Proverbs 24

By thissmallgroup, October 24, 2019

King Hezekiah’s wisdom continues with more verses to help the audience improve their lives. He seems to alternate between giving advice on doing the wise actions and giving warnings against wicked people. There is certainly a sense of longevity in his words; he encourages his readers to consider how their actions will affect their future selves. Hezekiah’s imagery is effective — he drives his readers to imagine a strong home full of treasures, the success of winning battles with fierce armies, the sweet taste of honey or the lips of a beloved, and the sneaky attack of thieves in the night. The chapter ends with a return to the original brusque style, similar to how Solomon had written earlier in the book.

Verses 3-6: “By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. The wise prevail through great power, and those who have knowledge muster their strength. Surely you need guidance to wage war, and victory is won through many advisers.”

Verse 14: “Know also that wisdom is like honey for you: If you find it, there is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.”

Verses 33-34: “A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest — and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.”