1 He who separates himself seeks his own desire, He quarrels against all sound wisdom. 2 A fool does not delight in understanding, But only in revealing his own mind. 3 When a wicked man comes, contempt also comes, And with dishonor comes scorn. 4 The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters; The fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook. 5 To show partiality to the wicked is not good, Nor to thrust aside the righteous in judgment.
Eternal principles 1 – v 1 beware isolation vs separation to pray
1 He who separates himself seeks his own desire, He quarrels against all sound wisdom.
There is beyond value in community. When we die we will spend an eternity. In that eternal bliss or curse, if we decide that our agenda our best, and we are our highest aim Jesus will grant that request. Unfortunately because you and I are incapable of maintaining even one minute on our own we will be forced to depend on Christ. The mercies of God provide an eternal existence for both the sinner and the saint. The separation occurs ultimately when the person decides they will provide for their own existence apart from Christ thereby affording them with eternity separated from Christ; to their own wishes.
2 – v 2 beware misunderstanding vs misrepresentation
2 A fool does not delight in understanding, But only in revealing his own mind.
This verse hits differently as I age. As a senior in high school I was at the top of my domain. I co-owned a business, had a full ride scholarship to Auburn and all the accolades I could imagine. Spring of 2000, one year later I was laid up in a hospital at University of Alabama at Birmingham of Alabama clinging to life. Notwithstanding my nearly complete lack of awareness of the effect my life would have in others. Your life matters! Don’t waste it pursuing things that you know will end in terror and heartache, follow Christ!
3 – v 3 beware who you’re hanging around
3 When a wicked man comes, contempt also comes, And with dishonor comes scorn.
What does this mean? Whether we are aware or not our company can influence our walk, talk, and relationships! When we align ourselves with the new coworker or new student who intentionally takes shortcuts, skirts orders, or is lax in their discipline we ought to mercifully warn them either as a peer or a supervisor they are wasting a God-ordained opportunity at success thereby slandering His Name.
4 – v 4 beware the words that are coming out of your mouth
What you say matters. Always there is One Who listens, and I done mean just your inner voice. Christ is all present and all powerful! This is not to scare you but admonish you, seek the Lord while He may be found! As one who has been heavily sedated because of surgery it is terrifying to suddenly wake up unaware of anything or anyone around you. That is why we should always be aware of the words we speaking!
5 To show partiality to the wicked is not good, Nor to thrust aside the righteous in judgment.
I am a casual observer at best of the political news of the day. I am a conservative not a republican or democrat. I have been to Washington, DC three or four times and actually took my wife there for our anniversary a few years ago. I greatly admire the motivations and men and women who founded this great nation. But our nation, the United States, is not to be our eternal home. One day, each of us will die. Then we will either spend an eternity in the presence of Christ for all who have bowed the knee and trusted in Christ as their Lord, Savior, and friend. Or we will refuse the grace and forgiveness He offered on the cross and thereby curse His forgiveness and damn ourselves to separation from God for an eternity. My hope, if you’re reading this you have already trusted in Christ. My challenge? If not, you need to get right with Christ before you take your next breath!
17 A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity.
Continuing the thoughts of friendship and love in its relationship, the verse completes the notion indicating that a brother is born for adversity. Have you ever interacted with a peer that progressed to a kindred bond? This is the idea. The Hebrew rendered born is יָלַד which means brought forth. So be it by blood or by adversity, your “brother” can help aid the ailing soul.
18 A person lacking in sense shakes hands and becomes guarantor in the presence of his neighbor.
Perhaps this could also be found in relationships as well. Don’t throw your all into a relationship at first. And this isn’t only romantic relationships as well. One who is friendly ought not confused friendly with overly trusting. Don’t be one who will go to court on behalf of a neighbor you just met! Therein lay wisdom and folly!
19 One who loves wrongdoing loves strife; One who makes his doorway high seeks destruction.
I could already recount on both hands the number of times already this year the number of that I’ve made relational mistakes. I’ve wronged someone, I’ve spoken an unwise word, I’ve caused unintentional pain on behalf of my careless tongue. This is why we all should seek the betterment of others rather than ourselves alone.
20 One who has a crooked mind finds nothing good, and one who is corrupted in his language falls into evil.
Here lay a two fold danger. One that is crooked in mind distorts what is good. I will not make many commentaries on the politics of the U.S. Nevertheless, it doesn’t take longer, regardless of your party affiliation if you interested, to become disgusted. That is precisely why the writer says one who has a crooked mind finds nothing good. The hope however lies in that our corrupted tongue my by straightened for the sake of the gospel (cf. James 3).
