The majority of the book of Proverbs was written by King Solomon, who is considered to be one of the wisest of men ever. While he wrote many proverbs with his sons in mind, the stories, teachings, and examples can be applied to all of us. Solomon’s teachings were not only written by a wise man, more importantly they were inspired by the Spirit of God! So, this year I’m highlighting a proverb each Wednesday, with the hashtag, #WednesdayWisdom.
Fools not only dislike learning about the Lord, they also reject Him and the scriptures. Interestingly, the ungodly think themselves wise and imagine the godly as fools. The ungodly will stay in this in this fatal state of mind until the fear of the Lord (and only by the grace of God) becomes a reality in their own life.
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The Hebrew term, “shield” that is used here, could also be defined as a “defender.” God provides wisdom and a hedge of protection around all those who follow Him and “walk in integrity.” #WednesdayWisdom
Proverbs 3:5 is a familiar Bible verse that’s often quoted along with the next verse, however in and of itself it’s a very important verse on its own. In it we’re basically told to do one thing (to trust the Lord) and not to do the other (not to trust in our own understanding.) The key focus here is trust, specifically trusting in the Lord. Without placing our faith and trust in Him, people will naturally choose to trust themselves. It’s a heart issue and the only way to break that cycle is by turning to Jesus in repentance and faith.
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The instructions referred to here are not just any instructions; they refer to the word of God, which not only guides us to eternal life in Jesus Christ, but also teaches us how we should live in the here and now. We should hold it in high regard, keep it close to our eyes, and in our heart as, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
The truth of this proverb is both profound and simple: God lights the path of believers as they look to Him with each passing day. Their life has purpose and meaning and is full of blessings from the Lord. The opposite is true for non-believers; their walk, their choices, their actions, are all in direct opposition to God and as a result their life is dark and full of unfruitful and meaningless efforts. They’re so tied up in living a life without God they don’t even recognize that their life is headed in the wrong direction or that they are doomed without Him.
Here, we are reminded and warned to guard our eyes as they are like windows of light; whatever we place our gaze on has the potential to influence our heart. The point here is that we need to look away from sin; look purposefully and instead toward God and His righteousness. Eyes that gaze at sin bring darkness to our souls rather than light of God. Actually, every member of our body, our heart, lips, eyes, feet, etc., need to be carefully watched, lest in any way it should become the cause of sin. #WednesdayWisdom
One day, in one way or another, each of us will take our last breath. This verse reflects on the effects of sin in the world. By the disobedience of one man (Adam) the many were made sinners, so by the one man’s (Jesus) obedience the many will be made righteous. (Romans 12:19) Essentially the bad news is that we all come into this world as sinners and have sin debt we cannot pay. The good news is that Jesus paid the sin debt of any and all who will come to Him in repentance and faith. The bad news is that unless you believe that He is who He says He is you will die in your sins. The good news is that if you have trusted Christ as your Savior you will die in Christ. Blessed are they who die in the Lord. (Revelation 14:13) #WednesdayWisdom
The first part of this verse refers to ropes or a net such as those that are used to capture a bird or an animal, and equates the bait in these nets to the sin (inequities) that so easily attracts the sinner. Once the sinner is charmed, it naturally leads him to indulge in it. When he indulges in it he then becomes so tangled up in the net that he cannot escape. What first attracted the sinner has in turn became the means by which he is detained. The more he struggles to loose himself the more entrapped he becomes. The sin that was so attractive to him in the beginning becomes a snare from which he cannot escape. #WednesdayWisdom
Here, Solomon urges his son to keep the godly commands that he has been taught since his youth. Godly commands from our parents help us light our way through life and help keep us on the right path. Solomon continues the remainder of this chapter specifically warning his son to stay away from evil and adulterous women. A wise son will heed his parents’ godly advice sparing himself unnecessary hardship, and likely reaping the benefits of blessed life. An unwise son, who chooses to ignore his parents’ godly advice, will very likely learn the hard way, bringing disgrace and hardship upon himself, if not worse. #WednesdayWisdom
Solomon continues his warnings about sin with clear instructions to pay close attention to his teachings. Treasure the word of God; guard it as you would your most prized possession. Stay on the narrow path. Choose to follow Him and His commands. Choosing to follow seducing women has brought many to death, like an ox going to slaughter. Don’t fall for satan’s bait and switch. Choosing sinful desires rather than obeying God’s clear instruction leads to death. #WednesdayWisdom
God’s word guides us to everlasting wealth and inheritance; eternal life in Him. Those who choose to follow the riches of this world are fools, like sheep being lead to slaughter. Gold, silver, and the treasures of this world lead to death. Those who choose to follow God’s word are wise. True riches and honor are found only in a saving relationship with the Lord. #WednesdayWisdom
