PROVERBS 11
A false balance is an abomination to the Lord,
but a just weight is his delight.
2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace,
but with the humble is wisdom.
3 The integrity of the upright guides them,
but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them.
4 Riches do not profit in the day of wrath,
but righteousness delivers from death.
5 The righteousness of the blameless keeps his way straight,
but the wicked falls by his own wickedness.
6 The righteousness of the upright delivers them,
but the treacherous are taken captive by their lust.
– Proverbs 11:1-6
PROVERBS 11 THE BLAMELESS’ WAY VERSUS THE WICKED’S PATH
A poem by ILMA inspired by these verses
Blessed are the meek for they will possess wisdom and knowledge
The proud and the wicked on the other hand will be destroyed
Those who are honest and faithful in walking in uprightness
They will receive much guidance, protection, favors and blessings
Those who continue to do wicked things are driven by their lusts
But the blameless do not give in to their cravings and desires
The path of the righteous leads to life as they walk in love
The way of the wicked leads to death as they cave in to lust.
This proverb of Solomon reiterates Psalm 1 of David where he describes the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked. Solomon lays down the consequences of a life choice that is guided by either righteousness or wickedness. He talks about justice, humility, integrity and love of earthly riches. Just like how David pointed out the blessings received from living a righteous life, Solomon also enumerates the consequences of choices we make based on treading the path of uprightness against wickedness.
REFLECTION
- Why is it important for us to be aware of the choices we make in life?