Chronological Bible Study – June 17
What I Noticed Today (Proverbs 25-26)
Proverbs 25
Proverbs 25 begins a section of Solomon’s wise sayings that were collected by King Hezekiah’s and his men.
There are three main sections or themes in Proverbs 25.
In verses 1-7, Solomon discusses the duties of a ruler. A Godly ruler needs to search out the things of God (truth). He must keep some confidences (be unsearchable). To preserve the nation, he must remove the dross, the wicked, so that his rule will be righteous. Finally, those who serve the king should come before him, not to promote themselves, but in humble service.
In verses 8-15, Solomon advises all who are involved in some kind of dispute to not rush off to court where you may lose but try to settle differences privately without betraying confidences. Wise people choose their words carefully. Be a faithful and trustworthy messenger for your rulers. Beware of the man who boasts about giving but does not fulfill his promise. Being patient and using soft speech can persuade and reduce opposition.
In verses 16-28, Solomon uses a group of similes (he makes comparisons using lest, like, or as) to illustrate how to build your reputation. Practice moderation and avoid overindulgence. Don’t visit others too often or you’ll wear out your welcome. Don’t give false testimony because you may injure someone. Don’t trust a treacherous person because they bring pain. Be sensitive when trying to cheer up someone who is suffering. Being kind to your enemy (giving them food or drink) will bring a reward from God. Be wary of someone who is a backbiting gossip. It is better to live in peace in a small home (Proverbs 21:9) than in luxury with a contentious wife. Good news is refreshing to a weary soul. Never compromise with the wicked – it pollutes your righteousness. Do not seek your own glory by bragging about yourself. Be wary of a man without self-control; they deteriorate like a city with broken walls.
Proverbs 26
Proverbs 26 continues the section of Solomon’s wise sayings that were collected by King Hezekiah’s and his men.
There are four main sections or themes in Proverbs 26.
In verses 1-12, the similes continue as Solomon describes the ways of a fool. Honor is not fitting for a fool. A fool utters worthless curses. A fool needs to be disciplined to be controlled. Responding to or arguing with a fool is a waste of time. Never trust a fool with an important message or responsibility. A proverb is useless to a fool. Never bestow honor on a fool. Never trust a fool’s advice. A proverb is of no value to a fool. Never hire a fool or a drunkard. Rather than learning from his mistakes, a fool repeats them. There is more hope for a fool to change than someone who is prideful and conceited.
In verses 13-16, Solomon now describes a lazy man (a sluggard). A lazy man makes wild excuses for his lack of work. A lazy man sleeps in when he should be up working. A lazy man is too lazy to care for himself; he wants others to care for him. A lazy man thinks he has life figured out that he has beaten the system.
In verses 17-22, Solomon turns his attention to describing the busybody. Busybodies will get involved in arguments that don’t concern them. The busybody likes to stir up fires by deceiving others. Stopping a gossiper stops a quarrel like a fire dies that has run out of wood. A contentious person stirs up trouble and provokes others to fight; gossipers delight in telling tales.
In verses 23-28, Solomon describes the man who likes to deceive others. The deceiver who hates may look good on the outside, but they have evil hearts. They are not what they appear to be. Though his deception may cover his hatred, his wickedness will eventually be exposed. The deceiver’s lies and flattery are a sign of hatred for their enemies.