A PLACE OF REFUGE

THE SECURE HOUSE
 Proverbs Chapters 13–14

     In the fear of the LORD there is strong confidence, and His children will have a place of refuge. Proverbs 14:26 NKJV

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     Solomon started out well because of the instruction he received from his parents and the wisdom he received from God. As we will see, he did not finish well because he gave in to the culture of the nations surrounding him. His desire to ‘have it all’ corrupted his worship of God.
      Late in life, King Solomon expressed the futility of a self‑indulgent lifestyle. He said, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death. Even in laughter the heart may ache, and joy may end in grief.” (14:12-13)

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     Like Solomon, we face pressures in our homes because of the wickedness of our culture. The overt idolatry that brought Solomon down is not exactly the same; but there are many influences that are deadly to the purity and sanctity of our homes.

     Lord, help us to build up, encourage and invest ourselves in our families. Solomon said that "those who plan what is good find love and faithfulness." (14:22b) The influences we allow in our homes, and the people we associate with, all have an impact on our children. Give us kind words, uplifting activities, and faithfulness–the building blocks of a secure home and a godly life.

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     The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down. Proverbs 14:1 NIV
     The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death. Proverbs 14:27 NIV

WORDS MATTER

RECKLESS OR HEALING WORDS

Read Proverbs Chapters 12–13

       From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things as surely as the work of his hands rewards him.     Proverbs 12:14 NIV

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      Whether they are uplifting or demeaning, words affect the quality of our lives. Solomon wrote, "A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult." (12:16) An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up. (12:25)
     Words matter because they reflect the condition of our hearts– Jesus said, “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.”(Matthew 12:34b-35 NKJV)

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      Lord, I pray that You will help me to guard my lips for You have said, "He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin." (Proverbs 13:3) I know that the example I set before my children will profoundly affect their attitudes. Help me to be diligent in teaching them that words matter, and that there is great satisfaction in being a kind, encouraging person.

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Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Proverbs 12:18 NIV