Skill in Living - Capitol Commission
Tuesday, 20th of March 2018
Capitol Commission Georgia
Skill in Living
Ron J. Bigalke, Ph.D. P.O. Box 244, Rincon, GA 31326-0244 (912) 659-4212 [email protected]
Capitol Commission Bible Study
• TUESDAYS @ 12 NOON in 123 CAP
Simply experiencing the expenditure of time does not mean that a person has matured or learned from those things experienced during that time. True wisdom involves learning and living. Wisdom, as the Bible reveals it, is not primarily an abstract or reflective concept; rather, it is a practical component. The Hebrew word for “wisdom” is chokmah (hm* k = j * ), and conveys the idea of skill. In the book of Exodus, chokmah is used six times to describe the skills and techniques of two master craftsmen (Bezaleel and Aholiab). The word is also used to describe skill that enables a person to be a gifted administrator, judge, or leader. In its most fundamental sense, wisdom denotes skill in living; it is a comprehensive term indicating aptitude in relationships, moral integrity, practicality in life, and, supremely, in relation to spiritual matters.
Members’ Bible Fellowship • WEDNESDAYS @ 7:15AM in 125 CAP
Capitol Commission Bible Studies are held every Tuesday. The weekly Bible study is nonpartisan and non-denominational. Having completed the study of Galatians last week, the next series of Bible studies will be Proverbs 22:17—24:34, which contain various sayings of the wise. Thereafter, we will resume the Bible study in the book of Acts (which we began during last year’s legislative interim). For the duration of the 2018 session, we will continue having Bible studies every week on Tuesdays. Capitol Commission provides an open-to-all Bible study every Tuesday from 12:00-12:45pm in 123 CAP (where ministry sponsors provide lunch). The member’s only Bible Fellowship is held every Wednesday (unless not a legislative day) from 7:158:00am in 125 CAP. I pray that this study will be edifying to you. The sole intent of the ministry of Capitol Commission is to serve you, and to be a resource to you for pastoral care, counsel, and prayer. The present study in the Word of God is just one aspect of the desire to serve you. – Dr. Ron J. Bigalke, Georgia State Minister, Capitol Commission
Capitol Commission Bible Studies are
Tuesday, 20 March 2018 Proverbs 24 – “Skill in Living” Two teachers applied for the same vice-principal opening at a local high school. One had been teaching for a total of 8 years, while the other had 20 years experience. Everyone anticipated the teacher with the greater experience would receive the job. The decision to hire the teacher with less experience surprised everyone. The more experienced teacher complained, “I’ve got 20 years teaching to her 8. I’m vastly more qualified.” The school board explained their decision: “Yes, sir, you do have 20 years teaching to her 8, but where she has 8 years experience you have 1 years experience repeated 20 times.”
The premise of having skill in living is based upon the recognition that “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Prov 9:10). The tragedy of a person’s life is that it is possible to have a lesser kind of wisdom: mastery of information and people, wherein one ceases to correspond with the important kind of wisdom, which is skill in living, because a person’s relationship with God is damaged. Wisdom without a relationship with God is meaningless, and in those conditions one can be a very wise fool. Proverbs 24 reveals the need to be wise, yet doing so in the right manner. Only a vital, healthy relationship with the Lord makes true wisdom possible.
WORDS OF THE WISE (Prov 24:1-22) The warning not to envy sinners or associate with them (23:17-18) is repeated in 24:1-2, adding that the command is not based upon the harmful consequences; rather, the emphasis is upon the very nature of such envy and association as unwise because the “evil” person is obsessed with wickedness. There are people with great power and wealth (and thus envied), yet some of these individuals have a mind fixated upon “violence,” and their words never cease from planning “trouble” for others. Having addressed the mindset and practice of evil persons, the wise are contrasted beecause they celebrate wisdom (v. 3). Knowledge is also valued by comparing it to “precious and pleasant riches” (v. 4). Ability to speak words of knowledge appropriate for any situation is an immense treasure. Wisdom builds a house, understanding is the foundation, and knowledge fills the rooms with “all precious and pleasant riches” (vv. 3-4). Although the statements could literally apply to a person’s home, the reference is more directly related to a person’s character, family, or life. Wisdom is strength, “knowledge increases power,” and sensible “guidance” is the basis for “victory” (vv. 5-6). Spiritual resolve is greater than physical prowess (cf. 21:22; 2 Cor 10:4). The fool speaks nothing worthwhile, and can never attain wisdom when living in a
Capitol Commission Bible Study Tuesday (20th of March) @ 12 Noon – 12:45pm, 123 CAP
Member’s Bible Fellowship
Wednesday (21st of March) @ 7:15am – 8:00am, 125 CAP (ministry “event” sponsorship by Walton EMC)
Tuesday, 20 March 2018
manner that contradicts it (Prov 24:7). Fools consider the pursuit of wisdom too challenging and demanding, thus they embrace actions and attitudes that will never attain it.
