Proverbs 20 - Printer Friendly

This chapter begins with an often-cited verse about the dangers of alcohol. Wise persons avoid becoming controlled by anything, including substances (1 Corinthians 6:12). Common sense tells a person to avoid angering authorities unless it's unavoidable. Along the same lines, those who avoid conflict will have a better reputation than those who are constantly involved in scandal and controversy. Loyalty and integrity are hard to find in this world, but those who have them benefit themselves and their children (Proverbs 20:1–11).

Solomon (Proverbs 10:1) also offers several reminders about the value of wisdom. It's especially important to use all the knowledge-seeking resources God gives us—including our senses, advice from others, and respect for experience. Dishonest business practices, gossip, greed, and laziness are all condemned as immoral and dangerous. God knows everything about us, and whatever evil isn't punished by righteous government will be judged by a perfect, holy God (Proverbs 20:12–30).

Proverbs 20:1–11 issues warnings about alcohol, infuriating those in authority, quarreling, and laziness. Solomon (Proverbs 10:1) also commends an understanding mind, faithfulness, integrity, and righteous conduct.

Proverbs 20:12–30 touches on a variety of subjects as Solomon (Proverbs 10:1) wisely observes what is right and what is wrong. He censures deceit and dishonest gain but commends honesty, love, and loyalty. This section also includes common sense reminders about topics like business and hastiness.

In this section of Solomon's wise sayings (Proverbs 10:1), he again discusses a wide range of subjects. These echo many of the common themes of the book of Proverbs. Solomon warns against foolishness (Proverbs 1:7), hastiness, angering authorities, and the consequences of sin and dishonesty. Several references condemn dishonest business dealings. Others note the value of diligence in making decisions.

This chapter of Proverbs belongs to the second division of the book that extends from Proverbs chapter 10 to chapter 22, in which there are nearly 400 wise sayings. Proverbs 20 continues the collection of Solomon's wise sayings. In this chapter Solomon focuses on numerous things which harm the unwise. Among them are laziness, wrong values, and bad decisions.

Proverbs is best understood in context with the books of Ecclesiastes and Job. In Proverbs, “wisdom” is given in short, simple, general terms. Ecclesiastes represents wisdom based on observation and experience. This often shows how the general principles of the book of Proverbs don’t apply in absolutely every circumstance. Job represents wisdom based on the experience of suffering and injustice. All three come to the conclusion that God does indeed know best, and the most sensible course of action is to follow His will.

Accessed 5/5/2024 6:04:42 PM