Thought for the Day

Verse 10 - Those who remain upright shall have a good inheritance. Those who cause the righteous to go astray are warned that they will fall into their own pit. Those who peddle drugs and evil merchandise fall into this category. Offering cigarettes to children or teaching them to dishonor their parents is another example of causing the innocent to go astray. Men who exploit children by using them for pornography are in a class of unspeakable wickedness deserving death.

"And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!" (Matthew 18:5-7).

Verse 11 - Rich men can easily become conceited. Many think they are invincible, believing their money will buy them out of any situation. However, a poor person who follows God has a greater advantage than the rich man does. The Lord will give poor men who listen to Him the understanding and wisdom that they need to thwart the schemes of the wealthy. Evil men throughout the ages have used their money and power for selfish and wicked agendas. The Lord can strip positions and power from those who abuse them. "For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another" (Psalm 75:6-7).

Verse 12 - People openly rejoice under righteous leaders, knowing they are safe, but the wicked are cruel and vengeful. Any power that they gain will be used to damage, ruin, or even kill people who oppose them. Men hide themselves when wicked rulers are in charge, to protect themselves and their belongings.