February 17, 2016

Proverbs 27:6 NKJV - "Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful."

Commentary:

I want to comment on the latter part of this verse first.  Be careful of commendation and recognition especially if it comes from people who know little about you.  Too often people give praise in order to get some favor from you that they probably don't deserve and you wouldn't necessarily want to give.  Our world is taught to boost someone else's esteem in order to make yourself look good.

Genuine praise should come from somebody who isn't afraid to offer constructive criticism to you when you need it.  The "wounds" of criticism from a friend are meant to help you in ways words of praise can't.  A person who truly loves you will seek your well-being whether it comes as a word of congratulation or a word of caution.  Real friends don't let real friends "off the hook" when they need to be corrected.

Is there someone in your life who loves you enough to "hurt"  you?  Thank the Lord for them.  But, be careful how you "return the favor."  Never criticize someone just because they criticized you.  Wait for a time when your words of caution will be truly received with gratefulness.