Trusting God

Proverb 28: 25      Amplified

An arrogant and greedy man stirs up strife, but he who trusts in the Lord will be blessed and prosper.

As we have learned, reading a verse from several translations often adds a deeper understanding of the message. This verse is actually a bit confusing when you do, but the Amplified version brings all the different readings together fairly well. Here is a link to several versions of this scripture.

Arrogance plays into this verse in two ways. First, people of pride and arrogance create tension and animosity within groups. They do not value the opinions or efforts of others. Thus, they create strife. Second, arrogant people look to themselves for answers; to their own thoughts and feelings rather than trusting the Lord for wisdom. Thus, because they lack Godly wisdom and push for answer arising from their own ambitions and ideas, they lead to greater strife and to failure.

Greedy people are self-serving and so serve their desires instead of the needs of the group, friends or family. In fact, greed can cause one to frustrate the purposes of others in favor of furthering their own lusts and ambitions. It is easy to see how this could create strife.

The Passion translation brings out another angle. It says that those who make hasty, rash decisions show their self-reliance. It is proof that one does not take the time to inquire of God, to seek His wisdom. Of course, this circles back around to arrogance. When we are quick to make a decision, we usually have not taken the time to ask our cohorts or our God for their wisdom and this shows how little we think of others’ opinions, even God’s. We have become the God of our lives and we are doomed to failure.

This verse applies to all facets of life, but I think it is particularly interesting when considering group dynamics and organizational efficiencies. No one likes a know-it-all and they cause tension within the group. Of course, surround yourself with humble hard-working people when it is within your power to do so, but if you have an arrogant or greedy person within your ranks, be sure to pray for them. Though they act arrogantly, their behaviors usually stem from a weak self-esteem. We all need prayer including the folks who are creating strife in your organization. Avoid the arrogant and greedy because their way leads to ruin and failure. Seek the Lord in all things and prosper.