June 10

Proverbs 22-24 (biblegateway.com)

Wisdom That Builds a Life

Proverbs 22–24 gathers a collection of wise sayings that speak to the heart of daily life, offering practical guidance for relationships, work, integrity, parenting, and social justice. These chapters include both Solomon’s original proverbs and the “Sayings of the Wise,” a broader collection inspired by godly instruction. They challenge us to consider the long-term consequences of our actions and to build our lives on a foundation of humility, righteousness, and the fear of the Lord.

Proverbs 22 – The Path of Wisdom and the Formation of Character

Proverbs 22 marks a transition point in the book of Proverbs. The first part (verses 1–16) concludes the section of Solomon’s general proverbs that began in chapter 10, while verses 17–29 begin a new section known as “The Sayings of the Wise.” This chapter emphasizes the formation of godly character, the value of humility, integrity, and discipline, and the power of instruction in shaping a wise life. It urges the reader to consider how actions impact others and how wisdom should govern all areas of life, especially finances, speech, relationships, and parenting.

1. Reputation and Riches (v. 1-2)

This opening pair of verses (v. 1-2) immediately elevates eternal values above temporary wealth. A “good name, ”referring to a life marked by integrity, trustworthiness, and godly character, is declared more desirable than great riches. This reflects God’s value system, which prioritizes who we are over what we own. The reminder that the Lord is the Maker of both rich and poor underscores the inherent equality of all people before Him, regardless of social or economic status. In God’s eyes, character always outweighs material gain.

This challenges us to examine our own priorities: are we more concerned with building a reputation of righteousness, or with accumulating possessions? Our lives should reflect what we truly value. So ask yourself—would others say you treasure integrity more than wealth?

2. The Path of Prudence and Humility (v. 3-4)

Wisdom is marked by the ability to look ahead and avoid danger, while foolishness charges forward without caution. A discerning person sees potential risks and takes refuge, but the naïve often suffer for their lack of foresight. This kind of wisdom is closely tied to humility and reverence for the Lord—qualities that lead not only to protection but also to lasting reward.

God promises more than material wealth to those who fear Him; He offers honor and a life of true purpose. In a world that prizes impulse and pride, we are called to develop careful discernment and a humble heart. Are you paying attention to the warnings around you, or are you rushing ahead out of pride or impatience? Let wisdom guide your steps.

3. Training Children in Wisdom (v. 6, 15)

These verses emphasize the vital importance of shaping children through intentional, godly training. Discipline is not just correction, it is formation. The “way” refers to a life aligned with God’s wisdom and fear.

Many parents attempt to make every decision for their child, but this can ultimately hinder their growth. By teaching children how to make wise choices, parents equip them to walk confidently on their own. When a child chooses the right path for themselves, there’s no need for constant supervision. So train your children not just in what is right, but in how to choose what is right.

Children are not morally neutral; they need active, loving instruction in godliness. Scripture reminds us that wisdom must be taught and cultivated, not assumed to be innate. Whether you are a parent, mentor, or spiritual guide, you have a vital role in shaping the hearts and minds of the next generation. This requires more than correction. It calls for consistent, grace-filled guidance through both words and example. The challenge is clear: Are you intentionally investing in teaching children God’s ways, not only by what you say, but by how you live?

4. Warnings About Wealth, Debt, and Oppression (v. 7, 16, 22-23)

Solomon issues warnings about the dangers of financial power and injustice. Debt can enslave, and exploiting the vulnerable invites God’s judgment. God Himself defends the cause of the oppressed.

This proverb offers hope to those living under harsh and unjust authority, while also serving as a warning to those who lead with a heavy hand. Though God sometimes directly removes tyrants, He often works through other leaders or even through the uprising of the oppressed to bring them down. If you hold a position of authority, whether in the church, workplace, or home, take this to heart: leadership rooted in kindness and humility endures far longer and bears better fruit than leadership driven by control or fear.

5. Guarding Associations and Temperament (v. 10, 24-25)

The people we surround ourselves with have a powerful influence on our character. Scripture warns that strife often begins with those who are mocking or hot-tempered, and their attitudes can be contagious. Wisdom urges us to be discerning in our relationships, recognizing that we often reflect the character of those with whom we spend the most time. Even subtle negative traits can begin to shape us if we’re not careful. That’s why the Bible calls us to choose our companions wisely, seeking relationships that encourage godliness and integrity, not conflict or compromise.

