OT: The Book of Ecclesiastes, Chapter 6

Ecclesiastes 6:1-12

6:1-2 Solomon noticed that is common for people to work and procure wealth but lose their gratitude and appreciation for God. An ungracious lifestyle does not result in joy or contentment. They are so consumed by greed that they do not enjoy any of their blessings.

6:3-6 Likewise is it wasteful to live without joy. A long and wealthy life does not equate with happiness. We need to create and cultivate family, and a relationship with God in order to have and use our blessings for joy throughout life.

6:7 We cannot live to serve our body, for it is our soul which requires nourishment. We will not have fulfillment in anything we do unless it is good and productive to our soul.

6:8 The wise person has love for God and the love of God; they have the wisdom and guidance of God. But someone poor in faith live in the world only desiring but never finding fulfillment or joy.

6:9 We have to learn to be appreciative for what we have otherwise we waste our entire lives pursuing everything else, never enjoying what was already in our hands.

6:10-11 Our flesh lives are temporary, they cannot contend for more life. But our spirit connects with God to obtain eternal life.

6:12 The only place we are able to find fulfilling purpose, permanent contentment and answers to our existential questions is God.

OT: The Book of Ecclesiastes, Chapter 5

Ecclesiastes 5:1-20

5:1 Act with care and thought going into the future (the actual definition of prudent) as we walk toward the house of God. As we near Him, we should do so as students receptive to His word. We cannot approach God with the stubborn refusal to learn. Our journey with God is instructional and requires our conscientiousness.

5:2 We only cause harm and chaos when we speak rashly and act hastily. We need to observe and practice patience in order to learn wise behavior. Especially in conversation with God, what we have to say is much less important than what we can learn. We have so much to learn from Him, we should be eager to hear His wisdom and to experience His will.

5:3 It is fruitful to work hard as hard work results in dreams realized. But the empty chatter of a foolish person does not produce or procure anything useful.

5:4-5 When you make a promise to God, endeavor to fulfill that promise the moment it is made. Do not make a promise you do not intent to commit to. If you do not plan to follow-through against any odds, do not make the vow.

5:6 Be careful not to speak unjustly, unkindly, or untruthfully; your words can cause harm and you must be accountable for them. We cannot gain God's support or assistance when with our words we build harmful things.

5:7 Do not get lost in multitudes of dreams and words, ultimately a fulfilling purpose and blessed life comes from reverence of God.

5:8 If you witness an injustice or oppression do not merely marvel, act. We have a responsibility while on earth to love others and to be vigilant for evil. To confront it and dismantle it in order to ensure righteousness reigns. God watches humanity and notices when there is neglect.

5:9 The earth produces to support all of humanity; therefore it is an injustice to deny any person their natural rights to be sustained by the planet.

5:10 Greed cannot be satisfied. It never achieves happiness. It always wants more.

5:11 Material wealth does not profit its owner.

5:12 A hard-working person is able to sleep soundly with contentment... but a corrupt and overly-rich person has a guilty conscious. We are supposed to share our blessings, especially if to ensure that our fellow humans have food and water and basic necessities.

5:13-15 Extravagant wealth corruptly gained drains away or is lost or taken. It does not transfer productively to posterity.

5:16-17 We exit life of earth with nothing but our soul. To live a fruitless lifestyle, acquiring and never sharing or developing relationships, is to labor for the wind. To gain nothing of substance. A selfish lifestyle is dark and sorrowful and sick and angry. Health and light come from meaningful connections and abounding blessings.

5:18-20 Solomon observed that humans should work hard and enjoy the fruits of their hard work within God's will. Humans benefit to learn that each day and its opportunity and produce is a gift from God. Joy is found in a relationship with God and gratitude toward him. God will keep you busy with the joy of your heart... and your days will be fulfilled.

OT: The Book of Ecclesiastes, Chapter 4

Ecclesiastes 4:1-16

4:1-3 Solomon had an extreme existential crisis; he observed the amount and organization of disparity in the world and it bothered him so much that he envied the dead. When he considered the condition of the earth separate from God, he experienced extreme despair and hopelessness. 

4:4 Solomon continued to observe and noticed that the labor and effort of humanity results as envy in the people around them. He thought it a very pointless thing to spend one's life trying to impress others. Likewise it is foolish to live with stagnant jealousy of others.

