Just and wicked

Just and wicked

(Verses 21, 26 and 28 in chapter 12 of Proverbs are clubbed together).

There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief (Pro.12:21).

No evil shall happen to the just. When the just turn into the wicked by turning away from righteousness, evil things befall them. The wicked shall be filled with mischief. If some evil thing happens to you, you should examine your life closely whether you have deviated from the path of righteousness at any stage. You might have made some unfounded allegation against someone out of hatred. You might have rejoiced in the fall of someone who you did not like.

Let us not become wicked even for a short time or under certain circumstances. Whatever we sow, we have to reap it unless we realise our mistake and repent of the same.

The righteous is more excellent than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked seduceth them (Pro.12:26).

A righteous stands aloof and is distinct from others around him. He or she has excellent spirit. But the way of a wicked person seduces his or her neighbors or those around him or her. One who seduces others by deceitful or evil means is wicked. Even if a righteous person indulges in deceit or evil means, he becomes wicked. His or her past righteousness will never erase his or present record of wickedness.

In the way of righteousness is life; and in the pathway thereof there is no death (Pro.12:28).

There is life abundant in the way of righteousness. If you are righteous, you have life eternal and there is no spiritual death, though physical death is inevitable. A Christian does not have his or her own righteousness but the righteousness of Christ imputed to him/her.

Next......Prudent man and hand of the diligent