Proverbs 11:18 - Patient Goodness

Proverbs 11:18

The wicked earns deceptive wages, But he who sows righteousness gets a true reward. 

Message: Patient Goodness

Time: Proverbs records multiple individuals as its author with Solomon as the principal author. Solomon died in 931 BC though most think the book was likely in its final form sometime before the end of Hezekiah’s reign in 686 BC. It is a book that instructs people on the path of wisdom. It speaks to all of life and living our lives under the authority and direction of God.

What the Lord is Saying: "For all have sinned." - Romans 3:23. No one is perfect. I asked AI what percentage of the population is wicked and one of the responses was that 10% of the population is wicked. It seems we all want to be good people. I don’t think many want to be wicked. 

And as Solomon does often he contrasts the wicked and the righteous. The bad and the good. As a reminder to me I think we volley at times between being good and bad. And so this text is a reminder of the results of our actions. Another one of the responses from AI was that 10% of people are inherently good and 10% are inherently bad and 80% can be swayed in either direction. My feeling is all are sinners and all can be swayed. 

“The wicked earns deceptive wages.” The gain of wealth by a wicked person means something has been earned improperly. Obviously someone that steals may see a reward but that person being found out for their law braking always looms and makes it hard at times to thoroughly enjoy the earning.

I think of my own life and maybe cheating on tests and not getting found out. I think I did get found out 1 or 2 times, but it seems rare. Speeding and not getting caught. Getting caught happened a couple of times and got in the accident in the summer of 1990 on Candelaria. But overall for most people it is rare. Lying too many times and not getting found out. Looking at pictures that I should not look at and not getting found out. 

In all of those situations of doing wrong, something was gained but it wasn’t honest so it didn’t feel good. It didn’t feel right. I was deceiving myself but not getting caught reinforces a little that it’s okay. So in all of those situations I earn deceptive wages. I could even say working my job and at times not working but doing other things is deceptive earning. If I think about it the standard is high for perfection. And my failure is frequent. 

And so the opposite is true. “Sow righteousness and get a true reward.” I like to think that I do good things. Could I say for the most part in life I am trying to sow goodness and do things right? I hope that this is so. Perhaps the failures are the exception and so it is what I remember lately. Yesterday I felt like I did some good things in making food for our Coral Group and then taking care of my dad. And worked on the Pergola and filling in the cracks. Sure I thought I did something wrong with it, but that's my own insecurity. And for the most part, my work in the office has been pretty good most of the time, feeling like I am trying my best. And I do the ministry online and reach out to people. I think I get payback and appreciation from others. I appreciate Tyson's hugs he initiates always and Megan. Derek does say thanks but it has diminished quite a bit. He used to do it much more often when he was dating Nichole. 

The word here for doing something is sowing for righteousness. Sowing is a metaphor and metaphor's I am learning are very common in the Bible. This is one for agriculture. Sowing was a critical activity that required patience and faith, as the results were not immediate. That is an interesting twist on this verse. Patience and Faith and not getting immediate results. Sin often gets immediate results. Acting in an unrighteous manner often gets immediate results. Doing things right means doing them over longer periods of time and in the long run the results will be good. 

Prayer: God, what an illuminating verse and idea this is for me. When I understand the word and the power of the word sowing this verse comes more alive. Sowing requires patience and faith. This is hard Lord, but true. Doing things right and well doesn't have the immediate impact that sin has in life. I can sin and immediately get a result that often will feel good in the moment but deliberately doing good may take a long time for a good result. And it needs patience and faith. Lord, I need help with this. I feel like I am struggling more and more with patience in different activities. help me to stand firm in my activities and do the right thing. I need your strength God. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

2 Samuel 15:18-37 - David Flees Jerusalem

2 Samuel 15:18-37

And the king said to Zadok, "Return the ark of God to the city. If I find favor in the sight of the Lord, then He will bring me back again, and show me both it and His habitation. But if He should say thus, "I have no delight in you," behold, here I am, let Him do to me as seems good to Him." (verse 25-26)

Message: David Flees Jerusalem

Time: Second Samuel is set in the land of Israel during the reign of David and follows the course of his forty years as king of Israel (1011–971 BC). It chronicles the establishment of the Davidic dynasty and the expansion of Israel under God’s chosen leader. 

