May 02, 2023
Character determines everything. It is possible to look at those around us and see such dominant spiritual flaws that it identifies their lives in a single word. Proverbs 29 identifies multiple types of people and their predictable behaviors and outcomes. What God says about them will always be manifested over time. Always.
These evaluations from God will help us understand and respond to the world around us. And if we see these traits in our own lives and are willing to repent and turn, it will spare us from the same fate.
THE UNTEACHABLE
A man who hardens his neck after much reproof will suddenly be broken beyond remedy. (Vs. 1)
THE IMMORAL
A man who loves wisdom makes his father glad, but he who keeps company with harlots wastes his wealth. (Vs. 3)
THE EVIL
By transgression, an evil man is ensnared, but the righteous sings and rejoices. (Vs. 6)
When the wicked increase, transgression increases, but the righteous will see their fall. (Vs. 16)
THE WICKED
The righteous is concerned for the rights of the poor; the wicked does not understand such concern. (vs. 7)
THE SCORNFUL
Scorners set a city aflame, but wise men turn away anger. (Vs. 8)
THE FOOLISH
When a wise man has a controversy with a foolish man, the foolish man either rages or laughs, and there is no rest … A fool always loses his temper, but a wise man holds it back. (Vs. 9, 11)
THE HASTY
Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him. (Vs. 20)
THE ANGRY
An angry man stirs up strife, and a hot-tempered man abounds in transgression. (Vs. 22)
THE PROUD
A man’s pride will bring him low, but a humble spirit will obtain honor. (Vs. 23)
THE DISHONEST
He who is a partner with a thief hates his own life; He hears the oath but tells nothing. (Vs. 24)
THE MAN-FEARING
The fear of man brings a snare, but he who trusts in the Lord will be exalted. (Vs. 25)
THE UNJUST
An unjust man is abominable to the righteous, and he who is upright in the way is abominable to the wicked. (Vs. 27)
Love all kinds of people. Pray for and serve those around you. But be wise and understand what comes from various types of men and women as surely as night follows day. Be careful who your close friends are so that you will not become like them and be drawn into the same destructive behaviors. Humbly evaluate your life and the lives of those around you and make needed adjustments. A WISE MAN will do this!
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