Ecclesiastes 7:29 KJV: Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man upright; but they have sought out many inventions.
We see similar references to God's creation of man such as in Psalm 139 and it seems clear that there is nothing wrong with God's design at least in how it was originally intended. Therefore even with the fallen nature due to Adam's sin that we all inherit even unregenerate man is responsible for his actions which are contrary to a nature in which "God has set eternity in their hearts." ( Ecclesiastes 3:11). Man originally was made in the image of God; now it may be argued that we bear some resemblance to what we were originally but now we are also in the image of man; that is of the physical appearance of our parents.
Another thing we must consider is how the great prophets all responded in the presence of God. We can examine Isaiah 6:5 as well as the Prophet Ezekiel and Daniel and John in Revelation 1. Even John recognized he wasn't worthy to open the seals and wept ( Revelation 5:4). Keep in mind that this was the Disciple closest to our Lord when He was physically on earth but he realized that only Christ was worthy. We therefore have value because of Him; it is His righteousness that gives us that.
That is why I prefer to view His righteousness as coming from the inside out; not as some cloak over us. There is indeed His perfection in a believer but also the vesiges of who we were even if in actuality not who we still are in light of the promised glorification. Again; only a TRUE believer can claim these promises; or more accurately can have Christ claim to be His own.
I get the sense that some who claim never to sin again think that they can be in God's presence without being flat on their faces. Going boldly into His presence still involves humility and is expressed by an intimate communication and fellowship between BOTH parties.
I am sure to start a fire on this one; praying these conversations can be edifying.
Luke 15:10 states that there is joy in heaven over one sinner who repents among angels. It also says there is more joy there than in 99 who need no repentance (verse 7) in heaven; which should signify among the Godhead as well.
I hesitate to get into the positive aspects of God's demeanor for one thing because of the admonitions in Ecclesiastes 7:2. Our true joy should come to us as it did for our Lord described as a "man of sorrows" ( Isaiah 53:3). He rejoiced in doing the Father's will; which at times no doubt coincided with certain acts such as the water turning into wine and with seeing the great faith of just two people mentioned in scripture; the woman who begged for the "crumbs under the table" ( Matthew 15:28) and the verse about the Roman Centurion ( Matthew 8:5-9). In the first case; and likely the second these individuals were not Jews which makes these things even more remarkable. As I said before even the Temple was a place that caused indignation because He was zealous for God's house to be free of money making during the Sabbath (there were at least 2 purgings there in the Bible; perhaps 3).
Another thing today; of course related to God's disposition of rejoicing over us; or His love and blessings is how twisted the mindset of the church is. We cannot have a God of perfect love without Him also having a perfect and Holy indignation. True love rejoices over the truth ( 1 Cor. 13:6). And of course greater love has no man than dying for His friends ( John 15:13). It is from love that God saves us as well as chastises His own. It seems many today want to remain immature in their faith and insensitive to the Spirit calling them; oftentimes through other believers or even the observations of nonbelievers in their lives.
Being born again should be the beginning of the story not the end for this life because this world is the only opportunity we will have to grow in sanctification and to earn imperishable rewards (or lose them).
Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after.
What is interesting is the next verse which contrasts this with good works that also become clear even if they start off being hidden.
The effects of sin are what is known as bad fruit. The cause of sin is of course from a corrupt and fallen nature (see Jeremiah 17:9 on the state of a human heart without saving grace).
James 3:6 states this:
And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.
This figurative expression no doubt will eventually lead to one's destruction in fire; as well as the destruction of the earth in like manner as we see stated in 2 Peter 3:10 and numerous other verses. God made everything good; but the fall of man led to death for all forms of life; as well as even the stars not being pure in His sight ( Job 25:5 seems to corroborate this with Job 15:15). He is going to create therefore a new heaven and earth where righteousness dwells ( 2 Peter 3:13 and see Revelation 21 and 22.)
God had to bring a total cure for the total corruption in what was made originally pure in His sight (see Ecclesiastes 7:29). This brought Christ part of the Godhead to personally die as our atonement and also of course to restore all nature from the fall which consummates when He returns and eventually at the end of the Millennium when the last enemy death is destroyed ( 1 Cor. 15:26). Judgment comes to the angelic realm who fell after Lucifer's rebellion. Some have already been judged ( 1 Peter 3:19-20 also read book of Jude). The rest of mankind; of course lives on borrowed time and because God is patient to ensure all His elect come to Him people try to get away with all they can ( Ecclesiastes 8:11).
A spoonful of sugar won't help this medicine go down; God's love will
The beauty of the cross is perhaps no better described than in Isaiah 52:14. His appearance or "visage" was so marred from the beatings and other injuries before the crucifixion that Jesus was hardly recognizable as a man. But by His stripes; we are healed ( Isaiah 53:5 just a few verses later). He has brought us beauty from ashes ( Isaiah 61:3) which in context means Israel will have restitution after suffering judgment. But God in the flesh resulted not in admiration but in a man of sorrows acquainted with grief ( Isaiah 53:3).
God's awe inspiring attributes are seen in the visions of the Lord as seen by Isaiah 6; Ezekiel 1:22 and associated verses in Revelation 15:2; etal; and Daniel 10:6; etal). The true beauty of God; of course ties in with His selflessness; agape love and other characteristics that are above storge; Philleo and eros type of human love. Satan himself was a most beautiful creation as Lucifer ( Ezekiel 28:12) UNTIL he fell. Now the beauty is vanity as it is with any fallen creature who pride has allowed to contaminate. God Himself deserves worship and is not being arrogant in stating this desire but there are no verses I am aware of that state God is PROUD of being the God of all creation; He is supreme and in that sense better than anyone else; but He calls His followers by name and "friends" ( John 15:15). This makes Him the perfect Father.
God created all things for His good pleasure including man ( Revelation 4:11). No doubt Adam and Eve in a sinless state were beautiful; and perhaps still externally appeared that way after the fall. All things were fearfully and wonderfully made ( Psalm 139:14) but man has sought out many inventions (see Ecclesiastes 7:29). 1 Chronicles 16:27 talks of the majesty of God which no doubt incorporates beauty as seen in the creation. This makes man without excuse; as Romans 1 and Psalm 19 make clear.
God's beauty is more than skin deep and indescribable as all other traits.
