January 11, 2024

How Can Christians Know When to Speak Up?

Proverbs 10

Deardra Griffin
Thursday's Devo

January 11, 2024

Thursday's Devo

January 11, 2024

Thursday's Devo

January 11, 2024

Thursday's Devo

January 11, 2024

Big Book Idea

Living wisely; God's way.

Key Verse | Proverbs 10:19

When words are many, transgression is not lacking,
but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.

Proverbs 10

The Proverbs of Solomon

1 The proverbs of Solomon.

A wise son makes a glad father,
    but a foolish son is a sorrow to his mother.
2  Treasures gained by wickedness do not profit,
    but righteousness delivers from death.
3  The LORD does not let the righteous go hungry,
    but he thwarts the craving of the wicked.
4  A slack hand causes poverty,
    but the hand of the diligent makes rich.
5  He who gathers in summer is a prudent son,
    but he who sleeps in harvest is a son who brings shame.
6  Blessings are on the head of the righteous,
    but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence. 1 10:6 Or but violence covers the mouth of the wicked; also verse 11
7  The memory of the righteous is a blessing,
    but the name of the wicked will rot.
8  The wise of heart will receive commandments,
    but a babbling fool will come to ruin.
9  Whoever walks in integrity walks securely,
    but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.
10  Whoever winks the eye causes trouble,
    and a babbling fool will come to ruin.
11  The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life,
    but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.
12  Hatred stirs up strife,
    but love covers all offenses.
13  On the lips of him who has understanding, wisdom is found,
    but a rod is for the back of him who lacks sense.
14  The wise lay up knowledge,
    but the mouth of a fool brings ruin near.
15  A rich man's wealth is his strong city;
    the poverty of the poor is their ruin.
16  The wage of the righteous leads to life,
    the gain of the wicked to sin.
17  Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life,
    but he who rejects reproof leads others astray.
18  The one who conceals hatred has lying lips,
    and whoever utters slander is a fool.
19  When words are many, transgression is not lacking,
    but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.
20  The tongue of the righteous is choice silver;
    the heart of the wicked is of little worth.
21  The lips of the righteous feed many,
    but fools die for lack of sense.
22  The blessing of the LORD makes rich,
    and he adds no sorrow with it. 2 10:22 Or and toil adds nothing to it
23  Doing wrong is like a joke to a fool,
    but wisdom is pleasure to a man of understanding.
24  What the wicked dreads will come upon him,
    but the desire of the righteous will be granted.
25  When the tempest passes, the wicked is no more,
    but the righteous is established forever.
26  Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes,
    so is the sluggard to those who send him.
27  The fear of the LORD prolongs life,
    but the years of the wicked will be short.
28  The hope of the righteous brings joy,
    but the expectation of the wicked will perish.
29  The way of the LORD is a stronghold to the blameless,
    but destruction to evildoers.
30  The righteous will never be removed,
    but the wicked will not dwell in the land.
31  The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom,
    but the perverse tongue will be cut off.
32  The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable,
    but the mouth of the wicked, what is perverse.

Footnotes

[1] 10:6 Or but violence covers the mouth of the wicked; also verse 11
[2] 10:22 Or and toil adds nothing to it
Table of Contents
Introduction to Proverbs

Introduction to Proverbs

Timeline

Author and Date

Proverbs itself mentions Solomon (reigned c. 971–931 B.C.) as author or collector of its contents (1:1; 10:1), including the proverbs copied by Hezekiah’s men (25:1). There are also two batches of sayings from a group called “the wise” (22:17–24:22; 24:23–34), and “oracles” from Agur (30:1–33) and Lemuel (31:1–9). No author is named for the song in praise of the excellent wife that ends the book (31:10–31). Although Proverbs was begun in the time of Solomon, it probably was not in its present form until the time of Hezekiah (reigned c. 715–686 B.C.).

Theme

The goal of the book is stated right at the beginning (1:1–7): to describe what wisdom is and to help God’s people become wise. Wisdom is founded in the “fear of the Lord,” and it enables believers to express their faith in the practical details of everyday life.

Audience

The book is addressed to a young man. The situations he will face while he is young receive much attention. These situations supply concrete examples from which all readers can apply lessons to their own lives. Anyone who is wise and who pays attention will benefit (1:5) from this instruction.

Reading Proverbs

The reader of Proverbs must seek to understand the various types of people the book describes. The most obvious characters in the book are the wise, the fool, and the simple. Proverbs urges its readers to be wise, which means embracing God’s covenant and living out the covenant in everyday situations (compare 2:2; 10:1). The fool is the person who constantly opposes God’s covenant (1:7b). The simple is the person who is not firmly committed, either to wisdom or to folly; he is easily misled (14:15).

