MAY 17
Psalm 51:5 [Speaking to God in prayer, King David said]: "Behold, I was shapen [shaped, formed] in iniquity [sinfulness], and in sin did my mother conceive me[,] [not because she had committed adultery or fornication but because she also was a sinner]."
In other words, David was telling God that he had been born a sinner, which meant that--as is true for everyone in the world--he inherited the sin nature, and the tendency to sin, from his parents the moment that he was conceived.
Adam Clarke rephrased the above verse like this: "'… As my parts were developed in the womb, the sinful principle diffused itself through the whole, so that body and mind grew up in a state of corruption and moral imperfection.'" (Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/psalms/51-5.html, "Adam Clarke Commentary")
MAY 16
Proverbs 16:31: "The hoary head [referring to gray or white hair, normally due to old age,] is a crown of glory [beauty, honor, meaning 'the hoary head' is honorable and commands respect], if it be found in the way of righteousness [i.e., when it's found on someone who sincerely tries to obey God's word]."
Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on this verse. Paragraph 5 of the commentary. which begins with "Our culture glories in youth," gives examples of how people in America usually react to the aging process and says it's sad that members of non-Christian religions around the world (Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, etc.) generally show more respect for senior citizens than we do.
If you want to read the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-16-index/proverbs-16_31/.
Definition of culture: Way of life, code of behavior
MAY 15
Proverbs 15:1: "A soft answer [gentle words, a kind response] turneth away wrath [anger, fury, rage]: but grievous [provoking, offensive, hurtful] words stir up anger."
King Solomon was a great observer of human nature. Following his advice to give "a soft answer," or speak kindly to others, is a great way to end arguments and/or keep the peace.
Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on this verse. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-15-index/proverbs-15_1/.
Another commentary asked, "If there be such happiness in a soft answer, how is it that it is so hard to give it?" and then answered the question by saying, "There is one great obstacle to which all others may be reduced--the obstacle of pride. When harsh words are addressed to us which we feel to be unmerited, we cannot bring ourselves to forgo the delight of a successful retort, still less can we bear to admit that any part of the wrong is of our doing. Pride disguises itself very cunningly, so that even a high-minded Christian is misled by its craft."
(Source for above quote: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/proverbs/15-1.html, "James Nisbit's Church Pulpit Commentary," paragraph III)
MAY 14
Proverbs 14:8: "The wisdom of the prudent [person, referring to someone who is sensible and shows good judgment,] is to understand his [or her] way [of life] [i.e., how to behave toward others, make wise decisions, etc.]: but the folly [foolish behavior, resulting from a lack of morals and/or common sense,] of fools is deceit [deception, because they try to convince themselves--and others--that their way (although wrong) is right]."
In his commentary on the above verse, Pastor Delany, of Salem Bible Church, says that, due to pride and a "know it all" attitude, fools think that their way is right, and they refuse to be corrected.
If you want to read the commentary, here's the link:
https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-14-index/proverbs-14_8/.
MAY 13
Proverbs 13:4: "The soul of the sluggard [i.e., a lazy person] desireth [craves, covets] [things that other people have], and hath [has] nothing: but the soul of the diligent [i.e., a hard-working person] shall be made fat [not literally, but figuratively--meaning prosperous (successful and/or rich), well-off]."
In other words, lazy people have unfulfilled desires, but hard workers are usually happy and content.
Salem Bible Church has a wonderful commentary on this verse. In it, Pastor Delany defines sluggard and gives many examples of excuses that lazy people give for not working. I especially like his comment (referring to sluggard) that 'This is the person whose motto is: never do today what you can put off until tomorrow.' He also lists some of the consequences of being lazy, tells why lazy people are unhappy, discusses the problem of homelessness, and explains what to do if you're feeling 'down in the dumps.'
If you want to read the pastor's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-13-index/proverbs-13_4/.
MAY 11-12
John 4:34-38 - Calling All Soul Winners! Workers Needed for a Spiritual Harvest
The following event took place after Jesus met the Samaritan woman at the well and told her that he was the Messiah; then she went and spread the word to the men in her city, who were now on their way to see Jesus.
Verse 34: "Jesus saith unto them [his disciples], My meat [my main focus in life, which is even more important to me than food,] is to do the will of him [i.e., God, the Father] that sent me [from heaven to earth], and to finish his [God's] work [which was, mainly, for me (Jesus) to preach the gospel and save sinners from hell]."
Verse 35: "Say not ye [don't you say, concerning crops], There are yet four months [after the seeds have been planted], and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields [of unsaved sinners]; for they [the 'crops' in our spiritual 'fields'] are white already to harvest [meaning these people have heard the gospel and are ready to be saved]."
Verse 36: "And he [or she] that reapeth [gathers the harvest] receiveth wages [rewards in heaven], and gathereth fruit unto life eternal [referring to converted souls, saved sinners, born-again Christians--people who have received God's gift of eternal life]: [so] that both he [or she] that soweth [or plants] [the gospel seed] and he [or she] that reapeth [gathers the harvest] [of saved souls] may rejoice together."
Verses 37-38: "And herein is that [common or popular] saying true, One [person] soweth, and another [person] reapeth. I [Jesus] sent you [apostles] to reap that [thing--in this case, referring to saved souls] whereon ye bestowed no labour [for which you did not work]: other men [including the prophets, Jewish teachers, John the Baptist, and even Jesus himself] laboured [by preaching and teaching the gospel], and ye [you] are entered into [have joined in] their labours [to finish the work that they have begun]."
If you want to become a soul winner and earn rewards in heaven, try passing out gospel tracts or telling people how to be saved before it's too late. Most of the tracts (brochures) on the "Printable Gospel Tracts" page of my website follow the "Romans Road" or use "God's simple plan of salvation" to present the gospel. If you want to read and/or print any of those tracts, here's the link: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
MAY 10
Proverbs 10:19: "In the multitude [abundance, or large number] of words there wanteth not [is no lack of] sin [i.e., people who talk too much will eventually say things that they regret]: but he that refraineth his lips [the person who thinks before talking and is careful of what he or she says] is wise."
Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church says that, according to this verse, we need to "… control our speech… refrain it, restrain it, keep it in check… use caution…but not to stop it altogether."
In the first part of his commentary, we learn that examples of "sins which result from a multitude of words" include:
-- "OFFENSE" (the likelihood that we'll offend someone, accidentally or on purpose)
-- "SELF PRAISE" (praising ourselves, putting ourselves on a pedestal)
-- "CONTENTION" (hurting someone's feelings, offending others, making people angry)
-- "LIES" (telling outright lies, exaggerating or stretching the truth, embellishing a story, etc.)
In the second part of his commentary, Pastor Delany says:
"5. The wise man uses words carefully… cautiously… sparingly…
"a. It is not that he is afraid to speak up.
"b. Rather, it is that he doesn't speak unless he has something to say… something worth saying…
"c. He speaks at the proper time… using the right words… sparing his words… he weighs his words before speaking them… they are well thought out… not just blurting out the first thing that pops into his undisciplined mind…"
"7. Psalm 39:1 -- David determined NOT to sin with his mouth. We all should be so determined.
"a. But don't just pray about… DO something about it!
"b. You don't just pray for your daily bread. You go to work too!
"c. Pray for the Lord's strength… AND be determined not to sin.
"d. And if we DO sin with our mouth, confess it… and forsake it.
"e. This is a sin that we will have to deal with in our lives till the Lord comes…
"8. And since it is such a part of human nature to sin with our tongues, be gracious with others! (Ecc. [Ecclesiastes] 7:21-22) Haven't you done the same? We all have, James says!"
If you want to read more of Pastor Delany's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-10-index/proverbs-10_19/.
Regarding this verse, Matthew Henry said: "… Usually, those that speak much[,] speak much amiss …" (Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/10.html, "Verse 19")
MAY 9
Hebrews 13:4: "Marriage [between a man and woman--see note below*] is honourable in all [things], and the [marriage] bed [is] undefiled [meaning that sexual activity between a husband and wife is considered by God to be pure and wholesome, not immoral or unclean]: but whoremongers [customers of prostitutes--see note below**] and adulterers [i.e., people who commit adultery, which is voluntary sexual intercourse between a married man and someone other than his wife or between a married woman and someone other than her husband,] God will judge [punish]."
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*1 Corinthians 7:2-4 "Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife."
