Thoughts From Proverbs 11

Proverbs 11:1

A false balance is an abomination to the Lord,
But a just weight is His delight.

The study of theology has been a lifelong task for me.  In this study of theology, the pursuit of Biblical Ethics has always been of special interest to me.  This began in Bible College, was an assigned subject in Seminary, and continues to be present in this year-long commitment to Proverbs.  This year has left me in wonder at how little serious attention is given to Proverbs by those whose specialty is Ethics.  There is no place better suited to study practical righteousness than Wisdom Literature, particularly Proverbs.  It can well be said that the Proverbs are the practical application of the Law.

In 11:1 the basis of all acceptable conduct with God is stated.  Cheating, no matter how minor, is hated in God’s sight.  The fuel pump that is short, the thumb on the scale in the meat market, the bale of hay that is loose, or the blind horse are all crooked at the point of sale.  Deception in order to cheat the buyer and benefit the seller may be ever so minor but the intent to defraud is measured by that intent, not the greatness of exchange.  And it is at that point that God hates the deed and the doer.