What to do when you can't sleep

Esther 6

Sleep and rest are a beautiful thing many of us take for granted, that is until we are awakened with a coughing attack as I have been for days and I found peace in looking in the Scriptures for what the Lord wants to share with me.  Usually, after about two hours I’m back getting some sleep.  This morning my wife at about I: 30 woke me doing the same thing, and I spent a considerable time interceding for her and God is so good she is back asleep. 

Now, why did I share that with you, for I’ve found in the Bible where God does some of His best work on you and me, and even kings by not allowing them to sleep, and that’s the case with the King in Esther 6?  Shall we continue the account in verses1-3, “That night sleep escaped the king, so he ordered the book recording daily events to be bought and read to the king. They found the written report of how Mordecai had informed on Bigthana and Teresh, two eunuchs who guard the king’s entrance when they planned to assassinate King Ahasuerus. The king inquired, “What honor and special recognition have been given to Mordecai for this act?” The king’s personal attendants replied, “Nothing has been done for him.”

That is amazing how something that important could be overlooked, but it was, and let’s give the king some credit, he acted on this as soon as he could.  By the way, if you have not read the book of Esther you’re in for a “But God” moment.  Picking up the story in verses 4-9, “The king asked, “Who is in the court?” Now Haman was just entering the outer court of the palace to ask the king to hang Mordecai on the gallows he had prepared for him.

The king’s attendants answered him, “Haman is there, standing in the court.” “Have him enter,” the king ordered.  Haman entered, and the king asked him, “What should be done for the man the king wants to honor?”

Haman thought to himself, “Who is it the king would want to honor more than me?” Haman told the king, “For the man, the king wants to honor: Have them bring a royal garment that the king himself has worn and a horse the king himself has ridden, which has a royal diadem on its head. Put the garment and the horse under the charge of one of the king’s most noble officials. Have them clothe the man the king wants to honor, parade him on the horse through the city square, and proclaim before him, ‘This is what is done for the man the king wants to honor.’”

You understand why I allow the Bible to tell that story, it is just too sweet not to read, and I’m fearful that we have churches full of pride like Haman.  So let’s see what takes place next, in verses 10-14, and we're shown what pride and hate produce. 

“The king told Haman, “Hurry, and do just as you proposed. Take a garment and a horse for Mordecai the Jew, who is sitting at the King’s Gate. Do not leave out anything you have suggested.” So Haman took the garment and the horse. He clothed Mordecai and paraded him through the city square, crying out before him, “This is what is done for the man the king wants to honor.”

Then Mordecai returned to the King’s Gate, but Haman, overwhelmed, hurried off for home with his head covered. Haman told his wife Zeresh and all his friends' everything that had happened. His advisers and his wife Zeresh said to him, “Since Mordecai is Jewish, and you have begun to fall before him, you won’t overcome him because your downfall is certain.” While they were still speaking with him, the eunuchs of the king arrived and rushed Haman to the banquet Esther had prepared.”

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice

A hateful Person - A wise Person

Proverbs 29: 9-11

“If a wise man has an argument with a fool, the fool only rages and laughs, and there is no quiet.  Bloodthirsty men hate one who is blameless and seek the life of the upright.   A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back.”

Without contentment, we see a person, a family, a city, a nation, and a world in disarray.  As I read Proverbs 29:9 yesterday, my spirit cried out for the social and political culture of the United States of America.   “If a wise man has an argument with a fool, the fool only rages and laughs, and there is no quiet.”  I often watch Fox News, and this is my observation, when they have a Democrat and a Republican on with the host, and they are asked a question, the Democrat does not wait to talk, but tries to talk over the other person.  Yesterday, as I was working out at the gym I watched some rude man almost yelling when the lady tried to talk, and I called him offensive, but Proverbs 29; 9, calls him a fool.

As long as we are viewing our political culture from the Proverbs did you ever believe the day would come when the voters of this great nation would elect bloodthirsty men and women to be their congressperson?  We have seen both men and women in Congress encourage us to get in the face of anyone that does not have their view.  I started to say values, but knowing the meaning of words, it is clear they have no values just hate and anger because they did not get what they wanted.  Not even two-year-olds are that shallow! 

