Proverbs 6

“Go, humble yourself, and importune your neighbor” (v3).  Humility is one of the great themes of the proverbs.  In this case, a young man has rashly promised to be “surety” (sort of like co-signing) for a neighbor.  He has promised more than he can deliver, perhaps enjoying the appearance of being wealthy and powerful.  He is advised to swallow his pride and admit that he can’t fulfill the bargain, and get out of the mess.  “Deliver yourself like a gazelle from the hunter’s hand” (v5).

Part of integrity is being honest about ourselves: our abilities, commitments, and desires.  God honors the humble.