Cats 9, Righteous 7

(Proverbs 24:16 KJV)  For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.

We have a tradition about a cat having nine lives.  Here we are told that it is the “righteous man” (6662) who will continue to come back, but the promise is only for “seven times” (7651).  I think that we can assume that this is meant figuratively.  The reason is a discussion between Peter and Jesus.  Peter must have had this concept in mind when he asked Jesus,

(Matthew 18:21 KJV)  Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?

Jesus gets across the spirit, not the leter,

(Matthew 18:22 KJV)  Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.

I think it is also safe to assume that Jesus did not mean literally 490 times.  I don’t think you need to stop forgiving at 490, nor do I think that if you fall eight times it is all over.  If that were true, eternity would be empty of human souls.

So?  Don’t look for excuses to fall but recognize a promise when you see it.  Rejoice in your redemption.  Rejoice that it is a living walk, not a dead formula.  Grow in grace.