Proverbs chapter 18

vs 13

And done a million times a day in court.

vs 14

Feeling crushed and defeated is so demoralising - even knowing you're dying of sickness isn't the same.

vs 15

Knowledge being more likely to be heard than read, I suppose. Besidse, wisdom is available even for those who are not able to read. Reading is important, though, and you'd think that the wise person would recognise that and seek it out.

vs 16

Things just work in such an odd way. But giving gifts is a love language, so it may be that by giving someone a present, you soften them and show you're wanting to be on their good side.

vs 17

Yeah, this is something worth noting. Convincing people for a living makes you sound convincing. But you have to hear both sides of an argument. Unless you make a Prasad direction of course.

vs 18

It's a stupid way to end an argument, but it works for some reason, in a way that reasoned debate does not. This is why we have so many courts of arbitration, and of appeal - because people who lose in court can't stand it.

vs 19

Sad but true - people wronged often get so tied up in it that they become bitter and refuse to forgive.

vs 20

I assume that this means you can earn a crust from what you say. The thing being, of course, that so many people don't earn a living that way, so I'm confused. Perhaps satisfaction can be found in words? It just seems to be worded quite specifically.

vs 21

See, now obviously tongues don't make fruit. What it does have is power.

vs 22

Awwwwww. Stick that one on your proposal poetry.

vs 23

One's humble, the other haughty.

vs 24

Don't I know it.

Proverbs chapter 18

vs 1

I have seen this recently so often that it boggles the mind. The Internet is the place to be if you want to start quarrels against all sound judgment.

vs 2

Just link this straight back to verse 1. So far, this is the 'arguing on the Internet' chapter.

vs 3

Shame works in curbing bad behaviour. Whole cultures are built upon this premise. It's not that shame puts an end to wickedness - neither does fear of punishment, neither does positive reinforcement. The question is how efficient the methods are, and whether they could all be used purposefully.

vs 4

I'm not sure what this means. It could perhaps refer to the freshness of the water, or to danger, or quantity - I don't know enough about their attitude to water to make a great judgment here. I'd go for freshness, personally.

vs 5

We tend toward impartiality - this verse doesn't mention it specifically, but definitely says partiality to wickedness is wrong.

vs 6

Oooooh, they sure do. Although I'm probably owed more beatings than I am allowed to administer by this rule.

vs 7

Repeat above, although note how important again the mouth is to a fool - keep it shut, as we learned yesterday, and you might save yourself a beating.

vs 8

It's not a positive value judgment on gossiping. It's talking about how deep gossip goes, how deep into someone it strikes. It should be obvious to the reader that gossip is wrong.

vs 9

So not doing work, or even doing it half-assedly, is akin to destroying something. A curious thought, sounds very capitalist - if you aren't pushing forward, you're going backward etc.

vs 10

Hehehe, so that's where the song comes from. Relying on God for protection is probably the main thing that makes the righteous the righteous.

vs 11

Compare that to the verse before. The righteous are saved by God, but the rich merely imagine their wealth gives them strong walls.

vs 12

Anyone can honour themselves. That's haughtiness - thinking you're awesome. But who cares if you think you're awesome? Anyone can do that. It's when other people think you're awesome - that's honour. And it only comes when you're prepared to be humble, and let other people judge you soberly.

Proverbs chapter 17

vs 19

Damn you, but he's right. Most quarrelling is for no purpose other than to make you feel better or to make someone else feel worse. It's all posturing, with little to do with any actual learning. The walls represent that, I suppose - or the kind of person who just cuts themselves off from the world at large.

vs 20

There's a difference between getting somewhere, even somewhere fairly high up, and prospering. You know someone is prospering when joy accompanies all their so-called successes.

vs 21

Ouch. But having seen the grief a non-Christian child can cause Christian parents, simply knowing he's off the rails, as it were, it's totally believable.

vs 22

People actually die from a broken spirit. You look at the number of political leaders who, upon losing power, just shrivel up and die.

vs 23

As if you didn't know. But yes, it is wicked to do so! Stop perverting the justice system!

vs 24

Not that there's a problem with looking around - but it's about focus. You focus on wisdom, because it's most valuable and important. The fool's focus is anywhere but God.

vs 25

Rinse, wash, repeat.

vs 26

Punishing honesty is bad. And yet it happens - just look at whistleblowers. Really, you only punish honesty if you fear the truth. I know sometimes saying nothing is wiser than saying something, but even then, no reason for a flogging.

vs 27

Hmmm... some of those would be good for me. Damn stupid useful wisdom proverbs - I mean, erm, ahem.

vs 28

Why can't I learn this lesson! It's so simple, and so true. But I just can't get a grasp on it. I need Proverbs 17:28 tattooed on my hands or something.

Proverbs chapter 17

vs 10

So I guess even though the fool might be impressed by the amount of punishment you can dole out on someone, wisdom sees more value in a rebuke.

vs 11

Eep! The messenger of death! That's a pretty strong message. Either the message is for you - in which case I guess you die, and it's other people that learn - or the message is for someone else, and I guess you learn from that. If you know what I mean. I'm a little tired still, so confusion may reign.

vs 12

This is just awesome. No matter what sort of foolishness we're talking, you would apparently rather be mauled by a bear than face it.

vs 13

So if someone does you a good turn, and you respond by kicking them in the crotch, then get ready for some hell. People really don't like it when you do that.

vs 14

This is one of the best translated proverbs, I reckon - because it's got that hidden pun there for us poor English readers. Not that all proverbs have puns, but it's a classic. I've got to learn to drop quarrels, because I don't swim as well as I used to.

vs 15

No, they do still happen. God just hates such injustices. So we should try as often as we can not only to get it right, but also to fix it when we get it wrong.

vs 16

The question is rhetorical. The answer is not, "So let's take their money off them."

vs 17

So you know who your friends are when the brown stuff hits the spinning device. Brothers should always be there for you in such times - at least, that's what we tend to believe, that blood is thicker - but the proverb doesn't really seem to quantify a difference.

vs 18

The idea being, of course, that you have no sway over them, really - if they can't pay back, they'll just let it fall on you, because losing the goodwill of a neighbour is not like losing the goodwill of a family member. Although such pledges might be legally binding, they are predominantly built with the backstop that you can put social pressure on the person to do their best to repay.

