The Proverbs Project - Chapter 20

The Proverbs Project - Chapter 20. 

Verse 1.  
"Wine is a Mocker and Beer is a brawler. 
Whoever is led astray by them is not wise."

Oh my.  This verse cuts pretty close to the bone.  We can each reflect on this verse in our own rights.  Ultimately, we need to remember what we discussed in an earlier chapter...do our actions reflect the values we want our children to exhibit?  Let's come back to this verse in the future.  

Verse 22.  
"Do Not Say, "I'll pay you back for this wrong."  Wait for the Lord and he will avenge you."

The Wise man does not react immediately nor with hostility.  The Wise man acts intentionally and thoughtfully.  Retribution for wrongdoings is not sought immediately, rather the Wise man recognizes that vengeance is reserved for the Lord and one of the most mature forms of patience is that of expressing reservation in requital. 

Three thoughts come to mind:
-  "Vengeance is mine saith the Lord"  -  Romans 12:19
-  An old Proverb:  "Revenge is a dish best served cold."
-  And "As a Christian you should do your Best to always try to Forgive.  But its not your job to redeem."

Patience in Retribution is acknowledged socially and often recognized as a sign of maturity.  Often,  the acknowledgement of maturity in others requires an advanced maturity and wisdom of self.  Our responsibility it to exhibit patience and wisdom.  To have faith that the lord will lead us to the redemption of those who have wronged us.  Perhaps the greatest requital is the growth and Wisdom that comes with time and patience.  Perhaps..."Time heals all wounds."  

"But its Not your job to Redeem."  Redemption is the act of compensating for faults or iniquities.  When we are wronged, our responsibility is that of forgiveness and faith in redemption.  Forgiveness is an altruistic state of heart.  A selfless person will forgive the wrongdoing of others.  Such a selfless act is facilitated by faith in the redemption of the wrongdoer.  The Wise do not forget.  Prudence demands that we remain vigilant when protecting our selves and our loved ones from the harm prepared by evil doers.  Forgiveness does not make us weak.  Forgetfulness and complacency makes us vulnerable.  ​