In a popular movie, there was a saying: "Show Me the Money!". Basically, it flows from a mindset that has been expressed in various ways: "Put your money where your mouth is," "Put up or shut up," "Talk is cheap!" even the Lord's brother James states it this way, "You have faith and I have works; show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works."
The writer of this Proverb shares a clear warning dealing with reaping what you sow. Remember, when the Scripture shares Truths, they are always approached from the "eternal" perspective! That is why so many individuals claim that statements like this are not factual because they know plenty of examples that prove the opposite. Yes, many people plan evil and get away with it…down here! Many talk with no real action and get rich, not poor…consider politicians. So, this passage must be incorrect…only from the Temporal View! Scriptures speak primarily from the Eternal perspective because this earthy life is a "spit in the wind" compared to "Forever!"
Importantly, this speck in time is the only place where we get to make decisions that so significantly impact our eternity. First, and most importantly, where we will exist in eternity. God gave humans a part of His eternal life, we are not eternity, but we are eternal. We cannot extend this to anyone; it is ours alone. Each accountable individual has this gift and responsibility to make that decision. We also control to some extent the investment we make for that existence. God is not specific about how this works or what it looks like, except for the principle stated in this Proverb.
This reality has always hit me hard because I know the real me, warts, and all! My sin and failures try to drag me down and to the point of quitting…aided by the adversary, of course, because he hates me because Christ Loves me! Still, here is a critical point; Scripture states we are in a race. When a racer falls down, there are two choices, quit or get up off the padded area of your body and start running again! You can't quit; I will NEVER quit! Jesus never did, even though His struggle in the garden was clear. He desired the Father to provide a different way for you and I to be offered forgiveness and salvation. He never did what I almost did; He kept running, refusing to fall, or quit.
Wherever you are today, if you have fallen, Get Up! Just hold your hands out and let Jesus grab you like Peter in the water…God's Grace remains His Grace no matter how you failed! If you know someone that failed, do not allow the adversary to use you to discourage. Judging another's spirituality is above the pay grade of all of us sinners. Lovingly approach to encourage them, that will include confronting the failure, but when done in love, you are being "Jesus, with skin on," and that is the best chance for your friend to repent. One last thing – in this day and age of text and email – be mature, face to face, and if not able, even over the internet, at least pick up the phone. Written words never communicate facial or audible reality and can be received much harsher than meant.
