PROVERBS
LESS IS MORE
by
John Conner
COLLECTION 3:
The Thirty Sayings of the Wise (22.17-24)
Less Is More - SLOWLY Reading Proverbs Week 36-A:
Prov.22:17-21 TRUST IS BORN BY INTERNALIZING WISDOM
A new (third) collection of proverbs (22:17-24:22) is identified as Thirty Sayings of the Wise (22:17,20) a number symbolizing a complete and perfect teaching. The style returns to the repetition of direct commands from a parent to the son used in the first collection. This unit (vv.17-21) is the 1st ‘saying’ and it serves also as a prologue to the collection. It has two sections each with four lines (vv.17-18; 20-21) at the beginning and the end that enclose the central two lines (v.19). The purpose of learning to trust the Lord (v.19) is fronted by an admonition to absorb the wisdom by attention and benefits it gives. The trust engendered is explained by the last four lines as the parents’ purpose and by the benefits clearly described.
Again the exhortation is to conscious, diligent attentiveness to the sayings of the wise (v.17) as they give beauty and pleasure to the one who is able to recall and apply them in his living (v.18). But they need to be known well within one’s heart (internalized) to appear on the lips.
But it is not just the reciting of wisdom that makes one lovely or pleasing – it is the trust in the Lord, the reliance upon Him and His ways and thus obeying Him that is the aim of the diligent attention to wisdom (v.19). Thus the parent says, “I teach even you today!” that is my purpose for these sayings – wise behavior!
Again by means of a question (vv.20, 21) the parent elicits the son’s responsive involvement in this education project. He solicits the recognition that these thirty sayings are for advice and knowledge that shapes life and behavior (v.21). Reliable words, reliable, faithful reports and responses to those we serve are the way of wisdom. But you have to know them to obey them!
Less Is More - SLOWLY Reading Proverbs Week 36-B:
Prov.22:22-25 SOMETIMES “NO!” IS WISE
Often wisdom is displayed, not by what you do, but by what you refuse to do. The 2nd and 3rd Sayings of the Wise point to this reality. Each pair also gives an explanation or warning as to why such restraint is wise, especially when it comes to how we gain wealth and the kind of people we associate with.
History continues to prove that the rich often get that way by ‘using’ those with less. Thus it is no surprise that the exhortation is to not rob or crush the economically poor or afflicted. Price gouging with rents or during a shortage of supplies is common exploitation, but this saying points out that we will have to answer to the LORD their protector for such abuse or oppression and that He will return ‘tit for tat’ to those who oppress ones weaker.
Our associates do teach us and train us in our manner of relating – for good or bad. Thus the 3rd saying tells us to refuse to have hotheads or wrathful people as associates. The reason is clear – we will learn their manner of relating and it will bring us into many snares and troubles relationally. Thus avoid gaining by taking advantage of those with less and avoid friendships with quick-tempered, verbally raging people.
Less Is More - SLOWLY Reading Proverbs Week 36-C:
Prov.22:26-28 SAY “NO!” TO GET RICH QUICK SCHEMES
The purpose of these 30 Sayings is to help us trust the Lord (22:19), to have confidence in him. Thus we should not be surprised that they speak about finances and wealth a lot. Is our security in our money, or in the Lord Who provides money and all things for us?
Continuing the emphasis on things to which we should wisely say, “NO!” these two sayings warn against entanglements of debts and gaining by fraud. The 4th Saying (vv.26,27) warns against the dangers of indebtedness. We should say no to all indebtedness which might endanger out most basic possessions – like our own bed. This happens when we enter into debts, which are not secured by specific property, or with collateral that securely covers the total indebtedness. Too much of our credit card and consumer debt is of this nature and is too easy to obtain – but never easy to disentangle from it. Also included here would be our need to say “No!” to certifying a loan for someone else. This is a great way to destroy a relationship and to get ensnared in a debt. The motivation (v.27) is clear – if you don’t resist this – you can end up losing your bed and be sleeping on the ground.
The 5th Saying (v.28) must be understood as referring to land markers which were used to assign the Lord’s lands to the tribes and individual families of Israel. Land fraud by movement of boundary markers is an ancient crime that is still used to gain more productive assets. But it has never been morally right and still is not. Any act of taking what has not been gained by us or given to us may have short-term benefits – but it is wrong and will not ultimately bring the blessings sought.
