Wisdom-Trek ©

Putnam Church Message – 10/01/2023

We continue our extended series through the book of Hebrews in the New Testament. Last week, we focused on the long-term life of faith, which will require Endurance and Discipline. This week, we will explore a Call to Listen to God in a message titled Watch Out for Worldliness.

I will read today’s scripture from the NLT, so I have included it in the bulletin insert. Let’s read Hebrews 12:14-29.

Last week, we explored Hebrews 12, which begins with the strong image of running a race with endurance (12:1), setting our sights on Jesus, and setting aside all encumbrances (12:1–3). In 12:4–11, the focus is on God's intense and often painful training program to keep us strong during the marathon. In 12:12–13, the author urges us to stay healthy and to persevere in this race set before us, so that the grueling challenges may not harm us, but rather be healed—restored, renewed, and refreshed in Him. The remainder of chapter 12 describes a healed, sanctified life.  This passage contains some of the most vivid, glorious language in all Scripture describing our salvation in Christ and our new position in His kingdom.

The message of this section is simple: As we run the race of faith, we need to watch out for worldliness. But worldliness isn’t simply indulging the lusts of the flesh by engaging in sinful activity. That’s only one form. Worldliness is also an attitude that prioritizes the things of this world over the things of Christ. In 12:18–24, the contrast between the heavenly inheritance of the new covenant centered in Christ and the old covenant precepts of the Law presents a complicated choice to the audience of Hebrews: Acknowledge Jesus alone as Lord…or discount and deny Christ as Lord by going back to a system that has been rendered obsolete. Today, this takes the form of a list of rules we must follow to be considered spiritual. This is called legalism. Yes, legalism, too, can be a form of worldliness, masquerading as spiritual maturity!

In our marathon of faith, worldliness can ruin us. If we let it get the best of us, we’ll soon slow down, wear out, and fall aside. And if we don’t resist it, attachment to the here and now will set us so far back that we’ll lose the opportunity to get back in the race. This ominous message begins to take shape in Hebrews 12:14–17, where we find two positive commands (12:14) and three negative warnings (12:15–16). After that, we need to consider the serious consequences that result from a failure to overcome the temptation toward worldliness (12:17).

On the positive side, the author of Hebrews first urges his readers to Work at living in peace with everyone (12:14) NLT. In our world rocked by constant conflict, lawsuits, divorce, protests, racism, terrorism, prejudice, and open warfare, /the pursuit of peace seems impossible. Even at the interpersonal level in families, churches, schools, or workplaces, peaceful, harmonious relationships are hard to maintain in our dog-eat-dog world. Worldliness says, “Kill or be killed.” But God’s system says, “Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone” (Rom. 12:18). What a contrast!

The second positive command is to work at living a holy life (Heb. 12:14). The worldly system lures us into conformity to its patterns and priorities—luxury, indulgence, accumulation of things, personal gratification, and pleasures. But God’s design says, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think” (Rom. 12:2). The author of Hebrews uses the word “holy” here to convey the idea of set apart from the world, a marked difference from worldly priorities and pursuits. Remember, any utensil, instrument, or offering for worship, including us, was set apart or made holy for God’s purpose. When we are morally distinct or set apart from the worldliness around us, we are made holy and will “see the Lord” clearly through spiritual eyes. Jesus said, “God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God” (Matt. 5:8).

Following these two positive commands, the author hits his audience with three negative warnings, reminding us today that the way of righteousness is littered with dangers to avoid. The first warning is: Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God (Heb. 12:15 NLT). Contrary to the world’s mentality that embraces the rigid application of legalism and the spiritual principles of karma, Christians operate in the realm of grace. When we fail to model grace, encourage grace, believe in grace, live with grace, and share grace with others, we’ll fall on our faces and backslide into worldliness.

The second warning is: Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many  (Heb. 12:15 NLT). The author employs the image drawn from Deuteronomy 29:18, where the people of Israel were warned I am making this covenant with you so that no one among you—no man, woman, clan, or tribe—will turn away from the Lord our God to worship these gods of other nations, and so that no root among you bears bitter and poisonous fruit (Heb. 12:15).

The third warning is: Make sure that no one is immoral or godless like Esau, who traded his birthright as the firstborn son for a single meal (Heb. 12:16 NLT). The author chose Esau as the perfect personification of worldliness—one who valued temporary, fleeting lusts of the flesh more than the enduring, spiritual blessings of God’s covenant. He lived by sight rather than faith, for today rather than for eternity, this world rather than the next. You may remember this tragic story. He came home one day so hungry that he literally traded the blessing of his birthright as the firstborn son of Isaac for a bowl of stew (Gen. 25:27–34)! The message to us is clear: Don’t trade your priceless spiritual inheritance for the paltry wares of this world.

So far, we have seen two positive commands (Heb. 12:14) and three warnings (12:15–16). Now, the author describes serious consequences, illustrated by the horrifying fate of Esau after he traded the spiritual for the worldly. After his stomach was full, foolish Esau came to his senses. He realized what he had done: He had sworn an oath to forfeit his birthright to his younger brother, Jacob, for a quick meal slurped down in the fleeting passions of self-indulgence. When he tried to reverse the irreversible, he discovered that he had crossed a threshold into a condition he could not undo. “You know that afterward, when he wanted his father’s blessing, he was rejected. It was too late for repentance, even though he begged with bitter tears” (12:17 NLT). Esau had to deal with the consequences of his choice. The cost for Esau’s worldliness was losing something so much more significant. He gave up everything for nothing, and it was too late by the time he realized the value of what he had forsaken. It is a fact that God allows us a good deal of free will to make choices, so we are free to choose. God has also established the law of planting and harvesting. Therefore, we are not free from the consequences of our choices.

The implication for the original audience of Hebrews—and us today—is clear: If we fail to press on in peace and purity (Heb. 12:14) and become entangled by worldliness (12:15–16), the eventual outcome is not a pleasant one for the original audience of Hebrews—and us.

The spiritual marathon of faithfulness is rugged, long, painful, and exhausting, marked by trials and challenges that strengthen and grow us throughout the journey (12:1–13). Thankfully, our trainer and coach are more than just friends; they’re our heavenly Father (12:5–11). He wants the best for us. But just as in physical races, there are rules (precepts) and warnings for participants in the spiritual race (12:14–16). These rules/precepts prevent us from ending up like Esau, overcome by worldliness and unable to repent (12:17). The phrase, unable to repent means that Easu had to live with the consequences of his choice.

In 12:18–24, the author leads us down a path that passes by two mountains—Mount Sinai and Mount Zion. However, we can visit these literal, geographical, and historical places today.  The author is using them to illustrate two competing systems—one temporary, earthly, and obsolete (“Sinai”); the other eternal, heavenly, and absolute (“Zion”). The first represents a worldly approach to the spiritual life—laws, regulations, and the sensory approach to worship. The second represents the heavenly approach to the spiritual life—grace, faith, hope, and love. The writer of Hebrews shows his audience a representation of the old covenant to create a stark contrast with the new covenant so that they can see where they stand before God.

Mount Sinai represents the Law and all its rigid requirements. With frightening sounds and images like trumpets and whirlwinds, fire and gloom, darkness and death (12:18–21), the author portrays the heart-stopping fear that came with the delivery of the Law, described fully in passages like Exodus 19 and Deuteronomy 5. With the old covenant came fear and trembling, shock and awe. So horrifying was the experience that even “Moses himself was so frightened at the sight that he said, ‘I am terrified and trembling’” (Heb. 12:21 NLT). By conjuring up these emotions, the author of Hebrews warns his marathon runners about the dangers of returning to the old, obsolete mountain. That one—the fleshly, earthly, worldly approach to right living—will only lead to fear and trembling because we can never meet the requirements of the law nor any legalistic rules in our modern culture. Instead, they should stay on course and head for another glorious mountain.

Turning the eyes of the readers’ minds away from the dread of Sinai, he then describes the heavenly beauty of Mount Zion and God’s city, Jerusalem. This mountain represents the personal, loving presence of the living God.  No, you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to countless thousands of angels in a joyful gathering (12:22 NLT)! Here, we mingle with angels, fellowship with saints, and converse with Jesus Himself (12:22–24). Instead of cowering from fire and smoke, we stand face-to-face with “God himself, who is the judge over all things” (12:23 NLT). And when we do, we don’t stand with knocking knees and chattering teeth. We stand confidently because we have been sprinkled clean with the blood of Jesus, “You have come to Jesus, the one who mediates the new covenant between God and people” (12:24 NLT).

With this clear contrast between Mount Sinai and Mount Zion, the author sums up one of the underlying themes of the book of Hebrews: the vast superiority of the new covenant over the old. How foolish, then, for those who have begun their upward trek toward the glorious top of Mount Zion to turn around and head for the jagged cliffs of Mount Sinai! How senseless to abandon the journey of grace, empowered by faith and inspired by hope, and instead to try to fulfill the steep, impossible dictates of the Law by which no flesh will ever be justified (Rom. 3:20)!

