Proverbs 29

Proverbs 29. Verse 8 says, “Mockers stir up a city, but wise men turn away anger”. As Pastor Rusty said yesterday, many times in our lives there are opportunities to be a part of the problem or part of the solution. As this verse states, mockers (cynics) can upset a whole city, but wise men can calm them down. It also works that way in our personal lives. How many times have people come to talk with you to complain and, instead of being wise, you say things that help fuel their anger? Then they get you “all worked up” too, where the next thing you know, you are out there helping spread the negativity, stirring up the whole town (household, school, church, etc.). I have done this too many times to count. Lord, please forgive me.

However, there have been times, when I refused to fuel the fire, and help that person see the “big picture”, that is, see the situation through others’ eyes. Wise words to quench the fire instead of fuel it. Most times, it would calm them; they would drop the issue (or at the very least, not drag me into it!).

It is times like this where we have an opportunity to be part of the problem or part of the solution. Do you find yourself in a constant state of disorder? As the person to whom people rush to help them get fuel for their “cause” and help them spread turmoil? Or are you the one they come to, to help them calm down and seek wisdom? Whichever situation you constantly find yourself in will tell you whether you are part of the problem or part of the solution.

Lord, please help me to be a part of the solution, not the problem; to act wisely and not cynically and not to fuel hatred but to bring peace. Help me to recognize these situations for what they are, opportunities, and do as You will, for Your glory. Rick