Proverbs chapter 17

vs 1

What a perfect Proverb to open the Christmas season. I can inform the world that I bought pretty much exactly the right amount of food to have Christmas day, and then a smaller boxing day. No ham sitting in the fridge for weeks here!

vs 2

There is more to family than blood. A family is like a country - you can betray it, and you can be welcomed into it. Even if it isn't formalised, it's still true.

vs 3

God weighs the hearts of us all. That's the thing he does.

vs 4

Isn't that novel? The idea that the wicked and liars have deceitful lips is a truism. But that they listen to deceit, and are fooled? That's an interesting proposition. Perhaps the liar is more accustomed to lies, and so listens to them.

vs 5

That this proverb even needs to exist at all is a sad testament to humanity.

vs 6

Two things here. Firstly, I think it's just saying that it's great to be around when your kids have kids of their own - seeing your family reach yet another generation is a big blessing. Secondly, as we all know, kids love their parents. Your parents are the people you're most likely to look up to, as the figures of authority and provision for so much of your life. So that's not very surprising either.

One think you realise when reading lots of proverbs is that so many follow a normal order, and only some say something that undermines typical culture. It's the ones that reinforce that show us that this is in fact a wise thing - kids admiring their parents is wisdom, not just a fluke.

vs 7

I love this idea - the old trading places malarkey. It makes so much sense that a fool shouldn't speak like a wise person. But we expect kings to speak like fools.

vs 8

That's an interesting observation. When we do things like give bribes, we just assume that they will make everything go smoothly. But this is simply not so. How many stories have we seen where bribes just complicate things!

vs 9

Blergh. I don't like it, but it's true. Speaking about the wrong someone else has done is almost always bad for relationships.

Proverbs chapter 16

Yes, yes, I didn't do a reading on Christmas. I'm a lazy sod.

vs 23

Wise people don't just have prudent mouths - it takes work. I guess having a foolish mouth comes naturally. That's not really all that comforting. They also promote instruction. That doesn't mean they necessarily give it. I think it just means they suggest a useful course of action - that is, the learning of wisdom. So not only should people look at a wise person and go, "Hey, I'd like to live like that," but the wise person should say, "Wisdom is good, learn it."

vs 24

Honeycomb heals the bones? In any case, it seems that there is a lot to be said for gracious words.

vs 25

Not everything that looks like wisdom is wisdom. So we have to be even more discerning!

vs 26

This is not a call for starving your workers. It's the promise of food as much as the hunger that drives them, no doubt.

vs 27

Now here's the novel thing - scoundrels actually plot their evil words. Even though we were just hearing that it takes wisdom to be discerning about what you say - you can actually spend time and thought on evil words too, as we well know I suppose. So there is a difference between foolish words and full-on evil words.

vs 28

And this is actually really easy to do. Way too easy, awfully so.

vs 29

And then, we assume, beat the crap out of them.

vs 30

Hmm, I do those all the time. I assume they meant a certain thing back then. I mean, winking, it's kind of hard to guess what it meant back then.

vs 31

So bald people are evil? I think the idea is that bad people don't generally live to a ripe old age.

vs 32

Warriors were like the celebrities of the age. Heroic people are easy to look up to. But it is the patient and self-controlled that we should look up to. It's just they're not always famous.

vs 33

So if you ever want a bible verse that tells you that your dice roll is the subject of God's attention, and indeed choosing, there you have it.

Proverbs chapter 16

vs 12

It just is. I wonder What sort of effect this verse had during the period of monarchy in the european states. Kings are judges, remember, so their job really should be to detest injustice.

vs 13

Lots about kings today. I suppose honest people give honest advice, they tell the truth as witnesses, and they are trustworthy.

vs 14

When you think about this - that a king has the power over life and death, and can still be taken by whims of wrath- suddenly the idea that wisdom can bring life becomes very meaningful.

vs 15

How many stories have we heard of a monarch passing down some sort of blessing onto someone that he sees as worthy - like a knighthood or a jewel or something. But even just knowing the king might remember you, and so smile upon you in some way, is positive.

vs 16

Mmm, sweet, tasty wisdom. Just a reminder how good wisdom is.

vs 17

Life and righteousness are linked, and importantly so. Walking on the road of the righteous is like walking on a well lit street with CCTV cameras - you're less likely to get mugged.

vs 18

Pride comes before a fall - you heard it here first.

vs 19

Wow, that makes pride pretty bad. Better to be poor and oppressed and depressed than proud? Wow. But then, I suppose pride is really bumping God out of his rightful place. So in wisdom terms, that's serious.

vs 20

Listen to good advice, we've heard that before. But also make sure you trust God.

vs 21

I struggle with the wording of this verse. So the wise are discerning... okay. And gracious words promote instruction... fine. I suppose. Wait, what? My brain just doesn't seem to be clicking into gear. Perhaps this is just another one of those truism things. The first is, certainly. The second, I suppose, is instructive - supporting what we would call positive reinforcement.

vs 22

These fountains of life are quite popular. This one is full of prudence. Of course, the prudent have prudence, which is why we call them prudent. Fools meanwhile get punished for no other reason other than they are in fact fools. It's good to be prudent.

Proverbs chapter 16

vs 1

There's nothing wrong with us desiring stuff, in that we are built to have desires. However, truth and wisdom come only from God. I think way too often we challenge that proposition.

vs 2

Again, just like above. We try and tell God what is pure. It doesn't work that way.

vs 3

Of course, by committing it to God, you are saying that it's something God wants done.

vs 4

Ends are all God's department. It's comforting not to have to worry about them.

vs 5

Snap. The only thing we really should boast about is God's work in us.

vs 6

It's not that sins are forgiven just by love and faithfulness. These are proverbs, remember. They somtimes use hyperbole. No doubt the effects of love and faithfulness are real on sin, though.

vs 7

I don't know that many of us really have that many enemies. But having enemies sucks, I can attest to that. I would really love for God to make peace between me and my enemies. Especially the crazy nutbar ones.

vs 8

Amen. Hear that, all you bloody capitalists?

vs 9

Similar to above. It makes me think if there's some sort of parallelism in the whole chapter... but I can't be bothered looking.

vs 10

A good king, we assume. But even then, any king's words will be an oracle to some point. Though they would probably betray justice.

vs 11

God doesn't mind honest gain, see. It's the people that make the money grubbing their first priority that honesty doesn't come before that are the bastards. Ahem. I mean, that are not good in God's sight.