Hebrews 12 climaxes with the fifth and final warning passage in the book of Hebrews. Let’s quickly review the previous four. First, 2:1–4 warned us to “Pay attention lest you drift!” The second passage advised, “Beware of a hard heart!” (3:7–4:13). The notoriously hard teaching of 5:11–6:20 warned, “Don’t stray from the path of spiritual growth!” The fourth passage urged, “Stand firm in the faith or be judged by God!” (10:19–39). Now, in the fifth warning passage of the book of Hebrews, the author says, “Don’t turn away from Him!” (12:25–29).

 

The warning of Hebrews 12:25–29 is a final call to those who had begun to stray from the path leading to Mount Zion. In fact, two warnings blast from the author’s megaphone—one stated in the negative, the other in the positive. Negatively, the author declares, “Be careful that you do not refuse to listen to the One who is speaking” (12:25 NLT). Arguing from the lesser to the greater, the writer reminds his readers that those who refused to listen to God’s voice under the old, inferior covenant established on earth “did not escape” judgment (12:25). We are meant to recall the destruction of a whole generation of rebellious Israelites in the wilderness after the Exodus from Egypt (see 3:17). Now we have words from God spoken directly from the lips of God the Son incarnate—Jesus Christ—and through the mouths of the apostles, whose message was given directly from God the Holy Spirit. In this final warning passage, we should recall the very first warning in Hebrews 2:1–4, which says,

The seriousness of neglecting the salvation spoken by Jesus and confirmed by the apostles is underscored by a reference to the coming judgment, which serves as a warning against the absolute futility of placing our hopes on worldliness. Quoting from a passage in Haggai 2:6, the author of Hebrews looks forward to a time when God will “shake the heavens and the earth”— a final cataclysmic judgment of all creation which is described in (Heb. 12:26–27). “When God spoke from Mount Sinai his voice shook the earth, but now he makes another promise: ‘Once again I will shake not only the earth but the heavens also.’ This means that all of creation will be shaken and removed, so that only unshakable things will remain. In these things, we should place our confidence and hope.”

The positive side of the warning comes in 12:28 NLT, “Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe.” This is the opposite of refusing “the One who is speaking” (12:25). Instead of neglecting the free gift of salvation, we respond with joyful, grace-oriented, reverential worship and service of God marked by awe (12:28), never forgetting that “our God is a devouring fire” (12:29). The basis of this proper response is the fact that we have received “a Kingdom that is unshakable” (12:28).

Worldliness discounts and denies Christ as Lord. It exchanges internals for externals. It values preferences over principles. It loves the things of the world and shuns the things of heaven. It clambers up the dark, gloomy path to Mount Sinai and steers clear of the torch-lit path of Mount Zion. It turns away from God’s warnings and retreats into unbelief. It invests its time and energy in this doomed world and fails to plant its anchor of hope in the kingdom that cannot be shaken.

The stark contrast between the pursuit of worldliness and the pursuit of holiness is made clear in Hebrews 12:14–29. But now what? Let’s take worldliness...

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2278 of our trek. The purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. It’s a joy to have you join me on this journey. Today, our exploration takes us into the profound insights of Proverbs 20:8-14 from the New Living Translation.

As we delve into these verses, let’s seek the timely insights that can guide us in understanding the significance of a king’s wisdom, the impact of honesty in business dealings, and the value of discerning counsel.

Without further delay, let’s head out and dig into the wisdom of Proverbs.

This verse speaks to the discernment and wisdom required of a king in rendering just judgments.

How can we understand the significance of discernment in our decision-making processes?

You must Embrace Discernment in Decision-Making: Recognize the importance of discernment in making wise decisions. Embrace a thorough examination of evidence, distinguishing between what is good and bad. Understand that discernment is a critical element in rendering just and wise judgments in all aspects of life.

Now, let’s explore verse 9.

This verse underscores the humility required to acknowledge the inherent sinfulness of humanity.

How can we cultivate humility in recognizing our shortcomings and the need for continual purification?

Cultivating humility and continuous purification requires recognizing the necessary humility to acknowledge our sinfulness. Cultivate a spirit of humility by understanding that no one can claim complete purity. Embrace the need for continuous purification through repentance, seeking forgiveness, and striving for a heart aligned with God’s standards.

Verse 10 speaks to the consequences of dishonest business practices.

This verse emphasizes God’s detestation of dishonesty in business dealings, particularly using false weights and unequal measures.

How can we apply the principles of honesty and integrity in our business and personal interactions?

To Uphold Honesty and Integrity, we must recognize the detestable nature of dishonesty in business and personal dealings. Uphold honesty and integrity by avoiding double standards, using fair measures, and conducting ourselves with transparency. Understand that God values honesty and integrity in all aspects of life.

Now, let’s turn our attention to verse 11.

This verse highlights the significance of a person’s actions in revealing their character.

How can we understand the importance of our actions in shaping our character?

Shape Character Through Right Actions by recognizing the importance of actions in shaping character. Strive for purity and righteousness in conduct, understanding that even a child is known by their actions. Choose actions that align with God’s principles, recognizing that character is revealed through behavior.

And finally, let’s explore verses 12-14.

These verses touch on the gifts of hearing and seeing, the consequences of excessive sleep, and the deceitful nature of haggling over prices.

How can we appreciate the gifts of hearing and seeing, avoid the pitfalls of excessive sleep, and conduct ourselves with integrity in business transactions?

To Appreciate Gifts, Avoid Pitfalls, and embody Conduct with Integrity, we must recognize the gifts of hearing and seeing as blessings from the Lord. Avoid the pitfalls of excessive sleep by embracing diligence and responsibility. Conduct yourself with integrity in business transactions, avoiding deceitful practices and embracing fairness in buying and selling.

And there you have it, my friends, insights from Proverbs 20:8-14. These verses offer us timeless wisdom for embracing discernment in decision-making, cultivating humility and continuous purification, upholding honesty and integrity, shaping character through right actions, appreciating gifts, avoiding pitfalls, and conducting with integrity.

As we continue our journey through the pages of the Bible, remember that the wisdom it offers is our guiding light in navigating the complexities of life. Until next time, keep seeking God’s wisdom and make it a part of your daily trek.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of our Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.

As we take this trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain reminding you to Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy Your Journey, and Create a Great Day Everyday! See you next time for more wisdom from God’s Word!

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2277 of our trek. The purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. It’s a pleasure to have you join me on this journey today. Our exploration takes us into the profound insights of Proverbs 20:1-7 from the New Living Translation.

As we delve into these verses, let’s seek the timeless wisdom that can guide us in navigating the pitfalls of indulgence, the value of trustworthy character, and the importance of God-directed steps.

Without further delay, let’s head out into the wisdom of Proverbs.

This verse highlights the negative consequences of excessive drinking, including the emergence of mockers and the inability to exercise wisdom.

How can we navigate the temptations of indulgence and cultivate a life of wisdom?

Navigate Temptations of Indulgence: Recognize the negative consequences of excessive indulgence. Navigate temptations by exercising self-control, making wise choices in lifestyle, and understanding that a life led by indulgence cannot be wise.

Now, let’s explore verse 2.

This verse paints a vivid picture of the intensity of a king’s anger and the potentially life-threatening consequences of provoking it.

How can we understand the implications of anger, especially when it comes to those in authority?

Understand the Implications of Anger: Recognize the intensity of anger, especially in those in authority. Understand that provoking anger, especially from those in leadership positions, can have severe consequences. Cultivate diplomacy, respect, and a discerning spirit in interactions to avoid unnecessary conflicts.

Verse 3 speaks to the purity of our motives.

This verse emphasizes the honor of avoiding unnecessary conflicts and highlights the foolishness of insisting on quarreling.

How can we cultivate a spirit of honor and avoid unnecessary conflicts?

Cultivate a Spirit of Honor: Recognize the honor in avoiding unnecessary conflicts. Cultivate a spirit of honor by choosing peace over quarrels, seeking understanding, and valuing relationships over the need to be correct. Understand that avoiding fights is a mark of wisdom and maturity.

Now, let’s turn our attention to verse 4.

This verse illustrates the importance of timely and diligent action, especially in preparation for the future.

How can we understand the significance of timely effort and diligence in our endeavors?

Embrace Timely Effort and Diligence: Recognize the importance of timely action and diligence in preparing for the future. Embrace a work ethic that values proactive effort, understanding that laziness and procrastination lead to lack and scarcity.

And finally, let’s explore verses 5-7.

These verses delve into the value of understanding, reliability in friendships, and the impact of godly integrity on future generations.

