The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart: and a good report maketh the bones fat. (Proverb 15:30)

We as people seem to want only good things or should I say, "what we think are good things." As we become more and more single eyed on Jesus, something new happens in our heart. A clarity of truth concerning misgivings which we have inherited from birth, becomes an eye-opening experience; which wonderfully alters our thinking in relationships, goals or better put, the living of one's life.

Then there is this universal fact; that when a job is well done, there is always a good report. Even if no one else acknowledges the results, a good feeling that overwhelms the senses is had by the performer of the task. A person feels better and healthier; joy seems to overtake the culprits that would steal this God given blessing. Our bones are fat!

Just think how marvelous it will be on that day to hear these words; "well done, good and faithful servant: thouhast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of the Lord." (Matthew 25:23) See what I mean. Praise the Lord!

That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. (1 Peter 1:7-9)

As I reached out to take hold of my "familiar friend", after gazing upon it for a while, my thoughts are enriched beyond measure. The familiar friend I am referring to is my Bible. Where would you or I be without its existence? As I was pondering its contents, like lightning shooting across the midnight sky, once again I realize this is the word of God! Revealed too many an author for my personal inheritance; an unlimited source of instruction, revelation, mercy, peace and comfort, one size fits all. In fact, it brings me to heaven and heaven to me.

Take for instance this Scripture we have just read. Here God's Word reveals certain properties of our faith. First of all, our faith will be tried and the trials will feel like fire. The why is quickly answered by the fact that our faith will be the producer of that evidence to show whether or not we know Jesus Christ personally. Then as our faith is tried certain voices of unbelief will challenge the Lord's required results. Then, the icing is put on the cake by Father God himself affirming that we can love him. This in turn strengthens our faith, giving way to eternal life. See what I mean? Praise the Lord!

He that overcometh, the same shall be closed in white raiment; and I will not blot his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my father, and before his angels. (Revelation 3:5)

So many elements in this world challenge our eternal reward. Sometimes, we might wonder if our journey will ever come to an end. Beloved, though it may seem long and endless, one day the curtain will be drawn. You will stand before God; Jesus being your only defense.

In Revelation chapter 6 verse 10, a request is made in heaven by some of our brethren who have preceded us. Their request is to judge and avenge. The Lord's answer, "rest until God's will be done." Then white robes are given them to comfort their requests. In Revelation chapter 7 verse 14 we can read, "and have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb."

No matter how great or minute the adversary may be, it's all designed to steal your relationship with God. Esau sold his birthright for a morsel of bread. Moses struck the rock in anger, causing him a disadvantage in his present world.

God's word strongly advises us to keep our garments unspotted from the world. (James 1:27) Every day remind yourself that your name is written in the book of life. It will do wonders for your soul and make your decisions easy

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:5& 6)

Some people are always worried. They are always preparing. Concerned with what tomorrow may bring for themselves and others. They never bring themselves to a full rest and peace with God. Their plans are opposed to the inevitable changes that will happen to us all. Happiness, contentment and peace of mind are the elusive culprits they never seem to catch.

On the other hand, there are the "live and let live people." No substance to their lives, no past, no future only a present. A free spirit that opposes responsibilities for themselves and others alike. There is no fear of God; leaving everything to "chance." They have been accustomed to large doses of "self."

However, we can see in these Proverbs a guide, a friend and a counselor suited to take us through what ever this new year will bring. "For to trust in the Lord with all my heart" and to allow his understanding to be directed by the knowledge of the Lord; will always produce the journey Father God intended. Have a blessed and prosperous New Year 2014!