Readings in Proverbs
Proverbs – Day 12
Day 12: Reputation and Integrity – part 2 Solomon was a careful observer of human behaviour and nature. He understood that integrity is never in part; it must consume the […]
Day 12: Reputation and Integrity – part 2
Solomon was a careful observer of human behaviour and nature. He understood that integrity is never in part; it must consume the whole. So too, he came to see through the false promises of sin, such as unjust gain, which promises us easy happiness, but in the end brings trouble to a household (Prov. 15:27). Sin is always like that in the end.
Solomon reminds us that in God’s sight integrity is a jewel of great price. Poverty is never a disgrace. The Son of Man had nowhere to lay His head (Luke 9:58). Better to be amongst the poor of society, but known for godly integrity, than someone who lives against God’s ways (Prov. 19:1). So too, talk about love is one thing, but faithfulness in love is what matters (Prov. 20:6). Wickedness has a tendency to outdo itself. God, in His sovereignty, often turns wickedness back upon the wicked such that they become a ransom for the righteous (Prov. 21:18). An example of this occurred when wicked Haman was hanged on the gallows he had prepared for Mordecai (Esther 7:10).
Whoever is greedy for unjust gain troubles his own household, but he who hates bribes will live.
– Prov. 15:27
Righteous lips are the delight of a king, and he loves him who speaks what is right.
– Prov. 16:13
Grey hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life.
– Prov. 16:31
Better is a poor person who walks in his integrity than one who is crooked in speech and is a fool.
– Prov. 19:1
Many a man proclaims his own steadfast love, but a faithful man who can find?
– Prov. 20:6
The righteous who walks in his integrity— blessed are his children after him!
– Prov. 20:7
Steadfast love and faithfulness preserve the king, and by steadfast love his throne is upheld.
– Prov. 20:28
The wicked is a ransom for the righteous, and the traitor for the upright.
– Prov. 21:18
A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favour is better than silver or gold.
– Prov. 22:1
Father God, there is mystery in Your ways, and yet we trust that You are sovereign and good in all things. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
Help us see through the false promises of the Devil and our own selfish hearts. We desire to walk in Your ways, even if that means poverty.
Thank you for Christ Jesus, our Saviour and Lord.
To You be eternal praise, Amen.
– Graham Barnes
