“Simple Principles”
The Book of Proverbs is full of Godly principles. They speak a lot concerning the human nature of man. Many times the writer of Proverbs gives us a contrast between the behavior of the foolish and wicked and the behavior of the wise and righteous. Literally in Proverbs 4:13 we are told “Take hold of my instructions; don’t let them go. Guard them, for they are the key to life”. The key to life, we probably should pay close attention!
You may have read today’s scriptures before this devotion. If you did it maybe a little confusing. Let’s take a moment and see what we can learn.
Proverbs 17:8-10
8 A bribe is like a lucky charm; whoever gives one will prosper! 9 Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends. 10 A single rebuke does more for a person of understanding than a hundred lashes on the back of a fool.
I will admit verse 8 is a little strange. Is God encouraging the act of giving bribes? Of course not, Solomon is simply stating the ways of the world. You can’t take one scripture and declare a truth. What does the rest of God’s word tell us. God hates dishonesty, lying and manipulation. Just because something may work and be easier does not make it right. Also it is an act of pride attempting to fix a problem on our own rather than trusting God to provide!
Both verses 9 and 10 refer to loving others. A willingness to humble ourselves for the good of others. Scripture teaches us that love never fails. Here we see love prospers when we forgive and a rebuke can bless others.
My friends, there is so much power and blessings when we choose to humble ourselves before God and one another. There is no need to make it difficult, it is a CHOICE! Throughout the day we all have multiple opportunities to practice humility. I encourage you, today purpose in your heart to humble yourself and see what the Lord will do!
Categories: BLOG