Introduction to the Book of Proverbs
American Torah
An introduction to the Book of Proverbs. Who wrote it, when, why, and what's the main point?
Excerpted from the weekly online Bible study at https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com.
From Jay Carper at American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://paypal.me/JayCarper.
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The Fear of Our Fathers
American Torah
The fear of Adonai is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
Proverbs 1:7
When you understand the fearful love of a small child for his father, you will begin to understand the fear of YHWH. Earthly fathers set the stage for our relationship with the Heavenly Father. If we have a loving, wise father on earth, then it is so much easier to have a healthy relationship with God.
You can find more from Carlos at Conversations of the Way podcast at either of these two links:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/conversations-of-the-way/id1619457793?i=1000575604553
https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/conversations-of-the-way/3916353
From Jay Carper at American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://paypal.me/JayCarper.
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Proverbs 1:7 and the fear of the LORD
American Torah
The fear of YHWH is the beginning of knowledge but fools despise wisdom and understanding. Proverbs 1:7
But what does it mean to fear God?
If you're interested in a family prayer guide built around the Proverbs, check out my book Family Prayers from Proverbs at http://jaycarper.com/proverbs
When Is It OK to Lie?
American Torah
There are times when it is OK to lie, according to the Bible, but those times are rare exceptions. Honesty is almost always better!
Proverbs 1:10-19
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com
Wisdom Is Free to Whomever Is Willing
American Torah
Wisdom is free for anyone willing to go get it. There are only four basic ingredients.
From Proverbs 1:20-33.
From Jay Carper at American Torah (http://www.AmericanTorah.com)
The Book of Proverbs Is About Principles, Not Laws
American Torah
The Book of Proverbs is about principles not commands or hard laws. It's about being better, not perfect.
From Jay Carper at American Torah (http://www.AmericanTorah.com)
Honoring Your Parents (even the bad ones)
American Torah
The Book of Proverbs repeatedly says to listen to the advice of your parents. The fifth commandment says to honor your parents for a long life. Paul repeats this promise in the New Testament. But what does it actually mean? And how does listening to your parents improve or lengthen your life? What if you have terrible, cruel parents?
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
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The Escalating Quest for Wisdom in Proverbs 2:1-8
American Torah
This passage describes a progression from being willing to hear wisdom to active hunting it down. God rewards that zealotry with knowledge of his character and ultimately to wisdom itself.
From Jay Carper at American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://paypal.me/JayCarper.
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Fathers above and below in Proverbs 3:1-12
American Torah
A set of three parallelisms in Proverbs 3:1-12 are arranged in a chiasm that compares the relationship of sons to their earthly fathers to our relationship with our Heavenly Father.
This is an excerpt from the weekly Bible study at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com).
From Jay Carper at American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://paypal.me/JayCarper.
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The Man of Violence in Proverbs 3:31-32
American Torah
Proverbs 3:31-32. God hates the man of violence, but what makes a man "of violence"?
From Jay Carper at American Torah (http://www.AmericanTorah.com)
The Wisdom of our Fathers
American Torah
Wisdom endures through foolish generations and, if you listen to her, so will you. On Proverbs 4:1-4.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
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Proverbs 4 - A Heritage of Wisdom
American Torah
The first half of Proverbs 4 reveals a key ingredient to a long-lasting, peaceful nation...and some interesting hints at Solomon's early home life and ascension to the throne.
An excerpt from the weekly Bible study at the Common Sense Bible Study community. https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com
From Jay Carper at American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://paypal.me/JayCarper.
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Why so much about women in the Proverbs?
American Torah
Solomon used a lot of ink on avoiding bad decisions concerning women.
He should know.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
Proverbs 5 and the Fire of Youth
American Torah
Proverbs 5 and the immoral woman isn't just about sex. It's about your whole life.
From Jay Carper at American Torah, http://www.AmericanTorah.com
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Proverbs 5:5-6 and the Forbidden Teacher
American Torah
Her feet go down to death; her steps follow the path to Sheol; she does not ponder the path of life; her ways wander, and she does not know it.
Proverbs 5:5-6
In context, this passage is talking about an adulterous woman, but the principle applies more broadly. Many people whose feet are leading them down a destructive path believe that they are doing right. The problem is that they are trusting in their own innate sense of right and wrong, when the advice of our own hearts is always be tainted by an evil inclination. We need an external, objective standard to keep our consciences in line.
Excerpted from the weekly Bible study at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com).
From Jay Carper at American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://paypal.me/JayCarper.
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Your Sins Will Find You Out
American Torah
One way or another, your sins will find you out. Escape is impossible.
A wicked man’s iniquities will trap him; he will become tangled in the ropes of his own sin. He will die because there is no discipline, and be lost because of his great stupidity.
Proverbs 5:22-23 CSB
From http://www.AmericanTorah.com
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Defeating Laziness
American Torah
Do you ever know that you have work to do but just can't make yourself do it? Like the whole world is weighing down on you, keeping your butt in your chair?
Yeah, me too.
