OceanSide church of Christ

Read devotionals for May 2018

June 1, 2018

Proverbs 30:32 – If thou hast done foolishly in lifting up thyself, or if thou hast thought evil, lay thine hand upon thy mouth.


Thought: The two sins mentioned in this verse are very common and very easy to commit. It is easy to lift ourselves above others. It is also easy to think evil. When these sins come upon us, we need to lay our hands over our mouths in shame. We need to immediately confess them and ask for God’s forgiveness. If we don’t, our pride will lead to destruction. If we don’t, our thoughts of evil will become actions. We need more humiliation and shame in our world over sin.

Job 40:4


June 2, 2018

Proverbs 30:33 – Surely the churning of milk bringeth forth butter, and the wringing of the nose bringeth forth blood: so the forcing of wrath bringeth forth strife.


Thought: The inspired writer once again uses his powers of observation. There are some things that are the cause of other things. In this case, he looks at the power of force and pressure. There are some people who love to provoke wrath in others. They just keep pressing and pressing an issue. Ultimately, strife breaks out between them and others. Sadly, we see a lot of this in politics, the media, and in home situations. To have peace, someone needs to back down, but they will not. Strife, therefore, will continue.

Proverbs 17:14


June 3, 2018

Proverbs 31:1 – The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.


Thought: We often forget that great men in lofty positions were children at one time. What these leaders have become might be the result of forces within the home like a mother, a father, or both. Here, King Lemuel is said to be revealing to us the prophecy that his mother taught him. Fortunately, this king was influenced by a godly mother. Too, he was willing to listen to the words of his wise mother. Many godly mothers have influenced many generations to come. Moms, keep teaching!

II Timothy 1:5


June 4, 2018

Proverbs 31:2 – What, my son? And what, the son of my womb? And what, the son of my vows?


Thought: There are two things stressed by the words of this verse. First, the words show the close relationship the mother feels with her son. “My son.” “The son of my womb.” “The son of my vows.” Second, the mother desires for her son to hear her words. Three times she exhorts him with the query that asks: “What?” She is seeking to get his attention. What she will tell him is of importance. Yes, mothers instruct. It is the duty of children, even kings, to listen to the instruction of a mother.

II Timothy 3:15


June 5, 2018

Proverbs 31:3 – Give not thy strength unto women, nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings.


Thought: This mother understood the importance of her son’s position as king. She also understood that there were many hazards that could remove him from his authority. One temptation would be women. Women are beautiful, desirable, and cunning. Many men of power have been destroyed by them. She also generally warns him of other things that could destroy him. Pride, strong drink, recreation, and a host of other dangers could be listed. Kings are extremely vulnerable to attacks. Some of them come from within their own heart.

Deuteronomy 17:17


June 6, 2018

Proverbs 31:4 – It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink.


Thought: The wise mother of King Lemuel counsels him not to drink wine or strong drink? Why would she say this? “There is nothing wrong with a little alcohol in moderation,” many will tell us. Perhaps, drinking wine and strong drink can bring negative consequences into a person’s life. They take way the ability to reason and judge. They cause one to drop his inhibitions. They put a person in compromising situations. They can bring physical, emotional, and spiritual harm into one’s life. Yes, Lemuel’s mother was right. “It is not for kings.” These things are not for anyone, especially God’s children.

Leviticus 10:9-10


June 7, 2018

Proverbs 31:5 – Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted.


Thought: Here, Lemuel’s mother reveals two of the evil consequences of drinking alcoholic beverages. First, when individuals drink they forget God’s law. Drinking and spirituality do not go hand-in-hand. The drinker goes to places that are ungodly. He associates himself with the ungodly. That which is holy and sacred is far from his mind. Too, the one who drinks alcohol will pervert judgment. The liquor takes away his ability to reason properly and effectively. The afflicted are not given justice because the judge is incapable of fulfilling his responsibilities due to wine and strong drink.

Isaiah 5:22-23


June 8, 2018

Proverbs 31:6 – Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts.


Thought: In the days when Lemuel wrote his proverbs, there were no sophisticated medications like we have now. Medicine came in the form of alcohol. Thus, strong drink should only be given to him who is ready to perish. Wine should only be given to those suffering the grief and anguish and depression of a heavy heart. Those who are well do not need to drink wine or strong drink. The only effects upon their mind and body are negative. Oh, if only our present world could learn this lesson.

I Timothy 5:23


June 9, 2018

Proverbs 31:7 – Let him drink and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.


Thought: This verse should be attached to the previous verse. Those with heavy hearts who are suffering emotional distress may drink in order to divert the mind from their poverty and misery. Note that the writer tells us the effects of alcohol. For a person who is well and healthy, alcohol makes him forget and fail to remember very important things. Vows, financial responsibility, self-disciple, control of the tongue, and a host of other things have been forgotten by people who were drunk, but who would not have acted in such a manner had they been sober. Alcohol pollutes the mind and perverts one’s actions.

