Rejecting Wisdom Is What Fools Do!

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7 NIV
Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. Proverbs 4:5-7 NIV
Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice? Proverbs 8:1 NIV
for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her. Proverbs 8:11 NIV

Whenever we need to grasp a better understanding of what we are seeing in Washington, DC, reading Proverbs reminds us that those who lack wisdom are the fools in charge--for now.

How did this happen? Gullible people--fearful, hateful, and spiteful--decided to believe all the disinformation and misinformation promoted by the racist bigots with the help of Russian trolls.

Though many did not like Hillary Clinton (actually hated her), they hated her without justification based upon the political, tribal agenda of the Republicans. Had they listened to her, and accepted the wisdom they did not agree with--this country would not be a laughingstock in the eyes of other nations. Whether people liked her or not--she told us exactly what would happen if the menace in the White House was elected.

She warned of his being triggered by tweets.

She warned of his authoritarian--dictatorial mentality.

She warned us that he would lie about any and everything.

She warned us that his hatred would reign in his decisions.

She warned us that any tax reform would only benefit the rich.

She warned us that millions would be without adequate healthcare.

She warned us that budget slashes would affect the poor and the needy.

She warned us that he would turn on the LGBQT community.

She warned us that he was Putin's puppet.

She warned us that his ego would lead us into places wise men would not go.

Isn't it amazing how God references wisdom in the "feminine" voice! This refutes the notion that God views women as inferior to men.

Since we cannot go back in time and change anything, it is time we sought wisdom and stopped thinking we know it all--like the rest of the fools.

Obtaining wisdom leads us to understanding why right-wing evangelicals felt the need to lie to their congregations and are still lying to America--at those to those who bother to listen to them.

Obtaining wisdom leads us to understanding why we should never take our democracy for granted since we see the results of a wanna-be dictator trying to dismantle our Constitution.

Obtaining wisdom leads us to understanding why we should research information for ourselves and not allow the opinions of a few--especially those with distorted views--feed us information that will eventually lead to our destruction.

Obtaining wisdom leads us to listening to those who are far wiser than we are, whether we agree with them or not--it should make us stop and think--critically--of what it is we're hearing.

Hopefully, we have seen so much foolishness that we will certainly acquire the wisdom needed to right the wrongs and set America back on the track of greatness and honor. We can exercise wisdom in the coming elections by analyzing what has occurred and concluding what could result if the party of grand old prevaricators stay in power. They have proven they will not uphold their oaths of office and do their job by covering for the pathological liar, making excuses for his incompetence and hatefulness.

Determine now--that never again--will we allow anyone to mislead us and encourage us to vote for political candidate out of hatred, bigotry and fear. For the those of us who claim to be Christians--we should know, "perfect love cast out fear." Where there is fear, a fearful heart, and unjustifiable fear of people--there is no love. Where there is no love, people live in darkness for love is light in dark places. Where there is love--unconditionally--for all people--there is no room for hatred and bigotry.

Determine now--that we will walk in love towards all people--endeavoring to live at peace with the world, learning to disagree, agreeably--not with malice in our hearts. We will walk in wisdom in coming elections--voting for the person who cares about all people--not just a group--and one who consider policies that benefit all--not just some. America is "one nation" composed of many diverse people--all of whom have much to contribute to our society and our ability to thrive as a nation.

The person we next elect as president of the "United" (not separated/divided) States of America should be an Everyday American who knows and understands the struggles and challenges of Everyday Americans and one who will fight for the rights of all Everyday Americans without denigrating or maligning others.

I am an Everyday American. I cherish and embrace wisdom and know how to reject foolishness. I know I can serve the needs of all Everyday Americans regardless of political affiliations, gender, ethnicity, or faith. My loyalty will be to the people, not a party and I will work with all who choose to serve Americans.

Fools and Boasting!

Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring. Let someone else praise you, and not your own mouth; and outsider, and not your own lips. Stone is heavy and sand a burden, but a fool's provocation is heavier than both. Proverbs 27:1-3 NIV

Whenever we have to promote ourselves as being, "the greatest, the best, the most wonderful," of anything--we indicate we do not trust the judgment of others.

If we take an honest look at the path trump has taken to the White House, we find (with careful scrutiny) he has been his own public relations promoter. The fact he lies about it is another issue, but he is the one who "called the press" and boasted of his exploits. He is the one who proclaims his net worth (which varies according to his feelings). He is the one who claims he is the only who can "fix the ills of the world." More recently, his claim to coining the phrase, "priming the pump" is so ludicrous that many--including me--laughed at his lack of understanding of history. He also claims that "using solar panels to build a wall" is his idea when he actually got it from two contractors who were bidding for the contract. His claims also include having influence over Carrier and Ford and other companies when in fact, decisions made by those companies occurred long before trump was elected, but it didn't stop him from trying to take credit for those company's decisions.

Let's face it--whenever people boast of their own prowess and knowledge--it's because it would be difficult for others to do it--without evidence to document what they say.

Since it would be "gossiping" to some extent to talk about other people, I have to use myself as an example. I have seldom commented on how others perceive my ability to teach because I don't know what they're thinking unless they tell me. I love to teach and I have one goal when I teach--to make sure those sitting in front of me know more than when they first attended class. I tell each class--I'm there to help them to succeed since they need no help to fail.

According to my students--at least those who passed my classes--my goal was met. Those who didn't pass the class either were slothful in attendance and did not complete required work.

Whenever I've been observed by colleagues or those in academic positions to observe me as part of an evaluative process, I've always been commended on my approach to teaching and engaging students in the process. Those written comments are documented as part of my employee file.