In this video on Proverbs 6:6-11, I talk about that feeling and one strategy for defeating it.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com
You can get Mel Robbins' book The 5 Second Rule at Libro FM. Sign up for an account here FIRST so that you can get 2 books for the price of 1 in your first month: https://libro.fm/redeem/americantorah. Then get the audiobook here: https://libro.fm/audiobooks/9781982776466.
And a video from Mel Robbins on the same topic: https://youtu.be/dggCdoTYhDY
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Proverbs 6:12-19 and Fake News
American Torah
Proverbs 6:12-19 warns against being a tale-bearer, a spreader of "fake news".
From Jay Carper at American Torah (http://www.AmericanTorah.com)
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Proverbs 7 - The Utility of Moral Boundaries
American Torah
Building fences for yourself--safeguards and boundaries that keep you from getting into situations that lead to temptation--can be very helpful if you *want* to do what's right. However, if you're looking for trouble, those fences won't protect you.
Excerpted from the online Bible study at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com).
Prize Her Highly, and She Will Exalt You
American Torah
Solomon personified wisdom as a woman in the Book of Proverbs, and much of what he said about the benefits of wisdom correlate very closely with the benefits of choosing a good wife.
Prize her highly, and she will exalt you; she will honor you if you embrace her. She will place on your head a graceful garland; she will bestow on you a beautiful crown.
Proverbs 4:8-9
An excerpt from the weekly Bible study at the Common Sense Bible Study community at https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com.
With Carlos Sheran of Conversations of the Way podcast and Heidi Stone of Seeking Messiah (See https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/conversations-of-the-way/id1619457793 and http://seekingmessiah.org/).
From Jay Carper at American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://paypal.me/JayCarper.
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Leveling Up in Wisdom - Proverbs 8:1-4
American Torah
Proverbs 8:1-4 mentions four places where Wisdom cries out to those who are willing to hear, but they are arranged in a specific order, from beginner level to expert.
This is an excerpt from the online Bible study at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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The Proverbs 9 Woman
American Torah
Solomon liked to personify Wisdom and Folly as a teaching tool. One of the clearest contrasts between the two is in Proverbs 9, but a close look at this chapter reveals a lot more detail about the character of wisdom than you might think.
Read more about this passage at http://www.americantorah.com/2020/05/26/four-characteristics-of-wisdom-from-proverbs-91-6/
Teaching Fools and Wise Men in Proverbs 9:7-9
American Torah
A chiasm in Proverbs 9:7-9 highlights something important about teaching foolish person versus teaching a wise person. In both cases, you put something in and you get something back. I also have some thoughts on implications for how we educate our children.
From Jay Carper at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com) and American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
With Carlos Sheran of Conversations of the Way podcast (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1947624).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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The OTHER Proverbs 9 Woman
American Torah
The last part of Proverbs 9 describes Folly, personified as a woman.
13 The woman Folly is loud; she is deluded and knows nothing.
14 She sits at the door of her house; she takes a seat on the highest places of the town,
15 calling to those who pass by, who are going straight on their way,
16 “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!” And to him who lacks sense she says,
17 “Stolen water is sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.”
18 But he does not know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of Sheol.
Proverbs 9:13-18 ESV
As with the case of Wisdom, the description of Folly reveals a lot about her character that isn’t explicitly laid out in the text.
See American Torah for more: http://www.americantorah.com/2020/06/29/the-other-proverbs-9-woman/
Three Truths about Diligence and Sloth
American Torah
Proverbs 10:4-5 describes the outcome of hard work and laziness. There are three important truths that we can learn from this passage. The value of hard work, perseverance, and how our diligence honors our parents. Few of my videos are scripted, and I prefer it that way, but this one went somewhere I totally wasn't planning.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
Solomon's Three Kinds of Speech in Proverbs 10
American Torah
Throughout Proverbs, Solomon wrote about three kinds of speech: righteous, wicked, and foolish. These 4 verses in Proverbs 10 are great examples.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
Speaking Up and Keeping Silent in Proverbs 10:10-11
American Torah
Whoever winks the eye causes trouble, and a babbling fool will come to ruin. The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.
Proverbs 10:10-11
This is an excerpt from the live, online Bible study at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com).
From Jay Carper at American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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Systemic Injustice in Our Weights and Measures, Proverbs 11:1
American Torah
Unjust weights and measures are everywhere in modern society. They're in our finances, our race relations, our politics. But mostly, they're in our own hearts.
I don't usually get political in my videos...but I made an exception for this one.
A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is his delight. Proverbs 11:1
Unequal weights and unequal measures are both alike an abomination to the Lord. Proverbs 20:10
When a stranger sojourns with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God. You shall do no wrong in judgment, in measures of length or weight or quantity. You shall have just balances, just weights, a just ephah, and a just hin: I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt. And you shall observe all my statutes and all my rules, and do them: I am the Lord. Leviticus 19:33-37
Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye. Matthew 7:1-5
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
Civil Government and God's Law, Proverbs 11:7-11
American Torah
Proverbs 11:7-11 says that political entities that promote God's standards of justice and righteousness will prosper, but those who discourage God's law and promote wickedness will suffer. God knows what's best for us. His commandments aren't arbitrary.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
Ensuring Your Legacy by Honoring Your Parents, Proverbs 11:29
American Torah
Whoever troubles his own household will inherit the wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise of heart.