What the Lord is Saying: Absalom, David's 3rd oldest son seems to be on a coup for the throne, but David is taking notice. And perhaps David is finally taking charge again because he has been most absent as a leader (at least from the point of view of this book of 2 Samuel) since his discretion with Bathsheba. 

David speaks to Ittai the Gittite to return to your own place. But Ittai wants to go with king and be wherever he is at. Ittai is a loyal friend and that friendship with David continues. 

"Zadok also came, and all the Levites with him carrying the ark of the covenant of God." Abiathar as well. But David asks that the ark return to the city. Thus, Zadok and Abiathar (part of the priesthood) returned the ark to Jerusalem. This is where David's leadership starts to show up again. 

David ascended the Mount of Olives weeping with people as well. David asks that the Lord "make the counsel of Ahithophel foolishness." God provided Hushai the Archite who met David but David says he will be a burden if he comes with David. So Hushai returns to Jerusalem as does Absalom. 

Summary: David is headed to Hebron and along the way Ittai comes along but he keeps others back in Jerusalem including the Ark of the Covenant. 

Promise: Plan wisely. 

Prayer: God, you are on the throne and only You. Help me to better understand these texts and what you are teaching me. Of late, I am struggling in my study and application. I pray for your guidance and understanding. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

2 Samuel 15:1-17 - Absalom Makes a Play for the Throne

2 Samuel 15:1-17

Moreover, Absalom would say, 'Oh that one would appoint me judge in the land, then every man who has any suit or cause could come to me, and I would give him justice." (verse 4)

Message: Absalom Makes a Play for the Throne

Time: Second Samuel is set in the land of Israel during the reign of David and follows the course of his forty years as king of Israel (1011–971 BC). It chronicles the establishment of the Davidic dynasty and the expansion of Israel under God’s chosen leader. 

What the Lord is Saying: Once again I am struck by the fact this chapter is not about David. Absalom instead starts out asserting himself. Verse 2 talks about how he would stand at the gate of the city and try to be the first line of defense for anyone entering the city and wanting to speak to the King. And whatever they would say Absalom would make it out that the King can't see the person and instead it would be great if he could himself make a decision on behalf of the person. Verse 1 begins with some time has passed and then in verse 7 it mentions that 4 years has passed but this is from the time of his return from exile. 

Absalom asks to go to Hebron, a significant city in the region. It is a burial place for patriarchs. David lived in Hebron previously and this is where the Lord had anointed him. David tells him to go in peace. Absalom puts spies throughout the area, on the lookout for him, while in Hebron he sets himself up as king. Many had followed Absalom but they most likely didn't really know what his intent was there. 

Absalom is employing a lot of strategy, waiting for the right time to go to Hebron and then sending out spies. In verse 13, David finds out from a messenger that "The hearts of the people of Israel are with Absalom." David realizes that Absalom has assembled a significant group of men to defend him and so he needs to mobilize well. And so David assembles everyone and makes a move towards Hebron, but leaves a remnant behind. 

Summary: Absalom goes to Hebron where David was anointed setting up a place where he wants to be king and David goes after him, realizing his kingdom has been divided. 

Promise: Parents should be asking the Lord for the wisdom necessary to understand their children.

Prayer: Lord, help me to be discerning and to cautious about my children or anyone in my life that is seeking to unseat and distract from what you have led me to do and be. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Proverbs 18:2 - Listening with a Discerning Ear

Proverbs 18:2

A fool does not delight in understanding; but only in revealing his mind. 

