Proverbs 14:34

NASB	NLT	VOICE
34 Righteousness exalts a nation, But sin is a disgrace to any people.	34 Godliness makes a nation great, but sin is a disgrace to any people.	34 Living according to God’s instructions makes a nation great, but sin colors those who commit it with disgrace.

Righteousness means to live following God’s standards and moral laws. Righteousness is associated with justice, integrity, and ethical behavior. Having a nation show this righteousness as a society shows prosperity, peace, and divine favor. Nations that have embraced biblical principles have often seen periods of stability and growth. It would be important for nation’s policies and cultural norm with God’s will to achieve maximum righteousness.

Sin refers to the actions and attitudes that go against God’s commands, including both personal and communal transgressions. The disgrace that follows sin can include social unrest, moral decay, and divine judgment. This disgrace is not limited to a certain demographic but applies universally to any people who turn away from righteousness.

While this verse speaks to the nations (bigger communities), it also applies to individuals. Personal righteousness contributes to the moral fabric of society, while personal sin can lead to personal disgrace. It takes one spark to ignite a movement, and we should make sure that spark is one of compassionate and mercy. It may not be the most socially normal. It may not be most exciting, or the most trending, but it should still be the right thing. It’s very easy for society to attach itself to chaos and negativity. We’re drowning in it on social media. News sources often want to share the heavier, more impact stories, through a way that will grab your attention. The more we feed into it, the more the doom cycle continues. It’s good to be in the know, but we can’t stay there. We need to embrace the righteousness while acknowledging the sin. When we acknowledge it, when can the work towards overcoming it. Everyone loves a redemption story, so why not work towards yours?

Next slice of Manna: Manna for the Mind #235