Do not move an ancient landmark or enter the fields of the fatherless; for their Redeemer is strong, He will plead their cause against you. Proverbs 23:10-11 ESV

Yesterday we read in Proverbs chapter twenty-two, that, it is wrong to move the landmarks that God has chosen for our lives. In chapter twenty-three, Solomon returns to landmarks, warning us to never move a neighbor’s landmark in order to steal the inheritance that God has chosen for them.

Now, we might say, “Boy I would never do that!” thinking that God is only talking about possessions or property. But when we add things like, “Who impressed mom and dad the most with their school project, who was promoted at work, or why did brother Bob get elected as deacon instead of me?” the truth hits closer to home. Wishing for the most love and attention in our family, the fastest advancement at work, or the power positions in church, are red flags warning us to check our motives. Maybe mom and dad, just assumed you knew they loved you equally, the promotion you missed would have robbed you of time needed with your children, or that brother Bob was the perfect guy to deal with finding the best contractor to repair the church roof. Manipulating people, pretending interest, flattery, or even outright lies, can crop up like weeds in the garden of our hearts if we aren’t careful.

Solomon also points out that there are consequences of moving the landmarks of others for our own advantage, because there is someone watching over us both. Our watcher is strong, and whether he will be our opponent or our Redeemer depends on our choices. Yes, sometimes life is hard, the future looks bleak and we feel alone, but stealing the inheritance that belongs to others is never the answer, because God’s plan is perfect. The ancient walls that He chose to surround our inheritances, do not separate, or restrict us, instead they tell us that we are neighbors. And if God made us neighbors, then remember what He said about neighbors:

“And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself!” Matthew 22:39 ESV