“Evildoers foster rebellion against God; the messenger of death will be sent against them.”

I’m a pretty optimistic guy. My kids will tell you that at times I’m a little too optimistic—so much so that it would drive them nuts. So overall, I’m an optimistic guy. When I read Proverbs, I find myself longing for some of the motivational posters or success banners I saw earlier in my career in offices around the country. They tended to be very positive, upbeat messages—encouraging even. But Proverbs, or rather Solomon, sometimes feels more like some of the coaches I had over the years. His motivation is found in making us aware of the negative side of bad behavior or unwise decisions. Thankfully, many of the Proverbs give us the negative side of a behavior followed immediately by the positive result of proper behavior and thinking. I had a pastor who used to say some people see the light and others feel the heat in coming to Christ. I confess I was one of those who felt the heat and realized I needed a Savior to escape an eternity without God. Solomon speaks to the optimist and the pessimist. He speaks to all of us, reminding us of the fate of those who are disobedient to God as well as the blessing for those who wisely listen to and follow Him. This verse very clearly tells us what happens to those who practice evil ways. It is not pretty, and in and of itself should be enough to keep us off that path. A life turned over to God through His Son Jesus can truly be lived every moment of every day with the greatest of optimism. Today let wisdom lead you. #BeTheEdge

“Send me your light and your faithful care, let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell.” Psalms‬ ‭43‬:‭3‬ ‭NIV‬‬