Builders or Destroyers - Proverbs 14

Builders or Destroyers

God has called us to be builders:

Proverbs 14

1 The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.

Builders have certain characteristics.

2 He whose walk is upright fears the LORD , but he whose ways are devious despises him.

B = Basis for Life (foundation). We must start with a solid foundation for our lives.

3 A fool's talk brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise protect them.

U = Use of Tools - Words are useful and necessary tools in building toward our goals.

4 Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but from the strength of an ox comes an abundant harvest.

I = Investment - Wise builders invest wisely in their growth. The ox pulls the plow that grows the wheat that is placed in the manger for him to eat which gives him strength to plow.

5 A truthful witness does not deceive, but a false witness pours out lies.

L= Line (Plumbline - Truth) Truth, like good measurements in construction, is necessary for building. Deception guarantees a faulty porject.

6 The mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the discerning.

D = Discernment of Truth - The wise builder can read the plans and read the present reality in view of the vision for the finished product.

Builders are never cynical. Destroyers most always are.

7 Stay away from a foolish man, for you will not find knowledge on his lips.

E = Exercise Discretion in the area of personal associations. Builders surround themselves with builders and have little time for detractors and laggards.

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception. 9 Fools mock at making amends for sin, but goodwill is found among the upright.

R = Responsibility - Builders are people who take personal responsibility for their actions and correct them when they are wrong. Builders have no times for pointing fingers or making excuses because they know there is something to be built.