Meditating The Word

Episode 269: Proverbs 20

Today's Prayer Meditation is on Proverbs 20
I do not get intoxicated with strong drink. Drunkards tend to be obnoxious, loud and argumentative. I have no desire to make anyone angry. I put arguments to rest whenever I can. I know it's foolish to pick a fight. 
I am diligent at planting seed for the future, for I know that the seed I plant today will result in a bountiful harvest tomorrow. I do not spend all of my time sleeping. For I know that only leads to poverty. I am awake and alert on the job, and there is plenty of food on my table. 
I give good advice born from deep understanding drawn out from the wellspring of Holy Spirit within. 
I walk in integrity, and my descendants are fortunate. I do my best to provide them with a godly example by following your ways, Father. 
You are righteous. You sit on your judgement seat evil scatters away from your kingdom. You give me wisdom to discern right from wrong. 
You have cleansed me and set me free from sin, and given me a clean and pure heart. 
I do not demonstrate a double standard. I know that in your eyes, there is no "us" and "them". You do not play favorites. I know that whatever I obtain dishonestly -- although it may seem sweet at first, I would eventually live to regret. 
People show what they are really like by how they act. So I do not judge anyone simply by the words they speak. I discern their character by the fruit they produce in their lives, whether they are pure or perverse. 
You have given me eyes to see and ears to hear from you, Father. 
You bless me with abundant life, but there is something of far greater worth than earthly wealth: speaking revelation-words of knowledge. 
I solicit good advice from godly people, and you make my plans succeed, Father. I do not make rash promises that I will live to regret or charge ahead without wisdom. Wars are often won by skillful strategy rather than brute strength or superior weapons. 
I stay away from people who can't keep their mouths shut, because I know they won't hesitate to reveal my secrets. If they tell me the secrets of others, I know my secrets will also be made known.
If I am wronged by someone, I wrap your grace around my heart, Father. I know that you will vindicate me. 
Father, you direct my life. Each step I take is ordained by you to bring me closer to my destiny. You don't show me the entire journey in advance, but just the next step I need to take. So much of my life remains a glorious surprise. 
The spirit you breathed into man is like a living lamp, a shining light searching into the innermost chamber of my being.
I strive to be a good leader, basing my decisions on love and truth. It is kindness and integrity that puts me in a position of trust.
We admire the young for their strength and beauty, but beauty fades. Give me the dignity of wisdom as I grow older, Father. Help me to learn life's lessons well. I know that even painful experiences hold opportunities to change my life in wonderful ways. 
So be it. 
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing.
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Episode 268: Proverbs 19

Today's prayer meditation is on Proverbs 19
I would rather tell the truth, even if it leads to poverty, than to live dishonestly. Perjury won't go unpunished, and liars get all that they deserve. The habitual liar is doomed. I know the best way to live is with your revelation-knowledge, Father. Without it, I would grow impatient and run right into error. I have seen people ruin their own lives and blame it on you. You have provided us with everything we need for life and Godliness. 
I consider myself wealthy if I have faithful and loving friends. It seems like everyone wants to be close to the rich and famous, but I find that if I maintain a generous spirit, I will always have all the friends I want. When a person is poor in spirit, even his own family has no use for him. His friends will avoid him. Even if he begs for help, they won't respond.
Father, I love wisdom. I learn all I can and my life flourishes and prospers.
I will admit, Father, sometimes it doesn't seem right when I see people prosper who don't live right. But I know that you will ultimately set things right. So I mind my own business, and keep my life on track, and that keeps me busy enough without worrying about someone else's life. 
I try to always be understanding, and demonstrate patience. Mercy often means holding my tongue. When I'm insulted, I'm quick to forgive and forget. I know it is virtuous to overlook an offense. 
Your rage, Father, is like the roar of a lion, but your sweet favor is like a gentle, refreshing rain. 
I am diligent and will never go hungry. I honor your holy instructions, and life goes well for me. I know that to despise your ways and choose my own plans instead, would only lead to destruction. 
I follow your direction and I give to the poor. I know that you consider it a personal loan, Father, and that you will repay me in full for the good I do.
I am not afraid to discipline my child, and I do not indulge him or allow myself to be swayed by his protests. I know that a hot-tempered man has to pay the price for his anger. If I bail him out once, I'll have to do it a dozen times. It's better to let him pay for his mistakes and learn his lesson.
I listen well to wise counsel, and I am willing to learn from correction. In so doing, I become wise. 
I have had many ideas concerning your plans for my life, Father. But I have discovered that only the designs of your purpose succeed in the end. 
I display tender mercies to others, and do not make promises I cannot keep. I live a life of abandoned love, surrendered before you in awe, Father. And I experience abundant life, continual protection and complete satisfaction. 
So be it. 
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. 
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Episode 267: Proverbs 18