The student evaluations also document my ability to engage students in the process of learning as well as my own audit of every class. I always ask my students for their input on how things are progressing, what they need to know that has not been introduced, or if I need to try a different approach to information discussed. Their responses to my inquiries are always helpful and in a few instances, I've adjusted what I do based on their comments.

As another testament to my teaching ability, I was nominated by students to be included in the "Who's Who of Teaching" for several years in a row.

If I had to assess my own abilities as a teacher I'd have to say, "I'm not the person to ask." I love teaching and I love what I teach both in a secular settings and in ministry. I've been told I've very passionate when I present information and guide discussions and that would be true. If I didn't have strong beliefs in what I do, I couldn't do it well.

That being said, I have nothing to boast about when it comes to being president of the United States. I haven't been in politics before now, but I'm looking forward to the challenge and opportunity to serve Everyday Americans. I know enough about leadership not to provoke those who are in alliance with me and to not abandon those who are looking for a leader to lead for all--not just some of the people, and to seek those who know more than I do to place in positions of authority.

A Fool and His Folly!

For lack of discipline they will die, led astray by their own great folly. Proverbs 5:23 NIV
All who are prudent act with knowledge, but fools expose their folly. Proverbs 13:16 NIV
The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception. Proverbs 14:8 NIV
Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly. Proverbs 14:29 NIV
The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly. Proverbs 15:2 NIV
The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly. Proverbs 15:14 NIV
Folly brings joy to one who has no sense, but whoever has understanding keeps a straight course. Proverbs 15:21 NIV
Prudence is a fountain of life to the prudent, but folly brings punishment to fools. Proverbs 16:22 NIV
A person's own folly leads to their ruin, yet their heart rages against the LORD. Proverbs 19:3 NIV
The schemes of folly are sin, and people detest a mocker. Proverbs 24:9 NIV
Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him. Proverbs 26:4 NIV
Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes. Proverbs 26:5
As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly. Proverbs 26:11 NIV
I saw that wisdom is better than folly, just as light is better than darkness. Ecclesiastes 2:13 NIV
At the beginning their words are folly; at the end they are wicked madness— Ecclesiastes 10:13 NIV
But they will not get very far because, as in the case of those men, their folly will be clear to everyone. 2 Timothy 3:9 NIV

The Word of God addresses the situation in the White House far better than I ever could. We have but to look at how actions led by the #WHidiot to see how The Word is revealed in all they do.

The end is not yet--we must be determined and persist and insist that Congress do its job and relieve us (all Americans) from the possibility of danger exacerbated by a fool and his follies. #Resistthefool and #Persist in pushing for the investigation of #trumprussia.

God is watching and He knows all there is to know and since He is truth, truth will be revealed for all the world to see.

If there was anyone in the White House or on Capitol Hill with integrity or honor, we would not have to suffer the foolishness of fools because they would simply admit their wrongdoing and we could all move on.

A prudent servant will rule over a disgraceful son and will share the inheritance as one of the family. The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart. A wicked person listens to deceitful lips; a liar pays attention to a destructive tongue. Whoever mocks the poor shows contempt for their Maker; whoever gloats over disaster will not go unpunished.Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children. Eloquent lips are unsuited to a godless fool— how much worse lying lips to a ruler! A bribe is seen as a charm by the one who gives it; they think success will come at every turn. Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends. A rebuke impresses a discerning person more than a hundred lashes a fool. Evildoers foster rebellion against God; the messenger of death will be sent against them. Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool bent on folly. Evil will never leave the house of one who pays back evil for good. Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out. Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent— the LORD detests them both. Why should fools have money in hand to buy wisdom, when they are not able to understand it?A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity. One who has no sense shakes hands in pledge and puts up security for a neighbor. Whoever loves a quarrel loves sin; whoever builds a high gate invites destruction.One whose heart is corrupt does not prosper; one whose tongue is perverse falls into trouble. The wicked accept bribes in secret to pervert the course of justice. Proverbs 17:2-20, 23 NIV

A Wicked Person listens to deceitful lips, a liar pays attention to a destructive tongue!

Why should fools have money in hand to buy wisdom, when they are not able to understand it?

Whoever loves a quarrel loves sin; whoever builds a high gate invites destruction.

The wicked accepts bribes in secret to pervert the course of justice.

One who has no sense shakes hands in pledge and puts up security for a neighbor.

If we lived according to The Word, how much better would the lives of all be? Since we don't, we continue to have problems and make problems for years to come for those who have had no input into the workings of the world.

When those in authority do not understand setting priorities, they create unnecessary burdens for others to shoulder.

Americans--in order to continue promoting ourselves as a competitive nation and one who harbors concern for all of its citizens--need access to a quality education and healthcare; our older citizens who have paid into Social Security and Medicare need those resources preserved; we all need to be able to breathe clear air and drink clean water.

Taxpayers do not need to pay a wall they cannot use for daily living.

Politicians need to exercise wisdom in all matters--keeping in mind--they work for the people and every decision made should be in the best interest of the people--not their personal agendas--to control others.

Recognizing The Fool!

From The Word--NIV Translation--the fool is described mostly in Proverbs.

The proverbs of Solomon: A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son brings grief to his mother. Proverbs 10:1 

The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin. Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.Whoever winks maliciously causes grief, and a chattering fool comes to ruin. The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence. Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning, but a rod is for the back of one who has no sense. The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin.  Proverbs 10:8-14 

Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.Whoever conceals hatred with lying lips and spreads slander is a fool. Proverbs 10:17,18

 The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of sense. 10:21

A fool finds pleasure in wicked schemes, but a person of understanding delights in wisdom. 10:23

Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips. 14:7 

The wise fear the LORD and shun evil, but a fool is hotheaded and yet feels secure. 14:16 

The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly. 15:2

The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly. 15:14

Eloquent lips are unsuited to a godless fool— how much worse lying lips to a ruler! 17:7

It is to one's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel. 20:3

Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes. 26:5

“If you play the fool and exalt yourself, or if you plan evil, clap your hand over your mouth!" 30:32

No longer will the fool be called noble nor the scoundrel be highly respected. Isaiah 32:5 

In this self-confident boasting I am not talking as the Lord would, but as a fool. 2 Corinthians 11:17

The fool--as we can see from The Word--is easily identifiable if we are not wearing blinders or have our ears covered.
 
