Proverbs 21

^"4 Haughty eyes and a proud heart, 
   the lamp of the wicked, are sin!"

The wicked place themselves on a pedestal; pride is overwhelmingly present in their hearts. I find it interesting that Solomon refers to these characteristics as a lamp, an object lit by fire. We often see images in the Bible of our hearts being on fire for God, our passion burning brilliantly. This fire here, however, is of hell and of sin. Such fire scorches and fatally wounds those on the path of righteous. Long story short: stay away from the wicked.

^"15 When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous 
   but terror to evildoers."

Justice! Living out and outwardly expressing the Kingdom of God! Having His will be done here on this earth is something to rejoice in! The victories of justice instill not mere fear, but terror into the hearts of the wicked. The work of God is powerful and unconquerable! Take that evildoers!

^"16 Whoever strays from the path of prudence 
   comes to rest in the company of the dead."

Stay on the righteous path. Do not go astray. To do so leads you straight into your grave. The image that verse instilled in my mind was powerful.

^"21 Whoever pursues righteousness and love 
   finds life, prosperity and honor."

Adopt a heart that reflects that of God. Then you shall truly live, and you will do so in true virtue. Follow the teachings of the Lord, and love unceasingly.

^"30 There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan 
   that can succeed against the LORD."

No power can stand against that of God, for any force in relation to Him is in fact powerless. His will is supreme, His teachings are unfaltering, and His plan is pre-destined. We can stand firm knowing that our Father is on our side. With Him we will not stumble. 

"And if our God is for us, then who could ever stop us? And if our God is with us, then what could stand against?"