Category: Doctrine

Cease from Thine own Wisdom – Part 1

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Proverbs 23:4-5 Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom. Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven. 

Five instructions from a father to his son (continues): [4] Labour not to be rich – do not make wealth your chief pursuit (23:4-5). This passage does not condemn honest labour, diligence, or prosperity, for Scripture often praises faithful work. The warning is against making riches the supreme goal of life. Earthly wealth is uncertain and temporary, for riches “certainly make themselves wings; they fly away.” Money can disappear through economic troubles, sickness, theft, death, poor decisions, or changing circumstances. Therefore, eternal things must come first: wisdom, righteousness, godly character, and one’s relationship with God.

“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” Mark 8:36.

Human wisdom often teaches success at any cost, wealth as identity, and possessions as security. Biblical wisdom teaches dependence upon God rather than trust in material abundance. A person consumed with gaining wealth may gain money while losing peace, integrity, family, health, or spiritual life. Solomon, instructed by David and writing personally to his sons, teaches throughout this chapter that true wisdom values eternal treasure above earthly gain and remains spiritually discerning in every circumstance.

To be continued…

Consider Diligently – Part 3

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Proverbs 23:1-3 When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee: And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite. Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat. 

Five instructions from a father to his son (23:1-5): [1] Consider carefully who is before you and act wisely accordingly (23:1). A ruler’s table was not the place for careless words or uncontrolled behaviour. Wisdom discerns the importance of the moment, the character of the ruler, and the need for restraint and understanding. Wise men understand that character, humility, and wisdom open doors more than appetite does. A person in authority may be observing your self-control, manners, conversation, greed, humility, and whether you can be trusted with responsibility. [2] Put a knife to your throat – exercise strict self-control (23:2). This vivid figure of speech does not advocate literal harm, but strong self-discipline and restraint. The warning is against gluttony, greed, and uncontrolled appetites. A glutton gives the impression of being immature, lacking self-control, and untrustworthy. Temperance and moderation leave a favourable impression, especially among leaders and people of influence. Scripture consistently presents self-control as evidence of wisdom, maturity, and spiritual strength (16:32). [3] Do not lust after delicacies or become impressed by luxury (23:3). The ruler’s luxurious food is called “deceitful meat” because outward luxury can hide hidden motives, obligations, temptations, or pride. The warning is against covetousness, craving luxury, pretending sophistication, or acting as though wealth and status are the highest good. A wise man remains composed whether among kings or common men and is not spiritually weakened by material attraction. Sometimes favours and gifts from powerful people come with expectations attached, and therefore, discernment is necessary. To be continued…

Consider Diligently – Part 2

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Proverbs 23:1-3 When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee: And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite. Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat. 

Five examples of men given to appetite: [1] Esau traded his birthright for one meal (Gen. 25:30-34). Temporary craving caused him to despise long-term spiritual blessing. His appetite ruled his judgment. [2] Isaac’s love for savoury food influenced his decisions concerning Esau and caused hatred between his sons (Gen. 25:28; 27:4). Personal appetite weakened spiritual discernment. [3] Nabal feasted excessively and became drunk during a time requiring wisdom and humility (1Sam. 25:36). His indulgence reflected pride and foolishness. [4] Belshazzar held a great feast while judgment approached his kingdom (Daniel 5). In the midst of pleasure and pride, the handwriting appeared on the wall announcing his downfall. His appetite blinded him to spiritual danger. [5] False teachers (Php. 3:18-19). Paul said of some: “whose god is their belly.” Their lives were governed by earthly desires instead of truth and righteousness.

Proverbs 23 teaches that appetite is a good servant but a terrible master. Whether the appetite is for food, wealth, pleasure, honour, or luxury, wisdom requires self-government. A disciplined person can stand before rulers with dignity, but a person ruled by appetite eventually loses honour, discernment, and stability.

To be continued…

Consider Diligently – Part 1

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Proverbs 23:1-3 When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee: And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite. Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat. 

Solomon, taught by his father, King David, writes this passage with the understanding found throughout Scripture that believers are not to form close fellowship with worldly and corrupt influences (cf. 1Cor. 5:9-13; 10:20-22; 2Cor. 6:14-18). Therefore, these verses should not be taken out of context. They teach wisdom, self-control, and discernment when in the presence of people of power, influence, wealth, or high status. In ancient times, eating at a ruler’s table was far more than a social occasion; it was often connected to politics, loyalty, honour, and the testing of character. A man’s conduct at such a table revealed his discipline, humility, wisdom, and whether he could be trusted with responsibility.

The phrase “consider diligently” carries the idea of carefully observing, thinking wisely, and conducting oneself with understanding. The emphasis is not merely on the food, but on the situation, the person before you, and the significance of the invitation. One may be observing your manners, self-control, greed, humility, and wisdom in conversation. This passage also warns against becoming overly impressed or excited by luxury, riches, or social standing. A truly wise man remains composed, discerning, and self-controlled, whether seated among kings or among ordinary men. Much of Proverbs 23 is written personally and directly in the second person (“thou”), giving the chapter the tone of a father carefully instructing his son in practical wisdom for everyday life.

To be continued…

A Man Diligent – Part 3

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Proverbs 22:29 Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men. 

In modern life, this proverb applies to every area: work, studies, business, ministry, relationships, and personal growth. A diligent person continues to learn, improve, prepare, and give their best even when no one is watching. Over time, this builds trust, credibility, and opportunity. Excellence often creates openings that talent alone cannot sustain.

Spiritually, believers are also called to diligence in their walk with God. Prayer, studying Scripture, serving others, developing character, and living faithfully all require perseverance and discipline. God honours those who remain steadfast and committed in what He has entrusted to them.

