If you have read through Proverbs even once, you have probably noticed there is some structure to the book. In chapters 1-9, Solomon exhorts his son about the benefits of pursuing wisdom and the destructive pitfalls of choosing folly. Chapter 10 begins a new section of the book, chapters 10 through 24. In this second section, the style of the content has changed. The next 25 chapters are full of comparisons and contrasts on a variety of topics. Solomon’s counsel is condensed and largely restricted to just a verse or two before he moves on to another topic. For these reasons, this second section lacks the obvious continuity of chapters 1 through 9.
However, there is more to chapter 10, and the entire major section, than meets the eye. While on the surface the content of Proverbs 10 appears somewhat random, there are two major topics addressed throughout the chapter. Perhaps, if you have already read Proverbs 10, you noticed these two themes.
The first theme of Proverbs 10 is wealth. At least 8 of the verses in this chapter provide wisdom concerning wealth. In verse 2, Solomon explains what real profit is: righteousness is truly profitable. By contrast, there is no eternal profit in a life full of wickedness. Verse 3 goes on to explain that the Lord provides for the righteous, but the “substance” (or the wealth) of the wicked He “casteth away.”
Verse 4 describes the relationship between personal initiative and earthly wealth. Internally-motivated diligence generates wealth, while laziness causes poverty. Verse 5 describes the prudence of setting aside wealth for the future, while verse 26 explains the corresponding condemnation directed toward a sluggard. The book of Proverbs, and chapter 10 in particular, do not call poverty wicked unless it has occurred as a consequence of laziness.
Proverbs 10 has more to say about the profit of righteousness. Verses 15 and 16 teach the principle with an illustration about earthly wealth. Together, verses 15 and 16 explain that the righteous life contributes to a strong, secure city. The opposite is also true: “the fruit of the wicked tendeth to sin” and destruction and eternal poverty. The songwriter’s word summarize this well: “I’d rather have Jesus than silver or gold.“ If you have Jesus, then you have everlasting wealth!
The second and primary theme of Proverbs 10 is the power of our words. A good way to study this chapter is to identify every allusion to the “mouth” or the “lips.” There are more references to the mouth than it might first seem, for the uncommon word “prating,” which is mentioned twice in this chapter, runs along with the theme of the power of our words. To “prate” is to talk foolishly. A prating fool, like the one in verse 10, is a babbling fool.
Proverbs 10 concludes by poetically contrasting wise and foolish words. “The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom; but the froward tongue shall be cut out (verse 31). “The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness" (verse 32). As you proceed through your day today, be careful with your words. Remember the sober caution of Proverbs 18:21: “life and death are in the power of the tongue.” Our words are able to speak strength and encouragement into the hearts of others; they are also able to further promote excuses that coddle weaknesses we should strengthen. Wise words are rich words, able to accomplish much good. The way we speak is a practical application of the priceless righteousness that Proverbs 10 repeatedly describes. Our words expose the wealth or poverty of our own hearts. The next time you speak, ask yourself if what you are about to say will enrich those around you, or if it will make them as spiritually poor. These questions should also prompt us to assess the condition of our own hearts. If you find your heart is poor rather than rich, spend some time in Proverbs 10. Ask the Lord to strengthen your heart, and then apply your heart to the riches of the book of wisdom.
The above article was written by James C. Johnson. He is the pastor of NorthStone Baptist Church in Pensacola, FL. To offer him your feedback, comment below or email us at strengthforlife461@gmail.com.
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