The Ten Commandments are ten laws in the Bible that God gave to the nation of Israel after the exodus from Egypt.
They are essentially a summary of the 613 commandments contained in the Old Testament Law.
The first four commandments deal with our relationship with God. The last six commandments deal with our relationships with one another.
Many people mistakenly look at the Ten Commandments as a set of rules that, if followed, will guarantee entrance into heaven after death.
In contrast, the purpose of the Ten Commandments is to force people to realize that they cannot perfectly obey the Law ( Romans 7:7-11), and are therefore in need of God's mercy and grace.
No one can perfectly obey the Ten Commandments ( Ecclesiastes 7:20.
The Ten Commandments demonstrate that we have all sinned ( Romans 3:23) and are therefore in need of God's mercy and grace, available only through faith in Jesus Christ.
Tdianne, All of God Commandments are holy and any STRENGTH you have to keep them comes after you have been saved.
If you have ever ONCE broken any one of these commandments you've already fallen short of God's requirements and in need of God's mercy through trusting in the one whom God has sent to take away the sins of the whole world. Jesus!
So, should you be baptized? Yes, if you ARE saved but not to get saved.
You are saved by trusting and believing in Christ and his finish work on the cross.
Everything else is obedience to him after you are saved, because he wills you and Lords over your life with a regenerated heart of flesh which causes you to love God's statutes and yet convicts you of sin so we will fully appreciate the grace of Christ.
Ecclesiastes 7:10 warns us about looking to how things were better in the old days. It is easy to be nostalgic about the glories of our youth but the truth is all are as a fading flower ( Isaiah 28:4); and we soon return to the dust from whence we came ( Ecclesiastes 12:7).
Taken to the utmost level; we can hold onto affections for those who have passed on who are not clearly followers of Christ and we risk being deceived by what is called familiar spirits; which is demons impersonating loved ones and somehow giving us comfort in what we assume is their presence. It is important to realize that in our fallen nature we are at risk for deception and must not put our confidence in the flesh. Our comfort in this world must not be due to material possessions; or anything else transient of this world. Ecclesiastes is a good book to read as to the conclusion of the matter is fearing God and keeping His commandments after the many things of vanity this world has to offer; surely Solomon would know having squandered his walk with God by doing things God warned against such as multiplying gold and silver and horses; marrying foreign wives; etc.
In the US today; we also can't expect the country to flourish as it did in the past. The only way that could happen is with a large scale revival and repentance would have to begin in the church. Being the last days; apostacy is to be expected and clearly after the brevity of the change of heart after September 11 2001 hearts have only hardened further. Our youth today and the state of the world in general is well on its way to the prophesied Tribulation. Should we have offspring or even a spouse that remains faithful to God is truly a blessing; but the contrary shouldn't lead us to assume we are unfaithful.
Hebrews 12:1 gives us good instruction on casting aside every weight and sin that is holding us back. Let us fix our eyes on things above ( Colossians 3:2).
Having an Ecclesiastes 7:10 moment is something I have asked myself; being born in the "baby boomer" era in the 60's. I was; admittedly well protected from knowing about the Vietnam war fought overseas or anyone involved in it with my parents raising me. It was high school before a friend of mine whose older brother was affected from being there where I got my first exposure to the effects of that conflict. I was in an affluent upper middle class neighborhood; an only child who got all the attention at Christmas with material goods; enough to eat; enough sleep and whose world was not much more than what was in my neighborhood where my schools were; and a couple local shopping centers. Time seemed to go real slow; and I always enjoyed going to the shore on summer vacations. Basically; I didn't have too many cares in life.
Things would mar that utopia for me; first my dad's mentally abusive behavior; then bullies who would beat me up; steal from me and otherwise mistreat me from about 3rd grade up through high school. I thank God that I had the opportunity after 2 individuals witnessed to me to come to Christ in Senior High.
It is easy to be selective only remembering good times in the past. I certainly had less responsibilities before taking on steady work and marrying shortly after college.
Today; with all the structures of society tearing apart I have found it easy to succumb to constant fear. Knowing the horror of the Tribulation to come it is worse if I don't warn others but also it is necessary to remember that my life is hidden in Christ. ( Colossians 3:3). Fear of death is something that some have their whole lives ( Heb. 2:15). 1 Cor. 15:66 states that the sting of sin is death. Knowing we must pass through the Tribulation before He comes back to rule and reign even if I'm raptured and not here still is grievous thinking of others in it. These things must come to pass in His plans.
The bigger picture: Brothers and sisters in Christ and the armies of heaven.
Revelation 2:27 has a cross reference somewhere but it is hard to find...in Psalms regarding the inheritance of the saints and ruling with an iron rod. Of course Christ Himself will do this as shown in Psalm 2:7-9 and elsewhere.
There are numerous other verses such as in Ephesians on inheritance and what as sons of light we will have someday ( Eph. 5:8; 1 Thess. 5:5). There is also the reference in the Book of Hebrews to the "cloud of witnesses" ( Heb. 12:1) with specific references in the previous chapter to those who lived lives of faith and are in God's "hall of fame" so to speak. Psalm 8:2 even talks of God's strength in the praise of infants; which was quoted in Matthew 11:25 (also see Matthew 21:15-16 for fulfillment).
Ephesians 6 gives us instructions to be victors on the battlefield with only one offensive weapon; the sword of the Spirit ( Eph. 6:17). This is something only effective when we have the entire defensive mechanism set up to stop the fiery darts of the evil one in the previous verse.
We often are quick to point out the persecution; wars; famines and other trials that believers go through which is no doubt an essential concern in prayer. The fact is that there is a battle raging all the time for the souls of men; Christ has won the war and ultimately all He has called and chosen will be saved. This doesn't by any means lessen the conflict but gives us assurance that the Lord will direct those who He wills in our paths to minister to; and pray for. 1 Peter 4:19 discusses prosperity and trials as they come and go in our lives; and Ecclesiastes 7:14 shows God's Providence. I would state that it appears when things are going well it is a more accurate test to determine faithfullness as that is when sin in most likely to take root. In adversity many will fear the Lord; but the faithful will not forget His benefits ( Deuteronomy 8:10-18). Also read Eph. 2:10
Growth can and indeed will occur with good soil and the implanted seed of the Spirit. When we sow with tears we reap with joy ( Psalm 126:5-6). Indeed; these verses show us that the harvest is present with us and surely is our reward for effective service (see also Hebrews 6:10; Isaiah 55:10-11). Just as our walk in Christ isn't just a spectator sport; our participation isn't merely an individual source of growth; but mutually edifying for the body. That is how spiritual gifts are to be properly practiced (see 1 Cor. 12 starting in verse 4).
