Category: Doctrine

A Snare

~ iolaHC ~ Leave a comment

Proverbs 20:25  It is a snare to the man who devours that which is holy, and after vows to make enquiry. 

‘Who devours’ here means to take, use, or consume something that belongs to God, whether it be offerings, dedicated items, sacred obligations or anything set apart for the Lord’s service. Under the Law, what was devoted to God – firstfruits, offerings, vows – was considered holy. To take it for oneself was both sacrilege and theft from God (cf. Mal. 3:8).

‘A snare’ – It ensnares the person in: guilt (he has violated sacred things), judgment (God takes holiness seriously), and self-deception (he treats the holy as common). A person becomes morally trapped by his own words. He is obligated before God but unprepared to fulfil their own promise, making him a liar. He incurs guilt for unkept promises. He exposes a foolish, impulsive heart. Rash vows always lead to regret.

This applies today whenever a person uses resources committed to God for selfish purposes, treats responsibilities casually, and takes lightly what God has declared serious (salvation and sin). In short, carelessness toward holy things entangles the soul.

‘…and after vows to make enquiry.’ The second snare: making vows first, then asking questions later. This describes someone who makes a vow [a promise] rashly, emotionally, or thoughtlessly. Promises something to God without counting the cost. Commits to a sacred obligation, then only “after the fact” begins to examine whether the vow is good, wise, or possible. By then, it is too late – because a vow to God is binding.  “When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it… Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay” (Eccl. 5:4-5). Wise men examine first, vow second, not the reverse.

Both reveal a lack of reverence for God. Both bring consequences that entangle a person in guilt, trouble, and spiritual danger.

Man’s Goings

~ iolaHC ~ Leave a comment

Proverbs 20:24  Man’s goings are of the LORD; how can a man then understand his own way? 

This verse simply teaches that life is too complex for us to understand without God’s guidance.

‘Man’s goings are of the LORD…’ This statement affirms the doctrine of God’s providence, His active, sovereign guidance over all creation. God not only oversees the world in a general sense, but also directs those who trust in Him. This does not mean God decides every step for a person. Rather, it means: God oversees the outworking of life in general. God governs the big picture, the environment in which we move. God arranges opportunities, boundaries, and consequences. God’s providence is at work around our choices, not instead of them. He directs the paths available, but He does not force the choice of which path we take. God guides the obedient – not the unwilling.

‘Goings’ refers to the course of life – our decisions, opportunities, paths, and outcomes. The Bible never teaches that God makes decisions for people. Instead, He reveals His will through His Word, He gives wisdom to those who seek Him, He orders circumstances in His providence, but we must choose whether to obey or not. This is the consistent pattern of Scripture.

‘How can a man then understand his own way?’ The point is humility: Even when we choose, we don’t fully understand how all things fit together. Only God sees how every decision, circumstance, and event interlocks. So, the verse is not teaching fatalism. It is teaching dependence.

Steps summarised: [1] We choose; God guides those who trust Him – “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (3:6). Here God directs, but He does not decide for us. Direction must be followed to be of any value. [2] God instructs but doesn’t force – “I will instruct thee and teach thee… I will guide thee with mine eye” (Ps. 32:8). Guidance requires response. [3] We are responsible for our decisions – “Choose you this day whom ye will serve” (Joshua 24:15). If God made decisions for us, there would be nothing to “choose.” [4] Man plans; God governs outcomes – “A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps” (16:9).

We devise (decide). God directs (guides, shapes the outcome, oversees circumstances). God does not override human will. God does work sovereignly in the background of life. Our choices are real, meaningful, and morally accountable. God’s providence and wisdom are available if we acknowledge Him.

Gotten Hastily

~ iolaHC ~ Leave a comment

Proverbs 20:21-22  An inheritance may be gotten hastily at the beginning; but the end thereof shall not be blessed. Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee. 

Both verses deal with impatience: Impatience in gaining wealth (v. 21) and impatience in seeking justice (v. 22). In both cases, rushing ahead of God leads to loss, frustration, or sin. Waiting on the Lord, whether for provision or vindication, is the path that leads to true blessing and peace.

Verse 21 warns against gaining wealth or advantage too quickly, especially through impatience, scheming, or unjust means. An inheritance hastily gained often reflects a heart that wants the reward without the character required to handle it. What comes quickly can disappear just as quickly. Wealth obtained without wisdom, maturity, or righteousness tends to bring trouble, not blessing.

God values the process by which we gain things, not just the possession itself. Blessing is tied to righteousness, not speed.

Verse 22’s focus shifts from wealth to justice. The human impulse is to strike back when wronged, to “repay evil.” But Scripture consistently calls us away from vengeance.

