Deeper Reflection
Proverbs falls into a genre called “wisdom literature”. Hence, it is
not a collection of commands that we unthinkingly obey, nor of
ironclad “promises” that certain blessings will come to us if we
behave in particular ways. Rather, the book of Proverbs is a collection of
reflections on life (in biblical times) and principles, that gives us the skill
to live a flourishing and full life today.In verses 8 to 14 and Proverbs 14:24-35, righteousness is described in very
practical terms. Righteousness is ethical ‒ it is about moral behaviour
– and relational – how one deals with neighbours. Righteousness can
also be understood from a national perspective – a righteous nation
that carries its affairs well and looks after its people is a wise nation,
and is blessed by God. Verse 11 tells us that a nation is blessed by the
uprightness of its inhabitants.As Christians, we promote the welfare of Singapore by living righteously.
This means looking out for the needs of others around us, loving
those who are weak and suffering, and living by God’s moral compass.
Righteous living will sometimes require us to discern through God’s
wisdom how to apply Scriptural principles to ambiguous situations and
thereby decide on the best course of action. But as we commit to living
righteously by the power of God’s Spirit, we will be a bright city on hill
and shine like stars which stand out against the darkness of night.“Commit your way to the LORD;
trust in Him, and He will act.
He will bring forth your righteousness as light,
and your justice as the noonday.”
Psalm 37:5-6 (ESV)