4:5-6 A foolish person is lazy and does not labor. Their laziness consumes them. Solomon observed that it is better to have a modest amount, well earned, than two handfuls obtained by selfish or corrupt toil. Work hard and honestly.

4:7-8 It is extremely unhealthy to cut oneself off from others, pursuing wealth exclusively and never trying to make connections with others or a family for oneself. Solomon described such selfishness, such self caused loneliness as a grave misfortune. Life is quite empty without friends and family and even pleasant acquaintances. And such a reclusive life destroys not only the reclusive person but also their chance at sharing with and assisting others. 

4:9-12 Solomon explains the value of a friend. Not only can friends help each other in good times and bad, friendships help us to grow in character. Friendship teaches us patience and comradery and selflessness.

4:13-16 It is better to be humble and wise in youth than arrogant and foolish... which would lead one to become an old and stubborn person. And even in a position of leadership, if one is not beloved or even liked, that popularity is empty.

OT: The Book of Ecclesiastes, Chapter 3

Ecclesiastes 3:1-22

3:1 "To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven..." Everything has its time and season, even if it seems untimely and out of season to us. As children of God, we submit even the details of our lives to His will. Having done so, we can trust that when something does or does not happen to us, its nature and timing has been chosen and sanctioned by Him. That level of trust in God is a balm, a peace that we can carry throughout a life of learning ever to trust in Him. 

So varied and progressive are the seasons of life that within it...

3:2 There is a time for birth and death. A time for planting and harvest. 

3:3 There is a time to kill and a time to heal. A time to deconstruct and a time to construct.

3:4 A time of sadness and a time of laughter. A time of grief and a time of celebration.

3:5 A time to get rid of of things and a time to gather them. A time to hug and to refrain from doing so.

3:6 A time of gain and a time of loss. A time to retain and a time to let go.

3:7 A time to rip up and a time to mend. A time to be quiet and a time to speak up.

3:8 A time to love and a time to hate. A time of war and a time of peace.

While we are here on earth, in these bodies, there is so much to experience with our soul. We will go through and around and beside many emotions but God wants us to have faith in Him throughout all of them. As long as we commit our lives to the will of God, everything will have purpose and meaning and lesson. Everything we learn and experience and lose and keep will, by His will, assist us in moving forward.

3:9-11 Solomon's advice is for us not to be preoccupied by laboring for worldly wealth: money, power, fame. We do not need to strive to fulfill earthly desires hastily; God has perfect provision and perfect timing for the delivery of that provision. It was Solomon's observation that we need not rush, God makes everything beautiful in its time: steadily and definitely. We cannot quite comprehend the nature of eternity but God is very comfortable with it and assures that we have time to receive all of His blessings in His time.

3:12-13 Solomon learned that the most important thing we can do is to be happy; to rejoice... to live with gratitude and joy in God's creation and love. The best thing we can do is good. Do good, we are charged by God throughout scripture, and our own actions will bless us. Good will return to us. A good life is a life spent working diligently but enjoying what our good work produces. We shouldn't become greedy or robotic, never sharing or experiencing what hard work makes possible.

3:14-15 Solomon had the faith and confidence to know that what God does is permanent. He is the sole creator of this universe; no one can change the track or nature of life. He has determined life to be everlasting and good and therefore life always will be. Like Solomon, we should come to believe that reverence of God is nourishment for our souls. 

We can trust in the fact that God is consistent. The law of the universe, the laws of nature, have been written and established by Him. They will be upheld by Him; and He has so much experience with life that we can trust our own life in His hands.

3:16-17 So often, the world has it backward. Injustice and iniquity where there should be righteousness and peace. It would drive us crazy if not for our faith that God will restore order. 

3:18-22 Solomon observed that life serves to humble humanity. In a humble state, we are able to submit to God's will, trust Him and do good. Such is the formula for a good and purposeful, faith-driven life.

OT: The Book of Ecclesiastes, Chapter 2

Ecclesiastes 2:1-26

2:1-3 In pursuit of meaning, King Solomon dedicated himself to enjoyment but he found that it was an empty lifestyle. Solomon tried to center his life on all of the things humans think are the best parts of life but did not find fulfillment. 

2:4-9 Solomon then tried to use his money to find fulfillment. He had houses, vineyards, gardens and orchards built. He had pools and intricate garden designs, various trees in his groves. He had multitudes of servants and possessions and herds and flocks, more than anyone else in his city. He had treasures and jewels, dancers, singers, musicians. His wealth distinguished him.

