19 Do not worry when evildoers go unpunished
or be jealous when the wicked seem to prosper.
20 Evil people will have no future;
the life of the wicked will be snuffed out like a candle.
21 My son, fear both the Eternal and His anointed ruler.
It is not wise to associate with those rebelling against them.
The concept of looking again is an admonishment to the reader that echoes similar statements of Proverbs 24:19-21 in the book of Proverbs, which warns against associating with immoral people. As pointed out by this passage, some of those dangers warn of becoming jealous of the wicked's success but instead continue to fear the Lord, which has a more splendid future (Proverbs 23:17–18).
The reader must also guard against forming close alliances with famous individuals or crowd-pleasers. Close friendships or other unprosperous relationships bring risk and temptation (Proverbs 1:10–15; 13:20). We can't be friendly with sin and expect our lives to remain unaffected. Without a doubt, wise individuals recognize (Proverbs 1:7) that God's goodness is far more valuable than temporary earthly wealth. They also remember that the company we keep influences our morals and causes our faith to waiver (1 Corinthians 15:33).
A further reminder of the importance of looking again is the words found in Psalm 36:1 says, the transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes (KJV). Sin's effect produces no fear of God, and barriers to corruption are non-existent. Sinners plunge face first as if their sinning has no consequences. Noteworthy is that God is not blind and is giving them time to repent and turn from their sinful ways before announcing punishment. More significantly, this knowledge of fearing God should be a determinant of not sinning but embracing God's gratitude and mercy.
I pray that each remembers all that glitters is not always gold.
Eternally Submitted,
Minister Sylvia Joyner
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