We should therefore rejoice when others rejoice; weep when others weep ( Philippians 4:4). This explains why it is often better to be in the house of mourning than feasting ( Ecclesiastes 7:2-4). I am not one to argue whether Christ had a sense of humor; but will state that it is better to refrain from jokes if there is any uncertainty and certainly from "course jesting" ( Eph. 5:3-4).
God is steadfast and unchanging; unlike the vicissitudes of the human heart. Stability comes from a well grounded faith and walking in the Spirit as our "sure foundation and anchor of our soul" ( Heb. 6:19).
Patience being one of the fruits of the Spirit especially today is; in my opinion underrated as to its value. Just a brief survey of Bible characters shows how many things took time to completion; whether with Abraham's wanderings and progeny; Moses' deliverance; Joseph's prominance; and David's ascension to the throne. In fact too much success too quickly was a factor in Solomon's fall despite God warning him not to multiply gold and horses as well as foreign wives. This is the real issue with the "prosperity gospel" as surely God as well as Satan can be the facilitator of worldly gain (as well as efforts from hard work). It is the pride and comfort in our possessions which bring a man down (see Luke 12:16-21). It also makes rich people give a disporportionally low percentage vs the poor
I suppose this post has been up; I didn't know my opinion was of interest-seems like Gigi did an extensive one; and "ontological" is beyond my "pay grade" in terms of scientific vocabulary.
I tried to start responding and as always my extra tabs wiped out the page. Anyway; it is somewhat heartening that you seem to know the Lord.
Starting off here; I'm too lazy to once again get all the exact quotes. Roughly speaking I was going to say that in Psalm 139 we are said to be "fearfully and wonderfully made." In Ecclesiastes 7:29 the "uprightness" of man is mentioned but that he goes astray for "many inventions". A big point many make is about the age of accountability. I can't see how anyone is lost forever in condemnation without understanding some basic things about sin and punishment which probably begins with child rearing. David's quote about the child that died seems to indicate a certainty that he will see him someday but not until he dies ( 2 Samuel 12:23).
Sin; death and decay (as brought up through the concept of the 2nd Law of Thermodynamics) really can't be explained other than it happens; much like concepts like gravity. I would say simply the spirit of a man lives foreever; whether in restored (saved) condition or lost. Man would have lived forever in an "innocent" state if he hadn't sinned. This would not have enabled him to rule and reign with Christ as we can now; nor fulfilled His plans for free agents in the spirit realm to choose to rebel or remain with Him in their "proper estate". ( Jude 1:6). Whether we understand sin as we get older we see more and more of the effects. God has designed this world to unwind; and eventually be destroyed and replaced with a new heaven and earth. Things in the sovereignty of God ( Deut. 29:29) remain there at least this side of eternity. Proverbs 25:2 states that kings have some things revealed which may suggest as "kings and priests" in Him some understanding comes. We are not God who knows all.
Today; we seem to think little on the next generation; hence kids have found that there isn't much value in their existence. With so many cut off before birth it is no wonder that kids would feel unvalued today and with such poor parenting skills undisciplined themselves. Hosea 4:6 indicates that because of a lack of knowledge people are perishing. Life is as a vapor as several scriptures indicate ( James 4:14). Not only are things accelerated today ( Daniel 12:4) but as I said in the last piece the value of everything has diminished. There will be no suffering loss; I assure you for cell phones; computers and other high tech entertainment sources NOT being present in heaven. We need to be careful in earthly treasures as well (See Luke 16:11); such behaviors show what is really in our hearts as to our conduct in this world.
In light of these facts; do we consider how great it is that we are saved from having to be in an unregenerate state for all eternity? Isaiah 66:4 describes how God "chooses their delusions" and later on at the end of that chapter a vivid description of hell is given. Phillipians 1:21 states that Paul said "to live is Christ; to die is gain." and other verses show that it is better to be in the house of mourning rather than mindless happiness ( Ecclesiastes 7:2).
In light of all this; we do well to see how we approach the House of Worship but also how we live out the rest of the week. It is sad today how many people insist on having beepers and other cell phone distractions interrupt the services. Personally; I feel a need to have a cell phone only in case my elderly parents have an emergency at home. That was the original use of "beepers". For every moment here on earth there are eternal ramifications; we need to focus on working while it is yet day ( John 9:4). As for Christ it is also for us in that respect our time to serve here is short and we need to focus on the Great Commission.
Wes gave a wise answer on Christmas. Exodus 23:8, Deuteronomy 16:19, Ecclesiastes 7:7, may The HOLY Spirit teach us. John 14:26
I love to celebrate Christmas, I really enjoy the lights, the focus on our Savior. The generosity in the season. Christmas is a time of year, people remember more their fellow man, needs & wants of others. Christmas time reminds us of the joys of giving & putting smiles on others faces, teaching by love & kindnesses. Surprising a person with anonymous unexpected gifts, giving hope to people in desperation, food, clothing, volunteering, etc. warms their hearts, body & soul & sometimes gives them hope for a better ' tomorrow '. Christmas is the time of year people are more willing to receive from a Christian.....
We as Believers have an open door at Christmas unlike any other time of the year, to show the World who Jesus is, who the Church is.
When we remember those most "forgotten by others" showing them, they are not forgotten by GOD, it's amazing how even those around them are affected.
This Christmas season we really have a moment to help comfort, our nations with love, giving hope through the WORD, to poor in spirit & helping heal wounds. There is much we can give this year, for those in need. I pray GOD lead us even now, to start the giving season early. Romans 6:23, 2Corinthians 1:4, Proverbs 15:23,
Verse 16-We never want to think that our standards are more righteous than God's standards. We must conform our way of life to His standards of right and wrong.
