Civic vice and virtue

New Guest: Like this one, most posts are devotional; those related to CAR BIZ can be found by searching for that title. You might start with 'Welcome,' the first post in the archives, dated November 12, 2008, where I introduce myself and the blog.

Friday, September 25, 2009
Devotions: Proverbs 28
The wicked flee when no one pursues them, but the righteous are bold as a lion. A sinful country suffers under many leaders, but with a leader of understanding and knowledge it rests in stability. A poor man who himself oppresses the poor is like a deluge that leaves no food for the people. Scofflaws praise the wicked, but law abiding citizens work against wickedness. Evil people cannot understand justice; those who seek YHWH understand it completely. Better a poor man walking in integrity than a rich man with perverse ways. One who keeps the law is a wise son; a companion of gluttons shames his father. One who builds wealth through usury is gathering for one who is kind to the poor. If one turns from heeding the law, even his prayers are an abomination. One who misleads the upright into evil will fall into his own pit; the blameless will have a good inheritance. A rich man is wise in his own eyes, but a poor man who has understanding will outdo him. When the righteous triumph, there is great glory; when the wicked ascend, people hide themselves. One who hides his sins cannot prosper; but one who confessions and forsakes them will obtain mercy. Blessed is one who always fears YHWH; but the hardhearted will fall into calamity. Like a raging beast is a wicked ruler over poor people. Rulers who lack understanding are cruel oppressors, but one who hates unjust gains will enjoy a long, prosperous life. One who carries bloodguilt for murder should be a fugitive till he dies; let no one help him. One who walks in integrity will be delivered, but one who is perverse will fall into a pit. One who tends to his work will have plenty of bread, but whoever follows worthless pursuits will have plenty of poverty. A faithful man abounds in blessings; one who hurries after riches will be punished. It is wrong to show partiality, but hungry people will do anything to get food. A miser clutches for wealth; he doesn’t know that poverty will seize him. One who speaks an honest rebuke is favored over a fawning flatterer. Whoever robs his parents and claims to be virtuous is companion to one who destroys. The greedy stir up strife but one who trusts God will be enriched. Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool; but one who walks in wisdom will be delivered. Whoever gives to the poor will not be in want; but one who hides from truth and light will receive many curses. When the wicked arise, men hide; but when the wicked perish, the righteous increase!