18 The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day.
18 But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.
18 But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day.
18 The ways of right-living people glow with light; the longer they live, the brighter they shine.
18 But the path of the just is like the shining sun, That shines ever brighter unto the perfect day.
18 The way of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, which shines ever brighter until the full light of day.
8 Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought,
8 Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we
8 And be very careful around them so you don't lose out on what we've worked so diligently in together; I want you to get every reward you have coming to you.
8 Look to yourselves, that we
8 Watch out that you do not lose what we have worked so hard to achieve. Be diligent so that you receive your full reward.
(Read 2 John 1:7-11)
The deceiver and his deceit are described: he brings some error concerning the person or office of the Lord Jesus. Such a one is a deceiver and an antichrist; he deludes souls, and undermines the glory and kingdom of the Lord Christ. Let us not think it strange, that there are deceivers and opposers of the Lord Christ's name and dignity now, for there were such, even in the apostles' times. The more deceivers and deceits abound, the more watchful the disciples must be. Sad it is, that splendid attainments in the school of Christ, should ever be lost. The way to gain the full reward is, to abide true to Christ, and constant in religion to the end. Firm cleaving to Christian truth unites us to Christ, and thereby to the Father also; for they are one. Let us equally disregard such as abide not in the doctrine of Christ, and those who transgress his commands. Any who did not profess and preach the doctrine of Christ, respecting him as the Son of God, and salvation by him from guilt and sin, were not to be noticed and countenanced. Yet in obeying this command, we must show kindness and a good spirit to those who differ from us in lesser matters, but hold firmly the all-important doctrines of Christ's person, atonement, and holy salvation.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 4:18
Commentary on Proverbs 4:14-27
(Read Proverbs 4:14-27)
The way of evil men may seem pleasant, and the nearest way to compass some end; but it is an evil way, and will end ill; if thou love thy God and thy soul, avoid it. It is not said, Keep at a due distance, but at a great distance; never think you can get far enough from it. The way of the righteous is light; Christ is their Way, and he is the Light. The saints will not be perfect till they reach heaven, but there they shall shine as the sun in his strength. The way of sin is as darkness. The way of the wicked is dark, therefore dangerous; they fall into sin, but know not how to avoid it. They fall into trouble, but never seek to know wherefore God contends with them, nor what will be in the end of it. This is the way we are bid to shun. Attentive hearing the word of God, is a good sign of a work of grace begun in the heart, and a good means of carrying it on. There is in the word of God a proper remedy for all diseases of the soul. Keep thy heart with all diligence. We must set a strict guard upon our souls; keep our hearts from doing hurt, and getting hurt. A good reason is given; because out of it are the issues of life. Above all, we should seek from the Lord Jesus that living water, the sanctifying Spirit, issuing forth unto everlasting life. Thus we shall be enabled to put away a froward mouth and perverse lips; our eyes will be turned from beholding vanity, looking straight forward, and walking by the rule of God's word, treading in the steps of our Lord and Master. Lord, forgive the past, and enable us to follow thee more closely for the time to come.