Chapter 6.
Warnings against Wasting Time: "You may delay - But time will not" - Benjamin Franklin As I read and grow, as I study, as I become more Wise, I realize that most of the brilliant thinkers all have some manner of warning regarding the finite nature of Time. Solomon warns us to make hay while the sun shines, to make the most of every day and every minute available to us. The Wise are thankful for every second we are given. We realize that tomorrow is never guaranteed so we must do what we can today to do what we can with the gifts we have been given. We need to eliminate sloth and lethargy, we need to remain vigilant with our progress and growth, as we become Wise, time becomes more and more treasured. The Wise will continually, reflect: “Is what I’m doing right now worth my time?” The commodity of time can be spent in many, many ways. The Wise understand it's worth and allocate the expenditure to the actions and activities most aligned with the core values of the individual. Some spend time in service of others, some spend time holding a loved one's hand, watching a sunset, or eating a meal together. Some read, some work on projects, or build an empire. Regardless of the pursuit, time well spent is one of the most precious investments the Wise can make. Chapter Six addresses seven things the Lord finds as an abomination. We could likely spend a day unpacking each of these seven Items. For the sake of brevity, we will simply run through the list here. Perhaps, this is why it is recommended to read and re-read the book of Proverbs. The reader will derive additional meaning from the text with each time through Solomon's text. Haughty Eyes - To have haughty eyes is to have an arrogant heart. To "look down" on others and to have little concern for the needs or perceptions of others. Lying Tongue - This is quite simple. Speak the truth in all things. In almost every occasion, lies are used for personal gain or glory. When we impugn others or when we deceive we are knowingly and willingly making the Un-Wise choice of aligning ourselves to a nefarious path. Hands that Shed Innocent Blood. - The means murder...Don't do that. A heart that Devises Wicked Schemes. - The heart of an unwise contrives schemes to bring others to ruin. These schemes are designed for the gain of selves or the exploitation of others. Feet that are quick to rush into evil. - The Un-Wise rush into evil without thought or consideration of consequences. The Wise man is EXPECTED to resist the temptation of evil. False Witness who Pours out Lies. - False witness is similar to a lying tongue with the exception that bearing false witness, regardless of motive, is directly and immediately intended to bring down another. The Wise man speaks truth in all things, taking special precautions against destroying the reputation or livelihood of another. A Person who Stirs up Conflict in the Community. - Humans were intended by God to live in Unity with one another. Unity does not mean agreement, simply harmony. Wise individuals can entertain divergent ideas and philosophies of others without sustaining (or inflicting) personal harm. The Un-Wise create mal-content and discord in the community causing undue temptation for the Wise. Tigers should Never argue with Donkeys.
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The Proverbs Project is intended to be a daily personal reflection on the wisdom of Solomon. We reflect on a book of Proverbs that corresponds with the date of the month. ArchivesCategories |