God’s Word Provides Hope, Life and Peace – (Proverbs 19:16)

Daily Bible Study
In a sense the book of Proverbs shows us the implications of rebellion against God as well as the practical applications of God's moral law in our day to day lives. As we read its verses we can see God's wisdom and moral law explained in practical ways using practical terms. Teachings which we can apply to our everyday life. The book of Proverbs gives us wisdom to live not only a better life, but also a God honoring life. In addition, by studying God's word and storing it in our hearts we gain wisdom to help our families and others live a better life. A life of joy as we follow the Lord and submit to the guidance of the Holy Spirit on a day to day basis. And it's from the work of the Holy Spirit and the teachings of God's word, that we understand because we live in a fallen world, a world at enmity with God and ruled by the one the Apostle Paul calls, "the prince of the power of the air," who is Satan, we will face trials. However, though we will face trials and loss as we live our lives, when we look back we will easily see God's blessings and know the joy we have had in the Lord throughout our lives. We will see those times of refreshing from God and we will remember those trials where God had carried us through the tough times. In short, we will see a life lived not only for God, but a life lived that honored God. And by following God's wisdom as explained in the book of Proverbs, we can live a life prosperous for the kingdom of God.

Prosperous because by living a life which honors God, we serve as a light of the Gospel to bring others to the saving knowledge of Jesus. We by example help others grow in the knowledge of the Lord as we love those around us. We can help others live a life that will honor God and themselves in the end, rather than a life drained by a world at enmity with God. Therefore, in this context keeping God's commandments is synonymous with having a "fear of the Lord." In Biblical terms the "fear the Lord" refers to having a deep down profound love, respect, awe and admiration for God. To have a supernatural love and joy from being in the presence of God as we stay in prayer and in God's word. In other words, it means to have a heart for God, a heart in love with the Lord and the things of God. A supernatural love which we only gain through our faith in Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. This is because our salvation, brings with it the indwelling Holy Spirit, who begins His work of spiritual growth in our hearts and minds, changing us from someone who was dead in our trespasses and sins, to a new creation who is alive to God and His work in our lives. This process of spiritual growth carried out by God in us, is called "Sanctification" and it begins with our salvation as we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, and will continue until we go home to be with Jesus. But it's important to remember as Christians, we ourselves can hinder or accelerate the process of spiritual growth by our obedience to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the study of God's word the Bible. Both of which help us to keep our focus on Jesus throughout our entire lives.