June 23rd – Proverbs 23: The Marriage Stone

“Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, for their Defender is strong; he will take up their case against you.” – Proverbs 23:10,11

This Proverb encourages us to not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless. We’re told that their Defender is mighty and he will take up their cause against us. So what does this mean and how do we apply it today?

In ancient times, when lands and properties were granted or territories were divided, they would set out stones to mark the boundaries of the land. These stones were large and heavy; they were difficult to move and stood the test of time. Generations would pass and the boundary stones would remain as a quiet reminder of the boundaries set generations ago. To “move an ancient boundary stone” is both literally and metaphorically speaking to us. Today, the application would primarily be metaphorically. The Proverb is telling us to not attempt to change an ancient boundary, law or principle.

Take marriage for example. From the very beginning in the Garden of Eden, God instituted marriage between a man and woman. It was established this way before we walked the earth. For many generations, thousands of years in fact, the institution of marriage has been celebrated, respected and honored. But in our generation, many think they have become “enlightened”. They think that if a man loves a man or a woman loves a woman, they should be able to marry. Right now it’s actually being seriously considered in many states to allow gay (homosexual/sodomite) marriage! This is concerning because if this happens, as a nation we are allowing an ancient boundary stone to be moved. You can guarantee that the Defender (Redeemer) of this ancient way will be taking up the case against our nation!

The “fields of the fatherless” speaks of the property and possessions of those that can’t defend themselves, orphans, widows and the like. To overpower them simply because they are disadvantaged and do not have the power to fight back is demonic. This happens every day as greedy corporations or city governments’ walk all over the rights of the widows, orphans and the poor. I have watched the “beautification” of Atlanta over the last 15 years and am appalled at our city’s treatment of the poor and the homeless/fatherless. It’s true, they can’t defend themselves so they make an easy adversary in court, but they DO have a Defender: His name is Jesus! You mess with them and He will mess with you! This reality should cause us to think very carefully before taking advantage of the poor and disenfranchised. Just because we CAN doesn’t mean we SHOULD. This applies corporately, in businesses, governments and even personally.

LIFE LESSON:

Gay marriage is an abomination to God and a blatant relocation of an ANCIENT boundary stone. You can quote me on that.