Wise but Harmless

 Matthew 10:16

“Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.”

The first order to understanding the words, "wise and harmless" would be to study the creatures they are descriptive of.

The second course to comprehend all the verse means, at least in this bloggers mind, is to find the Greek and Webster's Dictionary meaning of the words.
Then, one may begin to discern and interpret how a believer is to behave in this world for the glory of the Lord and among nonbelievers.

First, wisdom of the serpent

1.    Why is a snake considered wise in the writer's view? 

• According to (animalvivid.com), they use special sense of smell via their tongues to locate prey and evade predators.  So, one could conclude that the serpent does not seek an adversarial situation.  In fact they spend their lives actually hiding from "adversarial situations." 
• Is this a "wise" trait? Of course!  Believers NEVER seek an adversarial situation.  We are metaphorically known as "sheep" in scripture.  Sheep are docile, unassuming and quite dumb! (Mt 10.16, Jn 10.3, 4, 14, 27,  I Pet 2.25)
• Why are they "sneaky?" In part, because most predators, including humans, are bigger and more able to destroy them.  However, there is evidence to suggest they seek out others of like kind for a social relationship. (animalvivid.com)
• Is this a "wise" trait? It can be when a believer follows the Lord in such relationships. (2 Cor 6.14)
• How keen is their eyesight? It is also know that they have sharp vision.  This acute eyesight allows most species to see better at night than daytime. (animalvivid.com)  Their eyes actually correspond with their environment.  Their primary predatory sense is heat and vibration of their prey.
• Is keen eyesight "wise" in a believer? You betcha! If "the light of the body is the eye..." (Mt 6.22), it is necessary for each believer to always "watch and pray..."  lest one fall into "temptation..." (Mk 14.38)

2.    What does it mean to be "wise?" Websters 1828 dictionary gives the following definition:

• Properly, having knowledge; hence, having the power of discerning and judging correctly, or of discriminating between what is true and what is false; skillful. Wise in the Greek reads: discreet, implying a cautious character: practical skill or acumen: intelligence or mental acquirement.

So it is that like the serpent, a believer must stay aware and diligent of predators yet sensible in discerning what to do or not to do in the daily walk with the Lord. 

Plainly put, (Isa 1.18, Phil 2.12, I Thes 5.17)) while "reasoning, praying and working out" what to do, a way will seem clearer than other choices.

Second, Why is a dove called "harmless?"

Webster's defines "harmless" as; not hurtful or injurious, innocent, not guilty.

In the Greek "harmless" is know as unmixed, innocent, harmless, simple

1. Description of the dove.

• Most doves have relatively stout bodies, with short legs and short beaks. They all have a similar shape, though their plumage varies drastically from species to species. Some doves are uniform in color, while others have many different colors and patterns. (https://animals.net/dove/)
• As believers - most of us are ordinary in appearance with very distinct personalities.  Yet, Gen 1.27 explains we are made "in the image of"  God. I Peter 1.16 explains how we are to conduct ourselves.  "Holy."  Matthew 5.48 tells us to be "

2. Doves live in a variety of habitats.  

• Thus, wherever He leads, I will follow.  Believers are called to a variety of situations, circumstances and locations.  Whether preacher, missionary, church leader, sunday school teacher, stay-at-home mom, a dad who provides for his family, all have a "habitat."   Too many verses to count about God's will for a believers life in this world.  Eph 5.17, Pro 3.5, 6, Eph 4.11., I Cor 7.20-24.  In a nutshell, "bloom where you are planted."

3. Distribution of the dove

• The dove inhabits nearly every landmass in the world, except Antartica and parts of the Sahara Desert (https://animals.net/dove/)
• One could say a dove avoids extreme hot or cold. As the metaphor continues in a believers life, there should be balance. "Nothing wavering." Jms 1.8  The only way to remain stable would be to keep one's mind on God. Isa 26.3

4. Diet of the dove

• Most doves are herbivores, and eat primarily plant matter.  Some doves eat fruits and berries, whil others eat seeds and grains.  Those that feed on grains and seeds usually forage on the ground, while those that eat fruit typically forage in the trees and bushes. (https://animals.net/dove/)
• Those that forage on the ground, Lk 8.11, will find good "seed" noted in this passage as "the Word of God."  Do you get "fruit bearing" seed from His Word?
• Those doves that find "fruit in the trees and bushes" have soared to a higher place for their sustenance. 
  