To avenge oneself is to take God’s role into our own hands. To wait on the Lord is to trust His timing, His judgment, and His ability to bring justice far better than we could. God calls His people to patience and trust, not retaliation. When we refuse to repay evil, we make room for God to act on our behalf.

Out in Obscure Darkness

~ iolaHC ~ 1 Comment

Proverbs 20:20  Whoso curses his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in obscure darkness. 

This verse emphasises the seriousness of honouring parents and the spiritual consequences of rebellion.

Cursing one’s parents is a serious violation of God’s law and natural order. It includes: Verbal abuse or disrespect toward father and mother, and contempt, rebellion, or failure to honour them.

“And he that curses his father, or his mother, shall surely be put to death” (Exo. 21:17). “For every one that curses his father or his mother shall be surely put to death: he has cursed his father or his mother; his blood shall be upon him” (Lev. 20:9).

‘His lamp shall be put out in obscure darkness.’ Symbolises utter ruin, loss of blessing, and premature death or judgment. God sees such behaviour as utterly destructive to one’s life and legacy.

Three unfailing laws are illustrated in connection with this verse: Death and no posterity for cursing parents. The Old Testament law prescribed capital punishment for cursing father or mother, demonstrating the severity of this sin. The consequence shall be loss of life and blessing, leaving no descendants.  Inheritances or gains without diligence often produce pride, laziness, and moral corruption.

Honour and integrity must accompany all blessings. Do not repay evil with evil (20:22). Trust God for justice; retaliation brings no blessing. Patience, obedience, and reliance on God’s judgment lead to life and salvation.

Respect, honour, and obeying parents [in God] – this is foundational to a godly life. Understand that disobedience and cursing bring serious consequences spiritually, socially, and morally. Trust God to deal with injustice; do not repay evil with evil. Recognise that blessings, inheritance, and family legacy are tied to obedience, honour, and integrity. Cursing or dishonouring parents cuts one off from blessings and divine protection. Honour and obedience preserve life, legacy, and spiritual favour.

A Talebearer

~ iolaHC ~ Leave a comment

Proverbs 20:19  He that goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flatters with his lips. 

This verse warns against gossip, betrayal, and flattery with hidden motives. A talebearer spreads gossip, discloses confidential information, and stirs strife. Such a person betrays trust by repeating what is told in confidence; causes quarrels, misunderstandings, and division and damages relationships, reputations, and communities.

“A froward man sows strife: and a whisperer separates chief friends” (16:28).  “The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly” (18:8).

‘Therefore meddle not with him that flatters with his lips.’ Flattering words may mask malicious intent. Talebearers often use flattery to gain trust, then betray it by spreading secrets.

Avoid close association or partnership with those who: Speak deceitfully; manipulate others with smooth or pleasing words, and stir division or create hidden conflict.

“A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin” (26:28).

Guard against talebearers in personal, family, and workplace relationships. Do not trust flattery; it may conceal harmful intent. Foster relationships with honest, trustworthy, and sincere individuals. Avoid participating in gossip, and do not spread secrets or slander.

Talebearers betray trust and sow discord. Stay away from flattery that hides betrayal, but value honesty, discretion, and integrity in speech.

Counsel

~ iolaHC ~ Leave a comment

Proverbs 20:18  Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war. 

This verse emphasises the critical role of counsel in planning and action. Sound planning requires guidance, advice, and deliberation. No plan, project, or initiative should rely solely on personal judgment; wisdom comes from consulting those who are knowledgeable, experienced, and godly.

“Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established” (15:22). “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety” (11:14). Consultation and wise counsel ensure stability, success, and avoidance of error.

‘With good advice make war.’ Even in conflict or serious ventures, strategy must be guided by counsel. Most wars in history were caused by malice, greed, pride, or impatience, rather than careful, righteous planning.

“For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety” (24:6). Sound advice prevents unnecessary loss, preserves life, and aligns action with justice and God’s purpose.

Seek wise, godly advice before making important decisions, whether in business, leadership, or personal life. Avoid impulsive action; failure to plan carefully often leads to disaster. Recognise that even necessary actions, like war or major undertakings, should be guided by strategy, wisdom, and godly counsel. Success and righteousness are more likely when plans are established on sound counsel rather than pride or haste.

Wisdom is foundational to success. Every purpose and action, even in conflict, should be guided by careful counsel to align with God’s plan and avoid unnecessary ruin.

Filled with Gravel

~ iolaHC ~ Leave a comment

Proverbs 20:17  Bread of deceit is sweet to a man; but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel. 

This verse warns that short-term pleasure from dishonesty and deceitful gain leads to long-term suffering. Deceitful gain, dishonest profit, or unearned pleasure may seem appealing and enjoyable initially.