With that said, I’m in the winter of my life, but my spirit cries out for a nation that has not learned from its history, like an ex-President said that our country is in debt to the Muslim people for what they contributed to the founding of this nation. 

Do you know what they did contribute; they stayed in the Middle East and killed and destroyed their neighbors, and did not come to our nation.  So I also may be playing the role of a fool by telling the truth to people who are not open to examining history and facts that search for truth.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice

Blessed are those who consider the Poor

November 30, 2018

Proverbs 29:7-8

“A righteous man knows the rights of the poor; a wicked man does not understand such knowledge.”

The Bible has much to say about the poor, shall we explore a few of them, like Psalm 41:1-2.  “Blessed is the one who considers the poor! In the day of trouble, the LORD delivers him; the LORD protects him and keeps him alive; he is called blessed in the land; you do not give him up to the will of his enemies.”  What about Proverbs 29:7, ”A righteous man knows the rights of the poor; a wicked man does not understand such knowledge.”  One more that we should consider is Proverbs 19:17, “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will repay him for his deed.”   What is your take away from this, this writer believes the Lord is expecting us to use what He has blessed us with to be of help to the poor?  Yes, many people who claim to have compassion for the poor, but run scams to increase their wealth so investigate before giving.  It has been our experience that the Salvation Army and Samaritans Purse both meet and exceed our expectations when it comes to helping the under-resourced.

A wise person will pay attention to the warning of the Scriptures and not enter into judgment.  Look with me at Proverbs 22:7, “The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.”  All one has to do is look at the governments of countries and you see this playing out, the rich are the rulers.  We have the example of people who had little in the way of money going to Washington D.C. and becoming very rich, why because they are willing to sell out to the highest bidder.  But they are the puppet in the hands of the super-rich, do you recall the words of Jesus in Matthew 16:26-27?   ^“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?  For the Son of Man is going to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay each person according to what he has done.”  My prayer is that you value your eternal soul at a higher price than the temporary stuff that money can buy.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice

The greedy stir up conflict

November 26, 2018

Proverbs 28:25-27

The greedy stir up conflict, but those who trust in the Lord will prosper.  Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe.  Those who give to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to them receive many curses.

The verses that are listed above have a common goal; greed, trusting in you, and not helping the poor are common to many, both Christian and non-believers.  It is cal ed l flesh in the Scriptures, and its goal is to be the captain of one's ship, or as Frank Sinatra’s famous song titled “I did it my Way.”  Now this kind of flesh will bring God’s judgment in this life on the true follower of Christ, and the Holy Spirit who lives in them will give them the tools to break the control of the flesh if they seek it.

Where as the non-believer is on his own and sees nothing wrong with their actions, and will only find victory in a relationship with Christ.  It should be noticed that not all people are greedy, not all put trust in themselves, and not all look the other way when it comes to the poor, but everyone has flesh and it matters not what kind, it is hostile to the ways of God.

You may be asking, what are the manifestations of Greed?  I enjoy reading this view of that subject; “While greed is a strong desire for more and more possessions (such as wealth and power), envy goes one step further and includes a strong desire by greedy people for the possessions of others. Greedy people lack empathy. Caring—being concerned about the feelings of others—is not part of their repertoire.” April 8, 2016, by Manfred Kets De Vries  

I’m going to do something today I have not done in the past to this degree and that is to finish out this paper with Manfred’s comments.  

What are the warning signs of uncontrolled greed?

1. Overly self-centered behavior becomes the first give-away of greedy people. Greedy people are always saying “me, me, me” with very little regard for the needs and feelings of others.
2. Envy and greed are like twins. While greed is a strong desire for more and more possessions (such as wealth and power), envy goes one step further and includes a strong desire by greedy people for the possessions of others.
3. Greedy people lack empathy. Caring—being concerned about the feelings of others—is not part of their repertoire. As such, they have little qualms about causing pain to others. Their inability to empathies, their lack of genuine interest in the ideas and feelings of others, and their unwillingness to take personal responsibility for their behavior and actions makes them very difficult people to be with.
4. They are never satisfied.  Greedy people look at the world as a zero-sum-game. Instead of thinking that everyone would benefit as the pie gets larger, they view the pie as a constant and want to have the biggest part. They truly believe that they deserve more, even if it comes at someone else’s expense.

