Today we glean some more wisdom from the book of Proverbs. Here are a few thoughts from Proverbs 28.
Vs.1. The wicked run away when no one is chasing them, but the godly are as bold as lions.
When you live a righteous life you have nothing to be afraid of.
Vs.2. When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily. But with wise and knowledgeable leaders, there is stability.
Everything rises and falls on leadership. Good leadership (wise and godly) produces stability.
Vs.4. To reject the law is to praise the wicked; to obey the law is to fight them.
Keeping the law is a way to stand for righteousness.
Vs.6. It is better to be poor and honest than rich and crooked.
Righteousness is more important than wealth.
Vs.7. Young people who obey the law are wise; those who seek out worthless companions bring shame to their parents.
Be careful who you hang around.
Vs.9. The prayers of a person who ignores the law are despised.
God hears the prayers of the righteous.
Vs.13. People who cover over their sins will not prosper. But if they confess and forsake them, they will receive mercy.
We all make mistakes. The key is to admit them and then not to keep repeating them. If we cover them up we will not succeed in life.
Vs.14. Blessed are those who have a tender conscience, but the stubborn are headed for serious trouble.
Maintain a sensitive conscience – it will do you good.
Vs.16. Only a stupid prince will oppress his people, but a king will have a long reign if he hates dishonesty and bribes.
As a leader, do good to you people, ruling with honesty and uprightness.
Vs.18. The honest will be rescued from harm, but those who are crooked will be destroyed.
Honesty and integrity protect you from harm.
Vs.19. Hard workers have plenty of food; playing around brings poverty.
When you are diligent and hard working, you’ll reap ‘plenty’. If you play around you will end in poverty.
Vs.20. The trustworthy will get a rich reward. But the person who wants to get rich quick will only get into trouble.
Watch out for ‘get-rich-quick’ schemes.
Vs.21. Showing partiality is never good, yet some will do wrong for something as small as a piece of bread.
Treat people fairly and justly.
Vs.23. In the end, people appreciate frankness more than flattery.
Speak the truth in a loving way. Don’t be a flatterer who only says nice things.
Vs.26. Trusting oneself is foolish, but those who walk in wisdom are safe.
Don’t trust yourself – the heart is deceitful. Set up safe guards against your own sinfulness. That is wisdom.
Vs.27. Whoever gives to the poor will lack nothing. But a curse will come upon those who close their eyes to poverty.
Give generously to the poor. Don’t close your eyes to their need.