Verse of the Day: (23:11) For their redeemer is mighty; he shall plead their cause with thee.
1.The Ruler (23:1-9)
When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee: (23:1)
Be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. This is Jesus’ warning, as we live in this world of lies and deceits. (Matthew 10:16) King Solomon of Israel, inspired by the Holy Spirit, warned Israel and Christians today, to be wise when we are with our rulers, as we really do not know what are in their hearts and minds. Let us therefore pray for our leaders our country, organisations, church and even family, that they truly believe in the Redeemer Jesus Christ, and seek for the good of their people and loved ones. While the world may seek fame and fortune which like the eagles that will fly away and vanish in thin air, let us as God’s people seek after His righteousness, submitting to authority, owing no man anything, and obeying His commandments now and forever. (Romans 13)
2.The Redeemer (23:10-35)
Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge. (23:12)
God through Solomon, prophesied the coming of the Redeemer, Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son, who shall live, minister and eventually die for the sins of the whole world that whoever believes in Him shall never perish in hell, but have everlasting life with Him in heaven. Let us thank our mighty King Jesus who redeemed us by His precious blood so that we are made as God’s kings and priests, and one day, we shall worship, serve as well as rule with Him in His glorious heaven. Indeed, let us apply our hearts to God and His Word, fear and obey His commandments, honouring our parents, loving and disciplining our children, and fleeing from immorality and drunkenness. (Revelation 5)
3.The Righteous (24:1-34)
Lay not wait, O wicked man, against the dwelling of the righteous; spoil not his resting place: (24:15)
God through Solomon reminds us not to envy the wicked, although they seem to enjoy their lives on earth, but one day, they shall suffer in the devil’s burning hell forever if they refuse to believe in God and repent of their sins. Though we are suffering almost like hell on earth for God and His ministry, let us rejoice always knowing that one day, we shall enjoy His pearly heaven with Him forever. Indeed, the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, His ears are opened to their prayers, and His face is against the wicked. Though we may fall many times, let us keep rising up, knowing that our God is with us now and forever. Let us therefore be righteous, diligent and zealous in everything we do, especially in God’s ministry, and truly love and pray for our enemies, that one day, they shall believe in and receive Jesus Christ as their personal Redeemer and Ruler. (1 Peter 3)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, thank You for redeeming my soul from fiery hell to Your great heaven.
Verse of the Day: (21:1) The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.
1.The King’s heart (21:1-29)
Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts. (21:2)
Many times we think we are in full control of our lives, until crises or tragedies happened to us that we realised that we are really helpless, and never in control of anything. King Solomon of Israel, the wisest and richest leader of the world at that time, penned these proverbs, inspired by God, after all the crises that happened in his life that he realised that his heart and life were truly in God’s sovereign and powerful yet invisible hand, just like the powerful rushing rivers of water that rapidly turned and flowed along the banks according to where God leads. Indeed, let us, especially God’s leaders, draw near to God with a true and sincere heart, and fully submit and surrender to His perfect and excellent will, and keep loving and encouraging one another, and sharing the precious gospel, that Jesus truly saves, and looking forward to His glorious return. (Hebrews 10:19-25)
2.The King’s Horse (21:30-31)
The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD. (21:31)
It is great to plan for our future, and the future of our organisation, nation and even church, with a 5-year or 10-year strategic plan, but let us keep reminding ourselves that ultimately it must be God’s sovereign will. Solomon as a great king and wise commander appreciated the strategic and detailed preparation and planning of battle plans that include his soldiers, weapons, chariots, horses, logistic supply, etc., for impending invasion and attacks from his enemies, yet he also fully understood that safety and victory is of and from his God of Israel. Let us be prepared for crises and challenges, but let us also keep trusting God knowing that He shall lead, guide and provide for us now and forever. Indeed, one day, Jesus Christ shall victoriously return on His white horse as the KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS and with His heavenly armies on white horses, He shall finally judge and punish the devil, his demons and the wicked ones once and for all, and eternally condemned them into burning hell and the lake of fire. (Revelation 19-20)
3.The King’s humility (22:1-29)
By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life. (22:4)
The conclusion of the whole matter is to humble ourselves before God, and fear Him, and He shall bless and reward us with His riches, honour and life. Let us therefore love and serve our God with all humility, and even with tears and temptations, sharing the precious gospel, knowing that one day He shall reward us in His glorious kingdom. (Acts 20:17-21)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please help me to seek after Your heart and humility for Your honour.
Verse of the Day: (20:2) The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul.