**For the biblical definition of whoremonger, read the following article: "What is a whoremonger in the Bible?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/whoremonger.html.
MAY 9
Hebrews 13:4: "Marriage [between a man and woman--see note below*] is honourable in all [things], and the [marriage] bed [is] undefiled [meaning that sexual activity between a husband and wife is considered by God to be pure and wholesome, not immoral or unclean]: but whoremongers [customers of prostitutes--see note below**] and adulterers [i.e., people who commit adultery, which is voluntary sexual intercourse between a married man and someone other than his wife or between a married woman and someone other than her husband,] God will judge [punish]."
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*1 Corinthians 7:2-4 "Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife."
**For the biblical definition of whoremonger, read the following article: "What is a whoremonger in the Bible?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/whoremonger.html.
MAY 8
Proverbs 8:10-12 - Advice From "Lady Wisdom" (i.e., wisdom personified)
Verses 10-11 [Wisdom says]: "Receive my instruction [correction, discipline--and, if necessary, punishment], and not silver; and [receive] knowledge rather than choice gold. For [because] wisdom is better [more valuable] than rubies [jewels, precious stones … money, riches]; and all the things that may be desired [such as fame, power, position, etc.] are not to be compared to it."
Verse 12: "I wisdom [consisting of experience, knowledge, and good judgment] dwell with prudence [discretion, caution] [i.e., wisdom and prudence go together because we need prudence in order to put wisdom into practice], and find out knowledge of witty inventions [clever plots] [of our enemies--to deceive, fool, or mislead us]."
Regarding these verses, Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church said that if you're reading or holding a Bible, "You have a copy of God's wisdom in your hands! It is better than money, fame, power, position… and all other things your heart might desire!" … and his commentary goes on to explain why he said that. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-8-index/proverbs-8_10-12/.
MAY 7
2 Peter 3:3-4 - The Apostle Peter's Reminder to Christians
Verse 3: "Knowing this first [remember], that there shall come in the last days [i.e., in the New Testament dispensation, or period of time before Jesus returns to earth, which is now,] scoffers [mockers (people who make fun of others)], walking after their own lusts [doing 'their own thing'],"
Verse 4: "And saying, Where is the promise of his [Jesus'] [second] coming? for [because] since the fathers [the aged and pious (old and deeply religious) men in the times of the apostles] fell asleep [died], all things [referring to the laws of nature] continue [remain the same] as they were from the beginning of the creation [of the universe and everything in it]."
MAY 6
Proverbs 6:12-15 - Troublemakers
Verses 12-13: "A naughty [worthless, good-for-nothing] person, a wicked man [or woman or child; i.e., a troublemaker], walketh [around] with a froward [crooked, lying] mouth [meaning he (or she) habitually distorts the truth]. He [or she] winketh with his [or her] eyes, he [or she] speaketh with his [or her] feet, he [or she] teacheth with his [or her] fingers [referring to hand gestures];"
Verse 14: "Frowardness [or 'perversity'--see note below*] is in his [or her] heart [mind], he [or she] deviseth mischief [plots schemes] continually; he [or she] soweth discord [causes disagreements and division, stirs up trouble]."
Verse 15: "Therefore shall his [or her--the troublemaker's] calamity [misfortune, misery] come suddenly; suddenly shall he [or she] be broken without remedy [relief or cure]."
In his commentary on verse 12, Albert Barnes says: "… This is the portrait of the man who is not to be trusted, whose look and gestures warn against him all who can observe. His speech is tortuous and crafty; his wink tells the accomplice that the victim is already snared; his gestures with foot and hand are half in deceit, and half in mockery." (Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/proverbs-6.html, "Verse 12")
Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church has also done a Bible study on these verses, and in it, he gives many examples of the various types of body language that are mentioned above. If you want to read his commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-6-index/proverbs-6_12-15/.
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*Definition of perversity, according to online dictionaries: A deliberate desire to behave in an unreasonable or unacceptable way; contrariness; the quality of being contrary to accepted standards or practice.
MAY 4-5
Genesis 3:1-7 - "The Fall of Man" (When Adam and Eve Ate the Forbidden Fruit)
This event took place in the Garden of Eden, when Satan, disguised as a serpent, appeared to Adam and Eve and caused them to sin by persuading them to disobey God and eat fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
Verse 1: "Now the serpent [i.e., Satan (the devil), in the form of a large snake that was able to walk and talk] was more subtil [subtle (or intelligent, clever, and deceptive)] than any beast of the field [referring to all animals] which the LORD God had made. And he [the serpent] said unto the woman [Eve], Yea [indeed], hath [has] God said [to you and your husband, Adam], Ye shall not eat [the fruit] of every tree of the garden?"
Verses 2-3: "And the woman [Eve] said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst [middle] of the garden [referring to the tree of the knowledge of good and evil], God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it [actually, the 'not touching that tree' part of her statement was not true], lest ye die [or else you will die]."
Verses 4-5: "And the serpent said unto the woman [trying to convince her that God didn't intend to carry out his threat], Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof [referring to the forbidden fruit], then your eyes [meaning the eyes of their minds (their understanding)] shall be opened, and ye shall be as [like] gods, knowing [what is] good and evil."
Verse 6: "And when the woman [Eve] saw that the tree [of the knowledge of good and evil] was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes [or was pleasing to look at], and [it was ] a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto [also gave some to] her husband [Adam] with her; and he did eat.
Verse 7: "And the eyes of them both [Adam and Eve] were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons [to cover themselves] [and then they were thrown out of the garden]."
The above story illustrates the consequences of disobeying God's commands.
GotQuestions.org has articles that answer some common questions about this event. If you want to read one or two of them, here are their titles along with the links:
-- "What truly happened at the fall of man?" (https://www.gotquestions.org/fall-of-man.html)
-- "Was the forbidden fruit an apple?" (https://www.gotquestions.org/forbidden-fruit-apple.html)
MAY 3
Proverbs 3:9-10 - How to Receive Blessings From God
Verse 9: "Honour the LORD with thy substance [meaning your money and/or possessions; in other words, honor God by giving to his work and service], and with the firstfruits [the first, or best, part] of all thine increase [i.e., whatever else you get in the future]:"
Verse 10: "So [then] shall thy [your] barns be filled with plenty [of food (corn, grain, etc.)], and thy presses [referring to the vats in a vineyard] shall burst out [overflow] with new [freshly pressed] wine."
When we use our money, time, and talents to worship the Lord, feed the poor, and help spread the gospel, God will bless us and take care of our daily needs.
According to Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church, in his commentary on the above verses (paragraph 3, last section): "The passage in Prov. [Proverbs] 3:10 does NOT give us the MOTIVE to give (so that we will get). Rather, it gives us a PROMISE in giving… that when we give sacrificially, God will provide for our needs!" Then he gives his reasons for saying that.
If you want to read Pastor Delany's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-3-index/proverbs-3_9-10/.
Regarding verses 9 and 10, Matthew Henry said: "… Those that do good with what they have shall have more to do more good with …" (Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/3.html, "Verses 7-12")
MAY 2
Psalm 107:8: "Oh that men [and women and children, especially born-again Christians,] would praise the LORD for his goodness [kindness], and for his wonderful works [including salvation, protection, guidance, and answered prayer] to the children of men [or 'all people']!"
MAY 1
2 Corinthians 7:10: "For godly sorrow [sadness or feeling bad because we have sinned, or broken God's laws,] worketh [brings about] repentance [a change of mind, which leads] to salvation [i.e., the act of receiving God's gift of eternal life,] not to be repented of [regretted]: but the sorrow of the world [sadness due to worldly causes (such as disappointment, shame or disgrace, loss of friends or loved ones, money, property, etc.) and which does not lead to a personal relationship with God] worketh death [or often results in death itself, as when a person becomes very sick and dies (for example, of a 'broken heart') or feels so distressed that he or she commits suicide]."
For definitions of godly sorrow and salvation:
-- The article entitled "What is godly sorrow?" by GotQuestions.org has a detailed explanation of what is meant by the term godly sorrow. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/godly-sorrow.html.
-- The question "What is salvation?" is answered by GotQuestions.org in the following article: "What is the Christian doctrine of salvation?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-doctrine-salvation.html.
