Take the “High”way

Take the “High”way

As we continue in Proverbs 15 we read a few more contrasts between two different kinds of people.  Let’s read verses 18-21 and think about them for a minute: 

A wrathful man stirs up strife,
But he who is slow to anger allays contention.  19  The way of the lazy man is like a hedge of thorns,
But the way of the upright is a highway.  20 A wise son makes a father glad,
But a foolish man despises his mother.  21 Folly is joy to him who is destitute of discernment,
But a man of understanding walks uprightly.  

Vs 18:  An angry or wrathful person is someone who seems to like conflict and strife.  It just seems to surround them.  They are like the character “Pigpen” from the Charlie Brown comic strip.  Pigpen was always surrounded by a cloud of dust wherever he went.  However, someone who is slow to anger, decreases contention.  Which one of these are you?

Vs 19:  The lazy man just seems to have a hard time getting anywhere, as if his way is obstructed by a hedge of thorns.  Of course, this lazy person is his own worst enemy.  His is contrasted with the “upright” whose way is a highway.  Now, when Proverbs says “highway”, don’t think I-80 but think a well worn path for travel.

Vs 20:  Proverbs is full of comments on parent/child relationships.  Parents really do derive both pleasure and grief from their children, especially when those children are grown.  If you receive gladness from your children, be very thankful and please pray for those you know who are on the other side of that fence.

Vs 21:  If someone lacks discernment, then they are likely to mistake folly for joy.  They will take something wrong and think it is right.  Of course in the long run this is not a good strategy.  Rather, someone who has understanding will walk “uprightly”, following the counsel of God.  A great way to get discernment is to read the word of God and spend time with His people.  They will help you to see the folly of your way and point you to a path of real joy.

In wisdom,
Eric

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