Proverbs 11:29 ESV
There is a recurring theme in Scripture of first born sons being replaced by their younger brothers because they did not honor their parents.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
Two Characteristics of the Super Successful from Proverbs 12:1
American Torah
Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.
Proverbs 12:1 ESV
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com
Proverbs 12:22-23 and 5 Times to Keep Silent
American Torah
Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are his delight.
A prudent man conceals knowledge, but the heart of fools proclaims folly.
Proverbs 12:22-23 ESV
There are five times when keeping silent is the wiser course of action even if you believe that what you would say is true.
From Jay Carper at American Torah (http://www.AmericanTorah.com).
Proverbs 13:1 Parents Just Don't Understand!
American Torah
A wise son hears his father’s instruction, but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.
Proverbs 13:1 ESV
Why did Solomon have so much to say about parenting and marriage? Because he had so much experience! Age and experience gives perspective, knowledge, and wisdom. Pay attention to your elders. They're not completely ignorant.
From Jay Carper at American Torah (http://www.AmericanTorah.com).
Proverbs 13:24 - How is it hateful to spare the rod?
American Torah
This is a segment from the weekly Bible study at Common Sense Bible Study.
A little pain today often prevents a lot of pain later in life.
Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.
Proverbs 13:24
This verse is very controversial today, but it wasn't always. The anti-spanking movement that mostly started in the 1960s has created a generation of neurotic adults who have no understanding of God's standards and very little understanding of basic cause and effect as it relates to life's major decisions.
From Jay Carper at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com) and American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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Nothing Happens without Some Dirt
American Torah
Where there are no oxen, the manger is clean, but abundant crops come by the strength of the ox.
Proverbs 14:4 ESV
Real life is messy. If you're going to accomplish anything worthwhile, you have to learn to be okay with rough edges.
From Jay Carper at American Torah (http://www.AmericanTorah.com).
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My Best Advice for the Hebrew Roots Movement
American Torah
In all toil there is profit, but mere talk tends only to poverty.
Proverbs 14:23 ESV
This proverb has a physical and a spiritual application. In both cases action is better than talk.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
2
comments
Tyrants, the People, and God in Proverbs 14:28
American Torah
An excerpt from the weekly online Bible study at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com).
Even the worst tyrants have to provide for a majority of their people or they will be deposed. The Technomafia wants to sidestep this principle by imposing total control of thought and speech over all people on earth, turning every human being into a slave with no will or liberties that the Technomafiosos don't allow. How can we fight this? First by trusting in God. Second by openly proclaiming Truth no matter what.
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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Proverbs 15:22 and Identifying Good Counsel
American Torah
Proverbs 15:22 says that success depends on good counsel, but how do you know who to lean on? Proverbs 14:33 has something to say about that.
Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.
Proverbs 15:22 ESV
Wisdom rests in the heart of a man of understanding, but it makes itself known even in the midst of fools.
Proverbs 14:33 ESV
A lot of people seem wise when they can hide behind scripts, editors, and PR firms, but eventually a fool will reveal himself.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
1
comment
Don't Let Your Dark Side Speak for You
American Torah
Everyone has a dark side. A wise man thinks before he lets it out, but the wicked let their evil inclinations control their words and deeds.
The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.
Proverbs 15:28 ESV
How to Be a King of Righteousness
American Torah
Proverbs 16:10-16 and Deuteronomy 17:14-20 give instructions for being a righteous King in God's eyes. These instructions are directed at Kings but they are valid for everyone who has influence and authority over other people. You can move your entire nation towards righteousness and justice by promoting God's standards within your own sphere of influence.
American Torah's website is http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
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Pride Invites Destruction - Proverbs 16:18
American Torah
Pride doesn't just come before a fall; it invites it by drawing God's ire. If you want to leave a lasting legacy, humble yourself and align your goals with God's.
With Carlos from the Conversations of the Way podcast (https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/conversations-of-the-way/3916353) and Jay from American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This is an excerpt from the weekly online Bible study at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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The Crucible of Hearts, Proverbs 17:3
American Torah
The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold, and the LORD tests hearts.
Proverbs 17:3 ESV
God knows you inside and out. He knows what you're made of. But in order for you to reach your full potential in the Kingdom, he has to transform your raw material into something pure and useful. He has to melt you down in the fire and hammer you into shape.
This is an excerpt from a live, online Bible study at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com).
From Jay Carper at and American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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The Poor and Rich Alike Bear the Image of God
American Torah
Proverbs 17:5 and James 2:1-9. It doesn't matter why a person is poor or rich, of they're smart or stupid, pretty or pretty ugly. Everyone bears the image of God and deserves basic respect based on that alone.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com
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A Deceitful Heart Sees a Deceitful World, Proverbs 17:20
American Torah
A man of crooked heart does not discover good, and one with a dishonest tongue falls into calamity.
