Day 18 of Pastor Chris' Paraphrase of Proverbs Devotional

Day 18 It's really foolish to think wealth and material possessions will keep you safe when troubles come, and yet that is what most people in our world think. People think money will make them secure and they are often proud when they have it--thinking they can buy their way out of whatever troubles come. Truly wise people know better. Pastor Chris' Paraphrase of Proverbs 18:10-14 10 The Lord is known as an impregnable fortress; good people run to Him for safety. 11 Rich people rely on their wealth; they hide behind it thinking nothing can touch them. 12 A person brags about their greatness right before they’re broken to pieces, but those who are humble receive honor. 13 Speaking about something before really listening is just stupid and brings humiliation. 14 A good attitude can sustain you through illness, but what can you do with a broken spirit? Wealth is as fleeting as a morning fog. A misstep, an illness, a lawsuit or misfortune and it can all be gone in an instant. Then where is your safety net? Why spend all your time trying to build a wall of safety founded only on money? Why take pride in something that gives a false sense of security? Be wise and build a strong relationship with the Lord for that is where real hope lies. Prayer"Father, free me from the foolish idea that money is all I need to keep my family safe. Help me to trust in You and find true security. Amen." Read Proverbs Chapter 18
New American Standard Bible	Pastor Chris’ Paraphrase
Proverbs 18 Contrast the Upright and the Wicked 1 He who separates himself seeks his own desire, He [a]quarrels against all sound wisdom. 2 A fool does not delight in understanding, But only in revealing his own [b]mind. 3 When a wicked man comes, contempt also comes, And with dishonor comes scorn. 4 The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters; [c]The fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook. 5 To show partiality to the wicked is not good, Nor to thrust aside the righteous in judgment. 6 A fool’s lips [d]bring strife, And his mouth calls for blows. 7 A fool’s mouth is his ruin, And his lips are the snare of his soul. 8 The words of a whisperer are like dainty morsels, And they go down into the [e]innermost parts of the body. 9 He also who is slack in his work Is brother to him who destroys. 10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is [f]safe. 11 A rich man’s wealth is his strong city, And like a high wall in his own imagination. 12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, But humility goes before honor. 13 He who gives an answer before he hears, It is folly and shame to him. 14 The spirit of a man can endure his sickness, But as for a broken spirit who can bear it? 15 The [g]mind of the prudent acquires knowledge, And the ear of the wise seeks knowledge. 16 A man’s gift makes room for him And brings him before great men. 17 The first [h]to plead his case seems right, Until [i]another comes and examines him. 18 The cast lot puts an end to strife And [j]decides between the mighty ones. 19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city, And contentions are like the bars of a citadel. 20 With the [k]fruit of a man’s mouth his stomach will be satisfied; He will be satisfied with the product of his lips. 21 Death and life are in the [l]power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit. 22 He who finds a wife finds a good thing And obtains favor from the Lord. 23 The poor man utters supplications, But the rich man answers roughly. 24 A man of too many friends comes to [m]ruin, But there is a [n]friend who sticks closer than a brother. Footnotes: a.    Proverbs 18:1 Lit breaks out b.    Proverbs 18:2 Lit heart c.    Proverbs 18:4 Or A bubbling brook, a fountain of                   wisdom d.    Proverbs 18:6 Lit come with e,    Proverbs 18:8 Lit chambers of the belly f.     Proverbs 18:10 Lit set on high g.    Proverbs 18:15 Lit heart h.    Proverbs 18:17 Lit in his plea i.     Proverbs 18:17 Lit his neighbor j.     Proverbs 18:18 Lit makes a division k.    Proverbs 18:20 I.e. speech l.     Proverbs 18:21 Lit hand m.   Proverbs 18:24 Lit be broken in pieces n.    Proverbs 18:24 Or lover	Proverbs 18 1 Someone who has to get their way is stubborn and will even argue against the obvious truth. 2 A lamebrain doesn’t care if something makes sense; they just want everyone to know their opinion. 3 There’s contempt anytime the ungodly come around; and scandal leads to public criticism. 4 What people talk about is very important. Someone who really knows gushes with wisdom. 5 It’s awful to fight for the cause of the ungodly, to purposefully work against those who are in the right. 6 An idiot runs his mouth and picks a fight; he’s begging for a beating. 7 An idiot’s mouth will be their ruin; it’s the rope they use to hang themself. 8 Rumors burn poison into a gossip’s tongue even as they devour them and swallow. 9 A lazy worker is about as bad as a vandal who breaks in to destroys things. 10 The Lord is known as an impregnable fortress; good people run to Him for safety. 11 Rich people rely on their wealth; they hide behind it thinking nothing can touch them. 12 A person brags about their greatness right before they’re broken to pieces, but those who are humble receive honor. 13 Speaking about something before really listening is just stupid and brings humiliation. 14 A good attitude can sustain you through illness, but what can you do with a broken spirit? 15 Smart people want to keep learning, they listen and search for even more knowledge.  16 A gracious gift helps wins people over and gives you access to important people.  17 A person who justifies their actions seems right, until people start asking questions.  18 Flipping a coin can settle a dispute and end a strong disagreement.  19 It’s harder to conquer a city than win back a friend you’ve betrayed. You might as well storm a castle.  20 It’s really rewarding to say the right thing; what you say will come back to you with interest.  21 What you say can bring life or death; people will taste the fruit of all the things they say.  22 If you find a good wife, you’ve found a very good thing; she is Jehovah’s true blessing.  23 The poor who want something ask delicately, but the rich who have everything answer harshly.  24 Some friends are just friendly people; but a real friend will love you like a brother.
New American Standard Bible (NASB) Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation	Pastor Chris’ Paraphrase of Proverbs (PCP) Copyright © 2018 by Chris Mullis

