Proverbs says if you purge corruption from leadership, an administration can be established in integrity. The goal of every leader should be to eliminate corruption and self-serving advisers.

When we vote, we should likewise endeavor to only support leaders who walk in truth and integrity. The privilege to vote should be taken seriously and bathed in prayer.

READ/HEAR: Or. 24-26

Scripture says the king’s heart is like a stream of water that the Lord directs. That implies God’s control over our current president and indicates that, regardless of who gets elected in 2020, God will still be in control.

This is a strong reason to pray for that person, whomever they may be. God sets up one and puts down another. He gives them time and space to repent and conform to His plan, but will maintain the overall control of their destiny. The legacies of U.S. presidents could have been much different if they had yielded to God’s plan for their lives. Nevertheless, God ultimately overrides their weaknesses and gets His way.

It has always been comforting to see a president consult with spiritual leaders such as Billy Graham and presently, Franklin Graham.

Meanwhile, we pray and believe for our nation.

READ/HEAR: Pr. 21,22

The Psalms are a Christian on his knees. They enhance the devotional life and expound on how to please God.

The Proverbs are a Christian on his feet. Practical wisdom for everyday life situations and challenges is offered.

If a person uses 5 Psalms and 1 Proverb each day, they make it through the books in a month. It’s actually a healthy devotional plan.

READ/HEAR: Pr. 18-20

A motive is the intent of the heart. God is more concerned about our hearts and our motives than we realize. Outward compliance with rules can often disguise rebellious hearts. Jesus went to the heart of matters rather than just the behaviors observable by the eye.

The only way heart motives can be purified and regulated is by continual exposure to God’s Word and His Spirit. His Word can establish how our heart should react to life and His Spirit can continually redirect our motives to please Him

Only God can accurately judge heart motives. We should never fault-find the lives of others if we haven’t first judged our own hearts.  Otherwise, we are hypocrites.

READ/HEAR: Pr. 16,17

The eyes of the Lord are EVERYWHERE!

How foolish to think that secret sin is truly secret. God keeps an eye on everyone, all the time. He loves us and wants to provide for us and protect us. His intentions are holy and good. That’s a great reason to continually praise Him … we have His attention.

There’s coming when all will be revealed. It’s as if God has had a camera running on us at all times. Sins confessed will be erased.

It’s a lifestyle proctor to live with God’s watchful eye in mind.

READ/HEAR: Pr. 14,15

Current trends in raising children avoid using the rod for correction. However, it is the method preferred in Proverbs.

As a private school administrator, I learned that discipline requires consequences. Talking only goes so far. Children learn when there are consequences.

When I say rod, I’m referring to a wooden stick not more than 1/2 inch in diameter … thick enough to bring pain to the rear end, but not large enough to do any damage. Children get the message.

Soon, I will publish ten steps to correction.

READ/HEAR: Pr. 11-13

A recurring theme in Proverbs is a warning against sinful sexual behavior. What’s more, they identify the consequences of it. Wise leaders and parents likewise sound this advice lest offenders reap the painful and bitter consequences of out-of-bounds sexual activity.

Homes, schools, churches, and other organizations that develop youth are wise to avoid sexually permissive messages that say its ok to enjoy the pleasures of sin which only last for a short time but bring devastating pain.

Sadly, Hollywood and most modern media glorify sexual permissiveness. Often, the best posture is to avoid their influence. Strictly monitor the media diet children are consuming. Their life may depend upon it.

READ/HEAR: Pr. 7-10

David taught Solomon the value of God’s Word. He promised that health to his whole body would be the fruit of paying heed to his words; follow the Lord’s commands and seek wisdom.

This is another solid reason to read or hear God’s Word EVERY DAY. It brings health to the body. Before anyone seeks a doctor’s prescription, they should commit to spending time in the Word. In fact, when we pray for those infirmed, this should be automatic counsel.

When we stand before the Lord, we will wish we had devoted a greater portion of our lives to the Word.

It’s not too late. Begin today!

READ/HEAR: Pr. 4-6

I am being treated for Multiple Myeloma. It is a bone disease where abnormal plasma cells in the blood form destructive colonies in the bone marrow, thereby weakening the bones. My health challenge is in my bones.

While listening to Proverbs 3, I heard this phrase:

Do not be wise in your own eyes;
    fear the Lord and shun evil.
This will bring health to your body
    and nourishment to your bones.

Humility and holy living are a key! I am hereby adopting this inspiring slogan: “Humility and Holy Living.”

I realize that there can be a subtle pride if this motto is handled arrogantly. So, I will just dive back into living like Christ. He was humble and holy. All my hope is in Him, not my ability to be humble and holy.

For me to live is Christ!

READ/HEAR: Proverbs 1-3

Our goal should be to please the Lord rather than ourselves. Our society and culture is self-centered and is reaping the (rotten) fruit of it. Media, products, messaging all focus on man and his pleasure.

God is rather concerned that we please Him and serve one another. Jesus came NOT to be served, but to serve and lay down His life for others. His Word encourages us to do the same.

Psalm 147 declares that the Lord is pleased with those who put their trust and hope in Him rather than themselves. The blessings that follow are overwhelming and complete. All His vast resources are of service and benefit to those who love Him and follow His statutes.

Our hope is not in a political party, our medicine, our favorite TV show, our college football team or even the help of friends and family … our hope is IN THE LORD.

READ/HEAR: Ps. 146-150