Less Is More - SLOWLY Reading Proverbs Week 37-A:
Prov.22:29-23:5 TRUST SKILLS, NOT FEASTS NOR FORTUNES
After the introduction (22:17-21) to the 30 Sayings Of The Wise, we encounter ten Sayings all of which but one are prohibitions, warning us what NOT to do (mostly related to wealth). The unusual one, the 6th Saying, begins this session (22:29) bidding our eyes to gaze upon one who, by wisely trusting the Lord, develops his skills and expertise. As a result, he becomes valuable and recognized by those with influence, like kings. The one gem of skilled/wise ability will not simply be lost among obscure people, but his sparkling abilities will give him a place of influence among the influential. Notice again the use of a rhetorical question to draw forth from us a response!
Again the next two Sayings return again to prohibitions of what not to do, both warning regarding deceptive situations whose appearances can fool the gullible. The 7th Saying 23:1-3) gives the setting of a feast provided by a ruler offering his guests delicious morsels. To the gullible with a hearty appetite, it might appear to be a flattering honor to be included and an opportunity to ‘tank up.” But the “mark well” or “observe carefully” of v.1b warns one that all is not as it appears, for the food is deceptive (v.3b). The feast is covering a trap or test of one’s character or self-control. So, especially if we tend to eat too much, we had better put a knife to our throat and restrain ourselves. All is not as it appears!
The 8th Saying (vv.4-5) likewise shows that with deceptive riches, the eyes may see things glittering, but fail to realize that the glittering is the fluttering of wings carrying them away like an eagle soaring to the heavens. If our eyes are caught by the promises of security and provisions, we need to be careful not to trust our own insight and wisdom independent from the Lord’s wisdom. This leads to the wearisome pursuit of that which does not satisfy, nor stay.
Less Is More - SLOWLY Reading Proverbs Week 37-B:
Prov.23:6-11 LIVING BEFORE THE LIVING LORD
Living in view of the Lord’s living, active involvement in His world and our lives is the way of wisdom. All the prohibitions, or “Do Not!” commands, of this section of the 30 Sayings assume this reality as the basis for its directives. It is contrasted to living by our own insight or our maneuverings. The 9th Saying (23:6-8) warns against thinking that we can talk and dine our way into favor with the wealthy and influential. We might finagle our way in and the host might even tell us to “Eat and drink,” but his heart is not in it and we find that our pleasant, ingratiating words are wasted and we might even get so upset we vomit his delicacies.
Wasted words, like those just mentioned, are words which are spoken into the ears of a fool. Thus the 10th Saying exhorts caution regarding to whom we speak prudent words. A fool will only hold words of wisdom in snarled contempt – either laughter or ridicule will be the response received.
The Lord’s active involvement is the basis for the final Saying in this collection of ten. The command is to not seek to gain financial advantage by either taking someone else’s land or by harvesting from the fields of those disadvantaged, like the fatherless. The reason for this prohibition is that the Lord is their Defender, and He is strong, and we will discover that the Lord Himself will plead the cause of the oppressed and vulnerable against us. Living in view of the Lord’s living involvement is wise!
Less Is More - SLOWLY Reading Proverbs Week 37-C:
Prov.23:12-16 WISDOM: TO KIDS, GRANDKIDS & BEYOND
This section within The Thirty Sayings (23:12-24:2) again focuses upon the transmission of wisdom from one generation to the future generations – furthering the aim of the entire book. God’s design is that families are the conduit of training the heart in wisdom. This requires parents, kids, and grandkids all be schooled in forming hearts that respond to instruction and discipline. In a fallen, warped world wisdom does not come without conscious, attentive pursuit and discipline.
The 12th Saying (v.12) is another general appeal to all generations for conscious, deliberate pursuit of wisdom. This involves the inner disposition of the heart that opens the ears to hear the instruction and knowledge that can shape the heart. Parents, kids, and grandkids all need this alert, conscious attention to wisdom because it is not the natural way.