Proverbs chapter 15

vs 23

You're right. Like making a good joke at just the right moment, having just the right words for someone is an awesome feeling. If only it happened more often.

vs 24

Good old upward paths. I'm not sure whether the upright follow the upward path, or their path goes up for them. On the one hand, it's like they're protecting themselves. On the other, it's like God protecting them.

vs 25

I'm not sure what to make of this. I mean, God hasn't stopped lots of people from taking widow's lands off them, I'll bet. Perhaps it's a warning that while you might move her boundary stones, you'll then end up in God's bad books.

vs 26

See, you can't do anything wrong with gracious words. People always like to hear nice, true things. But even if you say nothing, wicked thoughts can still sour you.

vs 27

Try reading this proverb out in Central Asia... They'd probably not in agreement then go and take a bribe.

vs 28

That bears some thinking. Anytime you blurt something out without thinking, that's probably foolish.

vs 29

I can't think of anything more comforting, really. Or anything more demanding of righteousness.

vs 30

Good news is always a boon. Even just receiving it is good. No wonder people like giving it so much.

vs 31

Sounds like one of the first rules of wisdom is listening to wise people.

vs 32

Discipline really is a good thing. Doesn't always seem that way. But the world has accomplished so much through discipline. I think we might have forgotten that.

vs 33

Humility should always be right up there when dealing with God. His wisdom really is unsearchable. People just would not come up with this stuff, a lot of it, from looking at the world.

Proverbs chapter 15

vs 12

I've been like this before, where I just didn't want to talk to people who had the right answers, because I'd rather be wrong than be corrected.

vs 13

What's inside affects what's outside. Not that you can't hide what's inside, but if you don't, it will be reflected.

It's also not saying that what's outside can't affect what's inside.

vs 14

What the mind has, it will want more of. It's almost like it gets used to getting it.

vs 15

I don't think this is a perfect mirror. Having a cheerful heart doesn't stop you being oppressed. I think this is a case of trumps - the cheerful heart can trump the oppressive situation.

vs 16

This almost comes straight out of the pages of Ecclesiastes, although I have a feeling it would also add, "But having lots and fearing God is best."

vs 17

Again, a fattened calf with love is best. But it shows that it's the love that is more valuable.

vs 18

Depends what you're going for, really. But it certainly shows what sort of result you want dependent on who you send into negotiations.

vs 19

So things in fact are more difficult when you're lazy, than when you're doing the right thing. It's not just that they seem difficult because you're lazy.

vs 20

It goes without saying that wise children love their parents. Well, not really, because it's been said earlier. But wise children are a joy to their parents, whereas foolish kids are frustrating. So there's obviously plenty of them.

vs 21

It's not that folly can't be fun - it just shouldn't be.

vs 22

There is never too much advice, according to Proverbs. So long as it is wise advice, I'm guessing. Because there's plenty of examples of stupid advice in the Bible too.

Proverbs chapter 15

vs 1

Don't I know it. Just because it's true doesn't make it the best thing to say. Not that I'm saying you lie, but diplomatic language is important. It's funny - if the person was strong and powerful and liable to hurt you, you'd say something placating. So if they'll hurt you to are gentle, but if you'll hurt them, why is it suddenly okay?

vs 2

This again seems obvious - the vast majority of that which comes out of the mouths of these will coincide with their wisdom quotient.

vs 3

Something that is too easily forgotten. I don't know what it is about modern times, but we forget about this I think.

vs 4

A lot of good can be done with words, but they can also be very painful and hurtful. I think sometimes we discount the pain that words can cause, as if it's not physical. But physical pain heals (generally - sometimes you can get ailments that produce ongoing pain), but some people can really get hurt by words, and still remember them years later.

vs 5

A word of wisdom for the younger. They're not too young to learn these lessons, apparently. Parents are here for good reason, it seems - sharing the wisdom of their years with their kids.

vs 6

Both houses have income. Only one is valuable, though, in the scheme of wisdom.

vs 7

I wonder if perhaps this means they don't care what they spread. Knowledge, foolishness, truth, lies - whatever is going.

vs 8

That's a sobering thought. See, most people today I think wouldn't think there is anything in such a claim - because you can't factually prove it. But wisdom includes these sorts of spiritual truths.

vs 9

Fairly obvious, to those who know God, anyway.

vs 10

I wonder if what this is saying is that everyone who strays from the path will get disciplined, but for those who spurn it, it will be deadly? That's a pretty good message.

vs 11

We are, after all, a part of his creation, just like death, and just like destruction. What exactly is meant by destruction here is an interesting question. I would tend to think it is a certain finality. The final destruction, akin to the finality of death.

Proverbs chapter 14

vs 23

We know that both of these are untrue. Some people make their fortunes out of nothing but talk, and some people work hard their whole lives and forever stay in debt. But they are good general rules to follow, and will most likely pay out.

vs 24

And the last thing that a fool wants is yet more folly. Except, of course, that he's a fool, so he probably does.

vs 25

The lies upon lies that judges have to deal with every day, it's atrocious. And don't blame the lawyers - sure, there is probably a few seedy lawyers out there that crook things, but I can tell you that it's the clients that do most of the lying.

vs 26

You might not live in a castle, but you can still pass on a fortress to your kids in faith. And for as many kids that get a half-assed faith passed down to them, some really take, and there really is a new generation of faithful Christians that comes from faithful parents.

I'd almost say that there can be a case for half-assed Christians having half-assed parents, but I won't go that far.

vs 27

Is it just me, or is that a bit of a mix in metaphors? It's faith, it can do two things!

vs 28

You can't really call yourself a leader of men without men that you lead. All leaders should always remember this, because it doesn't really matter what you situation, the fact is that authority derives at least in part from the people whom you lead.

vs 29

I am forever grateful and jealous of those with patience. Sometimes I can be quite patient, but at other times I'm a mess.

vs 30

It really is incredible how so many of the attitudes that are wrong, like anger, envy, hatred and such, really do eat us up on the inside. But they are so hard to overcome! If you were ever doubting that you needed God to make you a better person, just remember that thing you fume about, that eats away at you and never lets go, and that probably doesn't effect the other person even in the slightest.

vs 31

Worth remembering next time you buy something made in a sweatshop or vote for the Liberal party. Oh yeah, I went there.

vs 32

And ultimately, that is the be all and end all. Death is when the chips are down. If you can't call on God and take refuge in him in death, then you really are going down.

vs 33

The Syriac really does seem like a silly truism, where as the other seems to suggest that even in fools you will sometimes find wisdom, and that is true. No-one is foolish all the time. They have to be wise at least once, even if it is by accident.

vs 34

The corporate nature of righteousness and sin are hugely important, but we pretty much ignore them in our individualistic society. Unfortunately, what I think a lot of people miss (especially in, say, the Christian political movement) is that righteousness cannot be separated from God. You can't pretend that making people live better is going to make them more righteous. Now that doesn't mean that Christian moral principles have nothing to do with creating legislation - laws that discourage abortions kill less children, for example. Laws that punish harmful behaviour through remand make people safer. But you can't legislate righteousness. You can't think that if you've got good laws, then God will make it rain in a drought. Doesn't work that way. In the OT, people didn't appease God by passing laws, or even keeping them. They apologised, and they destroyed idols. Best of luck getting Australia to do those things without evangelism.

vs 35

Not being one to have servants, but wishing I did, I guess we have to start drawing long bows to apply this one meaningfully. I will point out, though, that all we Christians are servants - both of God, and of each other. So even if we are wise just for that purpose, it's a good start.

