" KNOWLEDGE "

Do you want to know something? I truly look forward to our time together, my time of preparation is illuminating for me. Because of our time together each week I am continuing to grow. Many of us get to a certain point in our lives and we shut down when it comes to gathering knowledge. There's an old saying that has been around for many years, and it says that you can't teach an old dog new tricks. Between you and me I make it a point to learn something new every day. The Lord has chosen me an ordinary man to share with you, so saddle up and let's get into today's topic.

My dictionary says that knowledge is understanding that is gained by actual experience. Can we agree that many know of Jesus Christ, yet they don't have a personal relationship with him. For example the pharisees and the other religious leaders of Jesus' day made it their business to know a lot about God, but they didn't know God. Listen it's vital that you get this, it is not enough to study about religion or even to study the bible. We must respond to God himself. The beginning of knowledge is the fear of the Lord.
Knowledge is something learned and kept in the mind...

I have 10-15 men in my inner circle, my sphere of influence whom I turn to for knowledge and wisdom. One of the most bothersome types of people to me is a know-it-all, a person who has a authoritarian opinion about everything, is closed to anything new, and frowns upon discipline, and refuses to build one's background. Biblical history refers to this kind of person as a fool. Don't be a know-it-all. Instead, be open to the advice of others, especially those who know you well and can give valuable insight and counsel. It's important that we grasp the art of gathering information from others remember, only God knows it all.
In this age of information, knowledge is plentiful, but wisdom is scarce. Wisdom means far more than simply knowing a lot. It is a basic attitude that affects every aspect of life.
The foundation of knowledge is to fear the Lord -- To honor and respect God, to live in awe of his power, and to obey his word.

Fools hate knowledge in the book of proverbs, the " Simple Minded " or a fool is not someone with a mental deficiency but someone with a character deficiency ( such as rebellion, laziness, or anger). The fool is not stupid, but he or she is unable to tell right from wrong or good from bad.

Last point of the day many of us suffer from a variation of sickness and ailments. Do you remember the accounting of God's man Job in the bible, even though puzzled by the reasons for his suffering, Job affirmed God's superior understanding by asking, " Can anyone teach God knowledge"? The way you respond to your personal struggles shows your attitude toward God. Rather than becoming angry with God continue to trust him, no matter what your circumstances may be. Although it is sometimes difficult to see, God is in control. We must commit ourselves to him so we will not resent his timing. Hey, did you know that I love the Lord.

Until Next Time...

Jim