2:10-11 Whatever he wanted, he acquired. Whatever he wanted to do, he did. And for a little while, he thought he was happy. But when Solomon reflected on the condition of his spirit, he realized that none of it filled him. His life still lacked meaning. He felt that everything he had done, even though it made him popular and envied, was vain. None of it was any actual gain to him... it was all just stuff.

2:12 Without the promise of the kingdom of God after this life, Solomon realized that all works and accomplishments on the earth are redundant. He had done it all yet he would pass from the earth, and someone would come along after him and live a very similar life.

2:13-14 Solomon realized it was prudent to pursue wisdom and light rather than foolishness and darkness during his time on earth. Both the wise person and the fool have limited time here, but it is much more enjoyable to spend time here alert and responsible.

2:15 The same mundane laws of life affect everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status on earth. We give life meaning and purpose and divine opportunity when we unite our body with spirit. 

2:16 Arrogance and pride are temporary and come to nothing when a person passes from earth. We are only made permanent when we commit ourselves to God.

2:17 Solomon became very discouraged. Life without God had no meaning. He was distressed and empty. As adrift as so many people are in this present day.

2:18-23 It depressed Solomon to think that everything he procured would pass to some unknown person. It occurred to him that a lifestyle of acquisition of material, wealth and even fame was pointless. He could not keep or claim any of it permanently. Moreover, a life spent working tirelessly to have things made a person weary and despondent. 

2:24-26 Quality of life comes from a relationship with God. Even a simple life, with God, is joyful, fulfilling and good. God provides our for our needs but also for our hopes. He also provides peace and purpose. Solomon realized that enjoyment of life comes from the hand of God. 

He tried other methods... they failed to make him happy and fulfilled. Life without God is busy and chaotic, wearisome and bothersome. And fruitless... because all good things flow back to God's good children.

OT: The Book of Ecclesiastes, Chapter 1

Ecclesiastes 1:1-18

The book of Ecclesiastes is scripture that helps us to live a fulfilling life on earth. It helps us to recognize the separation between body and spirit and then to link them in productive purpose in faith. King Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes; he used his position and resources to investigate the purpose of life. Everything was within his grasp, so he was able to test and weigh all things and lifestyles.

1:1-2 Solomon's first observation was that... all is vanity. Solomon found that all earthly goods and pleasures were vain and vapid pursuits. None of them gave him fulfillment or lasting joy.

1:3 It is unwise to live life to procure. At the end of the day (and life), the acquisition of material things does not change the fact that all humans pass on from the earth and require meaning before they do so.

1:4-7 Generations of people live and pass, but as time continues, humans continue to experience the same seasons and emotions. Without a connection to spirit, life would be mundane. The laws of nature are firmly established; subtle things change but ultimately humans do not.

1:8 Solomon realized that desire cannot be satisfied, and the effort to try to satisfy desire is labor wearisome beyond expression. 

1:9-11 Time passes, generations change, but humans remain the same. Solomon realized that without a spiritual connection in life, neither past nor future hold anything new or of value to present humans.

1:12-14 Solomon made it his mission to discover the purpose of life, to find meaning. From an existentialist standpoint, he felt that life was a burdensome task given to humans. An exercise... but for what? From everything he has observed as a rich, powerful man, all seemed quite meaningless. Without God, life does seem burdensome and meaningless. Without God, it is frustrating and fruitless, wearisome and even disheartening. 

1:15 Without God there is no order or correction, no possible, purposeful change.

1:16-17 Solomon, because of his great status, was able to realize that wealth and power and satisfaction of desire were not enough to give a person fulfillment. He endeavored to understand more, the deeper meaning. Something authentic that lasts. He did not want to live a purposeless existence and he helps us to avoid that fate as well. He was unable to find happiness in worldly things, we will be unable as well. 

1:18 All of the wisdom in the world does not help us to solve the despair of disparity, or loneliness or fear. Humans require a relationship with God in order to truly fulfill their spirits.

OT: The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 31

Proverbs 31:1-31

31:1 King Lemuel is speculated to be King Solomon. Lemuel may have been a "pet name" Solomon's mother used when speaking to her son. Here she contemplates what important counsel she can give her son as he reigns. She grew him, she promised to raise him well. 

