Wisdom’s Journey: Proverbs 20:8

Terri GillespieWisdom’s Journey Through Proverbs

Ever receive “the Look?”

TODAY’S PROVERB: A king sitting on the throne to judge separates out all evil with his eyes. Proverbs 20:8

Have you ever gotten “the Look?” You know the Look that penetrates through any layers of excuses or defenses to the core of our heart? For sure we probably received the Look from our parents. Probably a discerning teacher or police officer — maybe even a judge.

Have you ever given the Look?

Walking in God-given authority can go a long way in disciplining our children or students, but it can also come in handy at other times.

I remember my husband and I going to a singing competition to support our daughter. This was a rough venue in a bad neighborhood in Philadelphia. The event had bouncers and people who frisked you for weapons before you entered.

We got in line to be frisked — men in one line, women in another. The woman who frisked the females was tough-looking — which was understandable given the circumstances.

As I waited in line I was feeling more and more uncomfortable with the idea of a stranger putting their hands on me. My daughter and her friend went through and it was my turn. Standing in front of the “frisker” I remembered thinking, “No.” And I gave her the Look.

I was a good twelve inches shorter than her, and a pasty white woman, but I gave her the Look I’d give my own daughter. That I wasn’t going to put up with this foolishness.

Her hands hovered around me nervously. She looked down and said, “You’re good.”

Sometimes I wonder if we have more authority than we realize. That those in sin might be affected by the Holy Spirit in us. Convicted. Hopeful.

Do you have a story to share. Where you gave or received the Look? I’d love to hear yours. Times where you separated evil with your eyes?

May we separate evil with our eyes, my friends.

Proverbs 20:8, Tree of Life Bible Society, Tree of Life Version – TLV, #tlvbible#tlvproverbs