Day: June 5, 2025

Proverbs 27-29

We read yesterday about how our fellowship with each other gives us an opportunity to help one another become more faithful in our walks with God.

Proverbs 27:17(NLT) As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.

Now we also see wisdom that encourages us to take the long view of the things that we do.  God has a plan that spans centuries and generations.  Here in Proverb 27 Solomon shows us that we are to work and think with the goals of tomorrow and a new generation in mind.

Proverbs 27:23-27(NLT) Know the state of your flocks,
and put your heart into caring for your herds,
²⁴ for riches don’t last forever,
and the crown might not be passed to the next generation.
²⁵ After the hay is harvested and the new crop appears
and the mountain grasses are gathered in,
²⁶ your sheep will provide wool for clothing,
and your goats will provide the price of a field.
²⁷ And you will have enough goats’ milk for yourself,
your family, and your servant girls.

Could you put this proverb into a modern form and provide a current event comparison about investments and future outcomes?

In Proverbs 29 we find much wisdom about nations and rulers alternated with practical advice about children, jobs and possessions.  Proverbs has a poetic form which is different from the way that we mostly write today.  This rhythm and phrasing make it easier for the people to remember and recite.  Most of the faithful of that time memorized the Word and were able to speak it when needed.  We are spoiled by written Bibles and internet search engines to find the verses that we look for. 

Proverbs 29:2(NLT) When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice.
  But when the wicked are in power, they groan.

Proverbs 29:4(NLT) A just king gives stability to his nation,
but one who demands bribes destroys it.

Proverbs 29:12(NLT) If a ruler pays attention to liars,
    all his advisers will be wicked.

Proverbs 29:14(NLT) If a king judges the poor fairly,
his throne will last forever.

Proverbs 29:16(NLT) When the wicked are in authority, sin flourishes,
but the godly will live to see their downfall.

-Tom Siderius

Reflection Questions

How do these verses give simple instruction for complex questions of rulership and authority?

Could we write them in a modern version to say the same truth to our country and generation?

& See Bold Question Above about Proverbs 27

Praying God is with you today and this wisdom gives you light to guide your feet and path.