F O O T H O L D

READING

41 GETTING ON WITH OTHERS

 

PRAY Improve my relationships with others as a result of reading your

word, loving Lord.

 

READ Proverbs 25:128.

 

THINK What, do you think, is the main point of this chapter?

 

FOCUS Four of today's sayings were taken up and amplified (or

emphasized) by Jesus in his teachings.

DON'T PROMOTE YOURSELF (6,7; see luke 14:711). King Solomon was

concerned with people at court, whereas Jesus chose the more

common setting of a wedding feast for his teaching. But the point

they make is exactly the same  those who push themselves are

liable to find themselves snubbed.

DON'T PROSECUTE YOUR NEIGHBOUR (8; see Matthew 5:25). On a purely

practical level it is unwise to take hasty action without

considering carefully all the evidence; you may be caught out!

But Christians have a much better motive than this for not rushing

to the lawyers; we are all sinners, and we all depend on God's

forgiveness. So we do better to forgive also.

DON'T PROCLAIM YOUR GRIEVANCES (9,10; see Matthew 5:4345).

Instead of complaining to the neighbours, talk to the person

concerned.

DON'T PROLONG YOUR ANXIETIES (21,22; see Matthew 5:4345). How are

we to treat our enemies (21)?

At first glance the reason for this seems rather dubious (22). But

the burning coals refer to the person's conscience, not to any

judgement upon him. Of course we must not use kindness to take

revenge! But the best weapon with which to confront your opponent

is love  that way you destroy the enmity not the enemy.

 

PRAY Are there any relationships that you need to put right? Pray about

them now and ask God to give you wisdom, humility and grace.

 

 


Index - Foot Hold in the Bible

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