Proverbs chapter 14

vs 12

Isn't it comforting to know that we can get confused and mistaken about what is righteous. I think so. Makes me feel less bad if I make a wrong decision based on such confusion. At least I was trying.

vs 13

Sometimes we laugh because it's either that or cry. I think Australians might be particularly good at this.

vs 14

Oh dear. It's not until you think of the results of faithnessless as a reward that you think, "Hmmm, what the hell is it I actually hope to achieve through this action? If I achieved everything possible that I could hope for through it, would I really be satisfied with the results?"

vs 15

There are plenty of gullible people out there. I mean, even some usually prudent people can be tricked by others. So we should make sure we give thought to our steps, I guess.

vs 16

Sometimes fools don't even realise how bad their situation is in wickedness. But wickedness brings no security at all.

vs 17

Anyone who has ever made a decision based on a hot impulse knows that it's very easy to make that decision wrongly. And anyone who has planned to hurt someone else knows how much people hate it when others deliberately hurt them.

vs 18

Foolishness and wisdom are both reproductive harvests. You water either, give it time, and you get more back. That's worth remembering.

vs 19

How can it be any other way, if there is a righteous God? I mean, we listen to this and we think, "How can this be?" But if we know God is there and he is good, surely we should be saying, "How could this not be?"

vs 20

Sad but true. I'm not sure if a value judgement is being made here, or if it's just stating the facts.

vs 21

This certainly puts the last proverb into perspective. If the last one wasn't making a value judgement, this one certainly is - don't be like the previous proverb!

vs 22

Just because you plan something doesn't suddenly make it good. It's what you plot or plan that counts. I don't stand by the idea of neutral tools (that planning is somehow neither good nor evil).

Proverbs chapter 14

vs 1

The value of a house is obvious... I'm unsure as to the reason a woman is pictured. Did women build houses? Does it mean more the building of a home, rather than a house, if you know what I mean?

vs 2

After all, why walk uprightly if you don't care what God thinks? This highlights why there are people who don't believe in God but still live upright lives - because they feel some compulsion to - whether it be another god, or they have made humanity or their family or some weird moral system their god. That just shows that they are lacking in wisdom about God, rather than a desire to be wicked.

vs 3

Mostly because he keeps them shut, I reckon.

vs 4

If you have an ox to plough your fields, I guess you can do better work. I wonder if this parable is saying, "Work smarter, use technology," even if that technology is a cow.

vs 5

Again, surely a tautology. But I guess it bears saying, so that you know. You have to learn everything a first time, after all.

vs 6

That someone might actually seek knowledge and not find it, simply because they are a mocker, is quite eye-opening.

vs 7

Wisdom is such an important thing to strive for, that you shouldn't even bother hanging around with foolish people. Is that the value we place on understanding God's wisdom?

vs 8

So while wise people think about what they do, fools it seem deceive even themselves.

vs 9

Damn, it's hard to apologise sometimes. Especially when you don't think you've done something wrong, or because you're a stubborn ass like me. But it is so necessary.

vs 10

There is something fundamentally hidden about ourselves from others. I don't know if that will change in eternity. But it is true that we understand ourselves to a deep extent that is not shared with others. This doesn't mean people can't know us well - or perhaps even know things about ourselves we don't. It just means there isn't a complete overlap.

vs 11

Even if you do live in a tent, better it flourishes than is destroyed. There might even be a slight hearkening back to Abraham here, who never got to settle down, but following God and still became a rich man.

Proverbs chapter 13

vs 14

So if you do meet a wise person, it can be well worth listening to them.

vs 15

Often times good judgment itself isn't enough. Being able to discern and even advise people about appropriate action isn't always enough to win favour. Only those who know to listen to the wise would do it, anyway.

The flipside of the coin is almost always true, though - people can't stand unfaithfulness. The lie of individuality never really prevents people from feeling the necessity of interdependence, even if they deny it.

vs 16

So you should be able to always eventually identify a fool.

vs 17

I'm not sure what the point of a wicked messenger is. I assume it is actually a reflection on the messenger and not just the message he carries. I guess not everybody you hire as a messenger will be honourable. Perhaps they duck off with the message and go to the pub, or they bring the wrong message, or they are bribable, or whatever.

vs 18

Although possibly stays in poverty and shame. I must say, the teachers who taught me on my teaching pracs were always appreciative of my willingness to listen to them and do what they suggested, especially in my weak areas.

vs 19

I'm not sure I see the mirror in this one. It's almost like two chopped together. How is turning from evil linked to a longing fulfilled? Unless we all long to turn from evil. Which we obviously don't, because fools detest it.

vs 20

I think I love this proverb so much I want to get it tattooed on my forehead. The problem being, then, that I'd probably then become someone who isn't worth walking with. Not that there's anything wrong with people with tattoos per se. Just those foolish enough to get Proverbs 13:20 tattooed to their forehead.

It's the sort of proverb you want to put up in a school, where kids can see that the crowd you hang out with affects you.

vs 21

And I think anyone who has really struggled with sin can vouch for this first part. Even if you never get caught, it's like a spectre that haunts you, follows you around, and never leaves, like old luggage.

I'm also sure that anyone who is righteous can tell you about the second part - although they'd probably be humble about it.

vs 22

Perhaps because bastard children don't inherit? I think probably more this is talking about the fact that wisdom and foolishness are to some extent inherited. Of course, with that goes money. If you live the wicked life, sure you might have a big pile of cash to give to your kids. But you also give them no wisdom to look after it, and it gets squandered - which means eventually it makes it to the righteous. It's God's version of the trickle-down effect.

vs 23

I wonder if by injustice it means the unjust. I would say this is talking about the fallow ground principle of the OT law. If you refuse to let your land lie fallow for the sake of the poor, then that is unjust.

vs 24

It's not PC, but I tell you what, spend 10 weeks in a school and you will be convinced that, if nothing else, corporal punishment is efficient.

vs 25

If only it were always true. It deserves to be, and as always, eternally it will be. But it's nice to see this sort of thing reflected in everyday life too. Of course, I'm sure some people don't want to see anyone go hungry. More power to them, I guess.