1.The Kind (19:1-29)
The desire of a man is his kindness: and a poor man is better than a liar. (19:22)
It is a masterstroke of King Solomon of Israel, inspired by the Holy Spirit, to write on leadership, as it is paramount for the success of kingdoms, nations, organisations, and particularly, God’s churches. At the end of Solomon’s life, he realised what truly mattered to God and Israel, were his kindness and integrity in his leadership, rather than his fame and fortune. Let us thus as God’s people, and especially, His leaders, look to Jesus, who is the best and excellent example of kindness, mercy and truth. (Luke 6:35-36)
2.The King (20:1-14)
A king that sitteth in the throne of judgment scattereth away all evil with his eyes. (20:8)
The key attribute of a great king and leader is that he is firm yet sweet. Firm enough that his people are fearful of him when they make mistakes, while sweet enough to still love and care for them. During the time of King Solomon, the kings had the authority and power not only to lead and rule, but they are empowered to judge and punish the criminals. Today, some of the political leaders of the world have the authority to lead and judge, while others only have the power to lead, as the judiciary is independent of politics. In the church, the pastors are called to lead as well as discipline their flock according to God’s Word, so that there is peace and order among them. As God’s people, and in particular, His ordained leaders, God warns us never to be under the influence and control of alcohol and vices, but to truly pursue after His holiness and righteousness. Indeed, let us be vigilant as well as diligent in sharing the gospel that only Jesus saves, because He is coming soon, and this time He shall not come to this earth as a Saviour to die on the cruel cross shedding His precious blood for the sins of the whole world, but as the KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS to fight and subdue the devil, his demons and the wicked, and He shall then rule His heavenly kingdom for all eternity. (Revelation 19-22)
3.The Knowledgeable (20:15-30)
There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel. (20:15)
At the end of Solomon’s life, he reckoned that God and His wisdom and knowledge were far more precious than gold, silver, rubies and jewels that he had amassed all his life. Let us therefore grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and His Word, and glorify, magnify and please His holy name now and forever. (2 Peter 3:17-18)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please help me to be a kind and knowledgeable leader for Your praise.
Verse of the Day: (17:6) Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.
1.The Father (17:1-16)
A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part of the inheritance among the brethren. (17:2)
Fathers, are you the glory of your children? If they are proud of you, especially when you are a godly and loving father who loves God, your wife, and children, and others, including your enemies, then you are indeed a real joy and blessing to all. However, if your children are ashamed of you, please ponder and reflect upon your life. Do you know the gospel, that God loves you that He sent His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to die for you, as well as the sins of the whole world? When you believe in and receive Jesus as your personal Saviour in your heart, you are then called His children. Indeed, our children and grandchildren are our crowns and joy, and let us love, pray for, and lead them to the saving grace of Jesus. However, it grieves and saddens us if our children and loved ones keep rejecting the gospel, but let us not quit, but keep praying for them, that one day, they shall finally believe in Jesus, and we shall all be called God’s children, and joint-heirs with Christ, and we shall then call our God, Abba, Father. (Romans 8:14-17)
2.The Friend (17:17-28)
A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. (17:17)
Do you have a friend who is closer than your brother? Indeed, when we receive Jesus as our personal Saviour, sometimes our Christian friends become closer to us than our siblings, especially when our siblings have yet to believe in Jesus. Indeed, our godly friends will stick close with us through thick and thin. Let us stay close to God, and be friendly to all, and we will have many friends who will fellowship and pray with us, and together we will share the gospel, and love and serve Him. However, we will soon realise that not all our friends are faithful, and some or many may fail, and even betray us. However, there is one Friend who will stay with us forever, and He is none other than Jesus. Let us be Jesus’ friends, as He is our faithful and perfect Friend. (James 2:23-26)
3.The Fool (18:1-24)
A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself. (18:2)
Have you ever encounter a fool? A fool will shame himself with his careless words and deeds. Let us only be wise in God, and we shall be great blessings to all. A fool may think he is wise, and the world may think us as fools when we believe in God. However, Let us rather be fools for God, and have a hell to shun, and a heaven to gain, than to be wise in this world and eventually suffer in the devil’s hell forever. (1 Corinthians 3:18-23)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please help me to be a godly father who truly loves my children and all.
Verse of the Day: (15:8) The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.
1.The Delight Of God (15:1-24)
Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith. (15:16)
The greatest delight of God is that His people, who are called by His name, live up to His attributes of uprightness and holiness. God delights in the prayer of those who fear and obey Him even when we are poor, but He will judge and punish those who are evil and wicked though they are rich. Let us be careful with our words that they are encouraging and edifying to others, and be slow to anger, and always ready to forgive, and be reconciled with others, as God has loved and forgiven us, and reconciled us to Him. Let us live peacefully with all, including our enemies. Let us embrace and endure God’s rebuke and discipline though they are painful and hurtful, as they are necessary and essential in building up our uprightness and holiness. Let us flee from hypocrisy and wickedness, and follow after God’s uprightness and holiness. Indeed, God shall hear our prayer, and save our souls, and deliver us from all temptations and tribulations, when we believe and trust in Him, and live upright and holy lives. Let us truly delight in and obey God and His Word, and He shall delight in our prayer and faith in Him. (Romans 7:22-25)
2.The Destruction Of God (15:25-33)
The LORD will destroy the house of the proud: but he will establish the border of the widow. (15:25)
God through King Solomon of Israel commands Israel and Christians today, that we fear Him, and humble ourselves before Him, and help the poor and the widows, that we may please and glorify His name. God shall judge and destroy the proud and wicked, because they are the enemies of the cross of Christ as they reject Him as their Saviour. Let us therefore humble ourselves before God, and believe, and fear Him. (Philippians 3:17-21)
3.The Direction of God (16:1-33)
A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps. (16:9)
God’s delight in us when we commit our lives to Him, and let Him direct our ways and words for His glory and praise. Indeed, when we let God have His ways, He shall make even our enemies to be at peace with us. However, God hates those who choose to walk in their own ways, and subsequently, He shall judge and destroy them in the devil’s burning hell. Let us thus trust and obey God, and He shall increase and abound in us with His everlasting love, so that we will love all, including our enemies, and ultimately He shall direct and lead us to His pearly heaven for all eternity. (1 Thessalonians 3:11-13)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please help me to win Your delight by trusting and obeying You.
