The book of Proverbs in the Bible is a collection of wise sayings for us to learn and put into practice. Proverbs chapter 11 has 31 sayings covering a wide range of topics that contrast right and wrong and good and evil. The sayings address honesty, pride, gossip, keeping secrets, being kind, family relationships, and use of our money. Many of these sayings have promises attached to them such as:
If you do the right thing, honesty will be your guide. But if you are crooked, you will be trapped by your own dishonesty. Dishonest people use gossip to destroy their neighbors; good people are protected by their own good sense. Kindness is rewarded—but if you are cruel, you hurt yourself. Try hard to do right, and you will win friends; go looking for trouble, and you will find it. (Proverbs 11:3, 9, 17, 27 CEV)
These are helpful descriptions of the behavioural choices we make and the positive or negative results that come from our actions.
Close to the end of the chapter is a sentence that encourages us to live right by reminding us that if we choose to do the right thing, we not only find the life we long to have but will have a positive influence on others as well.
Live right, and you will eat from the life-giving tree. And if you act wisely, others will follow. (Proverbs 11:30 CEV)
In recovery groups, we talk about carrying the message to others and sharing our experience, strength, and hope with them. Too often we think this is all about the words we speak. While it is important and helpful to attend meetings and share our story with others, these wise sayings from Proverbs suggest that an especially powerful way to carry the message to others is to live well and do what is right in God’s eyes. It is certainly a way to live the “attraction rather than promotion” principle.
Prayer: Loving God, Help me to carry the message to others by practicing Your principles in all my affairs. Help me to live honestly and with kindness and transparency before You and others, praying only for the knowledge of Your will and the power to carry it out. Amen
Audio for CARRYING THE MESSAGE BY ACTING WISELY
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