What Is a earring or ornament and What Message Does It Carry?
Let us examine the passage:
“Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise reprover to a listening ear.”
(Proverbs 25:12, ESV)
In this verse, the word translated in some Swahili Bibles as “kipuli” refers to an earring or ornament worn on the ear. It’s a metaphor a poetic image used by Solomon to describe how precious it is to receive wise correction when the heart is willing to listen.
Though the term kipuli appears only once in Swahili translations of the Bible, the idea of valuable adornment appears throughout Scripture. Here, Solomon is not talking about literal jewelry, but about the spiritual beauty of someone who listens to wisdom and correction. A person who accepts rebuke from the wise is being adorned, spiritually, like someone wearing fine gold.
In biblical symbolism, gold represents purity, value, and divine wisdom. Gold was used in the furnishings of the Tabernacle (Exodus 25–27) and in Solomon’s Temple, symbolizing that which is holy and set apart. So, a person who accepts godly correction is compared to something sacred and valuable.
Listening: A Mark of Humility and Wisdom
The listening ear in Proverbs 25:12 represents a humble heart a heart that desires growth, understanding, and truth, even when it comes in the form of rebuke. Throughout Scripture, listening is associated with obedience, learning, and fear of the Lord:
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
(Proverbs 1:7, ESV)
“Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.”
(Proverbs 1:5, ESV)
A listening ear is rare in a proud world, yet it is prized by God. Listening to correction is portrayed here as an adornment, suggesting that true beauty is internal and spiritual, not external and material.
Theological Connection: Inner Beauty vs. Outward Appearance
This idea resonates strongly with 1 Peter 3:3–4 (ESV):
“Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—
but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.”
The apostle Peter is not condemning outward adornment itself but is contrasting it with something far more important a gentle and quiet spirit. This imperishable beauty is what truly pleases God. It is not destroyed with age, trends, or time, because it flows from the work of the Holy Spirit.
Likewise, 1 Timothy 2:9–10 speaks to this spiritual emphasis:
“…women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire,
but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works.”
Both Paul and Peter affirm that inner holiness and receptiveness to God’s truth are more precious than any outward display.
The Source of Wisdom: God’s Word
To adorn our ears with “gold” in the spiritual sense means to tune them to the voice of divine wisdom God’s Word. Solomon stresses this in Proverbs 2:1–5 (ESV):
“My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you,
making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding;
yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding,
if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures,
then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.”
The fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. And wisdom, in biblical theology, is not merely intellectual it’s relational. It involves knowing God, obeying Him, and humbling ourselves to receive His instruction, even when it convicts us.
A Final Reflection
So, let’s ask ourselves:
What kind of “earrings” are we wearing? Are our ears adorned with the world’s noise, or are they decorated with the beauty of godly wisdom?
The gold that matters to God is not physical it is found in a heart that is teachable, humble, and receptive to His truth.
“Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.”
(Proverbs 16:20, ESV)
May the Lord bless you
How Can You Know If You’re Truly a Servant of God and If Christ Is with You?
(Special lessons for servants)
Praise be to the Savior, JESUS CHRIST, forever and ever.
Have you ever wondered how to truly evaluate whether you’re a servant of God and if Christ is walking alongside you?
Do you think that signs and miracles are the only proof that Christ is with you?
Let me clarify something: No! Signs and miracles are not the first indication that Christ is with you. The Bible tells us that John the Baptist performed no signs at all, yet he was greater than all the prophets who came before him.
In John 10:41 (New International Version), it says: “And many came to him, they said, ‘John did no miraculous sign, but everything John said about this man was true.’”
This scripture teaches us that the truth of God’s word is more significant than signs and wonders. John the Baptist’s life and ministry were marked by his faithful proclamation of the truth, not by miraculous signs.
So, performing miracles or signs isn’t the primary sign of Christ’s presence in your life. Faithfulness to good God’s word is paramount.
There are also people who will perform signs, yet Christ will not recognize them.
Jesus warns in Matthew 7:22-23 (NIV):
“Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons, and in your name perform many miracles?’
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'”
In these verses, Jesus makes it clear that performing signs and wonders, while powerful, does not guarantee that a person is truly walking with Him. The key is a relationship with Christ and living according to His will, not just performing religious activities.
So, what is the true proof that we are walking with Jesus in our service to God?
