High Noon Only Comes Once a Day

(Proverbs 16:14 KJV)  The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.

This tells us we are to “appease” (3722a) the powerful.  This at times may seem to be wimpy or compromising.  It goes against our nature as Americans.  We are supposed to be living like the marshal in High Noon. 

We need to understand the difference between a principle that applies most of the time and a hard rule that applies every time.  This is reminding us that we are not to go around as avenging angels taking on every whiff of corruption and selfishness.  There are times when I want to contest every word that comes out of an administrator’s mouth.  I want to argue about everything.  This is a slap down.  All I can say is, “Ouch!”

At the same time this is a principle.  There are going to be exceptions.  What we need is a heart listening to the Holy Spirit and wisdom.  I guess if you are “wise” (2450) enough you will recognize when we are to be the fly in the ointment and when to be oil on the water..

Remember Nathan before David.  Remember Peter before the Jewish leaders.  Remember Jesus and the Pharisees.  They spoke out in correction.  In doing so they risked “death” (4194).  We need to realize that there are times when we must be faithful more than “wise” (2450).

So?  Some things never change.  Study to be approved.  Listen to the voice of the Spirit.  Pray without ceasing.  And than, as a friend used to quote, “Either stand up or sit down, but above all, don’t wobble.”