Proverbs 27:18-27
Q.1. What kinds of people make progress in life, and which ones don’t? How can we discern what people are really like? – (Prov.27:18-22)
Those who are diligent in labour as faithful servants, will invariably be rewarded – He who tends the fig tree will eat its fruit, and he who cares for his master will be honoured (Prov.27:18). The heart of people will reveal their true motives. However, Solomon added the warning that sinners are impossible to satisfy (Prov.27:19 & 20). Much is revealed by the way a person responds to being praised – The crucible is for silver and the furnace for gold, and each is tested by the praise accorded him (Prov.27:21). Generally, praise goes to people’s heads. Fools are those who never listen nor learn from sound advice (Prov.27:22).
Q.2. How broad are the benefits of paying attention to our flocks and herds (i.e. our livelihood and assets)? Why is it crucial to keep an eternal perspective? – (Prov.27:23-27 c.f. Mt.6:19-21)
Solomon was addressing those whose livelihood came from agricultural pursuits (Prov.27:25-27). He knew from experience to – know well the condition of your flocks and pay attention to your herds (Prov.27:23 c.f. S of S 2:4-6). Jesus and the apostles advocated looking after the church flock pastorally (Jn.21:14-17; Acts 20:28; 1 Pet.5:2-5). All too soon our dependence on worldly wealth can vanish (Prov.27:24). Jesus summed up our approach to wealth best – 19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; 21 for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (Mt.6:19-21).