Read Proverbs 18:1-12

Our focus this morning is upon Proverbs 18:10-12.

vs. 10 - "The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe." In Old Testament times, a strong tower was a fortress to which the local population could find refuge in times of war or invasion. Where do you run in a time of need?  Some never run to the Lord, some rarely run to the Lord, but the righteous run to and live under the Lord.  The point is that the name of the Lord is a place of strong refuge. Those truly righteous will make their refuge in the Lord and He will protect them. Notice Psalm 18:2, "The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower."

vs. 11 - "The rich man’s wealth is his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit." In contrast to the righteous who take refuge in the Lord, many of the rich of this world take refuge in their own wealth and conceit. One trusts in the Lord. The other trusts in his own resources. Those filled with a materialistic focus, think money is the solution to everything.  However, the outcome of our attitude is found in the next verse.

vs. 12 - "Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honor is humility."  Pride goes before destruction.  Those who trust in their own selves and their own resources are headed for a fall. Moreover, their fall is often complete destruction.  On the other hand, humility precedes honor. Pride grates and attracts no friends. Humility is universally accepted and honored. Pride repels. Humility attracts.

May the Lord be the One upon whom we depend!

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  What is meant by the righteous ‘runneth’ into the name of the Lord?

2.  What or who is the source of your strength and safety?

3.  Contrast the difference between someone who trusts in the Lord with someone who trusts in his wealth.

4.  What are the differing consequences of haughtiness and humility?  Which do you possess?