The first nine chapters of Proverbs are “wisdom poems” that urge the reader to pursue wisdom. The main section of Proverbs—the concise, memorable statements of two or three lines—begins in 10:1. Proverbs often seem to be mere observations about life, but their deeper meanings will reveal themselves if the following questions are kept in mind: (1) What virtue does this proverb commend? (2) What vice does it disapprove of? (3) What value does it affirm?

Key Themes

Proverbs offers wisdom on a wide array of topics from daily life: diligence and laziness (6:6–11); friendship (3:27–28; 18:24); speech (10:19–21); marriage (18:22; 19:14); child rearing (22:6); domestic peace (15:17; 17:1); work (11:1); getting along and good manners (23:1–2; 25:16–17; 26:17–19; 27:14); eternity (14:32; 23:17–18); and much more. It shows that “godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Tim. 4:8).

  1. God’s will is intensely practical, applying to every aspect of life. A proper relation to God involves trying hard to understand his truth, and then embracing and obeying that truth.
  2. A life lived by God’s will is a happy life (3:21–26).
  3. A life lived by God’s will is a useful life (3:27–28; 12:18, 25).
  4. A life lived by God’s will does not just happen. One must seek after it (9:1–6).

Outline

  1. Title, Goal, and Motto (1:1–7)
  2. A Father’s Invitation to Wisdom (1:8–9:18)
  3. Proverbs of Solomon (10:1–22:16)
  4. The Thirty Sayings of “the Wise” (22:17–24:22)
  5. Further Sayings of “the Wise” (24:23–34)
  6. Hezekiah’s Collection of Solomonic Proverbs (25:1–29:27)
  7. The Sayings of Agur (30:1–33)
  8. The Sayings of King Lemuel (31:1–9)
  9. An Alphabet of Womanly Excellence (31:10–31)
The Global Message of Proverbs

The Global Message of Proverbs

Proverbs: Wisdom for the World

The book of Proverbs is not simply a collection of “wise sayings” for life. It is heaven-sent help for stumbling sinners all over the world from every walk of life who are willing to listen to something other than their own fallen instincts. The “fool” in Proverbs is not someone who lacks intellectual capacity but one who stubbornly lives out of his own fallen intuitions, resisting instruction and correction. Likewise, the wise person in Proverbs is not someone who is intellectually superior but someone who humbly places himself beneath the authority of God. Such wisdom is for all God’s people everywhere.

In his great mercy God has clearly shown wisdom to the world—both through the instruction of his Word and in the person of his Son. The book of Proverbs summarizes true wisdom as rooted in the “fear of the LORD” (Prov. 1:7). In Jesus such wisdom takes on new clarity and glory as the one who is the “wisdom of God” (1 Cor. 1:24) and who “became to us wisdom from God” (1 Cor. 1:30). God’s global people are to receive such wise instruction, to base their wise living in the fear and worship of God, and to testify to a lost world about God’s saving wisdom.

God’s Wisdom Is Theological and Practical

In one sense wisdom is very much universal. It is difficult to find a culture or tradition without its own legacy of wise sayings. Some of these are culture-specific; others reflect the shared human experience.

Scripture’s admonition and exhortation about wisdom, however, is clear. Our faith is not to rest on man’s wisdom but is to be rooted in God’s power (1 Cor. 2:5). The wisdom of this world is “folly with God” (1 Cor. 3:19). Ultimate wisdom is from God (1 Cor. 1:30) and is revealed by God (1 Cor. 2:7). True wisdom is theological and God-given. Those who lack wisdom are to “ask God” for it (James 1:5). It is the Lord who gives wisdom (Prov. 2:6). In Proverbs 9:10 God’s people are reminded again that, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight” (compare 1:7). True wisdom is not the handy tips for life that get handed down from generation to generation among those who do not know God. True wisdom is divine. It is rooted in God’s own saving revelation to his people.

God’s wisdom is not only theological; it is also practical. Indeed, wisdom is practical because it is theological. Theology impacts daily life, and this is clearly seen in the instruction of Proverbs. Everyday life issues are addressed, including parental relations (Prov. 10:1; 15:20; 19:26; 23:25), marriage (5:18; 12:4; 18:22; 19:13–14; 31:10), money (3:9; 10:4; 11:1; 15:16; 16:11), and the power and danger of words (4:5; 7:5; 10:19; 16:24; 17:27). These are life issues that affect people of every age and place. Proverbs provides a picture of both the blessed life grounded in the fear of the Lord and the danger-filled and foolish life of those who despise the Lord’s wisdom and instruction (1:7).

God’s Wisdom Is Individual and Global

Individual wisdom. For every person, in every place, in every time, the message of Proverbs rings true: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Prov. 9:10). Wisdom from above is not mere advice or pithy sayings. Rather, the worthiest and most blessed advice flows from God, when he has his proper central place in the heart and worship of each individual created by his hand and in his image.

