Solomon Gives a Contrast

(Encouraged reading: Proverbs 10)

     What blessings do the righteous receive? What are the repercussions of being wicked? All 32 verses of Proverbs 10 answer both questions by contrasting the two in hopes of persuading the reader to live a life of righteousness.

     The righteous receive deliverance from death and preservation by the Lord’s hand. They will receive blessings and will also be remembered as a blessing. They are receptive to commands and instruction, walk with integrity, and when they speak it pours out life. They love sinners as Christ loves and do not let hatred get stirred in their hearts. The righteous speak with understanding and discretion because they store up knowledge. Their work leads to life. Their desires shall be answered. Their foundation is sure, and they will not be moved.

     The wicked on the other hand live quite the opposite. They are violent and the memory of them will rot. When they speak it brings forth their own destruction. To do evil is as sport to them, but they will one day come to nothing. Their years will be shortened, and they will be removed from the earth.

Application:

      “The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.” Proverbs 15:3. What is it that the Lord is seeing in our lives right now? What fruit are we bearing? Are we sharing God’s life, wisdom, and love through our words and actions? Or are our lives filled with hatred, perverseness, and destruction?

     When we travel in the righteous way we will walk in the safety of the Lord. To walk in this way takes a daily, minute by minute, commitment to be that light to others. To choose to love those who have hurt us. To curb any idle words. And to be a blessing wherever we go.

Prayer:

     Lord, we see that a life devoid of You is a life not worth living. It is a life full of hatred and self-destruction. When we head down those avenues that are not good, I pray we will instantly feel the emptiness and destruction they bring and turn away. May we be marked by Your love, wisdom, and discretion. May our lives reflect You.