Expressions of Attitude

(Proverbs 18:3 KJV)  When the wicked cometh, then cometh also contempt, and with ignominy reproach.

“Contempt” (937) is an attitude that should not be in our repertoire.  This verse is not clear who is extending it or who is receiving it.  I think it is safe to say that looking down on people and working to destroy reputations is a tool of evil.  We have a lot of different ways of expressing this.  It can be open arrogance as expressed by the translation here, contempt.  It can be clothed in “caring” about others and being willing to coerce them into doing what you want them to do.  This is the attitude of our elite politicians and educators who take away our ability to make choices because they think we will make the wrong ones.

Contempt is also expressed by Christians when they surrender to “holier than thou” attitudes so common among people seeking righteousness.  We often look down on non-believers and even on brothers and sisters who are not as far along as we are. 

What is clear is the association with the wicked.

So?  The answer is agape.  When we do what is best for others there is no hidden agenda of advancing our cause.  It is a response to clear standards God has laid down.  We always need to examine our own motives.