More words of wisdom on the role of the righteous and the fruit of the wicked from Solomon this morning.
Proverbs 29:
1 He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck, will suddenly be broken beyond healing.
2 When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.
3 He who loves wisdom makes his father glad, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth.
4 By justice a king builds up the land, but he who exacts gifts tears it down.
5 A man who flatters his neighbour spreads a net for his feet.
6 An evil man is ensnared in his transgression, but a righteous man sings and rejoices.
7 A righteous man knows the rights of the poor; a wicked man does not understand such knowledge.
8 Scoffers set a city aflame, but the wise turn away wrath.
9 If a wise man has an argument with a fool, the fool only rages and laughs, and there is no quiet.
10 Bloodthirsty men hate one who is blameless and seek the life of the upright.
11 A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back.
12 If a ruler listens to falsehood, all his officials will be wicked.
13 The poor man and the oppressor meet together; the LORD gives light to the eyes of both.
14 If a king faithfully judges the poor, his throne will be established forever.
15 The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.
16 When the wicked increase, transgression increases, but the righteous will look upon their downfall.
17 Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart.
18 Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law.
19 By mere words a servant is not disciplined, for though he understands, he will not respond.
20 Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
21 Whoever pampers his servant from childhood will in the end find him his heir.
22 A man of wrath stirs up strife, and one given to anger causes much transgression.
23 One's pride will bring him low, but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honour.
24 The partner of a thief hates his own life; he hears the curse, but discloses nothing.
25 The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.
26 Many seek the face of a ruler, but it is from the LORD that a man gets justice.
27 An unjust man is an abomination to the righteous, but one whose way is straight is an abomination to the wicked.
Things to think about…
1. There are some in the household of faith who have the Prov 29:1 condition. They are broken and beyond healing. Why? Because they stiffened their necks and hardened their hearts. They are their own problem. John Bunyan in “Pilgrims Progress” writes about the man who is in prison and is unable to get out of his cage. Some people are this way emotionally and spiritually. Their hurt spreads beyond their situation to others. Gal 5:22, 23 is the only solution.
2. We have prayed for a righteous government, Prov 29:2. While our previous Prime Minister was a devout believer in Christ, our current Prime Minister is more Catholic than Christian I suspect. Nonetheless, we should always pray for our leaders.
3. Are you a joyful person? Have a look at Prov 29:6. A righteous man sings and rejoices. Apparently, the boy scouts had to whistle and be joyful and never whinge. I don’t think this is in their creed anymore. But as those who are made righteous through Christ, we have something to sing about and rejoice over. Hallelujah. Paul says “Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say rejoice” Phil 4:4. Let’s encourage each other to know the true joy of the Lord throughout the day. Do you have some challenges ahead of you today? I know I do. But let’s rejoice together. The joy of the Lord is our strength. Be joyful and give Him praise.
4. Any fool can have a rant, Prov 29:11. A fruit of the Spirit is self-control. What challenges have you had lately for you to exhibit either characteristic? Prayer and a will resigned to Christ maintains the witness.
5. With a household that was full of boys, I can’t tell you how true Prov 29:17 was for me and my dear Fi. Our boys are a delight to us. Plenty of smacks and cuddles were involved to get there though. Now it is more counsel and prayer. But the cuddles never stop.
6. Prov 29:18 speaks about the revealed will of God in His word. When the bible is not preached faithfully people run amuck morally. Pray for faithful preachers to be raised up in our city, state and country.
7. How should we apply Prov 29:19? What actions do we need to take for those who need to be disciplined in the workplace?
8. More advice for the church in Prov 29:22. If you hear a sniff of someone stirring up division in a cell group, church ministry or privately – rebuke them in love. It is a cancer to the fellowship if it continues. Paul puts it this way “A little leaven leavens the whole lump”, Gal 5:9.
9. People are quick to run to their lawyers to get justice these days, but Prov 29:26 should be enough for the Christian. Paul says as much to the Corinthians. Let the Lord give you justice. Does this mean Christians should never go to court? Unfortunately, some who call themselves Christians more readily call their lawyer before seeking wisdom and reconciliation with their family members in Christ.
Vision Point for cell groups
CBC’s Vision :- To be a growing biblical church community, significantly influencing our city and beyond, through intentional outreach, fulfilling our mission.
Title was “a healthy heart and mind” – Reading Phil 4:1-9
1. If you could describe what would make you perfectly content in this life, what would it be?
2. Euodia and Syntyche were having a disagreement. Paul asks that they “agree in the Lord”. What does this mean do you think? Discuss how this should apply in every church.
3. Read vs 8 and 9 again. How do you, or would you apply these things into your life? What are the distractions or limitations to making it happen?
4. The promise when we do is that the God of peace will be with us. Sow a thought, reap an action, sow an action, reap a habit, sow a habit, reap a character, sow a character, reap a destiny.
Prayer Points
1. The right choice for a full time Youth and Young Adults Pastor.
2. Doug and Joanne Horne as they prepare for the Celebration of Life service for Doug’s father.
3. Ministry leaders within the church.
4. Peace to rest over Ukraine.
5. Pray for other building projects – café roof, the repair of the house roof.
6. Growth, conversions, joy in the Word and Spirit to remain and increase.
Praise Points
1. Quite a few young people and visitors on Sunday
2. Give thanks for Sam and Krystal Beatty – a wedding that honoured Christ, was a real joy to be part of.
3. Many returning back to full health.
4. Worship on Sunday – thankyou Beatty boys and Rosie Dunn looking after Kidz at Church, Maddie doing the words and maintaining her cool with the pastor’s dodgy slides. Fiona and Suzy in café always do a stellar job. Thankyou for those who welcomed at the door.
5. All those who faithfully serve in ministries, Worship, Sound/Technical/Kids Church/ Cell Groups/Admin - Bulletins/Finances/Property/Welcoming/Spiritual Leadership/Cafe
6. Joy, peace and grace we see at CBC. Thankyou Lord
Announcements
1. Remember to check your duty rosters.
2. Members’ meeting 28th August after the morning service.
3. Church bank details bsb:- 704 913 and Acc number:- 4000 4388 1
4. Tune in again this week on our youtube page. Subscribe to the CBC channel Chuwar Baptist YouTube channel.
Catechism question for August...
Q. 7. What is hell? A. A place of dreadful and endless punishment & torment.
