Forgiveness sounds like a marvelous idea until you ae the one who has to do it. In Luke 23:34 Jesus says, “Father forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” In this first cry from the cross, Jesus cries out to the Father not to hold this act against those perpetrating it. It was not that they did not understand their guilt, it is that they did not understand the enormity of their guilt. 1 Corinthians 2:8 says none of the rulers of this age knew; for had they known, they would not have crucified the Lord ofglory.” We need to remember that when people sin against us and hurt us, they do not realize the enormity of their sin. They are often caught up in their own selfish ambition, and their idolatrous hearts. They are blind to the needs of others, and focus only on their own longings and desires. This is not to justify the behavior of others, but to remind us that we leave the “vengeance” to the Father. Don’t allow others to cause us to allow the root of bitterness in our hearts. We can allow the Father to work in the lives … READ MORE

Wisdom is not simply the gaining of knowledge. It is the ability to understand that the knowledge that we have comes from God. With that starting point, we are able to apply the knowledge we gain to the circumstances of our lives in an appropriate way. Because of our relationship with God, we are able to understand the knowledge we gain. That is why Proverbs tells us that the Fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. This reminds us that understanding who God is and what He has done, is the foundation to our learning process. It puts everything in perspective, and allows us to deal with difficult circumstances with discernment. It also helps us accept favorable circumstances with humility. May we seek out wisdom as a great treasure, and may we live our lives with great discernment. … READ MORE

Why is education important? 2 Timothy 2:15 says, “Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” Wisdom grows out of knowledge, and knowledge brings understanding. This is the principle that we learn from the book of Proverbs. Education is the tool that we have in our society that brings that knowledge to us. School has reengaged in many of our communities, and the process of structured learning is beginning again. How much formal, structured learning is enough? Interestingly, 2 Timothy 2:15 is addressed to Timothy, who is beyond “normal” formal education. It is the proud and arrogant who believe that they no longer need to study and learn. New information (to us) is always being presented, and it is important that we continue to learn so that we can grow and mature. Continuing education is a process that keeps us up to date, and challenges us to evaluate what we already know. We need to understand that what we know or do not know is not bad, but our understanding can become better and more mature. That is the goal of education. Not to puff us … READ MORE