Proverbs chapter 13

vs 1

The whole being able to learn thing is an important part of wisdom. Accepting rebukes is an interestingly different take on previous proverbs. Correction is one thing, but accepting rebuke as well is important - because discipline often comes as rebuke, and for children especially it's important to be able to accept it.

vs 2

So if you speak well, you'll enjoy good things. Not that you're a good preacher or whatever, I don't think that's what it's saying. Just more that the things you say are appropriate. Whereas the unfaithful would rather have violence, and violence isn't really enjoyable, even if you're on the giving end.

vs 3

So much focus on how dangerous the mouth can be. A matter of life and death even.

vs 4

That's a novel observation. I guess you never get anything through laziness... perhaps even rest isn't achieved, although that seems a little odd.

vs 5

Quite descriptive language. Do we always hate falsity? Sometimes there is pleasure in ignorance, or in lies. But the fact is that untruth is a shame, and we lessen ourselves with it. That doesn't mean we can't just keep our mouths shut sometumes, but that's another proverb.

vs 6

We don't often think of righteousness as protective, but we very regularly think of the opposite - that wickedness overthrows. Interesting to think about righteousness more pro-actively.

vs 7

I think this proverb is saying that money isn't everything. To be honest though, I don't know how clear that is. Perhaps it's saying that it's better to be rich than look rich.

vs 8

So that's one situation where wealth is better than poverty.

vs 9

Generally, anyway, and eternally definitely. I mean, it doesn't matter whether you're talking about being remembered, or seen, or liked - sometimes all these happen to the wicked.

vs 10

Pride is often the cause of problems. It's an interesting idea that our pride can get us into trouble. Pride is so highly valued in our society today, to say it's wrong is countercultural.

vs 11

It's funny that there are so few stories of someone making the 'big score' and living happily on their wealth forever. It would seem that mercantile trade that is at least semi-honest lasts the distance.

vs 12

What's the lesson here, just to know that this is true, and be prepared for disappointment? Is it to try and grab hold of hopes so that they can be fulfilled? Is it to try and fulfil the hopes of others? I don't know.

vs 13

Very true. So often we meet learning hand in hand with authority. Sometimes you've got to take the interesting lessons with the dry.

Proverbs chapter 12

vs 19

I'm honestly not really sure what this means. Is it that truth is eternal, while lies are temporary? I suppose that's a fair way of reading it.

vs 20

It's not just that they plot evil, and so they have evil thoughts in their minds. The deceit is actually in their hearts, withering them from the inside. But the peaceful are full of joy, which is much happier.

vs 21

We of course know that there is totally no rule that upholds this, with the exception of the eternity rule. But trouble also does breed trouble - just look at the schoolyard.

vs 22

Once again we see the value that God puts on these things is an important part of wisdom.

vs 23

Better to not say the right thing than say the wrong thing, eh? Tell me you've never found this. I find it all the time. Some times even the truth isn't worth saying. Silence is bloody golden.

vs 24

From the very top to the very bottom. While some might say, "But what about the lazy kings and aristocrats of old, they ruled, and they were lazy!" I think you can safely say that it was the people who were actually working who did the ruling - advisors, or other rich and influential people.

vs 25

Anxiety comes from some uncontrolled area, but people can be active in giving kind words. So much wisdom, it seems, revolves around the power of words.

vs 26

Perhaps he just couldn't think of a good pairing for this one. The negative just seems very bland and open.

vs 27

Obviously it doesn't matter so much to know what they do with it, the fact is that if you're lazy you don't have any game to do anything with.

vs 28

Immortality. A good note to end the chapter on. Righteousness leads to life, and full life.

Proverbs chapter 12

vs 10

I assume people like Wilberforce knew this verse. I didn't even know it existed till today. I mean, I know there are a few verses that hint at that fact that God expects us to treat animals ok, but this verse makes it quite clear that it is righteous to look after animals, and that cruelty to animals is wicked. Of course, it doesn't say don't kill them. It doesn't even say don't farm them. And this is a culture that bled animals.

vs 11

Ouch. I will point out, though, that I don't think there's anything wrong with chasing fantasies once the farm work is done. There is nothing wrong with ambition per se, but you have to back it up with action.

vs 12

Plunder really only comes from thieving or warlike behaviour, both of which are risky. Farming isn't without risk, but I don't think the verse is really about farming anyway. I think it's about the harvest of righteousness.

vs 13

You can't be trapped in what you say if you are innocent, unless your very truthfulness is problematic. Like, for exapmple, saying that you are a Christian when that's the very thing people are persecuted for. But in a fairly homogenous society, you shouldn't have much trouble if you are innocent.

vs 14

The thing I like about this verse is that it shows that talking is as powerful, or useful, as working actively with one's hands. Words are powerful, and can bring good.

vs 15

A powerful truth, especially for someone like me who thinks they're always right.

vs 16

There is a good amount of wisdom in this. It doesn't mean ignore insults forever. It just means be measured and patient. Give things time. Sometimes simply mentioning in conversation down the track something to do with what insulted you can make people take pause and realise their mistake. Other times people really do want to insult you, but if you say nothing and deal with it appropriately, they are shamed.

vs 17

Ummm... duh?

vs 18

It's not only a fact, but also something to aim for. I hate to say, but I am as reckless as all get out. I very rarely try and use my words for healing, and so my tongue gets so sharpened that it becomes less useful - like using a sword for healing.

Proverbs chapter 12

vs 1

I love verses that use words like 'stupid'. But that's the thing about knowledge - if you're not prepared to find out when you're wrong, how will you ever be right?

vs 2

Of course, if you're planning wicked schemes, it might be that you don't even care what God thinks. Which is not only wicked, buy also unwise.

vs 3

I have always felt this to be true. Have you never wondered about how unstable life must be for those who live doing the wrong thing all the time? Sure, they sometimes look like they've got it easy, but I've always wondered at how you could enjoy a life with so little stability.

