Twin Peaks

The scripture for today is Proverbs 3:31

Proverbs 3:31 Do not envy the oppressor, and choose none of his ways.

Envy or covetousness, at any level, is a violation of God's commandment to us. It is especially onerous if it is directed at an oppressor, one who receives gain or satisfaction from inflicting distress. Oppression can take different forms. The most common of these is the oppression of the poor and unlearned. People who take advantage of others and oppress the poor are in peril of God’s judgment. “Fret not yourself because of evil men, neither be you envious at the wicked; For there shall be no reward to the evil man; the lamp of the wicked shall be put out.” Proverbs 24:19-20 “Fret not yourself because of evildoers, neither be you envious of the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Psalms 37:1-2

Those who oppress others set themselves in direct opposition to the will and word of God. Jesus, when responding to the rich young ruler, said to him, "One thing you lack: go your way, sell whatsoever you have, and give to the poor, and you shall have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.” Mark 10:21 Those who take up the cause of the less fortunate are blessed. Those who oppress them will meet the fate of the wicked. “I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.” Psalms 37:35-36

God made all of us to have fellowship with Him. Oppressing others is the denial of the fellowship with God that we were created to enjoy. Walking in the reverential fear of God precludes us from doing evil to anyone. Reverence for God leads us to love those whom He created for Himself. Those who follow in the footsteps of Christ will live a life cleansed of envy and every evil work. “Let not your heart envy sinners: but be in the fear of the LORD all the day long.” Proverbs 23:17

God bless you as you continue in His service.

Tim