Global wisdom. The message of Proverbs is also global. This is true, first, because only God’s wisdom comprehensively instructs and skillfully dissects with perfect insight the hearts of mankind from every place and for every time. God’s wisdom is global, second, in that God’s global people are called to global engagement and a global mission. The Lord is not a tribal god. The teaching of Proverbs is not tribal lore. God’s wisdom is eternal and global. And God’s people are called to be instruments, through word and deed, of teaching his wisdom to the world. Those who are wise in God represent God to the world. For example, the wise exhibit generosity to the poor and the needy (Prov. 14:21, 31). The wise in God speak enduring and reliable wisdom to a world desperately looking for life-giving counsel. The wise in God feed even their own enemies (25:21).

Taking God’s Saving Wisdom to the World

In the book of Proverbs the Lord has equipped his people to fulfill his global and eternal purposes. God’s purpose is to reveal himself to and then through a people who will bring eternal blessing to the world, and that purpose is still unfolding around the world today (Matt. 28:18–20). In his kindness God has made known both the path of the wicked (Prov. 4:14) and the path of righteousness (12:28). The one leads to destruction and the other to life (11:19).

When love and grace is observed by the world in the lives of God’s people and supremely in the cross of Christ, it is indeed “folly” to them (1 Cor. 1:18, 21). But “the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men” (1 Cor. 1:25). The wise in God share the good news of the wisdom of God in the gospel of Christ with nations both near and far. Such sharing, when it lands on receptive ears, is “like cold water to a thirsty soul” (Prov. 25:25).In grace God is opening blind eyes through the gospel to his glorious wisdom. In grace he has shown us and empowered us toward a life of God-honoring, upright living. In grace he will use us as his global ambassadors till the day we join in the angelic choir proclaiming, “Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen” (Rev. 7:12).

Job Fact #9: Proverbs in Job

Fact: Proverbs in Job

Proverbs in Job. In 17:5, Job may have been quoting a proverb to warn his friends not to make false accusations against him. Proverbs are an effective and memorable way of stating a truth. The book of Proverbs is a rich resource of such wisdom.

Proverbs Fact #1: Wisdom

Fact: Wisdom

Wisdom is a key term in Job, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes. The word can mean “skilled at making sound decisions in life.” Proverbs 9:10 states that “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.”

Proverbs Fact #4: Garlands

Fact: Garlands

Garlands were wreaths woven from leaves and flowers. They were worn around the head or neck during various celebrations such as weddings. They were also symbols of honor for military success. In Proverbs, they symbolize the honor that comes from following the way of wisdom (4:9).

Proverbs Fact #7: The simple person

Fact: The simple person

The simple person (7:7) is one of the primary character types described in the book of Proverbs. The term describes someone who is immature and easily misled (14:15).

Proverbs Fact #10: A different kind of security

Fact: A different kind of security

A different kind of security. In biblical times, if a person was unable to pay his debt, the consequences could be serious. The whole family could be sold into slavery. If someone put up “security” for another person, he promised to pay that person’s debt if he was unable to do so himself. Proverbs teaches that putting up security for another person is generally unwise, since those who do so risk losing everything if the other person cannot pay his debt (11:15).

Proverbs Fact #27: Gluttony

Fact: Gluttony

Gluttony refers to excessive eating. The Bible condemns gluttony as well as drunkenness. Proverbs teaches that eating and drinking in excess can lead to poverty (23:19–21).

Proverbs Fact #28: Hezekiah’s contribution to Proverbs

Fact: Hezekiah’s contribution to Proverbs

Hezekiah’s contribution to Proverbs. Although most of the Proverbs were collected or written by King Solomon, who reigned from 971–931 B.C., the book of Proverbs did not exist in its present form until the time of King Hezekiah, some 200 years later. Hezekiah and “his men,” probably his scribes, recorded chs. 25–29.

Proverbs Fact #29: Rock badgers

Fact: Rock badgers

Rock badgers are small cliff-dwelling animals closely resembling guinea pigs. They live and forage for food in large groups and are good at hiding. They are best known for posting sentries that alert the group when danger is near. Perhaps it was this mark of wisdom that earned them a mention in Proverbs (30:26).

Proverbs Fact #9: Vinegar

Fact: Vinegar

Vinegar (10:26) is wine that has soured. Though generally made from grapes, vinegar can be made with many different fruits. It was often used for seasoning food and bread (Ruth 2:14).

