Proverbs 20:6: Most men will proclaim each his own goodness, but who can find a faithful man?
Insight
This proverb shows its deceitfulness and pride. Lord, teach me to remember that what is highly valued by men is detested in your sight. Solomon, an accurate observer of human nature, exclaims almost in despondency, but a faithful man who can find? Who can find a guileless parent or adviser? Examine yourself closely. Look at yourself in the mirror of God’s Word. Does your neighbor or your friend find that you are a faithful friend? Do you often speak what you know will be accepted rather than what is true? Never underrate the importance of moral integrity. Never does godliness shine more brightly than when we are faithful in all things. 1
Application
In Luke 22:33, Peter responded to Jesus with self confidence and personal goodness: “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.” But in reality, Peter would deny ever knowing Jesus. He demonstrated the truth of this proverb. What are you doing to build the character quality of faithfulness into your life? Are you faithfully doing the small things with consistency and with integrity? Are you joyfully doing the things that you are never appreciated for? Do you make your boast in your achievements or in your Lord? Is being faithful more important that being popular?
Motivation
Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. Matthew 6:2
My opinion of myself is never a true measure of faithfulness. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Father, teach me more about You; Then teach more about being faithful to You.
1. Bridges, C. (2001). Proverbs. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