Proverbs Chapter 9 speaks of both the benefits of wisdom and the judgment associated with folly. Verse 8 gives us a heads up about critiquing or giving godly advice to others: fools will likely reject both you and your godly advice. Whereas the wise will likely receive you and your message, with respect and a willingness to consider applying it in their own life. #WednesdayWisdom
Simply put, work is good; it brings us a sense of accomplishment and it also honors our parents. Good parents, who want their children to grow up to be responsible and productive adults, give their children age appropriate chores; praising and rewarding them accordingly. Lazy or spoiled privileged children with no sense of work or age appropriate responsibilities, will likely grow up to be lazy adults, bringing shame to both themselves and their parents. #WednesdayWisdom
While money is certainly useful in the here and now, it’s of absolutely no use in the hereafter. To better put this in the proper perspective, the fact is, 10 out of 10 people die. True riches are not found in having an abundance of money or possessions, but in a saving relationship in the Lord. Those who have placed their faith and trust in the Lord in the here and now, have nothing to fear about death and the hereafter. #WednesdayWisdom
While selfishness comes naturally to our fallen human nature, generosity is likened unto the nature of God. Blessing or ministering to others in some way, and especially when we expect nothing in return, but out of service to the Lord and in His love, oftentimes brings a sense of happiness that is practically indescribable. #WednesdayWisdom
True Christians are both blessed by God and a blessing to others. True godliness seeks to help point others to Christ and is a natural outcome of our new nature as believers. While the battle between our old sinful nature and our new Christ-like nature is real, our new nature will grow and will produce godly fruit as we water it in prayer and the light of God’s word. #WednesdayWisdom
There’s so much evil in the world today, I have to be careful not to be overly concerned about it. I’ve found that focusing on God and His word helps me from becoming overly anxious about evil. That, plus encouraging and kind words from others, helps me maintain a positive and happy outlook in life. #WednesdayWisdom
The old saying that “people are known by the company they keep,” is so true. Proverbs 13:20 gives us a quick lesson on the importance of who we choose to hang out with. Choose your friends wisely, especially when you’re young. Otherwise, you may find yourself having to deal with more problems in life than you could have ever imagined. It’s far better to have only one friend that has integrity and makes right choices than a bunch of fools that consistently make wrong choices. #WednesdayWisdom
While we live our lives in community; family, friends, neighbors, etc., this verse reminds us that we are all very much individuals. No matter how many people we surround ourselves with, we are still alone. “Alone are we born, one by one, alone do we die, one by one.” The same will be true concerning our standing before the throne of God one day. Although we’ll stand with a great multitude, we will face God’s judgement individually, one by one. #WednesdayWisdom
The fear that is spoken of here is similar to that of a young child in awe of his father. It’s a fear that is born out of so much admiration and respect for him that a child would never think of questioning his father’s motives. Fear of the Lord is a short way of expressing real faith, real hope, and real love. So much so, that we, who are called by His name, can trust Him no matter what evil we will face in this world. #WednesdayWisdom
The bad news about this verse is that Sheol is the place of death, Abaddon is the place of destruction, and our hearts are an open book to the Lord. He knows all of our ways and all of our thoughts; we are continually in His sight. The very real problem here is sin and the fact that the “heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?” (Jeremiah 17:9) The good news is that Jesus offers forgiveness of sin and eternal life for anyone who will turn to Him in repentance and faith. #WednesdayWisdom
While the Bible in its entirety solidifies the sovereignty of God over all, this verse serves to concisely define His sovereignty from the beginning to the end: He has planned and prepared everything from the beginning. He has a purpose for everyone and everything. He has a specific plan for the wicked. He will use the wicked as instruments of his wrath in the day of evil, in the time of the final judgment; in the culmination of His redemptive plan. #WednesdayWisdom
Don’t be deceived. The devil is a master of deception. Just because something seems ok doesn’t mean that it is. This verse also warns us not to follow the crowd, as the crowd is very likely headed in the wrong direction. Follow Jesus, not other people. Jesus expands this theme in Matthew 7:13-14, “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” #WednesdayWisdom
I believe the main point of this proverb is about forgiving and loving one another. People, as natural born sinners, are bound to offend each other at times. I also believe that forgiveness doesn’t come naturally; it’s something that comes from a heart that is surrendered to Christ. When we forgive and love one another we mirror Christ who forgave us of all our sins (past, present, and future) the moment we turned to Him in repentance and faith. #WednesdayWisdom
