Bible Thoughts

January 4, 2004

Honest men search for truth. They search in the past, in the present, in books, and in conversations. Others are satisfied with the status quo and drift through life without any thought of searching to find truth. Accepting without question what has been delivered, they are reluctant to clutter their minds (thinking processes) with questions and answers. The writer of this Proverb, Solomon, was a wise man because God blessed him with this gift. One does not have to be a Solomon to be wise. Simply make up your mind that you want the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. In a world too often given to lies, the truth can still be found. Hence, never fail to question what one presents as truth. Don't be foolish; be satisfied with nothing the truth.

God has given men the power of speech. Learning to say the right word at the right time is a great accomplishment. Many a problem has been avoided by a proper answer. Many a problem has been created by an improper answer. Learning to say what needs to be said and saying it in the right way takes much personal effort and determination. The writer uses the illustration of calming a person who is angry by a "soft answer." Many a confrontation has been avoided by answering a person in a proper manner. A hasty answer has stirred many into action they later regretted.

You have heard, "Think before you speak." The statement is still true and should lead one to speak softly to an angry person. The wise man knew the nature of humans and used his wisdom to encourage conduct that results in proper treatment of one another.

Most people want to be happy. They seek happiness in many different ways. In fact, the pursuit of happiness generates a multi-billion dollar business in the form of entertainment and recreation. Such pursuits do not satisfy the real needs of mankind. Solomon had all of the wealth to enjoy any earthly pleasure that he wanted to pursue. Yet, he stated that the happy man is one who finds wisdom. He includes the man who gets understanding. Knowing that life is more than the pursuit of fleshly satisfaction is not easily understood. Wise men seek to contribute to the needs of humanity . The wise man will spend time in improving himself and doing what he can to improve others. The wise man wants others to learn and to serve so they may live a life of true happiness and satisfaction.

The apostle Peter is emphasizing the quality of being "just and right" in regard to God's extension of mercy. The Gentiles are being taught that what God offered the Jews. was offered to all men, not just to the Hebrews. Any person in any nation in any time is not discriminated against, but God offers the opportunity to be saved unto all men, whatever be their ancestry or status in life. Only a righteous God would do this. The very nature of Jehovah is totally different from the gods invented by men. They are not only without life, wood and stone images are neither righteous or unrighteous--because they are nothing. Only Jehovah is the true God who is not only righteous himself, but leads men in the paths of righteousness. Jehovah offers hope and salvation to the whole world, not just a select few.

At various times in our lives, everyone is made sad. It could be the loss of a loved one; a disease; a disappointment; a misunderstanding; or a thousand other causes. But sadness does affect the heart(attitude) of a person. Yet, the Proverb writer, says that "a good word maketh it glad. "How often do we get down on ourselves or on our situation, feeling sorry for self and along comes a friend and with just a few choice words cheers us up. A good word is always welcome. It does improve our attitude; it does lift our spirit; it does make us feel better. However, we need also to use the same approach with others. A good word to a friend may save him or her much sorrow. It can bring joy where sadness had been. Why not speak a good word to a friend? how about to someone you do not care for? and why not do it today?

The wisest of men, Solomon, knew the eternal truth of this passage. The responsibility of parental instruction is emphasized throughout the word of God. Where there are strong parents, dedicated to the paths of righteousness, a society is indeed blessed. Many problems arise because children do not listen to the wisdom and instruction of parents. It is also a misfortune that some parents do not live, speak, or act in such a manner to provide children with a pattern of life that pleases God. You instruct by word, but you also instruct by behavior. Be wise, parent, and teach your child what is right. "My son, forget not my law; But let thy heart keep my commandments"(Proverb 3: 1 ).