  
  

• Where do you get your energy?

5. Dove care

• Doves need space to fly and exercise (https://animals.net/dove/)
• Where do you find yourself "flying" and getting spiritual "exercise?"
• Lk 3.22 describes the Holy Ghost "like a dove."  Do you follow the leadership of the Holy Ghost? Jn 14.26, I Cor 3.16

To conclude these few points on the dove.  This bird is harmless, no natural instinct to attack, just to live in the world as humbly as possible with the food given by her Creator.

Much more could be said about the similarities of the dove and the serpent in the life of each believer.  However, the Spirit gave it best, "Wise but harmless."  

Meditate and let me know what you think.

Ps 57.7

How to be more?

 "Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God."  (Phil 1.11)

The verses prior to this scripture were given a few years ago in answer to my dilemma of "being more than I am."  Once, this blogger was told that I "missed out on many blessings because I didn't love more."  This idea plagued and hurt my soul.  Then, the Lord gave me Phillipians 1.9, 10.  The truth is, to be sincere, one must be true to "the knowledge of love" that is in the heart.  

"I cannot, sincerely, be more than I am."

Which begs the question, how may I "change" to be more "to the glory and praise of God?"

The answer is found in verse 11.  "Being filled with the fruits of righteousness."  

What are the "fruits of righteousness?"

Well, Galatians 5.22 and 23 actually defines these things.  Although, it should be noted "fruit" is singular in this passage.  There is no reason a believer should not exhibit the full list:

• love
• joy
• peace 
• longsuffering
• gentleness
• goodness
• faith
• meekness
• temperance (patience and moderation)

How are these things to be accomplished inside so they may be seen on the outside?

Verses 24 and 25 of Galatians 5 answers this simply:

"And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. (and) "If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit."

One should ask themselves:     

1. Have I "crucified the flesh...affections...and (its) lusts?"  I do not know the issues, problems or "affections and lusts" that stand between you and fellowship with God through the Holy Spirit  but I'm thinking that even now there are things popping up in your mind that identify with this scripture.
2. Do I "live and walk in the Spirit?"  This hits a bit closer to home.  To answer honestly, one must be honest with oneself.  Where do you tend to stray?  It's a good question and if you answer truthfully and deal with such problems, you'll be happier for it.                                                                                       

Now, this blogger could "tick" off most of the things listed above.

Love comes as noted from Phil. 1.9,10 - "sincere, according to knowledge." 

Joy is happiness when the heart is full in services magnifying the Lord and the joy that comes from being a mother and grandmother, in my case.

Peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith all come from the certainty of salvation and being "content...whatsoever state I am (in)." (Phil 4.11) This believer has learned to "go with the flow" in whatever way the Lord wills or brings circumstances to my life.

"Meekness," is a little harder.  The heart tends to react when provoked and hurt.  However, this too finds peace when understanding it's all part of His plan and will to mold me and make me into His likeness.

"Temperance" or moderation and patience is a regular part of christian training.  It seems to never end for this believer because I do not trust the words and actions of others as "sincerely" as I should.  If their intent is to harm or malign my heart in some way, that is between them and God.

Otherwise, I am peaceful and just take what comes as part of His plan. (Jer 29.11)

Which appears more pleasant, a bowl of fruit or vegetables?

Both are healthy. Both are good too eat.  However, which one is sweeter?  Of course, the fruits.

God has so made our bodies that "sweet" is preferred to no taste or "salty".  "Salt" is a whole other lesson, which, is needed to add flavor to almost any vegetable!

How are we to obtain the "fruit" necessary for "the glory and praise of God?"

Notice verses 24, 25 of Galatians 5: "crucify the flesh; walk in the Spirit."  A tall order to be sure but not impossible, if we search out His will according to scripture.

So much more could be said on the subject of separation and righteousness.  But for now, "be what you are," in the Lord and according to His will, as much as possible. (Rom 12.18) Because He loves you. (I Jn 4.7-8, Jn 3.16, Rom 5.8)

Be MORE "by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God."

Prayerfully and Humbly submitted,

"Greenland Bible Studies" blogger

Ps 57.7

Ramblings

No verses immediately come to bear. No nugget of wisdom to share. Just dullness of mind and spirit.  Whose fault is that?  To be honest, it is all mine.  If God, who is faithful and promised "never to leave nor forsake me" is all that, why would this blogger be so dull?  