21 He who fathers a fool does so to his sorrow, and the father of a fool has no joy.
He who fathers is of primary importance i the word choice. To father is the word yō·lêḏ which is to give birth. You and I must be responsible. As birth is not the role of the father but the mother, raisig a child certainly falls, on both the father and the mother, in the proverbial lap of both parents! Fathers, recognize that your role doesn’t stop in the bedroom. Your role begins in best case on your knees pleading with the Father to created in His image, not yours, a child who in turn will live a life as a testimony of God’s great grace!
22 A joyful heart is good medicine, But a broken spirit dries up the bones.
Simply put, do you have a coworker or classmate who seems to bring a smile to your face when you see them? That is the idea here for the first part. I’m not a naturally cheery person. Have a couple cups of coffee and then we’ll talk. But if you are one of those naturally morning cup of cheer type people, praise the Lord! You can help the rest of us as we navigate the day! Further, medicine doesn’t have a one time effect but ca have a lasting effect! You, be good medicine for the weary soul! However, a broken spirit can have a deteriorating effect. That is why, you must be salt and light but also pray the He would leave a sweet aroma after!
23 A wicked person accepts a bribe from an inside pocket to pervert the ways of justice
The word is literally מֵ֭חֵיק meaning from the bosom but the meaning is the same. A wicked person accepts a bribe from the coat or a concealed pocket so pervert the ways of justice. It is striking also that the perversion comes to the “ways” of justice. Justice is often not the matter that is distorted only but the leading up to it. From a mistrial on a technicality to a simple mathematical error, temporarily criminals can be set free. But, though they have escaped temporary justice, their eternal judgement is condemned unless they have bowed their knee and surrendered to Jesus!
9 One who conceals an offense seeks love, But one who repeats a matter separates close friends.
Much like the NT principle of restoration following trials brought about by sifting, there are time when it would be best to conceal offenses. Whether it be simple cultural oversight or abject ignorance we have the responsibility to seek the betterment of others. Conversely if we “keep on” as friends used to say, true harm to the friendship or relationship can occur. When attempting to maintain a relationship both parties must constantly seek the betterment of the other lest sin separate and divide!
10 A rebuke goes deeper into one who has understanding than a hundred blows into a fool.
As a husband and a father I am largely oblivious to my misgivings. I just “do”. This is not to say the doing didn’t need to be done. The verse however deals more with the how than the what. When we are rebuked or when we are rebuking let us remember that the ultimate end of any conversation ought to be seasoned with the graces of the Savior. That is why when we are both rebuked or rebuking, the end goal is the restoration of the relationship. Also, landing 99 blows into the flesh of an infant in the faith is both abuse and potentially catastrophic!
11 A rebellious person seeks only evil, so a cruel messenger will be sent against him.
A person of rebellion is one who seeks evil. What are you seeking as you live? Do you seek better things for others and restoration for severed relationships? On the other side, what “messages” are you receiving regarding you treatment of others. Has your boss or coworkers shied away from you because of your rash temperament? Have your friends or family withdrawn in their desire to be around you? In following the tail end of this verse, has bad news or distressing notice been offered to you? It is wise to regard the notices of His grace before his chiding is the only attention getting mechanism He has left.
12 Let a person meet a bear robbed of her cubs, rather than a fool in his foolishness.
Thinking of another verse in Scripture referring to a mother bear and her cubs as a fearsome sight, it is not wise in the least! What’s more, it very well could be the last sight you have this side of eternity!
13 One who returns evil for good, evil will not depart from his house.
Just like the provocation of a mama bear, if you or I repay good with evil, we should expect evil to not depart from our house until we make the matter right in the eyes of the Lord!
14 The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so abandon the quarrel before it breaks out.
Much like poking the mama bear, if we begin to strive against the Lord, it is not long before His majesty and righteousness will correct our behavior! Rather than waste the time pursuing our own vain chasing’s, why not simply turn around? We should recall that the Lord never moved so that we can return!
15 One who justifies the wicked and one who condemns the righteous, both of them alike are an abomination to the LORD.
The transgressions are the same! Justifying wickedness or condemning the righteous are examples of a heart that is set against the Lord! We should daily examine our own lives and then ask the Lord to reveal to us our sin! We cannot go without sin! We can however relinquish that sin to Him and be restored! What is repentance? As Peter preached in Acts 3, “Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord… (cf. Act 3)”.