OT Testimony that All Are under Sin (3:9)

OT Testimony that All Are under Sin (3:9)

Romans 3 OT Reference
Sinful Condition
v. 10, none is righteous Ps. 14:3/53:3; Eccles. 7:20
v. 11a, no one understands Ps. 14:2/53:2
v. 11b, no one seeks for God Ps. 14:2/53:2
v. 12, all have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one Ps. 14:3/53:3
Sinful Speech (note progression from throat to tongue to lips)
v. 13a, b, their throat is an open grave; they use their tongues to deceive Ps. 5:10, Septuagint (English, 5:9)
v. 13c, the venom of asps is under their lips Ps. 140:3
v. 14, their mouth is full of curses and bitterness Ps. 10:7
Sinful Action
v. 15, their feet are swift to shed blood Prov. 1:16/Isa. 59:7
v. 16, in their paths are ruin and misery Isa. 59:7
v. 17, and the way of peace they have not known Isa. 59:8
Summary Statement
v. 18, there is no fear of God before their eyes Ps. 36:1
Study Notes

Prov. 10:1 This verse introduces the proverbs of 10:1–22:16 by echoing the previous chapters’ appeals of a father and mother to be a wise son. This should remind the reader that the instruction of 1:1–9:18 is essential for a proper understanding of the proverbs that will follow.

Study Notes

Prov. 10:4 makes rich. See v. 22a. The diligent is another name applied to the wise (see Introduction: Reading Proverbs). The gift of persistence is the Lord’s primary means of providing for his people’s material needs (see v. 3). The contrasts of vv. 6–32 further indicate that an attitude of diligence comes from “the fear of the LORD” (v. 27).

Study Notes

Prov. 10:1–5 These proverbs encourage working in a righteous way. They discourage acquiring treasures by unjust means (v. 2a) or wasting one’s wealth by sloth (vv. 4–5). God’s people can live in this way because the LORD does not let the righteous go hungry. They trust God to provide for them, and they do not waste his resources (v. 3; see note on v. 4).

Study Notes

Prov. 10:6–11 Neither the blessings . . . on the head of the righteous nor the violence that is hidden by the mouth of the wicked are necessarily obvious to an observer who sees only external facts (v. 6). However, the one who is wise of heart (v. 8a) will walk securely (v. 9a), whereas the fool (vv. 8b, 10) who makes his ways crooked (v. 9b) will come to ruin (vv. 8b, 10b).

Study Notes

Prov. 10:12 The wicked are described as concealing violence (vv. 6b, 11b) or hatred (vv. 12a, 18a). They deceive others for their own sinful purposes. The one who is wise seeks the good of others even when he or she is the offended party: love covers all offenses (the Hebrew verb translated here as “covers” is translated “conceal” in vv. 6b, 11b, 18a). Compare Matt. 5:44; 1 Pet. 4:8.

Study Notes

Prov. 10:15 The proverb reflects on the benefit of wealth and the harmful effect of poverty. Wealth can be like a strong city, providing safety, resources, and protection against misfortune. Poverty leads to difficulty and thus should not be embraced out of laziness or romanticism.

Study Notes

Prov. 10:22 This verse, at the center of vv. 12–32, teaches an important truth about both the source and the nature of wealth. Since it is the blessing of the LORD that makes rich, one must seek wealth through righteous means. A person’s hope should come not from material things but from the Lord who provides (see vv. 23–30). he adds no sorrow with it. When the Lord gives material blessing, he gives it freely and with joy.

Study Notes
Proverbs Fact #9: Vinegar

Fact: Vinegar

Vinegar (10:26) is wine that has soured. Though generally made from grapes, vinegar can be made with many different fruits. It was often used for seasoning food and bread (Ruth 2:14).

Study Notes

Prov. 10:27 As a general rule, the fear of the LORD prolongs life because of the Lord’s blessing (compare 9:11; Deut. 5:16). Likewise, as a general rule, the years of the wicked will be short, whether because the Lord brings about premature death as a judgment or because sinful patterns destroy physical health and peace of mind.

Study Notes

Prov. 10:30 The phrases will never be removed and will not dwell indicate that the land here refers to the promised end of the righteous path (see note on 2:21–22).

Study Notes

Prov. 10:31–32 The repetition of the mouth of the righteous (see v. 11a) and the mouth of the wicked (see vv. 6b, 11b) acts as a frame around vv. 6–32. Verses 31–32 conclude the chapter by drawing the contrast into focus: The perverse tongue shows the state of the person’s heart (see the related contrast of v. 20). The fact that it will be cut off indicates that what the wicked have hidden in their speech (violence, vv. 6b, 11b; hatred, v. 18a) has ruined them from the inside out. By contrast, the mouth and lips of the righteous reveal a heart that brings forth wisdom, which is a blessing to themselves and others (see vv. 11a, 21a).

