Is. 6: Isaiah's Calling

Isaiah 6:9 "He said, "Go and tell this people: 'Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.'"

Isaiah has this vision. He wasn't yet a prophet, but its likely he was a student of the word of God. He knew that seeing God was lethal, and his fear reveals it. He was terrified. It's really a strange scene...seraphs were flying above him, and they were chanting "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory." Why earth? Anyway, they were loud, and their voices shook the temple, filling it with smoke.

They each had six wings, two covering their faces, two covering their feet, and with two they were flying. Even they had to cover their faces, in spite of being in the throne room of God. There was an altar there, and one of the seraphs took a live coal and touched it to Isaiah's lips after he freaked out. This touching of the coal to the lips served to cleanse Isaiah of guilt and sin, and he could stand before God.

God calls out and asks, "Who will go for us?" I don't know if there were others there, but I don't think so, it was Isaiah's vision. Isaiah volunteers for what he must have known was going to be an extremely unpopular job.

God gives a command to Isaiah in verse 9, a rather cryptic one. Be hearing, but never understanding; be seeing but never perceiving. Why would God want that callousness of heart? Because he needed to discipline them and discipline them good? If Israel turns and is healed, maybe they wouldn't get it, and they would only make these "deathbed confessions" under the threat of devastation. God didn't want that from his people all the time, that's not sincerity. That's not the change of heart God is after. And I don't know how Isaiah himself was going to make people's hearts calloused...maybe he was supposed to play "bad cop." I don't think he had the power God did when he hardened the Pharaoh's heart. So Isaiah had to keep this up until Israel was totally devastated.

Is. 5: Judgments

Isaiah 5:4 "What more could have been done for my vineyard than I have done for it? When I looked for good grapes, why did it yield only bad?"

The first 7 verses of chapter 5 are a parable of a vineyard, echoing the previous book, Song of Solomon. Isaiah describes the building and purposeful care that goes into putting together a vineyard. A vineyard full of the choicest of vines that will serve it's planter. He cleared out the stones, put up a hedge of protection, and cut in a winepress. It was a thing of beauty. He then checked for good fruit, but instead got bad.

I think a passage like this can serve to explain that question "If God is so good, why is there sin?" or "If God is so good, why do bad things happen?" See the vineyard. God did everything to give what he cultivated a chance to succeed. The yield was bad fruit. He did everything but live the lives of the people (the choicest vines, mind you).

Because of this bad fruit, why put effort into protecting it, especially when you were bound to keeping a covenant? The people knew what would happen if they forsook the covenant. He will make it a wasteland...sound familiar?

Then we get to woes and judgments. Wealth was no shelter from the coming discipline. Even if you had large homes and vineyards, it would come to nothing.

If you waste a lot of time partying, and being inflamed with wine, you won't take time for real fulfilling things, learning the ways of the LORD, which will ultimately lead to your preservation and sustenance.

Woe to those whose work is sin, and work at sin.

Verse 19 is interesting. If you demand God hurry up and show you his plan, a God who isn't inside the passing of time, that is woeful. I don't think there's anything wrong with wanting to know what God is doing, but making demands on him from your side of perfection is probably not useful.

Israel's demise will be a beacon to other nations. They won't just ignore Israel, they will come and dance on her ruins. Awesome.

Is. 4: The Branch of the LORD

Isaiah 4:5 "Then the LORD will create over all of Mount Zion and over those who assemble there a cloud of smoke by day and a glow of flaming fire by night; over all the glory will be a canopy."

Continuing on this theme of dirty women, it seems like seven of them (large numbers) will confront one man and demand that he make them legitimate...I suppose to give them children. Seems like not a bad deal if you were a man, except you'd be furthering yourself (and the women) from God, and intensifying God's anger. Bad times.

I think the branch of the LORD is his protection over those who chose to keep the covenant with Him. Can you imagine how hard it must have been while the rest of their society crumbled? You would begin to wonder what the point was. Why bother following God if it doesn't matter? But the message here is that they will be protected. They will survive this trial by fire, this scrubbing clean of the filth that encrusted Israel like dust and hair on a hot dog that fell behind the refrigerator 8 and a half months ago. He'll clean up, and he will bring back that pillar of fire and clouds that he used to lead Israel through the promised land. And he will protect his people again.

Smile!

Is. 3: Judging Jerusalem

Isaiah 3:8 "Jerusalem staggers, Judah is falling; their words and deeds are against the LORD, defying his glorious presence."

This was written in a time before Israel was taken into exile, so the prophecies in Isaiah 3 come true just as they were written. Even though Isaiah was used by God during a time where Judah had relatively good kings, the people were still scumbags. There was a long engrained tradition of evil that was marring the nation. And the truth is, Isaiah probably could have seen this coming without divine revelation from God.

Those who were meant to be subservient will be equal and in charge, oppressive. Those who were leaders, who led the army, who guided the nation will be vacated and useless. Their sin is flaunted without any sense of wrong, and the comparison to Sodom is made again. It was a pretty wicked place to live. I assume Isaiah was not very popular in his day. Who wants to hear how awful he is, and as a result how terrible life is going to be?

The women were just as bad as the men. Just because their status in society was second to men, it doesn't mean they were able to hide in their sin. They were pretty lascivious, using their bodies for sin, and to bring others down in sin. But as much as they attempted to pretty themselves up, God was going to strike them bald, and they'd be dressing in sackcloth.

What's worse, their military, blessed by God for a sincere purpose would be rendered useless, and they would be slaughtered on the battlefield.

Is. 2: Day of Exaltation

Isaiah 2:11 "The eyes of the arrogant man will be humbled and the pride of men brought low; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day. "

Couple things.

I'm not exactly sure what is meant by "the last days," but apparently this is going to be among the final things that happens on earth, at the end of time. God will establish this "Mountain." The language here points to this mountain being a person. He will be "chief among mountains," which leads me to believe he will be exalted above men. He will be the final say on things, as all nations will stream to it. Quite a guy. He will be a descendant of Jacob, according to the text. He will also send out the law, he will be the final answer on all things. Additionally, he will usher in peace, as people will beat their swords into plows, spears into pruning hooks, etc. Nations will no longer have to fight each other over land and old scores if they all trust the final judge.

The second section of Isaiah two deals with why God abandoned Israel. They completely deserved it. They broke just about every command they were given, but it seems like it all comes down to pride. They destroyed themselves because they thought they were so smart. They created their own idols, and brought the wrath of God down. Now they have no where to run. Just as there is no place to hide from God's love, there is no place to hide from his anger. Everything they build up in their own arrogance will be destroyed, and God will be magnified.

Is. 1: Israel in Rebellion

Isaiah 1:21 "See how the faithful city has become a harlot! She once was full of justice; righteousness used to dwell in her—but now murderers!"

Isaiah was the prophet in office during the reigns of Judah's Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah. 3 out of the four were relatively good men, and wise rulers, Ahaz being the scumbag of the bunch.

Israel has been doing wrong, and Isaiah points it out with very vivid language. I imagine him being very upset, yelling and causing a scene. He compares Israel to Sodom and Gomorrah, the utmost example of depravity and sin. Can you imagine fancying yourself as God almighty's chosen people, His partner in covenant, and then hearing Isaiah say this about you?

God didn't even want anything to do with their supposed acts of righteousness, their sacrifices and their feasts. These events were created with very specific purposes, among those being God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt and from famine. Yet Israel went through the motions, on autopilot, not truly knowing why they were doing what they were doing. God, who was after a person's heart and soul, instead got a burning carcass. And he had plenty of those, and was in need of none (v. 11). Not only was this meaningless to God, it was a giant step further...it was detestable...the worst kind of sin.

God did not want their self-righteous acts, undertaken with the wrong attitude. He wanted true righteousness and devotion from Israel, who prostituted themselves to other gods, violating God's command to serve no other god but Him.

Israel had become that fool described in Proverbs...beaten every time they open their mouth, but they never learn.

Their silver became dross, what was purged from the silver. There was no longer any part of value...they were total rubbish.

So what is Israel to do? Isaiah admonishes them to make themselves clean, to repent and turn whole-heartedly back to the LORD. The deal is that they will be made white as snow. They will be purified from their sins. Where there was crimson, there will be wool.

God makes it pretty clear what will happen either way. If Israel repents, they will be restored to greatness, to righteousness. If not, they will be crushed and beaten. They will burn. Let's see...

SS 8: Let's Make Love

Song of Solomon 8:14 "Come away, my lover, and be like a gazelle or like a young stag on the spice-laden mountains."

The language here is spicy, like the wine she gives her lover to drink. Although I'm sure it had nothing to do with fruit. If I had to guess, we're talking about the embrace, the act of love. Enjoying it, imbibing in it. Under the apple tree, the same way Solomon's mother Bathsheba conceived him.

Like a seal over his heart, she wants to be his one and only. She wants his devotion, in spite of all the women available to him.

The friends here apparently have a young sister, and she's not yet ready for marriage. She stands in need of the protection. Not like our girl here. Her breasts are fully grown. They are towers. And hey, this is something Solomon definitely noticed. Nothing wrong with that. Solomon's a boob-man. Those two fawns, twins of a gazelle are a thing of beauty.

