Chapter 21 discusses the importance of honesty in the lives of the Wise and Wealthy. Ill gotten wealth will quickly dissipate unless the wicked ways are amended. Justice and Prudence lead to peace in the community and in the home. Both qualities are prized and sought after by Wise men.
Those who wish for a good life will behave intentionally though the conservation and re-investment of resources. The Wise man will build stores of Wine and Oil. The Foolish will consume all they have without thought or preparation for the future. Saving and investing is a strategy the Wise employ to ensure comfort in life and the preservation of the legacy of wealth and wisdom. Verse 9: Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome spouse. Verse 19: Better to live in a desert than with a quarrelsome and angry spouse. The preceding verses discuss the importance of Peace and Harmony in the home. In all things the Wise man will exhibit patience and understanding. BUT. At some point. The Wise man says 'enough is enough.' The desert and corner of the roof can be considered uncomfortable places to live...but far more accommodating than a home filled with continual discord, dishonesty, and anger. Tony Robbins tells us: "We get what we tolerate" Solomon tells us: Patience is one of the most valuable of Virtues. The Preacher tells us: "it is Not your job to Redeem." Chapter 22 tomorrow.
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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. Chapter 21 Tomorrow. Chapter 19
Better is the Poor man who walks in his integrity. There is a lot going on in Chapter 19... Not the least of which are the pitfalls of an unrighteous spouse (more on that coming soon). The goodness of a spouse is not the topic of reflection for today. Most of our learning thus far equates Wisdom to Wealth and the impoverished to folly. Chapter 19 introduces an additional layer to this proverbial onion... Those lacking integrity are far worse off than those lacking Wisdom...It is not a stretch to infer that exemplary integrity may be the epitome of Wisdom. Regardless, it is better to be poor of wealth than poor of integrity. Verse 12: "The Wrath of a King is the lie Roar of a Lion." Kings are those who have influence over others. The Kings are the Leaders. Leaders have a voice. That voice should be used to empower and inspire. Many years ago, Our team was taking the field at J. Leslie Rollins Stadium. We were preparing ourselves mentally and physically for a college football game. My friend, Brad Pohlman, a man of few words, impeccable integrity, and incredible physical strength, turned my direction and said. "I Wish I could Roar Like a Lion." A Lion's roar commands attention, demands reverence, and is impossible to ignore. Successful leaders must develop the voice of a Lion. This Roar is not for fear. Rather, the roar of a Leader should inspire actions, empower growth, and facilitate change. It is a Roar of attention, of clear communication, and action. Chapter 20 Tomorrow. I apologize for the break in consistency. Some may find the irony of this caesura.
Chapter 18. Much of Chapter 18 is focused on the Wisdom of perseverance and the importance of steadfast learning. Again, Those who speak too much, without thinking, or presumptuously will ultimately destroy themselves and those who listen. The Fools and the Braying Donkey's are to receive no attention from the Wise. "Fools find no pleasure in understanding, but delight in airing their own opinions" Fools find no pleasure in understanding an willfully or intentionally ignore opportunities for growth and learning. These Fools are dullards, content with their current station and lack of understanding. I can only assume that state of humanity is caused by video games, potato chips, and soda pop. This is the path of the undisciplined. The Delight found in expressing ones own opinions with disregard for fact or understanding is blatant ignorance. Verse 9. "One who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys." One who is Slack in his work is undisciplined and Lazy. Employees who are Lazy: Steal from the organization Exhibit selfishness Refuse their duty and Responsibility. Bring Shame to their spouses, children, and families. A Very close relative of a Lazy or Undisciplined Man is an individual who actively seeks to do harm to others or to an organization. The Wise will "fill the bus" with the right people. People of industry and ambition. People who are willing to give of themselves and meet their responsibilities. Those who slack in their work will Always bring ruin to the organization. Those who exhibit Pride in what they do will glorify themselves, an organization, and their families. Chapter 19 tomorrow. Chapter 17 includes more of the Wisdom of Solomon contrasting the blessings of the Wise and the Strife of the Fool. Much of this chapter discusses the the Evil hearts of those who speak un-truth, and corruption.
