Category: Proverbs

The Poor – Part 2

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Proverbs 19:4-7 Wealth makes many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour. All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth them with words, yet they are wanting to him. 

Verse 7 continues the theme, painting an even more painful picture. Not only are strangers or neighbours distant from the poor man, but even his own brothers, his family, turn away from him. Their rejection is not just emotional but practical; they withdraw their support, their presence, and their affection. The word ‘hate’ here can be understood as a deep rejection or abandonment.

And if even his brothers despise him, how much more easily do his so-called friends disappear? When his poverty becomes evident, those who once enjoyed his company quickly distance themselves. He pursues them with words, perhaps pleading for help, or simply seeking companionship, but they do not answer. They are “wanting to him” – they are absent, unavailable, unwilling.

This verse shows the emotional and relational suffering of poverty. The poor are often not just financially disadvantaged; they are socially isolated, emotionally abandoned, and relationally ignored. The pain is compounded when it comes from those who should love and care for them the most.

These verses challenge us to consider our own hearts. Do we gravitate toward people based on what they can offer us? Do we show more honour to the rich than to the poor? Scripture commands us otherwise: “My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons… Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom?” (James 2:1,5)

Jesus Himself came not with riches but in humility. He befriended the poor, the outcast, the sinner, those whom society often rejects. In doing so, He revealed the heart of God, who “raises the poor out of the dust” (Ps. 113:7) and judges not by wealth, but by righteousness.

The Poor – Part 1

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Proverbs 19:4-7 Wealth makes many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour. All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth them with words, yet they are wanting to him. 

This verse highlights a sobering truth about human nature and society: wealth attracts people, while poverty repels them. A rich man finds himself surrounded by many “friends” not necessarily because of genuine affection, but often because of the benefits his wealth brings. People may draw close to him for favours, influence, or shared prosperity.

In contrast, the poor man, lacking the resources to offer social or material advantages, is often abandoned, even by those closest to him. He becomes isolated, “separated from his neighbour,” not because of wrongdoing, but simply because he has nothing to give. This reflects the shallow, transactional tendencies of human relationships when not governed by godly love.

This verse doesn’t endorse such behaviour; it exposes it. It calls the reader to recognise the unfairness and superficiality of valuing people based on what they possess, rather than who they are. True friendship should not be based on gain, but on loyalty, love, and character.

To be continued…

Foolishness

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Proverbs 19:3 The foolishness of man perverted his way: and his heart fretted against the LORD. 

Here, the proverb reveals a deep truth about human nature: people often ruin their own lives through foolish choices and then blame God for the consequences. The fool, through pride, rebellion, or ignorance, “perverts his way” – he twists the path that was meant to lead to righteousness.

Yet, when hardship comes, “his heart frets against the Lord” – he becomes angry with God, resentful, or questioning of His justice, as though divine fault is to blame for self-inflicted wounds.

Scripture provides us with five clear examples of people who fretted against God: Adam, who blamed Eve (and indirectly God) for his sin (Gen. 3:12); Cain, who became angry and despondent after his offering was rejected (Gen. 4:13-14); and Jehoram, who blamed God when he saw no hope (2Kin. 3:10-13; 6:33). Jonah, who grew angry when God showed mercy (Jonah 4:1-9). Israel, who repeatedly murmured against the Lord in the wilderness (Num. 14:2-3; 20:2-5; 21:4-6).

This verse warns us: Don’t blame God for the consequences of your own folly. Instead, examine your ways, seek wisdom, and humbly return to the path He has laid out for you.

Proverbs 19:1-3 presents a progression of spiritual wisdom: integrity is more valuable than riches (v. 1). Knowledge and patience prevent sin (v. 2). Fools distort their lives and blame God (v. 3).

These verses teach us to value character over wealth, to seek wisdom before acting, and to own our choices rather than blaming the Lord. Above all, they point us back to humility, discernment, and trust in God’s righteous ways.

It Is Not Good

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Proverbs 19:2 Also, that the soul be without knowledge, it is not good; and he that hastes with his feet sins. 