How can we draw out good advice, cultivate reliable friendships, and leave a legacy of godly integrity?

Draw Out Good Advice, Cultivate Reliable Friendships, and Leave a Legacy of Godly Integrity: Recognize the value of understanding in drawing out good advice. Cultivate reliable friendships by seeking those who demonstrate true loyalty and reliability. Leave a legacy of godly integrity by walking in righteousness and integrity, understanding that the impact extends to future generations.

And there you have it, my friends, a solo exploration of Proverbs 20:1-7 from the New Living Translation. These verses offer us timeless wisdom for navigating the pitfalls of indulgence, understanding the implications of anger, cultivating a spirit of honor, embracing timely effort and diligence, drawing out good advice, cultivating reliable friendships, and leaving a legacy of godly integrity.

As we continue our journey through the pages of the Bible, remember that the wisdom it offers is our guiding light in navigating the complexities of life. Until next time, keep seeking God’s wisdom and make it a part of your daily trek.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of our Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.

As we take this trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain reminding you to Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy Your Journey, and Create a Great Day Everyday! See you next time for more wisdom from God’s Word!

Putnam Church Message – 09/24/2023

We continue our extended series through the book of Hebrews in the New Testament. Last week, we explored the Triumphs and Tragedies of the Faithful. This week, we will extend our focus to a long-term life of faith, which will require Endurance and Discipline.

Let’s read Hebrews 12:1-13.

and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,

because the Lord disciplines the one he loves,

and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”

More than ever, we need to be reminded that when we enter the Christian life through faith, we don’t enter a playground but a battleground. That underlying principle runs throughout Hebrews and especially finds its clear expression in chapter 12. When we enter into a relationship with Christ and are initiated into His body, the church, we’re thrust onto a spiritual battlefield. Yes, we’re always shielded and armed with forgiveness through the blood of Christ, eternal security guaranteed by the will of the Father, and the power to live a new life by the Holy Spirit. These things can never be snatched away from us. However, these are provisions for the battle, not means of excusing us from the battle.

The book of Hebrews was written to men and women in the thick of the battle against the flesh, the world, and the spiritual forces of evil. Some of them were trembling in their boots. Others had retreated to the trenches. Some were tempted to turn tail and run. Already, the author has warned his audience of the cost of defection amid the battle. He urges them toward a life of enduring hope that responds positively to God’s hand of loving discipline with maturity. He wants them to lean on Christ, who is superior for pressing on in the faith. He doesn’t want them to be “flash in the pan” Christians.

A “flash in the pan” is someone who starts something with a lot of noise and flurry but soon fades and passes off the scene. They are quick to begin, enthusiastic, have big ideas, loud talk, and heated emotions. But when the going gets tough, they drop through the cracks. They have no staying power. They lack the virtue of endurance. And they crumble under discipline.

Authentic Christian faith should lead to a Christian life of enduring hope. Such hope pushes through the hardships of this fallen world. It also perseveres through the persecutions of a godless world. But even more importantly, it responds positively to the fatherly discipline of a loving God during the journey through this imperfect world. Hebrews 11 painted a brilliant picture of men and women of authentic faith who endured hardship, persevered through persecutions, and responded well to God’s discipline. Hebrews 12 focuses on us believers, answering the question, In light of these examples of heroic faith, how should we live our own lives?

In Hebrews 12:1–13, the author explains how we can live lives of faithful endurance even when there is no applause, tangible trophy, or apparent relief from pressure. Even when we face hardship and hostility and the ever-present reality of trials and temptations, we can embrace hope to grow closer to God without growing weary. In the course of this exhortation to hope, the author deals with the uncomfortable reality of God’s discipline, which provokes us toward greater faith, hope, and love, giving us a glimpse of God’s purpose in allowing pain and suffering in this life.

Hebrews 11 is a roll call of great men and women of faith who had fought with faith in the spiritual battles of this fallen world. Not all were decorated for their victories. Many suffered and died amid the struggle. And none of them saw the conflict to the end, with the destruction of sin, death, unseen evil spiritual forces, and the establishment of the everlasting kingdom of Christ. All of them, however, stand as permanent testimonies to the fact that the life of faith pays off. Because they endured in faith-driven hope, we can, too.

The practical point of Hebrews 11 is that all these saints of old were born and raised in imperfection, lived lives as sinners saved by grace, and persevered through hardship with faith and hope. As mortal humans, they were no better than you and I. Therefore, we can have enduring hope to climb from the trenches,/ listen to the Commander’s voice, /and soldier on.

Now, most of us can’t relate to the battlefield metaphor. Many who served in our armed forces didn’t necessarily see combat. However, almost all of us have participated in some sport—whether it was a track meet, a marathon, a baseball game, or a volleyball match. As we turn the page to Hebrews 12, the author employs the brilliant metaphor of a sporting event—in this case, a foot race—to encourage his readers to press on and finish their journey of faith. The spiritual athletes showcased in chapter 11 are ushered off the track and into the grandstands in chapter 12, where the author of Hebrews pictures them cheering us on as we take our places in the marathon of this life of faith.

The “therefore” in Hebrews 12:1 connects this passage to the previous discussion in a cause-and-effect relationship. Consequently, “since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses” refers to the men and women of the tapestry of faith masterfully woven in Hebrews 11. In other words, in light of the faithful testimonies of men and women like Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Moses, Rahab, and Gideon, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles (12:1).

All believers have been entered into the contest of faith. In 12:1–3, the author of Hebrews takes the role of a coach, teaching us how to be prepared for the race and stay on track. The first thing the writer tells us to do is to throw off two things: “everything that hinders” and “the sin that so easily entangles” (12:1).

The Greek word translated “race” (agōn) can also be used in the sense of a “struggle” or “fight” (see Phil. 1:30; Col. 2:1; 1 Tim. 6:12). The Christian life is not a game of hopscotch. Nor is it a short sprint. It’s a challenging, exhausting marathon. Making it to the end requires us to set aside anything that might hold us back or weigh us down. The word translated as “hinders” (onkos) refers to “that which hinders one from doing something.” Picture a runner in our present context who is hindered by anything from a coat, sweatpants, hoodies, jewelry, and bulky shoes. Allen notes, “In the first century AD, runners ran in the stadium virtually naked. They would enter wearing long, flowing, colorful robes. At the start of the race, these would be discarded.”

In the spiritual race, we must set aside anything that might make endurance difficult—anything excessive, needless, or useless. These “hindrances” are not the same for each runner. Kent Hughes notes, “What is a hindrance to you may not be a hindrance in any way to someone else. A hindrance is something, otherwise good that weighs you down spiritually. It could be a friendship, an association, an event, a place, a habit, a pleasure, an entertainment, an honor. But if this otherwise good thing drags you down, you must strip it away.” To endure the race of faith, believers must first set aside the needless baggage and useless distractions that would hold them back or slow them down.

While things that weigh us down and distract us may be morally neutral, the second hindrance to spiritual endurance is not: “the sin that so easily entangles” (Heb. 12:1). Any sin could trip us up—from the tiniest “fib” to outright apostasy. We must prepare ourselves to run a clean race, setting aside habitual sins and avoiding the constant temptations that can cause us to stumble and fall.

In the immediate context, however, it may be that the author has the specific sin of unbelief in mind. He refers to “the sin,” not simply to “sins” (12:1). The sin of faithlessness comes in different sizes. It may come as a biting fly buzzing around our head—a nagging doubt that won’t stop irritating us. Or it could come as a dog nipping at our heels—a lingering disbelief in the character or faithfulness of God. Sometimes, a giant tree could fall across the path—a challenge to our faith so great it tempts us to abandon the race.

In every case, we are to set aside the unnecessary distractions and debilitating sin and instead, “And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us” (12:1). The saints of old did it (Heb. 11); now we are to follow in their well-worn path of faithful endurance. The path is before us. We don’t know where it will lead, how long it will go, whether it will be uphill or downhill, smooth or rocky, wet or dry. But faith is trusting God during the uncharted course, knowing that He has marked out for us, the path that will best contribute to our growth toward spiritual maturity.

While running this course, it is necessary to be driven by faith and drawn by hope. This is the point of 12:2–3. We’re not to look down at our feet, /around at our surroundings, or behind at our accomplishments or failures. We’re to be “fixing our eyes on Jesus” (12:2). The verb translated “fixing our eyes” (aphoraō) means “to direct one’s attention without distraction.” Jesus Christ—and Jesus Christ alone—is to be the focus of attention. Why? Because He has gone before us in this marathon of faith. He’s the origin of our life of faith and the One who will see us through to the end. As our perfect example, He looked beyond the suffering and shame of the cross, setting His hope on the joy that would be His when He sat down in glory at the Father's right hand. Hope drew Him onwards and upwards, giving Him the endurance needed to persevere through the hostility of sinners (12:3). Likewise, when we fix our eyes on Him and “consider Him, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (12:2–3). Jesus Christ is superior for pressing on.