S3:009 Proverbs 10

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Dive Deeper | Proverbs 10

The most foolish thing I've done in my life was to step out on my husband. I was blinded by selfishness and my own desires, versus what was blessed and ordained by God. Headed for divorce, I was about to repeat a pattern well known in my maternal family regarding relationships with men. It was not until some trusted friends in our church appealed to us to reconsider our relationship based on God's Word (Genesis 2:18). These friends did not stand idly by—they spoke up because they saw that we needed their help. They simply said, "We love you, and so does God. Please seek counseling." That was over 28 years ago, and we continue to be grateful for our faithful friends' wisdom.

I never wanted to be tempted to be out of God's will again, so I leaned into the Proverbs. As I prayed for Spirit-filled insight, God began to work in me like never before. 

In previous chapters of Proverbs, we learned who Lady Wisdom and Lady Folly are. Proverbs 10 shares 32 of Solomon's sayings for skillful living from God's point of view. One that really stands out for me is Proverbs 10:9: "Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out." This is a reminder that only living wisely—God's way—will provide the security we seek. Not money, status, or anything else of this world. It also tells us that nothing is hidden from God, and eventually lack of integrity will bear consequences. 

The other standout for me is Proverbs 10:19: "When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent." In the world today, words are seen as power. The true wisdom shown in this verse clearly states the opposite. Wisdom is to restrain the tongue, since much speech risks sin (Psalm 39:1).

Living wisely requires us to seek instruction from the Lord. The concrete examples and truisms are meant to be generalized and applied to different situations. We should pay heed to these wise words lest we face the negative outcomes described.

This month's memory verse

with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,

– Ephesians 4:2

Discussion Questions

Regardless of where confusion reigns—in finances, friendships, families, or faith, Wisdom can restore order. After reading Proverbs 10,

1. What virtue is recommended? What vice is warned against?  

2. What value is held up for your approval?

3. Are you seeking wisdom from God when there is trouble in your life? 

4. Are you willing to be corrected by those you deem wise?

As we gear up to release even more features for Join The Journey in 2025, our staff team, unfortunately, no longer has the margin to continue to support the comment functionality. We have big things in store for Join The Journey 2025. Stay tuned!

MS

Michael Scaman

It's not just 'when' to speak up. Sometimes you can get farther by 'how' you speak up. How a person sees, hears, the tone and style all matter. For a gentle approach you need to say 2 good things for every bad. People may not be able to hear you when you deliver bad news. In fact you might need to say everything good first then then bad news. For information, a teacher might need to make it interesting else students tune out or pick up less. Example? Let's say the chapter a different way and a hearer might recall more. Imagine a PBS moderated argument between far left influencers and conservative influencers: regarding Proverbs 10 Moderator: Welcome to PBS's award winning show where the far left and right engage with each other: "We Looked at Life From Both Sides Now" Moderator: Ladies and gentlemen, here are the main points made and how often in Proverbs 10. Not seeing freedom from oppressors here, unless you mean oppression from your own bad behaviors - aka sin. For the panel discussion, here are the categories sorted by the most total count first, with the count listed on the same line as the category by ChatGPT. Bring up the computational chapter breakdown chart please: Wisdom and Righteous Living: (7) ****************************************** Life and Character: (5) ****************************** Blessings and Righteousness: (4) ************************ Wealth and Poverty: (4) ************************ Integrity and Conduct: (3) ****************** Love and Relationships: (1) ****** Moderator: Your thoughts? Progressive's first Progressive Activists: Luna Rainbow: "The wise son thing? It's like, ancient vibes, man. Let's ride the wave of evolving family norms, you feel?" Cosmo Kaleidoscope: "Proverbs 10 whispers social justice, a kaleidoscope of fairness. Can we groove with that, William?" Neutral moderator: And conservatives starting with William? You seem to be nominated to go first by Cosmo. Conservative Traditionalists: William Heritage answers: "Ancient vibes can be timeless, Luna. Wise son reflects respect, not just tradition, ya know?" Emily Virtue adds: "Treasures gained by hard work – it's the gold standard of personal responsibility, not some far-out collectivism, Cosmo." Luna Rainbow answers: "Dude, can we vibe together on fostering fairness and justice, maybe create a cosmic harmony?" William Heritage: "Sure, let's dance in the middle, balance progress with timeless values like respect for God, parents, others and a healthy work ethic. " Moderator: That's a rap for today, tune in tomorrow for another podcast of PBS's "We Looked at Life From Both Sides Now" Moderator: Somethings to chew on. Let's continue in Proverbs and see 'how Solomon rolls' After all as far as quotes form the New Testamant it's in the top 10 books from the Old Testament quoted coming in at 7th pace. The top 10 are: Psalms: (68) ********************************************************************** Isaiah: (55) ****************************************************** Deut (44) ******************************************** Genesis: (35) *********************************** Exodus: (31) ***************************** Leviticus: (13) ************* Proverbs: (8) ******** (7th place) Zechariah: (7) ******* Hosea: (6) ****** Jeremiah: (5) *****
SB

