“The poor man and the oppressor have this in common: The Lord gives light to the eyes of both.” Proverbs 29: 13
Everyone depends on God for sight. This proverb clearly tells us that God sees and judges both, and His judgment falls on greedy people, or when their obsession with power drives them to oppress the poor. This proverb reminds me of something Jesus said in reference to loving your enemies…
“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for he makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.” Matthew 5: 45
In this next proverb, Solomon speaks to parents. Again, I’m not a parent, but it doesn’t take a Super Nanny to realize that strong willed children most certainly can make parents weary of disciplining them- a parent can feel like nagging, scolding, and punishing is all they do. Solomon is encouraging you: when you’re tempted to give up and let your children do what they want, or when you wonder if you’ve ruined every chance for a loving relationship with them, remember that kind, firm correction helps them learn, and learning that way makes them wise. Consistent, loving discipline will ultimately teach them self-control and will teach them to discipline themselves…
“To discipline a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child.” Proverbs 29:15 (NLT)
“The rod and rebuke give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.” (NKJV)
The Proverbs are packed with much wisdom, guidance, and common sense. Maybe “common-sense” isn’t a good word because not everyone has it! How true this simple proverb is….
“When the wicked are in authority, sin flourishes, but the godly will live to see their downfall.” Proverbs 29: 16
The “wicked” are simply ungodly people. Look at America’s leaders. That’s all I will say about that. No political arguments please. The fact is that when wicked (ungodly) people are in leadership, sin prevails. In any organization, whether it be a church, a business, or even a family—the climate comes from the top. People become like their leaders. What kind of climate are you setting for those you lead?? Where there is ignorance or rejection of God, crime and sin run rampant. Public morality depends on the knowledge of God, but it also depends on keeping God’s laws. Having God’s Word means nothing if it’s not obeyed!
More to come on Proverb 29…
