Intro — Walking in Integrity
Today’s Reading — The Strength of Righteous Living
Scripture:
Proverbs 28
1 Wicked people run away when no one chases them, but those who live right are as brave as lions.
2 A lawless nation will have many leaders, but a sensible leader will restore law and order.
3 When someone poor takes advantage of the poor, it’s like a heavy rain that destroys the crops.
4 Lawbreakers praise criminals, but law‑abiding citizens always oppose them.
5 Evil people don’t understand justice, but those who follow the Lord understand completely.
6 It’s better to be poor and live right than to be rich and dishonest.
7 Obey the law, and you are a wise person; despise it, and you are a disgrace.
8 If you make money by charging too much interest, it will end up in the hands of someone who is kind to the poor.
9 God cannot stand the prayers of anyone who disobeys his Law.
10 If you trick an honest person into doing wrong, you will be the one to fall into your own trap.
11 Rich people always think they are wise, but a poor person who has insight can see right through them.
12 When good people become powerful, everyone celebrates, but when crooks are in control, people hide.
13 If you don’t confess your sins, you will be a failure. But God will be merciful if you confess your sins and give them up.
14 Always obey the Lord and you will be happy. If you are stubborn, you will be ruined.
15 A ruthless ruler is like a roaring lion or a charging bear.
16 A heartless leader is a fool, but anyone who refuses to be greedy will live a long time.
17 Don’t give help to murderers! Make them stay on the run for as long as they live.
18 Honesty will keep you safe, but everyone who is crooked will suddenly fall.
19 Work hard, and you will have plenty of food; waste time, and you will have lots of trouble.
20 God blesses his loyal people, but punishes all who want to get rich quick.
21 It isn’t right to be unfair, but some people can be bribed with only a piece of bread.
22 Don’t be greedy! You will end up poor if you try to get rich quick.
23 Honest correction is appreciated more than flattery.
24 Anyone who steals from parents and says, “It’s all right,” is no better than a common thief.
25 Selfish people cause trouble, but you will live a full life if you trust the Lord.
26 Only fools trust what they think alone, but if you live by wisdom, you will do all right.
27 Giving to the poor will keep you from poverty, but if you close your eyes to their needs, everyone will curse you.
28 When crooks are in control, everyone tries to hide, but when they lose power, good people are everywhere.
Reflection:
What step of honesty or obedience is God calling you to take today?