Proverbs 3:1-35

The question being discussed by many these days--why religion is increasing and morality slipping, all at the same time--finds its answer in this very error, the error of religious intellectualism. Men have a form of godliness but deny the power thereof. The text alone will not elevate the moral life. To become morally effective, the truth must be accompanied by a mystic element, the very element supplied by the Spirit of truth. The Holy Spirit will not be banished to a footnote without...

For Reading and Meditation:     Job 13:13-19

We ended yesterday with the thought that the moments after we have been saved from slipping and sliding, but are left with our main problem still unresolved, are exceedingly critical. Why critical? Because, as we said, the desire to relieve the pain that is going on inside us can sometimes lead us to settle for answers...

For Reading and Meditation:     Job 21:11-16

We come now to the heart of the issue with which the psalmist is struggling in Psalm 73: "Surely in vain have I kept my heart pure; in vain have I washed my hands in innocence. All day long I have been plagued; I have been punished every morning" (

For Reading and Meditation:     Romans 16:17-27

The subject of God's knowledge must be linked to His wisdom, and it is this aspect of the divine nature that we consider now. What does the Bible mean when it describes God as wise? It means the ability to use knowledge to the best possible ends. This ability is found in its fullness only in God. God is never other...

For Reading and Meditation:     Luke 10:25-37

We continue focusing our thoughts on what it means to be "merciful". One of the best ways to understand the word is to compare it with grace. Have you ever noticed, that the introduction to every one of Paul's epistles from Romans through to 2Thessalonians, includes the words: "Grace and peace to you from God our...

BELOVED we are the Lord's, the creatures of His power, the purchase of His blood, the subjects of His grace. He has set His love upon us, employed His wisdom for us, and is deeply interested in all that concerns us. Every thing we do, should be done with a view to His glory; and in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, we should let our requests be made known unto Him. Every thing should be mentioned at His throne. His presence, direction, and blessing, should be sought...

Our happiness consists in knowing God and believing Him; if we know His true character, we can believe His precious word; and if we believe His holy word, we enjoy peace and sacred satisfaction. He presents Himself in His word, as able and willing to make us holy, happy, and honourable.

Let us make Him our confidence, by believing His word, frequenting His throne, and seeking His glory in all things. Are you troubled, fearful, and cast down? Acquaint now...

"He blesseth the habitation of the just." Proverbs 3:33

He fears the LORD, and therefore he comes under the divine protection even as to the roof which covers himself and his family. His home is an abode of love, a school of holy training, and a place of heavenly light. In it there is a family altar where the name of the LORD is daily had in reverence. Therefore the LORD blesses his habitation. It may be a humble cottage or a...

"Then shalt thou walk in thy way of safety, and thy foot shall not stumble." Proverbs 3:23

That is to say, if we follow the ways of wisdom and holiness we shall be preserved in them. He who travels by daylight along the highway is under some protection. There is a way for every man, namely, his own proper calling in life, and if we devoutly walk therein in the fear of God He will preserve us from evil. We may not travel...

"When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet." Proverbs 3:24

Is the reader likely to be confined for a while to the bed by sickness! Let him go upstairs without distress with this promise upon his heart "When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid."

When we go to bed at night, let this word smooth our pillow. We cannot guard ourselves in sleep, but the LORD will...