I don't think verse 14 has anything to do with exploring the countryside. Remember the spice laden mountains? Yeah. They're making love. And I wonder why this subject is taboo in the church. How many sermons on Song of Solomon 8 have you heard? This reflects a God who has created human bodies to be enjoyed be the other's lover. God created and encourages physical enjoyment, physical love...as a part of the whole package, and between two committed people who have one and only one.

SS 7: They're In Love

Song of Solomon 7:10 "I belong to my lover, and his desire is for me."

A continued physical description. And a part of me wants to say, "Hold on a minute." Sure she's beautiful, but as Solomon said himself, beauty and charm are fleeting. Where's he going to be when they're both 80 years old? But this, Song of Solomon, isn't about that. When you write a love poem about someone, why bring that up? You want to focus on what draws you to someone in the first place. Song of Solomon doesn't need to be like Warren Barfield's "Love is Not a Fight." Both concepts work beautifully on their own.

This love is true, and they want to be in love with each other everywhere. They want to experience each other, to make love to each other. To experience the beauty of life with each other. And mandrakes. Which were believed to be an aphrodisiac, and improved conception. This wasn't a one-night stand. They wanted children. It was forever.

SS 6: She's Special

Song of Solomon 6:3 "I am my lover's and my lover is mine; he browses among the lilies."

This is a couple that has given themselves completely over to the other. What a concept. And since she is the lily among the thorns, I read this as him looking her over, loving her. His one lily. He describes the large numbers of women available to him, but this, this one girl who tends a vineyard, an inauspicious peasant girl, this is the one he wants to be with, and devote his time and energy to. That seems like quite the measure of devotion on his part.

Every part of her body is beautiful to him. What a lovely way to describe the physical attraction of your loved one.

SS 5: He Gone.

Song of Solomon 5:9 "How is your beloved better than others, most beautiful of women? How is your beloved better than others, that you charge us so?"

So she dreams of her lover, and he comes to the door knocking. The way the girl describes it is that she had just bathed, and was rushing to the door. She wasn't ready for him. So he leaves. Not sure why. She gets "decent" and rushes to the city, looking for him. Instead of helping her, the watchmen, the people she supposedly was to trust, instead beat her and insulted her. This made her long for her lover even more.

She is asked, what makes this guy so special that you'd want us to relay a message to him?

Well, he's good looking. Firm, strong. Everything about the guy is perfect. Gold, chrysolite, ivory, sapphire, mounted jewels, beds of spice...these are the words that describe what makes him up. Her lover, her friend.

SS 4: Ode to Her Body

Song of Solomon 4:16 "Awake, north wind, and come, south wind! Blow on my garden, that its fragrance may spread abroad. Let my lover come into his garden and taste its choice fruits."

King Solomon writes a tribute to his lover's body...her assets, as it were. And why not? She sounds like a total babe. This is a pretty explicit love song. He describes her features as things that were important or had some symbolism to his people, the Israelites at the time. Doves, a flock of goats, Mount Gilead. A flock of sheep, a scarlet ribbon (Judah's sons, the tabernacle). Her neck is the tower of David, her breasts are like two fawns.

She has no flaw. And he wants to take her everywhere. And she smells nice, which is a bonus.

Use your imagination as to what verse 16 means.

SS 3: Here Comes Solomon

Song of Solomon 3:5 "Daughters of Jerusalem, I charge you by the gazelles and by the does of the field: Do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires."

Written from the perspective of the young woman, she awakens, wondering where her man is, and she goes out to search for him. She has to ask the watchmen, "Where is Solomon?" This love is so true and important that she offers advice to other young women. Be careful with love, because it can be so overpowering if you aren't ready for it.

Finally, Solomon returns on a carriage (that he made with his own hands, he's so hardcore) from battle (so hardcore). She wants everyone to know that his sword is combat scarred and that he built this carriage himself from the finest materials. The man has a tight whip.

SS 2: Lilies and Gazelles

Song of Solomon 2:3 "Like an apple tree among the trees of the forest is my lover among the young men. I delight to sit in his shade, and his fruit is sweet to my taste."

Both the man and woman agree that the woman is like a lily of the valley, a rose of Sharon. The rose of Sharon is described as a kind of crocus. Well, crocuses are pretty. And it's nice when two people are in agreement. And that she is a lily among thorns...he wants nothing to do with any other woman. They are thorns.

The apple tree analogy is interesting. She delights in all parts of the apple tree. The shade, the fruit...etc. The only way to be satisfied is with the fruit. His fruit. She is weak from love, and the only way to give her strength is his love.

He's a stud, he's like a gazelle leaping over hills and all that, so he keeps himself in good shape and commands a lot of power and respect.

The time without his love is like winter - cold, grey. But now that love has come, it's springtime. All is made new, new life has begun.

The foxes bit seems like they want to remove any distraction or stumbling point in their love. They don't want their vineyard ruined.

SS 1: We Meet the Couple

Song of Solomon 1:2 "Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth—for your love is more delightful than wine. "

Song of Solomon is underway. The love book. The book you should read if you are trying to hook up with someone of the opposite sex, or a king or a vineyard girl.

The language is pretty intense here, not bothering to hide or use euphemisms. He is a king in search of true love. She is a laborer who tends her brothers' vineyards. Not exactly a match made in heaven at first sight. And she, though she is falling in love with the king, appears to be very self conscious of her dark skin. This is a characteristic presumably not congruent with the typical royal woman of the king's court. He wouldn't typically want someone from the laboring class. But it didn't matter. She's beautiful, and is speaking to him as though she sincerely wants to be with him, and not just because he is royalty.

Sweeter than perfume, more delightful than wine, this is the language used by the two to describe how they feel about the other. He doesn't try to mask that he is drawn by her beauty. But it isn't like, "Yo, you're hot, lets get in bed." He offers descriptions with specific examples: a mare in Pharaoh's chariot squad. He is a cluster of henna blossoms. Her eyes are like doves.

Then he describes their house, cedar and firs. They don't live in some ghetto mud hut or a tent.

Ecc. 12: Remember God's Commands

Ecclesiastes 12:13 "The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man."

Ecclesiastes, despite being hopelessly cynical in tone at times, wraps up with a command we've heard numerous times. "Fear God and keep his commandments." That is the source of true joy and happiness and fulfillment in a meaningless existence under the sun. God has given life for a meaning, and Ecclesiastes is all about perspective. What a joyless hopeless existence if this is all there is, if this is our one go round and there is nothing beyond.

The word of God is the fixed point.

Ecc. 11: Go Live

Ecclesiastes 11:5 "As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother's womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things. "

Cast your bread upon the waters, Ecclesiastes 11 says. Go, take risks, don't concern yourself with whether it is the right time or not to take a chance, because there is a time for everything. If you wait until the right time, when the wind isn't blowing, you'll never accomplish anything. For a personal example, I wanted to wait until I could better afford to have kids, and then a brother-in-law told me if I wait for that, it will never happen, and he was right. My daughter is now about 3 and 1/2 months old. I still can't afford her, but I would in poverty without her.

You never know which actions you take will be successful, but none will be if you don't take action.

Enjoy your life, do your thing, but remember God sees all and will sit in final judgment of you.

I think a person can really be happy when they keep in mind which things are meaningless, the things that are temporary and under the sun. God intends enjoyment, and I think Ecclesiastes has commanded the reader to take an eternal view of existence.

Ecc. 10: Fulers

Ecclesiastes 10:3 "Even as he walks along the road, the fool lacks sense and shows everyone how stupid he is."

Even light foolishness denigrates solid wisdom.

I don't know how or why wisdom goes to the right and foolishness to the left. I'll leave political commentary out of it.

Rulers can put whoever they want in charge, and occasionally, they install fools. That happens, and Solomon describes it as an evil. People often occupy positions they have no business occupying. That's just the way it is.

If you dig a pit, you may fall into it...sometimes we fall victim to our own schemes.

Be careful what you say about someone...little birdies are everywhere.

Ecc. 9: Destiny

Ecclesiastes 9:9 "Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love, all the days of this meaningless life that God has given you under the sun— all your meaningless days. For this is your lot in life and in your toilsome labor under the sun."

I had this verse read as the scripture for my wedding. I know. It's a little out there. But I wanted something personal, more intensely pointed than 1 Corinthians' love chapter. (I know, that's intensely pointed too, but cliche at weddings). But the challenge is to forget about all the mindless striving and live my little life, enjoy my wife, and my time under the sun. Realize and own the idea that this isn't all there is, and that the pursuit of treasures under the sun is vanity. Loving my wife is not.

The grander point is that we all have a common destiny, and that is to return to the ground from which we came. Whether we were righteous or wicked, wise or fools. Death awaits us all, and then the unknown beyond. The difference in the righteous is that they have a certainty in the unknown. Which seems like a paradox, huh?

Man can strive and train and prepare and boast, but when it all comes down, God controls the outcome.

As for words, wisdom outruns volume, and it's not even close.

Ecc. 8: I Deserve?

Ecclesiastes 8:8 "No man has power over the wind to contain it; so no one has power over the day of his death. As no one is discharged in time of war, so wickedness will not release those who practice it."

The king is in authority, and his word is supreme. Who are you to tell him what to do, or question his motives? The king has the power to make decrees and commands, and will spare those who obey him and keep his laws.