Message: Listening with a Discerning Ear

Time: Proverbs records multiple individuals as its author with Solomon as the principal author. Solomon died in 931 BC though most think the book was likely in its final form sometime before the end of Hezekiah’s reign in 686 BC. It is a book that instructs people on the path of wisdom. It speaks to all of life and living our lives under the authority and direction of God.

What the Lord is Saying: Am I a good or bad listener? The biblical position of a bad listener is a fool. 

Proverbs 18:2 

A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion. (ESV)

Proverbs 18:13

If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.

Proverbs 29:20

Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.

I notice in some people this is hard, but in others it is easy. I must admit, I sometimes have a hard time with people that take every conversation and spin it on themselves. I try to listen more than speak but in certain situations it is hard not to give my opinion. I try to make an effort to do this in conversations. In sharing the gospel it is a challenge I think at times to listen and not speak. I notice myself at times just preparing to speak rather than listening to the other person. 

James 1:19 says, "Let everyone be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger." Perhaps anger takes place with fast talking. Perhaps it is necessary to understand the person and their perspective before speaking. 

Again, as I think about myself, I know there are times when I am quite impatient. I am not sure if it is that I want to speak, but maybe I just don't want to listen. It feels like it is worse when I’m tired. Like today in Sunday School and fellowship afterwards I had no problem listening to people. Glad to have them speak and learn. Granted one person was talking long and I was nervous because of the other people present and wondering if they too were getting impatient. 

I would say I am a pretty good listener. 

Prayer: God - I Pray that I am a good listener. For me I think this also means being patient with people and agreeing to listen and not letting my mind wander. Lord, you know where I struggle. My impatience affects my listening at times. Help me with my pride. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

2 Samuel 14 - An Imperfect Reconciliation

2 Samuel 14

Now Absalom lived two full years in Jerusalem, and did not see the king's face. (verse 28)

Message: An Imperfect Reconciliation

Time: Second Samuel is set in the land of Israel during the reign of David and follows the course of his forty years as king of Israel (1011–971 BC). It chronicles the establishment of the Davidic dynasty and the expansion of Israel under God’s chosen leader. 

What the Lord is Saying: Verse 1 of Chapter 14 is unclear. It is not clear from the text if David is yearning favorably or unfavorably for his son Absalom. Joab, leader of David's army, who always seems to be trying to manage King David, sends for a woman to excite David interest in mourning and it seems to be giving David a reason to forgive a murderer. Absalom is currently in exile after killing his half-brother Amnon. David failed to confront sin. I suppose it is hard sometimes to see sin in your children, for you are always championing their best. David gets a woman from Tekoa, a town about 10 miles south of Jerusalem to come and display herself as a mourner. Joab is trying to get a certain response out of David and is setting things up. The woman will basically be Joab's puppet, communicating to David what he wants him to hear. 

The woman starts with the words, "Help me, O King." This is appealing to David's compassion. She mentions that her husband is dead. A woman's place in society at this time was closely tied to her husband and without a husband she then had a great need for compassion. The woman presents a story that is akin to Cain and Abel. Two boys in a field and they get into an argument and their is no one to separate them. One brother kills the other. Capital punishment is expected, taking the live of the one who took a life. And the name of the family or the husband's name on the earth would be extinguished. David feels compelled to act on behalf of the woman, telling her to go home. The woman responds with basically, "Oh no, I can't let you do that for me." But David once again takes charge on behalf of this helpless widow and assures her that he will take over the situation and allow nothing to happen to the woman. So the woman pleads for her son to be absolved from the crime and nothing happen to him. David agrees and promises nothing will happen to him. 

The woman asks David if she can speak again. The woman turns the table on David and now speaks of Absalom wondering why David has not welcomed him home. The woman appeals to preserving the life of his son despite his wrongdoing. She appeals to God's compassion and patience, asking David to restore things with his son Absalom. The woman pronounces a blessing on David, acknowledging that he can discern good and evil. 

