How Much More?

“How much more?” is a familiar phrase. As in, “How much more do you want from me...” or “How much more of this do you think I can take...” or “How much more is there in life...” or “How much more can be done...” And, the list could go on and on.

Those three words appear four times in the Book of Proverbs and the words, “How much less” appears twice. There are several lines of thought about their meaning: Some think they are too good to be true; some think they are overly simplistic; some think their promises are vastly overstated while others think they apply to the spiritual realm alone and are completely “future-oriented.”

“If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more the ungodly and the sinner,” writes Solomon. Is there a simple message in these few words that we may try to complicate for the sake of discussion? Perhaps.

There is a popular opinion among many that some sins are not bad, or that they can sin and “get away with it.” But, that opinion is not supported by Scripture. Besides, when we want to know what sin is, where it comes from, and what to do about it, we do not go to psychologists or philosophers: We go to God’s Word!

As far as riches and righteousness, sin and unholy living go, Solomon has some advice: “The righteous do receive their due on earth; how much more the ungodly!” Jesus said: “What a man sows he will reap.” Sow righteousness – reap God’s blessings. Sow evil – reap suffering!

God will reward each of us for the way we live - now and in the life to come.

Prayer: Please, Lord, give me a desire to live a righteous life - a life that is worthy of Your unending blessings! May I walk in Your paths and always follow You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Proverbs 11:31 If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more the ungodly and the sinner!