This chapter continues the wise sayings of Solomon, and one of the main themes contrasts righteousness from wickedness.
“No one is established by wickedness, but the root of the righteous will never be moved. The thoughts of the righteous are just; the counsels of the wicked are deceitful. Whoever is wicked covets the spoil of evildoers, but the root of the righteous bears fruit. An evil man is ensnared by the transgression of his lips, but the righteous escapes from trouble. One who is righteous is a guide to his neighbor, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.” (v3, 5, 12-13, 26)
Righteousness has a few meanings in scripture, though it is roughly defined as ‘the quality of being right in the eyes of God’ and ‘ethical behavior in alignment with God’s moral will’. Wickedness would be the opposite: ‘being sinful in the eyes of God’ and ‘unethical behavior against God’s moral will’.
Scripture is clear that (with the exception of Adam and Eve) we were all born into sin and wickedness. We are at odds with God’s moral will by default. Yet, God gave us ‘the law’, and later sent Jesus to make us righteous in His eyes (to pay for our sin and cleanse us of wickedness).
Unfortunately for us, this battle between righteousness and wickedness is not a one-time struggle. By accepting Jesus as our Lord and savior we are not automatically free from all sin and temptation. Temptations will continue daily for the rest of our lives. Satan will never give up trying to tear us away from God by dangling ‘forbidden fruit’ in front of our eyes.
This is a major reason why a close personal relationship with God is crucial – to help us remain on the paths of righteousness, and help us get back on track when we do stray. I encourage us to pursue righteousness daily – if we let righteous pursuits slip one day, and then another, it can easily spiral out of control. Every minute of every day we need to fight the default pursuit of sin, relying on God to help us (He wants us to succeed at being righteous, so He’ll gladly help us).
Father God, our Righteous and Forgiving Lord, we praise You for the countless blessings and opportunities You provide. Please continue to gently and lovingly keep us on the paths of righteousness. May we speak and act in ways that glorify You, and may we be a positive influence on others. In the name of Jesus our redeemer we thank You, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training