Right relationships

Today, let’s take a look at Proverbs 11. There is a repeated focus in this chapter on righteousness, which I learned today is a biblical word meaning “right relationship.” Hmmm, isn’t that interesting?

Life is full of relationships. In fact, it’s probably one of the largest parts of life: relationships with others and even more importantly, our relationship with God. So, with that in perspective, how are those relationships doing? Are they in good standing? Wisdom speaks in chapter 11, and it has much to say about this.

“When pride comes, then comes disgrace,
    but with the humble is wisdom.” Proverbs 11:2

A wise person is a humble person, and humility is an incredible ingredient to a great relationship.

“The righteousness of the blameless keeps his way straight,
    but the wicked falls by his own wickedness.” Proverbs 11:5

There are those straight paths again! Right relationship leads to straight paths in life.

“When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices,
    and when the wicked perish there are shouts of gladness.” Proverbs 11:10

Wow! Notice that? The same response (rejoicing) to two very different things! People want to be around people who live right.

“Whoever belittles his neighbor lacks sense,
    but a man of understanding remains silent.” Proverbs 11:12

Wisdom makes a great neighbor. Do you?

“One gives freely, yet grows all the richer;
    another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.” Proverbs 11:24

Interesting. Generosity only welcomes more blessing. Greed invites want. To be generous is to be wise. People love generous people.

Just in this one chapter, we are given much to consider on how we live and lead our lives. Are we viewed as someone whom others want to be around? Is our company high on other people’s priority lists? What makes us a desirable person? Righteousness does. Right relationships do.

Choose wisdom today, my friends. A wise walk is the best walk.