Read the Word:
Proverbs 22:8-12
Meditate on the Word:
In these few wise sayings, we get a glimpse of a wonderful contrast–that of the “unjust” person with the “generous” person. In the news coverage, we see a lot of injustice, mocking, and treacherous words. Some of these are actually considered features of some celebrities and politicians. More and more, treacherous words have become the culture of average people, even those of alleged faith. Brothers and sisters, this should not be. As James the brother of our Lord wrote in his epistle, “If anyone thinks he is religious without controlling his tongue, his religion is useless and he deceives himself.” This same principle applies to our keyboards or phone screens as well!
The writer of our proverbs today makes some keen assertions about the one who “sows injustice.” First, he notes that he will reap disaster. Second, “the rod of his fury will be destroyed.” A terrible fate awaits those who market fear, anger, injustice, and outright falsehood against his neighbor. Anger and mocking contain their own reward in the moment. However, they also contain their own punishment as we are forced to live with the destruction that our words and actions leave in their wake. Let us instead be known as generous (v. 9), having a pure heart (v. 11), and gracious lips.
Pray the Word:
Ask our Lord to reveal to you the motives of your heart, then commit to change your actions accordingly.
Leave a Reply