Diane by no means do you put up with abuse of any kind. You are a child of GOD, a Christian; not a 2nd class citizen and Christians should never let anyone walk on them. In Mathew 18:15-:20 you admonish them showing them the error of their way and if they don't ask for forgiveness and repent than rebuke them and set them aside ( Romans 16:17). That means don't hang out with them, putting yourself through any chance for abuse, don't hate them but be pleasant like it doesn't bother you, live your life as a Christian who will be blessed. When they see how good your life is, then they will want it too. These people you are talking about do not sound like Christians to me, if they were they would not abuse. Therefore you do not put up with them but put them aside until/if they have a change of heart. Yes love your enemies if they have turned from their ways and accepted CHRIST. Talk to them and tell them how you feel if that does no good then live in peace and harmony knowing their sin is not on you. 2 Thessalonians 3:6-:14 Luke 17:3,4. Someone has to ask for forgiveness to receive it. When that happens they must repent and have a complete change of heart, making a commitment to never do it again. You are under no obligation to forgive one that does not come to you and ask. But for your own health, in your own heart it is better that you do and move on, because it will turn to hate and bitterness where the devil will sneak in.
Sometimes when we feel one is letting us down and we feel we don't deserve it we have to think of what Jesus endured in our behalf.
2 Corinthians 5:21. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
The Lord of mercy died for us while we were yet sinners! Romans 5:8.
To fully appreciate that, in order for us to do anything for someone we would probably want them to straighten their lives up first. But he's love, rich in mercy, longsuffering and forgiving. That's something we're "naturally not. These are fruit of the Spirit. In Matthew 5:43-44 Jesus is saying what is expected out of believers.
This is Jesus spirit working a work in us. We are continuously pray and grow in grace. It's not something we can manifest on our own.
Knowing When it's Time To Do Spiritusl Warfare - In Reply on Ecclesiastes 7 - 1 year ago
You're really being tested on forgiveness. Jesus said if someone slaps you, offer the other cheek too. If someone takes your coat, give your sweater too. Give to all that are rude and as for it. They are heaping coals on their own heads without knowing it.
That's why you have to forgive. Let it go, in Jesus Name. He will repay you for trusting in what that scripture teaches.
It would be useful for you to read Ephesians 6. Your true enemies are invisible. Google the Armor of God and choose. BibleStudyRef or BibleStudyTools, websites. Read of what each piece of armor does and how it protects you from the spiritual warfare you experience.
If we don't know what Jesus has given us, to fight back against invisible beings, we get deflated and wonder why we're being picked on. Evil spirits don't pick on people who have the SWORD OF THE LORD, in their mouth. That meaning, Bible Scriptures.
I pray them under my breath so only the evil spirits hear me. Command them to leave, go into outer darkness, and never return: in JESUS NAME. Amen means, SO BE IT.
Always pray in the Name of Jesus, by Jesus's Power and Authority.
If you want to know more, listen to my friend Charles Capps (on youtube). "Authority of the Believer." He was a Texan like me, talks with a drawl__and he went to be in heaven. His teaching is one of the best. I took notes and glued them in the back of my raggedy Bible.
When I found out I can put some serious hurt on the devils (under my breath) was a good day for me & a bad day for those invisible evil things. They must leave.
Your true friends will stick by your side. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you His gift of "Discerning the Spirits." That's in 1 Corinthians chapters 12-14.
Release the peace of the Lord over all of your friends and family.
Let's look at just a couple of comments on this subject...
Adame Clarke:
The book, entitled Koheleth, or Ecclesiastes, has ever been received, both by the Jewish and Christian Church, as written under the inspiration of the Almighty; and was held to be properly a part of the sacred canon. But while this has been almost universally granted, there has been but little unanimity among learned men and critics as to its author. To Solomon it has been most generally attributed, both in ancient and modern times.
John Gill
This book has been universally received into the canon of the Scriptures, by Jews and Christians. The former, indeed, had once some controversy a about it; and they thought to have hid it, or put it among the apocryphal books; because, at first sight, some things seemed contradictory to each other b, and to incline to heresy c, atheism, and epicurism, and to assert the eternity of the world d: but they better considered of it; and when they observed those passages were capable of a good sense, and that the whole agreed with the law of God, they changed their minds e. And so likewise it has been rejected by some heretical persons, of the Christian name, as Theodore and Mopsuest, and others; and by deists, and some deistically inclined. But it carries in it such internal evidences of a divine original, as cannot well be denied; it delivers out and inculcates such divine instructions, concerning the duties of men to God, and one another; concerning the contempt of the world, and the carnal pleasures of it; the fear and worship of God, and a future judgment; as none but the wisdom of God could suggest. There are various things in it which seem to be referred to by Christ and his apostles; at least there is an entire agreement between them: among the many things that might be observed, compare Ecclesiastes 11:5 with John 3:8; and Ecclesiastes 11:9 with 2 Corinthians 5:10; and Ecclesiastes 7:20 with 1 John 1:8.
As I just read your post I was just reminded 1st time I've ever noticed. 1 Kings 11:1-14, Proverbs 4:7, Ecclesiastes 7:12, 1 Kings 4:34, Deuteronomy 7:3-4,
Did his son lose respect because of what he witnessed his father Solomon doing? Did he think of that generation as hypothetical? Because of action?
Then I just thought of Now generations. I believe the young generation that says "ok, boomer" to the oldest generation has watched the results of Abortion, that started during the Oldest generation's "WATCH" not correcting the next generation.
Then the generation X, (did it derive name because they were 1st legal abortion babies?) were & are treated with scorn, disregard, disrespect & often cruelly from those establishments hypothetically calling themselves "church" even robbed their parenting rights, from those same people who were pushing others even own children to abort living heirs?!!
Now oldest generation telling Millenials & Gen Z's to "work to help pay for their retirements"?/? How can children respect if no one shows them how?
Please pray about how you can heal, help, encourage, uplift those younger Generations because love, examples & truth in real faith will help.
Glad to see you here, Victor. May the Lord God guide you in reading from His Word & meditations upon it. It is indeed the satisfying bread for our soul. And feel free to offer comments or ask questions; we can all be exercised in our faith & spirit by doing so. Every blessing.
i dont know how i stubble to this page but i've never seen anything like it. God bless the organizers of this page cuz it going to be my daily reading site from now on. love the comments section sharing more light.
We see similar references to God's creation of man such as in Psalm 139 and it seems clear that there is nothing wrong with God's design at least in how it was originally intended. Therefore even with the fallen nature due to Adam's sin that we all inherit even unregenerate man is responsible for his actions which are contrary to a nature in which "God has set eternity in their hearts." ( Ecclesiastes 3:11). Man originally was made in the image of God; now it may be argued that we bear some resemblance to what we were originally but now we are also in the image of man; that is of the physical appearance of our parents.
