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OceanSide church of Christ
Read devotionals for November 2016
December 1, 2016
Proverbs 12:17 – He that speaketh the truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.
Thought: Truth and righteousness always walk hand-in-hand with each other. If a person wants to help another become righteous, he must speak the truth. The only other alternative is to speak forth deceits. Sadly, the world is filled with falsehood. Jesus said on one occasion: “Thy word is truth.” The Word of God is the truth that makes men righteous. Let all of us seek to proclaim truth. Let us never be guilty of being a false witness who speaks deceit.
Isaiah 45:19
December 2, 2016
Proverbs 12:18 – There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.
Thought: Our tongues can wound another person, or, our tongues can bring healing. Sometimes our words are sharp. We intend for them to sink deeply into the heart of another person. We want them to pierce, wound, and bring harm. Shame on us! Those who so speak are foolish. A wise person will speak correctly with his tongue. His words will be spoken in such a way that healing takes place in the heart of another. To wound, or, to heal? That is the question.
Psalm 64:2-4
December 3, 2016
Proverbs 12:19 – The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.
Thought: Truth is not something that can be destroyed. It stands through thick and thin. It is able to weather all storms. The wicked can assail it for a time, but it always triumphs. Lies, however, cannot stand forever. Their feeble foundation causes them to crumble. Truth is able to crush lies and leave them in the dust. May each of us resolve to always speak truth with our lips.
Acts 5:1-5
December 4, 2016
Proverbs 12:20 – Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellers of peace is joy.
Thought: When we seek counsel of others, we must remember that there are two types of people we can consider. One is evil. Deceit is in this person’s heart. His counsel will only bring forth more evil. The other type of counselor is a counselor of peace. This person’s heart is honest and good. He seeks to bring us peace. The end result of his counsel is joy. Dear reader, vet carefully the one from whom you seek counsel.
Proverbs 26:24-26
December 5, 2016
Proverbs 12:21 – There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief.
Thought: If the just were able to live his life with no interference from others, no evil would come to him. His life would lead to happiness, peace, prosperity, and satisfaction. No so with the wicked. The wicked would cause difficulties, misery, sadness, and destruction to enter into his life. His own doings would result in tragedy because his life is filled with mischief. It is our choice as to how we will live. Are you among the just? Or, the wicked?
Proverbs 14:14
December 6, 2016
Proverbs 12:22 – Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight.
Thought: Something that is an abomination is something that is disgusting. It is something from which one must turn away. It is something that must be rejected. It is something that cannot be tolerated. Lying lips are disgusting to God. Those who speak the truth, however, are his delight. He loves them. He cherishes them. He holds them in high esteem. Why such a contrast? Liars oppose the nature of God. Those who speak the truth resemble the One who is truth.
Proverbs 6:16-17
December 7, 2016
Proverbs 12:23 – A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.
Thought: We do not always have to talk in every situation. Sometimes it is wise just to keep our mouths shut. A prudent man does not always reveal that knowledge that he has. He keeps some things to himself. A fool, though, just cannot be quiet. He thinks he MUST open his mouth. When he does, he often reveals his ignorance. Those around quickly learn how ignorant he is. They shake their heads at his foolishness. To speak or not to speak? That is the question.
Ecclesiastes 10:13-14
December 8, 2016
Proverbs 12:24 – The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.
Thought: The word slothful simply means lazy. Diligence means industrious and hard working. Those who are not afraid to work, those who will work from sun up till sundown, those who are willing to put in the blood, the sweat, and the tears in their labor, these are the ones who shall bear rule. The lazy individual’s end will be subjection to the diligent. He will be forced to pay tribute to the diligent who is in power. He will moan and complain about his lot in life, but he will fail to recognize that his slothfulness is responsible for his lowly position.
I Kings 11:28
December 9, 2016
Proverbs 12:25 – Heaviness in the heart of a man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.
