When we consider the content of Proverbs and the themes wisdom speaks to, we may be tempted to think that wisdom consists primarily of warnings and cautions. It is true that much of chapters 1-9 is Solomon instructing his son about what to avoid or reject. However, there is more to wisdom than cautionary instruction. Proverbs 8:21-31 indicates that wisdom was the tool the Lord used to design the world. And ever since creation, all those who seek to build truly successful lives must use this same tool.
It is no surprise, then, that this idea of building lives that are pleasing to God is also the theme of Proverbs 24. Notice how the chapter begins by stating in verse 3 that “through wisdom is a house builded.” Throughout the chapter, Solomon presents a contrast between wisdom’s ability to build and strengthen, and sin’s capacity to destroy and ruin. All biblically thinking men and women want to build their families, their resources, and their spiritual maturity in ways that will last long into the future. To that end, Proverbs 24 answers seven questions for the benefit of all who undertake the building project of life.
What are you studying?
The first question is found in verses 1-10. This section summarizes two contrasting courses of study. According to verses 1-2, evil men study destruction “and their lips talk of mischief.” Mischief is the behavior that flows from a heart that has been studying destruction. By contrast, a godly education studies wisdom. Verse 3 declares that “through wisdom is an house builded, and by understanding it is established, and by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.” Be a builder, not a destroyer. Study wisdom, not destruction.
Those who study wisdom reap compounding rewards. Verse 5 describes how “a man of knowledge” builds his strength. According to verse 6 studying wisdom gives a man access to a multitude of wise counselors, knowledge about going to war, and safety from harm. As we study wisdom we encounter other wise builders we can learn from. They can be our counselors. By contrast, the destructive individuals who "deviseth to do evil" are mischievous people. They can only disrupt and tear down.
Another course of study a wise builder must avoid is the lifestyle of the scorner described in verse 9. This type of man is “an abomination to men.” While you’re studying wisdom endeavoring to be a builder, there will be troublemakers who try to blow up your building project. Their adverse presence can drain you of strength, verse 10 says. The easiest way to avid these men is to keep your eyes on wisdom and to not be envious of evil men and their destructive ways.
Who are you helping?
While we build ourselves and our house, we must also make time to meet others’ needs. Proverbs 24:11 specifically describes the godly man's responsibility “to deliver them that are drawn onto death.” We help these individuals by giving them the gospel and by providing for their physical needs. The following verse warns us stop making excuses about why we can’t help others: God knows our hearts, he knows how much ability we have to help others, and He will “render to every man according to his works.”
How are you fueling yourself?
Being a builder can be wearisome, especially when scorners oppose you. Since ministering to others specifically can sometimes seem overwhelming and unsustainable, fueling yourself well is a high priority. Verses 13-14 compare wisdom and food; just as honey is sweet, “so shall the knowledge of wisdom be unto thy soul." Stay in the Word every day and drink up wisdom. Gather with a Bible preaching church and glean wisdom from the preaching. Surround yourself with wise counselors. The wisdom you receive will be sweet to your taste and good fuel for your spiritually fatigued body.
How are you protecting yourself?
Building projects have enemies. Verses 15-20 describe several of those threats. One enemy is the wicked man who sets himself “against the dwelling of the righteous” (v. 15) to spoil what he's trying to build. Sinners may contribute to your falling down, but “a just man riseth up again” (v. 16).
Many times, however, our falls are our own fault. Verse 17 explains one dangerous scenario: when God deals with your enemies, you will be tempted to indulge some carnal joy. Solomon warns us not to allow our heart be glad when our enemies stumble. Carnality in your heart is destructive to your building project. We should concentrate on keeping our own hearts; God will deal with other people. “Fret not!” Worry is sin. The best way to protect yourself is to protect your heart. Control what you can control, and you can control yourself.
Who are you working with?
Verses 21-26 list types of people we should not build with. Don’t work with those who “are given to change," that is, who vacillate in their allegiance. Also, do not choose partners in building by their personality, power, or popularity alone. Instead, use truth and merit to pick your co-laborers. “It is not good to have respect of persons in judgment,” verse 23 says. Finally, verses 24-26 warn not to build with liars or deceitful people.
Are you prepared?
Verse 27 explains the importance of preparation. Verse 27 instructs builders to do their homework before building, and verses 28-29 instruct builders to do their heart-work. No matter how difficult enemies make the building project, don’t lie about them, and don’t retaliate against their threats by wickedly threatening them. Prepare your heart beforehand against those feelings, because in the middle of a building project, under attack, your heart may want you to stoop to level of the wicked. Before building do your homework, and do your heart work.
Have you looked at the field of the slothful lately?
Sometimes anticipating future consequences provides great motivation to work hard in the present. Verses 30-35 provides motivating fuel as it describes the inevitable consequences of quitting before the project is complete. When adversity comes, our hearts are tempted to give up and to be slothful. However, when we look at the “field of the slothful,” we see what happens when people who “are void of understanding” (v 30) stop working. Everything is “grown over with thorns and nettles” (v 31). The stone wall has been broken down. The field of the slothful has fallen into “destruction” because he chose temporary comfort over long-term success. Before “folding of the hands,” or giving up and becoming slothful, we must remember that “through wisdom is a house builded.” Continue to pursue God‘s wisdom. Let His Word and His glory fuel your building project.
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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