Today's prayer meditation is on Proverbs 18
Father God, soften my heart and help me to become the friend to others that I would like to have. I sincerely care about the issues of others, and I value sound judgment. 
I love to acquire true wisdom -- your wisdom, Father. And have no desire to impress others with what I know. 
I am cloaked with your favor and honor. 
Words of wisdom  are like a fresh, flowing brook—like deep waters that spring forth from within, bubbling up inside of me.
I do not show favor to the guilty, but I do all I can to insure justice for the innocent. 
I do not jump headfirst into an argument or get myself into trouble with reckless words. I think before I speak, and choose my words wisely. I know that I will eat the fruit of the words I speak.
I avoid gossip. The words of a gossip merely reveal the wounds of her own soul, and her slander penetrates into the innermost being.
I do not waste my life with laziness, but work diligently to provide for myself and my family. You have promised to bless everything I set my hands to, Father, so I set my hands to many things. 
Your character, Father, is a tower of strength, I run into your heart with delight and you keep me safe.
The prideful imagine that their wealth is enough to protect them. They imagine it is a wall too high to scale. But the heart is the proudest when downfall is nearest. That person will not see glory until you see humility.
I listen before I speak. The last thing I want to do is speak out of turn and humiliate myself by not knowing all of the facts first. 
Father, you have placed within me a strong will to live which sustains me and through the blood of Jesus, I have been healed from any sickness or disease. Depression has no place in me. It crushes courage and leaves people unable to cope. But your joy is my strength, Father.
I am spiritually hungry and always ready to learn more. My heart is eager to discover revelation knowledge of your truth.
If there is anyone here on earth that I need to learn from and gain audience to, I take them a generous gift. For I know that a gift opens the way to gain entrance into their presence. 
Help me to remember there are always two sides to every story. I have learned that the first one to speak sounds true until I hear the other side and they set the record straight. 
Give me wisdom, Father, to discern the truth. 
I do my best to never offend a friend. I know that offense makes their walls go up, and it is nearly impossible to win their friendship back. 
From the fruit of my mouth, my stomach is filled, and with the harvest of my lips, I am satisfied. I know that my tongue has the power of life and death. So I speak words of life and enjoy the results.
Some friendships don't last for long, Father, but you are a loving friend. Our hearts are joined and you are closer to me than any other. You are the very breath that I breathe. In you I live, and move and have my being. 
So be it. 
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. 
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Episode 266: Proverbs 17

Today's prayer meditation is on Proverbs 17
Father God, give me a simple, humble life with peace and quiet. That kind of life is far better than an opulent lifestyle with nothing but quarrels and strife at home.
Refine me and purify my heart with your holy fire, Father, so that I can withstand the tests and trials of life.
I embrace your righteousness, and refuse to listen to slander and lies. I have empathy for those who are suffering through misfortune. To mock or belittle them, would be an insult to you, Father. For you created everyone in your image and likeness. 
I take pride in my parents, Father. They raised me to love and fear you. 
I lead with excellence and honesty. There is no deceit in me. 
I follow wise instruction. It is like a costly gem. It turns the impossible into success.
I overlook the mistakes of others with love. I know that dwelling on their failures would devastate our friendship. And I have made plenty of mistakes of my own. 
I am open to constructive criticism. I know that one word of correction can break open a teachable heart. A fool, on the other hand, can be corrected a hundred times and still not know what hit him. Keep me from being foolish, Father, and always eager to learn. 
I avoid rebellion and do not confront reckless fools. I return good for evil and I will be repaid for my kindness for the rest of my life. 
I avoid quarrels and arguments. Once started, they are hard to stop, and you never know how things will end. So I don't even start down that road. Instead, I am a peacemaker and defuse conflict when I can, and walk away from it if I can't.
My dear friends will love me no matter what, and my family sticks together through all kinds of trouble. 
I do not run up bills I won't be able to pay or cosign for loans for family or friends. It is better to delay gratification than to go into debt out of impatience.
I always look for the good in everything, and I find something good to say. I have a cheerful heart, and it brings healing to both my body and soul. I make sure my actions are in line with your word, Father. I know my actions reveal my true character. Even my face reflects the wisdom I have gained from your Word.
I use wisdom and bridle my tongue -- especially when my heart is under pressure, and I shut my mouth when I am provoked. An understanding heart keeps me cool, calm and collected, no matter what I am facing. 
So be it.
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing.
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Episode 265: Proverbs 16