Genesis 19:30-38


June 10, 2018

Proverbs 31:8 – Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.


Thought: The dumb in this passage refers to those who are speechless. These individuals are poor and afflicted and cannot afford someone to speak for them. If someone does not speak out, their end will be destruction. Lemuel’s mother advised him as the king to be the spokesman for the speechless. These individuals need their day in court. They need someone to arise and seek justice on their behalf. May God help all of us to speak for the speechless when they are being treated unjustly.

I Samuel 20:32


June 11, 2018

Proverbs 31:9 – Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.


Thought: The thought in today’s proverb is the same as that expressed yesterday. The poor and needy are not always able to plead their cause. Even if it is, it is often met with strong opposition and inequity. Thus, the king must judge righteously. He must not let the status of an individual determine the outcome of a case. Decisions must be just and based upon the facts.

Deuteronomy 16:18-20


June 12, 2018

Proverbs 31:10 – Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.


Thought: The inspired penman now enters into a discussion of a virtuous woman. She is a woman of great strength. That strength is manifested in her many talents which will be enumerated. Some of the actions that will be listed run contrary to what many consider virtuous today. Today, a woman is thought to be virtuous if she is in a position of power, is loud, is wealthy, and is actively engaged in all of the social issues of the day. Lemuel presents us a much different picture of a virtuous woman. The woman he will describe is the one whose price is far above rubies.

Ruth 3:11


June 13, 2018

Proverbs 31:11 – The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.


Thought: The virtuous woman of this text is married. Her virtue begins at home. It begins with her relationship with her husband. She lives in such a way that her husband can always trust her. He knows that she is on his side. He knows that she supports him. He knows that she is proud of him. She is glad to be his wife. He has no need to seek satisfaction of any sort out of the home. He is deeply in love with a woman who has loved him, cared for him, and stood by him through thick and thin. When a husband’s all is at home, there is no need to find something outside of the home.

Genesis 24:64-67


June 14, 2018

Proverbs 31:12 – She will do him good and not evil all the days of his life.


Thought: The virtuous woman finds ways to do good for her husband. She lives with this intention every day of her marriage. She wants her husband to excel. She wants good things to happen in his life. She wants him to be honored and respected by others. Never, never will she do anything evil against him. She is willing to play second fiddle as long as her husband grows more successful. She is a loyal and faithful servant to her husband.

I Samuel 25:23-28


June 15, 2018

Proverbs 31:13 – She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.


Thought: Wool and flax were two types of fabrics. They could be purchased in a refined state or in a raw condition. The virtuous woman sought them in their raw condition. She would then work them with her hands in order to prepare them for other uses. The work was very laborious and took a toll on the hands. The virtuous woman never complained. She completed this task willingly. Part of the definition of the word “willingly” is “with pleasure.” She definitely had her family in view.

Isaiah 32:9-11


June 16, 2018

Proverbs 31:14 – She is like the merchant’s ships; she bringeth her food from afar.


Thought: A merchant ship is filled with precious goods. The virtuous woman has her wares that she has prepared. A merchant ship travels to distant places. The virtuous woman leaves her home in search of goods. The merchant ship knows the excellent ports. The virtuous woman knows where the bargains can be obtained. The merchant ship trades and barters for goods. The virtuous woman barters for her goods. The merchant ship returns with goods that are needed. The virtuous woman returns with things that are needed by her family. Yes, “she is like the merchant’s ships.”

Acts 16:13-15


June 17, 2018

Proverbs 31:15 – She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.


Thought: The virtuous woman is well aware of her responsibilities in her home. She is the one who is to make certain that all in the house have what is needed to sustain them throughout the day. This involves the preparation of meals. It also involves the organization of any supplies that others might need to carry out their duties. It is a role that requires that she arise before others. She gets up before the sun begins to shine. It is a labor of love. She wants to care for her family and make them successful.

I Timothy 5:14


June 18, 2018

Proverbs 31:16 – She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.


Thought: The virtuous woman has a head for business. She is able to “consider” a field. She understands the components of a good, productive field. She knows the right price that should be paid. After considering it, she makes the purchase. Once she has the field in hand, she plants a vineyard. Grapes were a staple for the home. They would provide food, drink, and income. A good mind for business and hands that will diligently work will provide well for a home.

Joshua 16:15-20


June 19, 2018

Proverbs 31:17 – She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.


Thought: The virtuous woman makes certain to take care of herself. Without a proper diet and exercise, she will not have the strength she needs to conduct the affairs of her home. She does not just “let herself go.” People are counting on her. To do her best, she must strengthen her own body. A frail, helpless individual needs to be helped. Such a person is not a help to others.

