God’s Word For Today

Text: Proverbs 29:6 (ESV) 6 A man who flatters his neighborspreads a net for his feet. THE EVIL OF FLATTERY Undue compliments or excessive praises toward a person are expressions of flatteries. Being flattered is temptation, is it not?. A flatterer is dishonest. He is manipulative by lying (Prov 6:24; 26:28; 6:16–19). Smooth words set a trap for the person believing a flattery. An example of this is the sly, left-handed Ehud, who greeted the King of Moab with favorable words, then gruesomely assassinated the unsuspecting king (Judges 3:15–23). Most interpreters read this as a warning that the one who flatters sets a trap for himself. He set a net for himself, which speaks of being tangled in one's own sins. (Prov 29:6b) Sir Walter Scott, was right to say, "Oh what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive." Here, the flatterer is spreading out a net that will eventually cause him to trip. Since flattery is lying, the flatterer risks being caught in his dishonesty by others. Liars are inconsistent. They are telling different things to different people, that would trap them someday. Or they may be forced to admit their praise was deceptive. Lies contradict truth, and they eventually contradict each other. What does this mean to us today? We as believers are summoned to recognize that lying is a work of the flesh that contradicts a life led by the Spirit (Gal 5:16). Paul commands the Colossians, "Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices" (Col 3:9). Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast -------------------------Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Proverbs 29:1 (ESV) 1 He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck,will suddenly be broken beyond healing. BROKEN BEYOND HEALING A thing that becomes useless when it is broken is disposable, is it not? These things generally are cheap and won’t last long. Such is the person who is unteachable. Their continual hardening may cause them to become stiff. When crisis comes and they break apart beyond repair. Sad.  This is one of the most ominous verses in the Bible. Solomon warns, “When the tempest passes, the wicked is no more, but the righteous is established forever.” (Prov 10:25). Those who stubbornly refuse to be corrected, despite many warnings, put themselves at risk of sudden, catastrophic disaster (Prov 6:15; 8:32–36). The legal or social consequences can’t be ignored. It might mean physical injury or death. Who is "stiff neck" or a "hardened neck" people? They are people who refuse to bow in submission, or even to nod in agreement. They are pictured as livestock, an animal refusing to respond to commands. The bible is littered with examples. In Noah's day, the culture was thoroughly wicked and hardened. They refused to accept God's goodness. As a result, everyone except Noah and his family perished in the flood God unleashed on the earth (Gen 6:5–8). The Israelites who wandered the desert for forty years were said to be stiff-necked people (Ex 33; Neh 9:16–18). King Hezekiah, in calling the people who had escaped the Assyrians to celebrate Passover, warned them to return to the Lord and not "be stiff-necked as your fathers were, but yield yourselves to the Lᴏʀᴅ and come to his sanctuary … and serve the Lᴏʀᴅ your God, that his fierce anger may turn away from you" (2 Chronicles 30:8). Hezekiah reminded the people that "God is gracious and merciful and will not turn away his face from you, if you return to him" (2 Chron 30:9). John the Baptist warned the stiff-necked, self-righteous Pharisees and Sadducees, "Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire" (Mat 3:10). Stephen accused his murderers of being "stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit. As your fathers did, so do you" (Acts 7:51). One of those was Paul. Stiffening one's neck against the truth of God is a deplorable state. Yet, God is unchanging and remains merciful to all who turn to Him in faith (Eph 2:1–10; 1 Cor 6:9–11). Even so, the apostle Peter warns, "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed" (2 Pet 3:9–10). Foremost example of change is Paul. Paul the persecutor was changed by the grace of God. When it comes to God, some obstinately ignore His many warnings and invitations to be saved (Rom 1:18–20; Micah 7:18–19). While God is merciful and gracious, He does not offer infinite patience, does He? And God takes His hands off an obstinate unbeliever and simply "lets them go" wherever their sin will take them (Rom 1:26–28; 1 Sam 2:25). That means a life without God and an eternity of hopeless doom (Rev 20:15; John 3:36). Eventually, the opportunity to repent would be gone. There comes a time when Jesus will come to judge this world.Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast -------------------------Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Proverbs 28:28 (ESV) 28 When the wicked rise, people hide themselves,but when they perish, the righteous increase.  