Proverbs 14 Commentary

Proverbs 14 Commentary

Educators in public schools are compelled to operate with the thought that none is dull. They could be slow learners but they are never dull.

The scripture has no time for diplomacy! The line is clear. A fool is a fool; a wise man is a wise man.

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.” This is foundational! The equation is simple. There is no wisdom without God!

Foolishness isn’t a state you assume momentarily due to occasional misjudgment. You are permanently one when you reject the LORD Jesus – the Wisdom of God.

Of course, you bear fruit such as self-destruction, pride, laziness, mockery, among countless iniquities. The tree is bad already!

All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty. Verse 23. All hard work, what a bold statement!

Mindless diligence isn’t part of Wisdom’s package, so we are safe!

But the meat is not in choosing the right career, unless Wisdom leads you that way. Diligence won’t work wonders by itself. The key lies in an appreciation of the fact that the LORD blesses the works of one’s hand. The LORD had instituted work as the means to the blessing of prosperity. The Garden of Peace and tranquility was actually Adam’s workplace!

This chapter highlights the folly of pursuing the gift without the gift-giver. Or more appropriately, the lessons here are not independent of the Teacher.

Laziness leads to poverty, but that isn’t the biggest problem. Oppress the poor and the victims will experience intense pain and suffering. But again, that isn’t the biggest problem. Contempt for their Maker and dishonoring God’s instructions – that is the point here.

The Book of Proverbs is not exactly like a rule book. It is more like an exposition of man’s rebellious heart. It is an invitation to examine one’s heart in the light of the principles laid down.

Check your own heart for the pain of rebellion. It is no longer about rules and wise statements. Each heart must know its own bitterness and seek Wisdom.

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