Text: Prov 18:23-24 ESV

23 The poor use entreaties, but the rich answer roughly.

24 A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

-Prov 18:23-24 ESV

A FRIEND WHO STICKS CLOSER THAN A BROTHER

In verse 23, Solomon mentions a sad reality about how human nature tends to indulge the wealthy while being impatient with the poor. Those perceived as "poor" often feel they must ask, even literally "beg when speaking with others, while those who are rich might be tempted towards arrogance and derision. We hear this happens when ‘poor’ are seeking services in government offices including hospitals.

Often, when the poor beg for help, people who are well able to respond with help answer the poor with harsh words. Is money neutral? Money can make some people rude, coarse, and cruel in their treatment of less fortunate people. It seems the rich man who appeared indifferent has mistreated the poor man Lazarus. While, the rich man ate luxuriously, Lazarus was allowed only a few scraps from the rich man's table (see Luke 16:19–21).

From a spiritual perspective, this verse can also be interpreted as a contrast between those who are "poor in spirit" versus those who are arrogant. Jesus calls those who recognize they are poor in spirit as blessed. [Mat 5:3]. Those who are arrogant plan their ways without God, whom He abhors. Prov 16:19). Being poor in spirit is a reference to humility: someone who depends on the Lord to meet their needs. He will naturally gravitate towards a gentler, calmer, and patient attitude.

In verse 24, it is not a guarantee that having large numbers of "friends" always means having many deep, committed allies in times of need. This is a reality especially, in social media like Facebook and Instagram. A "man of many companions" suggests a person seeking popularity and shallow relationships. When times are good, those kinds of associates can be a source of pride, or entertainment. But when times are rough, one finds out quickly who their true friends really are. Even a person well-known and popular can find themselves on hard times, made all the harder when their relationships are superficial.

The prodigal son is an example. When he was penniless, he "began to be in need." Consequently, he took a lowly job feeding pigs His plight was so bad that he longed to eat what the pigs ate, but no one gave him anything. (Luke 15:14-16) Where are his friends? When we trust in men, even close to us, we may be disappointed. It is possible that everyone will leave us, but Jesus never. He is the believer's close, true Friend, who promised, "I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Heb 13:5). He is the one who sticks closer, even loves us unconditionally when we are undeserving of his love.[Rom 5:8]

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Text: Prov 18:22 ESV

22 He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD.

-Prov 18:22 ESV

A FAVOR FROM THE LORD

The wife of a man is a ‘good thing’, a favor from the Lord. While the terminology here literally speaks to a man finding a "wife," the same principle applies to a woman who finds a "husband." A God-honoring spouse is a true blessing (Prov 12:4: 19:14). If a man loves the Lord and chooses a wife who loves the Lord, he will enjoy a blessed marriage and God's approval. An extended section at the end of the book of Proverbs specifically praises the value of a godly wife (Prov 31:10–31). That passage portrays an excellent wife as valuable and trustworthy.

This verse does reject the belief that God considers a celibate life "holier" than one including marriage, does it not? The "favor" mentioned here does not mean that a married man is more loved by God. Rather, the Hebrew term implies that God is "pleased" by such a choice according to hios will. Neither marriage is required for any person nor is being single (1 Cor 7:6–11). Whether married or single, we are called to glorify God in all we do (Col 3:17). Paul has counseled, "Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him" (1 Cor 7:17).

Finding "a wife" is a good thing. Yet, Scripture notes that even good things can become problems when they are out of balance. Paul says, “All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be dominated by anything.” (1 Cor 6:12). It is possible to either idolize a spouse or neglect her. Take for example the case of Solomon. He indulged with good things and consequently, he did not live up to his teachings of wisdom. (Proverbs 1:1; 10:1; 25:1. It is unthinkable that he took hundreds of wives and concubines (1 Kings 11:3). First Kings 11:4 adds the sad account that "when Solomon was old his wives turned away his heart after other gods, and his heart was not wholly true to the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father."[1 Kings 11:4]

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Text: Proverbs 18:16-18 (ESV)

16 A man's gift makes room for him

and brings him before the great.

17 The one who states his case first seems right,

until the other comes and examines him.

18 The lot puts an end to quarrels

and decides between powerful contenders.

GIVING OF GIFTS OBTAIN FAVOR.

There is a general observation in life that giving gifts does influence. This is not an endorsement of bribery. Here, the word "gift" is not an outright ‘bribe’. The Hebrew word uses separate terms for the two concepts. Using presents to create a favorable impression is a common thing (Prov 19:6). Scripture includes multiple instances where gifts were offered to demonstrate sincere goodwill. Abraham’s servant brought out jewelry of silver and of gold, and garments, and gave them to Rebekah. He also gave to her brother and to her mother costly ornaments [Gen 24:53] Jacob gave gifts to his brother Esau[Gen 33:10] Abigail gave presents to David and his men[ 1 Sam 25:27]. Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, promoted and gave gifts to Daniel. [Dan 2:48).