Would you like to be born again (saved) and receive God's gift of eternal life? If you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and Messiah, that he died on the cross to pay for your sins, and that he was buried and rose again, all you need to do is sincerely ask him (through prayer) to come into your heart and save you so you can go to heaven when you die.
For detailed instructions on the plan of salvation, read one or more of the tracts in the "Printable Gospel Tracts" section of my website. Here's a direct link to that page: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
Psalm 51:5 [Speaking to God in prayer, King David said]: "Behold, I was shapen [shaped, formed] in iniquity [sinfulness], and in sin did my mother conceive me[,] [not because she had committed adultery or fornication but because she also was a sinner]."
In other words, David was telling God that he had been born a sinner, which meant that--as is true for everyone in the world--he inherited the sin nature, and the tendency to sin, from his parents the moment that he was conceived.
Adam Clarke rephrased the above verse like this: "'… As my parts were developed in the womb, the sinful principle diffused itself through the whole, so that body and mind grew up in a state of corruption and moral imperfection.'" (Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/psalms/51-5.html, "Adam Clarke Commentary")
MAY 16
Proverbs 16:31: "The hoary head [referring to gray or white hair, normally due to old age,] is a crown of glory [beauty, honor, meaning 'the hoary head' is honorable and commands respect], if it be found in the way of righteousness [i.e., when it's found on someone who sincerely tries to obey God's word]."
Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on this verse. Paragraph 5 of the commentary. which begins with "Our culture glories in youth," gives examples of how people in America usually react to the aging process and says it's sad that members of non-Christian religions around the world (Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, etc.) generally show more respect for senior citizens than we do.
If you want to read the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-16-index/proverbs-16_31/.
Definition of culture: Way of life, code of behavior
MAY 15
Proverbs 15:1: "A soft answer [gentle words, a kind response] turneth away wrath [anger, fury, rage]: but grievous [provoking, offensive, hurtful] words stir up anger."
King Solomon was a great observer of human nature. Following his advice to give "a soft answer," or speak kindly to others, is a great way to end arguments and/or keep the peace.
Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on this verse. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-15-index/proverbs-15_1/.
Another commentary asked, "If there be such happiness in a soft answer, how is it that it is so hard to give it?" and then answered the question by saying, "There is one great obstacle to which all others may be reduced--the obstacle of pride. When harsh words are addressed to us which we feel to be unmerited, we cannot bring ourselves to forgo the delight of a successful retort, still less can we bear to admit that any part of the wrong is of our doing. Pride disguises itself very cunningly, so that even a high-minded Christian is misled by its craft."
(Source for above quote: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/proverbs/15-1.html, "James Nisbit's Church Pulpit Commentary," paragraph III)
MAY 14
Proverbs 14:8: "The wisdom of the prudent [person, referring to someone who is sensible and shows good judgment,] is to understand his [or her] way [of life] [i.e., how to behave toward others, make wise decisions, etc.]: but the folly [foolish behavior, resulting from a lack of morals and/or common sense,] of fools is deceit [deception, because they try to convince themselves--and others--that their way (although wrong) is right]."
In his commentary on the above verse, Pastor Delany, of Salem Bible Church, says that, due to pride and a "know it all" attitude, fools think that their way is right, and they refuse to be corrected.
If you want to read the commentary, here's the link:
https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-14-index/proverbs-14_8/.
MAY 13
Proverbs 13:4: "The soul of the sluggard [i.e., a lazy person] desireth [craves, covets] [things that other people have], and hath [has] nothing: but the soul of the diligent [i.e., a hard-working person] shall be made fat [not literally, but figuratively--meaning prosperous (successful and/or rich), well-off]."
In other words, lazy people have unfulfilled desires, but hard workers are usually happy and content.
Salem Bible Church has a wonderful commentary on this verse. In it, Pastor Delany defines sluggard and gives many examples of excuses that lazy people give for not working. I especially like his comment (referring to sluggard) that 'This is the person whose motto is: never do today what you can put off until tomorrow.' He also lists some of the consequences of being lazy, tells why lazy people are unhappy, discusses the problem of homelessness, and explains what to do if you're feeling 'down in the dumps.'
If you want to read the pastor's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-13-index/proverbs-13_4/.
MAY 11-12
John 4:34-38 - Calling All Soul Winners! Workers Needed for a Spiritual Harvest
The following event took place after Jesus met the Samaritan woman at the well and told her that he was the Messiah; then she went and spread the word to the men in her city, who were now on their way to see Jesus.
Verse 34: "Jesus saith unto them [his disciples], My meat [my main focus in life, which is even more important to me than food,] is to do the will of him [i.e., God, the Father] that sent me [from heaven to earth], and to finish his [God's] work [which was, mainly, for me (Jesus) to preach the gospel and save sinners from hell]."
Verse 35: "Say not ye [don't you say, concerning crops], There are yet four months [after the seeds have been planted], and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields [of unsaved sinners]; for they [the 'crops' in our spiritual 'fields'] are white already to harvest [meaning these people have heard the gospel and are ready to be saved]."
Verse 36: "And he [or she] that reapeth [gathers the harvest] receiveth wages [rewards in heaven], and gathereth fruit unto life eternal [referring to converted souls, saved sinners, born-again Christians--people who have received God's gift of eternal life]: [so] that both he [or she] that soweth [or plants] [the gospel seed] and he [or she] that reapeth [gathers the harvest] [of saved souls] may rejoice together."
Verses 37-38: "And herein is that [common or popular] saying true, One [person] soweth, and another [person] reapeth. I [Jesus] sent you [apostles] to reap that [thing--in this case, referring to saved souls] whereon ye bestowed no labour [for which you did not work]: other men [including the prophets, Jewish teachers, John the Baptist, and even Jesus himself] laboured [by preaching and teaching the gospel], and ye [you] are entered into [have joined in] their labours [to finish the work that they have begun]."
If you want to become a soul winner and earn rewards in heaven, try passing out gospel tracts or telling people how to be saved before it's too late. Most of the tracts (brochures) on the "Printable Gospel Tracts" page of my website follow the "Romans Road" or use "God's simple plan of salvation" to present the gospel. If you want to read and/or print any of those tracts, here's the link: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
MAY 10
Proverbs 10:19: "In the multitude [abundance, or large number] of words there wanteth not [is no lack of] sin [i.e., people who talk too much will eventually say things that they regret]: but he that refraineth his lips [the person who thinks before talking and is careful of what he or she says] is wise."
Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church says that, according to this verse, we need to "… control our speech… refrain it, restrain it, keep it in check… use caution…but not to stop it altogether."
In the first part of his commentary, we learn that examples of "sins which result from a multitude of words" include:
-- "OFFENSE" (the likelihood that we'll offend someone, accidentally or on purpose)
-- "SELF PRAISE" (praising ourselves, putting ourselves on a pedestal)
-- "CONTENTION" (hurting someone's feelings, offending others, making people angry)
-- "LIES" (telling outright lies, exaggerating or stretching the truth, embellishing a story, etc.)
In the second part of his commentary, Pastor Delany says:
"5. The wise man uses words carefully… cautiously… sparingly…
"a. It is not that he is afraid to speak up.
"b. Rather, it is that he doesn't speak unless he has something to say… something worth saying…
"c. He speaks at the proper time… using the right words… sparing his words… he weighs his words before speaking them… they are well thought out… not just blurting out the first thing that pops into his undisciplined mind…"
"7. Psalm 39:1 -- David determined NOT to sin with his mouth. We all should be so determined.
"a. But don't just pray about… DO something about it!
"b. You don't just pray for your daily bread. You go to work too!
"c. Pray for the Lord's strength… AND be determined not to sin.
"d. And if we DO sin with our mouth, confess it… and forsake it.
"e. This is a sin that we will have to deal with in our lives till the Lord comes…
"8. And since it is such a part of human nature to sin with our tongues, be gracious with others! (Ecc. [Ecclesiastes] 7:21-22) Haven't you done the same? We all have, James says!"
If you want to read more of Pastor Delany's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-10-index/proverbs-10_19/.
Regarding this verse, Matthew Henry said: "… Usually, those that speak much[,] speak much amiss …" (Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/10.html, "Verse 19")
MAY 9
Hebrews 13:4: "Marriage [between a man and woman--see note below*] is honourable in all [things], and the [marriage] bed [is] undefiled [meaning that sexual activity between a husband and wife is considered by God to be pure and wholesome, not immoral or unclean]: but whoremongers [customers of prostitutes--see note below**] and adulterers [i.e., people who commit adultery, which is voluntary sexual intercourse between a married man and someone other than his wife or between a married woman and someone other than her husband,] God will judge [punish]."
