Proverbs 20
We thank God for the clear light the Proverbs shed upon the ways that are safe for the Christian and right in His sight. He who governs his conduct by the wisdom of this book will never fail.
Here in our chapter today are warnings against the consequences of indulgence in drink (verse 1); of incurring the anger of rulers (verse 2); of laziness (verse 4); of falsehood (verse 17); about talebearers ( verse 19 ); about recompensing evil (verse 22).
In connection with verse 2 see the open ing verses of Romans 13. Bearing in mind verse 3 will save much regret. The New Translation makes the latter part of this verse read, “but every fool rusheth into it.”
Verse 4 shows the necessity for energy diligence, perseverance in natural things that are right; we are apt to be sluggards in much greater degree about spiritual things and the service of God. How easy it is to stay at home instead of going to the meeting, particularly if the weather is disagreeable! (See chapter 13, verse 4.)
Verse 9. God has given to man great powers—mind, memory, love, conscience and many more,—but with all we possess, none can say in truth that he has made his heart clean, is pure from his sin by any act of his own. David in his great confession (Psalm 51) had learned a lesson when he besought God to purge him with hyssop and he should be clean; to wash him, and he should be whiter than snow.
Twice found in this chapter is a word about false weights and measures; it was also in chapters 11 and 16. This is one of the fruits of a sinful nature in man, a hidden dishonesty, perhaps never suspected by the customers of the storekeeper, but known to God.
Verse 27. It is a great mercy from God to man, that we have the light of His Word—the Bible—to shine not only around us, but within us, exposing whatever in the heart and mind is displeasing to Him.
"And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul." Genesis 2:77And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. (Genesis 2:7). This was not given to the beasts.
Intelligence and judgment, which the animals have not, belong to the spirit; while the affections, desires, appetites, etc. belong to the soul, as the scriptures in many places declare. (See also Romans 8:1616The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: (Romans 8:16).) It is in man's spirit that God is known, and thus His Word is received.
Messages of God’s Love 8/7/1932