Proverbs 22:22-29
Q.1. Why is it foolish to take advantage of the poor and defenceless? (Prov.22:22-23)
Because most people in society have concluded that there is no God, and no Day of Reckoning, they do as they please. Their foolishness will be on display when – the Lord will plead their case and take the life of those who rob them (Prov.22:22-23).
Q.2. What checks and balances should be kept in mind before becoming a guarantor? (Prov.22:26-27)
It is unwise to make a pledge or raise security for someone else’s debts, unless we are prepared to give the money (should the deal go bad). Many good relationships have been damaged by losses incurred through guarantees. However, Jesus set the bar much higher for believers. – 30 Give to everyone who asks of you, and whoever takes away what is yours, do not demand it back. 31 Treat others the same way you want them to treat you. 32 If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33 If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34 If you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners in order to receive back the same amount. 35 But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men (Lk.6:30-35). All our relationships should be characterized by generosity and grace.
Q.3. What were ancient landmarks and what might they be today? Why should moving them be done with great caution? (Prov.22:28)
Do not move the ancient boundary which your fathers have set (Prov.22:28). When Israel conquered the Promised Land, Joshua and Eleazar laid down the tribal boundaries and territories. When King Ahab schemed to take Naboth’s vineyard, he brought swift and strong judgment on himself and his family (1 Kgs.21:17-22). It is always wise for succeeding generations to ask why certain boundaries and values are there. Not all changes are for the better, especially in these Last Days (2 Tim.3:1-9).