Proverbs Study – Lesson 20 –January 30, 2011– Seacoast Community Church Proverbs Study – Lesson 20 (Proverbs chapter 18:11-24)

V. 11 there is a false sense of security that we place on money. Down in our core being we believe that money talks and that the more money that we have the louder we speak and the more prominent we are. We have seen what money can do and because of its buying power and influence we get conceited, we get proud, we get cocky and demanding. However, Solomon noticed one thing about money, it is not as dependable as it looks. In Pv. 23:5 he states his observation that riches can fly away at any time, in large amounts, leaving at times little or nothing. Although the world tends to operate on the principle that money talks, Solomon says that it is not a secure way to live and warns us in Proverbs not to place our trust in it. As important as money is, he, Solomon would say that there are much better things to put your trust in for life than money.

V.12 Solomon talks a lot about pride and its consequence in the book of Proverbs. It is interesting that he does not use examples of mild repercussions such as making a fool of ourselves or mild embarrassment as a consequence. However, he more frequently uses much stronger language stating much more serious repercussions for acts of pride or a prideful lifestyle. Here he uses the word destruction and makes the inference that proceeding any destruction that more times than not pride is intimately involved. This is an interesting observation and is well to be pondered as to our habit and perspective in life. He goes on to say, however, that the opposite demeanor of pride, humility, has the opposite outcome. He says that a humble spirit, proper attitude and lifestyle, have the effect of prominence, honor and exaltation.

V. 13 It is so important to listen. We live in a society that is so fast paced the we tend to want to cut to the chase, get to the point, just give me the facts. We tend to finish someone else’s sentences for them, demonstrating our poor listening habit. What’s worse is that our listening skills are so poor that we often make decisions or judgments or give advice on almost no conversation at all. We can act like we have some form of mental telepathy, knowing all the details relayed to us by some other means, when in reality, the bottom line is that we do not want to take the time needed to hear the details. But, the true meaning and full picture of what is trying to be shared is really in the details. And, the answer or advice or support that they are seeking from us is also in those details. We all too often miss the mark in helping or meeting the need at hand because of our lack of time to have a complete conversation. It is not that we are not some help with advice given quickly, but it could be better. Also, conversations that are rapid fire do not allow for solid deeper relationships to build establishing trust in a relationship. Solomon says when we answer too quickly others get the message about us. They will say hello to us in passing, and are friendly, but may not stop to give us the details.

V. 14 Are you strong? Do you have what it takes to make it through tough times? This verse is not talking about extreme SELF confidence, but, refers more to the toughness that has developed to endure extreme situations and difficulties in life, hopefully with God’s guidance and Presence. Those who get tough in life without God often get hard and defensive. They frequently still buckle under extreme situations, having to only depend upon their inner strength. But, those who have learned to find their inner strength in God are often able to withstand anything. In so many places in the scripture God reminds us to stand strong. He often does it in the form of ‘Fear not’. But, a wounded spirit often has little to no strength at all and can give up without a fight. This is why an enemy will try psychological maneuvers on an opponent, trying to weaken their resolve, breaking open their inner stronghold. Inner strength is developed from difficult life experiences that pull out of us that deep down strength that God has put there. We do not realize that it is there usually until it is needed. This inner strength is usually a combination of many different experiences. But, sometimes…the strength that you need for the extreme difficulty that you are facing is developed on site, walking through the difficulty at hand.

V. 15 The prudent and the wise person look’s for and takes steps to seek out knowledge. It is like breathing air, like satisfying thirst by drinking water. For the prudent knowledge is an essential part of life, they would not think about going through a day without getting more of it. It says that they not only look for it, but they listen for it, using all of their senses to find it first and then be instructed by it. For these, knowledge is as essential for life as air and water.

V.16 Some know the power of persuasion and what opens doors. Even famous and prominent people like a surprise and like to be appreciated or thought of as special. Some doors you have to open with a little effort by getting someone’s attention. There is nothing like a nice gift tailor made to that person presented in the right setting to open their heart to you. It does not even need to be expensive; it just needs to be real. If you are smart enough to hit the mark an audience that normally would be impossible might turn into opportunity. I love the way the KJV puts this one. It says ‘a man’s gift makes room for him’ when he wouldn’t have fit in before.

V. 17 The first testimony in a dispute always looks like the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth and at first we can get the impression that we now have all the details and should not waste our time by continuing. We should make a decision, enforce a judgment and go home. But, then comes the cross examination, revealing other details and concerns you might not have considered. As further testimony unfolds so often the tables turn and what looked like a sure thing now is clear that the opposite is true. It is better to listen to all the details before making up our mind. We are easily swayed by a convincing story especially if it is first on the docket. Solomon also says, ask their neighbor if they are telling the truth, they will know. Living next door to them they can usually tell you if they are telling the truth. Neighbors know things that others might not be aware of.

V. 18 Wow! The wisdom in these Proverbs! Two sides. Two perspectives. Neither wrong. Both have their point. There is no real answer to settle this. There is no justification to disqualify one, or vote in favor of the other. What makes it worse is both parties are important...Too important to disqualify either party on favoritism. Giving in to one side will hurt severely the relationship and or good will and progress involved in the situation. What to do?? There is only one option, wimp out and flip a coin. Let the coin decide. The opposing parties realizing the gridlock will often go for this option. A flip of the coin and a decision is made ending the contention, even of the mighty.

V. 19 Before we burn that bridge we better think twice. Offending a friend is not to be taken lightly. Friends are too valuable. One may have the attitude, not to worry, I can make up later if I want to. However, Solomon says that it is not that easy. When we cross the line and we have offended them. They will remember how we treated them. Feelings are involved. They won’t talk to us. They give us the cold shoulder. It can last a lifetime. We can offend others in many ways. Some of those ways may not be obvious to us. Maybe we did not even mean anything by our action. But, it offended them and now they are holding onto a grudge. Friends can be offended by actions, words, attitudes or even not including them. Solomon says that getting past their emotions can be as difficult as breaking through steel bars.

V. 20 Our conversation has a very profound effect on how we get along in this life. This verse has several different interpretations. However, whatever interpretation you tend to go with, how we use speech and how we communicate with others makes a difference in the comfort of life and the level of existence that we live on. Words not only have a way of opening doors, but they have the ability of making others want to interact with us in ways that are also beneficial to us. This verse could be implying that saying the right thing may give us that good feeling down inside that is satisfying knowing that we said the right thing. However, it may also refer to others, wanting to interact with us because they enjoy the encounter, whether it is for business or for pleasure. V. 21 goes on to say conversation and communication is so important as ‘Death’ and ‘Life’. We often hear it said in the reverse direction, the positive direction, life and death. The tongue is an extremely powerful tool. Words from a person of influence or power can dramatically affect the lives of many. V. 20 in the KJV makes the statement ‘with the increase of his lips’ reminding us that we should invest effort and study in instruction of our lips and conversation, learning to be more polite, respectful and truthful. Here he advises us to give the thought ‘if I phrase my conversation thus it will not only let this conversation be good, but if I say thus it will be helpful or edifying’ before we respond. He also implies we need to give the thought ‘if I say that it will hurt or not help’, not responding in a manner that is not edifying. We do not realize but we often hold the lives of others in our ‘mouth’, not our hand.

