LIVING WORD DEVOTIONAL
By Pastor Mensa Otabil

Thursday 11th December 2025

THE TENT OF THE UPRIGHT

Scripture Reading: Proverbs 14

The house of the wicked will be overthrown, but the tent of the upright will flourish. Proverbs 14:11

This proverb focuses on the distinction between the wicked and the upright. Both the wicked and the upright are building. In the proverb, the wicked builds a house whilst the upright person builds a tent. Consider the differences between a house and a tent.

A house is more stable than a tent. Generally speaking, a house can withstand storms, whereas a tent can be easily blown away. A house is a permanent dwelling; a tent is a temporary dwelling. A house is a more valuable or expensive dwelling than a tent.

Considering the apparent differences between the house and the tent, we may be tempted to think that the wicked has an advantage over the upright. However, the proverb implies the opposite.

The house of the wicked is overthrown.

What the wicked builds may appear strong and sound outwardly, but it doesn’t have the inner strength to stand against the storms of life. The wicked build through lies, cheating and destruction. For a season, they may appear to be doing well with their lives. However, what they build cannot stand God’s scrutiny.

The tent of the upright flourishes.

On the outside, what the upright builds may not seem like much. It looks like a simple tent. However, it is a tent with God’s presence. The presence of the Lord is the difference for the upright. When we build with the Lord and in His way, we enjoy His blessing and favour.

Whatever God blesses is blessed. It is not so much about what we try to do by ourselves. It is more about doing things in God’s way, for when we build our lives in God’s way, we attract His blessings.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, what you bless is blessed. Help me build things that attract your blessing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.