Thought: There are individuals who are having very difficult times in their lives. They have experienced many hardships in their lives. Because of their afflictions, their hearts are heavy. They feel as though there is a burden on them that almost cannot be carried. There is a way to help these individuals. Solomon said: “…but a good word maketh it glad.” There are people who can impact the lives of the downtrodden in positive ways. They know what to say and what to do to lift the load of a suffering individual. Thank God for those with good words!
Nehemiah 2:1-2
December 10, 2016
Proverbs 12:26 – The righteous is more excellent than his neighbor: but the way of the wicked seduceth them.
Thought: The words “is more excellent” can mean “to guide. The righteous man is a benefit to his neighbor. He guides him in the paths of righteousness. The wicked, however, seduce their neighbors. The word “seduce” means “to lead astray.” They will turn them from what is right and good. They will lead them down paths of destruction. Dear reader, being a neighbor to others is important. Too, the ones we choose to be our neighbors is important. Neighbors have in influence on others for either good or bad.
Luke 10:33-35
December 11, 2016
Proverbs 12:27 – The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of the diligent man is precious.
Thought: The Proverbs constantly reminds us about the foolish ways of the slothful man. He hunts to find his food, but is too lazy to cook it. Therefore, it does him no good. The diligent hunter, however, profits from his kill. He prepares it and eats it and receives nourishment. What he cannot eat is stored for a later time. None of it goes to waste. Slothfulness may seem like a life of ease, but it is also a way of demise. Be diligent, my friend. Be diligent!
Hebrews 6:11-12
December 12, 2016
Proverbs 12:28 – In the way of righteousness is life: and in the pathway thereof there is no death.
Thought: All men can choose the path that they will take in this life. Here, the inspired writer reveals the end of “the way of righteousness.” He states it in the positive: “In the way of righteousness is life.” He, then, flips the coin and states it in the negative: “…and in the pathway thereof is no death.” For some, life is very enticing. They long for it and will seek it. For others, the fact that no death is the way of righteousness motivates them. Death is scary and dreadful. The fear of it moves them along the path of righteousness. Both life and death are motivators.
Romans 6:20-22
December 13, 2016
Proverbs 13:1 – A wise son heareth his father’s instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.
Thought: God gave parents to children for a reason. They have education that a child does not. They have experience that a child does not. They have wisdom a child does not. They have discernment that a child does not. A child should be smart enough to understand a portion of the previous statements. Thus, a wise child will give heed to the instruction of his/her parents. A scorner, however, will not listen. He will get angry at a rebuke. He will live his life as he desires. Sadly, the end of such a life can be tragic. One of the best pieces of advice any child can be given is: “Listen to your parents.”
Romans 1:30-32
December 14, 2016
Proverbs 13:2 – A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressor shall eat violence.
Thought: Good men behave in such a way that goodness comes to their lives. They know how to speak words of kindness and encouragement. Their positive communication brings bounty and blessings their way. The transgressor, on the other hand, brings violence into his life. Arguments, brawls, shootings, arrests, and death are eaten by the transgressor. The basic rule is: “Live well and good will come to your life.”
Revelation 16:6
December 15, 2016
Proverbs 13:3 – He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.
Thought: Far too many have never learned one of the most basic lessons of life, that is, “keep your mouth shut.” For some reason, people love to hear themselves speak. They are bold. They are brash. At times, they are harsh. When they speak, they seem to be so sure of themselves. They speak in private and in public. They speak when they are in authority and when they are the subordinate. They are known as “loud mouths.” Such individuals need to beware because “he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.” Life is the result of a closed mouth.
Psalm 39:1
December 16, 2016
Proverbs 13:4 – The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
Thought: The sluggard lies in bed and dreams of riches, but never gets rich. The sluggard dreams of having the perfect job, but never trains himself for it. The sluggard looks down the road toward retirement, but never puts back the money needed to retire. The sluggard desires, but he never has the desires of his heart. In contrast, the diligent has plenty. He abounds with blessings. His cupboards are full. His bank account never runs low. His effort, work, labor and toil pay off. He enjoys the fruit of his diligence.