Verse of the Day: (14:5) A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies.
1.The Wise (13:1-25)
A wise son heareth his father’s instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke. (13:1)
It is the prayer and joy of all Christian parents that our children believe in and receive Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour and Lord, and one day, they shall be with us and the Lord Jesus Christ in glorious heaven forever. God through King Solomon of Israel commands Israel and Christians that His richest blessings and benefits shall be upon us when we honour and obey our parents, as well as, all His commandments and instructions. Let us therefore walk with wise men who truly love, fear and obey God and His commandments, and honour our God as well as our parents as they especially our wise God and heavenly Father, love us, and desire the best for us now and forever. (Jude 24-25)
2.The Witness (14:1-31)
A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies. (14:25)
Our Maker, God, commands His people who believe in Him, not only to be wise, but to be truthful and godly witnesses for Him, fleeing from lies and wickedness, and telling and living in the truth for His glory, honour and praise. Let us watch our words that they be wise, truthful, encouraging and edifying to the souls that all who hear us will come to know our God. Let us be quick to hear, slow to speak and get angry, so that we can truly reflect God’s love, grace and mercy in us. Let us help the poor and the needy, and be great blessings to all. Indeed, let us be God’s truthful witnesses sharing His gospel, that Jesus saves, in our community, city, country, neighbouring countries, and to the uttermost part of the earth, that all shall come to know His saving grace, and His miraculous deliverance of our precious souls from the devil’s hell to His glorious heaven. (Acts 1:1-8)
3.The Wicked (14:32-35)
The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death. (14:32)
At the end of the day, God shall judge and punish the wicked and the fools in the devil’s burning hell, because of their sins of unbelief, as they have rejected and rebelled against Him, their Maker and Saviour, and have chosen to follow the Wicked, Satan or the devil. Indeed, God’s desire is for all to come to know Him, and make Him known to the world. However, God creates us in His image with our own decision making process where we will bear the consequences of our choices. Let us therefore be wise and choose to believe in and receive Jesus Christ as our personal Saviour and King, and we shall be His faithful and truthful witnesses, having that blessed hope of the glorious day, when we shall meet Him and all our loved ones who believe in Him, in His pearly heaven. (2 Thessalonians 2)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please help me to be Your wise witness by sharing Your blessed gospel.
Verse of the Day: (11:30) The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.
1.Secrets (11:1-29)
A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter. (11:13)
What is the test of one’s spirituality? He is able to keep secrets. King Solomon, inspired by the Holy Spirit, commanded the people of Israel, as well as, Christians today, to do what is right before God, and especially to watch our words, and keep secrets. Our words have caused us to lose our credibility and testimony, and even bring shame to our God. Indeed, only God can judge man, including our secrets, because He is our Creator. Let us trust in Jesus, and keep secrets, and share His gospel that He can save all souls from the devil’s hell, and one day, He shall promote our souls to His glorious heaven. (Romans 2)
2.Souls (11:30-31)
Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner. (11:31)
God through Solomon commanded His people to win souls for Him that all shall believe in and receive Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son, as their personal Saviour and Lord, and they shall have His pearly heaven to gain and the devil’s hell to shun. Though the wicked may seem to enjoy their lives on earth, but this is only as far as they can taste God’s heaven, because when they die, they shall suffer in the devil’s hell forever. Though Christians may seem to suffer and taste a little bit of hell, yet when we die, we shall be with God, and enjoy Him in His heaven forever. Indeed, God shall bless and reward us who are wise, as we win souls for Him, and are even willing to die as His witnesses and for His Word, and our souls shall be saved from the lake of fire, and our names be written on His book of life, and we shall be transported to His glorious heaven. (Revelation 20)
3.Servant (12:1-28)
He that is despised, and hath a servant, is better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread. (12:9)
God reminds His people that there is nothing wrong in being rich, but what He hates most is pride. The world may despise us for being rich with all the servants and houses, for whatever reasons, but God shall bless us when we believe in and obey Him. However, God hates the proud who boast about themselves, and whether we are rich or poor, we must humble ourselves, and believe in Jesus, the Son of God, who humbled Himself by leaving the splendour of heaven to be on earth serving men, and subsequently He died for the sins of the whole world. On the third day, Jesus rose from the grave, conquering death, and whoever believes in Him, shall live with Him forever in heaven. (Mark 10:35-45)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please help me to be Your soul winner for Your glory and praise.
Verse of the Day: (10:3)The LORD will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: but he casteth away the substance of the wicked.
