G – WISDOM OF PROVERBS – 7
WARNINGS and REWARDS
Proverbs is so full of good advice. It is impossible to cover it all. Some important warnings have been chosen for this lesson. Along with these warnings come some very encouraging rewards if we follow God’s way. At times the two are in the same verse as a contrast.
Pride and arrogance has always been a problematic sin in the history of mankind. The need “to be right” prevails in the mind of man.. Prov.14:12 Several times in Proverbs a verse is repeated, probably for emphasis. In Prov.16:25 this proverb is repeated. Not only is this true in religious life but in our material, everyday life. We think we know and then we proceed to act without proper consideration. Prov.16:2
Another warning about pride is given in Prov.16:18. Would you choose a haughty person for a best friend? Not likely. Too many times they have no time for anyone but themselves. Writers in the N.T. recognize this character trait as a negative one. In the “love” chapter several phrases are used in different versions as to this characteristic not being a trait of love. 1 Cor.13:4 Love does not brag, is not arrogant. NASB Love does not boast; is not proud. NIV Love does not parade itself; is not puffed up. NKJV All of these terms would be worthy of study in a more focused lesson on pride.
Paul warns Christians to not be wise in your own estimation. Rom.12:16 If we are truly humble, we will consider others better than yourselves. Phil.2:3 This would certainly be a plus factor in making group decisions. “I think this would be best and these are the reasons why; but your way might be better with the reasons you present.” How we need to work together to be one in Christ. Prov.16:9 We may have plans as we consider those of one another, but prayer comes first as we let the Lord direct out steps. Prov.21:2; Prov.17:14 Strife does not bring happiness. Prov.17:1
Prov.25:6,7 gives a warning similar to a parable that Jesus taught in Lk.14:10,11. We make assumptions at times and go to the top. How much better it would be to be invited to the top rather than suffer the insult to be removed and sent to the lower place.
Giving is rewarded by the Lord. We are to honor the Lord with the first of all. We don’t honor God when He gets what is left over—if anything is left over. Prov.3:9,10 We do this because we love the Lord and want to give Him honor, but as we do so, we are rewarded far beyond what we give. We are filled with plenty and overflowing. This goes along with Mal.3:10. We receive as we give. Prov.11:25
It would be well to take the warning in Prov.28:13 to heart. We may think we are concealing our sins but God knows (Prov.15:3) and we know. Unless our heart is hardened because of the deceitfulness of sin (Heb.3:13), our spirit is burdened with this knowledge even though we think we are hiding it. What joy when that burden is lifted as we confess and forsake that sin. We can then enjoy the forgiveness, compassion, mercy, and grace that is afforded by our Lord. Prov.29:6
Warnings of the Lord are very important for us to know and understand. A list of seven is given in Prov.6:16-19 We have dealt with haughty eyes or pride. Lying, murder, evil plans, efforts to do evil, and false witness (lies) are familiar and repulsive to us. How much do we think of the seventh—one who spreads strife among brothers. The Lord hates this. Strife is listed in a list of sins that are worthy of death. Rom.1:29,32 This would destroy the unity of the body of Christ, the church.
The Word of God is our best counsel. Prov.30:5,6 If we have our trust in God, we will also trust His Word. Prov.16:20; Prov.13:13 There are times that we need counseling if it comes from the Word of God. Prov.15:22 Even with prayer and study, at times our minds are closed to see what God’s will for us would be. Others may be able to see what we cannot see for ourselves. Prov.19:20 Others may be able to help us follow the counsel of the Lord for this is the counsel that stands. Prov.19:21
Some of the greatest rewards shown to us in Proverbs come from righteousness. God hearing our prayers is one of these. Prov.15:29 The righteous can run to God for safety. Prov.18:10 God rewards the righteous with life and honor. Prov.21:21 One of our purposes in life is to please God. He has greater pleasure in our righteousness and justice than any sacrifice we might make. Prov.21:3 The righteous have no need to flee. They can be bold as a lion. Prov.28:1
Joy comes to the righteous and obedient. Prov.29:18 Gladness is in the heart of those with hope. Prov.10:28 A joyful heart brings better health. Prov.17:22 Joy is contagious. Prov.15:30 A good word lifts a heavy heart. Prov.12:25 The countenance bursts forth with joy. It is visible. Prov.15:13
The righteous bear fruit. Prov.11:30 Not only does the righteous win souls but he is a guide and an example to his neighbor. Prov.12:26 A person’s righteousness gives him a good name. Prov.22:1 He is guarded by righteousness. Prov.13:6 He fears the Lord. Prov.14:2
Proverbs sums up righteousness in Prov.3:5-7. May we grow in righteousness because righteousness exalts a nation. Prov.14:34
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