16 Why is there money in the hand of a fool to buy wisdom, when he has no sense?
Finally we end on a pneumonic device in English that “money….no sense” akin to no cents. The question stands however, why is there money in the hand of a fool…? Perhaps we should be like Philip in Acts 8 who ran up to the Ethiopian who was struggling to understand the Scripture. We have that wisdom, Christ! When we see others with the wisdom the in hands and homes of many who haven’t tasted and seen Christ, we can show them! Rather than tell them to just forget about Christ, we can show them Christ, show them that they have immeasurable value in the Words of the Lord and then introduce them to the Savior of the world!
1 Better is a dry morsel and quietness with it Than a house full of feasting with strife.
The dry morsel comes to פַּ֣ת or fragment or bit. In other words, better just a crumb with quietness than a veritable smorgasbord and strife. Following up on birthday, Christmas, birthday, anniversaries and more, I think we all could stand a little quiet despite the grand feast of food. Not to mention the inevitable “reveal” of someone sharing something that is less than desirable though we’ve been largely spared that as of late.
2 A servant who acts wisely will rule over a son who acts shamefully, And will share in the inheritance among brothers.
Thinking of modern equivalencies I could not help but think of the royal family of the UK. I am not going to lambast them because I do not know nor care of their comings and goings. All I know is that when your life is for all to see, something in your life likely will offend someone. Note however, the servant, so one who serves rather than came to be served, will rule in the end with an inheritance that can never be taken away (cf. Colossians 3:23-24).
3 The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, But the LORD tests hearts.
The Pulpit commentary has a helpful tip “The word matsreph, ‘fining pot,’ occurs also in Proverbs 27:21. It is not certain what is meant by it. There is no evidence that the Israelites were acquainted with the use of acids in the manipulation of impure or mixed metals; otherwise the “pot” and the “furnace” would represent the two usual modes of reduction; but it is most probable that both allude to the same method of smelting the ore in crucibles, for the purpose of separating the pure metal from the dross. That silver and gold were plentiful in Solomon’s time is abundantly evident; indeed, the amount of the precious metals collected by David and his son is almost incredible (see 1 Chronicles 22:14; 1 Chronicles 29:2, etc., from which and similar passages it is inferred that the sums enumerated equaled more than nine hundred millions of pounds sterling)…”
Thus, the incredibly valuable cost of a soul is such that God desires that all would turn to Him. However, in His incredible wisdom, He declares that though anyone can come to Him, most will not. He draws the ones who will come to Him again in His infinite knowledge. I cannot explain predestination but believe it by faith. I cannot understand the drawing or conviction of the Spirit of God, I accept it by faith. I cannot do anything good unless the Lord inspires and draws me to Himself. I am just grateful that He has chosen to reveal Himself to me and all who would believe!
4 An evildoer listens to wicked lips; A liar pays attention to a destructive tongue.
Perhaps the more difficult these days than others, though I think mankind has always since the fall been eternally separate from God without His drawing. An evildoer listens to wicked lips…which is interesting in that we all hear wicked lips. The issue is whether we listen and obey. This highlights the role of the Holy Spirit as perfecter of our spirit. You and I are 100% repugnant, willful, and interminable sinners. But, and I love this interjection, but Christ came to save! Therefore though we pay attention to to a destructive tongue, Jesus saves! That is why the statement elsewhere in Scripture often used “But God…” is so amazing! While we were mired in the muck of our own making, Christ made the only way out by His precious blood!
5 One who mocks the poor taunts his Maker; One who rejoices at disaster will not go unpunished.
Remember in the New Testament as Christ gave His beatitudes (cf. Matt. 5) His mentioning of the blessed are the poor in Spirit? We have to recognize that the poor in spirit very well may be rich in the eyes of the Lord! The currency of the cross is the ever increasing fruits of the spirit. As a reminder, “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control…” are the marks and distinctives of the King of eternity! Conversely one who rejoices in disaster has a disaster of his own making on the way, repent!
6 Grandchildren are the crown of the old, And the glory of sons is their fathers.
As we have moved into full time parenting mode for 18+ years now, I understand what’s next. Its not a given but likely we will be blessed by becoming grandparents. This is not a given and certainly not a mandate but as nature and life take their course, it is probable. I can say for our parents to let them know “Mom, Dad, hope you’ve picked out grandparent names” was an exciting and happy time. Again though, it is more than simply arranging the holidays. It is about shifting into a new role and new interaction with your kids. Realizing that they have been parented to the extent that they themselves are now parents. Have you instilled the proper parenting principles in your children such that when he or she is off on their own they will draw fresh water from the well of memories to give to the next generation. That is what leaving a Godly legacy is all about!