1.The Rebuke (9:1-18)
Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee. (9:8)
God, through King Solomon of Israel, invites all His people to come to His house of wisdom to hear His Word, where we shall learn to believe in, fear and obey Him, living holy lives for His glory, praise and honour. However, many refuse to believe in God, and instead they reject Him, and choose to believe in themselves indulging in their sins. Let us accept God’s invitation, and believe in and fear Him, seeking His wisdom, and taking heed to His rebuke and admonition, and confessing and repenting our sins. Indeed, God truly loves us, and He seeks to feed and nourish our hungry souls, helping us to grow in His grace and knowledge, and blessing us with His peace and joy. (Revelation 3:14-22)
2.The Righteous (10:1-14)
The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked. (10:11)
Solomon learned the hard way as he strayed away from God and His wisdom, and followed after his own understanding, indulging in his lust and pride, and eventually he reaped the dire consequences of his sins. At the zenith of his power, many dignitaries from all over the world, called on him to hear his wise sayings. Alas, when he fell from God’s grace, no one called on him, and he was left out in the cold. Let us therefore seek God and His righteousness, and continue in His righteousness, and those who are wicked shall continue in their wickedness, unless they believe in Him, and repent of their wickedness. Indeed, let us share God’s wisdom and gospel, so that whoever truly believes in Him, shall have everlasting life with Him in glorious heaven. (Revelation 22:10-21)
3.The Rich (10:15-32)
The rich man’s wealth is his strong city: the destruction of the poor is their poverty. (10:15)
Solomon realised God’s paradox of life, as when he was rich in material possessions, his soul was actually in poverty as he sinned against Him, while those who believed in and obeyed Him, though they were poor in material possessions, yet they were rich in His spiritual blessings. Indeed, a man’s life is only measured by God’s spiritual blessings, and never by the abundance of his wealth and material possessions. Whether we are rich or poor, let us strive only to be rich in God by truly investing in His Word, wisdom and works, so that we shall receive His spiritual blessings now and forever. (Luke 12:13-21)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please help me to be rich in You by truly investing in Your wisdom.
Verse of the Day: (8:19) My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver.
1.The Goodman (7:1-27)
For the goodman is not at home, he is gone a long journey: (7:19)
One of the sins that has caused many people from all walks of life, including Christians, and even faithful pastors and missionaries, to fall from grace, is the fatal sin of immorality. It comes in a subtle and sublime way, but it destroys with great tragedy and trauma, that will last for a long time, and even for many, a lifetime of regrets and remorse. This is why the holy God, through King Solomon of Israel, commanded the people at that time, and even Christians today, to flee from the sight of lust and immorality, and pursue after Him and His holiness. Indeed, let us treasure and appreciate our goodmen or masters or husbands, and also our wives, as they are truly God’s good gifts to us. (Mark 14:12-21)
2.The Gates (8:1-9)
She crieth at the gates, at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors. (8:3)
During the Old as well as the New Testament era, the wise leaders of the communities would usually gather at their gates, which were like large courtrooms, discussing outstanding and pertinent issues, as well as, screening through visitors coming into their cities or towns, ensuring that they were not bad element attempting to create trouble. Indeed, let us gather at the gates of God, His Word, and hear His wisdom and instructions, and believe and trust in Him, and one day, we shall shun the devil’s burning hell, and enter the pearly gates, and into His holy and heavenly city. (Revelation 22:14-21)
3.The Gold (8:10-36)
Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold. (8:10)
At the end of Solomon’s life, he fully understood that God’s wisdom is more precious than man’s wisdom, and even more precious than the splendid rubies, choice silver and fine gold. In this world, the relentless pursuit of gold is the ultimate mark of a successful man, and especially at this point of time, amid the unparalleled and unprecedented pandemic Covid 19, where the value of money is losing its shine because the world is suffering from one of the worst recessions since the 1930s. God, through Solomon, commanded Israel, and the Christians today, to seek Him and His wisdom, and to love and fear Him, and flee from pride, evil and wickedness. Indeed, when we believe in Jesus, we shall, one day, enter the gates into heaven to meet Him as well as our loved ones who have gone ahead of us. There shall be no more pain, sorrow, crying or death, and we shall walk on the streets of gold, admiring the gates, walls, foundations and city of precious stones and pure gold, worshipping and serving God for all eternity. (Revelation 21-22)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please help me to pursue Your wisdom as it is more precious than gold.
Verse of the Day: (6:23) For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:
1.God’s Children (5:1-23)
Hear me now therefore, O ye children, and depart not from the words of my mouth. (5:7)
King Solomon of Israel, inspired by the Holy Spirit, wrote this passage to his son, in anguish and regrets, because he committed idolatry and immorality, which God had warned him never to do them. (1 Kings 11) Time and again, God commanded His children to obey Him yet they refused to obey Him since the beginning of time, as in the first couple, Adam and Eve. (Genesis 2-3) However, God has a redemption plan for man, in that while we are sinners, Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son, died for the sins of the whole world. Whoever therefore believes in Jesus, shall never perish in hell, but have everlasting life with Him in heaven. (Romans 5) Indeed, let us as God’s children live out our lives by obeying His commandments, and we shall abide with Him forever. (1 John 2)
2.God’s Commandment (6:1-24)
My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother: (6:20)
At the end of Solomon’s life, he reflected his life through God’s Word, and discovered that he did not truly apply what God commanded him to do. He was slack in his leadership and service to God as he indulged in idolatry and immorality destroying not only his testimony, but also his family and kingdom. God through Solomon commanded Israel and Christians today, the 7 types of people whom He hates; a proud man, a liar, a murderer, a wicked man, a mischievous man, a false witness and a man who sows discord. Tragically, Solomon carelessly and recklessly transgressed against God’s commandments, and he reaped the consequences of his sins, as his family was divided and in disarray, and his kingdom was subsequently subdued by his enemies. Indeed, let us not only love and obey God in word, but in deed, keeping and obeying His commandments. (1 John 3)
3.God’s Contentment (6:25-35)
He will not regard any ransom; neither will he rest content, though thou givest many gifts. (6:35)
The thing that God commanded Solomon not to do, was the thing he did, when he committed adultery. He fell into the lust of his flesh and pride. This is why God commands man to flee from the lust of the flesh and pride, and be contented with our wife, as godliness with contentment is great gain. Indeed, let us flee from the lust of our flesh and the love of money, and follow after God and His commandment. (1 Timothy 6)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please help me to fully trust and obey You and Your commandment.