I do not know if Manfred Kets De Vries is a follower of Christ, but this I do know his thoughts are in keeping with the Proverbs on greed, and how it controls the flesh.  He finishes with this statement.

“The bigger question we should ask ourselves is how can we change the societies we live in that are based too much on acquisitions and excess? As Schopenhauer once said, “wealth is like sea-water; the more we drink, the thirstier we become.” If we learn how to overcome greed, we may have a simpler, more meaningful, happier and richer life.”  I believe that can only happen with a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice

Blessing or Curses

Proverbs 28: 13-16,18

“Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.  Blessed is the one who fears the Lord always, but whoever hardens his heart will fall into calamity.  Like a roaring lion or a charging, bear is a wicked ruler over a poor people.  A ruler who lacks understanding is a cruel oppressor, but he who hates unjust gain will prolong his days^.  Whoever walks in integrity will be delivered, but he who is crooked in his ways will suddenly fall.”

I’ve often said I’m a simple man, and that is being very honest, for I am simple in what matters; the ways of God, the food I eat, and the things I wear.  But that does not mean I do not want, for my flesh wants to be out front, the center of attention, with wit and wisdom and it has been a battle since I showed up on planet earth. 

Have you given thought to the amount of wisdom we who are not in leadership are willing to share with anyone who will listen to us on all the things administration should do?  Have you ever given thought to the fact that you only have a small part of the picture, yet you are so bold in how it should be done?

With that said allow me to be foolish and offer some counsel to all leaders, from President to Kings, from the owner of companies, CEO’s to heads of families.  First and foremost a leader must be honest about their transgression with those they have wronged.  One should not forget these words from Luke 8:17, “For nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor is anything secret that will not be known and come to light.”  I can testify that has been true in my life, I’ve often had to confess to both people I’ve worked with and my wife and daughter of overstepping the limit or breaking the rules.

Often and I do mean frequently our President receives criticism because of his choice of words or his bragging about what he achieved for the people of the United States.  For once this citizen is saying thanks to our President for the many things you and your team have accomplished.  The USA was on a dangerous path; many had given up and taken welfare when the President came to office, we had many who were unemployed, many who were on food stamps and companies leaving every year for China to make their products.  Our borders were open, and the lawless and drugs were pouring in.  And who is picking up the cost, the people that live by the law, and pay their taxes, local, state, and federal governments ignored them.

So yes we are rejoicing that our President is taking a stand that the people of the USA have been asking for and we who are Christ followers are praying that all people in our country will be held to the same standards in the courts of this land, it matters not their wealth or title.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice

Wealth has it's pitfalls

Proverbs 28:8-11

“Whoever multiplies his wealth by interest and profit gathers it for him who is generous to the poor.  If one turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination.  Whoever misleads the upright into an evil way will fall into his own pit, but the blameless will have a goodly inheritance.  A rich man is wise in his own eyes, but a poor man who has understanding will find him out. ”

This is my favorite time of the year in Texas, it is cool but not cold, and Thanksgiving is a couple of days away.  I’ve already smoked a Turkey and Jan is going to make the dressing and gravy today, and the best part is yet to come.  In two days we are going to Austin, Texas and spend the day with our family, if the Lord wills.  But today I want to look at the six verses above and let the Holy Spirit talk to us about them.

Let's begin with verses 8-9, and first look at what someone else thinks, in my Study Bible it states in verse 8, “In this life or eternity, God will punish those who exploit the poor and reward those who help them.”  One must remember the Proverbs are true and apply to both believers in God and those who do not put their faith in Him.  That is why a follower of Christ is told to fear God, because our act of rebelling against His commands will bring discipline now not in heaven, and often it can be excruciating.

Now verse nine, if one turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination.  When we doubt or do not obey God’s law, it shows a lack of faith on our part and our Father will not put up with that.  Hebrews 11:6,  “And without faith, it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”  My prayer for us is that we are never an abomination to our Father.

