Proverbs 10:22-32
Q.1. From where does the enjoyment of prosperity come? What insecurities accompany the life of the wicked? Does the fear of the Lord always prolong life? – (Prov.10:22-28)
Solomon observed – It is the blessing of the Lord that makes rich,and He adds no sorrow to it (Prov.10:22). There are all kinds of ways in which people accumulate wealth. Wise is the person who acknowledges that prosperity (or poverty) depends upon God. Consequently, Paul could be content, regardless of the circumstances of his life, which included alternately accepting humble means, or prosperity (Phil.4:11-12). This gives confidence that – the desire of the righteous will be granted … because – the righteous has an everlasting foundation (Prov.10:24-25, 28). The wicked has no such security because – what the wicked fears will come to pass … and – when the whirlwind passes, the wicked is no more (Prov.10:24-25). By contrast – the fear of the Lord prolongs life, but the years of the wicked will be shortened (Prov.10:27-28 c.f. Eph.6:2-3). However, this is not a guarantee in this life, but is a certainty in the one to come (c.f. Mt.10:28).
Q.2. Where do we find the way of the Lord? Does the way of the Lord bring greater security? How does God’s Word dispense grace? Why do the wicked miss out on God’s blessing? – (Prov.10:29-32)
“The way of the Lord” refers broadly to the Word of God. Consequently, God promised to reveal Himself to Abraham – since I have chosen him, so that he may command his children … to keep the way of the Lord … (Gen.18:19). David described it interchangeably as – the law … the testimony … the precepts … the commandments … the fear … and the judgments of the Lord (Ps.19:7-9). The Scriptures came from men moved by the Holy Spirit (2 Pet.1:21), and, according to Jesus, are explained to us by the indwelling Holy Spirit (c.f. Jn.14:25; 15:26; 16:13-14). Solomon observed that – 29 The way of the Lord is a stronghold to the upright … 30 The righteous will never be shaken … (Prov.10:29-30). Those who live in sin do not have such security. Following God’s Word means – 31 The mouth of the righteous flows with wisdom … 32 The lips of the righteous bring forth what is acceptable … (Prov.10:31-32). Unbelievers have a twisted view of life, which will end in ruin (Prov.10:30-32).