Today's prayer meditation is on Proverbs 16
I make plans for the future, but Father, I know that you will ultimately direct my steps. 
I am not in love with my own opinions. Before I do anything, I put my trust totally in you, and not myself. Then every plan I make succeeds.
Father, you work everything together to accomplish your purpose. Even the wicked are included in your plans. You detest the proud of heart. And the proud are destined to fall. 
I avoid evil through surrendered worship and by fearing you, Father. The power of your faithful love removes sin's guilt and grip over me. 
When I make right decisions that please you, you are able to activate grace to turn former enemies into friends. 
I know it is better to have little with a heart that loves justicethan to be rich and not have you on my side.
Even though I make plans in my heart for my future, I am not set on the steps I need to take, but follow the steps that you choose for me.
I speak your revelation truth, and am careful in the decisions I make. I know you expect me to be fair in every business deal. Father, you are the one who sets the standards for righteousness. 
I despise wrong doing. I know that true authority to rule and reign with Christ is built on the foundation of his righteousness. 
I love to hear godly counsel, and I love those who tell me the truth -- even when it isn't pleasant to hear. 
Life-giving light streams from your presence, Father, and your favor is showered upon me because I please you. 
Everyone wants gold, but I would rather have wisdom. Wisdom’s worth is far greater. Silver is sought after, but I prefer a heart of understanding. It yields a greater return.
I have repented from evil, and am traveling on the highway of holiness. I protect purity and in doing so, I protect my life. 
I do not boast, for it would end up being a prophecy of a future failure. I know that the higher I lift myself up in pride, the harder I’ll fall in disgrace.
It’s better to be meek and lowly and live among the poor than to live high and mighty among the rich and famous.
I am skilled in business, but the prosperity I can find there is nothing compared to the blessings I receive by trusting in you, Father. 
I am discerning and have a wise heart. I speak sweetly to others, and my words are even more convincing.
Wisdom is a deep well of understanding opened up within me as a fountain of life for others, but it’s senseless to try to instruct a fool. Winsome words pour from my heart, adding value to all I teach.
Nothing is more appealing than speaking beautiful, life-giving words. For they release sweetness to our souls and inner healing to our spirits. 
I do not follow the path that seems right, Father, but rely on you to show me the right one to take.
My life motivation comes from the deep longings of my heart, and the passion to see them fulfilled urges me onward. 
I do not fear growing old. I know that age with wisdom will crown me with dignity and honor, for it takes a lifetime of righteousness to acquire it.
I do not want to be a mighty warrior. I would rather be known as one who is patient and slow to anger. I do not want to conquer a city. I would rather conquer myself and rule over my temper.
Some rely on winning the lottery, or rolling the dice for a good life. But Father, your will is greater than any luck. I choose to live in the blessings of your will. 
So be it.
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing.
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Episode 264: Proverbs 15