Jesus endured ruthless, unjust persecution from sinners (12:2–3). Yet these experiences were not outside His Father’s plan and purpose (Acts 2:23). Hebrews 5:8 reminded us, "Even though Jesus was God’s Son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered.” Notice that Jesus is never said to have been “disciplined” by God. Discipline is for those prone to wander. But He did experience real human growth through trials. If Jesus, God’s perfect Son, demonstrated obedience to His Father in his endurance of suffering (Phil. 2:8), how much more should we expect to go through faith-challenging experiences in our growth process? That is, if Jesus, who was without sin, grew in His humanity through innocent suffering, how much more should we, who are sinful, expect to experience discipline at the hands of a loving Father? (at times that discipline may be painful ) By its very nature, to be a disciple of Christ, it does require discipline.

Here, the author of Hebrews touches on a reality that often tries our faith more than anything else: the discipline of God. We learn that in our struggle against sin and our pursuit of righteousness, God providentially permits experiences, events, circumstances, and people that cause us pain—not to punish us but to purify us. We should rid ourselves of the thought that all discipline is painful.

Hebrews 12:4 notes that, unlike their Savior, the Jewish believers reading this letter had not yet suffered for their faith to the extent of shedding blood. They had not yet experienced martyrdom for their faith, as did their Lord (12:2–3). The affliction they had experienced, however, was trying their faith. They had been tempted to believe the lie that God had forsaken them or that perhaps He didn’t care for them. After all, if God were pleased with them, why would they suffer?

To answer why sometimes painful things were happening to God’s people, the author reminds them of a vital truth they had forgotten—a truth they could recall from Proverbs 3:11–12 NLT.

and don’t be upset when he corrects you.

For the Lord corrects those he loves,

just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.

Through this quotation from King Solomon, the Jewish believers’ beloved source of ancient wisdom, the writer identifies improper responses to God’s discipline that represent two extremes (12:5). The first is to reject discipline, to “make light of” it, ignores the difficult circumstances, trials, and tribulations God ushers into our lives to train us. The second response is to “be upset or lose heart” when we face His correction. We cave in, overreact, push back, or rebel against it. In the one case, we are numb to God’s hand of discipline; in the other case, we slap it away!

To avoid these two extremes, we need to see our struggles, trials, and temptations as something God uses to grow us. Sometimes, because of our rebellious disposition, the pain of these trials is the only thing that will get through to us. C. S. Lewis sums it up nicely: “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains: it is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world.”

This is why faith is essential to help us endure the painful trials in our lives. By faith, we trust that God loves us, that He is all-powerful, and that He knows us completely. That is, though we don’t fully understand how God is working things out for our good, we trust that He is (Rom. 8:28). By faith, we grasp the significance of the next line of Solomon’s proverb: that God disciplines out of love, not anger or hatred; and that when he punishes, He does so as a loving Father corrects a child (Heb. 12:6).

Therefore, faith enables us to respond to God’s discipline with hope rather than indifference or despair.

The author assures his readers, “Endure hardship as discipline” (12:7). Anybody who has parented knows that positive reinforcement through instruction and encouragement is never enough. We are fallen, sinful humans who will always balk at instruction and buck the correction established for our growth. Therefore, positive discipline also involves a flip side—negative consequences for failing to progress … and a painful punishment for rebelliously transgressing the rules.

In this passage, the author unpacks the proverb regarding God’s discipline with four principles that help believers amid their discomfort and pain. First, God’s discipline assures us that we are His children (Heb. 12:7–8). As a perfect heavenly Father, God disciplines His children through positive instruction and negative correction (12:7). The fact that God is actively involved in our spiritual growth toward maturity proves that we are His children. If we were illegitimate, God wouldn’t take the trouble with us (12:8). Therefore, as His true children, we should strive to endure the discipline that will conform our character to His.

Second, God’s discipline deepens and enhances our spiritual life (Heb. 12:9). Arguing from the lesser to the greater, the author reminds us that when our earthly fathers disciplined us, we respected them by submitting to their words of instruction and hands of correction. How much more should we willingly—even joyfully—submit to our heavenly Father! The result of this submission is abundant life (12:9). Though our lives will never be perfect and without pain and suffering, staying on the path of faithful obedience will enhance and enrich our lives (Prov. 6:23; 10:16–17; 29:15). It will save us from many avoidable hardships and much pain that comes through sin and disobedience. And it will give us peace and joy even amid our suffering.

Third, God’s discipline continues for our benefit (Heb. 12:10). Continuing his comparison between our earthly fathers and our heavenly Father, the author points out something that every one of us knows: Our earthly fathers were/are fallen, frail, and imperfect humans, just like us. Therefore, they were occasionally unfair, sometimes arbitrary, and often inconsistent. They frequently failed even when they strived to do what was right and wise. And in some cases, earthly fathers epitomized everything that...

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2275 of our trek. The purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. Having you join me on this journey today is a joy. Today, our exploration takes us into the profound insights of Proverbs 19:22-29 from the New Living Translation.

As we delve into these verses, let’s seek the timeless wisdom that can guide us in cultivating loyalty, understanding the impact of discipline, and the importance of self-control in our lives.

Without further delay, let’s put on our boots and trek into the wisdom of Proverbs.

This verse highlights loyalty’s attractiveness and poverty’s superiority over dishonesty.

How can we cultivate loyalty in our lives and understand the profound value of integrity?

Cultivate Loyalty and Integrity: Recognize the attractiveness of loyalty and the superiority of integrity over material wealth. Cultivate loyalty in your relationships by being trustworthy and steadfast. Choose honesty over dishonest gain, understanding that integrity is a priceless treasure.

Now, let’s explore verse 23.

This verse emphasizes the life-giving and protective qualities of the fear of the Lord.

How can we understand the fear of the Lord and experience the security and protection it brings?

Embrace the Fear of the Lord: Recognize the fear of the Lord as a source of life, security, and protection. Embrace it by cultivating reverential awe and deep respect for God, acknowledging His sovereignty, and aligning your life with His principles.

Verse 24 speaks to the impact of a sluggard on his own life.

This verse contrasts the blocked path of the lazy with the open highway of the upright.

How can we navigate the challenges of laziness and cultivate the open highway of upright living?

Navigate Laziness and Cultivate Upright Living: Recognize the challenges of laziness and the blocked path it creates. Cultivate upright living by embracing diligence, setting goals, and pursuing a path of purpose and productivity, ensuring your way is an open highway.

Now, let’s turn our attention to verse 25.

This verse underscores the impact of discipline on both the mocker and the wise.

How can we understand the role of discipline in our lives and its potential for positive transformation?

Embrace Positive Discipline: Recognize the transformative power of discipline. Embrace positive discipline as a means of growth and development. Whether correcting a mocker or refining the wise, understand that discipline is a tool for gaining wisdom and maturity.

And finally, let’s explore verses 26-29.

These verses touch on the consequences of mistreating parents, the importance of listening to instruction, the mockery of justice by corrupt witnesses, and the destiny of mockers and fools.

How can we navigate the complexities of family relationships, prioritize listening to instruction, uphold justice, and avoid the fate of mockers and fools?

Navigate Family Relationships and Uphold Justice: Recognize the importance of honoring and respecting parents. Prioritize listening to instruction as a pathway to knowledge. Uphold justice by avoiding corrupt practices and standing for righteousness. Choose wisdom over mockery and folly, understanding that the consequences of such choices are severe.

And there you have it, my friends, a solo exploration of Proverbs 19:22-29 from the New Living Translation. These verses offer us timeless wisdom for cultivating loyalty and integrity, embracing the fear of the Lord, navigating laziness and embracing upright living, embracing positive discipline, navigating family relationships, and upholding justice.

As we continue our journey through the pages of the Bible, remember that the wisdom it offers is our guiding light in navigating the complexities of life. Until next time, keep seeking God’s wisdom and make it a part of your daily trek.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of our Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.

As we take this trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain reminding you to Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy Your Journey, and Create a Great Day Everyday! See you next time for more wisdom from God’s Word!

Putnam Church Message – 09/17/2023

We continue our extended series through the book of Hebrews in the New Testament. Last, we explored Faithful Walks Worth Following. Our focus was on the patriarchs of Israel: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. This week, we continue this theme and explore the Triumphs and Tragedies of the Faithful.

Let’s read Hebrews 11:23-40.

Before we jump back into Hebrews 11, let’s pause for a “true or false” quiz.

(T) (F) Christians never wrestle with doubts.

(T) (F) Christians never stumble into sin.

(T) (F) Christians are free from imperfection.

(T) (F) Christians are always shielded from hardship, suffering, and tragedy.