31:2-3 She warned Solomon not to have a marriage which distracted him from his faith. Romantic or not, the partnerships we have on earth should be founded in faith. It is so easy for us to "go astray", to forget the commandments of God and the vows we make to him. Therefore, we must ensure that we surround ourselves (and attach ourselves) to people who make us better and help us to live in accordance with God's will.

31:4-7 The king is cautioned only to reign soberly. The consumption of alcohol impairs judgement and subsequently perverts justice.

31:8-9 His mother advises him to be a voice for the people who have none. We have a responsibility as humans (and especially when we are in positions of power or leadership) to advocate for natural human rights.

31:10 And then his mother begins to speak about the blessing of having a faithful wife (a wife faithful in marriage but also in her relationship with God). A virtuous marriage is worth more than wealth.

31:11 When two people are faithful and trustworthy to each other, their partnership prospers.

31:12 A virtuous relationship provides goodness to each person's heart and life; in addition to what our relationship with God provides, a loyal marriage provides the support and companionship, love and compassion, patience and encouragement that we all need to thrive.

31:13-14 A good spouse is productive and resourceful. 

31:15 A good spouse is alert and active in caring for the family.

31:16 A good spouse looks for and recognizes good spaces and opportunities for their family. And when they are blessed with those spaces and opportunities they are productive within them, creating a nourishing environment for their family. They abound the blessings given by God, perpetuating His goodness to bring further joy to the family.

31:17 A good spouse is strong in faith and courage.

31:18 A good spouse is a light in the darkness; a beacon, and guide along the path of God's will.

31:19 A good spouse is ready and willing to reach out and work for the family's well-being.

31:20 A good spouse is gracious and generous, especially to those in need. The empathy of a good spouse influences and blesses the family while supporting God's children in need.

31:21 A good spouse plans and prepares to keep the family safe and warm. Their relationship with God allows them to perceive widely and prepare well for upcoming circumstances and possible events.

31:22 A good spouse is clothed in good faith and well cared for by the blessings of the Lord.

31:23-24 A spouse who supports their partner (in any way they can) ensures that their partner succeeds in their endeavors.

31:25 A good spouse is arrayed in strength and honor; joy is along their path.

31:26 A good spouse is wise and kind.

31:27 A good spouse is vigilant and productive.

31:28-29 Children raised by virtuous parents recognize their parents as blessed. So also is a virtuous spouse recognized by the other.

31:30 Choose a spouse who is faithful and kind and wise; it is more important to choose a virtuous spouse than a charming or vain person.

31:31 Each spouse should be recognized and appreciated by the other for their efforts.

OT: The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 30

Proverbs 30:1-33

30:1-3 The writer of this proverb introduces themselves with humility; they do not feel particularly wise. However, they at least have enough self-awareness to recognize their own human limitations.

30:4 The writer began with these questions concerning the wonder of God. For many people, the journey of faith begins with a few existential questions.

30:5 Through out time and study with God and scripture, we come to understand that the words of God are pure. They are honest, objective, compassionate, orderly advice. The writer was able to make confident proclamations through his own experience: God is a shield to the people who put their trust in Him.

30:6 We should never add to the word or law of God; we must stick to the doctrine God established.

30:7-9 As we grow in wisdom we realize we only have time and energy for truths. We learn that the word of God is the actual sustenance of our lives; for a starved soul cannot thrive, even with riches. We learn that when we depart from God's word we find ourselves in the midst of a famine, and in that famine, we give into base emotions and temptations.

The writer of this proverb realized that he needed to spend time with God in order to remain on track.

30:10 Do not mistreat people.

30:11-14 God is displeased with the generation of people who have no respect for others but too much pride in themselves. Their actions are harmful and oppressive.

30:15 Desire is like a leech; it is never satisfied.

30:16 The writer observed that there are things in life that are never satisfied: the grave, the infertile womb, a desert land and a fire. We must understand that temptations cannot be satisfied. They only way to satisfy our souls is through a relationship with God and everything He has to teach.

30:17 Disrespect and mockery, especially to parents, is scavenger behavior.

30:18-19 Yet the design of the earth is beautiful to the point of incomprehensibility: the flight of an eagle, the path of the serpent, the ship in the sea, and new love.

30:20 An unrepentant adulterer feels no accountability for their actions. God wants us to be loyal in faith.

30:21-23 It is dangerous and difficult to bear when someone without responsibility suddenly gains power, when someone unqualified finds themselves in a position which requires skill and character.

