Daily Meditations on the Bible / We stand with Israel
Those who are kind benefit themselves,
but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.
Summary: Solomon has a pithy way of summarizing important truths. We do not live in a vacuum and our actions and words are never without consequence for ourselves as well as those around us.
Continue reading “Proverbs 11:17 — Reflections”
A kindhearted woman gains honor,
but ruthless men gain only wealth.
Summary: Kindness isn’t normally listed as a ‘superpower’ in the comics, but in real life, it is a very important one.
Continue reading “Proverbs 11:16 — Superpower”
“You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” – Jesus
Continue reading “John 14:14 — Prayers for the Bard”
Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer,
but whoever refuses to shake hands in pledge is safe.
Summary: People who ask you to put up money or security for something are in a different class than those who are simply looking for help.
Continue reading “Proverbs 11:15 — Creeps”
For lack of guidance a nation falls,
but victory is won through many advisers.
Summary: A timely proverb for our day. Nations, like people, sometimes lose their way and fall into disrepute. Our nation is in danger of going down this path.
Continue reading “Proverbs 11:14 — Guidance System”
A gossip betrays a confidence,
but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.
Summary: Do we take gossips seriously? Paul suggests that we should take it at least as seriously as murder. How we do that depends on a proper understanding of the Greek word, krino, meaning “to judge.”
Continue reading “Proverbs 11:13 — The Righteous Judge”
Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense,
Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense,
but the one who has understanding holds their tongue.
Continue reading “Proverbs 11:12 — Neighbors” 
Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted,
but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed.
Summary: Today’s passage provides an opportunity for a real-world application of what Solomon has been teaching us.
Continue reading “Proverbs 11:11 — Two Cities”
When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices;
when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy.
Summary: The Bible offers examples of many types of righteousness. Understanding the differences between the various types helps us better understand the Bible.
Continue reading “Proverbs 11:10 — Rightography”
With their mouths the godless destroy their neighbors,
but through knowledge the righteous escape.
Summary: What was true in Solomon’s time is still true today. Especially when it comes to the deeds of the godless.
Continue reading “Proverbs 11:9 — A War of Words”