Proverbs 12:3
“Man cannot be made secure through corruption...”
The phrase that jumps off the page at me in the first part of this particular proverb is the phrase, “…secure by corruption…” These two words are complete antonyms. Therefore, there cannot be any mutual benefit as a result of their connection. For a person to think that any kind of peace or security could somehow come from doing evil...is a person who has become somehow completely blinded to the truth.
Yet, in society we find that there are multitudes that have been deceived into thinking that somehow they can shelter their future through various means of corrupt activity. I believe that the basis of this deception is that people confuse having money, popularity, and things with the elements of peace and safety.
People sell drugs and become violent tyrants in order to supposedly secure themselves financially...only to see their children become addicted and sometimes killed in the related activities of this lifestyle. They take off their clothes in front of cameras for money...only to be filled with regret and shame....and as time moves forward they begin to look back with confusion trying to discover what true meaning and purpose their lives might possess.
Generations of people all over the world have been deceived by this kind of materialistic culture. Folks might secure wealth, a nice car or house...but it is impossible through these means to secure a marriage, children, health and peace. Do not be deceived. Security does not come by corrupt and evil behavior. There is only one recompense for this type of behavior...and it is a continual blanket of doubt, fear, and confusion.
Proverbs 21:31
The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety can only come from God.
For many centuries horses were considered signs of power, prestige, and wealth. King Solomon himself was the owner of approximately four thousand…and I bet they weren’t a bunch of worn out hags either. Everyone was sized up by how many horses he or she possessed, or did not possess. An army was considered powerful if it possessed horses. However, Solomon realized that horses cannot help in the fight against addictions, disease, family crisis, cultural conflict, nor the innate weakness of our own human character...no more than today’s wealth, power, or fame can.
It is imperative that our society begin to make a turn back towards the things that will secure their lives...the lives of their children...and those of many generations to come. If there is one thing that I want to convey to whoever might read this, is that there is a “place of safety”... "a refuge from the storm".
However, it is not something that can be obtained through some physical means...rather it is a place that can only be reached through a spiritual relationship with God. Find God through a relationship with his Son Jesus Christ…and you will find your place of safety…a sure refuge from any storm this world could ever throw your way...and when you find it...get a hold of all those you love most...and don't walk there...run there!
Psalms 46:1
God is our refuge and strength…An immediaate help in times trouble.