7 Excellent speech is not fitting for a fool, Much less are lying lips to a prince.
Looking to a film my wife made me watch, and I’m so glad she did, is “The King’s Speech”. I won’t spoil the movie although it’s not very well hidden what the outcome is. The plot synopsis is hardly interesting on IMDB “The story of King George VI, his impromptu ascension to the throne of the British Empire in 1936, and the speech therapist who helped the unsure monarch overcome his stammer.” Riveting. I love this film however as it tells the story of one who is not able to speak clearly and their speech therapist dealing with deeper issues. A fool neither man was. Persons seeking to pronounce good news to their respective audiences? Absolutely!
8 A bribe is a charm in the sight of its owner; Wherever he turns, he prospers.
I believe Matthew Henry offered excellent insight “Those who set their hearts upon money, will do any thing for it. What influence should the gifts of God have on our hearts!” A bribe is a temporary token for a finite period of time fore a finite amount of “good”. The problem lay in the fact that once the time and object are used up, their are consequences for their use! Though we may prosper for a time, in the end we should expect deceit as that was what was used to obtain the token!
16 How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen above silver.
Why might you ask? Though gold is great for a time, it is still a limited commodity and only temporary. After this life is the eternal one. If we are not widely invested in the life to come, we can be sure to suffer loss and for those without a personal loving relationship with Creator God, eternal damnation because He wanted that relationship with you and I! Understanding is useless if you are without a relationship!
17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil; He who watches his way preserves his life.
Highway here should be taken as the fast way or sure way from point A to point B. To be on the highway is to follow after Jesus. But like any traveler, at times you take the wrong exit, get turned around, and even get in an accident from time to time. This is precisely why we are admonished to allow Christ to be our gps and guide!
8 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before stumbling.
Favorite verse in all of Scripture. Not because I have attained it but rather because so often I fail. Compounded with the fact that I’ve had to learn to walk three times now, it helps one stay grounded to the fact that we are but one breath away from ceasing to live.
19 It is better to be humble in spirit with the lowly Than to divide the spoil with the proud.
Tine after time and example after example individuals can be used as pictures of what NOT to do, self-included! Rather that count your chips before the hand is finished remember we’ve still got spoil to gain as we advance the gospel to the outermost of the earth!
20 He who gives attention to the word will find good, And blessed is he who trusts in the LORD.
In our attention deprived, fast food environment, we want three points and a poem one or two times a year so we can check off our religiosity card for the year. Nevertheless, giving our full attention to His Holy Word yields life everlasting & the added benefit of help for today as well! That’s why blessed is he who trusts (daily) in the Lord.
21 The wise in heart will be called understanding, And sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness.
Knowing what to say, when to say it, and how to say it are three separate skills we all must master. A doctor may find cancer but because of their training let the patient know in a calm and reassuring manner. A carpenter may find termites that have eaten the frame up in the basement without the owner knowing. To me the sweetness of their behavior can belie the truth they have found. Shoot straight and tell the truth!
22 Understanding is a fountain of life to one who has it, But the discipline of fools is folly.
That is why the discipline in question here is understanding of life. Difficulty is a given, how you and I deal with the difficulty often determines our legacy or languishing!
23 The heart of the wise instructs his mouth And adds persuasiveness to his lips.
That is why the motive of the wise is to build nor burden beyond repair. Often to build tearing down part of the structure is necessary. Yet as one replaces the foundation with brick and mortar, the wood, hay, and stubble formerly gathered can be burnt off in lieu of solid foundation!
24 Pleasant words are a honeycomb, Sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
Honeycomb was primarily used in this time as the sweetener for the meals. Pleasant words, like pleasant food often have both a restorative effect on both the mind and body!
25 There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.
Too often I have been deceived to thinking the easy way was the right way. Sometimes it is but more often I have to be reminded that I am a guest here. This is not my eternal home. As such, as a sojourner, I will lead my family with the view that one day all this will pass and we will dell forevermore on a new earth with Him. It is to this future we should fix our gaze
26 A worker’s appetite works for him, For his hunger urges him on.
Plain enough, if you’re to live you’re to work. One day that privilege will pass but if you’re hungry, work
27 A worthless man digs up evil, While his words are like scorching fire.
In the dark corners of the world wide web all sorts of mischief can be found. Likewise however, and closer to home, it may be that those in need are placed in your care because you have a need to provide. What can you and I offer?
28 A perverse man spreads strife, And a slanderer separates intimate friends.
Verse 28 speaks clearly but I wonder could the slander I utter be used as a dart of Satan to be hurled at others? Don’t speak in darts but love!
29 A man of violence entices his neighbor And leads him in a way that is not good.
Someone who encourages senseless violence could be the catalyst for further trouble. Are the words I am speaking building up the kingdom or creating further division?
