instruction

The Lord of the Harvest (John 21:4-6)

Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize it was Jesus. He called out to them, ‘Friends, haven’t you any fish?’

‘No,’ they answered.

He said, ‘Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.’

When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.” (John 21:4-6)

While there were many fish to catch in the Sea of Tiberias where the disciples were casting their net, they were unsuccessful in their efforts. That is, until the presence of Jesus and obedience of His words changed everything. (more…)

Children of Peace and Delight (Proverbs 29:17)

“Discipline your son, and he will give you peace; he will bring delight to your soul.” (Prov. 29:17)

One of the things I’ve enjoyed most about both the kids being on holiday school break and my wife and I being on holiday work break, is that we’ve been able to spend more time praying and talking about the Lord with them. (more…)

God Speaks. Are You Listening? (Proverbs 28:9)

“If anyone turns a deaf ear to my instruction, even their prayers are detestable.” (Prov. 28:9)

Obedience to the Lord is a direct conduit to our effectiveness in communicating with Him. God has a voice, and in the Bible you’ll see that there are a variety of ways in which He chooses to speak to us. Are we willing to listen? (more…)

Guard Your Heart (Proverbs 4:23-27)

“Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.” (Prov. 4:23-27)

This is great instruction, and as Proverbs 4:13 says, “Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.” But I’ll be honest, a lot of this is really hard to do. Actually, it’s impossible to consistently follow this and the other instruction given throughout Proverbs (let alone in the rest of the Bible), on our own. (more…)

The Beginning of Knowledge (Proverbs 1:7)

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Prov. 1:7)

The book of Proverbs is clear on its intent, which is to impart wisdom for godly living. Many of the Proverbs are from King Solomon, who was known as the wisest man alive when God gave him the gift of wisdom. (more…)