I suppose what I get here is that true power is not in any man's hands. What we do have, however, is the illusion of power. Of course we can't contain the wind, and a man can't add any days to his life, or predict when his life will actually end. Can you imagine what life would be like, or how it would be different if you could pinpoint the exact moment you would die? Would you take chances? Would you be a different person?

Another important part of verse 8 is the realization that wickedness is a force at war, who does not discharge anyone who practices it. Wickedness needs all the people it can get, as it is in a mortal war with righteousness. Wickedness does not just cease in a person, a person has to leave it, or be rescued from it.

Wicked people with long lives will be uneasy all their life. Not so for the righteous, when wicked people live long, there is less discomfort with it, because they trust God's judgment, as odd or confusing as it may be at the time. Vanity. Meaningless.

Additionally, the wicked will get what the righteous deserve, and the righteous will get what the wicked deserve. This is just the way it happens. This seems to show God as a person who cares not for what people deserve. As it happens, every person is fallen, a sinner, has rejected God and deserves death. But he heaps favor and riches on whoever he wants, regardless of whether or not that person deserves it.

Ecc. 7: The Gravity of Life

Ecclesiastes 7:13 "Consider what God has done: Who can straighten what he has made crooked?"

This is a pretty serious chapter. The Choir have a pretty incredible song that kind of made me wonder, but as I read Ecclesiastes 7 for the first time in my life, it became clear because of it's context.



When you read something like the day of death being better than the day of birth, and that a sad face is good for the heart, that sorrow is better than laughter, what comes to mind? What is your first instinct? In my case it was a bit of incredulity. I had the consider it. I wondered if Solomon (presumably) was referring to an afterlife, and the departure of a meaningless world under the sun, with the hope of entering God's presence. I think more than that, it is a grim reminder not to forget that life is temporary. Remember the sad times, for balance, for a greater sense of joy in the good times, and hope. I think a good answer or elaboration can be found in verse 14. God creates the good and bad times.

To be quickly provoked is meaningless foolishness. Why get so angry? Why let emotion get the better of you?

God's methods and intentions are inscrutable. When God zigs when we zag, or he's crooked when we expect a straight line, its not...normal. It's unexpected. It's incredible. We don't know why he does these things, and can only count on his promise that he has our best interests in mind. Its confusing, and upsetting. Our minds are crammed in this compartment of a limited understanding of an omnipotent, eternally-wise God. Why bother attempting to figure it out? Maybe our feeble brains derive some sort of legitimacy in the attempt to connect impossibly far-flung dots or impossible combinations of possible outcomes to our perceived suffering.

There is no one on earth not culpable for sin. (V. 20) God started making man upright, but, like Adam, man searched for other schemes.

Good practical advice...don't worry about catching everything someone says about you. Someone's bound to badmouth you whether you deserve it or not. Do you always keep things to yourself?

Is the voice of a jilted lover writing verse 28? Not one upright woman in a thousand? Srsly? Maybe he is looking in the wrong thousand? Solomon had his problems with women, to be sure, and it cost him a lot.

Ecc. 6: Riches Sans Enjoyment

Ecclesiastes 6:11 "The more the words, the less the meaning, and how does that profit anyone?"

What a terrible, meaningless, grievous thing to be given great riches by God, and to not be able to enjoy them. To not attempt to enjoy them. Why did God endow a rich man with his wealth to begin with if not to enjoy it? To have all these riches and wealth at your disposal and to refuse it, ignore it, or to ... maybe be unaware of it completely?

So severe is this malfeasance that Solomon suggests that it is better that a man be stillborn than to go through life not appreciating his riches. At that point, the stillborn person still rests more. In spite of experiencing nothing, and being shrouded in darkness for his whole existence, he rests more. Hm...enjoy what you have. Everyone goes to the same place...the grave, even the fools and wise. From that perspective, a wise man has no advantage over a fool.

Ecc. 5: Riches are Meaningless

Ecclesiastes 5:18 "Then I realized that it is good and proper for a man to eat and drink, and to find satisfaction in his toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given him—for this is his lot."

Going into God's presence, his house is no half-hearted endeavor. Its best to let one's words be few, rather than babble incessantly. Who are you trying to impress? Does God need a long, flowery prayer? Uh uh. Think about what you will say. Speak what's on your heart. Speak in sincerity. This is a sweet sound in God's ear.

Even worse than mindless jabbering is an unfulfilled vow to God. Its better not to even make these vows.

When someone suggests that riches are meaningless, it makes me stop to think. Never one who has considered himself monetarily rich, I think, how could that be meaningless? Solomon makes it pretty clear. No matter how much money and power you have, there is always someone above you with more, and he has his eye on you, just as you have your eye on a lesser person, always making sure they don't garner as much wealth as you.

This fear takes away meaning.

No matter what you have, if your pursuit is still riches, you never have enough.

This dissatisfaction takes away meaning.

The more you have, the more people you have around you consuming them and needing them.

This co-opting takes away meaning.

When you have much, you have much to worry about.

This concern takes away meaning.

Naked you came, naked you depart. You take nothing with you at death.

This temporal understanding takes away meaning.

Under the sun, its toil in darkness and frustration. God, who is above the sun gives joy and meaning in life, in the labor of your life. God gives the ability to truly enjoy possessions and the labor of your life. I love the last verse. I want God to keep me occupied by the gladness of my heart. Think about that.

Ecc. 4: Oppression and Toil

Ecclesiastes 4:4 "And I saw that all labor and all achievement spring from man's envy of his neighbor. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind."

With all the oppression he sees in the world, the writer declares that the dead have it better than the living. Those who have come and gone are happier than those who are. But better off yet are those who have not yet come. Those who have not had to witness the wickedness in their lifetime. Pretty depressing. Everyone alive, or who has been, has suffered through wickedness. And for what? Life under the sun...

Also, a hopelessly cynical opinion that all achievement and prosperity springs from a man's envy of his neighbor. Really, do we strive and cultivate ambition just so we can be better than someone else? And is being better than someone else the only drive? Man...I have to think about that.

Verse 6 re-emphasizes how important tranquility is over riches. Riches which are gained by meaningless toil.

Being alone is sad. One person does not have a second person to pick him up when he falls. To keep him warm. Or help him not be overpowered. Two can defend themselves. A cord of three is not easily broken.

The final verses appear to me to describe David's situation. He was a wise youth, and King Saul was a knucklehead, not open to warning. Despite David's constant walk with God, the people eventually fell away from God, and away from listening to David. Which made it all meaningless.

Ecc. 3: Enjoy your Work

Ecclesiastes 3:22 "So I saw that there is nothing better for a man than to enjoy his work, because that is his lot. For who can bring him to see what will happen after him?"

Ecclesiastes 3 is probably best know for comprising a majority of the 1959 Pete Seeger tune "Turn! Turn! Turn!" The first 8 verses are a Proverbs-like set of couplets, declaring that there are times for everything. At one time, there is a time to plant, and a time to harvest. A time to kill and a time to heal. They all seem to be opposites. Something we would declare good, and something that could ostensibly be bad. There are times for all of them.

In keeping with the context of meaninglessness, of vanity, is the writer saying it doesn't really matter what you do? Maybe its not to do one thing full time. If you are going to do one thing, you should do the other.

Again there is the emphasis to find satisfaction in our toil. To be happy with that. God created man with this burden. To only know life. To only know time. To be unable to fathom the eternity of God and his works. This is why eternity is so mind blowing. It was meant to never be understood by mere men. We have one go-around. Life is temporary, while God, who transcends life, is eternal, not to be grasped.

Life under the sun, is not ideal, where judgment and justice should be rightfully, wickedness exists. God, who also transcends time, sets our time. And everything will happen in his time.

The writer has faith in God, and appears to trust God with eternity, but still doesn't know. He wonders if man and animal are truly so different. Both die (like the wise and the fool). Both are composed of the dust to which they will return. Man doesn't know what happens after him. Man can only know history, not future.

Ecc. 2: The Human Pursuit

Ecclesiastes 2:16 "For the wise man, like the fool, will not be long remembered; in days to come both will be forgotten. Like the fool, the wise man too must die!"

Solomon was a man with the means to test his Meaningless Theory. He built these great homes, buildings and parks. He drank the finest wine, ate the finest food, and probably held court with the finest women. It says he denied himself no pleasures. He was richer than the entire world put together...or something like that. Still it was all meaningless.

I see his point to an extent about how a wise man and a fool both suffer the same fate of death. Time forgets both wise and foolish equally. So what's the point then of being wise? If everything ends up in the same place? Even passing on riches to a son who didn't earn them, and then is going to die himself is pointless.

Then he makes his point clear. Eat, drink, and find pleasure in your accomplishments. Happiness comes from God. Without God, of course, everything, every accomplishment, every wisdom, every folly, every toil is meaningless. God gives this happiness to those who please him. Apparently at the expense of the sinner.

Ecc. 1: Meaningless

Ecclesiastes 1:9 "What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun."

Wow, what a bleak chapter.

The teacher who was king, who I assume is Solomon, who was blessed with great wisdom and commanded the acquisition of wisdom in Proverbs, now considers its pursuit meaningless.

