To do evil is like sport to a fool, but a man of understanding has wisdom. The fear of the wicked will come upon him, and the desire of the righteous will be granted. When the whirlwind passes by, the wicked is no more, but the righteous has an everlasting foundation. As vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so is the lazy man to those who send him. Proverbs 10:23-26
Evil: wickedness in act
Understanding: the faculty, discernment
Wisdom: skillful, wisely, wit
Fear: terror, affright
Desire: a longing, lusting
Granted: to give, bestow
Whirlwind: that makes an end; judgments
Everlasting: indefinite futurity, with preposition for ever, always
Lazy: indolent, sluggard; (slothful and unprofitable servant)
As I read that first phrase, "to do evil is like a sport to a fool" it made me think of the riots and chaos we've seen in the news lately. Those taking part think stealing, burning down buildings, etc. is a sport. It's great fun. Sadly, they pay no attention to the consequences of their actions—people lose their merchandise, income, buildings, and livelihoods. All that is happening is destroying their very own communities. And soon they are left with nothing.
The next phrase that caught my attention was, "but the righteous has an everlasting foundation". I like the definition of "everlasting": indefinite futurity. What a great security that is! Wisdom provides a foundation that is not only rock solid—but is indefinite futurity!
As we look at what is happening in the world. The chaos and killings. No matter what happens, the righteous know that they have an indefinite futurity in Christ. Their foundation is rock solid and will last forever.
An indefinite futurity foundation begins with a heart permitted with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG). And as one learns and applies wisdom that foundation only gets stronger!
Indefinite futurity!
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