PROVERBS 10
7 The memory of the righteous is a blessing,
but the name of the wicked will rot.
8 The wise of heart will receive commandments,
but a babbling fool will come to ruin.
9 Whoever walks in integrity walks securely,
but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.
10 Whoever winks the eye causes trouble,
and a babbling fool will come to ruin.
11 The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life,
but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.
12 Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.
– Proverbs 10:7-12
PROVERBS 10 ON INTEGRITY VERSUS DISHONESTY
A poem by ILMA inspired by these verses
When you follow the commandments of the Lord
You will not live a dishonest life in this world
Walking in integrity is a sure manifestation of righteousness
While deceitfulness leads a person in trouble and darkness
When you speak the truth in love, you bring life
When you lie and have a double-mind, you bring death.
There are many people who think that truth is relative and preferential, but truth is absolute. In a world where the focus is on the “self” it can be a challenge to decipher what is true and what isn’t. Solomon laid down for us the contrast between integrity versus dishonesty. Those who receive and obey the Lord’s commands will have a life of honesty and integrity. They are not necessarily perfect but they don’t deceive themselves into thinking that they are sinless. They humbly admit their weaknesses and acknowledge a God who is bigger than them. On the other hand, those who do not heed the laws of the Lord or serve him, will definitely serve themselves and do everything for the “self.” This “self-centered” life leads them into all kinds of deceptions and lies.
REFLECTION
- How can a life of deception lead to ruin eventually?