This idea likely comes from the idea repeated in scripture that a man's life, even the most powerful man's life, is but a vapor. It's just a brief moment in time. And the universe continues on, doing it's thing. The sun rises and sets, the wind blows back and forth, and the streams and rivers flow, in an eternal cycle. The universe completely forgets the generations of people who were here in the past, and will forget those who are yet to come. In spite of continued ideas of what we consider innovation, there is nothing new under the sun. Whatever can be seen has been. Whatever can be done has been.

So how does the one man given ultimate human wisdom now consider it's pursuit chasing after the wind? Is it sort of a "careful what you wish for" situation? Too much of a good thing? Wisdom in Proverbs was compared to honey, but even a full person is grossed out by honey.

Maybe its how the wisdom is used. Maybe its outside of a life devoted to God.

Pr. 31: A Good Wife

Proverbs 31:10 "A truly good wife is the most precious treasure a man can find!"

Here's some stuff King Lemuel's mother taught him. I don't know who King Lemuel is. He doesn't show up in the list of kings back in Kings and Chronicles. Maybe he is a king of some other country. I don't know. Israel/Judah had allies. Anyway, should I get bogged down in who he was? On to the Proverbs.

It is no place for kings, rulers...people of high esteem to crave drink, and allow themselves to get wasted. For the poor, and those at the end of their lives, I suppose that's understandable. Alcohol gets people crazy, and a person who makes laws doesn't want to drunk-legislate. Bad idea. But these people in poverty, its not good just to forget about them and let them get drunk. Lemuel's mom tells him to stick up for them, to speak for them when they have no voice.

Then, Lemuel's mom offers advice on the right type of woman. The common view of what the bible says about women is that they should shut up, don't make waves, and generally just spit out an army of babies.

Lets take a look. Her noble character is worth more than rubies. Which, I guess are pretty valuable.

Not as valuable as a wife of noble character.

She's basically good at everything she does, she uplifts her husband, she brings him good. She fears the LORD, which is important, because the other things we value, charm and beauty, are deceptive and fleeting. This is no wimpy little housewife. She is smart, wise, careful, and attentive to detail. Diligent and hardworking, generous and giving. I wonder how many women with these characteristics are promoted on TV and in movies. I don't know. I don't see many movies.

But that sounds like my kinda woman.

Pr. 30: Agur the Oracle Says

Proverbs 30:8 "Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread."

Agur sounds like that part in Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure where they're reading Socrates (So-crates) and they read "The only true wisdom consists in knowing that you know nothing." This is the humble place where Agur starts Proverbs 30. He admits to not having wisdom, not having a great education. But there are still things he knows, based on what he doesn't know.

God binds up and controls the winds, the waters, the land. He holds absolute power, which is mind-blowing. There is no one capable of understanding this, let alone being capable of doing this.

This power leads him to say that every word of God is flawless.

It would be bad to add to the words God said. In other words, don't attribute to God words he didn't say. God's words are flawless, and anything, any "wisdom" man purports to attach to God is filth, tainting.

The oracle asks two things from God.
1. Keep falsehood and lies far from him. He wants to live in truth and honesty.
2. Give me neither poverty nor riches. He just wants to live his normal life. And it makes sense. Too much wealth, and a man grows arrogant, not needing God. Not enough, and a man steals, besmirching the God he claims to honor and love.

I don't know who will curse you, the servant or the master, when you slander the servant, but I could see grounds for both parties wanting to do that.

A leech is like the four things which are never satisfied...never sated: The grave (death), a barren womb (See: Rachel), a dry and thirsty land, and a raging fire. They all want more, and are never satisfied with more.

Four amazements:
1. how an eagle navigates the sky
2. how a snake navigates the land
3. how a ship navigates the ocean
4. how a man navigates a maiden.

I think he's going somewhere with that. The point is, why give up a faithful wife for adultery, or for a prostitute who offers her services, feigns love, then cleans up and says "Next?" It makes no sense.

Four things the earth shouldn't bear
1. A servant becoming king
2. A fool full of food
3. An unloved woman who is married (See: Leah)
4. A girlfriend displacing a wife.

Wisdom in small things.
1. Ants store up food for winter.
2. The hapless coney, who find protection in rocky hills
3. The leaderless locust, who advances in ranks, as one
4. The lizard, who is found in the king's court. Apparently not making a pest of himself

Stately in their stride.
1. Mighty lion
2. Strutting rooster
3. He-goat
4. A king with his army

Have evil planned? Shut your lips.

3 proven facts:
Churn milk = butter.
Twist the nose = blood.
Stir up anger = strife.

Pr. 29: Righteous Ruling

Proverbs 29:4 "By justice a king gives a country stability, but one who is greedy for bribes tears it down."

The 29th chapter of Proverbs seems to emphasize the ability to rule fairly. Many proverbs offer advice on who to listen to, how to be wise, how to bring stability to your nation, and how to rule for a long time, and be good at it.

Avoid dissension by not being a jerk. Care for the poor. The chapter also emphasizes that true justice comes from God, lest any ruler kid himself.

I suppose it makes sense that if after many rebukes (chances to make things right) a man stays stubborn, that he will suddenly be destroyed. Without remedy. How many chances does a person get? A wise person takes rebuke to heart, bows his head and makes a change.

Pr. 28: Proverbs with Money

Proverbs 28:27 "He who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but he who closes his eyes to them receives many curses."

A wicked man flees though no one is pursuing. Yeah, I guess if you commit a crime or sin, you probably are watching your back, and guilt hangs heavy, causing you to think everyone knows, or everyone is watching. Not a fun feeling. You just want to turn yourself in to stop going crazy. Verse 17, also.

Verse 6 emphasizes again how important blamelessness is over wealth.

Why would concealing sin lead to a lack of prosperity? Confession and renunciation of these sins lead to mercy. Is mercy to be equated with prosperity? When I think of prosperity, I think of financial wealth, not necessarily mercy. How could I not count mercy among riches?

I've considered playing the lottery, but I don't want to hassle with it. I don't know how to pick numbers or whatever, and I don't know how to find out if I won. That seems to be chasing fantasies. If my hope is winning a fortune by chance, of course I'll be in poverty. If I work hard, I'll be fine.

Sometimes I withhold rebuke in order to keep the peace. I shouldn't do that. Sometimes I pull out the ol' flattering tongue anyway. Why would I do that? If I know what's right, why not rebuke a wise man in the things that matter?

I've struggled with this idea of giving to the poor. Of course my heart breaks for the people I ride by on my bike in the morning, sleeping in doorways on Grand Rapids' streets. A lot of them want like 50 cents or whatever. I rarely carry change, so I can't give them anything. Do I write a check to charity and hope they take care of them? Or do I bring them into my home? Two extremes, I think. I have much to give.

Pr. 27: Nothing for Granted

Proverbs 27:1 "Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth."

We can make all these plans, but who knows anything about tomorrow? So why brag about what you are planning, and how great things are going to be? That's different than having hope for the future. Hope is rarely specific.

It's annoying when people brag about themselves.

Verse 3 seems to elevate jealousy above anger and fury on the scale of stuff that's hard to withstand. Why is that? What makes jealousy so severe? Because anger and fury are born out of jealousy? Or is it vice-versa?

When someone has wronged you, don't they seem to fall all over themselves to "multiply kisses," to appear congenial to you? I mean, sometimes.

It is interesting the disparity in how appetizing the best food is when the belly is full and when it is empty. Too much of a good thing.

A loud blessing of your neighbor in the morning is taken as a curse? When you hear yelling outside in the morning, don't you want to curse? You assume someone is getting reamed out. And then you make assumptions that person did something to warrant that berating.

That quarrelsome wife being a constant dripping? Dripping is annoying man, and it just brings you down, because you're wasting water. What is that quarrelsome wife wasting?

Iron sharpening iron. I guess I get it. Is iron so special that it is the only element capable of such things?

Pr. 26: What Happens to a Fool

Proverbs 26:23 "Like a coating of glaze over earthenware are fervent lips with an evil heart. "

Here is a pretty straightforward and generally entertaining read. Most of chapter 26 deals with the fool, and how not to be like him.

Honor is unfitting a fool. He gets a rod to the back as natural as a man uses a bridle for a horse.

You lower yourself to his level if you answer his ridiculous nonsense, and in turn make him feel wise when he's not. When he speaks, proverbs in his mouth are useless. Like legs to a lame man, like a thornbush in hand.

Does he learn? No. He's like a dog returning to its vomit. For whatever reason unbeknownst to anyone, he does it. And it makes no sense. What's worse, he thinks he's wise for it.

The sluggard takes a beating hear to. He lays in bed like a door sits on hinges. Turning occasionally, but never going anywhere.

It's not right to deceive someone, and say you're joking. If you joke, joke, but not at someone's expense or harm. Its madness. Not Sparta.

Gossip :: Quarrel as Wood :: Fire.

A coating of glaze over earthenware...very interesting metaphor for fervent lips covering an evil heart. The words someone says may sound good, but disguise his wickedness inside. The liar is sometimes hard to spot. But when it's broken, and the cheap junk is inside...you can tell. Which is why you don't always take words at face value.