In verse 17, Solomon warns the importance for a person to hear both sides of a case before rendering a decision. Many claims and accusations seem plausible until scrutinized. What seems obvious, at first, may be seen more accurately when looked at with a more cautious and critical eye. A person needs to hear from others involved, or at least learn all the relevant facts, before attempting to declare who is telling the truth. This principle is extremely important in spiritual matters, is it not? The Bible doesn't just endorse cautiousness but commands it (Acts 17:11; 2 Cor 13:5; 1 John 4:1; Gal 1:8).

In verse 18, casting lots may solve disputes among people. The closest modern equivalent to casting lots is rolling dice or flipping a coin. The purpose of using lots was to avoid any perception of human bias. Casting lots was used for selecting territories in Canaan for the tribes of Israel (Num 26:55; Jos 15). It chose the scapegoat on the Day of Atonement (Lev 16:8, 10). Lots were used to pick out priests and Levites for sanctuary service (1 Chron 24:5–31; Neh 10:34; Luke 1:8). It was used to choose a successor to Judas, the betraying disciple who committed suicide (Acts 1:15–19). Before casting lots to determine Judas's successor, the believers prayed for the Lord's direction.

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Text: Proverbs 18:13-15 (ESV)

13 If one gives an answer before he hears,

it is his folly and shame.

14 A man's spirit will endure sickness,

but a crushed spirit who can bear?

15 An intelligent heart acquires knowledge,

and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.

LISTENING BEFORE SPEAKING

Solomon understood the wisdom of hearing both sides of a matter before rendering a judgment. Speaking before listening is a sign of arrogance and overconfidence (Prov 18:12). Vain pride makes a person think he knows what to say without bothering to hear what another person has to say. James writes in Jas 1:19: "Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak." Further, in verse 26 he cautions: "If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless." Speaking in ignorance is not a modern problem after all. It's an ancient problem amplified by modern technology, is it not? Our social media are filled with irresponsible posts by individuals who don’t care to listen both sides of stories they heard.

Challenges and hardships are realities we all are subjects.[John 16:33] Solomon points out the absolute priority of attitude, not circumstances, in determining a person's response to such difficulties. Hard times, disasters, setbacks, insults, illness, tragedy, and persecution can be endured through a positive attitude and strong faith. Christian believers can have a positive attitude even when facing trials, knowing "that for those who love God, all things work together for good, for those are called according to his purpose" (Rom 8:28). Instead of being weighed down by anxieties, the Christian can fully rely on God, knowing He cares (1 Pet 5:7).

Solomon observes that an "intelligent heart" never stops learning. He is not satisfied with their stock of knowledge. He is someone seeking godly wisdom and information (Prov 15:14, 32; 17:28). Instead of stagnating in his current views, the humble and sincere seeker of truth looks for deeper knowledge. Definitely, not all people are equally equipped for deep intellectual pursuit as part of God's plan for diversity within the church (1 Cor 12:12–26). Yet each person should seek as much godly knowledge as they, themselves, can comprehend (1 Cor 14:20). Anything God deems all believers need to understand is accessible to anyone who seeks it (Rom 1:18-20; Mark 10:15; Mat 7:7–8).

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Text: Prov 18:11-12 ESV

11 A rich man's wealth is his strong city, and like a high wall in his imagination.

12 Before destruction a man's heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.

-Prov 18:11-12 ESV

A FALSE SENSE OF SECURITY

Riches do tempt people towards a false sense of security, don’t they? The love of wealth can interfere with our spiritual walk for it numbs us to our dependence on God (Mat 19:23). Obviously, there are practical advantages to money. A rich person can overcome a lot of setbacks and complications in life more easily than a poor person. Yet, money neither can do everything nor secure our souls eternally. God may allow war, economic collapse, and other factors to destroy man’s wealth in an instant. Definitely, money cannot achieve the impossible.

Thinking of wealth as a stable source of security is a wishful thinking. Many work tirelessly to build a fortune, only to discover later that trusting in wealth for security is like building house upon a sand. Jesus tells a parable that wealth and possessions may collapse as surely and as swiftly as a house built on sand collapses in a violent storm (Mat 7:26–27). Even if money would last to the end of one's earthly life, it can't be brought along into eternity (1 Tim 6:7; Luke 12:16–21). In Proverbs 23:4,5, Solomon gives cautions: "Do not toil to acquire wealth; be discerning enough to desist. When your eyes light on it, it is gone, for suddenly it sprouts wings, flying like an eagle toward heaven." Amid his trials, Job reflected on the fact that he had not put excessive trust in his gold. He knew better than to feel secure in riches (Job 31:24–25).

