Tag: Proverbs

Wrath vs. Favour – Part 1

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Proverbs 19:12 The king’s wrath is as the roaring of a lion; but his favour is as dew upon the grass. 

This verse uses two vivid images to describe the contrasting effects of a ruler’s wrath and favour. [1] A king’s wrath – just as the roar of a lion strikes terror into every creature, so the anger of a king or ruler brings fear and danger to those under his authority. Kings in ancient times had the power of life and death; their displeasure could lead to judgment or destruction. Those who provoke authority recklessly are unwise (16:14; 20:2). [2] A king’s favour – in contrast, when a king’s countenance shines with kindness, it brings refreshment and blessing, like dew on the grass that renews and nourishes plants. A benevolent ruler’s approval leads to peace and prosperity. Godly leadership brings blessing and refreshment to those under its care (16:15; Ps. 72:6).

‘Roaring of a lion’ – A lion’s roar signals dominance and danger; it causes all other animals to tremble, flee, or hide. In ancient cultures, this imagery underscored the king’s authority and the seriousness of his anger.– “The wrath of a king is as messengers of death” (16:14). In Proverbs 28:15, an oppressive ruler is compared to a roaring lion and a ravenous bear. The idea is that the king’s wrath should sober and humble those under him; it warns against rebellion or dishonour. To be continued…

Defers His Anger – Part 2

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Proverbs 19:11 The discretion of a man defers his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.

Biblical examples illustrate what it means to be patient and slow to anger: Joseph (Gen. 40:15) – Though unjustly imprisoned and mistreated by his brothers, Joseph did not lash out when he later gained power; instead, he forgave and preserved them. Moses (Num. 12:1-16) – When criticised by Miriam and Aaron, Moses did not retaliate; he humbly interceded for them. David (1Sam. 24:1-22; 26:5-25) – Twice David spared King Saul’s life even though Saul sought to kill him, showing remarkable patience and restraint. The Prophet (1Kin. 13:6) – When King Jeroboam’s hand withered after defying God, the prophet prayed for his healing instead of rejoicing in his punishment. Each of these demonstrates patience rooted in wisdom and trust in God’s justice.

Forgiveness and refusal to retaliate are seen vividly in Scripture: Isaac (Gen. 26:13-30) – Instead of fighting over wells stolen by others, Isaac moved on, showing peaceable restraint. David (1Sam. 18:9-24:22) – Though Saul wronged him repeatedly, David honoured Saul as king and refrained from vengeance. Jesus Christ (Luke 23:34) – On the cross, Jesus forgave those who crucified Him: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Stephen (Acts 7:60) – While being stoned, Stephen echoed Christ’s mercy, praying for his killers’ forgiveness.

Believers are called to put aside anger and extend forgiveness modelled after Christ’s example (Eph. 4:31-32). Patience and forgiveness flow from understanding how much we’ve been forgiven (Col. 3:12-13). Human anger rarely leads to godly outcomes; self-control honours God (Jas. 1:19-20). The New Testament echoes Proverbs’ wisdom: passing over transgression and trusting God to handle justice (Rom. 12:17-21).

Defers His Anger – Part 1

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Proverbs 19:11 The discretion of a man defers his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression. 

This proverb highlights two admirable traits of a wise and godly person: [1] A sensible man prolongs patience, not anger. A discerning person exercises self-control and delays his anger rather than allowing his emotions to flare up quickly. Quick-tempered reactions often lead to strife and regrettable actions. Wisdom chooses to consider the situation carefully, weigh motives, and respond appropriately rather than impulsively. Patience is not weakness; it is strength under control (Jas. 1:19-20). [2] He passes over transgressions and does not expose or shame others. Instead of magnifying someone’s offence or seeking retaliation, a wise person forgives and chooses not to publicly expose others’ faults (compare 1Cor. 13:4-7, “love covers all things”). This builds peace and relationships rather than division and bitterness. Forgiving others reflects God’s own gracious nature.

True strength is shown not in anger but in self-restraint and forgiveness. Patience and grace restore relationships and reflect God’s own character. It is more glorious to cover an offence than to expose it unnecessarily or retaliate. A forgiving heart fosters peace and avoids cycles of revenge. To be continued…

Not Seemly

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Proverbs 19:10 Delight is not seemly for a fool; much less for a servant to have rule over princes. 

