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Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughIf we ask God for wisdom, we will also need to be ready to work to achieve it. Good results do not just magically happen; 'some assembly' is required.
Understanding and Wisdom
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughSolomon's understanding, as presented in Proverbs, reveals a deliberate process toward achieving wisdom, rather than a sudden gift. Solomon did not ask for wisdom directly but sought understanding or discernment to judge Israel rightly. God did not miraculously instill wisdom into Solomon's mind but facilitated its growth, making him work through experience to accumulate it. The result of Solomon's request, however, was indeed wisdom. Solomon outlines a clear progression for anyone desiring wisdom: first, gathering information or knowledge; second, meditating through experience and seeking counsel for discernment; and third, applying this practically, which manifests as wisdom. In Proverbs 1:1-6, Solomon's purpose is to impart wisdom, instruction, and understanding, emphasizing skill in living, wise behavior, and the capability to distinguish through discernment. He uses specific terms to convey subtle differences, such as prudence and shrewdness, highlighting the depth beyond a casual reading. In Proverbs 4:7, Solomon declares wisdom as the principal thing, urging one to pursue it at all costs alongside understanding, linking the two as essential for skillful living. He suggests that knowledge, understanding, and wisdom precede righteousness, as wisdom is fundamentally about making right choices at the right time for the right reasons. Proverbs 2:1-5 further instructs that receiving words, treasuring commandments, and diligently seeking wisdom as one would silver or hidden treasure leads to understanding the fear of the Lord and finding the knowledge of God. This pursuit demands commitment, as it is not a passing effort but a determined, sustained endeavor against distractions. Solomon portrays wisdom as a valuable treasure, akin to a woman a man must choose to pursue over fleeting temptations. This choice requires a vision of wisdom as a precious objective, a strong sense of responsibility, and unwavering diligence to attain it, ensuring a lifelong union with its benefits.
Developing Discernment
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsHuman discernment can be developed and exercised, triggering early warning systems with the reactions of revulsion and confusion when confronted by evil.
Ecclesiastes and Wisdom
Sermonette by John W. RitenbaughThere is a vital linkage between wisdom and understanding, understanding comes only through hard work and experience. Wisdom is skill in living.
Recognizing the Intents of the Heart
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe are counseled to seek wisdom (the power of judging rightly) and discernment (the ability to consider the end of a thought pattern or behavior).
Discerning Truth and Applying Wisdom
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsSpiritual discernment is a gift from God, enabling us to judge between good and evil, comparing things with God's Word to see if they align with His standards.
Re-Embracing the Berean Model
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by David F. MaasWe must use Berean self-reflexiveness to become teachable, to search for hidden sins, to detect spiritual blindspots, and to admit when we are wrong.
Ecclesiastes Resumed (Part Forty): Ecclesiastes 12:1-14
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughEcclesiastes 12:1-14 emphasizes the brevity and the progressively harder difficulties of life and urges youth to seek God before the decline of old age.
John (Part Fourteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe overriding motivation for the individuals bringing to Jesus the woman caught in adultery was to trap Him, impaling Him on the horns of a dilemma.
The Commandments (Part Nine)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughBenign neglect of the Sabbath covenant can incrementally lead us into idolatry. We must treat this holy time as different from the other days of the week.
Spiritual Gifts, an Overview
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughEach individual in the church has at least one spiritual gift. This fact has confounded many because they look at themselves and see nothing special.
Bezaleel of the House of Judah
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingGod augmented Bezaleel's natural abilities, not only in physical craftsmanship, but also in the soft skills of management, patience, and longsuffering.