Wisdom of Solomon 1:16—2:1, 12-22 (NRSV)
Devotion
Wisdom texts not only offer us words of advice, counsel and—well—wisdom, but also offer warnings to those who don't pay attention to the wisdom of the author. Today's reading warns us of the patterns of thought that develop in the ungodly and lead us away from God and from true Wisdom. We've all seen this, both in others and in ourselves. We are warned to recognize these unhealthy patterns of thought that lead to unhealthy patterns of action. The ungodly worry about how they are perceived by the righteous and their anger is focused outside of themselves. The godly see to their own faults rather than comparing themselves with others.
This could easily be a warning about Facebook or Instagram. We look and see others as better off than us and look with pleasure at their downfall (schadenfreude), rather than seeing the gifts God has given us in our own lives. We root against other people more than we work to better ourselves.
Prayer
Dear God, help us to seek your wisdom in our lives rather than hoping for the downfall of others. Guide us in ways of love and righteousness among your people. In Jesus' name. Amen.