Day 17 of Pastor Chris' Paraphrase of Proverbs Devotional

Day 17  Life has enough trouble in it without you going to look for more. Spend your time cultivating peace--especially in your own home. Deal with conflict when you have to, but be quick to forgive and overlook an offence when you can. Nobody likes a troublemaker and you're gonna need all the friends you can get. Spend your time building up your relationships so you will have their support when real trouble comes. Pastor Chris' Paraphrase of Proverbs 17:1, 9, 14, 17 1 It’s better to eat stale crumbs in a peaceful home than a feast in a house where everyone argues. 9 A person who lets go of an offence wants love, but a person who keeps bringing it up drives away their closest friend. 14 Starting an argument is like digging a hole in a dam; once the water’s out, you can’t put it back in.  So quit before you mess everything up. 17 A friend always loves you, and brothers were born to help in times of trouble. A wise person builds loyal friendships through patience, kindness, forgiveness, and love. Be there for others when they need you and they will be there for you when you need them. Prayer "Father, help me build strong friendships through patience, kindness, forgiveness, and love. Steer me clear of unnecessary quarrels about stuff that really doesn't matter in the long run. Help me be a wise friend to others. Amen." Read Proverbs Chapter 17
New American Standard Bible	Pastor Chris’ Paraphrase
Proverbs 17 Contrast the Upright and the Wicked 1 Better is a dry morsel and quietness with it Than a house full of [a]feasting with strife. 2 A servant who acts wisely will rule over a son who acts shamefully, And will share in the inheritance among brothers. 3 The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, But the Lord tests hearts. 4 An evildoer listens to wicked lips; A [b]liar pays attention to a destructive tongue. 5 He who mocks the poor taunts his Maker; He who rejoices at calamity will not go unpunished. 6 Grandchildren are the crown of old men, And the glory of sons is their fathers. 7 [c]Excellent speech is not fitting for a fool, Much less are lying lips to a prince. 8 A bribe is a [d]charm in the sight of its owner; Wherever he turns, he prospers. 9 He who conceals a transgression seeks love, But he who repeats a matter separates intimate friends. 10 A rebuke goes deeper into one who has understanding Than a hundred blows into a fool. 11 A rebellious man seeks only evil, So a cruel messenger will be sent against him. 12 Let a man meet a bear robbed of her cubs, Rather than a fool in his folly. 13 He who returns evil for good, Evil will not depart from his house. 14 The beginning of strife is like letting out water, So abandon the quarrel before it breaks out. 15 He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous, Both of them alike are an abomination to the Lord. 16 Why is there a price in the hand of a fool to buy wisdom, When [e]he has no sense? 17 A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity. 18 A man lacking in [f]sense [g]pledges And becomes guarantor in the presence of his neighbor. 19 He who loves transgression loves strife; He who raises his door seeks destruction. 20 He who has a crooked [h]mind finds no good, And he who is perverted in his language falls into evil. 21 He who sires a fool does so to his sorrow, And the father of a fool has no joy. 22 A joyful heart [i]is good medicine, But a broken spirit dries up the bones. 23 A wicked man receives a bribe from the bosom To pervert the ways of justice. 24 Wisdom is in the presence of the one who has understanding, But the eyes of a fool are on the ends of the earth. 25 A foolish son is a grief to his father And bitterness to her who bore him. 26 It is also not good to fine the righteous, Nor to strike the noble for their uprightness. 27 He who restrains his words [j]has knowledge, And he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding. 28 Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise; When he closes his lips, he is considered prudent. Footnotes: a.    