Sue Bohlin

Bless you, Deardra, for allowing the Lord to direct and teach others from your lowest moment. Verse 9a makes me smile: “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely…” I’m on a cruise ship this week, and walking on a moving vessel is a challenge! Of course, Solomon uses “walk” to refer to how we live, but it’s fun to think about this verse literally today. I am blessed to have a mobility scooter to zip me around this massive ship, but apart from speed, it also provides security because the 4 wheels and the 99 lbs. of the scooter’s weight absorb all the side-to-side motion that challenges everyone else who’s walking when the ship is really moving. It blesses me to sit and rest on the scooter much in the same way that I am able to sit and rest in the Lord’s hand.
HS

Hugh Stephenson

Michael - Fabulous again. Well done. Sue - "Scoot" on back to us soon. Ali Baba is waiting for the the Bohlins, Hope and the Stephensons ------------------------------------------------------------------ Fairly early on in my post-salvation journey I was taught about the importance of purpose and mission. A key element of this became a deep desire to be “God’s Man”. In that, I knew that all of his 7,487 promises would be mine to claim. Also, I knew that the surrender that this entailed would enable the Holy Spirit to work in me to lead and love as God designs. Very quickly I was convicted that my struggles in leadership of family and team was largely grounded in the fact that I was not worthy of being followed. Friends, let me tell you, that is a really big “brick to the face” moment. I had served in leadership positions my teenage and young adult life. Even more so when my professional career began and for the next 30 years. Then, in 2013, a wise mentor who was a legitimate man of God helped me realize I was dancing to the wrong music. The conviction was deeper and more tragic than anything that had ever happened to me. I was not who I thought I was. I was relying and resting on my worldly resume. The focus of my heart should have been on the eternal with my eyes fixed on Jesus. I was not wise. I was the fool we have read about in Proverbs 1-9 and will read more about this month and next. Immediately I went to Amy and shared this epiphany with her. I pledged to her that I would seek to be worthy of God’s call and would commit myself to loving her as he calls me to in Genesis 2:24 and Ephesians 5:25. I knew a long and tough journey lay ahead. Metaphorically, I knew it would be toward the small gate via the narrow road, (Matthew 7:13-14). God’s wisdom through Solomon and the other writers of these proverbs have been an important foundation in my journey.
HS

Hugh Stephenson

Chapters 10-22 is a long run. Here's a great set up and intro from the ESV SB- Prov. 10:1–22:16 Proverbs of Solomon. Here begins what may be called the “proverbs proper,” individual maxims or aphorisms, after the longer wisdom poems of chs. 1–9. Often, however, individual proverbs are grouped together into small collections which, taken together, give the reader a more complete understanding of a given topic (see Introduction: Literary Features). Prov. 10:1–5 The purpose of these proverbs is to encourage the pursuit of one’s labors in righteousness, which excludes acquiring gain by unjust means (v. 2a) or squandering it by sloth (vv. 4–5). At the center of these verses is the reason: The LORD does not let the righteous go hungry. It is the Lord who provides (v. 3), and through righteousness he delivers not only from hunger but also from death(v. 2b). The encouragement of the whole section to walk in righteousness is framed by the appeal to be a son who is wise (v. 1a) or prudent (v. 5a) rather than foolish (v. 1b) or shameful (v. 5b). To see vv. 1–5 as a paragraph should prevent taking any of its verses out of context (see note on v. 4). Prov. 10:6–32 Although set in clusters, vv. 6–32 as a whole act to contrast the righteous and the wicked in order to illustrate that “righteousness” (v. 2) is the path for a wise son. The phrase “the mouth of the wicked” opens (vv. 6, 11) and closes (v. 32) the section, which also includes other terms for the same idea (e.g., “lips” in vv. 13a, 18a, 21a, 32a; “babbling fool” is lit., “foolish of lips,” vv. 8b, 10b). The recurring terms relating to the mouth (lips, tongue, etc.) are connected to their relation to both hunger (or desire) and speech: what people desire and how they attain it are both indicators of the path they walk.
HS