30:24-28 Scripture teaches us to learn from nature and to appreciate seemingly humble things: the comradery even of ants, the skill of badgers, the order of locusts, the artistry of spiders. Humble things are capable of greatness.

30:29-31 We can observe solemnity in lions, greyhounds and goats. They have their own order and system. We have examples of strength and leadership and humility in nature.

30:32-33 We are asked not to be foolish or arrogant. It is a decision we must make in every action that we do. We must strive toward humility and wisdom, and God teaches us how to do that. Before bad behavior inevitably causes strife, we must learn.

OT: The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 29

Proverbs 29:1-27

29:1 We cannot habitually reject constructive criticism; it makes us stubborn and causes us to neglect character growth. Regardless of any individual's specific circumstances, we all have room to grow within us. It is crucial that we continue to grow in character and spirit throughout our lives. Growth in character enables us to live more objectively and compassionately.

29:2 Righteous leadership promotes the well-being of the people; conversely, cruel leadership causes distress. 

29:3 We cause God to rejoice when we pursue and cherish wisdom, that is: the philosophy in scripture He has left for us to search and know. But when we live chasing our desires and temptations, making worldly things our idols, we waste our blessed, valuable place in the Kingdom of God.

29:4 Good, secure things are established through works of justice. Bribery and deceit ensure inevitable destruction.

29:5 It is not kind or prudent to flatter someone. People require honesty in order to continually grow in a space of self-awareness. 

29:6 Evil actions inevitably ensnare the evil-doer, but God causes the works of the righteous to succeed.

29:7 Good humans are aware and empathetic (and active) toward the plight of others. A wicked person can be identified by their ignorance of disparity and unwillingness to care about people in distress.

29:8 It is destructive to have an angry, scoffing temperament. A wise person is, with their solemnity, able to quell the storm.

29:9 Wisdom and foolishness are like oil and water, they do not mix well enough to communicate productively.

29:10 Ruthless persons neglect and despise those in need but the righteous seek to help them.

29:11 A fool explodes all of their immediate emotions and reactions hastily in a situation. A wise person waits and reflects instead of speaking hastily. 

29:12 Corruption negatively influences the people around it. 

29:13 It is good to remain humble, for though an evil man might find himself with power, he is under the same divine law and the person he is oppressing. God (and God's law) is above him.

29:14 God establishes leaders who are honest and compassionate and fair.

29:15 It is important to discipline children (and adults) otherwise they become spoiled, ignorant and self-righteous.

29:16 Free will on the earth means that sometimes the wicked will multiply but God promises that we will see their end.

29:17 Give children correction, it will help them and bring peace to the relationship. They will learn respect and work-ethic and so much more from gentle, steadfast correction throughout childhood.

29:18 God's law (this scripture) provides us with order and comfort and hope. To live without it is chaotic and dangerous. 

29:19 Whenever teaching someone anything, we must explain and lead by example.

29:20 It is not prudent to speak hastily. We must wait until we have all of the facts and can respond calmly and objectively. 

29:21 We should treat the people around us well and they will become like precious family.

29:22 Anger is useless and destructive; it causes situations to become worse. Actions done from a furious mindset cause one to make many harmful mistakes. We must work with God to process our emotions so that we respond appropriately to situations which bother us.

29:23 Pride will eventually cause a person to fall, but humility always benefits a person's reputation... God ensures that it is so.

29:24 To partner with evil is to discard one's own life. 

29:25 Fear and anxiety trap a person... but trust in God provides safety.

29:26 So often humanity seeks praise and comfort and favor from other humans but it is most important that we endeavor to please God. When we endeavor to please God, our intentions and motivations are in alignment with a righteous lifestyle.

29:27 The righteous and unrighteous have an entirely different view of life and are unable to respect each other.

OT: The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 28

Proverbs 28:1-28

28:1 A righteous lifestyle provides security that an unrighteous lifestyle does not. A righteous person has more courage as they draw their strength from God and act with the promise of His defense in mind.

28:2 A corrupt system has a lot of turnover but a honorable and wise person prolongs righteousness.

28:3 The circumstances of our situation should cause us to become empathetic toward people in similar situations. Our personal experience should serve us in serving others rather than ignoring or further worsening the status of another.

28:4 Unrighteousness supports the endeavors of cruelty but righteousness defends justice from those who wish to pervert it.

28:5 An evil person is too self-absorbed, too owned by greed and temptation to understand the concept of justice. Students of the Lord however, are taught the intricacies of justice for all.