Proverbs 17:1 Lit sacrifices of strife b.    Proverbs 17:4 Lit falsehood c.    Proverbs 17:7 Lit A lip of abundance d.    Proverbs 17:8 Lit stone of favor e.    Proverbs 17:16 Lit there is no heart f.     Proverbs 17:18 Lit heart g.    Proverbs 17:18 Lit shakes hands h.    Proverbs 17:20 Lit heart i.     Proverbs 17:22 Lit causes good healing j.     Proverbs 17:27 Lit knows	Proverbs 17 1 It’s better to eat stale crumbs in a peaceful home than a feast in a house where everyone argues. 2 A wise servant will be given authority over their master’s disgraceful child, and will get an inheritance like one of the family. 3 Silver and gold are refined by fire, but Jehovah tests to see what’s really in your heart. 4 Good for nothing scoundrels love to hear things that stir up trouble; a liar listens closely to gossip and believes everything they hear. 5 If you mock a poor man, you insult the One who made him.  You’ll pay for making fun of his troubles. 6 Grandkids are the crowning achievement of the elderly and children admire their parents. 7 It’s not good when a fool talks too much; it’s even worse when government leaders are dishonest. 8 A gift is the key to winning support; people who give them do well in life. 9 A person who lets go of an offence wants love, but a person who keeps bringing it up drives away their closest friend. 10 Constructive criticism has more effect on a smart person than one hundred lashes on a fool. 11 Taking over and getting their way is the bitter heart of everything an evil person does.  Therefore, God sends a stern ambassador to deal with them. 12 It’d be better to run into a mama bear who thinks you stole her cubs than a fool bent on stupidity. 13 Evil will always plague the life of someone who does evil to those who’ve been good to them. 14 Starting an argument is like digging a hole in a dam; once the water’s out, you can’t put it back in.  So quit before you mess everything up. 15 Jehovah is just as disgusted when someone ignores wickedness as when someone condemns innocence. 16 It doesn’t make any sense to pay tuition for a fool when they don’t want to learn. 17 A friend always loves you, and brothers were born to help in times of trouble. 18 It’s just stupid to make a deal to co-sign a loan for someone. 19 Someone who loves drama loves sin; people who love to “make an entrance” are bound to trip up and fall flat on their face. 20 Someone with twisted thoughts won’t think up anything good, and those who manipulate the truth get into trouble. 21 A senseless child causes their parents a lot of grief; a wicked one steals their joy. 22 A joyous attitude helps you heal, but a broken down spirit sucks the life right out of you. 23 An ungodly person accepts a secret bribe to bend the verdicts of the justice. 24 An arrogant fool searches to the ends of the earth, but a smart person turns to Wisdom. 25 Arrogant, lazy, children are a sad disappointment to their father and a source of bitter grief to the sweet woman who gave them life. 26 It’s just not right to penalize someone who did the right thing or humiliate them for being fair. 27 Few words? Smart! Intelligence like that is rare indeed.  28 Even a dope that stands there in silence seems like a mastermind. They look like a genius because they keep their mouth shut.
New American Standard Bible (NASB) Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation	Pastor Chris’ Paraphrase of Proverbs (PCP) Copyright © 2018 by Chris Mullis

kings and queens

Introduction
A scientist had a meeting with God and said, "God, we can now make clones and create human life and I think we can take care of ourselves and don't need you anymore."  God said, "OK, but before you go, let's have a contest to see who can make a human out of dirt the fastest."  The scientist looked down at the dirt and grabbed a handful and said, "OK, let's do it."  But God said, "No.  You go get your own dirt."

