Proverbs 30 Devotional Study

with Pastor Jason Van Bemmel

Forest Hill Presbyterian Church

www.foresthillpca.org

In Proverbs 30, Agur expresses his weariness and ignorance, questioning God's nature and name. He recognizes that God's word is true and a shield, warning against adding to it. Agur asks for two things: to be kept from falsehood and to have neither poverty nor riches, but enough to avoid temptation. The chapter lists four types of people who displease God: those who disrespect authority, those who are self-righteous, those who are prideful, and those who harm the poor. It also presents a series of threes and fours illustrating various aspects of life: things that are never satisfied (Sheol, a barren womb, land, fire); things that leave no trace (an eagle, serpent, ship, and a man with a virgin); things that make the earth tremble (a slave becoming king, a fool with food, an unloved woman finding a husband, a maidservant displacing her mistress); and small but wise creatures (ants, rock badgers, locusts, and lizards). The chapter emphasizes the importance of contentment, faithfulness, and trusting God. It warns against foolishness, slander, and anger, highlighting that God's wisdom is far more valuable than worldly pursuits.