Ultimately, this verse teaches that diligence leads to honour. Faithful, skilful, and disciplined people rise above obscurity because their lives demonstrate reliability and excellence. While promotion may not come immediately, consistent diligence eventually brings respect, influence, and opportunities that careless living never can.

A Man Diligent – Part 2

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Proverbs 22:29 Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men. 

The phrase “he shall stand before kings” symbolises promotion, honour, influence, and recognition. In ancient kingdoms, kings searched for capable and trustworthy individuals to manage important affairs of the kingdom. A ruler valued those who could execute responsibilities wisely, quickly, and faithfully. Diligent men were elevated into positions of trust because excellence benefits leadership and strengthens society.

This principle can be seen throughout Scripture. Joseph’s diligence and wisdom brought him before Pharaoh in Egypt. Daniel’s faithfulness and excellence caused kings to favour him above others. David’s skilful service eventually brought him into King Saul’s court. In each case, their promotion was not based merely on ambition, but on proven character, discipline, and faithfulness in smaller responsibilities first.

The proverb contrasts this honour with standing before “mean men.” The Hebrew word refers to obscure, insignificant, or lowly persons – not necessarily poor people, but those lacking influence or distinction. The idea is that diligence lifts a person above mediocrity and opens doors of opportunity and respect. Those who develop wisdom, skill, and integrity are often recognised even by people in positions of authority.

This verse teaches an important spiritual principle: God values faithful stewardship. Whatever task a person is given — whether large or small — should be done with excellence and sincerity. Diligence reflects discipline, responsibility, and respect for God-given opportunities. Laziness, carelessness, and inconsistency often limit growth and hinder advancement.

To be continued…

A Man Diligent – Part 1

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Proverbs 22:29 Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men. 

This proverb highlights the value of diligence, skill, discipline, and faithful work. God honours the person who applies themselves wholeheartedly to their responsibilities with excellence and integrity.

The word “diligent” refers to someone careful, skilled, hardworking, disciplined, and dependable. It describes a person who does not work carelessly or lazily, but who consistently gives attention, effort, and excellence to what has been entrusted to them. Such a person develops ability through practice, commitment, and perseverance.

The proverb asks us to “see” or observe this kind of person because diligence eventually becomes visible. Excellence cannot remain hidden forever. A faithful worker may begin unnoticed, but over time, their consistency, wisdom, and reliability distinguish them from others. While many seek quick success or recognition, Scripture teaches that lasting honour is usually the fruit of steady faithfulness.

To be continued…

Remove Not – Part 2

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Proverbs 22:28 Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set. 

Spiritually, this verse also teaches respect for godly foundations and righteous boundaries established by those who came before us. The “fathers” had set principles, truths, and standards through wisdom, experience, and obedience to God. Removing these landmarks can symbolise abandoning moral truth, compromising integrity, or rejecting godly instruction for selfish desires or worldly gain.

In every generation, there is temptation to “move the boundaries” – to redefine right and wrong, blur moral lines, or manipulate truth for personal benefit. But Scripture warns that when people continually shift boundaries established by God, confusion, injustice, and corruption follow. God values honesty, fairness, and respect for what is rightfully established.

This principle also applies to relationships, business, leadership, and daily life. People may attempt to gain an advantage through dishonesty, manipulation, exploitation, or subtle compromise. Yet true wisdom chooses integrity over selfish gain. A person of godly character refuses to take what belongs to another, whether materially, emotionally, or spiritually.

Ultimately, this Scripture reminds us that integrity matters even in hidden things. God sees not only outward actions but also the motives of the heart. He calls His people to live with honesty, respect, fairness, and faithfulness, honouring both rightful boundaries and the principles of righteousness established through His Word.

Remove Not – Part 1

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Proverbs 22:28 Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set. 

In ancient Israel, landmarks were stones or boundary markers placed to define the limits of a family’s land inheritance. These boundaries were treated as sacred because the land had been allotted according to God’s law and passed down through generations. To move a boundary stone in secret was to steal property dishonestly from a neighbour while pretending innocence.

Because of this, the Law strongly condemned the removal of landmarks. Deuteronomy 19:14 warned, “Thou shalt not remove thy neighbour’s landmark,” and Deuteronomy 27:17 pronounced a curse upon anyone who did so. Moving a boundary marker was not merely a property dispute – it was an act of greed, deception, injustice, and disrespect toward both one’s neighbour and God.

The “ancient landmark” represented more than just physical territory. It symbolised order, inheritance, justice, and respect for established truth. God desired His people to deal honestly and fairly with one another, never taking advantage of another person’s weakness, ignorance, or absence for personal gain. To enlarge one’s own field by secretly shifting a boundary was a hidden form of theft motivated by covetousness.

To be continued…

Sureties for Debts – Part 2

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Proverbs 22:26-27 Be not thou one of them that strike hands, or of them that are sureties for debts. If thou hast nothing to pay, why should he take away thy bed from under thee?

The deeper principle is that wisdom requires careful stewardship. God desires His people to live responsibly, honestly, and prudently. We should not allow pressure, guilt, emotion, or the desire to impress others to lead us into commitments that may bring unnecessary hardship. Before making promises, signing agreements, or taking responsibility for another person’s obligations, wisdom calls us to count the cost carefully.

This teaching also applies spiritually and practically in modern life. Many people become trapped by debt, impulsive decisions, or obligations they never truly considered. Financial stress can damage relationships, rob peace of mind, and create ongoing anxiety. Proverbs, therefore, encourages balance: be compassionate, but also be wise; be generous, but also discerning.

Ultimately, these verses remind us that God values wisdom, self-control, and faithful stewardship. True kindness should never ignore wisdom, and true wisdom protects both our resources and our peace.