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*1 Corinthians 7:2-4 "Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife."
**For the biblical definition of whoremonger, read the following article: "What is a whoremonger in the Bible?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/whoremonger.html.
MAY 9
Hebrews 13:4: "Marriage [between a man and woman--see note below*] is honourable in all [things], and the [marriage] bed [is] undefiled [meaning that sexual activity between a husband and wife is considered by God to be pure and wholesome, not immoral or unclean]: but whoremongers [customers of prostitutes--see note below**] and adulterers [i.e., people who commit adultery, which is voluntary sexual intercourse between a married man and someone other than his wife or between a married woman and someone other than her husband,] God will judge [punish]."
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*1 Corinthians 7:2-4 "Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife."
**For the biblical definition of whoremonger, read the following article: "What is a whoremonger in the Bible?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/whoremonger.html.
MAY 8
Proverbs 8:10-12 - Advice From "Lady Wisdom" (i.e., wisdom personified)
Verses 10-11 [Wisdom says]: "Receive my instruction [correction, discipline--and, if necessary, punishment], and not silver; and [receive] knowledge rather than choice gold. For [because] wisdom is better [more valuable] than rubies [jewels, precious stones … money, riches]; and all the things that may be desired [such as fame, power, position, etc.] are not to be compared to it."
Verse 12: "I wisdom [consisting of experience, knowledge, and good judgment] dwell with prudence [discretion, caution] [i.e., wisdom and prudence go together because we need prudence in order to put wisdom into practice], and find out knowledge of witty inventions [clever plots] [of our enemies--to deceive, fool, or mislead us]."
Regarding these verses, Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church said that if you're reading or holding a Bible, "You have a copy of God's wisdom in your hands! It is better than money, fame, power, position… and all other things your heart might desire!" … and his commentary goes on to explain why he said that. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-8-index/proverbs-8_10-12/.
MAY 7
2 Peter 3:3-4 - The Apostle Peter's Reminder to Christians
Verse 3: "Knowing this first [remember], that there shall come in the last days [i.e., in the New Testament dispensation, or period of time before Jesus returns to earth, which is now,] scoffers [mockers (people who make fun of others)], walking after their own lusts [doing 'their own thing'],"
Verse 4: "And saying, Where is the promise of his [Jesus'] [second] coming? for [because] since the fathers [the aged and pious (old and deeply religious) men in the times of the apostles] fell asleep [died], all things [referring to the laws of nature] continue [remain the same] as they were from the beginning of the creation [of the universe and everything in it]."
MAY 6
Proverbs 6:12-15 - Troublemakers
Verses 12-13: "A naughty [worthless, good-for-nothing] person, a wicked man [or woman or child; i.e., a troublemaker], walketh [around] with a froward [crooked, lying] mouth [meaning he (or she) habitually distorts the truth]. He [or she] winketh with his [or her] eyes, he [or she] speaketh with his [or her] feet, he [or she] teacheth with his [or her] fingers [referring to hand gestures];"
Verse 14: "Frowardness [or 'perversity'--see note below*] is in his [or her] heart [mind], he [or she] deviseth mischief [plots schemes] continually; he [or she] soweth discord [causes disagreements and division, stirs up trouble]."
Verse 15: "Therefore shall his [or her--the troublemaker's] calamity [misfortune, misery] come suddenly; suddenly shall he [or she] be broken without remedy [relief or cure]."
In his commentary on verse 12, Albert Barnes says: "… This is the portrait of the man who is not to be trusted, whose look and gestures warn against him all who can observe. His speech is tortuous and crafty; his wink tells the accomplice that the victim is already snared; his gestures with foot and hand are half in deceit, and half in mockery." (Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/proverbs-6.html, "Verse 12")
Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church has also done a Bible study on these verses, and in it, he gives many examples of the various types of body language that are mentioned above. If you want to read his commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-6-index/proverbs-6_12-15/.
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*Definition of perversity, according to online dictionaries: A deliberate desire to behave in an unreasonable or unacceptable way; contrariness; the quality of being contrary to accepted standards or practice.
MAY 4-5
Genesis 3:1-7 - "The Fall of Man" (When Adam and Eve Ate the Forbidden Fruit)
This event took place in the Garden of Eden, when Satan, disguised as a serpent, appeared to Adam and Eve and caused them to sin by persuading them to disobey God and eat fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
Verse 1: "Now the serpent [i.e., Satan (the devil), in the form of a large snake that was able to walk and talk] was more subtil [subtle (or intelligent, clever, and deceptive)] than any beast of the field [referring to all animals] which the LORD God had made. And he [the serpent] said unto the woman [Eve], Yea [indeed], hath [has] God said [to you and your husband, Adam], Ye shall not eat [the fruit] of every tree of the garden?"
Verses 2-3: "And the woman [Eve] said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst [middle] of the garden [referring to the tree of the knowledge of good and evil], God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it [actually, the 'not touching that tree' part of her statement was not true], lest ye die [or else you will die]."
Verses 4-5: "And the serpent said unto the woman [trying to convince her that God didn't intend to carry out his threat], Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof [referring to the forbidden fruit], then your eyes [meaning the eyes of their minds (their understanding)] shall be opened, and ye shall be as [like] gods, knowing [what is] good and evil."
Verse 6: "And when the woman [Eve] saw that the tree [of the knowledge of good and evil] was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes [or was pleasing to look at], and [it was ] a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto [also gave some to] her husband [Adam] with her; and he did eat.
Verse 7: "And the eyes of them both [Adam and Eve] were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons [to cover themselves] [and then they were thrown out of the garden]."
The above story illustrates the consequences of disobeying God's commands.
GotQuestions.org has articles that answer some common questions about this event. If you want to read one or two of them, here are their titles along with the links:
-- "What truly happened at the fall of man?" (https://www.gotquestions.org/fall-of-man.html)
-- "Was the forbidden fruit an apple?" (https://www.gotquestions.org/forbidden-fruit-apple.html)
MAY 3
Proverbs 3:9-10 - How to Receive Blessings From God
Verse 9: "Honour the LORD with thy substance [meaning your money and/or possessions; in other words, honor God by giving to his work and service], and with the firstfruits [the first, or best, part] of all thine increase [i.e., whatever else you get in the future]:"
Verse 10: "So [then] shall thy [your] barns be filled with plenty [of food (corn, grain, etc.)], and thy presses [referring to the vats in a vineyard] shall burst out [overflow] with new [freshly pressed] wine."
When we use our money, time, and talents to worship the Lord, feed the poor, and help spread the gospel, God will bless us and take care of our daily needs.
According to Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church, in his commentary on the above verses (paragraph 3, last section): "The passage in Prov. [Proverbs] 3:10 does NOT give us the MOTIVE to give (so that we will get). Rather, it gives us a PROMISE in giving… that when we give sacrificially, God will provide for our needs!" Then he gives his reasons for saying that.
If you want to read Pastor Delany's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-3-index/proverbs-3_9-10/.
Regarding verses 9 and 10, Matthew Henry said: "… Those that do good with what they have shall have more to do more good with …" (Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/3.html, "Verses 7-12")
MAY 2
Psalm 107:8: "Oh that men [and women and children, especially born-again Christians,] would praise the LORD for his goodness [kindness], and for his wonderful works [including salvation, protection, guidance, and answered prayer] to the children of men [or 'all people']!"
MAY 1
2 Corinthians 7:10: "For godly sorrow [sadness or feeling bad because we have sinned, or broken God's laws,] worketh [brings about] repentance [a change of mind, which leads] to salvation [i.e., the act of receiving God's gift of eternal life,] not to be repented of [regretted]: but the sorrow of the world [sadness due to worldly causes (such as disappointment, shame or disgrace, loss of friends or loved ones, money, property, etc.) and which does not lead to a personal relationship with God] worketh death [or often results in death itself, as when a person becomes very sick and dies (for example, of a 'broken heart') or feels so distressed that he or she commits suicide]."
For definitions of godly sorrow and salvation:
-- The article entitled "What is godly sorrow?" by GotQuestions.org has a detailed explanation of what is meant by the term godly sorrow. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/godly-sorrow.html.