30 He who winks his eyes does so to devise perverse things; He who compresses his lips brings evil to pass.
Perhaps foreign to many but to a Jew is these days, to wink your eye was to give approval of an encouragement to evil. Flee evil and encourage good!
31 A gray head is a crown of glory; It is found in the way of righteousness.
Gray hair is given often to those who have been through adverse and difficult trials. While certainly not a blanket statement, I certainly know that my beard was red and brown until I was a pastor for a short time. Now it being gray as well as my hair on my head in understand gray hair just means that you have made so many bad decisions that the color of your hair has either fallen out or colors have been hidden from the world!
32 He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And he who rules his spirit, than he who captures a city.
Why? To capture should require planning and compassion as the people inside are still people or created potential representatives of the King of kings. Thus to barge in and command your way is to ignore the planning and foresight of those who came before. Instead, learn from what has already been done so that you may build and not conquer.
33 The lot is cast into the lap, But its every decision is from the LORD.
Playing a number of board games this Christmas and recognizing the lot of the dices decision seemed to be dictated by chance made me even more aware, Jehovah God knows the cast of the dice, the hairs on our head, and the breaths we have left. Therefore, probably best to check with Him on what’s next! Blessings as you continue!
12 It is an abomination for kings to commit wicked acts, Because a throne is established on righteousness.
Starting right in on verse 12, the world should recognize, no ruler, no authority, no premiere should assume they will go unpunished. If you have been elevated to a position of authority you have been granted that position in part to display the character, leadership, and servanthood of Christ. If you do not know Christ, the ability of showcasing Christ to the employees is substantially less. This is why it is indeed “…an abomination for kings to commit wicked acts…”. If the king is to showcase their leadership position as an example for others, the misdeeds likewise should be shunned. “Because a throne is established on righteousness” we have to remember that the leadership of an individual starts and ends on the person. If you are lord over a small country in the eastern hemisphere you still have a duty and obligation to your people to lead them.
13 Righteous lips are the delight of kings, And one who speaks right is loved.
Righteous lips are a delight because they are truthful. There is no ulterior motive. Likewise, one that speaks right will come to be loved as well. When we speak truth in love “…we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ (cf. Ephesians 4:15, NIV). Speak the truth, but speak it in love hoping for the best outcome to all involved.
14 The fury of a king is like messengers of death; But a wise person will appease it.
When a leader or king or president or ruler is furious, there are few who truly understand I would surmise. This is why it is like death because there are few who can rightly judge who should live and die. In fact, knowing all the secret deeds and misdeeds belongs to only One. Christ alone. However, the interesting statement in the second half that a wise person will appease it. In the U.S. we carry on novel invention of trial by jury in criminal cases. If the verdict is reached warranting death, it is decided by a collection of peers not a sole unrighteous judge alone.
15 In the light of a king’s face is life, And his favor is like a cloud with the spring rain.
Taken to mean the countenance, in the king’s face is life is a phrase simply implying that in the kings mind and impression of the person often could determine both favor and destruction for the party being judged. Again, we in the U.S. are somewhat separated from this judgement type as we have a court and hearings. Yet the second part of the verse 15 states the favor is like a cloud with the spring rain. It is noteworthy I believe to note that in the climate of Israel, it was important that the crops receive both the early spring rain for initial growth and then the latter rain of the year to both cement the crop into the ground and to give it a broad base for growth. To draw on a New Testament parable Jesus gave, regarding the sowing of grain in fertile ground. In order to grow you must be planted!
To draw it together for today, I must be submitted by faith to the broader purposes the Lord has for me and my family. I must trust in Christ, not mankind for my sustenance and wellbeing. Finally I must strive to be at peace where possible with others and at war with the only adversary, Satan and sin itself.
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5 Everyone who is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD; Be assured, he will not go unpunished.
Stepping back to verse 4, which reads “The LORD has made everything for its own purpose, Even the wicked for the day of evil” we then are told that everyone like this is an abomination to the Lord.” The word abomination used is a תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת toebah or detestable item. Other passages use this word of loathsome or undesirable and fit for destruction. This is not a casual word. It is a word of action. I liken it to animal waste as I have a current furry companion. We play fetch, and walk, and throw the frisbee. He also has to eliminate waste which I have to clean up. When we look at verse 5, we are told that if you are proud of heart you are an abomination.
Thankfully, our righteous acts are like filthy rags meaning you and I could never do enough to warrant God’s grace and mercy to fall on us because of my righteousness nor yours. It is instead something all the more loving and gracious. It is Jesus Christ, God’s Own Son, Who did live a perfect life, die and execution that was completely undeserved, and then in my place and yours be raised from the dead thereby sealing the deal on salvation’s availability to all!
