What does Proverbs 22:8 mean?
Solomon was not only Israel's king, but he was also her judge. He put immense value into justice and righteousness in legal matters (Proverbs 1:1–7; 16:10; 21:3, 7). Those who take advantage of others, denying them justice, will eventually pay a steep price. No one can rebel against God without reaping a harvest of judgment. Galatians 6:7 indicates that a person will reap whatever he sows. If he sows wild oats, God will get out his threshing machine. A judge or ruler who participates in injustice can expect severe consequences (Proverbs 6:16–19; 16:8).In Hosea 10:13–14 the Lord predicted trouble for rebellious Israel. He states: "You have plowed iniquity; you have reaped injustice; you have eaten the fruit of lies. Because you have trusted in your own way and in the multitude of your warriors, therefore the tumult of war shall arise among your people, and all your fortresses shall be destroyed."
This chapter completes a long string of wise sayings attributed to Solomon (Proverbs 10:1). He notes that reputation and godliness are far better than money. He also notes that godly wisdom keeps a person from various dangers. Loving parents use proper discipline to instill wisdom in their children. The last portion of the chapter introduces a new passage, made up of thirty wise teachings which Solomon endorses. This string of advice continues into chapter 24.