-- The question "What is salvation?" is answered by GotQuestions.org in the following article: "What is the Christian doctrine of salvation?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-doctrine-salvation.html.
Would you like to be born again (saved) and receive God's gift of eternal life? If you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and Messiah, that he died on the cross to pay for your sins, and that he was buried and rose again, all you need to do is sincerely ask him (through prayer) to come into your heart and save you so you can go to heaven when you die.
For detailed instructions on the plan of salvation, read one or more of the tracts in the "Printable Gospel Tracts" section of my website. Here's a direct link to that page: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
Previous Verses
May 2019
MAY 17
Psalm 51:5 [Speaking to God in prayer, King David said]: "Behold, I was shapen [shaped, formed] in iniquity [sinfulness], and in sin did my mother conceive me[,] [not because she had committed adultery or fornication but because she also was a sinner]."
In other words, David was telling God that he had been born a sinner, which meant that--as is true for everyone in the world--he inherited the sin nature, and the tendency to sin, from his parents the moment that he was conceived.
Adam Clarke rephrased the above verse like this: "'… As my parts were developed in the womb, the sinful principle diffused itself through the whole, so that body and mind grew up in a state of corruption and moral imperfection.'" (Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/psalms/51-5.html, "Adam Clarke Commentary")
MAY 16
Proverbs 16:31: "The hoary head [referring to gray or white hair, normally due to old age,] is a crown of glory [beauty, honor, meaning 'the hoary head' is honorable and commands respect], if it be found in the way of righteousness [i.e., when it's found on someone who sincerely tries to obey God's word]."
Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on this verse. Paragraph 5 of the commentary. which begins with "Our culture glories in youth," gives examples of how people in America usually react to the aging process and says it's sad that members of non-Christian religions around the world (Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, etc.) generally show more respect for senior citizens than we do.
If you want to read the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-16-index/proverbs-16_31/.
Definition of culture: Way of life, code of behavior
MAY 15
Proverbs 15:1: "A soft answer [gentle words, a kind response] turneth away wrath [anger, fury, rage]: but grievous [provoking, offensive, hurtful] words stir up anger."
King Solomon was a great observer of human nature. Following his advice to give "a soft answer," or speak kindly to others, is a great way to end arguments and/or keep the peace.
Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on this verse. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-15-index/proverbs-15_1/.
Another commentary asked, "If there be such happiness in a soft answer, how is it that it is so hard to give it?" and then answered the question by saying, "There is one great obstacle to which all others may be reduced--the obstacle of pride. When harsh words are addressed to us which we feel to be unmerited, we cannot bring ourselves to forgo the delight of a successful retort, still less can we bear to admit that any part of the wrong is of our doing. Pride disguises itself very cunningly, so that even a high-minded Christian is misled by its craft."
(Source for above quote: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/proverbs/15-1.html, "James Nisbit's Church Pulpit Commentary," paragraph III)
MAY 14
Proverbs 14:8: "The wisdom of the prudent [person, referring to someone who is sensible and shows good judgment,] is to understand his [or her] way [of life] [i.e., how to behave toward others, make wise decisions, etc.]: but the folly [foolish behavior, resulting from a lack of morals and/or common sense,] of fools is deceit [deception, because they try to convince themselves--and others--that their way (although wrong) is right]."
In his commentary on the above verse, Pastor Delany, of Salem Bible Church, says that, due to pride and a "know it all" attitude, fools think that their way is right, and they refuse to be corrected.
If you want to read the commentary, here's the link:
https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-14-index/proverbs-14_8/.
MAY 13
Proverbs 13:4: "The soul of the sluggard [i.e., a lazy person] desireth [craves, covets] [things that other people have], and hath [has] nothing: but the soul of the diligent [i.e., a hard-working person] shall be made fat [not literally, but figuratively--meaning prosperous (successful and/or rich), well-off]."
In other words, lazy people have unfulfilled desires, but hard workers are usually happy and content.
Salem Bible Church has a wonderful commentary on this verse. In it, Pastor Delany defines sluggard and gives many examples of excuses that lazy people give for not working. I especially like his comment (referring to sluggard) that 'This is the person whose motto is: never do today what you can put off until tomorrow.' He also lists some of the consequences of being lazy, tells why lazy people are unhappy, discusses the problem of homelessness, and explains what to do if you're feeling 'down in the dumps.'
If you want to read the pastor's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-13-index/proverbs-13_4/.
MAY 11-12
John 4:34-38 - Calling All Soul Winners! Workers Needed for a Spiritual Harvest
The following event took place after Jesus met the Samaritan woman at the well and told her that he was the Messiah; then she went and spread the word to the men in her city, who were now on their way to see Jesus.
Verse 34: "Jesus saith unto them [his disciples], My meat [my main focus in life, which is even more important to me than food,] is to do the will of him [i.e., God, the Father] that sent me [from heaven to earth], and to finish his [God's] work [which was, mainly, for me (Jesus) to preach the gospel and save sinners from hell]."
Verse 35: "Say not ye [don't you say, concerning crops], There are yet four months [after the seeds have been planted], and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields [of unsaved sinners]; for they [the 'crops' in our spiritual 'fields'] are white already to harvest [meaning these people have heard the gospel and are ready to be saved]."
Verse 36: "And he [or she] that reapeth [gathers the harvest] receiveth wages [rewards in heaven], and gathereth fruit unto life eternal [referring to converted souls, saved sinners, born-again Christians--people who have received God's gift of eternal life]: [so] that both he [or she] that soweth [or plants] [the gospel seed] and he [or she] that reapeth [gathers the harvest] [of saved souls] may rejoice together."
Verses 37-38: "And herein is that [common or popular] saying true, One [person] soweth, and another [person] reapeth. I [Jesus] sent you [apostles] to reap that [thing--in this case, referring to saved souls] whereon ye bestowed no labour [for which you did not work]: other men [including the prophets, Jewish teachers, John the Baptist, and even Jesus himself] laboured [by preaching and teaching the gospel], and ye [you] are entered into [have joined in] their labours [to finish the work that they have begun]."
If you want to become a soul winner and earn rewards in heaven, try passing out gospel tracts or telling people how to be saved before it's too late. Most of the tracts (brochures) on the "Printable Gospel Tracts" page of my website follow the "Romans Road" or use "God's simple plan of salvation" to present the gospel. If you want to read and/or print any of those tracts, here's the link: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
MAY 10
Proverbs 10:19: "In the multitude [abundance, or large number] of words there wanteth not [is no lack of] sin [i.e., people who talk too much will eventually say things that they regret]: but he that refraineth his lips [the person who thinks before talking and is careful of what he or she says] is wise."
Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church says that, according to this verse, we need to "… control our speech… refrain it, restrain it, keep it in check… use caution…but not to stop it altogether."
In the first part of his commentary, we learn that examples of "sins which result from a multitude of words" include:
-- "OFFENSE" (the likelihood that we'll offend someone, accidentally or on purpose)
-- "SELF PRAISE" (praising ourselves, putting ourselves on a pedestal)
-- "CONTENTION" (hurting someone's feelings, offending others, making people angry)
-- "LIES" (telling outright lies, exaggerating or stretching the truth, embellishing a story, etc.)
In the second part of his commentary, Pastor Delany says:
"5. The wise man uses words carefully… cautiously… sparingly…
"a. It is not that he is afraid to speak up.
"b. Rather, it is that he doesn't speak unless he has something to say… something worth saying…
"c. He speaks at the proper time… using the right words… sparing his words… he weighs his words before speaking them… they are well thought out… not just blurting out the first thing that pops into his undisciplined mind…"
"7. Psalm 39:1 -- David determined NOT to sin with his mouth. We all should be so determined.
"a. But don't just pray about… DO something about it!
"b. You don't just pray for your daily bread. You go to work too!
"c. Pray for the Lord's strength… AND be determined not to sin.
"d. And if we DO sin with our mouth, confess it… and forsake it.
"e. This is a sin that we will have to deal with in our lives till the Lord comes…
"8. And since it is such a part of human nature to sin with our tongues, be gracious with others! (Ecc. [Ecclesiastes] 7:21-22) Haven't you done the same? We all have, James says!"
If you want to read more of Pastor Delany's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-10-index/proverbs-10_19/.
