Perennials

(Pro 11:28 KJV) He that trusteth in his riches shall fall: but the righteous shall flourish as a branch.

What does it mean to “flourish” (6524a)?  It is another one of those words that can be positive or negative depending on the context.  At its base it means to break out or sprout.  New life comes to mind.  Regeneration is hinted at.  The negative usage has to do with things like the development of leprosy.  Here it seems to be referring to plants so it is obviously positive.

“Righteous” (6662) living has the promise of constant renewal.  Keep in mind that most plants go through cycles of life.  Some die every year and spring back from seeds.  In plant terms those are annuals.  The picture here is the perennial, a plant that keeps coming back.  Think of the tree that drops its leaves each year and buds anew every spring.  Think of the growing vine that seems to always have green shoots coming out.  

So?  We have the promise of renewal but recognize that the promise is dependent on living a righteous life.  Perennial sinners become annuals through disobedience.