LIfe and Conduct

New Guest: Like this one, most posts are devotional; those related to CAR BIZ can be found by searching for that title. You might start with 'Welcome,' the first post in the archives, dated November 12, 2008, where I introduce myself and the blog.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Devotions: Proverbs 20
Wine and liquor are mockers and brawlers; whoever is lead astray by them is unwise. A king’s anger is like a lion’s roar; whoever provokes his anger forfeits his life. It is honor to stay aloof from strife, but fools dive into quarreling. Sluggards don’t prepare, so they reap nothing at harvest time. The purpose in one’s mind is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out. Many proclaim loyalty, but a truly faithful man is hard to find. A righteous man walks in his integrity, and his descendants are blessed after him. When a king sits in judgment, he sifts through the evidence. No one can declare himself clean and pure from sin. God hates unfair weights and measures. Even children become known by how they act. God has given us sight and hearing—their use is a blessing. Don’t sleep too long, or you’ll be poor; keep your eyes open and you’ll have plenty to eat. People dissemble when they haggle, and boast when they get a bargain. Wise speech is more precious than gold or gems. Hold people responsible who co-sign for strangers. Bread gained by deceit seems sweet at first, but turns to gravel in your mouth. Counsel and wise guidance assure a good outcome in war and business. Gossips reveal secrets, so don’t associate with foolish talkers. An inheritance sought hastily will not be blessed in the end. Don’t avenge yourself—leave it to God, and He will help you. Our lives are ordered by God; we can’t fully understand the course of our life as we live it. Don’t rush to religious commitments; reflect before making a vow, not afterwards. A wise king forcefully winnows the wicked and separates their wheat from their chaff. A human spirit is God’s lamp, searching one’s inmost parts. A king is sustained by loyalty, faithfulness and righteousness. The young glory in their strength, the mature are praised for their experience. Evil is purged by blows that wound; outward strokes cleanse the innermost parts.