Often we read and understand at least on the surface what Solomon is telling us, I believe that is the case with verses 10-11, “Whoever misleads the upright into an evil way will fall into his own pit, but the blameless will have a goodly inheritance.  A rich man is wise in his own eyes, but a poor man who has understanding will find him out.” 

Let me share that I believe I’m rich, in family, friends, and yet I’m not a man of wealth by the standards of this world, but I do believe that verse 11 applies to me.  Many years ago I attended a men’s breakfast in Corpus Christi.  A man who sat by me was older gentleman and yet I did not believe at my young age that he could teach me much.  As we talked, he began to tell me things about me he did not have any knowledge about.  I had not acted on them yet.  But they were evil desires of lust and greed that I had thought were hidden in my heart.  Yes, God’s Spirit knows your thoughts and will expose them to one who will confront you.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice

“Does God’s providence equal His approval?”

November 20, 2018

Proverbs 28:1-7

“The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.
 When a land transgresses, it has many rulers, but with a man of understanding and knowledge, its stability will long continue.  A poor man who oppresses the poor is a beating rain that leaves no food.  Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law strive against them.  Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand it completely.  Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is crooked in his ways.  The one who keeps the law is a son with understanding, but a companion of gluttons shames his father.”

Some say that a Christian should stay on message and not get caught up in politics.  What is the message?  It is that Christ died for sinners, and it was at the cross where victory over sin, all sin took place.  Is it not that a Holy God loves you and me and all mankind that He sent His only Son to be a pure and holy sacrifice and His blood covered all sin.  That is the message, and it is not a private thing between God and us, it is a message for all to hear, and we are called to be the messengers, not just preachers. 

The apostle Paul shares with us in Romans 5:6-10, “For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.  For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.  Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God.  For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life.”  All one has to do as a follower of Christ is say I am not better than you are, no way, we have all sinned and fallen short, it is a message of grace and mercy.

The Scripture is clear that no one fills an office of leadership that God has not allowed, and I believe Drew Griffin is correct in this statement: “We who believe the Bible know that all authority comes from God and no person, from parents to presidents, teachers to tyrants rise to that position apart from God’s providence. As Abraham Kuyper, the Dutch theologian and politician, once said, “There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry, Mine!”

Drew goes on to ask, “Does God’s providence equal His approval?”  I believe Scripture is clear it does not, we often want things that are harmful to us, and we are not different than the people coming out of Egypt after 400 years of captivity, asking for a king like all other nations, and after many warnings God allowed them to have a king.

The argument about Christians keeping quiet for God’s going to do what He wants, does not hold up in Scripture.  And being part of voting for a political party that endorses the killing of babies in a mother’s womb, or sanctions and supports not keeping our laws is against God’s laws.  How can a follower of Christ not stand against such people?

Many are still asking how did Obama and Trump get elected?  It is my belief that in both cases it was not so much the man but the message.  One was the darling of the liberal press and the far left or more enlightened by the world’s standards.  Those same people hate the new President, but his message resonated with those who have been too busy working and living by the laws of man, and some by the laws of God.  Those whom the enlightened would call many things including deplorable people said it is time to have the same justice for the rich, the politician as the ordinary citizen, it’s time to call what God calls evil, evil and what God calls good, good, and that was the message that got President Trump elected.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice

Fully Equippted - With a Plan

2 Peter 1:5-8

“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.  For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Much of my early life on planet earth I was a guy with no plan or goals, just took what was coming my way, I responded by allowing my emotions and circumstances to rule my life.  I was still that guy when Jan married me, set out on a trip to discover what was down the short cut; most often it was a dead end street.  One might call it living a spontaneous life, no plan, no purpose, and a lot of messes. 

Let me explain with this example, after seeing an octangular structure in a person’s yard, I decided to build one, no plan and no skills and I had no knowledge of how to make the eight angles come together.  For years it stood in our back yard in Odem, Texas as an example of my life.  Habits are not easy things to change!  I was still living this way for years after asking Jesus Christ into my heart.

God has a plan for each of our lives, but many will never attain them unless they understand and apply these truths, so shall we go back to “For this very reason,” for without the reason where do you get the discipline to accomplish these goals?

