Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 31

Proverbs 31



-The words of King Lemuel (Name means “devoted to God,” little is known of this king, some believe he was from the kingdom of Massa in northern Arabia, from notes in “New American Standard Bible: Life Application Study Bible.” Zondervan: Grand Rapids, MI, 1995, pg. 1104), which are an oracle (massa'- load, burden, a bearing, a carrying) that his mother taught him and vowed upon him. She instructed him not to give his strength to women, or to give his ways to that which destroys kings. It is not for kings, or those in authority, to drink much wine or even desire strong drink. This has a way of polluting judgment and is inexcusable in national leaders. Sober thinking is important for those ruling. They will forget what they decreed and pervert the rights of all the afflicted in their domain if they are drunkards. Strong drink and wine is rather for those who are perishing and have bitterness in their lives. They drink to forget their poverty and remember their trouble no more. The righteous king will speak for those with no voice, defend the rights of all the unfortunate, judge righteously, and defend the rights of the afflicted and needy (Proverbs 31:1-9).

-Now, in the final section of this magnificent book of wisdom Scripture, King Lemuel describes, from his mother’s teachings, the worthy woman. This section gives us the most vivid picture in the entire Bible of the righteous, strong, productive, caring woman that every man needs at his side. The age-old question is begged at the beginning of the pericope, “An excellent wife, who can find?” Her worth is beyond that of jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her. In other words, she is faithful and steadfast. Her man will have no lack of gain because of her. She does him good and not evil every day of her life. She is industrious, looking for great business deals, and works with her strong hands in delight. She is compared to merchant ships that bring desired goods and food from afar to the luxury of her household. She rises in the night to prepare food for her household selflessly. Her maidens even get portions from her. She considers a field and with discernment and acumen buys it for the family. From her own earnings, she plants a vineyard. She is savvy with the money. She girds herself with strength making her arms strong and in great shape. She has a sense that her gain is good, and she is diligent well into the night. She weaves clothes by herself, and extends her hand graciously to the poor and needy with sincere help. She has no fear. Her family is clothed for cold weather, or any harshness of the environment. They are also clothed with the finest of clothes due to the nature of her stylish sense and dedication to labor. She even makes clothing for herself of fine quality (in that time it consisted of linen and purple). She is dignified and classy. Her husband is well known in the gates as he sits among the elders of the land. She is also entrepreneurial as she trades her fine garments and belts, while selling them too. “Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future.” She has wisdom when she opens her mouth to speak, and the teaching of kindness is ever present on her tongue. She looks well to the ways of her household and is never idle. She stays busy with production. Her children rise and bless her along with her husband, for she has done well. Her husband notes, “Many daughters have done nobly, but you excel them all.” Now the climatic verse in honor of the Godly woman, “Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.” She is to be given the product of her hands and her works will praise her in the gates (Proverbs 31:10-31).

-*Application* I give glory to God that He has blessed me with such a woman. Rachel Sue, I love you with all my heart. I diligently instruct others to seek these qualities in a woman, for it continues to go well for those who do.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 31:10, 30

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 30

Proverbs 30



-Now we get to the words of Agur, of whom we know virtually nothing in the annuls of history. Further, the men that Agur declared to are unknown as to their identity as well. Ithiel was perhaps a Benjamite (Nehemiah 11:7), but there is no other mention of Ucal in the Scriptures. Agur is possibly writing in irony, or maybe humility, as he calls himself “more stupid than any man,” and says that he does “not have the understanding of a man.” This is a matter of interpretation, but is not seminal to the work here. He goes on to state that he has not learned wisdom, even though he points out the same basic themes that Solomon so wisely postulated. Nor does he acknowledge having the knowledge of the Holy One, but he gives Him prominence and preeminence in his writings that have been added to the cannon of the Bible. He next gives a series of five rhetorical questions that can only be answered by the Almighty God. This verse four reflects Agur’s desire to delve into the nature of God and has profound prophetic implications as it discusses His Son’s Name (Proverbs 30:1-4).

-The next couple of verses reflect the sufficiency of God’s Word. Every word is tested. God is a shield to those who take their refuge in Him no matter the cultural climate. We should never add to His words. Else, He will reprove us, and we will be proven liars (Proverbs 30:5-6). This is a beautiful way of putting things.

-Agur now asks the LORD, in conversational style and in the form of a plea, to not refuse him two things before he dies. First, he petitions the LORD to keep deception and lies far from him. Second, he wants neither riches nor poverty. This is wisdom as he concludes that if he only gets his fair portion he would be content with that. Being too full, or rich, would lead him to deny God by wondering, “Who is the LORD?” This is a self-sufficient position with no need for a Sovereign, which is a deception in itself really. Being poor would lead to want and lead him to steal. Both would profane the Name of his God, and he wisely wanted nothing to do with that (Proverbs 30:7-9).

-He gives some brilliant observations now on life, which will finish out his sayings. Slandering by one about a slave to their master will inherit a curse and guilt. The warning is not to meddle in another’s domestic affairs. Curses continue as a theme with a kind of man who curses his father and does not bless his mother. This is direct violation to the commands of God (Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16, Ephesians 6:1). There is another kind of man who is pridefully pure in his own eyes, yet is not washed from his sinful filth. Agur laments, “Oh how lofty are his eyes! And his eyelids are raised in arrogance.” There is yet one more kind of man who devours the afflicted, or needy, from the earth with what Agur describes metaphorically as teeth like swords and jaw teeth like knives (Proverbs 30:10-14).

-Moving on with more metaphors, Agur tells us how the leech has two daughters, “Give” and “Give.” He lists four things that will never be satisfied, those being Sheol (death, the underworld post life), the barren womb, the thirsty earth needing water, and the fire that never says, “Enough.” There is an eye that mocks a father and scorns a mother, but that eye will be picked out by the scavenger ravens of the valley and young eagles will eat that eye (Proverbs 30:15-17). Pretty gruesome picture he paints here to further teach obedience and honor toward our parents.

-Next, Agur lists three things that are too wonderful for him, and even four he doesn’t quite understand. The first is the way of the eagle in the sky. The second is the way of the serpent on a rock as it smoothly moves its body. The third is the way of a ship as it navigates in the middle of the open sea. The fourth is the way of a man with a maid in affectionate pursuit. Strangely and seemingly out of place in this section of wonderful things to the wise man, Agur, by means of contrast, notes the way of an adulterous woman who eats the food of sinfulness, wipes her mouth without shame, and states, “I have done no wrong (Proverbs 30:18-20).”

-Going along, Agur points out through hyperbole four things that make the earth quake using his rhetorical style of beginning with three things and then listing a fourth. The earth cannot stand a slave when he becomes king. It disturbs the natural order I suppose. The earth cannot stand a fool when he is satisfied with food. The earth spits upon an unloved woman when she gets a husband, and the earth detests a maidservant when she supplants her mistress (Proverbs 30:21-23). This perhaps speaks to the conditions of chaos when society is rendered unharmonious due to changing proper roles and the incapability of handling new responsibilities.

-In addition, Agur lists four small things on the earth that don’t let size disrupt their wisdom. Ants are not strong, but they work together and prepare their food in the summer for the coming days of want in the winter. They aggressively prepare with tenacity. The shephanim (shaphan- rock badger, coney, hyrax) are not strong, but they are able to make their houses in the rocks by their God-given design. The locusts have no king, but they consistently go out in ranks. The lizard can be grasped with the hands, but they are slithery enough to be found even in king’s palaces (Proverbs 30:24-28).

-Next, Agur lists four things which are stately in their march and walk. One is the lion, which is mighty among the beasts without retreating. Two is the strutting rooster. Three is the male goat. Four is the king when his army is with him (Proverbs 30:29-31). Confidence is the key theme here.

-Finally, Agur wraps up his biblical wisdom with words on not being so foolish as to exalt yourself. Or, if you have plotted evil, refrain and don’t speak of it any more. Churning of the milk produces butter, and pressing the nose brings forth blood. In the same way, the churning of anger produces strife, or trouble (Proverbs 30:32-33). Agur is saying that we should be people of peace and resist senseless conflicts whenever possible.

-*Application* Humility seems to be the overriding and dominant thought as we read and mediation on today’s words of wisdom. The Word of God is sure and tested. We can put our full trust in it and rest under its authority. Anyone who strays outside the Scriptures will be proven a liar in the end. Stay faithful and hungry for the wisdom that comes from the Word of God. This requires humility, fear of God, and a teachable spirit.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 30:5-6, 8-9, 24-28, 33

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 29

Proverbs 29



-Hardening the neck after much reproof will suddenly make one broken beyond remedy. When the righteous increase, there is much rejoicing, but when the wicked rule, people groan. A lover of wisdom makes a glad father, but the man who keeps company with harlots wastes his wealth. The advice for leaders continues by stating how the king gives stability to the land by justice. But, a man who takes bribes overthrows a nation. “A man who flatters his neighbor is spreading a net for his steps (Proverbs 29:1-5).”

-Transgression ensnares an evil one, but the righteous sing and rejoice. I think this speaks of a heart of worship unto the Almighty. The righteous are concerned with the rights of the poor, but the wicked do not understand such concern. This speaks to having a generous-compassionate heart. Scorners set a city aflame with their disdaining words, but the wise turn away anger. When there is controversy between the wise and foolish, the foolish generally either get angry in rage or mock in laughter, both of which give no rest to the situation. People of bloodshed hate the blameless, but the upright are concerned for life. This reminds me of the horrible abortion issue that still stains the United States. Be pro-life. Only a fool always loses his temper, but a wise person holds it back having self-control as a fruit of God’s Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). “If a ruler pays attention to falsehood, all his ministers become wicked (Proverbs 29:6-12).”