Another thing we must consider is how the great prophets all responded in the presence of God. We can examine Isaiah 6:5 as well as the Prophet Ezekiel and Daniel and John in Revelation 1. Even John recognized he wasn't worthy to open the seals and wept ( Revelation 5:4). Keep in mind that this was the Disciple closest to our Lord when He was physically on earth but he realized that only Christ was worthy. We therefore have value because of Him; it is His righteousness that gives us that.
That is why I prefer to view His righteousness as coming from the inside out; not as some cloak over us. There is indeed His perfection in a believer but also the vesiges of who we were even if in actuality not who we still are in light of the promised glorification. Again; only a TRUE believer can claim these promises; or more accurately can have Christ claim to be His own.
I get the sense that some who claim never to sin again think that they can be in God's presence without being flat on their faces. Going boldly into His presence still involves humility and is expressed by an intimate communication and fellowship between BOTH parties.
I am sure to start a fire on this one; praying these conversations can be edifying.
Luke 15:10 states that there is joy in heaven over one sinner who repents among angels. It also says there is more joy there than in 99 who need no repentance (verse 7) in heaven; which should signify among the Godhead as well.
I hesitate to get into the positive aspects of God's demeanor for one thing because of the admonitions in Ecclesiastes 7:2. Our true joy should come to us as it did for our Lord described as a "man of sorrows" ( Isaiah 53:3). He rejoiced in doing the Father's will; which at times no doubt coincided with certain acts such as the water turning into wine and with seeing the great faith of just two people mentioned in scripture; the woman who begged for the "crumbs under the table" ( Matthew 15:28) and the verse about the Roman Centurion ( Matthew 8:5-9). In the first case; and likely the second these individuals were not Jews which makes these things even more remarkable. As I said before even the Temple was a place that caused indignation because He was zealous for God's house to be free of money making during the Sabbath (there were at least 2 purgings there in the Bible; perhaps 3).
Another thing today; of course related to God's disposition of rejoicing over us; or His love and blessings is how twisted the mindset of the church is. We cannot have a God of perfect love without Him also having a perfect and Holy indignation. True love rejoices over the truth ( 1 Cor. 13:6). And of course greater love has no man than dying for His friends ( John 15:13). It is from love that God saves us as well as chastises His own. It seems many today want to remain immature in their faith and insensitive to the Spirit calling them; oftentimes through other believers or even the observations of nonbelievers in their lives.
Being born again should be the beginning of the story not the end for this life because this world is the only opportunity we will have to grow in sanctification and to earn imperishable rewards (or lose them).
First Timothy 5:24 states:
Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after.
What is interesting is the next verse which contrasts this with good works that also become clear even if they start off being hidden.
The effects of sin are what is known as bad fruit. The cause of sin is of course from a corrupt and fallen nature (see Jeremiah 17:9 on the state of a human heart without saving grace).
James 3:6 states this:
And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.
This figurative expression no doubt will eventually lead to one's destruction in fire; as well as the destruction of the earth in like manner as we see stated in 2 Peter 3:10 and numerous other verses. God made everything good; but the fall of man led to death for all forms of life; as well as even the stars not being pure in His sight ( Job 25:5 seems to corroborate this with Job 15:15). He is going to create therefore a new heaven and earth where righteousness dwells ( 2 Peter 3:13 and see Revelation 21 and 22.)
God had to bring a total cure for the total corruption in what was made originally pure in His sight (see Ecclesiastes 7:29). This brought Christ part of the Godhead to personally die as our atonement and also of course to restore all nature from the fall which consummates when He returns and eventually at the end of the Millennium when the last enemy death is destroyed ( 1 Cor. 15:26). Judgment comes to the angelic realm who fell after Lucifer's rebellion. Some have already been judged ( 1 Peter 3:19-20 also read book of Jude). The rest of mankind; of course lives on borrowed time and because God is patient to ensure all His elect come to Him people try to get away with all they can ( Ecclesiastes 8:11).
A spoonful of sugar won't help this medicine go down; God's love will
The beauty of the cross is perhaps no better described than in Isaiah 52:14. His appearance or "visage" was so marred from the beatings and other injuries before the crucifixion that Jesus was hardly recognizable as a man. But by His stripes; we are healed ( Isaiah 53:5 just a few verses later). He has brought us beauty from ashes ( Isaiah 61:3) which in context means Israel will have restitution after suffering judgment. But God in the flesh resulted not in admiration but in a man of sorrows acquainted with grief ( Isaiah 53:3).
God's awe inspiring attributes are seen in the visions of the Lord as seen by Isaiah 6; Ezekiel 1:22 and associated verses in Revelation 15:2; etal; and Daniel 10:6; etal). The true beauty of God; of course ties in with His selflessness; agape love and other characteristics that are above storge; Philleo and eros type of human love. Satan himself was a most beautiful creation as Lucifer ( Ezekiel 28:12) UNTIL he fell. Now the beauty is vanity as it is with any fallen creature who pride has allowed to contaminate. God Himself deserves worship and is not being arrogant in stating this desire but there are no verses I am aware of that state God is PROUD of being the God of all creation; He is supreme and in that sense better than anyone else; but He calls His followers by name and "friends" ( John 15:15). This makes Him the perfect Father.
God created all things for His good pleasure including man ( Revelation 4:11). No doubt Adam and Eve in a sinless state were beautiful; and perhaps still externally appeared that way after the fall. All things were fearfully and wonderfully made ( Psalm 139:14) but man has sought out many inventions (see Ecclesiastes 7:29). 1 Chronicles 16:27 talks of the majesty of God which no doubt incorporates beauty as seen in the creation. This makes man without excuse; as Romans 1 and Psalm 19 make clear.
God's beauty is more than skin deep and indescribable as all other traits.
The Ten Commandments are ten laws in the Bible that God gave to the nation of Israel after the exodus from Egypt.
They are essentially a summary of the 613 commandments contained in the Old Testament Law.
The first four commandments deal with our relationship with God. The last six commandments deal with our relationships with one another.
Many people mistakenly look at the Ten Commandments as a set of rules that, if followed, will guarantee entrance into heaven after death.
