Proverbs 21:18-20 - Homilies By E. Johnson

Alternatives presented to choice

I. THE JUST AND UPRIGHT , THE FAITHLESS AND WICKED LIFE . ( Proverbs 21:18 .) It occurs in many cases that the Divine wrath in judgment turns aside from the just man to roll upon the head of the sinner. See this in a natural light in Isaiah 43:3 , and in the great Christian light of redemption ( 2 Corinthians 5:21 ; 1 Peter 3:18 ). Christ became as sin, or in the place of the sinner, for us. We must not, however, confuse the evident meaning of the text, which is that in critical moments of calamity the faithful minority appear to escape unscathed; and the lesson that righteousness alone is safe.

II. SOLITUDE OR UNPLEASANT SOCIETY . ( Isaiah 43:19 ; see on Isaiah 43:9 .)

III. WISE STORING OR FOOLISH SQUANDERING . ( Isaiah 43:20 .) Thrift and economy give meetness to every home enjoyment they purchase. Waste is without zest, and brings positive dishonor.—J.