I Thessalonians 4:11-12
December 17, 2016
Proverbs 13:5 – A righteous man hateth lying: but a wicked man is loathsome, and cometh to shame.
Thought: The righteous man seeks to be like his Lord. God is truth. He cannot lie. He hates lying. Thus, the righteous man also despises lying. A wicked man is different. Lying seems to be part of his nature. It is a part of that which makes him loathsome. The word “loathsome” means: “to smell bad, to stink, and to have an offensive odor.” The wicked man is morally bankrupt. Eventually his lies and lifestyle expose him and he “cometh to shame.” How are you living? Your view of lying tells a lot about you.
Psalm 15:1-2
December 18, 2016
Proverbs 13:6 – Righteousness keepeth him that is upright in the way: but wickedness overthroweth the sinner.
Thought: Those who walk uprightly, that is, those who walk in harmony with the will of God are kept by the heavenly Father. He is their shield and protection. They walk safely through the turns and twists of life. The sinner is not protected. His ungodly deeds expose him to danger. Eventually, he is overthrown in the way. Note: God cannot protect a man who refuses to come under the shadow of His protective wing.
Psalm 121:2-3
December 19, 2016
Proverbs 13:7 – There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches.
Thought: Riches are measured in different ways. Some measure riches in terms of money in a bank account or by the amount of gold and silver they have stored in their vault. Others view riches as profitable investments in real estate or the stock market. But, riches can be measured in other ways. There are some people who are not financially wealthy, but they are rich. They have a family that loves them and friends that care about them. They have the spiritual riches that are found in Christ. They have peace and hope. These individuals have made themselves rich, but they have nothing from a material standpoint. These riches are lasting. Others that are rich with material goods, have none of the “true” riches. In actuality, they are very poor.
Revelation 3:17
December 20, 2016
Proverbs 13:8 – The ransom of a man’s life are his riches: but the poor heareth not rebuke.
Thought: People often think that if they were rich all would be well. They, however, are ignorant of the problems that come with riches. Those with riches are constantly using their money to get them out of this difficulty and that difficulty. The poor, on the other hand, do not have threats and litigation coming at them constantly. It is a tradeoff. There are some wealthy people who would prefer to have a simple, obscure life instead of having to deal with the turmoil that constantly surrounds their rich lifestyle.
I Timothy 6:9-10
December 21, 2016
Proverbs 13:9 – The light of the righteous rejoiceth: but the lamp of the wicked shall be put out.
Thought: There are two types of lights mentioned in this verse. One is described as “the light.” The other is called “the lamp.” The light of the righteous comes from the true light, the source of light, the fountain of light. Their light comes from God. It shines brilliantly and never goes out. Their path is always well lit. Thus, they can rejoice. The lamp of the wicked burns dimly. It originates from within a wicked heart. When they need the light the most, it goes out. Where are the wicked then? In one word, they are in darkness.
Matthew 25:30
December 22, 2016
Proverbs 13:10 – Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.
Thought: In the course of our lives we will contact people who will disagree with our views. The disagreement can come in a host of areas. Religion and politics are the ones where people seem to have the most difficulty discussing things. When two views cross, there can be contention between the two parties. Most of the time, this is due to the pride of one or both persons. To listen to the other’s counsel, even if you do not agree, often brings wisdom. At least you can understand his reasoning, even if you still do not agree. My friend, be well advised. Do not be contentious.
James 3:14-16
December 23, 2016
Proverbs 13:11 – Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished; but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.
Thought: There are two ways to accumulate wealth. One is by honest, diligent work. Those who work hard shall increase. Wealth, however, that is attained through evil means shall be diminished. The Lord frowns on those who seek to get rich through deceit, bribes, theft, and wicked schemes. He favors those who labor, working with their hands those things that are good. Work hard, my friend, and enjoy your increase.
Psalm 128:2
December 24, 2016
Proverbs 13:12 – Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.