Pr. 25: Solomon's Noteworthy Proverbs

Proverbs 25:11 "A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. "

The men of King Hezekiah felt that the Proverbs of Solomon in this chapter were noteworthy enough to be copied and re-emphasized. Hezekiah, you'll remember, being one of the few good kings in Judah. Perhaps the content of these Proverbs in chapter 25 could shed some light on what he dealt with as king, especially his dealings with Sennacherib.

Remove impurities from your life, and what is valuable remains. What is strong remains, unweakened by junk. (v. 4-5)

It would not be fun to be put in place by someone with higher status than you, in front of other people with higher status than you. Just hold your tongue and don't act like a buffoon. (v. 6-8)

Make sure you have a leg to stand on before you bring someone to court. Another way to not look like a buffoon. (v. 8-10)

Good useful words are like apples of gold. I've heard that song. Remember the pomegranates on the temple and the priestly garb? (v. 11-12)

Don't always hang around at your neighbor's house, they'll get sick of you. (v. 17)

Singing songs to a heavy heart is like pouring vinegar on soda. It doesn't help. The heavy-hearted don't always need cheering up. Sometimes they just need someone to sit there and shut up. See Job. (v. 20)

Your enemy is still a person, and if you treat him like a person, especially when he or she is hungry and thirsty, well, that's just the right thing to do. And they will feel like jerks for being enemies with you. Plus God rewards you! (v. 21-22)

With broken down walls, everything can get in, and everything can leak out. (v. 28)

Pr. 24: Proverbs for Living

Proverbs 24:21-22 "Fear the LORD and the king, my son, and do not join with the rebellious, for those two will send sudden destruction upon them, and who knows what calamities they can bring?"

Don't hang out with jerks. Not only are they jerks to you, but others. And others see you and jerks. (v. 1-2)

Wisdom builds a house.
Understanding establishes a house.
Knowledge fills a house with treasures.

Wisdom begets understanding, understanding begets knowledge, knowledge begets strength. (v. 3-6)

Step in and help if someone is being led to death. Come on! Not doing something is still doing something. (v. 11-12)

Honey is sweet to the taste, as wisdom is sweet to the soul. (v. 13)

The righteous man may fall, but he is restored. Not so for the wicked. (blamelessness) (v. 16)

Gloating over a fallen enemy is discouraged. Who gave you victory? And why be a jerk, why drive a deeper wedge between you and your enemy? (v. 17-18)

Don't worry about the evil, who worry and don't have the hope you have. (v. 19)

Lance Ito. (v. 24)

Tit-for-tat revenge is not your place. (v. 29)

Poverty is a result of laziness. (v. 30-34)

Pr. 23: Do What I Say, Not What I Do

Proverbs 23:22 "Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old."

This chapter appears to be David (or Solomon, whoever) telling his son not to do some of the things his father has done or experience. Both saw extreme wealth, were tempted sexually, hung out with unsavory characters, dealt with neighboring nations, etc. They want to pass on life experience.

There seems to be an emphasis on wealth. Not the acquisition of it, but not depending on it. Glance at it, and it's gone, the Proverbs say. Show restraint, not wearing yourself out to acquire it. Because there's always more. And more. And you won't have everything.

A few verses are devoted to correcting, disciplining children. As a child, the original intended reader probably experienced "the rod" from his dad. Dad didn't need to explain his actions. Dad wanted his grandson to have the same opportunity his son did.

Avoid prostitutes...yep.

Don't hang out with those who overdrink. It describes drunkenness in verse 33. You won't be yourself, and you could get beat up. What, read it!

Pr. 22: Wise Sayings

Proverbs 22:19 "So that your trust may be in the LORD, I teach you today, even you."

Protect your good name before amassing wealth. (v. 1)

Train a child in the way he should go. Kids don't raise themselves. They don't have a sense of righteousness unless it is instilled. (v. 5)

Borrowers are slaves to the lender. Don't owe money if you can help it. If you do, don't be all arrogant. (v. 6)

Then the writer sort of refocuses, like that "Are you listening?" question I periodically got from teachers in school. He emphasizes the need to listen to the wise. The rest of his proverbs in chapter 22 are about justice. Don't crush the poor, don't move boundary stones. It's not fair to be like that. He wants the student to be able to trust God.

Pr. 21: Motives

Proverbs 21:30 "There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD. "

The wording is "the king" in verse one. I wonder if that refers to David. If it were any king, wouldn't it say "a king?" Not all kings allow themselves to be guided by God. Of course.

Don't think your plans through? Poverty. (v. 5)

Bernie Madoff. (v. 6-8)

You don't want to be anywhere near a quarrelsome wife. Probably not because she is angry with you, but because she reflects on her husband. (v. 9, 19)

You need wisdom before you can get knowledge. (v. 11)

Does justice bring you joy or terror? (v. 15)

Wise people save, while the foolish don't have the foresight to do so. (v. 20)

God's ways are ineffable. (v. 30)

You can make all the plans you want, but God directs the outcome. (v. 31)

Pr. 20: God Knows

Proverbs 20:15 "Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel."

Don't overdrink. You become a mocker and a brawler. Note that beer and wine are not forbidden. Just don't be led astray. (v. 1)

So many people fight for honor. Proverbs flips that. Avoiding strife is the honor. Any dope can quarrel. (v. 3)

Didn't plow or plant? Don't expect to harvest. (v. 4)

An understanding man draws his heart's purpose out of deep waters. (v. 5)

Nobody hasn't sinned. But you can be blameless. (v. 7, 9)

Unfair weights and scales are detested by God. You don't want to be a part of any activity God detests. God is well aware of what people are doing. (v. 10-12)

I love sleep. I guess I will be poor. (v. 13) No, this speaks to the sluggard, who does nothing all day.

Lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel, even compared to gold and rubies. Wow. (v. 15)

Don't make plans on your own, it is wise to seek advice. (v. 18)

If you don't want to become a victim of gossip, avoid those who gossip. (v. 19)

Don't make hasty vows. Can you cash that check? (v. 25)

Discipline purifies. (v. 30)

Pr. 19: Good Grief, Still More Proverbs for Living

Proverbs 19:3 "A man's own folly ruins his life, yet his heart rages against the LORD. "

Blamelessness trumps wealth. (v. 1)

Zeal without knowledge...yeah, I've seen it, and often I've had it. It's ridiculous and of no substance. Also, it's a caution against doing things in such a hurry you miss "the way." (v. 2)

Boom, a man's own folly ruins his life, yet his heart rages against the LORD. So I wonder how much personal torment that God is blamed for that is a direct result of that person's own folly...foolishness, poor choices, sins... (v. 3)

How many of my relatives are shunned because of their poverty. This Proverb isn't suggesting this OK, merely stating what happens. There are several proverbs like this. (v. 7)

You care about your soul, you will acquire wisdom. (v. 8)

Fools don't belong in luxury, its dangerous. (v. 10)

Patience overlooking an offense is a result of the active pursuit of wisdom. (v. 11)

You can't inherit a prudent wife like you can houses and wealth. She is from the LORD. (v. 14)

Not disciplining your son is akin to being a willing party to his death. YOu have only so much time to contribute to his being a wise person. (v. 18)

A sluggard is too tired to eat even though his hand is full of food. That's odd. Even though you may have a provision, you still may not be able to eat it.(v. 24)

Pr. 18: Even More Proverbs for Living

Proverbs 18:15 "The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; the ears of the wise seek it out. "

It is implied here that there is great pleasure to be had in finding understanding. It's that "Aha!" moment that I've come to enjoy when reading through these scriptures with a willing heart and a mind open to learning. I express my opinion on these after reading, not like a fool, who does so beforehand, without really knowing what he's talking about. I've been that way long enough. (v. 2, 13)

Ever say something so foolish people wanted to give you a beating? Ever heard someone say something so foolish you wanted to pound them? (v. 6-7)

Gossip is tasty at first, satisfying. Feels good. But... (v. 8)

Pride in your wealth is misplaced. It will lead to destruction. (v. 11-12)

Get a second opinion. Listen to both sides of the story before passing judgment. (v. 17)

Don't want to show favoritism and invite quarrel? Cast lots. (v. 18)

I found good when I found my wife. She is a favor to me from the LORD. (v. 22)

If you have too many friends, that can lead to ruin. You have too many people to please. There's a friend that sticks closer than a brother. Where? Who? Do they have a specific friend in mind? A best friend? (v. 24)

Pr. 17: More Proverbs for Living

Proverbs 17:10 "A rebuke impresses a man of discernment more than a hundred lashes a fool."

Once again, unity with little is of more importance than a lavish banquet and strife. (v. 1)

Wisdom will rule. (v. 2)

God tests our hearts like we test gold in a fire, or silver in a crucible. And you say, "What's a crucible?" And I say, "It's an Arthur Miller play about the Salem witch trials. But it's also a container that can be heated to extreme levels to burn away impurities." In this case, silver. God wants us to rid ourselves of impurities. Of the extraneous. Anything that doesn't contribute to our strength in his service. (v. 3)

Don't make fun of poor people, come on. (v. 5) You show contempt for God who made them. Why he would make them poor, if that is the case, is beyond me.

Arrogant lips are unsuited to a fool? A fool has no business being arrogant. (v. 7)

Someone offends you? Drop it. That's right. Forget about it. How important can something be to separate you from your close friend? (v. 9, 14)

I love verse 10. It only takes one rebuke for a man of discernment, and that's more than enough. For a fool, you can beat it into his head 100 times and he won't get it. Classic.

