Day 161 – Proverbs 22-24

Talking Points

• We cannot build our homes apart from God’s Truth. There is no replacement. No alternative. Our marriages, our kids, our daily life choices must be grounded in and flourishing on the Word of God. “By wisdom a house is built” (24:3).
• Why would we envy sinners? (23:17) Whether the stars from TV or our neighbors down the street, why would we think their lives, devoid of God, are attractive? Why would we think they are somehow getting a better deal and enjoying life more fully? Believer, be sure. God’s way truly is the best way to live!
• Our associations matter. God warns us of associating with the foolish, the divisive, and those given to sin. He also tells us the blessing of Godly people.

Thoughts

I hear a phrase frequently these days — “loving our neighbors well.” It is generally spoken by well-meaning people looking to do a good thing. It is perceived as a great kindness to others, an action held in highest esteem by the culture. It seems many are the people who want to love their neighbor well.

As followers of Christ, we are commanded to love our neighbors. So, what does that really mean? Does it involve great acts of kindness? Is it being an advocate of social justice? Does it include accepting and tolerating opposing viewpoints? Is it considering the protection of your neighbors’ health and well-being as a duty of the culture? How do we love our neighbor well?

While there are surely several expressions of this ideal, the Biblical truth for believers is clear. To honestly and truly love your neighbor is to lead them to the Savior, Jesus. Every other expression of love will not matter at all if they live and die having missed Jesus. And, so, every other expression of love should be with the goal to present people with the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is the truest love, one that looks like Jesus, to share Christ with those who are around us. The Bible says they are hurting, suffering, literally “staggering” to death (24:11). The Bible implores us, “Oh hold them back” (24:11).

Lord, help us be considerate, kind, generous, and gracious to those around us. Help us, of all people, to love our neighbors well. Most of all, help us be loving enough to tell them of Jesus, mighty to save!