Proverbs 18 - Praying God's Word

Please read Proverbs 18.

Meditate on verses 1 and 19.

He who separates himself seeks his own desire;

he quarrels against all sound wisdom.

A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city,

and contentions are like the bars of a citadel.

The world of church work is often difficult because the flock is often difficult to work with. There are many reasons for this, but it basically boils down to the fact that people are imperfect and want to do what they want to do rather than what God wants them to do. Add to this the spiritual battlefield for the souls of people, and it does not take much for many to take much offense. As humans, who are right in their own eyes, many refuse to forgive until others come to their senses. And until others change, people often separate themselves rather than humbly asking God for the wisdom to know what they need to do to make the situation better.

Being separate from other believers is wrong. If you or someone you love is physically separated from fellowshipping with believers because of sickness, imprisonment, persecution, etc., do not grow weary and lose heart. Stay strong in the LORD, and pray for opportunities to be with other Christians even in adverse circumstances. If you are not in one of those situations, God commands you in Hebrews 10:24-25 to be a part of the church, so you can encourage others, and others can encourage you. As a Christian and part of the bride of Christ, you are gifted by the Holy Spirit to minister to other believers in love and unity.

In Proverbs 18:19, the offended one has fortified their life around the bitterness and hatred that comes from being wronged or perceiving they have been wronged. God can take down walled cities; He enjoys doing the impossible. God wants you to forgive others just as He has forgiven you (Matthew 6:12-15).

You know people who are not living their Christian lives to the fullest because they are not faithfully part of the body of Christ. You may be that person.

You may know someone who is living so offended they refuse to forgive. Ask God to search your heart to see if you are that person.

As a faithful, prayerful watchman (Isaiah 62:6-7), pray Proverbs 18:1 and 19 over yourself and those who need to forgive and be part of church.

“LORD, help ________ and me stop separating ourselves and seeking our own desires.

Help us not quarrel against all sound wisdom.

LORD, win my offended brother who is like a strong city.

Break the contentious bars of this citadel.

By Your strong name, Jesus~”

The WATCHMAN on the WALL – Dr. Ron and Marsha Harvell