I initially planned to reflect on Verse 4: "A wicked person listens to deceitful lips: a liar pays attention to a destructive tongue." I intended to base my reflections on the evil of those who listen to the corrupt, the liars, and the fools. This is a good reflection...I may circle back around on it. But not today. Today was our first day of the school year...I need something more positive as a reflection today. V. 17. "A Friend Loves at all times, and a Brother is born for a time of Adversity." I love this correlation. Friends, True Friends are there to offer support. To provide advise, a shoulder to cry upon, and ear to listen. A Friend provides unconditional love and support. Friends love is not limited to times of wine and roses...a Friends love is ever present in good times and bad. Often Friends...Really close friends, are considered Family...considered a Brother. The relationship between these "Brothers" transcends the literal familial blood relations. This use of the word Brother is figuratively the deepest bond of friendship. A Brother will be there for Adversity. A brother may not "be there" all of the time. A brother might not be the "good time charlie" who is always up for fun. Brothers are the friends who show up when things get bad, when there is adversity, when the breaks are beating the boys... A Brother will call us out when our actions are foolish, A Brother will be there to help pick up the pieces, A Brother will carry another when the weight is too much to bear. A quick story: There is a guy walking down the street. He falls in a hole. The walls of the hole are steep and slippery...He cannot get out. He is trapped. A Doctor passes by and the guy hollers up...Hey, Doc. I am stuck in this hole. Can you help me? The Doctor writes a prescription. Throws the prescription down in the hole and carries on. A Pastor passes by and the guy in the hole cries out. Pastor, can you help me? The Pastor sends a prayer and a blessing down into the hole. Then, A friend walks by. "Hey, Brother. It's me! Can you help me out of this hole? Without hesitation, the Friend leaps into the hold. Our guy in the hole says, "What, Are you stupid? Now we are both stuck in this hole." The friend says, "Yeah, but I've been down here before and I know the way out." Chapter 16 tells us more about the virtues of Wisdom and the strife of Foolishness.
If we want to have positive thoughts that lead us to virtue, we should commit our works to the lord. If we want peace, we should make decisions using wisdom and patience rather than rashness and folly. As we exhibit Wisdom peace we find a fulfillment and happiness only found when we put trust in the Lord. V3 tells us: "Commit to the Lord whatever you do and he will establish your plans" Two specific items come to mind. 1. "If you want to make God Laugh...Just tell him your plans." - W. Gibson Magill. For the past 20+ years, this has been a hallmark of much of my decision making process. I have used this aphorism not as a warning to keep my plans hidden from God...Rather, I had banked on the prudence of well crafted "back up plans." As I grow in Wisdom, I realize this statement is more of a warning that our plans are best served when we exercise patience and flexibility. Thy will be done. Not My will be done. 2. Patience. Once upon a time, during a period of my life personified by much haste and impatience. Five years of great personal accolade and momentous career growth...I was searching for the next rung on the ladder. My dear (and wise) Uncle Barry told me that I should place my trust in God's Plan. My Foolish reply to this Wise and Sage advice: "I wish he would hurry up and let me know his plan." I exhibited a great deal of immaturity that day. My faith was erroneously placed on my abilities and hubris. I refused the Wisdom of a great man that day, as a consequence, I and quickly learned that God's plan would be executed on God's Schedule. Far too often I have refused to gain Wisdom the "easy way." My pride has intervened and ego dictated that I should learn the "hard way." Chapter 17 Tomorrow. In Chapter 15 we enter the fifth chapter of Solomon's discussions of Wisdom vs. Foolishness.
The Wise Speak the truth and learn from the teachings of the Father. The Foolish speak too much and his words are full of lies... The wise will reflect prior to replying to another...the wise listen to understand rather than listen to respond. Righteousness and Wisdom are the true stores of Wealth. Solomon, you are becoming redundant. Not wrong...Just redundant. On the topic of Wisdom vs. Foolishness, we wholly agree. Today, I humbly ask permission to deviate from Solomon. "A life of influence" Today, I attended a funeral. Part of the eulogy included the accolade that the deceased "lead a live of influence." I have spent a good deal of time perseverating this phrase. I have come to the realization, All men (people) influence others. This inherent influence can be positive, negative, or somewhere in between. The direction and the magnitude of the influence cannot be left to chance. The Wise man will be intentional about the influence he has on others. Wisdom leads to Wisdom and the Wise attract the Wise...Likewise, a lifetime of poor choices, failures of discipline, and foolish thoughts will influence others to more of the same. "You are the sum of the company you keep." I challenge everyone to put these nine words in the search bar of The Googles. I am amazed with the variety cultures and renown thinkers who have some version of this proverb. In short... The Wise man will be aware of the influence others have. The Wise man will surround himself with positive influences. The Wise seek The Wise and avoid the Foolish, the Sluggards, and those of poor discipline. Be Wise My Friends. Chapter 16 Tomorrow. Chapter 14.