V. 22 Solomon here is echoing what God said in Gen. 2:18. In Gen 2:18 God saw the man that he created and saw something missing. He said that it was not good for man to be alone, giving the impression that a major part of the man’s makeup, the relational part of man, was not satisfied. Man was created in God’s image and has the resemblance and personality of God in many ways. But, in this part of man’s makeup man is different. In this, man was created with a need that can only be satisfied from something from outside himself, unlike God, on the other hand, that is complete in and of Himself. It is true that God created some men and women for Himself making them to be eunuchs for the Kingdom. But, for most, man, and woman, is incomplete and lonely without their mate. However, when Solomon refers to finding a good thing he is not referring to just any woman, but is he implying the find of their life. In the KJV he uses the word ‘find’ meaning a diligent search, finally finding what they are searching for. A haphazard decision on this one is only pain and misery. Prov. 19:14 refers to this find of a wife as a prudent person, someone with great value. Proverbs 24:27 also gives some good advise increasing the likelihood of finding a good wife. It says to prepare your work outside, and make it fit for yourself in the field, and afterword build your house’ giving the advise that the one that is searching for that wife needs to be diligently working on them self to be prepared for their find.

V. 23 Solomon observed that like it or not the poor had to be nice, polite and accommodating. They had no choice. They were not in a position to be otherwise. He also observed that those that are rich did not have to be as thoughtful or polite if they chose not to be so. They could, if they chose to, use their money as a tool to allow them to overlook their inconsideration of others. I am not sure how other people of the world look at Americans today, but at one time it was said that Americans had the attitude while traveling, using their money to get what they wanted when they wanted it, at times speaking harshly as Solomon puts it in the process. Poor people, especially in his day, had no choice but to be gracious on the outside even if they were not so on the inside. Their next meal may have depended on it.

V. 24  A man who has friends has a good thing. But, a man with too many friends may be pulled apart. Friends require time and attention. Having too many friends, or treating everyone as your friend may not be realistic given the time needed to service or give attention to real friends and friendships. Too many so called friends can keep relationships more on a surface level as far as really knowing them. Treating someone as a true friend when you really don’t know them that well can smart if they do not live up to your expectation. Treating an acquaintance as a friend is not a good idea. Solomon goes on to say that a true friend, if you can find one or two, will stick by you like a brother, through thick or thin.  There also seems to be an inference to the very close and faithful friendship of God who will indeed never leave us no matter what.

Proverbs Study – Lesson 19 –January 23, 2011– Seacoast Community Church Proverbs Study – Lesson 19 (Proverbs chapter 17:17-18:10)

V. 17 No one knows your troubles or your pain like family. Friends can sympathize. Good friends can be quite helpful. But, no one can be as understanding and supportive as family during times of adversity. . Family knows your pain. They more times than not are experiencing it too.

V. 18 It is a nice gesture to help someone out. Sometimes those we know truly do need our help. But, be careful not to go too far. There are those who would take anything we would be willing to give them with no ability or interest to give it back. Solomon says that your neighbor knows a good thing when they see it. He, Solomon, probably learned this one by experience. Agreeing to take care of someone else’s debt on a handshake is not a good idea. Even if it is someone close to you, like a neighbor. If you are going to help out someone you had probably better make it a gift. It will probably end up to be a gift in the end anyway.

V. 19 Strife can be a lifestyle for those who love to cause it and along with that lifestyle goes a lifestyle of sin. They go hand in hand. Solomon observed that one cannot really exist without the other. The Good News translation puts it this way, ‘To like sin is to like making trouble’. A life of sin does not create harmony, it creates strife. The second part of this verse reminds us that it is hard to live up to prideful boasts. Why do we put ourselves up on a pedestal only so others can take a shot at us? The higher we put ourselves the harder it is to measure up and eventually it all comes tumbling down.

V. 20  Someone that has a perverse heart sees the world just that way. The world is full of opportunity, but none of the options that they see is good. Everything that they get involved in ends up in some sort of trouble. It is the same with someone with a perverse tongue. It is only natural for someone who speaks contentious words to end up in a conflict. The KJV uses the word perverse for its description of these people. By definition the word perverse means:

·         Showing a deliberate and obstinate desire to behave in a way that is unreasonable or unacceptable, often in spite of the consequences.

·         Contrary to the accepted or expected standard or practice

For someone that lives this way it is only natural for them to cause and find trouble. They come by it natural.

V. 21 Solomon observed parents that had foolish children and observed the utter frustration and pain that went with it. The message translates the first part of this verse saying that ‘Having a fool for a child is misery’. You never know what they will do next. The problem is that all of their foolish actions unfortunately either reflect on or involve you. And, they bear no shame, for foolishness is perfectly natural to them. Unfortunately, the parent(s) are the ones that bear the shame for their actions. The KJV translates the second part of this verse ‘the father of a fool has no joy’.

V. 22 Solomon also observed that the state of the heart had profound effects on the body. His observation of a merry heart affecting us like a medicine is true. We now know that hormones and enhancing body chemicals are dumped into the system during times of exhilaration and or pleasant experiences. Fun and excitement cannot only lift our spirit, but if found in the right balance can also promote health in our body. Solomon also observed that the opposite is also true. He says that a broken spirit seems to affect us right down to the core of our being…and, our body, down to the bones. Our skeleton gets rattled when we have a broken spirit affecting even the bones.

V. 23 We have already looked at a verse in this chapter dealing with bribes. V. 8 just made the observation of just how powerful a bribe or enticement can be to the one giving it. This verse deals directly with one type of bribe, the type that is given by a wicked person wanting to pervert justice. As discussed before, bribes are powerful tools in the hands of those who use them. Used with the wrong intent in mind much damage can be done. Many governments run and survive on this technique alone for a season. In reading this verse in the KJV you can literally see the man taking his hand out of his coat with the bribe in it ready to give it to the one being bribed.

V. 24 A person who has understanding has wisdom out in front of them to follow as long as they choose to, but a fool has no direction at all. A fool is at the mercy of the wind having not learned knowledge. They have no direction, having no compass to guide them. Someone having real understanding has the ability to stop and ponder what they know and make wise future decisions. A fool has nothing to go on so you never know where they will end up. The Good News translation puts it this way ‘An intelligent person aims at wise action, but a fool starts off in many directions’.

V. 25 Again, Solomon makes the point of how painful it is for the parents to have a fool for a son.

V. 26 It is an injustice to punish good people. It is the criminal or the perpetrator of the wrong that deserves the punishment. However, in many countries including ours, it is just the opposite. The good get penalized and those who do wrong get all kinds of brakes and excuses for their behavior. Where would our nation be if justice was served on those who deserve it and the good rewarded and encouraged for their good works.

