Proverbs 3:31
|
Envy thou not the oppressor, and choose none of his ways.
|
Do not be jealous of those who appear to get ahead by taking advantage of others, for they shall soon be brought down (3:32-35). Do not use any of their manners or methods, for they are the tools of fools. Froward men - unreasonable and wicked men - are an abomination to God, but He will bless and favor good and righteous men (3:32-35).
Overbearing and presumptuous men may prosper for a while, until God and men turn on them and take back what they stole by their oppressive ways. Foolish men are easily seduced by the strong-arm tactics and apparent financial success of these tyrants. They are deceived into thinking such methods are manly and efficient - the way for the strong to survive and get ahead. But God inspired the rule here - do not envy such men (24:1).
Neither should you adopt their manners or methods. It is not enough to despise froward men; you must also reject any of their habits or practices. Sin will deceive you by justifying some of their ways, as long as you reject other of their ways. God and Solomon knew this temptation, so they also condemned choosing any of their devices or tactics.
What are the ways of an oppressor? They love to drive a hard bargain, paying less than they should, but charging more than they should (11:26; 20:14). A righteous man pays a fair price and charges a fair price, especially when the helpless or poor are involved. When it comes to charity, the oppressor neglects the poor and only gives a little grudgingly, but a good man gives generously and is rewarded for it (11:24-25; 29:7).
What are the ways of an oppressor? They are harsh and hard on animals, employees, and themselves. But noble and virtuous men are kind and merciful to all three (11:17; 12:10; 18:23; 29:21). The oppressor speaks sharply, critically, and much, wounding his hearers; but the wise man speaks his few words graciously, feeds men wisdom by his speech, and wins even the king's heart (10:21; 12:18; 15:2,28; 17:9; 22:11; Col 4:6).
What are the ways of an oppressor? They create strife, divide and conquer, look out for number one, and sow discord (6:14,19; 15:18; 16:28; 26:20-22). But godly men crave peace, work to keep it, and honor others (15:1; 19:11; Eph 4:3; Phil 2:1-5). An oppressor walks over a starving Lazarus going to a sumptuous table, but he ends up in hell (Luke 16:19-23)! A Diotrephes may cast men out of the church, but he will pay (III Jn 1:9-11).
What wisdom can you learn? Rather than envying oppressors of the world, whom God abhors, envy the righteous, with whom God shares His secret (3:32). Choose the ways of the godly and earn the favor of God and men (Ps 37:37; I Cor 4:16; 11:1; Phil 3:17; 4:9).
www.letgodbetrue.com