The abundance of money may corrupt one’s heart to become proud. He might be oblivious to his mistake. This deception due to a wrong perspective on money is also echoed in Prov 11:2, that says, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom. This is also enforced by Prov 16:18, “ Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.

Today, may we will learn to draw our confidence in Christ alone. Like Paul, we may say, “11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”[Phil 4:11-13]

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Text: Prov 18:10 ESV

10 The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.

-Prov 18:10 ESV

THE NAME OF THE LORD IS A STRONG TOWER

"The name" of God does represent His character, does it not? The righteous person finds security in all that the Lord is. Solomon has been encouraging us to rely on godly wisdom instead of worldly foolishness (Prov 1:7; 3:35). When the Lord descended in the cloud and stood with Moses at Mount Sinai, He proclaimed His name, that is, "The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and bounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin" (Exodus 34:5–7).

During hard times, where can we take refuge? It is in the Lord's mercy, grace, love, faithfulness, and forgiveness. Take note that physical safety is not always guaranteed. These verses will show us that God permits physical hardships even death;

“Though he slay me, I will hope in him; yet I will argue my ways to his face.”[Job 13:15];

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” {John 16:33},

And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. [Mat 10:28)

However, Christians know their ultimate hope is not in this world (1 John 2:17). He will always work everything for their good and His glory (Romans 8:28–30). Proverbs 29:25 affirms, "The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe." Believers have no reason to fear, knowing how good the Lord is.

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God’s Word for Today

23 Jan, 2024

9 Whoever is slack in his work

is a brother to him who destroys.

-Prov 18:9 ESV

THE PRICE OF NEGLIGENCE

Negligence is sabotage. Projects, property, and even relationships can be damaged equally through negligence as they can through some deliberate act. In practical ways, this describes someone who fails to maintain a machine, or a building, which eventually causes it to fail. That failure can be just as sudden, and just as harmful, as if the machine or building were deliberately attacked.

In a relationship, it is our carelessness or apathy that destroys. An attitude of indifference does lead to just as much hurt as deliberate spite, does it not? There must be an intentionality to nurture and cultivate communication and understanding. Otherwise, it is like a neglected garden full of weeds.

A person who is lazy on the job robs his employer. Worse, they forget that work should be performed to the glory of God. Paul says in Colossians 3:17, "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." He continues to teach that workers have to obey their earthly masters, "not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men" (Col 3:22–23).

The practice of faithfulness applies also to one's Christian service. Instead of slacking off his labor for the Lord, a believer should be "steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord" (1 Corinthians 15:58). Our lives are gifts from God. But, our services are our gifts to God. Are we diligent in doing His will? Someday we will face the judgment seat of Christ to give an account to Him.

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God’s Word for Today

22 Jan, 2024

4 The words of a man's mouth are deep waters;

the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.

5 It is not good to be partial to the wicked

or to deprive the righteous of justice.

6 A fool's lips walk into a fight,

and his mouth invites a beating.

7 A fool's mouth is his ruin,

and his lips are a snare to his soul.

8 The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels;

they go down into the inner parts of the body.

-Prov 18:4-8 ESV

THE POWER OF WORDS

Silent water runs deep. Deep waters aptly symbolize the wisdom that lies within a godly person (Prov 1:7). This implies something with a great deal of substance, and much more to be learned than what appears on the surface. Jesus' words reflected deep wisdom, and they were life-giving. Many who heard Him speak observed how unique this ability was (John 7:46). Jesus testified that His words were spirit and life (John 6:63). It is meaningful that the Scriptures are called "the word of life" (Phil 2:16). Worldly wisdom cannot compare to what issues from the teachings of Jesus, contained in the Word of God!

At the same time, deep water also obscures; it is difficult to know exactly what it hides. That murkiness is the idea being used in this proverb. Words can be taken out of context. What someone means, at first, is not easy to understand (Prov 18:13). A later proverb will also note that it takes wisdom to uncover something that's covered up, like the secrets hidden under deep waves (Prov 20:5). In contrast, godly wisdom (Proverbs 8:8–9; 12:18) is like an active stream: clear, fresh, and invigorating. It flows without interruption and never dries up. The benefits are obvious and immediate. That's not to say that godly wisdom is never "deep," as the modern world would describe it (Rom 11:33). But part of wisdom is relating truth in ways others can more easily understand (Prov 1:1–6).

