How does the Book of Proverbs advise the righteous to act appropriately in a sophisticated world?
Ministering in a Creative Access District is often perplexing. An intercultural worker has to be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves (Mat. 10:16). A follower of Christ has to be prudent in manifesting the righteousness and kindness upheld in the Bible.
Proverbs 14:8 portrays the righteous to be thoughtful in finding their virtuous path. They act sensibly with understanding and apply knowledge cautiously (Pro. 13:16, 14:8, 14:15). They avoid recklessness and keep their knowledge to their chest without showing off his advantageous merits (Pro. 12:23).
They trim their sail to the wind and seek refuge on detecting dangers (Pro. 22:3, 27:12). They assess the situation sagaciously to prevent destructive offense.
They learn from lessons, heed correction, and show prudence (Pro. 15:5). Admitting their constraints and sinful nature of human beings, they humbly follow good advice.
They endure humiliation on carrying out an important mission (Pro. 12:16). They act in low profile conservatively without exposing their anger. Solidly grounded in wisdom from above, they talk and manage with unyielding resources from the fountain of life (Pro. 16:21-22). No boastful words flow from their mouth. But their respectful heart protects them (Pro. 14:3). It is an honor for them to keep away from strife by handling situations with thoughtful insight (Pro. 20:3).
Such wisdom originating from the fear of the Lord (Pro. 1:7), is essential for intercultural workers to act prudently in a world full of complexities. People around them will be attracted to follow Christ as they admire the fruitful pragmatic applicability of the truth.
