The original word used here for ‘worthless’ is the Hebrew word ‘Belial’. Literally ‘a man of Belial,’ a child of Satan. Thankfully, as I reflect on the people I’m familiar with I can’t think of one person this describes (whom I’m in regular contact with). I’ve seen these people in TV shows and movies. I’ve even heard stories about them, but thankfully, with at least a quick reflection on people I know, I can’t think of anyone I know personally this describes. My wife or a friend might be able to point out someone I know who may fit this description, but they do not come easily to mind. As I’ve aged, I suspect that I just don’t find I have time for these kinds of people in my story and therefore I may have moved past them. In this chapter, Solomon is very clear that these kinds of people are destined to be dangerous for others and headed for a very unpleasant destruction for themselves. I know people who lie and deceive for sure, but I avoid them quickly. Solomon encourages us to live wisely. He spends great effort throughout the entire book of Proverbs making us aware of what wisdom and wise people look like. Our pursuit of wisdom should be filled with wise people and therefore it should have no room for a man of Belial – worthless. In another place Paul tells us corrupt company corrupts. Today, review your friends and influences and be sure that the vast majority are men and women who reflect the character that God desires in your story. #BeTheEdge
“Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals.”” 1 Corinthians 15:33 NASB