Sure, it could be onset Alzheimers but more likely it is my lazy mind.  Just as the body gets weary and tired, so the mind.  Daily I pray and daily I entertain scripture but without much conviction.  Prayers of my heart are constant but rarely does this believer slow down enough to "absorb" thoughts of Him. Only occasionally are words, songs or wonderful truths pondered upon.  Daily life gains ground and all this believer cares to do is a quick devotion and to bed.

The mind attempts to "relax" while viewing various internet content.  No TV in the home but there is access to programs via internet and constant browsing to try and "unwind" at the end of the day, even when "browsing" spiritual things.  All this leads to spiritual and mental dullness.  It is upsetting and discouraging.  What to do?  Maybe "browsing" is the problem.

The days when moving thru the darkest trial were the days when this mind seemed the quickest.  The strongest. The most teachable from scripture.  

Would dark trial be desired to get back to this level of mental acuity?  Not desired but maybe warranted.  However, I wonder if the current pattern would continue.  I do believe "greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world. (I Jn 4.4) Yet, how would this believer's heart react to a terrible trial?

So weary, so weary.  Prayers are desired. 

Humbly submitted, Ps 57.7

P.S.  It does occur that the mind of this blogger is happiest when busy.

Hang in there, dear believer

Sorry to be a downer today but must give what is given to this heart.

Today, I am weary.  Weary of the day to day. Weary of the burdens of house and home that are mine to bear. Weary of waiting on prayers to be answered.

First, I am reminded of Galatians 6.9; "And let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall
reap, IF we faint not."  You mean, "Paul got weary?"  Of course he did.  Yet in this bloggers current devotion in I Corinthians 7. 4, 5, Paul states, "...I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation...(even though)  our flesh had no rest...we were troubled on every side;...(with)  fightings, (AND) fears."

How could he be "filled with comfort" when he was so weary?  When we look further in I Cor 7.9, 10 we discover his impetus to carry on.  He said, "I rejoice...that ye sorrowed to repentance...(because) godly sorrow worketh repentance..."  The believers in his care repented and began living "more" godly.  That is indeed encouraging.  

Matthew 5.4 says, "Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted."  There is hope for such weariness.  We are promised "comfort."

With so much wickedness in this world, it's difficult to watch loved ones "avoiding" all things good and godly.  While we are to "work out our own salvation with fear..." (Phil 2.12), it is reassuring to see loved ones walking the "straightest, narrow" path, spritually.  When they don't, whether they see it or not, it is sad and wearisome to see them suffer because of walking away from "the things they once knew."  

To conclude, this believer is hopeful that the promises given above will come to fruition.  So, I'll "tie a knot and hang on!"  You can too.

Prayerfully submitted,  Ps 57.7

Sorry, there will be no "roll call"

It's a great song but the truth is not in it's message.  Bear with this blogger who only seeks the truth.

The entire song is this:  

        When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound and time shall be no more. When            the morning breaks eternal bright and fair.  When the saved of earth shall                gather over on the other shore. When the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there.

Refrain

        When the roll, is called up yon-der,
        When the roll, is called up yon-der,
        When the roll, is called up yon-der,
        When the roll is called up yonder I'll be there.

        On that bright and cloudless morning when the dead in Christ shall rise,
        And the glory of His resurrection share;
        When His chosen ones shall gather to their home beyond the skies,
        And the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there.

Refrain

        Let us labor for the Master from the dawn till setting sun,
        Let us talk of all His wondrous love and care;
        Then when all of life is over, and our work on earth is done,
        And the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there.

PLEASE, WAIT!  There's more...

A bazillion verses about the church going "up" but NONE indicate a "roll call."  This blogger is not trying to be disagreeable but honest.  " (Jn 8.32)

Verses stating otherwise to a roll call:

1 Thes 4:16, 17  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: THEN we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

Mk 3:32  But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. 

 1 Cor 15:52  In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

 Dan 12:1, 2  And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.

Matt 24:31  And He shall send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together HIS elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

I Thes 5.2  For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

Matt 24:42 Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. 

Mk 13:32-37 But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.   

Matt 24:27 For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.

The most important thing is to know one's name IS IN the book of life!  (Rev 20.15) 

No further explanation is needed.  The truth for a believer is to be thankful that you know "you are one of them!"