Encouragement: Honor the Lord

Here is your daily encouragement words and thoughts. Today I bring you encouragement from Proverbs 3:9-23

9 Honor the Lord from your wealth
and from the first fruits of all your crops;
10 then your barns will be filled completely,
and your vats will overflow with new wine.
11 My child, do not despise discipline from the Lord,
and do not loathe his rebuke.
12 For the Lord disciplines those he loves,
just as a father disciplines the son in whom he delights.
13 Blessed is the one who finds wisdom,
and the one who obtains understanding.
14 For her benefit is more profitable than silver,
and her gain is better than gold.
15 She is more precious than rubies,
and none of the things you desire can compare with her.
16 Long life is in her right hand;
in her left hand are riches and honor.
17 Her ways are very pleasant,
and all her paths are peaceful.
18 She is like a tree of life to those who obtain her,
and everyone who grasps hold of her will be blessed.
19 By wisdom the Lord laid the foundation of the earth;
he established the heavens by understanding.
20 By his knowledge the primordial sea was broken open,
and the clouds drip down dew.
21 My child, do not let them escape from your sight;
safeguard sound wisdom and discretion.
22 So they will give life to you,
and grace to adorn your neck.
23 Then you will walk on your way with security,
and you will not stumble.

Biblical Studies Press. (2006; 2006). The NET Bible First Edition; Bible. English. NET Bible.; The NET Bible (Pr 3:9-23). Biblical Studies Press.

Well we are back in Proverbs again.

Our text today opens with a line that should be a cornerstone of any stewardship message. These words are not so much a regulation of thou shalt do xyz but is more a statement that defines the position that God should have in our lives. God should be first. It also reminds us that it is a gift from him that we have anything. So if you give willingly and not under compulsion rom our wealth and offer up the first fruits of our labors then God promises to fill our vats and barns.

Our proverb then goes on to say "My child, do not despise discipline from the Lord, and do not loathe his rebuke. For the Lord disciplines those he loves,just as a father disciplines the son in whom he delights." It feels to good to know that God loves me so much. I sometimes struggle under the weight of God's discipline. It is good to know that we must be on the right track if God is willing to discipline us.

Amen

Music Encourgement Don Moen - Thank You Lord