God spoke and the whole universe was created.  He made everything we see (and even what we can't see).  That's why God owns it all and is Master of it all.  Our relationship with God is not a democracy.  We don't get to vote on whether He rules.  He rules because he owns it.  And you can't move to the moon if you don't like it, because God owns that too.  

All throughout the Bible, God is called Lord.  We don't use that word much today in America, because we live in a democracy.  A lord is one having power & authority over others because they own the property and/or are superior to all others.  God is Lord because He owns it all--including you and me.  Furthermore, God is superior to all others; there is no one better qualified to rule.

A king rules, but also has the right to appoint others to rule with him.  Today, I want to discuss how God--the King of kings and Lord of lords--chooses special people to be kings and queens in His Kingdom.

1 Peter 2:8-9

8“He is the stone that makes people stumble, the rock that makes them fall.”

They stumble because they do not obey God’s word, and so they meet the fate that was planned for them.  ⁹ But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.

The Stumbling Block and a Chosen People

The other day, I came in from the garage to wash my hands in the basement bathroom.  I've walked down that hallway a million times and could easily do it with my eyes closed.  That's why it didn't bother me that the lights were off and I had to walk walk down the hall in the dark.  So I was walking along in my own little world not paying much attention, when bam!  I tripped over something.  Someone had left a book bag in the middle of the hallway floor.  You don't expect there to be a stumbling block like that in your pathway.  Who leaves a book bag in the middle of the hallway?

That's how Jesus came into our world.  1 Peter 2:8 says Jesus is a stone that makes people stumble..."  He caused the Roman Empire to stumble 2,000 years ago.  They were going along thinking everything was fine. They thought, “We rule the world! No one can stop us!"  Caesar thought he was a god and owned the whole world.  And then Jesus, the Son of God, came and showed everyone different.  The Jewish religious leaders of Jesus' day thought, “We are better than everyone else!” The Pharisees tried to prove they were holier than everyone else by follow the absolute letter of God's Law in the Torah.  They thought their righteousness would earn God's favor and bring about the reign of the Messiah.  And yet, when Jesus, the Messiah, actually came, they rejected him.  He was their stumbling block too.  Jesus is a stumbling block for people today as well.  People today try to live their life the way they want without any regard to God's will; they indulge their own selfish ambitions, but Jesus trips them up.  

Throughout history and even today, people stumble because they “do not obey God’s word.” (vs. 8) What is God’s Word?  Some say that God's Word is the Bible.  The Bible is God's Word, but people can use the Bible to say anything they want.  (The Pharisees tried to use God's Word to reject Jesus Christ, the Son of God.)  Jesus is God's Word.  However, few people really know who Jesus is and what he actually said and taught.  Many people today want to make Jesus into some mythical figure who loved everybody and carried around baby lambs everywhere; but they never look into the Bible to see who Jesus, the Word of God, really is and what he taught.

We find God’s True Word when we go to the Bible to see Jesus.  You can't just use the Bible to justify your actions or as a weapon against other people.  You have to read the Bible while listening obediently to what God says through Jesus Christ.  You have to humble yourself.  Jesus’ true followers hear and obey God’s Word.  1 Peter 2:9 says those who hear and obey God’s Word are special.

We are special because we are chosen by God.  God specifically selects people who listen and obey.  Of all the people in the world, God passes over some of the most talented, wealthiest, mor obvious choices, and instead intentionally selects people willing to be humble and listen and obey His Word.

We are also special because we are royal priests.  Many people get excited about news of the royal family in England--what they say, how they dress, who they are marrying.  (I never understood this because they are not my royal family.  No disrespect intended, but I'm an American and I don't see the fascination for Americans.)  God's Word says Jesus' followers are royal.  That's something to get excited about!  And it says we are a royal priesthood.  What does a priest do?  They pray for people, heal people, forgive sins, bring wholeness, and help people connect to God.  Well, if you listen and obey the Word of God, you are a priest.  You can pray for people, heal people, forgive sins, bring wholeness, and help people connect with the One True God!  That's pretty special!