The fool's mouth always identifies him.

The fool's insecurity is evident in their paranoid behavior.

The fool will always boast of himself--self-congratulatory--always patting self on the back.

The fool will always expect others to praise them--seeks opportunity to find those who are gullible and will believe anything they say.

The fool never believes that others can see through their foolishness.

The fool thinks they have a right to dictate to others.

The fool is blinded to truth because their ego is the driving force in their lives.

The fool always needs someone else to clean up the messes they make.

The fool never accepts responsibility for what they do and always blames others when things go wrong.

The fool never listens to those who are wise because they don't believe anyone is wiser than they are.

Do we recognize him, now?

Hope Beyond The Senseless!

It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High, proclaiming your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night, to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp. For you make me glad by your deeds, LORD; I sing for joy at what your hands have done. How great are your works, LORD, how profound your thoughts! Senseless people do not know, fools do not understand, that though the wicked spring up like grass and all evildoers flourish, they will be destroyed forever. But you, LORD, are forever exalted. For surely your enemies, LORD, surely your enemies will perish; all evildoers will be scattered.  Psalm 92:1-9 NIV

No matter what happens or how foolish those who don't know God can be, our hope should be rooted in the God of Heaven and know He is the only Wise One to whom we can seek counsel.
Americans have elected a person to govern this already great country with a personal agenda to make his name great and everything he does--is an indicator that he cares nothing about the people who elected him and certainly not those who didn't. In another words, a narcissist is incapable of thinking about anyone but themselves. And a pathological liar will lie about everything and believe what they say. So, how anyone can believe that God chose him--is beyond me.

Looking at all the people he selected to serve in his administration is proof that he is all about--Making America White-Male-Controlled Again. But of course, birds of a feather do flock together--which is why we can be sure--the first opportunity he gets--he will share intelligence with foreign nations to our detriment because he has no sense of discipline, honor or integrity, and certainly does not understand diplomatic protocol with interactions with other world leaders.

Though the road looks a little rocky with a fool in the driver's seat, we can look beyond the senselessness and see God--in all His glory and rest in Him.

May The Lord continue to watch over all those who love Him and will obey His commands in all areas to love Him and love others. May our hope always reside in Him who is the wisest and the One who loves us. May The Lord strengthen us in our resolve to be bold and courageous on every front to push back against foolishness and evil so that it won't pervade and spread faster than a wildfire in a drought. May The Lord continue to comfort hearts and pour out wisdom in all who are willing to receive from Him. May The Lord continue to guide our steps to the end of our journey where we will see Him in all of His glory! May The Lord speak to our hearts so we can reach out to those who feel isolated and abandoned, assuring them of God's love and our compassion towards them. May The Lord keep our angels alert and watchful over all so our judgment of them will be just.

When Evil Is Plotted!

You who practice deceit, your tongue plots destruction; it is like a sharpened razor. Psalm 52:2 NIV
A troublemaker and a villain, who goes about with a corrupt mouth, who winks maliciously with his eye, signals with his feet and motions with his fingers,who plots evil with deceit in his heart— he always stirs up conflict.Therefore disaster will overtake him in an instant; he will suddenly be destroyed—without remedy. Proverbs 6:12-15 NIV
A scoundrel plots evil, and on their lips it is like a scorching fire. Proverbs 16:27
Whoever plots evil will be known as a schemer. Proverbs 24:8 NIV

Whenever anyone plots to do evil against another person, they risk a Hamanesque result in the process.

Some would say, karma--has a boomerang effect.

Others might say--if you dig a hole for someone, you just might be the one who falls into it.

I'm saying, never start a fire you're not prepared to extinguish.

And of course, when Haman plotted evil to get rid of Mordecai, the gallows he constructed for Mordecai, became his final gasp for breath.

Plotting to do evil always has dire consequences for the person doing the plotting, thereby igniting the Hamanesque result.

We cannot be foolish enough to think that God does not know the evil that lurks in our hearts when we plot for the destruction of others. When our actions--whatever they are--attempt to undermine or destroy others--we open the door for a turn-around effect--especially when we have lied about our own behavior and yet attempt to manipulate truth to destroy others. God is not mocked and His Word is true.

The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly. Proverbs 15:4 NIV

“If you play the fool and exalt yourself, or if you plan evil, clap your hand over your mouth! Proverbs 30:32 NIV

A dream comes when there are many cares, and many words mark the speech of a fool.Ecclesiastes 5:3 NIV

Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding. Proverbs 17:28 KJV

Eloquent lips are unsuited to a godless fool— how much worse lying lips to a ruler! Proverbs 17:7 NIV

There is so much more that could be said, but if we allow Holy Spirit to fill our hearts, then whatever is in our hearts will be heard when we speak.

If evil fills our heart, then that will be heard when we speak as well.

We all have choices to make in life and I prefer making my choices align with the Word of God rather than in opposition to it. For if we support a fool and his foolish ways, what does that say about us? Are we, too, plotting evil? If we are, then we put ourselves in a position for our plots to turn on us.

If we must plot to do anything--let's plot to spread love and promote the Gospel of Jesus Christ wherever we go, with whoever we meet. That is the only plot, I'd love to see turn back on us--the circle of love, rather than a continuum of hate, bigotry, and evil.