The answer is found in the following scriptures:
John 12:26 (NIV): “Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant will also be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.”
Here, Jesus emphasizes that service to God involves following Him. This means a life that imitates Christ’s example of humility, obedience to the Father, and love for others. It’s not just about doing tasks in His name, but about living as He lived.
Jesus is telling us that if we want to serve Him, we must follow Him. And wherever He is, His servant will be there too. In simple terms, “He is with those who follow Him.”
So, how do we follow Jesus?
Let’s look at what the Bible says in Luke
9:23-24 (NIV):
“Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.
For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.'”
This passage presents three key elements of following Jesus:
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Denying oneself: This means surrendering our personal desires and priorities to God’s will. Jesus calls us to die to self-centeredness and to prioritize God’s kingdom over our own comfort and ambitions.
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Taking up our cross daily: This refers to accepting the challenges and sacrifices that come with following Christ. The cross symbolizes suffering, rejection, and the cost of discipleship. It means we are willing to endure hardship for His sake, just as Jesus endured the cross for us.
-
Following Jesus: This involves imitating His life of obedience, love, and service. It is a call to actively live out His teachings and lead a life of holiness.
To be true servants of God, we must deny ourselves daily and take up our cross. This means that for Jesus to be with us, we must make a daily commitment to surrender our own desires and comfort for His sake.
Have we truly denied ourselves? Or are we still holding on to our selfish desires and worldly habits?
You cannot serve God if you’re unwilling to give up your traditions, the love of the world, or your sinful behaviors. You can’t serve God while still holding onto things that go against His teachings, like living in sin or mocking others.
In James 4:4 (NIV), James warns: “You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.”
It’s important to understand that even if you experience signs or miracles in your life, Christ is not with you if you’re living in sin or disobedience. This is in line with the words of Jesus Himself.
The principle of walking with Christ remains the same forever—and it is to deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Him
. As Hebrews 13:8 (NIV) says:
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
This is not for His benefit—it is for ours. As it says in Job 35:7 (NIV),
“If you are righteous, what do you give to him, or what does he receive from your hand?”
Our obedience to God is for our own benefit, not His, because in denying ourselves, we align ourselves with God’s eternal purposes and experience the true joy and peace that comes from being in relationship with Him.
You may have already accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, which is great! But it’s still not enough. You must also deny yourself. And once you do that, prepare for the trials that will come because of your faith.
Prepare to be mocked, looked down upon, misunderstood, and even considered foolish. But don’t be afraid these are the same things that Jesus experienced. In
Galatians 6:17 (NIV), Paul talks about bearing the marks of Jesus in our lives: “From now on, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.”
Jesus Himself said in
John 16:33 (NIV): “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
May the Lord bless you.
Please share this message with others.
Topics for Deeper Reflection and Study:
1. “For with much wisdom comes much sorrow…”
Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV):
“For with much wisdom comes much sorrow; the more knowledge, the more grief.”
This verse reminds us that greater understanding of the world often brings awareness of its brokenness. Wisdom can lead to a burdened heart when we see injustice, suffering, and the consequences of sin more clearly.
2. “He himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames.”
1 Corinthians 3:15 (NIV):
“If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved even though only as one escaping through the flames.”
Paul teaches that some believers may build their lives on Christ with weak or worthless works. While their salvation remains intact, their eternal rewards may be lost. It’s a call to live purposefully and faithfully.
3. “Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty…”
Proverbs 14:4 (NIV):
“Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but from the strength of an ox come abundant harvests.”
This proverb speaks about the necessity of accepting messiness or hard work in order to achieve fruitful results. A clean barn may look nice, but without oxen (effort or resources), there’s no productivity.
4. What is the significance of coral in Scripture?
Job 28:18 (NIV):
“Coral and jasper are not worthy of mention; the price of wisdom is beyond rubies.”
Proverbs 8:11 (NIV):
“For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.”
In biblical times, coral was considered a rare and valuable gem. These verses use coral (and other precious stones) to highlight how incomparable and priceless true wisdom is especially the wisdom that comes from God.
Be blessed!
Why Did Thomas Want to Go and Die with Lazarus? (John 11:14-16, NIV)
Let’s examine the passage carefully:
John 11:14–16 (NIV):
“Then Jesus told them plainly, ‘Lazarus is dead,
and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.’