(T) (F) Christians take hold of God’s promises without wavering in hope.

(T) (F) Christians never suffer failure or defeat in their faith-walks.

Okay, it's time to grade your quiz. This will be really easy. If you answered “true” to any of these statements, rethink your answer. Every one of these statements is false.

However, these and similar erroneous ideas about the Christian life plague many believers. These false expectations lead to disappointment in other believers, disappointment in themselves, and disappointment with God. The truth is that the authentic life of faith is a constant battle against temptations. It’s marked by stumbling, falling, and getting back up—dirtied and bruised. True believers can be bothered by lingering doubts or jolted by fits of unbelief. They fail their friends, their families, and their fellow believers. They back down when they should stand up; they lose hope when they should look to their Lord in confidence.

The reality of the Christian life becomes even more sobering when we observe the trials and tribulations faced by mature believers characterized by obvious faithfulness. Even the godliest believers can, and do, experience tragedies. They deal with financial disasters, endure accidents and injuries, suffer from sickness and disease, become the victims of violent crimes, and walk through dark valleys of despair. There is no force field that protects Christians from the effects of this fallen world or the suffering of their mortality.

In the remainder of Hebrews 11, we see a sharp contrast between the triumphs enjoyed by people of faith (11:23–35) and the tragedies endured by people of faith (11:35–38). Some experienced stunning victories by faith—like Moses, Joshua, Gideon, and David. But there was never constant victory without struggle. This long list of believers throughout history, who are rightly commended for their faith, “did not receive what was promised” (11:39). Yet all endured both triumph and tragedy, deliverance and affliction, as they awaited a day yet future when all men and women of faith would finally be made “perfect” (11:40).

In the “Procession of Faith,” the author of Hebrews devoted plenty of space to fill in details on the life of Abraham and the patriarchs (11:8–22). And repeatedly see the things that were accomplished “by faith.” Now, the author switches palettes and transitions from the era of the patriarchs to the era of Moses and the Law.

The original Jewish audience of the book of Hebrews probably wouldn’t have had a hard time accepting that the lives of the patriarchs were characterized by “Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see” (11:1). The patriarchs had lived before the giving of the Law and before the conquest of the land! They had not received the promises. But what about Moses? Did he live by faith in the unseen?

The author notes that Moses’ life began with an act of faith (11:23). When the paranoia of Pharaoh prompted the unprovoked slaughter of male Hebrew infants as a gruesome form of population control (Exod. 1:9–22), Moses’ parents defied the king’s edict. By faith—and willing to face the consequences—they chose to obey God rather than a man who thought he was a god. By hiding the baby from Pharaoh’s forces and floating him down the Nile River, they trusted God alone to care for their child. This one act of faith set off a series of events that eventually led to the rescue of the Israelite people from Egypt and the ordering of the nation under the Law. It all began with faith.

In Hebrews 11:24–28, the author demonstrates that the lawgiver Moses was also a man who epitomized a life of faith—just like the patriarchs of old…and just like his parents. From his humble beginnings to his triumphant victory in the Exodus, Moses was a man who accomplished everything “by faith.” This faithfulness of Moses is illustrated by three key decisions he made.

First, by faith, Moses refused to go with the flow of a sinful society (11:24–26). Remember the context of Moses’ call. He had been plucked from the Nile as an infant by Pharaoh’s daughter and was raised with the best that Egypt had to offer. F. B. Meyer describes Moses’ place in Egyptian high society this way: “If he rode forth into the streets, it would be in a princely garb, amid the cries of ‘Bow the knee.’ If he floated on the Nile, it would be in a golden barge, amid the strains of voluptuous music. If he wished for aught, the almost illimitable wealth of the treasure of Egypt was within his reach.”

Picture Moses as a Hebrew in his heart, but decked out in all the trappings of royal Egyptian luxury. He no doubt wrestled with the tension between masquerading as an Egyptian in a life that wasn’t really his and embracing his true identity as a Hebrew, a member of the people of God. Simply making the startling decision to be true to his outcast,Hebrew heritage required faith—turning his back on Egypt's material wealth and physical pleasures to align with a class of slaves (11:24–25). Having been raised in the luxury of Egyptian royalty, Moses would have known nothing of life among the Israelites in the ghetto of Goshen (Exod. 8:22). This attitude of faith manifested itself in an act of the will. He chose to endure ill-treatment by his identification with God’s people (11:25). He considered God’s heavenly reward greater than Egypt's vast wealth (11:26). These were no mere youthful whims whipped up in a wave of emotion. Moses was 40 when he decided to break ranks and officially join the Hebrews. These were acts of faithfulness inspired by a deep trust in the character and promises of God.

Second, by faith, Moses left the familiar to venture into the foreign (11:27). Moses knew Egypt better than any place on earth. Egypt’s buildings, alleys, obelisks, and temples—all the sights, sounds, and smells were “home” for him. Yet, by virtue of his actions, “he left Egypt”—likely a reference either to his flight from Egypt after killing an Egyptian (Exod. 2:14–15) or his leading the people out of Egypt in the Exodus (Exod. 12). But Moses was able to survive the traumatic transition from the familiar to the foreign because he kept his focus on the one true God “who is unseen” (Heb. 11:27). Instead of backing down at the thought of Pharaoh’s wrath, he stood firm, trusting in God.

Third, by faith, Moses was willing to swallow his pride and do the unusual (11:28). On the eve of the Exodus from their slavery in Egypt and after a series of powerful signs and wonders, God commanded Moses and the Israelites to do something unusual. They were to kill an unblemished male sheep or goat, apply its blood to the doorposts of their houses, and eat its meat in haste. This was to be their “Passover” observance, as God would go through the land of Egypt that night and kill the firstborn of every house in Egypt that didn’t have the sign of blood on the door (Exod. 12:5–13). I can imagine more than a few Israelites looking cross-eyed (or just plain cross) at Moses and saying, “You want us to do what with the blood?”

Yet Moses obeyed even this uncouth command. The judgment of God came, passed over those who complied, and every firstborn Egyptian was killed in a final plague against Egypt (Heb. 11:28). Moses’ obedience to the seemingly absurd led directly to Pharaoh’s release of the Israelites from the land of Goshen. How like God to test our faith by demanding from us what seems ridiculous! Whether building an ark without a cloud in the sky…believing the promise of having a baby while pushing a century…or painting blood on a door to spare your family’s lives, God seems to pair faith with the unusual.

Had Moses failed to respond by faith to any of these decisions, none of what follows in the “Procession of Faith” could have happened.

Moses’ faith and faithfulness led to an explosion of signs, wonders, and miracles wrought by God through his ministry of deliverance. His personal decisions led to powerful triumphs and epic miracles in his generation and numerous generations to follow.

The first of these involved the unprecedented miracle of Israel crossing the Red Sea (11:29). Yes, it was the miraculous action of a mighty God that split the waters of the Red Sea and allowed the people of Israel to pass through (Exod. 14). But what faith it took for those men, women, and children to trudge from shore to shore with walls of water on either side! We see that faith was necessary to trust God even amid one of the most profound miracles in the Bible. When the faithless Egyptians attempted the same crossing under the same conditions, the walls of water gave out and drowned them in the sea (Heb. 11:29).

The second miracle involved the battle of Jericho (11:30). Forty years after the Red Sea miracle, the Israelites finally crossed over the Jordan into the Promised Land—this time with Joshua in Moses’ place as the leader of Israel. However, though the land to the west of the Jordan had been promised to God’s people since the days of Abraham, they had to liberate it from the nations that had turned the land of Canaan into a den of wickedness. The day quickly came when they were standing before the heavily fortified city of Jericho with a decision to make: Follow God’s ludicrous instructions for toppling the city (see Josh. 6:1–5), or head back for the wilderness across the Jordan. Faced with the impossible, by faith, the Israelites embraced the commandment of God and conquered the city God’s way.

Finally, the author of Hebrews splashes his canvas of faith heroes with an unexpected figure—a harlot named Rahab. Featured in Joshua 2 and 6 as the one person in Jericho who came to the assistance of the Hebrew spies and agreed to help them, she appears again as a member of the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1:5 and a heroine of faith in Hebrews 11:31. The fact that she became an ancestor of David indicates that, when she was miraculously delivered from God’s judgment of Jericho, she converted to the faith of the one true God of Israel. By faith, she preserved her life and wisely chose to side with the people of God.

Though the author could have gone on with an extended narrative of legacy-makers from the Old Testament, he finished the rest of his montage of faith giants with a collage of tiny thumbnail sketches. He mentions just a sampling of names that would have conjured a series of vivid images in the minds of his Jewish readers: the judges Gideon, Barak, Samson, and Jephthah; King David; and Samuel, along with the line of the prophets (11:32).

