heart.
"These are my parent's hands,
The hands they use to earn
These hands worked to send me here
So that I could learn
"These hands have guided me
When I was still a babe
These hands showed me much
Of love that wouldn't fade
"One late night while I was asleep
A great fire broke out
Two strong arms carried me
While the people ran about.
"Then, another pair of hands
Shielded me from the heat
These pair of hands saved me
And were damaged for this feat.
"I know they seem so ordinary
And ugly, they may be
But these wrinkled hands I painted
Are still beautiful to me"
When the little boy sat down
Silence filled the place
Then, the teacher started to clap,
Tears running down her face
For that day she saw much splendor
Much more than she had planned
But she found beauty beyond compare
In the painting of wrinkled hands.
author unknown

Isaiah 49:16 - Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me.

Grandpa's Hands
by Melinda Clements
Grandpa, some ninety plus years, sat feebly on the patio bench. He didn't move, just sat with his head down staring at his hands.
...

When I sat down beside him he didn't acknowledge my presence and the longer I sat I wondered if he was OK. Finally, not really wanting to disturb him but wanting to check on him at the same time, I asked him if he was OK. He raised his head and looked at me and smiled. "Yes, I'm fine, thank you for asking," he said in a clear strong voice.
"I didn't mean to disturb you, Grandpa, but you were just sitting here staring at your hands and I wanted to make sure you were OK," I explained to him.
"Have you ever looked at your hands," he asked. "I mean really looked at your hands?
I slowly opened my hands and stared down at them. I turned them over, palms up and then palms down.
No, I guess I had never really looked at my hands as I tried to figure out the point he was making.

Grandpa smiled and related this story:
"Stop and think for a moment about the hands you have how they have served you well throughout your years.
These hands, though wrinkled, shriveled and weak have been the tools I have used all my life to reach out and grab and embrace life.
They braced and caught my fall when as a toddler I crashed upon the floor.
They put food in my mouth and clothes on my back.
As a child my Mother taught me to fold them in prayer.
They tied my shoes and pulled on my boots.
They have been dirty, scraped and raw, swollen and bent.
They were uneasy and clumsy when I tried to hold my newborn son.
Decorated with my wedding band they showed the world that I was married and loved someone special.
They wrote the letters home and trembled and shook when I buried my Parents and Spouse and walked my Daughter down the aisle.
Yet, they were strong and sure when I dug my buddy out of a foxhole and lifted a plow off of my best friend's foot.
They have held children, consoled neighbors, and shook in fists of anger when I didn't understand.
They have covered my face, combed my hair, and washed and cleansed the rest of my body.
They have been sticky and wet, bent and broken, dried and raw.
And to this day when not much of anything else of me works real well, these hands hold me up, lay me down, and again continue to fold in prayer.
These hands are the mark of where I've been and the ruggedness of my life.
But more importantly it will be these hands that God will reach out and take when he leads me home.
And with my hands He will lift me to His side and there I will use these hands to touch the face of Christ."

I will never look at my hands the same again. But I remember God reached out and took my Grandpa's hands and led him home.

When my hands are hurt or sore or when I stroke the face of my children and wife, I think of Grandpa. I know he has been stroked and caressed and held by the hands of God. I, too, want to touch the face of God and feel His hands upon my face.

Elvis Presley - Put Your Hand In The Hand

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=os2w4S3932g

The Hand

At first it sounded like a Thanksgiving story, but the more I reflected on it, the more appropriate it seemed for any time of the year. The way I heard it, the story went like this:

Thanksgiving Day was near. The first grade teacher gave her class a fun assignment -- to draw a picture of something for which they were thankful.

Most of the class might be considered economically disadvantaged, but still many would celebrate the holiday with turkey and other traditional goodies of the season. These, the teacher thought, would be the subjects of most of her student's art. And they were.

But Douglas made a different kind of picture. Douglas was a different kind of boy. He was the teacher's true child of misery, frail and unhappy. As other children played at recess, Douglas was likely to stand close by her side. One could only guess at the pain Douglas felt behind those sad eyes.

Yes, his picture was different. When asked to draw a picture of something for which he was thankful, he drew a hand. Nothing else. Just an empty hand.

His abstract image captured the imagination of his peers. Whose hand could it be? One child guessed it was the hand of a farmer, because farmers raise turkeys. Another suggested a police officer, because the police protect and care for people. Still others guessed it was the hand of God, for God feeds us. And so the discussion went -- until the teacher almost forgot the young artist himself.

When the children had gone on to other assignments, she paused at Douglas' desk, bent down, and asked him whose hand it was. The little boy looked away and murmured, "It's yours, teacher."

She recalled the times she had taken his hand and walked with him here or there, as she had the other students. How often had she said, "Take my hand, Douglas, we'll go outside." Or, "Let me show you how to hold your pencil." Or, "Let's do this together." Douglas was most thankful for his teacher's hand.

Brushing aside a tear, she went on with her work.

The story speaks of more than thankfulness. It says something about teachers teaching and parents parenting and friends showing friendship, and how much it means to the Douglass of the world. They might not always say thanks. But they'll remember the hand that reaches out.

WILLY NELSON -- GRANDMA'S HANDS

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3K0u6Kxgog

These are my hands quite aged yet very strong.

I have used them mostly for good and not for wrong.

Jesus has forgiven me from the times they have done evil,

by open or secret sins when I obeyed the devil!

I intend to use them until my last day

For blessing others and to pray.

The MANUFACTURER'S HANDBOOK (AKA THE BIBLE)

IS FILLED WITH SCRIPTURES ABOUT HANDS

Acts 11:21 - And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.

Luke 24:50 - And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.

Luke 4:40 - Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them.

Mark 10:16 - And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.

HANDS -- THEY CAN BLESS AND THEY CAN CURSE ONESELF AND OTHERS

Mark 9:43 - And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched:

Matthew 18:8 - Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast [them] from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire.

WHAT ARE YOUR HANDS BUSY AT?

Tending others in need or lifting a jug and wallowing in self pity?

Isaiah 59:1 - Behold, the LORD'S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear:

1 Timothy 4:14 - Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.

Hebrews 6:2 - Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.

Acts 19:6 - And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.

Mark 16:18 - They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.