What goes around, will come back around and if we are the ones who start a fire without an extinguisher, we're bound to get burned.

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you!

What To Expect!

An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends and against all sound judgment starts quarrels. Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions. When wickedness comes, so does contempt, and with shame comes reproach. The words of the mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a rushing stream. It is not good to be partial to the wicked and so deprive the innocent of justice. The lips of fools bring them strife, and their mouths invite a beating. The mouths of fools are their undoing, and their lips are a snare to their very lives. Proverbs 18:1-7 NIV

If I am belaboring the point of a fool's life--just bear with me so I can get it out of my system. The word fool is mentioned 66 times in 62 verses in the KJV (fools 42 times) and 62 times in 58 verses in the NIV (fools is mentioned 63 times). Solomon talks about a fool or fools more than anyone in Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. So, if we take a common sense approach to understanding The Word, we discover, God is not too happy with a fool or foolish behavior.

It is so difficult not to talk about the conduct of a fool in light of our current election cycle. Differences of opinion should open the door for dialogue but instead--with those who don't think anyone is right but them--it opens the floodgates of hatred and bigotry and arrogance and presumptiveness.

Here's what I'm discovering about what to expect of those who are diehards--more loyal to party than country:

• They would rather stand on accusatory rhetoric--already proven wrong--than to accept the reality of the situation.
• They accept spliced media as credible evidence against a political candidate and expect others to just "believe" what it portrays.
• They expect others to fall in line with their opinions when no viable, credible evidence is offered to support their opinions.
• They expect others to accept the lead of "religious leaders" who are simply party puppets to know more than Holy Spirit.
• They discredit a person's relationship with God and hearing Holy Spirit when the discussion does not support what they want others to accept.
• They refute The Word as the standard for political choices when it doesn't fit with party platforms.
• They lose ground and credibility every time they open their mouth (loose lips sink ships or political clout).

I could go on and on, but it would serve no purpose other than to ignite more animosity and that is not my purpose. My purpose in presenting the bullet points above is to hopefully shed some light on how ridiculous some become over political rhetoric. I know because I've been chastised about my political position (which aligns with The Word) because I refuse to put party platform over the welfare of the entire country.

This has all been stated before, but I guess sometimes, we need to repeat and repeat and repeat a matter for some to understand it. Hence--the repetition about a fool or fools in The Word.

Considering the life Jesus lived while walking the earth, I wonder what He would do about this election cycle. God the Father is Love and Jesus is God the Son so therefore, Love abounds in the persons of the authority in our lives (assuming God, not a political party is the authority). If we see and hear--a candidate who is divisive, promoting hate and fear and has no depth of compassion for others--would Jesus have voted for this person to guide the nation?

I've been "told" to pray for God to change the candidate in question's heart, but this I know about God--He will not force anyone to do anything and if a person sees no need to change who they are--all the prayer by every person from every corner in the world won't change them. When--someone who has supposedly converted to Christianity--proclaims they have no need to ask God to forgive them--that speaks volumes about their so-called conversion. One of the first tenets of coming to Christ--is confessing our sin and asking to be forgiven.

At any rate--I'm praying that God will fill--to overflowing everyone willing to receive--His wisdom and they will act accordingly in obedience to His Word. That's my prayer.

Mockers and Fools vs Wisdom and Knowledge!

The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down. Proverbs 14:1 NIV
A fool’s mouth lashes out with pride, but the lips of the wise protect them. Proverbs 14:3 NIV
The mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the discerning. Proverbs 14:6 NIV
Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips. Proverbs 14:7 NIV

Looking at The Word through Solomon's insights, there really is no competition between the foolish and the wise. Wisdom trumps foolishness every time.

Wise people build--their houses with solid foundations that will endure the test of time and storms. Any foundation that is week and has not been properly shored up, will buckle and eventually cave in causing destruction to the whole house. And whenever there is a problem with the foundation, steps should be taken to make sure it stabilizes before it crumbles and falls.

The building principle is true of every aspect of our lives--we build relationships on solid foundations. We build careers on solid foundations and we build up our faith in God, on the solid foundation of The Word.

Pride speaks without thinking--not considering its ways or how what is said will affect the hearer. Pride doesn't care and since pride doesn't care--they are often revealed as fools. While the wise are careful to research and think before speaking, mindful that words carry impact and impact affects those who hear their words.

The mocker--those who mock others for whatever reason--seeks wisdom in all the wrong places and from the wrong people and therefore never obtain what he/she is seeking. But those who have knowledge and wisdom, easily discern what the fools never understand.

Solomon reveals the valuable lessons he's learned throughout the Proverbs and carried over into Ecclesiastes--the wisdom he gained from God who gives liberally and from making mistakes in his disobedience. He learned that wisdom never leads anyone astray, but a fool--will also find himself lost, without direction, never knowing right from left or up from down--when to stay and when to quit--when to speak and when to be quiet.

With all that Solomon has to say about fools--and there is quite a bit--we, who read The Word with understanding, are without excuse in recognizing a fool when we see or hear one. And if we are wise, we know to stay away from fools for there is no knowledge or wisdom in them and all they do--is mock others--because they have no foundational substance in the make up of their character.

Now, we need to think--before making a decision about what we've read--and determine where we are in the greater scheme of things. Are we in the camp of the wise or the foolish?

Wickedness and Strange Weather!

Fools mock at making amends for sin, but goodwill is found among the upright. Proverbs 14:9 NIV
The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of the upright will flourish. Proverbs 14:11 NIV
There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death. Proverbs 14:12 NIV
The faithless will be fully repaid for their ways, and the good rewarded for theirs. Proverbs 14:14 NIV
The wise fear the LORD and shun evil, but a fool is hotheaded and yet feels secure. Proverbs 14:16 NIV
Whoever loves a quarrel loves sin; whoever builds a high gate invites destruction. Proverbs 17:19 NIV

No matter how many times or how many ways we see in God's Word the warnings about sin, some still tend to ignore the consequences.