I believe the key to lasting friendship is unconditional love; to love one another regardless of differences or difficulties. While many of us have been blessed with several close friends in this life, not everyone can say this is true in their own life, myself included. Regardless, I think this Proverb is written in such a way to point everyone to the amazing, unconditional love of Christ, who died on the cross for our sins. Jesus is the epitome of a friend who truly loves at all times. He is the One Friend we all need and also the One Friend that commands us to “Love each other as I have loved you.” (John 15:12)
In ancient days, strong towers or castles were known as the place to run to in times of trouble. The castle owner, who was known as the lord over the region, offered safety and protection for his people whenever they sought shelter. There is safety in the Lord, but also as this verse implies, there is safety in His very Name. The Lord’s name is a strong tower because of the person, presence, and power that His Holy Name represents. We, who have been made right with God through a relationship with Jesus Christ, are the righteous that is spoken of here; we can run to Him; He is our righteousness; His name is Jesus. #WednesdayWisdom
Seeing people with lots of friends has always been fascinating to me. Interestingly, this verse gives contrasting views concerning those with a lot of friends vs. the one friend who sticks closer than a brother. While having good friends is a blessing, having a bunch of fair weather friends who really don’t have your back is not. Having a true friend who sticks closer than a brother will undoubtedly bring us happiness in this world, but having received Jesus as your Lord, Savior, and Friend will assure you eternal life and happiness in the world to come. #WednesdayWisdom
Children are a blessing from the Lord and parenting is one of the most rewarding responsibilities we could ever have, but parenting is not easy. This verse reminds us that parents are responsible for disciplining their children appropriately and consistently. We are to discipline early, throughout their entire childhood, and are to never give up on them. The overwhelming most important factor is love. Discipline without love is harsh and excessive, and love without discipline is too permissive and neglectful; both of which are a recipe for disaster. While parents have been given a specific window of time to raise and biblically discipline their children, failure to do so within that window of time puts the child in danger of dire consequences in both their childhood and into their adulthood. #WednesdayWisdom
The sovereignty of God cannot be understated, underestimated, or unappreciated. Thank God that He intervenes on our behalf and does not allow many of our own plans to come to fruition. The human heart is naturally deceitful and if it were not for the Lord’s intervention in our lives, we would be lying in a gutter somewhere, or even worse. Praise God for His plans and His purposes in our life. #WednesdayWisdom
The nature of alcohol is such for many that one drink does not seem to be enough. The results of drunkenness produces not only a fool, but a wide range of foolish behaviors including: abusive tongues, physical altercations, promiscuity, sexual abuse, raging tempers, slothful workers, people who are generally unfit for society, and felons guilty of involuntary vehicular manslaughter; just to name a few. #WednesdayWisdom
There’s not one of us who’s not been injured by someone else’s words or actions at one time or another. The fact is, as inhabitants of this world, no one escapes having something wrongfully done against them. This verse reminds us that we’re not to take revenge, or even wish revenge against that person who’s done us wrong. We must instead, pray about it. Forgive. Give it to God; tell Him how you feel. Let God deal with those who have done us wrong and patiently trust in Him to handle it in such a way as He sees fit, and in His perfect timing. #WednesdayWisdom
This verse is, yet again, another wonderful reminder for Christians not to worry about the evil that is going on in our world today. While many of these evil doers, including questionable politicians, governments, governmental agencies, courts, scientists, big corporations, etc., may think they have wisdom, understanding, and counsel, yet if it’s against the Lord, it cannot prosper long; it shall not prevail. In fact, those who do evil against God are actually preparing shame and ruin for themselves that will come in due time. God is in control. #WednesdayWisdom
The man who is careful to achieve and keep a good reputation is not only wise, but is likely an honest man with an honorable life. The man who strives to accumulate wealth and sets his heart on riches is not only a fool, but is in danger of not having much of a life. #WednesdayWisdom
This verse is not a guarantee, but a hope that when a child grows up they will not depart from the Christian principles they were taught in their youth. As parents our influence over our children is great however we need to understand that influence includes both the good and the bad influences. In any case, there’s nothing a parent can do to guarantee our childrens’ salvation, however the likelihood of them coming to Christ is greater when parents have faithfully taught them the truths of the gospel when they were young and impressionable. #WednesdayWisdom
These are the words of a slacker. This proverb paints a picture of the lazy man. A man who has the ability to work but refuses to do so. He much prefers to spend his time either sleeping or thinking of different excuses as to why he cannot work. This is a man who does not present himself to be wise, although he undoubtedly thinks he is. Nor does he seem to understand the biblical principle of sowing and reaping. #WednesdayWisdom.