This calls for honest reflection: Are your friendships drawing you closer to Christ or pulling you away from Him? Are the people in your life stirring up peace and righteousness, or are they sowing discord and tempting you toward sin? Take time to evaluate your relationships with care. Pursue connections that build you up in faith and character, and don’t be afraid to set boundaries where needed. Wisdom in relationships isn’t just about avoiding harm; it’s about choosing the influences that will help you grow in grace.

The “Sayings of the Wise"

The next verses, beginning with verse 17, introduce a new section known as “The Sayings of the Wise.” The “Sayings of the Wise” continues through at least Proverbs 24:22 (some include Proverbs 24:23-34 as a second collection under the same theme). This section stands apart from the earlier proverbs of Solomon (Proverbs 10–22:16) and is introduced with the phrase: “Incline your ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge...” (v. 17). Many scholars believe this section was modeled after Egyptian wisdom literature, specifically the Instruction of Amenemope, which also features 30 sayings. Proverbs, however, reinterprets this material through a distinctly Yahweh-centered lens (see note below). These sayings address social justice, integrity, self-discipline, wealth, and relationships, all with the underlying foundation of the fear of the Lord.

Verses 17-21 function as a preface to the “sayings of the wise.” The speaker urges the reader to listen attentively, trust the instruction, and be prepared to pass it on to others. The “Sayings of the Wise” teach that godly wisdom is more than cleverness. It involves listening well (v. 17), speaking truthfully (v. 21), living justly and generously (v. 22-23), and avoiding harmful influences (v. 24-25). In an age where knowledge is abundant but wisdom is rare, these sayings are a call to form godly character and make decisions that reflect God’s heart.

Verses 28-29 teach that integrity in business and justice are also matters of concern to God. Tampering with boundaries was a form of theft, while skill and diligence led to honor; together, these verses call us to honest stewardship and excellence, reminding us that God sees and rewards faithful work (see note below on boundary stones).

In conclusion, Proverbs 22 is a treasure chest of timeless wisdom: value character over wealth, pursue humility and prudence, train children in truth, avoid injustice and anger, and embrace instruction with a teachable heart. A life grounded in these truths is not only wise—it is deeply pleasing to the Lord and bears the fruit of honor, justice, and peace.

Proverbs 23 – Wisdom for the Heart and Life

Proverbs 23 offers practical and moral instruction that addresses a wide range of life experiences, particularly those involving temptation, discipline, wealth, and relationships. This chapter continues the tone of a fatherly voice, warning a son to pursue wisdom and righteousness over the fleeting pleasures of the world. The proverbs are deeply pastoral and personal, offering direct, vivid language that both warns and guides.

Verses 1-3 caution against indulgence and self-interest when dining with rulers. The warning to “put a knife to your throat” (v. 2) is a graphic metaphor, urging restraint and self-control. The pursuit of wealth is also strongly discouraged in verses 4-5, reminding the reader that riches are temporary and elusive. “They fly away like an eagle toward heaven.” These opening verses set the tone for the chapter’s larger theme: the fleeting nature of worldly gain and the value of wisdom and self-discipline.

Verses 6-8 continue the warning against associating with those who are greedy or selfish. Even a generous act, like offering food, is tainted when done by someone with ulterior motives. This reinforces the biblical principle that the heart behind an action matters more than the action itself (1 Samuel 16:7).

Verses 9-11 uphold the sanctity of instruction and the rights of the vulnerable. The father warns not to waste wisdom on the foolish and defends the fatherless, asserting that God Himself will be their advocate and redeemer. This highlights the justice and compassion of God’s character. (see note on kinsmen-redeemer)

Verses 12-18 focus on the importance of discipline. The father urges the son to apply his heart to instruction and not to resist correction. Verses 13-14, which speak of using the “rod” of discipline, are meant not as license for abuse but as a call to loving correction. The aim is life, not harm. “You will save his soul from Sheol” (v. 14). The section ends with a touching plea from the father to see his son walk in righteousness and truth (v. 15-16), and to maintain hope in the fear of the Lord (v. 18).

Verses 19-21 issue a stern warning about gluttony and drunkenness. These vices lead to poverty and shame, and the wise are instructed to be disciplined in their appetites. The same theme is echoed in verses 29-35, where the devastating effects of alcohol are laid bare with poetic power. The repeated phrase “when shall I awake?” (v. 35) depicts the cycle of addiction, waking only to seek more.