V. 27 We have seen this verse before. This kind of person has a quiet confidence and always seems to know just what the next step is in life. Solomon makes us aware of this person because they are often overlooked as a possible source when needing an answer to our problem. We are often drawn to the flash, the bright, the active or the one with a lot of words. But, in Prov. 10:19 Solomon reminded us that often those that are always talking may not be saying much and that the wisdom that we seek may be in the fewer words.  This may be one of the reasons that many passed Jesus by. A person of understanding when asked their advice will usually give one or two suggestions, but they are usually all good options. He goes on to say that a person of understanding is even tempered and remains calm in difficult situations. During difficult situations they are reassuring and are good to have near.

V. 28 What a great verse! One of my favorite!! Again, this verse needs to be paired up with Prov. 10:19.  This verse has reminded me what to do and how to act when I was unsure of the right answer and saying anything at the moment would not have been the right answer. At that moment I did not have the right answer. If I had a little time I would come up with something at least better than I had now. Any comment by me would reveal my lack of wisdom. Saying nothing at the moment was the best option. This verse and Prov. 10:19 are great verses to apply to buy time to get the right answer. Call it a bluff if you want to, but it is a valuable tool in keeping confidence in a relationship or during negotiations.

Chapter 18

V. 1 The Good News translation translated this verse this way, ‘People who do not get along with others are interested only in themselves; they will disagree with what everyone else knows is right’. A person that knows that they are wrong but will not admit it holding onto a false conviction willingly separates himself from others. Admitting that they are wrong is just too painful, and yet because of their stubborn spirit they close off the rest of the world from them.

V. 2 A fool really has no interest at all in learning. They will put on a good show from time to time, but watch them for a while and you will see that they have no desire to learn. Solomon says that if they really understand something, they would expose their heart and see how foolish they really are. The truth sometimes is too painful, so they have no desire to understand.

V. 3 There are certain things that go hand in hand, one does not show up without the other. A smile usually begets a smile back. Kind words are most often met with a kind response back. Solomon reminds us of repercussions of certain actions and lifestyles. He says that wicked or evil actions are looked upon by others with contempt. It is strange, but even bad or evil people dislike those that do bad or evil deeds. Contempt by definition is an intense feeling or attitude of regarding someone or something as inferior, base, or worthless—it is similar to scorn. Living this way in life is a lonely existence. He goes on to say that with public disgrace and humiliation comes scorn and ridicule from those who are near. Being caught in a scandal is bad enough, but there is more. The whole world turns against you on top of having to serve time.

V. 4 The Message puts v. 4 this way, ‘Many words rush along like rivers in flood, but deep wisdom flows up from artesian springs’. All too often in a multitude of words there is very little wisdom. Surface talk is just that. It has a benefit of just being with someone in a nonthreatening way. But it is meant to be mindless chatter to communicate nothing of real value.  For times of wisdom, however, when someone needs help, serious help, often we need to stop and reflect, and dig deep or ‘look in that from the deep’ within our heart to give something that satisfies or is helpful. Wisdom comes from the deep and in those times the surface talk will not be enough.

V. 5 Here we see the imbalance of justice again that Solomon mentioned in Prov. 17:15. The person of the wicked is usually shown some form of favoritism for some selfish reason often associated with a bribe or a promise of the same when they do wrong and need a favor. Doing favors for bad people are not always reciprocal. When it is your turn to get the favor those that received the favor do not always remember what you did for them. Also, this verse can reflect on judges with a twisted sense of justice, letting the bad guy go and pressing unusually hard on a good person. Why a judge acts this way is often hard to understand. In other countries it may be for bribes and payoffs, in our country at times it almost seems like the popular thing to do.

V. 6 and 7 It seems like a fool only brings it upon themselves. If they would only have enough wisdom to connect the stripes or the difficulties with their actions and their speech they could restrain themselves and avoid so much pain in life. But, they do not even have enough wisdom to realize the connection, so they just keep on talking, receiving blow after blow of reprisal.

V. 8 No one can inflict more damage and injury than a talebearer. No one! A talebearer’s way and intent is to get attention or revenge at any cost to their object of attention. They know how to tell the story, twisting the actual words and events, adding details that make for a better telling. The slice goes deep. The wound is often fatal, fatal in reputation, fatal in interpersonal relations, and fatal in self esteem. Sometimes gossip starts off innocent enough, but grows like a cancer uncontrollably getting out of control consuming its victim.

V. 9 There are two different people in this verse, but Solomon says that they in reality are essentially the same. He says that the person who is unorganized, lazy or a waster of time is the same as one who literally wastes goods and services, using many times more than what is needed to get the job done. The slothful wastes their time and talent being unproductive by choice when they really have both if they choose to use it. The waster used their ability, but because of mismanagement and lack of appreciation of limited resources runs out of the goods to complete their job or product. In reality the end of each of them is the same.  They miss the mark or do not complete the task usually making excuses saying that they did not have enough to get the job done.

V. 10 Those who have walked with God know where to go and where to find Him in their hour of need. They have become strong and are able to stand tall and stand strong during difficult times in life. They depend on and realize that God is with them wherever they go. But, there are those times when even they need to run like a child into the fort and protective tower of God. David had no problem admitting his need for God and His protection when life was beyond his strength. It says that ‘the righteous run into it and are safe signifying that they are not proud to admit their need for the Master. It also, says that once there they are safe. The righteous know a good thing when they experience it.

Proverbs Study – Lesson 18 –January 16, 2011– Seacoast Community Church Proverbs Study – Lesson 18 (Proverbs chapter 17:1-16)

V. 1 There is something about the possession of peace that makes it one of the most coveted experiences of life. All of us could use more of it in our life, yet many of us underestimate its essential value. It seems that our lives are filled so full with busyness, noise and strife that our hearts yearn for true quiet. And yet, when we find it the quiet makes us uncomfortable for some reason and we begin to fill up the quiet with the same….noise, business and strife. Peace and/or quiet are food for the soul and essential for survival. Yet, provided with the option of choice between peace and quiet or activity and noise we almost always for some reason choose the latter.

When was the last time that you really found a quiet place? How comfortable were you there? Solomon seems to suggest that often quiet and peace are found in nothingness, a place that we do not like to be. It is not our nature. Yet, King Solomon tells us that even a king would trade all that he had for nothingness and quiet at times.

It is our nature to choose the all often having nothing. Solomon’s advice is to not overlook the little to nothing for in it you may find true peace! Christ put it this way, ‘What will it profit you if you gain the whole world and lose your own soul’.  And, ‘Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid’. He claimed to be the Author of Peace. Solomon would agree that choosing the One thing ,Christ, is peace and is much better than having it all, so to speak, with all of its inherent strife. He also would tell us to sacrifice the much of perceived valued in this life and trade it for the less or simple. As a wise king who had it all his very real and practical advice to us was to try the simple, there is a very good chance that it is more satisfying.

