Here are some great gems of wisdom for us today from Proverbs 25 (from the Message Bible translation):
Vs. 2. God delights in concealing things; scientists delight in discovering things.
The world is full of mystery, hidden by God. He delights in those who seek him and the truths embedded in his amazing world. Have you settled and become content with what you currently know? We are called to be seekers and explorers. There's more!
Vs.6-7. Don't work yourself into the spotlight; don't push your way into the place of prominence. It's better to be promoted to a place of honor than face humiliation by being demoted.
Ah, such a counter-cultural tid-bit of wisdom, especially in a world where everyone is busy marketing themselves and being their own PR company. Promotion and influence aren't something we should go after or pursue. They are a by-product of a life lived well … before God and people.
Vs.8. Don't jump to conclusions – there may be a perfectly good explanation for what you just saw.
Come on, we all know we have strong leg muscles … from jumping to conclusions so frequently! Slow down. Listen. Look carefully before passing judgment.
Vs.13. Reliable friends who do what they say are like cool drinks in sweltering heat – refreshing.
Being a person of your word is a foundational character quality to develop and maintain.
Vs.14. Like billowing clouds that bring no rain is the person who talks big but never produces.
Ah, the gregarious sales person - promises you the world and delivers nothing. Better to under-promise and over-deliver than the other way around.
Vs.16. When you're given a box of candy, don't gulp it all down; eat too much chocolate and you'll make yourself sick.
I love chocolate, especially Tim Tams, and could eat an entire packet in one go. Developing the art of self-control and being able to say 'enough' rather than 'just one more' is a character development challenge for me. You?
Vs.21-22. If you see your enemy hungry, go buy him lunch; if he's thirsty, bring him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness, and God will look after you.
Who's been a bit cool or mean to you lately? Take up the challenge and go out of your way to do something nice for them today. That's the Christian way. Watch the impact.