Wednesday, October 9 – Proverbs 27, 28

1. What weighs more than a stone and sand? (Proverbs 27:3)

2. To what does Solomon compare a friend’s counsel? (Proverbs 27:9)

3. Who despises prayer? (Proverbs 28:9)

4. What warning is given to those who seek to get rich quickly? (Proverbs 28:20)

Commentary and Reflection:

We continue reading Solomon’s literary work. The proverbs in these two chapters are each a unit unto themselves, without direct connection to one another. However, themes can be discerned upon reading them, such as foolishness and anger, the value of diligence, prudence in the face of evil, the value of reproof, what is better than riches, and so on.

I will choose some proverbs to comment on.

“Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips.” (Proverbs 27:2) 

I find this proverb amusing because it reminds me of occasions when my wife quoted it when I mentioned some of my qualities or highlighted something good I’ve done. Beyond my wife’s admonition, this is very true. Being discreet about our qualities and achievements is wise—it’s better if others recognize them. The exception to this rule is for politicians. A boastful person is unpleasant. We err when evaluating ourselves due to a lack of objectivity.

“Wrath is cruel and anger a torrent, but who is able to stand before jealousy?” (Proverbs 27:4) 

Interestingly, jealousy is more dangerous than anger. The fury of anger is evident, but jealousy is hidden and insidious. Regarding this topic, the Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary states:

“Wrath and anger are sudden outbursts that soon pass away, but envy and jealousy are smoldering passions that wait through slow-working years for the opportunity to vent their soul-corroding hate upon an enemy (see Prov. 6:34; S. of Sol. 8:6). Envy was the first sin to intrude its mysterious presence into a sinless universe (Isa. 14:13, 14). Had it made its debut with a sudden outbreak of violence, the nature of the passion would immediately have been apparent to the angels, so that few would have turned from their allegiance to sympathize with so obvious an evil. But the dark scheming of persistent jealousy puzzled all the heavenly beings, and deceived many. God could successfully meet the sinister invasion only by the unhurried working out of righteousness and truth until the climax of both selfless love and jealous hate would bring into clear contrast the goodness of God and the cruel malignity of Satan (see PP 33-43; GC 492-504; DA 761, 762).” (SDA Bible Commentary, Proverbs 27:4)

“Open rebuke is better than love carefully concealed.” (Proverbs 27:5) 

Love must be expressed through words and actions. Hidden love is of little benefit. This proverb speaks against silence. While rebuke has its value, the manifestation of love is sweet. Rebuke is medicine, and love is nourishment.

“Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” (Proverbs 27:6) 

Sometimes, wounds are better than kisses.

“Be diligent to know the state of your flocks, and attend to your herds; for riches are not forever, nor does a crown endure to all generations. When the hay is removed, and the tender grass shows itself, and the herbs of the mountains are gathered in, the lambs will provide your clothing, and the goats the price of a field; you shall have enough goats’ milk for your food, for the food of your household, and the nourishment of your maidservants.” (Proverbs 27:23-27) 

Caring for your household is more important than relying on business or positions. When the difficult time comes, the home and family are there to supply basic needs. Don’t neglect what is most important for the uncertain and perishable.

“He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.” (Proverbs 28:13) 

This is a well-known proverb. Hidden sin rots the soul. Confessing sin cleanses it. It’s not just about confessing it but also forsaking it. The promise is that we will receive mercy. What a beautiful promise!

“He who trusts in his own heart is a fool, but whoever walks wisely will be delivered.” (Proverbs 28:26) 

This proverb contrasts the inclinations of the heart with wisdom. The premise is that the heart is deceitful. You can’t trust your heart. We should not walk according to desire or be guided by emotions but rather by principles. This is how one walks wisely.

May God allow us to apply the wisdom and counsel of these proverbs to our lives today.