It’s easy to read this passage and think that it’s solely about you, your enemies, and your beef – that is, the issue between you, though it could also be the food you’re serving them if you take this proverb literally. But the thing is, this proverb isn’t about you. And it’s not about your enemies either. It’s about God’s glory. Isn’t that what life always comes down to, if you look hard enough?
Read More love, God’s gloryI have to say, as a relatively new wife, this proverb has gained some significance for me of late. After all, no one wants to be so hard to live with that someone would prefer the roof if that means getting away from you.
Of course, this proverb isn’t just for wives.
Read More kindness, provocation, nagging, cruel wordsAs Christians, we know all about good news. It’s what we’ve been commanded to share (Mark 16:15). And as spreaders of the Good News, we are helping to bring that refreshing water to the thirsty people who need it. In fact, there is a quote I’ve heard from many a pulpit that says, “Your life may be the only Bible some people read.”
Read More clear water, good news, example, lifestyleIn this social media age where memes are king, how many times a day do you see a graphic on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram of a proverbial quote against the backdrop of a sunset or a forest or a river, etc., etc.? Without casting any judgment on those who post these pictures, do you ever find yourself wondering if the person posting the quote actually abides by it, or even fully understands it?
Read More words, fools, memes, being authentic, child of God
When I was about ten years old, my dog managed to put a hole in a rather important vein in my wrist when I had tried to take something out of its mouth. Somehow, at ten, I knew to put pressure on the wound and was close enough to home to get it all bandaged up before any real damage could occur.
Read More practical wisdom, injury, argumentsThe thing about taking a shortcut that diminishes quality, like putting a cheap glaze on a clay pot, is that it always gets found out eventually. In other versions of this text, the pot is cheap but the glaze covers it to make it look expensive. Either way, a corner’s been cut and the quality isn’t as good as it could be.
Read More hypocrisy, hateful thoughts, smooth wordsWhile many proverbs give instruction about what kind of person you should be, this passage has more of a focus on the kind of person you should avoid. It seems like easy enough advice to follow, and has convincing incentives too. Why would you carry an incredibly heavy and exhausting load if you didn’t have to, or willingly put yourself into a dangerous situation?
Read More company, friendships, identity