“There is no authority except from God” and to resist it is to oppose “the ordinance of God” (Rom 13:1-2). Both “the LORD and the king” (that God has enthroned) wield authority, and the two will punish those who are rebellious (“given to change”) (v. 21). Sudden “calamity” and “ruin” will come upon those who believe they are immune from retribution (v. 22). Godliness integrates responsible citizenship (cf. 1 Pet 2:17)!
SPIRITUAL RESOLVE IS GREATER THAN PHYSICAL PROWESS. . . .
“One who plans to do evil” will be called “a schemer” (v. 8). People who persist in wrongdoing will soon obtain a reputation, and they will discover that other people despise and detest their attitudes and lifestyles (v. 9). A squandered reputation is almost impossible to regain because everyone soon realizes that “a schemer” can never be trusted. Once a person embarks upon a devious manner of living, they become confirmed in their defiance, and public opinion is always contrary to them.
MORE WORDS OF THE WISE (Prov 24:23-34) Another section is introduced with the words: “These also are the sayings of the wise” (v. 23a). Demonstrating “partiality” to anyone “is not good” (v. 23b). A ruler is despised when gaining a reputation for declaring the innocent guilty. A judge who becomes known as one who will convict the guilty will receive “a good blessing” in addition to admiration and respect (vv. 23-25).
. . . “A SCHEMER” CAN NEVER BE TRUSTED.
A kiss on the lips is not always romantic for they can arise from sincere affection or reverence. Communicating “a right answer” (symbolized by the kiss) is always the loving action (v. 26). Everyone is thankful for an honorable and honest response because it demonstrates friendliness and respect for the other person. Priorities are always best accomplished promptly (v. 27). Retaliation is not a Christian virtue (vv. 28-29; cf. Rom 12:19-20).
“Distress” will either reveal “slack” (weakness) or “strength” (courage) (v. 10). Life challenges are inevitable, and the believer recognizes that the Lord God who oversees the forces of nature is certainly loving and powerful enough to help, strengthen, and uphold his people through whatever obstacles may arise (Isa 41:10). Faltering “in the day of distress” demonstrates weakness, and is reason why the believer needs to rely upon the Lord God.
Sleep is a welcome interval from labor; however, one is in danger when useful activity is wasted by laziness (vv. 30-34; cf. 6:1011). There is a great importance in learning from the failure of others, especially in recognizing that laziness results in ruin, and then poverty is inevitable. The means to prosperity is God’s grace and diligent work. Pray that God will assist you to labor diligently and complete the responsibilities He has given to you. Find joy in whatever you do, as doing “all to the glory of God” (1 Cor 10:31).
The character of a judge is evident in times of distress. Judges are responsible to God for their actions in relation to innocent victims (vv. 11-12; cf. Ps 82). While it is possible to proclaim ignorance before other people, one cannot deceive God who “weighs the hearts” and renders according to each person’s works (Prov 24:12).
Thank you for granting Capitol Commission the privilege in providing Bible studies to you. If we can serve you in any manner, please talk with us, or contact by email or phone.
SEEK WISDOM “FOR YOUR SOUL” AND BECAUSE IT IS THE QUICKEST MEANS TO ABIDING JOY.