The fool has no restraint with his lips that causes him troubles.[v.6] It's better to be quiet and avoid a conflict than to make a bad situation worse with loose lips, is it not? (Prov 17:14, 28). James says the "tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness…a restless evil, full of deadly poison" (Jas 3:6, 8). In contrast, a wise man knows how to tame his tongue and diffuse a potentially explosive situation. In fact, the apostle Peter wisely counseled believers to "put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander" (1 Peter 2:1).

A fool's mouth leads to his destruction and his lips ensnare his soul.[v.7] He may intend to injure others by speaking perversely but in the process he hurts himself. It is a boomerang. The psalmist aptly says, "Behold, the wicked man conceives evil and is pregnant with mischief and gives birth to lies. He makes a pit, digging it out, and falls into the hole that he has made. His mischief returns upon his own head, and on his own skull his violence descends."[Psalm 7:14–16]

Gossip is a persistent temptation, isn’t it? (Prov 11:13; 16:28). Why? They are entertaining and pleasing to our fallen nature, as is a tasty bite of food to our tongue. But, like food, that "morsel" goes deep inside us. The spiritual damage of taking in slander or secrets is much more serious than it might seem at first (Rom 1:29; 2 Tim 3:2–4).

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Text: Proverbs 18:3 (ESV)

3 When wickedness comes, contempt comes also,

and with dishonor comes disgrace.

WITH DISHONOR COMES DISGRACE

In the Scriptures, the classic example of disgrace is the couple Adam and Eve. Why? They rebelled against God in the garden of Eden. By failing to obey God, they experienced judgment. The death penalty is passed upon them and all their descendants.[Rom 5:12] Shame followed their sin and caused them to hide from God's sight. No longer allowed to live in Eden, they were compelled to leave it permanently. Sorrow and laborious work replaced perfect comfort and ease. Broken fellowship with God and a marred image of God replaced perfect fellowship with God and His perfect image in them. Their son Seth was born in Adam's fallen image, and all of Adam's subsequent descendants bear Adam's image (Gen 5:3; 1 Cor 15:47–49).

Sinful living leads a person to shame and humiliation. This shame comes from God, who has contempt for the wicked person (Isa 23:9; Psa 59:8). Man was created in God's image (Gen 1:26–27) Thus, our purpose is to glorify Him [Isa 43:7]. When we act against His will and truth we consequently bring dishonor on ourselves. (Prov 1:7) This is a natural consequence of sin.

In many cases, sin can have earthly consequences as well. “The mouth of a fool brings ruin near.” (Prov 10:14]. “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”[Prov 16:18). A sinful person may lose respect and ruin his reputation towards others. In short, he loses his credibility. When a person is a notorious liar, gossiper, or theft, nobody will trust him anymore. He lost the trust of people.

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Text: Proverbs 18:1-2 (ESV)

1Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire;

he breaks out against all sound judgment.

2A fool takes no pleasure in understanding,

but only in expressing his opinion

THE FOLLY OF ISOLATION

This proverb speaks out against being hardened to the views and experiences of others. The context implies that this "isolation" is less about distance and personality, and more about beliefs and understanding. The "isolating" person exhibits a superior attitude, as if other people's judgment is beneath them. Such a person can never expand their horizons; they will be left with only limited knowledge.

This verse indicates that the "isolating" person is not being passive. Such an attitude means fighting against good sense. The Hebrew word translated in the ESV as "breaks out" can also be rendered as "quarrels." This person who isolates themselves from anything they don't want to hear is said to be in an "echo chamber. He is a person who only entertains information or opinions that reflect and reinforce their own. The term is a metaphor based on an acoustic echo chamber, in which sounds reverberate in a hollow enclosure.

The next verse (v.2) evokes similar truths about these people. They just want to express their own opinions, Such attitudes are not healthy. However, for believers, it is important for them to examine their positions and seek truth, even if it means admitting error (Acts 17:11; Prov 18:13, 17).

Another thing to note as believers not to isolate is to eliminate all contact with unbelievers. Yes, we should not participate in the sins of unbelievers but should not cut off our contact with the lost. We are in this world but not of this world. Take note that Jesus associated with tax collectors and sinners (Mat 11:19). But, He remained sinless (Hebrews 4:15). He emphasized that He was not removing His followers from the world but was sending them into the world (John 17:18). When He issued the Great Commission, He commanded His followers to go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to everyone (Mat 28:19–20). We are the light and salt of the world. Thus, we should not ‘isolate’ but ‘insulate’ ourselves to be effectual ‘influence’ for Christ in this darkened world.

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