Proverbs 26:9

Like a thorn that goes into the hand of a drunkard Is a proverb in the mouth of fools.

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I had a pretty interesting experience yesterday while working — and honestly, it ties perfectly into Proverbs 27:6.

“Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy.”

Alright, here’s what happened:

I pulled up to a gun store for a pickup. A Young white male, maybe mid-20s, steps out with a brand-new assault-style rifle in a fresh box.

Now… I’m a grown man with discernment, but Uber or not, my Spidey senses kicked ALL the way in.

Not paranoia — awareness. Wisdom.

And I’m remembering the data: statistically, the most common profile behind mass shootings in America is young white males between 18 and 34.

I’m not judging — but I’m awake…I’m aware.

We hit the road. A forty minute drive out to the boondocks. And I’m driving, and debating in my mind:

“Do I say something to this young man? Do I stay silent (cause I want to get home!) Do I risk offense? Do I risk regretting that if something takes place tomorrow? And I look at this same kid on the news, and I had a chance to say something??

My first try was awkward — a little small talk: “Hey man, you ready for Thanksgiving?”

He hit me with a dry “meh…” Didn’t crack the door at all. And we both went silent.

And then — about four minutes left in the ride — something in me said:

“Go deeper. Ask the real question. Human to human.”

So I tried again.

I said his name and said:

“Listen…I want to ask you a question “human to human”...You came out with a new rifle. It’s the holidays. A lot of folks are going through a lot. I just want to ask you, honestly: Are you okay?”

And Fam… this man softened.

He said:

“Thank you for asking. I’m good. I love life. I love people. It hurts me that people who shouldn’t have guns can get them so easily. I was raised in love. I fear God.”

And we talked. And it was good. And I thought:

“Imagine if nobody ever asked him.”

Proverbs Breakdown

Proverbs 27:6 says:

“Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy.”

Sometimes the “wound” isn’t an insult — it’s a brave question.

Sometimes the “wound” is risking someone’s discomfort because you care about someone’s humanity.

Sometimes the wound is NOT pleasant — but it’s loving.

And the opposite?

“The kisses of an enemy.”

That’s when someone treats you politely but sees you as less. When fear replaces compassion. When we choose distance over dignity. When we ignore the Spirit’s nudge because we don’t want to get uncomfortable.

See, fear mutes us. Mutes discernment. Mutes compassion. Mutes the Imago Dei in the person right in front of us.

But love? Love risks the awkward moment to call another human BELOVED again.

Love says: “I see God’s breath in you. So I’m not gonna ignore you. I’m gonna reach for you.”

THE ENCOURAGEMENT

Some conversations have to be hard — but they save a life.

Some questions feel risky — but they restore someone’s dignity.

And sometimes, the only thing standing between destruction and deliverance is one brave person willing to say:

“Hey… are you okay?”

Remember

Courage doesn’t always roar — sometimes it just asks…the right question.

Prayer

Lord, quiet my reflex to perform—help me stay present.

Today’s Challenge

Before you explain yourself today, pause.Hand over mouth. Tap your fingers.Feel the space between reaction and reflection.

You don’t always have to make it rhyme or right.Just real.Because sometimes the most honest prayer…is the sound of your silence.

About the Author

Fred Lynch is a creative communicator, author, and Christian Hip Hop pioneer. To learn more about Fred and what he’s up to now…click here or you can find him in all the socials by searching the handle: heyfredlynch

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Be Wise and Be Well...peace.

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