August 27, 2017 (Proverbs 29:26)

“Many seek the ruler’s favor, but every man’s judgment comes from the LORD” (Prov 29:26). This is basically a continuation or additional commentary on the proverb of last week that “the fear of man brings a snare, but whosoever puts his trust in the LORD is kept safe” (29:25). Scripture tells us bluntly that man is born once to die and then to face judgment, and yet how frequently that statement written by the inspiration of Holy Spirit is ignored in everyday life. I fear there are many in the Church which is the body of Christ who spend far more thought and energy trying to curry favor from other people, be it one in authority at work, teacher, spiritual leader such as a pastor, or any from whom a benefit is desired than is spent seeking first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness as we are told by the Shepherd of our souls (Matthew 6:33). There is that time in the future which is often referred to as that Day what all will have to account for their lives. Judgment at that time will not be rendered by those from whom we often find ourselves seeking favor, but from a holy and righteousness God who has clearly revealed His will for our lives. We all do well to examine ourselves as Paul suggests to see whether our lives reflect the faith in God which our lips profess. Or are we better described as ‘people-pleasers’? Remember what the apostle said regarding himself: “For do I now persuade men, or God? For if I still try to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ” (Galatians 1:10).