About Capitol Commission
Capitol Commission, in partnership with the church, is committed to making disciples of Jesus Christ and promoting the biblical mandate to pray for those in authority in the Capitol communities throughout the United States and the world. Scripture calls the church to pray for the salvation of our leaders, resulting in them having knowledge of the truth (1 Tim 2:1-4). Romans 10-14-15 affirms, “How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher? How will they preach unless they are sent. . . ?” If we desire anyone, including our government leaders, to (5) call upon the Lord and to seek Him and his Word for life decisions, they must prior to that (4) believe in Him, which means they must previously have (3) heard the Word of God, which means prior to that someone needs to (2) preach to them, which requires that others have first (1) sent someone. Capitol Commission is committed to the second part: preaching (proclaiming) the good news of salvation, yet this cannot occur without someone doing the first part: sending. All funding and prayer for this work comes from people who want the light of the gospel of God’s grace brought into our State Capitol. As you do #1 and we do #2, we can rejoice together as the Lord accomplishes in the Capitol what only He can produce in someone: #3, #4, and #5. What an exciting co-mission! Please join us in this ministry!
The exhortation to demonstrate courage (v. 10) is followed by a more welcome recommendation to “eat honey” and is a reminder that its sweet taste is similar to the delightfulness of wisdom (vv. 13-14). The wisdom of God’s Word provides hope for the future and will not dissatisfy (v. 14). Seek wisdom “for your soul” and because it is the quickest means to abiding joy. The resilience “of the righteous” is a warning to those wicked who “lie in wait,” and an encouragement that God will cause the righteous person to rise again “seven times” (vv. 15-16). Whereas 24:17-18 exhort the righteous not to rejoice when God judges an enemy, 24:19-20 emphasize that judgment of “evildoers” is inescapable: “the lamp of the wicked will be put out.” Jesus said, “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matt 5:44) rather than gloating at their demise for God “will see it” and withdraw “His anger” (Prov 24:18).
Bible study copies made by:
this week’s ministry outreach sponsored by:
!
NEXT CAPITOL COMMISSION BIBLE STUDY: Tuesday, 27th of March @ 12 Noon in 123 CAP
!
http://www.kennickell.com
!
Capitol Commission Georgia
Skill in Living
Ron J. Bigalke, Ph.D. P.O. Box 244, Rincon, GA 31326-0244 (912) 659-4212 [email protected]
Capitol Commission Bible Study
• TUESDAYS @ 12 NOON in 123 CAP
Simply experiencing the expenditure of time does not mean that a person has matured or learned from those things experienced during that time. True wisdom involves learning and living. Wisdom, as the Bible reveals it, is not primarily an abstract or reflective concept; rather, it is a practical component. The Hebrew word for “wisdom” is chokmah (hm* k = j * ), and conveys the idea of skill. In the book of Exodus, chokmah is used six times to describe the skills and techniques of two master craftsmen (Bezaleel and Aholiab). The word is also used to describe skill that enables a person to be a gifted administrator, judge, or leader. In its most fundamental sense, wisdom denotes skill in living; it is a comprehensive term indicating aptitude in relationships, moral integrity, practicality in life, and, supremely, in relation to spiritual matters.
Members’ Bible Fellowship • WEDNESDAYS @ 7:15AM in 125 CAP
Capitol Commission Bible Studies are held every Tuesday. The weekly Bible study is nonpartisan and non-denominational. Having completed the study of Galatians last week, the next series of Bible studies will be Proverbs 22:17—24:34, which contain various sayings of the wise. Thereafter, we will resume the Bible study in the book of Acts (which we began during last year’s legislative interim). For the duration of the 2018 session, we will continue having Bible studies every week on Tuesdays. Capitol Commission provides an open-to-all Bible study every Tuesday from 12:00-12:45pm in 123 CAP (where ministry sponsors provide lunch). The member’s only Bible Fellowship is held every Wednesday (unless not a legislative day) from 7:158:00am in 125 CAP. I pray that this study will be edifying to you. The sole intent of the ministry of Capitol Commission is to serve you, and to be a resource to you for pastoral care, counsel, and prayer. The present study in the Word of God is just one aspect of the desire to serve you. – Dr. Ron J. Bigalke, Georgia State Minister, Capitol Commission
Capitol Commission Bible Studies are
Tuesday, 20 March 2018 Proverbs 24 – “Skill in Living” Two teachers applied for the same vice-principal opening at a local high school. One had been teaching for a total of 8 years, while the other had 20 years experience. Everyone anticipated the teacher with the greater experience would receive the job. The decision to hire the teacher with less experience surprised everyone. The more experienced teacher complained, “I’ve got 20 years teaching to her 8. I’m vastly more qualified.” The school board explained their decision: “Yes, sir, you do have 20 years teaching to her 8, but where she has 8 years experience you have 1 years experience repeated 20 times.”