Verses 22-25 return to family, emphasizing the importance of honoring parents and embracing wisdom. A father rejoices in a wise son, and the imagery here is warm and celebratory. “Let your father and mother be glad” (v. 25). This section mirrors Proverbs’ recurring theme that wisdom is relational and honors the home.

The chapter closes (v. 26-28) with a warning against lust and adultery, personified again in the seductive woman. Her path is described as a deep pit, both dangerous and deadly. The father’s urgent appeal to “give me your heart” (v. 26) reveals a longing not just for obedience, but for devotion and trust.

Proverbs 23 teaches that wisdom is a matter of the heart, not just behavior. It calls for discipline, self-control, and reverence for God. God’s justice defends the vulnerable, and His wisdom brings life. Earthly pleasures are fleeting, but the fear of the Lord offers lasting hope.

This chapter invites readers to examine their desires and the relationships they have. Where are we seeking satisfaction, in riches, indulgence, or honor? Or are we seeking wisdom, fearing the Lord, and honoring our families? It challenges us to reject short-term pleasure for eternal values.

Are you giving your heart fully to God? Like the father in verse 26, God longs for your affection, not just your actions. Will you surrender your desires to Him and walk in the discipline and joy of wisdom? Let Proverbs 23 stir you to live a life that brings joy to your Father in heaven.

Proverbs 24 – Wisdom, Justice, and the Strength of Righteous Living

Proverbs 24 continues the collection of wise sayings, offering guidance on how to live with discernment, justice, humility, and integrity. It speaks to personal conduct, leadership, relationships, and responses to adversity. This chapter encourages both inner character and public responsibility, highlighting how wisdom shapes a life of lasting strength and honor.

Verses 1-2 caution against envy of the wicked, reminding us that their hearts devise violence and their lips speak trouble. The temptation to admire those who succeed by corrupt means is real, but wisdom urges us to look deeper. Verses 3-4 demonstrate that true success, building a lasting house, is founded on wisdom, understanding, and knowledge, rather than selfish ambition.

Verses 5-6 emphasize the value of wise and strategic thinking, particularly in leadership and conflict situations. A “wise man is full of strength” because wisdom provides insight and resilience. The call to “seek wise guidance” points to the necessity of godly counsel for making sound decisions.

Verses 7-9 contrast the wise and the foolish. The fool has nothing to contribute to a serious discussion and is known for sinful scheming. These verses reinforce the biblical theme that wisdom is not merely intellectual, but also moral in nature. Verse 10 delivers a sobering statement: “If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small.” This calls for perseverance and the kind of inner strength that comes from trusting in God.

Verses 11-12 issue a direct call to social justice: “Rescue those who are being taken away to death.” Ignorance is no excuse in God’s eyes. He weighs hearts and holds people accountable. This reveals God’s concern for justice and the responsibility of the wise to act courageously on behalf of others.

Verses 13-14 return to the sweetness of wisdom, comparing it to honey. Just as honey is pleasurable and nourishing, so is wisdom to the soul. It offers a future and lasting hope (v. 14), especially in contrast to the wicked whose lamp will be snuffed out (v. 20).

Verses 15-16 speak of the resilience of the righteous, who may fall but rise again. The wicked, in contrast, stumble into ruin. This affirms that a righteous life is not trouble-free, but God enables His people to recover and endure.

Verses 17-18 warn against gloating over an enemy’s downfall, reminding us that God is just, and pride, even over the downfall of the wicked, is not pleasing to Him. This reflects Jesus’ teaching to love enemies and leave judgment to God.

Verses 19-20 again discourage envy of evildoers, and verses 21-22 call for reverence toward both God and the king. Rebellion is dangerous; wisdom respects God-ordained authority while walking in righteousness.

The final verses (v. 23-34) include a second set of wise sayings, introduced with: “These also are sayings of the wise…” This brief section continues the theme of moral and social instruction, often using vivid imagery. These verses serve as a reminder that true wisdom is grounded in justice and integrity. Showing partiality in judgment is firmly condemned (v. 23), as it undermines fairness and trust within a community. In contrast, honest rebuke and righteous decisions are commended (v. 24-25), reflecting God’s heart for truth and accountability.