Proverbs 17:20
We interpret the world through the lens of our own heart. If you have deceit, anger, or hatred in your heart, then that's what you're going to see in the people around you.
Mark 7:15, Titus 1:15, Romans 12:2
From Jay Carper at American Torah, http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
Proverbs 18:1 - You weren't meant to be alone
American Torah
Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment.
Proverbs 18:1 ESV
Whether you are a loner, introvert, or extravert, you weren't created to be alone. You need family and community to be healthy and to fully meet your purpose in the Kingdom of Heaven.
From Jay Carper at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com) and American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com) and Carlos from the Conversations of the Way podcast (https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/conversations-of-the-way/3916353).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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Think Before You Retort. Proverbs 18:2
American Torah
A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion. Proverbs 18:2 ESV
It's easy to throw back a retort on social media, but it's not so easy to understand what the other person is actually saying before you start typing.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
There Are Always Two Sides
American Torah
The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him.
Proverbs 18:17
It's easy to believe the first thing we hear about a topic, especially when it comes from a source we believe to be authoritative, like a pastor, professor, or media outlet, but it's almost always better to wait until you hear every side of a story before deciding what is true. Be especially wary of people who try to prevent you from hearing the other side.
From Jay Carper at American Torah (http://www.AmericanTorah.com).
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Friends of the Rich and the Poor
American Torah
Wealth adds many friends, But the poor is separated from his friend.
Proverbs 19:4
Wealth doesn't make anyone a better or worse person. It's a useful tool that can be used for the good of family, community, and Kingdom. Be wary of anyone who would treat you differently because of wealth, either theirs or yours.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com
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Some People Have to Learn the Hard Way. Proverbs 19:19-20
American Torah
A man of great wrath will pay the penalty, for if you deliver him, you will only have to do it again.
Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.
Proverbs 19:19-20
Some people have to learn the hard way and you won't be doing them any favors if you keep bailing them out. If you're one of those people, take heart and take heed. Seek out and listen to the advice of those with more wisdom and experience than you have. Even if you find yourself unable to follow that advice today, it might begin to sink in after a few more skinned knees.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
The Man of Chesed in Proverbs19:22
American Torah
What is desired in a man is steadfast love, and a poor man is better than a liar.
Proverbs 19:22 ESV
The Hebrew word translated "steadfast love" in this verse is chesed, which implies so much more than mere affection. Whether you're looking for a friend, a husband, or an employee, look for a man with chesed.
With Jay Carper at American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com) and Tony Pino (https://www.youtube.com/@TonyPino777Yeshuasaves)
Excerpted from the weekly online Bible study at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com).
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The Dangers of Wine and Kings in Proverbs 20:1-2
American Torah
Proverbs 20:1-2 ESV
1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.
2 The terror of a king is like the growling of a lion; whoever provokes him to anger forfeits his life.
These two verses are arranged in a parallelism that illustrates how all alcohol and government are both dangerous servants and fearful masters. In the wrong context, at the wrong time, or too much of either one can do far more harm than good.
This is an excerpt from the online Bible study at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com).
From Jay Carper at American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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Plow today. Harvest...next year? Proverbs 20:4
American Torah
Sluggards do not plow in season;
so at harvest time they look but find nothing.
Proverbs 20:4
Every overnight success is the product of years of planning and hard work. We plow the fields at a time when there's no hope of growth. We plant seeds at a time when there's no hope of harvest. Only after months of hard work do we reap any rewards for our labors. So why do we bother plowing in the first place? Because YHVH is a God of order, patterns, and covenants. We work hard today with no expectation of immediate rewards--or even rewards in this lifetime--because God has created a world in which even an atheist can have faith that one thing inevitably follows another.
See also Luke 14:27-33.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
Beware the Walkers
American Torah
Proverbs 20:18-19
Plans are established by counsel. By wise guidance wage war. Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, therefore do not associate with a simple babbler.
Be wary of people who talk about other people's business too much. You can be sure that they are talking about your business when you're not around too.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
Connect with me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/americantorah/
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The King's Heart in Proverbs 21:1
American Torah
The king's heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will.
Proverbs 21:1 ESV
This proverb and many examples in Scripture seem to indicate that the more power you have over other people, the less power you have over your own life. God uses kings, governors, and other powerful people to both guide and judge nations.
This is an excerpt from the weekly online Bible study at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com).
From Jay Carper American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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Proverbs 21:3 and Pure Religion
American Torah
To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.
Proverbs 21:3
Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”
Matthew 9:13
The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination; how much more when he brings it with evil intent.
Proverbs 21:27
Religion gets a bad rap, but that's not really fair. The dictionary definition of religion is the set of beliefs and practices associated with the belief in and worship of a deity. That includes rituals, prayers, doctrines, and even codes of behavior. It can be good or bad. The Bible is full of positive examples of religion, but it also describes a lot of bad, like that of the Pharisees.