-The LORD gives light to the eyes of both the poor man and the oppressor. If a king gives judgment to the poor with truth, his throne will be established forever as a proverbial-general truth. The rod and reproof give wisdom to a child, but children getting their own way eventually bring shame to their mother. When the wicked increase, transgression increases along with them, but the righteous will live to see their fall. Evil is only temporary. Correct your son, and he will give your soul comfort and delight. “Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained, but happy is he who keeps the law (Proverbs 29:13-18).”

-Slaves are not instructed by words alone; often they will understand, but still give no response. Have you ever seen a person hasty in their words? There is more hope for a fool than for these types of people. The person pampering their slave from childhood will in the end find him to be a son, or daughter. Angry people stir up strife, and a hot-tempered person abounds in much transgression. Pride will bring one low, but a humble spirit will obtain honor (Proverbs 29:19-23).

-If one partners with a thief, they hate their own life in reality. I can think of several modern movies that play out this theme. They hear oaths, but tell nothing. “The fear of man brings a snare, but he who trusts in the LORD will be exalted.” Many seek the favor of rulers, but ultimate justice comes from the LORD of Heaven and earth. “An unjust man is abominable to the righteous, and he who is upright in the way is abominable to the wicked (Proverbs 29:24-27).”

-*Application* Righteous conduct in the LORD’s sight obtains His favor. This is a long-run strategy that we would be wise to consider. Don’t bank on temporary fixes in this world that have no hope of fulfilling their lying promises. Trust in the LORD, and follow His ways. This is where true success abides.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 29:5, 8-9, 11, 15, 18, 23, 25

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 28

Proverbs 28



-Leadership principles to abide by continue in this chapter. The wicked flee even when no one is pursuing them, but the righteous are courageous, as bold as a lion. Transgression in a land leads to chaos and large turnover in leadership, but by understanding and knowledge a land endures with stability. Poor people who oppress the lowly are like a driving, terrible rain that leaves no food (Proverbs 28:1-3).

-Now, some words on keeping the law. Those who forsake the law end up praising the wicked, but those who abide by the law strive (garah- contend with, wage war, fight against) with evil. Evil men, and women, do NOT understand justice, but those who seek after the LORD understand ALL things. It is better to be poor and walk in integrity than to be crooked and rich. Those who keep the law are discerning sons, but those who hang out with gluttons are a humiliation to their fathers. The person who increases their wealth by interest and usury, gathers it for those who are gracious to the poor. “He who turns away his ear from listening to the law, even his prayer is an abomination. He who leads the upright astray in an evil way will himself fall into his own pit, but the blameless will inherit good (Proverbs 28:4-10).”

-Rich people are wise in their own eyes, but the poor who have understanding, or discernment, see right through them. When the righteous are triumphant, there is great glory, but when the wicked rise, people hide themselves in fear and trembling. Confessing and forsaking transgression will lead to attaining compassion. Concealing, or hiding, transgression (sin) will lead to NOT prospering. Blessed is the man, or woman, who fears (the LORD) always, but the one who hardens their heart will fall headlong into calamity. A wicked ruler over poor people is like a roaring lion and a rushing bear. They are relentless in their vain pursuits. Any leader who is a great oppressor lacks understanding, but the one who hates unjust gain will prolong days (Proverbs 28:11-16).

-A man laden with the guilt of human blood will be a fugitive till death; let no one support him. The one who walks blamelessly will be delivered, but the one who is crooked will fall all at once. The farmer who tills his/her land will have plenty of food, but those who follow empty pursuits (like gambling, get-rich-quick schemes, etc.) will have plenty of poverty. A faithful man, or woman, will abound with blessings, but hasty, get-rich-quick pursuits will NOT go unpunished by God. Showing partiality is NOT good and leads people to transgress. A person with an evil eye hastens after wealth, but does not know what will come upon them (Proverbs 28:17-22).

-A person who rebukes another will afterward find more favor than the person who flatters with their tongue. One robbing his/her father, or mother, and maintaining that it is not a transgression, is the companion of a person who destroys. Arrogant people stir up strife, but those who trust the LORD will prosper. Anyone trusting in their own heart is a fool the Bible says here, but those walking wisely in His ways will be delivered. Those giving to the poor will never want as a general truth, but those who shut their eyes to the needy will find many curses upon them. “When the wicked rise, men hide themselves; but when they perish, the righteous increase (Proverbs 28:23-28).”

-*Application* Successful leadership, whether it’s in the home, work, community, or church, is contingent on following God’s good and perfect law with obedience and consistency. The LORD has outlined in His Scriptures everything we need for a fully functioning and healthy society based on loving Him and each other as much as ourselves. If we look closely, we will see how everything listed here in this chapter falls into these two categories. Even when we fail in these pursuits, His grace is sufficient through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ to overcome all our mistakes when we trust in Him (review Proverbs 28:25-26).





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 28:1, 9, 13, 23, 25-27

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 27

Proverbs 27



-Warnings and instructions fill up the 27 verses in this magnificent 27^th chapter of the Proverbs. Never boast about what will happen tomorrow. We just don’t know what a day may bring forth. Jesus said something akin to this (Matthew 6:34). Let another praise us and let not our own mouth do the bragging in egotistical pride. May a stranger praise us, and not ourselves. The provocation of a fool is heavier than stones and weighty sand. No one can stand before a jealous person. They are like fierce wrath and flooding anger. It is better to get or give an open rebuke than to conceal love. “Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but deceitful are the kisses of an enemy (Proverbs 27:1-6).”

-A person fed beyond capacity or desire loathes honey or anything else, but a person who is famished will take anything they can get, even if it’s bitter. Like a bird who wanders away from her nest, so is the man who wanders from his home. Oil and perfume have a way of making the heart glad, and so does a man’s sweet counsel to his friend. Don’t forsake our friends or our father’s friends. We need not go to our brother’s house in the day of calamity when there is a neighbor who can help within closer proximity. A wise son makes the father’s heart glad and gives him a reply to any who try to reproach him. “A prudent man sees evil and hides himself, the naïve proceed and pay the penalty (Proverbs 27:7-12).”

-Verse 13 is basically a repeat of Proverbs 20:16 to warn of cosigning for debts. The person who blesses their friend with a loud voice early in the morning will find that they are bringing about a curse on themselves because people don’t like this sort of abrupt action at this time of day 😉. The constant dripping from a steady rain is like a contentious woman. The man trying to restrain her finds himself in a spot like trying to restrain the wind or grasping oil with the right hand. It is impossible, in other words. “Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another (Proverbs 27:13-17).” We need to help people and they should be able to help us too. Christians should do this naturally.

-The person tending the fig tree will eat its fruit, just like a person who cares for their master will be honored. The heart of a person reflects who they are, just like the water reflects the face. Sheol and Abaddon are never satisfied, nor are the eyes of man (1 John 2:16). “The crucible is for silver and the furnace for gold, and each is tested by the praise accorded him.” Foolishness will not depart from a foolish person even if he is pounded “in a mortar with a pestle along with crushed grain (Proverbs 27:18-22).”

-A short treatise on the ancient agricultural society now. An owner, or overseer, should pay close attention to his/her flocks and herds and know their condition. This has ramifications for pastoral work in a spiritual sense. Riches are not forever, nor does a crown endure to all generations (unless we are talking about the Messiah coming through David and Solomon’s earthly line). When the grass disappears, new types of growth are seen. This is when the herbs of the mountains are gathered in. The lambs will shed their coats for clothing, and the goats will be sold for $ as high as that of a field. Hard work will sustain in the form of goat’s milk enough for food for the whole household, including the maidens (Proverbs 27:23-27).

-*Application* Wouldn’t the world be such a nicer place to live if we just followed these brilliant principles and precepts. The one to focus on today is how to be a good friend. True friends don’t annoy one another, nor do they brag in arrogant fashion. We should sharpen one another in all dimensions and cultivate spiritual growth through accountability. Let’s let our hearts reflect all the goodness of Christ as we continue to live out His Word.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 27:2, 18

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 26

Proverbs 26



-As the section on wisdom for leaders continues, the men of Hezekiah transcribe additional proverbs. Honor is not fitting for a fool, like snow in the hot summer or rain in the dry season of harvest. Like a sparrow in its flitting (nuwd- wandering, moving to and fro) or a swallow in its flying, so is a curse that is given to a person without cause or reason. The curse will not alight (bow'- to go in, enter, go, or take hold). Whips are for horses, bridles are for donkeys, and a rod for the backs of fools. In other words, one can only beat the foolishness out of them. They will not listen and obey good sense and reason. Do not answer a fool according to his foolery, or you will be like that person. Answer a fool as his folly deserves so that he/she doesn’t become wise in their own eyes in such ridiculousness. To send a message by the hand of a fool is like cutting off your own feet and drinking violence. A proverb in the mouth of fools is like useless legs to the lame. Giving honor to a fool is like one who binds a stone in a sling. It won’t go anywhere and will probably swing back and hit to hurt you. Avoidance of manipulation is the theme in this wise saying. A proverb in the mouth of fools is also like handing a thorn to a drunkard. They will not perceive the pain they are inflicting. A person who hires foolish people or just those passing by without discernment is like an archer who cannot shoot straight and wounds everyone around. A fool repeating his folly is just like a dog returning to its vomit (2 Peter 2:22). Their nature is corrupt and disgusting. But, there is more hope for a fool than for one who is wise in his own eyes (Proverbs 26:1-12). A denunciation of pride is given here.