Then Thomas (also known as Didymus) said to the other disciples, ‘Let us also go, that we may die with him.’”
At first glance, it may seem that Thomas wanted to die alongside Lazarus. However, this is a misunderstanding of the text.
Thomas did not intend to die with Lazarus himself. Rather, he was expressing a willingness to go with Jesus, even if it meant facing death with Him.
Context and Theological Significance
To fully grasp Thomas’s statement, let’s consider the wider context of John 11:5-16 (NIV):
Jesus loved Martha, Mary, and Lazarus (John 11:5), demonstrating the deep personal relationships He had with them. When Lazarus fell seriously ill, Jesus delayed going to him for two days (John 11:6), which serves a greater divine purpose: to glorify God through the upcoming miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead (John 11:4).
When Jesus announces He is returning to Judea (John 11:7), His disciples express fear because the Jews there recently tried to stone Jesus (John 11:8). Jesus’ reply about walking in the light or darkness (John 11:9-10) is rich in theological meaning: He is the Light of the world (John 8:12), and His followers, walking in the light, will not stumble.
Jesus refers to Lazarus as “sleeping” (John 11:11-13), using sleep as a metaphor for death, signaling that death is temporary and that He has power over it a key Christological theme pointing to Jesus as the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25).
When Jesus plainly says Lazarus is dead (John 11:14), He expresses confidence that this event will serve to strengthen the disciples’ faith (John 11:15). Despite the danger, Jesus insists on going to Judea.
Thomas’s Response and Its Meaning
Thomas’s remark, “Let us also go, that we may die with him,” reflects his loyalty and readiness to face danger with Jesus (John 11:16). Theologically, this reveals several important points:
- Faith and Courage: Thomas shows a willingness to stand with Jesus even unto death, a hallmark of genuine discipleship (Luke 9:23). This anticipates the costly discipleship Jesus later teaches.
- Misunderstanding of Jesus’s Mission: Thomas, like the other disciples, does not fully grasp the nature of Jesus’s mission that His death and resurrection would defeat death itself. Thomas sees the risk as physical death, not the victorious glory to come.
- Foreshadowing of Christ’s Passion: Thomas’s willingness prefigures the future trials the disciples will face after Jesus’s arrest and crucifixion (John 13:36, Acts 7:54-60).
A Lesson on Dependence on God’s Strength
Thomas’s readiness contrasts with Peter’s later failure (Luke 22:31-34), illustrating human weakness despite good intentions. The New Testament consistently teaches that our strength to serve and endure comes not from ourselves but from God’s grace (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).
This passage challenges believers to humility and dependence on God rather than self-confidence. True faith means recognizing our limitations and trusting God for strength, especially in the face of suffering and death.
Be blessed!
Are there things God cannot do according to Judges 1:19?
Answer: Let’s explore this question carefully, using the New International Version (NIV) of the Bible.
Judges 1:19 (NIV) says,
“The Lord was with Judah, and He gave them victory, so they took possession of the hill country, but they were unable to drive out the people living in the plains, because they had iron chariots.”
At first glance, this verse might suggest a limitation on God’s power. However, the theological understanding is deeper: God’s inability here is not due to a lack of omnipotence but is related to the human response particularly the faith and obedience of His people.
To grasp this fully, let’s read the context starting from Judges 1:17-19 (NIV):
“Then Judah went with Simeon his brother and attacked the Canaanites living in Zephath, and they completely destroyed the city. So the city was called Hormah.
Judah also captured Gaza with its territory, Ashkelon with its territory, and Ekron with its territory.
The Lord was with Judah, and He gave them victory, so they took possession of the hill country, but they were unable to drive out the people living in the plains because they had iron chariots.”
Theological insights:
- God’s Presence and Human Faith: The phrase “The Lord was with Judah” confirms God’s presence and support in battle. God’s power is not limited, but His blessings are often contingent on the faith and obedience of His people (see Deuteronomy 11:26-28; Joshua 1:7-9). Here, Judah’s hesitation to fight the stronger tribes those with iron chariots reflected a lack of faith in God’s promise to give them the land (see Numbers 13-14 for similar episodes).
- Iron Chariots as a Symbol of Military Might: The Canaanites’ iron chariots symbolized advanced military technology and strength (Judges 4:3; 1 Samuel 13:5). For the Israelites, who relied on God’s help rather than superior weapons, these chariots represented a significant challenge. Judah’s fear indicates how human fear can hinder God’s deliverance.