Although, as someone pointed out to me last night, it's not exactly like I've had a stable life either.

vs 4

Yes, I am aware that the idea behind this is only really focused on how the wife impacts the husband. But the truth is that our lives to impact other people, and we can be a blessing or a curse to them - and spouses probably none more truthfully.

vs 5

I will point out for this one particularly that this isn't a 100% guarantee. There are some times that wicked people suggest noble courses of action, and there are some times that the righteous lead people astray. It works fine as a general rule, or proverb if you will, but especially in the proverbs that involve people, it must be recognised that we're slippery, strange beasts.

vs 6

Have you ever lay in wait for blood with your words? Sat waiting to say something that you knew would cause pain? Pretty awful prospect, but I can think of any number of times I've done it.

vs 7

I think only the wicked really think of overthrowing the righteous. The unwashed neutral masses probably prefer righteous leaders to wicked ones.

vs 8

This is quite true, really. I mean, how many times do people actually say, "That's so crazy it just might work?" in real life? Never. In real life people are hopelessly conservative. That's why we play roleplaying games.

vs 9

Wealth is apparently more important than status. Interesting concept. I wonder how the book of Proverbs read in aristocratic times. "Well, we have both! A ha ha. A ha ha." In a more modern time, where presentation is nine-tenths of the law, this is an interesting rule. Better to get an honest job and work it, than try to doll yourself up as something and be forever unemployed.

Proverbs chapter 11

vs 21

Be sure of it. It's a promise. Not here, not really. Here it's a statement of wisdom. And this is generally how it works. But God takes that wisdom and eternalises it, to give it a lasting, meaningful truth. No wonder we see it reflected in our own lives.

vs 22

Hehehe. Breaking down a proverb like this is almost painful, because it's so awesome in its construction. It provides its lesson with so much palpable obviousness that it's funny. A small pretty thing in the midst of a big stupid ugly dirty thing. A lack of discretion is a pig.

vs 23

And overall I'm sure this is true. Another example of eternal truth speaking into our regular lives. As we've read already, even if you do get away with doing something wicked, people will fume about it.

vs 24

This is almost Ecclesiastical in its truth. It goes totally against what is to be expected, but it is so true. And that's the thing about proverbs. They have a ring of truth about them. They are the thing we either know about the world and how it is, or at the very least how we yearn for it to be more often. God's proverbs are pro-active in shaping that, I think.

vs 25

Jesus says similar things in his parables. The funny thing is that in a capitalist individualist society, we have so much trouble understanding how this works. In a communal society, it's easily understandable that one person who helps people out is seen as a valuable person, a friendly and helpful person, and so if they need help, you'd go out of your way to do so. But in modern society, the person who helps others is still a stranger, and so the idea that people would help him in return takes on an almost mystical sort of quality.

Oh, I'm not discounting the idea that if you refresh people, the very act itself will be refreshing to you. But I think this other point is also important.

vs 26

I guess when it comes to things like famine, you never know how long it's going to last. And good business practice will probably tell you to hold onto valuable commodities, or to raise prices according to value, rather than according to need. Today, most businesses don't see themselves as having any sort of social conscience. I wonder if this is perhaps because of the rise of public listing? So many people have a stake, you can just assume that what they all want is more money, because that's why they invested, so you must do whatever makes the most money, rather than anything charitable. The big four, especially Westpac, are an obvious example of this. People are losing jobs, struggling with money, the Reserve Bank cuts interest rates - but Westpac doesn't. The Reserve raises rates a little, Westpac raises them a lot.

Whereas a single person who owns a business can make a decision much more easily - people need grain to eat, I'll sell it at what they can afford, because their generosity affects no-one but themselves.

vs 27

Nothing worse than finding what you seek, when it's evil. That's an awful truth. The funny thing is, I don't know that the promise holds for good. You might seek good but never find the good you were seeking. Instead, you will find favour - that general sort of positive attitude towards you because at least you were seeking good.

vs 28

I wonder if this is even meant to reflect anything other than a richness of life which comes from knowing you are walking the straight and narrow.

vs 29

I assume this is talking to young people frustrating the family unit, rather than the father refusing to feed his children. I don't know about you, but I'd never hire a foolish servant. But I guess I could never afford a wise one.

vs 30

Win souls? What does that mean, I wonder? Oh, I think this is a good point to just point out how much I love the gender neutral language of the TNIV. I find it so much less distracting.

I need to get back to this 'win souls' thing. Perhaps it talks of people who get other people to live the righteous life, to turn back to their Jewish roots and serve the Lord?

vs 31

Tell me that this verse, and the one before, don't speak of some sort of eternity! Solomon is a wise bugger, I reckon, and he's figured it out. There is an eternal reward for righteousness, and so any reward that the righteous get on earth is just gravy. Of course, there is an eternal punishment for wickedness, but obviously God would want to get the message out that wickedness = bad, and so people should generally realise that it is by the fact that sin pays its due penalty on earth too.

Proverbs chapter 11

vs 11

Whole cities laid waste by the mouth of the wicked. Loose lips not only sink ships, but destroy entire cities. The idea that the righteous can lead to the exultation of a town could refer to a Sodom and Gommorah type situation, I suppose - although it didn't save those towns.

vs 12

It's not that you can't understand or realise the inadequacies of other people - but just going around blabbing is stupid. Better to keep your tongue, and just act appropriately an wisely.

vs 13

Everyone knows this, but we still gossip. Sometimes I think we think we're being helpful, but you have to be so, so wise to know when to say something, whereas it's easy to just not say it.

vs 14

Which means, of course, being prepared to take advice. All good leaders know that they can't make all decisions on their own, and respect the expertise of others.

vs 15

This verse is talking about loans and money. Just imagine putting up the guarantee on a stranger's house - why would they worry if they forfeit it? You could lose your own house. The idea being you're safe if you don't make any such pledges. Pretty simple wisdom, really. However, how does this compare with Jesus' words that you should lend to those who won't pay it back? Does this show the true wisdom of God - yes, of course it's easy to protect your money. But how eternally significant is that? When does such stewardship become greed? I think it takes a fair bit of wisdom to know.

vs 16

Heh, and there you go. I think this is here for good reason. "Only wealth" isn't good enough. Sure, don't squander it on people who won't respect it, but remember that kindness is honourable.

vs 17

The benefit of kindness to others is obvious - as is the benefit of cruelty are obvious to one's self. It's the reverse of the two that are so important to remember. Of course, the benefits and harms might not be always easily visible.

vs 18

I like this idea. The rewards of wickedness are there - everyone knows that. It's their fleeting nature, the deception of the reward that is not always well known. Unfortunately, the rewards of righteousness aren't always obvious, but God assures us they are definitely there.

vs 19

These terms 'life' and 'death' are sometimes a little confusing to me. I mean, what does it mean to 'attain life'? Is it perhaps long life? Or is it really that you don't "live life" if you're wicked? Because life is about being righteous?

vs 20

The crux of this verse is that you must understand what God likes and dislikes is important. If you don't get that, then this verse is meaningless. And so you must then agree with that proposition, or it is likewise meaningless.

