Proverbs 18:9-18
Q.1. Why is it better to trust in God than our own wealth, and the help of others? – (Prov.18:9-12)
There is a direct connection between wealth and pride – A rich man’s wealth is his strong city, and like a high wall in his own imagination (Prov.18:11). It often leads the rich to trust in their riches, rather than the Lord. As with the rich fool in the parable of Jesus – before destruction, the heart of man is haughty, but humility goes before honour (Prov.18:12 c.f. Lk.12:16-21). How much better off is the person who learns to depend upon the Lord – The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe (Prov.18:10).
Q.2. What insights on giving and receiving advice did Solomon reveal? – (Prov.18:13, 15, 17)
Some people are so sure of their own wisdom, that they decline to listen to what another person is saying. Solomon warned – He who gives an answer before he hears, it is folly and shame to him (Prov.18:13). A wise person is one who asks questions, and really listens to the information before he answers. Solomon observed that – the mind of the prudent acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge (Prov.18:15). He warned that people will give us a subjective view of a case, so we should listen with caution, until we hear the other side of the story, because – the first to plead his case seems right, until another comes and examines him (Prov.18:17).
Q.3. How can we work best with the authorities, and how can we gain clear direction? – (Prov.18:16 & 18)
Solomon shared a way to gain a positive hearing – A man’s gift makes room for him and brings him before great men (Prov.18:16). So much depends upon proper preparation before facing someone in authority. We need to consider the wisest way to make an appeal. There will be times when there is no guiding principle or precedent to guide us. In such cases we can leave the outcome to the Lord – The cast lot puts an end to strife and decides between the mighty ones (Prov.18:18). This acknowledges that God is sovereign and that He has the power to both open or close doors (c.f. Rev.3:7-8).