In contrast, the purpose of the Ten Commandments is to force people to realize that they cannot perfectly obey the Law ( Romans 7:7-11), and are therefore in need of God's mercy and grace.
No one can perfectly obey the Ten Commandments ( Ecclesiastes 7:20.
The Ten Commandments demonstrate that we have all sinned ( Romans 3:23) and are therefore in need of God's mercy and grace, available only through faith in Jesus Christ.
Tdianne, All of God Commandments are holy and any STRENGTH you have to keep them comes after you have been saved.
If you have ever ONCE broken any one of these commandments you've already fallen short of God's requirements and in need of God's mercy through trusting in the one whom God has sent to take away the sins of the whole world. Jesus!
So, should you be baptized? Yes, if you ARE saved but not to get saved.
You are saved by trusting and believing in Christ and his finish work on the cross.
Everything else is obedience to him after you are saved, because he wills you and Lords over your life with a regenerated heart of flesh which causes you to love God's statutes and yet convicts you of sin so we will fully appreciate the grace of Christ.
I hope this helps.
God bless.
and removing the stoney heart
Ecclesiastes 7:10 warns us about looking to how things were better in the old days. It is easy to be nostalgic about the glories of our youth but the truth is all are as a fading flower ( Isaiah 28:4); and we soon return to the dust from whence we came ( Ecclesiastes 12:7).
Taken to the utmost level; we can hold onto affections for those who have passed on who are not clearly followers of Christ and we risk being deceived by what is called familiar spirits; which is demons impersonating loved ones and somehow giving us comfort in what we assume is their presence. It is important to realize that in our fallen nature we are at risk for deception and must not put our confidence in the flesh. Our comfort in this world must not be due to material possessions; or anything else transient of this world. Ecclesiastes is a good book to read as to the conclusion of the matter is fearing God and keeping His commandments after the many things of vanity this world has to offer; surely Solomon would know having squandered his walk with God by doing things God warned against such as multiplying gold and silver and horses; marrying foreign wives; etc.
In the US today; we also can't expect the country to flourish as it did in the past. The only way that could happen is with a large scale revival and repentance would have to begin in the church. Being the last days; apostacy is to be expected and clearly after the brevity of the change of heart after September 11 2001 hearts have only hardened further. Our youth today and the state of the world in general is well on its way to the prophesied Tribulation. Should we have offspring or even a spouse that remains faithful to God is truly a blessing; but the contrary shouldn't lead us to assume we are unfaithful.
Hebrews 12:1 gives us good instruction on casting aside every weight and sin that is holding us back. Let us fix our eyes on things above ( Colossians 3:2).
Having an Ecclesiastes 7:10 moment is something I have asked myself; being born in the "baby boomer" era in the 60's. I was; admittedly well protected from knowing about the Vietnam war fought overseas or anyone involved in it with my parents raising me. It was high school before a friend of mine whose older brother was affected from being there where I got my first exposure to the effects of that conflict. I was in an affluent upper middle class neighborhood; an only child who got all the attention at Christmas with material goods; enough to eat; enough sleep and whose world was not much more than what was in my neighborhood where my schools were; and a couple local shopping centers. Time seemed to go real slow; and I always enjoyed going to the shore on summer vacations. Basically; I didn't have too many cares in life.
Things would mar that utopia for me; first my dad's mentally abusive behavior; then bullies who would beat me up; steal from me and otherwise mistreat me from about 3rd grade up through high school. I thank God that I had the opportunity after 2 individuals witnessed to me to come to Christ in Senior High.
It is easy to be selective only remembering good times in the past. I certainly had less responsibilities before taking on steady work and marrying shortly after college.
Today; with all the structures of society tearing apart I have found it easy to succumb to constant fear. Knowing the horror of the Tribulation to come it is worse if I don't warn others but also it is necessary to remember that my life is hidden in Christ. ( Colossians 3:3). Fear of death is something that some have their whole lives ( Heb. 2:15). 1 Cor. 15:66 states that the sting of sin is death. Knowing we must pass through the Tribulation before He comes back to rule and reign even if I'm raptured and not here still is grievous thinking of others in it. These things must come to pass in His plans.
Revelation 2:27 has a cross reference somewhere but it is hard to find...in Psalms regarding the inheritance of the saints and ruling with an iron rod. Of course Christ Himself will do this as shown in Psalm 2:7-9 and elsewhere.
There are numerous other verses such as in Ephesians on inheritance and what as sons of light we will have someday ( Eph. 5:8; 1 Thess. 5:5). There is also the reference in the Book of Hebrews to the "cloud of witnesses" ( Heb. 12:1) with specific references in the previous chapter to those who lived lives of faith and are in God's "hall of fame" so to speak. Psalm 8:2 even talks of God's strength in the praise of infants; which was quoted in Matthew 11:25 (also see Matthew 21:15-16 for fulfillment).
Ephesians 6 gives us instructions to be victors on the battlefield with only one offensive weapon; the sword of the Spirit ( Eph. 6:17). This is something only effective when we have the entire defensive mechanism set up to stop the fiery darts of the evil one in the previous verse.
We often are quick to point out the persecution; wars; famines and other trials that believers go through which is no doubt an essential concern in prayer. The fact is that there is a battle raging all the time for the souls of men; Christ has won the war and ultimately all He has called and chosen will be saved. This doesn't by any means lessen the conflict but gives us assurance that the Lord will direct those who He wills in our paths to minister to; and pray for. 1 Peter 4:19 discusses prosperity and trials as they come and go in our lives; and Ecclesiastes 7:14 shows God's Providence. I would state that it appears when things are going well it is a more accurate test to determine faithfullness as that is when sin in most likely to take root. In adversity many will fear the Lord; but the faithful will not forget His benefits ( Deuteronomy 8:10-18). Also read Eph. 2:10
Growth can and indeed will occur with good soil and the implanted seed of the Spirit. When we sow with tears we reap with joy ( Psalm 126:5-6). Indeed; these verses show us that the harvest is present with us and surely is our reward for effective service (see also Hebrews 6:10; Isaiah 55:10-11). Just as our walk in Christ isn't just a spectator sport; our participation isn't merely an individual source of growth; but mutually edifying for the body. That is how spiritual gifts are to be properly practiced (see 1 Cor. 12 starting in verse 4).
