Category: Proverbs

This chapter is unique in the way it really emphasizes and praises the qualities of a God-honoring woman. Let’s remember that in ancient times women generally went unrecognized, especially for their critical roles and hard work. They were viewed as property, something less than human. Thankfully society has come a long way in giving women…

This chapter and the next quote wisdom from people other than Solomon. This chapter is written by Agur (only mentioned here in the Bible) and it reads like a psalm, while still containing wise sayings. “Four things on earth are small, but they are exceedingly wise: the ants are a people not strong, yet they…

This chapter again contains many themes, and many obscure proverbs, so we’ll only break down a few. “He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck, will suddenly be broken beyond healing. By mere words a servant is not disciplined, for though he understands, he will not respond.” (v1, 19) Have you ever seen someone…

This chapter contains multiple themes such as wealth, integrity, leading well, and moral character. “Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy. Blessed is the one who fears the Lord always, but whoever hardens his heart will fall into calamity. Whoever walks in integrity will be…

There are some odd sayings here that made me re-read them a few times. Let’s unpack a few. – “Wrath is cruel, anger is overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?” (v4) All emotions can be used for good or for evil. The evil side of jealousy is considered worse than that of anger or…

This chapter has a few different themes of laziness, foolishness, quarreling, and evil. “Whoever meddles in a quarrel not his own is like one who takes a passing dog by the ears. For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, quarreling ceases. As charcoal to hot embers and wood…

This chapter has an overarching theme of how to love (or hate) our neighbors. Just a reminder, Jesus says that every person we encounter in this world is ‘our neighbor’, not just those who live nearby. “What your eyes have seen do not hastily bring into court… Argue your case with your neighbor himself, and…

This chapter continues the wise sayings of Solomon, several of which are long-form (multiple verses rather than single verses). “I passed by the field of a sluggard, by the vineyard of a man lacking sense, and behold, it was all overgrown with thorns; the ground was covered with nettles, and its stone wall was broken…

This chapter seems to focus on two types of behavior – both wise and unwise. “Apply your heart to instruction and your ear to words of knowledge. My son, if your heart is wise, my heart too will be glad. My inmost being will exult when your lips speak what is right. Be not among…

The theme that resounds with me today is Christ-honoring character. “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold. The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life. Train up a child in the way he should go; even…