WHAT KIND OF LEADERS WE NEED? When evil people come to power, they drive their subjects to hide (Prov 28:2, 4, 12, 15–16). That might not mean literally that people are cowering underground. But, it can include fear of speaking or expressing. The more a culture becomes wicked, the fewer good examples are seen, so decadence into sin accelerates (Prov 14:34; 29:18). These selfish and wicked rulers see their roles as an opportunity to obtain power and wealth (Prov 22:16, 22; 31:9). But, godly leaders seek to honor the Lord and serve their people (Prov 16:12; 20:26; 29:4). This verse presents a vivid contrast. When those wicked oppressors die, righteous people no longer hide; they increase, literally, "become great." They celebrate the demise of the wicked rulers (Proverbs 11:10), and they thrive. They come out of hiding and become prosperous. Take for example the reign of Ahab and Jezebel in 1 Kings 16:30–33; 21:25. They caused God's prophets to go into hiding (1 Kings 18:4). It was a reign of terror. This pattern even is revealed to happen during the end times. The tribulation period will see the rise of two beasts, a political and religious (Rev 13:1–18). Their evil influence would be global, and the beasts would force people to serve them under penalty of death (Rev 13:5–10). But, Jesus would judge them and seize control of earth. He will reign in righteousness for a thousand years, and people will thrive during those peaceful times (Rev 20:1–6). Today’s cruel and unjust leaders should remind us to hope. For Jesus is going to fulfil His words. He is our ultimate leader. As Isaiah has prophesied;“6 For to us a child is born,to us a son is given;and the government shall be upon his shoulder,and his name shall be calledWonderful Counselor, Mighty God,Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.7 Of the increase of his government and of peacethere will be no end,on the throne of David and over his kingdom,to establish it and to uphold itwith justice and with righteousnessfrom this time forth and forevermore.The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.”[Isa 9:6,7]Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast -------------------------Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Prov 28:27 (ESV) 27 Whoever gives to the poor will not want,but he who hides his eyes will get many a curse. GIVING TO THE POOR Caring for the weak and needy is following God's will. “ Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.” (Prov 14:31). This is one reason that those who are generous are more likely to succeed than those who are entitled and stingy. “One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.” (Prov 11:24; 28:22,25). This is contrasted with those who claim they didn't know about the needs of others, when they're simply choosing to look the other way (Prov 21:13; 24:11–12). The Lord, even most men, look favorably on those who are generous. But, greedy people are looked down on. (Prov 11:26; 28:3). Generosity reflects a godly spirit. “Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.” (Prov 14:21) In the Law God gave to Israel, He told farmers not to harvest fields right up to the edge or strip their vineyards bare. They were to leave some of the wheat and the fallen grapes for the poor and those travelling (Lev 19:9–10). When Naomi returned from Moab to Bethlehem, she was a widow, and was accompanied by her widowed daughter-in-law Ruth. Naomi had a relative of her late husband who was a righteous man. His name was Boaz, and he was a farmer. He was also very generous. Seeing Ruth following the reapers in his field and gleaning after them, Boaz instructed his reapers to let Ruth follow behind them to get the most possible grain. He also provided her with water and food (Ruth 2).  Let us not close our eyes to the needy. For “whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” (Prov 19:17)Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast -------------------------Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Proverbs 28:23 (ESV) 23 Whoever rebukes a man will afterward find more favorthan he who flatters with his tongue. A REBUKE MAY GAIN FAVOR If we genuinely "love" a person, we do care for his well-being, don’t we? And this may mean speaking uncomfortable truths in direct, loving ways at times. (Eph 4:15). A "reproof" or "rebuke" is a strong, bold or direct confrontation. The wise would listen to correction and advice objectively. (Prov 3:11; 10:17; 15:31) They will appreciate the guidance given by a true friend (Prov 17:10; 27:5, 6, 17). Telling the truth gains one more respect. Flattery is not a proof of true love and concern. (Prov 19:1; 24:26; 26:24, 28). It’s giving false assurance. It is wrong and is not loving (Prov 13:24; Jas 5:20). In his letter to the Galatians, the apostle Paul explains how a loving brother should show love to an erring brother. He is going restore a brother who is caught in sin and error in an effective way He writes: "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted" (Gal 6:1). One of the major responsibilities of a pastor or elder is to reprove and rebuke as necessary (2 Tim 2:24–26). The church leader whose preaching or counsel is designed simply to make people feel good about themselves is not fulfilling his responsibility. He is not truly "loving" toward others.Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast -------------------------Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Proverbs 28:22 (ESV) 22 A stingy man hastens after wealthand does not know that poverty will come upon him. - BEWARE OF ‘GET-RICH-QUICK’ SCHEMES Today, we are overwhelmed with ‘get-rich-quick schemes’ offers in the social media. These dishonest business practices often result in disaster. The Ponzi scheme is an example. It is a fraudulent investment operation that pays returns to its investors from new capital paid by new investors, rather than from profit earned through legitimate business activities. The person who "chases" after wealth or cheats others get rich can expect disastrous consequences. (Prov 23:4; 28:20; 13:11; 20:17; 11:4; 22:16). Frauds, con artists, gamblers, and unwise investors have learned this lesson the hard way. Even if wealth is gained legitimately, but not used in a godly way, it's likely to vanish away as well (Prov 11:24). Paul told Timothy that false teachers have unhealthy desires for money that inspire many other sins. The love of money is the root of all evil. (1 Tim 6:10). He noted that "those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction" (1 Tim 6:9). Other proverbs caution that accumulation of material wealth is worthless pursuit. On the contrary, we should strive for moral integrity (Prov 8:11; 10:2; 15:27; 16:8, 16; 19:1). Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast -------------------------Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Proverbs 28:21 (ESV) 21 To show partiality is not good,but for a piece of bread a man will do wrong.  THE EVIL OF PARTIALITY Right judgment is needed in our relationships. It includes distinguishing between persons on a fair and reasoned basis. Otherwise, we will become partial. "Partiality," here, is giving an unfair preference to one person over another. A common example is giving more respect to a rich man over a poor one (Jas 2:1–4). It's a sin to act unfairly. The Book of Proverbs condemns unfairness in judgment explicitly.(Prov 17:26; 18:5; 24:23). Unfortunately, human beings are corrupt by nature so that they are prone to the error of partiality. Sadly, this verse notes that some will act immorally for a trivial reward, represented by a piece of bread. The Lord God shows no partiality (Acts 10:34). He loves the whole world. (John 3:16). Jesus demonstrated His impartiality in John chapter 4. It records a conversation between Jesus and a Samaritan woman, who was surprised that Jesus would speak to her. The Jews looked down the Samaritans and avoided all contact with them (John 4:9).  After He arose from death, Jesus commissioned the apostles to proclaim the good news of salvation to all people in all places, regardless of race and ethnicity (Acts 1:8). In his epistle, the apostle James chides his readers for treating the rich well but not the poor. He writes: "If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself,' you are doing well. But if you show partiality, you are committing sin" (Jas 2:8–9).Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast -------------------------Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

God’s Word for Today1 Aug, 202511 A rich man is wise in his own eyes, but a poor man who has understanding will find him out.-Prov 28:11 ESV RICHES CAN DECEIVE USIt is not because one is wealthy that he is correct in any particular way of life. Wealth can be spiritually blinding in part because it tempts us towards self-reliance. At one time, Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, only with difficulty will a rich person enter the kingdom of heaven. (Mat 19:23) Those who obtain material wealth should not assume their success is entirely their own. God's arrangement of circumstances and the choices of others matter, as well (Job 1:21). The diligent person is more likely to achieve success in life. (Prov 10:4; 12:11; 28:19). However, it also recognizes that life is greatly influenced by factors outside our control (Proverbs 16:9; 27:1). A poor person who relies on godly wisdom may overtake the arrogant person who thinks riches imply intelligence.Lest we would be proud, James cautions us by saying, "Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change."[ Jas 1:16–17 ] Self-reliance or arrogance was the fault Jesus found in the church at Laodicea. Because they were rich materially, they assumed they needed nothing. However, Jesus referred to that church as pitiful and in great danger. Jesus was ready to symbolically spit the church out of his mouth (Rev 3:14–22). Possessing wealth doesn't make a person wise. Riches may blind him from acquiring true wisdom. A poor person who trusts God could be a wise person. And he sees through the rich person's boast.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lPuuvKVODmgListen and FOLLOW us on our podcast Spotify: http://bit.ly/glccfil_spotify Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-applepcast Audible Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-audibleFollow us on various media platforms: https://gospellightfilipino.contactin.bio#gospellightfilipino#godswordfortoday

