For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ website.

Salient points:

• When others are being victimized, our responsibility isn't just to make a wise observation, but to get involved (vs.11-12). There is a similar passage in chapter 3. The applications are many: helping the poor, evangelism, putting a stop to human trafficking, etc. "But we knew nothing about this" reminds us of the plea of the goats in the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats (Matt 25:31-46).
• We ought not to gloat when our enemy falls (v.17). See Job 31:29; Ps 35:13-15. The O.T. may not consistently reach the high ethical standard of the N.T. in love for enemies, but it frequently comes close. An implication of the Lord diverting his wrath from our enemy is that it may fall upon us instead!
• Note: the 30th saying occurs in vs.21-22. A new section begins in v.23.
• Why don't we speak more frankly (v.26)? Are we afraid of rejection? Or are we afraid the other person might make me uncomfortable by asking how I'm really doing?
• V.27 is all about priorities, and especially those related to building a home (marriage and family).
• The sluggard is slack when it comes to maintenance (vs.30-32). For the proper care of vineyards etc, see Isaiah 28:24-29. The reference to sleeping too much is also found back in chapter 6.

Daily challenge:

• Review priorities!
• A disciplined person does things in the proper order.
• Let's stop putting off the really important things.

Tomorrow: Proverbs 25 (Lord willing)