Proverbs 21:21-31
Q.1. What is the reward for those who pursue and practice righteousness and wisdom? – 21:21-23
The reward for the righteous is real life, right standing with God, and honour. He takes God into his calculations. Righteous living keeps a person from strife and trouble (see Prov.21:21-22). Controlling your speech brings much blessing – He who guards his mouth and his tongue, guards his soul from troubles (Prov.21:23)
Q.2. What are the characteristics of the ungodly and what is the outcome of their lives? – 21:24-29
The ungodly are proud and haughty. They scoff at the righteous (see Prov.21:24). They can be sluggards who refuse to work and then need to live off the rest of society (see Prov.21:25-26). They are deceptive in their dealings with others (see Prov.21:27). The righteous, by contrast, share their blessings with those in need and are confident about their future. The contrast could not be greater (see Prov.21:28-29).
Q.3. Why is it futile to leave God out of our plans for success? – 21:30-31
The foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men (see 1 Cor.1:25). No wisdom, understanding, or counsel can stand against the Lord, since no one can compare with Him in counsel and wisdom (see Rom.11:33-36). The history of Israel reveals that victory belongs to God no matter how great the odds. No plans formed against God will succeed (see Prov.21:30-31).