V. 2 A servant that is honest and is practicing wisdom will get many surprises in life. A servant is a servant and is expected to do their duties faithfully and dependably and is not expected to get anything extra for their service of their master. However, a wise servant often gets different treatment. A truly wise servant is not just doing a good job doing the expected duties of a servant, but goes above and beyond not in duty only, but in exceptional wisdom in performing their duties. In life, if you are smart, you tend to yield to those who you can depend on and who have the knack or gift in your area of need. So often what happens is if this person can be trusted, and they are proven to do as good a job or better than others, it is not long before they get the job with all of its duties, responsibilities and…benefits! A shameful son who has proven that they cannot be trusted with the responsibilities is not given the responsibilities and over time is unrewarded of the benefits too. Over time it is not uncommon, although this should not ever be the original intent of the servant, for the servant to be given either what they managed as a reward or rewarded handsomely for their wise and faithful service, sometimes in the form of an inheritance. This principle has many direct applications to the work environment.

V. 3 There are different processes used to refine different substances. But, one thing man has not learned to refine is man’s heart. The Lord knows how to ‘test’ our heart and try our motives. Both of the examples of silver and gold have value that increases when refined by intense heat. God, however, can use methods only known by His wisdom that can produce greater value than either heat refined gold or silver. God’s refining process can seem extremely intense and sometimes unfair when it is occurring. But, God’s methods are sure. They get the job done. In the end not only does God know our true intents, but often we do too. The end of the process transforming into precious gold is much more valuable than when it began.

V. 4 Those who do wrong seem to hear only ideas from those who also do wrong. Wicked deeds are fabricated and built on false principles, false hopes and lies. Wicked people looking for this outcome will only look for and hear this advice. Listening to and applying the truth would only spoil their plans of evil intent, improving the outcome of their plans to the good.

 V. 5 God sees the gestures and responses that we give when no one is looking concerning the poor and those experiencing misfortune. All of us have at one time or another had thoughts less than we should have of others in unfortunate situations. We may have even not thinking at the moment laughed at misfortune. This verse tells us that we should be careful what we think, lest we be judged by God Himself. The end of the verse uses the term punishment making it clear what we shall receive and it reveals God’s attitude toward those who act this way. He will not be sending trouble our way to teach us a lesson, but punishment for what we have earned for this wrong. Scary…noteworthy.

V. 6 Children admire and adore/almost worship their fathers until it proven to them that we do not really care. Ignoring their admiration and not giving them the attention and acknowledgment when they only see their father can lessen or change this wonderful relationship over time. If attention, love and recognition are given back, mixed in with a little bit of time, this adoration may never change and can last a life time. Solomon also observed that grandchildren are pretty cool too. He probably made this observation from firsthand experience, experiencing the pure pleasure that grandchildren bring. Maintaining a good relationship with your children now is important if you are wanting to spend precious time with your grandchildren in the future.

V. 7 Some things do not become us. When a foolish person says something profound or of value they are not heard or taken seriously. So it is also true that lies are not for the lips of someone who wants to live a respected life. It says that it is not fitting for a respected person like a prince to speak lies and inappropriate words or gestures. Those around us may not say anything, but often think less of us and who we represent when we tell an off color joke, speak a lie or say something that is not fully appropriate. It is out of character and not representative of who we are and can lessen our position the next time we are called to represent it.

V. 8 Bribes. When we think of a bribe we often think of some shady deal in some secret or private place influencing some corrupt official to over look an injustice or to look the other way while someone proceeds doing something that normally would not be allowed. But bribes are more common than we might think. By definition a bribe is a gift bestowed or agreement made to do something for another person with the intent to influence the recipient’s conduct. If taken in the true sense of the definition true bribes occur all the time. I will pick up something from the store if you go by the bank for me. We offer to make someone their favorite meal if they help us do something they are reluctant to do. A child will even be good, being on their best behavior to influence mom or dad to let them do something they are reluctant to agree with. The thing desired may be allowed anyway, but the bribe makes it a sure thing. Be careful of those who bribe for influence or to get their agenda established. The gift or favor is often intended to compromise your original view or perspective. It is important to not be influenced by the bribe when making our decision. It is important to be clear of what you are agreeing to.

Not all means of influence are bad. It is a wise person that realizes that there are ways to help influence others to see our way in right parameters. I.e.if you help me lift these heavy objects I will let you use my truck. But, more times than not bribes are intended to overlook or do something that is not entirely right. Town agendas, political machines, business deals and personal agendas often depend heavily on some form of influence that would be in the strictest sense of the word a bribe. There may not even be anything illegal in what is done, but the offer is intended to make sure others will see it your way assuring that you get what you want. Bribes occur everywhere. It is important that we evaluate what someone is asking us to agree to. Be aware, if someone offers you an unexpected gift it is wise to be sure of the intent. Some gifts are just that, a gift with no strings. But, others come with expectations. To the one offering the bribe, the bribe is a precious stone and can open doors otherwise closed.  V. 23

V. 9  A true friend keeps confidence in matters that are no one else’s business. Repeating things that are meant to be kept in confidence injures relationships. Sometimes permanently. This verse in several translations has the component of forgiving those who have wronged us covering their transgression and keeping a friend. We all make mistakes. Sometimes we do not see our mistake until some time has passed. If we are quicker to forgive than to judge good friends usually realize their shortcoming and in time make up or ask forgiveness. If we were too quick to judge them, when they finally realize their wrong they will feel that there is no door to enter to right the wrong. Friendships that are lasting have the component of forgiveness built into them.

V. 10 A wise man is like a sponge. The wise have an open heart for right and wisdom. They are looking for answers, ready to hear and apply them. A fool only interested in foolishness. They are not interested in true answers but will repeat the same foolish actions again and again getting the same result. Solomon made the observation that the fool is so set in their ways that you cannot beat wisdom into them.

V. 11 Sometimes it is necessary to meet force with force. Truly evil people will not listen to reason. They are only bent on causing trouble and will stop at almost nothing to get what they want. Recognizing an evil person for who they are and meeting them with a straightforward blunt message on the consequences of their actions if they proceed is the only way to reason with them. This kind of person does not even flinch at idle threats or suggestions. They only stop to think if they believe you will and can carry out retribution that is severe enough to injure them for their actions. Some of our current world leaders fall into this category.

V. 12 Wow!! This is serious! Solomon says that it is worse to encounter a fool than to encounter a bear, getting between her and her cubs. Are there those people in your life that when they call or knock on your door or that you see on the street that you know if you connect with them that it is going to be a bad day? What is it this time? Even a contact with them gets complicated and is nothing but trouble. You cannot fix their problem anyway. They won’t let you. They won’t listen to anything you say. You’ve tried many times before and it was HOPELESS! Solomon would ask the question, ‘what is your first response when you encounter a bear’? He would probably tell you to do the same when encountering a fool working their folly. When they call or knock on your door or you meet them on the street don’t answer the door or go the other way when you see them…quick! You will be better off.