In God's religion, the goal of sacrifice and ritual is a right heart, which is one that is full of love and eager to show kindness. If your religion doesn't help to conform your heart to God's, then it's false and probably involves more worship of self than anything else.
From Jay Carper at http://www.americantorah.com/2020/12/22/pure-and-undefiled-religion/.
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Proverbs 21:5 and the Importance of Diligence and Persistence
American Torah
The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.
Proverbs 21:5
The hand of the diligent will rule, while the slothful will be put to forced labor.
Proverbs 12:24
“What we hope ever to do with ease, we must first learn to do with diligence.” Samuel Johnson
“Singleness of purpose is one of the chief essentials for success in life, no matter what may be one’s aim.” John D. Rockefeller, Sr.
Decide on a goal and stick to it. Purpose isn't enough.
In all toil there is profit, but mere talk tends only to poverty.
Proverbs 14:23
Planning is good. Doing is better.
Galatians 6:9
Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.
Romans 2:6-10
6 He will render to each one according to his works: 7 to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life; 8 but for those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury. 9 There will be tribulation and distress for every human being who does evil, the Jew first and also the Greek, 10 but glory and honor and peace for everyone who does good, the Jew first and also the Greek.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com
Proverbs 22:1 and Choosing a Good Name
American Torah
A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.
Proverbs 22:1
A "good name" doesn't have anything to do with what's printed on your birth certificate. You can choose a good name by behaving in ways that enhance your reputation as a representative of YHVH, and thereby honoring HIS name too.
From Jay Carper at American Torah (http://www.AmericanTorah.com)
Proverbs 22:15 and the Disciplining of a Child
American Torah
Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him.
Proverbs 22:15
Some people like to say that children are born pure and innocent and that prejudice and violence must be taught. We know from experience, common sense, and Scripture that this is a utopian pipe dream. We are all born at war with our own evil inclinations and righteous behavior must be taught through wise discipline and repetition.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
Does God Really Repay the Unjust? Proverbs 22
American Torah
The Proverbs contain many statements that don't always appear true on the surface. Take these three verses from chapter 22 for example:
V8 - Whoever sows injustice will reap calamity, and the rod of his fury will fail.
V16 - Whoever oppresses the poor to increase his own wealth, or gives to the rich, will only come to poverty.
V22-23 - Do not rob the poor, because he is poor, or crush the afflicted at the gate, for the LORD will plead their cause and rob of life those who rob them.
If God repays the unjust and rebalances those scales, why does it seem like the wicked are always winning?
The Common Sense Bible Study crew (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com) tackled this question along with some other tough ones in our weekly Bible study this week.
With Jay Carper at American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com) and Carlos at Conversations of the Way (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1947624).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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Be Cautious about Disregarding Longstanding Traditions
American Torah
Do not move the ancient landmark that your fathers have set.
Proverbs 22:28
You shall not move your neighbor's landmark, which the men of old have set, in the inheritance that you will hold in the land that YHVH your God is giving you to possess.
Deuteronomy 19:14
Although these verses are talking about physical land boundaries on the surface, they are also talking about the ideological boundaries that we call traditions.
Traditions sometimes get a bad rap, and there are some bad traditions, but they often exist for our protection. Be very cautious about disregarding a longstanding tradition. There might be a good reason for it.
From Jay Carper at American Torah (http://www.AmericanTorah.com)
Be Not A Friend to Drunkards, Proverbs 23:20-21
American Torah
Be not among drunkards or among gluttonous eaters of meat, for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and slumber will clothe them with rags.
Proverbs 23:20-21
There are two important lessons to learn from this proverb:
1) Cultivate healthier friendships.
2) Avoid frequently indulging in excesses.
Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.
Proverbs 13:20
Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Galatians 5:19-21
From American Torah at http://www.AmericanTorah.com
Proverbs 24:1-6 and Enduring Conquest through Self-Discipline
American Torah
Be not envious of evil men, nor desire to be with them, for their hearts devise violence, and their lips talk of trouble.
By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.
A wise man is full of strength, and a man of knowledge enhances his might.
For by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory.
Proverbs 24:1-6
The LORD your God will clear away these nations before you little by little. You may not make an end of them at once, lest the wild beasts grow too numerous for you. But the LORD your God will give them over to you and throw them into great confusion, until they are destroyed.
Deuteronomy 7:22-23
Empires rise and fall, but the empires that last for centuries are those that took centuries to build. If you allow your emotions to dictate your decisions, you will act rashly and violently, and you will enslave yourself to your emotions. However, if you exercise self-control in all things and use your emotions as tools rather than allowing them to use you, your conquests will come through judicious and wise action, and your gains will last.
Violence and war have their place, but that place is rare and of limited scope.
Proverbs 24:15-16 - The Home Is for Healing
American Torah
Lie not in wait as a wicked man against the dwelling of the righteous; do no violence to his home; for the righteous falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked stumble in times of calamity.