In fact, our society has become mockers of sin because they do not believe that sin has consequences simply because they don't believe God. The truth is about to overtake us and many will see what sin achieves.

God is not blind, deaf or forgetful. He does not change His Word or His intent for mankind simply to appease the whim of men's thinking. Everything He called sin, is still sin and no matter what men and women do--sin in God's sight is still sin.

The problem is people tend to mistake lust for love and think God is fooled. God is love and He knows better than any of us what love does and what love does not do. Love is not lust and lust is not love.

Love only wants the best for all involved yet lust only wants to satisfy a feeling for the moment.

Love steers people onto the path of doing the right thing at all times.

Lust steers emotion and physical need along the path of satisfaction at any cost.

The bottom line that many may not want to acknowledge is that in the end, God has the last word and when we refuse to accept correction and get back on the path of righteousness, He removes His hand of protection and we get what we get.

The unusual weather is simply a sign of God's displeasure with our behavior and greed. When making money is more important than preserving resources, we have problems as we see with the effects of global warming.

The disregard for the safety for the vulnerable is about to explode and the courts will be filled with lawsuits, but lives will be changed forever because of a few who chose not to see the danger of not thinking or seeking the wisdom of God.

Whenever we choose to ignore God and do what we want to do, subscribing to that old adage, "If it feels good, do it," we open the door to the evil that is constantly lurking on the other side.

How do we avoid the consequences of sin? That's easy. We seek God and obey His Word and promote His goodness to others. It's not rocket science; it is simply living by faith in His Word.

What Fools Don't Understand!

For you make me glad by your deeds, LORD; I sing for joy at what your hands have done. How great are your works, LORD, how profound your thoughts! Senseless people do not know, fools do not understand, that though the wicked spring up like grass and all evildoers flourish, they will be destroyed forever. But you, LORD, are forever exalted. Psalm 92:4-8 NIV

How many times must we be told that fools lack understanding of most things because they are so wise in their own sight, they won't listen to wise instruction?

Even if it look like the foolish are progressing in their ways, we don't have to concern ourselves--they are being set up by the enemy who has influenced them to fall because they have not realized that the devil doesn't care about people--even those who follow his leading. When the captain only things of himself, others have no value to him, but then--that's a poor foolish captain. And the devil is a foolish captain. He has yet to realize he has been defeated and will stay defeated until that time arrives when he spends eternity in the lake of fire--along with all those who refused to listen to wise instruction.

We are told that, "the fool has said in his heart there is no God," and when others are convinced that there is no God, they do expose themselves as fools. Now, why would the devil convince people there is no God? If he can convince others there is no God, he can also convince people that he doesn't exist and if he doesn't exist, he can run rampant--creating all types of chaos and the fools will be deceived.

Those of us who know The Lord and His Word understand that if God acknowledges the works of Satan because He created him, then we should be wise enough to heed The Word and recognize when he is at work. "Submit to God, resist the devil and he will flee!"

All the unrest, instability in nations, the hatred, the bigotry, all of it--are a result of the enemy's influence in the mind and hearts of people who refuse to repent and acknowledge God. But no matter how many evildoers arise, they shall be cut down and stomped on and cast aside, making room for those who understand peace and love. For The Lord reigns forever in the hearts of all who love Him and we will be victorious in Jesus!

Will the prating fool--the one always running his/her mouth, boasting of themselves, bullying others and spouting empty threats ever understand that all the world, sees them as a fool with no wisdom and no value?

It is better to be quiet and be thought a fool than to open one's mouth and be known a fool! Will the fool understand this?

Our God Reigns, Our God Reigns, Our God Reigns Forevermore!

Blessed Quietness!

The quiet words of the wise are more to be heeded than the shouts of a ruler of fools. Wisdom is better than weapons of war, but one sinner destroys much good. Ecclesiastes 9:17,18 NIV

We are told in other places in scripture that it is the fool or the foolish who think for their much speaking someone will be deceived into thinking they are wise. Actually, what we hear in the quietness is more precious than the noise of one who simply loves the hear the sound of their voice.

In the quiet, we can hear Holy Spirit speak and when He speaks to us, we know it is wisdom from on high. This does not mean that we cannot hear Him in the midst of a storm of foolishness, but within our spirits, we can obtain the quietness of His assurance and what a blessing that is!

Often in the midst of debating or disagreement with others, we have to allow our spirits to quiet down and hear what Holy Spirit is saying so we won't dishonor God with our actions or words. I am so glad He loves me enough to cause me to listen and hear and then obey.

For it is not enough to just hear--we hear noise all the time, some we recognize and others we may not. But if we listen--focusing on the voice who is speaking to us from within, we hear and once we hear, we should obey. The blessing that comes with obedience is priceless, but the consequence of ignoring Him, is paid with a price that many cannot pay.  There is an adage that many are familiar with in certain circles and it goes like this: "Don't let your mouth write a check your behind can't cash." In other words, we should exercise caution in speaking about things we cannot back up or handle if they fall apart.

Unfortunately, there are many people--Believers and non-believers--who tend to think that if they talk louder and are more abrasive than those to whom they are speaking, they are making an impression of their greatness. They are making an impression--but it's not of greatness, but foolishness. Any time a person feels the need to raise the decibel level of their voice above normal speaking tones in talking to either one person or a small group of people, they are making a fool of themselves. Getting loud and obnoxious is not a virtue, it is an attribute of insecurity and the more agitated they get, they louder they get and everyone can see them for who they really are.

