Proverbs 17 - 10.11.23

Scripture

Proverbs 17:9 - Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.

Observation

“The real lesson of Proverbs 17:9 is much richer than just an encouragement for us to forgive others and refrain from gossip – it teaches how Christians should live their lives. Simply put: Everything a Christian does should be driven and motivated by love.”

(Jordan Iacobucci, Insights into Life)

Application

We can break this verse down into two parts:

1. Fostering love covers an offense

2. Repeating the matter separates close friends

The first part is something I have been trying to work on. When I perceive an offense, I am trying to remember to: 1) Assume good intentions – maybe I misunderstood, maybe it wasn’t meant the way I took it; and 2) Allow time for God to work on my heart and attitude so that can I respond in a loving way. Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath …” and I have been able to see that happen a few times recently!

I need to also to work on the second part of the verse. I frequently feel the need to share my story with someone. I justify it – if I can get it out, it will help me to move on. But I need to learn to pour it out to God instead of the people around me.  

Prayer

God, I want to be someone whose every thought and action is motivated in love. Thank you for the work you are doing on my heart. Thank you for forgiving me when I fail. Thank you for loving me and teaching me to learn to love others.

- Debbie Dunn