-Next, some more words for the lazy. The lion in the road comment is about using excuses to avoid any and all situations that may require some strenuous effort. Just like a door swings on its hinges, so is the sluggard on his bed turning one way and then the other in an attempt to gain more comfort and sleep. Sluggards bury their hand in the dish and don’t even have the will to bring it to their mouth. Sluggards are wiser in their own minds than seven men who can offer a discreet answer (Proverbs 26:13-16).

-Messing with strife that doesn’t belong to you is like taking a dog by the ears. That usually does not go well. A man deceiving his neighbor and saying, “Was I not joking?” is like a madman who throws firebrands (ziyqoth- flaming arrows, chains), arrows (chets- figuratively a wound), and death. That would not be a good neighbor and ultimately defies Christ’s commands (Leviticus 19:18, Matthew 19:19, Mark 12:31, Luke 10:27, Romans 13:9, Galatians 5:14, James 2:8). Where there is no whisperer, contention quiets down just like when there is a lack of wood, the fire goes out. But, like charcoal to hot embers and like wood to fire, when there is a contentious person, they will kindle strife. Speaking of a whisperer, their words are like dainty morsels going deep down into the innermost parts of the body (Proverbs 26:17-22). Whispering will gain people’s attention.

-The last verses in this chapter describe one who is hypocritical and flattering:

Like an earthen vessel overlaid with silver dross are burning lips and a wicked heart. He who hates disguises it with his lips, but he lays up deceit in his heart. When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, for there are seven (the biblical number for completion) abominations in his heart. Though his hatred covers itself with guile, his wickedness will be revealed before the assembly. He who digs a pit will fall into it, and he who rolls a stone, it will come back on him. A lying tongue hates those it crushes, and a flattering mouth works ruin (Proverbs 26:23-28).

-*Application* Among the plethora of wisdom in this passage we can think about today the fact that curses against us without substance have no power. Don’t receive hurtful words and things wicked people try to pronounce over us. Don’t worry about witches, sorcerers, voodoo practitioners, or any of that nonsense. This is biblical evidence that this kind of stuff has no kind of power over the redeemed. We should never act foolishly, or be fools. Live in the new nature that Christ Jesus wants to give us. Watch out for gossip and those who want to spread strife. Avoid these kinds of individuals and cultures. Watch out and be careful about those who are hypocritical and flattering with their speech. Look deeper, into the heart of the matter with discernment, and don’t try to actively get revenge. Otherwise, we’ll find ourselves digging a pit and falling into it ourselves, or find that the stone we rolled towards someone is coming right back at us. Let’s be honest in our self-examination and quit working ruin with a flattering tongue.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 26:2, 23-28

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 25

Proverbs 25



-Chapter 25 begins the last section of the book, which is designed to equip leaders for their roles. These are proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah, king of Judah some 250 or so years

post Solomon, transcribed for our education and wisdom under the tutelage of the Holy Spirit. The first order of business was to make sure that people knew it was the glory of God to conceal a matter, but the glory of kings (rulers, those in authority) to search out a matter for understanding and application. The king’s heart is unsearchable, just like the height of the heavens and the depths of the earth. Take away the dross from the silver and guess what? There comes out a vessel for the smith. In the same manner, if the wicked are taken away from before the king, his throne will be established in righteousness. One should never claim honor in the presence of a king, nor should they take their stand in the place of great men. It is better if one is asked to, “Come up here” in the presence of great men than to be put lower in the presence of the prince, whom can be seen (Proverbs 25:1-7).

-Don’t be in a rush to argue your case. You could absolutely be in danger, in the end, of being put to shame by your neighbor. Carefully consider your actions in other words when you have a dispute. Further, as leaders, one should argue directly with your neighbor, not gossiping or revealing secrets to those whom the matter doesn’t concern. The hearers of these revelations will eventually reproach you, and the evil report about you will not pass away. Another way of putting it, be careful to guard your reputation as a leader. It is important, and people tend to take a negative view of you once they hear something painted in a dark way (Proverbs 25:8-10).

-Now, some more positive stuff. A word spoken in the right way at the right time is like “apples of gold in settings of silver.” A wise reprover to a listening ear is compared to “an earring of gold and an ornament of fine gold.” A faithful messenger to those who send him refreshes the souls of  his masters like “the cold of snow in the time of harvest (Proverbs 25:11-13).”

-But, a man who boasts of his gifts falsely, or shall we say pretense, is like “clouds and wind without rain.” Great expectations, no delivering (2 Peter 2:17-19). “By forbearance a ruler may be persuaded, and a soft tongue breaks the bone.” In our language, stick with those over you and be loyal as you try to get your way. Keep your cool and stay self-controlled. In addition, eat only what you need. The writer uses the example of honey. Excess makes one sick. Another admonition warns not to be in your neighbor’s house too much, lest they become weary of you and hate you. A man who lies about his neighbor is compared to a club, a sword, and a sharp arrow. Having confidence in a faithless man in the time of trouble is like having a bad tooth (we who’ve had this experience know the torment in that) or an unsteady foot that can’t support the weight. Like one who takes a coat off on a very cold day (senseless idea, a glutton for punishment) or vinegar on soda (an explosive reaction), is the person who makes light of a troubled heart of his/her neighbor by singing, or making merriment. A better idea is to give food to the hungry and water to the thirsty. Bless people and know how they want to be treated, even if they are your enemy. In so doing, the proverb says “you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you (Proverbs 25:14-22).

-Just like the north wind brings rain, a backbiting tongue brings an angry countenance. It is better to live in a small area in a corner of the roof, for example, than a huge house with a contentious woman. On a better note, good news from a distant land is like getting a drink of cold water for a weary soul. A righteous man who gives way before the wicked is basically trampling a spring of fresh water and polluting the well. In other words, be courageous against evil of all sorts. Honey returns as an example of contentment, this time relating to tooting your own horn, or searching out your own glory. Self-control issues conclude the chapter with this excellent statement, “Like a city that is broken into and without walls is a man who has no control over his spirit (Proverbs 25:23-28).”

-*Application* Self-controlled responses demonstrate boundaries and protection. Every ancient city needed walls to defense themselves from invaders that would come to kill, plunder, and pillage. It was a safety to have great walls in a city. When we lose control of our spirit and react in our flesh instead of being controlled by the Holy Spirit with good temperament, our defenses break down in the spiritual realm and literally all hell breaks loose. Self-control is an important fruit of the Holy Spirit, especially for leaders (Galatians 5:22-25). There are many great leadership principles for us to reflect on here in this chapter. Let’s meditate on as many as we can today.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 25:6-7, 21-22, 28

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 24

Proverbs 24



-The proverbial precepts of God written through the hand of Solomon continue in this chapter with still more warnings and admonitions in living a life of wisdom. First, he tells the reader not to be envious of evil men, nor should we desire to be with them. Their minds devise violence and their lips continually speak of trouble. Only by wisdom is a house accurately built, and by understanding it is established. By knowledge, the king purports, rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches. A man of wisdom is strong, and the knowledgeable increase in power. By wise guidance alone should we wage war, and in an abundance of counselors led by the Holy Spirit there is victory. “Wisdom is too exalted for a fool, he does not open his mouth in the gate (Proverbs 24:1-7).”

-Schemers are those who plan to do evil by name. The devising of folly is sinful, and scoffers are an abomination to men. If we are slack in the day of distress, our strength is limited for sure. The ones being taken away to death need deliverance, and we should hold back those who are staggering to slaughter. This is an evangelistic call, I believe, to rescue the perishing. We can’t afford to stand aside aloof and unconcerned. God will consider our actions, or inactions, on this matter. The LORD is the Keeper of the soul, and He wants all to come in faith to Him for salvation (1 Timothy 2:3-4, 2 Peter 3:9). God will render to a man according to his work (Proverbs 24:8-12).

-Solomon now tells his son to eat honey from the comb, “for it is good” and sweet to the taste. In the same manner, wisdom is sweet to the soul and will not allow for hope to be cut off. The king returns to advise keeping wicked men from lying in wait against the dwelling of the righteous. Destroying the resting place of a good person, or people, will not be successful. Why? “Because a righteous man falls seven times, and rises again:” meanwhile, the wicked stumble in times of calamity. Therefore, we should never rejoice when our enemy falls, nor let ourselves be glad when they stumble. This amounts to rivalry, selfishness, and contention, which the LORD despises (Philippians 2:3). God will see our jealous and envious hearts and be displeased when we rejoice over the failures of our enemies, and will turn His wrath and anger away from them, and perhaps on us (Proverbs 24:13-18).

-Because of these things, Solomon, through inspiration of God, tells us, like his father (Psalm 37:1), to NOT FRET (emphasis mine) because of evildoers. We should never be envious of them, because they have no future and their lamp will be put out. We shouldn’t fear them either, but Solomon tells his son, and us as well, whom to fear. Actually, there are two entities to fear. One is the LORD, and the other is the king. These are conservative and stable authorities who will provide for a solid future. On the other spectrum, those given to change are not to be associated with, “for their calamity will rise suddenly, and who knows the ruin that comes from both of them?” The king goes on to more sayings of the wise by stating that it is not good to show partiality in judgment (see 1 Kings 3:16-28). The man who calls the wicked “righteous,” will find the people cursing him eventually and nations will even abhor him. However, those who rebuke the wicked, out of a loving heart and devotion to God, will be a delight and good blessing will come upon them. A right answer is likely to get a kiss of satisfaction (Proverbs 24:19-26).