Today's prayer meditation is on Proverbs 15
Father God, help me to guard my mouth and always speak with wisdom.
I respond gently when I am confronted, and defuse the situation. Responding harshly would just stir up anger. I speak with wisdom and understanding becomes attractive.
Father, I know that your eyes are everywhere, and you see everything that happens. You watch over me. And you also see the wickedness of the world.
I speak healing words, and it is like offering others fruit from the tree of life. Negative words only crush the hopes of people.
I did not mock the instructions of my parents, but welcomed correction and gained wisdom. Just as I heed your correction now, Father.
There is peace and prosperity in my home. But the house of the wicked is filled with trouble, no matter how much money they have.
When I speak your words of wisdom, revelation-knowledge is released. But there is no wisdom to be found in the words of a fool.
Father, I know it brings you no pleasure when people use worship as a cloak for their sin, but my every prayer is pleasing to your heart.
You detest the lifestyle of the wicked, but you love me because I pursue purity and righteousness.
Severe punishment awaits those who turn away from your truth, and those who rebel against your correction will die. Even hell itself holds no secrets from you, Father. Before your eyes, everything is exposed -- and so much more the heart of every human being.
I seek out the wise and value their correction and advice. 
I keep my heart cheerful and keep a smile on my face, and do not allow heartache to crush my spirit. 
I seek knowledge and avoid foolishness.
Everything seems to go wrong when I feel weak and depressed. So I strengthen myself in you, Father, and I choose to be cheerful, and every day brings me more and more joy and fullness. 
It’s much better to live simply, surrounded in holy awe and worship of you,than to have great wealth with a home full of trouble.
I would rather have a meal of vegetables surrounded with love and gracethan a steak where there is hate.
Being hot-tempered only stirs up conflict, so I remain calm and patient, and am able to silence strife. 
Nothing seems to work right for those who are lazy, but my heart is virtuous, and my life is smooth and easy. 
I did not shame my parents by being foolish, but brought them joy by following the ways of wisdom.
I don't treat life like a joke, but I keep a straight path and make good choices with living-understanding.
I seek out good advice from wise counsel, and my plans succeed.
Advice is cheap, but I follow your guidance so I say the right thing at the right time to help others.
My life path leads me progressively upward, delivering me from the negative drain in the earth that keeps trying to tug me downward. 
You champion my cause, Father, but you tear down the house of the proud.You detest wicked ways of thinking, but you enjoy lovely and delightful words. So I make sure my speech is full of them.
I do not put earning money above my family, and because I put God and family first, I have no trouble at home and I live in peace.
I think before I speak, and do not carelessly blurt out wicked words which would cause harm. 
Father, I know you don't respond to the wicked. You are far from them. But you hear my prayers always.
I keep my eyes focused on what is beautiful, and it brings joy to my heart. Hearing a good report refreshes and strengthens me, giving health to my very bones.
I accept constructive criticism and it opens my heart to the path of life,making me right at home among the wise. Those who refuse constructive criticism show that they have no interest in improving their lives. Revelation-insight  comes only as I accept correction and the wisdom that it brings.
I know I cannot receive honor unless I am sincerely humble. I find revelation-knowledge as I fall down in surrender before you, Father. 
So be it.
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing.
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Episode 263: Proverbs 14

Today's prayer meditation is on Proverbs 14
Father God, I encourage and build up my family. I am not so foolish as to tear it down by my own actions. I love truth and follow the right path because of my wonderment and worship of you.
My words have become a shield of protection around me. 
I do not lie. I hunger for understanding and revelation-knowledge flows to me.My words are like weapons of knowledge. 
When I need wise counsel, I stay away from fools. The wisdom of the wise keeps my life on the right track. I do not deceive myself, and I am not afraid to face reality.
Your favor rests upon me, Father. 
I don't expect anyone else to fully understand the bitterness and the joys I have experienced in my life. You alone know and understand, Father. 
My family flourishes in the paths of righteousness. I do not have to try to rationalize poor choices, or justify a path of error. I follow the path you have set before me. 
It is a path filled with joy and the true laughter that can heal a heavy heart. I do not turn away from the truth. I receive a sweet reward for my goodness. 
I am sensible, and confirm the facts before I believe in what I'm told. I am careful in all things, and turn quickly from evil. I am neither impetuous nor overconfident. I show self-control, rather than being impulsive or having a short fuse. I am not naïve, but love wisdom. I am crowned with revelation-knowledge. 
Even the evil ones pay tribute to me. I am kind to the poor, and I am blessed and prosper. Kindness and truth come to me, because I make plans to be pure in all my ways. 
By living a righteous life, I help to exalt the nation. I am a wise and faithful citizen, and receive promotion from those in positions of power. 
I work hard at what I do, and great abundance comes to me. I do not merely talk about getting rich while living to only pursue my pleasure. That would bring me face-to-face with poverty. My true net worth is the wealth that wisdom imparts. 
I speak the truth, and I save souls. Confidence and strength flood my heart. I love you, Father, and live in reverent awe of you. My devotion provides my children with a place of shelter and security.
I find a strong hope, even in the time of death. Worshiping you in wonder and awe opens a fountain of life within me and empowers me to escape death's domain. Wisdom soothes my heart with living-understanding.  
My heart overflows with understanding, and I'm very slow to get angry. 
I have a tender, tranquil heart, and it makes me healthy.I liberate the powerless. I show kindness to the poor, and in so doing, I bring you honor, Father. 
So be it.
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing.
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Episode 262: Proverbs 13

