Proverbs chapter 24

vs 1

Why do we envy the wicked? Why do we desire their company? Is it the risk, that Don Miller talks about, that we desire? That excitement that we want in the stories of our lives? In any case, our desires shouldn't lead us that way. Just because you want excitement doesn't mean you should pursue wickedness.

vs 2

When you boil down their actions, and it comes to this, why would you want to hang out with them? Why envy them? It boggles the mind.

vs 3

Of course, we know that physically you can't build a house without some knowledge of engineering principles and such. But I actually think that you will find you also can't build one without the cash to put up walls, and wisdom is pretty darn useful for that.

vs 4

And for this too. Although I suppose some rare and interesting treasures come from travel, friendships, general living of life. I guess some people treasure photo albums, for example.

vs 5

Apparently wisdom defeats city walls and armies, so the strength of the wise is pretty strong already. When they start hording and gathering it, that's going to be mighty.

vs 6

We've heard this before, but now we see just how important it is to gather a brain trust when facing big problems like war.

vs 7

Ha! I wonder if this was ever enforced. Probably more by social pressure than guys with sticks.

vs 8

Well, yes they will. They are scheming after all.

vs 9

So scheming is sinful, and people don't like those who are mockers. I think we've heard this before, but it's now a saying with a number.

vs 10

That's when strength is measured - when it needs to be used in a time of trouble and need. That's just how it is.

vs 11

So does this mean we should fight the death penalty? Or perhaps we shouldn't rescue them, only those being killed unfairly? The truth is the verse isn't that picky.

vs 12

Worth considering, that. God knows what we know. He knows our heart, and how we perceive things. When we didn't help someone, how will he look at that? I think I might have to donate some money to Haiti.