-Next, Solomon recommends preparing our work outside and make it ready in the field; afterwards, build our house. This is a principle about moving on most important things first before housing down with investments and such. Truth again appears now as a theme as the king warns against being a witness against a neighbor without cause. Deception of the lips is at issue here. We should never say, “Thus I shall do to him as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work.” Finally, Solomon ends the chapter with some more bemoaning of lazy people. He relates a time when he passed by a field of a sluggard and the vineyard of a man lacking sense. He observed that these places were completely overgrown with thistles and the surface covered with nettles. The stone wall was broken down, and it made him think and reflect. Solomon looked and received instruction from this neglectful situation. “A little sleep, a little slumber, and little folding of the hands to rest, then your poverty will come as a robber and your want like an armed man (Proverbs 24:27-34).”

-*Application* Hard work and a continuing concern is a great testimony to our wisdom. It is easy to let things slip and not pay enough attention to matters, but the results are disgusting. Whether it’s our health, our yard, our garden, our ranch, our business, our spiritual condition, our church, or our nation, things always digress when we don’t apply ourselves with full effort (2 Peter 1:5-13). Be strong, get up, and back up, and back up to make preparations and cultivate the field, then build the house. Let’s not be slack in our work and have poverty come upon us in any sense. Improvements don’t come easy, but they are always worth it.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 24:10, 21, 27, 33-34

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 23

Proverbs 23



-More advice occurs as Solomon warns of eating deceptive food laid out by a ruler. His counsel, guided by the Holy Spirit, cautions to consider carefully what is before us and kill any thought of giving in to a greedy appetite. “Do not desire his delicacies,” is the admonition. Further, Solomon teaches not to weary ourselves in the pursuit of gaining wealth. We should not even make it a consideration, for when we set our eyes on that fleeting and temporary option, it is gone, like an eagle that flies towards the heavens. There are more important things to consider (Matthew 6:33). Going on, Solomon advises not to eat the bread of a selfish man or desire his delicacies, for his heart is never with us. We will vomit up the morsels we have eaten and waste our compliments on the self-interested. Fools will despise the wisdom of our words, so it’s better not to even speak in their presence. Once again, Solomon advocates NOT moving the ancient boundary (Proverbs 22:28), and he tells us NOT to go into the fields of the fatherless so as to take what is rightfully theirs. Their Redeemer is strong, and He will plead His case against us if we do. We must apply our hearts to discipline and incline our ears to words of knowledge (Proverbs 23:1-12).

-Continuing with the discipline theme, the king presages not to ever hold back from correcting a child. Even corporal punishment is extolled to rescue their souls from Sheol (place of separation from the LORD in the afterlife). Solomon, talking to his son and us as well, says that if the heart is wise, it will also be glad. Rejoicing will be with the father in his innermost being if his son speaks what is right. He goes on to purport NOT letting our heart envy sinners in their folly, but we should always live in the fear of the LORD, which protects us from harm. If we fear the LORD, we will surely have a bright future and our hope will not be cut off. Solomon pleads with his son to listen to this sage advice and be wise, directing his heart in the right way. He reiterates NOT being a heavy drinker of wine (Proverbs 20:1; 21:17), or being a gluttonous eater of meat. Heavy drinkers come to poverty as a rule of thumb and they tend to dress, in their drowsiness, as one clothed with rags. In other words, they’ll look like a bum. Solomon keeps on telling his son to listen to him, as his father, so that his parents will be glad in him and rejoice over him. Following his father’s advice would bring delight, and staying away from the harlot’s deep pit and the adulterous woman’s narrow well would bring joy. Why? Because these types of women lurk as robbers increasing the faithlessness among men (Proverbs 23:13-28). He desires to see his son be faithful to the LORD of his fathers: David, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

-The final seven verses of this chapter deal with the effects of getting drunk in a memorable fashion for the reader:

“Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has complaining? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes? Those who linger long over wine, those who go to taste mixed wine. Do not look on the wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly; at the last it bites like a serpent and stings like a viper. Your eyes will see strange things and your mind will utter perverse things. And you will be like one who lies down in the middle of the sea, or like one who lies down on the top of a mast. ‘They struck me, but I did not become ill; they beat me, but I did not know it. When shall I awake? I will seek another drink (Proverbs 23:29-35).’”

-*Application* Alcohol has been a blight on many generations as we can see in this chapter written around 3000 years ago. We as humans have still not learned our lessons when we observe Spring Break festivities, night club scenes, and the relentless cases of domestic abuse and wasted lives from the effects of alcohol. As my father has often advised, the best way to never become an addict, is to never start in the first place. We must listen to the wisdom of our parents and pass what we’ve learned on to the next generation. Hopefully, we will be faithful, and they will be too.





Verse to Memorize: Proverbs 23:13-14, 17, 29-35

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 22

Proverbs 22



-Solomon moves on in his wise sayings to make our lives better under God’s authority by explaining how a good name is to be more desired than great wealth. Favor is better than gold and silver. The LORD is the Maker of both the rich and the poor giving them a common bond. The prudent hide themselves from seeing evil, but the naïve go on full steam ahead incurring the punishing consequences of their actions. There is a reward for humility and fearing the LORD. Those prizes typically are riches, honor, and life (long on the earth and eternally in Heaven). There will be obstacles, like thorns and snares, in the way of the perverse, but the person who guards against these obstinate ways will be far from these difficulties. For parents, we should train our children up in the way in the way they should go, and as a general truth they will not depart from the faith when they become older. Rich people generally rule over the poor, and the lender can make a slave of the borrower. In other words, it is better to be a creditor than a debtor. The one sowing iniquity will reap vanity ('aven- trouble, wickedness, sorrow, idolatry). The rod of those sowing iniquity in fury will perish. They will be has beens. On the other hand, generous people will be blessed, for they give some of their food to the poor. “Drive out the scoffer, and contention will go out, even strife and dishonor will cease (Proverbs 22:1-10).

-The king (or one in authority) is friends with those who love purity of heart and have gracious speech. The eyes of the LORD make sure knowledge is preserved, but He overthrows every word of the treacherous. The sluggard is pessimistic when a lion is on the prowl outside and thinks he will be killed in the streets. The mouth of an adulteress is a deep pit, and the cursed of the LORD will fall into it. Foolishness is bound up in the heart of every child because we have a sin nature, but the rod of discipline (corrective action) will remove this foolishness from them. The one who is greedy and oppresses the poor to make more for themselves, or gives strictly to the rich to get a return on investment, will only come to poverty (Proverbs 22:11-16).

-We need to incline our ears and hear the words of the wise, and apply our minds to this wise man’s knowledge. It will be pleasant if they are kept inside our being, and they will make our lips ready to respond appropriately in every situation and circumstance. The point being, we need to trust totally in the LORD, as Solomon has been teaching. He has been inspired by the Holy Spirit to write out excellent things of “counsels and knowledge,” so that we may know the certainty of the words of truth and correctly answer the one sending us (could be a teacher or possibly an employer, Proverbs 22:17-21).

-Solomon goes on to tells us not to rob the poor because of their poverty. We should never take advantage of anyone, nor should we crush the afflicted at the gate. The LORD will plead their case and take the life of anyone robbing them (Proverbs 22:22-23). Vengeance is His (Hebrews 10:30).

-Don’t associate with people given to the angry ways of mankind. Don’t mingle with those who are hot-tempered, or we will learn from their ways, which will become a snare for us (Proverbs 22:24-25).

-We also should NOT be among those who give pledges among those who become guarantors for debts. If we have nothing with which to pay, we shouldn’t allow people to take our bed from under us (Proverbs 22:26-27). Nice illustration in colloquial language here.

-The ancient boundaries should NOT be moved, which our fathers have set. Conservative respect is admired and reverenced here. If we see a man skilled in his work, know that he will stand before kings and not just ordinary-obscure men (Proverbs 22:28-29).

-*Application* I believe Solomon is laying for us some things to consider today about cultivating a good name and His favor for ourselves. Great wealth is only temporary, but our legacy is what truly counts in the Kingdom of God. In other words, we must do things the right way according to the righteous law of the LORD. Treat people as we would want to be treated (Matthew 7:12, Luke 6:31), keep our cool, and make positive-courageous decisions that reveal a genuine faith. This is what it’s all about.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 22:6, 10, 24-25, 28-29

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 21

Proverbs 21



-Sovereign wishes of God in turning the king’s heart like channels of water begins the hodge-podge of wisdom laid out in this chapter on life and conduct. Every man’s path seems right in his own eyes, but only the LORD weighs the hearts. God desires justice and doing righteousness over sacrifice any day. Haughty eyes and a proud heart is the lamp of the wicked, which is sin. A diligent person plans and leads to advantage, but everyone who is hasty certainly comes to poverty. If one acquires treasures by a lying tongue, it is a fleeting vapor and a pursuit of death. Violence drags the wicked away because they refuse to act with justice. The guilty man’s ways are crooked, but the pure in heart have upright conduct. “It is better to live in a corner of a roof than in a house shared with a contentious woman (Proverbs 21:1-9).”

