There is a generation that curses its father, and does not bless its mother.
There is a generation that is pure in its own eyes, yet is not washed from its filthiness.
There is a generation—oh, how lofty are their eyes! And their eyelids are lifted up.
There is a generation whose teeth are like swords, and whose fangs are like knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men. (Proverbs 30:11-14, NKJV)
Do you have a favorite book of the Bible? I have several favorites, but Proverbs is definitely high on my list. I have a friend who for some strange reason does not enjoy reading Proverbs, and I question why. Doesn’t she realize that within its chapters we find the wisdom to address almost any situation we might face?
You may ask, “How can something written 3,000 years ago provide answers for 21st century living?” A lot—if we are willing to search out and apply its wisdom to the things we face today. The Book of Proverbs is more than just a collection of nice sayings or wise quotes to hang on the wall or use as a screensaver on our computers. Proverbs 1:5 (NLT) tell us:
“Let the wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser. Let those with understanding receive guidance.”
The words of wisdom found in Proverbs will provide valuable insights on how to live a godly life in an ungodly world. Its words are as relevant today as when written centuries ago. That’s why the above passage from Proverbs 30 caused me to pause and say, “Wow! That sounds just like this generation I live in.”
As we examine the four statements in Proverbs 30:11-14, we find they define four areas of sin that are prevalent today. They may have been written centuries before Christ, but we see these same problems in our culture today. God’s Word is not outdated.
The characteristics described in this passage show a basic disregard for God and one’s fellowman. I’m sure we can safely say that every generation, not just ours, has experienced this.
How do we keep our hearts free of such things?
In Luke chapter 10 a lawyer tried to trap Jesus by asking how to inherit eternal life. The Lord answered him:
“You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” (verse 27, NKJV)
It’s fundamental. Love God and love your fellowman.
Have you ever thought about the root cause of sin? I believe it can be summed up in one word: pride (conceit, self-love). We cannot love God with our whole being if our heart is already filled with self-love. Nor will we be able to love and respect our neighbor if our every desire is centered on self-promotion, even if it means pushing others aside in our quest for superiority.
Just as pride is the root cause of sin, humility is essential to gaining wisdom. The two are not compatible, and the choice is ours. Do we let pride rule our life or do we humble ourselves to gain wisdom? We cannot have both at once.
“When pride comes, then comes shame; but with the humble is wisdom.” (Proverbs 11:2, NKJV)
Lord, help me to keep my heart pure from arrogance, pride, and self-promotion. I realize that the only way to serve you wholeheartedly is to humble myself before You and seek Your perfect will for my life. If You see wrong desires and attitudes creeping into my heart, convict me and cleanse me. Help me to always put You first in my life.
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