Scripture:
If the righteous will be recompensed on the earth,
How much more the ungodly and the sinner.
Proverbs 11:31
Observation: The most simple understanding of this proverb is ... if the righteous will be rewarded while on earth, consider how much more ungodly sinners will be punished. However, reading the actual words of this proverb as translated, that most simple understanding ... isn't really supported by the text. In addition, the initial 'given' of that sentiment - that the righteous always receive reward on earth - is contradicted elsewhere in the bible.
This proverb actually says something much more complex. Yes, God is implied in the verse. Though not called out explicitly, it is understood that it is the Lord who rewards the righteous in some way. That said, the earth - or earthly designs - is the context of the rewards in this proverb. The verse compares how two different types of people - the righteous, and the sinner - may receive reward within the context of the earthly realm.
As a result of all this, one potential reading of this proverb is ... if, within the context of the fallen world, the Lord can overcome that brokenness to still find ways to give the righteous earthly rewards, imagine how much easier it is for an ungodly sinner to pursue and receive their earthly rewards.
Application: I know I am blessed. I have so much and even more than I need. However, at no time should I ever view these earthly blessings as having any value. They are not my reward from God. They are temporal and temporary and ultimately meaningless except as a means of short term physical comfort. The Lord has blessed me in this way, overcoming the natural ways of a broken world, out of his great love. I can see unbelievers and outright idol-worshiping sinners all around who have the same or great comfort as I. My blessings are special as a gift poured out from God's love, but they are just things of this world.
My reward for faith is in heaven, and it ultimately is all that matters. Seeing Jesus face to face is the only recompense I truly need or desire. Salvation by faith is my only hope.
The ungodly, the unbelieving, the sinners, the idol worshipers, the blasphemers, the hateful ... I will see them receive their earthly rewards in abundance, but there will also come a time when I will see them no more. As a believer striving to know and follow Jesus Christ, I may receive earthly rewards, but my hope is in eternity.
Prayer: Lord, you are my blessing, my hope, and my redeemer. As I said last night, I thank you for your blessings, even during times when I am frustrated, stressed, angry, and depressed. I know you have blessed me far beyond my worth, even protecting me from a hostile world that would seek to destroy your faithful. Please continue to protect my family, my friends, my brothers and sisters in Christ, and me. Your love never fails. Amen.
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