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Parenting by the Book

Proverbs   Study
Study 264

STUDY 264

Text: Proverbs 24
16 July 2006

Dear Parents,

THE PROBLEM OF ENVY
The problem of “envy” afflicts every one. Both children and adults need to learn how to cope with “envy”. We have good advice in the following text.

Do not let your heart envy sinners,
But be zealous for the fear of the LORD all the day;
For surely there is a hereafter,
And your hope will not be cut off.

Proverbs 23:17-18

Do not be envious of evil men,
Nor desire to be with them;
For their heart devises violence,
And their lips talk of troublemaking.

Proverbs 24:1-2

1. The heart may be foolishly enticed to envy sinners

The human heart is capable of great foolishness. Being sinful and evil, it can end up being caught up with the wrong things.

2. The heart may be foolishly led to desire the company of evil men

The danger of walking down this pathway must have been so obvious that this was highlighted.

3. Clear and solemn words of warning

What is there about evil men that we end up admiring them or envying them? The following words of advice were given to highlight the danger of following after the ways of the wicked.

a) They devise violence.

b) They are fond of making trouble for others.

THERE IS A “HEREAFTER”
A special reason was added as to why the way of the wicked must be avoided at all cost. There is a “hereafter”.

a) The wicked will get their just rewards.

b) The hope of the righteous will be realized.

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie

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