Verse of the Day: (3:17) Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.
1.God’s Way (3:1-18)
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. (3:5)
King Solomon of Israel understood the principle of sowing and reaping, as he experienced God’s rich blessings and benefits, and pleasantness and peace when he walked in His way and wisdom, while receiving His severe judgment and chastisement when he strayed away from Him. Let us therefore walk in God’s way and wisdom, and trust in Him with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding, knowing that one day, He shall lead and direct us to His eternal home in glorious heaven. (Acts 18:24-28)
2.God’s Wisdom (3:19-35)
The LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens. (3:19)
We may think that man is the smartest as we made spaceships that bring us to Mars and beyond, or nuclear warheads that can destroy almost the entire world with the touch of a button, but we fail to realise that God is the smartest. The Almighty God by His wisdom and understanding creates the entire universe with the earth and the heavens consisting of the home of the birds, the home of the stars, planets and the Milky way, and His own everlasting home with streets of pure gold, pearly gates, and a great golden city with the foundations of its wall garnish with precious stones, and having His glory and light shining forever, and His people who never experience pain, sorrow or death, worshipping and serving Him with joy unspeakable and full of glory. Indeed, what a day it shall be when we who truly believe in Jesus Christ get to His glorious heaven! (Revelation 21-22)
3.God’s Word (4:1-27)
He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live. (4:4)
Solomon knew that at the end of the day, he must obey God and His Word to help him, especially as the King of Israel, otherwise he would fail in his leadership. During Solomon’s reign, he led Israel to the zenith of power when he completed the construction of God’s magnificent house, and kings, queens and leaders from all over the world called on him to hear his wise sayings and see God’s splendour sanctuary. Alas, Solomon sinned against God as he became proud, and committed idolatry and immorality. God judged him and Israel, and his kingdom was tragically divided, and since then it had never ever regain its power. (1 Kings 1-11) Indeed, let us not only read and study God’s Word, but truly applying it to our life, glorifying and pleasing His name. (James 1:21-27)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please help me to walk in Your way and wisdom obeying Your Word.
Verse of the Day: (149:1) Praise ye the LORD. Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints.
1.God Of Praise (149:1-6)
Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. (149:2)
The true and living God, through King David, as well as all His kings, prophets and priests, commanded His people in the city of Zion or Jerusalem, and the nation, Israel, as well as all the people in the whole world, to truly believe and trust in Him, and to praise and worship Him for He is the faithful Creator of all things, including heaven and earth, the sun, the moon, the planets, the stars, the seas, the oceans, the mountains, the plains, the grass, the plants, the herbs, the trees, the fruits, the birds, the fish, the animals, and especially, man made in His own image. (Genesis 1-2) Indeed, let us praise and sing songs including new ones to our God day and night, and using His Word, the two-edged sword, in overcoming the devil’s temptations and trials, that we shall always be to His praise and glory. (Hebrews 4:12) At the end of our fragile and feeble life, at our last breath and heartbeat, let us praise and worship our God in His perfect and sovereign will, amid all our fiery troubles and tribulations, for He is worthy of our praises and worship, as He is our precious Saviour and Redeemer of our souls now and forever. (1 Peter 4)
2.God Of Punishment (149:7-9)
To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punishments upon the people; (149:7)
Though God loves sinners, but He hates sins, and this is why He shall eternally condemn all who refuse to believe and acknowledge Him as their personal Saviour and Lord. (John 3:16-21) Let us thus trust and obey God, the Shepherd and Bishop of our souls, and submit to Him and all ordained authorities, as He shall judge and punish all unbelievers and evildoers, and one day, He shall cast their souls to fiery hell forever. (1 Peter 2:13-25)
3.God Of Psaltery (150:1-6)
Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp. (150:3)
God has made man with the love for music and this is why His people who are called by His name shall praise, sing and make music through all the different musical instruments, the likes of psaltery, trumpet, harp, timbrel, stringed instruments, organs, cymbals, and even dancing. What a day it shall be when we get to God’s heavenly sanctuary hearing the beautiful songs from the perfect choir and dancers, accompanied by the impressive orchestra, performing with all the musical instruments to our God, and I am sure, David, the shepherd boy and renowned king of Israel, shall be one of them. (2 Samuel 6:1-5)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please help me to praise and sing to Your name in good and bad time.