David then asks the woman if Joab is behind all of this and the woman answers affirmatively. But the woman appeals again to David to have the wisdom of God in this situation. David grants the requests and asks that Absalom return. Joab falls facedown that he has found favor in King David. Joab then goes to Geshur to bring Absalom back. While Absalom is allowed to come back home to Jerusalem he is not allowed to see King David's face. 

Absalom's appearance is described and it is reminiscent of Saul's great appearance. He had long hair and it would be cut annually. A man's hair reflects the importance of personal appearance and Absalom is in great appearance. Absalom has 3 sons and 1 daughter naming the daughter Tamar in honor of the sister he loved. But the tension remained between him and King David for 2 years he did not see the face of the king. Absalom asks Joab come to act as an intermediary, but Joab doesn't respond. Joab manages things and doesn't seem to want to be a pawn in this situation. To force Joab, Absalom has his field set on fire. Joab asks Absalom why and is told that he wants him to go to King David so that the two of them can reconcile and Absalom be seen again. Joab tells the king, David request Absalom and King David kisses him, symbolizing forgiveness and acceptance. 

Summary: With Absalom away, Joab brings a woman to David to petition through a parable him to bring back Absalom. He does, but takes 2 years before David is appeased to allow Absalom in his presence. 

Promise: When reconciliation is partial or incomplete, other problems often arise.

Prayer: O God, sin has a way of getting in the way of people's lives. It creates a problem always and in this situation with Absalom killing his brother though David did not deal with it he dealt with it by not facing Absalom for quite some time. We can appeal to people's good graces, but we must be careful that we are not manipulating the situation. Lord, you are the King of reconciliation and have brought me into your fold despite my wandering and sinful ways. Thank you for that restoration. Be glorified. You are to be praised and adored. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

2 Samuel 13:23-39 - Absalom Takes Justice Into His Own Hands

2 Samuel 13:23-39

And Absalom commanded his servants, saying, "See now, when Amnon's heart is merry with wine, and when I sat to you, 'Strike Amnon,' then put him to death. Do not fear; have not I myself commanded you? Be courageous and be valiant." (verse 28)

Message: Absalom Takes Justice Into His Own Hands

Time: Second Samuel is set in the land of Israel during the reign of David and follows the course of his forty years as king of Israel (1011–971 BC). It chronicles the establishment of the Davidic dynasty and the expansion of Israel under God’s chosen leader. 

What the Lord is Saying: It is 2 years later from the days of Amnon's selfish ways in raping his half-sister and then discarding her like a plaything or trash. Obviously, in that time frame David has done nothing. The picture of David here is not good. Once again, he mostly just stands by and doesn't do anything. 

This passage is rather simple. Absalom, his sister's brother, has a plan to have people go to sheep shearing in Baalhazor -- Absalom's property is probably not far (less than 10 miles) from Jerusalem. Sheep shearing was a usual occasion for feasting and holiday keeping. He invites David, the king, but he knows he will not go. With the king not going, he asks that Amnon, the oldest son and heir apparent represent David at the feast. David asks why but Absalom presses him further and he agrees. 

Though Absalom plans it out, he doesn't carry it out but instead gets his servants involved. By doing this, he always sets himself up to be the heir to the throne. He has the servants approach Amnon when he is "merry with wine" or least suspecting anything. He is killed and afterwards the servants flee and their communication to David about the event is an exaggeration as it includes a reference that it is all of David's sons. Thinking it is all his sons, David tore his clothes, but Jonadab gives David accurate information that it is only Amnon that has died. 

Absalom fled. The other sons showed up and David saw that they were still alive. David mourned for his son Amnon's death. Absalom fled and left the country for 3 years. David longed to see him.

Summary: 2 years after Amnon rapes Tamar, Absalom avenges her death by killing Amnon, first getting him drunk but then he flees for 3 years. 

Promise: When leaders do not deal with injustice quickly and rightly, all sorts of problems ensue.

