01/31/2025 – Day 215 – Proverbs 14 – 15 / Puzzled on 15:15: “All the days of the afflicted are evil..”
In a previous cycle: We had posts own the following verses: 14:3 / 14:7 and 14:10. And I think there is another post from another cycle even. Just search on “Day 215” and you will get all posts for today’s reading. Remember, you can comment on any post, no matter how dated, and the originator will get an email notifying him or her on your post, perhaps resulting in a delayed fruitful and enriching fellowship.
For today, I am caught up in 15:15:
“All the days of the afflicted are evil, But he who is of a merry heart has a continual feast.” (Proverbs 15:15
I am puzzled here for affliction is not all bad as I see it. Look at this biblical definition of the word from “Bible Hub”:
“Affliction in the Bible refers to a state of suffering, distress, or hardship that can be physical, emotional, or spiritual. It is often seen as a means through which God refines, disciplines, or draws His people closer to Himself, and can result from various sources such as personal sin, persecution, or the natural conditions of life.”
If it is the LORD’s correction, how can we say : “All the days of affliction are evil.” If I am not distressed by sin, then that is indeed evil.
John Gill’s commentary on this verse suggests it is a focus on the law and sin exclusively, and not pulling out of it through repentance and relieved sense of forgiveness.
https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/proverbs-15-13.html
Thoughts? / Reflections?
What verses in our reading caught your attention?
Soli Deo Gloria!