- God’s Sovereignty and Human Responsibility: While God is sovereign and powerful (Psalm 115:3; Jeremiah 32:17), He often works through human agency and faith. The inability to drive out the inhabitants was not because God couldn’t, but because the people were unwilling to fully trust and act in faith. Hebrews 11:6 teaches, “without faith it is impossible to please God.”
- The Role of Faith in God’s Work: James 1:6-8 (NIV) warns against doubting faithfully.
- “But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.”
- This applies here God cannot act on behalf of those who do not fully trust Him.
- God Does Not Act Apart From His Covenant People’s Faith: The episode demonstrates that God’s miracles and victories are often contingent on His people’s faithfulness. He is not limited in power but respects human free will and faith. This also points to the deeper biblical truth that sin and disobedience limit blessings and victory (Isaiah 59:1-2).
Additional cross-references:Joshua 17:17-18 (NIV) affirms that despite the presence of iron chariots, God’s people were to trust Him to drive out their enemies.Numbers 13:33 and Judges 4:3 show other instances where Israel feared stronger enemies, resulting in setbacks.Psalm 20:7 contrasts trust in weapons with trust in God: “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.”
May the Lord bless you.
The world staggers like a drunkard and sways like a shaky hut.
(Isaiah 24:20, NIV)
QUESTION:
Could you please explain the meaning of Isaiah 24:18-20?
Isaiah 24:18-20 (NIV):
18 “Whoever flees at the sound of fear will fall into a pit; whoever climbs out of the pit will be caught in a trap. For the windows of heaven are opened, and the foundations of the earth shake.
19 The earth is broken apart, split wide open, shaken violently.
20 The earth reels like a drunkard and sways like a hut in the wind; it is weighed down by the burden of its sins and will collapse, never to rise again.”
Theological Explanation:
This passage vividly illustrates the spiritual and moral condition of the world in the last days. The imagery of the earth staggering like a drunkard signifies the instability caused by widespread sin and rebellion against God.
- Spiritual Drunkenness: In the Bible, drunkenness often symbolizes a loss of control and moral confusion (Proverbs 23:29-35). Here, the earth itself is personified as a drunk, overwhelmed by the “weight of its sins,” indicating the pervasive corruption and judgment looming over creation.
- Foundations Shaken: The “foundations of the earth” shaking (v. 18) can be understood both literally (earthquakes and natural disasters) and spiritually (the shaking of human institutions, governments, and moral order). Hebrews 12:26-27 speaks of God shaking “not only the earth but also the heavens,” referring to a divine judgment that removes what can be shaken so that only what is eternal remains.
- Judgment and Collapse: The earth “will collapse and not rise again” (v. 20) symbolizes the ultimate judgment and purification. This aligns with prophetic themes found in both Old and New Testaments where the current creation is subjected to decay and will be replaced by a new heaven and new earth (2 Peter 3:10-13; Revelation 21:1).The Rapture and End Times: This passage foreshadows the final cataclysmic events leading to the Day of the Lord, a time when God’s wrath will be poured out on the unrighteous. For believers, this period includes the promise of the rapture the sudden catching away of the Church as described in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 before the full outpouring of divine judgment.
Revelation 6:12-17 (NIV) The Sixth Seal and Divine Judgment
12 “I watched as he opened the sixth seal. There was a great earthquake. The sun turned black like sackcloth made of goat hair, the whole moon turned blood red,
13 and the stars in the sky fell to earth, as figs drop from a fig tree shaken by a strong wind.
14 The heavens receded like a scroll being rolled up, and every mountain and island was removed from its place.
15 Then the kings of the earth, the princes, the generals, the rich, the mighty, and every slave and free person hid in caves and among the rocks of the mountains.
16 They called to the mountains and the rocks, ‘Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb!
17 For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can withstand it?’”
Theological Significance:
- These apocalyptic visions describe the cosmic disturbances and the overwhelming fear that will grip all people at the time of God’s final judgment.
- The imagery portrays not only physical upheaval but also spiritual terror before the holy presence of God and the Lamb (Jesus Christ).
- This passage underscores the absolute sovereignty and justice of God, reminding believers to remain vigilant and faithful.
- The “wrath of the Lamb” shows that Christ, who is our Savior, will also execute righteous judgment on the earth.
