Always in Control

Fret not yourself because of evildoers. – Proverbs 24:19

A commentary on today’s verse says, “Sin pays its servants very bad wages, for it gives them the very reverse of what is promised.” Many times it appears that the rewards of the world go to the one who does evil. But the Word of God is clear: The wealth or notoriety they have now is all they can expect to get; their portion is only in this life (Psalm 17:14).

Those who love righteousness and those who love sin will always be at odds with each other… the second group endeavoring to injure the first either in an active way or very subtly. They are cowardly and so will tell lies as they seek to ruin someone’s character, or they will secretly scheme to remove a person from the position he holds. But in the end, they will have no true happiness.

Don’t envy their prosperity. Don’t let the grief they cause worry or upset in you. Though you may experience unpleasant and disagreeable times beyond your control, do not agonize or become uneasy. God is good and wise and always in control. Remember that “the lamp of the wicked will be put out” in God’s timing (Proverbs 24:20). Therefore, God’s word to you is “Fret not!” (Proverbs 24:19). 

You are called to a life of integrity; embrace God’s Word and guidance. Never be content with just the well-being of your own family, but seek justice in as wide a swath as possible. Then pray for those who lead, that they not be led by sin, but by the wisdom of God. Stay loyal to God and wait patiently for Him to work.

Today’s Verse: Proverbs 24:19

Fret not yourself because of evildoers,
    and be not envious of the wicked,

All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Recommended for further reading: Isaiah 54:15-17

If anyone stirs up strife,
    it is not from me;
whoever stirs up strife with you
    shall fall because of you.
16 Behold, I have created the smith
    who blows the fire of coals
    and produces a weapon for its purpose.
I have also created the ravager to destroy;
17 no weapon that is fashioned against you shall succeed,
   and you shall refute every tongue that rises against you in judgment.
This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord
    and their vindication from me, declares the Lord.”

All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.


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