A friend loves at all times. There it is, Proverbs 17:17. A brother is born for adversity, though. We have people to lean on to help us get through the tough times that will come.

Pr. 16: Proverbs for Living

Proverbs 16:20 "Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD."

I would have thought the opposite of verse 1. It would seem that to the LORD belong the plans of the heart, and from man comes the reply of the tongue. What am I missing here? Man plots in his heart. What is the reply of the tongue? God answers man's plans?

There is a big difference between a person's "ways" and a person's "motives." (v. 2) Consider the motives behind a person's ways.

Can God use wicked people in his plans? Oh yeah. (v. 4)

Verse 6 is pretty amazing. Sin is atoned for via love and faithfulness. Those are action words, but it isn't empty works in themselves. But whose love? Whose faithfulness?

Verse 9 seems to speak about the will of God. In a man's heart, he plots his course. Man has a destination in mind. God determines the steps. So if man has this plan, is it God in the small things bringing man to that destination? Or is this God completely overruling? When you plot a course, you still take steps. Does God say, "Nuh-uh, follow these steps instead." I tend to think not. Could I become a great man someday without following God's steps? Not great in the eyes of God.

In an authority position? Don't abuse it with dishonest words, because you are to be respected as an oracle and knowledgeable. (v. 10)

Here it is... Pride goes before a fall. (v. 18)

Work hard. Eat. That's how you do it. (v. 26)

Gossip isn't in the Bible. Yes it is. (v. 28) Why throw your friends under the bus?

Got gray hair? Thank God for a long life. (v. 31)

Gonna play the lottery? I guess that's ok, but remember that lots are cast into the lap, and decisions are from the LORD. (v. 33)

Pr. 15: Words

Proverbs 15:32 "He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding. "

A lot is said in this chapter about the power of words. Wise men's words spread knowledge. Gentle answers turn away wrath. The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life. You can kill and you can heal with your words. Likewise, you can teach and you can deceive with your words. It is abundantly clear in this chapter which type of person God commends, and which type of person He despises.

Are you going to be a jerk? A loudmouth? That is no way to make progress in a relationship or a discussion (argument). You turn the volume down, you sound wiser, and the weight is in the content of the words.

I suppose another aspect of Proverbs is to pay attention to what the fools do. They spurn discipline and wise teaching. They spread ignorance, resent correction, feed on folly. And by folly, I don't believe that's goofy humor. I believe that's mindlessness. Stupid actions.

God wasn't about the sacrifice in itself as an action. God was after the heart. This is emphasized here again in verse 8.

Resenting correction. True correction stops you from going down the wrong path. Stops you from making a fatal foolish mistake. Who could resent that? It's pride that makes one not want to change course. How could I be wrong? (v. 12)

Unity and harmony are valued higher than wealth. (v. 16-17)

Don't be afraid to ask advice on a difficult situation. (v. 22)

Pr. 14: Proverbs for Living

Proverbs 14:32 "When calamity comes, the wicked are brought down, but even in death the righteous have a refuge."

If you don't have an oxen, the manger is empty. Without the oxen, you don't fill the manger, and you don't readily feed your other livestock? Is this just practical, or is there something more behind this? An ox may be slow, but the result of it's labor is survival and sustenance for the many. I'm sure you can apply this principal to aspects of your life. (v. 4)

The pursuit of wisdom is a serious undertaking, not to be taken lightly. This is why mockers don't find it, they are insincere. The discerning find it easily. (v. 6)

Making amends for sin seems antiquated (apparently, even back a million years ago when the Proverbs were written), and therefore goofy or unnecessary. But it is very important restore that goodwill between you and God. (v. 9)

The wrong way can seem so right. But it leads to death. Maybe the right way then seems wrong? (v. 12)

There is a difference between getting repaid and rewarded. I'd rather be rewarded. Repaid sounds nice, but not when it's payback. (v. 14)

Don't take things at face value. (v. 15)

When was the last time you planned something that is good? What a concept! Go find some love and faithfulness. (v. 22)

Pr. 13: Proverbs for Living

Proverbs 13:6 "Righteousness guards the man of integrity, but wickedness overthrows the sinner. "

So if you don't go running your mouth like an idiot, people will be less intent on killing you. (v. 3)

Along with great wealth comes the chance you'll be kidnapped for ransom. Is this a warning that there may be unintended consequences for the things we dream of? (v. 8)

Pride is incongruous with unity. (v. 10)

A man is more apt to take care of the money he earns honestly than dishonestly. (v. 11)

Verse 12 is like this. "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life. "
Don't stop hoping, your heart will thank you. You have to know things will get better. Longings can't be fulfilled if you don't have them. (See v. 19)

It is good to leave an inheritance. Who can take it with him? (v. 22) The sinner's wealth is stored up for the righteous? Someone will get a sinner's wealth, and it's not ultimately that sinner.

Verse 23 is heartbreaking, a poor man's field may produce abundant wealth, but injustice sweeps it away? Is this wealth too sudden, and therefore unmanageable? Is sudden wealth swindled away?

I imagine it may be hard to swat your kid when they do something bad, brainless or rude, but discipline is born out of love. If you hate your kid, you'll let them run amok. (v. 24)

Pr. 12: Proverbs for Living

Proverbs 12:15 "The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice."

First time I've seen "stupid" in the Bible. I think. (v. 1) So that must be saved for special moments, like those who hate correction.

Craftiness earns no favor from God.

A woman of noble character is paramount to a man. Not a fine piece of tail or a nice rack.

Be true to yourself. (v. 9)

A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal. Not only is this instruction against cruelty, but it elevates man above animals. (v. 10)

If you play the lottery, is that chasing a fantasy? (v. 11)

Fools think that what they are doing, their way, is right. Refusing to accept correction or discipline. (v. 15)

A prudent man has a thick skin...overlooking insult. I'll try to remember that in traffic next time. (v. 16)

No harm befalls the righteous? (v. 21) What exactly does that mean? That the righteous will be preserved? But the wicked have their fill of trouble. So what kind of trouble? I know righteous people that have dealt with some horrible stuff. But is it because God protects them and carries them through trauma that it means "no harm?" I wonder about that.

Diligent hands will rule...the hands that are prepared, keep watch, aware of their situation...laziness leads to slavery. Once a person can be controlled, they can be enslaved. Happening now? (v. 24)

Don't hold on to kind words, go cheer somebody up. Whether they need it or not. (v. 25)

Pr. 11: Proverbs for Living

Proverbs 11:21 "Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished, but those who are righteous will go free."

As I read through the 11th chapter of Proverbs, I was wondering what, if anything, ties this list of sayings together. And there really isn't a common thread. What does seem to bind them together as a whole is that there are clearly consequences for evil, and conversely, consequences for righteousness.

Descriptors of what happens to evil folk is that they are brought down by their own wickedness. God abhors them. They are deceptive and unfair, "earning" dishonest wages. Their hope ends in wrath. Just, you get the point. There is no hope in living among and like the wicked. They will not go unpunished.

Theres also quite a bit about generosity. In giving, the righteous man invites riches, while the stingy, greedy types have only their money and perish.

Pr. 10: Proverbs for Living

Proverbs 10:13 "Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning, but a rod is for the back of him who lacks judgment."

This is a new way of presenting proverbs. Solomon has combined a list of couplets here, seeming non-sequiturs. Each couplet demonstrates what happens to a wise person, or what that wise person does, while including a second line about what happens to a fool, or what the fool does. Very simple stuff. None of these couplets require a lot of expository commentary by the author. Rather, as mentioned in an earlier chapter, these proverbs will make you think. These are the father's instructions.

I simply read through the list, and its a rather quick read, if you don't sit and dwell on them. It's a lot of stuff that seemingly would be common sense, but are also truths from God. Laziness makes you poor? True. A man has to work to get paid and to get fed.

Verse 15 gave me pause.

"The wealth of the rich is their fortified city, but poverty is the ruin of the poor. "

Does this mean that the fortified city comes from wisdom? Or is it simpler than that. Maybe the rich "only" have their fortified city, unconcerned with true riches from God. And perhaps God is the salvation of the poor.

Verse 19. You have nothing to say? That's ok. When you run your mouth, the greater the chance to sin against somebody.

The wicked really have a pretty disheartening existence here in chapter 10. Their hopes come to nothing, they are swept away in the storm, they will be overtaken by what they dread, they will not remain in the land. But these are the people who reject God and reject wisdom. Conversely, consider what is a part of following God. A prospect of joy, standing firm in the storm, not being uprooted. Its all good.

Pr. 9: Rebuke the Wise

Proverbs 9:10 "Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you."

Like a dinner party host, wisdom in her perfection invites all to come; the simple, those who lack judgment. They are invited to partake of wisdom's food: life and understanding.

She seeks to instruct the wise, those who would listen. To correct mockers, people with no interest in wisdom invites insult. Mockers are people who have it all figured out in their own mind. They have no need for instruction, and will fall victim to folly, suffering and death. I hope I am not a mocker. I hope I have the sense to realize I need instruction (this blog being surface evidence). I want to be wiser still (v. 9). That comes through fear of God at the beginning.