Application and Urgency:
We live in perilous times, as Isaiah and Revelation warn us. The world is metaphorically “drunk” on sin, and the signs of the end times are unmistakable: natural disasters, moral decay, global pandemics, and increasing lawlessness.
- If you are not yet saved, this is a solemn call to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, who alone can save you from judgment and give you eternal life (John 3:16; Romans 10:9).
- For believers, take comfort in God’s promises of protection and the soon coming rapture (1 Thessalonians 5:9).The time is short, and the trumpet could sound at any moment. Do not be complacent or distracted by worldly concerns. This is the hour to seek God earnestly.
Maranatha
WE HAVE WORKED HARD ALL NIGHT AND CAUGHT NOTHING
Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Today is another day filled with His abundant grace.
I want us to reflect on a vital spiritual truth: What does the Lord first want to see in us before He releases His blessings in the things we ask or seek? Let’s revisit this passage from Luke 5:4-9 (NIV):
“When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, ‘Put out into deep water, and let down your nets for a catch.’ Simon answered, ‘Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.’ When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, ‘Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!’ For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken.”
Theological Reflection
This passage reveals several important truths:Jesus sees our labor, especially when it feels fruitless. Peter’s toil all night without catching fish symbolizes seasons of spiritual hardship, where despite persistent effort, visible results seem absent. Jesus’s command to “put out into deep water” is an invitation to trust Him beyond our own experience and understanding.Blessing often follows obedience despite discouragement. Simon Peter’s response“But because you say so, I will let down the nets”illustrates faith in action. The blessing is not earned by success but released in obedience.God’s blessings can be abundant and overwhelming. The nets breaking under the weight of the catch show God’s provision far beyond human expectation (Ephesians 3:20).Recognition of God’s holiness leads to repentance and humility. Peter’s response to fall at Jesus’ knees and declare his sinfulness is a natural reaction to encountering divine power (Luke 5:8). True blessing includes a humbling awareness of our unworthiness.
Applying This Today
Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Before He leads us to spiritual breakthroughs, we must be willing to endure the exhausting work, sometimes for long periods without seeing any results. Many want God’s favor and success immediately but are unwilling to persevere through seasons of “fruitless” labor.
This principle echoes the apostle Paul’s teaching about perseverance: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9, NIV).
Ministries and individuals often fail because they give up too soon, discouraged by lack of visible progress. But God often allows these seasons of testing to build faithfulness and character, as James 1:2-4 teaches us about perseverance producing maturity.
The Resurrection Fishing Trip
This theme continues even after Jesus’ resurrection. In John 21:1-13 (NIV), the disciples fish all night without success. At dawn, Jesus appears and instructs them to cast the net on the right side of the boat, and they catch a massive haul. The night’s fruitless labor turns into sudden blessing.
This teaches us that God’s timing is perfect, and His blessings may come suddenly after long waiting. The key is obedience and faithfulness during the wait.
Faithful Service Without Immediate Reward
Whether you’re a preacher, singer, or evangelist, the call is to remain faithful even if you see no immediate fruit. Jesus promised in Matthew 10:22 (NIV):
“You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.”
Sing, preach, serve, and give generously without expecting instant returns. The Holy Spirit will eventually empower your ministry, just as He did for the early church (Acts 1:8).
The Storm on the Sea
In Mark 6:45-52 (NIV), Jesus lets His disciples struggle through a storm before He walks on water to calm it. This delay is not neglect but a lesson in faith-building. God often allows us to face difficulties to grow our trust in Him before granting peace.
Conclusion
Whatever calling or ministry God has placed on your life, serve Him with hunger, faith, and perseverance. Give without expecting immediate returns. God honors faithfulness and rewards in His perfect timing.
“Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh” (Luke 6:21, NIV).
This principle worked for Abraham, Joseph, Moses, and countless faithful servants of God. It works for us today if we endure the hard work before the breakthrough.
Shalom.
humble oneself, and what is a humble person like?
Question: What does it mean to humble oneself, and what is a humble person like?
Answer: To humble oneself means “to bring down” one’s pride or status. A person who has humbled themselves is said to be “brought low.” Biblically, humility is the act of recognizing one’s true position before God, not exalting oneself but instead submitting in reverence and dependence.