Proverbs chapter 11

vs 1

God desires justice, and dishonest scales are unjust. This picture is used to describe injustice regularly in the prophets.

vs 2

I don't think disgrace and wisdom are polar opposites, although you'd hope one protected you from the other. I think humility leads to wisdom because of the essential nature of life - that we get everything from God, so we need to recognise that and be humble.

vs 3

It's like that old adage, "Always tell the truth, then you don't need a good memory." When you lie a lot, you will eventually get caught out. Of course, it's the same for all wrongdoing - no point telling the truth about doing wrong, if you know what I mean.

vs 4

That's a sweet memory verse. We often talk about the wages of sin is death, and how you can't take money with you and all that. Here it is nice and neatly summed up.

vs 5

Doing the right thing will often make life more bearable. Not necessarily easy, but liveable, uncomplicated to an extent.

vs 6

I think you can see the pattern here. Righteousness good, wickedness bad. There is a freedom in righteousness that wickedness doesn't bring. It's hard to see, because our culture tends to look at doing the right thing as a constriction, and doing what you want as a freedom.

vs 7

I really like the TNIV here, but it depends on what manuscript selection process you go with. The TNIV wraps up the entirety of the gospel - there is no hope in mortality. We might think we're powerful, but we're weak.

The NIV is a little more direct and specific - wicked people might think they are powerful, but they still die. They're not really that powerful, then, are they?

vs 8

Even though we know that the rain falls on the just and the unjust, we have to remember that wisdom is god-centred, and understands that the world isn't random. God allows all people to live, but he will occasionally crack out a great little encouragement to the righteous. Sometimes that means sticking it to the wicked.

vs 9

If you've ever said something dumb, and then seen that one stupid comment snowball into the total destruction of a relationship, then you know what this means. It would seem the only way to escape such destruction is through wisdom - I guess because it lets you see through such destructive comments?

vs 10

No-one really likes to see the wicked doing well. That's why the rich bad guy is always a villain. That's why good guys get the girl, or the company, or whatever. Obviously in tragedies it doesn't work that way, but then that's why it's a tragedy. Sure, bad guys do get good things in this world, but it doesn't make people happy to see it. People crave justice, just like God desires it. This is one of the key points of modern apologetics againt athiesm - the fact that everyone knows how much they crave justice, and there is no justice in athiesm, because there is no righteousness.

Suffering church talk - 1 Peter 4

I am of course deeply indebted to Barnabas Fund for all their resources on the suffering church. I didn't end up having time to give this whole message.

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Talk – Persevering Under Pressure

Play part of song, Under Pressure? (2:54-end)

Talk - persevering under pressure

I'm sure we all know what it's like to be under pressure. Pressure to study, to do well in exams. Pressure to get a job, to work hard. Pressure to be a good son or daughter, a good husband or wife, a good mother or father. Pressure from our friends to hang out and to do things. Pressure from our society to achieve, to buy, to succeed, to look after number one, to fit in. And as Christians, especially those who come from a non-Christian background, work in a non-Christian environment, study at a non-Christian school or university, or socialise with non-Christian friends, there can often be pressure from friends, workmates and even family for us to put aside our Christian way of life when it is uncomfortable, or different, or seems unnecessary to them.

For many of us in Australia, that's about as much pressure as we feel for our Christian faith. We may still feel the pain of it sometimes, but when we think about all that we've heard today, about the extent of Christian persecution around the globe, it's hard for us not to feel that we have it pretty good. In fact, after hearing what we have heard today, we might ask questions like, “What should we think of these Christians who are persecuted so harshly? What are our responsibilities to them? Why does this suffering occur?”

They're not easy questions, and to find the answers to them we need to see what God has to say about it, which we will find in the Bible. In his letter to a group of Christians who found themselves being persecuted for their faith, Peter seeks to help them understand their situation and put it in the context of God's plan. By reading 1 Peter chapter 4, we can see that God's plan hasn't changed, and it helps us to understand the nature of persecution, and what our response should be today. The chapter starts by looking at the godly attitudes that grow from suffering persecution. In verse 1, we see that find that those who suffer persecution are done with sin. This isn't a promise that once you have suffered for your faith, you will never sin again. If only it were so easy. But the truth is that suffering often winnows out the faithful from the fairweather. Jesus himself talks of those who accept the gospel and receive it with joy, but fall away because of trouble or persecution for of it. They are the second type of seed in the parable of the sower, which we learned about earlier in the year. Those who have a strong love for God tested in the fire of persecution realise that the demands for a holy life pale in comparison to the demands for that life's sacrifice. When we look at these individuals, we see where the Christian's focus really should be – wholly and totally on serving God.

As verses 2 and 3 tell us, it is all too easy to be suckered in by the lifestyle of the non-Christians around us. Indeed, anyone who has lived a large portion of their life as a non-Christian can tell you exactly what it's like. Whether it's a life of self-gratification and pleasure, as it is for most Australians, or a life of denial and self-deprecation, as exists in many other religious cultures, the truth of it is that if you are not living a Christian life, you are not living for God - you have missed the mark, and you are not doing God's will. The problem is that when Christians go against the culture around them, people notice. They notice, and as we are told in verse 4, they are surprised, and they will heap abuse on you. Christians are persecuted because they are not the same, because following God is more important than fitting in with those around them. In Australia, this cause people to ignore you, think you are stupid, make fun of you, or not be your friend any more. For some, the results can be more grave.

Nissar Hussein is a hospital nurse. Born a Muslim, he and his wife converted to Christianity. They and their children have been jostled, abused, attacked, told loudly to move out of the area and given death threats in the street. His wife was held hostage inside their home by a mob. Their property has been daubed in graffiti and their car rammed and torched. Bricks have been thrown through their windows and the steps to their home strewn with rubbish. Nissar was told that his house would be burnt down if he did not repent and return to Islam. All this happened in Bradford in the UK. Now that simply won't happen to most of us. Our families or communities wouldn't see the conversion of one of their members to another religion as a shame that must be cleansed and put right. And yet we can look to the Nissar Husseins of the world, those who have put up with violence, discrimination and suppression, and in the lives of those Christians who are standing up under the pressure of persecution, we see that God has given us a gift of exemplary people who can teach us valuable lessons about what it means to live with faith in Christ. For those of us who aren't called to suffer to the point of death, the persecuted church is a gift from God – an example of the strength of God shown in the weakness of humanity, setting out for us that the most important thing is living a life for God in Christ, and that it can be done even in the most harshest of circumstances. Christianity is worth any cost – and we can know that when we see Christians who are actually paying that cost. Because they know the truth that Peter sets out in verse 5 – that judgement is coming, and everyone is going to have to give an account – and they are living their lives in the assurance that they will not be found wanting on that day.

