Read
Use Good Sense
1If you keep being stubborn
after many warnings,
you will suddenly discover
you have gone too far.
2When justice rules a nation,
everyone is glad;
when injustice rules,
everyone groans.
3If you love wisdom
your parents will be glad,
but chasing after bad women
will cost you everything.
4An honest ruler
makes the nation strong;
a ruler who takes bribes
will bring it to ruin.
Reflect
Sometimes the sequence of verses in Proverbs makes it seem that the author did some random cut and pasting. You’d be forgiven for thinking that about today’s reading. It swings back and forth from dire warnings about bad personal behavior to the implications of corrupt actions by ruling elites. Few if any of us know what it’s like to be an aristocrat, so the empathy required there is a bit of a stretch.
But there is a consistent theme – over time your actions have consequences.
Considering consequences is not a natural trait in a buy-now-pay-later world; or an I’ll-just-see-what-happens outlook on life; or a shoulder shrugging take-the-rough-with-the-smooth attitude.
In contrast, our random-ish verses suggest that the mature mind thinks things through; is considerate, is more selfless than selfish, keep desires in check, doesn’t misuse available resources, receives well-intentioned advice from others.
The Apostle Paul has another way of characterizing lifestyles. In Galatians 5:16-25, he juxtaposes a number of either/or’s and the consequences of going down either one route or the other. People’s selfish desires make them live in bad ways. The good lifestyles are the “fruit of the Spirit.” The mature mind is tuned into and led by the Spirit.
Respond
Father God, It seems like I have to react and respond to a thousand things a day. I don’t have the time often to think things through. Please give me pause for thought when I need it and, Holy Spirit, help me to discern good, fruitful consequences from bad. In your Son’s name I ask. Amen.
Ashley Scott
Ashley is an independent consultant and part of the Executive Team of Forum of Bible Agencies International. Working with nonprofits, Ashley specializes in enterprise and organizational development, applying 20 years experience in international strategic planning, marketing and fundraising development. Previously, Ashley was an international EVP level leader in Christian ministries, and was a part of the pioneering team in the UK who revolutionized how Bible engagement and public Bible advocacy was understood.