If we continued the author’s “Procession of Faith,” we could add New Testament heroes of faith to this list, like Mary & Joseph, Peter, Paul, James, and John. We could advance in church history to include Polycarp of Smyrna, Justin Martyr, and Athanasius of Alexandria. We could mention the early attempts at reform by medieval heroes like Peter Waldo, John Wycliffe, and John Hus. And who could forget the contributions of stalwarts of faith like Luther and Zwingli, Edwards and Wesley? And more contemporaries, Jim Elliot, Corrie ten Boom, and Mother Theresa? If the author of Hebrews could have named all those who deserve recognition for their lives of faith, imagine the lineup of champions we would have today!

After presenting this parade of faithful people, the author presents a colorful tableau of events illustrating incredible feats of faith (11:33–38). However, this faith medley transitions in the middle of 11:35 from major chords to a minor key—from triumphs of the faithful to tragedies of the faithful. The first category is an awe-inspiring mountain range jutting triumphantly skyward…the second category is like a steep slide into dark valleys of seeming defeat. Let’s juxtapose these two very different outcomes for the faithful to see how starkly they contrast.

Just as the sun shines on the just and the unjust, and rain falls on the wicked and the righteous (Matt. 5:45), storms of tragedy sweep over the faithful and the faithless alike. In this fallen world, everyone experiences a mixture of both triumphs and tragedies. However, neither astonishing victories nor demoralizing defeats represent the end of the story. Remember, faith isn’t about what we see, feel, experience, or accomplish in this life. “Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see,” (Heb. 11:1).

This is why the closing verses of this passage put everything in perspective. With 11:39–40, the author of Hebrews clears up the varied experiences of the triumphant and the tragic. His panoramic portrait of people and scenes of faith is finished. Above his completed work of art, he writes these summarizing words: “All these people earned a good reputation because of their faith, yet none of them received all that God had promised. For God had something better in mind for us, so that they would not reach perfection without us.”

You see, we are part of God’s faith walk. We are here to build God’s kingdom until Christ returns a 2nd time to set up His kingdom, the new Global Eden.

Approval was granted—not because of their personal merit, pedigrees, or perfection, but because of their faith. Amid triumph and tragedy, they longed to see the unseen, to catch a glimpse of the future. And with the eyes of faith, they saw the Lord Jesus Christ—the One who is superior for pressing on. They lived by a faith that looked into the distant future when the promises of perfection would finally be fulfilled.

Those ancient saints framed in this portrait of faith represent our spiritual ancestry. But they aren’t merely relics of the past. They are an ever-living presence to motivate us to do as they did: to look into the future by faith and to live faithful lives in the present.

Anybody who has pursued a life of faithfulness to the living God knows that this journey means making daily decisions that test our faith. From our limited perspectives, stepping out in faith can feel frightening and risky. To outsiders, it appears foolish, if not dangerous. Faith must overshadow our feelings to endure this journey amid triumph and tragedy. Then, we’ll be able to continue on the upward path toward greater strength and maturity.

To aid us in this journey, let’s step back and take another look at the central figure in the second half of Hebrews 11—Moses. Recall that he made three radical decisions that affected not only the course of his life, but also the course of the history of God’s people, Israel. His journey of faith was not without obstacles, of course. Nobody’s life of faith will be a life of constant victory—not on this side of Christ’s kingdom. However, until then, let’s imitate the three decisions that made a difference in Moses’ life and legacy.

First, we must refuse to go with the flow of a sinful society (11:24–26). Anyone today who encounters the deteriorating moral values of the world will have to decide between two paths—one leading deeper into Egypt, the other toward the Promised

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2273 of our trek. The purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. It’s a pleasure to have you join me on this solo journey today. We’re delving into the timeless insights of Proverbs 19:15-21 from the New Living Translation.

As we embark on this exploration, let’s seek the profound wisdom that can guide us in understanding the impact of laziness, the value of acquiring wisdom, and the sovereignty of God in our plans.

Without further delay, let’s head out on our journey today as we dive into the wisdom of Proverbs.

This verse paints a vivid picture of the consequences of laziness, comparing it to a leaky roof that eventually leads to the deterioration of the entire structure.

How can we understand the implications of laziness in our lives and take proactive steps to address it?

Address Laziness Proactively: Recognize the destructive nature of laziness. Address it proactively by cultivating diligence, setting goals, and taking meaningful steps toward personal and professional growth.

Now, let’s explore verse 16.

This verse highlights the relationship between obeying God’s commandments and the preservation of life.

How can we grasp the significance of obeying God’s commandments and the consequences of disregarding them?

Obey God’s Commandments: Recognize the connection between obeying God’s commandments and the preservation of life. Embrace obedience as a pathway to spiritual and relational well-being, understanding that a life aligned with God’s principles leads to fulfillment.

Verse 17 speaks to the value of showing kindness to the poor.

This verse emphasizes the divine reward associated with showing kindness to the poor.

How can we understand the profound concept of lending to the Lord through our acts of kindness?

We Must Learn to Show Kindness to the Poor: Recognize the opportunity to lend to the Lord through acts of kindness to the poor. Embrace generosity, compassion, and a willingness to positively impact the lives of those in need, trusting that God will repay with blessings beyond measure.

Now, let’s turn our attention to verse 18.

This verse underscores the importance of timely and constructive discipline in parenting.

How can we navigate the delicate balance of discipline and hope in raising children?

Discipline with Hope: Recognize the importance of timely and constructive discipline in parenting. Discipline with hope by setting clear expectations, providing guidance, and fostering an environment where children can learn and grow, ensuring that discipline is a tool for their development, not a detriment to their lives.

And finally, let’s explore verses 19-21.

These verses touch on the consequences of a hot temper, the wisdom of heeding advice and accepting discipline, and the ultimate sovereignty of God in our plans.

How can we navigate the challenges of a hot temper, embrace wisdom through advice and discipline, and align our plans with God’s purpose?

Navigate a Hot Temper, Embrace Wisdom, and Align with God’s Purpose: Recognize the consequences of a Hot Temper and strive to overcome it through self-control. Embrace wisdom by actively listening to advice and accepting discipline, understanding it is a path to true wisdom. Align your plans with God’s purpose by seeking His guidance, surrendering your plans to Him, and trusting that His purpose will prevail.

And there you have it, my friends, a solo exploration of Proverbs 19:15-21 from the New Living Translation. These verses offer us timeless wisdom for addressing laziness proactively, obeying God’s commandments, showing kindness to the poor, disciplining with hope, navigating a hot temper, embracing wisdom through advice and discipline, and aligning our plans with God’s purpose.

As we continue our journey through the pages of the Bible, remember that the wisdom it offers is our guiding light in navigating the complexities of life. Until next time, keep seeking God’s wisdom and make it a part of your daily trek.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of our Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.

As we take this trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain reminding you to Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy Your Journey, and Create a Great Day Everyday! See you next time for more wisdom from God’s Word!

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2272 of our trek. The purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. It’s a joy to have you join me on this journey. Today, our exploration takes us into the profound insights of Proverbs 19:8-14 from the New Living Translation.

As we delve into these verses, let’s seek the timeless wisdom that can guide us in pursuing wisdom, the impact of a teachable spirit, and the role of understanding in our lives.

Without further delay, let’s strap on our hiking boots and dive into the wisdom of Proverbs.

This verse emphasizes the connection between acquiring wisdom, self-love, and prosperity.

How can we cultivate a love for wisdom and understanding to experience true prosperity?

Cultivate a Love for Wisdom and Understanding: Recognize the intrinsic value of wisdom and understanding. Cultivate a love for these virtues, seeking them with a teachable spirit. Understand that in doing so, you are investing in your own well-being and prosperity.

Now, let’s explore verse 9.

This verse underscores the inevitable consequences for those who engage in falsehood and deceit.

How can we navigate the pitfalls of falsehood and embrace a commitment to truth?

Embrace a Commitment to Truth: Recognize the inevitable consequences of falsehood and deceit. Embrace a commitment to truth by speaking honestly, avoiding deceit, and understanding that integrity is the foundation of lasting success.

Verse 10 speaks to the impact of luxury and wealth.

This verse highlights the paradox of a fool living in luxury and a slave ruling over princes.

How can we understand and navigate the complexities of wealth and social standing?

Navigate the Complexities of Wealth and Social Standing: Recognize the paradoxes and complexities associated with wealth and social standing. Navigate these complexities by valuing wisdom over material possessions and understanding that true nobility is found in character, not in external circumstances.

Now, let’s turn our attention to verse 11.

This verse emphasizes the importance of controlling one’s temper and earning respect through forgiveness.

How can we cultivate self-control and earn respect through forgiveness?

Cultivate Self-Control and Forgiveness: Recognize the importance of controlling your temper. Cultivate self-control by responding to situations with calmness and patience. Earn respect through forgiveness by choosing to overlook wrongs, understanding that forgiveness is a powerful force that promotes healing and reconciliation.