The 13th Saying (vv.13,14) seems to be the father telling the son that he will also need to help his children learn discipline. And he reminds him that corporeal discipline is often necessary to protect from death itself that hounds an undisciplined life. The abuse of physical discipline has been justly condemned – there is no excuse for physical injury and emotional battering. But let us not be bullied into thinking that there is never the need or place for warm, affectionate, and yet firm, appropriately applied, physical pain as a means of training our inner hearts. The fact that the poet has to encourage the use of this tool implies the reluctance of the parent to use this tool. He knows life and death is the issue in learning wisdom.
The 14th Saying (vv.15,16) holds forth the incredible joy and satisfaction shared when wisdom is displayed among generations. John the Apostle said he had no greater joy than to hear that his children were walking in the truth (3 John 1:4). Likewise, this father is overjoyed when he sees his progeny living wisely and speaking uprightly. This is strong motivation – for what child does not in the depths of his heart long for his parents’ acceptance and praise!
Less Is More - SLOWLY Reading Proverbs Week 38-A:
Prov.23:17-21 HOPES AND APPETITIES – WITH CARE!
The parent continues to prod the child to consciously direct their heart into the way of wisdom with directions about what not to do, what to do and why. Sayings 15 and 16 both follow this curriculum of prohibition, command, and motivation.
The 15th Saying knows that everyone has hopes and desires for the ‘good’ life. But the way one pursues their heart’s hopes is the difference. And we live in God’s world where not every action immediately bears its ultimate consequence. In fact, it often looks to appearances that those pursuing the sinful path do reap their dreams and desires. Thus the parent exhorts the child to guard his heart’s zeal or envy for sinners and their ways. The true passion or zeal must be for a fear of the LORD that is ever vigilant, all the time! The reason is that there is a future with a definite end and the LORD determines that end and for those fearing Him our long enduring desire and hope will certainly be fulfilled, not cut off! The fear of the LORD is the way to the ‘good life!’
The 16th Saying assumes that those we associate with do impact us – for good or bad. This time in reverse the order it gives first the exhortation and then the prohibition warning of the conscious alertness necessary to avoid two specific kinds of bad influencers. The father boldly appeals for attention with a “yes, I’m talking to you – LISTEN!” Having attention he commands the child to make his heart take strides, to consciously direct it to the way of wisdom. This vigilance is necessary so as to embrace the prohibition to avoid those given to too much alcohol and/or too much eating- drunkenness and gluttony. Both have been too common in every age. The motivation lies in the danger posed by both. Both sins tend to create states of drowsiness both mental and physical. This leads to poor work habits and poor spending decisions and eventually leave one destitute or in rags. Too much of a good thing can destroy you – so don’t be among such undisciplined eaters and drinkers!
Less Is More - SLOWLY Reading Proverbs Week 38-B:
Prov.23:22-28 CHILD TO ADULT TRANSITIONS
Part of the grave danger of growing up is the challenge of becoming self-sufficient and independent of parents, without abandoning or rejecting the kind of spiritual dependence, values and commitments which enabled them to responsibly birth, nurture, train and set in place such independence for the child. That is, good parents are dependent and fear the Lord and they thus train their children; but they realize that the child must for himself accept and adopt such dependence. But it is tricky for a child to transition to independence from parents and yet be dependent for oneself upon their values and beliefs. Yet there is also the creaturely instinct which wants to please the parent, and herein is an avenue for good transitions.
The 17th Saying (vv.22-25) appeals to the child’s sense of giving joy to the parents, to their wanting the parent’s rejoicing. The parent exhorts the child to listen and to buy: to listen to birth parents and buy the truth. The parent prohibits contempt for one mother and the accompanying devaluing of the wisdom, instruction, and insight she provides. Appealing to the parent's exultation in a righteous and wise child the plea is to provide a cause for their rejoicing and exultation by growing up wisely.
The wise parent also knows the power and danger for those growing up of sexual pleasure. Knowing the traps that are there, the 18th Saying (vv.26-28) appeals first for a heart commitment by the child. Spiritual heart resolve to the parent and God is requested and expected. Then a request is made of the child to guide the receptive organ of the eyes so to take pleasure in the good. This focus thus protects from the visual sensual pleasures. This prior commitment and focus of vision are given motivation by graphically depicting the deceptive dangers and powerful ploys of seductive predators. With metaphors from hunting of a deep pit and narrow well, the deceptive danger and its ensnaring power are depicted (v.27). Then the active and aggressive image of a robber shows that sexual power is forceful and too often effective in making traitors of the unprepared.