Regarding this verse, Matthew Henry said: "… Usually, those that speak much[,] speak much amiss …" (Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/10.html, "Verse 19")
MAY 9
Hebrews 13:4: "Marriage [between a man and woman--see note below*] is honourable in all [things], and the [marriage] bed [is] undefiled [meaning that sexual activity between a husband and wife is considered by God to be pure and wholesome, not immoral or unclean]: but whoremongers [customers of prostitutes--see note below**] and adulterers [i.e., people who commit adultery, which is voluntary sexual intercourse between a married man and someone other than his wife or between a married woman and someone other than her husband,] God will judge [punish]."
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*1 Corinthians 7:2-4 "Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife."
**For the biblical definition of whoremonger, read the following article: "What is a whoremonger in the Bible?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/whoremonger.html.
MAY 8
Proverbs 8:10-12 - Advice From "Lady Wisdom" (i.e., wisdom personified)
Verses 10-11 [Wisdom says]: "Receive my instruction [correction, discipline--and, if necessary, punishment], and not silver; and [receive] knowledge rather than choice gold. For [because] wisdom is better [more valuable] than rubies [jewels, precious stones … money, riches]; and all the things that may be desired [such as fame, power, position, etc.] are not to be compared to it."
Verse 12: "I wisdom [consisting of experience, knowledge, and good judgment] dwell with prudence [discretion, caution] [i.e., wisdom and prudence go together because we need prudence in order to put wisdom into practice], and find out knowledge of witty inventions [clever plots] [of our enemies--to deceive, fool, or mislead us]."
Regarding these verses, Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church said that if you're reading or holding a Bible, "You have a copy of God's wisdom in your hands! It is better than money, fame, power, position… and all other things your heart might desire!" … and his commentary goes on to explain why he said that. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-8-index/proverbs-8_10-12/.
MAY 7
2 Peter 3:3-4 - The Apostle Peter's Reminder to Christians
Verse 3: "Knowing this first [remember], that there shall come in the last days [i.e., in the New Testament dispensation, or period of time before Jesus returns to earth, which is now,] scoffers [mockers (people who make fun of others)], walking after their own lusts [doing 'their own thing'],"
Verse 4: "And saying, Where is the promise of his [Jesus'] [second] coming? for [because] since the fathers [the aged and pious (old and deeply religious) men in the times of the apostles] fell asleep [died], all things [referring to the laws of nature] continue [remain the same] as they were from the beginning of the creation [of the universe and everything in it]."
MAY 6
Proverbs 6:12-15 - Troublemakers
Verses 12-13: "A naughty [worthless, good-for-nothing] person, a wicked man [or woman or child; i.e., a troublemaker], walketh [around] with a froward [crooked, lying] mouth [meaning he (or she) habitually distorts the truth]. He [or she] winketh with his [or her] eyes, he [or she] speaketh with his [or her] feet, he [or she] teacheth with his [or her] fingers [referring to hand gestures];"
Verse 14: "Frowardness [or 'perversity'--see note below*] is in his [or her] heart [mind], he [or she] deviseth mischief [plots schemes] continually; he [or she] soweth discord [causes disagreements and division, stirs up trouble]."
Verse 15: "Therefore shall his [or her--the troublemaker's] calamity [misfortune, misery] come suddenly; suddenly shall he [or she] be broken without remedy [relief or cure]."
In his commentary on verse 12, Albert Barnes says: "… This is the portrait of the man who is not to be trusted, whose look and gestures warn against him all who can observe. His speech is tortuous and crafty; his wink tells the accomplice that the victim is already snared; his gestures with foot and hand are half in deceit, and half in mockery." (Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/proverbs-6.html, "Verse 12")
Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church has also done a Bible study on these verses, and in it, he gives many examples of the various types of body language that are mentioned above. If you want to read his commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-6-index/proverbs-6_12-15/.
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*Definition of perversity, according to online dictionaries: A deliberate desire to behave in an unreasonable or unacceptable way; contrariness; the quality of being contrary to accepted standards or practice.
MAY 4-5
Genesis 3:1-7 - "The Fall of Man" (When Adam and Eve Ate the Forbidden Fruit)
This event took place in the Garden of Eden, when Satan, disguised as a serpent, appeared to Adam and Eve and caused them to sin by persuading them to disobey God and eat fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
Verse 1: "Now the serpent [i.e., Satan (the devil), in the form of a large snake that was able to walk and talk] was more subtil [subtle (or intelligent, clever, and deceptive)] than any beast of the field [referring to all animals] which the LORD God had made. And he [the serpent] said unto the woman [Eve], Yea [indeed], hath [has] God said [to you and your husband, Adam], Ye shall not eat [the fruit] of every tree of the garden?"
Verses 2-3: "And the woman [Eve] said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst [middle] of the garden [referring to the tree of the knowledge of good and evil], God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it [actually, the 'not touching that tree' part of her statement was not true], lest ye die [or else you will die]."
Verses 4-5: "And the serpent said unto the woman [trying to convince her that God didn't intend to carry out his threat], Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof [referring to the forbidden fruit], then your eyes [meaning the eyes of their minds (their understanding)] shall be opened, and ye shall be as [like] gods, knowing [what is] good and evil."
Verse 6: "And when the woman [Eve] saw that the tree [of the knowledge of good and evil] was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes [or was pleasing to look at], and [it was ] a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto [also gave some to] her husband [Adam] with her; and he did eat.
Verse 7: "And the eyes of them both [Adam and Eve] were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons [to cover themselves] [and then they were thrown out of the garden]."
The above story illustrates the consequences of disobeying God's commands.
GotQuestions.org has articles that answer some common questions about this event. If you want to read one or two of them, here are their titles along with the links:
-- "What truly happened at the fall of man?" (https://www.gotquestions.org/fall-of-man.html)
-- "Was the forbidden fruit an apple?" (https://www.gotquestions.org/forbidden-fruit-apple.html)
MAY 3
Proverbs 3:9-10 - How to Receive Blessings From God
Verse 9: "Honour the LORD with thy substance [meaning your money and/or possessions; in other words, honor God by giving to his work and service], and with the firstfruits [the first, or best, part] of all thine increase [i.e., whatever else you get in the future]:"
Verse 10: "So [then] shall thy [your] barns be filled with plenty [of food (corn, grain, etc.)], and thy presses [referring to the vats in a vineyard] shall burst out [overflow] with new [freshly pressed] wine."
When we use our money, time, and talents to worship the Lord, feed the poor, and help spread the gospel, God will bless us and take care of our daily needs.
According to Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church, in his commentary on the above verses (paragraph 3, last section): "The passage in Prov. [Proverbs] 3:10 does NOT give us the MOTIVE to give (so that we will get). Rather, it gives us a PROMISE in giving… that when we give sacrificially, God will provide for our needs!" Then he gives his reasons for saying that.
If you want to read Pastor Delany's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-3-index/proverbs-3_9-10/.
Regarding verses 9 and 10, Matthew Henry said: "… Those that do good with what they have shall have more to do more good with …" (Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/3.html, "Verses 7-12")
MAY 2
Psalm 107:8: "Oh that men [and women and children, especially born-again Christians,] would praise the LORD for his goodness [kindness], and for his wonderful works [including salvation, protection, guidance, and answered prayer] to the children of men [or 'all people']!"
MAY 1
2 Corinthians 7:10: "For godly sorrow [sadness or feeling bad because we have sinned, or broken God's laws,] worketh [brings about] repentance [a change of mind, which leads] to salvation [i.e., the act of receiving God's gift of eternal life,] not to be repented of [regretted]: but the sorrow of the world [sadness due to worldly causes (such as disappointment, shame or disgrace, loss of friends or loved ones, money, property, etc.) and which does not lead to a personal relationship with God] worketh death [or often results in death itself, as when a person becomes very sick and dies (for example, of a 'broken heart') or feels so distressed that he or she commits suicide]."
For definitions of godly sorrow and salvation:
-- The article entitled "What is godly sorrow?" by GotQuestions.org has a detailed explanation of what is meant by the term godly sorrow. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/godly-sorrow.html.
-- The question "What is salvation?" is answered by GotQuestions.org in the following article: "What is the Christian doctrine of salvation?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-doctrine-salvation.html.