And finally, let’s explore verses 12-14.

These verses paint a vivid picture of the impact of a king’s anger, the challenges of parenting a foolish child, and the value of an understanding wife.

How can we navigate relationships with wisdom, understanding, and grace?

Navigate Relationships with Wisdom and Understanding: Recognize the impact of emotions, the challenges of parenting, and the value of understanding in relationships. Navigate relationships with wisdom by responding to emotions with discernment, parenting with patience and guidance, and valuing understanding as a priceless quality.

And there you have it, my friends, a profound exploration of Proverbs 19:8-14 from the New Living Translation. These verses offer us timeless wisdom for cultivating a love for wisdom and understanding, embracing a commitment to truth, navigating the complexities of wealth and social standing, cultivating self-control and forgiveness, and navigating relationships with wisdom and understanding.

As we continue our journey through the pages of the Bible, remember that the wisdom it offers is our guiding light in navigating the complexities of life. Until next time, keep seeking God’s wisdom and make it a part of your daily trek.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of our Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.

As we take this trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain reminding you to Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy Your Journey, and Create a Great Day Everyday! See you next time for more wisdom from God’s Word!

 

Putnam Church Message – 09/10/2023

We continue our extended series through the book of Hebrews in the New Testament. Last week, we studied the “Application of Faith” by Common People with Uncommon Faith. This week, we will extend these thoughts as we observe Faithful Walks Worth Following. Our focus today will be on the patriarchs of the nation of Israel: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph.

Let’s read Hebrews 11:8- 22.

I remember reading a story in the 1970s about two preachers in a backwoods mountain community who died in a self-inflicted test of faith. Based on Mark 16:18, it seems they were determined to prove the strength of their faith to their congregation by handling snakes and drinking poison. If I recall correctly, they had survived bites from both copperheads and rattlesnakes in the past. This time, they increased the stakes by drinking strychnine—a common ingredient in rat poison! Needless to say, those men failed that test of faith. A few hours after drinking the poison, both of them were dead.

Besides basing their beliefs and practices on a flawed interpretation of a biblical text that may not even be original to the Gospel of Mark, these men crossed the line between faith and presumption. On the surface, they may have appeared daring, courageous, and impressive. But God is not pleased with voluntary snake handling and self-inflicted poisoning. He never commanded these actions, nor did He ever promise to miraculously heal those who put Him to the test like this (see Matt. 4:5–7).

Clearly, sensational and superstitious displays don’t please God. But what does it take to please Him? Last week, we studied Hebrews 11:6, which answers that all-important question: “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” Pleasing God takes faith—not blind, wishful thinking that presumes He’ll do what we want, when we want, and how we want. Faith is a humble and obedient response to God’s word—whether a statement of historical fact, a promise of provision and protection, a prophecy of the future, or a command to be obeyed. Faith is simple trust, which is always manifested in faithfulness.

Last week in Hebrews 11:1–7, the author has already begun filling in the white backdrop of a montage of faithfulness, the “Procession of Faith.” He has already painted the background scenes: the faith of Abel, Enoch, and Noah (11:3–7). In the next phase of this glorious production, the author moves to the center of the canvas and fills in the story of Abraham and Sarah as well as the stories of their descendants, the patriarchs Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph (11:8–22). Each of these, in their own way, exhibited the kind of faith that pleases God by walking faithfully along a path worth following.

Unlike the two preachers who foolishly and fatally handled snakes and drank strychnine, the faith of Abraham and Sarah was neither sensational nor superstitious. However, from the world’s perspective, it was undoubtedly considered risky and ridiculous. However, note that Abraham’s faith walk began “when called to go” (11:8). His faith wasn’t founded on a subjective feeling about God’s will, a billowy cloud formation pointing like an arrow, or a vague message from a fortune-teller staring into a crystal ball. The Bible says, “So Abram departed as the Lord had instructed” (Gen. 12:4), and “Then the Lord appeared to Abram” (Gen. 12:7). This is where true faith rests—on the clear revelation of God (Rom. 10:17). So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.

God’s calling to Abram was audible, objective, and specific. He responded with faithful obedience. In Hebrews 11:8, the depths of his faith are revealed he: “obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.” Can you imagine that? He packed up his things and led his wife, Sarah, from the comfort and security of his homeland to head to God-knows-where! This faith walk is even more remarkable when we remember that Abraham and Sarah weren’t a newlywed couple with an adventurous spirit and a world of possibilities ahead of them. He was seventy-five years old and had accumulated half a century’s worth of personal possessions (Gen. 12:5). I can’t begin to imagine how he explained all this to his family, friends, and neighbors!

Paula and I spent 10 years in North Carolina for work, although we maintained our home here.  Traveling back and forth every month for a few days was certainly not easy, especially with Paula’s mom with us, and visiting my Dad on most weekends that we were here. Not so with Abraham. Hebrews 11:9 says it took faith to live “a stranger in a foreign country” in the Promised Land. He lived in tents like an unwanted foreigner so he could move from place to place. In this always-on-the-move environment, with insecurities in the present and uncertainties about the future, Abraham and Sarah raised their child, Isaac, as Isaac did with his family (11:9). In the midst of this, Abraham walked by faith, not by sight. He depended on God and yearned for a permanent, heavenly city designed and built by God (11:10). His focus wasn’t on the hardships of his journey through life, but on the reward at the eternal destination. So it should be with our journey through life. We dwell in tents, which someday will be changed to immortal bodies, our permanent dwellings. We are here to build God’s kingdom, our forever home.

But what about Sarah? I could imagine his poor wife being dragged around on his wild-eyed faith walk—irritated by her husband’s spontaneity, frustrated by his stubbornness, fed up by his dream-chasing. Not so! The apostle Peter commended Sarah as an example to all women of faith because of her submissive spirit and faithful support of God’s call on her husband’s life (1 Pet. 3:6). The author of Hebrews also points to her faith walk as worthy to be followed. “By faith,” Sarah considered God faithful—the God “who had promised” that one day they would have a child of their own (Heb. 11:11). Remember, in her old age, Sarah still hadn’t conceived and borne a son, even though that was part of the package of promises God had given to Abraham when they believed and left their homeland in obedience to God’s word (Gen. 12:1–3, 7; 13:16).

And it was not easygoing. For twenty-five years after God’s initial call, Abraham and Sarah had no empirical evidence that she would—or even could—have a child of her own. In fact, toward the end of their decades of waiting, when God announced that Sarah would be pregnant within a year, she laughed at the idea that she would be a mom (Gen. 18:9–15). Sure enough, when Abraham turned one hundred, and Sarah was ninety (Heb. 11:11; Gen. 21:1–2). And by faith even Sarah, who was past childbearing age, was enabled to bear children because she[b] considered him faithful who had made the promise. Though initially she laughed at the notion, she came to embrace with simple faith the clear words of God to Abraham (Heb. 11:12).

At this point, the writer of Hebrews sets aside the palette of paints he had been using to fill his canvas with examples of faith. He steps back, as it were, gestures at the procession of personalities he’s been painting, and makes a sweeping statement: “All these people were still living by faith when they died, ” (11:13).

Wait … didn’t Abraham make it to the Promised Land? Didn’t Sarah have her promised child, Isaac? Yes, but what they experienced in this life was merely a foretaste, a shadow of things to come. Abraham didn’t receive the full promise, just a down payment. Abraham and Sarah had only one child—the promise was for “descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore” (11:12). The land in which he sojourned was indeed the Promised Land, but he, Sarah, Isaac, and all their household lived there as “foreigners and strangers on earth” (11:13; cf. 1 Pet. 2:11).

Nevertheless, all of these examples—including the figures he is about to add to the collage in the following verses—“died in faith.” In this world that constantly tests faith, “they all passed with flying colors, living by faith right up to the last breath.”

The author of Hebrews highlights this vital aspect of their faith walk: They were seeking an ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises beyond the horizon of this world (11:14–15). Abraham called himself “a stranger and a foreigner among you” (Gen. 23:4), even in the Land of Promise. This indicated that he regarded himself as still on a journey to a land that was indeed his (Heb. 11:14). Nor did he consider Ur of the Chaldeans to be “a country of their own;” it never crossed his mind to return there, even when he had to bury his dead (11:15; see Gen. 23:4). Therefore, the author of Hebrews concludes, the people who lived and died in faith “they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one” (Heb. 11:16). This faith—“confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see”—is what gained them approval from God (11:1–2). This faith reserved their place in that heavenly city (11:16).

