22210.008 Words and Speech

The heart of the righteous considers how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.(Proverbs 15:28) Solomon’s father wrote, “May the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart be pleasing to you, Oh Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” Self-control can be measured by the degree that one …

22210.006 Humility/Pride

After pride came, disgrace followed; but wisdom came with humility.(Proverbs 11:2) The proud person is convinced of his own intrinsic superiority, boasting of his/her possessions, abilities, and honors. Increasing worth, public accolades, and an increasing retinue of flattering friends further prepare the proud person for destruction. Pride isolates one from accountability, criticism, and counsel and …

22210.003 Money

The reward for humility and fearing the LORD is riches and honor and life.(Proverbs 22:4) Although money is necessary for survival, the pursuit of wealth, in and of itself, can lead to spiritual bankruptcy. The “good life” is never quite good enough and the acquisition of more and more never leads to contentment. The love …

22210.002 Success

She is more precious than rubies, and none of the things you desire can compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are very pleasant, and all her paths are peaceful.(Proverbs 3:15-17) Solomon’s standards for success are not the world’s standards. The world’s …

22210.001 Life Happens

Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is like a tree of life.(Proverbs 13:12) A desire fulfilled will be sweet to the soul, but fools abhor turning away from evil.(Proverbs 13:19) What happened to your dream? When did life become so demanding, so difficult, that the hopes of the past were scared …