PODCAST
Wise Words or Worldly Wisdom?
June 23rd, 2017
Proverbs 16:18-27
Wise King Solomon was an early creator of the memes: those short sayings that we find everywhere on social networking sites. The book of Proverbs is his collection of pithy and insightful comments on how to live a life pleasing to God. Since there was no internet in his day, perhaps Solomon was writing bumper stickers for the chariots and carts cruising the cobbled streets near his palace!
If Proverbs 16:18 were made into a bumper sticker or a meme, it would no doubt receive mixed reviews. Some might claim it’s too harsh to say “Pride goes before destruction.” We are raised to believe in ourselves and to take pride in our skills and accomplishments. Others may cheer that those who think too highly of themselves would be knocked off their pedestal.
God inspired Solomon to write those words, and the following verses continue the theme. Using phrases like “a lowly spirit,” “heeding instruction,” and “using gracious words,” we learn a strong point: though the world may waver on what is right and wrong, God’s Word is the authority on living a life pleasing to Him.
Author: Curtiss A. Hartley
