If we’re honest with ourselves, most of us have been there. Bitter about our circumstances. Maybe even bitter about God’s involvement – perhaps blaming him for causing the problems, perhaps blaming him for allowing the problems to occur.
Naomi is so honest about the condition of her heart, she actually demands to be renamed!
Read More problems, loyalty, bitterness
Interspersed throughout the Proverbs are a number of comments that give us a glimpse into the personal life of the writer. In these two verses Solomon reflects on the isolation – even loneliness – that a professional decision maker endures. Friendship and power do not mingle easily. The ancient adage that “for justice to be just,” it must be blind: it must not be influenced by issues of friendship, brotherhood, companionship or other kinds of self-interest.
Read More justice, friendship, loyalty
It is impossible to rest upon the fine edge of a sword and remain intact. The very purpose of a sword is to separate.
The claim that Christ came as the Son of God, was sentenced to death and rose to life by the power of God’s hand creates a point of division on which we must fall to one side or the other. We either acknowledge this or reject it.
Read More loyalty, pruning, challenge, choiceMany troubles awaited David as he returned to resume full authority as king over Judah and Israel. Tribes, clans and factions are a challenge to even the most judicious of leaders.
At this stage of his comeback, David needed reliable people at his side. He knew he could count on Barzillai, a wealthy man from the northern reaches of the kingdom who had provided for David and his troops during the darkest hours of the insurrection. So David invited Barzillai to reside in the king’s court, a place of tremendous honour and prestige.
Read More generosity, loyalty, graciousnessAs I write this two of my dear friends are facing life-threatening cancer. It was sobering to travel to their home cities so that for just an hour or so we could be in each other’s presence, share meaningful words and embraces and experience the comfort of God’s presence and Word together. One of the passages I shared with both of these men and their spouses was Proverbs 21:21 ““He who pursues righteousness and loyalty finds life, righteousness and honor.” (NAS)
Read More legacy, loyaltyA major automobile company reached the pinnacle of success, more cars being sold worldwide than any other manufacturer, and then suddenly a catastrophe. What happened? They cheated. Smart, but not wise, people in the company figured out a way for the car to register compliance with government exhaust emission standards when in fact the car was not in compliance.
Read More testing, integrity, loyalty
Do you want to be considered a success? Deep down, I think every person does if they are honest with themselves. The problem is we know that in our culture success has become an idol. We talk about successful businessmen and successful careers in ways that make us envious and jealous.
Read More wisdom, success, love, loyalty
As a teacher of English to speakers of other languages, part of my job is to help prepare people for the British citizenship test. The students have come from different parts of the world, mainly through marriage or work, and wish to settle in the UK. The test signals to those seeking a British passport …
Read More citizens, standing firm, identity, loyalty“You belong to God” (v 11). Is there a more fundamental statement? It’s the basis for understanding our identity, our present purpose and our future hope. Paul told the Corinthians, “You are no longer your own, God paid a great price for you. So, use your body to honour God” (1 Cor 6:19-20).
Read More Possessions, identity, loyalty, battle