Wednesday evening reflection

I just got through with my Wednesday evening service.  We have been focusing on the fruits of the Spirit and tonight was on self-discipline.  Rather appropriate for the first Wednesday of the new year.  The main scripture came from 1 Corinthians 9:24-27.  I would invite readers to look it up.  Paul is talking about training like an athlete to run the race to claim the crown that is imperishable.  We talked about how that might be in our lives with the resolutions that we make as disciples.

I wanted to talk about another scripture that struck me.  We have a small men's group that meets on Saturdays at a local coffee shop.  As part of that we have been studying Proverbs, one chapter every day as there are 31 chapters.  I also listen to a podcast that is taking the Proverbs daily and a sister/mother podcast that is going through the Bible in one year.  I would recommend this site as one that informs and builds community and discipleship.  The website is www.dailyaudiobible.com   The verses that struck from January 6th are found in Proverbs 6:16-19.  I will be quoting from the Jewish Study Bible.

Six things the Lord hates; Seven are an abomination to Him:  A haughty bearing, a lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A mind that hatches evil plots, Feet quick to run to evil, A false witness testifying lies, And one who incites brothers and sisters to quarrel.

According to the notes on these verses the use of ascending numbers is often done for rhetorical purposes which would make the last the most serious offense.  I belong to a group of pastors that meets weekly and we share our celebrations and concerns with one another.  We also hold each other accountable to our calling.  We discussed the concerns that we had about what it means to be a leader within a church and ways that we can stay in the Spirit.  This proverb reminds me that I too am called not to do what the Lord hates.  The proverb goes on to suggest how to not do what the Lord hates.  From Proverbs 6:20-23, "My son, keep your father's commandment, do not forsake your mother's teaching.  Tie them over your heart always; bind them around your throat.  When you walk it will lead you; when you lie down it will watch over you; and when you are awake it will talk to you.  For the commandment is a lamp, the teaching is a light, and the way of life is the rebuke that disciplines."

When you are discouraged, remember the teaching of the scriptures, those who surround you that are supportive, and pray for God's guidance.  God will direct you to where you can receive solace and peace if you are willing to open to the Spirit.

May God be with you this day, strengthen you, guide you, lift you up, and bring to you God's love and mercy.