The premise of having skill in living is based upon the recognition that “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Prov 9:10). The tragedy of a person’s life is that it is possible to have a lesser kind of wisdom: mastery of information and people, wherein one ceases to correspond with the important kind of wisdom, which is skill in living, because a person’s relationship with God is damaged. Wisdom without a relationship with God is meaningless, and in those conditions one can be a very wise fool. Proverbs 24 reveals the need to be wise, yet doing so in the right manner. Only a vital, healthy relationship with the Lord makes true wisdom possible.
WORDS OF THE WISE (Prov 24:1-22) The warning not to envy sinners or associate with them (23:17-18) is repeated in 24:1-2, adding that the command is not based upon the harmful consequences; rather, the emphasis is upon the very nature of such envy and association as unwise because the “evil” person is obsessed with wickedness. There are people with great power and wealth (and thus envied), yet some of these individuals have a mind fixated upon “violence,” and their words never cease from planning “trouble” for others. Having addressed the mindset and practice of evil persons, the wise are contrasted beecause they celebrate wisdom (v. 3). Knowledge is also valued by comparing it to “precious and pleasant riches” (v. 4). Ability to speak words of knowledge appropriate for any situation is an immense treasure. Wisdom builds a house, understanding is the foundation, and knowledge fills the rooms with “all precious and pleasant riches” (vv. 3-4). Although the statements could literally apply to a person’s home, the reference is more directly related to a person’s character, family, or life. Wisdom is strength, “knowledge increases power,” and sensible “guidance” is the basis for “victory” (vv. 5-6). Spiritual resolve is greater than physical prowess (cf. 21:22; 2 Cor 10:4). The fool speaks nothing worthwhile, and can never attain wisdom when living in a
Capitol Commission Bible Study Tuesday (20th of March) @ 12 Noon – 12:45pm, 123 CAP
Member’s Bible Fellowship
Wednesday (21st of March) @ 7:15am – 8:00am, 125 CAP (ministry “event” sponsorship by Walton EMC)
Tuesday, 20 March 2018
manner that contradicts it (Prov 24:7). Fools consider the pursuit of wisdom too challenging and demanding, thus they embrace actions and attitudes that will never attain it.
“There is no authority except from God” and to resist it is to oppose “the ordinance of God” (Rom 13:1-2). Both “the LORD and the king” (that God has enthroned) wield authority, and the two will punish those who are rebellious (“given to change”) (v. 21). Sudden “calamity” and “ruin” will come upon those who believe they are immune from retribution (v. 22). Godliness integrates responsible citizenship (cf. 1 Pet 2:17)!
SPIRITUAL RESOLVE IS GREATER THAN PHYSICAL PROWESS. . . .
“One who plans to do evil” will be called “a schemer” (v. 8). People who persist in wrongdoing will soon obtain a reputation, and they will discover that other people despise and detest their attitudes and lifestyles (v. 9). A squandered reputation is almost impossible to regain because everyone soon realizes that “a schemer” can never be trusted. Once a person embarks upon a devious manner of living, they become confirmed in their defiance, and public opinion is always contrary to them.
MORE WORDS OF THE WISE (Prov 24:23-34) Another section is introduced with the words: “These also are the sayings of the wise” (v. 23a). Demonstrating “partiality” to anyone “is not good” (v. 23b). A ruler is despised when gaining a reputation for declaring the innocent guilty. A judge who becomes known as one who will convict the guilty will receive “a good blessing” in addition to admiration and respect (vv. 23-25).