6 By mercy and truth atonement is made for wrongdoing, And by the fear of the LORD one keeps away from evil.
Here we read, in the Old Testament, by mercy and truth God made atonement. How? We know now, by the only Christ Who said “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life…” (cf. John 14:6). So to round out verse 6 in Proverbs with verse 6 in John 14, we see that Jesus is that atonement made for wrongdoing. He is the Truth! I love the interplay with the Old and New Testament’s!
7 When a person’s ways are pleasing to the LORD, He causes even his enemies to make peace with him.
This would seem to run counter to the logic the world gives. Yet to use a relatively recent agreement between the U.S. and the Muslim world called the Abraham Accords. You can read them here: https://www.state.gov/the-abraham-accords/
Yet just over 2 years ago, we were living under peace between the Muslim and Judeo-Christian cultures of the east and west. I believe that while it may be possible for a time, one day the world will come to full subjection to Christ alone. It is not for now that peace will be permanently issued. It is only by the Prince of peace that you and I can find the everlasting peace with the Father of Life!
8 Better is a little with righteousness Than great income with injustice.
Therefore, though we do have “a little” for now, it is better than great income by ill-gotten means. Do you know why? One day soon, for those who have received the free gift of salvation offered by Christ Himself that “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also (John 14:6).” We may for a brief time have a little, we have so much greater in store.
9 The mind of a person plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps.
Hence, the mind of a person plans…This is particularly pointed as I do love to plan. But as I’m getting just a little older, I also recognize those plans need the flexibility to be changed. There needs to be a plan b, and plan c, and plan d because just as the second part of that verse states: “but the Lord directs his steps.” The life-span you and I have on this earth rarely touches 100 years. In the 10,000 years we have had on this earth will seem like a blip when we reach the shores of heaven. When the earth is recreated we likely won’t even recall the old earth. So rather than worry about how we’re doing to plan for 30 years from now, I’m going to settle my plans in the King of kings forevermore!
Blessings as you continue, grace and peace as you go!
29 The LORD is far from the wicked, But He hears the prayer of the righteous.
My heart is broken. In part for what I see and hear around me. We are told elsewhere by the Savior in Matthew 6:5 “And when you pray, you are not to be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on the street corners so that they will be seen by people. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full (NASB)”. I am not asking anyone but my Savior Who loves me to forgive our country. Forgive our murders. Forgive out abominations and much like Noah did in his day. Do like what done in Noah’s day and save though there be only some who will repent. As You say in Genesis 6:7-8 “Then the LORD said, ‘I will wipe out mankind whom I have created from the face of the land; mankind, and animals as well, and crawling things, and the birds of the sky. For I am sorry that I have made them.’But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD.” May You find others who have found favor in Your eyes.
30 Bright eyes gladden the heart; Good news refreshes the bones.
As we seek others to share and encourage, I ask that our demeanor and our attitude be as those of all times who bring good news of Your salvation! I pray for revival that starts from the heart of the home and reaches to the uttermost parts of the earth.
31One whose ear listens to a life-giving rebuke will stay among the wise.
Father I pray that many will hear of your chastisement and turn. Not turn in terror and flee but turn to You and be saved! Thank you that Your hand is kind and compassionate to those who turn from sin and evil and relent to You! Thank you that You call them wise who seek You while You may be found!
32 One who neglects discipline rejects himself, But one who listens to a rebuke acquires understanding.
I ask that You would shape me and shape Your church to understand others so that we together might live on purpose for the only purpose that You came to do, seek and save that which was lost! Thank you that You saved me, my wife, my children, and are saving to the uttermost all who would cry out to You.
33 The fear of the LORD is the instruction for wisdom, and before honor comes humility.
Father thank You that in being corrected, chastised, and turned around, we find only compassion and embrace. Thank You that though your correction often is stern and unchanging Your face is bright and unchanging as well. You love Your chosen! Thank You for instructing me as to the way of life in Your Word. Thank you for teaching me thus far to fear You is to love You only as a Father is loved by His children. Thank you Father for loving me. Thank You for loving this world. Thank You for saving all who would repent. Amen.
1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.
1 – Whether in marriage, parenting, vocation, friendship, relationships, enemies, or even the adversary, of which there is only one, a gentle answer often turns away wrath. This is to be misunderstood as a falsehood, but a gentle answer or a properly delivered truth turns away wrath. It reminds me of a saying my grandmother used to say that “you catch more flies with honey than vinegar” which in the summer you wanted to do because otherwise they would bite you! There’s a time to swat the pest, but consider the enemy is sin and Satan, not your seeming earthly opponent. Reconciliation should be sought as much as possible!
