One of the many truths we read in this chapter is, "The Regression of a Nation."
- #1 - They Flaunt Sin - 14:9. One of the first steps in the downward spiral of sin is to mock, or flaunt sin. When we, as a nation, not only no longer view sin as sin, but actually mock those who stand for what is right, then we have begun the regression of a nation.
- #2 - They Follow Sinfulness - 14:12. Notice the phrasing of the verse: there is a way which SEEMETH right. When a nation begins to flaunt sin and sinful lifestyles, they will begin to make decisions and go in directions that seem right, but that is only because their vision is off. The evidence of this is when a nation begins to make and pass laws protecting sin and oppressing righteousness.
- #3 - They are Filled with Slander - 14:25. A nation that is in regression is a nation that is filled with deceitful men and women who are more worried about promoting their sinful way and not truth. A true witness is more worried about truth and right and not their own personal agenda.
- #4 - They make sure Folly is Saluted - 14:29. True national regression is seen in whom they exhalt. America is a perfect example of this folly. When actors and athletes are our heroes, and not parents and preachers (preachers are those who proclaim the Gospel, whether in a church behind a podium or in the streets and the home in a one-on-one conversation), we have truly regressed as a nation.
Which leads to Proverbs 14:34 Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people. If we would like for our country to once again be exalted, we must begin to exalt righteousness and no longer sin.
My desire is to be a faithful witness:
ReplyDeleteA faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies. [Proverbs 14:5 KJV]
The one verse we should all remember -- especially as we make decisions for our future -- is:
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. [Proverbs 14:12 KJV]
So often God's ways are not ours. We must spend time with His word and with Him in prayer to seek His way.
This is a very encouraging passage:
ReplyDeleteProverbs 14:26-27 In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge. The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.
Confidence and safety when I have the utmost respect to the Lord and His Word.
Proverbs 14:32 The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death.
The righteous has a confident expectation when they are ready to die - they know soon they will be in the presence of the Lord.
As time goes on I can see that we as a country have been moving in such a way that sinning is nothing anymore. But I am trying to follow the Lord the way he wants to to go.
ReplyDeletev. 29 "He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly."
ReplyDelete