|
|
Proverbs 27 Commentary
by Brad Boyles
“As water reflects the face, so the heart reflects the person. 20 Sheol and Abaddon are never satisfied, and people’s eyes are never satisfied.”
Proverbs 27:19-20 HCSB
A modern phrase similar to this is, “Hurt people hurt people.” It’s interesting when you consider the condition of one’s heart based on the fruit of their life. Those who follow their deceitful heart usually end up associating and producing others that do the same thing. Those who fight their flesh, and choose freedom through the Spirit usually reflect that upon those around them.
It’s a very basic principle but something we need to be reminded of every day. I know many families (mine included) who struggle under the grip of a reflection. It could be anything… complaining, laziness, anger, etc. You are not just affecting yourself with these behaviors, you are reflecting it upon everyone around you and they are reflecting it into their relationships. It’s a sobering reminder.
Sheol was an OT designation for the dead who are separated from God. The KJV translates it Hell. Abaddon literally means a place of destruction. These two words are found together in Proverbs and Job as well, sometimes along with death. What does it mean that they are never satisfied?
Satan is the master of Hell, death, and destruction. He hates us. He would love nothing more than to deceive every person on the planet. Just as he was not satisfied with being under God, he is never satisfied with the amount of people he is deceiving. Not surprisingly, he plays off our own desires. Our flesh is wired the same way. If left unchecked, we will chase sin straight into Hell and destruction.
What satisfies? For those who have experienced the grace and truth of Jesus Christ, we know what true spiritual satisfaction involves!