Proverbs 12:16-20 Which story will you be part of?

Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, but counselors of peace have joy. Proverbs 12:20

Deceit: sense of deceiving; fraud

Heart: feelings, will, intellect; likewise for the center of anything

Devise: as one who works in, practices, imagines 

Evil: injury, wrong

Counselors: advise; to deliberate or resolve, consult, devise, guide

Peace: friendship, human relations

Joy: glad result, gleeful, pleasure, rejoicing

Recipe for Joy.

Be deliberate, have resolve to be peaceful, to promote peace. 

This time of year we often hear two types of stories: those who devise evil and those who promote peace. 

The first, those who steal packages off doorsteps, those who use stolen credit cards, those who shoplift—all have a heart that is practicing evil. When we hear these stores, we experience sadness, anger and frustration. 

Secondly, those who "pay it forward", help a stranger, give extra, help make Christmas special for someone else. When we hear these stores, we experience joy! 

If you really want joy not only this Christmas season, but year-round, then resolve to share peace and friendship. A heart that is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), is less apt to spend time practicing evil. 

Which story will you be part of—one of evil or joy? 

Met some Heroes

I had the opportunity to accompany my Dad to a VA Clinic today. I created some "Thank You" cards to give to some of the Heroes while there. 

It was an honor to meet and talk with the Heroes throughout the day. I enjoyed hearing their stories and getting to know them a bit. 

If you want to meet some amazing people visit a local VA Clinic. There are long waits, and the Heroes sure could use some encouragement as they wait (often for hours).

I was blessed in many ways by talking with some of our Heroes today. 

Creating a positive day, isn't very hard, when you are in the company of Heroes!