Category: Christianity

Just God and Scripture

We often face challenges and temptations that test our resolve and inner strength. It’s during these moments that we may feel the need for external accountability, seeking support from others to help us stay on track.

However, there is a profound power in developing an inner strength that draws from a deep connection with God and the wisdom found in sacred scriptures.



This is what Christ teaches us when He took on Satan all alone in Matthew 4 and Luke 4.

The example of Christ’s temptation in the wilderness is a powerful illustration of this principle.

After fasting for forty days and nights, Jesus was confronted by the devil, who tempted Him with the allure of physical sustenance, worldly power, and a test of God’s protection.

Yet, despite being alone in the wilderness, Christ remained focused, relying solely on His faith and the Word of God to overcome these temptations.

He didn’t have friends.
He didn’t have allies.
No one was there to help Him.
He was alone.

In each instance, Jesus responded with verses from Scripture, demonstrating His trust in the divine truth of scripture and His commitment to following God the Father’s will.



He did not seek external accountability or support; instead, He drew strength from within.

This example teaches us a valuable lesson: true inner strength is not derived from external sources but from a deep connection with the divine.

When we develop a relationship with God and immerse ourselves in the study of sacred scripture, we fortify our souls with the wisdom and guidance necessary to navigate life’s challenges and resist temptations.



If we rely on God and Scripture, we develop a resilience that transcends the need for external accountability.

We become our own guardians, guided by an internal compass that points us towards righteousness and away from the allure of sin.

This inner strength empowers us to stand firm in our convictions, even when faced with the most daunting of trials.

This is Lone Wolf Faith

It’s not the type of faith that is popularized, nor is it a cure all or something to be relied on exclusively.

But when the enemy comes for you, you will be alone.



Will you be a lone sheep, or a lone wolf?

Seeking strength from within fosters a sense of personal responsibility and agency.

Rather than relying on others to hold us accountable, we take ownership of our choices and actions, guided by the principles and teachings found in the Bible.

This not only strengthens our character but also deepens our relationship with the divine, as we actively engage in the pursuit of spiritual growth and understanding.

Conclusion

While external accountability can be valuable in certain contexts, true inner strength is cultivated through a deep connection with God and the study of sacred scriptures.

Follow the example of Christ in the wilderness. Learn to rely on the eternal wisdom found within, fortifying our souls against temptation and empowering us to navigate life’s challenges with unwavering power.

Proverbs 10:5 – Strike While The Iron is Hot

Pr. 10:5 He who gathers in summer is a wise son; He who sleeps in harvest is a son who causes shame.

This verse encapsulates a key teaching about success in the physical world – striking while the iron is hot without expecting God to do all the heavy lifting for you. 

One of the weak teachings in modern religion is this idea that God will solve all your problems. That He will do everything for you. Or that He won’t expect you to do any of the work.

This is nonsense. The Bible teaches over and over again that man is responsible for his own life. While God will certainly help us and be our ally, we are still expected to pull our own weight. 

This verse shows that God is not going to provide for the lazy son who sleeps through his opportunity. 

There are key moments of opportunity in our lives. They come again and again. But if we sleep through them, God will allow us to suffer the consequences of those actions. 

Life presents us with seasons of opportunity, moments when doors open and possibilities abound.

It could be a career advancement, a chance to pursue a passion, or an opportunity for personal growth. Being vigilant and aware of these moments is crucial.

The verse emphasizes the value of hard work and diligence. Success rarely comes to those who wait idly. It requires effort, perseverance, and a willingness to put in the work, especially during seasons of abundance and opportunity.

Strike while the iron is hot.

Attack your opportunities when they present themselves. Work to develop a good attitude about the opportunity. Don’t despise the gifts you were given. 

While diligence and hard work are essential, it’s important to maintain a dualistic perspective.

Acknowledging our responsibility does not negate the role of divine assistance. Faith complements action, guiding us as we navigate challenges and pursue our goals.

The verse also highlights the principle of reaping what we sow.

Our actions have consequences, and ignoring opportunities can lead to missed blessings or undesirable outcomes. Learning from our mistakes and making course corrections is part of growth.

Gather in the summer. 

Conduct yourselves like men.

Recompense [Proverbs 11:31] – Lightning Study

Whether in this life or the next, God will repay all men and women for their actions.

In the Book of Proverbs, there’s a powerful verse that urges us to pay attention. It’s like a spotlight on the concept of recompense, or the consequences of our actions, both good and bad.

1. Divine Justice

Proverbs 11:31 starts with “Behold!” This word notes the importance of this short saying. “Take a good look. think long and hard about it”.

This verse talks about how our actions have consequences, whether they bring joy or regret. Whether these actions require God’s reward or His punishment. 

God’s Just nature requires that he perfectly weigh and measure the justice He delivers to mankind. Though it can seem like some people get away with their actions on earth, this is actually not the case. 

Whether in this world or the next, God will deliver to each person exactly what they deserve – both for their secular actions and their spiritual ones. 

2. What Goes Around Comes Around

What we sow in life, we reap. Galatians 6:7-8 explains this law of cause and effect. It’s a reminder that our choices matter and have real outcomes.

