May 24th, 2026
Scripture – “These also are sayings of the wise: To show partiality in judging is not good: Whoever says to the guilty, “You are innocent,” will be cursed by peoples and denounced by nations. But it will go well with those who convict the guilty, and rich blessing will come on them.”
Proverbs 24:23-25 NIV
Observation – God says it is an evil thing to let a guilty man go free and he says that he will bless those who convict the guilty and punish those who let them go free.
Application – If all guilty people are condemned where does compassion and grace fit into God’s plan. God disciplines and punishes people when they do wrong and he expects us, as his instruments of righteousness, to do the same. He also expects us to be like him in how we forgive and restore people who repent and ask for mercy. This is why Jesus came. We are all guilty and deserve and have earned eternal punishment. Through Jesus death as payment for humanities sins we can be forgiven and shown mercy by God. He will then set our feet on a new path so that we can live a holy life that pleases him. Jesus’ death satisfies both God’s justice and his mercy. We can emulate God when we convict the guilty and forgive them when they repent.
Prayer – Lord, convicting the guilty is difficult. We either feel bad because it hurts the person or we feel good, not because it is just, but because we don’t like the person and want to see them suffer. Give us pure hearts to carry out your will for your glory. Amen.
What are you doing? Do it better 