Hugh Stephenson

Dr. Constable offers a long but very helpful overview of chapters 10-22 II. COLLECTION 2: SOLOMON'S COUPLETS EXPRESSING WISDOM 10:1—22:16 Chapters 1—9, as we have seen, contain discourses (instructive speeches) that someone, probably Solomon, wrote urging his son to choose the way of wisdom for his life. However, Kidner believed that if Solomon had written the first nine chapters, 10:1 would read, "These also are proverbs of Solomon."[275] At 10:1, we begin the part of the book that sets forth what "the wise way" is in a variety of life situations. We move now from instructive speeches to wisdom sayings—two major kinds of literature.[276] "The mode of service is not table d'hôte [a meal offered at a fixed price with few if any choices] but a la carte [a meal offered as separate items], brief, detached snacks of wisdom, like a vast buffet of hors d'oeuvres [small appetizing dishes]."[277] "Until now the book of Proverbs has been identifying the truly wise man. From this point on, it will describe how such a man should conduct his life from day to day. This logical topical order appears in many New Testament epistles, where the saved person is first identified, and then the daily life he should live is described [e.g., Rom. 1—5 and 6— 8; Eph. 1—3 and 4—6]."[278] "The main thought is that moral goodness and industry bring prosperity, and wickedness and indolence adversity ..."[279] There are 184 maxims in chapters 10—15 and 191 in chapters 16—22 for a total of 375.[280] A maxim is a succinct or pithy saying that has some proven truth to it: a general rule, principle, or truth. This group of sayings represents only a few of the 3,000 proverbs that Solomon "spoke" (1 Kings 4:32). Waltke wrote that the Book of Proverbs contains 930 sayings.[281] Most of the proverbs in this section are one verse long and contain two lines each; they are couplets. The second line normally contrasts, compares, or completes the idea expressed in the first line. This is Hebrew parallelism. In chapters 10—15, most couplets contain antithetic parallelism. The key word is "but." In chapters 16—22, there are more synonymous parallelisms marked by the conjunction "and." There are also sentences in which the second line continues the thought of the first line (e.g., 14:26). Some couplets contain comparisons in which the relative value of two things is set forth (e.g., 11:31). Some contain a statement in the first line followed by an explanation in the second line (e.g., 20:2).[282] Is there any logic to the arrangement of these seemingly unrelated proverbs? In some places there is a general association of ideas, and in some places there is a recurring key word (e.g., "king" in 16:12-15, and "Yahweh" in 16:1- 7). However, many of these couplets have no logical connection with what immediately precedes or follows in the context. This anthology (collection) style is typical of other ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature. "There is simply no consensus on the subunits that allegedly were put together in the present form of the book."[283] "A proverb is like a jewel, and the book of Proverbs is like a heap of jewels. Indeed, it is a heap of different kinds of jewels. Is it really such a loss if they are not all laid out in pretty, symmetric designs or divided into neat little piles?"[284] "The absence of a systematic arrangement is due to the traditional character of the contents. There is no need of a closely knit argument; striking images, incisive wording are all that is required to give a fresh appeal to the truth of familiar viewpoints."[285] "It is also surprising to find lofty precepts mixed with more 'trivial' apothegms [sayings]. Of course, this is a misconception based on the modern-day viewpoint of life. From the sages' perspective each proverb is an expression of 'wisdom,' which is ... the fixed order of reality. Viewed from this perspective no sentence is trivial ..."[286] Why did the Holy Spirit not arrange these proverbs topically so that we could study all of them that deal with one subject together? Perhaps He did so because the method He chose is "a course of education in the life of wisdom."[287] "As we read Proverbs chapter by chapter, the Spirit of God has the freedom to teach us about many subjects, and we never know from day to day which topic we'll need the most. Just as the Bible itself isn't arranged like a systematic theology, neither is Proverbs. What Solomon wrote is more like a kaleidoscope than a stained-glass window: We never know what the next pattern will be."[288] In his commentary, Hubbard organized his comments on the proverbs in 10:1—26:16 topically. The topics that he selected are as follows: wisdom, work, generosity, rashness, honesty, kindness to animals, violence, hope, the fear of the LORD, self-control, prudent speech, prayer, the LORD's eyes, the king's face, family ties, friendly bonds, peace in society, purity in speech, open ears, full hands, firm hands, fair scales, rewards of conduct, pride, cautious conduct, and justice.[289] This list demonstrates the variety of subjects dealt with in this section of the book. Chuck Swindoll presented 13 subject studies: Living beyond the daily grind of human viewpoint, disobedience, shallowness, worry, an unguarded heart, biblical illiteracy, a troubled heart, an uncontrolled tongue (two studies), discontentment, lustful temptations, procrastination, and domestic disharmony.[290] Many of the following proverbs explain what various types of people characteristically do, or what usually happens to them. "Our conduct, whether wise or foolish, has ultimate consequences. That is the major theme of Proverbs, and notably of 10:1—22:16. ... The importance of choice is highlighted first in the freedom to make sound decisions which Israel's wise always assumed. Neither wisdom nor folly was a predetermined, inevitable choice for them. No one was predestined to either. Each human being had the opportunity and obligation to make that choice personally."[291] Ironside provided one or more biblical illustrations of almost all of the proverbs in chapters 10—29. I have referred to many of these in the exposition that follows, as well as adding illustrations of my own. A. Marks of Wise Living chs. 10—15 Solomon advocated choosing things that benefit and things that have true and lasting value. He pictured wise living in a variety of contexts. He urged making wise investments, valuing righteousness, and avoiding trouble. He also pointed out the fruits of wise living and concluded this section of the book with further advice for wise living.
GJ