V. 13 Rewarding evil for good is not smart. An evil response no matter the initial action, good or bad, only prompts a harsh response. But, if a person has the habit of giving an evil response not acknowledging the good done to them there is no hope for them, their house will be filled what they give out. V. 26

V. 14 Contention between two people usually starts small and can get out of hand quickly. It is like a match when lit can grow rapidly and spread quickly. We know we should not give a response or say what we are thinking. Giving a response may give us some pleasure, but what you start is world war III. You had the power to either push the button or not. You chose to push it. You knew what would happen. You said it anyway. You asked for it. You knew it had the potential of starting a nuclear reaction that would be unable to be stopped. Oh,oh. Too late. The dam breaks and now everything is in ruin.  Solomon advises us to break the chain reaction. Stop fission in its tracts. Bite your tongue. Swallow your pride. It is better to not start or continue strife. If we do we may be asking for more than we bargin for.

V. 15 Many in our country believe that we have it all backward, and maybe they are right. It seems that those who rob, those who cheat, those who steal, those who are unwilling to work, those who borrow and do not intend to make plans to pay back are rewarded or protected. It often seems that those in our land, who work, are honest, treat people right, pay their debts, pull their share of the weight and then some and live prudent lives go unrewarded and are often penalized. I often wonder how the Lord feels about our system of justice in our current day. We would be wise to listen and apply some of the wisdom Solomon is attempting to share with us. Is it not time to call good good and bad bad?

V. 16 It does not matter how much money a fool has, they will never purchase wisdom. A fool no matter how much money he has would not know wisdom when they saw it. Some even if they could afford it and so happened to stumble upon it would not know how to apply it. It is like trying to do higher math having a 2^nd grade education. This says something about who we choose to do a task or job that we need to have done. Send the wise person to do the job, especially if it required you to pay for it, and rely on them to make a decision for you. Giving any amount of money or responsibility to a foolish person is an embarrassment to them and to you.

Proverbs Study – Lesson 17 –January 09, 2011– Seacoast Community Church Proverbs Study – Lesson 17 (Proverbs 16:11-33)

V. 11 God is working through us even in our business dealings. If God is in our work then we need to represent Him in our business dealings. Solomon says that all the steps and procedures are His and representative of Him. Every weight and procedure is His and therefore needs to be fair and just. You can make extra money by taking advantage of someone when they are at a disadvantage. Much of business is set up this way. Charge what you can get,…not what is a fair profit. But, God is not in that. He will not bless the sale. One translation puts it ‘The Lord wants weights and measures to be honest and every sale to be fair’.  God has ordained good and honest business and will bless honest practices.

V. 12 Some get to high office by deceit and trickery, but the establishment of a high position or office that is fully functional and practical occurs only by good and right practices. Kings that practice deceit and evil do not last long in office. Good kings would not think of running their office on evil principles. Doing so would be offensive to them.

V. 13  Anyone who is in a place of authority who is looking for answers wants only the truth. Don’t give me a song and dance…just give me the truth. It is extremely frustrating for someone looking for answers to be given a lot of words that mean nothing. Some advisers will speak a lot, but say nothing of real value. They want the truth, the full truth and nothing but the truth. A king or person in authority will seek out and collect good advisers that they have learned will be honest with them.  In a higher place of authority having access to honest dependable resources is the only way to operate and make decisions. If you are found to be honest and straightforward in your answers maybe you will be one of their trusted advisers.

V. 14 In olden days you knew that you had better not make the king angry. If you did it usually meant your life. Dealing with a king was often like dealing with a boss in our day. It frequently meant you had to be careful what you said and how you acted much like walking on eggshells. However, a wise man who knew the lay of the land so to speak was wise enough to keep the king in a reasonable mood, staying out of the danger zone. Why anyone would want a job in such a precarious position in days of old is beyond me. But Solomon says that a wise man was smart enough to stay at least one step ahead of an unpleasant situation.  V. 15 reminds us that if you were able to find the sweet spot in the king’s service you would be living life the best. Only the wise practicing good and wise principals had any chance of living there. The foolish would not have a chance of survival here.

V. 16 Gold and silver can sit in a drawer or occupy space in a secret place waiting for their opportunity to be used or needed.  Sure they have value for essentials like food and shelter when other monetary currencies fail. But, knowledge and understanding are so much more valuable having a broader and more practical application to daily life. Knowledge and understanding have benefit and use even when gold and silver are found to be useless in a drawer collecting dust.

V. 17 The highway is usually referred to as being the most direct route. It is not meant for sightseeing and bypasses a lot of undesirable places. The reference in this verse has the impression of keeping our eyes focused directly on our destination and not getting diverted and snared by taking detours. You know how it goes. You get off on an exit sometimes for a good cause like getting gas and before you know it you are lost and cannot get back on the highway. An easy off of the highway is not always a easy back on. From experience you know that you can wind up in some pretty scary places. From experience we know not to exit in unfamiliar or undesirable places. The second part of this verse reminds us that we need to be diligent in keeping our eyes and ears focused on the goal before us avoiding alluring temptations that can cause us to become sidetracked and become ensnared in life not allowing us to reach our destination. The pay off in doing this is the keeping of our soul. Most translations refer to this as saving our life, but I think that Solomon meant more than that. I like the way the KJV translates this using the word soul, having the meaning of more than just the physical life, preserving our heart as well.

V. 18-9 Pride not only is thwarted by actions of God in judgment, but also is self destructive by its inherent effects and outcomes. The result of pride and prideful actions has a natural destructive outcome. Prideful actions allow us to take uncalculated risks putting us in situations or places that may have injurious consequences. A prideful spirit will prompt us to take a dare without counting the cost or calculating the risk. So often we come out of these situations with physical, emotional or relational injuries, sometimes coming out of them with substantial injury. Many a relationship, a career, marriage and ministry have been destroyed by prideful actions. Prideful thoughts fool us into thinking that we can get away with wrong deeds others have been shipwrecked with, encouraging and tempting us to do things we normally would not consider doing. Sometimes what drives us to be proud is perceived acceptance and attention we think that we will get by doing such things, being somebody. Solomon observed by watching the outcome of proud actions and a prideful life. He saw that this way of living had natural consequences. V. 19 gives us this advice, we are much happier and better off practicing God’s way which includes humility than we are to enjoy temporary spoils of the proud which are followed by the hazardous consequences of such a life.

V. 20 the wise take time to do things right. Quick solutions so often miss the mark and are no substitute for just the right answer. Sometimes searching out the right answer takes time. Again, Prov. 15:28 can be applied here. Finding the right solution may be a process. This often takes work in searching the matter out. However, Solomon tells us that it is worth the investment. The result and payoff is sweet. He also goes on to say that happiness is a natural result of trusting God. So often we see trusting God as almost agonizing work. But, Solomon says that the result of true trust is not a pain filled process, but is in actually a process that produces happiness or a happy spirit. Trusting the Lord is a freeing process, giving our cares to Him, making us happy! V.21 Because wise decisions prompt our actions we will be thought of as prudent people, dependable and of substance, someone to go to when others need advice, guidance or help. Our speech does not betray our actions. A wise person’s speech is sweet and persuasive, knowing what is appropriate and needed and is able to get what they want, wanting only good.

V. 22 Understanding that flows up from a heart like a fountain is truly a gift. Some of us get moments of this. Others get seasons of it. But, when we experience it it is nothing but pure pleasure. Solomon says that being in the zone of understanding is like cool spring water gushing up in our soul on a hot day. Refreshing! Life giving! Totally satisfying! But, the fool being void of understanding has nothing to fall back on to get them out of their trouble except more folly which is not sufficient to help them.

V. 23 Learning what to say and when to say it for most does not come natural. Solomon asked God to instruct him in what to say when he went out before the people. It is an interesting concept to instruct your lips in how they should act and what they say, but in the Bible it is not a foreign concept at all. James talks a lot about the mouth and the tongue as being in need of being tamed and instructed as to how to act and what to say. He uses the figure example of a horse and a bit, taking control of our lips and instructing them or taming them, teaching them to be pleasant and productive. He makes the point that not all instruction is in the form of controlling bad conversation as important as this may be. But, he makes the point that we need to also teach our mouth wisdom, graciousness, politeness and etiquette. He continues in v. 24 reminding us that polite and gracious words spoken well have a pleasurable effect not only on those who hear but also on us. He uses words like ‘sweet’, ‘honey’ and ‘healthy’ to remind us just how satisfying gracious speech from a kind heart is. We could use a dose of this today.

V. 25 This is the second time that we see this verse in this book. It is also found in Prov. 14:12.  

What a true and great verse verse 12 is. Have you ever been here? Solomon said that he could identify with this verse. He says that our heart is easily deceived. We can be wrong even if we are fully and confidently convinced that we are right.  This verse relates back to v. 8 of chapter 14. This verse is often used and quoted when sharing the Gospel with others. We often really believe that what we are doing or thinking is the right thing at the time only to find out later that it could not have been any further from the truth. It looked right. It felt right. We say ‘I was so sure’. But in the end we find out that we were wrong. It is unfortunate that many go to their death believing that they were right in their beliefs about God and life only to find out too late that they were wrong when using the Bible as the authority on the subject. It is a wise person that realizes the truth of this verse. Feeling confident and/or convinced that a way is absolutely right can have negative far reaching effects if we were wrong. It is a wise person that realizes that the mirage that looks so real may in actually be an illusion and that they better take the time to investigate further to be sure that they are not wrong. One’s life and eternity may depend on it.

V. 26 We need a dose of this verse in our culture today. Solomon here was not talking about starvation hunger for those who are forced to starve due to famine or truly tough times. He was talking about the natural motivation to work and earn a living supplying the necessities when the cupboards are becoming slim or the stomach begins to get uncomfortable because it is hungry. One translation put this verse this way ‘Appetite is an incentive to work; hunger makes you work all the harder’. There are natural consequences to being lazy and in many societies these motivators for doing our part to pull our share of the weight are removed by making us to comfortable when we need to feel the pinch. This leaves more of a burden on those who are happy to do their part and pull their weight. Solomon was not advocating letting those who were truly unable to work starve. He talked a lot about the poor and the needy and our need to be helpful and sympathetic. But, he also talked a lot about the ‘sluggard’. The sluggard would be better served by letting them experience a little hunger than making them comfortable. It might motivate them to do their part.

V. 27 Some people are just plain mean. These next 2 verses deal with mean or strife seeking people. These people look for ways and actually get some form of pleasure from being mean to others. All of us possess some degree of this trait if pressed hard enough, but these people need no prompting to look for opportunities to be harsh to others. They are just mean. Lest we be too quick to judge others as being mean and not us, I am frequently reminded by a bumper sticker that I see that confuses me. It says ‘mean people suck’. That statement sounds pretty mean to me. Sometimes we are not aware of how mean we could be given the right circumstances. Before we judge others we need to examine ourselves. This verse also reminds me of Christ on the cross. The whole world turned ‘mean´ when it came face to face with a good man. If people are mean to us it may not be pleasant, but may be an indicator of the quality of our life.

The beginning of v. 28 is related to v. 27. Meanness and sowing strife are in the same arena. The end of v. 28 reminds us of just how damaging gossip and a gossip are. He says that it all too often makes the best of friends the worst of enemies. A gossip gets pleasure out of spreading dirt. The problem with a gossip is that the dirt that they spread may not have been dirt at all when they got wind of it. They put their spin on the news and blow it up to be interesting enough to get the response they are looking for from those they tell. To them it does not matter if the facts are exactly accurate. Gossips are looking for attention at someone else’s expense. Pretty soon the damage is done and is now irreversible. The best of friends are now arch enemies. How sad. Those who know that they are prone to gossip need to bite their lip literally when tempted to share stories or information about others.

V. 29-30 A violent person will entice his neighbor to do dangerous or damaging things that even they would not do. They use people for their purposes not caring what happens to them. Some translations use some pretty descriptive terms that do not paint such a pretty ending. The impression is that we should beware of situations of trusting those who may possibly be bent on violence. They would think nothing of putting their neighbor in harm’s way even if it endangered their neighbor’s life.  V. 30 goes on to say that these people actually ponder evil and what extreme evil they can do and then are so bad that they actually begin the process of making their thoughts a reality. These people truly are dangerous.

 V. 31 A wise person that has practiced righteousness all of their life becomes more valuable with age. He describes the graying of the head as a respected crown for those who have lived for God and God’s ways all of their life. The years add to the life of the righteous making them valuable all of the days of their life.

V. 32 What a verse! We often think of might as one of the most coveted human traits or gifts. But, Solomon tells that there are traits that are even mightier than great strength. He names two of these here. First, he that is slow to get angry and second, those that rule their spirit. He says that one who is able to rule their spirit is actually stronger than one that is able to take a city. I have to agree with him. At times it is near impossible to impossible to keep our self under control, even our thoughts. One who can rule his soul is truly great being stronger than a warrior.

V. 33 I like how the Message translates this verse. It says ‘Make your motions and cast your votes, but God has the final say’. The lot was used to help determine what God’s will was in certain circumstances. Solomon reminds us that God ultimately determines the outcome so we need to trust Him in outcomes that we do not understand or are out of our control.

