Proverbs 13 Commentary
The contrast between the upright and the wicked continues. The scripture is discussing the fruit of the wisdom that the LORD bestows on the individual. You cannot make yourself wise by doing things described here. Wisdom is a special gift the LORD gives.
Probably the Book of Proverbs should have come immediately after the Books of Kings. It would then be easy to show the link between the moment of Solomon’s request for wisdom and the granting of the request. You are not wise because of the good things you do. You are wise because you have received Wisdom from above.
Therefore, the Book of Proverbs is like a PowerPoint presentation of the fruit of Wisdom.
One person pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth. Verse 7. We can draw the thought that looks can be deceiving. The saint may appear to have nothing but their ‘nothing’ is great wealth.
One employee tells the truth and misses out on a promotion. The other one lies in his achievements and gets promoted with a pay rise. Who is richer? Verse 7 is speaking for lady Wisdom’s low-key appearance compared with lady Wickedness’ showy pretensions.
A person’s riches may ransom their life. Riches here may not be a reference to lady Wisdom’s endowment. It is most likely referring to the fake pretensions of lady Wickedness and the troubles that go with such a life. There isn’t such trouble with lady Wisdom’s disciples.
“Walk with the wise and become wise.” Verse 20a is stronger than it sounds. Walk with the LORD Jesus Christ and become wise. He is the Wisdom of God. There is no other way.
The chapter closes with the teaching on contentment. It is the fruit of the Spirit, the fruit of Wisdom.
Lady Wickedness is associated with a lack of contentment. It is a bottomless pit. Drunkenness cannot fill it. Only the LORD can.
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