Snatching up his brush again, our author returns to his portrayal of Abraham’s life of faith, this time choosing somber tones applied thick—popping from the canvas like 3D images in sharp relief. With the following twelve words (six in Greek), the original Jewish readers of Hebrews were jolted to attention: “By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice” (11:17). To Jews, the passage recounting Abraham’s binding and offering of Isaac in Genesis 22 had a central place in the story of their religious heritage. To this day, this passage has a unique Hebrew name in Judaism: the Akedah (from āqad), or “the binding of Isaac.” It was one of the most famous passages in Scripture, illustrating Abraham's mature faith and obedience.

After all that Abraham and Sarah had been through over the decades, God tested Abraham’s faith by instructing him to do the most challenging thing he could be asked to do. In one act of trust and obedience, Abraham was to surrender the fulfillment of God’s promise, the center of his dreams—his one and only son (Gen. 22:1–2). Abraham's immediate obedience was perhaps more shocking than God’s incomprehensible command to sacrifice Isaac! /No arguing. /No hesitation. /No bargaining./ No reminding God how long he and Sarah had waited. /Instead, Abraham got up early, saddled his donkey, and headed out to obey (Gen. 22:3; Heb. 11:17). Remember, by this time, Abraham was 112!

Sometimes, just one tiny letter in a word can make all the difference. In Genesis 22:5, “Stay here with the donkey,” Abraham told the servants. “The boy and I will travel a little farther. We will worship there, and then we will come right back (NLT). Abraham used the plural form of the Hebrew verb—nashuvah (“we will come right back”)—rather than the singular form—ashuvah  (“I will come right back”). This one-letter change (a to na) shows Abraham’s complete trust in God’s promise to make Isaac’s offspring into a mighty nation (Heb. 11:18). This faith freed Abraham to obey a command he didn’t fully understand. How could Abraham reconcile the command to offer Isaac as a burnt offering with his confidence that he and Isaac would both come down from the mountain? The author of Hebrews gives us the answer: Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead, and so in a manner of speaking he did receive Isaac back from death. (11:19).

Let’s be honest: To an outsider, Abraham’s actions would have looked like the deranged deeds of a maniac, not the faithful obedience of a man of God. And indeed, wicked people today commit vile acts, falsely claiming direction from God. What’s the difference between those criminals and our great patriarch of the faith? Abraham’s steadfast trust and unhesitating obedience rested on a foundation of solid theology.

Abraham knew that God is completely good and never commands evil.

Abraham knew that God is completely wise and must have had a plan.

Abraham knew that God is completely just and would not treat Isaac unfairly.

Abraham knew that God is completely powerful and would keep His promises.

Even amid an apparent contradiction, Abraham could trust and obey—not because he knew exactly what was happening, but because he knew the One who did. And, when Abraham demonstrated his faith through this radical test, God provided a ram for Abraham to offer in place of Isaac (Gen. 22:11–13). The author of Hebrews notes that this event was a “type,” literally “a parable” (Heb. 11:19). A parable of what? Brown notes, “Isaac was received back from the verge of death, a sign of God’s unfailing provision in the moment of man’s desperate need.” So, it is a parable of what Jesus Christ did for us. We are God’s promised children or Image Bearers, and Jesus Christ is our substitute, sacrificial lamb. As John the Baptizer proclaimed in John 1:29, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”

With a few more brushstrokes, the author of Hebrews completes his portrait of Abraham’s faith walk by tracing the family legacy of faith through the remainder of the patriarchal period that launched with the promises God made to him.

In 11:8–19, we saw Abraham and Sarah persevere in their faith walk through rough terrain, overwhelming obstacles, and extreme challenges. Now we see that same faith passed on to their son, Isaac, who, in turn, passed it on to the next generation (11:20). Isaac no doubt recalled the stories told to him by his father. He inherited Abraham’s longing “For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God” (11:10). These stories instilled the same yearning for “in regard to their future” (11:20)—the “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see” (11:1). And Isaac also passed this on to Jacob and Esau “by faith” (11:20).

The next generation had its torchbearer of faith, too. Jacob, the son of Isaac and grandson of Abraham, lived out a life of faith, receiving from God the new name “Israel” (Gen. 32:28). His twelve sons became the fathers of the twelve tribes of Israel. Fast-forwarding through the life of Jacob and the twelve sons to the end of Jacob’s life, the author of Hebrews focuses on the legacy of faith passed on to Jacob’s grandchildren, Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph (Heb. 11:21). The fact that the blessing of Jacob extended far into the future to his grandchildren demonstrated the extent of his faith in the promise-keeping power of God.

Finally, Hebrews 11:22 recounts the blessing Joseph gave just before his death. He, too, looked ahead prophetically to the Exodus from Egypt, requesting that his remains be returned to the Promised Land so he could be buried with his ancestors (Gen. 50:24–25). Though the age of these patriarchs closes with the people of Israel in Egypt, far from the land originally promised to Father Abraham, their faith in the promises remained. How did Joseph know of God’s promise to the nation of Israel? Simple. He had been told by his father, Jacob, who had been told by his father, Isaac, who had been told by his father, Abraham.

These snapshots of faith growing from the root of Abraham’s promises strengthen the author’s point in Hebrews 11:13, “All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth.” As such, their lives, though imperfect, still represent faith-walks worthy to follow.

The author’s central illustration of Abraham’s lifelong faith—the root of several generations of faith walks worth following—provides us with a few practical principles today. We can follow in their footsteps by meditating on the meaning of Abraham’s and Sarah’s faith. This faith walk has been my desire for...

Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2270 of our trek. The purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, I will guide you through the vast landscapes of biblical wisdom. It’s a pleasure to have you join me on this journey. Today, our exploration takes us into the profound insights of Proverbs 19:1-7 from the New Living Translation.

As we delve into these verses, let’s seek the timeless wisdom that can guide us in cultivating a teachable spirit, managing our resources wisely, and understanding the impact of integrity.

Without further delay, let’s head out and dive into the wisdom of Proverbs.

Verse 1:

This verse sets the tone for our exploration, emphasizing the value of honesty over wealth.

How can we cultivate honesty and integrity in our lives, even in the face of challenges?

Cultivate Honesty and Integrity: Recognize the value of honesty over wealth. Cultivate honesty and integrity by making choices that align with principles of righteousness, even when faced with challenges that may tempt you to compromise.

Now, let’s explore verse 2.

This verse highlights the importance of combining enthusiasm with knowledge and avoiding hasty decisions.

How can we balance enthusiasm with wisdom to make sound decisions?

Balance Enthusiasm with Wisdom: Recognize that enthusiasm without knowledge can lead to mistakes. Balance enthusiasm with wisdom by seeking knowledge, considering different perspectives, and taking the time to make well-informed decisions.

Verse 3 speaks to the consequences of foolish actions.

This verse highlights the tendency of individuals to blame God for the consequences of their own foolish choices.

How can we take responsibility for our choices and avoid blaming others, including God, for the consequences?

Take Responsibility for Choices: Recognize the consequences of foolish choices and take responsibility for your actions. Avoid blaming others, including God, and seek forgiveness and guidance to make wiser decisions in the future.

Now, let’s explore verse 4.

This verse explores the dynamic between wealth and friendships, highlighting the fickle nature of some relationships.

How can we cultivate genuine friendships that go beyond material wealth?

Cultivate Genuine Friendships: Recognize the fickle nature of some relationships based on wealth. Cultivate genuine friendships by focusing on shared values, trust, and mutual support, ensuring that your connections go beyond material considerations.

Now, let’s turn our attention to verse 5.

This verse emphasizes the inevitability of consequences for false testimony and lies.

How can we uphold truthfulness and avoid the pitfalls of deceit?

Uphold Truthfulness: Recognize the inevitability of consequences for false testimony and lies. Uphold truthfulness by speaking the truth, avoiding deceit, and maintaining a commitment to integrity in all aspects of your life.

And finally, let’s explore verses 6 and 7.

These verses paint a picture of relationships influenced by power, wealth, and social standing.

How can we cultivate genuine relationships that transcend societal hierarchies?

Cultivate Genuine Relationships: Recognize the impact of power and wealth on relationships. Cultivate genuine relationships by valuing individuals for who they are, irrespective of their social standing. Seek meaningful connections based on shared values and mutual respect.

And there you have it, my friends, a profound exploration of Proverbs 19:1-7 from the New Living Translation. These verses offer us timeless wisdom for cultivating honesty and integrity, balancing enthusiasm with wisdom, taking responsibility for our choices, cultivating genuine friendships, upholding truthfulness, and transcending societal hierarchies to cultivate genuine relationships.

As we continue our journey through the pages of the Bible, remember that the wisdom it offers is our guiding light in navigating the complexities of life. Until next time, keep seeking God’s wisdom and make it a part of your daily trek.

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of our Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.

As we take this trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain reminding you to Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy Your Journey, and Create a Great Day Everyday! See you next time for more wisdom from God’s Word!