Continuing with Proverbs 10 ~ Wisdom for All People…
The Proverbs are packed with verses that compare the godly person with the wicked. Proverbs are intended to communicate the general truth that the life of a person who seeks God is better in the long run than the life of the wicked person—a life that leads to ruin.
“Tainted wealth has no lasting value, but right living can save your life. Proverbs 10: 2
This world is filled with many who think they can find happiness by acquiring more money and more “stuff”, but this verse tells me that they can bring unhappiness upon themselves by choosing tainted wealth by ill-gotten gain. An example of this is…when someone is craving and coveting something so much, they may do something to destroy their chances of ever achieving happiness. “Right living,” in other words-living by God’s principles, brings happiness that lasts despite our cravings and feelings because they guide us into God’s way of right behavior. I hope that makes sense?
“The words of the godly are like sterling silver; the heart of a fool is worthless. The words of the godly encourage many, but fools are destroyed by their lack of common sense.” Proverbs 10: 20-21
It’s easy to get opinions and advice from people that are only going to tell us what we want to hear…a lot of that going around! You can be sure that a lot of bad advice is worth so much less than a little good advice. Words from a good person are valuable. We have to look for people who are going to be honest with us, even if the truth hurts! That’s the mark of true friendship.
“The fears of the wicked will be fulfilled; the hopes of the godly will be granted.” Proverbs 10: 24
The wicked person dreads death. Those who do not believe in God usually fear death, and with good reason. We all know people who fear death. I’m thinking of someone in particular who verbally confessed their fear of death, yet when I tried to tell them the truth-I was completely shut down. That breaks my heart because I love this person…But I also know that because of my prayers and intercession for this person, God will surely get the message of salvation across to them (#1-We know God’s will is that He doesn’t want anyone to perish (2 Peter 3: 9), and #2-If we pray according to His will, we will have what we ask for (1John 5:14) But ultimately, it’s that person’s choice to accept Jesus or not to accept Jesus.
A few more verses that speak to me…
“The hopes of the godly result in happiness, but the expectations of the wicked come to nothing.
The way of the Lord is a stronghold to those with integrity, but it destroys the wicked.”
The godly will never be disturbed, but the wicked will be removed from the land. The mouth of the godly person gives wise advice, but the tongue that deceives will be cut off.
The lips of the godly speak helpful words, but the mouth of the wicked speaks perverse words. Proverbs 10: 28-32