28:6 It is better to be poor and humble than rich and perverse; if wealth, fame and power come only at the cost of the quality of character, we must reject them.

28:7 God loves when we listen to and follow the law He left for us; He left instructions about life so that we would thrive here. When we use discernment, balancing everything, relationship and idea in accordance with God's will, we make Him proud. But we do the opposite when we surround ourselves with gluttonous behavior.

28:8 God has arranged the world such that the humble will receive what the arrogant procure.

28:9 There is no point trying to communicate with God if we are not receptive to what He is saying as well. It is a two-way relationship.

28:10 We are responsible for our influence on others: good and bad.

28:11 An arrogant thinks they are wise but only a humble man is able to understand the nature of wisdom.

28:12 Righteous behavior causes joy for the people around but cruelty causes people to hide.

28:13 God prefers us to be honest and to seek redemption rather than to lie and pretend we are perfect. Honesty allows us to change and improve our behavior.

28:14 A heart that remains open, faithful and hopeful in God is happy, but the stubborn and apathetic exist in chaos and strife.

28:15 Corrupt leadership tramples every good thing under its rule.

28:16 An unwise ruler causes much oppression and destruction. A humble person who lives with moderation extends his life.

28:17 A guilty person will live a life in hiding. 

28:18 God preserves those who try their very best to live without harming others; but the cruel will be caused to fail.

28:19 Good, hard work-ethic will cause a person to have plenty of what they need. Laziness and a frivolous lifestyle causes a person to lack (in goods, needs and character).

28:20 Jesus told us that when we seek the kingdom of God, all the things we need will be added to our lives (Matthew 6:33). A faithful relationship with God will always cause blessings to abound. God loves to take care of His children and provide them with the things they need and the relationships and opportunities that make them happy and their life meaningful.

A person who hastily pursues wealth, fame and power, however, neglects God's righteous code and causes trouble for themselves. God wants us to steadily build strong, authentic things, ideas, businesses and relationships. To take the quick, corrupt route would be to disappoint Him.

28:21 God would like us to be objective, to not show partiality or take bribes.

28:22 The exclusive pursuit of material wealth, power and fame is a pointless, harmful lifestyle with no future.

28:23 It is better to be honest (and subsequently assist a person) than to flatter them (and ensure their ruin).

28:24 We must be respectful to the people in our lives; it is especially dangerous when we are not self-aware enough to realize when we are harming others with our behavior or choices.

28:25 Arrogance causes distress for the people around; an arrogant person neglects to be aware and empathetic to the people and situations they find themselves in. But to trust in God is to prosper; God helps us to recognize, appreciate and nourish the things in our life which provide us our needs and hopes.

28:26 Lean not on your own understanding, Proverbs 3:5-6. A righteous lifestyle is wise and a righteous person is saved and transported by God into blessing and even abundance. 

28:27 God is generous to the people who are generous to others' in need. He is grateful and proud of His empathetic children, whose actions improve and influence the world and well-being of humanity. He blesses such behavior. But ignorance and neglect angers God for there are so many people and issues that need our attention.

28:28 Cruel behavior causes people to hide; cruelty stifles the joy and life out of humanity. But the destruction of the evil causes the righteous to finally prosper and increase... and such is the plan of God.

OT: The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 27

Proverbs 27:1-27

27:1 Be present in the current day. There is much to glean from each day, God prefers that we are alert and observant in it, rather than overly concerned about what is next.

27:2 Live righteously and humbly and others will acknowledge you honorably. It is not prudent or attractive or wise to praise oneself; arrogance is a distraction that obscures the reality of situations and causes the arrogant one to miss or ruin opportunities. 

27:3 Wrath sits heavily on a person's conscious; it is an unbearable weight that wearies and pollutes a person's soul.

27:4 Jealousy is a poison that ruins a person inside and out. As God's children, we must learn and trust that if we are meant to have something, God will ensure that we do... and if we do not have something, God does not mean it to be in our lives.

27:5 Even though stressful, it is sometimes easier to start an argument than it is to admit love.

27:6 A friend is able to be honest even when it hurts but an enemy will tell a harmful lie just because it's easier.

27:7 When truly hungry, desperate for something, everything taste is sweet. But when we are content and satisfied, we sometimes take for granted the sweetest of a thing. Remember to be grateful to God in good times as much as we rely on Him in bad!

27:8 We must not wander from the path of God or from our honest selves. He is our home and safe place.

