Proverbs 24:23 These things also belong to the wise. It is not good to have respect of persons in judgment.

With verse 23, Scripture introduces another collection of sayings concerning the practical conduct of the wise. The principles that follow deal particularly with justice, integrity, speech, work, relationships, and responsibility.

The wise person is not merely someone who knows Scripture or can give good advice. Biblical wisdom is demonstrated by how a person conducts himself when dealing with other people.

‘These things also belong to the wise.’ The word “wise” refers to those who have learned to live according to God’s principles. Wisdom must affect every area of life, including how we treat people who are different from us or who cannot benefit us.

A person may be knowledgeable but still be unjust. A person may know the right answer but still show favouritism. A person may claim to fear God but treat people differently because of wealth, social position, appearance, family connections, influence, nationality, friendship, or personal advantage.

Such behaviour is inconsistent with biblical wisdom.