Text: Prov 19:11 ESV

11 Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.

-Prov 19:11 ESV

DO OVERLOOK AN OFFENSE

It's far more honorable to ignore insults than to overreact to them. Overreaction may escalate a volatile situation. However, the wise person dissipates it by remaining calm (Prov 15:1). When a person is easily irritated, he allows them to control him. The self-controlled person doesn't let others incite them into a fight. As one wisely says, “I don’t allow anybody to ruin my life by making me hate him.” The necessity to control one's temper is a frequent subject of Solomon's proverbs (Prov 14:29; 15:18; 16:32; 19:19; 22:24; 29:11).

The apostle Paul gives advice about how to respond rightly when offended. He said, "17Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:17-21). Instead of taking matters into one's own hand, an offended person should leave matters of vengeance to the Lord.

How to overlook an offense?

Joseph is our first example. He did not deny but acknowledge the hurt and pain. But, he saw the sovereignty of God that His good plan supersedes the offense they did. Thus he concluded, “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.”[Gen 50:20] At another instance, David expressed his tolerance and forbearance to Shimei who cursed him. He said, “10 But the king said, “What have I to do with you, you sons of Zeruiah? If he is cursing because the Lord has said to him, ‘Curse David,’ who then shall say, ‘Why have you done so?’” 11 And David said to Abishai and to all his servants, “Behold, my own son seeks my life; how much more now may this Benjaminite! Leave him alone, and let him curse, for the Lord has told him to. 12 It may be that the Lord will look on the wrong done to me, and that the Lord will repay me with good for his cursing today.”

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Text: Prov 19:10 ESV

10 It is not fitting for a fool to live in luxury, much less for a slave to rule over princes.

-Prov 19:10 ESV

UNFIT FOR THE TASK

Both the fool and slave are unfit for the task of managing riches and kingdom, respectively. The fools, who are immoral and unwise, can become wealthy (Psa 37:7; 73:3] But, when they do, it's an unwelcome sight. A fool fails to understand that every possession has been entrusted to him by God (Mat 25:14–15). Instead of using his wealth and luxurious belongings for God's glory, he hoards and squanders everything for himself (Mat 6:19–20; Luke 12:20–21) And, he trusts in riches for security more than God (Prov 18:11).

Slaves are unfit to rule as princes, are they not? This is not a slight for the servants for this focuses more to their competence not status. Skills and not class, are in mind in this proverb. Take for example Joseph, he was a "slave" but was repeatedly given enormous authority because of his godly wisdom (Gen 39:1–6, 20–23; 41:38–40).. In most cases, slaves are not prepared to rule. It appears absurd to think that their roles are interchanged.

It does follow that when a person has competence, he may rule. This makes education and character essential in one’s life. The knowledgeable person governs the ignorant. Thus, the statement, ‘knowledge is power’ is true.

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God’s Word for Today

6 Feb, 2025

8 Whoever gets sense loves his own soul;

he who keeps understanding will discover good.

9 A false witness will not go unpunished,

and he who breathes out lies will perish.

-Prov 19:8-9 ESV

A SENSIBLE PERSON

A sensible person cares about the state of their soul (Mark 8:36). That causes them to make wise, spiritually discerned decisions (1 Cor 2:14; Heb 5:14). God's formula for success has never changed! The Lord told Joshua to "be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go" (Joshua 1:7). That he should study God's written Word or the law in order to follow it diligently. Then, he added the promise, "For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success" (Jos 1:8).

Earlier Solomon says, “A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who breathes out lies will not escape.” (Prov 19:5). Verse 9 is a repeat but with worst implication - death. This repetition is a deliberate way of creating emphasis as the practice in ancient times. The "false witness" is a serious offense, called "perjury" in modern laws. Slandering about or against other people is a serious moral and criminal act (Exo 20:16; Prov 6:16–19).

Such lying may have eternal consequences if not repented. In Revelation 21:8, John identifies the kinds of people that will be thrown into eternal suffering. This verse says, "But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death." Judgment is inescapable unless they humble and receive the forgiveness of Christ.

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God’s Word for Today

5 Feb, 2025

4 Wealth brings many new friends,

but a poor man is deserted by his friend.

5 A false witness will not go unpunished,

and he who breathes out lies will not escape.

6 Many seek the favor of a generous man,

and everyone is a friend to a man who gives gifts.