Less Is More - SLOWLY Reading Proverbs Week 38-C:
Prov.23:29-35 THE BITTER BITE OF THE BOTTLE
The 19th Saying focuses upon one of the oldest and most common traps or enemies of wisdom – alcohol. This mocking song begins with questions (v.29) to prod for attention and then draws attention to the alluring looks, ambiance, and tastes of wine (vv.30-31). Yet this is shown to be deadly deceptive by comparing its bite of a venomous snake( 32). The tell-tale signs of eyes and mouth under the bitter control of drink are sure signs of trouble (v.33). The staggering impact is graphically depicted as a ship in a tumultuous storm and then as someone physically beaten (vv.34,35a). The addictive nature of alcohol is finally portrayed (v.35b) by the idiocy of one receiving such a beating and then waking up to do the same thing all over again.
Any who have encountered the debilitating addiction know the sadness and the danger of this common, simple allurement. Indeed as v.29 indicates bitter conflicts, complaints, needless bruises are the sad consequences and bite of the bottle.
Less Is More - SLOWLY Reading Proverbs Week 39-A:
Prov.24:1-4 SAYINGS ON WAYS AND MEANS
Sayings 20 and 21 stand in contrast with one another warning that the two means or ways available to secure the things we want or need are vastly different. Saying 20 exhorts one to avoid the means used by the evil people; while Saying 21 shows the agency of the process of wisdom ultimately rewards.
The assumption is that in this fallen topsy-turvy world the evil often is successful enough to catch our eye by their success. Saying 20 shows that this tempts us to envy them and desire to associate or go along with them. But sometimes when we get close we see that their means of dealing with people is evil – they resort to violence: pondering physical, emotional, relational ways to get what they want at the expense of others. With a heart thus inclined there is no surprise that verbal abuse is a tool of choice. Who has not seen the bullying, the insinuations, lies and false statements flying in business and politics? So the warning – do NOT envy them or associate with them!
In contrast, is the patient process of the way of wisdom. The emphasis of Saying 21 is the agency or means of the three foundational stones: wisdom, understanding, and knowledge. None of these are learned quickly or simply – we grow in possessing them and they with us. It is by these healthy means that we build, establish and fill a home (not just the house). These verbs reflect the means that the Lord Himself used to make the world (3:19), indeed the way of true creativity. And notice the household and rooms ultimately have precious treasures that are precious and pleasant – not violent and abusive. There are truly quite different ways and means of living – let us choose wisely which we use!
Prov.24:5-9 WISDOM VINDICATES ITSELF
The Thirty Sayings continue its focus upon the benefits of wisdom by showing how it gives strength amidst the distressing situations of life. The next three Sayings contrast the prevailing power of wisdom (vv.5-6) in life situations that are public in nature with the ultimate public rejection of foolish living (vv.7-9).
Wisdom not only builds, establishes and fills its home well (vv.3,4), it also is able to protect itself and others. Saying 22 (vv.5,6) shows that the dependence upon wisdom, knowledge, guidance, and counsel give both the strength and the strategies needed to wage war – militarily or spiritually. Strength comes from wisdom and understanding, and this humility then seeks guidance and many counselors to develop an effective strategy to successfully handle threats to home and society.
The contrasting backdrop to such wisdom is the focus of the next two Sayings. The 23rd Saying shows that the root of the incompetence for the fool is the lack of humility. The statement that “wisdom is too high” reflects as Bruce Waltke says that, “the incorrigible lacks the wings of piety and humility that soar high enough to attain the heavenly wisdom for public affairs.” Being thus impaired, the fool finds himself without words or influence in public or legal issues.
In stark contrast to the good influence and competent strategies of the wise (vv. 5, 6), the 24th Saying (vv.8,9) displays the public censure and repudiation of the mocking fool. With a bare statement of fact, the poet says the public will label as “Schemer!” one planning evil. Then more tellingly, he declares such scheming of evil is sin – against God’s order for society. Thus it is no wonder that humanity hates, or finds repugnant, such a mocker.
