I came across this passage from Proverbs this morning while working through Bert Sims Bible reading plan for 2009. Of course all of the verses are precious but this one just cried out to me.
“Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, But those who keep the law strive with them.” (Proverbs 28:4)Given our present culture this verse speaks volumes. So many of our neighbors have forsaken God’s law and God’s plan for their lives. It may be that some are fully satisfied with their accomplishments and their wealth. Perhaps they no longer need God. They have wandered far from the Creator and his blessed son. But notice that Solomon says these people actually praise the wicked! When was the last time you heard someone praising the exploits of a cultural icon? Maybe you have heard about Tom Cruise in his new movie “Valkyrie.” Cruise is the poster child for the Scientology movement which many consider a cult. Why praise someone so far from Jehovah? Cruise is but on example and there are many many more.
Paul had much to say about those who support the unrighteous. In Romans 1:32 he pens, “and although they know the ordinance of God, that those who practice such things are worthy of death, they not only do the same, but also give hearty approval to those who practice them” (emphasis mine).
But Solomon is not content to simply rebuke those who forsake, he also reminds the faithful to oppose the wicked. We mustn’t be content to sit back and watch evil we ought do something about it! Perhaps it is the time for Christians to rise up and stand for what is true.
Your comments are always welcomed.
