When my soul was embittered, when I was pricked in heart, I was brutish and ignorant; I was like a beast toward you. Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will receive me to glory. Psalms 73:20-24
I continue with my study of Proverbs, specifically in week 8 from my study workbook, which focuses on Proverbs 22:17-24:34. The two questions for this morning focus on an exhortation to avoid toiling to acquire wealth (Proverbs 23:4-5), and to avoid envy (Proverbs 23:17, 24:1,19, 3:31). The first question refers us also to Proverbs 15:27, Matthew 6:19-21, 1 Timothy 6:9-10, and Hebrews 13:5. These verses teach us that wealth is fleeting and will be destroyed, but that God and His kingdom lasts forever, that ungodly pursuit of money leads to strife and trouble, but that hatred of bribes brings life, that love of money as an idol is a snare and trap and takes us away from God, and that we should be content with what we have (vs what we don't have). The second question refers us to Psalms 37:1-2 and 73:1-28 and these texts teach us that we may envy sinners as having sinful pleasure with no consequences, yet they ultimately will fall to their destruction. Envy is a certainly a powerful temptation, but Psalms 73:20-24 remind us that when we feel troubled by envy, even when we lacked trust in God, He is gracious and loves us when we repent and return to Him.
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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion for me - thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of how You love me - despite my sin. My sin is daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me turn from and overcome my sin and turn towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
