Proverbs 14
REWARDING or ruined relationships? Are you a builder of rewarding relationships or party to a ruined one? Proverbs 14 is not about a life that is honed to please everybody but about living out a spiritually discerning attitude which has the potential to build rewarding relationships. One must painfully accept that when you live a life pleasing to God, it surely will not be pleasing to many. This book is full of timely guidelines in building rewarding relationships which though tested by time, it is wise to remember that these spiritual and practical principles of wisdom are not guarantees but influential guidelines in life...giving directions rather than assuring flawless results.
Spiritual discernment reminds us of the presence of God and the practical choices we make in life because of the fear of the Lord... the core distinction of biblical wisdom compared to all wise sayings combined. Our relationship with God reflects how we relate to each other. Everything in life is about relationship...but we need wisdom to spiritually discern which relationship is rewarding or destructive. This takes a lifetime and requires dependence on God. It requires godly courage to step out of our safe zones and cut abusive relationships that contribute to the damage of the human soul.
It’s all about Godly convictions and choices (v.v. 1-6)
Godly convictions and choices are fruits that come from frequently being in the Presence of God through the spiritual delight and discipline of prayer and scripture. The more we veer away from prayer and our appetite for God’s word dwindles, our choices are affected and very soon these will be reflected in our attitudes that build or ruin relationships.
Building rewarding relationships is about being cautious and certain (v.v. 7-16)
There are some things that we cannot just leave to chance...though there is no blanket guarantee for safety, it is still prudent to take serious note on these issues that require caution in order to be carefree...being aware of the outcome of foolish choices and spiritually awakened to make godly choices through spiritual discernment
Building rewarding realationships is about being consistent and calm (v.v. 17-20)
Key words: Respect, reward, and remember especially towards those of lower stature.
Building rewarding relationships is about having a concrete proof of character (v.v. 23-27)
Before it becomes a concrete proof of character it starts with attitude and an act...a direct and unmistakable result of the fear of the Lord. It is about walking the talk.
Building rewarding relationships is about cultivating a social conscience that reflects God to the community (v.v. 29-35)
This entails having a lifestyle that shows restraint, a heart that overcomes the presence and pressure of jealousy, helps the marginalized to have a fair field to survive and has a strong sense of godliness that seeks justice and unselfish service to others.