Yearnings

Proverbs 23-24

Do not envy evil people. At first glance, that seems to be a no-brainer. Why would Solomon even put that kind of advice in there? But Solomon isn't necessarily talking about murderers when he says evil people, he is also talking about liars and cheaters and thieves who may amass worldly goods at the expense of good people. Don't envy their lifestyle for you may be tempted to to follow after them. Don't associate with rebels because they be suddenly hit with disaster. Solomon isn't giving us a new set of "Thou shalt nots," instead he is saying that if you want to be wise... if you want to be righteous... if you want to please the Lord... then don't do stupid things. Don't yearn after worldly things.