A Promised Gift
“A person who promises a gift but doesn’t give it is like clouds and wind that bring no rain.” Proverbs 25:14 NLT This year our landlord put new sod down on our yard. It looked great but required twice a day watering to get established. The thing is that we don’t have a working sprinkler system. […]
Refreshment
“Trustworthy messengers refresh like snow in summer. They revive the spirit of their employer.” Proverbs 25:13 NLT Often times in business we think of inspiration as a one-way street that comes down from leadership and management. But it in reality it ought to be a two-way street. At times everyone can get discouraged. If you are an […]
Seeking Valid Criticism
“To one who listens, valid criticism is like a gold earring or other gold jewelry.” Proverbs 25:12 NLT Criticism can make you better, but it can also make you bitter. We learn in this proverb that the value does not come automatically from the speaker. No, the value of correction is tied to the willing ear […]
Timely Advice
“Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket.” Proverbs 25:11 NLT “Timely advice is lovely.” It would be difficult to argue the point. Is the author just stating a fact or making an interesting observation? Is it along the category of “the sky is blue” or “men are different than women?” We gain […]
Be a Secret Keeper
“When arguing with your neighbor, don’t betray another person’s secret. Others may accuse you of gossip, and you will never regain your good reputation.” Proverbs 25:9-10 NLT Conflict is bound to happen. When we get into arguments, it is important to stay in control of out words. Anger and frustration can cause us to say things […]
Keep Your Eye on the Ball
A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest— then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like an armed robber. Proverbs 24:33-34 NLT Did you notice the repetitive phrase in this week’s Proverb. It is there 3 times. “a little”. This isn’t a […]
First Things First
“Do your planning and prepare your fields before building your house.” Proverbs 24:27 NLT The lesson is about a farmer, but the principle applies to all income earners. This is a proverb that teaches us a crucial principle of business—first things first. The immediate application is this. If you buy a fertile piece of ground, you should […]
Blind Spot Monitoring
“An honest answer is like a kiss of friendship.” Proverbs 24:26 NLT As much as I enjoy new technology, I am not crazy about all of the gadgetry in new vehicles. I am particularly annoyed by the new auto shut off and start feature. It annoys me, and I question its’ real value. But one feature […]
Heart Monitor
“Don’t rejoice when your enemies fall; don’t be happy when they stumble. For the Lord will be displeased with you and will turn his anger away from them.” Proverbs 24:17-18 NLT Is it time to check your heart? Most of us have enemies in one way or another. How is your heart towards them? Are you watching […]
Keep Going
“The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again. But one disaster is enough to overthrow the wicked.” Proverbs 24:16 NLT We would be foolish to believe that we will not have trials and difficulties in this life. God in His wisdom has allowed for them, not to be defeated, but for us […]