What Matters Most?

Proverbs 21:17-31

“He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.” (Proverbs 21:17)

A person who devotes his life to pleasure will eventually go broke, spending more than he can afford, whether gambling, or on sex or other pursuits.  A person who loves the taste of wine or liquor, or of gourmet food will not be rich.   His expensive tastes cost more than he can afford.  

“The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, and the transgressor for the upright.” (Proverbs 21:18)

While they take advantage of those who do right, eventually the things they have taken will benefit the people they have taken advantage of.

“It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.” (Proverbs 21:19)

Once again we are reminded that it is better to be alone with nobody to talk to than stuck with a mate who is always angry and looking for an argument.

“There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up.” (Proverbs 21:20)

A wise person will have some things worth having, including some of the luxuries to enjoy.  He is not stuck with just the minimum to survive.  The foolish doesn’t save and thus is unable to have anything of much value or enjoy the luxuries.

“He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour.” (Proverbs 21:21).

A person who concentrates on doing what is right and is willing to forgive others is able to enjoy his life, doesn’t have to deal with a guilty conscience, and earns the respect of those around him.

“A wise man scaleth the city of the mighty, and casteth down the strength of the confidence thereof.” (Proverbs 21:22)

A wise man can figure out a way to get the victory over the strong, and destroy their confidence.

“Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.  Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.” (Proverbs 21:23-24)

The person who learns to control his tongue avoids a lot of problems.    The person who uses his anger and threats to get his way is an arrogant fool.

“The desire of the slothful killeth him; for his hands refuse to labour.  He coveteth greedily all the day long: but the righteous giveth and spareth not.” (Proverbs 21:25-26)

The lazy man wants just as much and sometimes more than other people, but he refuses to do anything to earn it.  As a result he becomes increasingly despondent and bitter.   A righteous man has something to share with others because he has made the effort to earn it.

“The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination: how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?” (Proverbs 21:27)

God knows that the wicked only offered a sacrifice in an attempt to buy him off, and is not an indicator of genuine sorrow.  He hates the very effort.    He hates it even worse when they use such sacrifices to fool others into trusting them. 

“A false witness shall perish: but the man that heareth speaketh constantly.” (Proverbs 21:28)

A person who lies about others will be destroyed, but a person who respects and obeys God’s law tells the truth.

“A wicked man hardeneth his face: but as for the upright, he directeth his way.” (Proverbs 21:29)

A wicked man just gets stubborn and determined to have his own way.  A good person will allow God to direct what he should do.

“There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the LORD.” (Proverbs 21:30)

There is no one who can tell how to get the victory over God.  Don’t waste your time listening to those who think they can outsmart or defeat him.  Satan has been trying for thousands of years without success.

“The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD.” (Proverbs 21:31)

A horse can give an advantage in battle, and be invaluable if one is forced to flee, but he cannot protect one from everything that happens.    Only God is able to protect one completely.