“His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.  Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.”  (2 Peter 1:3-4)

The first thing one must understand, you have been given everything you will need for a godly life, but the problem is many who call themselves followers of Christ do not believe that.  A man who taught me this truth was Major Ian Thomas with this little quote: “I can’t, He never said I could, He can and He promised He would.”  Once you and I understand that it is God living His life through us, all we must be is willing and ready to submit to His authority.

So as you and I participate in the divine nature these areas enhance our walk with God.  We must add to our faith goodness.  But many a person who goes by the title of Christian lives as if something other than Christ is the object of their faith.  Let me quote John Piper, “God has given all Christians varying measures of faith. This is the faith with which we receive and use our varying gifts. It is the ordinary daily faith by which we live and minister.” (Romans 12:3-8)  It is impossible to please God without faith, look at Hebrews 11:6.  So we need faith in Christ and it requires allowing Him to do it all through us, but we also need goodness, to be willing to love those who despise us and want to bring harm to our nation and way of life.

Yes, we need knowledge for it is required to understand the truths of Scripture and our life on planet earth.  But one must add self-control to that knowledge, for knowledge without self-control can be used to harm and not built-up a weaker brother or sister in Christ.  So I turned to the dictionary for an understanding of this word.  Self–control: the ability to control oneself, in particular, one's emotions and desires or the expression of them in one's behavior, especially in difficult situations: (Dictionary) The enemy knows not what you are thinking but where you are weak in your Character and self-control is a must to be an effective witness for Jesus Christ.

We are to add perseverance to self-control, and in sales, one must have that trait.  I was often referred to by one of my bosses as his bull-dog, the dictionary gives this definition of perseverance; “steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.”  But one must add godliness to perseverance, and without godliness, you’re just a persistent person who may do more harm than good.  So how can one add godliness?  I believe the answer is found in John 15:5, ^“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”   Every quality or requirement that is listed above in 2 Peter 1:5-8 are ineffective if one is not abiding in Christ, so as we abide in Jesus His Spirit guides us into godliness.

And the last part of this ladder is “mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.”  To have mutual-affection for another person one must first not see self as better than the other person.  One must have respect and want to serve others as Christ has done for us.  And to add love to the rung in your ladder is to add God for only God is love.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice

Riches do not last Forever

Proverbs 27:23-24

“Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, for riches do not last forever; and does a crown endure to all generations?”

How would the United States of America change if they followed the counsel of the Scripture?  How would you change if you to the best of your ability and with the help of God did the same?  If we look deep into the verses above and ponder on what King Solomon was sharing with his sons, we would come to understand, the following.  It is all about the people who God has allowed into your concentric circle, your family, relatives, friends, and neighbors, and those you work with.  As future kings, they had a big job ahead, and history tells us they did not listen to the counsel of their dad, nor the advisor he left to give them direction.  Yes, it is also about money and in their case livestock and crops but disasters happen, and often crops and livestock and even people can be destroyed.

As we look to the Scriptures and one would be wise to read Proverbs 27:25-28, they also go with verses 23-24.  Let us begin with 1 Timothy 6:17-19, “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. ¹⁸ They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.”  I sure hope you put thought into this verse and are wise in following its counsel.

Proverbs 11:28, “Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like a green leaf.”  We often fail to understand the word riches, Jesus asks this question “What does it profit a man who gains the whole world and loses his soul?”  I have a high school friend who I love very much, he was a business owner and an incredible musician, a great husband, and dad to his daughter and loves his grandchildren, and it seems overnight his mind is gone.  He and his family would be willing to give away money and stuff to have him back.  True riches are not found in money but in being able to sit quietly in a room all by one's self and know you are rich in your relationship with God, family, and friends.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice

Heaven or Hell

November 16, 2016

Proverbs 27:20

“Sheol and Abaddon are never satisfied, and never satisfied are the eyes of man.”

