Monday, January 12, 2015


 The new year is about two weeks old, so how are you doing with those resolutions?
   According to CHEK TV less than 50% of us even make resolutions and 50% of those who do, break them, usually by the end of January.  Still, they are a staple of the new year, something about that clean calendar inspires goal setting.
   Generally, resolutions fall into the category of health (lose weight, get fit, laugh more,. . .) finances (better job, more money, more saving) self-improvement (take a course, manage anger, read more), and relationships.  
   Apparently, these ambitions are as old as Solomon.  So, if you're looking for inspiration for 2015, try these from the Book of Proverbs.  

On Work
Proverbs 10:5  A sensible man gathers the crops when they are ready:
                     it is a disgrace to sleep through the time of harvest.

           12:9  It is better to be an ordinary man working for a living
                    than to play the part of a great man but go hungry.

           12:11  A hard-working farmer has plenty to eat,
                      but it is  stupid to waste time on useless projects.
                     
        22:9   Show me a man who does a good job, and I will show  
                   you a man who is better than most and worthy of the  
                    company of kings.

On Wealth

  Proverbs 1:19  Such is the fate of all who are greedy for money; it robs them of life
                   3:9 Honour the Lord with your wealth,  with the first fruits of all your crops;
                16:8  Better a little with righteousness   than much gain with injustice

                 23:4  Don’t wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit.

                28:22  Greedy people try to get rich quick but don’t realize they’re headed for poverty.
         

On health
   
     Proverbs 11:13 A gossip betrays a confidence,    but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.

                      12:25  Anxiety weighs down the heart,    but a kind word cheers it up
               14:30  A heart at peace gives life to the body,    but envy rots the bones  
                      16:31   Gray hair is a crown of splendour;    it is attained in the way of righteousness.
                      20:29 The glory of young men is their strength,    grey hair the splendour of the old.
                      27:19 As water reflects the face,    so one’s life reflects the heart.

On Knowlege
  Proverbs 14:15 The simple believe anything,    but the prudent give thought to their steps.
               16:28 Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent,  and discerning if they hold their                             tongues.
                20:1 Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler;    whoever is led astray by them is not wise.


On Relationships

Proverbs 15:1  A gentle answer turns away wrath,    but a harsh word stirs up anger.
           16:24 Gracious words are a honeycomb,    sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
                17:14  Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam;    so drop the matter before a dispute                                   breaks out
                22:1  A good name is more desirable than great riches;  to be esteemed is better than
                         silver or gold.


       This little epigram isn't from Proverbs, but it made me smile so I'm sharing it with you.  "Some people cause joy by arriving and others by leaving."

      Good luck with the resolutions and remember, God is our help, an ever-present comforter.  He teaches, encourages, guides, and, when we fail, He will forgive.

        

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