Ignorance, especially willful or spiritual ignorance, is dangerous. The soul that lacks knowledge, the wisdom of God, understanding of His ways, or moral discernment, “is not good.” It is vulnerable to deception, poor choices, and sin.

Scriptures offer eight examples of people who acted without knowledge, often with tragic results: The Syrians misjudged God’s power (1Kin. 20:28). The Jews ignored God’s works and law (Isa. 5:12-13). People and priests rejected knowledge and were destroyed (Hos. 4:6; 6:6). Job, though righteous, admitted speaking without full understanding (Job 42:3-6). Hezekiah exposed his treasures without divine insight (2Chr. 32:31). The Pharisees failed to understand God’s mercy (Matt. 12:7). Peter, out of zeal, spoke and acted without understanding (Matt. 16:22; Luke 22:33-34). Paul, before conversion, persecuted ignorantly (1Tim. 1:13; Acts 26:11).

The second line warns against haste without wisdom: “he that hastes with his feet sins.” Acting impulsively, without seeking God’s guidance, often leads to error and regret. Consider these five examples of hasty decisions: Joshua, who made a covenant with the Gibeonites without consulting God (Jos. 9:15). Saul, who offered the sacrifice impatiently and lost his kingdom (1Sam. 13:9-14). David, who prematurely rewarded Ziba (2Sam. 16:4). The prophet, who disobeyed God after listening to a lie (1Kin. 13:18-19). Peter, who impulsively struck the high priest’s servant (John 18:10).

This verse is a call to seek knowledge, move with wisdom, and act only after discerning the will of God.

Walks in his Integrity

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Proverbs 19:1 Better is the poor that walks in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his lips, and is a fool. 

‘Better is the poor that walks in his integrity…’ This verse establishes a profound contrast between character and circumstance. It proclaims that a poor man [Hebrew: ruwsh], meaning one who is destitute or lacking material wealth, who lives with integrity and moral uprightness, is far more valuable in God’s eyes than a wealthy or influential person who is perverse in speech and a fool [Hebrew: keciyl], denoting a hardened, arrogant, or morally dull person.

The poor man may lack possessions, but he is rich in virtue. His honesty, righteousness, and faithfulness are treasures that cannot be bought. In contrast, the fool, no matter how rich or eloquent, is corrupt, twisted in his speech, and ultimately destructive in his ways.

This proverb reminds us that spiritual integrity far outweighs material success. God honours the heart, not the bank account. The poor man who walks humbly and honestly before the Lord stands on solid ground, while the rich fool’s path leads to ruin.

A Friend – Part 2

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Proverbs 18:24 A man that has friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.

Christ is the truest friend of all. This deeper, unwavering kind of friendship finds its perfect fulfilment in Jesus Christ. He is not just a Saviour and Lord, but also the most faithful and compassionate friend anyone could ever have.

He said: “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). And He didn’t just speak these words, He lived them. He laid down His life on the cross, not merely for the righteous but for sinners, outcasts, and those who had nothing to offer in return (Rom. 5:8). He is the friend of the weary, the comforter of the brokenhearted, the companion of the lonely, and the rescuer of the lost. While human friends may sometimes fail, forget, or forsake, Christ remains, always present, always faithful.

When others flee in your hour of need, He stays. When the world judges or abandons, He forgives and draws near. When your strength fails, He carries you. When you are unloved, He loves you perfectly. He is not just a friend who sticks closer than a brother; He is the Friend who does so with divine love, unshakable loyalty, and eternal grace.

A man who wants friends must show himself friendly, building bonds through kindness and hospitality. Yet even the best human friendships can falter. But in Jesus Christ, we have the truest Friend, One who never leaves us, who bore our burdens, and who walks with us through every joy and sorrow. He is the Friend who sticks closer than a brother, now and forever.

A Friend – Part 1

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Proverbs 18:24 A man that has friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.

Friendship is not something that exists by default; it must be cultivated. A person who desires to have and keep friends must invest in those relationships through kindness, generosity, loyalty, and mutual care. In biblical times, maintaining friendship often included acts of hospitality, such as sharing meals, offering comfort, and celebrating life’s blessings together. Friendship thrives where there is genuine affection and consistent effort. Take heed of the warning against friendship with the world, for it is strictly forbidden. Such alliances offer no lasting benefit, only trouble and spiritual loss (1Jn. 2:15-17).

