Proverbs 12:26-28 (ESV)
26 One who is righteous is a guide to his neighbor,
but the way of the wicked leads them astray.
27 Whoever is slothful will not roast his game,
but the diligent man will get precious wealth.
28 In the path of righteousness is life,
and in its pathway there is no death.
Solomon begins by reminding us that “one who is righteous is a guide to his neighbor.” The Hebrew verb translated “guide” is tur, meaning to seek out, spy out, or show the way by leading. The word translated “neighbor” is rea, often referring to someone close, a companion or friend. Some translations even render the verse, “the righteous chooses his friends carefully.” Either way, the point is clear. Godly friendships are critical. A righteous friend guides others both by words and by example. She is trustworthy with your weaknesses and careful with your confidence.
In contrast, “the way of the wicked leads them astray.” The Hebrew verb translated “lead astray” is taah, meaning to mislead, deceive, or cause someone to wander from the proper path. By their words and by their example, wicked people pull others away from wisdom and truth. The foolish often surround themselves with people who simply affirm them rather than lovingly challenge them. They confide in almost anyone without exercising discernment or seeking sound counsel because they do not truly desire correction.
Solomon then turns to the sluggard. “Whoever is slothful will not roast his game.” Either the lazy man was too lazy to catch the animal in the first place, or he actually caught or received it and was still too lazy to cook it. He never enjoys what was available to him. Like wisdom itself, the provision is nearby and possibly abundant, but the slothful person is uninterested. She simply wants to relax and chill out.
“In contrast, the diligent man will get precious wealth.” The diligent person takes what has been entrusted to him and uses it faithfully. He works hard, follows through, and eventually enjoys the fruit of his labor. The diligent woman does not quit but keeps going even when things aren’t easy. She is the kind of person who begins well and finishes well, trusting that God sees every act of faithfulness.
Finally, true life, wholeness, joy, and peace are found only in walking with God. Those whom God has made righteous through faith in Christ will never be separated from him. Though physical death still comes, eternal death has no claim over the believer. Life does not end for the righteous but continues forever in the presence of God. Consider your friendships, your work ethic, and your spiritual direction carefully. Do any of these reveal that you have delayed getting right with God? If so, resist his Spirit no longer. Turn to Christ today and find in him the Savior and friend who will never leave you nor forsake you.