There is another passage of scripture that says, "even a fool--when he is quiet--is esteemed wise." Abraham Lincoln put that same intent--more bluntly. "It's better to be quiet and thought a fool, than to open one's mouth and remove all doubt." The blessing of quietness!

We have probably all known at least one person (maybe many) who has to be the center of attention--no matter what the discussion is--because they love the sound of their voice. And in their deluded minds, they feel they are wiser than any other and will not concede when they are wrong, but will continue to make a fool of themselves with their much talking. 

Jesus warns us about those when praying--who think because of their much talking--the long-winded prayers, they will be heard. Those who pray in this manner have never read--with understanding--that it is not how long we pray or how loud we pray that gets results, but it is --our faith to receive--what we ask for that moves God.

So a word to the wise and to the foolish--there is nothing in the noise but chaos and confusion, but in the quiet--there is a great blessing--the opportunity to hear Holy Spirit and obey.

A Changing World--Live With the Rayfords!

Awesome episode--God alive in the message! Glory! 

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/maryandtyrone/2015/11/19/a-changing-world-live-with-the-rayfords

Identifying A Fool!

We often discount what fools (the foolish) say and do because we recognize they are void of understanding. But do we know how to recognize a fool and save ourselves some time when we encounter them? There is much to be said about the attitude and behavior of a fool. We would be wise to know who it is we're dealing with--before we become like them.

In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride,
But the lips of the wise will preserve them. Proverbs 14:3 NKJV

Stay away from a fool, for you will not find knowledge on their lips. Proverbs 14:7 NIV

The wise fear the LORD and shun evil, but a fool is hotheaded and yet feels secure. Proverbs 14:16 NIV

The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly. Proverbs 15:5 NIV

The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly. Proverbs 15:15 NIV

A rebuke impresses a discerning person more than a hundred lashes a fool. Proverbs 17:10 NIV

It is to one's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel. Proverbs 20:3 NIV

Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him. Proverbs 26:4 NIV

It is not the person who speaks loud or long that is wise, but the one who offers hope, exercising wisdom in all they say.

Do you see a person wise in their own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for them. Proverbs 26:12 NIV

Do you see someone who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for them. Proverbs 29:20

What do we do when we know we're having an encounter with a fool?

Go from the presence of a foolish man,
When you do not perceive in him the lips of knowledge. Proverbs 14:7 NKJV

What we do with knowledge determines how wise we are. Wise people always seek those who are wiser than they are for knowledge and instruction.

One who does not know how to lead others will get nowhere and those who follow leaders who don't know where they're going, will never reach a destination.

The Lord Is!

The Lord is my my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me to lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for name's sake.(Psalm 23:1-3 NIV)

A familiar passage of scripture reference should always be re-viewed for fresh introspection and although what I am inspired to say today may not be fresh for some, it will encourage others. We have no need to fear what the enemy might do when we know--The Lord is--everything we need.
Since David was a shepherd caring for his father's sheep, he knew exactly what a shepherd's role was--as a caretaker for the flock which would later provide for the family.

So what does a shepherd do? The shepherd's role is to make sure the sheep--all of the flock--are kept safe from harm, led to good grazing areas and by water. The shepherd makes sure that the sheep lack for nothing and when some stray or fall off cliffs, the shepherd is there to lead them back to safety or to rescue them, making sure they get back in the sheepfold unharmed.

Considering the fact that most leaders in the churches are supposed to model the role of a shepherd, are they doing so? Are church leaders feeding the sheep or fleecing the sheep? Are they concerned with the welfare of the sheep or do they only care about their own well-being? Are they guiding the sheep along right paths--The Word of God--or are they pimping The Word, selectively, to make the sheep think they are more than they are and emptying the pockets and bank accounts of the masses?

If we truly understand the picture that David paints for us of the role of a shepherd, we'd have to admit that many of our church leaders are not good shepherds--with a heart to please God. And this is why so many congregants are mislead, misused and abused by those in leadership for their hearts are far from God and when they distort The Word of God for personal gain--the enemy gets a foothold in the heart of the building which influences the sheep and they are lost.

But if The Lord is--our Great Shepherd--we are confident that all of our needs are met in Him. We know that He will never lead us astray, but will always lead us to rich pastures (or passages in The Word) so we'll be well fed and have our thirst quenched by The Word. When The Lord is our Shepherd, we can sleep at night without worry about tomorrow because we know that angels are guarding us throughout the night and we have nothing to fear. When The Lord is our Shepherd--He speaks those things to us that the Father says and we develop a desire to please the Father--knowing how He wants us to live, thrive and survive the attacks of the enemy.

The Lord is--our healer, our comforter, our provider, our counselor, our teacher, our guide through all the muck we face in life and when we hear and obey--we are victorious and nothing the enemy does, no weapon tossed our way, will have any effect on our lives or our desire to please God. The Lord is everything we will ever need and He will lead us to those He has anointed and appointed to lead His sheep--in all truth, according to The Word.

We need to know The Word for ourselves so when we hear someone say something that is not The Word, we'll know it and not be led astray, opening the door for the enemy to step in and destroy our lives. Know The Word--Know The Lord. If we don't know The Word, any fool can lead us astray when they make sounds like they know The Word, when they don't even know The Lord. Be wise, knowledgeable and realize that wolves (in shepherd's clothing) disguise themselves with just enough Word to get close enough to devour. If they are not saying what The Lord says and reminding people who The Lord is--run and don't look back!

Whose Words Are Heeded?

