Our scripture this morning is (Proverbs 29:25-26 NLT).
Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety. Many seek the ruler’s favor, but justice comes from the Lord.
These two Proverbs are related, telling us the Lord is our ultimate protector and judge. It warns against the human security the world offers because it is changeable and temporary. God is permanent and eternal.
Human justice is often unjust because we can be unfairly influenced by appearances or what we believe are other people’s motives. God judges us fairly, but offers His mercy to those who choose repentance and reconnection with Him. He is the only ruler whose favor we should seek.
The trap this speaks of is allowing the world to frighten us into changing our behavior. Jesus tells us “Dear friends, don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot do any more to you after that” (Luke 12:4). God’s love for us is everlasting and when we trust Him, we can be part of what He is doing in the world.
Loving Lord, we are sorry for the times we haven’t listened to Your call: “Do not be afraid!” Help us to share Your love with confidence, telling the Good News to everyone. Amen.
