Proverbs 14:34: Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.
Insight
History is but the perpetual illustration of what is here declared. Nations, like individuals, are judged according to their ways. No country has prospered long that forsook the path of national righteousness. When pride and vanity, coupled with greed and cruelty, have been in the ascendant, the hour of humbling was not far away. Israel will ever be the great object-lesson for all people. When the word of God was esteemed, and His will honored, they prospered. When sin and neglect of God triumphed, they became a reproach. He was right who said, “Israel is the pillar of salt to the nations, crying to all people, ‘Remember!’ ” 1
Application
The book of Judges concludes with this very revealing verse in 21:25 “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” – Please awaken your soul to this truth: When Jesus is no longer the King in your life, you will be willing to do whatever you desire, and then you will completely justify it because the King is no longer on the throne in your heart. Take time right now and remember once again His saving work and His indwelling presence. Yield to His Lordship.
Motivation
Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful. Matthew 13:22
When we choose our way instead of His way, our destination is that of predictable destruction. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Father, please help me to remember You, and to forsake the world.
1. Ironside, H. A. (1908). Notes on the Book of Proverbs. Neptune, NJ: Loizeaux Bros.