Proverbs Study – Lesson 31 – April 24, 2011– Seacoast Community Church

Proverbs Study – Lesson 31 (Proverbs chapter 23:19-36)

V. 19-21 He goes on to warn his children of making friends of those with bad habits. It is a hard thing to stand sometimes alone even at times in a Christian setting for what you know is right. Habits are easily picked up and adopted. They start innocently and subtly. In order to enjoy someone else’s company you are required to interact with them. If what they are into, activities that are inappropriate and not proper or pleasing to God, then what fellowship have we with them. II Cor. 6:14 They either will have to adopt our ways or actions or we will have to adopt theirs. In reality it is most often theirs that is adopted turning us and/or our children away for the truth and right living. Here he names a couple of things specifically, drinking too much wine and gluttony. He says that the end of these habits leaves you drowsy and non-motivated in life in essence becoming a bum. Yes, it is true, that this is the easy way and there is some temporary pleasure associated with a lifestyle like this, but it ends in sorrow and pain.

V. 22-25 He continues his heart to heart talk of vital importance with his son. Many parents never have these talks with their children. Many mean to, however, it just never happens. Either life is too busy, or it’s just not the right time, or you may not be sure what to say, or we think that it is just not the right time. But, Prov. 22:6 tells us to train our children. These heart to heart talks are an essential part of that training process. However, in reality it is hard to have a talk about something that we have not overcome ourselves making it too convicting to give good biblical advice that we need to hear and apply ourselves. However, we need not to hide our weakness or avoid sharing the truth. Sharing our struggles can make the discussion real, letting them know and understand that these things are not always easy to apply. In doing so, we need to be careful not to make excuses for our weakness or struggles. We need to be willing to put the same effort into what it takes to do right as we are asking them too.   As parent and child we often go the journey of life together.

In v. 22 he advises his offspring to later in life as their parents get old to not get the attitude that they know it all. It says to hearken unto them. It does not say to let your parents run your life. However, we need to remember that a good father and loving mother wants only good for us and as they head toward the end of their life that they will tend to be more focused in their advice, more times than not be right on the mark giving final advice that is prudent. So, Listen and Savor to see if what they tell you is valuable. Usually it is a lifesaver.

In V. 23 he advises us to actually make an investment by pulling out some cold cash and buying the truth. Then he tells us not to sell it for nothing! Don’t invest in commodities, especially if you have a limited amount of funds. Buy truth and wisdom and instruction and understanding. If you are fortunate to have a child like this, one that makes some effort to sacrifice to obtain the Truth, you will have a deep sense of healthy pride and satisfaction that has a way of making you confident that you have had a real purpose here on earth and a confidence in meeting God face to face when that time comes.

V. 26 Again he encourages his listener to refocus for what he is about to share is of vital importance. He makes a bold statement here. He tells his to watch him. He tells him to observe his ways. Evidently there is something to see. Only if we have battled these areas of life out and won can we say follow my example. Guaranteed we are not all perfect and could say this in all areas of life. But, if we had followed the truth of Proverbs and made some effort to adopt these truths we in reality would have something to show and something for others to emulate.  We hope that they are watching,…of course not in a prideful, but in a helpful way, especially our kids.

He goes on in v. 27 and 28 warning again how devastating sexual sins are and that it is not enough to just shun inappropriate pictures and images. He says in v. 28 that she is waiting to snare some unassuming individual hunting them down and seeking them out. The young, man and woman, need to be aware of this! Good kids or young people are a Target. In this world do not expect to be left alone to do right. Those who do not obey and follow the truth would like nothing better than for you to join them in their pleasure and misery, and are willing to come looking for the righteous to entice them into perversion. Here the author of this proverb believed it to be important enough to tell his children of this so that they not be caught unaware. In v. 27 he warns that this person is like a ‘deep ditch’ which is near impossible to escape from. Some would say that God’s grace can heal any wound, but many would tell you that even though God’s grace is able to save we often carry the wounds into the future for a long time plagued by ghosts of the past. He also uses the analogy of a narrow pit. A narrow pit is one that was so tight that when one falls into it they are unable to maneuver their arms or legs in an attempt to escape rendering them helpless. Sexual sins are just like this, ask anyone caught in this trap and they will tell you so.

V. 29-36  V. 29  begins by asking a question. And, the question is ‘who do you know that has troubles?’ When you think about those who have troubles in this world the list can be many. There are many troubles and difficulties that we can run up against in life, but the writer of this section of Proverbs would say that if you were to list and categorize all of the possible offenders that we may come up against he would say that there is none that tops this one. Taking a look at our present society and the problems that we deal with related to alcohol I think that we would have to agree. V. 29 begins to list the many and varied repercussions and complications induced by even minor overindulgences in this area. To begin with, one could argue what a minor overindulgence would be? Many would have varied and differing opinions. The consumption of even a little alcohol, however, often begins the process of changing personality, perspective and/or perception.