God’s Word for Today31 Jul, 202510 Whoever misleads the upright into an evil way will fall into his own pit, but the blameless will have a goodly inheritance.-Prov 28:10 ESV THE BLAMELESS HAVE A GOODLY INHERITANCEHistory reveals the way sin spreads through temptation, eventually leading a culture to dire consequences (Prov 16:29; Jas 1:13–15). Convincing others to join in immorality seems like freedom at first, but it ends in negative results, even destruction. (Prov 24:21–22; 26:27).The Bible is filled with examples of unrighteous people dragging society away from God and into sin. Potiphar's wicked wife tried unsuccessfully to seduce Joseph (Gen 39:7–10). Queen Jezebel introduced Baal worship into Israel and successfully lured her husband and his nation away from the worship of Jehovah (1 Kings 16:30–33; 21:25). Wicked kings such as Manasseh (2 Kings 21:9–12) did the same. Absalom, David's son, triggered a bloody civil war against his father (2 Sam 15:12–14).The New Testament warns about false teachers who would lead believers away from truth. Paul warned the Galatian churches about such men. He writes in Galatians 1:7–8: "There are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed."This proverb speaks of judgment for the enticers but reward for those who resist (1 Corinthians 10:13). The word translated "blameless" here comes from a term implying someone with a clear reputation for morality (Gen 6:9; Psa 15:2; Prov 2:21; 11:20; 28:18). In such contexts, a person is "blameless" when they cannot be credibly accused by others: they are not perfectly sinless, but they are clearly obedient to God. Proverbs 1:10 is clear: "My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent."Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lPuuvKVODmgListen and FOLLOW us on our podcast Spotify: http://bit.ly/glccfil_spotify Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-applepcast Audible Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-audibleFollow us on various media platforms: https://gospellightfilipino.contactin.bio#gospellightfilipino#godswordfortoday

Text: Proverbs 28:9 (ESV) 9 If one turns away his ear from hearing the law,even his prayer is an abomination. PRAYER AND THE LAW One of the more common wrong view of God is that He is as a vending machine, or a genie. They will ignore His laws and commands but He is still expected to hear and grant their prayer requests. God despises this attitude, both when attached to prayer and to sacrifice. “The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, but the prayer of the upright is acceptable to him. The way of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, but he loves him who pursues righteousness.” (Prov 15:8,9).  The term used for His reaction comes from the Hebrew word which implies deep disgust and loathing. When someone has no concern for God's will, or obedience, or repentance, their attempts to "play religious" are met with the equivalent of divine nausea. Even a "good deed" is a sin when it's done out of insincere motives. God is sovereign. He has the right to respond to anyone's prayer in any way He chooses. He may respond to an appeal from a non-believer as a means of calling or His working for them to faith. However, those who reject God have no valid reason to expect positive answers to their prayers. Scripture makes it clear that sin and disbelief are barriers to His cooperation.[Isa 59:2] The psalmist understood that sin builds a barrier between prayer and a positive response from God. Psalm 66:18 says, "If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened." The man born blind who was healed by Jesus told the Pharisees, "We know that God does not listen to sinners" (John 9:31). Jesus strongly denounced the Pharisees because of their hypocrisy. He told the story of a Pharisee and a tax collector. Both entered the temple to pray. The tax collector who humbly admitted he was a sinner and asked God to be merciful to him went home justified by God. But, the self-righteous Pharisee who saw others as sinful but himself as righteous was not heard by God. (see Luke 18:9–14).Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast -------------------------Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Proverbs 28:8 (ESV) 8 Whoever multiplies his wealth by interest and profitgathers it for him who is generous to the poor. BEWARE OF USURY Under the Mosaic law, the Israelites were forbidden to charge their fellow countrymen with usury on money, food, or anything else (see Lev 25:36–37). Usurious practices are wrong, even sinful. Loans were intended to help the poor. It is not to exploit them so the lender can become rich. This warning echoes God’s view that earthly wealth is temporary (Prov 23:4–5; Jas 4:13–14; Luke 12:16–21). A greedy person can hoard wealth, but that wealth does not follow them to the afterlife.  Ill-gotten wealth through usury will ultimately pass into the hands of someone who is generous to the poor. Justice will overcome injustice eventually. In Jesus' day, tax collectors, or "publicans," were notorious offenders of usury. They are tasked to collect taxes for the Romans who occupied Israel around the time of the Gospels. The Romans allowed the collectors to add additional charges, as payment to the collectors. Many abused this privilege to line their own pockets. Their reputation was so horrendous that being a tax collector was as offensive as being a prostitute.  One of those was Zacchaeus. He believed inJesus and became a faithful follower. To compensate victims of his prior sins of usury, he was willing to give half of his wealth to the poor and to give back four times what he had taken unfairly (Luke 19:8). His generosity was his resolve to prove he was sincere in his faith.Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast -------------------------Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Proverbs 28:7 (ESV) 7 The one who keeps the law is a son with understanding,but a companion of gluttons shames his father. BE A SON WITH UNDERSTANDING A wise son pays careful attention to God’s law (Prov 1:7; 8:33–36). He is cautious in his associations with others for they will influence him either towards good or bad.(Prov 13:20). Close association with ungodly people risks trouble (Prov 22:24–25) This will lead to his reputation be questioned. (Prov 3:1–4; 20:19; 24:21). This also leads critics to question the integrity of his family (Prov 29:15). When a son or student live in godliness, it will reflect well on their parents or teacher’s reputation. (Prov 23:22–25; 27:11). Spending time with ‘gluttons’ will affect the honor of the parents. They will be embarassed. "Gluttons," in this context, means those who indulge in any desire beyond reasonable limits. In today’s usage, this term typically refers to indulgence of food. However, the general principle can apply to hobbies, vices, or addictions as well.  Spending time with people lacking self-control can influence a person to sin, or being caught up unnecessarily in someone else's consequences. Hence, the apostle Paul warned us, "Do not be deceived: 'Bad company ruins good morals.'" (1 Cor 15:33). False teachers are enemies of the cross of Christ (Phi 3:18) Their "end is destruction" and "their god is their belly" (Phi 3:19). Contrariwise, it is commendable to feast on God's Word certainly.(Psa 119:103) It is sinful to overindulge in food or pleasure. It is a sign that one lacks wisdom. Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast -------------------------Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

God’s Word for Today26 Jul, 20256 Better is a poor man who walks in his integritythan a rich man who is crooked in his ways.-Prov 28:6 ESV INTEGRITYIntegrity is a consistent theme in the Bible, isn’t it? It is better to be right with God and lacking in worldly goods or accolades than to have material comfort and be spiritually doomed (Prov 16:19; 19:22; 22:2; Mat 16:26; 19:23).The word ‘crooked’ in Hebrew word could be translated as "perverse." This implies something being twisted, distorted, or warped. In this context, this can refer to shrewed business practices or blatant corruption. A person gaining wealth through corruption might think they are better off. But, he cannot escape spiritual judgment under God’s perfect justice. A dishonest person may try to claim that his finances and faith are separate but Scripture disagrees. There is no dichotomy in the Christian life. In Matthew 6:24, Jesus quotes, "No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money."Sadly, the thought of giving up earthly wealth and comfort may make people hesitant to accept the gospel. The rich man who approached Jesus is the example. He claimed he had done everything he could for God when asking Jesus about salvation. He was self-confident until Jesus challenged him to give up his money. Instead of obeying Jesus, the man became sad and walked away from Christ (see Luke 18:18-23; Matthew 19:22). His wealth possessed him. Our wealth should be Jesus alone. Nothing else. He is true who won’t bargain Jesus with anything else. Our attitude towards wealth is a test of faith, that is, unless faith in Jesus is more important than wealth, we should suspect it is not saving faith. (Luke 9:23–25; Mat 19:29). Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lPuuvKVODmgListen and FOLLOW us on our podcast Spotify: http://bit.ly/glccfil_spotify Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-applepcast Audible Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-audibleFollow us on various media platforms: https://gospellightfilipino.contactin.bio#gospellightfilipino#godswordfortoday

God’s Word for Today25 Jul, 20254 Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law strive against them.5 Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD understand it completely.-Prov 28:4,5 ESV WHAT IS YOUR ATTITUDE TOWARDS THE LAW?God gave the law to Moses to expose sin and encourage righteous living among God’s people. Shortly before Moses died, he challenged the people of Israel to choose between life and good, death and evil. It is by obeying the Lord's commandments, loving the Lord, walking in His ways, and keeping His commandments and statutes, the people would live, multiply, and enjoy God's blessing. But, disobedience would bring God’s punishment. The people would be banished out of the Promised Land. Thus, Moses urged the people to choose life (see Deut 30:15-19).Solomon reiterates that same idea. Breaking moral laws is absolutely wrong. Thus, applauding those who are immoral is absolutely wrong (Rom 1:32). Forsaking the law is to side with and affirm the wicked. Hence, to obey the law is to oppose the wicked. Godly people should be speaking truth [the law] in love against sin (Eph 4:15, Luke 5:32). And, they should not endorse sin or celebrate those who defy God (Isa 5:20). Thus, the apostle Paul has urged the believers at