Less Is More - SLOWLY Reading Proverbs Week 39-C:
Prov.24:10-14 STRENGTH & PLEASURE IN WISDOM
Sometimes an observation of negative realities is the best motivation for positive behavior. Saying 25 utilizes this method to exhort one to show oneself strong by caring for and protecting others in times of deadly distress. First is the general observation of fact (v.10) that to falter or be slack in a time of distress displays the reality of one’s weakness of character and strength. No clue as to why one falters or what is lacked – just the truth that inner strength was lacking.
Then a concrete example is offered by means of an exhortation to engagement in the needs of others (v.11) and motivation from the Lord’s all-knowing providence and justice (v.12). A person of true inner strength will not falter, but will lovingly protect others threatened with danger and injustices. The exhortation is to deliver and hold back those endangered. The motivation is presented by voicing the common excuse of those who are slack, “We did not know.” And this excuse is challenged by questions which call forth from us the clear acknowledgment that our Lord is indeed all knowing, all powerful, and justly repays both good done and help withheld.
Saying 26 guards the prior Saying against the mistake of thinking wisdom is raw, bare, austere justice. The delight and benefits of wisdom are extolled by means of a comparison to the benefits and pleasures (sweetness) of honey. The comparative exhortations are clear: Eat honey and know wisdom! Honey is good (for you) and wisdom is your life! Honey tastes sweet and wisdom gives a blessed future and eternal hope! Wisdom is the path of strength and joy!
Less Is More - SLOWLY Reading Proverbs Week 40-A:
Prov.24:15-20 BE CAREFUL WITH JUSTICE
Once again these Sayings focus on what to avoid, the “Do Not” behavior of wisdom. The poet grounds the validation for each prohibition in the Lord’s established moral ordering of His world.
Saying 27 admonishes one not to adopt the secretive and violent methods of the wicked (v.15). They indirectly destroy good people by seeking to get their means of provisions and places of rest, like businesses and homes. The reason given is that it is hard to keep a good man down (v.16)! The poet observes that even if the righteous falls seven times he will yet arise again. This is in contrast to the irreversible fall and ultimate calamity of the wicked. Suffering is an assumed reality, but ultimate conquest of goodness is assured.
Yet this assurance is to be carefully guarded against a bitter revengeful heart that callously rejoices in the punishment of those who have wronged them. Saying 28 makes it clear that justice does not permit sinful degrading of the wicked by rejoicing over their judgment (v.17). In fact, God’s justice is also governed by His holiness and He will cease the temporal wrath upon the wicked if the righteous allows his heart to sinfully gloat in smug arrogance over the downfall of the wicked (v.18). We rejoice that justice prevails, yet we weep for those upon whom it brings its disaster.
In the face of such evil and wicked people, and the possible delay of their just punishment, Saying 29 cautions against two common opposite reactions. It prohibits both fretting and about envying the wicked who temporally don’t receive their just punishment. Injustice suffered without punishment of the wrongdoer can cause a slow burning anger that builds resentment and bitterness – thus the admonition – DO NOT (v.19a). The other emotion of envy at their seemingly ‘getting off’ without consequences is also prohibited (v.19b). The reason is that evil people have no blessed future – ultimately their lamp will be snuffed out – God’s holiness, though it may delay justice, demands justice will ultimately prevail in His world (v.20). The cross of Jesus is the only place available for us to escape the justice we deserve for our evil. HE is the only refuge and only hope of blessing!
COLLECTION 4:
Further Sayings of the Wise (24.23-34)
Less Is More - SLOWLY Reading Proverbs Week 40-B:
Prov.24:21-26 OF GOVERNANCE AND JUSTICE
The Thirty Sayings of the Wise ends with a reminder that wisdom is the best way to live because the Lord and His kings are the agents who carry out His moral governance in His world. The admonition is to fear the Lord and His king and to not associate with those who seek change by ways other than appropriate submission (v.21). In short, give respect and submission to God and His rulers and avoid rebellious agitators. The reason for such warning is now grounded in the action of God and kings to bring certain and sudden disaster on those who oppose His rule (v.22). First, the suddenness is highlighted (v.22a), and then a question (v.22b) prods us to think regarding the surprising nature of the judgment awaiting defiant ones.