The Holman Study Bible on page 1053 gives this information: “Sheol is the grave and Abaddon is the place of destruction.  Sheol is the realm of both the righteous and the unrighteous dead.  It is generally observed that one cannot see God from Sheol and never hope to get out, but God can see into Sheol, and He can bring His elect out.   Since, they used the word "if," God can see into the obscure depths of the grave, how much more can He see the recesses of human hearts?”

At the last count, death is 100 percent for all humans and hell, or Abaddon is not a place anyone would desire.  Much is made about did Jesus talk more about Heaven or Hell, He spoke about both, and it is clear from His words that one should not desire to go to a place of eternal judgment.  Do not believe the lie or spin that you and your buddies will be drinking cool ones and playing games; that’s not right.  What Jesus tells us about Hell in Matthew 10:28,  ^“And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.  Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”  Fearing God is not a new teaching, and you would be wise to do so, He is God the Father and demands our obedience.  Hell is a place of judgment for the devil and his angels, not designed for a man, mankind chooses to go there by wanting to be the captain of their ship, or as old blue eyes said, “I did it my way.”  Look at Matthew 25:41, “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.”  Now go to verse 46, “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”

If you could only imagine what Hell is going to be like you would make sure that you shared the grace of God who sent His only Son to pay a price you were not able to pay.  Why because of His amazing love for you and I, sinner and enemy of the cross.  But this is a small window of what Jesus tells us about hell; it is a place of fire, and darkness, of weeping and gnashing of teeth, hell is a place of horror.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice

Unfaithful man - Faithful God

Proverbs 27:17

“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”

My commentary has this to say about the verse; “As a file sharpens an ax or a sharpening steel a carving knife, good friends encourage one another to grow in wisdom and godliness, even if it requires painful criticism.”  It would be rare to have someone that is worldly encouraging you to grow in godliness, so let me make an absolute statement, it would not happen.  A self-made man or woman has little need for God.  They may use the Church for business or social contacts, weddings, and funerals, but have no desire to take God or His Son serious.

How can a young/man/woman find someone who can sharpen them on the wisdom of God and also encourage and confront them in love when they are not on the right path?  Do not allow a person who is not seeking God to be your mentor, for they cannot guide you in wisdom or godliness.  I was blessed to have a dad and mother who said, “Bobby, you will become the people you hang around with.”  As a young boy, I lived in a fantasy world; my imagination always gave me illusions of being the best at anything I dreamed.

But I got my bubble burst at school, it required learning and study, sitting in a chair and paying attention to a teacher, I was not in charge, so I chose to look for others, who like me for whatever reason did not apply themselves.  The first time this came to the surface was in the seventh grade, and I was not allowed to follow my dream of playing football, they would not even let me try out for the team; the coach said I was too small and did not meet the weight requirement, my world was over!

So I chose to rebel, and I began to allow the boys who were underachievers to guide my life.  That is a dead-end street that has impacted my life.  My first mentor was my barber, and it was based on all the wrong things, he was cool, had a nice car, money, and was one dude you did not mess with.  I had none of these, and yet my desire was to be like Bob, the barber.  But God, yes God was up to something, and I had no clue that Bob Keese was changing from a very worldly man to a man who was seeking God.

Bob Keese and his friend Johnny Anderson began to talk to me about Jesus and show me a changed life, a life that required me to give over the management of my hearts desire to be someone of value to a lost and hopeless world of messed up people like myself.  Six months later in a hotel room, I read Romans 10:9-10,  ^“If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.  One believes with the heart, resulting in righteousness, and one confesses with the mouth, resulting in salvation.”  That night I acted on the faith and grace God had extended to me, and Jesus Christ came in and began to change my life.

God has been faithful in sending men who have mentored me in both wisdom and godliness and have loved me enough to tell me I was wrong when I got on the wrong path.  Over the years I’ve also invested in younger men and yet at the age of 76 years I still have a man who is investing in my growth in wisdom and godliness and is not fearful of telling me I’m still a mess that needs to look only to Jesus.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice

Good Counsel before Marriage

Proverbs 27:15-16

“A continual dripping on a rainy day and a quarrelsome wife are alike; to restrain her is to restrain the wind or to grasp oil in one's right hand.”