Prayer: God, David does some great things, but then our text here also mentions several not so great things. I suppose I am amazed at the bloodshed in this book. I am amazed of the people you guide and those that you don't. Right now, in our world there are wars going on. There is one going on right now that involves the US with Iran. I think of my friend Shiva that I have not spoken to a while and knowing someone, I hope she is safe. Protect her. Protect people and may this country surrender and keep peace in the middle east.  

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Proverbs 11:17 - Be Kind

Proverbs 11:17

A merciful person does himself good,

But the cruel person does himself harm.

Message: Be Kind

Time: Proverbs records multiple individuals as its author with Solomon as the principal author. Solomon died in 931 BC though most think the book was likely in its final form sometime before the end of Hezekiah’s reign in 686 BC. It is a book that instructs people on the path of wisdom. It speaks to all of life and living our lives under the authority and direction of God.

What the Lord is Saying: The contrasts here are between a merciful and cruel person with one who acts in a way that is is good for the individual while the other acts in a way that is harmful. Some of these proverbs are rather simple, straightforward and perhaps a little obvious. Have mercy, this is good. Being cruel does you harm. My actions and your actions make a difference. Yet, maybe the difference that writer is making here is doing these things for others makes an impact for sure on them, but what is noted here is that it makes an impact on me. The one who gives mercy reaps the benefit. The one who is cruel is impacted by this. Wow. I just saw this. I started this yesterday and initial didn't see the connecting in this verse and the significance, but it has personal significance on me. The person who acts reaps. 

We have been studying kindness in our Sunday School class and one thing that I notice, even though it seems a little overwhelming at times in the lesson in all its variance is that the kind person has an impact in a variety of ways and this kindness has far reaching impacts. There are numerous ways that we can be kind. It is not only through words, but actions such as listening or opening a door. 

On the flip side, cruelty doesn't simply happen when we are assaulting with words or actions, but it can happen in subtle manners. All forms of sin are cruel. 

On Bible Hub there are 5 questions related to this verse:

1. How does the principle of "reaping what you sow" apply to the concepts of kindness and cruelty in Proverbs 11:17? 

Being kind or merciful benefits others as well as your self. Being cruel toward others hurts others and hurts yourself. 

2. In what ways can you intentionally cultivate kindness in your daily interactions, and what impact might this have on your relationships?

I sense often I am prompted by the Spirit. When seeing a need, I can take it on myself. Like grabbing someone's cup after Sunday School or taking a shopping cart so someone does not have to take it to their spot. It is taking a moment to see people. 

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced the benefits of kindness or the consequences of cruelty. How did this experience shape your understanding of Proverbs 11:17?

For kindness I often think of my mother who was so kind to me always in providing for me and giving me gifts, thoughtful gifts. My father provided so much for me growing up, wanting me to experience different adventures. I remember a friend across the street deciding he didn't want to be my friend any longer. That was hard in the way he did it. 

4. How can the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5) enhance our understanding of the importance of kindness?

In general, one of the things the teachings of Jesus does is take our focus off of ourselves and this seems to be the focus of kindness, thinking of others first. And then as we do this, we receive a blessing. We all want things good for ourselves and we can achieve it through kindness. 

5. What practical steps can you take to address any tendencies toward cruelty in your life, and how can you seek God's help in this process?

Lord, help me to understand how I am cruel. I think often I am cruel with my thoughts toward others and then over time those thoughts start making their way into my dreams at night and finally into my emotions during the day. It is subtle but it happens. Help me to be focused on being kind to others even in my thoughts. 

In the King James, the word here described as merciful is "kind" in the King James. It is the Hebrew word "chesed," which encompasses mercy, loving-kindness, and loyalty.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for this lesson today and for taking the time to think about these contrasts, merciful or kindness and then also cruelty and helping me see that I have issues with doing the good less and the bad more. Reverse the trend in my life. Help me to be the one you have called me to be. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.