Verse of the Day: (1:7) The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
1.God’s Wisdom (1:1-14)
The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel; (1:1)
David was very thankful to God that his son and successor, King Solomon, loved and feared the true God of Israel. At the beginning of Solomon’s reign, he asked for God’s wisdom and understanding, when the Almighty God spoke to him in a dream at night for the desire of his heart. God not only gave Solomon His wisdom, but also riches and honour, as He was well pleased that he sought after Him and His wisdom. (1 Kings 3:1-15) God, the Holy Spirit, inspired King Solomon of Israel, to pen the Book of Proverbs, commanding the people of Israel at that time, and even Christians today, that the beginning of His wisdom is to truly believe and fear Him, and obey His commandments, so that His richest blessings be upon us. However, we are fools if we doubt and reject God and His wisdom, and we shall certainly reap the consequences of our sins. At the end of Solomon’s life, he regretted ignoring God’s wisdom, and allowing his heart to seek after idolatry and immorality, that resulted in his family being in disarray, and his vast kingdom divided. (1 Kings 11) Indeed, let us not only seek God and His wisdom of peace and mercy, but to truly live it out, so that it be pleasing before Him. (James 3:17-18)
2.God’s Way (1:15-33)
My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: (1:15)
King Solomon, encouraged his son, and even Christians today, to walk in God’s way of righteousness, and in honouring our parents, so that we shall receive His rich blessings and everlasting life in pearly heaven, while those who walk in man’s way of wickedness shall reap the consequences of eternal condemnation in the devil’s hell. (2 Peter 2:21-22)
3.God’s Word (2:1-22)
My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; (2:1)
What went wrong in Solomon’s life? Solomon had God’s wisdom, riches and honour, but tragically he went after the lust of his eyes and flesh and the pride of life, and ignored His wisdom, way and Word. Let us therefore not only seek God and His Word, but to truly live it out, and even to die for it. Indeed, many of God’s believers choose to die for Him and His Word than to deny Him during the Old as well as the New Testament era, and even today, which is the church age. In fact, many more of God’s believers are also willing to die for God and His Word during the 7 years of Great Tribulation, which will begin after the Rapture that is anytime from now, when all Christians shall be caught up with the Lord Jesus to be with Him forever in His heavenly kingdom. (Revelation 20:1-4)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please grant me Your wisdom in obeying You and Your holy Word.
Verse of the Day: (147:5) Great is our Lord, and of great power: his understanding is infinite.
1.God Of Power (147:1-13)
The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy. (147:11)
The Almighty God, through King David of Israel and many of His prophets and servants, prophesied to Israel at that time, that Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son, shall leave His glorious heaven to live on earth, ministering to the people, healing their broken hearts, binding their wounds, and even numbering the stars and calling them by their names, and above all, forgiving their sins by His great power and infinite understanding. Indeed, man delights in the power of horses and their physique, but God only delights in all who fear Him and hope in His mercy. Let us thus believe in and receive Jesus as our Saviour, and repent our sins, and He shall forgive us by His great power and mercy. (Matthew 9:1-8)
2.God Of Peace (147:14-20)
He maketh peace in thy borders, and filleth thee with the finest of the wheat. (147:14)
David could certainly testified the God of peace and power, as he had experienced not only His forgiveness of his sins, but His peace amid chaos, and the abundant provision of the finest food for his family. However, David reaped the consequences of his sins, as his son, Absalom, rebelled against him, his advisor, Ahithophel, betrayed him, and his vast kingdom was subsequently divided during the reign of his successor and son, King Solomon. (2 Samuel) Indeed, let us truly believe in and receive Jesus as our Saviour and Lord, and He shall send His Comforter, the Holy Spirit, to dwell in us, granting us perfect peace and constant comfort amid our all our fiery trouble and tribulation. (John 14:23-31)
3.God Of Praise (148:1-14)
Let them praise the name of the LORD: for his name alone is excellent; his glory is above the earth and heaven. (148:13)
Since the day David believed in the true God of Israel, he had been praising Him from a lowly shepherd boy to the renowned King of Israel, the most powerful kingdom in that era. David truly enjoyed the presence of God in communing with Him in prayer, pouring out his heart to Him, and praising His holy name. David praised God for His name alone is excellent and His glory is above the earth and heaven. Let us therefore praise and worship our Saviour Jesus Christ, together with the hosts of angels, for He is Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father and The Prince of Peace, and for all that He has done in, for, with and through us, especially in granting us His eternal and precious salvation and home in pearly heaven. (Isaiah 9:6-7) Indeed, let all who fear and believe in Jesus Christ, praise and worship Him now and forever. (Revelation 19:1-10)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, thank You that You are my great power when I am weak and weary.
Verse of the Day: (145:8) The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.
