but from the LORD comes the proper answer of the tongue.
2 People may think all their ways are pure,
but motives are weighed by the LORD.
3 Commit to the LORD whatever you do,
and he will establish your plans.
4 The LORD works out everything to its proper end—
even the wicked for a day of disaster.
5 The LORD detests all the proud of heart.
Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.
6 Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for;
through the fear of the LORD evil is avoided.
7 When the LORD takes pleasure in anyone's way,
he causes their enemies to make peace with them.
8 Better a little with righteousness
than much gain with injustice.
9 In their hearts human beings plan their course,
but the LORD establishes their steps.
10 The lips of a king speak as an oracle,
and his mouth does not betray justice.
11 Honest scales and balances belong to the LORD;
all the weights in the bag are of his making.
12 Kings detest wrongdoing,
for a throne is established through righteousness.
13 Kings take pleasure in honest lips;
they value persons who speak what is right.
14 A king's wrath is a messenger of death,
but the wise will appease it.
15 When a king's face brightens, it means life;
his favor is like a rain cloud in spring.
16 How much better to get wisdom than gold,
to get insight rather than silver!
Questions to consider:
- What part do (a) you and (b) God have in your plans?
- Can you explain verse 6? What does it mean for your life?
- Pick your favorite proverb and memorize it.
Possibilities for prayer:
“Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for;
through the fear of the LORD evil is avoided.”
I think this proverb is quite beautiful. Isn’t it kind of crazy to think that this was written long before Jesus had ever come into this world, and, through love and faithfulness, atones for our sins? It seems to me that God was making a promise perhaps even before it could be recognized as such. Today, let’s take some time to really thank God for the love and faithfulness that have atoned for our sins.
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