1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.
2 The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul.
3 It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.
4 The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing.
5 Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.
6 Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?
7 The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.
8 A king that sitteth in the throne of judgment scattereth away all evil with his eyes.
9 Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin?
10 Divers weights, and divers measures, both of them are alike abomination to the LORD.
11 Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.
12 The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the LORD hath made even both of them.
13 Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty; open thine eyes, and thou shalt be satisfied with bread.
14 It is naught, it is naught, saith the buyer: but when he is gone his way, then he boasteth.
15 There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.
16 Take his garment that is surety for a stranger: and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.
17 Bread of deceit is sweet to a man; but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel.
18 Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.
19 He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.
20 Whoso curseth his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in obscure darkness.
21 An inheritance may be gotten hastily at the beginning; but the end thereof shall not be blessed.
22 Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.
23 Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance is not good.
24 Man's goings are of the LORD; how can a man then understand his own way?
25 It is a snare to the man who devoureth that which is holy, and after vows to make enquiry.
26 A wise king scattereth the wicked, and bringeth the wheel over them.
27 The spirit of man is the candle of the LORD, searching all the inward parts of the belly.
28 Mercy and truth preserve the king: and his throne is upholden by mercy.
29 The glory of young men is their strength: and the beauty of old men is the grey head.
30 The blueness of a wound cleanseth away evil: so do stripes the inward parts of the belly.
The book of Proverbs is a collection of wise sayings and teachings attributed to King Solomon, known for his wisdom and understanding. Chapter 20 of Proverbs continues this theme of imparting wisdom and practical advice for living a righteous and fulfilling life. This chapter covers a variety of topics, including honesty, diligence, and the consequences of foolishness. Through its various verses, Chapter 20 teaches readers about the importance of integrity, self-control, and seeking guidance from God.
One of the main themes in Chapter 20 is the importance of honesty and integrity in one's character. Verse 7 states, "The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him." This verse emphasizes the idea that a person who lives with integrity not only benefits themselves but also sets a positive example for their children and future generations. Similarly, verse 9 states, "Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sin?" This verse highlights the idea that true honesty and purity come from within and cannot be feigned or forced.
Verse 11 also speaks to the importance of honesty, stating, "Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right." This verse reminds us that our actions and behaviors are a reflection of our character and integrity. Therefore, it is crucial to act with honesty and righteousness in all aspects of life.
In addition to personal integrity, Chapter 20 also emphasizes the importance of being truthful and fair in business dealings. Verse 10 states, "Divers weights, and divers measures, both of them are alike abomination to the Lord." This verse condemns the use of dishonest business practices, such as using different measurements or weights to deceive customers. It reminds readers that God detests deceit and dishonesty, and those who engage in such practices will face consequences.
Another prominent theme in Chapter 20 is the consequences of foolishness and the importance of seeking wisdom. Verse 3 states, "It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling." This verse warns against getting involved in pointless arguments and disputes, which often lead to unnecessary conflict and strife. It reminds readers to use wisdom and discernment in choosing their battles and to avoid foolish behavior.
Verse 5 also speaks to the consequences of foolishness, stating, "Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out." This verse highlights the importance of seeking wise counsel and guidance from those who have understanding and discernment. It also suggests that those who lack wisdom and understanding will struggle to find solutions to their problems.
Verse 26 further emphasizes the consequences of foolishness, stating, "A wise king scattereth the wicked, and bringeth the wheel over them." This verse speaks to the idea that a wise leader will not tolerate wickedness and will take action to remove it from their kingdom or community. It also suggests that foolishness and wickedness will eventually lead to defeat and downfall.
Chapter 20 also teaches about the importance of self-control and avoiding temptation. Verse 1 states, "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise." This verse warns against the dangers of excessive drinking, which can lead to foolish and destructive behavior. It reminds readers to exercise self-control and avoid giving in to temptation.
Similarly, verse 17 states, "Bread of deceit is sweet to a man; but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel." This verse speaks to the temporary pleasure that comes from indulging in deceitful or sinful behavior but warns that it will eventually lead to negative consequences. It reminds readers to resist the temptation of immediate gratification and to instead seek long-term fulfillment through righteous living.
Throughout Chapter 20, there is a recurring theme of seeking guidance from God and relying on His wisdom. Verse 22 states, "Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the Lord, and he shall save thee." This verse reminds readers to trust in God's justice and not to take matters into their own hands. It encourages patience and faith in God's plan.
Verse 24 also speaks to the importance of seeking God's guidance, stating, "Man's goings are of the Lord; how can a man then understand his own way?" This verse highlights the idea that God is the ultimate guide and source of wisdom, and human understanding is limited in comparison. It encourages readers to seek God's will and guidance in all aspects of life.
Chapter 20 of Proverbs offers practical and timeless wisdom for living a righteous and fulfilling life. It highlights the importance of honesty, integrity, and self-control, while warning against the consequences of foolishness and wickedness. The chapter also emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from God and relying on His wisdom rather than human understanding. Ultimately, Chapter 20 teaches readers to live with integrity and seek wisdom from God, which will lead to a blessed and prosperous life.
In today's world, where dishonesty and selfishness are prevalent, the lessons from Chapter 20 of Proverbs are more relevant than ever. By following the teachings of this chapter and living with integrity and wisdom, individuals can make a positive impact on their communities and leave a legacy of righteousness for future generations.
Overall, Chapter 20 of Proverbs serves as a reminder to readers to live with honesty, wisdom, and reliance on God. It encourages self-reflection and self-improvement, reminding us to constantly strive to be better and to seek God's guidance in all aspects of life.
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