In Proverbs 29, it shows the difference between the righteous man and the wicked man.  I know the word “wicked” sounds a little harsh, but that is how God describes man being pulled into the world’s ways.  In this chapter, He is very clear describing the benefits that are given to man who upholds God’s ways of doing things and not to keep company with the men who do not abide in His ways.  He descries them as fools, wicked, harlots, scornful, bloodthirsty, hardeneth, evil, flattereth, deceitful, liar, thief, unjust, angry, and furious.  The man who follows God’s ways are described as the just, righteous, wise, faithful, honor, humble, trust, and upright.  Clearly in this chapter it shows a distinct difference between the fruit of the righteous and the fruit of the wicked.

My takeaway:  when I was led to read Proverbs 29, I was a little confused as to why I was reading this.  I actually started out with Proverbs 22:29 which reads, “Seest thou a man diligent in his business?  He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.”  Then after meditating on the word, it was clear to me, and the question came up: Are you giving your all in what you are doing in your business?  Do you watch your words and choose what you say wisely?  Do you lose your temper and get furious if a challenging situation comes up?  Do you handle the situation wisely and display patience and love?  Does your pride get in the way when making upright and honest decisions with your customers?  ARE you giving it your all – doing it God’s way, not the world’s way?

We’re in this world, not of this world.  Colossians 1:13 says we have been delivered “from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son.”  So therefore, He already delivered us from the strongholds of the devil, so we have the choice not to yield to the temptations of making wrong decisions and following the wicked ways of doing things.

In Colossians 1:10 says, that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing being fruitful in every good work.

So what fruit are you producing?  God’s promise if very clear in the ways we, as a righteous Christian should be walking.  The choice we make determines the fruit produced.  So how are you making a difference with your Christian walk in your business?