-The soul of the wicked has a desire only for evil, which reduces and even eliminates any favor from their neighbor. When a scoffer is punished, the naïve observe and become wiser in their ways. When the wise are instructed, they receive knowledge abundantly. The righteous consider (sakal- understand, circumspect) the house (bayith- domain, home, family) of the wicked and turn it to ruin. The person who shuts the ear to the cry of the poor, will find that their own cry will also be unanswered. A secret gift or bribe subdues anger and wrath, though its morality may be in question. “The exercise of justice is joy for the righteous, but is terror to the workers of iniquity (Proverbs 21:10-15).”

-Wandering from the way of understanding will lead to one resting in the assembly of the dead. The lovers of pleasure will end up generally becoming poor, and the lovers of wine and oil will not become rich by any means. They tend to squander the work ethic in other words. Listen to wisdom. The wicked and treacherous are a ransom for the righteous and upright, meaning that the Godly will not suffer long at the hands of the evil ones. Living in a desert land is better than living with a contentious (madown- strife filled, discord, variant) and vexing (ka`ac- angry, provocation, causing grief, wrathful) woman (Proverbs 21:16-19).

-In the dwelling of the wise is precious treasure and oil, but a foolish person swallows everything up not saving and preparing for the future. Pursuing righteousness and loyalty helps one find life, right standing with the LORD, and honor. A wise person can scale the city of the mighty and bring down strongholds in which evil men trust. Physical barriers are no match for sound spiritual blessing. The person who guards the mouth and tongue, guards the soul from troubles. The one acting with insolent pride will be called “Proud,” “Haughty,” and “Scoffer.” The lazy desires of the sluggard will put them to death, for their hands refuse to work. This kind of person has cravings all day long, while the righteous gives generously without holding back. The sacrifice of the wicked is abominable to the LORD, and is even more perverse when they bring it with evil intent. False witnesses will perish, but the one who listens to the truth in discernment will be allowed to speak forever. The wicked man can only display a bold face (implication that there is hidden fear behind the exterior), but the upright are confident inside and out, making their way much more sure. “There is no wisdom and no understanding and no counsel against the LORD. The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but victory belongs to the LORD (Proverbs 21:20-31).”

-*Application* When people say that they have wisdom apart from anything biblical and of God, don’t believe them. If the Bible is true, and it is, then we can confidently assert Proverbs 21:30 as the deciding factor in any debate, contention, or question. The LORD is sovereign, as we see again multiple times in this passage, and nothing will stand against Him in the end. The more we realize this, the better off we are.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 21:13, 23, 28, 31

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs: Chapter 20

Proverbs 20



-Solomon derides drinking alcohol by stating how it is a “mocker” and a “brawler.” The person intoxicated with it is NOT wise. Then, he moves to another proverb by stating that the terror of a king can be compared to the growling of a ferocious lion. Anyone provoking him to anger “forfeits his own life.” In fact, keeping away (shebeth- ceasing) from strife is an honor for anyone, but any fool will make a quarrel (gala`- to break out in contention, to burst forth in anger). The sluggard won’t plow at the proper time after the autumn to prepare his field, so he ends up begging during the harvest with nothing to eat. A plan deep in the heart of man is like deep water (unnavigable), but the man of understanding can draw it out with precision. Everyone claims to be loyal, but where can a trustworthy person ever be found? Rhetorical question here worth considering. Solomon claims that a righteous man who walks in his integrity blesses his sons after him. It is an ongoing concern to be righteous. Legacy is real. The eyes of a king disperse all evil as he sits on the throne of justice. There are none who can say accurately that they have cleansed their own heart and become pure from all sin. “Differing weights and differing measures, both of them are abominable to the LORD (Proverbs 20:1-10).”

-It is by works (deeds) that a young person can distinguish themselves if their conduct is pure and right. Jesus called it fruit (Matthew 7:16-23). The LORD has made both the hearing ear and the seeing eye. The king goes on to say that we should not love to sleep excessively, lest we will become poor as a general truth. He goes on to say, in essence, that we need to wake up, and then we’ll be satisfied with the work of our hands and minds. We will have plenty as God provides through our hard work. Business acumen is next of this continued mantra of wisdom. A buyer will slyly say, “Bad, bad,” but when he goes away he will boast of his deal. The lips of knowledge are a more precious thing than gold and jewels in abundance. It is wise, Solomon maintains, to take one’s garment when he becomes surety for a stranger, and to hold foreigners in pledge. This is good sense on how to work a co-signing situation with people we don’t really know. Things, Solomon lists bread here, obtained by falsehood are sweet, but the after effects will be filled with trouble. Here is some more wisdom, “Prepare plans by consultation, and make war by wise guidance (Proverbs 20:11-18).”

-It is prudent not to associate with people who gossip, and slanderers reveal everyone’s secrets. The person who curses their father or mother will have their lamp go out on them in time of darkness. “An inheritance gained hurriedly at the beginning, will not be blessed in the end.” We should never say that we, ourselves, will repay evil. Instead, we should wait for the LORD, and trust Him to save us. Solomon reiterates a former thought (Proverbs 20:10) now in the next verse as he calls out the injustice of differing weights and false scales in business deals as being “not good” and “an abomination to the LORD.” God’s sovereignty comes back as a theme now as Solomon acknowledges that “man’s steps are ordained by the LORD” with little understanding of his/her way as the process unfolds. It is a snare for a person to say rashly, “It is holy!” Instead, they should make inquiry before making such vows. Kings that are wise will disperse and scatter the wicked under their rule, and drive (shuwb- turn back) the threshing wheel over them. A good man in authority will detect and punish evil to maintain law, order, and justice. “The spirit of man is the lamp of the LORD, searching all the innermost parts of his being.” There are three things now listed that will preserve and uphold the king: loyalty, truth, and righteousness. The glory of the younger generation is their strength, and the honor of the older generation is their gray hair. The final verse endorses corporal punishment, not to inflict pain, but to scour away evil and turn hearts in the right direction (Proverbs 20:19-30).

-*Application* Once again we could draw much application out of every one of these previous 30 verses of Scripture, but I’ll detail just a tiny bit impressing on my spirit today. We should be filled with the Holy Spirit rather than alcohol. This is the true and lasting joy and influence we should be under (Ephesians 5:18). Don’t get intoxicated and fight. This is when wine can mock us. Bad decisions occur when people drink alcoholic substances and succumb to the influences of drugs. Further, let’s simply be just and fair with people in our business dealings. There are so many scams and scandals in our world today. God hates that. Be upright and do deals with integrity and class. Finally, on my mind today is this notion of letting God’s wrath take care of situations. Wait on the LORD and trust Him to save in every bad experience we are encountering (Psalm 37). Else, we become the angry ones and lash out to tear down our world.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 20:1, 3, 9, 11, 13, 22

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 19

Proverbs 19



-The tongue continues to be a big issue in this chapter on Solomon’s wise advice, as well as relationships, the poor, handling anger, and a multitude of other diverse topics. A man who is poor but walks in integrity is better than a fool perverse in speech. It’s not good for a person to be without knowledge (plug for everyone to have education here), and the person who hurries in rash decisions errs. The foolishness can ruin the way and rages the heart against the LORD. Wealth will bring along with it many friends, but a poor man sees friends leave in separation. A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who is a liar will not escape and eventually perish. A generous man will find many seeking his favor and have lots of friends while he gives. However, the brothers of a poor man will tend to hate him, and his friends will disperse from him. The person who obtains wisdom loves his/her own soul, and the one keeping understanding will find good in their lives. Luxury is not for a fool, and slaves should not rule over princes. A person’s discretion makes them slow to anger, and it is a glory to overlook a transgression. A king’s wrath is like a roaring lion, but his favor is like the sweet morning dew on grass. A foolish son is a destruction to his father. The contentions of a wife are compared to a constant dripping, which drains all enthusiasm. A house, or wealth, are an inheritance from the father, but a prudent wife is direct from the LORD. Laziness makes one fall fast into a deep-slumbering sleep, and an idle person will suffer hunger (Proverbs 19:1-15). Hard work continues to be an important theme.

-Those keeping the commandment of God keep their soul, but the ones careless in conduct will die. This pertains both to spiritual and physical death. Being gracious to the poor is akin to lending to the LORD, and God will richly repay for the good deed. It is good to discipline our son while there is hope. Please do not desire the death of a son. An overly angry person will bear the penalty of their actions. If we decide to rescue a person of great anger, we will have to do it over and over again. It is good to listen to wise counsel and accept the discipline we receive. It gives wisdom for the rest of our days. “Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the counsel of the LORD will stand.” A person’s kindness is what makes them desirable, and it is better to be poor than to lie in order to make $. The fear of God leads one to life so that they may sleep satisfied and untouched by evil. The sluggard buries his hand in the dish of food but is too lazy to even bring it back into his mouth. What a stupor. Striking a scoffer, or the naive, may have the effect of making them shrewd, but reproving one who has understanding will gain them profound knowledge. Any boy who assaults his father and/or drives his mother away is shameful and disgraceful to a society. If one stops listening to discipline, they will stray from the words of knowledge. A rascally (bĕliya`al- worthless, good for nothing, wicked, destructive) witness makes justice a mockery, and the mouth of the wicked spreads iniquity like wildfire. “Judgments are prepared for the scoffers, and blows for the back of fools (Proverbs 19:16-29).”

