A whisperer separateth chief friends” (Proverbs 16:28). “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24). “Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful” (Proverbs 27:6).

Wise counselors—parents, pastors, friends, spouses—need to understand the different types of fools as the Bible presents them. If you learn to perceive the characteristics of a simple fool, silly fool, sensual fool, scornful fool, and steadfast fool, you will be better equipped to identify and respond to such fools with wisdom and discernment.

True friendship requires humility and a willingness to listen, hear, and speak openly, without fear of rejection or deception. Yet, as the proverb says, a true friend’s words may hurt because they may be words of rebuke, correction, or instruction. When this happens, our response indicates something about us, and it influences the future destiny of the friendship.

In addition to meditation on Matthew 22:39–40, meditating on the verses below will provide you with further insight and understanding of Christ’s command: Love Your Neighbor.

The most important decision we will make, after salvation, is probably the decision of marriage. It affects every area and every day of life! God has given each one of us a natural desire for companionship, yet there are essential lessons we can learn from His Word that invite blessing into our lives, regardless of whether we are single or married.

Following are some traits commonly observed in those who have the motivational spiritual gift of prophecy. These traits can be used to benefit others, or they can be misused and thereby cause discord in the Body of Christ.

Human authorities are accountable for how they exercise their authority. . . . Those under authority are accountable to God for their responses to authority.

God often brings people into our lives so that we might learn and grow (see Proverbs 27:17). Because the conclusion of a courtship can be painful, the couple should seek the prayer support and encouragement of parents, mentors, and friends. However, their chief comfort should be found in the Lord and His healing (see Psalm 147:3).

Crying out to God is an act of desperation and total concentration. It is a fervent expression of faith in God and trust in His goodness and power to act on your behalf.

2025年2月10日 · Loving our neighbor fulfills God’s law because it mirrors His character in us. This love is not based on fleeting emotions but on a commitment to put others above ourselves.