November 20, 2024 – Saved By Works?

Saved By Works?
November 20, 2024

DAILY PROVERB:

Proverbs 28:15-18
     As a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; so is a wicked ruler over the poor people. The prince that wanteth understanding is also a great oppressor: but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days. A man that doeth violence to the blood of any person shall flee to the pit; let no man stay him. Whoso walketh uprightly shall be saved: but he that is perverse in his ways shall fall at once.

OUTLOOK ON THE IN BOOK:

    In reading today’s verses, we can plainly see that Solomon was warning his son about the dangers of a sinful lifestyle. This way of living not only brings harm to the individual who commits such sinful deeds but can also erode the sanctity of a nation.

    In verse eighteen, there is a comment that many have mis-interpreted. It says, “Whoso walketh uprightly shall be saved:” Some have taken that to mean if they do good and live right, they are then saved from their sin and will go to heaven when they die. That would be a classic case of taking words out of context. The word “saved” used here does not refer to the salvation of the soul. Rather, Solomon was telling his lad that if he abstains from the sins of this world, he would also be saved from many of the daily failures of sin and the sorrows that accompany them. Reading the text before and after a verse will always help you understand its true meaning. The last part of this verse says, “he that is perverse in his ways shall fall at once.” Does this mean that as soon as a person commits a sin, they will be destroyed? No. However, if this statement is read in the context of others mentioned, such as the wicked ruler over the poor, the insecure prince, and the violent murderer who, in the eyes of those he leads or trusts, has fallen, then a person who is perverse in their ways will also fall.

    Salvation has always been about putting faith in Jesus Christ, in what He accomplished on the cross and through His empty tomb. No amount of good works can ever alter anyone’s eternal destiny.     

 

THE WORD WALKING IN ME:

     With that said, it is never a bad idea to do what is right. It garners the respect of others and serves as a powerful testament to the truth of the Bible. Live for today, but do so in a manner that honors and glorifies God and His Word.

How will you live your life for the Lord today?

IF YOU ARE JOURNALING:

Ask yourself, what are MY THOUGHTS concerning this Passage, and todays Devotion?

Do I find within this reading a CHALLENGE for my life?

What are one or two things I WILL DO today or this week to accept that CHALLENGE?

  

GOD TALKING TO ME: November 20, 2024

THROUGH THE BIBLE WITH A DAILY PROVERBS
  Acts 25 – Acts 28
  Proverbs 28:15 – 18

THROUGH THE BIBLE OLD & NEW TESTAMENT DAILY
  Ezekiel 21-23
  James 3