Blog post

Ecclesiastes 7:1-9:18

2 Corinthians 7:8-16

Psalm 48:1-14

Proverbs 22:17-19

Todays blog I got a great sense of how following advice from wise people should be taken strongly. We often pray for Gods guidance as we struggle with decisions. What we need is both guidance and a guide -a map that gives us landmarks and directions and a constant companion who has intimate knowledge of the way, and will make sure we interpret the map directly. The Bible serves as a map and the Holy Spirit will be the constant companion and guide. As you make your way through life use both the map and your guide. We must take time to listen to the word of God and place our trust in him.

"Godly sorrows brings repentance that leads to salvation" refers to the sorrow for our sins that results in changed behavior. Many people are sorry only for the effects of their sins or for being caught ("worldly sorrow"). Compare results of remorse and repentance with Judas's bitterness and act of suicide. Both disowned Christ. One repented and was restored to faith and service; the other took his own life.  Paul affirmed the Corinthians for their right response to the correction he had given them. It's difficult to accept criticism, correction, or rebuke with grace. It is much more natural to be defensive and then counterattack. We can accept criticism with self-pity, thinking we don't really deserve it. We can be angry and resentful, but a mature Christian should graciously accept constructive criticism, sincerely evaluate it and grow from it.

We are to enjoy what we have while we can, but realize that difficulties also may arise. Difficult times reminds us that life is short, teaches us to live wisely, and refines our character. Most would agree that we learn more about God from difficult times than from happy times. Do you try to avoid sorrow and sufferings at all costs? We can see our struggles as great opportunities to learn from God.

To finish what we start takes hard work, wise guidance, self-discipline and patience. Anyone with vision can start a big project, but vision without wisdom will result in unfinished projects and goals. God allows both good times and bad times to come to everyone. He blends them in our lives in such a way that we cannot predict the future or count on human wisdom and power. We usually give ourselves the credit for the good times. Then in bad times, we tend to blame God without thanking him for the good that comes out of it.

When life appears certain and controllable, don't let self-satisfaction make you too comfortable, or God may allow bad times to drive you back to him. When life seems uncertain and uncontrollable don't loose hope. God is in control and will bring good out of your struggles. 

Even if he had access to all the worlds wisdom, the wisest man would know very little. No one can fully comprehend God and all that he has done, and there are always more questions than answers. But the unknown should not cast a shadow over our joy, faith or work because we know hat someone greater is in control and that we can put our trust in him. Don't let what you don't know about the future destroy the joy God wants to give you today. In todays world, society honors wealth, attractiveness and success above wisdom. Yet wisdom  is a greater asset than strength and more effective, wisdom is not always heard. Let us become receptive to wisdom no matter who it comes from,

Amen