greg jones

From the questions this resonated. “Regardless of where confusion reigns—in finances, friendships, families, or faith, Wisdom can restore order.” Thank you @Deardra From the comments… “Imagine a PBS moderated argument between far left influencers and conservative influencers: regarding Proverbs 10” Okay I did. Now I have a image of Joni Mitchell and Big Bird debating Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy with Jim Lehrer moderating seared on my brain. :-) Thanks @Michael Scaman More bible nerd stuff. Proverbs 1:1 The Proverbs of Solomon, son of David, King of Israel. But they don’t actually start until you get to Proverbs 10:1. The heading at the beginning of the chapter tells us so-The Proverbs of Solomon Proverbs 1:2-9:18 is a long theological introduction to the written Proverbs. Proverbs 10:1-22:16 are the Proverbs of Solomon. Proverbs 22:17-24:22 are titled Words of the Wise. Proverbs 24:23-34 is titled More Sayings of the Wise. The contributors to the words of the wise and the more sayings of the wise sections are nameless. Most modern scholars agree that Proverbs 22:17-23:11 is borrowed from an Egyptian wisdom book said to be authored by Amenemope. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Instruction_of_Amenemope Proverbs 25-29 is titled More Proverbs of Solomon. Proverbs 25:1 says: These also are proverbs of Solomon which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied. I’ve always been taught that Solomon wrote the book of Proverbs. Reading the book closely makes many people think otherwise. They say that the book evolved over a span of hundreds of years in Israel’s history. I’m okay either way. Proverbs 30 is titled The Words of Agur, Proverbs 31 The Words of King Lemuel. Apparently nobody knows who these two guys are their identities have been lost to history. But when the book was being put together it was obviously thought that their names were important enough to be mentioned.
LD

Lindsey Driscoll

Deardra, thank you for sharing so authentically how God led you back to his wisdom at a time when the enemy was trying to get you to continue in the ways of the wicked. Q2 - what value is help up for my approval? Words are of great value to the Lord! He was so kind to preserve his word, the Bible for us for so many years! I’m praying today I am not a “chattering fool” (Proverbs 10:8, 10) but that my words show that I am heeding discipline and wisdom (Proverbs 10:17) and that my life and words show the way to life in Christ. Proverbs 10:17 is what I’m meditating on today in the context of motherhood and asking the Lord where am I from ignoring correction?
MA

Maryann Adams

What an excellent devo, Dee! The fruit of much prayer and discernment! So many points to ponder! Thank you for your thorough study. The first words, "Are you willing..." of Question #4 was my "stop and think" space. My willingness is the "sink or swim" moment, the real battleground. Do I really have a teachable spirit, willing to listen to wise correction and pray about it, knowing God providentially planned for it? Integrity and security as mentioned in verse 9 are surely great rewards for this kind of teachable heart. I read a quote this week from Helen Keller: "The most pathetic person in the world is someone who has sight but has not vision." I was reminded about the necessity of a humble, receptive heart in order for a mature vision to be formed, ie a vision of hope for change in an area of weakness.
AL

Amy Lowther

1. One recommended virtue is to heed instruction. Another virtue or effort to do what is right is to find pleasure in wisdom (not stress). In contrast, the passage warns not to gain treasures by wickedness or be consumed with anger to stir up more anger. 2. Life is not about approval (though it happens and God will forgive you for it). Life is about believing in yourself and doing things God intends you do. 3. Yes, because I can recall it from my experiences with God in reading the Bible, attending and listening to services on Sundays, and using what I learned from them in daily life while there wasn’t trouble. 4. I find correction acceptable when it comes from wise people (experienced and resourceful in the area which needs to be corrected). Wise people are typically caring and unselfish. Wise people help you understand the correction and how to do it in positive ways without expecting anything for themselves in return for their efforts. Deardra - Thank you for sharing your ideas. You make a good point in saying “only living wisely—God's way—will provide the security we seek. Not money, status, or anything else of this world”. God’s ideas, values, and preferences do help us secure what is within our lives and our lives overall.
JC

Jason Cromwell

When I was younger, so much younger than today, I thought I was seeking "Wise Council" by telling people what was going on. It turned out to be a form of People Pleasing, and gossip for those it was told too. Now that I'm older and somewhat wiser I have learned to take those things to God directly. One thing I have found a lack of, in my experience, are men willing to step up to be mentors. I have always welcomed "Wise Council", and have prayed for more of it in my life.
MS

Michael Scaman

Wise counsel is good but not the only thing... Tim Keller had a good comment posthumously on X a day or two ago Most people are looking for Jesus as a Counselor (unsaid was that falls a far short of Lord)