Claiming religion does not excuse us from acting on our own behalf. We must take action in our own lives and not expect God to do all the heavy lifting for us. 

3. Rewards for the Righteous

The verse also speaks about rewards for the righteous. Hebrews 11:6 reinforces this idea, saying that God rewards those who seek Him sincerely. Maybe the reward does not come in this life. Some people live difficult lives, only to be rewarded for it at the end of life. This is a difficult matter to think about because despite strong faith, we all still fear death. We still wonder what exactly waits beyond the end of this life. 

4. God’s Justice Knows No Bounds

God’s justice isn’t confined to this world. Romans 2:6-8 shows us that God’s judgment is based on truth and fairness, extending beyond our earthly lives.

And when man finally stands before God on the Day of Judgment, God’s judgment will be fair.

5. Live With a Sound Mind

In light of these truths, Proverbs 11:31 encourages us to live with awareness and integrity.

Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 reminds us of our accountability to God, urging us to live in reverence and keep His commandments.

Proverbs 13:12 – Deferred Hope

“Hope deferred makes the heart sick, But when the desire comes, it is a tree of life.” – Proverbs 13:12 (NKJV)

Introduction

Life is going to try to slow you down. With that in mind, the wisdom of Proverbs shines through, reminding us to look forward and know that if we persevere, something better is coming. One day our goal will be achieved if we can temporarily put our wants aside and focus. 

1. Understanding the Weight of Deferred Hope

When we want something, but cannot have it, the emotional toll is serious. Anyone who. Has sat down to think about how long they will have to work in life may consider this for themselves.

It can be depressing and disheartening to think of how long we have to work a day job before retirement. This makes many people physically sick. Some use this sickness to motivate themselves to free themselves from the need to work a day job. I find this to be a noble pursuit. 

There are moments in our lives when dreams are delayed, and aspirations seem out of reach. Those moments can easily send us spiraling into depression. 

2. A Tree of Life

However, this verse also shows the satisfaction of reaching a goal and fulfilling a desire, likening them to a tree of life. 

Tis is the source from which improvement grows.

3. Generating Resilience

Hope isn’t passive; it’s a force that sustains us through adversity. Romans 12:12 teaches us to be joyful in hope, patient in tribulation, and steadfast in prayer. 

Center your mind on your goal so you can aim for what you want to accomplish. Don’t worry if you aren’t where you want to be today. Let go of those attachments – they will only create worry and anxiety.

Practical Exercise

  • Reflect: Take time to reflect on areas in your life where goals feel deferred. Journal your thoughts and emotions, allowing yourself to process the difficult thoughts that accompany these realizations. 
  • Use God’s Wisdom: Spend time in Scripture and learn teachings related to your hopes and desires. Write down verses that resonate with you and meditate on them daily.
  • Take Action: Identify small steps you can take towards fulfilling your hopes and dreams. Set realistic goals and commit to consistent effort, trusting in God’s timing and provision.

The False Security of Wealth: Proverbs 11:28

Every man has the responsibility to work and make money. That’s a job we all have. The mistake we often make is to put trust in riches that are here one day and gone the next.

In Proverbs 11:28, we are reminded that relying solely on wealth for security is misguided. 

1. Wealth as False Security

Many believe that accumulating wealth is the key to security and happiness. I’ve thought this many times, and I don’t underestimate the power of wealth in making people happier.

However, Proverbs 11:28 challenges this notion by highlighting the transient nature of riches.

Material wealth can provide temporary comfort but cannot guarantee long-term security.

Men can lose fortunes in the blink of an eye – fortunes that it took them a lifetime to acquire. 

so while we should all work and attempt to gather a fortune and build wealth, we should recognize the tendency of money to sprout wings and fly away.

2. The Deceptive Allure of Riches

It’s easy to fall into the trap of pursuing wealth as a source of security. The allure of luxury and financial stability can blind us to the deeper realities of life.

Proverbs warns us against placing undue trust in material possessions, which can lead to disappointment if that wealth is lost. There is nothing wrong with gathering wealth, but do not become emotionally attached to it. That is what this verse is teaching.

This is not a verse telling us not to gain wealth, but rather to manage our emotional attachment to wealth. 

3. True Security in Wisdom and Righteousness

Instead of relying solely on wealth, Proverbs 11:28 encourages us to seek true security in wisdom and righteous living. This security will outlast the temporary nature of material wealth.

Our possessions may fluctuate throughout our life, but our character cannot be taken from us. We build it yourself, and we maintain it throughout time. 

4. Inner Wealth

While financial planning and responsible stewardship are important, lasting wealth extends beyond monetary assets.

Cultivating inner wealth through righteous living will be the wealth that echoes into eternity. Everything you read on this website is about developing the inner man.

5. Balanced Perspectives

The wisdom of Proverbs invites us to adopt a balanced perspective on wealth and security.

While financial stability is valuable, it should not overshadow the pursuit of spiritual, emotional, and relational well-being. We have to maintain perspective regarding what is important in life. 

Proverbs 11:28 serves as a pointed reminder that security is found in wisdom, righteousness. Gather wealth but do not become emotionally attached to wealth.

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