Proverbs 20:
In the first few verses we see more discussion on the mocker. He consumes large amounts of alcohol making his personality worse than it already was. Also, a mocker is someone that is always ready to get in a fight...according to verse 3. This chapter is really focusing on people of good character and people of evil character. People are not always what they seem to be and we must exercise discernment. Being discerning is not the same as being judgmental. However, we do great damage to God's church when we allow unworthy people to lead when they are not ready. We see in verse 10 (differing weights and differing measure--the Lord detests them both) that God hates dishonest scales. And verse 11 follows with the power of actions...we can talk the game but do we play the game? Verse 13 lets us know that some people are just lazy. Verse 18 shows the value of seeking advice before making major decisions. Verse 19 warns us not to reveal anything to a person that is known to gossip. Verse 21 warns us to be careful in dealing with someone that gained money too quickly or easily. Verse 27 is interesting...'the lamp of the Lord searches the spirit of a man; it searches out his inmost being.' The idea is that God breathed life into Adam and His light is like a lamp that searches the inner parts of man...meaning there are no secrets to be kept from God...He knows all. However, we don't...so, we must use discernment in dealing with people. Whenever we allow ourselves to be burned by people of bad character because we don't exercise discernment...it spells trouble. God doesn't want us to just go thru the motions in dealing with people. We have to be wise, think things through, stop rushing and seek helpful advice from others. God wants us to succeed in this life on earth.
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