7 All a poor man's brothers hate him;

how much more do his friends go far from him!

He pursues them with words, but does not have them.

-Prov 19:4-7 ESV

WEALTH BRINGS MANY NEW FRIENDS

A wealthy person may have many friends. Sadly, most are shallow friends. That doesn't necessarily refer to bribes or other overt gifts (Prov 17:8; 18:16). However, a rich man's wealth can attract others like ants are attracted to sugary foods. Many do not really care about the rich man. They are primarily after his favor in the form of financial gifts. In the gospels, many went to Jesus, not for Himself as a person and His teachings. But, they were drawn because they were able to eat the ‘bread and fishes’ through His miraculous act. On the other hand, those who are poor often find themselves ignored and sneered at by others (Prov 14:21; 17:5). The same type of so-called friends who flock to a wealthy person will abandon someone if they cannot benefit from their friendship.

Solomon says further, “Many seek the favor of a generous man, and everyone is a friend to a man who gives gifts.” The statement that "everyone" is a rich person's friend implies that "friendship" grounded in wealth is unreliable. A friend of everybody is a friend of nobody. This casts doubt and scepticalism towards those who seem to be "friends," when all they really want are the benefits. They are pleased to be with him for what they can get.

Moreover, Solomon expands this sad reality to happen in a family. He said, “A poor man's brothers hate him; how much more do his friends go far from him! He pursues them with words, but does not have them.” It is sad that even this happens in a family, wherein support and help are expected. Some despise them by looking down on struggling relatives and they don’t have the desire to help them.

But, there is a friend who stays close even when someone is in need. He is a true friend – the Lord Jesus. He loves us while we are most undeserving sinners.[Rom 5:8]

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Text: Proverbs 19:2-3 (ESV)

2 Desire without knowledge is not good,

and whoever makes haste with his feet misses his way.

3 When a man's folly brings his way to ruin,

his heart rages against the LORD.

HASTE MAKES WASTE

A person is putting himself at risk when he will pursue his ambition without diligence or knowledge. Without weighing all the facts of a matter, an ambitious person may rush into a situation, only to discover severe consequences. (Prov 18:13, 17), "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death." [Prov 14:12] Wisdom and truth are often compared to a path (Prov 4:26; 15:10). Those who fail to watch their steps are inclined to become lost: to "miss their way." Other proverbs note that rash decision-making can lead to failure (Prov 21:5; 28:20).

Believers are exhorted to trust in the Lord for guidance. According to James, God promises His wisdom and clear direction to the person who asks him (Jas 1:5) The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way. [Prov 14:8] The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps.[Prov 4:15). Thus, Solomon counsels, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." He adds, "Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil" (Prov 3:7).

A person who makes careless decisions will suffer the consequence. These consequences are mostly painful and tragic. Of course, not all suffering is self-inflicted (John 16:33; 1 Peter 3:17). It is undeniably true that human nature seeks to blame others for our own wrongs. Mankind has a tragic habit of ignoring reason and advice, only to blame God when the predicted consequences come to pass. The question "why did God do this to me?" often our alibis from embracing our faults and mistakes. It’s ridiculous for a drunkard to blame God why he has a sclerosis of the liver or peptic ulcers. What they sow, they reap.

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Text: Proverbs 19:1 (ESV)

Better is a poor person who walks in his integrity

than one who is crooked in speech and is a fool.

INTEGRITY

How valuable is personal integrity? it is more valuable than any riches or financial gain. The "crooked speeches" in Proverbs 4:24 and 6:12 imply something manipulative, immoral, or deceptive. For having a godly wisdom, it may give a person earthly success (Proverbs 1:7; 3:1–4; 13:21). Yet, it does not claim that honesty is an invincible strategy for prosperity. Righteous people may suffer. In a corrupt world, diligent, honest, hardworking people can sometimes fall into some combination of prejudice and persecution (1 Pet 3:17; John 16:33). Thus, wealth is never worth the sin and immoral acts to obtain it. Is it? Our treasure is in heaven.[Mat 6:21]

Many first-century Christians were poor due to persecution, but the Lord did not forsake them. In our time, through no fault of their own, many Christians still are poor but not abandoned by the Lord. God promises us in Hebrews 13, saying, "Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'" Verse 6 follows to say, "So we can confidently say, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?'" Even Paul has the confidence to be contented for Jesus is his help in every situation of life.[Phil 4;11-13]

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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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