Proverbs 24

Proverbs 24 is a continuation of wise sayings that offer moral teachings and insights on how to live righteously. This chapter discusses the consequences of envy, the importance of wisdom and justice, the value of diligence, and the need for self-control. It emphasizes how one's character and choices affect their life and community, offering practical advice for maintaining integrity, working hard, and standing firm in adversity.

Proverbs 24:1-10 (NKJV)
1 Do not be envious of evil men, nor desire to be with them;
2 For their heart devises violence, and their lips talk of troublemaking.
3 Through wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established;
4 By knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.
5 A wise man is strong, yes, a man of knowledge increases strength;
6 For by wise counsel you will wage your own war, and in a multitude of counselors there is safety.
7 Wisdom is too lofty for a fool; he does not open his mouth in the gate.
8 He who plots to do evil will be called a schemer.
9 The devising of foolishness is sin, and the scoffer is an abomination to men.
10 If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small.

We are warned not to envy or associate with evil people because their intentions are rooted in violence and trouble. Wisdom, understanding, and knowledge are highlighted as essential for building a secure and prosperous life. Wisdom makes a person strong, helping them navigate challenges with sound advice. Foolishness and evil plotting are condemned, and we are urged to avoid those who embrace such behaviors. The passage concludes with a reminder that true strength is demonstrated in times of adversity.

Proverbs 24:11-12 (NKJV)
11 Deliver those who are drawn toward death, and hold back those stumbling to the slaughter.
12 If you say, “Surely we did not know this,” does not He who weighs the hearts consider it? He who keeps your soul, does He not know it? And will He not render to each man according to his deeds?

We are called to act justly and intervene when we see others in danger. Indifference to suffering is unacceptable, as God knows our hearts and intentions. He holds us accountable for our actions and inactions, rewarding each according to their deeds.

Proverbs 24:13-14 (NKJV)
13 My son, eat honey because it is good, and the honeycomb which is sweet to your taste;
14 So shall the knowledge of wisdom be to your soul; if you have found it, there is a prospect, and your hope will not be cut off.

Just as honey is sweet and nourishing, wisdom enriches the soul. Pursuing wisdom brings lasting hope and security, providing direction and fulfillment in life.

Proverbs 24:15-16 (NKJV)
15 Do not lie in wait, O wicked man, against the dwelling of the righteous; do not plunder his resting place;
16 For a righteous man may fall seven times and rise again, but the wicked shall fall by calamity.

The righteous may face difficulties but will always rise again because of their faith and integrity. In contrast, the wicked are destined to fall into calamity due to their actions. Opposing the righteous will lead to one’s own destruction.

Proverbs 24:17-18 (NKJV)
17 Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles;
18 Lest the Lord see it, and it displease Him, and He turn away His wrath from him.

We are cautioned against gloating over the downfall of our enemies, as such attitudes displease God. Instead of harboring resentment or satisfaction at their failure, we should remain humble and compassionate, trusting God's justice.

Proverbs 24:19-20 (NKJV)
19 Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the wicked;
20 For there will be no prospect for the evil man; the lamp of the wicked will be put out.

The success of the wicked is temporary, and they have no lasting future. Their way leads to ruin, and their influence will eventually come to an end. Therefore, we should not be troubled or envious of their ways.

Proverbs 24:21-22 (NKJV)
21 My son, fear the Lord and the king; do not associate with those given to change;
22 For their calamity will rise suddenly, and who knows the ruin those two can bring?

We are instructed to respect both God and earthly authorities, avoiding those who rebel against them. Those who reject authority are headed for sudden disaster, and the consequences of such rebellion are unpredictable and destructive.

Proverbs 24:23-25 (NKJV)
23 These things also belong to the wise: It is not good to show partiality in judgment.
24 He who says to the wicked, “You are righteous,” him the people will curse; nations will abhor him.
25 But those who rebuke the wicked will have delight, and a good blessing will come upon them.

Justice should be impartial, and those who defend the wicked are condemned. Honesty in judgment brings favor and blessings, while siding with evil leads to disgrace and disapproval from others.

Proverbs 24:26 (NKJV)
26 He who gives a right answer kisses the lips.

Offering truthful and just responses is compared to an intimate gesture of respect and kindness. Wisdom in speech builds trust and deepens relationships.

Proverbs 24:27 (NKJV)
27 Prepare your outside work, make it fit for yourself in the field; and afterward build your house.

This verse teaches the importance of planning and preparation. We are encouraged to establish a solid foundation in our work before focusing on personal pursuits, ensuring that we have the resources and stability to succeed.

Proverbs 24:28-29 (NKJV)
28 Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause, for would you deceive with your lips?
29 Do not say, “I will do to him just as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work.”

We are warned against giving false testimony or seeking revenge. Justice should not be based on personal vendettas, but on fairness and truth. Retribution is not our responsibility, as vengeance belongs to the Lord.

Proverbs 24:30-34 (NKJV)
30 I went by the field of the lazy man, and by the vineyard of the man devoid of understanding;
31 And there it was, all overgrown with thorns; its surface was covered with nettles; its stone wall was broken down.
32 When I saw it, I considered it well; I looked on it and received instruction:
33 A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest;
34 So shall your poverty come like a prowler, and your need like an armed man.

These verses describe the consequences of laziness. Neglecting responsibilities leads to ruin, as seen in the overgrown field and broken wall. A lack of diligence brings poverty swiftly and unexpectedly, just as a thief would rob an unguarded house. The passage encourages hard work and attentiveness to avoid such outcomes.