Proverbs 16:26-33 – Mischief Makers
Verse 26 – A Christian should hunger for God; he should want to serve God, to honour God, to love God. This is the motivation that drives him on – that in everything he does, he brings glory to God. Do you have this hunger?
Verses 27-30 – These verses paint a graphic picture of men given over to their wickedness, used by Satan to stir up trouble wherever they go. They are singleminded and tireless in their efforts to do mischief. The tongue is usually their main tool. Jealousy, arguments, coldness, and hatred are all stirred up. If they don’t lie outright, they whisper in words plain enough to be understood, misinterpreting, exaggerating, guessing, and telling stories as fact. The gossip spreads like wildfire destroying homes, churches, and relationships. How can we stop this evil? By guarding our own tongues, watching our own speech, and not giving in to the persuasions of those who want us to sin.
Verse 31 – Those who are elderly are to be respected. They have seen much and know much. But how much more should those who have lived lives of faithful, loving obedience to God be honoured. They are an example to us. And how sad are those who have lived long lives without trusting in Christ as their Saviour, thinking that they are ok, with no awareness of their sin and no turning to Christ for salvation.
Verse 32 – God’s values are different from the world’s. A man who is putting sin to death and growing in Christlikeness is the man God is pleased with.
Verse 33 – We just finished studying Esther, and here is a proverb that illustrates that book. Give thanks for a God who controls all things.
Questions
- How can we stop evil men from working mischief?
- How can we grow in patience and self-control?
Prayer Points
- Pray for the preaching and hearing of God’s Word tomorrow.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.