Proverbs 20:17-21 – Look to the Wise
Verse 17 – We’re such sinners that we think it’s more fun to do something in a clever and deceptive way than to do it honestly. But what is the result of lies and theft – sadness, bitterness, heartbreak, destroyed homes, families, and lives. But doing things God’s way, though perhaps not as attractive at first, leads to joy upon joy.
Verse 18 – Again and again we are told in Proverbs to stop thinking we know it all. We need wisdom, we need advice, we need help, we need guidance. Besides gaining these things from Godly men and women, most of all we need to go to God’s Word for our instructions. We have plans to make for God, we have battles to fight for God, where else can we get instruction but from God.
Verse 19 – How much we need to guard our tongues, to resist the urge to tell another’s secret, to stop hurting each other with our sharp and deceitful words. Be wise. Be wise in your friendships. Refuse to listen to gossip and be careful of those who do.
Verse 20 – What a fearful punishment is set forth in this verse! This should show us how seriously God takes the respect and obedience we owe our parents. An ungrateful heart that would curse them has nothing to look forward to. We are not the judge of our parents – leave that to God. Instead, focus on the good things they have done for you and be thankful to God for the good He has done you through them.
Verse 21 – Those who want to get rich quickly are in danger. They are in danger of putting their greed before everything else, and using whatever means necessary to satisfy it. Though they may succeed, when they die what will they really have?
Questions
- Where should we go for instructions on how to live?
- How should we treat our parents?
Prayer Points
- Give thanks for your parents.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.