One of the dangers of teaching the Scriptures is to come across as one who has experience or has a full understanding of the subject.  So let me confess I am blessed to have a very precious and loving wife who has never been nagging, not even close.  And with that said, she did have cause to be quarrelsome many times, it’s just not the kind of lady she is.

But I do have eyes, and I’ve seen and heard many a wife that is like a dripping faucet that needs fixing, but unlike the faucet, it seems to have no replacement parts to fix the leak.  The husband often is not showing love by not taking care of a small problem like a dripping faucet, or putting his dirty clothes in the laundry hamper, but I’ve never seen nagging solve the problem.

I just read that an Arabic word related to the Hebrew word for dripping means “a leaky roof.”  What is evident in both life and the Scripture is that nagging causes dissension.

King Solomon had a lot of wives, and some must have been good at being quarrelsome because he addresses this subject many times in the Proverbs.  Example; Proverbs 21:9 &19, “Better to live on the corner of a roof than to share a house with a nagging wife.”  Verse 19, “Better to live in a wilderness than with a nagging and hot-tempered wife.” 

So listen to Solomon before you enter into a vow before God and man, for the Scriptures are clear, God does not take pleasure in vow breakers.  Solomon also gives some great counsel in Proverbs 31 on what qualities to look for in a wife, and reminds us that “Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord will be praised.” 

As stated above Solomon did not have the best track record with wives, often he married for the wrong reason, like keeping peace with another nation, and it seems Solomon was never content with a wife, always looking, that is dumb for a man of his knowledge and wisdom.  But the good news is with 700 wives comes many bought lessons for men who have no understanding of women.  And this is great counsel in Proverbs 31:10-12, “An excellent wife who can find?  She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.  She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.”  My bride is and always has been that kind of lady, my prayer is that you will move very slow and ask the Lord to guide your heart to such a lady.

Some wise advice King Solomon did not give, but it comes from many years of living life on planet earth.  Observe her dad and see how he treats her mom, pay close attention to her mother’s actions and see if she honors and respects her husband.  It is imperative to observe the daughter’s relationship with the dad!   Is it loving and kind or is it distant?   Is she happy just spending time with you or does she need you to cater to what she wants?

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice

Danger - Take Cover

November 12, 2018

Proverbs 27:12

“A sensible person sees danger and takes cover; the inexperienced keep going and are punished.”

Our God is an awesome God, yes He is fantastic, and yet at a time of sin and disobedience when I’ve chosen to rebel against His authority, He is frightening.  Often this is where we find the inexperienced younger person, but as I’ve advanced in age, it seems many older folks act the same way.

You see it every day, as you drive on the highways of this life, that parking for handicap is five car’s closer to the door, it matters not that I am not a person in need say such a person.  Or I’m not stopping for that red light, I do not allow some line on the road to tell me what to do, so it says no passing, so what?  I’ve had a manwho I respect tell me, and it was out of character, that if it was early in the morning, and the light was red, but no car was coming he was going to go through it.  I ask what about the law, and his reply if they gave me a ticket I'll fight it.  That wrong to the bone, the law is the law and it there to protect, not to harm.

Those are laws made by man, and most are right and for our protection but what about the laws of God?  Let’s keep it simple, first and foremost is to love God and others, even one's enemies.  I’m still working on the enemy’s part, yes I’m a mess, and God knows just how big of a mess I am, but He is kind and loving, and I’m asking Him to love them through me.

But what about stealing, do you steal from your employer, do not lie, do you lie to your wife and children when you tell them one thing but do not honor your word?  Do you cheat on your bride and your kids by placing your time and attention elsewhere, like golf, fishing, or anything that you put before them but worshiping God?

One might say the inexperienced is usually young and not committed to anyone but self, but that type of flesh as stated above does not die without a person coming to a crossroad in life and asking the Father for deliverance.  That is why I believe God has allowed Solomon to share this truth with us so that we might seek wisdom and understanding.

Now I often believe we do not understand the meaning of a word, like shrewdness, for example, it's meaning, is a crafty person, talented, but I was always on guard when I was told they were shrewd, believing they were taking advantage of others.  What I missed in my understanding of the word was a shrewd person is discerning, perceptive, has insight and good judgment, and yes they are smart, most have wisdom. They have the understanding to think, discern and ponder independently.  But one should never forget the negative side of shrewdness is a schemer. 