But there's more.  We are special because we are a holy nation.  Together, all the followers of Christ are God’s special nation (or Kingdom).  And we are God’s very own possession.  You know, people take care of the things they own.  If you rent a house or a car, you should take care of it.  But if you own the house or the car, it is even more special to you and you will pay special attention to caring for those things you actually own.  And no one is more qualified or capable and guaranteed to take car of their possessions than God.   God takes care of His stuff so He's gonna take care of you.

Luke 22:28-30

“You have stayed with me in my time of trial. ²⁹ And just as my Father has granted me a Kingdom, I now grant you the right ³⁰ to eat and drink at my table in my Kingdom. And you will sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

3 Important Lessons
There are three important lessons I want you to hear from Jesus' word in Luke 22:28-30. 

Number 1. Stay with Jesus – We are God's Kingdom, His royal priesthood, but we still live in enemy territory. Most of the world still does not yet obey God’s Word. They were so threatened by the Lord, they crucified Him.  Jesus said, “Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) Do you trust Jesus enough to stay with him, even when there’s trouble?

Number 2. Share the Royal Feast – Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords and He invites his followers to eat and drink at His table in His Kingdom. The greatest example of the Kingdom Feast available in the world today is the Lord's Supper (Holy Communion, the Eucharist).  You should partake of it often.  For in doing so, we sit at the table with the King and we remember what He did for us and how it changes everything and we also see how to live and find the strength we need to do it.

Number 3. We are kings and queens – Jesus said we will sit on thrones and rule the twelve tribes of Israel.  Who sits on a throne?  Kings and queens sit on thrones.  I have much more I want to say about what it means to rule as a king or queen in God's Kingdom and I will next week.  However, for today, I just want you to know and be encouraged that Jesus says you are a king or a queen.

