Friday, July 13, 2012

Proverbs 24: 1-2 Where are you planted?

 1  Do not envy the wicked,
    do not desire their company; 
 2  for their hearts plot violence,
    and their lips talk about making trouble. 

Several times before we've studied verses that told us not to look at the wicked, who may be prospering, and wish that our way was like theirs. It may seem that they "have it all". . . wealth, happiness, popularity, all the possessions that they fancy, perhaps not even having to work hard for any of these things.
Solomon has cautioned us that even though it may seem that they are living the life of Riley, that we should not be jealous. We shouldn't envy them. They are constantly beset with worries and stress -- who is trying to take away their toys or their reputation or their power? Can they hang on to all that they have? Did this or that person that they stepped on, on their way to the top, follow them to take their revenge?
They cannot be truly happy, nor can they be at peace. Even after they grasp a prize, or attain some power, or receive some recognition --- it is a hollow victory, and they are left wanting more.
Solomon tells us in these verses to go one step further -- do not desire their company.  Remember how he told us that the friends we choose will influence us? For good, or for bad....and we don't want to begin to think like the wicked, nor to talk like them.


David, Solomon's father, spoke these words in the first Psalm:
Blessed is the one
    who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
    or sit in the company of mockers,  but whose delight is in the law of the Lord,
    and who meditates on his law day and night.
That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
    which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither—
    whatever they do prospers. 

Do you see the progression there? Don't walk "in step" with the wicked, nor should we stand in the path sinners take, and be careful not to sit in the company of those who mock and scorn our Father. 
Instead, be planted in the streams of living water. That person is the one that will be blessed!

Have a safe and pleasant weekend, everyone!

2 comments:

  1. To be planted in the streams of living water...ahhh, how refreshing a picture is that?!

    I do admit, I sometimes wonder why some prosper while others struggle. I have to remind myself that what those folks have here on earth, is probably all they will ever have.
    I'd like to think I am setting aside my treasures in Heaven...

    Great week of posts Snoodles. Enjoy your weekend my friend!

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  2. I think there are times we all struggle with what others SEEM to have and we do without.

    There are many times I do think through struggles that it causes me to rely on Him. The verse that comes to mind is Philippines 4:11. ...for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances."

    I agree with Belinda! Thank you for a week of excellent posts. Have a great weekend.

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