Proverbs 20:4-6 (ESV)
4 The sluggard does not plow in the autumn;
he will seek at harvest and have nothing.
5 The purpose in a man’s heart is like deep water,
but a man of understanding will draw it out.
6 Many a man proclaims his own steadfast love,
but a faithful man who can find?
In autumn, the ancient farmer needed to work hard, plowing his field early to yield a harvest and supply his household with food. The lazy farmer avoided the dirty work of turning up soil long before seeds could be planted. He didn’t want to sweat, but he still expected to enjoy the fruit of someone else’s labor. The deceitful woman buries self-seeking motives in her heart, thinking none will see why she does what she does. But the wise woman can discern the schemes of the phony. Someone may boast about her loyalty, but when the rubber meets the road, it’s all about her. What a blessing it is to find a genuine friend who sticks by your side! Do you have a friend like that? If not, determine to be kind to others today. You never know who may end up being faithful to you in return.