In Today's Email:
Proverbs 10 Notes
In this chapter beings a series of miscellaneous proverbs through chapter 25. These are difficult if not impossible to categorize in large sections.
vs. 1-32 – Contrasts between the wise and the wicked. In vs. 12 we have a warning about the power of hatred. Hatred is something that does more damage to its container than to what it is poured out on. In vs. 22 we have a test that may be applied in life: if it is from the Lord then it will not add to our sorrow.
Proverbs 11 Notes
In this chapter continues a series of miscellaneous proverbs.
vs. 1-31 – Contrasts between the just and the unjust. We have in vs. 1 the first of three proverbs, with 16:11 and 20:23, that concern unjust weights and balances. In vs. 2 we have a warning against the consequences of pride, which is a common target in this book.
Proverbs 12 Notes
In this chapter continues a series of miscellaneous proverbs.
vs. 1-28 – Contrasts between morality and immorality. In vs. 15 is an important insight in the human psyche. Every person believes they are doing right. Even if they are doing wrong, they are convinced they are right in doing so. True wisdom is acknowledging that God’s discernment, and not our own, is the truest test available for all things.
Closing Thoughts
Again and again the Proverbs illustrate that Godly wisdom is the key to happiness, peace, and prosperity. We see this in business dealings, family matters, and in human relations. Every aspect of life is touched by the application of true wisdom. Each verse is a road sign by which we can judge our heart and our heading. Though this section is varied in its subjects and targets, every single verse is points us to God and the path of righteous. Do not forsake the truth of even a single proverb.
Hymn for Today
Our hymn today is “O Happy is the Man Who Hears”, written by Michael Bruce. Was born in 1746 and died in 1767, but in that short life wrote many texts for his singing class. John Logan obtained permission and published three years later in 1770.
O happy is the man who hears
Instruction’s warning voice;
And who celestial Wisdom makes
his early, only choice.
For she has treasures greater far
than east or west unfold;
And her rewards more precious are
than all their stores of gold.
In her right hand she holds to view
a length of happy days;
Riches with splendid honours
are what her left displays.
She guides the young with innocence,
in pleasure’s paths to tread,
A crown of glory she bestows
upon the hoary head.
According as her labours rise,
so her rewards increase;
Her ways are ways of pleasantness,
And all her paths are peace.