Some truths for today from Proverbs 21.
Proverbs 21:2 – Every way (or, path, journey, pattern of life) of a man is right (or, just, straight, upright, correct, ethically or morally pleasing) in his own eyes, but (contrast) the LORD weighs (or, measures, ponders, tests, or prove. It describes God’s weighing action as a process of moral evaluation) the hearts.
Regarding sacrifices (or our outward acts of worship):
Proverbs 21:3 – To do righteousness (or, blameless conduct, integrity, right actions and attitudes) and justice (or, making a right, correct judgment) is more acceptable (or, to choose, elect, decide. It denotes a choice which is based on a thorough examination and not on a knee-jerk, arbitrary whim) to the LORD than sacrifice (or, that given to God).
In other words, God’s choice is for us to act and live like Him rather than trying to buy Him off with our gifts and sacrifices.
Proverbs 21:27 – The sacrifice (or, that given to God) of the wicked (or, guilty, wrong, transgressor, criminal) is an abomination (or, worthless, unclean, disgusting, offensive); how much more when he brings it with wicked intent (or, mind, plan, device, mischievous purpose, lewdness)!
And one more, that seems to sum up the entire chapter:
Proverbs 21:30 – There is no wisdom (or, experience, skill, shrewdness) or understanding (or, insight, intelligence) or counsel (or, advice, plan, purpose, plot) against the LORD.
And why is that? Remember the rhetorical questions of 1 Corinthians 1:20: Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the disputer of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?
Yes He has. And do you know why? It’s because, as Psalm 115:3 clearly states: “Our God is in His heavens, and He does what He pleases.” Did you catch that last phrase? It says, He (God) does what He (God) pleases. He is God. And the pseudo wise and self-inflated of our age are not.
And it shows.