Solomon starts Chapter 14 with commentary regarding Wisdom vs. Foolishness. Those who exhibit Wisdom receive God's favor. The Wise are blessed with the Opportunity to receive and the wherewithal to maximize additional Wisdom from the Lord. The Foolish who reject the instruction of the Lord establish a downward trajectory. This path leads to and opens the door to additional foolishness and fallacy. Several times, we have established that Wisdom = Wealth. "The Rich get Richer and the Poor get Poorer" "The Wise become more Wise and the Foolish become more Foolish." With Effort and Discipline...Both roads may be reversed. The Foolish who deserve change can amend habits and reallocate focus to that of Wisdom. This goes both ways: The Wise who fail to nurture and tend to Wisdom can quickly fall amongst the sluggards and the undisciplined to follow the path of the Fool. Chapter 15 on Monday. Chapter 13 continues to provide for us Wise sayings from Solomon. This Chapter is focused on the virtues of speaking the truth, the dangers of speaking too much, the responsibility of becoming good stewards of money and wealth.
Solomon has made it clear that the Wise speak at the appropriate time, with truthfulness, and in the appropriate quantity. The Fools just talk to talk, they talk to hear them selves, they talk to bring attention to themselves and glorify themselves. In a popular quote (wrongly) attributed to President Abraham Lincoln; "Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt." Again, the Braying Donkey. Even those with a modest amount of Wisdom can immediately recognize the Fool who talks too much or for the wrong reason. There are several verses that deal with the stewardship of money and wealth. The accumulation of wealth is a responsibility. Often, Fools can amass a great sum, but rarely, can a Fool maintain great wealth. Those who exhibit Wisdom exhibit enterprise. Wealth is intentionally cultivated and encouraged to grow. The Wise do not use wealth as a tool to impress others, rather a means to help others, a giving and generous spirit is one of the pinnacle indicators of Wisdom. The Love of Money is the root of all kinds of evil. It is very important that we recognize the distinction provided in the phrase the Love of Money. Money it's self is not evil. The pursuit, maintenance of stewardship of money is not evil. Rather, Greed opens the door to all kinds of evil. When the Greed of money supplants the joys money can provide our families, we are inviting iniquity into our lives and families. I don't feel I have my thoughts well articulated today... In Short: The Wise speak the truth when there is something to day. The Fool speaks too damn much. The Wise are Stewards of Money and Wealth. Good Stewards use Money to provide for and bring joy to their family, provide for others through generosity, and use wealth to make more wealth. A Fool and his money are soon parted. Chapter 14 tomorrow. In Chapter 12, we continue with with Wisdom of Solomon's sayings. We continue to contrast the behavior and the characteristics of the Wise and Righteous with that of the Foolish and Wicked.
Today, there are two specific verses that stand out. Verse 1 and Verse 4. Several years ago, a Wise and Valued mentor told me: "Our brains can learn something new when our hearts are ready to see it." For me, this advice is applicable to both verses. V.1. "Whoever loves Discipline loves Knowledge" The Wise will exhibit discipline and demonstrate progress in everything they do. 1st Corinthians tells us that we are to demonstrate excellence in all things. We are not to be disciplined or pursue excellence in some things, or just part of the time. We are to strive toward excellence. Always. If we are to be leaders of men and fathers of strong children, we must remain disciplined. V.1. "Whoever hates correction is stupid." If we become upset when our faults are pointed out, or when we are given correction, we are acting in a Foolish way. The Wise exhibit a teachable spirit and embrace every opportunity for improvement. V.4. "An wife of Noble Character is the Crown of her husband." I might add...A Disciplined husband compliments an Excellent Wife. TRUE: We are undoubtedly better when we have a partner who shares in our successes. An Excellent Spouse or Partner will, absolutely bring out the best and most disciplined version of ourselves. V.4. "But a Disgraceful wife is like Decay in his bones." A shameful spouse will cause malcontent and discord in the home. Such disgrace in a partnership will erode Strength and destroy Happiness in a spouse. Wisdom and Discipline become harder to maintain, maximum energy is required for preservation of the home rather than progress and betterment. In Biology, culling is the process of removing individuals who display undesirable character from a population for the betterment of the community. Chapter 13 Tomorrow. |
The Proverbs ProjectFor the next 30 days, I intend to read and reflect on one chapter in the book of Proverbs. |