Proverbs 11 - The Righteous And Wicked Compared Series

1. Those who seek to do good in the world get themselves beloved both with God and man.

2. Those that seek to do mischief are preparing ruin for themselves.

28 He who trusts in his riches will fall, But the righteous will flourish like the green leaf. Proverbs 11:28 (NASB)

As leaves in autumn, which are withered and dry is he who puts his trust in riches. It is not your bank account that will save you. But if your true riches are stored in heaven you will be alive and green – full of leaves and laden with fruit. Where are your riches stored? The Bible says:

"Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord And whose trust is the Lord. For he will be like a tree planted by the water, That extends its roots by a stream And will not fear when the heat comes; But its leaves will be green, And it will not be anxious in a year of drought Nor cease to yield fruit.” Jeremiah 17:7-8 (NASB)

29 He who troubles his own house will inherit wind, And the foolish will be servant to the wisehearted. Proverbs 11:29 (NASB)

One of the greatest resources God gives us is the family. Families provide acceptance, encouragement, guidance, and counsel. Bringing trouble on your family – is foolish because you cut yourself off from all they provide. Families should strive to help each other. They should strive for healing, communication, and understanding. Our homes should be our sanctuary.

30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, And he who is wise wins souls. Proverbs 11:30 (NASB)

A wise person is a model of a meaningful life. They are like a tree that attracts people to its shade. A wise person's sense of purpose attracts others who want to know how they, too, can find meaning. Gaining wisdom yourself can be the first step in leading people to God. We are all pilgrims on a journey – make sure the path you are on leads to God and be willing to point others in that direction.

31 If the righteous will be rewarded in the earth, How much more the wicked and the sinner! Proverbs 11:31 (NASB)

Contrary to popular opinion, no one sins and gets away with it. The righteous are rewarded for their faith; the wicked are punished for their sins. Don't think for a moment that "it won't matter" or "nobody will know" or "we won't get caught". God always knows – no sin can be hidden. There will be a day when all will stand before the King of kings and Lord of lords and there will be a judgment. The Bible says:

“For the time has come for the judging, starting with the church of God; but if it makes a start with us, what will be the end of those who are not under the rule of God? And if it is hard for even the good man to get salvation, what chance has the man without religion or the sinner?” 1 Peter 4:17-18 (BBE)