-*Application* Let’s focus on the “being gracious to the poor” concept in our study today. The LORD’s bank and trust is guaranteed not to go bankrupt, and He is overflowing in goodness on His repayments. I don’t know about you, but I certainly want to make my deposits into His benevolent funds by giving generously to the poor. It may not always be monetary, but God will bless in so many ways when we give, and give, and give. Our health will prosper, things won’t break down as quick, we will get great value on every business deal, and so on and so forth. I’ve experienced this in my own life. God is good to us when we bless those who can’t bless themselves.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 19:11, 17, 20-23

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 18

Proverbs 18



-Solomon continues with words of wisdom in the area of fellowship. The person who separates himself seeks his/her own desires and quarrels against all sound wisdom. Fools don’t delight in understanding; they only like to reveal their own mind in selfish ambition. Along with a wicked man comes contempt, and along with dishonor comes scorn. Deep waters are the wise words of a man’s mouth, and the fountain of wisdom is a babbling brook. To show favoritism to the wicked is never good, nor is it right to thrust aside the righteous in judgment. A fool’s lips tend to bring strife, and his/her mouth causes fights and violence. A fool’s mouth is leads to ruin as his/her lips are a snare to their soul. Whispering is a dainty morsel of words going down into the innermost parts of the body (Proverbs 18:1-8).

-The one who is slack in work is brother to him who destroys. “The Name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe.” A rich person’s wealth is his strong city. It is like a high wall in his own imagination. Only true blessing, safety, and security come from the LORD. Destruction comes after a haughty heart, but humility goes before honor. The one giving an answer before he/she hears a matter makes things a folly and shames them. The spirit of the strong can endure sickness, but as for a broken spirit, who can bear that? The mind of the prudent simply acquires knowledge, and the wise always listen well seeking more and more knowledge. A person’s gift makes room for him/her and brings them before great men. When in a case, the first to speak seems right until another comes along to examine him/her. Casting lots can have a way of ending strife and deciding between the mightiest ones. “A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city, and contentions are like the bars of a citadel.” The fruit and product of a man’s lips will satisfy him in his stomach. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” The man who finds a wife finds a good thing in the sight of God and obtains His favor. The poor man is humble and makes supplications, while the rich man tends to answer roughly and abrasively. “A man of too many friends comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:9-24).”

-*Application* Our relationship with the LORD takes center stage in several of these vital verses of Scripture. He is our strong tower and place of rest for safety and security from sin and this wicked world. He is our Friend who sticks closer than a brother. Further, relational matters with other people are discussed here and worth considering with great meditation. In addition, the humble spirit is exalted and watching what we say is so important.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 18:1, 5, 10, 12, 21-22, 24

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 17

Proverbs 17



-Solomon continues pouring out the wisdom of God by starting this chapter with the fact that it is better to have little and quietness (shalvah- tranquility, peace, the simple kind of prosperity and security) than a house full of feasting (wealth and opulence) with strife. It just isn’t worth it to live with the misery of fighting all the time. The servant who acts wisely will eventually rule over a son who acts shamefully. The theme of inheritance arrives here and who will be the rightful heir and heirs. Wisdom will succeed and give generously. The LORD tests hearts like the refining pot for silver and the furnace for gold. An evil person listens to wicked lips. They receive from deception and curses. A liar pays attention to the destructive mouth. Anyone who mocks the poor in their suffering taunts their Maker, and the one rejoicing in another’s calamity will not go unpunished. In other words, what comes around, goes around. Grandchildren are a blessing, the crown of old men, and the glory of the sons are their fathers. Family ties come to play here, and enjoying the goodness of God’s institution the right way. It is not fitting for a fool to give excellent speech, nor is it proper, even to a further degree, for a prince to utter lies. Honesty is the theme. A bribe is a charm (literally “a stone of favor”) in the view of its owner. He will prosper everywhere he turns, yet this not commendable (Proverbs 17:23; 21:14, Ecclesiastes 7:7, Isaiah 33:15). The man who conceals (kacah- covers up, does not reveal, hides) a transgression seeks deeper love and relationship. But, one who repeats (shanah- changes, alters, with a sense of gossip) a matter divides intimate friends and friendships. How sad. “A rebuke goes deeper into one who has understanding than a hundred blows into a fool (Proverbs 17:1-10).”  

-*Application* We need to practice understanding by receiving righteous rebukes that are intended for our discipline. This will make us better people. Don’t be stubborn, like Solomon suggests the fool is like, and unyielding to correction. We must be content and satisfied with the things God gives us, and seek the peace of our homes. Mo money, mo problems is the modern-day equivalent. Keep acting wisely in every circumstance and eventually it will pay off. We will have honor, prestige, and wealth as we do things the right way with all the satisfaction of living well before the LORD.

-A rebellious person seeks only to be evil, and a cruel messenger will be sent their way who will oppose. Catching a fool in his folly is tantamount to meeting a bear robbed of her cubs. Mama bear don’t play. She is angry, and so is the fool in his mischief, not wanting to be exposed. The man who returns evil for good will never see evil depart his house. He stirs up demonic activity that will prevail upon him. The beginning of strife is like the letting out of water, which as we know spreads as it wills with no way of stopping it. Therefore, the king says to abandon the quarrel before it breaks out. In other words, choose your battles wisely under the direction of the Holy One. Next, two more abominations before the LORD are listed. One should never justify the wicked, nor should one condemn the righteous in the court of law. Solomon now asks, “Why is there a price in the hand of a fool to buy wisdom, when he has no sense (Proverbs 17:11-16)?”

-The Word goes on with some encouraging sentiment. “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” But, then there is a quick return to things wrong in this fallen world. A man who lacks sense makes pledges he cannot keep. He does so publicly and threatens to embarrass himself by becoming a guarantor who can’t oblige. Lovers of transgression are lovers of strife, and pride raises the door towards destruction. A crooked mind finds no good in the world, and he who is perverted in his speech falls into manifold evil. The person who raises a fool will be sorrowful in life with no joy. However, a joyful heart causes good healing to one who has the LORD and His wisdom (Philippians 4:4). On the contrary, a broken (naka'- stricken, wounded, broken) spirit dries up the bones. Wicked men accept bribes to pervert the ways of justice. The presence of wisdom presides over one who has understanding, but the eyes of the fool wander all over the earth, never discovering it. Speaking of foolishness, Solomon goes on to say that a son who is making bad decisions for evil is a grief to his father and bitterness to the woman who bore him. It is not good to place fines on the righteous, nor is it wise to strike the nobleman for his uprightness. That would just not make any sense at all, yet we see this happening in our current society way too much. Slander and corruption are at issue here. The one who restrains his/her words has knowledge. They respond rather than react. A person who has a cool spirit has great understanding. “Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is considered prudent (Proverbs 17:17-28).”  

-*Application* We live in a political world with people trying to better their own estate at the expense of others. Today we learn that this is not the way of God’s Kingdom. Perversions of justice and righteousness should have no place in our Christian lives, and we should fight for the right whenever, wherever, and however we can. Sometimes the best advice is to stay quiet and not even speak. Jesus used this approach in the face of wickedness (Matthew 26:62-63, Mark 14:61-62). He had total wisdom, self-control, and faith that God would work everything towards His benefit. He can apply these principles as well.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 17:3, 5, 10, 17, 22, 28

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 16

Proverbs 16



-The plans of man begin as the theme of this next chapter in Proverbs. A man’s heart determines his plans, but the answer of the tongue is from the LORD for a Spirit-filled person. “All the ways of a man are clean in his own sight, but the LORD weighs the motives.” A powerful word to live by comes next, “Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be established.” This harkens back to Proverbs 3:5-6 in leaning not in our own understanding, but trusting and acknowledging God in all ways to direct our paths. The LORD has made everything for the purpose that it is supposed to serve, even the wicked are designed for the day of evil to reveal God’s redemptive purposes. In other words, evil is a temporary condition in the universe; all will be made right. The proud in heart are an abomination unto the LORD, and they will not go unpunished. By God’s lovingkindness (checed- goodness, kindness, faithfulness, mercy) and truth ('emeth- reliability, faithfulness, truth, sureness, stability, continuance) iniquity is atoned for, and by the LORD’s fear upon us, one keeps away from evil. “When a man’s ways are pleasing to the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” It is better to have little with righteousness than great income with injustice. The mind of man makes his own plans, but it is the LORD who directs his steps (Proverbs 16:1-9). The LORD is sovereign and in total control of this world.

-Now Solomon turns his attention to those in authority for a further understanding thematically. King’s utter divine decisions, so his mouth should not err in judgment. In fact, a just balance and just scales belong solely to the LORD; all the weights of measure end up being His concern. It is another abomination unto the LORD for kings to commit wickedness, because God established authorities to be righteous (Romans 13:1). Righteous speech is a king’s delight and love. When a king is furious, he is like a messenger of death, but a wise man will work to appease the situation, like Daniel and David (1 Samuel 16:21-23, Daniel 6:21). When a king is light and shows favor, there is life like a cloud with the spring rain. It is better to get wisdom and understanding than gold and silver. The highway of the upright is to leave, far away from, evil. The one who watches his way in discernment preserves his life. “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before stumbling.” It is better to be one humble of spirit with the lowly than to split your spoil with those who are proud (Proverbs 16:10-19, Matthew 5:3).

