The book of Proverbs has so much timely wisdom. Many of the proverbs are presented as the opposite of what pop culture promotes. Nowhere is this more stark than chapters 10-15.
In these six chapters, nearly every verse uses the conjunction BUT to set apart God’s way from the world’s way. In fact, I counted 144 BUTs in these chapters. Clearly there is a lifestyle that God blesses, and a lifestyle that God rejects.
I would encourage you to read these proverbs for yourself, but let me give you just a taste of what I’m talking about. In chapter 10, the BUTs show us that doing things God’s way leads to:
- Joy
- Eternal treasure
- Honor
- Blessing
- Strength
- Security
- Peace
- Unity
- Wisdom
And doing things the world’s way leads to:
- Grief
- Worthless things
- Disgrace
- Rot
- Ruin
- Insecurity
- Violence
- Dissension
- Foolishness
Or consider the proverbs about our vocabulary from chapter 12:
- Wicked words are out for blood, BUT upright words rescue (v. 6).
- Sinful talk ensnares, BUT righteous conversation avoids trouble (v. 13).
- Truthful words build an honest reputation, BUT a false witness is never trustworthy (v. 17).
- Reckless words wound, BUT wise words heal (v. 18).
- Lies are short-lived, BUT the truth wins out (v. 19).
- God detests lies, BUT He takes delight in those who are truthful (v. 22).
Take some time to study the BUTs in these chapters, and then comment below on what you find.
Craig T. Owens 