Hello, desiring a fine day for you! Let’s conclude Proverbs 17, with verses 26-28:

“26 To punish the righteous one is not good, And to flog honorable people goes against what is right. 27 A man of knowledge restrains his words, And a discerning man will remain calm. 28 Even a fool who keeps silent will be considered wise, And the one who seals his lips, discerning.”

Prove 17:26 People should come to see that pursuing righteousness leads to blessings even now! Surely blessings will come in God’s new world, under His KIngdom rule, where “righteousness is to dwell” (2Pete 3:13). But we want as many as possible especially now to appreciate the rewards that come from following a right path. Punishment and flogging are meant as disciplinary correction—surely to be intended for unrighteous and dishonorable ones, yet still out of love, for their long-term welfare. If those in authority at all care about the eternal lasting welfare of their citizens, then they may honor right-hearted ones pursuing the will of Jehovah whole-souled!

Prove 17:27,28 Godly knowledge promotes peace, self-control or restraint, and the wisdom to know when not to speak. Along with this, the ability to truly discern between things such as right and wrong, and true and false, enables one to maintain a gentle, calm demeanor. Having faith in God, one needn’t usually get bent out of shape over something, but can treat others with a mild gentleness that should pervade the life of a true Christian. We should be able to look ahead and generally foresee the end results of our reactions—for instance, “15 A mild answer turns away rage, But a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Prove 15:1). Thus, holding back our words and remaining calm can defuse an otherwise tense situation. May we continue to apply godly wisdom in our actions, and even where possible our reactions, for the benefit of others and ourselves.

Colossians 1:11-13 Paul is speaking to those with the heavenly hope of ruling with Christ, but his words can apply equally to those striving after Christ with earthly hopes. He mentions enduring with loyal patience and joy as we strive to pursue God’s will. Notice his words:

“11 and may you be strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may endure fully with patience and joy, 12 as you thank the Father, who made you qualify to share in the inheritance of the holy ones in the light. 13 He rescued us from the authority of the darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of his beloved Son,”

May we likewise endure faithfully as we please God, appreciating the light of truth that we may continue to grow in, being saved from “the authority of the darkness.” Surely it is worth every effort to set a good example for others in pursuing what is right, confident in God’s reward and blessing for doing so. Usually such rewards can be experienced even now, but how much more so in “the real life,” with everlasting happiness under God’s divine rulership! (1Timo 6:19).