As Peter says in verse 7, “The end of all things is near.” This is the attitude with which we must all live – not just those who are suffering from the strongest persecution, but also those of us who find our situation less strained. Because if God gave us the gift of the persecuted church, then he has just as much given us in our wealth and freedom as a gift to those who have little and are under pressure. Just what are our responsibilities toward our brothers and sisters in Christ, according to Peter? How can we be a gift to them. Read with me, from verse 7. “The end of all things is near. Therefore, be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.” This is our first responsibility, the first gift we can be to the suffering church. Not only will it be of great encouragement for them to know that their brothers and sisters are thinking of them, but it is only by acknowledging and relying on the power of God that we can hope to make any difference. And we must pray intelligently. We must be alert of what is happening, and sober in our minds – we must understand what the situation is. We should use the well informed and constructed prayer materials that are available to us, like those presented by organisations like Barnabas Fund.

Our responsibilities extend further. Verse 8, “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” These are not just members of a club with whom we are somehow obligated to help. These are our brothers and sisters in Christ, members of the family of God. Although we may be blessed by learning through their experiences of suffering, this does not mean that we should desire them to suffer. Instead, we should love them, and seek to be helping them in whatever ways we can.

Verse 9, “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.” It's not often that we might get the opportunity to open our homes to a Christian who is in real need, who is suffering because of their faith in Christ. We might think that we'd be certain to do so if we needed to. But what if someone was to turn up on our shores, trying to flee persecution for the sake of their lives and their families, seeking to share something of the freedom and security as Christians that we already have here? Would we share our country with them? Australians have shown that we aren't as hospitable as we might like to think we are, and undoubtedly that attitude exists within the church as well as the general populace. Peter says that our hospitality is to be without grumbling – so let us extend a welcome to those who suffer for Christ's name, and do it cheerfully.

Verses 10 and 11 tell us that no matter what gift we have, we should use it to serve each other. One problem that many converts to Christianity face in situations of persecution is that they lose so much of their support structure – family, friends, work, religious institutions like mosques or temples – that they can feel abandoned when they come to faith. We may not be able to replace the closeness that exists between parent and child, sibling to sibling, but we can offer as much support as possible. Just think of all the things that someone without family misses out on – someone to talk to about relationships, someone to teach you to drive, someone to celebrate birthdays and Christmas with, grandparents to look after grandchildren, even networks that help you find work. We might not be able to offer all these things, but even for those whose situations aren't that accessible to us, we can still be a family to them in some ways. We can offer them protection from danger, by helping support shelters for converts who find themselves out of work, out of family, and often in danger. We can help them afford their first house, where they might have normally had their family help them out, or help send their kids to school. It's a difficult situation – many people would argue that doing such things creates 'rice Christians' – who will convert just for the financial benefits and support. But if they have lost their family, their friends, their job, sometimes even their spouses and children through becoming a Christian, how can we not help them? We cannot replace those things, and I doubt there are many people who would sacrifice their own families and marriages for the sake of some simple financial help. Still, these decisions are best made where they are happening. We can trust the leadership of such churches who are used to helping new converts, to deal with these situations.

But we can do more. We can be heard on their account. We can speak out against the persecution of those who choose to leave other religions for Christ, and suffer because of it. We can break the silence that so often covers the persecution of Christians happening around the world. 50 churches get burned down in Indonesia, and it's called an 'ethnic conflict'. 300 Christians are killed in India, and it's called 'political turmoil.' The west doesn't want to hear that Christians suffer for their faith, that they are persecuted because of Jesus. But for the sake of our persecuted brethren, and for the sake of Christ himself, we must speak out, and we must act. Peter tells us in v11, “If you speak, you should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If you serve, you should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.”

You may not even know, but our church is already a gift to the persecuted church, as it regularly supports the work of Barnabas Fund in assisting suffering Christians. But I would encourage you to get a hold of some of Barnabas Funds' reading material, to pray for the suffering church, and to consider what service you could provide to them. We often focus on evangelism and the growing of God's kingdom, and that is very good. But we also have a responsibility to partner with those who already know Christ, and who are our spiritual brothers and sisters.

We have seen that the suffering church is a gift to us, giving us examples of godly men and women and even children who make the decision to follow Christ and suffer, who teach us the value of our faith and show us that our hope should be in Christ's return. We have seen how we can be a gift to those Christians, through giving them love, hospitality, service, and through prayer. But now we see another gift God gives, to all Christians – we learn that suffering itself is a gift from God. Peter tells us that persecution for our faith is not strange. We should not be surprised that we suffer for being Christians. After all, in our Christian lives we are to copy the life of Christ, and Christ himself suffered. Paul agreed with Peter. In 2 Timothy he said, “everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted,” and in Romans 8 he said that if we share in Christ's sufferings, we will also share in his glory. Peter tells us that suffering for Christ shows that the spirit of glory and of God rests on you. Being willing to suffer for Christ, being ready to suffer for Christ, actually suffering for Christ, is a mark of our faith.

The fact of the matter is that a time is coming when the world will be judged for its disobedience to God. To make that clear, God has started his judgement with his own people, as an example to the rest of the world. But we will come out clean and refined on the other side, because we don't suffer for doing wrong – for being murderers, or thieves, or any other kind of criminal or troublemaker. Instead, we suffer for doing right, for following Christ. We are an example to the world that we know the truth, and the truth is God, and the truth is Christ, and the truth is worth living for, and the truth is worth dying for. When judgement comes on the whole of humanity, it will not be so mild, because they will be found wanting. Peter ends with an exhortation and an encouragement. Keep doing good, and remain committed to your creator, and know that the suffering of this age will pass, and eternal life will come in its fullness.

How afraid are we of suffering – not for doing wrong, for things we might deserve to be punished for, but for following Christ? We might like to think that if we were threatened with death, we would stand up and be counted for Christ. But we're so unlikely to be put in that situation, it's hard to know. But many of our Christian family are in that position, facing death, or deprivation, or suppression, or discrimination. Let us stand with them in prayer, and in encouragement.