The woman Folly is the opposite, undisciplined, unknowing. She invites people to drink stolen water, and eat food in secret. But inside her house is not the lavish banquet and riches. Rather, death.

Pr. 8: Wisdom is Eternal

Proverbs 8:34 "Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. "

Where the detrimental ways of the prostitute and adultery were enumerated previously, wisdom's call and benefits are chronicled here in the 8th chapter. Wisdom, too, calls out in the streets, for anyone, everyone to hear. She (hmm, wisdom denoted with the female gender...) calls out to men, suggesting that wisdom is perfect fit for people. As man is with woman, wisdom is for all people. It was meant to be that way.

Rather than riches, it is suggested that man choose wisdom's instruction. What good are riches if you are a fool? But how much more valuable is discernment and prudence?

I discovered something new about wisdom here. It was by God's wisdom (wisdom the "craftsman" v. 30) that He was able to create. It was wise for God to create what He did, the way He did. Not only that, wisdom was brought forth as the "first" of His works. I'm not sure if that was the first thing God did, as that suggests a timeline for a God who transcends time. Maybe in this case it is the most important of his works? It does say, "Before" these various items were created, Wisdom was given birth. Which suggests that wisdom is alive. A living being.

Like a teacher to a fidgety pupil, "Listen to my instruction" and "Listen to me" are written again, like in every previous chapter. This is important.

Pr. 7: More Whores

Proverbs 7:22 "All at once he followed her like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer stepping into a noose..."

Who is this seductress? The narrative in Proverbs 7 demonstrates the kind of smooth talking sexy walking woman that a man lacking wisdom, lacking judgement may encounter. You know, young guys just walking around at night, looking for something to catch them, to ensnare them. She makes a compelling case to this total stranger, saying that she was out looking for him. For him! It sounds special, doesn't it? This particular woman was brazen, just up and kissing his face. Hello!

Verse 14. She has her fellowship offerings at home. She has fulfilled her vows? Is this like the sinner who goes to church in the morning, drops a c-note in the offering plate, and considers his sins undone?

So that is convincing. Also her will-decorated bed and sweet-smelling women smelly things that they use like lotion and cinnamon and stuff. It will be a total sensory delight.

Drink of love till morning, huh? That's the distortion in sex. Whore sex isn't love. Like that movie Yours, Mine and Hours, where Frank Beardsley describes to his stepdaughter what love is.

"Life isn't a love in, it's the dishes and the orthodontist and the shoe repairman and... ground round instead of roast beef. And I'll tell you something else: it isn't going to a bed with a man that proves you're in love with him; it's getting up in the morning and facing the drab, miserable, wonderful everyday world with him that counts."

Something tells me that's not what she intended to drink of all night. Well, maybe for one night, but certainly not the everyday world.

But her husband's gone and everything, so it seems like all signs point to this kid spending the night with the prostitute. Its a highway to the grave though, its destruction, bodily and reputationally.

Pr. 6: Practical Warnings

Proverbs 6:5 "Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler."

Here is some more practical advice. The first section is a caution against debt. Being in debt itself doesn't appear to be a sin, but if a person is so deep into hock that it is detrimental and dangerous to himself, the command is given to free oneself. And not tomorrow, now! (Allow no sleep to your eyes, v. 4) Being in bad debt is being in a trap, and you must escape. Not by just bagging it and abandoning everything, which would become theft, but to plead your case to the person you owe.

Laziness takes a hit here too, as the writer considers the ant, who works all day without an overseer, without a slavedriver. Driven by nothing more than the will to survive, ensuring it's own survival, not counting on the ant next to him to share with him. Sure, we'll encounter charity, and possibly be on the receiving end of it, but it shouldn't be for lack of effort. Slothfulness begets poverty and scarcity.

Plotting evil in secret leads to disaster. Secret signals and unspoken cues are necessary when you are planning to waylay some poor soul. You can't just plot evil out in the open...the wise will be onto you.

God hates six things...no wait, seven things.

• haughty eyes
• a lying tongue
• hands that shed innocent blood
• a heart that devises wicked schemes
• feet that are quick to rush into evil
• a false witness who pours out lies
• a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.

That is a list that seems ok by me. I'll hate it too. And I pray I'm never a part of those things. Peronsally, I think I have the most trouble with devising wicked schemes. My neighbor's dog barks a lot. I have plotted many a wicked scheme, most of which involved separating the dog from it's life. Never followed through on them. I just think my neighbor is old and frail and can't hear or doesn't realize her dog is barking. Like the rest of the neighborhood does. That's not to make excuses, I shouldn't plot like that.

Apparently chapter 5 wasn't enough of a warning against adultery, so it's ill effects are compunded here in the 6th chapter. Adultery leads to destruction. A prostitute reduces you to a loaf of bread. You are her food, her sustenance. Nothing more. Its not a relationship, its subhuman. There are consequences to adultery, and I love the coals-in-the-lap thing, kind of like an STD? Also, when you lust after the neighbor's wife, watch out for the jealous husband, he will get his measure of revenge on you. Someone bedding your wife is just about the most serious thing that can happen to a man, at least here in Proverbs. All you want is vengeance, and no bribe or compensation will allay that rage.

Pr. 5: Adultery is Childish

Proverbs 5:18 "May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth."

Here is a warning against the hollow spirit of adultery. Yes, it is a commandment. But here we get a little deeper into the more practical side of sticking with a commitment, keeping a promise. There appears to be no deeper human relationship than that of a man and his wife.

This isn't to discount or ignore the initial draw of adultery. Her lips drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil. Who wouldn't be taken in by that? Some wandering heart, who doesn't think he hears his wife say "I love you" in the things that she does and the way that she lives? It sounds nice, enticing. But the end is bitter as gall. Piss. Death. Unfulfilling. Anyone who has used pornography and regretted it knows the empty feeling and the guilt from giving into that printed or electronic temptation. The Proverbs say that the adulteress isn't into giving life. Only death and destruction. Robbing a man of his spirit, his "essence."

What a man has with his wife isn't meant to be shared, as that relationship grows deeper and more intimate. Drink water from your own cistern, it says. That is the only water that quenches thirst. How much greater it is to enjoy your life with your one-and-only, the "wife of your youth" as the Proverb says. That serious depth of intimacy will always be more fulfilling and real than useless flings with the adulteress.

Pr. 4: Wisdom over Evil

Proverbs 4:19 "But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble."

Listen and pay attention. Those seem to be the repeated commands throughout Proverbs 4. It is a command to listen to sound teaching. Teaching that has been proven time and again, and now disseminated in order to keep the offspring or the reader from making similar mistakes, and to instruct them in the right way to go.

Avoiding the path of evil serves to keep one from doing evil. It sounds a bit redundant, but if you avoid the road to evil altogether...in other words, avoid situations that could bring one into contact with temptation, you will be less prone to walk with the wicked, to cave into temptation.

I just think verse 18 and 19 are so great. The path to righteousness shines. You can always see where you are going. There is a sense of enlightenment and knowledge not found in the paths of darkness. "They do not know what makes them stumble." Isn't that the truth. This is what the wicked do and they don't know why. You've stumbled around in a dark room. You never know when you are going to crush your toe against an ottoman or something. You can't see.

Turn on the light.

Pr. 3: Wisdom is Good.

Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."

We have here more benefits to wisdom. Long life and prosperity chief among them. Who wouldn't want that? How do you get wisdom? Before, we read that it was the fear of the LORD. In a more practical sense, it is by listening and following the teaching of the writer, which I assume is Solomon. He's been around the block a time or two, and was given the gift of wisdom directly from God, and, as you'll recall, as a necessity in order to run his kingdom.

A result of acquiring wisdom and making wise decisions is actual, physical prosperity. Not just the wealth of having a close relationship with God, which I just can't reconcile, at least not the way David did. David craved God 24/7. A person also receives good health and overflowing barns. That's a pretty sweet deal.

Discipline is required for wisdom. Not just working at it everyday, but God's discipline to man. Unwise decisions will be made. God corrects, and it says he corrects those he loves. So discipline is a love language.

Wisdom is also akin to finding a good woman. Beauty and wealth and protection belong to her.

Pr. 2: Wisdom is Life

Proverbs 2:12 "Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse..."

This second chapter of Proverbs makes me think that Psalms and Proverbs are very tightly connected. In Psalms, David solely relied on God to preserve his life. In Proverbs, it appears that wisdom, resulting in the choices a man makes will preserve his life. Through God. So it's all about life. Don't you get the sense in reading Psalms and Proverbs that God is a God who wants his beloved people to have life? And not just breath in their lungs, and blood in their veins, but true, safe, abundant, blessed life?

The language in the second chapter of Proverbs is all about protection. A shield, a victory, guarding, protecting. But wisdom is a conscious pursuit. It doesn't appear that God just tosses wisdom on a person, and suddenly that person is giftedly wise. In just the first two chapters, God makes it clear that a man's own discernment is critical for acquiring and properly using wisdom.

The world wants to seduce men, and the world makes a lot of things that are in truth dark seem wholly "ok" to pursue. I think that's why the object lesson of adultery is so powerful here in verses 16-19. On the surface, it seems victimless. Even approved. But who is man "cheating on" in sin? Not the one whose paths lead to destruction. God is the one who is disregarded and rejected when unwise choices are made. Wise people see through these "options," they are the ones who manage to avoid the net spread in full view of them (Pr. 1:17).