I Timothy 4:8


June 20, 2018

Proverbs 31:18 – She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.


Thought: The virtuous woman is a diligent worker. Her labors produce goods that are much needed by others. They are beneficial and well produced. He merchandise is good and in high demand. Because of this, she must often work well into the night. Some duties can only be done once the sun has set and the rest of the household has retired for the night. She, however, doesn’t rest. Her work is calling. It must be done. If she does not do it, it will not be done. Again, it is a labor of love.

Acts 9:36


June 21, 2018

Proverbs 31:19 – She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.


Thought: The spindle and the distaff were two ancient instruments used for making of thread. It was a skill that had to be learned. The virtuous woman employed that skill to benefit her household. She could use the thread to make clothes. She could also sell the thread in the marketplace. It was laborious and time-consuming work. However, it was important to the well-being of her home. The tired arms, aching hands, and hurting back were evidence of her love for her family and her regard for her responsibilities in the home.

Exodus 35:25-26


June 22, 2018

Proverbs 31:20 – She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.


Thought: The virtuous woman has a heart of compassion for the less fortunate. She realizes that her wealth is not really hers. She is a steward of what God has given to her. Therefore, she is willing to help the poor. She readily gives to those who are needy. Stingy is not in her vocabulary. Hers is a heart filled with love for God.

I John 3:17-18


June 23, 2018

Proverbs 31:21 – She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.


Thought: The virtuous woman is not concerned about the arrival of the cold winter temperatures. She has provided adequate clothing for her household. The word “scarlet” would be better translated “doubly.” The virtuous woman’s household is clothed with layers of clothing in the winter. They at least have an inner garment and an outer garment covering them. Yes, she is a wise woman who makes the proper preparations for colder weather.

Proverbs 6:6-8


June 24, 2018

Proverbs 31:22 – She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.


Thought: The woman who works hard should not be ashamed to provide nice things for herself. The virtuous woman makes “coverings of tapestry” for herself. These were types of quilts that would cover beds or couches. She also clothed herself in silk and purple. These materials were considered fine and regal at that time. Yes, the virtuous woman enjoyed the fruits of her labors. Sometimes the words, “I deserve it,” are in order.

Exodus 35:25


June 25, 2018

Proverbs 31:23 – Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.


Thought: Again, we learn that the virtuous woman does not hinder her husband’s success. In fact, she is the wind beneath his wings. She is the one behind the scenes who enables him to be successful. Because of her efforts in the home, he husband is free to pursue a life of leadership. He sits among the elders of the land to render judgment. He is well-known by the people of the land. Yes, behind every successful man is a good wife.

Proverbs 12:4


June 26, 2018

Proverbs 31:24 – She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.


Thought: The life of the virtuous woman is extremely productive. She does not waste her day with things that do not profit herself or her home. Her diligent labors end with profits. She sells the things she makes. She understands that there could come a day when she is not able to work. What she has done until that day arrives is very important to her family’s well-being. Instead of the TV, the computer, or the cell phone, all would be wise to be involved in things that are profitable.

Ephesians 4:28


June 27, 2018

Proverbs 31:25 – Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.


Thought: We have seen the strength of the virtuous woman throughout this section of Scripture. Her diligence, faithfulness, love, concern, and care make her a beautiful woman. Her inner qualities will bring her great joy in the future. All that she does will have positive dividends. We must all remember that how we live now can determine our future happiness. Be strong and manifest honor in all you do.

I Timothy 2:10


June 28, 2018

Proverbs 31:26 – She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.


Thought: The virtuous woman exhibits many positive qualities. Here, we learn that she is one who knows how to use her tongue properly. When she speaks, she speaks with wisdom. She speaks from knowledge and experience. Her words are used to educate and to guide others. From her lips come words of kindness. She is not rude, rough, and obnoxious. She is extremely pleasant. It is a joy to be in the company of this woman who is both wise and pleasant.

Song of Solomon 2:14


June 29, 2018

Proverbs 31:27 – She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.


Thought: The virtuous woman understands and is content with the role God has given to her. She knows that she is the keeper of the home. Thus, she looks well to the ways of her household. She is concerned about each family member. She cares about how her home is run and how it looks. She expends much effort and energy in running her home. She is not idle and slothful. Her work is never done.

Titus 2:4-5


June 30, 2018

Proverbs 31:28 – Her children rise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.


Thought: When a woman lives her life in such a way that she truly cares and sacrifices for her family, her efforts do not go unnoticed by her family members. Her children will rise and call her blessed. Her husband will praise her. She may go many years with little appreciation shown to her. For years, she may never hear the words: “Thank you.” Then, when she least expects it, her family praises her in ways that brings tears to her eyes. Then she knows her life has been well spent as a wife and mother.

I Kings 2:19


Read devotionals for July 2018