Now the poet presents another unnumbered collection of Sayings of the Wise (24:23-34) after the prior Thirty Sayings. They are simply introduced as such in verse twenty-three. The first Saying focuses upon the judicial system among a community. It first boldly states that it is not good to show partiality in a judgment (v.23b). It then shows why this is the case by two illustrations: one of partiality and one of justice.
The direct speech of a judge’s partial verdict (v.24a) saying “You are innocent,” to a guilty person, draws the scene. The consequences are a social uproar against the judge, calling God’s curse upon the acquitted and the judge (v.24b). The community implicitly knows that partiality is not good. Contrasting this scene is one who establishes what is right or just. This one experiences the pleasure of blessings seemingly showered upon him by the community (v25). The community always knows what is just, especially when they are the ones who have been wronged. Oh for more just judges who know righteousness and give just verdicts!
Less Is More - SLOWLY Reading Proverbs Week 40-C:
Prov.24:26-31 WISE WORDS AND WORK
More Sayings continue with a focus upon words and work. Not only is a judge’s just verdict a blessing, but also in general words of honesty, spoken to one directly, are a blessing (v.26). Honest replies spoken and received are elevated to the level of an intimate kiss. We are such people pleasers by nature that to have people lovingly, caringly speak honestly to us is a mark of true love and friendship.
Productivity before consuming is a principle that our easy credit, debt-ridden culture has forgotten. This Saying (v.27) reminds one of the principle of harvest or correct patterns of work. We must labor to eat or consume; and it thus plowing, sewing and harvesting the fields takes precedence over consuming and house building. Secure your trade or profession first, then think about a family or a mortgage!
Words again are two-sided weapons tempting us to dishonesty and vengeance (vv.28-29). Not only is honesty a blessing (v.26) but dishonesty by using words to get even with another is wrong – a temptation to be shunned. The scene is of neighbors who apparently don’t have the best relationship and an opportunity to ‘get even’ by bearing false, unfounded witness against them presents itself. Thus the golden rule must be jealously adhered to: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you! Our desire for vengeance is so strong we must diligently guard against it.
Both work and the lack of it leaves a visible footprint! This Saying (vv.30,31) pictures a stroll through the neighborhood and the observing of a lot or field covered with nettles and weeds and the stone wall fallen apart. The lesson clearly seen is that the owner is a senseless sluggard – too lazy to be productive with the resources at hand. Positive lesson – work is good and productive and ‘looks better!”
Less Is More - SLOWLY Reading Proverbs Week 41-A:
Prov.24:32 – 25:3 NECESSARY WORK & GLORY OF INSIGHT
The Further Sayings (24:23-34) are brought to a close by a careful analysis and lesson from the prior observation of the untended field. First, the importance of paying attention and giving studied thought to observations of life is emphasized by the poet as he states his process of learning (v.23) He saw, paid attention to what he saw, observed it and consciously accepted the lesson it taught. Wisdom must be consciously and diligently sought! Then the lesson learned is articulated. In a fallen, cursed earth entropy works against those who fail in diligence and work. Just a little slack or negligence and the attack of nature overtakes the cultivated fields and built walls. And the images imply the attack is violent and surprising – we know from experience it is devastating. Wisdom knows work is necessary!
A Fifth Collection in Proverbs (25:1- 29:27) are said to be authored by Solomon but collected and arranged by the court of later King Hezekiah (v.1). They seem to be designed to train court officials in the art of wise governance as civil servants.
The introduction (vv.2-3) makes a comparison between God and kings. What is common to both is a depth of knowledge and insight in their actions that simply cannot be known by their subjects. Like a parent making decisions and actions that a child simply is incapable understand due to lack of ability and experience – so both God and kings are honored or have glory because they have inscrutable wisdom. God’s actions in the governance of heavens and earth are reflected in the king's heart that has diligently searched out matters that those not in his position could learn. The governance of both God and kings must at times be trusted without comprehension of the details. Trusting the heart of God and good kings shows forth their glory or honor.