Thought: We live in a society of “instant gratification.” We want what we want and we want it right now. Having to wait for something is very difficult for most people. Thus, we understand the words of the inspired writer when he says: “Hope deferred maketh the heart sick.” However, when we do have to wait for something, and when we receive it, there is much rejoicing. Often we will say: “It was well worth the wait.” Children of God are patiently waiting for several things: the coming of Christ, the resurrection of the dead, judgment, and heaven. When these things finally come, they will be like a tree of life. Dear reader, these things will be well worth the wait.
Psalm 119:81-83
December 25, 2016
Proverbs 13:13 – Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.
Thought: Two choices that have two different outcomes are presented in this brief statement. God speaks to man through His word. A person can either despise the Word or he can fear the commandment. To those who disregard and show contempt toward the Word, destruction is their end. The word “destruction” carries the idea of writhing in pain. But, those who respect the Word shall be rewarded. The definition of “rewarded” is to be safe and in a covenant of peace. Do you want to writhe in pain? Or, do you want peace? Is the choice that difficult?
Psalm 119:165
December 26, 2016
Proverbs 13:14 – The law of the wise is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.
Thought: A good life is lived by a series of laws. There are spiritual laws. There are laws to relationships. There are laws for the home. There are laws that govern the employer-employee relationship. There are laws that govern finances. If we live by the laws, our lives will be like a fountain of life. Joy and prosperity will come our way. Peace and harmony will embrace us. In addition, living by laws enables us to depart from the snares of death. Laws protect us and keep us safe from evil. Don’t fight against law. It brings benefits to our lives.
Romans 8:1-2
December 27, 2016
Proverbs 13:15 – Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of the transgressor is hard.
Thought: A person with a good understanding of God’s will finds good things in his life. His lifestyle develops harmonious relationships. His obedience brings happiness and prosperity to life. He lives in peace in a very tranquil world. The transgressor’s life is much different. It is hard. Adam and Eve are a prime example. They lived in perfection for a period of time. They violated God’s will and life got very difficult. Hard work, sweat, pain in child birth, and physical death came upon them. Yes, the first couple could tell us just how hard the way of the transgressor is.
Genesis 3:16-19
December 28, 2016
Proverbs 13:16 – Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open his folly.
Thought: A man of knowledge and understanding acts in harmony with his knowledge. His knowledge of the consequences of evil actions keeps him from evil. His knowledge about love and kindness causes him to display these things to others and he is greatly rewarded. A fool, on the other hand, proceeds with his evil and wicked deeds. He proves that he cares little about the consequences of his behavior. The prudent shake their heads, and ask: “How could the fool not understand the folly of his actions?” Poor fellow! He should have known better.
Ecclesiastes 10:3
December 29, 2016
Proverbs 13:17 – A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful ambassador is health.
Thought: Wicked and godless people do not operate by a set of principles. They are selfish. They are driven by greed and power. A wicked messenger, therefore, can easily fall into mischief. he can be involved in evil against the one who sent him. A faithful ambassador, however, is just the opposite. He has principles that govern him. He is trustworthy. His work always prospers the one who sent him. My friend, vet your messengers carefully.
Ephesians 6:21
December 30, 2016
Proverbs 13:18 – Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured.
Thought: One of the keys to a successful life is being teachable. The Christian religion is a taught religion. Those that hear the Lord’s instructions will honored. They will be blessed. Those who refuse to hear the words of the Master will be brought to poverty and shame. Some may live well for a while, but eventually poverty and shame will overcome them. They will definitely find shame on the day of judgment. May all of us be willing students of the Lord.
Jeremiah 5:3-4
December 31, 2016
Proverbs 13:19 – The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul: but it is abomination to fools to depart from evil.
Thought: Every human being has emotions. There are many things that spark those emotions. In this verse, the writer talks about a good person who accomplishes his desires. He sets goals and fulfills them. The accomplishment is “sweet to the soul.” The fool enjoys his evil. It brings him momentary happiness and fulfillment. Thus, it upsets him when he has to depart from his evil. The righteous are known by what makes them happy and sad. The wicked are also known by what makes them happy and sad. Our emotions say a lot about us.
Jeremiah 11:15
Read devotionals for January 2017