2 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge pleasant, But the mouth of fools spouts foolishness.
How small did you feel the first time you began to perceive just how seemingly insignificant you and I are in the grand scope of the universe? There are literally millions of planets, stars, galaxies, and more! Yet for all of this vase cosmos, Jesus died for you and I! Knowledge, of the Holy One, is the most amazing thing we can ever experience. Yet rather than meditate on the infinity that is Jesus Christ, we want to spend billons of dollars attempting to find out how many degrees cooler earth was millions of years ago. I’m no scientist but I know that we have more pressing matters of today than looking back into an artificially fabricated past trying to find out if it was 75 degrees or 76 degrees! Read His Word then seek out practitioners of His Truth in light of this, like http://www.answersingenesis.org.
3 The eyes of the LORD are in every place, Watching the evil and the good.
Initially this verse struck me as an overbearing watcher peering into every nook and cranny of my life. However, as I’ve grown older I recognize that though Jesus does see me everywhere and at all times, its because of His great love. Jesus is there in our deepest hurts, in our times of sorrow, in our times of great joy, and at every other time! If we would but recognize He is there then He can join our time of emotion offering aid and comfort!
4 A soothing tongue is a tree of life, But perversion in it crushes the spirit.
Again hearkening back to my youth, my tongue was not primarily used to encourage and uplift others. I was a vile, braggadocios, punk of a youth. What’s worse, as my wife and I were blessed with children, I began to understand some of the difficulty my parents had in raising me. However, as Leslie and I attempted to steer our children away from the same enticements that we ourselves recognized, I realized how much love Christ has for all.
5 A fool rejects his father’s discipline, But he who complies with rebuke is sensible.
Carefully taking note of the sentence construction a fool (of the type of child) rejects his father’s disciple. The child should submit to discipline for his or her own good. However just as many others I’m sure do today and just as I did growing up, we try to do things our own way. Often it is only in our own failure that we will learn the why of something turning out awry. Thankfully, Jesus use’s the teachable moments to mold us in the fires of life into the permanent cast of Christ. That is why the second part of the turn states that compliance with rebuke is sensible. Again, to have made the same mistakes often bolsters our understanding! For me, I picked up smoking in my youth. From Camels to Malboro Reds, and then when I could get it a Swisher Sweet I liked the flavor and the “taste” of the cigarette. However, once I figured out what eventually my lungs would look like by the grace of God, I stopped! Sensible by the grace of God!
6 Great wealth is in the house of the righteous, But trouble is in the income of the wicked.
Take into account here, the great wealth is in the house of the righteous. Not earned but already there. Then in contrast, trouble is in the income of the wicked. I believe this is significant. The wealth of the righteous is found in the fruits of the Spirit! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iT3nlSHzags) Consider Christian that we have been given eternity, with the King of kings, dwelling in a mansion set in the heavens in bodies that do not decay forever with Him (see Revelation 21). Wealthy righteousness indeed. Conversely, trouble is the income or duly
7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge, But the hearts of fools are not so.
The lips are a dangerous tool to be sure! Lips used to spread the gospel, to spread the good news, and even to correct those who are goes astray are rightly used tools! The hearts of fools refuse to spread knowledge because from the heart they lack the ability! What are you filling your heart with because from the heart the mouth speaks (cf. Matt. 12:34)!
8 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD, But the prayer of the upright is His delight.
Here we see something so poignant, so profound, ad so tragic. The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination…What about all the prayers being offered from Mecca? What about all those being offered up at the wailing wall in Jerusalem by devout Jews? What about those mantra’s being chanted by the devout Hindi’s? To this I would simply ask, “Who are you praying to and who’s name are you asking?”. The upright are only those who have bowed the knee and asked Christ to be Lord of their life and friend forever.
9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD, But He loves the one who pursues righteousness.
Such a plain contrast is displayed here. The way of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord. Not that God is mildly displeased. It is an abomination. It is ceremonially and completely unclean. That is why it is so tragic to see so many trying so many different avenues and even operations trying to reach or attain to their notion of god. There is One God Who’s name is Jesus Christ. He is the Trinity which I will not even begin to explain but rather only to accept by faith! What’s more, He loves us and is pleased when we pursue righteousness. Notice not when we attain righteousness but pursue. That is because He is righteousness. He is the possessor of righteousness. So when we pursue Him our attentions and efforts are molded by His hand. We find Him in pursuit of Him.