You will find to the word the same advice in Proverbs 22:3, “A sensible person sees danger and takes cover, but the inexperienced keep going and are punished.”

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice

Instruction to Dad's

November 10, 2018

Proverbs 27:11

One finds a parents instruction to his children in verse eleven, “Be wise, my son, and bring my heart joy so that I can answer anyone who taunts me.”  Often, even the child that is given such instruction has brought shame to their parents, but one must understand there is much more to being a parent than telling a child not to bring shame to our door.

Shall we explore the apostle Paul’s first letter to young Timothy in chapter 3 and verses 1-7?  It is clear the apostle is referring to the office of overseer or pastor, but it should give any dad a path or model for raising Godly children.  As a dad, should you not be above reproach and honor the Covenant you entered into with your wife before God and witnesses?  As one who has been ordered by God to instruct your children in the ways of righteous living, is it not wise to be sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable and hospitable?  Never be under the control of adult beverages, or punish a child when angry, but always ask your Father to guide your thoughts to the correct discipline for the offense.

Many of us have dropped the ball as dads and have not been gentle, wanting to argue instead of listening and showing respect to your child.   A large percentage of parents have put the desire of money or love of money as the object of their affection.

Paul is warning the young man not to do so and to instruct leaders and dads to be the leader, and if you are allowing your wife to take that role both your children and wife will not respect you.  So let this counsel be your guide, shall we look at the apostle’s counsel in verses 4-7?   ^“He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, ⁵ for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God's church? ⁶ He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil.⁷ Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil.”

After making man and woman, our great Creator told the man to marry, to have a family and to work to provide protection, food, and shelter, for sin had not entered into the world, for the man and women walked with God in the Garden.  There was no need for a church, it was in the future but Adam and Eve sinned, and it was a game changer.  With sin came the need for instruction, and a Savior to redeem us from the wrath of God.  Yes, these are to a leader of the Church, but as a member of that body, should it not be your desire and goal to apply these to your life?

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice

What a Friend?

Proverbs 27:6; 9-10; 17

 “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”  Verses 9-10, “Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.  Do not forsake your friend or a friend of your family, and do not go to your relative’s house when disaster strikes you - better a neighbor nearby than a relative far away.” Verse 17, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

What an amazing God we have, for He is long-suffering, loving and kind, always extending grace to His chosen.  When I ponder about what a friend is to me, my first thought is a blessing.  One should find in a friend God’s kindness, grace and mercy, and love is shown forth to us, for a friend is a gift from the Father.

I believe that all of us have many relationships, but it would be rare to have more than two are three close friends at any time in our life.  But then maybe that is just my experience and not the norm, so perhaps it comes down to what your definition is of a friend.

I’m very simple; no one has ever accused me of being a deep thinker or a person with a brilliant mind, so take that in to account as you look at my thoughts about a true friend.

·      A person who tells me what I need to hear, never to hurt or harm but to make me 

     into all that I can be.

·      A person who prays for me, and encourages me to look to Jesus, who meets all 

    my needs.

·      One who I can call or who will call me in times of need or troubles. 

·      One who shares their heart's desire and knows I will honor their trust.

·      One who distance does not break the love bond God has put into our hearts for 

    them.

·      And one who I go to for sound counsel.

That is my short list of what a real friend is; they are not someone on Facebook who I un-friend when they take a position I do not agree with.  I wonder how anyone can be a true friend to hundreds of people and this I’ve found, you cannot?  It is possible to love many people and to care for them, but a true friend is a gift, your wife should be your number one friend.

As stated earlier a true friend is a gift from God his/her encouragement or rebuke is like iron sharpens iron, and that is one of the most significant values of a friend.   They often are closer than many in a man’s family, in that they are willing to share life and possessions and drop what they are doing to support a friend.

The word friend is so misused, much like the word love.  I’m sure many are confused, but as a follower of Christ never forget these words of Jesus, I no longer call you servants but friends, and Jesus is the source of all truth.

From the Back Porch,

Bob Rice