1.God Of All Grace (145:1-8)
They shall abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodness, and shall sing of thy righteousness. (145:7)
King David spent most of his time during the last lap of his life, praying to and praising God for who He is, and for all that He had done in, for, with and through him. As David recalled the history of Israel, and how God sustained them throughout their generations, and blessed them with faithful leaders, the likes of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, etc., he thanked Him for His grace, greatness, goodness, righteousness, compassion, patience and mercy toward him and Israel, as well as the rest of the people of the world who believed in Him. David knew that God had commanded Israel to be the light of this dark world of sins, as they would shine His grace and holiness, so that all shall know Him, and make Him known. (Genesis 12:1-3) Indeed, the God of all grace who calls us to believe in Him shall strengthen us amid all our life storms. (1 Peter 5:1-11)
2.God Of All Goodness (145:9-21)
The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works. (145:9)
David praised God for all His goodness, greatness, grace and mercies, as time and again, He forgave not only his sins, but the sins of the people of Israel as well as the people of the world, and delivered them out of all their troubles, as they believed in Him, called upon Him, and repented their wickedness. David commanded all Israel to declare God’s wonderful works and saving grace to the rest of the world, so that they shall know Him, and made Him known. Indeed, let us flee from all evil, wickedness and deceit, and God shall bless us with His Spirit of all goodness, righteousness and truth. (Ephesians 5:1-10)
3.God of All Generations (146:1-10)
The LORD shall reign for ever, even thy God, O Zion, unto all generations. Praise ye the LORD. (146:10)
David acknowledged that the God of Israel was not just the God who shall reign and rule in his generation, but all generations since the beginning of the first man and woman, Adam and Eve, and for all eternity, when we truly believe in Him. (Romans 5) Indeed, David praised and thanked God to his very last breath and heartbeat, and this is why God praised and commended him as a man who was after His heart. (Acts 13:22) Let us therefore pray that not only ourselves, and our generation, but also all generations shall believe and trust in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and fear Him, and seek after His heart, and all His grace, goodness and greatness, and magnify His mighty name. (Luke 1:46-55)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, thank You that Your grace is sufficient for me amid my life storms.
Verse of the Day: (144:2) My goodness, and my fortress; my high tower, and my deliverer; my shield, and he in whom I trust; who subdueth my people under me.
1.The Faithfulness Of God (143:1-12)
Hear my prayer, O LORD, give ear to my supplications: in thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness. (143:1)
David remembered God’s faithfulness, righteousness and lovingkindness, as he prayed and pleaded to Him to save and deliver him out of all his troubles and persecutions from his enemies, and even his own people. Many times, David would have died in the hands of his enemies, if not for God, who faithfully and lovingly saved and delivered him out of these near deaths. David trusted God as he humbly prayed for His wisdom and instruction in leading his flock of sheep before he eventually led God’s people, the nation of Israel. Indeed, let us trust and obey God, as He is faithful, and He truly knows how much we can take His tests of our faith as He stretches it to the fullest, so that we shall be like shining pure gold bringing glory, praise and honour to His mighty name. (1 Corinthians 10:12-13)
2.The Finger Of God (144:1)
Blessed be the LORD my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight: (144:1)
David believed and trusted in God who strengthened and sustained his hands and fingers as he used his sling and sword to completely overcome and subdue all his enemies, including Goliath, the giant Philistines champion warrior, the great enemy of Israel. (1 Samuel 17) Indeed, the finger of God shall truly protect and preserve us from all troubles and tribulations, including the devil’s deceitful and deadly temptations. (Luke 11:14-26)
3.The Fortress Of God (144:2-15)
Happy is that people, that is in such as case: yea, happy is that people, whose God is the LORD. (144:15)
King David of Israel closed the last chapter of his life by singing a song of thanksgiving dedicating it to his true God of Israel, his Fortress, Goodness, High Tower, Deliverer and Shield. David kept praising and thanking God for being with him since the day he was an insignificant shepherd boy to the momentous day when he became the famous and renowned King of Israel, the most powerful nation of the world at that time. The happiest and most blessed moment of his life was the fact that the Anointed, the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, shall come forth from his lineage. Indeed, when we believe and trust in the God of Israel, we shall be happy and blessed, as He shall be our Fortress, Goodness, High Tower, Deliverer and Shield protecting, preserving and providing for us not only during our lifetime on earth, but for all eternity in glorious heaven. (2 Samuel 22)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, thank You that You are my Fortress amid the devil’s fiery temptations.
Verse of the Day: (141:3) Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.
1.God’s Watch (141:1-5)
Lord, I cry unto thee: make haste unto me; give ear unto my voice, when I cry unto thee. (141:1)
Like the Lord Jesus Christ, King David of Israel, had his fair share of great sorrow and sufferings, as he poured them out to God. However, all our sufferings are nothing compare to Jesus’ suffering, as He left His riches and splendour of glorious heaven, to live on earth, to minister, suffer and eventually die on the most humiliating and excruciating death on the cruel cross, not for His own sins, but the sins of the whole world. (Isaiah 53) David prayed to God to set a watch upon his lips and life, so that he would continue to praise and thank Him, amid his sorrow and suffering. Indeed, let us pray to God to watch over our lips and lives that we glorify and honour Him, and submitting to our pastors and missionaries who watch over our souls as they are accountable to Him, that they may do it with joy and never with grief. (Hebrews 13:17)
2.God’s Word (141:6-10)
When their judges are overthrown in stony places, they shall hear my words; for they are sweet. (141:6)
Amid crises and corruption, David found great comfort and consolation in God’s Word. Many times, David recalled and recited God’s Word to encourage himself first as a shepherd boy, then the King of Israel, before God eventually promoted him to pearly heaven. David committed everything, including his enemies, to God, knowing that vengeance belonged to Him. (Deuteronomy 32:35) Let us turn our eyes to God and taste and experience His Word in our hearts, that they are sweet for our encouragement, and powerful for the edification of our souls, and for His glory and praise. (Hebrews 6:1-8)
3.God’s Way (142:1-7)
When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then thou knewest my path. In the way wherein I walked have they privily laid a snare for me. (142:3)
When David’s spirit and ways in worshipping and serving God were hindered by the devil, through his opponents and oppressors, and when he eventually reached the rock bottom of his life, he managed to look up to the Rock of the bottom, his Creator and Refuge. David knew that Jesus, the Son of God, the Messiah, is the only Way, the Truth and the Life, and no one could truly be saved by God, His Father, except through Him. Let us therefore trust and obey Jesus, and praise His name, as He is our only Way to heaven, our only Truth amid falsehood, and our only Life, as our souls shall never perish in the devil’s hell, but we shall live forever with Him in His eternal heaven. (John 14:1-6)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please set a watch over my lips and life giving glory and praise to You.