Day 16 of Pastor Chris' Paraphrase of Proverbs Devotional

Day 16 We can scheme to get what we want and set out to accomplish our plans, but God knows what's really best. He knows when our desires are out of line, when our motives are wrong, and when our steps are misguided. Ultimately, God is in control. He is behind the scenes directing the way things turn out. Pastor Chris' Paraphrase of Proverbs 16:1-3, 9, 25, & 33 1 People scheme to get what they want, but the Lord has the final say. 2 People always think they’ve done right, but the Lord looks deeper. 3 Surrender what you want to Jehovah and your plans will take root and grow. 9 People choose their destination, but the Lord determines where they go. 25 There’s an easy road before everyone that seems good, but it leads to death. 33 When the dice are rolled, the Lord decides what they say. The wise person sees that God is the righteous Ruler of all and bows to the Lord and surrenders everything to Him. The Lord sees things so much deeper and fuller than we can ever imagine. The Lord knows what's right and the best way to get there and He will ultimately accomplish whatever He decides to do. Only a fool ignores the Lord's plans or tries to convince Him their way is better. Wise people align themselves with God's plans. Prayer "Lord of all, forgive me when I forget You are Lord of all and try to go my own way. Help me to align my will with Yours and always live accordingly. Amen." Read Proverbs Chapter 16
New American Standard Bible	Pastor Chris’ Paraphrase
Proverbs 16 Contrast the Upright and the Wicked 1 The plans of the heart belong to man, But the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. 2 All the ways of a man are clean in his own sight, But the Lord weighs the [a]motives. 3 [b]Commit your works to the Lord And your plans will be established. 4 The Lord has made everything for [c]its own purpose, Even the wicked for the day of evil. 5 Everyone who is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord; Assuredly, he will not be unpunished. 6 By lovingkindness and truth iniquity is atoned for, And by the [d]fear of the Lord one keeps away from evil. 7 When a man’s ways are pleasing to the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him. 8 Better is a little with righteousness Than great income with injustice. 9 The mind of man plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps. 10 A divine decision is in the lips of the king; His mouth should not [e]err in judgment. 11 A just balance and scales belong to the Lord; All the [f]weights of the bag are His [g]concern. 12 It is an abomination for kings to commit wicked acts, For a throne is established on righteousness. 13 Righteous lips are the delight of kings, And he who speaks right is loved. 14 The fury of a king is like messengers of death, But a wise man will appease it. 15 In the light of a king’s face is life, And his favor is like a cloud with the [h]spring rain. 16 How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen above silver. 17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil; He who watches his way preserves his [i]life. 18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before stumbling. 19 It is better to be humble in spirit with the lowly Than to divide the spoil with the proud. 20 He who gives attention to the word will find good, And blessed is he who trusts in the Lord. 21 The wise in heart will be called understanding, And sweetness of [j]speech increases [k]persuasiveness. 22 Understanding is a fountain of life to one who has it, But the discipline of fools is folly. 23 The heart of the wise instructs his mouth And adds [l]persuasiveness to his lips. 24 Pleasant words are a honeycomb, Sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. 25 There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death. 26 A worker’s appetite works for him, For his [m]hunger urges him on. 27 A worthless man digs up evil, While [n]his words are like scorching fire. 28 A perverse man spreads strife, And a slanderer separates intimate friends. 29 A man of violence entices his neighbor And leads him in a way that is not good. 30 He who winks his eyes does so to devise perverse things; He who compresses his lips brings evil to pass. 31 A gray head is a crown of glory; It is found in the way of righteousness. 32 He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And he who rules his spirit, than he who captures a city. 33 The lot is cast into the lap, But its every decision is from the Lord. Footnotes: a.    Proverbs 16:2 Lit spirits b.    Proverbs 16:3 Lit Roll c.    Proverbs 16:4 Or His d.    Proverbs 16:6 Or reverence e.    Proverbs 16:10 Lit be unfaithful f.     Proverbs 16:11 Lit stones g     Proverbs 16:11 Lit work h.    Proverbs 16:15 Lit latter i.     Proverbs 16:17 Lit soul j.     Proverbs 16:21 Lit lips k.    Proverbs 16:21 Or learning l.     Proverbs 16:23 Or learning m.   Proverbs 16:26 Lit mouth n.    Proverbs 16:27 Lit on his lips	Proverbs 16 1 People scheme to get what they want, but the Lord has the final say. 2 People always think they’ve done right, but the Lord looks deeper. 3 Surrender what you want to Jehovah and your plans will take root and grow. 4 Jehovah made everything for a reason, even the ungodly for destruction day. 5 Arrogance is disgusting to God; you can be sure He will punish arrogant people. 6 Your misdeeds are excused through kindness and loyalty, and you avoid evil by revering Jehovah. 7 When you please Jehovah, He even makes your enemies live at peace with you. 8 It’s better to live the right way and scrape by than to get a lot by cheating the system. 9 People choose their destination, but the Lord determines where they go. 10 A king has vision; it’s not a sin for him to pronounce judgment. 11 Jehovah always judges accurately because He made the standards. 12 Governments hate crime because their authority depends on the rule of law. 13 Leaders really appreciate when people live right and speak the truth; they love those who are honest. 14 You better watch out when the one in charge is furious; if you’re smart, you’ll make things right. 15 There’s real hope when your leader believes in you; their help and encouragement are like spring rain to a garden. 16 It’s way better to get wisdom than gold! Pick knowledge over money. 17 People who live right take a bypass around trouble; they’re safe because they watch where they’re going. 18 You get a big head right before it explodes. Arrogance will trip you up. 19 A humble life with the poor is better than looting with people who think they’re better than everyone else. 20 Good comes to people who tend matters carefully. Those who trust Jehovah are blessed. 21 Smart people who get things done are brilliant. They know how to sweet talk people into helping them. 22 Listening and learning are a source of life to those who are willing. Only a naive fool would try to help an idiot who mocks them. 23 A wise person chooses their words carefully to help people understand things better. 24 Kind words are like honey: they give you a sweeter point of view and strength to carry on. 25 There’s an easy road before everyone that seems good, but it leads to death. 26 What a worker craves drives them to work even harder. 27 People who dig up trouble and say things that set the world on fire are useless and ungodly. 28 It's really evil to whispers things that cause dissension and drive good friends apart. 29-30 A cruel person lures those closest to them down a crooked path to no good. They weave evil schemes with a blink of their eyes. Their secret whispers bring trouble. 31 It’s a beautiful honor to have a head full of gray hair. It means you’ve lived the right way for a long time. 32 Someone who remains patient when others would grow angry is better than a powerful warrior. It’s more important to control your temper than conquer a city. 33 When the dice are rolled, the Lord decides what they say.
New American Standard Bible (NASB) Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation	Pastor Chris’ Paraphrase of Proverbs (PCP) Copyright © 2018 by Chris Mullis