27:9 Friendship is a comfort to the heart, a source of counsel and support.

27:10 Be true to your friends. Do not neglect anyone in favor of friendship with someone else.

27:11 Live wisely and make God proud. Good character will enable others to stand by you and defend you when necessary.

27:12 Prudent people are able to plan and prepare for all circumstances for they listen to and learn from God. However, someone who does not listen to God will make mistakes which cause them to fall.

27:13 If you recommend a person or vouch for them, ensure that they are honorable.

27:14 Do not flatter people for selfish means.

27:15-16 It's difficult and chaotic to life with a contentious person.

27:17 Good friends sharpen each other, cause and inspire the other to become better in character.

27:18 Those who keep with the kingdom of God will reap the benefits within it; and those who are steadfastly loyal to God and wait on His will will be honored.

27:19 A person's  actions and amount of compassion towards others, reveals who they truly are.

27:20 Unchecked is a bottomless pit. We must learn to live with and value moderation and appreciation for what we have.

27:21 Our quality character speaks of our value. 

27:22 A fool resists personal growth and ignores lessons to change their behavior.

27:23-27 Be diligent; take care of the people in your life. Do not value riches over the well-being of others. Wealth and power and temporary and fragile but love of others should be solid and permanent. Our relationship with God naturally provides for us all that we need and nourishes our souls.

OT: The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 26

Proverbs 26:1-28

26:1 Honor cannot be found in a foolish person. A foolish person neglects to learn the lessons in life that teach them to be honorable people. A person who does do constructive within themselves cannot be depended upon for honor.

26:2 Our protection from God, through our faith, protects us from the evil plots (curses) of others committed against us. Although they may wish and plan and try to harm us, their curses never land. God protects His righteous children and when we are blameless, He ensures that we are not blamed.

26:3 Metaphorically speaking, discipline and rebuke is necessary to learn and grow in character. 

26:4-5 It is difficult to reason with a stubbornly foolish person. Sometimes a rebuke is more effective to teach common sense. 

24:6 A foolish person cannot be trusted with confidential, important matters. God wants us to surround ourselves with people we can trust and rely on, and if there are none (or few), to recognize that and not entrust the wrong people with personal information.

24:7 A foolish person is unable/unwilling to interpret a proverb, parable or passage with a message. We we become studious, compassionate, self-disciplined students of God, we build on our common sense and wisdom. We can do more with more complex lessons and ideas.

24:8 It is destructive to honor a foolish person, for a foolish person with honor and responsibility will be unable to appropriately care for that which is put in their control. God teaches us not to trust foolish people, but He also teaches us not to be foolish people.

24:9 A foolish person cannot use a proverb for good because they do not understand it. Wisdom disables them, confounds them because they have no base of common sense on which to build upon. It's important to remember that this "foolish" person is someone who rejects wisdom and justice and compassion. They live by their own flawed law rather than by God's logical one.

24:10 But God is good; He provides opportunity for all. Opportunity to grow and learn and thrive. 

24:11 Yet a foolish person rejects the opportunity and returns to their folly. Every day people choose to live by their own code of conduct rather than God's and it leads them further astray.

12:12 Arrogance is even worse than foolishness. We need humility (even if it's only a tiny amount) in order to have the opportunity to listen, learn and grow. An arrogance person is too absorbed in themselves to have the humility to listen.

26:13-16 A lazy person will make every excuse before actually doing something productive. Even basic things they seldom do or do slowly. It causes them to be weary and regressive and self-absorbed. It's important to be active and alert and receptive to God's law and new ideas and opportunities. We are not meant to live in stagnant waters but in the living water.

26:17 It is ridiculous to entangle oneself in matters that are someone else's business. 

26:18-19 Harmful mocking, teasing and behavior is not a sport. Cruel and deceptive behavior is not absolved by glib behavior. 

26:20-22 Some behavior actual stokes a fire and causes more destruction. We are supposed to learn how certain behavior helps or hurts in a situation. Sometimes we need to change our reactions and responses in order to prevent further destruction (even when it is difficult to do so). We should train ourselves to remain calm and objective in arguments with the intention to end it, rather than  (intentionally or inadvertently) fuel it. 

26:23 It is useless, harmful and deceptive to be a sweet-talker with a cruel heart. 

