The Highway Of The Upright Avoids Evil

How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!

The highway of the upright avoids evil; those who guard their ways preserve their lives.

Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.

Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.

Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.

The wise in heart are called discerning, and gracious words promote instruction.

Prudence is a fountain of life to the prudent, but folly brings punishment to fools.

Proverbs 16:16-22

Pride has a way of distorting how we see ourselves while humility offers a realistic perspective.

The writer of Proverbs said, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” Viewing ourselves in the mirror of self-importance reflects a distorted image. Self-elevation positions us for a fall.

The antidote to the poison of arrogance is true humility that comes from God. “Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.”

Jesus told His disciples, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave – just as he Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

There is nothing wrong with receiving accolades for achievement and success. The challenge is to stay focused on the One who calls us to follow Him saying, “for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

True humility comes from God.

Our Daily Bread – February 8, 2018