Pr. 1: Introducing Wisdom

Proverbs 1:7 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline."

Proverbs. The first chapter is divided into three sections and they include:

1. The purpose of Proverbs. What's the point?

2. Warning against Enticement. Don't go with...them.

3. Warning against Rejecting Wisdom. Wisdom is good.

Wisdom. Discernment. Knowing right from wrong. Common sense. Fear of God. These are the things that came with wisdom when Solomon asked for it at the beginning of his reign in 1 Kings 3. So what's the point? Israel was given the ten commandments. They were also charged with keeping their end of a pretty serious covenant. They were also given numerous regulations and guidelines for living in Leviticus. While a lot of it was practical, there wasn't much that included visual aids...object lessons.

Proverbs are sayings that don't directly issue commands. These are things that will require some thought, some discernment. Verse 5 says "Let the wise listen," which seems that there are people who perceive themselves wise, that they have it all figured out. But they lack understanding. So here are the proverbs to provide that understanding.

Here is a warning to listen to the instruction of those who have gone before. To listen to expert instruction. To listen to experienced teaching. Does that not make sense? This section tells a person not to throw their lot in with people who seek to harm others. The promise is for good things, valuable things, but they are their own victims.

If a person rejects true wisdom, they do unwise things, right? Foolish things. The result is calamity and God's judgment. Not just because of the rejection of wisdom, but rejecting wisdom is the gateway to doing stupid things that lead to rejecting God.

Ps. 150: Praise Him

Psalm 150:6 "Let everything that has breath praise the LORD."

Who? Where? When? Why? How?

All those questions about praising God are wrapped up in this, the 150th Psalm, the final chapter in the longest book in the Bible.

Wherever you are, whoever you are, praise the Lord. That includes in the heavens, so angels and the heavenly beings, and presumably the sun, moon, stars and other awesome created stuff.

Make noise when you do it! Don't keep it inside. The method is loud! Trumpet! Clashing and resounding cymbals. (To drummers like me, that means the crash and the ride.) Everything that hath breath, praise the LORD.

Ps. 149: Praise as a Weapon?

Psalm 149:6 "May the praise of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands."

So, another commandment to praise God. We've covered numerous times how wonderful it is and appropriate it is to praise God. David and the psalmists have issued several lists and given lots of reasons why God is due the praise of His saints.

The 149th Psalm takes a bit of a departure. This is the first time I can recall, or at least that I noticed that the praise of God could be a weapon. A double-edged sword. Created to cut down enemies. The praise of God accomplishes a few things here before unwritten.

• Inflicts vengeance
• Punishes the people
• Binds kings with fetters
• Binds nobles with shackles
• Carries out the sentence against them

Pretty interesting. Of course it couldn't be the actual praise of God that does all these things. Right? Could this be a case of morale? Even though Israel may be scuffling, struggling, they still cry out to God in worship. Would that serve to dishearten their captors or oppressors? Or is it a case of fulfillment of the covenant. Praising God reflects a close relationship between Israelite and God, resulting in or as a result of Israel keeping their end of the bargain. When this happened, God saw fit to crush Israel's oppressors...you know, inflicting vengeance, throwing off kings and serving as God's hand of punishment against those who did not follow God's law.

Praise the Lord and grab your sword!

Ps. 148: Everybody Praise!

Psalm 148:3 "Praise him, sun and moon, praise him, all you shining stars."

As crazy a thought as it may be to picture "inanimate" objects like the sun, moon and stars praising God, it is precisely what is happening. All these things listed in the 148th Psalm are commanded to praise God for his power. God hung them there in space, set them spinning, and for that reason, and that power, these things praise God. Creation, dragons of the deep, weather phenomena...when they do what they are intended and created to do, that is their act of worship. Let's not forget the first time we had this image of the sun, moon, and stars paying homage...Joseph's dream back in Genesis 37. (note)

I am reminded again of the concept of "to obey is better than sacrifice." God deserves their obedience for his great power and love. These things, the sun, moon, stars, the rain, mountains, the trees...their "walk" as it were, is only pure. They have no need to sacrifice. Yet they were brought under the curse back in Genesis, at the fall of man. But their constant obedience leads to their blamelessness. Yeah, a lot like David.

This Psalm ends with another mention of the concept of raising up a "horn." I suppose this means a king, a monument, an example, whereby God establishes himself among his people, and his people see this horn, and know that God is the LORD.

Ps. 147: Just Worship

Psalm 147:1 "Praise the LORD. How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him!"

"Pleasant" and "fitting" are the words used to describe worship of God. It's the right thing to do for people who believe in him and trust in him. With all the things listed that are praiseworthy, it makes sense. If a person believes in God, and trusts in him wholeheartedly, it would stand to reason that the things taught to that person are true. If that person believes these praiseworthy things are true, how could that person not lift up songs of worship to God? From this Psalm, it is pretty clear that God isn't owed worship. God doesn't need worship, he is due worship.

Consider verse 10. God's pleasure is not in the strength of a horse, or in the legs of a man, his delight is in those who fear him, and put their hope in his unfailing love. I believe this speaks to the efforts that a person makes. While sacrifices and the like were intended to restore a person's relationship with God, God still makes it very clear that "to obey is better than sacrifice (1 Sam 15)." God is, and always has been, after a man's heart. He takes great pleasure in a person simply trusting in him and his love to save.

If anyone is wondering if God had this type of revelation and commands for any other nation, its pretty clear in the final verse that the Israelites are God's people. So, if God doesn't reveal his laws to these other nations, how do they know they are breaking God's laws? Does it matter? Does Israel reveal God's laws to these other nations?

Ps. 146: Who to Trust

Psalm 146:5 "Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God,"

Some more praise to God from David. He first sets an example himself, mentioning that he will offer praise to God with all he is. What kind of person would he be if he claimed to have this awesome relationship with God, but then failed to live that out in real life? Not much, I would suggest. And that's not to suggest David always led a sinless life. We know he didn't. He did however, as I've mentioned, live a blameless life, constantly in conversation and back-and-forth with God.

He goes on to instruct his readers to put their trust only in God. A nation of polytheists, humanists, and generally those who ignored God in spite of belief that he is real and all-powerful, Israel apparently was putting their trust either in their kings (Presumably Saul at this time...unfortunately) or in their idols and their respective priests. This is why he differentiates, saying "the God of Jacob."

Why is this all-powerful God praiseworthy? David makes another list.

• Maker of heaven and earth
• Remains forever faithful
• Upholds the cause of the oppressed
• Feeds the hungry
• Sets prisoners free
• Gives sight to the blind
• Lifts up those who are bowed down
• Loves the righteous
• Watches over the alien
• Sustains the fatherless and the widow
• Frustrates the ways of the wicked

All pretty wonderful things. The mention of the "alien" is interesting. While they were not allowed in the temple, they were not to be mistreated by Israel. Both Exodus and Leviticus make mention of how Israel were aliens in the land of Egypt, and mistreated there. This principle of be bigger than your tormenter (or mocker) is one I've always found useful. Of course this list is probably physically carried out (when possible) by those who claim to love God and follow his covenant and precepts. Things like giving sight and watching over and sustaining the fatherless...those types of things only God can really do. But the rest of that list is a challenge to those claiming to be God-followers.

Ps. 145: Acrostic Praise

Psalm 145:21 "My mouth will speak in praise of the LORD. Let every creature praise his holy name for ever and ever."

Here's another acrostic, the last one (that I know of) being the 119th Psalm. I don't know Hebrew, but apparently, each refrain translated back would begin with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet. So we have 21 verses here, and it's really just a bunch of sayings of praise, exaltations to God. This Psalm is full of promise, ostensibly describing who God is to believers, and the praiseworthy things God did, is doing, and will do for the people that love him.

When I read something like "All you have made will praise you," it still gives me pause. That includes rocks, trees, animals, etc. And that includes the unbelieving. I could understand the bit about creation, because of what I read at the end of Job, and throughout the scriptures up to this point that I have read, considering the anthropomorphization of "the land." What is created simply does what it is created to do. Unbelievers are not doing what they are created to do. Perhaps at some point, these people will be called upon to recognize who God is, and then to give God his due.

Ps. 144: God Cares for Man

Psalm 144:15 "Blessed are the people of whom this is true; blessed are the people whose God is the LORD."

In the 144th Psalm, David asks a deeply theological question..."What is man that you should care for him? The son of man that you should think of him?" He recognizes his place in this world. In all the immortality and omnipotence he ascribes to God, David applies the inverse to himself. Why would God care for man, who lives for but an instant? I don't believe that David was asking for an answer to this question. He isn't really trying to understand why God is this way. He just revels in the fact that it is true. And this attitude is evidenced by the rest of the chapter.

David asks that God pour out the greatest of his blessings...of protection, of providence, of mercy. Look at all the things that God will do when his people trust him.

• Deliverence from foreigners
• Well-nurtured sons
• Beautiful daughters
• Barns full of provision
• Increase in sheep in the fields (so a place for those sheep to graze)
• Oxen drawing heavy loads (so...large harvest?)
• Unbreached walls
• Freedom
• No oppression.

It's a pretty good life, and it comes for the people who trust in the LORD.