26:24-26 God wants us to learn our God-given ability to discern between people who are honest and people who are not. Some people have deceptive, selfish, cruel intentions. God wants us to be able to weed them out and He provides us with the skill. Scripture helps us to hone that skill, to interpret a person's behavior and discover their true motives.

26:27 We reap what we sow. This passage is an iteration of that; when we live cruelly, we set ourselves up for cruelty to return. We dig holes for others to fall into and we found ourselves in them. We roll stones to block others and then we find ourselves blocked by that stone.

26:28 Lies and flattery are destructive. Be honest and foster authentic relationships. 

OT: The Book of Proverbs, Chapter 25

Proverbs 25:1-28

25:1-2 God is the embodiment and proliferation of wisdom. He designed the universe; there is so much about His knowledge that is unattainable to us because of its complexity. But is the glory of God's faithful children to search Him, to seek within those omnipotent spaces for the character of God. As our relationship develops with Him, more and more is revealed, so much of life is able to be understood. 

25:3 We have God's complexity within us; as vast as the earth, our own hearts are searched thoroughly by Him. He endeavors to know us well and fully, and we endeavor for the same: to know Him as well as we possibly can. 

25:4-5 Our relationship with God is a cleansing, molding, sharpening, refining process. As we learn from Him and become more disciplined in the things of Spirit (love, wisdom and justice in all their forms) the more securely we are established in righteousness. 

25:6-7  We are taught to be humble creatures. For when we boast and shove ourselves in places, we will shamefully discover that we are not welcomed there. God recognizes humility in His children; He knows that a humble character is able to learn and grow and therefore become qualified for exalted positions. We do not have to force our way into opportunities, relationships, or anything else. God will tailor those things to our specific measurements and will secure us within them. 

25:8-10 God does not want us to rush into arguments and entanglements. He wants us to act wisely, patiently and observe. Reflect. Contemplate. He does not want us to gossip or stir up tension or anxiety. Poor behavior will ruin our reputation and cause a shameful result.

25:11-12 Appropriate responses to people and situations are like valuable treasure, fresh fruit. We should interact and behavior, therefore, with respect and solemnity. 

25:13 There is purity in an honest messenger. It is troublesome to embellish or downplay. Circumstances can best be dealt with when the information is full and honest, and no more or less than that.

25:14 A disciplined student of God develops whatever particular gift God has given them. They use it to change the lives of the people around them for the better. But we have to be careful not to force ourselves into spiritual positions that we are not qualified for: it harmful at worst and useless at best. We all have gifts and places to develop and use those gifts, we must listen to and follow God into the places we are meant to be. 

25:15 There is great power in perseverance, as well as in a gentle. God teaches us humble, honorable, patient, quiet ways to make huge impacts in our life. 

25:16 Moderation is advised. We shouldn't spoil ourselves with things; we must always remember to exhibit patient and discipline, reservation when necessary. We must always practice self control.

25:17 It's important not to overstep boundaries. 

25:18 To lie about person or event can do lethal damage to a life or situation.

25:19 Arrogance in an unrighteous person hurts others and dismantles good things. We must be righteous people at all times, so that when a difficult situation arises, we have the God-taught wherewithal to persevere wisely through it (rather than cause further destruction).

25:20 Do not be foolish: when people need kindness, do not give them cruelty. 

25:21-22 We are taught here that kindness is more effective than cruelty. Emulating or returning poor behavior is not effective in improving a circumstance or character. Moreover: God rewards kindness, especially when it is given to a undeserving person. We learn a lot when we are kind when it is difficult.

Matthew 5:46 For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?

25:23 Anger within a person will come out as anger to others. We have to do construction within ourselves in order not to do harm to others. We have to learn and grow in patience and kindness and communication.

25:24 It is truly traumatizing to life with a contentious person, therefore endeavor to not even be that contentious person. God teaches us peace and kindness for a reason; it's important for the health of all souls involved. 

25:25 There are simple pleasures that bring complex joy; we should not take them for granted. 

25:26 Our relationship with God builds courage within us; because of God's strength, we are able to stand against injustice. Our lives are useful when our faith is our armor and commander.  

25:27 It is not good to overindulge or to be arrogant. We spoil and corrupt ourselves (our careers, our friendships, relationships, and everything else) when we have no self control and too much self-righteousness.

25:28 We must be a faithful fortress within ourselves. We must be self-disciplined and faithful in order to have strong borders, defense and courage. If we are unable to control ourselves, our entire lives will be chaotic and undisciplined.