Proverbs 24:15-16 ESV
The home is more than a man's castle. It should be a place of refuge and healing for the whole family. People who set out to create conflict within the home, to disrupt the peace that God intends for families, are thoroughly evil. Be wary of people who want to set children against parents or parents against children.
From Jay Carper and the Common Sense Bible Study crew at https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com.
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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Rejoicing over the Fall of Your Enemies
American Torah
How do we reconcile the seemingly contradictory instructions of Scripture concerning our enemies?
Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles, lest the LORD see it and be displeased, and turn away his anger from him.
Proverbs 24:17-18
I will give peace in the land, and you shall lie down, and none shall make you afraid. And I will remove harmful beasts from the land, and the sword shall not go through your land. You shall chase your enemies, and they shall fall before you by the sword. Five of you shall chase a hundred, and a hundred of you shall chase ten thousand, and your enemies shall fall before you by the sword.
Leviticus 26:6-8
Then they returned, every man of Judah and Jerusalem, and Jehoshaphat at their head, returning to Jerusalem with joy, for the LORD had made them rejoice over their enemies. They came to Jerusalem with harps and lyres and trumpets, to the house of the LORD. And the fear of God came on all the kingdoms of the countries when they heard that the LORD had fought against the enemies of Israel.
2 Chronicles 20:27-29
If you meet your enemy's ox or his donkey going astray, you shall bring it back to him. If you see the donkey of one who hates you lying down under its burden, you shall refrain from leaving him with it; you shall rescue it with him.
Exodus 23:4-5
You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason frankly with your neighbor, lest you incur sin because of him. You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD.
Leviticus 19:17-18
You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.
Matthew 5:43-45
From Jay Carper at American Torah, http://www.AmericanTorah.com
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Faithless Advisors are Poison to Leadership
American Torah
Take away the dross from the silver, and the smith has material for a vessel; take away the wicked from the presence of the king, and his throne will be established in righteousness.
Proverbs 25:4-5
A leader cannot allow dead weight and faithless advisors to stick around or they will fatally poison his administration.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
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Words Fitly Spoken - Proverbs 25:11-12,15
American Torah
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.
Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise reprover to a listening ear.
Proverbs 25:11-12 ESV
With patience a ruler may be persuaded, and a soft tongue will break a bone.
Proverbs 25:15 ESV
And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell.
James 3:6 ESV
Words have immense power. They can start wars and negotiate peace, heal broken hearts and break bones. Taming the tongue and learning to employ words for good is a difficult and lifelong discipline.
From the weekly online Bible study at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com) with Jay Carper of American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com) and Carlos from the Conversations of the Way podcast (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1947624).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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Love Your Enemies, Proverbs 25:21-22
American Torah
If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink, for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you.
Proverbs 25:21-22
There are truly wicked people in the world, but most people who do evil actually believe they're doing good. They are deceived and interpret the world through warped lenses. It's good to hold people accountable and to protect the innocent, but vengeance will only compound the evil that's done to you, distorting your own vision in the process.
You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Matthew 5:43-48
Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." To the contrary, "if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Romans 12:17-21
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
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Proverbs 26:13-16 and the Causes and Solutions to Laziness
American Torah
The sluggard says, “There is a lion in the road! There is a lion in the streets!” As a door turns on its hinges, so does a sluggard on his bed. The sluggard buries his hand in the dish; it wears him out to bring it back to his mouth. The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who can answer sensibly.
Proverbs 26:13-16
What we think of as laziness is a behavior or a pattern of behaviors and rarely a character trait in itself. This passage describes several potential sources of lazy behavior:
-Fear
-Comfort
-Health
-Pride
All of these problems have solutions or at least tools to help manage them. The solution to most laziness is to identify and address the root causes and then adjust your expectations of the world through experience and faith in your Creator's plan.
From Jay Carper at American Torah (http://www.AmericanTorah.com).
The Words of Whispers and Sycophants in Proverbs 26:22-23
American Torah
The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels;
they go down into the inner parts of the body.
Like the glaze covering an earthen vessel
are fervent lips with an evil heart.
Proverbs 26:22-23 ESV
Words are like seeds that plant themselves in your mind. Whether it's gossip, curses, or doubts, they will always have an effect. Don't believe everything you hear, and stop listening to people who have a pattern of distorting the truth.
An excerpt from the weekly online discussion at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com) with Jay Carper from American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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Hidden and Fake Love in Proverbs 27:5-6
American Torah
Better is open rebuke than hidden love.
Faithful are the wounds of a friend.
Profuse are the kisses of an enemy.
Proverbs 27:5-6 ESV
Hidden love refers to affection that doesn't lead to any good deeds. A rebuke might not be nice, but it might be helpful. Good wishes with no action are worthless, like faith without works. A friend may hurt you when it is necessary in order to help you. Beware of people who encourage you down a destructive path. They are your enemies, whatever they might believe.
An excerpt from the weekly online discussion at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com) with Jay Carper of American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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A Little Bitter Makes Your Whole Life Sweeter
American Torah
Proverbs 27:7 says "One who is full loathes honey, but to one who is hungry everything bitter is sweet." A counterintuitive truth is that a life with too much sweet becomes bitter, but a life with a little bitter becomes sweeter.
