“Penalties are prepared for mockers, and beatings for the backs of fools.”

Years ago, about 90% of murders were solved. In recent years, that rate has dropped to around 50%. You would think that with all the technology and tools available to law enforcement, the number would have actually improved—but it hasn’t. For an omniscient and omnipotent God, however, the clearance rate is 100%—in every area. We don’t call them crimes; we call them sin. And every single one will be accounted for by the sinner. In this verse Solomon reminds us that scorning God’s wisdom and rejecting His truth puts a person in a dangerous place. The idea that anyone can escape the penalties awaiting sinners is foolish at best and eternally dangerous at worst. It is firmly established: we will not get away with our sin. Mocking God and living foolishly or unwisely—this verse is talking about ignoring Him and choosing a life of defiance. The result is not only separation here, but separation throughout eternity. Yet, as the gospel writers and Paul remind us, we don’t have to suffer that fate. We are guilty of mocking and turning our backs on God. Any honest appraisal of a person’s life reveals this truth. But the unimaginable beauty is that God offers to pay the penalty so we don’t have to. I’m not telling you anything you don’t already know, but perhaps this serves as a reminder to reflect on and celebrate the fact that we’ve been redeemed, bought back, and set free. The penalty has been satisfied through the sacrifice given on our behalf—God gave His Son. Today, let’s live like it. #BeTheEdge

“For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.” 1 Peter 3:18a NIV