10 There is severe punishment for one who abandons the way; One who hates a rebuke will die.
For one to abandon the way can end in death. Note this does not say eternal punishment for the one who abandons the way. There are those who will be in heaven who we will never suspect to have bowed the knee to Christ. Unfortunately, there will also be those who we thought would be there as well who never asked Christ to be their Lord, Master, and Friend. Punishment is not death. Running from Him isn’t necessarily death. Just as Peter even denied Christ three times the night of Jesus crucifixion, we can return. However, we do need to understand that returning to Him requires correction, instruction, and often difficult trials of learning.
11 Sheol and Abaddon lie open before the LORD, How much more the hearts of mankind!
Regardless the location and realm of Sheol and Abaddon, Christ knows them and created them. They lie open before the LORD because He knows where every one will go. So as the Scripture states that the contents of both Sheol and Abaddon lie open before Him, Christ also knows the intentions, decisions, and ultimate destination of all!
12 A scoffer does not love one who rebukes him; He will not go to the wise.
A scoffer here is likely not someone who sneers or one time turns their nose at Christ although that could be the only chance they are given. Rather it is he or she that consistently sets their heart and jaw against Christ. That is why they will not “go to the wise”, i.e. enter into eternity with Christ.
13 A joyful heart makes a cheerful face, But when the heart is sad, the spirit is broken.
I was reminded of Job in this discussion as job confesses after the loss of his children, his wealth, his livestock, and his life as he knew it. “He said, ‘Naked I came from my mother’s womb, And naked I shall return there. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD.’ Despite all this, Job did not sin, nor did he blame God” (Job 1:21-22, NASB). Job’s heart certainly was sad and his spirit broken, but Job still had hope to come.
14 The mind of the intelligent seeks knowledge, But the mouth of fools feeds on foolishness.
I could not help but consider the “talking heads” of the news. All news. Every news source has its bias. Every news has its prejudice. Every news has its stories that are covered wrong. I vacillate between Newsmax (www.newsmax.com) and OANN (www.oann.com) but even they have bias. The point being that while the intelligent seek knowledge too often I exchange news knowledge with Godly wisdom. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of that so if I am not being edified or challenged in a Godly way, I must carefully discern the truth according to Scripture and then “spit out the bones”.
15 All the days of the needy are bad, But a cheerful heart has a continual feast.
Here is a verse which I should meditate on daily. The days of the needy are the same as the fat and happy. The decision on whether they are bad or good largely is determined by our reaction to the day. I can say now, some 20+ years after the first bleed, and a few years after the stroke, it seemed bad at the time. However, now being on disability, having published a book, having comfortably settled in a quiet town in a comfortable home with food in the fridge and cars in the driveway, I am blessed. None of this is guaranteed but instead a blessing from the Lord. So rather than tick off the things I don’t have I will choose daily to be grateful for the many things I do still have!
16 Better is a little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure, and turmoil with the treasure.
Going back to the previous verse, my reaction to that day could be restricting and defining as a negative turning point in my attitude and actions going forward. Or I could be increasingly grateful for all that I do have for this short time on earth until my Savior calls me home! In 1 Corinthians 3:12-15 we read “Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw, each one’s work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each one’s work. If anyone’s work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. If anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet only so as through fire.” I will strive to be one who is happy and content with Him.
17 Better is a portion of vegetables where there is love, Than a fattened ox served with hatred.
I chose this as a stopping point only because of the jarring admission of the verse. “Better is a portion of vegetables…”? I like vegetables to some extent, but a plate of salad verses an ox steak is no contest! The passage author is seemingly the same. In the passage the author contrasts vegetables & love vs a tenderloin lightly braised with hatred. Guess which one you should pick?
Finally, I’ll put a link to a past time of mine in high school under the 4-H banner, “meat judging”. https://meatscience.org/students/meat-judging-program/national-4-h-meat-judging Under the umbrella of 4-H, it was a red meat kind of past-time in the cool of the meat freezer. It was pretty fun and a great temperature (<40 degrees in the freezer). Little did I know that my life would be directed, even through the freezer, to seek the Lord while He can be found! In meat judging we literally judged cuts of dead meat (cow and pig) to determine their cut type, quality, and color. The team of 5 or 6 of us I think that I was on actually won the Alabama state meat judging competition 2 years in a row. Both times we won state we went to nationals. For the first time we won first in the state and went to Kansas City I believe. The second year we placed 2nd and went to Colorado Springs for nationals. Why do I say this? Just as we were rewarded by simply preparing and correctly identifying and placing dead meat for the state, so should we correctly prepare to give an account for the hope that is found within us at all times!
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