Envy creates envious thoughts which, unless checked right away, create unnecessary murmuring and an unattractive distrust toward the Lord. We are to instead, and in reverence and fear of the Lord, cease from fretting about the proud, the vain, and the prosperity of the ungodly. “For then you will have a future, and your hope will not be dashed.” Proverbs 23:18 #WednesdayWisdom
Truth, no matter what the cost, is one of the most valuable possessions one could possibly ever have, and of which should never be sold. For along with truth comes wisdom, instruction, and understanding. All these, combined with devine guidance, help us find our way through life’s land mines and allow us to pass through safely to our eternal home. Hold fast to the truth and never let it go. #WednesdayWisdom
The house that is spoken of here is not that of a mansion that has been built by ill-gotten gain. Nor is it a house that at first look may appear well built, but upon closer inspection we find a rotten foundation. No, the house that is spoken of here is one that has been established with a firm foundation in the Lord. It is a strong house that is filled with precious and beautiful treasures from above which sets the foundation for a godly inheritance to our children’s children. #WednesdayWisdom
The context of this verse is the great duty that is required of us when we see someone whose life is in imminent danger. Specifically, we are to come to their aid. We’re not to turn away and act as if we didn’t see what’s happening to them, regardless if we know them or not. This verse is also used in an evangelical sense, as without Christ in one’s life, the unsaved person is headed to an eternity separated from God. In fact, Proverbs 24:11 was an inspiration to Fanny Crosby in 1869 when she wrote the famous evangelical hymn, Rescue the Perishing. #WednesdayWisdom
Our sin nature tends to make us want to take pleasure in the troubles of our enemy, but here the Bible specifically tells us not to do this. While this may very well be standard practice for unbelievers, I find it particularly distasteful to hear Christians speak in such a way that reveals their delight and satisfaction in the ruin of their enemies. Instead, we should weep and pray for them. #WednesdayWisdom
This is one of five verses (30-34) in this chapter in which Solomon describes the vineyard of the slothful. He first describes the vineyard’s rundown condition, takes a moment to consider the whole of it, learns from it, and then summarizes it in the form of a wise observation: People who love to sleep and have no understanding or desire to work are lazy and foolish people. Their fruitless weed infested fields represent the unsanctified heart which is overgrown with thorns and nettles. The thorns and nettles represent lazy hearts which are filled with inordinate lusts; passions, pride, covetousness, sensuality, and malice towards others. They have no desire to tend to their fields, to fix a broken down fence nor set up a guard against an enemy; they’d much rather just lie down to sleep. The lazy and foolish person actions not only injures himself, but he also injures his family, and most regrettably he injures his own soul. Whereas, the souls of the wise no only recognize that we are to take care of our fields and vineyards with due diligence, but also recognize that our souls are our fields and vineyards. We are to clear the ground, plant it, sow it, and fence it in order to produce good fruit in our lives and to keep our guard up against the enemy. #WednesdayWisdom
This proverb honors God for who He is; He is all-knowing, all-powerful, and ultimately in control. It’s God’s prerogative to conceal whatever he choses to conceal. However, it is God’s will to allow kings and authorities to investigate certain matters as they occur. God establishes kings and authorities not only to bring people to justice but also to fulfill His plans. #WednesdayWisdom
This insightful proverb reminds us to use our words thoughtfully, purposefully, and prayerfully. Just as a beautiful gold apple is pleasing to the eye, so is a word spoken at just the right time to the listening ear who needs to hear those exact words. Words have the potential of blessing both the hearer and the speaker. A best case scenario is one who speaks prudently and timely, to one who is listening patiently and earnestly. Prayer, prudence, and patience, combined with God’s perfect timing is a beautiful example of God’s will at work in the life of His children. #WednesdayWisdom