People are resilient. They tend to adapt and become accustomed to whatever circumstances life puts them in. Because of this, a life of too much ease creates weak men. If you want to be happy, strong, and able to withstand whatever curve balls come your way, you're better off seeking out challenges and hardships in measured, controlled doses before truly hard times come and knock you on your backside.
Social Justice vs God's Justice
American Torah
Social Justice vs God's Justice
Universities, entertainers, and HR departments relentlessly push the ideas of social justice. There are daily riots and political demonstrations in favor of social justice. Black Lives Matter riots, gay pride parades, women's rights marches….
Everyone is talking about justice, but does anyone know what it is?
Moses said that God's ways are justice and Torah commands us to pursue justice in all matters, so it is vitally important that we understand it. Fortunately, God has also given us a tool to help us understand exactly what justice is and how to apply it to our lives: the Torah itself.
Proverbs 28:4-5 says that people who hate God's Law will tend to side with the wicked, that evil men (those who hate God's Law) do not understand justice. Those who seek YHVH, in other words, those who study his instructions and seek to live by them, understand justice completely.
Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law strive against them.
Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD understand it completely.
Proverbs 28:4-5
From Jay Carper at American Torah, http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
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Invest God's Resources Wisely - Proverbs 28:19
American Torah
Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits will have plenty of poverty.
Proverbs 28:19 ESV
Whatever God has put into your hands, make it prosper. Focus your efforts on those things that will bring the most important returns first and then on those that bring the greatest returns.
From Jay Carper at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com) and American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
This content is free, but I accept contributions via Paypal at https://jaycarper.com/paypal.
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When the Righteous Hide
American Torah
When the wicked rise to power, people hide, but when they perish, the righteous increase.
Proverbs 28:28 TLV
Today's cancel culture is an in-your-face example of Proverbs 28:28. The wicked dominate every institution, every industry, and every branch of government. If you dare to stand up and speak the truths that are glaringly obvious to every rational person, you risk being canceled from everything. So-called "social justice warriors" will attack you relentlessly. They will try to get you fired from your job. They will run you out of business. They will try to get you arrested and even killed simply because you make them aware of the sickness in their own souls.
God hasn't abandoned us, though. Sometimes he allows the wicked to rage so that nobody will be able to deny that their destruction is true justice.
Who Understands Justice for the Poor?
American Torah
A righteous man knows the rights of the poor; a wicked man does not understand such knowledge.
Proverbs 29:7
A righteous man truly understands what it means to ensure justice for the poor, the widow, and the orphan, but a wicked man, even though he might toss out a lot of fine sounding words, doesn't have a clue what justice even means. So, in order to know who understands justice, we need to know who is righteous and who is wicked?
What is the standard for righteousness according to Scripture? God. A righteous man can be known by how closely his behavior and attitudes align with God's instructions.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
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Sons and Servants in Proverbs 29:21
American Torah
Whoever pampers his servant from childhood will in the end find him his heir.
Proverbs 29:21 ESV
This proverb goes against the American grain, but American culture is an historical aberration. In cultures where servants and slaves are commonplace, it's important to keep a strict separation between family and the help.
There's also another interpretation of this proverb, one in which it's a good thing for servants to become heirs. Listen in as the Common Sense Bible Study crew discusses both aspects and what they mean for us today.
The Hacking of the American Mind mentioned by Carlos: https://amzn.to/3IIbRz8 (affiliate link)
From Jay Carper at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com) and Carlos from the Conversations of the Way podcast (https://www.buzzsprout.com/1947624).
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Of Whom Should We Be Afraid?
American Torah
The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.
Proverbs 29:25
People can hurt you. If you don't fear the consequences of offending people, you could lose your job, your family, even your life, but this is a trap. There is more to your existence than your job and your physical body. There are much greater consequences for being faithless to God, like losing eternity. On the other hand, if you trust in God and stand up for what's right, even when the immediate consequences could be severe, the long term rewards are far greater than anything you might lose.
From Jay Carper at American Torah. http://www.AmericanTorah.com
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Who Wrote Proverbs 30?
American Torah
The words of Agur son of Jakeh. The oracle. The man declares, I am weary, O God; I am weary, O God, and worn out.
Proverbs 30:1 ESV
Nobody knows for sure who Agur was. Some believe it's another name for King Solomon or that his father, Jakeh, was Solomon. However, this chapter is very different from the rest of Proverbs, and there are some clues in the text that might point to someone else.
From Jay Carper at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com) and American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
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There's no Compromising with Fire
American Torah
The leech has two daughters: Give and Give. Three things are never satisfied; four never say, "Enough": Sheol, the barren womb, the land never satisfied with water, and the fire that never says, "Enough."
Proverbs 30:15-16
"Moving the goalposts" is a logical fallacy and a means of manipulating people into giving far more than they intended. If a person is never satisfied with their original request, and always demand a little bit more, then a little bit more, and you never seem to reach the final goal, they're moving the goalposts on you. Once someone has revealed themselves to be a post-mover, there's only one real solution....