"Now there lived in that city a man poor but wise, and he saved the city by his wisdom. But nobody remembered that poor man. So I said, "Wisdom is better than strength." But the poor man's wisdom is despised, and his words are no longer heeded. The quiet words of the wise are more to be heeded than the shouts of a ruler of fools. Wisdom is better than weapons of war, but one sinner destroys much good." (Ecclesiastes 10:15-18 NIV)

For whatever reason--the masses choose to ignore the poor and humble, the quiet dignity of those who have no need to shout--thinking more highly of those who make a lot of noise, but their character is void of integrity and wisdom. Why is that? Our society tends to put those who make noise on pedestals and upon microscopic inspection, we discover--too late--nothing of substance in the noise-makers.

This is true of most of the politicians running for office--especially those vying for the position of President--but we can't blame them--we are the ones to elect the ones who make the most noise, the empty promises designed to tickle our ears and cause us to ignore wisdom speaking from those who are not as noisy, but quietly sharing the wisdom of sages.

There's a lot of noise being heard from the top Republican candidate right now--and people are buying into the bluster and clamor; he's feeding the frenzy because people are so unhappy with the sitting president. I'm certain that when others jump into the fray, they'll be just as noisy, at least some will and people will pay attention to them, but will they really have anything of substance to say?

At this moment--I'm not impressed with any candidate and this post is not really about politics, but it serves as a perfect analogy in demonstrating how we ignore the wise and give more credence to those "making some noise."

This is especially true of so many of our churches--the more noise is made, the greater some people think the leadership is. In fact--what I've discovered in observing the worship services of a number of churches is this: The musician plays loudly, the choir sings loud and long, and the preacher--gets up and ignites a shout, whoops and hollers, but the service is void of any movement by Holy Spirit because He couldn't be heard in order to lead them. And since Holy Spirit cannot be heard, only religious tradition is observed and no one learns anything of substance and those who enter the building--confused and empty of spiritual guidance--leave the same way, but they had a good time, making noise.

In the quiet of the night or a fleeting, illusive moment, if we listen carefully, and know The Word of God, we can hear Holy Spirit speak in the stillness and receive wisdom from on high. But in the midst of the noise--literally or figuratively, we can only hear "the noise" of complaint, confusion, chaos, and disdain--the noise of self-aggrandizement, haughtiness, and superiority--hearing nothing that will make a difference in anyone's life other than the maker of the noise.

If we want peace in our homes, our communities and in our nations, we must be willing to look beyond desire to hear the noise of those who make empty promises, and those of empty character, and seek the quiet wisdom of God's Word and obey.

Whose words are you hearing and obeying?

When We Fail, Who Do We Blame?

"Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord. The wise in heart are called discerning, and gracious words promote instruction." (Proverbs 16:18, 20,21 NIV)

The Word provides us with much insight about wisdom and pride. Not only through the proverbs, but through James who says, "If any lack wisdom, ask of God who gives liberally and won't upbraid (find fault with) us for asking" (James 1:5 paraphrased) It would appear from this simple statement that James understood all that was said about wisdom through the insight given to Solomon and other sages.

Wisdom is referenced as a  female in several places, but the female reference is also used to warn against adultery and other folly.

A wise person receives correction and instruction from wise counsel. Only a fool rebels against correction and instruction.

But who is wiser than God? No, not one human being is wiser than God. God gave Solomon wisdom and Solomon shared what God had given him, but he never assumed he was wiser than God.

Proverbs 4:5-9 NIV
vs. 5 Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them.
vs. 6 Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.
vs. 7 The beginning of wisdom is this: "Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.
vs. 8 Cherish her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you.
vs. 9 She will give you a garland to grace your head and present you with a glorious crown."

When we ask God for wisdom--insight to solving problems and addressing issues, we must not only hear what He says, but know how to apply what He says. For instance, we can obtain information and not know what to do with it and if we don't know what to do with the information we have, what good is it?

If we establish guidelines and protocols to ensure order in all that we do, yet we do not follow the protocol and chaos erupts, what was the point of establishing the guidelines in the beginning?

Many motivational speakers, successful corporations--large and small--understand that without a sound plan and adherence to the plan--success is not possible.

Jesus tells us in another passage of scripture that,"a wise person considers the cost of building anything before they start to build."(Luke 14:28 paraphrased).

On the flip side of exercising wisdom is the conduct of a fool who allows his pride to rule. And there is much said about fools in Proverbs,

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, but fools despise wisdom and instruction." (Proverbs 1:7 NIV),
"The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly." (Proverbs 15:2 NIV)
"The lips of the wise spread knowledge, but the hearts of fools are not upright." (Proverbs 15:7 NIV)
"A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel." (Proverbs 15:18 NIV)

What I'm taking from all that is said about wisdom, knowledge and fools, is that if we don't know God or know how to seek Him when making decisions, we set ourselves for failure because we allow our pride to keep us from seeking Him.

"Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." (Proverbs 15:22 NIV)

Herein is the heart of the matter. When we think that our plans can succeed without wise counsel or consideration of all involved in the planning, our plans are doomed to failure. Though they may appear to succeed for a moment; the final outcome tells the whole story.

The difference between success and failure of any entity or individual lies in the ability one has to set aside pride (the "I" mentality) and to seek wisdom from wise counsel. If we do not think we need to heed wise counsel and instruction, then our failure is our own and we must look within to determine how we change the course of events.

Are we wise enough to seek God today for every decision we make or will we allow our pride to cause us to fail? We are the only ones who can make that decision for God does not make anyone do anything.

I pray God's wisdom will overflow into your hearts today and pride will never be the reason for failure in any area of your lives.

Quiet Wisdom!

"The quiet words of the wise are more to be heeded than the shouts a ruler of fools." (Ecclesiastes 9:17 NIV)

How loud do we speak to be heard?
How much do we hear when it's quiet?
How loud is the noise of war?
How quiet is the sound of peace?
How powerful is the sound of loud?
How effective is the sound of silence?
Who pays more attention to the loud?
Who actually hears the voice of the quiet?