The far country is Heaven and the Good News is the gospel of Jesus Christ. The thirsty soul is the lost sinner, like a sheep without a shepherd. But, God has not forgotten you; He is the Good Shepherd. The Shepherd, who while counting His sheep, finds that one is missing, and seeks the one who has gone astray; He seeks the lost sinner. How refreshing for the lost sinner to hear and receive the message of the cross, like a drink of cold water to a parched throat. #WednesdayWisdom
At first glance these two verses may seem to contradict each another but actually they complement each other. One emphasizes knowing when to keep silent and the other emphasizes knowing when to speak. The Holy Spirit helps us to know whether we should do one or the other. An example of knowing when to keep silent is by not replying to a fool. In other words, sometimes it’s wise to choose to ignore the fool and the lies that he speaks. An example of knowing when to speak in this type of scenario is by conviction; the conviction to speak the truth in love. Truth is of love, and of God who is the source of all truth. Lies are the opposite of love, and are of the devil. Foolish people are often living a life built on the lies of the devil. Pray that God will open the eyes of the foolish person to convict them of their ultimate demise without God and His truth in their life. In the meantime, it is a wise man who uses the truth of God to help convict the fool of his error. #WednesdayWisdom
It’s wise not to presume anything about tomorrow, let alone all of the days that follow. To be clear, preparation for tomorrow is just fine; it’s the presumption of tomorrow that’s not. All of our tomorrows are in God’s hands which he wisely reserves for himself alone to know. It is the glory of God to conceal whatever he chooses to conceal from us. While we may be in the dark concerning future events, we can make the best of today by depending on God no matter what comes our way; knowing Him is the best preparation for the unknown future events that tomorrow will undoubtedly bring. #WednesdayWisdom.
I believe this verse is for the encouragement of those who labor for the Lord. He refers to the fig tree that requires constant care as it is growing. When it comes to maturity it bears figs that taste so wonderful they’re like a reward. The same is true of Christ’s workers who’re obedient and faithful, including those who’re almost to the point of exhaustion. God is saying, your work is not done for naught; you shall see the fruit of your work and receive your reward in due time, God’s perfect timing actually. #WednesdayWisdom
It is the fool who thinks he can excuse, blame, deny, or hide his sins away. No one will ever succeed in covering their sin. Sin separate us from God and leads to death. Those who say, “I have no sin,” deceive themselves, and the truth is not in them. (1 John 1:8) The sooner we acknowledge and turn from our sin, the better, and he who confesses his sin to God, and does not return to it, finds mercy with Him. #WednesdayWisdom
Here we have two ancient proverbs combined together which are equally true in their own, but are particularly true when linked together. The overwhelming message here is that whatever fear or foe we face today, trusting in the Lord is always the better choice. Trusting in the Lord not only leads to safety, but also leads to eternal life in Him. #WednesdayWisdom.
Here we come to a chapter, Proverbs 30, that was not written by Solomon, but by a man named Agur. Not much is known about Agur but that which he writes about in this chapter, but what an inspiring chapter it is! He begins and ends it with great humility, and fills everything in between with much wisdom. His humble exaltation of God’s Word is spoken from a heart that not only knows Him but has taken refuge in Him. #WednesdayWisdom.
Proverbs 31:10-31 depicts King Lemuel’s praise for a wife of noble character, which he no doubt learned from his own mother. These verses remind me of my own sweet mother who passed away in 1998 at age 77. The whole of these verses make for an excellent ending to the Book of Proverbs. While in Ephesians and Colossians we learn that a husband is the head of his wife, as Christ is the head of the church, in this last chapter of Proverbs we learn that it is the wise, loving, modest, frugal, diligent, Christian wife who sets the tone for the entire household. The wife, who by nature is the weaker vessel, is made strong by wisdom, grace, and the fear of God. The wife who loves God first and foremost, results in both her husband and her children to “rise up and call her blessed.” (Vs 28) #WednesdayWisdom
Treasure In Jars of Clay 