1 The proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel: 2 To know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, 3 to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity; 4 to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth— ~ Proverbs 1:1-4
Solomon, son of David, king of Israel, began his proverbs with these verses. He starts by saying doing what is right, just, and fair. The Scriptures say that a three-strand cord is not easily broken, and this three-strand cord should stand the test of time if we live our lives by it. Have you ever had to deal with a Christian at work that you just couldn’t trust? I know it’s an oxymoron to say something like that, but sometimes it is true.
Years ago, my wife had to deal with a certain man who professed to be a Christian, and he was high up in his church. The problem, however, was she could not trust his word. He would say one thing in the meetings and say something totally and completely opposite when he left. It was so bad that she began to get everything and every request from him in writing. That is terrible.
King Solomon said to do what is right. Speaking truth is always the right thing to do. People should always be able to depend on and trust your word. If you lose your good name, what do you have left?
Solomon also said to do what is just. Again, that means doing things correctly. We don’t take questionable shortcuts. We don’t do things on the sly. We act correctly and always seek perfection. We do things the correct and right way, not trying to get over on people. That is not the Christian way.
And finally, Solomon said to do what is fair. Not only fair for you but what is fair for both parties. People you interact with or do business with should always feel comfortable that you are not just looking out for your own self, and so they must scrutinize everything you say and do. There was a time when men were gentlemen. And you could conduct business with their word and a handshake. But these days, it seems like everyone is trying to get ahead at the expense of everyone else, and it does not matter who gets hurt or who loses.
Solomon indicated that if we followed these three things, we would gain understanding and insight because these are words of wisdom.
So, today, let us Christians seek to do what is right, no matter what, and do what is just, no matter what, and do what is fair, no matter what.
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You that You always do what is Right, Just, and Fair, no matter what. You are holy, loving, and kind. Help me to endeavor to be like You in Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.