Examples include: Cheating to gain wealth, using lies or manipulation to achieve personal advantage and enjoying forbidden pleasures (sins).

“The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death” (21:6). “They eat up the sin of my people, and they set their heart on their iniquity” (Hosea 7:2). Sinful or dishonest gain may be temporarily satisfying, but it is deceptive and unstable.

‘But afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel.’ The sweetness is temporary; the ultimate result is bitterness, pain, and destruction. ‘Gravel’ symbolises hardship, punishment, or regret, replacing the initial pleasure. Consequences of deceitful gain: Loss of reputation and trust. Financial or social ruin. Spiritual guilt and moral corruption. The main principle is that actions motivated by deceit ultimately turn joy into suffering.

Avoid deceitful means of acquiring wealth or pleasure. Seek honesty, integrity, and God-honouring labour, even if the reward seems slower. Recognise that instant gratification from wrongdoing is temporary, but consequences are enduring.

What seems sweet and easy through deceit will turn bitter and painful. True satisfaction comes from honest, God-honouring effort and integrity.

That Is Surety

~ iolaHC ~ Leave a comment

Proverbs 20:16  Take his garment that is surety for a stranger: and take a pledge of him for a strange woman. 

This Scripture teaches prudence, caution, and risk management in both financial and personal dealings (27:13). It refers to the requirement of security or collateral when someone guarantees a debt for another, especially a stranger. In ancient Israel, the garment was often pledged as security, as it was essential personal property.

Do not rely solely on verbal assurances; ensure that obligations are secured to prevent potential loss. Exercise prudence and wisdom in financial dealings, especially with unfamiliar parties.

‘And take a pledge of him for a strange woman.’ Hebrew: nokriy – a foreign or unfamiliar woman. This emphasises caution in relationships or commitments involving outsiders, who may have unknown motives or customs.

Scripture warns against the seductive influence of a strange woman (2:16) and highlights the danger of her smooth words and deceit (5:3). Prudence and caution are required when dealing with unfamiliar or potentially untrustworthy persons.

Secure obligations when acting as surety or when trusting others with your resources. Be cautious in dealings with strangers or unfamiliar persons to avoid being ensnared. Recognise that wisdom involves foresight and preventive measures, not just good intentions. Prudence protects against loss: require security and exercise discernment when dealing with strangers or potentially untrustworthy individuals, whether in finances or personal relationships.

The Lips of Knowledge

~ iolaHC ~ Leave a comment

Proverbs 20:15  There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel. 

This parable contrasts material wealth with the priceless value of knowledge. Gold and rubies represent wealth, material abundance, and earthly treasures. Even great riches cannot compare to the true value of wisdom and knowledge.

“For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies” (3:14-15). “For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it” (8:11).

‘But the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.’ Knowledge expressed through speech, teaching, or counsel is invaluable. The “lips of knowledge” convey wisdom, instruction, and understanding, which bring guidance, correction, and insight.

Unlike material wealth, knowledge guides moral and spiritual life. Brings lasting benefit to others. Cannot be stolen or lost like earthly treasures. Cherish those who speak truth, teach wisdom, and share understanding; their counsel is more precious than gold.

Wisdom and knowledge are eternal treasures, surpassing all earthly riches. Value those who speak truth and teach understanding, for their influence is enduring. Invest in learning, discernment, and instruction; these enrich the soul far beyond gold or jewels. Material wealth is temporary, but the lips of knowledge – wisdom spoken and applied – are priceless, guiding life and blessing generations.

It Is Naught

~ iolaHC ~ Leave a comment

Proverbs 20:14  It is naught, it is naught, said the buyer: but when he is gone his way, then he boasted. 

This verse illustrates deceptive human behaviour in commerce, but its principle applies broadly to honesty and integrity in all dealings. It describes a common tactic in bargaining: the buyer pretends the item has little value to secure a lower price. The repetition of “it is naught” emphasises insincerity and deceit in negotiation.

“A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight” (11:1). God requires honesty in trade and valuation (16:11). Human behaviour often includes exaggeration, deception, or manipulation to gain advantage.

‘But when he is gone his way, then he boasted.’ Once the deal is done, the buyer boasts of his cleverness or savings. This shows a dual nature of human character: pretending humility or disdain while secretly rejoicing in gain.

We must recognise that human pride and deceit often mask others’ true motives. Lesson for believers: Avoid dishonesty, manipulation, or prideful boasting; integrity honours God and builds trust.

Be wary of dishonesty in negotiations; people may misrepresent intentions or value. Cultivate honesty and integrity, both in private and public transactions. Avoid prideful boasting over cleverness or gain; true success honours God. Understand that God values fairness and truthfulness, not cunning or deceit.