The passage then shifts to practical instruction in verses 27-29, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful preparation, respecting boundaries with neighbors, and exercising self-restraint rather than seeking personal revenge. The section culminates in a vivid, sobering image: the overgrown field and crumbling wall of the sluggard (v. 30-34). This final picture drives home the point that passive neglect leads to destruction, while diligent stewardship brings order, stability, and life.

Proverbs 24 teaches that wisdom is both moral and practical. It manifests in justice, diligence, humility, and strength in the face of adversity. God sees hearts, defends the vulnerable, and calls His people to act with integrity and compassion. He blesses the righteous with resilience and hope. This chapter challenges us to live wisely and justly, especially when no one is watching. Do we speak up for the oppressed? Are we seeking wisdom as honey for our souls? Are we rising when we fall, or fainting in adversity? It urges us to plan wisely, speak truthfully, and lead lives marked by moral courage and compassion.

Are you building your life with wisdom and understanding, or are you admiring what the world values? Will you rise in adversity, or shrink back? Proverbs 24 invites you to pursue a faith-filled life marked by justice, strength, and humility before God and others.

Conclusion

The truths in Proverbs 22–24 form a blueprint for wise and faithful living. These sayings encourage us to guard our hearts, speak with grace, treat others with fairness, and walk in the fear of the Lord. They remind us that real wisdom is practical—it shapes how we lead, parent, work, and interact with others. Godly wisdom calls us to choose integrity over convenience and righteousness over reward. As we seek to build lives of lasting impact, may we take these proverbs to heart, letting them instruct us, correct us, and lead us closer to the God who is the source of all true understanding.

Footnotes:

Proverbs 22:20 – “Thirty Sayings”

The section of Proverbs from 22:17 to 24:22 appears to reflect, at least partially, the literary structure of the Egyptian Instruction of Amenemope. Both works open with a general introduction followed by thirty units of moral and practical guidance. However, scholars debate the precise identification of the thirty sayings within Proverbs, as the text includes interruptions—such as the “my son” addresses in 23:15, 19, and 26—that may mark unrelated sections. Further complicating the comparison is the fact that translations like the NIV have had to slightly adjust the text and insert the word sayings to clarify the count.

Additionally, the structure differs in form: the proposed thirty sayings in Proverbs are typically short (four to six lines each), while Amenemope’s chapters are longer, averaging twelve to sixteen lines. The most direct parallels between the two texts appear to end at Proverbs 23:11, with later sayings reflecting influence from other wisdom traditions, such as the teachings of Ahiqar. This suggests that the biblical author or scribal school was familiar with Amenemope and other wisdom literature but exercised literary independence in crafting this section. (Victor Harold Matthews, Mark W. Chavalas, and John H. Walton, The IVP Bible Background Commentary: Old Testament, electronic ed. (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2000), Pr 22:20).

Proverbs 22:28 – Boundary Stone

In the ancient Near East, land boundaries were marked by stones placed at the corners of property plots. In Mesopotamia, these stones—called kudurrus—often bore inscriptions that pronounced curses on anyone who dared to move or tamper with them. Many included carved symbols representing gods, signifying divine protection over the landowner’s property. Similar prohibitions against altering boundary markers appear in other ancient legal and wisdom texts, such as the Egyptian Book of the Dead, the Instruction of Amenemope, and the Hebrew law in Deuteronomy 19:14 (see also Proverbs 15:25). These widespread warnings reflect a shared cultural understanding: moving a boundary stone was not only an act of theft, but a serious offense against divine and communal order. (Victor Harold Matthews, Mark W. Chavalas, and John H. Walton, The IVP Bible Background Commentary: Old Testament, electronic ed. (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2000), Pr 22:28).

Proverbs 23:10-11 – Redeemer

The term defender or redeemer refers to a close relative who took responsibility for protecting family rights and restoring what had been lost. This could include buying back a family member who had fallen into slavery or stepping in to marry a widowed relative to preserve the family line, as seen in Ruth 4:3-10. This role, known as the kinsman-redeemer, carried both legal and relational weight in ancient Israel. God is also referred to as a redeemer, one who rescues and restores His people, as in Exodus 6:6 and Job 19:25. Just as human redeemers acted on behalf of their families, God takes up the cause of the oppressed and restores what has been lost. (Life Application Study Bible, Proverbs 23:10-11).