Proverbs 20-22
What I Noticed Today (Proverbs 20-22)
Proverbs 20
Solomon’s exposition of the duties of the wise and righteous continues in Proverbs 20.
There are six major sections or themes in Proverbs 20.
In verses 1-4, Solomon warns of foolish behavior that surrounds us. Alcohol in excess leads to bad behavior. Be careful not to provoke a leader to anger because they have the power to punish. Avoid mixing into other’s affairs and starting arguments. Don’t be lazy, avoiding work, and then wonder why you don’t reap a harvest.
In verses 5-8, Solomon reveals the importance of discerning truth from others. A man of understanding will draw out the purpose of a man’s heart. Be wary of those who claim loyalty (steadfast love) but are unfaithful. A righteous parent will be a blessing to their children. A leader’s purpose is to execute judgment and discover evil.
In verses 9-12, Solomon reminds us that everyone is guilty of some sin. No one can say they have cleansed their hearts and are free from sin. Be fair and honest in all transactions and remember that the Lord detests dishonesty. Even a child’s character (intentions) are seen in his actions. Be attentive to people’s needs using both your eyes and ears.
In verses 13-17, Solomon stresses the importance of being wise when making business deals. Be diligent in your work; don’t be sleeping when you should be working. Be wary of those who might misrepresent value and engage in deceitful business practices. Knowing is like a precious jewel; it is more valuable than gold. Hold people accountable when they pledge collateral against a debt. People who steal enjoy pleasure for a time but eventually their sin is uncovered.
In verses 18-21, Solomon stresses the importance of wise counsel. Establish plans based on wise counsel, especially when making big decisions (waging war). Be wary of someone who slanders (talks about others); they will betray confidences. Do not curse your parents. An inheritance to a young person may not be a blessing.
In verses 22-30, Solomon reminds us that there is both human and divine justice in this world. Do not seek revenge yourself leave that up to God. Deceptive, dishonest business practices are an abomination to the Lord. God’s path for us is beyond our capacity to fully understand. Do not make promises or vows hastily. Wise leaders remove and punish the wicked. Steadfast love and faithfulness preserve a king (a leader). Respect both the strength of the young and the experience and wisdom of the elders. Punishment for wrongs protects both the person and others in society.
Proverbs 21
The duties of the wise and righteous are explained in terms of God’s sovereignty over the lives of man.
There are five major sections or themes in Proverbs 21.
In verses 1-3, Solomon reminds us that God examines the hearts of man. The Lord can direct the heart of a leader in any way He wishes. No matter how you justify an action, God knows your heart. Obedience in doing right is more important to God than acts of “religious service.”
In verses 4-19, Solomon warns wise people of the need to guard against foolish, sinful behavior. Arrogance, pride, and wicked lifestyle are sinful. Do not gain wealth by lying. Violent men who refuse to do right will face justice. Wise men walk on a righteous path. Seek peace with your wife. Wicked people pursue evil. Scoffers learn little from punishment, but the simple do, and the wise gain wisdom. The judgment of the wicked will occur. Be sensitive to the cries of the poor. Bribery is wrong. Justice is a joy to the righteous. Do not stray from the ways of the wise (Godly). A life focused on indulgences and pleasure leads to poverty. The wicked will reap what they sow. It is better to remain single than be married to a quarrelsome woman.
In verses 20-23, Solomon gives four ways wise people can protect themselves from the foolish. Save and prepare for the future. Pursue righteousness. Wisdom will conquer the wicked. Controlling what you say will keep you out of trouble.
In verses 24-29, Solomon reveals ways the wise protect themselves from sin. Watch out for the prideful mocker and the sluggard who refuses to work. Give generously. Beware the man who is hypocritical in their worship, living a wicked lifestyle. An honest man will endure. A wise man thinks before acting.
In verses 30-31, Solomon says nothing will stop God from achieving His purpose. No wisdom of man can prevail against God. The victory is His!
Proverbs 22
Proverbs 22:1-16, marks the end of Solomon’s exposition of the duties of the wise and righteous that began in Proverbs 10.
There are three major sections or themes in Proverbs 22:1-16.
In verses 1-2, Solomon says that a good name is more important than wealth and that God is the Creator of all.
In verses 3-11, Solomon describes how the law of sowing and reaping governs humans as well as crops. The prudent man hides from danger the simple man does not. The reward for humility and fearing the Lord is wealth, honor, and life. Guard your soul by staying away from the snares of the wicked. Teach your children to live in the way God has designed them. The borrower is a slave to the lender. God will bring justice to the wicked. It is a blessing to be able to share with the poor. Peace can be achieved by driving out the scoffers and mockers. Leaders respect those whose hearts are pure and whose speech is gracious.
In verses 12-16, Solomon warns that God is opposed to certain types of people; the traitor, the sluggard, forbidden (immoral) women, foolish children, and those who oppress the poor.
Proverbs 22:17-24:33 shifts to specific lessons the wise need to learn. There are two major sections or themes in 22:17-21.
In verses 17-18, Solomon says it is important to develop your character by paying attention to the words of the wise, remember them, and teach them to others.
In verses 19-21, Solomon underscores the importance of trusting the Lord, understand the sayings of the wise, and be ready to teach them to others.
Proverbs 22:22-24:22 introduces a new group of sayings focused on increasing wisdom and trust in the Lord.
There are five additional sections or themes in the balance of Proverbs 22.
In verses 22-23, Solomon warns against taking advantage of the poor and oppressed just because of their condition.
In verses 24-25, Solomon warns about associating with violent, wrathful (vengeful) people or you may become like them.
In verses 26-27, Solomon warns not to put up security for other’s debts and risk the loss of your own property.
In verse 28, Do not steal property by moving property boundary stones.
In verse 29, Solomon says skilled diligent workers will be noticed by the king (leaders).
What did you notice in your study today? Feel free to visit the website and leave a question or a comment.