Proverbs 11

 Chapter 11

The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressor shall destroy them.

A person of integrity is led and protected by his own godly wisdom. You might ask, 'how does integrity guide a person?' There are several ways. 

1. By setting clear boundaries. The upright live by truth so they don't need to weigh every choice from scratch. Many things don't have to be debated because they already know their line.

2. By giving clarity. Integrity clears confusion because the upright act based on what honors God rather than what they want in the moment. They're not easily swayed by emotions, convenience, or manipulation. 

3. By building trust and relationships. Integrity leads to peace with others because the upright are dependable. It guides them to better opportunities and influences.

4. By helping avoid traps. The upright are less likely to fall into deception, scandals, and crisis because their character keeps them from getting close to danger. Like no. 1, they have boundaries, and they already know where the line is set.

On the other hand, transgressors live by impulse, not principle, so their perverseness (moral crookedness) leads them by desire. 

To apply? Integrity is your compass so don't compromise on small things. 

I also want to point out vs. 9, 12-13, 27. "A hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.  He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace. A talebearer revealeth secrets; but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter. He that diligently seeketh good procureth favour: but he that seeketh mischief, it shall come unto him."

These verses contain valuable wisdom for believers. Don't lack understanding. A person who uses knowledge and understanding correctly will make sure his walk matches up with his talk. Don't be hypocritical, pretending to be two different things - outwardly spiritual/righteous but inwardly corrupt, or acting godly while hiding selfish, deceptive motives. Someone who lacks wisdom will weaponize his words and use them to lie, gossip, slander, manipulate, and flatter - all of which can destroy someone else mentally, spiritually, or emotionally, ruin that person's reputation, and/or sow distrust and division. Be on guard to not act like a friend but talk like an enemy. 
How does a hypocrite destroy his neighbor?

1. Through false accusations. He pretends to care while spreading lies behind someone's back. 

2. Through flattery or manipulation. He may gain a person's trust then use it to take advantage of him, or he may use scriptural/spiritual language to control others. 

 Just/righteous people aren't naive but are protected by truth and discernment. They have knowledge, insight, and understanding of how people and sin work so they can see through deception and avoid harm. Be wise with whom you trust because a lot of people can mask themselves and lie very well. They're called actors. We see them in movies and shows. But there are other people we may come in contact with who act one way but a totally different way behind our back. Beware of and avoid them.

To further apply -we should all be digging in our own hearts and asking God to search us and see if there be any wicked way in us, so we don't become hypocrites. 

Then, live a life that produces goodness, uplifts, and strengthens others. Invest in people spiritually by sharing and living the gospel, turning a sinner from his path, or guiding someone to truth through discipleship. Wisdom isn't just about knowledge, but using that knowledge to guide and influence people toward God. We only have this short life. How will we live to make a difference for eternity?

The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath.

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.

Proverbs 11:23, 30