Today's prayer meditation is on Proverbs 13
Father God, as a child, I listened to my parents (for the most part). And as I have grown, I have acquired a taste for good conversation. I hate false talk. I choose my words carefully. Careful words make a careful life.  
I am energetic and work diligently and I have something to show for my life. Being loyal to you keeps my life on track. I live a plain and simple life and it is full.
My life is like a brightly lit street. I am steady and diligent in all that I do, and it pays off. 
I walk with the wise and I gain more wisdom. I listen to the counsel of wise men and women. The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life. I drink deeply from it. The sound thinking it develops within me makes for gracious living. 
I am a common sense person. I live my life with good sense. I speak responsibly and my reliable reports are a healing presence. I embrace correction and live an honored life. 
My soul follows the desires you have placed in my heart, and it thrives. 
I know that you are the God of the breakthrough, and that a sudden good break can turn my life around. So I honor you and your Word, Father. Keeping your commands brings me wealth. 
I am loyal to you, Father God, and I have a good life. I love my life. And this good life will be passed on to my grandchildren. 
I love my children, and I correct them out of love, just as you correct me, Father. 
I have an appetite for good, and it brings me much satisfaction. 
So be it. 
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. 
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Episode 261: Proverbs 12

Today's prayer meditation is on Proverbs 12
Father God, I love learning, and I love the discipline that goes with it. I will not refuse your correction. I don't flaunt my knowledge.
I do not act as if I am important, but ordinary. I'm content to work for a living. I don't chase whims and fancies, but I keep working and there is always food on my table. A lazy life is empty, so I rise early and eager to start the day and get my work done. I find freedom in my work. 
My home will hold together. I talk sense and I am honored. My conversation keeps me out of trouble. Well-spoken words bring satisfaction and well-done work has its own reward. I survive misfortune because you are always with me, protecting and guiding me.
I am not headstrong, doing whatever I like, but I am willing to take advice. I do not have a short fuse, but quietly shrug off insults. My thinking makes for justice and my speech saves. My truthful witness clears the air. Lies are here today and gone tomorrow, but truth lasts forever. 
Worry weighs people down, so I try to speak cheerful words to lift them up. There is healing in my words. My root gives life and more life. Peace planning brings me joy. No evil can overwhelm me. I keep my word, and you love my company, Father. I bask in your delight. My life is rooted in you and I stand firm.  
So be it.
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. 
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Episode 260: Proverbs 11

Today's prayer meditation is on Proverbs 11
You love an above-board business, Father. And that's the way I conduct my business. I am down-to-earth and stand firm. My integrity keeps me honest and on track. 
I live a principled life and can stand up to the worst. My strong, moral character makes for smooth traveling, for a good character is the best insurance. I am saved from a lot of trouble simply by being and doing good. Common sense preserves me. When it goes well for me, everyone cheers me on and celebrates. I live right and bless my community, and it flourishes. 
I practice quiet discretion and good sense. I have integrity and won't violate a confidence. 
I seek out and follow wise counsel, and my chances of success skyrocket. I keep a cool head and avoid rash bargains. My gentle grace earns me respect. My kindness to others not only helps them, but it helps me too. 
I am well-paid for the good work I do. I take my stand with your loyal community of followers, Father, and live a good life. You relish integrity. I am loyal to you, and I always triumph.
My desires lead straight to the best. My world gets larger and larger. I bless others and I am abundantly blessed. I help others, and I am helped. I am blessed because I play fair and square. I seek good and I find delight. 
Father, you have shaped my life like a flourishing tree. Like a fruit-bearing tree, I experience an abundantly good life.
So be it.
Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. 
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