Look at or take note of the many, many different types and often very complicated repercussions listed here in v. 29. He begins by asking the question ‘Who has woe’? He begins by making this statement as if the ‘woe’s’ found here are bad enough to match any woe that could be caused by any other source imagined. Think of your worse cause of woe and he says compare it to woe’s caused by alcohol and you will see that there are none worse. Woe’s from rejection, woe’s from divorce, tragedy, disaster, or loss. There are some pretty bad woe’s out there. Any woe you can imagine not only in all probability can be matched by the pain level and consequences concerning alcohol use, but it is likely that the woe you are thinking of is probable in almost all cases could be related in some fashion to alcohol either directly or remotely.

If we look further in this verse we begin to see the enormity of this problem. It is not just one sided or isolated to one area of life. He gives us another category to compare the negative outcomes involving alcohol. In this verse he paints the picture of a substance and lifestyle that has the capability of leaching into and eventually dominates every/any part of our life. He next mentions ‘sorrows’. At first we may think that woe’s and sorrow’s essentially have the same meaning. However, a woe is something that happens, an incident. A woe is usually focused physically affecting one or several or a number of people, but the number of people affected by a ‘woe’ is definite. However, the emotion of ‘sorrow’ is more widespread. It is true that ‘woe’s’ are the initiator of sorrow and grief, but the emotion of sorrow can and usually does spread out much farther than the physical effect of a woe or tragedy, first affecting those closest like family and relatives and eventually has the ability of pervading a community or nation that had no physical connection with the original incident. Here in verse 29 he makes the point that the ‘sorrows’ found here are as great as any sorrow you can imagine.

He goes on to name several others. Contentions are next reminding us of the relational problems associated with this substance. When you think of conflict and troubled relations some of the worst are found connected to the bottle. Part of the reason for this is due to the physical effect of the substance, altering one’s personality making it hard to pin down and deal with the problem. While under the influence, one’s personality and actions change, but they are in no shape to rationally deal with what is happening at the time. After the effects of the substance wear off the offender often is unaware that any such activities ever occur and deny that it is as bad as they are told, leaving the problem unable to be improved or resolved. Denial is a common term associated here. This leaves contentions as an open wound, sore and painful, becoming a consistent part of the pain of daily life.

He also mentions ‘babblings’. The use of alcohol is known to alter one’s speech, often speaking things that have no rhyme or reason. In doing so, things are often said and commitments are made that can have lifelong consequences. Small talk under the influence often leads to actions played out in real life leaving scars and issues that may never heal. Pretty serious stuff.

He continues by saying that the next day you frequently end up wounded. We often make a joke out to this. These wounds are often found the next day not remembering what on earth you could have done to cause them. We smile, but sometimes the wounds inflicted under the influence are pretty serious. Just ask someone left behind from an auto accident involving alcohol. He ends this verse stating a physical sign often seen in one that drinks too much, that of bloodshot eyes.

In v. 30 he gives us an indication of who has already gone too far putting their life in the danger zone in danger of the woe’s stated in v. 29. He states this as a warning giving some clear insight as to when you are beginning to step over the line. He states two. The first is when you make alcohol as part of your regular routine, spending time in whatever way where alcohol is part of the picture. If this is something that you find is a regular part of your time spent Solomon says to beware and realize the seriousness of the situation. The second warning sign he states is the tasting and experimentation of alcohol consumption in varied mixtures or ways. The thing to be aware of and be upfront about is one’s craving for alcohol wanting anything that contains it.  

This goes along with his warning in v. 31 reminding us that there is a curb appeal to liquor. It comes packaged to be attractive for the moment. He lists several factors here, color, the way that it moves in the package or glass and the package itself. Liquor glasses, especially those containing wine, contain some of the most unique shapes packaging color and utensil for a unique appeal. But, he warns in v. 32 that this pretty package is rally a serpent in disguise and will bite you inflicting you with ‘poison’.

He also warns in v. 33 that your eyes will see strange things as if these things are real. Your reaction time and appropriate response will be skewed making it a dangerous environment to navigate. He also warns of the surprising things rising out of the heart, things that you may not have known were down there, coming up uncontrolled, fully exposed, sometimes being spoken or acted out at the most un-opportune time.

He does not have a very good recommendation for the use of alcohol. He goes on in v. 34 to say that it also often makes you sick especially if your consumption is on the higher end making getting from here to there difficult or again, even dangerous. And, may I say again dangerous. He says that before you are aware of it you may find yourself on the floor, the room moving sometimes aggressively from side to side watching people who appear to be standing still moving also speaking at or to you in some funny or strange language. V. 35, the next day you will swear that you have been smitten with some sort of disease going to die any moment feeling also like someone beat you up not remembering the fight or fall that occurred the night before. You have been advised to ‘sleep it off’ hopefully easing the painful effects of the night before. The sad part is the ending telling us that with all that is suffered from consumption one caught in this vise is all too often caught, returning again soon to repeat the process. 

Proverbs Study – Lesson 30 – April 17, 2011– Seacoast Community Church

Proverbs Study – Lesson 30 (Proverbs chapter 23:1-18)

Proverbs 23

V. 1-3 When invited to eat dinner with a king it is a good idea to remember why you were asked to dine with such a noble person. They do not just ask you to do this on a whim. There is usually a substantial purpose behind the invitation, and it is most likely not just to eat food. V. 1 says ‘to consider diligently what is before you’. Not to be too analytical, but …going to such a meal with your eyes open and at least giving some thought as to why you were asked is important. The meal if the truth be known is not the focus. The meal in all probability is the means to accomplish the intended goal of the meeting or encounter, whether the intention is good or bad. Keeping this in mind the king or nobleman may be honoring his guest for some great accomplishment. Or, he may have invited you to dine because he is trying to get you to do something or get you to impart some important information that they are not privy too. They may want to win you over to their side or use you to influence someone else for their cause. Or, it may be for publicity. Again the reason for being invited to the meal may not be for evil or devious purposes. But, knowing that there is a reason for your invite may help you to exercise due caution or allow you to not make a fool of yourself saying something that is inappropriate.

The writer of this proverb makes two important points in these verses. First he advises that you use your manners and not be given to excessive appetite. Your manners show your character. If you are given to appetite it gives the impression that you are weak and unable to control yourself and could be easily influenced. Even if there is no real agenda for the meal, getting too comfortable may allow you to be careless and say something that you will regret. He makes a second point in v. 3 saying that the delicacies or dainties set before you are deceptive and may just be for enticement and entrapment, influencing you to do or say something that aligns with their purposes. Jimmy Stewart in one of his movies said it best. He said, ‘the best way to make a man talk is to make him comfortable’. The king or nobleman may say ‘here have another glass of wine’ or ‘have some more of this exquisite food’ making one comfortable, encouraging the conversation to flow freely. Business diner meetings are based on this principle. The writer of this proverb may advise you to enjoy the meal, but be aware of your surroundings. Even knowing this may not be enough. It may take more than you think to act appropriately and be aware of what is set before you so that you may not regret the outcome of such a wonderful meal.

V.4-5 Solomon says a lot about prudence and diligence and self control and hard work and how they make a difference to the bottom line and how life treats us. But, there is a difference between exercising these virtues and being blessed because of them and their application and having a goal to be rich. Having the goal and laboring to be rich opens up a can filled with all sorts of pitfalls and problems. When one’s goal is to be rich they often end up veering off of the path of righteousness and virtue giving into methods and schemes that although may be highly profitable are not completely honest. When the goal is to be rich greed begins to take over and dominates decisions making selfish decisions an obsession, eventually not giving much thought to what is right or wrong. In doing so human wisdom begins to dominate the thinking, tabling or setting aside God’s wisdom or principles, focusing on the mirage or dream of what could be. But, the writer of this proverb warns that dreams or goals founded on wrong principles have a way of vaporizing into nothingness ‘flying away like an eagle toward heaven’ (v. 5) leaving you little or nothing. He advises us to work toward a surer goal and foundation, using God’s principles that will give a solid return.

V. 6-8 This section kind of relates somewhat to the first part of this chapter in that sometimes a gift or meal given may have an ulterior motive behind it. However, most translations translate the person found here offering the meal as stingy or covetous. They have an agenda, but be aware that the meal is not free. As a matter of fact, if the truth were known, every bite that you eat of this meal is tallied and totaled by a stingy person expecting and eventually demanding a pay back with substantial interest. The tough part is that it all looks so good. What they offer has great curb appeal. In this setting you may think that you have misjudged this person, they are not what you first thought. But, beware, your first impression may be accurate. He says here that this person offers things that we want. Good stuff. Nothing shoddy. He encourages us to indulge and to eat as much as you want, have more, let me help you. But, wait there is a warning. He says that the smile on their face does not match the intent of their heart. He says that their heart is not with you. They have no interest at all in your enjoying what they have set before you. V. 8 says in the end any pleasure that you had from the encounter will be spoiled so bad that it will make your stomach turn and sour making you regret that you had ever originally complimented them on their generosity.

V. 9 We are reminded to not waist our time speaking words of wisdom to a fool. Not only will a fool not heed the wisdom shared, but they will actually despise you for doing so. The interesting thing is that some that may be categorized as fools might be rich or just proud. I Cor. 1:18-25 A fool could be any one of us in a particular situation or circumstance, not listening to the wisdom shared and actually despising the person sharing it with us. A true fool however, never listens to reason, making it a waste of time to try and share anything of substance and benefit with him.

V. 10-11 We kind of looked at this scripture in Prov. 22:28 stating that this verse may be applied not only to property boundaries, but general boundaries in our life. Again we mentioned that the reason to move the property boundary was to take advantage of something, land in this case, that was not yours using it for our own purposes. In olden days moving the property marker was an easy way to acquire, steal, land. One of the easiest and best targets for this land acquisition was the poor or fatherless. Someone who is not old enough to defend themselves are also usually not street smart, not realizing what they had and naive enough to believe that someone wouldn’t be mean enough to steal their property in this way. In life we often too late mature realizing what we have and that someone is taking advantage of us, maybe for years, having little to nothing left when we finally wake up and realize what’s going on. It takes effort and time to become knowledgeable to protect what is yours. However, doing so sooner rather than later can pay big in cutting the loses from this kind of thievery. V. 11 reminds anyone that is thinking about taking advantage of the fatherless and those who are unable to fend for themselves that they need to beware. He says that their Redeemer is aware of what is happening and knows right where the line should be and will plead their cause with their offender.

V. 12 He reminds us here that it is important to listen carefully to the words of wisdom so that we do not get it wrong. They say that we hear what we want to hear and if we are what they call ‘half listening’ or preoccupied we may not get it right. Getting it right is important. It is frequently in the finer points of wisdom that the pay off comes. Getting half of it right or a part of it right can either diminished the return or give no benefit at all. In some cases it may be even harmful. But, the other part of getting the benefit is in the application. He tells us that we need to apply our heart to what we hear, asking God the Holy Spirit to make clear the wisdom that we have been told so that we may apply it correctly getting the full benefit.

V. 13-4 At first glance these verses look like some very harsh verses. But, there are several ways to interpret or look at these verses. At any rate these verses do sound serious and they are. The first thing to note in these verses is the word correction describing the purpose and goal of what is trying to be accomplished. The wisdom shared here is definitely not to injure your child or to harm them within an inch of their life. Someone could read this verse with the impression that you will never injure your child with correction so don’t worry about going too far. But, neither of these perspectives are the case. It is true that we often are too soft and inconsistent on discipline when it comes to training our children, but there is an appropriate way and level of discipline and one can definitely go too far, going to the point of being out of control and being inappropriate in the discipline process. However, this verse does strike a serious note concerning discipline and the essential necessity of it being applied appropriately.

These two verses in actuality relate to Exodus 21:17 and Leviticus 20:9 which deals with a rebellious child that comes under the judgment and punishment of the OT Law which was death. In actuality what this verse is saying is that by applying proper discipline a child will refrain from becoming a rebellious child which in the end would receive the O. T. Law judgment of death. And, that sometimes this correction that is given needs to make an impression going far enough to make a change detouring bad behavior. The writer of this proverb knew that in general we are inconsistent with our discipline and soft, stopping short of making the proper impression with the discipline process to make a change in behavior. The goal is not to administer a certain discipline for a particular crime, but here he is telling us to be attentive and purposeful in our discipline to help a child make the necessary change in their outlook and behavior. He says in doing so we save them from further much more severe repercussions in life, in the O.T death and in our current era of grace saving them from being punished by our legal system and punished by life itself. In doing so Life is their outcome, not death.

V. 15-8 The writer of this proverb goes on to say that he is glad when his/her child gets it understanding and applying the wisdom of life. This verse is the proof as a continuation of v. 13-14 that this is a good parent and has the right perspective for the child in mind. There is no greater Joy than for a parent to see a child or their child applying wisdom for life. Really, words cannot explain it! He goes on to explain in v. 16 one of the key reasons for the joy that he experiences. He says that hearing their child speak what is right brings such pleasure because he knows that the old adage is true, … if you can say it then you know or understand it. Hearing these words come out of the mouth of a child tells a parent that their child is on the right track and has a good change of not only surviving in this world, but having an influence on it. The NIV says ‘my inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right’. Then he goes on in v. 17 to give a warning of being distracted from the good path that they are on. Right living seems harder, and it is, than the easy quicker dishonest way to get ahead in life. He goes on to encourage his child to continue to put effort into the establishing the good things in their life that they just espoused in v. 16 with their lips.  In V.18  he reminds them of the prize, namely a hope for God and good that is sure and that which will withstand and weather the storms of life.

Proverbs Study – Lesson 29 – April 10, 2011– Seacoast Community Church

Proverbs Study – Lesson 29 (Proverbs chapter 22:12-29)

V. 13 Someone that is lazy will think of all kinds of creative ideas of why they need to put off work till later, eventually hoping that his obligation will evaporate and disappear. The reason in V. 13 is probably one of the most creative of all. It is true that in some of the regions of the Middle East that lions were found, but this excuse is a stretch. The danger of a lion being found in such a populous and busy place is one in a million. However, the lazy person would not miss the opportunity of using this excuse, playing up the possibility of them being the one…in the million, not willing to take the chance of such poor odds. Those looking to get out of work are very creative in the making of excuses using the cold, the weather or just not being the right time of day or season for this job. Just ask your kids and see what responses you can get. It is amazing how creative these excuses can be.

V. 14 Someone that is void of understanding purposely chooses the enticement of the strange woman not realizing the pain or death Solomon warns us that is in the end. Their thought is only of the possible temporary pleasure they might find. Here, in this verse, however, it makes the point that this is one of the punishments God uses for someone that God is displeased with. Someone that is void of understanding should take note that if God allows this to be punishment for someone He is displeased with that they need to think twice about purposely considering a relationship with ‘the strange woman’ falling in this ‘deep’ pit. The deep pit is full of deceptive words and promises that on the surface sounds wonderful, but once begun there is a ‘sting’ that goes deep that does not go away. Read Prov. 7

V. 15 There is a time to grow up and become a man and there is a time or season to let a kid be a kid. The problem is when a kid does not want to grow up and deal with the real issues of life. Here it makes the point that the heart of a child is full of play and foolishness. It is natural for a young child to basically be foolish and nonsensical. However, as important as foolish play is especially when you are young, there is a time and place for everything, and sometimes the realities of life need more serious attention than a foolish approach can give. There is nothing worse than a situation that needs right now focused attention only to be played with in a foolish manor causing damage or injury, that may be even as serious as death. A good example of this is an instance when after 911 several persons thinking it would be a good prank sent white powder in an envelope to postal centers or other places scaring them with the possibility of potential anthrax. It was a foolish prank meant as a joke, but it was a joke not taken so lightly by the authorities. Those who sent it as a joke were surprised when the authorities contacted them with possible jail or prison repercussions. Foolish play is not inappropriate in all situations, but to know the difference is important. Foolishness applied to real life can be damaging and even dangerous if one is not careful. As one matures, more of real life requires the application of intentional and purposeful actions which are void and not found in the presence and application of foolishness. Having consequences for inappropriate foolish behavior is important as one matures.

V. 16 A selfish person is always looking for what is in it for them. When it comes to the poor, a selfish person sees nothing coming back from investing in their wellbeing. However, when investing in the rich, giving gifts to influence them often brings a payback when this selfish person is looking for a favor. Thinking in worldly terms this makes sense. But, Solomon tells them that they are forgetting something, there is more to the equation than that. He would tell them that in the end it does not come out that way. Solomon tells them that their thinking is counterintuitive. Their approach actually turns out the opposite of what you would think and the application of investing in the poor does in reality bring a return. He would not necessarily say that a sincere gift to a person that happens to be rich is a bad thing, but he would say playing the game of buying ones affections and interests does not always work as a game plan, and in reality usually ends up otherwise. So, his advice is to give or invest in the Joy of giving and be sincere in the gifts that you give to rich or poor. God seeing the attitude, intention and action of your giving will notice what you have done and add His blessing giving you the increase that you are looking for.

V. 17-9 Again here he gives his admonition to first ‘hear’ the words of the wise, listening intently, assuming the posture of good listening, bending and pointing the ear in the direction of the one talking so as to not miss anything, any of the details. And, second to ‘apply’ what is heard, following the ‘instructions’ of how to do it right, positioning the heart, focused fully on what you are attempting to do and the goal that you are trying to accomplish. He says in v. 18 that in doing so it will be a pleasant thing, fitted perfectly to the heart and the lips in action and conversation, making life itself pleasant. This is not to say that the application is always simple without much effort. To the contrary, the application of true wisdom is work and sacrifice, but even the application taking effort is pleasant. He says in v. 19 that the process of applying wisdom has built into it the learning process of depending and trusting on God. The application of true wisdom causes you to be patient and ‘look to God’ for guidance as to what to do and which direction to go, all the while depending on God for wisdom to be established making it a reality.

In V. 20 and 21 reminds us that the wisdom taught and given has not come from unreliable sources, but has been tested and used with certainty, found to be reliable and trustworthy in application after application. At the end of v. 21 he encourages us to share these words with others that they might also listen and apply this wisdom also experiencing its steadfastness and trustworthiness in their life situations. This is a good time for us to refocus assuming the listening ear position as we work through the remaining part of Proverbs.

v. 22-3 The poor are an easy target. They can be treated poorly and no one will take much notice, not standing up for them or coming to their rescue. The same goes for any of the disadvantaged such as those who are afflicted, handicapped or unable to defend themselves like the unborn. Someone looking for an easy target may believe that they can move in and take whatever they like, no one will notice and if they cry out no one is listening anyway, let them cry out, most of the time if heard others will just look the other way. Many homeless are mistreated in this way. But, here they are warned. God is watching and will plead their cause. It also says that the Lord will spoil them for their mistreatment of the weak and disadvantaged.

V. 24-5 Things tend to rub off on others. We tend to learn habits and accepted behavior from things and people that we tend to come in contact with. Customs are adopted. Habits are encouraged. Accepted societal behavior is established. Once established these customs and habits are hard to break. In Solomon’s day it was mainly the people that you associated with that eventually influenced your behavior. Children are very susceptible to picking up bad behavior from others, and occasionally good behavior, but…so are we as adults. Today we have other major influences that tend to have an impact on our behavior, namely the media, movies, television and computers. If one doubts the impact that these things have on our society compare the difference in politeness, courtesy, respect and social etiquette that those in our society show to others. Does violence portrayed on the big screen impact our thinking, and eventually our actions? Are we affected by the model family like the ‘Simpsons’ in accepted levels of rudeness? Seeing and associating with behavior that is less than perfect that is tolerated and/or accepted that can get us a response that we want is tempting for us to emulate.

Here we are warned about being close friends with someone with a bad habit, namely an angry temper. But, this could relate to other habits such as inappropriate language, cheating, lying, agendas that get what one may want but are not appropriate behavior. You may tell yourself that you do not have to worry about adopting such habits, but played out frequently in our presence in situations that force us to make decisions to either adopt or not adopt these actions and perspectives we generally give in and begin to act the same way. The habit mentioned in particular is one that can easily be started and hard to stop. V. 25 says that we can become ensnared not only by the outcome of such behavior, but in the behavior itself. This habit adopted can have some serious consequences.

 V. 26-7 Borrowing money when you are poor is especially bad. It makes sense that when money is tighter it is a greater temptation to borrow. But here we are warned that in doing so we may lose even the little that we have, losing even the basic elements of our life. Offers like ‘buy here, pay here’ or ‘sign and drive’ or ‘pay no interest for 12 months’ or ‘0% interest’ always have a snag…you have to pay them back according to the terms. And, when you are poor and have nothing to put up for collateral then anything that you may own is up for grabs, even your bed. A loan on a hand shake is risky and all too often always ends up in another fine mess that I have gotten myself in. Here we are warned to think twice, even when we are desperate, before we sign on the dotted line. In the end may be worse than it is even in our current desperate state.

V. 28 Boundaries are important. Knowing where the line is important. It tells you what you have to work with. What you can count on. What’s yours to use. Expanding your boundaries is ok if allowed and done honestly. However, infringing on what someone else has to work with or what they own no matter how little or how much they have is wrong, or in this case forbidden. The reference in this verse probably relates to and is connected with Deut. 19:14 which forbid the moving or removing of your neighbor’s landmark which was determined and set as Israel was in the process of conquering the Promised Land as recorded in Joshua 13-22. God originally had set up the boundaries and had divided the land by the casting of lots, distributing them to the children of Israel. God the original owner of the land had given it to them to live on, to work, to enjoy and to provide for their family’s needs. It was enough to make life work well, and actually more than enough than what was needed to subsist or get by on.    It was a common temptation, however, to want to take a little more.  Who would know the boundary was moved just a little bit to your advantage? With just a little more, one can rationalize, you can have so much more. That little bit more can be rationalized into being right able to make ones wishes or goals be realized. There is just one problem,… it is just not yours to take. It’s your neighbors. And, it is not yours to take and have and use to reach your goals no matter how right it seems.

Although today the moving of the boundary marker may not be as prevalent, we still use the same rationalization process to move the line using other people’s stuff for our benefit without permission. We rationalize, they won’t miss it. Or, they are not using it, it is just sitting there.  Or, no one will know. Or, I need it more than they do. They have enough. We know where the line is. The boundaries are set. Yet, stepping over the line or worse yet moving the boundary is tempting. What will it hurt? God would tell us that he has given us enough to do what is right.  Either we already have what we need and need to be more creative in using what we already have, or there is a way to get what we may need honestly and fairly, or maybe our goals and desires are not God’s plans and they need to be modified.

In olden days it was probably more common to see the boundary moved taking advantage of the poor. However, in our day it can go either way. The poor may seem like an easy target, but the rich are often looked upon as inattentive and not needing it anyway giving us the right to move the boundary.

V. 29 A diligent man usually gets real good at his/her trade. When you think of someone being good at their trade you think of someone in the community that has a pretty good following. However, there is good, and then there is good! Here the word diligent gives the impression of exceptional, having the quality of work fit for a king. It also says that because of their level of expertise and quality of workmanship they will not be forced into making a living by serving in compromising circumstances. They will have plenty of work to make a good living without being tempted to work in obscure situations. 

Proverbs Study – Lesson 28 – April 3, 2011– Seacoast Community Church

Proverbs Study – Lesson 28 (Proverbs chapter 22:1-12)

Chapter 22

V. 1 In v. 1 Solomon reminds us that there is more to this life than money. In our society and the current world system money reigns supreme. Match money up with another respectable offer and more times than not money will win as the prize of choosing when offered. However, Solomon would argue and reason with the contestants before letting them chose, like he is reasoning with us in this verse, he would argue the point that there are many things that are not only as valuable as money, but in reality, many things that hold more intrinsic and potential value than large sums of money ever could. He has mentioned wisdom and knowledge in previous passages in Proverbs. He also mentioned prudence. Here he mentions two more, …a good name and being esteemed. How others perceive us is important, not just what they think about us, but more importantly he mentions our reputation. He stops us and asks us to compare the ‘real’ value of these things. The second item he mentions is translated in the KJV as ‘loving favor’ and the NIV uses the word esteemed giving the impression ‘to be known for something’. This could refer to having a righteous and good reputation which is good in and of itself. But, it may be more than this, having the meaning to be known for being the best in your trade or known for your talent. You could be esteemed to be the best at playing a particular instrument, or the best in the business that you are in. To be esteemed this way, those wanting your services will be willing to seek you out, passing by others having the same occupation, paying well for your services, in doing so, making your reputation more valuable practically speaking than money that can fail.

. V. 2 We often tend to make judgments concerning people as to their importance placing them into groups or categories in our world or in our mind. Monetary status is often one of those things used to classify people into different groups. However, this verse reminds us that to God, from His perspective, there is no difference. When the rich and poor meet together, God does not notice their differences by what they have or do not have. Even in the church, the rich and the poor can often receive special treatment and consideration. James notices this problem and was a lot more direct in this teaching. James 2:1-10 expounds on this verse painting a picture of how bad it can get. Proverbs 22:2 reminds both the poor and rich that they both had better beware because they both have to answer for their actions toward each other to their creator.

V. 3 Looking ahead is such a good thing. If there was a contest as to the worst flaw or trait of mankind this one might win. Most of us are way too short sighted. We do not tend to look out far enough in front of us to make plans and corrections to survive the evil and/or trouble headed our way. Too many of us only focus and tend to live our lives for today, or at best one month at a time. Solomon would say that it is a rare but important trait to have learned prudence which has as one of its characteristics the ability to plan for things headed our way. This could include financial planning, family planning, education, relationships, and on and on. Life has a way of surprising us. It can move faster that we think. He states that one of the main actions or responses to the evil headed our way is the response to hide and get out of harm’s way till the evil passes by. The simple are not so smart. They often perceive that something is up and about to happen, but pay it no mind continuing down the same path making no changes or provisions as if everything was alright. We might be wise to apply this verse to the times that we live in. This world is winding up, getting ready for “trouble’ coming our way. Are we wise enough to prepare for the evil coming by getting out of harm’s way finding shelter in God and His offer of salvation? To not prepare for what is headed our way would put one in the company of the foolish.

V. 4-5  We have been warned by Solomon a number of times concerning the consequences and repercussions of pride and a prideful spirit and lifestyle. Here we are reminded of the benefits of the opposite, namely humility and the fear and reverence of the Lord. He states three benefits here in particular: riches, honor and life. There are others. We have seen them during our Proverbs study. Having a humble heart gives us a teachable spirit allowing us to learn and apply wisdom, being one of the benefits. Riches, honor and life are the outcome or end product of wisdom applied. The ‘fear of the Lord’ is like unto and a natural result of ‘true’ humility. Reverence and respect and ‘awe’ for His Majesty and Power puts us in a position to hop on, or latch onto God and go with Him receiving only His will and blessing. God being the Author of Life gives life to those that are humble. Matt. 5:5 says ‘Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth’…sounds like riches, honor and life to me! Proverbs 22:5 shows the opposite side of the street. Temporary pleasures and gains end up in thorns and snares, pain and loneliness. He instructs us to stay far from practicing this lifestyle.

V. 6 What a great verse. This verse although quoted frequently may not be as frequently truly applied. Its truths still hold true even after almost 3000 years when it was quoted. But, the magic is in its application… with the addition of prayer. This verse is not an absolute or a guarantee, or…is it. Although maybe not a guarantee, many would argue that it rarely fails. Some would also argue that a good number of the so called failures of this verse were not good attempts at its full application.

At first glance this verse looks challenging, but not too bad. A little bit of time, some effort, throw in a church environment, Sunday School, Bible verses…now rest is up to the perceived promise of Prov.22:6. But, is there more to Prov. 22:6 than this? Is there more to it than first meets the eye? Is it that easy?

The first word that catches your eye when reading this verse is the first word. The first word says a lot. Some would say that the first word says it all. It talks about training much like you would train for an occupation or trade. You have a course that needs to be taught, learned and applied for this person to perform their trade on their own in the future. Poor or weak training often causes nothing but frustration lacking direct application or real answers for the problems or tasks at hand. This encourages the student to either seek out better answers and ways on their own or try something else, another occupation, looking for something that works.

This training process of a child may closely resemble the apprenticeship programs of old including being taught and instructed, but also including learning by doing and learning by observation or example. In these programs, or arrangements, you would have example, relationship, a planned intentional process much like a curriculum, and consistency and practice of things learned. Kids being trained in the ways of life have to get or understand the concepts and ideas they are being taught. They have to own them. They have to have tried them out and found them too have worked at one time in their life in order to know their value. If this has happened, they will most likely carry these principles, techniques and ideas on with them when they mature and ‘get old’. If this does not happened there is nothing to return too if they take a detour trying out other things in life.

It is interesting that this verse is often used with reference to a child straying for a season and then returning when they are old. But, if we take another look at this verse it really does not say that. Even thought that is true, that those having heard the things of the Gospel often return to God; the inference in this verse is that they do not stray at all, but they continue to do what they have learned. The training process has worked. What they have learned is too valuable to let go of. However, it needs to be said here that we have all not been perfect in applying this verse. We all too well know our shortcomings and failures in this area. We are not to add anything to Scripture, but if there was a place that something needed to be added it might be here reassuring us to keep giving this area of life our best. Here Solomon could have added the principle of applying prayer in this area of life covering for our inadequacies and shortcomings in our training process.

V. 7 The New Living translation translates this verse ‘Just as the rich rule the poor, so the borrower is servant to the lender’. It is true that in this world the rich have more influence and power of position than the poor, but one that borrows puts them self into the same position, becoming subservient to the lender as the poor are to the rich. In borrowing one is put at the mercy of the lender often smarting because circumstances can and often do change giving the lender more options than planned for, making the borrower a slave. In this arrangement the rich is the one lending the money and the poor the one that is poorer than the rich and in need.

V. 8 The Bible often uses farming terms as analogies applying to Bible principles. The reason is because they are concepts and examples that we can readily identify with. When you sow a certain crop you reap the full grown, much more substantial crop during harvest of what was sown. V. 8 says that if you sow iniquity your end result is a large harvest of vanity and, in other words the crop is according to the seed or what’s planted. If we sow to the flesh shall we not reap destruction? Read Gal. 6:7-9.  One that sows with iniquity often does so at others expense with a rod of force. They also do so with a bad spirit driven by anger and greed. This verse says that when their harvest finally does come in it will not be what they had planned and also their power that drove them at that time will be taken away.

V. 9 Being generous has its benefits. You would think that if you gave something away you would have less, but what is often forgotten is one important item, that is what’s called ‘the blessing’ or being blessed. Giving has a magic principle involved, for behind the action there is a Force that comes back at you. It is called God. God sees the generous heart and is very pleased. In the ‘true’ heart of generosity God sees Himself coming through the generous one, giving as He would, giving as He does and it pleases Him. Blessing is His response. In looking at us, God sees us all as ‘poor’ and ‘needy’. He looks down and with a generous heart He ‘gives’ to us all, often to the point of abundance. Could it be that some are left poor to see what our response will be, to see if we will act ‘like Him’ and be generous also. This verse gives the impression of the good Samaritan not just throwing a little of the extra that we have at a need, but actually ‘caring’ for the one in need while giving to their cause.

V. 10 Getting rid of the problem is most often the best solution. Giving someone a chance to change their ways is good, but beware, the real success rate of someone really changing is slim. Solomon says that there is wisdom in getting rid of the trouble. Throw them out, make them leave, separate them or isolate them from the situation and all trouble miraculously ceases, sometimes dramatically and instantaneously. Finding the scoffer or one that is instigating the problem is not always so obvious. It may take some careful observation and consideration before this becomes evident. But, when the scoffer is identified and removed from the situation often dramatically improves or goes away.

V. 11 A pure heart comes out and is revealed in a gracious tongue. A gracious tongue is sweet to all those around including the king. Those who are fortunate to hear the words of a gracious tongue take note and look forward to further conversation and encounter with this person. A kind and gracious heart is like a refreshing drink in days filled with so much trouble. A king finding this encounter a rarity, naturally takes steps toward friendship not wanting to lose the moment of peace and refreshment they have found, desiring to be refreshed by this relationship again and again.

V. 12 If the Lord has any input and influence at all, and He does, it only stands to reason that His action and intervention will be toward influencing and establishing that which is good and discouraging that which is bad. Acts of good would come to naught and ultimately have no benefit if it was not for the eyes of God seeing these acts and preserving and establishing and blessing what is done. However, here it says that the opposite is also true, that wicked intentions and evil actions would have more intense and dramatic outcomes if God did not intervene overthrowing the words and plans of transgressors.  God does get involved in the affairs of man and it is good to remember to pray to God remembering that He does intervene in those things that affect and concerns our daily lives, good or bad.