Meditationen am Gnadenstuhl: Proverbs 19:19-24 Dealing with Fools & Foolishness

Thursday, January 19, 2023

Proverbs 19:19–24

[19] A man of great wrath will pay the penalty,

for if you deliver him, you will only have to do it again.

[20] Listen to advice and accept instruction,

that you may gain wisdom in the future.

[21] Many are the plans in the mind of a man,

but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.

[22] What is desired in a man is steadfast love,

and a poor man is better than a liar.

[23] The fear of the Lord leads to life,

and whoever has it rests satisfied;

he will not be visited by harm.

[24] The sluggard buries his hand in the dish

and will not even bring it back to his mouth. (ESV)

Dealing With Fools & Foolishness

v.19 Recall that in verse 18, one reason for disciplining a child is to break the habit of a short temper. Similarly, in this proverb, we are cautioned that those who parent or influence the behavior of others should not soften the punishment for any habitual sinful behavior because sparing them punishment for their offenses does not solve the problem nor administer the needed correction.

v.20 This verse shifts focus from the one responsible for discipline to the responsibility of the one receiving it and everyone who reads any of the proverbs in this book. It tells us that we should be receptive to Wise advice because it has a lasting effect. In the heat of the moment, we may resent this advice and reject the discipline, even when we realize it is good advice. Accepting it, no matter the short-term effects of punishment, leads to lasting benefits, especially the ultimate benefits of Divine Wisdom that await them at the resurrection of the dead and Jesus' return in glory.

v.21 This proverb urges the Wise to think beyond his personal plans by seeking God's Divine Wisdom. Human plans are always subject to our sinful desires and base instincts, even when those plans have the best of intentions. The Divine Wisdom found in His eternal Word serves as a light that exposes selfish motives and guides us away from foolish mistakes. God's ultimate plan is always His plan of salvation for us in Christ. Every human plan to thwart this has failed, and God's counsel has therefore prevailed (see Psalm 2; Psalm 110; Acts 4:23-30). The one who rejects God's plan will die eternally, but everyone who repents and takes refuge in Him (Proverbs 3:5-6; Psalm 2:11-12) has the promise of everlasting life (Proverbs 19:23).

v.22 If we desire God's mercy, we should not tell lies. The Hebrew word translated "mercy" here also means "fidelity," and "loyalty." Lying can be seen as not showing loyalty or fidelity to God, rejecting His mercy (Matthew 18:23-35). Therefore, being poor is better than obtaining wealth through lies.

v.23 Fear of the Lord means we cling to Him above all else. If you fear God, you do not have to be afraid of anything. The one who is anchored in the Word will not be swept away into eternal death. When one has a positive relationship with God, no earthly, temporary trouble can shake him. Not even death will disturb him (Proverbs 14:27) because everlasting life awaits them on the other side.

v.24 This proverb is mocking laziness. Here, the lazy person is too lazy to even feed himself. His laziness does not prevent him from beginning projects and plans but keeps him from seeing anything through.