Would you like to be born again (saved) and receive God's gift of eternal life? If you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and Messiah, that he died on the cross to pay for your sins, and that he was buried and rose again, all you need to do is sincerely ask him (through prayer) to come into your heart and save you so you can go to heaven when you die.
For detailed instructions on the plan of salvation, read one or more of the tracts in the "Printable Gospel Tracts" section of my website. Here's a direct link to that page: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
Psalm 51:5 [Speaking to God in prayer, King David said]: "Behold, I was shapen [shaped, formed] in iniquity [sinfulness], and in sin did my mother conceive me[,] [not because she had committed adultery or fornication but because she also was a sinner]."
In other words, David was telling God that he had been born a sinner, which meant that--as is true for everyone in the world--he inherited the sin nature, and the tendency to sin, from his parents the moment that he was conceived.
Adam Clarke rephrased the above verse like this: "'… As my parts were developed in the womb, the sinful principle diffused itself through the whole, so that body and mind grew up in a state of corruption and moral imperfection.'" (Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/psalms/51-5.html, "Adam Clarke Commentary")
MAY 16
Proverbs 16:31: "The hoary head [referring to gray or white hair, normally due to old age,] is a crown of glory [beauty, honor, meaning 'the hoary head' is honorable and commands respect], if it be found in the way of righteousness [i.e., when it's found on someone who sincerely tries to obey God's word]."
Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on this verse. Paragraph 5 of the commentary. which begins with "Our culture glories in youth," gives examples of how people in America usually react to the aging process and says it's sad that members of non-Christian religions around the world (Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, etc.) generally show more respect for senior citizens than we do.
If you want to read the commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-16-index/proverbs-16_31/.
Definition of culture: Way of life, code of behavior
MAY 15
Proverbs 15:1: "A soft answer [gentle words, a kind response] turneth away wrath [anger, fury, rage]: but grievous [provoking, offensive, hurtful] words stir up anger."
King Solomon was a great observer of human nature. Following his advice to give "a soft answer," or speak kindly to others, is a great way to end arguments and/or keep the peace.
Salem Bible Church has a good commentary on this verse. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-15-index/proverbs-15_1/.
Another commentary asked, "If there be such happiness in a soft answer, how is it that it is so hard to give it?" and then answered the question by saying, "There is one great obstacle to which all others may be reduced--the obstacle of pride. When harsh words are addressed to us which we feel to be unmerited, we cannot bring ourselves to forgo the delight of a successful retort, still less can we bear to admit that any part of the wrong is of our doing. Pride disguises itself very cunningly, so that even a high-minded Christian is misled by its craft."
(Source for above quote: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/proverbs/15-1.html, "James Nisbit's Church Pulpit Commentary," paragraph III)
MAY 14
Proverbs 14:8: "The wisdom of the prudent [person, referring to someone who is sensible and shows good judgment,] is to understand his [or her] way [of life] [i.e., how to behave toward others, make wise decisions, etc.]: but the folly [foolish behavior, resulting from a lack of morals and/or common sense,] of fools is deceit [deception, because they try to convince themselves--and others--that their way (although wrong) is right]."
In his commentary on the above verse, Pastor Delany, of Salem Bible Church, says that, due to pride and a "know it all" attitude, fools think that their way is right, and they refuse to be corrected.
If you want to read the commentary, here's the link:
https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-14-index/proverbs-14_8/.
MAY 13
Proverbs 13:4: "The soul of the sluggard [i.e., a lazy person] desireth [craves, covets] [things that other people have], and hath [has] nothing: but the soul of the diligent [i.e., a hard-working person] shall be made fat [not literally, but figuratively--meaning prosperous (successful and/or rich), well-off]."
In other words, lazy people have unfulfilled desires, but hard workers are usually happy and content.
Salem Bible Church has a wonderful commentary on this verse. In it, Pastor Delany defines sluggard and gives many examples of excuses that lazy people give for not working. I especially like his comment (referring to sluggard) that 'This is the person whose motto is: never do today what you can put off until tomorrow.' He also lists some of the consequences of being lazy, tells why lazy people are unhappy, discusses the problem of homelessness, and explains what to do if you're feeling 'down in the dumps.'
If you want to read the pastor's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-13-index/proverbs-13_4/.
MAY 11-12
John 4:34-38 - Calling All Soul Winners! Workers Needed for a Spiritual Harvest
The following event took place after Jesus met the Samaritan woman at the well and told her that he was the Messiah; then she went and spread the word to the men in her city, who were now on their way to see Jesus.
Verse 34: "Jesus saith unto them [his disciples], My meat [my main focus in life, which is even more important to me than food,] is to do the will of him [i.e., God, the Father] that sent me [from heaven to earth], and to finish his [God's] work [which was, mainly, for me (Jesus) to preach the gospel and save sinners from hell]."
Verse 35: "Say not ye [don't you say, concerning crops], There are yet four months [after the seeds have been planted], and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields [of unsaved sinners]; for they [the 'crops' in our spiritual 'fields'] are white already to harvest [meaning these people have heard the gospel and are ready to be saved]."
Verse 36: "And he [or she] that reapeth [gathers the harvest] receiveth wages [rewards in heaven], and gathereth fruit unto life eternal [referring to converted souls, saved sinners, born-again Christians--people who have received God's gift of eternal life]: [so] that both he [or she] that soweth [or plants] [the gospel seed] and he [or she] that reapeth [gathers the harvest] [of saved souls] may rejoice together."
Verses 37-38: "And herein is that [common or popular] saying true, One [person] soweth, and another [person] reapeth. I [Jesus] sent you [apostles] to reap that [thing--in this case, referring to saved souls] whereon ye bestowed no labour [for which you did not work]: other men [including the prophets, Jewish teachers, John the Baptist, and even Jesus himself] laboured [by preaching and teaching the gospel], and ye [you] are entered into [have joined in] their labours [to finish the work that they have begun]."
If you want to become a soul winner and earn rewards in heaven, try passing out gospel tracts or telling people how to be saved before it's too late. Most of the tracts (brochures) on the "Printable Gospel Tracts" page of my website follow the "Romans Road" or use "God's simple plan of salvation" to present the gospel. If you want to read and/or print any of those tracts, here's the link: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
MAY 10
Proverbs 10:19: "In the multitude [abundance, or large number] of words there wanteth not [is no lack of] sin [i.e., people who talk too much will eventually say things that they regret]: but he that refraineth his lips [the person who thinks before talking and is careful of what he or she says] is wise."
Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church says that, according to this verse, we need to "… control our speech… refrain it, restrain it, keep it in check… use caution…but not to stop it altogether."
In the first part of his commentary, we learn that examples of "sins which result from a multitude of words" include:
-- "OFFENSE" (the likelihood that we'll offend someone, accidentally or on purpose)
-- "SELF PRAISE" (praising ourselves, putting ourselves on a pedestal)
-- "CONTENTION" (hurting someone's feelings, offending others, making people angry)
-- "LIES" (telling outright lies, exaggerating or stretching the truth, embellishing a story, etc.)
In the second part of his commentary, Pastor Delany says:
"5. The wise man uses words carefully… cautiously… sparingly…
"a. It is not that he is afraid to speak up.
"b. Rather, it is that he doesn't speak unless he has something to say… something worth saying…
"c. He speaks at the proper time… using the right words… sparing his words… he weighs his words before speaking them… they are well thought out… not just blurting out the first thing that pops into his undisciplined mind…"
"7. Psalm 39:1 -- David determined NOT to sin with his mouth. We all should be so determined.
"a. But don't just pray about… DO something about it!
"b. You don't just pray for your daily bread. You go to work too!
"c. Pray for the Lord's strength… AND be determined not to sin.
"d. And if we DO sin with our mouth, confess it… and forsake it.
"e. This is a sin that we will have to deal with in our lives till the Lord comes…
"8. And since it is such a part of human nature to sin with our tongues, be gracious with others! (Ecc. [Ecclesiastes] 7:21-22) Haven't you done the same? We all have, James says!"
If you want to read more of Pastor Delany's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-10-index/proverbs-10_19/.
Regarding this verse, Matthew Henry said: "… Usually, those that speak much[,] speak much amiss …" (Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/10.html, "Verse 19")
MAY 9
Hebrews 13:4: "Marriage [between a man and woman--see note below*] is honourable in all [things], and the [marriage] bed [is] undefiled [meaning that sexual activity between a husband and wife is considered by God to be pure and wholesome, not immoral or unclean]: but whoremongers [customers of prostitutes--see note below**] and adulterers [i.e., people who commit adultery, which is voluntary sexual intercourse between a married man and someone other than his wife or between a married woman and someone other than her husband,] God will judge [punish]."