We should therefore rejoice when others rejoice; weep when others weep ( Philippians 4:4). This explains why it is often better to be in the house of mourning than feasting ( Ecclesiastes 7:2-4). I am not one to argue whether Christ had a sense of humor; but will state that it is better to refrain from jokes if there is any uncertainty and certainly from "course jesting" ( Eph. 5:3-4).
God is steadfast and unchanging; unlike the vicissitudes of the human heart. Stability comes from a well grounded faith and walking in the Spirit as our "sure foundation and anchor of our soul" ( Heb. 6:19).
Patience being one of the fruits of the Spirit especially today is; in my opinion underrated as to its value. Just a brief survey of Bible characters shows how many things took time to completion; whether with Abraham's wanderings and progeny; Moses' deliverance; Joseph's prominance; and David's ascension to the throne. In fact too much success too quickly was a factor in Solomon's fall despite God warning him not to multiply gold and horses as well as foreign wives. This is the real issue with the "prosperity gospel" as surely God as well as Satan can be the facilitator of worldly gain (as well as efforts from hard work). It is the pride and comfort in our possessions which bring a man down (see Luke 12:16-21). It also makes rich people give a disporportionally low percentage vs the poor
Colossians 3:21, Colossians 3:8,
Psalms 37, Ecclesiastes 7:9, Psalms 37:8, Proverbs 15:18,
Ephesians 4:26,
Psalms 103:8,9, Psalms 145:8,
If you look up fear in search option on site it pulls up 13 pages,
Hopefully helpful
Proverbs 4:5-27, James 1:5, Ecclesiastes 7:12, Proverbs 112:5,
Proverbs 14:9,
Proverbs 8,
Hopefully these are encouraging as you pray & helpful as you're seeking GOD. Thank you for trusting us with your prayer needs
I tried to start responding and as always my extra tabs wiped out the page. Anyway; it is somewhat heartening that you seem to know the Lord.
Starting off here; I'm too lazy to once again get all the exact quotes. Roughly speaking I was going to say that in Psalm 139 we are said to be "fearfully and wonderfully made." In Ecclesiastes 7:29 the "uprightness" of man is mentioned but that he goes astray for "many inventions". A big point many make is about the age of accountability. I can't see how anyone is lost forever in condemnation without understanding some basic things about sin and punishment which probably begins with child rearing. David's quote about the child that died seems to indicate a certainty that he will see him someday but not until he dies ( 2 Samuel 12:23).
Sin; death and decay (as brought up through the concept of the 2nd Law of Thermodynamics) really can't be explained other than it happens; much like concepts like gravity. I would say simply the spirit of a man lives foreever; whether in restored (saved) condition or lost. Man would have lived forever in an "innocent" state if he hadn't sinned. This would not have enabled him to rule and reign with Christ as we can now; nor fulfilled His plans for free agents in the spirit realm to choose to rebel or remain with Him in their "proper estate". ( Jude 1:6). Whether we understand sin as we get older we see more and more of the effects. God has designed this world to unwind; and eventually be destroyed and replaced with a new heaven and earth. Things in the sovereignty of God ( Deut. 29:29) remain there at least this side of eternity. Proverbs 25:2 states that kings have some things revealed which may suggest as "kings and priests" in Him some understanding comes. We are not God who knows all.
Today; we seem to think little on the next generation; hence kids have found that there isn't much value in their existence. With so many cut off before birth it is no wonder that kids would feel unvalued today and with such poor parenting skills undisciplined themselves. Hosea 4:6 indicates that because of a lack of knowledge people are perishing. Life is as a vapor as several scriptures indicate ( James 4:14). Not only are things accelerated today ( Daniel 12:4) but as I said in the last piece the value of everything has diminished. There will be no suffering loss; I assure you for cell phones; computers and other high tech entertainment sources NOT being present in heaven. We need to be careful in earthly treasures as well (See Luke 16:11); such behaviors show what is really in our hearts as to our conduct in this world.
In light of these facts; do we consider how great it is that we are saved from having to be in an unregenerate state for all eternity? Isaiah 66:4 describes how God "chooses their delusions" and later on at the end of that chapter a vivid description of hell is given. Phillipians 1:21 states that Paul said "to live is Christ; to die is gain." and other verses show that it is better to be in the house of mourning rather than mindless happiness ( Ecclesiastes 7:2).
In light of all this; we do well to see how we approach the House of Worship but also how we live out the rest of the week. It is sad today how many people insist on having beepers and other cell phone distractions interrupt the services. Personally; I feel a need to have a cell phone only in case my elderly parents have an emergency at home. That was the original use of "beepers". For every moment here on earth there are eternal ramifications; we need to focus on working while it is yet day ( John 9:4). As for Christ it is also for us in that respect our time to serve here is short and we need to focus on the Great Commission.
I love to celebrate Christmas, I really enjoy the lights, the focus on our Savior. The generosity in the season. Christmas is a time of year, people remember more their fellow man, needs & wants of others. Christmas time reminds us of the joys of giving & putting smiles on others faces, teaching by love & kindnesses. Surprising a person with anonymous unexpected gifts, giving hope to people in desperation, food, clothing, volunteering, etc. warms their hearts, body & soul & sometimes gives them hope for a better ' tomorrow '. Christmas is the time of year people are more willing to receive from a Christian.....
We as Believers have an open door at Christmas unlike any other time of the year, to show the World who Jesus is, who the Church is.
When we remember those most "forgotten by others" showing them, they are not forgotten by GOD, it's amazing how even those around them are affected.
Deuteronomy 15:7, Job 5:16, Proverbs 19:4, Psalms 69:33, Proverbs 14:21, 2Corinthians 9:9, Psalms 68:10, Galatians 2:10, Romans 15:26, Psalms 40:17, Proverbs 22:2, Psalms 41:1, Luke 14:13, Psalms 74:21, Proverbs 29:7, Proverbs 28:27, Psalms 112:9, Psalms 82:3, Daniel 4:27, Proverbs 21:13, Proverbs 31:10,20, context Proverbs 31, Proverbs 19:17, Proverbs 19:7, Luke 4:18, Matthew 11:5, Mark 10:21,
Proverbs 19:6, Esther 9:22, James 1:27,
This Christmas season we really have a moment to help comfort, our nations with love, giving hope through the WORD, to poor in spirit & helping heal wounds. There is much we can give this year, for those in need. I pray GOD lead us even now, to start the giving season early. Romans 6:23, 2Corinthians 1:4, Proverbs 15:23,
Psalms 31:24, Ecclesiastes 3:1,
So in closing, not keeping the Commandments may send you to hell. in the meanwhile go read Ecclesiastes 7:17 also Check out Jeremiah 29:11.