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
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Proverbs 31:1-9 and the Burdens of Authority
American Torah
King Lemuel's mother warned him against any indulgences in pleasures that might compromise his judgment, specifically women and alcohol. There's nothing especially wrong with either one, but it's important to keep everything in it's proper time and proportion. And the greater your authority, the more disciplined you need to be.
From Jay Carper at Common Sense Bible Study (https://CommonSenseBibleStudy.com) and American Torah (https://www.AmericanTorah.com).
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Of Mice, Men, Ants, and Lions
American Torah
We all have strengths and weaknesses. Nobody is the best at everything and nobody is the worst at everything. We need to support each other to make up for our weaknesses and we need to focus on our strengths to be the best we were created to be.
There are four matters
Which are little on the earth,
But they are exceedingly wise:
The ants are a people not strong,
Yet they prepare their food in the summer;
The rock badgers are a weak folk,
Yet they make their homes in the crags;
The locusts have no sovereign,
Yet they all go out in formation;
A spider takes hold with two hands,
And is in sovereigns' palaces.
There are three matters
That are going well,
And four are good in walking:
A lion, which is mighty among beasts
And does not turn away from facing all;
A greyhound, and a male goat,
And a sovereign whose army is with him.
Proverbs 30:24-31 TS2009
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com
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A Woman of Valor, Who can Find?
American Torah
An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.
Proverbs 31:10-12 ESV
The Hebrew word used to describe this wife and translated variously as "excellent", "of valor", and "competent" is "chayil". It most often refers to an army or a might warrior.
Do you want an excellent wife? Then look for a woman with strength, competence, and intelligence coupled with humility and a desire to serve her husband.
The Proverbs 31 Woman Reaches Out to the Needy
American Torah
The Proverbs 31 Woman is generous to the poor of her community while still taking care of her family. Her husband trusts her with the family's resources.
From Jay Carper at American Torah, http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
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The Gates of Proverbs 31
American Torah
Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land.
Proverbs 31:23
Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.
Proverbs 31:31
Why is this statement about a man in the gates placed in the middle of a chapter about the ideal wife? Because without her, he wouldn't be there. A man's reputation and standing in the community is directly related to his wife's competence, wisdom, and support. Be very careful in your choice of a mate. A good woman can make your life amazing. A bad woman can make your life miserable.
From Jay Carper at http://www.AmericanTorah.com.
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Rejoicing over the Fall of Your Enemies
4 years ago
301
How do we reconcile the seemingly contradictory instructions of Scripture concerning our enemies?
Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles, lest the LORD see it and be displeased, and turn away his anger from him.
Proverbs 24:17-18
I will give peace in the land, and you shall lie down, and none shall make you afraid. And I will remove harmful beasts from the land, and the sword shall not go through your land. You shall chase your enemies, and they shall fall before you by the sword. Five of you shall chase a hundred, and a hundred of you shall chase ten thousand, and your enemies shall fall before you by the sword.
Leviticus 26:6-8
Then they returned, every man of Judah and Jerusalem, and Jehoshaphat at their head, returning to Jerusalem with joy, for the LORD had made them rejoice over their enemies. They came to Jerusalem with harps and lyres and trumpets, to the house of the LORD. And the fear of God came on all the kingdoms of the countries when they heard that the LORD had fought against the enemies of Israel.
2 Chronicles 20:27-29
If you meet your enemy's ox or his donkey going astray, you shall bring it back to him. If you see the donkey of one who hates you lying down under its burden, you shall refrain from leaving him with it; you shall rescue it with him.
Exodus 23:4-5
You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason frankly with your neighbor, lest you incur sin because of him. You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD.
Leviticus 19:17-18
You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.
Matthew 5:43-45
From Jay Carper at American Torah, http://www.AmericanTorah.com
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13:45
American Torah
25 days ago $0.02 earnedSalvation Is Near - Romans 13:11-12
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1:20
ScottLutz21
4 years agoMathew 5:43-48 Love your enemies
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0:30
Frases e Poemas - Quotes and Poems
4 years agoYour enemies put barriers, God destroy it! [Quotes and Poems]
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Jiro
4 years ago $0.01 earnedPunitor, for enemies
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0:46
rebuildingthegates
4 years agoBelieve God Over Your Feelings!
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1:38
ViralHog
5 years agoBackyard Fireworks Fall Over
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2:10
KTNV
4 years agoFall Must-Have For Your Pantry
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![The Bible is a weapon against all your enemies! [Quotes and Poems]](https://1a-1791.com/video/s8/1/D/l/r/l/Dlrlb.0kob-small-The-Bible-is-a-weapon-again.jpg)
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Frases e Poemas - Quotes and Poems
4 years agoThe Bible is a weapon against all your enemies! [Quotes and Poems]
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6:41
KTNV
4 years agoStep Up Your Game for Fall
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0:54
Readings of great or naff poems
4 years agoYou have no enemies
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