2-8-07 Proverbs 3:29, 30

Proverbs 3:29, 30 (KJ21)
Devise not evil against thy neighbor, seeing he dwelleth securely beside thee. Strive not with a man without cause if he has done thee no harm.

Proverbs 3:29, 30 (NAS)
Do not devise harm against your neighbor, While he lives in security beside you. Do not contend with a man without cause, If he has done you no harm.

Proverbs 3:29, 30 (NIVUS)
Do not plot harm against your neighbor, who lives trustfully near you. Do not accuse a man for no reason— when he has done you no harm.

Proverbs 3:29, 30 (NLT)
Do not plot against your neighbors, for they trust you. Don’t make accusations against someone who hasn’t wronged you.

Sometimes children pretend not to hear their parents when they are being told something they do not want to hear. This characteristic is not limited to just children, however. Employees can tune out their bosses. Husbands and wives can choose to have selective hearing with their spouses. Criminals are always turning deaf ears to the laws of the land.

Many times believers will choose not to listen and obey what God is telling them. They may want to gratify their own wants and wishes instead of doing what the Lord desires. They may being to plot and plan to take vengeance against someone, when God says vengeance is His. Wanting to get back at someone, these may try to afflict and vex a neighbor, friend, family member, or spouse. This kind of behavior is not pleasing to Adonai, the Most High God.

If you want to remain in God's favor, you should not fabricate lies against another. Instead you should hold your peace, as you remain in the rest and quiet that the Lord gives you. If you choose not to take your own revenge, then you can allow the Lord to work things out. Therefore, do not ever try to hurt or cause harm to another. You do not have to defend yourself, for the Lord is your defense. You should not let yourself complain or contend with your companions.

You should, instead, help your friends to continue to dwell in safety and security. They should be able to trust and have confidence in you, knowing that you will never cause them harm. Like the Lord your God, you can be a place of refuge for others. You should maintain an innocent attitude toward you friends and neighbors and you should always try to treat others well.