SCRIPTURE: PROVERBS 27
MEMORY VERSES:
“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.” (Proverbs 27:1)
“Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; someone else, and not your own lips.” (Proverbs 27:2)
“Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?” (Proverbs 27:4)
“Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.” (Proverbs 27:5-6)
“Do not forsake your friend and the friend of your father, and do not go to your brother’s house when disaster strikes you – better a neighbor nearby thana brother far away.” (Proverbs 27:10)
:A quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping on a raining day; restraining her is like restraining the wind or grasping oil with the hand.” (Proverbs 27:15-16)
“As water reflects a face, so a man’s heart reflects the man.” (Proverbs 27:19)
“The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but man is tested by the praise he receives.” (Proverbs 27:21)
“Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds; for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations.” (Proverbs 27:23-24)
TRUE FRIENDSHIP:
- It expresses honest praise. (v. 2)
- There is no jealousy. (v. 4)
- It involves wounds. (v. 6)
- It gives earnest counsel and encouragement. (v. 9)
- They are faithful and loyal to each other (v. 10)
THOUGHTS:
A true friend may give you unpleasant advices and an enemy may whisper sweet words but send on your way to ruin. Which would you prefer? A friend’s wounds or an enemy’s kisses?
Nagging is a destructive and unwanted advice. It is a form of torture to the hearer. If you are truly concerned about the person you want to help, think of a more effective way to communicate to them. Apply patience and love.
Do not neglect faithful employees who work hard and help you become successful. In all your planning, organizing and working, do not forget the people who help you the most.
The attitude towards praise tells a lot about a person’s character. People of high integrity have inner conviction to do what they should whether they are being praised or not. How does praise affect you? Do you work harder or you become proud?
Life is uncertain. So, we must prepare the future diligently for our family. Be a faithful steward like a farmer with his lands and herds. Act with foresight and be responsible.