Proverbs 22:1-29
22:1 It is more important that we work to become good people than rich people. That statement seems simple but to actually live it out means sometimes to deny opportunities or make sacrifices we would rather not.
22:2 All the diversity in the world comes from the same origin: God. Despite our lot in life, we are connected through Him.
22:3 God teaches us to be prudent enough to notice bad situations and subsequently avoid them (and the consequences they cause).
22:4 Through humility God is able to truly enrich our lives. A humble spirit is able to learn, learn and grow. And as we listen, learn and grow we follow God directly into blessing.
22:5 Unrighteousness is a path with many dangers and fears and faults. But those who guard their soul with faith are far from that turbulent path.
22:6 Raise children well and they grow into righteous adults.
22:7 It's better not to be indebted it anybody.
22:8 We reap what we sow; to sow iniquity is to cause it for ourselves.
22:9 It is good to be generous, to be generous is to love and assist God's children (and our own generosity is returned to us).
22:10 A disagreeable (contentious) person can ruin the atmosphere of an entire place.
22:11 A pure heart and graceful temperament is pleasing to God.
22:12 God is vigilant over our lives and preserves those who pursue knowledge (that is: the righteous and wise way of life). But unrighteousness (ignorance, corruption, deceit) is overthrown.
22:13 A lazy person always thinks of an excuse as to why they cannot be productive.
22:14 Immorality is reached through uncontrolled temptation and it is a deep pit.
22:15 As children (and even adults) we have much to learn; tough-love discipline is good to help us grow as righteous individuals.
22:16 Those who oppress people in order to have power and wealth will be destroyed by God.
22:17-21 Be attentive to instruction from God. Instruction from God is pleasant and productive. We must apply our ears, eyes, hearts and souls to growing and emulating our righteous, compassionate God. God teaches true and excellent things; and through our relationship with Him we learn to trust Him as we live.
22:22-23 Do not take advantage of people. God will always take the side of the oppressed.
22:24-25 We need not develop relationships with angry, contentious people. Their behavior is a bad influence on us. We are charged to love all people and assist them when they need assistance, but we do not need to socialize, trust or befriend people who will harm us with their negativity.
22:26-27 Be careful not to become indebted beyond your means.
22:28 Keep righteous traditions.
22:29 Endeavor to excel at what you do; when we focus our energy and effort on developing and mastering the gifts God has given us, we will be brought to grand opportunities.
