One minute read.
Daily Reading: Zech. 10:1-11:17, Revelation 18:1-24, Psalm 146:1-10, Proverbs 30:33
Daily Verse: “For pressing milk produces curds, pressing the nose produces blood, and pressing anger produces strife.” Prov. 30:33
Sage advice.
Yesterday, the author warned us of foolish exaltation. Today’s verse tells us why. Pride and evil planning cause strife, which compares to twisting the nose, causing it to bleed—undesirable results from undesirable actions.
When I exalted myself to a fellow golfer about breaking a 100, his reaction surprised me. Instant tension developed between us, causing division. Because he perceived me as a braggart, it caused dislike. We have never talked about golf since.
Although I don’t completely understand my friend’s reaction, I appreciate that my self-exultation caused it. Unintentionally, I twisted his nose and caused it to bleed. The phrase “nose out of joint” means upsetting or offending someone by making them feel less important or valuable.
I never want to make someone feel less important or unvalued. Therefore, I must watch my words and cover my mouth when tempted to exalt myself foolishly.
Choosing words wisely builds relationships. Foolish exaltation tears connections apart.
Lord forgives us for putting people’s noses out of joint. Please give us discernment and wisdom when choosing our words so that we uplift and encourage people instead of tearing them down. IJNIP. Amen