The media is loud and persistent,
Noisily proclaiming all that is wrong,
Repetitively insisting that we hear,
The power of hate and sin alike,
Venomously, noise spews from their mikes,
Garnering attention of young and old,
Allowing promotion of all that's bold,
Causing many to creep backwards into a past,
Proven wrong and certainly won't last.

Colors blast and blind those willing to look,
Changing meanings of The Word as if it's just a book,
Loudly proclaiming right is wrong and wrong is right,
Doing what pleases flesh, forgetting they're in God's sight,
And when He whispers wisdom into an ear,
Not many, in quietness are willing to hear,
For the noise of the foolish has effectively blocked,
And the enemy's influenced, heard and locked,
Into the minds of those who are weak, not strong,
Following those who are just loud and wrong.

But that is not the end of the story,
There are still some who work to God's glory,
And when He speaks in the quiet of the night,
They will do all they can to do what is right.
Wisdom--the quiet, soothing, comfort we need,
When we listen to it, we won't hear the enemy's pleas,
To turn left when we should turn right,
Living in the light of day, not the dark of night,
Doing all things to please Him who gives,
Power, direction, through the One who lives,
Within and will only tell us what He hears from above,
Wrapped in His wisdom, embracing us with love.

God's wisdom is heard in the silent moments,
We use to study His Word and open our hearts to hear,
All He has to say, directing our steps every day,
Never loud and obnoxious as fools tend to be,
He knows who we are, when we listen and is waiting for us to see,
Him in all His majesty, and glory, ready and willing to obey.
Shutting out the loud, the noisy, the hate and sin,
Hearing only wisdom, seeking a victorious win
Daily, poised, positioned, never giving up the fight,
Listening for the wisdom we know, directing us right,
To The throne, for all eternity, watching Wisdom,
Quietly reigning, for the world to see those who are His,
Receive their rewards for faithfulness, diligence and loyalty.

Speak to our hearts, Lord that we might hear a word of wisdom today in the quiet of the moment, while we're not distracted by the noises of the world, vying for our attention, keeping us distracted in the midst of the storm, hoping we won't hear You, and share You with others. Speak Lord, Your servants will hear and not follow another.

Fool's Delight!

"Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions. The lips of fools bring them strife, and their mouths invite a beating." (Proverbs 18:2,6 NIV)

The words fool or fools is mentioned in the Bible 108 times and predominately in Proverbs--the book of Wisdom. Hmmm! Now, we know that if we lack wisdom, we can ask of God who gives it to us liberally (James 1:5), but what happens when we lack wisdom and don't realize how foolish we are are?

How many times have we seen evidence of fools through their behavior? You know, those folks who do really dumb things and think they can get away with it. There was even a show on television about "dumbest criminals" that a number of people watched, just to laugh at the foolishness.

I've often said stupid people think everyone else is just as stupid as they are. They don't realize they're incapable of having a rational thought and so they think no one else can either. A perfect example of this mentality is a young woman trying to cash a 94 million dollar income tax check. Really? Of course she was caught! No one in their right mind would attempt to cash a 94 million dollar income tax check when they walk into a bank looking like they just rolled out of bed. Seriously?

But in her mind, the foolish mind, no one would be the wiser and she'd walk away with all that money. I don't even think she had a bank account which proves her inability to have a rational thought. Fools delight in their own opinions, devoid of understanding.

I've had students who tried to turn in papers they didn't write and thought I wouldn't know. If a student can't write a grammatically correct, complete sentence in class, why would they be able to write an entire paper that is flawless, outside of class? Really? Do I have stupid written across my forehead? I think not. And when I give their papers back with comments across the top of the paper about plagiarism, they start stuttering, trying to explain how they didn't have time to do the work, so they had someone else do it for them. Uh huh! Then I tell them to re-read their syllabus which explains the consequences of plagiarized work.

And the same is true for those who run their mouths without thinking--especially in situations they do not understand. They talk and talk and talk, ignoring the warning signs from people who don't want to hear what they have to say and then, when they get in someone's face--the wrong someone--they get the beat down of their life. I'm not condoning violence, just referring to why some things happen to people. Wise people walk away from strife, fools simply continue stirring it up until it explodes on them.

If I, a mere human being, can detect foolishness and a lack of wisdom, how much more so can God detect the fools who delight in stirring up strife?

It is better to be quiet and thought a fool, than to open one's mouth and let everyone know--yep, there's a fool in the house!

I encourage all reading to consider what's being said even in a humorous light and encourage others to seek God and His wisdom before doing or saying something foolish that will result in severe consequences.

Hear, Learn, Attain!

"A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels" (Proverbs 1:5)

Wisdom from God can only be heard in the Spirit, before the wisdom can make one wise in the natural. When wisdom is "heard" we can proceed in making wise decisions--decisions that will not cause us regret or harm.

Once we have heard the voice of God speaking wisdom into our spirits, we will increase in learning--both spiritually and naturally. We shall make room for all we need to know in order to be the best representative of God that we can be and in producing means to assist others in the natural realm. All knowledge comes from God whether we believe that or not. We come into the world knowing absolutely nothing and yet some achieve more wisdom and knowledge than others because they were willing to hear--God's voice (not their consciences that could nothing apart from God anyway).

When we truly "understand" that we know nothing apart from God and that we need His direction in all we do, then we shall be considered wise and others will seek our counsel in all matters because they know they can trust what we say and do.

"The fear of the Lord (reverential respect for God and His ways) is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction" (Proverbs 1:7).

If we are not wise and walking in the wisdom of God, then we are fools doing foolish things.

Lord, help us to be wise and do all things to Your glory, not our own so that we will not appear foolish in anything. Create desire in us to move forward by Your direction only so we won't have to back-up and retreat in order to keep going. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen!