Proverbs Study – Lesson 35 – May 22, 2011– Seacoast Community Church

Proverbs Study – Lesson 35 (Proverbs chapter 25:13-28)

V. 13 There is nothing like being refreshed with something cold on a hot day. Different expositors explain the details of this verse in different ways. Most agree that in the culture that it was written it was highly unlikely that it would snow during harvest time. When explaining the meaning of a proverb one would often use an analogy to get their point across using something that the hearer could identify with. It is unlikely that Solomon was referring to it snowing as the refreshment that he wanted to use as his analogy to make his point. Not having refrigeration in that day there were few things that he could be referring to. But, several expositors made the point that the cold that he was referring to may have been from stored up snow from the winter in what were called ‘snow houses’ that were dug out areas in the ground under the house in which winter snow and or actually ice was saved for cooling things in the summer. This region can get very hot during harvest and a cold drink or other cold application would be very refreshing during hot hard work. Similar storage of snow or actually in this case ice was routinely done in North American regions by harvesting ice from lakes cutting the ice in blocks and storing them in the ground for summer use. A dependable messenger was like a cold drink on a hot day.

Messengers in those days were essential for getting things done. First they would have to be dependable carrying the message at any cost to its intended destination, being sure that it reached the ears of the designated receiver and no one else. A message that fell into the wrong hands could be devastating. Messengers were the target of interception. There was no electronic communication in that day. Also, a faithful messenger would be one that delivered the exact message given; being sure that the words and content was brought forth. Messages in that day may have been written, but often were translated verbally also having the possibility of losing details or meaning in the process or translation. A faithful messenger would be good at remembering all of the details and at getting the message through at any cost, as if the one sending the message were delivering it. A dependable messenger like this, especially in Solomon’s day, would be as he says ‘refreshing’. Dependable people, like a ‘faithful messenger’, are still very valuable and refreshing today. Finding people that you can depend on that will transfer information accurately to the needed destination is essential to getting the job done and done well and right.

V. 14 People depend on us. People at times make claims of their abilities only to find out that when they are needed there is nothing there. We hire people for a job or set up a project which includes other people based on a person’s claim on their abilities only to find out when everyone is in place and ready to go that one of the key people has no clue of what to do, not having the skill they claimed to. In the Middle East rain is often scarce and it is a welcomed sight to see cloud formation looking like a downpour. How disappointing when hopes are dashed seeing the clouds produce nothing and fierce winds evaporate any potential moisture into nothing. The same is found when you depend on someone to do a good job resting in the belief that it is as good as done only to find out that you made a big mistake in depending on this person. Next time in beginning an important project it might be a good idea to get dependable references and ask more pointed or specific questions of your key people that are involved. If someone claims to have ability it is a good idea to ask for proof of their work before trusting them.

V. 15 Persistence often pays off. This verse shares some wise thoughts on conversation and the art of persuasiveness. The first part of this verse reminds me of the passage in Luke chapter 18:1-8 where the widow got what she came for because of being persistent. However, the first part of this verse gives that impression with a little different twist. It gives the impression of persistence, but in doing so not being annoying or irritating to the one you are making the request to. It is more like being persistent in a pleasant way. The second part of this verse brings out the ‘Power’ of words said right. They need not be loud or overbearing, but if crafted and applied right quiet words can be extremely powerful. Things said in sincerity, truth and with heart go a long way. Have you ever had someone say something soft or quiet and it hit you with force impacting you initiating a change in your life? Often putting force into a request or comment can end up having a negative effect. Soft words spoken right can be very powerful.

V. 16 More is not always better. As Americans we tend to be people of excess. We go to the store to get the one thing that we need and come back with three just because it was on sale or packaged that way. Often we only needed the one. Now we have two others to get rid of or find use for. We go to Dick’s (sporting goods) for a baseball or two and we end up buying a dozen paying more than we intended to spend. Because we have extras we become more careless with our baseballs. Having one or two we would practice responsibility and not lose them, now we have so many we can afford to lose some becoming irresponsible, ending up losing them all having now none when we really need one.

In v. 16 it says that some honey is good. It is refreshing. It is actually a treat. But, there is more than we need. What do we tend to do with the extra? All too often we being human would tend to have more, and then, a little more, eventually making us sick. It’s too much. It has now gotten in the way. Instead of being a help or a blessing it has become a burden. This proverb tends to remind us that our life is not made of the excess. It is good because of having enough. It is not saying that we should not have two, or at times three in planning for the future needs. But, in general, life in the 21 century is made up of being sold more than what we need, excess, becoming greedy, consumers instead of taking the things offered in front of us and using them to make life work. We often find ourselves sick of excess, always having more than we need, much of it cluttering our lives and our houses blocking our path to real living. We live in a society of too much honey (materialism) and need to be careful that we do not eat too much, having more than we really need. Read Phil. 4:4-6.

V. 17 Reminds us to not wear out our welcome. Ben Franklin was quoted as saying that after three days company and dead fish begins to be the same. This verse reminds us that being good neighbors is a good thing, but there is something to be said for respecting your neighbor’s privacy and space. Where one or two visits to our neighbors house in a short time is ok or good, more than this now begins to tax the relationship. We find it strange that now when we approach their house all of a sudden we never find them home or too busy to come to the door. We are reminded to not let it go this far and stay on the ‘happy to see you’ status with our neighbors. Whereas no contact with our neighbors is unacceptable, he reminds us that too many visits may have a similar effect.

V.18 A maul, a sword and an arrow are tools that can do some damage. Here in this verse he calls them instruments of war, meant to inflict wounds, deep wounds, wounds usually intended to produce death. So it is in bearing false witness against your neighbor. Your neighbor is usually someone that you are familiar with, you have a relationship with. With this one there has usually been a trust level established. If an issue were to arise it would be understood that you would most often go to your neighbor directly to discuss the matter or concern. However, it is a blow to learn that your neighbor has made an acquisition against you before coming to talk to you first. Even worse is an acquisition from a relationship that you trusted against you that is false and damaging. It comes as a sucker punch that was totally unexpected. Actually, it is as damaging as being inflicted with a sword or a club of war not even seeing it coming inflicting wounds that often never heal. If it came from your enemy at least you could have prepared for it. This may not seem common to most, but to someone in leadership or of prominence it happens frequently. To a leader it is surprising just how frequent they receive wounds like this from those they would consider friends.

V. 19 There are times in life when you need things that you can depend upon to make it through. You are counting on it. It must work at the exact time as expected or things will crumble or fall apart. At these times you want someone that you can depend upon, not someone that has the reputation of being unreliable. Working with unreliable tools, or people in this case, is painful and problematic. He compares it to a broken tooth, ouch, painful. You can’t depend on a broken tooth for foods that require bite and substance. He also uses the analogy of a sprained foot which is unable to cut the grade when speed and agility is needed. The admonition here is that if you use untrustworthy people do not be surprised with the outcome. It will be a painful process and one that in all likely hood will not succeed.

V. 20 We all like to be encouraging and uplifting when people are having a bad day, but there are times when the Tigger approach is not helpful. As a matter of fact being overly happy and ultra positive in some situations is downright painful to the wounded or injured. There are times when nothing can be said to turn a wounded heart into a heart of joy and that only the balm of empathy can sooth the injured spirit. In times like these words are often not helpful and just being there and being a friend does more than attempts of encouragement. There may come a time when encouragement may be helpful for this person, but for the truly heavy heart songs in an attempt to cheer the heart can be painful.

V. 21-2 If your enemy is hungry what do you do? We all know what it says here in v. 21, but in reality what have we learned to do? Win at all costs?? We can encounter our so called enemy in many different settings and situations. They could be over there so to speak. We may know where they are, but we are not at the moment doing mortal combat with them. However, they could be, presently facing us in battle. It is also possible that you have already overcome your enemy and they are in your custody waiting to see what you will do with them. If your enemy is hungry and thirsty they are right where you would want them. If he is hungry and in need of water it is only a matter of time before he is yours ready to give up and surrender to terms that were not theirs.

The Bible in Basic English puts an interesting twist on the translation of this verse. It says, ‘If your hater is in need of food, give him bread; and if he is in need of drink, give him water.’ This translation gives the impression that the enemy that you encounter is an enemy of their choice, not yours. This means that if you had your choice they would not be your enemy at all. Appling this perspective, any action taken against this so called enemy would be more for protection and the protection of others, or maybe even… for their benefit. He is not saying that we should be foolish or naïve as to the potential capabilities of an enemy and what harm they can do if given a chance or opportunity. But, he is making the point here that kindness is a powerful force and that all people are God’s creation and need to be treated with respect even if they do not respect themselves.

The Golden Rule is treating others as we would treat ourselves. Sometimes that is not an option because an enemy will not allow it. But, an enemy’s attitude and action should not affect our heart’s desire. There are times when you must do what you must do even though it is not what you would like to see happen. There are two examples from the Bible that come to mind when looking at these verses, examples that we should remember when dealing with our enemies. One is how David treated his enemy Saul when he, David, had to opportunity to claim victory over his enemy. David was in Saul’s camp and even in his tent and had the ability to proclaim victory over Saul having the easy opportunity to take his life. But, David chose instead to spare Saul’s life and make his intentions clear that he would much rather make peace with Saul. He let Saul live and made him an offer. The ball was now in Saul’s court. He too had a chance to choose peace. The second example takes this verse a step further when Christ who willingly chose to not retaliate against His enemies when persecuted. Both examples here chose not to exercise an option that was clearly theirs, choosing instead to heap coals of fire upon their enemy’s head by showing kindness instead of retaliation.

V. 23 When looking at the meaning of this verse it may be difficult to come up with a concise uniform interpretation. A number of translations translate this verse with a slightly different twist, having somewhat different interpretations. In reviewing several commentaries on this verse I also found the same, although most shared the view that this verse could be applied several different ways to life situations. The interpretation that seems to make the most sense is the view that like a stiff north wind that drives away the rain so does a stern unappreciative look drive away the rain of sharing gossip when someone attempts to share it with us. A stern look takes the rain right out of the cloud of gossip causing the bearer of the tail to stop their tail of rain and woe that in the end if not stopped would cause anger and contention. One commentator made the point that if we were to apply a stern look of disappointment when someone begins to share gossip that much of gossip would not happen. We all are tempted to want to hear a secret or something juicy. Our being willing to first hear it all too often encourages the gossiper to share and continue to share their poison.

V. 24 There is nothing more pleasant and pleasurable than harmony in having a good family environment following the Biblical example and instruction. However, the opposite is also true. When spouses are contentious with each other there is no house big enough to house them. How do you relate to or deal with a contentious spouse. I do not care how many rooms you have in a house a contentious spouse will seem to permeate every room. Another addition will not help. Your only hope for peace is to find a corner of a housetop where it is too much trouble to find or get too. This verse however is not meant to give you advice on how to survive a contentious marriage. It is more a warning to avoid such a situation and make good choices before this becomes your lot in life. In Prov. 27:15 it says that a contentious spouse is like a continual drip. The annoyance and frustration never stops. He encourages us to think ahead being sure not to make this mistake.

V. 25 It has been said that ‘no news is indeed good news’. So it is with news from far away. News received from far away is usually not good. When getting news from far away your first thought is that it must be bad news. However, when you find out that the news is indeed good your anxious anticipation quickly turns to ‘joy’ refreshing the soul. Good news from far away or someone that you have not heard from in years is truly like a cold drink on a hot day, refreshing to the soul, making your day.

V. 26 reminds us to stand our ground and not yield or end up giving homage to evil doers. It is one thing to be set back temporarily by evil or an evil system having to step aside and regroup. But, it is not appropriate to give in and reluctantly join their forces bowing down to them and their plans. The troubled fountain or corrupt spring referred to here has the meaning of a water source that has become tainted with mud or other undesirables polluting the water source. A righteous person promoting a righteous cause becomes polluted by joining forces with evil causing confusion, mudding the waters so to speak, making the entire precept undesirable and eventually worthless or damaging. We gain nothing by joining wrong plans or endeavors. No matter how much good you pour into an evil agenda the end result is still polluted and of little to no use.

V. 27 Honey is not bad, it is good. It is good… unless you overindulge. It is not a bad thing to be confident of your abilities, but if you go down the road of self confidence too far there is a line you cross over tipping the scale to pride becoming as they might say sick. It is not good to blow your own horn, but to offer help letting someone know that you can help them is like a little honey.

V. 28 This is where many of us go wrong and loose out in life. We are all born with and endowed with gifts and talents and abilities. So often we work hard and put much effort in attempting to apply our natural abilities for our benefit as well as the benefit of others. However, so often we find that very talented people are undisciplined or weak willed having other habits and practices that rob or dramatically reduce the benefits or outcome of their effort.  Solomon would say that if we are not able to control our self, our temper, our passions, our attitudes and habits, we will like a city without walls having no protection from outside forces of life that do us and those we love harm. As much as we do not like to put the effort into having and keeping a disciplined life doing so keeps us and the ones we love safe from evil influences and forces in life meant to do us harm. 

Proverbs Study – Lesson 34 – May 15, 2011– Seacoast Community Church Proverbs Study – Lesson 34 (Proverbs chapter 25:1-12)

Chapter 25 begins with an acknowledgement as to who is the author of the following Proverbs and who retrieved them from Solomon’s writings. It says that they were retrieved by the servants of Hezekiah the king of Judah at about 700 BC.  It is not known for sure who these servants were, but it is assumed that they were men of clout and renown and in all probability closely connected to and respected by the king, as the king would want to be sure to preserve the original meaning in the copy and translation, not letting just anybody do this work.  It is thought that these men may have been perhaps his ministers of state, such as Eliakim, Sheban, and Joah; or it may have been some of the prophets of his time like Isaiah, Micah, and Hosea: Whoever these men were some versions call them his "friends" which give us a picture of the heart and posture of King Hezekiah as not all kings were friendly with their current day prophets. It may reveal his inherent desire that he the king had to ‘do that which is right’ as stated in II Kings 18. It is in all likely hood that retrieving these proverbs was done at the king’s personal request and knowing the background history of King Hezekiah this request in all likely hood came as a result of the king’s need for wisdom for ruling and leading Israel. As a wise king King Hezekiah went looking for true wisdom to lead and guide him and found what he was looking for in Solomon’s writings. This section could be said to be ‘fit for a king’ as some (the Targum and Syriac versions) have referred to this section as the ‘deep’ sayings of Solomon. This begins the third division of the book of Proverbs which includes chapters 25-29.

He begins in v. 2 by reminding us that wisdom is truly from God. There are thoughts and concepts as well as rhythm and rhyme and precepts that are saved for God and His elect, those who are wise enough to search it out. Proverbs 24:23 tells us that ‘these things (wisdom) belong to the wise’. Here he says that it is to the glory of those who are wise as kings to diligently search out this hidden wisdom.  The question could come here asking why God conceals a matter. Does He get pleasure in watching us flounder due to lack of knowledge or wisdom? No. It says that it His glory being wise that causes Him to keep wise things hidden. Some things man is not ready for and would be unable to use and apply in a wise manner. It is better for all that it be concealed until it be sought out and studied becoming knowledgeable and more familiar with what they are dealing with hopefully prompting more responsible application. It is also good to remember that wisdom is often revealed for God’s purposes not just man’s benefit.

V. 2 says that it is a special breed of person that in often capable of digging in, capable of the thought and heart needed to think through the details and consequences of this hidden wisdom. It is to a king’s honor that he is able to think on a different level than most of us, being equipped for thinking on a larger scale, understanding more difficult concepts and consequences of this wisdom when applied.  Kings see things that must be and therefore must have answers. Down inside they know that the answer is hidden and lies with God and are willing to wrestle God so to speak for answers.

V. 3 Most of us are quick to criticize a king or higher elected official for the actions and decisions that they make , but this verse says that in reality that as hard as we may try, we may not understand the wisdom of their actions. Many things done by a king are often appreciated in hindsight long after the action was taken. This in no way means to imply that we should never question our leaders’ decisions and actions. But it is wise to not judge them too quickly taking some time to understand their rational before passing judgment. There are times when some of their decisions we have to accept and follow in faith hoping that they are right because some things are much more complex than our ability to understand. Thank God for kings! They are special people placed by God for special tasks.

V. 4-5 No professional would think of forming their works of art out of unpurified metal. Unpurified metal is brittle, tarnished, weak and holds none of the qualities of a purified product. If unpurified metal is used to make something the resulting end product would be junk no matter how capable the craftsmen. If a professional silversmith was to have any chance of being successful at working their craft and doing a good job they would first choose silver having the dross or imperfections removed allowing their skill to be demonstrated in the material. It is the same for a king. It is near impossible for a good king to do anything constructive if there is nothing to work with. If most or a large part of the government is broken most of their early effort will be poured into removing the dross and purifying the process. In our day it is not just the government that may need to be reshaped, but things like factions, public opinion and media may also need to be encouraged to look at things differently supporting what is right. Sometimes the first job of a good king is to remove the wicked clearing the way for them to establish what is on their heart. It is like preparing fertile soil for the planting of good seed. Good seed sown in poor soil yields little to nothing.

V. 6-7 These verses relate to Lk. 14:8-11, Mt. 23:11-2 and Js. 4:5-6 which remind us not to exalt ourselves. It is only natural to believe that if we can get noticed by someone important that we might get our big break in life having some of their success rub off on us. But, these verses remind us not to make a fool of ourselves and be noticed for the wrong reason. We all mature and become good at our skills over time. We tend to often want recognition before we are deserved of it. These verses remind us that we will often receive recognition of our gifts and abilities when we deserve it and our talents and abilities really are worth mentioning and noticing. In other words it is not necessary to be noticed by a king to get our big break when we are doing right. In exalting our self we often put our self in a position that we are not ready for. It seems that everyone else knows it, we often come to it afterword having been blinded by pride. However, we frequently also do not realize our own abilities, but others do take notice and it is a confirmation when they invite us to join others with a prominent position or talent having similar abilities. He reminds us that it is better to be exalted by others than to exalt ourselves.

V. 8 tells us to think things through and not be too hasty beginning confrontation. Even if you are right there is a time and a place to make your stand and not being wise in this could end up being more than you can handle. Some have the personality of diving into confrontation quickly not thinking it through as to what are the possible outcomes of where it will end. He warns that you must be ready and realize that there is a chance that it may not come out in your favor. In fact, this verse seems to have the warning that there is even a possibility that the legal battle may turn against you making you wish that you had never begun the process. He is not saying to avoid confrontation at all costs. It is important to stand up for what is right. But, he warns us to not begin this process in a hurry or hastily, telling us to take a little time and think things through first. In doing so, we will be ready for possible twists and turns in the process, being ready to deal with them, hopefully coming out in the end with a fair and right outcome. V. 9 tells us that in considering the advice in v. 8 it might be better to give the situation a chance and first go to your neighbor before beginning a legal battle. You might be surprised. Your neighbor just might listen, or you may see a way out working things through.(Matt. 18:15) He also reminds us in v. 10 to be discreet not revealing private matters to others. In guarding other people’s reputation and private matters other people who know us will respect us for doing so. If we do not protect another person’s dignity we in turn will get a reputation that will be hard to repair. The New Living Translation puts it this way ‘Others may accuse you of gossip, and you will never regain your good reputation’.

V. 11 Some things go together by necessity and others are a perfect fit just made for this occasion. It appears that Solomon was making a comparison of words that fit precisely a situation being adorned on the situation like fine works of art. Some words or descriptions are adequate; others are pure poetry that fit so perfectly that they are as ‘apples of gold’ fit on the skilled workmanship and craftsmanship of a silversmith’s ornate silver platter. When you see it is truly something to behold. So are words spoken like this that not only answer the question or respond to reply/inquire, but go forth with grace melting all opposition winning the enemy or the offended. Pv. 15:23

V. 12 In our era we tend to not be fond of criticism. Everything has to be said the right way, at the right time, when we are in the right mood, and then being careful not to bruise the fruit by looking at them the wrong way. This verse says that you can give constructive straightforward criticism to someone that wants the truth and they will take it and apply it and wear it well. As a matter of fact, while most others would side step or cast off the advice given, this person will take it and put it on or apply it and actually look marvelous in it, as if they were wearing an ornament of gold. 

Proverbs Study – Lesson 33 – May 8, 2011– Seacoast Community Church

Proverbs Study – Lesson 33 (Proverbs chapter 24:15-34 )

In v. 15-6 Solomon gives a warning to those who devise mischief intended for God’s elect. His warning is to beware and leave the righteous alone for they are stronger and more resilient than you think. So often bad people think that the righteous or Christians are nothing but a pushover. But, in reality they haven’t stopped long enough to watch them. Many believers are strong and are not wimps. Think of the many things that non believers have done against Christians and how resilient they have been. If this were not true the Church of Jesus Christ would have faded into history a long time ago. Strong evil men for centuries have underestimated their endurance. It says here in v. 16 that someone trained and established in right living can get knocked down, those around them thinking that that is the end of them, only to see them rise back up defying the impossible. He said that he has noticed that a righteous man is strong and can trip or get knocked down many times only to see them collect themselves and eventually get back up. So he gives those who purpose evil to beware of targeting what they think will be an easy target. He warns that in the end they may be surprised. They may see that they are the one that gets knocked down being unable to get back up often getting caught in the calamity that they began.

V. 17 and 18 are interesting verses. Although they are instructive to us reminding us of some very important Godly attributes, they also give us insight into the heart and mind of God. It is not God’s will that any should parish. It is not His will that any should fall. And, His objective is not to win at all costs. Winning does not trump His character and intent. He has already won. His perspective toward those who rebel against Him is pity and sorrow knowing their end. When those who rebel against Him receive the natural consequences for their rebellion God is not pleased. It is what it is. It is because of their rebellion, not because of His pleasure in judgment that they have the consequences of their actions. He would rather they turn from their ways toward Him and adopt His ways and plan for their life receiving the blessings of a right lifestyle.

We being human often forget that we are His ambassadors and as such should have His heart. It is not always easy to understand what the right perspective is when dealing with our enemies. Naturally we do battle and desire to win if we are in the right, but the door should always be open for our enemy to come over to God’s side as unlikely as that may seem. God/Christ often had much more compassion than we do when dealing with our enemy. This is proven in His patience in the judgment of this world. He also takes it to the full when He tells us to love your enemies in Matt. 5:43-8 and Lk. 6:35-6.

We often forget that we were once enemies and still would be if it were not for His mercy as seen in Rom. 5:8-11. Even though He expects us to uphold righteousness and the right way, He is not pleased with a heart that takes pleasure in someone else’s pain and trouble. This is a hard commandment for us to understand and put into right practice. Probably because this commandment is larger than just doing what is expected or asked by God. This one deals with the heart. He expects us to go forward establishing His righteousness in a wicked world, but to remember in our perspective and heart that we are dealing with His creation which has turned away from Him and grieves Him. In these two versed Solomon not only says that it is the wrong perspective to rejoice at someone else’s troubles, but gives a warning that God may actually change His mind and save your enemies retribution for another day allowing him to get back on his feet giving you more trouble.

In V. 19 we are reminded of the confidence that we are to have in God and His ways. He reminds us in v.20 that there shall be no (lasting) reward for the works of evil and those who do them. Here he reminds us again that we can be taken in and seduced by the ‘dark side’ being deceived by the allurement by the mirage of what we think we see. But, he again reminds us that what we see is not at all reality. It looks real, but as we get closer we begin to see the major flaws and defects in what at first looked so good. He warns us to not be taken in by this deception, nor to be afraid of their apparent influence and strength. He reminds us that their apparent success is short lived and the will vanish as quickly as they came.

He goes on to remind us in v. 21 where our allegiance should lie. He tells us to fear and reverence authority naming here God and the king. He also warns against rebellious actions. It is easy to be influenced by a convincing person that is backed with emotion. However, many times such a speech is just that, full of emotion by having no substance. He is not telling us to over look injustice. We can be sure that God can be trusted. But, we do need to be careful that we not be influenced to follow what is referred to here as ‘one who meddles for change’, inciting a riot or change that in the end is no better or even worse than what you already have. Some talk just to hear themselves. In v. 22 he tells us to be careful. In joining them we will be a part of their plan also receiving the outcome. It would be wise for them to remember that they are meddling with two powerful forces, God and king. He tells us that trouble will come quickly and calamity will be the outcome.

In v. 23 he continues to tell us things that belong to the wise. It is a wise person that will be given discernment being able to recognize wisdom when they see or hear it and quickly gathering it for use and application at the appropriate time. V.23-6 reminds us to use discretion in our judgment. He tells us when we make judgments to judge right not overlooking injustices just because of who it was that did the injustice. We are to make judgments according to God’s standards and not be influenced by our personal admiration, ambitions, connections or purposes. Sometime these things can get in the way of what is right, so much so that we can not only overlook critical factors in our judgments, but we can actually call bad actions or purposes good publically condoning wrong perverting the foundation of a societies foundation of right and wrong. In doing so, a society has no ability to function being founded on principles that do not work, no matter who condones or implements them.  

He gives this advice to those looking for wisdom knowing that they in all likelihood will be put in positions and situations that will require them to make judgment calls. The attempt in all likelihood will come to be bribed or influenced by a person or persons to overlook wrong or to call wrong right. But, the people know the difference, and so do other nations. In making such judgments you will be a marked man falling out of favor with the people and having nations shun our nation not wanting to get involved in a tainted and unjust system, not wanting to get tangled in the mess. The KJV uses the word ‘abhor’ in v. 24 referring to the attitude of other nations toward an unjust system. V 25 reminds the wise that even though it is a difficult position to stand your ground and do what is right you will be rewarded in the end. Right has a reward associated with it, but the reward or prize goes to those who do right, God rewarding us for standing for and doing the right thing. V. 26 goes as far as saying that speaking the truth has pleasantness to it, like speaking a kiss, pleasant, friendly and welcoming.

V. 27 First things first. A home is built by patience. All too often in life we get the cart before the horse. We want it all, and we want it right now. But, the entire book of Proverbs gives us the pattern of doing things right, doing things in steps, laying them down in the right order making sure that we first lay down a good foundation on which to build on. All Biblical wisdom is laid on and built on a good foundation. It is not a standalone item. All wisdom is related to truth and only finds it fit and place on the solid foundation of truth.

This verse refers to getting it right. You can do the right thing in the wrong order or at the wrong time and it does not last.  If we begin to follow the pattern set down in Biblical truth we will develop a system or approach when we begin to lay down the foundations of life that we place all of our important stuff of life on. In other words, when we begin to gather and establish the important stuff that makes life work, we realize that every component of life needs preparation and planning before it is ready to be placed on our foundation of life. This verse encourages us to be patient and lay down the right foundation first, gathering quality materials, collecting and setting them aside until your material list is complete, and then in the right season build the house that lasts. This verse relates to all areas of life from job or career to preparation for marriage and family. Anything that we want to last a lifetime needs to be built and established with this approach. This is not meant to be a mechanical approach, but is meant to be a practical approach to a wise life, establishing things that last…last a lifetime.

V. 28 Reminds us to be honest with our testimony. It also reminds us that we need to be careful not to speak out against our neighbor unless there is truly a just cause. It is ok to testify when we are called to do so. However, it is easy to get caught up in the moment and in public opinion and talk and the facts can get skewed. It is a good idea to think it through a second time before we step forward. All too often things are said to quickly not having all the details. Things said in haste often are regretted. We must be sure that we are giving accurate testimony and not just our opinion.

V. 29  Those who are called to live a good or righteous life are called to a higher standard of living. When we are pushed our natural tendency is to push back. When we are treated wrongly it is only natural to be tempted to do the same in return. When someone ignores us it our tendency to ignore them in return. If someone shuns us we often respond by shunning them. However, the way of wisdom and the principles of wisdom demand a better response. It is the response of ‘treat people right, at all times, no matter how they have treated you’. When we respond to people in this way it makes life much easier. We don’t have to carry grudges which can weigh us down. You do not have to have a good memory to know what level of service or love you have to give this person compared to someone else. You just do what is right. It is that easy. Wisdom does not hold to partiality. It realizes that in responding with partiality you often sacrifice doing what is right. Doing what is right has a blessing attached to it having its payoff or outcome be far greater than the effort given in the response. It also has the possibility of softening the heart of the one that has wronged. Undeserved kindness does have the ability of melting the hardness of a person possibly causing them to rethink the way they treat others.

V. 30-4 Give something to a slothful person or one void of understanding and you can be sure what will happen to it. It is destine to breakdown, fragmentation and progressive disrepair to the point beyond recognition. Anything left to itself with no attention will progressively break down beyond recognition. In v. 30 he names two types of people that are known for not attending to the things of life that are necessary to maintain and repair things to help them to last and keep them useful. The first is the slothful person. The slothful person just allows nature to take its course not only not putting in the effort to maintain what they own, but also using the things that they have often improperly encouraging a quicker breakdown process. They tend to have the disposable mentality and perspective, use it with abuse and then throw it away hoping to get another one to replace it. The second type of person mentioned is someone who lacks understanding. They might consider putting in the effort to take care of and maintain something, but they have never learned how too. The bottom line is that both of these types of people allow their things to fall into disrepair often beyond recognition and ability to use. V. 31 gives a descriptive picture of how these places will look. He says that the fields are overgrown with brush and needles and thorns. It says that it is even broken down so much that it is unprotected having its walls broken down.

V. 32 is the sign of true wisdom exercised. It says that this person saw something that didn’t make sense and instead of going right ahead or just passing it by they considered it, studying and observing what they saw hoping to learn something useful for future application. At the end of v. 32 it says that they were instructed by it. In v. 33 it goes on to tell us of one of the most damaging practices in life…laziness and laying around wasting the day. In v. 34 he goes on to say that that this practice has severe consequences ending in poverty and complete devastation that creeps up on you happening so quickly that you will swear that you have been robbed. 

Proverbs Study – Lesson 32 – May 1, 2011– Seacoast Community Church

Proverbs Study – Lesson 32 (Proverbs chapter 24:1-14 )

Fatherly Advice

V. 1-2 Being in the company of evil men is overpowering and influential often softening us and alluring us, especially those that are younger. Power and prestige have a way of attracting our attention overlooking the gray side or dark side of a person’s personality. Their so called success (recognized for something great), the position or title that they hold (teacher, doctor), or how much money they have can influence us to overlook character traits that are less than stellar wanting to join them becoming so called successful like they are. Sometimes we overlook character faults in someone that has achieved some degree of notoriety for some great invention or accomplishment.

Even Hitler influenced many good and honorable people to overlook major character flaws being overcome with his success offering them back their national pride which was taken way after the first WW. A good part of a nation overlooked the gross atrocities he committed and would have had no problem associating with him personally because of how he portrayed himself.  An evil person is just that. They are evil. And being evil v. 2 reminds us that they actually study and ponder on how to become better at who they are for their own selfish purposes. And, we are warned to be careful because they can talk us into joining them if we are not wise, believing their false front. Prov. 1:10-9 reminds us to stay clear of such people, lest we be taken in by their deceptive offerings. This is what is referred to as the criminal mind, always thinking of ways to win using evil methods.

In v. 3 he tells us to not give up, but to be persistent. The road to a good life is long and takes work. He reminds us that it is not haphazard. It is intentional. We are encouraged to lay it down brick by brick, exercising faith that you are laying down the right foundation just because God said so and that it will eventually pay off. A lifetime of application of wisdom and knowledge begins to materialize over time. It does not happen overnight. It could take years. Sure we will make mistakes in our attempts, but we will learn. What we sow is what we will reap…it is promised. It is important that we remember that good Godly actions and plans are met with resistance in this fallen world, so it may take a little longer to see the benefit than we think that it should, but an outcome is promised, if we labor and not faint. He says with assurance in v. 3 that this is how the house that we are looking for is built, laying down the bricks of wisdom, using knowledge to be able to place them in the right place.

He goes on in v.4 and adds the end result of a good life established by wisdom. He says that your chambers will be full, if we persist, of precious payoffs. Not all of them will be material. Things like a good family, good children, peace, happiness and JOY are all part of the payoff! He tells us that our life or house will be filled with more real things than just money, even though money will most likely be part of the blessing. It will be filled with precious things, practical things that are really useful and not just things that may have material worth in this world that are really burdensome rather than practical.

In v. 5 he gives us the character trait that will be needed to make this happen. He says that ‘A wise person is strong and does not give up easily. He is willing to work and ‘pay the dues’ to get what he desires out of life. It is said that everyone wants to go to heaven, but nobody wants to die. This is true of our society today related to being willing to pay the price of ‘faith’ to win the prize. Everyone wants the prize, but they are not willing to pay the dues. Most prizes in life are gained by ‘toughing it out’ over time, in the end receiving the prize. He tells us that one of the ways that we increase our toughness and strength is by increasing our confidence which comes by increasing our knowledge. It has been said that knowledge is power. Inner strength does not come from blind faith. Inner strength that is solid and holds on during difficult times is found in knowledge or knowing the truth. It is not blind hope holding onto nothing. Hebrews 11 tells us that this hope has substance, and is proved in perseverance. God is that Substance.

V. 6 goes on to tell us that it is by this confidence that we do battle with the world that stands before us and separates us from the things that are ours by God’s will. If we have the habit of desiring and acquiring wisdom as we go through life we will store up the council of many asking to be guided as we go by the wisdom of God’s Spirit, making good choices, winning the battles of life from God’s perspective. He reminds us that it is a wise person that does not proceed on the advice and opinion of one or two people. He uses the word multitude meaning many or enough. He is not implying and encouraging the acquisition of random and meaningless information as this can produce confusion instead. But, he uses the word councilor implying trusted adviser, someone that has some expertise in the area in question and will share their heart speaking honestly.

V. 7 tells us that not everyone will be willing to pay the price and put in the effort to get the reward. This way of living is too difficult for many not wanting to put in the effort. In v. 7 he implies that for the real fool understanding wisdom is impossible. He could understand it if he was willing to invest the effort to learn wisdom’s precepts. The precepts of wisdom are only learned by study and putting together the building blocks of knowledge. The equation for wisdom is study + knowledge (true knowledge) + application = wisdom. A fool is not willing to work this equation therefore wisdom remains a mystery to them.

In v. 8 and 9 he reminds us that we will be known by our actions. In v. 1 we were advised to not desire to be found in the company of evil people. More often than not we know who they are for they have a reputation of being mischievous, and we do not want to be found guilty of the same by association. In v. 9 he reminds us that being foolish is not just a lack of education or training. Here he calls it sin, being a willful act or omission against God and His will. He reminds us that being foolish begins with foolish thoughts. Not just one foolish thought, but here he gives the impression that he is referring to the planning of foolishness which has the intent of eventually becoming reality. He makes it clear that God is against this pattern and habit of thinking. He continues by saying that a scoffer’s only purpose and value is to trouble and disrupt people using the descriptive term of abominable describing them. A scoffer by nature tears down people and never plans to admonish or build up as we have been instructed in the first part of this chapter. (v.3)

V. 10 is a fitting conclusion to the first part of this chapter, reminding us that it is perseverance, standing on and executing what is true that wins and gives the right reward in the end. He tells us not to faint giving the impression that the task will be difficult. He says that if we do faint it is because we have not been exercised by the right things letting life push us over. Do you give up too easily? If we wilt under pressure/trials we know that our maturation in the exercising of faith is not complete. We are reminded that our strength is found in God and there is nothing that can overcome Him.

In v. 11 and 12 he reminds us how important it is for us to be an advocate and stick out our neck even to our own potential harm for others who need our help who are sentenced to injustice. This is a difficult passage for in obeying it and putting it into practice we too open up ourselves for potential harm and injury, even serious harm and injury. I am reminded of those who during WWII lived, worked and had close relationships with those who were singled out and ruthlessly abused. Putting this verse into practice meant putting your life on the line potentially joining them in what was coming their way. It is easy to just look the other way. After all, who will know? The risk to me is too great. After all, it is their problem.

But, you happen to be able to do something that could potentially help. It could save their life. You know something that has not been shared. You have influence and connections that could affect their outcome. Saying that you didn’t know about the situation is a lie. God knows. He will hold us accountable if we do not step forward. It asks a question in v. 12. It says, ‘Does not He that keeps your soul see and know the truth?’ Will the Keeper of my soul guard and stand up for me when it is my turn to need protection by someone sharing unknown details that could save my life? He goes on to ask one final question, ‘shall not he render to every man according to his works?’ In essence he is telling us that how we treat others and come to their aid is in all likelihood how we will be treated in the end.

V. 13-4 We know a good thing when we see, or taste it. There is something about a good thing that makes us want to come back to it again and again. Each time we indulge we savor the pleasant experience and when it is through we long for the next time we can partake. In these two verses he compares the good taste of honey with the pleasure of experiencing the knowledge of wisdom. He says that there is nothing like it. In v. 13 he actually bumps up the comparison a notch by actually comparing the pleasure of true knowledge with honey that is still wrapped in the cone. There is nothing better or more pure. He says in v. 14 that our soul tastes wisdom just like our taste buds taste food, savoring its full flavor and aroma. Not everyone has had the privilege of the full flavor of the taste of knowledge. But, he says that when we have had the privilege to experience truth and knowledge that we will eat it all receiving its full reward including no only its exceptional flavor, but the reward of its application and outcome as well. He says that the end of this tasting of the full flavor of knowledge is a lasting expectation or hope that will not be cut off.