Verse of the Day: (139:15) My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
1.God’s Spirit (139:1-14)
Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? (139:7)
King David of Israel poured out everything that was in his heart to God, his Creator and Saviour who knew everything about him, even when he was in his mother’s womb and right up to the time he would spend eternity with Him in His glorious heaven. In fact, God’s Spirit moved upon the earth even before everything, including man, was created and formed. Indeed, God is a Spirit, and He is omnipotent, omniscience and omnipresent, and He even watches the wicked in hell. God creates hell for the devil, the demons and the unbelievers who reject and rebel against Him. Let us thus believe in God, and pour our hearts to Him who is the Spirit who knows everything about us from the beginning when we are in our mother’s womb to all eternity with Him in His heaven. (Genesis 1:1-2)
2.God’s Secret (139:15-24)
Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: (139:23)
David understood that no one, not even the smartest and the most intelligent person on the face of the earth, could truly and fully comprehend how man came into existence, and how he was created, as it was beyond human logic and understanding, except that there must be a Creator and God. David struggled with life on earth as he longed to be with his God and Saviour in pearly heaven, yet he must continue to fulfil his duty and responsibility as the King of Israel, and the father and husband to his family. David prayed and pleaded with God to search his heart, as he truly desired to live a life that would honour and glorify Him. Indeed, let us pray to God to search our hearts, that we may live a holy life. Though we may never understand many things in life, such as, why the righteous suffer and the wicked prosper, yet we must continue to accept them as God’s secrets until one day He reveals to us in His glorious heaven. (Deuteronomy 29:29)
3.God’s Salvation (140:1-13)
O God the Lord, the strength of my salvation, thou hast covered my head in the day of battle. (140:7)
David cried out to God to deliver him from the wicked and violent people who discouraged and depressed him in his life, especially his reign as the King of Israel. David trusted and obeyed God, and had confidence in His salvation and strength, knowing that He shall protect and preserve him, his family and kingdom amid countless battles and endless struggles. Indeed, let us fully trust and obey God, and have confidence in His salvation and strength amid our life storms and struggles. (Revelation 12:10-17)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please help me to fully trust You even if it is Your mystery and secret.
Verse of the Day: (137:4) How shall we sing the LORD’s song in a strange land?
1.The LORD’s Song (137:1-7)
By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion. (137:1)
God punished Israel by sending the Babylonians to attack and subdue them. The people of Israel wept when the Babylonians compelled them to sing the LORD’s song by the rivers of Babylon, the foreign land far away from Israel, as they remembered and recalled the good old days, especially the golden years during the reign of King David, but now they were prisoners and slaves of the Babylonians. One day, when we get to heaven, we shall sing the LORD’s song with the angels, including the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, the LORD Jesus Christ, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? For thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest. (Revelation 15:1-4)
2.The LORD’s Service (137:8-9)
O daughter of Babylon, who art to be destroyed; happy shall he be, that rewardeth thee as thou hast served us. (137:8)
Instead of serving God, they disobeyed Him, and now they were forced to serve as slaves to the Babylonians. Israel knew that their captivity was the consequences of their rebellion against God, and thus they repented their sins, and turned to Him, and committed their lives to Him. They also prayed for God’s judgment upon the Babylonians who had done much evil to them. Let us thus obey God, and do service to Him with joy in our hearts knowing that He is indeed our loving Master. (Ephesians 6:5-9)
3.The LORD’s Strength (138:1-8)
In the day when I cried thou answeredst me, and strengthenedst me with strength in my soul. (138:3)
King David reminisced the time when God strengthened and sustained his soul, as he humbled himself before Him, and cried to Him in repentance of his transgressions. David learned the hard way, and he began to daily praise and sing to God for His holy Word, as well as His lovingkindness, truth and mercy, even during the worst time. David fully understood that God is too wise to make a mistake, and too kind to be unloving, and He shall help and revive him in the days of trouble. Indeed, when we call upon the Lord, He shall not only grant us His awesome strength and sustenance, but His priceless salvation, as He willingly left the splendour of heaven to be on earth, and to die on the cruel cross and shed His precious blood for the sins of the world, yours and mine. (Romans 5:6-8)
Prayer of the Day:
Dearest God, please help me to praise and sing to You in good and even bad time.