Day 15 of Pastor Chris' Paraphrase of Proverbs

Day 15  You are what you eat and you become what you consume.  You will reflect the ideals of people you hang around, books you read, shows you watch, and music to which you listen.  You can choose to consume garbage or you can choose food that will nourish your mind and spirit. Pastor Chris' Paraphrase of Proverbs 15:2 & 14 2 Wise people make you want to know even more, but idiots spew out stupidity. 14 A truly wise person always tries to learn more, but fools fill up on whatever silliness is available. Everyone needs to indulge in a piece of cake now and then, but it's not healthy to eat cake for dinner everyday.  What you put into your mind is just as important. Put junk in and junk will come out. Fill yourself with wisdom and knowledge and wisdom and knowledge will come out. Prayer "Holy Spirit, make us hungry for wisdom and knowledge and help us to choose spiritual food that is healthy and wholesome.  Help us to seek knowledge in the things we read and watch and to which we listen so we may share Your wisdom beautifully. Amen." Read Proverbs Chapter 15
New American Standard Bible	Pastor Chris’ Paraphrase
Proverbs 15 Contrast the Upright and the Wicked 1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a [a]harsh word stirs up anger. 2 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge [b]acceptable, But the mouth of fools spouts folly. 3 The eyes of the Lord are in every place, Watching the evil and the good. 4 A [c]soothing tongue is a tree of life, But perversion in it [d]crushes the spirit. 5 A fool [e]rejects his father’s discipline, But he who regards reproof is sensible. 6 Great wealth is in the house of the righteous, But trouble is in the income of the wicked. 7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge, But the hearts of fools are not so. 8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, But the prayer of the upright is His delight. 9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, But He loves one who pursues righteousness. 10 Grievous punishment is for him who forsakes the way; He who hates reproof will die. 11 [f]Sheol and [g]Abaddon lie open before the Lord, How much more the hearts of [h]men! 12 A scoffer does not love one who reproves him, He will not go to the wise. 13 A joyful heart makes a [i]cheerful face, But [j]when the heart is sad, the spirit is broken. 14 The mind of the intelligent seeks knowledge, But the mouth of fools feeds on folly. 15 All the days of the afflicted are bad, But a [k]cheerful heart has a continual feast. 16 Better is a little with the [l]fear of the Lord Than great treasure and turmoil with it. 17 Better is a [m]dish of [n]vegetables where love is Than a fattened ox served with hatred. 18 A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, But the slow to anger calms a dispute. 19 The way of the lazy is as a hedge of thorns, But the path of the upright is a highway. 20 A wise son makes a father glad, But a foolish man despises his mother. 21 Folly is joy to him who lacks [o]sense, But a man of understanding walks straight. 22 Without consultation, plans are frustrated, But with many counselors they [p]succeed. 23 A man has joy in an [q]apt answer, And how delightful is a timely word! 24 The path of life leads upward for the wise That he may keep away from [r]Sheol below. 25 The Lord will tear down the house of the proud, But He will establish the boundary of the widow. 26 Evil plans are an abomination to the Lord, But pleasant words are pure. 27 He who profits illicitly troubles his own house, But he who hates bribes will live. 28 The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, But the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things. 29 The Lord is far from the wicked, But He hears the prayer of the righteous. 30 [s]Bright eyes gladden the heart; Good news puts fat on the bones. 31 He whose ear listens to the life-giving reproof Will dwell among the wise. 32 He who neglects discipline despises himself, But he who listens to reproof acquires [t]understanding. 33 The [u]fear of the Lord is the instruction for wisdom, And before honor comes humility. Footnotes: a.    Proverbs 15:1 Lit painful b.    Proverbs 15:2 Lit good c.    Proverbs 15:4 Lit healing d.    