16 March Proverbs 11

Godly Ways

Proverbs 11 emphasises the contrast between righteousness and wickedness, illustrating how integrity leads to lasting blessings while deceit results in downfall. The chapter highlights the importance of honesty in business, the value of wise counsel, and the impact of one's actions on the community. It asserts that the generous will prosper and encourages a life marked by kindness and justice. Ultimately, Proverbs 11 teaches that the foundation of a fulfilling life lies in godly living and ethical conduct.

Continuing our exploration of the ways of the godly, Proverbs 11 further enriches our understanding of their character and impact. This chapter vividly contrasts the righteous and the wicked, emphasising the profound rewards of a life anchored in godliness.

Proverbs 11 (NLT): 5: "The godly are directed by honesty; the wicked fall beneath their load of sin." 8: "The godly are rescued from trouble, and it falls on the wicked instead." 10: "The whole city celebrates when the godly succeed; they shout for joy when the wicked die." 19: "Godly people find life; evil people find death." 23: "The godly can look forward to a reward, while the wicked can expect only judgment."

28: "Trust in your money and down you go! But the godly flourish like leaves in spring." Verse 19 resonates deeply: "Godly people find life." It reminds us that true life and purpose come from a relationship with God. Rick Warren eloquently states, “Without God, life has no purpose, and without purpose, life has no meaning. Without meaning, life has no significance… The Greatest Tragedy Is Not Death. The Greatest Tragedy Is To Live Without A Purpose.”

Godly Living A godly life is rooted in Jesus Christ. Colossians 1:16 (The Message) proclaims, “For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, rank after rank after rank of angels—everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him.”

Warren further emphasises, “It's not about you. The purpose of your life is far greater than your own personal fulfilment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness. It's far greater than your family, your career, or even your wildest dreams and ambitions. If you want to know why you were placed on this planet, you must begin with God. You were born by his purpose and for his purpose.”

Romans 11:36 (TLB) affirms, “Everything comes from God alone. Everything lives by his power, and everything is for his glory.” Similarly, Ephesians 2:10 (TLB) reminds us, “It is God himself who has made us what we are and given us new lives from Christ Jesus; and long ages ago, he planned that we should spend these lives in helping others.”

Today, let us remember that godly people find life in Jesus as their Lord and Savior. When God is at the centre of our lives, we are empowered to worship, and in His presence, we find purpose. Conversely, without Him, we may succumb to worry and despair. Embrace the life that God offers, and let it flourish within you.