This proverb warns against the reversal of proper order when those unfit for honour or power receive it. It encourages discernment in granting privilege and authority, underscoring that true honour belongs to the wise and responsible. It highlights two situations that violate the natural and moral order of things:

[1] A fool enjoying luxury and honour – it is unfitting for someone morally foolish and lacking wisdom to live in luxury, receive honour, or behave as if he were royalty. Such people are unprepared to handle privilege responsibly. When fools have wealth or status, it often leads to arrogance, indulgence, and moral decay (17:7; 26:1). Instead of using honour for good, they misuse it for self-glory or destructive behaviour. Wealth and position require wisdom, humility, and discipline. Without these, they become dangerous to the person and those around them.

[2] A servant ruling over princes – even more absurd and harmful is when an unfit servant or slave rises to rule over those who are themselves leaders (princes). Such a person often lacks the character, wisdom, or noble spirit required for fair and gracious leadership. He may become oppressive or tyrannical, abusing authority rather than serving the good of others. Authority should rest with those trained and equipped for it. When power is given to the unworthy, chaos and injustice often follow.

Keeps Understanding – Part 2

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Proverbs 19:8 He that gets wisdom loves his own soul: he that keeps understanding shall find good. 

‘He that keeps understanding shall find good.’ It is not enough to gain wisdom once; the second part of the verse emphasises the importance of retaining and applying what you learn. “Keeping understanding” implies guarding it, holding to it faithfully, and living it out daily.

Those who do so will “find good”, meaning they will encounter blessing, favour, success, and peace as a result of walking in God’s ways. This “good” is not merely material; it is spiritual richness, healthy relationships, sound decision-making, and ultimately, the approval of God.

To seek wisdom is to value your own soul. It is an act of love for yourself in the truest and holiest sense. To guard and apply understanding is the pathway to a life marked by true goodness and divine favour. Wisdom is not just for the mind – it is for the soul, shaping the entire direction and outcome of one’s life.

Keeps Understanding – Part 1

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Proverbs 19:8 He that gets wisdom loves his own soul: he that keeps understanding shall find good. 

This proverb affirms that seeking and living by godly wisdom is not only a spiritual pursuit but an act of self-care and preservation. The one who earnestly seeks wisdom demonstrates that he truly values his own life – both now and eternally.

‘He that gets wisdom loves his own soul…’ To pursue wisdom is to invest in your own well-being. You are not merely gathering knowledge, but aligning your heart with truth, righteousness, and the fear of the Lord, the foundation of all wisdom (9:10). In doing so, you show that you love your own soul enough to guide it in the path that leads to life, peace, and blessing. It is a recognition that living wisely is not restrictive; it’s protective. Wisdom guards your soul from sin, foolishness, destruction, and regret. In essence, seeking wisdom is a form of spiritual self-love, a wise and godly love for the eternal value of your own life.

Many chase after things they think will benefit their lives, money, fame, and status, but wisdom brings lasting reward. When you love wisdom, you are not only choosing to live rightly before God, but you are also safeguarding your soul for eternity. In contrast, rejecting wisdom leads to spiritual neglect, self-destruction, and eventual ruin – Proverbs 8:36 states “He that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul”. To be continued…

Intreat the Favour – Part 2

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Proverbs 19:6 Many will intreat the favour of the prince: and every man is a friend to him that gives gifts. 

Scripture repeatedly cautions against placing trust in man’s favour or worldly wealth, which can be fleeting and deceptive (Pro. 23:5; Jer. 17:5). True friendship is not measured by gifts received, but by love, faithfulness, and sacrifice. Jesus Himself modelled this perfectly. He gave without expecting repayment and befriended those who had nothing to offer Him.

Consider this contrast: Worldly friendships are often transactional: “What can I get from this person?” Godly friendships are covenantal: “How can I bless this person, even at a cost to myself?”

