Love and hate

Proverbs 12:1 “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid.” Think of this: anyone who hates correction loves being wrong—and loving being wrong because you do not want to be corrected is as stupid as stupid gets.  Isn’t it wise to listen, learn and apply wise thinking to one’s life?  Solomon’s inspired wisdom is useful, practical and applicable. Have a great weekend.

Security

Proverbs 11:28 “Whoever trusts in his riches will fail, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.” Faith in our Redeemer Savior fills you with a wealth that is beyond measure.  Earthly comforts are certainly welcome but Solomon, the wealthiest man in the world in his time and possibly even now, knew the meager value of stuff.  You and I thrive only through the love of our Heavenly Father.  Treasure that beyond valuable treasure chest.

Generosity

Proverbs 11:25 “A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” God does nothing without purpose.  Without question, you are blessed by God.  We learn an extremely valuable lesson with this thought:  Live your life with purpose–God’s purpose and bless others with the blessings you have so bountifully been given.  Remember—-your blessings are not just monetary—your blessings are time, talent and treasure.  Bless others with all 3.

A seeming contradiction

Proverbs 11:24 “One man gives freely, yet gains even more, another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.” Have you ever seen or heard of a happy hoarder?  Never.  Solomon’s wisdom knows how God thinks.  God rewards heartfelt generosity.  Success certainly includes helping others.  The joy of life is helping others and walking humbly with your God.  Gaining for yourself as your goal will lead you to an inner life of poverty.  Enriching others and serving your Savior will create a life of rich contentment and joy.  The choice is yours and mine.

Desires and results

Proverbs 11:23 “The desire of the righteous ends only in good, but the hope of the wicked only in wrath.” I am sure you have contemplated the thought—-why am I living this life, what is my purpose and how do I accomplish my purpose?  If your conclusion has been:  to gain for myself, excel in what I do and enjoy life to the fullest—-you will leave this earth thinking:  is that all there is?  However, if your thinking is:  I live to use all the talent I have been blessed with, I live to serve my Savior wherever He places me and I will live to encourage my fellow man and help him/her understand their purpose, your life will have a richness and contentedness no amount of wealth can buy and you will leave this world peacefully thinking: Praise God, from whom all blessings flow.