The Bible clearly teaches that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. This theme is central in Scripture, showing that those who elevate themselves will be brought low, while those who lower themselves in humility will be lifted up by God.
Matthew 23:11-12 (NIV):
“The greatest among you will be your servant.
For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
This passage is part of Jesus’ teaching on true greatness in the kingdom of God where greatness is defined by servant leadership rather than prideful authority.
Job 40:11 (NIV):
“Let your anger fall on the proud and bring the wicked to their knees.”
Here, God challenges Job, emphasizing that the proud and wicked face God’s judgment and humbling hand.
Psalm 75:7 (NIV):
“It is God who judges: He brings one down, he exalts another.”
This verse highlights God’s sovereign authority to raise or humble individuals according to His divine wisdom and justice.
For additional insight, consider:Psalm 107:39 (NIV): “Then he humbled their hearts with hardship; they fell down, and there was no one to help.”This shows how God may allow difficulties to humble the proud.Philippians 4:12 (NIV): “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation…”Paul here expresses humility and contentment regardless of circumstances.
Therefore, we are called to humble ourselves before God and others, trusting that He will exalt us in His perfect timing. God resists the proud but shows favor to the humble (James 4:6).
Luke 18:9-14 (NIV):
“To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable:
‘Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.
The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: “God, I thank you that I am not like other people robbers, evildoers, adulterers or even like this tax collector.
I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.”
But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven but beat his breast and said, “God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”
I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”’
This parable illustrates the difference between self-righteous pride and humble repentance before God. True justification comes from humility and recognition of one’s need for God’s mercy.
Be blessed.
YES, EVEN THE WICKED FOR THE DAY OF DISASTER
Proverbs 16:4 (NIV)
“The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of disaster.”
Part 1
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Welcome to this series where we explore profound biblical truths especially those difficult verses that challenge our understanding of God’s nature and sovereignty.
Such passages have caused many to doubt God’s goodness or question how an all-powerful and loving God could allow or even create evil. This series aims to provide clarity and peace by carefully examining the Scriptures.
Jesus’ Words on Understanding God’s Plan
Jesus once told His disciples:
“You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” (John 13:7, NIV)
This teaches us that God’s work is sometimes beyond our current understanding. While some things are revealed now through the Holy Spirit’s guidance (see Acts 17:27), the full picture often emerges later either in future events or in eternity.
Understanding Proverbs 16:4
Proverbs 16:4 (NIV):
“The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of disaster.”
This verse raises a difficult question: Did God create the wicked specifically to fulfill evil purposes?
The Bible answers yes, and this truth reveals several important theological themes:
Theological FoundationsGod’s Sovereignty:
- God is sovereign over all creation (Psalm 115:3; Isaiah 46:10). Nothing happens outside His will or purpose. This includes the existence and actions of the wicked. God ordains everything to fulfill His divine plan, even if some purposes are hidden from us (Romans 8:28).The Problem of Evil and Free Will:
- While God is sovereign, He also grants humans free will. The Bible teaches that evil arises from the misuse of this freedom (Genesis 3; James 1:13-15). God permitting evil is not the same as Him causing sin, but He sovereignly uses even sin and wickedness to bring about His purposes (Genesis 50:20).
- God’s Justice and Judgment:
God’s allowance of evil serves to demonstrate His justice. The wicked face judgment because of their rebellion (Romans 1:18-32; 2 Peter 3:7). Their existence reveals the consequences of sin and the necessity of righteousness.
Three Main Purposes Behind God Allowing the Wicked:
1. To Teach
The existence and downfall of the wicked serve as a powerful warning. They reveal the seriousness of sin and encourage us to pursue righteousness. As Scripture says, the fate of the wicked is an example to us (Psalm 37; Hebrews 12:29).
2. To Discipline
God sometimes uses wicked rulers or nations as instruments of discipline against His people when they stray (e.g., Nebuchadnezzar and Babylon in Jeremiah 25). This is an act of loving correction, not abandonment (Hebrews 12:6).
3. To Display His Power
God’s power is shown most clearly in His victory over evil. He allows opposition like Pharaoh’s hardened heart or the magicians opposing Moses to reveal His miraculous power and glory (Exodus 9:16; Romans 9:17-22).
Romans 9:17-22 (NIV) on God’s Sovereign Choice
“For Scripture says to Pharaoh: ‘I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.’ Therefore God has mercy on whom he wants to have mercy, and he hardens whom he wants to harden… What if God, although choosing to show his wrath and make his power known, bore with great patience the objects of his wrath prepared for destruction?”
