Busted Teeth and Broken Feet

“Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint” (Proverbs 25:19).

Have you ever had a broken tooth, or a broken foot? I have suffered both, and it made me realize how dependent I am on my teeth and feet! Eating and walking are basic functions in life. You count on a foot to hold you up. You count on your teeth to crew your food. A broken foot cripples your mobility. A broken tooth causes you great pain and effects your ability to consume nourishment.

Solomon likens an unfaithful man to a broken tooth and a broken foot—You cannot count on him when you’re in a pinch. He will let you down.

John Mark is a perfect example of this proverb. Mark went with Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary trip to assist them (Acts 13:5). After an encounter with an sorcerer, Mark bails out and runs home to Mama (Acts 13:13). Later when Paul and Barnabas are planning their next missionary trip, Barnabas suggests they take Mark with them again. Paul says, “Nothing doing. He jumped ship on our first trip and left us in a lurch. He’s not dependable. You can’t count on him when the heat is on” (Acts 15:36-39). Mark was like a broken tooth and foot out of joint.

Bob Jones Sr. said, “The greatest ability is DEPENDABILITY.” Are you a Christian that can be counted on? Or you like a broken tooth or broken foot?