In the book of Proverbs Solomon said, “Wisdom rests in the heart of him that has understanding: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known”, and in chapter fourteen and verse thirty-four of Proverbs Solomon said, “righteousness exalts a nation” where we read,
Righteousness exalts a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.
The verse begins, “Righteousness exalts a nation:” Solomon began with the word, “righteousness” or “justice, truthfulness, justification, salvation and prosperity” “exalts a nation” which means “raises up, makes lofty and sets on high a group of people”. Solomon shared how a group of people are set on high when they conduct themselves according to truthfulness, justice and prosperity.
The verse goes on to say, “but sin is a reproach to any people.” Solomon continued with the words, “but sin” or “however, notwithstanding, nevertheless and moreover missing the mark, offense, error and wrong” “is a reproach” which means “exists as a shame and pity” “to any people” or “toward any community or people”. Solomon said error, wrong and missing the mark exists as a shame to any group or community of people.
When we consider Solomon's words in this verse, we discover how a group of people are elevated, and how they are brought to shame. Every “nation” that determines to live in a just and right manner will be lifted up, however, if the group of people are “sinful” and worthy of punishment, they shall receive of the same. God wants us to align with His “righteousness”, and we are to avoid sin as a “nation”. God sent His Only Begotten Son Jesus into the world to die on the cross for the sins of every “nation” and people, and when we yield our lives to Him, He will forgive our sins, grant us everlasting life and keep us from being put to shame for our wicked behavior.
Next time Solomon says, “the king's favor is toward a wise servant”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.
Until tomorrow…there is more…
See more devotionals on the website "thewordfortodaywithray.com" or look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” and the new poetry book "Random Mushrooms Volumes I and II" and the new novel "Elizabeth County" in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore. All references are from "Strongs Concordance".
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