Sometimes when we feel one is letting us down and we feel we don't deserve it we have to think of what Jesus endured in our behalf.
2 Corinthians 5:21. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
The Lord of mercy died for us while we were yet sinners! Romans 5:8.
To fully appreciate that, in order for us to do anything for someone we would probably want them to straighten their lives up first. But he's love, rich in mercy, longsuffering and forgiving. That's something we're "naturally not. These are fruit of the Spirit. In Matthew 5:43-44 Jesus is saying what is expected out of believers.
This is Jesus spirit working a work in us. We are continuously pray and grow in grace. It's not something we can manifest on our own.
I hope this helps.
God bless.
That's why you have to forgive. Let it go, in Jesus Name. He will repay you for trusting in what that scripture teaches.
It would be useful for you to read Ephesians 6. Your true enemies are invisible. Google the Armor of God and choose. BibleStudyRef or BibleStudyTools, websites. Read of what each piece of armor does and how it protects you from the spiritual warfare you experience.
If we don't know what Jesus has given us, to fight back against invisible beings, we get deflated and wonder why we're being picked on. Evil spirits don't pick on people who have the SWORD OF THE LORD, in their mouth. That meaning, Bible Scriptures.
I pray them under my breath so only the evil spirits hear me. Command them to leave, go into outer darkness, and never return: in JESUS NAME. Amen means, SO BE IT.
Always pray in the Name of Jesus, by Jesus's Power and Authority.
If you want to know more, listen to my friend Charles Capps (on youtube). "Authority of the Believer." He was a Texan like me, talks with a drawl__and he went to be in heaven. His teaching is one of the best. I took notes and glued them in the back of my raggedy Bible.
When I found out I can put some serious hurt on the devils (under my breath) was a good day for me & a bad day for those invisible evil things. They must leave.
Your true friends will stick by your side. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you His gift of "Discerning the Spirits." That's in 1 Corinthians chapters 12-14.
Release the peace of the Lord over all of your friends and family.
Streetpreacher
No longer I but Christ Who lives in me...
Original Earthly nature -life hidden in Christ... Colossians 3:3
New creature in Christ...
The real I - is no longer in control and thank JESUS for that!
2 Corinthians 5:17
New International Version
17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here!
2 Timothy 3:12
"Yea, and all that will live GODly in Christ JESUS shall suffer persecution."
King James Version (KJV)
Ecclesiastes 7:8, Psalms 86:15, Romans 2:4, 1Corinthians 4:5, Ruth 1:16,22, Ruth 4:11-22, Luke 3:23-38, note Luke 3:32
Psalms 130:3,4, Isaiah 54:8,
LORD help us all be faithful
Adame Clarke:
The book, entitled Koheleth, or Ecclesiastes, has ever been received, both by the Jewish and Christian Church, as written under the inspiration of the Almighty; and was held to be properly a part of the sacred canon. But while this has been almost universally granted, there has been but little unanimity among learned men and critics as to its author. To Solomon it has been most generally attributed, both in ancient and modern times.
John Gill
This book has been universally received into the canon of the Scriptures, by Jews and Christians. The former, indeed, had once some controversy a about it; and they thought to have hid it, or put it among the apocryphal books; because, at first sight, some things seemed contradictory to each other b, and to incline to heresy c, atheism, and epicurism, and to assert the eternity of the world d: but they better considered of it; and when they observed those passages were capable of a good sense, and that the whole agreed with the law of God, they changed their minds e. And so likewise it has been rejected by some heretical persons, of the Christian name, as Theodore and Mopsuest, and others; and by deists, and some deistically inclined. But it carries in it such internal evidences of a divine original, as cannot well be denied; it delivers out and inculcates such divine instructions, concerning the duties of men to God, and one another; concerning the contempt of the world, and the carnal pleasures of it; the fear and worship of God, and a future judgment; as none but the wisdom of God could suggest. There are various things in it which seem to be referred to by Christ and his apostles; at least there is an entire agreement between them: among the many things that might be observed, compare Ecclesiastes 11:5 with John 3:8; and Ecclesiastes 11:9 with 2 Corinthians 5:10; and Ecclesiastes 7:20 with 1 John 1:8.
Let us remember 1 Timothy 3:16!
Psalms 73:22-28, Titus 3:2-8, Matthew 7:26,
1 Corinthians 4:9-13, Proverbs 4:5-18, Proverbs 5:1-2,
1Corinthians 1:18-31,
Hopefully these are helpful in your study.
Did his son lose respect because of what he witnessed his father Solomon doing? Did he think of that generation as hypothetical? Because of action?
Then I just thought of Now generations. I believe the young generation that says "ok, boomer" to the oldest generation has watched the results of Abortion, that started during the Oldest generation's "WATCH" not correcting the next generation.
Then the generation X, (did it derive name because they were 1st legal abortion babies?) were & are treated with scorn, disregard, disrespect & often cruelly from those establishments hypothetically calling themselves "church" even robbed their parenting rights, from those same people who were pushing others even own children to abort living heirs?!!
Now oldest generation telling Millenials & Gen Z's to "work to help pay for their retirements"?/? How can children respect if no one shows them how?
Please pray about how you can heal, help, encourage, uplift those younger Generations because love, examples & truth in real faith will help.
With love my brother, in CHRIST
Hebrews 10:26-39
I searched under wisdom & found these. Hopefully these are helpful in what you're looking for: I added a few additional.
Matthew 12:41-42, Luke 11:31-32, Luke 11:52, Ecclesiastes 10:1, James 3:13-18,
Ecclesiastes 1:18, Proverbs 17:16,
Job 11:6-7, Job 26:1-4, Job 28:28,
Psalms 37:27-31, Psalms 111:10, Proverbs 10,
Most verses on wisdom are how good & pleasant it is: Proverbs 19:8, Proverbs 23:4, Ecclesiastes 7:12,
Both answers are correct in ways
Exodus 34:6-7, . Psalm 103:1-22, 2 Peter 3:9, Proverbs 3:11-18