Proverbs 13:1-8
Q.1. What makes a son wise? How can you recognize a scoffer? Why should we be watchful about what we hear and speak? What did Solomon say about a person’s work ethic? – (Prov.13:1-4)
We grow in wisdom when we accept the discipline of our parents. Scoffers are wise in their own eyes, and do not listen to others (see Prov.13:1). Those who are slow to react in their speech, will enjoy blessing in return. Those who place no limits on what they say will come to ruin (see Prov.13:2-3). Since there is much slander and destructive speech all around us, we should be cautious about what we listen to and believe. Solomon produced many proverbs that encourage us to develop a good work ethic and to refuse to be lazy. Here he declared that sluggards fail to satisfy their lusts and longings (see Prov.13:4).
Q.2. What distinguishes the righteous? How do the wicked behave? What did Solomon observe about claims of riches and poverty? How are we to reconcile Proverbs 13:8 with Psalm 49:5-9? – (Prov.13:5-8)
Righteous people have a hatred for all falsehood. This protects them from treachery (see Prov.13:5-6). The wicked are the opposite, are without shame, and make excuses for their sin (see Prov.13:5-6). Solomon observed that – There is one who pretends to be rich but has nothing; Another pretends to be poor but has great wealth (Prov.13:7). Our pleasure-loving society often relies on borrowings to fund a lifestyle beyond what they earn or own. The lifestyle many live can be a pretense beyond their true financial status. However, others live more modestly and within their means, and have great wealth spiritually, if not materially (see Mk.10:29-30). The Psalmist warned – No man can by any means redeem his brother or give to God a ransom for him – for the redemption of his soul is costly, and he should cease trying forever – that he should live on eternally … (Ps.49:7-9). We cannot buy our way into Heaven. However, those with money may at times be able to buy their way out of trouble in this present world. This ability is not accessible to the poor – The ransom of a man’s life is his wealth … (Prov.13:8 c.f. Prov.30:7-9). The Bible encourages us to make the Lord our treasure (see Mt.6:19-21 & 24)