This verse also subtly points to the fickle nature of the crowd. Today, people may praise the rich or powerful, but that affection can quickly turn cold when the benefits stop. That is why Proverbs 18:24 reminds us: “There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother” – a reference that finds ultimate fulfilment in Christ, our faithful friend and unchanging companion.

People often seek the favour of rulers or the wealthy out of self-interest, not sincerity. Generosity may win many “friends,” but these relationships are frequently shallow or temporary. True friendship is tested by adversity, not abundance. Believers are called to pursue genuine, godly relationships rooted in love, not gain, reflecting the nature of Christ.

Intreat the Favour – Part 1

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Proverbs 19:6 Many will intreat the favour of the prince: and every man is a friend to him that gives gifts. 

This proverb offers a realistic observation of human behaviour, particularly concerning social dynamics and the allure of wealth or power. It reveals how people are often motivated by self-interest in their relationships and interactions.

The phrase “Many will intreat the favour of the prince” refers to how those in power or of high status frequently receive special attention. People flock to them, seeking their goodwill, influence, or blessing, hoping to gain something in return, an opportunity, a position, or a material advantage. These entreaties are rarely rooted in genuine friendship or loyalty, but are often motivated by what the person hopes to gain.

The second part, “Every man is a friend to him that gives gifts,” further illustrates the theme: generosity attracts attention and apparent friendship, but often from those whose hearts are not truly committed. Many are eager to befriend the generous man, but their friendship may be shallow, lasting only as long as the benefits continue.

This proverb doesn’t condemn generosity or honour, but it warns us to discern the motives of those around us. Not everyone who shows affection or interest is a true friend. Likewise, it reminds us not to base our relationships on what we can gain, but rather on sincerity, mutual respect, and godly character.

To be continued…

A False Witness – Part 2

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Proverbs 19:5, 9 A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaks lies shall not escape. A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaks lies shall perish.

Scripture does not leave this subject in the realm of earthly consequences alone. Revelations clearly speaks of the eternal judgment reserved for liars: “But the fearful, and unbelieving… and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” (Rev. 21:8) “For without [the heavenly city] are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.” (Rev. 22:15)

These are not idle threats. They show the eternal seriousness of truth in God’s kingdom. The unrepentant liar, especially the one who lives by deceit, chooses a path that leads away from God and ultimately to destruction. The world may tolerate lies, excuse them, or even reward them in politics, business, or social relationships. But God’s standard is eternal and unchanging. He sees every false word, and He will judge righteously. At the same time, the gospel offers mercy and transformation. Through Christ, the liar can be forgiven, cleansed, and changed into one who loves truth:

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1Jn. 1:9) Proverbs 19:5 and 9 firmly declare that false witnesses and habitual liars will not escape punishment, whether in this life or the next. God’s justice will prevail. All lies will be exposed, and all liars judged unless they repent. Revelation warns that liars have no place in the eternal kingdom, but rather face eternal separation in the lake of fire. Yet in Christ, there is hope, forgiveness, and the power to change and always live in truth.

A False Witness – Part 1

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Proverbs 19:5, 9 A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaks lies shall not escape. A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaks lies shall perish. 

These two verses, nearly identical in structure, emphasise the certainty and severity of judgment for those who lie, especially in matters of testimony and justice. The repetition serves as a double warning: lying may offer a temporary advantage, but it will ultimately lead to ruin.

A false witness is someone who intentionally distorts the truth, particularly in legal or serious matters, putting others at risk. The Hebrew concept includes not just lying in court, but any deliberate misrepresentation that harms others. God’s law was clear about this: “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour” (Exodus 20:16).

Such a sin strikes at the heart of justice and truth, two things that are foundational to God’s character and kingdom. The Lord is a God of truth (Deut. 32:4), and He abhors deceit.

Both verses assure that a false witness will “not go unpunished.” The justice of God cannot be mocked or delayed forever. Even if the liar escapes human consequences, they will not escape divine judgment.

The phrase “he that speaks lies shall not escape” (v.5) and “shall perish” (v.9) further intensify the warning. Lying is not merely a moral weakness; it is a soul-destroying sin when practised deliberately and unrepentantly. It shows alignment not with God, but with the devil, who is called “the father of lies” (John 8:44).

To be continued…