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*1 Corinthians 7:2-4 "Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife."
**For the biblical definition of whoremonger, read the following article: "What is a whoremonger in the Bible?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/whoremonger.html.
MAY 8
Proverbs 8:10-12 - Advice From "Lady Wisdom" (i.e., wisdom personified)
Verses 10-11 [Wisdom says]: "Receive my instruction [correction, discipline--and, if necessary, punishment], and not silver; and [receive] knowledge rather than choice gold. For [because] wisdom is better [more valuable] than rubies [jewels, precious stones … money, riches]; and all the things that may be desired [such as fame, power, position, etc.] are not to be compared to it."
Verse 12: "I wisdom [consisting of experience, knowledge, and good judgment] dwell with prudence [discretion, caution] [i.e., wisdom and prudence go together because we need prudence in order to put wisdom into practice], and find out knowledge of witty inventions [clever plots] [of our enemies--to deceive, fool, or mislead us]."
Regarding these verses, Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church said that if you're reading or holding a Bible, "You have a copy of God's wisdom in your hands! It is better than money, fame, power, position… and all other things your heart might desire!" … and his commentary goes on to explain why he said that. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-8-index/proverbs-8_10-12/.
MAY 7
2 Peter 3:3-4 - The Apostle Peter's Reminder to Christians
Verse 3: "Knowing this first [remember], that there shall come in the last days [i.e., in the New Testament dispensation, or period of time before Jesus returns to earth, which is now,] scoffers [mockers (people who make fun of others)], walking after their own lusts [doing 'their own thing'],"
Verse 4: "And saying, Where is the promise of his [Jesus'] [second] coming? for [because] since the fathers [the aged and pious (old and deeply religious) men in the times of the apostles] fell asleep [died], all things [referring to the laws of nature] continue [remain the same] as they were from the beginning of the creation [of the universe and everything in it]."
MAY 6
Proverbs 6:12-15 - Troublemakers
Verses 12-13: "A naughty [worthless, good-for-nothing] person, a wicked man [or woman or child; i.e., a troublemaker], walketh [around] with a froward [crooked, lying] mouth [meaning he (or she) habitually distorts the truth]. He [or she] winketh with his [or her] eyes, he [or she] speaketh with his [or her] feet, he [or she] teacheth with his [or her] fingers [referring to hand gestures];"
Verse 14: "Frowardness [or 'perversity'--see note below*] is in his [or her] heart [mind], he [or she] deviseth mischief [plots schemes] continually; he [or she] soweth discord [causes disagreements and division, stirs up trouble]."
Verse 15: "Therefore shall his [or her--the troublemaker's] calamity [misfortune, misery] come suddenly; suddenly shall he [or she] be broken without remedy [relief or cure]."
In his commentary on verse 12, Albert Barnes says: "… This is the portrait of the man who is not to be trusted, whose look and gestures warn against him all who can observe. His speech is tortuous and crafty; his wink tells the accomplice that the victim is already snared; his gestures with foot and hand are half in deceit, and half in mockery." (Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/proverbs-6.html, "Verse 12")
Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church has also done a Bible study on these verses, and in it, he gives many examples of the various types of body language that are mentioned above. If you want to read his commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-6-index/proverbs-6_12-15/.
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*Definition of perversity, according to online dictionaries: A deliberate desire to behave in an unreasonable or unacceptable way; contrariness; the quality of being contrary to accepted standards or practice.
MAY 4-5
Genesis 3:1-7 - "The Fall of Man" (When Adam and Eve Ate the Forbidden Fruit)
This event took place in the Garden of Eden, when Satan, disguised as a serpent, appeared to Adam and Eve and caused them to sin by persuading them to disobey God and eat fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
Verse 1: "Now the serpent [i.e., Satan (the devil), in the form of a large snake that was able to walk and talk] was more subtil [subtle (or intelligent, clever, and deceptive)] than any beast of the field [referring to all animals] which the LORD God had made. And he [the serpent] said unto the woman [Eve], Yea [indeed], hath [has] God said [to you and your husband, Adam], Ye shall not eat [the fruit] of every tree of the garden?"
Verses 2-3: "And the woman [Eve] said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst [middle] of the garden [referring to the tree of the knowledge of good and evil], God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it [actually, the 'not touching that tree' part of her statement was not true], lest ye die [or else you will die]."
Verses 4-5: "And the serpent said unto the woman [trying to convince her that God didn't intend to carry out his threat], Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof [referring to the forbidden fruit], then your eyes [meaning the eyes of their minds (their understanding)] shall be opened, and ye shall be as [like] gods, knowing [what is] good and evil."
Verse 6: "And when the woman [Eve] saw that the tree [of the knowledge of good and evil] was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes [or was pleasing to look at], and [it was ] a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto [also gave some to] her husband [Adam] with her; and he did eat.
Verse 7: "And the eyes of them both [Adam and Eve] were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons [to cover themselves] [and then they were thrown out of the garden]."
The above story illustrates the consequences of disobeying God's commands.
GotQuestions.org has articles that answer some common questions about this event. If you want to read one or two of them, here are their titles along with the links:
-- "What truly happened at the fall of man?" (https://www.gotquestions.org/fall-of-man.html)
-- "Was the forbidden fruit an apple?" (https://www.gotquestions.org/forbidden-fruit-apple.html)
MAY 3
Proverbs 3:9-10 - How to Receive Blessings From God
Verse 9: "Honour the LORD with thy substance [meaning your money and/or possessions; in other words, honor God by giving to his work and service], and with the firstfruits [the first, or best, part] of all thine increase [i.e., whatever else you get in the future]:"
Verse 10: "So [then] shall thy [your] barns be filled with plenty [of food (corn, grain, etc.)], and thy presses [referring to the vats in a vineyard] shall burst out [overflow] with new [freshly pressed] wine."
When we use our money, time, and talents to worship the Lord, feed the poor, and help spread the gospel, God will bless us and take care of our daily needs.
According to Pastor Delany of Salem Bible Church, in his commentary on the above verses (paragraph 3, last section): "The passage in Prov. [Proverbs] 3:10 does NOT give us the MOTIVE to give (so that we will get). Rather, it gives us a PROMISE in giving… that when we give sacrificially, God will provide for our needs!" Then he gives his reasons for saying that.
If you want to read Pastor Delany's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-3-index/proverbs-3_9-10/.
Regarding verses 9 and 10, Matthew Henry said: "… Those that do good with what they have shall have more to do more good with …" (Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/proverbs/3.html, "Verses 7-12")
MAY 2
Psalm 107:8: "Oh that men [and women and children, especially born-again Christians,] would praise the LORD for his goodness [kindness], and for his wonderful works [including salvation, protection, guidance, and answered prayer] to the children of men [or 'all people']!"
MAY 1
2 Corinthians 7:10: "For godly sorrow [sadness or feeling bad because we have sinned, or broken God's laws,] worketh [brings about] repentance [a change of mind, which leads] to salvation [i.e., the act of receiving God's gift of eternal life,] not to be repented of [regretted]: but the sorrow of the world [sadness due to worldly causes (such as disappointment, shame or disgrace, loss of friends or loved ones, money, property, etc.) and which does not lead to a personal relationship with God] worketh death [or often results in death itself, as when a person becomes very sick and dies (for example, of a 'broken heart') or feels so distressed that he or she commits suicide]."
For definitions of godly sorrow and salvation:
-- The article entitled "What is godly sorrow?" by GotQuestions.org has a detailed explanation of what is meant by the term godly sorrow. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/godly-sorrow.html.
-- The question "What is salvation?" is answered by GotQuestions.org in the following article: "What is the Christian doctrine of salvation?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-doctrine-salvation.html.
Would you like to be born again (saved) and receive God's gift of eternal life? If you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and Messiah, that he died on the cross to pay for your sins, and that he was buried and rose again, all you need to do is sincerely ask him (through prayer) to come into your heart and save you so you can go to heaven when you die.
For detailed instructions on the plan of salvation, read one or more of the tracts in the "Printable Gospel Tracts" section of my website. Here's a direct link to that page: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.
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