The Lord Tests the Hearts

Proverbs 17:1–9
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FB Meyer, a great English preacher struggled with jealousy when another great English preacher, G. Campbell Morgan, returned to England after being in America. Meyer said to some friends, “It was easy to pray for the success ... More

Unity

Harmony of a person’s relationship with others is to be desired over a bountiful supply of food (v. 1). Think of the children today who grow up in a home where there is continual strife and contention. Is it any wonder that many small children have ulcers and all kinds of emotional problems. There is no substitute for peace and tranquility in the home. A faithful servant is better than a rebellious son. In fact he may take the place of an unworthy son and receive his part of the inheritance (v. 2). Just as silver and gold are purified under intense heat, so a believer’s heart is purified by the heat of trials which the Lord brings (v. 3). The refiner of precious metals knows just what heat is necessary to purge away all dross (what you skim off the top) (See James 1:2-3 & I Peter 1:7). Troublemakers listen to troublemakers, and liars listen to liars (v. 4).

Any who rejoice over the misfortune of others are actually mocking God (v. 5). It may seem only natural to rejoice when a group you are in competition with suffers a loss and your group gets an advantage. But this verse is warning us against doing that. Older folk tend to find great joy in their grandchildren. Also children need to reverence their parents and honor them by showing respect (v. 6). This passage refers to various forms of injustice; such as lying, bribing, and gossiping (vv. 7-9). Excellent speech reveals an upright heart, but lying lips reveal the heart of a fool (v. 7). Solomon considers a gift given as a bribe (v. 8). At first glance this verse might appear to be encouraging bribery, but we know that it isn’t from other scripture (Prov. 15:27); Deut. 16:19); (Ex. 23:8). To “cover over a transgression” does not mean to take a light view of sin and let it go unrebuked. The warning in this verse is to the man who goes about peddling information gained in the confidentiality of such encounters (v. 9). Gossip hurts people and makes things worse.

Application

I need to pray for people in sister organizations that are doing the same type of ministry I am. Instead of ignoring them I need to be praying that they will have success.

Proverbs 17:1-9 (English Standard Version)

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