September 24, 2024
Humility -- Part 2
Proverbs 25:7-10
09/24/2024
7b What your eyes have seen
8 do not hastily bring into court, for what will you
do in the end, when your neighbor puts you to
shame?
9 Argue your case with your neighbor himself, and do
not reveal another's secret,
10 lest he who hears you bring shame upon you, and
your ill repute have no end. (ESV)
King Solomon had a lot to say about humility and how that
affects our relationship with our neighbor.
What your eyes have seen do not hastily bring into
court, for what will you do in the end, when your
neighbor puts you to shame? Argue your case with your
neighbor himself, and do not reveal another's secret,
lest he who hears you bring shame upon you, and your
ill repute have no end.
How fitting Solomon's words in today's cancel culture. If a
person acts or says something which if found offensive, they are
not given a chance to privately repent, but are immediately
ostracized, boycotted, shunned, fired, or assaulted on social
media or other public venues. Even if the actions or words were
done decades earlier, there is no chance for redemption.
How does Solomon suggest we deal with offense? He says what
Jesus later said, deal privately with the matter to preserve each
party's reputation and standing. The person complaining also has
reasons to be canceled, so no one comes out the winner. Rather,
love your neighbor, show respect, and work out differences
privately. This seems like wise advice from the wisest man who
ever lived.
May our Lord grant us the wisdom to love our neighbor by
showing them respect. Amen.