Proverbs 15:4 Lit is the crushing of the spirit e.    Proverbs 15:5 Or despises f.     Proverbs 15:11 I.e. the nether world g.    Proverbs 15:11 I.e. place of destruction h.    Proverbs 15:11 Lit sons of Adam i.     Proverbs 15:13 Lit good j.     Proverbs 15:13 Lit in sadness of heart k.    Proverbs 15:15 Lit good l.     Proverbs 15:16 Or reverence m.   Proverbs 15:17 Or portion n.    Proverbs 15:17 Or herbs o.    Proverbs 15:21 Lit heart p.    Proverbs 15:22 Or are established q.    Proverbs 15:23 Lit answer of his mouth r.     Proverbs 15:24 I.e. the nether world s.    Proverbs 15:30 Lit The light of the eyes gladdens t.    Proverbs 15:32 Lit heart u.    Proverbs 15:33 Or reverence	Proverbs 15 1 A gentle response cools down red hot anger, but hurtful words make people mad. 2 Wise people make you want to know even more, but idiots spew out stupidity. 3 The Lord Jehovah sees everything, everywhere; He keeps an eye on both the good and the evil. 4 Healing words bring life, but deceitful ones destroy. 5 A fool rolls their eyes when their parents try to teach them, but a smart person is careful to listen and learn. 6 Godly people’s homes are full of precious things, but trouble is all the ungodly get. 7 Wise people give great insight; fools have none to give. 8 Even an expensive offering given by an ungodly person is disgusting to Jehovah, but He delights in the simplest of prayers offered by an honest man. 9 The way ungodly people live disgusts Jehovah, but He loves people who chase after righteousness with all their heart. 10 Doctrines and discipline seem harsh to those who abandon the right path, but a person who hates correction will die. 11 If God knows everything that happens in the underworld of the dead, don't you realize He knows every secret in your heart? 12 People mock because they can’t stand to be corrected; they don’t want to be around someone who knows what’s really going on. 13 A light and thankful heart makes you smile, but a heavy heart leads to a broken spirit. 14 A truly wise person always tries to learn more, but fools fill up on whatever silliness is available. 15 Life is hard for poor people, but a light and thankful heart always has more than enough. 16 It’s better to revere God and have just a little than to have lots of stuff and lots of trouble. 17 It’s better to eat Brussels sprouts and cabbage with people you love than a juicy steak in a room full of hate. 18 A hot-headed man throws fuel on fiery angry, but a patient man lets it burn out. 19 Briers grow over the trail of lazy people, but those who walk straight have a clear path to follow. 20 A smart son makes his daddy proud, but a stupid one despises his mother. 21 Morons are delighted by immaturity, but intelligent people walk the straight and narrow path. 22 Your plans fall apart if you don’t talk to people about them, but when you get lots of advice you succeed. 23 It pleases everyone when a person gives just the right answer; it’s so good when someone says the perfect thing for the occasion. 24 The road of life rises gently for those who are careful to follow it, leading them further and further from death down below. 25 God tears down an arrogant person’s house, but He protects the property lines of those who are humble and in desperate need. 26 Jehovah hates what evil people think about, but honesty is beautiful to Him. 27 People who cheat and hurt others to get ahead make problems for their own family, but those who ignore bribes will live. 28 People who live right think carefully about what they say, but the ungodly spew out evil. 29 To ungodly people, Jehovah is out of sight, out of mind; but He understand every word of every prayer of those who live right. 30 A cheerful smile lifts your spirit and good news puts you at ease. 31 A person who listens and learns life’s lessons will be among the smartest people on the planet. 32 People who refuse to listen only hurt themselves; you start to understand the heart of everything when you pay attention to constructive criticism. 33 You gain great wisdom when you revere Jehovah; only the humble will be honored.
New American Standard Bible (NASB) Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation	Pastor Chris’ Paraphrase of Proverbs (PCP) Copyright © 2018 by Chris Mullis