7/1

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

Law or principle?  That is not a question to avoid the issue.  It is real.  Some of the teachings of the Bible are hard and fast rules.  For examples you can start with the Ten Commandments.  Other statements need to be understood as principles.  If you get that mixed up then you think that the rule is you can stumble seven times for every one the wicked do.  It is like Peter being told he had to forgive seven times seventy.  That did not mean 490 times.  It meant keep forgiving.

The same it true here.  It is a reminder that we have a resource unavailable to evil neighbors.  We have the endless strength, power and creativity of the Holy Spirit.  That is why Paul wrote,

(2Co 4:8-9 KJV)  We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;  Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

So?  Stop counting and start living.  Life happens and sometimes that means stubbed toes. 

Skip the Romance

(Pro 10:30 KJV) The righteous shall never be removed: but the wicked shall not inhabit the earth.

I find this verse an herb of encouragement in the soup of despair.  We think we live in difficult times.  Obviously that is only comparing it to some idealistic romance we have in our head.  Compared to most of the world, we are in paradise.  Compared to historical conditions, we are living like emperors.  We still get discouraged.

Keep in mind that being discouraged is a long way from being defeated.  

(2Co 4:8-9 KJV) We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;  Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

So?  Cheer up.  Lean on God.  Listen to His voice.  Read His word.  It will make a difference in your day.