May 6, 2014

Character assessment is essential in life. It must begin with self, but it also is vital in determining who are friends and close associates will be. Fact is, we become like those we associate with. 

Proverbs 10 is a side-by-side comparison of the foolish person and the wise. Hopefully we’ll most closely identify with the qualities of the wise as we consider the list. If not, this passage serves as a great guide to direct us to essential changes. 

So, let’s consider a summary of the qualities of the wise: honest (verse 2), hard-working (verse 4), respectful of the opportunity of the moment (verse 5), teachable (verse 8), character integrity (verse 9), correctable (verse 17). By far, the quality most often mentioned in this passage is that of wise words and speech. A wise person blesses others with his words, and weighs them carefully (verse 19). By contrast, the unwise person is called “a babbling fool” (verse 8 & 10). The words of a wise person are literally life-giving (verse 11). They spring from love (verse 12), and from a storehouse of knowledge (verse 14). 

A wise person is characterizes by work ethic and integrity, but ultimately by his/her words. Walk is validated or invalidated by speech. And, few things are as difficult to manage as our words (James 3.7-8). Our minds must be regularly and thoroughly saturated with God’s word, and our tongues under control of Holy Spirit. 

Proverbs 10 is designed to be words to the wise. A wise person will carefully consider the qualities listed, and prayerfully and carefully seek to implement them. And, a wise person will surround himself with those who desire to do the same.

May we live wisely and righteously for our Father, and His Son, this day and every day.

©Steve Taylor, 2014
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