In a world filled with noise and confusion, where can we find true wisdom?
Proverbs 10 opens the collection of Solomon’s proverbs with a call to embrace wisdom and righteousness. As we delve into this chapter, let us heed the timeless truths it offers and seek the path of wisdom in our lives.
Reconnect: Proverbs 10 marks the beginning of Solomon’s collection of wise sayings, offering practical insights into righteous living and the consequences of folly. Let us revisit this foundational chapter with a fresh perspective, ready to glean wisdom for our daily lives.
(Summarized and continued after scripture)
Contrast of the Righteous and the Wicked
1The proverbs of Solomon.
A wise son makes a father glad,
But a foolish son is a grief to his mother.
2Ill-gotten gains do not profit,
But righteousness delivers from death.
3The LORD will not allow the righteous to hunger,
But He will reject the craving of the wicked.
4Poor is he who works with a negligent hand,
But the hand of the diligent makes rich.
5He who gathers in summer is a son who acts wisely,
But he who sleeps in harvest is a son who acts shamefully.
6Blessings are on the head of the righteous,
But the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.
7The memory of the righteous is blessed,
But the name of the wicked will rot.
8The wise of heart will receive commands,
But a babbling fool will be ruined.
9He who walks in integrity walks securely,
But he who perverts his ways will be found out.
10He who winks the eye causes trouble,
And a babbling fool will be ruined.
11The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life,
But the mouth of the wicked conceals violence.
12Hatred stirs up strife,
But love covers all transgressions.
13On the lips of the discerning, wisdom is found,
But a rod is for the back of him who lacks understanding.
14Wise men store up knowledge,
But with the mouth of the foolish, ruin is at hand.
15The rich man’s wealth is his fortress,
The ruin of the poor is their poverty.
16The wages of the righteous is life,
The income of the wicked, punishment.
17He is on the path of life who heeds instruction,
But he who ignores reproof goes astray.
18He who conceals hatred has lying lips,
And he who spreads slander is a fool.
19When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable,
But he who restrains his lips is wise.
20The tongue of the righteous is as choice silver,
The heart of the wicked is worth little.
21The lips of the righteous feed many,
But fools die for lack of understanding.
22It is the blessing of the LORD that makes rich,
And He adds no sorrow to it.
23Doing wickedness is like sport to a fool,
And so is wisdom to a man of understanding.
24What the wicked fears will come upon him,
But the desire of the righteous will be granted.
25When the whirlwind passes, the wicked is no more,
But the righteous has an everlasting foundation.
26Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes,
So is the lazy one to those who send him.
27The fear of the LORD prolongs life,
But the years of the wicked will be shortened.
28The hope of the righteous is gladness,
But the expectation of the wicked perishes.
29The way of the LORD is a stronghold to the upright,
But ruin to the workers of iniquity.
30The righteous will never be shaken,
But the wicked will not dwell in the land.
31The mouth of the righteous flows with wisdom,
But the perverted tongue will be cut out.
32The lips of the righteous bring forth what is acceptable,
But the mouth of the wicked what is perverted.
Summary Key Points:
- The Way of the Righteous: Proverbs 10 contrasts the paths of the righteous and the wicked, highlighting the blessings that come from living in accordance with wisdom and righteousness. The chapter underscores the importance of integrity, diligence, and honesty in one’s conduct.
- The Consequences of Folly: Conversely, Proverbs 10 warns of the consequences of folly and wickedness. It portrays the fate of the wicked as one of destruction and ruin, emphasizing the importance of making wise choices and avoiding the snares of wickedness.
- The Power of Words: Throughout Proverbs 10, the importance of speech is emphasized, highlighting the impact of words on our lives and the lives of others. The chapter underscores the value of speaking truth, offering encouragement, and exercising discretion in our speech.
Call to Action: As we reflect on the wisdom found in Proverbs 10, let us:
- Seek Wisdom: Let us commit to pursuing wisdom in our daily lives, seeking to live with integrity, honesty, and diligence. May we cultivate a heart that is receptive to God’s guidance and instruction.
- Guard Our Speech: Recognizing the power of words, let us guard our speech carefully, speaking truthfully, and offering words of encouragement and edification to those around us. May our words reflect wisdom and grace.
- Choose Righteousness: In all our decisions and actions, let us choose the path of righteousness, knowing that it leads to blessings and favor from the Lord. May we shun wickedness and walk in the fear of the Lord, honoring Him in all we do.
Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the wisdom and guidance found in Your Word. As we meditate on the truths of Proverbs 10, grant us the wisdom to discern right from wrong and the strength to walk in righteousness. May our words and actions bring honor to Your name and blessings to those around us. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.
John Golda
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