-The person who gives his/her attention to the Word of God will find good. Blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD. Faith is an Old Testament requirement as well as a New Testament one. A heart full of wisdom will be called understanding, and sweetness of speech increases one’s chances of being persuasive. This is good business advice, especially for salespeople. Understanding is a tree of life to those who possess it, but the discipline of fools is only folly. A wise person’s heart instructs his/her mouth and adds to persuasiveness (Luke 6:45). Pleasant words are compared to a honeycomb. They are sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. There is a way that seems right to a man, but it can end up being the way of death if he doesn’t have faith in Christ Jesus (Matthew 7:13-14). The appetite of a worker works for him to give incentive. His hunger urges him on to complete his tasks. A worthless-no good man digs up evil, and his words are like scorching fire. Perverse people spread strife, and a slanderer breaks apart intimate friends. People tend to believe what other people say, even if it’s untrue. What a travesty. A man of violence entices his neighbor rather than fulfilling the command to love him, and leads him in ways that are no good (Leviticus 19:18, Matthew 19:19; 22:39, Mark 12:31, Luke 10:27, Romans 13:9, Galatians 5:14, James 2:8). If a person winks at you, they are generally devising perverse things in their heart, and when they compress their lips together, they are about to bring evil to pass. A person’s gray hair is a crown of glory for the aged, and it is found in the way of faithfulness and righteousness as a general truth. Those slow to get angry are better than the mighty, and the person who rules his/her spirit is better than one who captures a city. “The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD (Proverbs 16:20-33).”

-*Application* God’s sovereign plan jumps out at us from these wise sayings in this chapter. We do well to listen to God’s direction and counsel from His amazing Word and then trust Him to accomplish all He wants in our lives. This breeds contentment, which is a Godly quality in a person. Allow Him to orchestrate and connect all of our plans. In the end, we will find it exquisitely rewarding.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 16:3, 18

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 15

Proverbs 15



-Solomon gives sage advice for turning away wrath when it comes against us. He says a gentle response is always the best option. In contrast, harsh words stir up anger and exasperate the situation. The tongue of the wise has a way of making knowledge acceptable. It’s not a beat-down, it’s a lift-up in other words. We must seek to speak in a way that people can accept instead of fighting. We have to break down defenses to the truth. Calmness has this affect. The mouth of the fool only spouts folly. He doesn’t really think about the implications of his speech. Omniscience becomes the crux of the next thought, “The eyes of the LORD are in every place, watching the evil and the good.” The All-Knowing God is very aware of everything. In fact, His knowledge is impeccable. The words of mankind quickly resurface now in the chapter when Solomon states, “A soothing tongue is a tree of life (cross reference this phrase in Scripture, Genesis 2:9, Proverbs 3:18; 11:30; 13:12; 15:4, Revelation 2:7; 22:2, 14, 19), but perversion in it crushes the spirit.” Now, the king remarks that to regard reproof is prudent, but rejecting a father’s discipline is foolish. Much wealth surrounds the house of the righteous, but trouble is the income of the wicked. The words of the wise spread abroad their knowledge, but the hearts of fools do no such thing. There are three abominations listed in this chapter. Those being: 1) The sacrifice of the wicked, 2) The way of the wicked, and 3) Evil plans (Proverbs 15:8, 9, 26). On the reverse, God is delighted by the prayers of the upright, loves him who pursues righteousness, and is pleased with pleasant and pure words. In fact, stern discipline is for the person who forsakes the way of the LORD. Those who hate reproof will soon die. Sheol and Abaddon (abodes, or realms, for the earthly departed) lie wide open before the LORD, but what is more, God knows intricately the hearts of men. A scoffer hates the one who reproves him. He will not even go near the wise for advice. The heart continues to resurface as a theme as Solomon states that a joyful heart makes the face cheerful, but a sad heart breaks the spirit. Next, he purports that the mind of the intelligent will seek out knowledge, but the mouth of the fool tends to feed on folly. Every day of the afflicted is bad, but a person with a cheerful heart has a continual feast. In support of that, the king endorses contentment by saying, “Better is a little with the fear of the LORD, than a great treasure and turmoil with it. Better is a dish of vegetables where love is, than a fattened ox and hatred with it.” Temperament becomes an issue here as hot-tempered people are reported to stir up all kinds of strife. To the contrary, those slow to anger pacify contention (James 1:19). Peace here is our goal, not division and war. Poetic language is awesome as Solomon relates a sluggard to a hedge of thorns (difficult to deal with) in comparison to the path of the upright, which is a broad-smooth running highway. With this in mind, Solomon says, “A wise son makes a father glad, but a foolish man despises his mother.” Folly is joyful to those who lack sense, but a person of understanding will walk in a correct, law-abiding, manner. Without good consultation, man’s plans are frustrated, but with a multitude of biblical counselors these plans can succeed. A person always receives joy in an apt answer, and it is delightful to hear a timely word. Solomon now ponders the path of life some more. God’s ways lead upward for the wise so that they can keep away from Sheol below. The LORD will tear down, in judgment and without mercy, the house of the selfish proud, but He looks out for the humble widow and establishes her boundary (Proverbs 15:1-26). I take this to indicate how God gives victory in spiritual warfare and comes to aid of those who truly seek His deliverance. There is a boundary set on what demonic oppressors can do for those who are lowly and know they need help.  

-The person who is proud, makes evil plans, and profits illicitly (like taking bribes) troubles his own house with perpetual turmoil. The man who hates bribes, on the other hand, will live and eventually prosper with the peace of God. The heart of the righteous ponders how to they should answer, but the mouth of the wicked man pours out evil things from the deceitfulness of their heart. The LORD is far from the wicked, meaning He resists them with complete awareness, but He attends to the prayers of the righteous. Bright and excited eyes gladden the heart and spread abundant cheer, and good news makes people want to rejoice and feast leading to the gaining of weight. As a Baptist, I can relate. The person who has an ear for “life-giving reproof,” which is of God’s Word, will dwell among the wise. This is their habitation, and they will grow in their spiritual character and understanding. On the other hand, “He who neglects discipline despises himself.” He does himself no good. One more return to the “fear of God” concept, and the chapter is completed, “The fear of the LORD is the instruction for wisdom, and before honor comes humility (Proverbs 15:27-33).”

-*Application* The multitude of concepts that we are given to enhance our understanding of God’s ways, just in this chapter, numbers in the teens. The mouth, discipline and accepting reproof, God’s omniscience, abominations unto the LORD, the heart, the pursuit of knowledge, the fear of God, contentment, love, temperament, hard work, a multitude of counselors, and pride verses humility all resonate as instruction for the righteous soul. Let’s conform our heart, mind, and will to His Heart, Mind, and Will from this number of profound themes and keep gaining wisdom.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 15:1, 3, 5, 8, 18, 29, 32-33

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 14

Proverbs 14



-Solomon’s words of wisdom continue in a sporadic, but sensible, format as we move to this next section. The wise female will build her house (all things included), but the foolish one can tear it down with the actions of her hands (figurative and literal). People who fear the LORD will walk in uprightness, but he who is devious in his ways despises the LORD. Foolish talk will end up bringing harsh punishment, but the lips of the wise will protect from harm. “Where no oxen are, the manger is clean, but much revenue comes by the strength of the ox.” Our capital can be messy at times in business, but much profit comes from using the resources that are opportunistic. This is a call for hard work and sensibility in using difficult (time consuming, dirty, painful, etc.) equipment, animals, or human resources. As the king goes further, he says that a trustworthy witness will tell the truth, but a false witness bears lies. A scoffer seeks wisdom, but his insolence ensures that he finds none. However, knowledge is easy to one who has righteous understanding. Solomon now warns that leaving the presence of a fool is vital if we want discernment. If we stay under the influence of a fool, we will not perceive the words of knowledge. “The wisdom of the sensible is to understand his way, but the foolishness of fools is deceit. Fools mock at sin, but among the upright there is good will (Proverbs 14:1-8, Luke 2:14).”

-The heart continues to be the issue as Solomon now speaks of it knowing its own bitterness and strangers not being able to share its joy. Next, the king speaks of how the house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of the upright will be continuing and flourish. With regards to salvation among other things of the heart, “There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” Even in times of superficial laughter, the heart may actually be in pain. Plus, the end of joy may see grief. This is a fact of life that Solomon has observed. Not everything has a happy-fairy tale ending. “The backslider in heart will have his fill of his own ways, but a good man will be satisfied with his.” Naïve people believe everything, but sensible people consider their steps, or shall we say circumstances. A man of wisdom is cautious and turns away from evil, but a fool is both arrogant and careless. A person of quick-temper acts extremely foolishly too, and a person of evil devices is often hated. The naïve have an inheritance. This inheritance is foolishness. But, the sensible are crowned with knowledge. The evil and wicked will eventually bow down and pay homage before the good and righteous. The poor man is loathed and hated by his neighbor, but those who love (and often use) the rich are many. The person, whether they are rich or poor, who despises his neighbor sins (Leviticus 19:18, Matthew 22:39, Mark 12:31, Luke 10:27, Romans 13:9, Galatians 5:14, James 2:8), but happy is he who is gracious, especially to the poor. Devisers of evil will go astray, but kindness and truth will be to those who formulate good (Proverbs 14:9-22).

