The Pilgrim Path---Proverbs 3: 31 – 35 

Do not envy a man of violence and do not choose any of his ways, for the devious person is an abomination to the LORD, but the upright are in his confidence.

The LORD’S curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the dwelling of the righteous.

Toward the scorners he is scornful, but to the humble he gives favor.

The wise will inherit honor, but fools get disgrace.

“THE HOUSE OF THE WICKED…”

A stark reminder for mid-January: no matter how well the wicked appear to be situated in this world---they will never make it---apart from the God-Man Jesus Christ. The LORD God Almighty has pronounced a “curse” upon his house. Across the overarching portal to eternity will be, not “Welcome”---but, “Doomed”---for all the wicked…

The word for “wicked” in the original simply conveys the idea of being contrary to the character and attitude of God. That captures us ALL--- apart from Jesus the LORD. Yet, to remain unrepentant---to remain without the One who given for transgression (Isaiah 53: 6), is to have your “own” sin upon your head before the Holy God forever. Thanks be to the Father for the unspeakable GIFT of His Son for sinners!

The glory of the Gospel---the righteousness of Jesus Christ may be yours, by running “from” your sin in brokenness---to Jesus in child-like faith---saying, “My LORD and My GOD!”

---Look long in this ole world: do not be jealous of “wicked” souls or their “wicked” methods---ALL will give account before the Judgment Seat of Christ…NO one will talk their way out of anything…OR lie their way past the LORD of Glory---Look long…

---Look for Christ-like souls to follow / leave the “devious” as role models to the damned…

---Look up: those who belong to the LORD are upon His heart—v. 32, 33

---Learning to “look long” will make you wise---and remind you “real” honor is ahead—v. 35

---Learn to pray for the wicked around you---fear for “their” eternity…

---Lead the “wicked” as you can---with the WORD of truth---even if they scorn (sometimes they turn to the light by the work of the Spirit).

From John Duncan: It is a terrible thought that a man might be left to the agony of his own reminiscence forever.

From John Bunyan: How terrible to be an infinite distance from God! Who knows the power of God’s wrath, the weight of sin, the torments that will swallow up the soul, and the length of eternity, when cast away from God? O what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

From Stephen Charnock: Happiness depends upon the presence of God, with whom believers shall be forever present.

Grace and Peace in Jesus, the Only Redeemer of broken and wretched souls, Pastor Jason