Philippi to lead a righteous life and thereby shine as lights in a crooked and twisted generation (Phil 2:15). Does not light dispel darkness?Wicked people don’t recognize that God is the ultimate basis for goodness and righteousness, do they? Thus, they don’t understand God’s justice to obey it. They despise it instead. In contrast, to follow God is to pursue the highest possible standard for such things. (Prov 1:7; 8:33–36) And when the opposite happens, when evil becomes comfortable, it blinds us to God's truth. Cultures that embrace evil do become indifferent to God and His law (Eze 20:18–19; Exo 20:5). It's possible that a wicked is aware of his own sin and refuses to repent. He is hardened and controlled by sin that he doesn't recognize it anymore (Rom 1:28; 2 Cor 4:4). When something other than God becomes our authority, justice is denied.This describes the period during the rule of Judges when the nation of Israel cycled between obedience and disobedience. They frequently rejected God's law and embraced lawlessness. Judges 2:11–13 reports that the people did what was evil in the Lord's sight. They followed false gods and abandoned the Lord. Judges 21:25 says, "In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes." As a result of Israel's rebellion, God sent foreign nations against her until she repented and turned back to Him. However, the cycle of moral decline, opposition, punishment, and repentance occurred repeatedly. Sin clouds the mind to justice. Nevertheless, in every generation, there is a remnant of believers who understand justice and seek to obey the Lord (Rom 11:5).Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lPuuvKVODmgListen and FOLLOW us on our podcast Spotify: http://bit.ly/glccfil_spotify Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-applepcast Audible Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-audibleFollow us on various media platforms: https://gospellightfilipino.contactin.bio#gospellightfilipino#godswordfortoday

God’s Word for Today24 Jul, 20253 A poor man who oppresses the poor,is a beating rain that leaves no food.-Prov 28:3 ESV WHEN THE POOR BECOMES AN OPPRESSORCertainly, rain can nourish crops. However, a heavy rain may cause flooding a field and destroy plants. Sadly, what could have been a good thing becomes a curse. In a similar way, those who are poor could work for one another's mutual benefit. But, when one of those poor persons take advantage of the other, instead of blessing, he will do a great harm. Some scholars suggest this would happen when a formerly poor ruler forgets his humble origins and takes advantage of the people. They become unconscionable. In either case, an abusive poor person does great harm when he thinks only of his own benefit. In the New Testament, Jesus relates a parable about an unreasonable and unforgiving servant: a man who begs his master to forgive his debt, then cruelly assaults another servant who owes him money. “ 23 “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. 24 When he began to settle, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. 25 And since he could not pay, his master ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. 26 So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.’ 27 And out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. 28 But when that same servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii, and seizing him, he began to choke him, saying, ‘Pay what you owe.’ 29 So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded with him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you.’ 30 He refused and went and put him in prison until he should pay the debt. 31 When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their master all that had taken place. 32 Then his master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. 33 And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’ 34 And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. 35 So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.” (Mat 18:23–35).Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lPuuvKVODmgListen and FOLLOW us on our podcast Spotify: http://bit.ly/glccfil_spotify Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-applepcast Audible Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-audibleFollow us on various media platforms: https://gospellightfilipino.contactin.bio#gospellightfilipino#godswordfortoday

Text: Proverbs 28:2 (ESV) 2 When a land transgresses, it has many rulers,but with a man of understanding and knowledge,its stability will long continue.  STABILITY A nation that rebels against God by tolerating sins may find itself cycling through many kings, rulers, or governors(Rom 1:18–20; Prov 14:34). Likewise, a nation with wildly inconsistent and incompetent leadership is prone to chaos and rebellion. We call this nation a ‘banana republic.’ People searching for an answer to chaos often turn to grab the sword by its blade. They kept electing an increasing number of incompetent rulers that become tyrants. Whereas, the wise, stable, and godly leadership will lead a nation towards stability and security. Israel is not exempt in this. The Old Testament records the spiralling down of Israel's history after the reigns of David and Solomon. In a relatively short period of time, numerous kings ruled over the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. This fast turnover was especially apparent in the northern kingdom, which was overrun by the Assyrians a century earlier. The southern kingdom was overruled by the Babylonians, later. Definitely, good leaders in government contribute to peace. Thus, Paul urged Timothy to lead believers to pray for earthly leaders of all kinds, "that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way" (1 Timothy 2:1–2). There is no government or institution that will become stable without God. God is indispensable in our marriages and churches. As Psa 127:1 says, “Unless the Lord builds the house,those who build it labor in vain.Unless the Lord watches over the city,the watchman stays awake in vain.”Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast -------------------------Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Proverbs 28:1 (ESV) 1 The wicked flee when no one pursues,but the righteous are bold as a lion. THE RIGHTEOUS IS AS BOLD AS A LION A coward is defensive. To be defensive even without an accusation is a sign of a guilty conscience, is it not? A person who feels guilty for something—or believes as much—may become excessive in attempts to clear their name. Their excessive claims of innocence seem insincere and overdone, to the point of suggesting guilt, instead. Here, it depicts the morally guilty persons as paranoid, because of their bothered conscience. They act silly like the little boy who is afraid of his own shadow. They are haunted, leading them to assume that consequences are always just around the corner. In this torturous imagery, they are like criminals who are running away from law officers even when they are not aware of any crime has happened. In the eyes of God, this attempt to "flee" from accountability is a common human response to God. Take for example the life of Jonah. When he refused to obey God, he boarded a ship that was bound for Tarshish, a destination as far from Nineveh as possible (Jon 1:1–3). During God’s judgment in the future, God will rain down wrath on the wicked, and the world leaders will try to hide from God. They will wish for landslides to cover them from His anger (Rev 6:15–17). By contrast, those with a clear conscience have no such fears.[ (Acts 24:16, Heb 13:18] Lions are fearless by nature. They have no fear towards any predators or hostile enemies. They proceed with confidence and assurance, lacking fear, that is, they are "bold." The person who does right can be more courageous than a lion. They can rest assured that God will vindicate them in the end (1 Pet 3:16. They have peace with God. And this peace is a genuine benefit of personal integrity (Psa 4:8; Prov 10:9). Today, thank God that we can face boldly before God because of the righteousness of Christ [2Cor 5:21]. When we sin and we are bothered, let’s thank the Lord for it prompts us to seek for His forgiveness. Otherwise, we will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast -------------------------Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

Text: Proverbs 27:23-27 (ESV) 23 Know well the condition of your flocks,and give attention to your herds,24 for riches do not last forever;and does a crown endure to all generations?25 When the grass is gone and the new growth appearsand the vegetation of the mountains is gathered,26 the lambs will provide your clothing,and the goats the price of a field.27 There will be enough goats' milk for your food,for the food of your householdand maintenance for your girls. GIVING OUR FULL ATTENTION Diligence is of primary importance to a rancher. It is extremely important for a rancher to know well the condition of his livestock, is it not? He should care for them diligently. A lazy and careless rancher will hurt not only the livestock but his economy as well. What applies to the rancher’s care towards his livestock applies to anyone who is responsible for a business or an institution as well. Idleness will surely cause a business and institution to fail.  This sentiment can also be applied to stewardship of one's personal finances. Inattention or ignorance of the condition of one's finances can lead to negative outcomes. This is equally true when related to management over or responsibility of the money and properties of others. Knowing the condition of one's flocks, or the flocks of others, shows proactive steps to monitor their well-being. An example is a church pastor or elder. He needs to know the condition of his flock and care for the sheep, which are God's people. Paul was emphatic to say to the elders at Ephesus, “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.”[Acts 20:28]  Let us recall how Jesus had commissioned the apostle Peter to feed Jesus' lambs, tend His sheep, and feed His sheep (John 21:15–17). Later, Peter charged the elders among the scattered Jewish believers to "shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock" (1 Peter 5:2–3). The following verses (v.24–27) reinforce the idea of knowing the condition of one's flocks and giving attention to one's herds. “for riches do not last forever;and does a crown endure to all generations?25 When the grass is gone and the new growth appearsand the vegetation of the mountains is gathered,26 the lambs will provide your clothing,and the goats the price of a field.27 There will be enough goats' milk for your food,for the food of your householdand maintenance for your girls.” Diligent planning and effort today is more likely to result in good outcomes tomorrow. This is a reminder also to parents. If we don’t diligently guide our children, their life’s destiny is at stake. Let’s be faithful in rearing our children in the fear of God.[Prov 22:6, Eph 6:2-4]Listen and FOLLOW us on our podcast -------------------------Visit and FOLLOW Gospel Light Filipino on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram

God’s Word for Today19 Jul, 2025Crush a fool in a mortar with a pestle along with crushed grain,yet his folly will not depart from him.-Prov 27:22 ESV FOLLY IS A SERIOUS PROBLEMWho is a fool? In this context, foolishness and "stupidity" are not linked to intelligence, but to how one interacts with wisdom and common sense (Prov 8:5). It is a heart issue. Biblical wisdom starts with a proper understanding of God (Prov 1:7). When a person is spiritually foolish, it may take harsh consequences to open their minds (Prov 19:29; 22:15; 26:3). For others, no amount of pain and hardships can shake them. Modern English expressions echo the difficulty of dealing with them. Statements such as "you can't fix stupid," or, "ignorance can be cured, but stupidity is forever" are expressions of hopelessness in dealing with them. Solomon's comparison to crushing grain implies that "folly" stuck stubbornly in the heart of the fool. It's so ingrained that it cannot be removed.Nabal is an example. His name matched his attitudes and actions of folly. He refused to help David and his men when David was a fugitive and needed provisions, even when David's men had showen kindness to Nabal's shepherds. Although David's messengers greeted Nabal cordially, Nabal answered rudely and sent them away. Fortunately, Nabal's wife, Abigail, went to David and persuaded him not to take revenge on Nabal. She said, "as his name is, so is he. Nabal [fool] is his name, and folly is with him" (1 Sam 25:25). Judas Iscariot was also a fool. Despite being with Jesus throughout Jesus' ministry, he betrayed His teacher. He rejected all of Jesus' teachings and miracles and sold Him to His enemies. Judas died by his own hand without having repented of his evil (Acts 1:18–19).What lesson can we learn here. There is a process of hardening our hearts if sin is perpetrated in our hearts as stain is. We must confess and repent of our sin. As Heb 3:13 says, “ But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.”Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lPuuvKVODmgListen and FOLLOW us on our podcast Spotify: http://bit.ly/glccfil_spotify Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-applepcast Audible Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-audibleFollow us on various media platforms: https://gospellightfilipino.contactin.bio#gospellightfilipino#godswordfortoday

God’s Word for Today18 Jul, 2025The crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold, and a man is tested by his praise.-Prov 27:21 ESV A MAN IS TESTED BY HIS PRAISEThe quality of gold and silver is known through melting them by intense heat. Refiners melt these metals to reveal impurities that are to be removed. Solomon applies this idea of testing to praise, using it to measure a man. Scholars and commentators take this in one of two ways.The first thought is that subjecting a man to praise is like placing precious metals in a crucible. How that person reacts reveals their purity and true nature. The one who responds to compliments with arrogance or egotism reveals his character flaws. On the other hand, the person who accepts praise with humility shows he has no such weakness. The example is the apostle Paul. He demonstrated this when he and Barnabas healed a man at Lystra. The crowds suggested they were gods. Paul and Barnabas rejected that claim. They were simply men with good news. Paul followed the rejection of inappropriate praise with a clear message about God and His goodness (see Acts 14:8–17). Paul quotes Jeremiah 9:24 in 1 Corinthians 1:31: "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord." In Galatians 6:14 he writes, "But far be it for me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world."The second interpretation is that man can be judged by what he praises. That is, the character of a person is revealed by what he applauds or enjoys (see Isa 5:20; Rom 1:32; 14:22). As silver and gold reveal their hidden flaws when placed in a furnace, so too a man uncovers his tastes and priorities by the things he compliments. Most likely, this is what he values in his heart.Lastly, praise is an acid test for a person more than trials and difficulties. As somebody says, “For a hundred to pass the test of adversity, only one will pass the test of prosperity or praise.” Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lPuuvKVODmgListen and FOLLOW us on our podcast Spotify: http://bit.ly/glccfil_spotify Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-applepcast Audible Podcast: http://bit.ly/glccfil-audibleFollow us on various media platforms: https://gospellightfilipino.contactin.bio#gospellightfilipino#godswordfortoday