Proverbs Study – Lesson 16 –January 02, 2011– Seacoast Community Church Proverbs Study – Lesson 16 (Proverbs 15:21-16:10)

v. 21 Prov. 22:15 says that foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child. Some kids never grow up. True foolishness has no purpose but is pleasurable to those who are immature. Folly when you are young is a totally different animal. When you are young most foolishness is practically harmless not being very sophisticated in its application. However, one who practices foolishness gets good at it over time and begins to apply grown up principals to immature actions. These actions have repercussions and consequences. An adult practicing folly does more damage, to others and themselves. A man of understanding realizes the outcome of such actions and instead chooses actions and choices more appropriate and helpful to life.

V. 22 Great ideas need an appropriate delivery in order to succeed. Many good ideas crash and burn without the wise input from others. The just of this verse is to ask questions of wise people that may have the knowledge you seek and you may see more of your good ideas become a reality.

V.23 Words spoken at the right time have a tremendous impact. When you hit on such an occasion you know it. There is a certain pleasure to come up with the right word or phrase at the right time. The inner feeling at the moment can be exuberant. Wise people hit the mark more frequently using the right words at the right time. Words spoken at the right time make up part of the Joy wise people experience during their life making life a pleasure.

 V.24 A down life takes little effort. It just happens. Given no effort life surrounds us (Prov. 15:19) and Solomon says will actually lead to the grave. The wise realize this and plan an upward journey not letting life overtake them. Solomon uses the expression ‘the way of life’ saying that it is natural for the wise to naturally take steps to order life. For them looking and planning ahead is the only way to live.

V. 25 Proud people act as if what they purpose will no doubt come to pass. It has to be, they say…I made the plan. Yet, their plan is based solely on their ability and has no dependence upon God. The widow, however, is often seen as completely vulnerable and fully dependent upon God and His provision and protection. In Prov. 6:17 pride is listed as one of the things that the Lord hates. Here in v. 25 we see that the Lord will actually judge the proud bringing destruction upon their dwelling and at the same time being our Provider He will care for the widow in a supernatural way establishing her home and dwelling. Solomon reminds us that it is important to keep God in the equation.

V. 26 How can a person who does not reverence or respect God think thoughts to please Him. In v. 8 of this chapter we saw that the attempted good works of someone who does not recognize God actually offend the Lord. In this verse even their thoughts of self and pride are offensive to God. The thoughts of the pure, however, are enjoyable to the Lord and are His delight.

V. 27 Someone who is greedy for gain will do almost anything to get what they want. They will even go as far as cheating or eventually breaking the law to get what they want. Going to these extremes not only puts them in danger of punishment and retribution, but also puts those near them, who depend on them, in danger also. Someone else that holds to a standard of doing right first, or righteousness, will not fall into this trap. They will not compromise their principals of doing what is right to gain material things. Solomon says that someone that is in it for gain can be bought for a price whereas someone that holds to righteousness as their standard cannot be bought for any price.

V. 28 This was the original request of Solomon when he met God on Mt. Gibeon in 1 Kings 3:2-14. He did not know how to answer the people. His prayer request to God was to be able to give the right answer in difficult and unclear situations. God in granting Solomon’s request gave him wisdom, but did not give him all of the wisdom that he would need at one time. To be sure Solomon was given a special sense about what was right. But, like us at times Solomon had to wrestle through the process of knowing what the right answer was. It is a wise person that does not rush to be the first one to answer when they are not sure of really what the right answer is. It says the righteous, or one that seeks God’s answer for the situation, looks into the matter first to be sure they are giving good advice. I like the way the ‘Good News’ translation renders the second part of this verse. It says ‘Evil people have a quick reply, but it causes trouble’.

V. 29 relates to v. 9 of this chapter, Solomon again stating his experience and divine inspiration that one who does not follow God is not acquainted with or ‘chummy’ with God. Many who are living their own life, not following God, have the perception that they kind of know God and that at least He is an acquaintance of theirs. Here Solomon clearly says that the wicked, or those not following God, are not even close to God. He uses the term ‘far’ away. One who begins to draw near to God begins to understand their need for forgiveness and is approaching God on the right path. Prior to being reconciled to God through His provision in Christ for the forgiveness of sins, He, God, actually considers us an ‘enemy’. This is hard for us to accept, even as a believer. Like Cain, at times we offer Him our best efforts. But, in the book of Proverbs Solomon uses some pretty strong words on coming to God our own way. Here he uses ‘far’ giving the implication that we are ‘not ever close’. In v. 8 he says an unbeliever’s works are an abomination. And, Prov. 28:9 makes it clear what Solomon is saying, it says ‘He that turns his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be an abomination’. In this verse Solomon leaves us no room for misunderstanding. Cain found out that God does not accept us on our terms. Like Able we must first receive His Provision for forgiveness, restoring our relationship with Him. Those who come to God on His terms, God hears their prayers. The way is clear. The door is open. Let us come via God’s provision. In coming God’s way let us pray!

V. 30 How we see things makes a difference. Do we see the glass half empty or half full? There are almost always two ways to see things. It is true that the optimist may not see the reality that is about to overcome him, but seeing things as light instead of darkness is almost always more beneficial. The New NIV says ‘A cheerful look brings joy to the heart’. Looking for the good in things when it can be found is the perspective of a thankful heart. God encourages us to be thankful. He also encourages us to encourage others by bringing a good report whenever possible. If we remember the times in our life when we needed an encouraging word and received one we will remember how important it is to encourage others.

V. 31-2 Again Solomon tells us that listening is soooo important! Others have already made the mistakes we are about to make and have experienced the consequences, why would we want to the experience the pain too? Advice that others give can be vital. If we would only listen! It is the foolish that are too proud to listen and too late realize important life saving advice. Solomon says that the wise listened and applied what they hear and are still among the living in the company of other wise people.

V. 33 List what Solomon says in the beginning of this verse as one of your steps for instructions on how to put life together and make it work. The problem with this verse is that far too many of us do not follow the instruction of life given by Solomon. It is important if we seek wisdom that respect and honor be given to God in our daily activities. We also need to mix our day with a healthy dose of fear for who God is. Solomon also states that humility is better than honor. Honor always follows the humble. Lk. 14:11 says that whosoever humbles himself shall be exalted.  Those words were spoken by Christ Himself. This approach is opposite the advice the world gives us which tells us to exalt ourself above others.

Chapter 16

Just when you thought that Solomon could not possibly come up with any more proverbial wisdom he pours it on by giving us some of his best stuff. Proverbs 16 starts out with some of the best proverbs found in this book. V. 1 starts out by saying we do not always say what we plan to. Sometimes that works for our benefit, sometimes to our detriment. Solomon reminds us that the Lord is very much a part of our conversation. So often in situations you prepare what you are going to say…hoping that it comes out right. But things change as a conversation or situation unfolds. In difficult situations a conversation could go in different directions depending upon the response(s) we get from others. We prepare our responses, but we don’t know for sure what direction the conversation will go. Solomon here is saying that it is good to prepare our response. Prov. 15:28 says that we should study how to answer. But, Prov. 16:1 is the rest of the story. In our response it is best to remember to let God make it come out just right, guiding us in what we say and how we say it. Letting God guide us in our conversations, especially in those critical encounters can save us time, difficulty and embarrassment.