This passage reminds us of God’s absolute right as Creator (the potter) to shape history and individuals according to His purpose.
What Does This Teach Us?
Humility We must accept that God’s plans far exceed our understanding. We should seek to be vessels of honor, living righteous lives instead of becoming vessels of wrath (2 Timothy 2:20-21).
Everything, good or bad, happens under God’s sovereign plan. Nothing is accidental or outside His control (Proverbs 19:21; Isaiah 55:8-9). While evil still exists, we know it is temporary, and God’s ultimate justice will prevail.
May the Lord richly bless you.
THE MIXED ASSEMBLY
Bless the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Welcome as we study the Bible the Word of our God, which is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105, NIV).
There is an important lesson to learn about the journey of the Israelites from Egypt to Canaan. The Scriptures reveal that the Israelites did not leave Egypt alone they departed with a mixed group of people.
Let’s examine the passage from the New International Version (NIV):
Exodus 12:35-38 (NIV):
“The Israelites journeyed from Rameses to Succoth. There were about six hundred thousand men on foot, besides women and children.
A mixed crowd also went up with them, along with flocks and herds a very large number of livestock.”
Here, the “mixed crowd” (Hebrew: ‘edah‘, meaning assembly or congregation) indicates that the group included not only Israelites but others who chose to leave Egypt with them.
Who were these people?
The mixed crowd likely included Egyptians dissatisfied with their circumstances in Egypt possibly due to the harsh conditions following the plagues and Egyptians married into Israelite families. The Mosaic Law, given later, sought to maintain the purity of the covenant community (Deuteronomy 7:3-4), but at this point, there was a mixture of peoples who aligned themselves with God’s chosen nation.
This is supported by the incident described in Leviticus 24:10-16 (NIV) concerning the son of an Israelite woman whose father was Egyptian:
“He got into a fight with an Israelite man in the camp and blasphemed the Name of the Lord. The assembly brought him to Moses, and he was put in custody until the Lord’s will was made clear.”
This case illustrates the complex social dynamics within the camp and the seriousness of blasphemy, which was punishable by death, affirming God’s holiness and the need for purity within His people.
The Burden of the Mixed Assembly
At first, this mixed assembly may have seemed like a blessing or a practical necessity, but it quickly became a source of trouble. The mixed crowd’s influence led to rebellion and dissatisfaction against God’s provision.
In Numbers 11:4-5 (NIV), we read:
“The rabble among them began to crave other food, and the Israelites started wailing, saying, ‘If only we had meat to eat!
We remember the fish we ate in Egypt at no cost also the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic.’”
The term “rabble” (Hebrew: ‘edah‘) refers to this mixed group who incited desire and rebellion among the Israelites. This is significant because it shows that the Israelites’ faith was weakened by association with those not fully committed to God’s covenant.
Theological Reflection
The journey from Egypt to Canaan is a profound Old Testament typology of the believer’s journey from slavery to sin toward salvation in Christ (Romans 6:6-7; Galatians 5:1). Just as Israel had to separate from the corrupt influences of Egypt to enter the Promised Land, Christians are called to separate from unbelievers and sinful influences to walk faithfully with God.
Paul makes this explicit in the New Testament:
2 Corinthians 6:14-18 (NIV):
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?
What harmony is there between Christ and the devil? What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols?
For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said:
‘I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.’
Therefore, come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will welcome you.
I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”
This passage underscores the necessity of holiness and separation for God’s people, not as isolationism but as faithful obedience to God’s call.
Practical Application
When God calls you to salvation, it is His call alone not yours or anyone else’s. If someone close to you is unsaved, you must be careful about binding yourself to them in ways that compromise your faith. The “yoke” metaphor suggests close partnership (whether in marriage, business, or close fellowship).
If you shared habits or sinful practices with someone before your conversion, such as going to bars or engaging in gossip, it is vital to stop those habits and pursue holiness (1 Corinthians 5:11). Your new life in Christ requires breaking from past associations that might lead you astray.
Failure to separate from these old influences can become a stumbling block, hindering your spiritual growth and opening doors for the enemy to pull you back, just as the mixed assembly hindered Israel’s faith journey.
Maranatha!
