Proverbs 14

Verse 7 - "Leave the presence of a fool, for there you do not meet words of knowledge."

This seems a bit harsh, and there is another time to be salt and light to those who need it.  But there is also a time to seek out more edifying company.  Jesus walks away from Jews disputing with Him several times.


Verse 9 - "Fools mock at the guilt offering, but the upright enjoy acceptance."

Many secular people don't understand or ridicule religion, as soothing weak minds.  They convince themselves that guilt isn't real, or can be dealt with by mindtricks, distraction, or action.  But what do we do with our real guilt before a holy God who made us?  The upright know to seek God's atonement and acceptance at the cross of Christ.


Verse 12 - "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death."

This verse reminds us we can deceive ourselves.  What we are doing seems right, but it has us headed for hell.  There are big scale examples of this, like the Islamic State beheading Christians, or Caiaphas convincing the Sanhedrin that it's better for one man (Jesus) to die for the nation than for them to lose their place.  But it's the little foxes that ruin the vineyard, often.  Be on the lookout for little things you're doing that seem right, but may be moving you away from the Lord, instead of toward Him.