. . . “A SCHEMER” CAN NEVER BE TRUSTED.
A kiss on the lips is not always romantic for they can arise from sincere affection or reverence. Communicating “a right answer” (symbolized by the kiss) is always the loving action (v. 26). Everyone is thankful for an honorable and honest response because it demonstrates friendliness and respect for the other person. Priorities are always best accomplished promptly (v. 27). Retaliation is not a Christian virtue (vv. 28-29; cf. Rom 12:19-20).
“Distress” will either reveal “slack” (weakness) or “strength” (courage) (v. 10). Life challenges are inevitable, and the believer recognizes that the Lord God who oversees the forces of nature is certainly loving and powerful enough to help, strengthen, and uphold his people through whatever obstacles may arise (Isa 41:10). Faltering “in the day of distress” demonstrates weakness, and is reason why the believer needs to rely upon the Lord God.
Sleep is a welcome interval from labor; however, one is in danger when useful activity is wasted by laziness (vv. 30-34; cf. 6:1011). There is a great importance in learning from the failure of others, especially in recognizing that laziness results in ruin, and then poverty is inevitable. The means to prosperity is God’s grace and diligent work. Pray that God will assist you to labor diligently and complete the responsibilities He has given to you. Find joy in whatever you do, as doing “all to the glory of God” (1 Cor 10:31).
The character of a judge is evident in times of distress. Judges are responsible to God for their actions in relation to innocent victims (vv. 11-12; cf. Ps 82). While it is possible to proclaim ignorance before other people, one cannot deceive God who “weighs the hearts” and renders according to each person’s works (Prov 24:12).
Thank you for granting Capitol Commission the privilege in providing Bible studies to you. If we can serve you in any manner, please talk with us, or contact by email or phone.
SEEK WISDOM “FOR YOUR SOUL” AND BECAUSE IT IS THE QUICKEST MEANS TO ABIDING JOY.
About Capitol Commission
Capitol Commission, in partnership with the church, is committed to making disciples of Jesus Christ and promoting the biblical mandate to pray for those in authority in the Capitol communities throughout the United States and the world. Scripture calls the church to pray for the salvation of our leaders, resulting in them having knowledge of the truth (1 Tim 2:1-4). Romans 10-14-15 affirms, “How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher? How will they preach unless they are sent. . . ?” If we desire anyone, including our government leaders, to (5) call upon the Lord and to seek Him and his Word for life decisions, they must prior to that (4) believe in Him, which means they must previously have (3) heard the Word of God, which means prior to that someone needs to (2) preach to them, which requires that others have first (1) sent someone. Capitol Commission is committed to the second part: preaching (proclaiming) the good news of salvation, yet this cannot occur without someone doing the first part: sending. All funding and prayer for this work comes from people who want the light of the gospel of God’s grace brought into our State Capitol. As you do #1 and we do #2, we can rejoice together as the Lord accomplishes in the Capitol what only He can produce in someone: #3, #4, and #5. What an exciting co-mission! Please join us in this ministry!
The exhortation to demonstrate courage (v. 10) is followed by a more welcome recommendation to “eat honey” and is a reminder that its sweet taste is similar to the delightfulness of wisdom (vv. 13-14). The wisdom of God’s Word provides hope for the future and will not dissatisfy (v. 14). Seek wisdom “for your soul” and because it is the quickest means to abiding joy. The resilience “of the righteous” is a warning to those wicked who “lie in wait,” and an encouragement that God will cause the righteous person to rise again “seven times” (vv. 15-16). Whereas 24:17-18 exhort the righteous not to rejoice when God judges an enemy, 24:19-20 emphasize that judgment of “evildoers” is inescapable: “the lamp of the wicked will be put out.” Jesus said, “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matt 5:44) rather than gloating at their demise for God “will see it” and withdraw “His anger” (Prov 24:18).
Bible study copies made by:
this week’s ministry outreach sponsored by:
!
NEXT CAPITOL COMMISSION BIBLE STUDY: Tuesday, 27th of March @ 12 Noon in 123 CAP
!
http://www.kennickell.com
!