Relationships are often damaged by well meaning conversation that is not guided by God. In conversation innocent things can be misunderstood and become points of contention or make an idea confusing. So often when it comes time to deliver a speech or speak in a meeting or have a critical conversation with another, we do not know exactly what we are going to say. We have an idea, a basic framework, but the final delivery is yet to be given. Preparing in our heart as best we can, and then going in confidence to give the delivery knowing that God will help shape the final encounter is reassuring. We need to trust God routinely in our conversation. I have found that the application of this verse is extremely helpful and effective.

V. 2 reminds us that we routinely see things from our vantage and our viewpoint. In judging the people Solomon saw a pattern in how one viewed their actions and their perspective. More times than not we think we are right. It is only natural. It’s a part of our nature. But, God might see it differently. Sometimes we might think that God is against us. He is not. God is honest and because He is Just He is fair. But, He is capable of separating out our thoughts and actions as to their intents much better than we are. I believe that Solomon here is saying that it is good to consult God with our plans and ideas to see what He thinks before we execute them. Sometimes a plan executed can cost us a lot and be a big mistake, even when it looked so promising. V. 3 goes on to say just this. When we consult with God, like a trusted friend, He can reveal to us our true intents. He may choose to give us council to modify our plans, to bless our intents or put His kibosh on our well meaning intentions. Listening to His advice can save us from embarrassment and unnecessary repercussions.  V. 3 says that if we commit our works to God that our underlying desire will be to yield to His council. Our plans with His input will make for a perfect outcome, solid and established.

V. 4 God is Sovereign, and He is the creator of ALL things! What can man say in response to this? And, the purpose of all of what we see or what exists is there for God, not us. To this I have no reply but to acknowledge it and receive its wisdom. Those who do not fear Him should consider what part they have in this verse. The question that needs to be asked by them is ‘What is the day of evil that is referred to here?’ It sounds like a significant event. In the end God is sovereign and has the final say no matter what we think. Maybe we should consider and take more serious His perspective.

V. 5 Pride takes many different forms. I think that the reason that it says that the Lord hates pride so much is because it is so pervasive and so destructive. It has so many different faces and is functional, in the wrong sense, in so many areas of our life. Here pride takes on the form of arrogance which says that the more that I can get on my side the stronger my position. This type of pride truly believes that if they can get enough of the right people on their side that they are above the law, and if carried to a further extreme, above God. Kings of old have operated on this premise. Politicians in our day do the same. However, this premise does not guarantee success. More often than not those who use this principle see their sure fire plan crumble to the ground, often just before its completion.  Satan himself operates on this principle, believing that if he can corrupt and wrangle most of God’s creation on his side that maybe he will have a chance of overtaking God. God sees our intent and will have His way in the end. This verse is meant as a warning to those who are proud believing that numbers guarantee success when their propose and intent is wrong. It is meant as an encouragement to those who do right that even if our enemy outnumbers us it does not guarantee their success and we should precede executing God’s plan.

V. 6 Like drawing infection out of a wound with a poultice so is mercy and truth to iniquity. Iniquity is the poison and truth is the standard or measure where health in a situation should be. Compromising the truth is not the answer to reconciling iniquity. Truth is the goal that cannot be compromised, because as Solomon has already said, Truth is Life.  If life is what we seek then maintaining truth as the standard is essential. However, this standard for man is not always easy for us to obtain on our own. Even God is aware of this. Mercy is the suave that heals this wound. In our relations with others it is good to remember that we must hold onto or maintain the standard of truth, but it is also equally as important to exercise mercy in our dealings with others. This is the example of our relationship with God. His standard is what it is. It is TRUTH. It cannot be lessened or the standard brought inferior for anything less would not be truth. But mercy is needed due to our inability to achieve and maintain His standard. In our relationships with others Solomon is saying that we really do nothing to heal a situation by compromising the truth, reducing the standard to situational ethics. It is important that truth be maintained as the standard. However, sometimes the standard is hard to attain and maintain even with the best of honest or sincere efforts. As God saw fit with us, mercy was the only way to help. Both mercy and truth are needed to purge iniquity.

V. 7 You can’t argue with success. A person’s life when lived right offends no one and enhances everyone that is near. Who can argue with that? Doing right is doing right. Throughout this book of Proverbs Solomon has touted the benefits of right living and their far reaching effects. Even Daniel’s enemies searched and could not find one thing they could use against him. With no weapon to use against someone who is doing right their enemies are forced to finally either give up or fabricate something putting themselves at risk of their scheme backfiring. This of course happened to Daniel’s enemies. What enemy does not benefit from true mercy, patience, kindness and love? These are all virtues that someone pleasing God would have. Kindness by itself has a way of wearing down even the meanest of individuals.

V. 8 Money and wealth does not buy happiness. Many things are gained in this world through deception or the application of a ‘little twist’ not being fully honest. The little or lot extra gained at first can taste sweet, but quickly turns sour with remorse because of the remembrance of how it was gained. To make matters worse the thing gained has too much value for it to be discarded or given away in an attempt to lessen the feeling of guilt. Solomon reminds us that even a little taste of something gained in the right way is truly sweet being gained honestly and can have a good flavor that can last a long time.

V. 9 We all have hopes and dreams. We make our plans. Solomon would encourage us to make plans about the future. But, he would add v. 9 to his advice. James echo’s Solomon’s advice in Js. 4:13-7 when he advises those who make plans as if those plans were as good as done. James like Solomon reminds us that life does not always work out as planned. Sometimes it works out better than expected, sometimes not at all as planned. Sometimes the outcome is even disastrous.  If we let it, realizing that the Lord is in the process is very reassuring. Whether we end up near our goal or in a totally different place after our best attempt is in reality ok as long as the Lord was in the process. I frequently find comfort in knowing that God is wiser than my plans and that we are working out our plans together. I like to have my input in the process, but I also respect and receive His wisdom. It is wise to realize that God is our partner in the process and it is ok to veer off of the path if that is the direction He is leading.

v. 10 A king or a leader is put there by God for our benefit. This does not mean that we should not question a leader’s motives, or overlook wrong or evil if a leader is clearly leading the wrong direction. But, all too often, side line fans are always hurling stones of opinion at leaders that are put in a position by God who are taking their position and responsibilities seriously. When we hurl criticisms at leaders it may be good to be reminded that God takes their position seriously and has handpicked them for His purposes. It is true that sometimes His purposes include waking us up. But a good king really does depend upon something/SomeOne greater than them. Rom. 13:1-7 tells us to remember that God has put our leaders in their position to protect us and do His work. It is also good to remember that they are men like us, and not flawless. We should not expect them to do any better than we could if we were in their position.