As the global pandemic rages and the death toll rises, many are wondering why God delays to answer prayers and end this suffering. In John 11, we encounter Martha and Mary who are wondering the same as they suffer the loss of their brother. Jesus's reminder that he is the resurrection and the life are the words we need right now.

In times of trouble, there's no question that being wealthy is a huge advantage over being poor. But don't let your imagination fool you into thinking that wealth can be a refuge or fortress. There is only one strong tower and the righteous run to Him.

Words hurt more than we think. We've heard the saying: Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.  Yet hurtful words often leave wounds that fester and never heal. Sometimes, we may be the ones who speak these words. As Christians, what does God want us to do when we prepare to speak? 

What does God mean when He commands us to honor thy Father and Mother? Does it mean that children should always obey their parents? Do we blindly follow as children? What role do parents play in this command? Today we’ll look at God’s desire for us when He commands us to Honor thy father and mother.

Wisdom and Folly are extending invitations to their homes for a feast. Be careful where you choose to go because there are great consequences.  Wisdom will lead to life and folly will lead to death. Only those who fear the Lord will make the right choice. 

The passage paints a portrait of folly with three examples - the speculator, the sluggard, and the scoundrel. The picture gets progressively worse with each, but the common problem is that all three lack a biblical work ethic. The point is not to follow in their steps.

Building on the imagery of two paths, Proverbs 5 introduces us to two women – the forbidden woman and the wife of your youth. The main idea is that women and wisdom should be pursued passionately and loved exclusively. To put it another way, keeping on the way of wisdom means avoiding the path of promiscuity.

Getting wisdom is not the pursuit of novel ideas. It is a process of continual recollection and recommitment to the familiar truths passed down to you. The acquisition of wisdom is not about blazing new paths. It’s about keeping to the old roads, well-trodden by the wise.

The Bible teaches that generosity to the poor is both a duty and a description of God’s people. And since it says the poor will always be with us, that means we have perpetual responsibility in our hands. The book of Proverbs addresses this responsibility and lays forth both blessings and curses depending on how we respond.