But the proverb draws a contrast: while earthly friendships may sometimes depend on social customs or mutual benefit, there exists a different kind of friend, one whose loyalty goes deeper than even the bonds of blood. A friend who “sticks closer than a brother” is someone who does not leave in times of trouble, who remains when others walk away, and who loves without condition.

To be continued…

Intreaties

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Proverbs 18:23 The poor uses intreaties; but the rich answers roughly. 

This proverb paints a stark picture of the social dynamic between the poor and the rich. The poor, often in need and lacking power or resources, must approach others humbly and respectfully, using “intreaties,” or earnest pleas. Their speech is softened by necessity, marked by politeness, dependence, and sometimes desperation. They are often forced to beg for help, favour, or even justice.

In contrast, the rich, accustomed to comfort, power, and influence, may respond with harshness or dismissiveness. Their answers are often abrupt, prideful, or lacking in compassion. Because they do not feel the pressure of need, they may lack empathy for those who do. Wealth can breed arrogance and insensitivity if not tempered by humility and a fear of God.

This verse is not merely a comment on social behaviour; it is a subtle moral warning. It highlights the injustice that often arises when those with power fail to listen with compassion. It reminds the reader of the importance of humility and kindness, especially for those who have the means to help others.

The poor often plead with gentle words, seeking mercy and help, while the rich may respond with cold indifference or harsh speech. This contrast exposes not just the imbalance of wealth, but also the imbalance of heart. Scripture urges the rich not to trust in their riches, but to show generosity and mercy, for God hears the cries of the poor, and He will judge those who oppress them with hard words or hardened hearts (Proverbs 22:2; James 2:5-6).

A Good Thing – Part 2

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Proverbs 18:22 Whoso finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favour of the LORD. 

‘And obtains favour of the LORD.’ God’s favour rests upon those who embrace His design and walk in His purposes. When a man enters into marriage with a right heart, seeking to honour God, he aligns himself with the Creator’s original intention: to be fruitful, multiply, and take dominion over the earth (Gen. 1:26-28). This isn’t just about reproduction, it’s about building families, shaping communities, and fulfilling divine stewardship.

Isaiah 45:18 reminds us that God did not create the earth in vain; He formed it to be inhabited. A godly marriage contributes to that inhabitation, not just by filling the earth numerically, but by building strong, faithful homes that reflect the love, order, and covenant of God Himself.

Thus, to find a wife and commit to her in marriage is to step into a stream of divine blessing. The man who does so not only gains a life partner but also receives the smile of God’s approval, His favour. That favour is shown in companionship, fruitfulness, and often in the strengthening of character, faith, and joy through the marriage bond.

To find a wife is to find something truly good, ordained and blessed by God Himself. Marriage is not a mere cultural institution but a divine gift, reflecting God’s heart for relationship, purpose, and community. The one who finds such a gift also receives the favour of the Lord, walking in harmony with the sacred blueprint laid out from the beginning of creation.

A Good Thing – Part 1

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Proverbs 18:22 Whoso finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favour of the LORD. 

This proverb is a strong affirmation of the goodness and value of marriage. It declares that to find a wife, especially a godly, virtuous one, is to discover something deeply good, beneficial, and enriching to life. Marriage is not a burden or a second-class calling; it is a blessing ordained by God from the beginning.

Contrary to ascetic teachings that might elevate celibacy as the holier path, Scripture is clear: “Marriage is honourable in all” (Heb. 13:4). It is neither shameful nor optional in the divine plan, but rather central to human flourishing. From the beginning, God declared, “It is not good that the man should be alone” (Gen. 2:18). Companionship, mutual support, intimacy, and partnership in purpose are part of God’s design. He created woman not as an afterthought, but as a necessary and complementary counterpart to man, bone of his bones, flesh of his flesh.

Marriage, then, is not a concession to weakness, but a reflection of God’s wisdom and care for human need. Finding a godly wife is not merely about romance or convenience; it is about discovering a helper suited to share in life’s journey, responsibilities, and calling.

To be continued…