-Hard work continues as a theme as Solomon says, “In all labor there is profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” Riches will crown the wise, but foolish folly is the benefit of ignorant folks who waste and are idle. Solomon continues to bounce back and forth on his proverbs in restating ideas on a truthful witness, which saves lives as compared to the treachery of a liar. Absolute truth is maintained in the next comment, “In the fear of the LORD there is strong confidence, and his children will have refuge.” He goes on with these inspired thoughts on the awe of the LORD. Fearing Him is a fountain of life so that one may avoid the snares of a foolish death. A king’s glory is in his multitude of people. In other words, a winsome person gathers people, not scattering them. “But, in the dearth ('ephec- ceasing, finality, end) of people is a prince’s ruin.” The person who is slow to get angry has great understanding (James 1:19), but the one who is quick-tempered exalts folly. A tranquil heart gives life to the body, but extreme jealousy (qin'ah- ardour, passionate-unhealthy zeal, envy) is rottenness to the bones. The person who oppresses the poor actually taunts his Maker, but if he is gracious to the needy, he honors the LORD. “The wicked is thrust down by his wrongdoing, but the righteous has a refuge when he dies.” Salvation returns to the forefront as a theme here. In fact, wisdom rests in the heart of the person who has this spiritual understanding, but the foolish make their folly known to all. National issues are even dealt with here as the chapter comes to a close. “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people. The king’s favor is toward a servant who acts wisely, but his anger is toward him who acts shamefully (Proverbs 14:23-35).”

-*Application* We have to be very concerned for our hearts as we meditate on the application of this passage today. Our respectful fear of the LORD will guide us to a right place in our heart giving us confidence, rest, success, and wisdom (among many other important and good things). We must turn away from evil as individuals and as a nation, if we want the favor and exaltation of our God. We must work hard and use the resources He has benevolently provided. We can’t afford to just talk about it. We must love our neighbor as ourselves and be extraordinarily gracious and giving. These are the marks of true believers in Christ Jesus. His ways are far superior to ours, and we must look to Him.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 14:12, 23, 26, 34

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 13

Proverbs 13



-Discipline, diligence, and wise use of speech continue to play out as themes, among other things, in this insightful chapter on continuing wise tidbits. Solomon says that a wise son will accept his father’s discipline; however, a scoffer does not listen to rebuke. Solomon’s father, David, warned not to associate with scoffers (Psalm 1:1). Solomon was accepting his father’s wisdom and passing it on. From the fruit of a wise man’s mouth, he enjoys good, but the desire of the treacherous is only violence. The one who guards his mouth preserves (shamar- keep, take charge of, guard) his life, while the one who opens wide his lips foolishly comes to ruin. Laziness is dealt with again by stating that the sluggard craves and gets nothing. To the contrary, the soul of the diligent is made fat with production. Lying is now dealt with again. The righteous hate all falsehood compared to the wicked who act shamefully and disgustingly. In fact, righteousness guards the one whose way is blameless (right before God by faith), but wickedness subverts (sâlaph- to twist, pervert, distort, overturn, ruin) the sinner. Along the lines of this honesty theme, the king says that there are always those who pretend to be rich but have nothing, while others pretend to be poor but have great wealth. Solomon goes on to say that the ransom of a man’s life is wrapped up in his wealth, but the poor hears no rebuke. The light of the righteous shines brightly (some translate it “rejoices”), but the lamp of the wicked will go out into darkness. “Through insolence (zadown- arrogance, swelling, pride, presumptuousness, haughtiness) comes nothing but strife, but wisdom is with those who receive counsel (Godly counsel, Proverbs 11:14;13:1-10).”

-Wealth obtained by fraudulent means dwindles, but the one who steadily gathers by the use of labor increases his fortune and stability. Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but desire fulfilled and realized is a tree of life and sweet to the soul. The one who despises the Word of God will be in debt to it, but the one who fears the commands of the LORD will be rewarded. The teaching of the wise is an ongoing fountain of life, and it will turn one aside from the snares of death. Good understanding will produce favor in situations, but the way of the treacherous is hard. Every prudent man acts with knowledge, but a fool puts his folly on display for all to see. When it comes to messengers, a wicked one falls into adversity, but a faithful envoy brings about healing. “Poverty and shame will come to him who neglects discipline, but he who regards reproof will be honored.” A fool’s abomination is to turn away from evil. The person who lives life with the wise will be wise themselves. But, the companion, or coming under the influence, of fools will suffer harm. Adversity will chase down sinners, but the righteous will be blessed and rewarded with prosperity. A good man thinks ahead for his posterity and leaves an inheritance (should be material, emotional, social, and especially spiritual) to his children’s children. Plus, Solomon says, the wealth of the sinner is actually often times stored up for the righteous. In other words, those He favors, because of their good heart, end up getting the wealth of those who have squandered the resources God graciously gave them. Injustice jumps to the forefront of the themes now as the king claims that abundant food is in the fallow ground of the poor, but it is swept away by unfairness. Then, he jumps back into the themes of discipline and contentment. Corporal punishment is endorsed. “He who withholds his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him diligently.” Notice that word “diligently” there. This means that care and consideration in the disciplinary process is key. Parents should always avoid rashness and acting out in anger towards their children. They should be wise and always loving in their discipline. With contentment, Solomon says, under the direction of the Holy Spirit, the righteous feel like they have enough to satisfy their appetite, but the stomach of the wicked is always wanting more (Proverbs 13:11-25).

-*Application* There are so many things to once again consider as we seek to live out these principles written down for our wisdom around 3,000 years ago. Family relationships are important, and parents’ authority is key to training up a child in the way he/she should go. We should always pray that our children accept our discipline, and we should be constantly aware of the balance between encouraging/building up and setting limits/consequences. Our children do need boundaries, and they need to know what our expectations are with consistency. Discipline is for Godly correction. We need to teach them to be diligent, honest, respectful, careful in speech, humble, faithful, and content among other things. If this is to happen, we must necessarily model this behavior and let them see, from us, a heart connected to the Heavenly Father. This will fulfill our desires as our tree of life and bring sweetness to our soul based on our relationship to the One who loves us.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 13:10, 12, 20, 22, 24

Bible Study Notes in Proverbs- Chapter 12

Proverbs 12



-The person who loves discipline loves knowledge, but stupid is the person who hates getting reproof. A good man will obtain his favor from the LORD, and he will stand up to condemn a man who devises evil. Wickedness never establishes people, but the root of the righteous will not be moved. An excellent wife is the prestigious crown of her husband, but a woman that shames her man is as rottenness to his bones. The way that the righteous think is just, but beware the counsels of the wicked. They are deceitful, or deceptive. The words of the evil ones lie in wait for blood (meaning ruthless vengeance or violence), but the mouth of the upright will deliver them. When the wicked are overthrown, they are no more. However, the house of the righteous will stand through all sorts of turmoil. A person will be praised according to how much insight they have, but one who has a perverse mind will be despised. “Better is he who is lightly esteemed and has a servant (helper), than he who honors himself (a selfish individual) and lacks bread.” And then, Solomon even speaks of animals, “A righteous man has regard for the life of his beast, but the compassion of the wicked is cruel (Proverbs 12:1-10).”

-The man, or woman, who works their field hard will have plenty of bread (or product), but the ones pursuing vain things lack good-common sense. The wicked desires the loot, or booty, of evil men (I’m thinking pirates here 😊), but the root of the righteous yields better fruit. An evil man is ensnared by the transgression of his lips, but the righteous know how to escape trouble because they have the Lord on their side. A person will be satisfied with good by the fruit of his/her productive words, and the works of good person’s hands will return to them. The way of a fool is only right in his own eyes, but a wise man will listen to others’ good counsel. A fool’s vexation (ka`ac- anger, provocation, grief, vexation, frustration) is known all of a sudden, but on the other hand, a prudent man conceals dishonor. The wise man doesn’t let the situation get to him and let it frazzle him in other words. A foolish man loses control when things aren’t going his way would be another way of putting it. Shall we say, temper tantrum? The one telling the truth is telling what is right, but a false witness spreads deceit. “There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword (violent-purposeful aggression), but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” Truthful lips will be established permanently, but a lying tongue is only for that moment. Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil plots and plans; on the other side, counselors of peace have joy. No harm will generally come upon the righteous, but the wicked are filled with trouble all the time. To lie is an abomination before the LORD, but those who deal faithfully and honestly are His delight. A prudent man wisely conceals knowledge, but the heart of a fool proclaims folly serendipitously. The hand of the diligent will make him a leader with ruling qualities, but the slack will end up being put to forced labor. “Anxiety in the heart of a man weighs it down, but a good word makes it glad.” The righteous guide and direct their neighbors in the right path, but the way of the wicked leads them wondering and astray. A slothful person does not roast (charak- ensnare, catch) his prey, but diligence is the precious possession of a person. In short, Solomon says that righteousness is the way to life “and in its pathway there is no death (spiritually speaking, Proverbs 12:11-28).”

-*Application* Again we see so many topics for application in this chapter. We should meditate on these principles and actualize them in our lives. Reproof is an interesting thought for me personally today. Many spurn reproof, but it is important to learn from our mistakes and thank those who correct us. Let’s break down that word for a moment. Proof- is like a scientific term indicating an absolute, empirical truth. Re- means doing it over and again. In life, we need people in authority over us who will give us the truth and the facts over and over again when we mess up and fail. Learn to love reproof. Remember, loving discipline is loving knowledge. When it comes to obtaining favor from the LORD, be a hero, be the good guy. We’ve heard it said that is any troubling situation there are perpetrators, bystanders, and victims. Let me introduce the ideal forth type of person, heroes. These are those who selflessly and willfully go into a situation to right it. They stand for the ways of God and dispense justice, like any superhero of our vivid imaginations in art or history. There are many other applicational thoughts available here in this passage: pure speech, diligence, gentleness, and encouragement just to name a few. Process what we can, and we’ll keep growing in wisdom.





Verses to Memorize: Proverbs 12:1, 4-5, 8, 18, 25, 28