Proverbs 20 - On Life And Conduct Series

Pearls From Proverbs – Chapter Twenty

We will now look at Proverbs chapter twenty:

On Life and Conduct

1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, And whoever is intoxicated by it is not wise. Proverbs 20:1 (NASB)

Alcoholism is a great problem. The Bible teaches that alcohol is useful in its place, (1 Timothy 5:23) but if one drinks to the point of intoxication – how foolish is that? If you have a problem with alcohol – stay clear of it.

2 The terror of a king is like the growling of a lion; He who provokes him to anger forfeits his own life. Proverbs 20:2 (NASB)

Those in authority have great power. In some countries if you make a leader angry you could lose your life. The Message Bible says:

“Quick-tempered leaders are like mad dogs — cross them and they bite your head off.” Proverbs 20:2 (MSG)

3 Keeping away from strife is an honor for a man, But any fool will quarrel. Proverbs 20:3 (NASB)

There are times when an argument cannot be avoided, but a resourceful person will find a way out of a fight when it is appropriate. Foolish people find it impossible to avoid strife and at times go looking for it.

4 The sluggard does not plow after the autumn, So he begs during the harvest and has nothing. Proverbs 20:4 (NASB)

You’ve heard similar warnings – if you don’t study, you’ll fail the test – if you don’t save funds will not be there when you need it. God takes care of His children – but He expects us to use good sense. We can’t expect Him to come to our rescue when we cause our own problems through lack of planning and action. He provides for us, but He also expects us to be responsible.

5 A plan in the heart of a man is like deep water, But a man of understanding draws it out. Proverbs 20:5 (NASB)

To make plans – to seek advice – to ask the right questions is like water from a deep well.

6 Many a man proclaims his own loyalty, But who can find a trustworthy man? Proverbs 20:6 (NASB)

Many people will say they are your friends but are they by your side in times of need?

7 A righteous man who walks in his integrity— How blessed are his sons after him. Proverbs 20:7 (NASB)

Integrity is a great quality to have. Not only is a person of integrity blessed but those who come after them.

8 A king who sits on the throne of justice Disperses all evil with his eyes. Proverbs 20:8 (NASB)

Those who preside over a court need to do so with justice. Evil will be dealt with and will be afraid to enter into his presence. This should be part of our “fear of the Lord”.

9 Who can say, "I have cleansed my heart, I am pure from my sin"? Proverbs 20:9 (NASB)

No one is without sin. As soon as we confess our sin and repent, sinful thoughts and actions begin to creep back into our minds and hearts. We all need ongoing cleansing, moment by moment. Thank God he provides forgiveness by his mercy when we ask for it. Make confession and repentance a regular part of your talks with God. Rely on him moment by moment for the cleansing you need.

10 Differing weights and differing measures, Both of them are abominable to the Lord. Proverbs 20:10 (NASB)

There is to be justice – but how can justice be given when the weights are constantly shifting? Be sure there is fairness and justice in how you treat others.

11 It is by his deeds that a lad distinguishes himself If his conduct is pure and right. Proverbs 20:11 (NASB)

A person’s character is displayed by their actions. We should make sure that our actions are right and pure.

12 The hearing ear and the seeing eye, The Lord has made both of them. Proverbs 20:12 (NASB)

Every good we possess comes from God. We should neither use our eyes, nor our ears, nor any thing we possess to fulfill the lusts of the flesh – but all things should be in submission to the Lord.

13 Do not love sleep, or you will become poor; Open your eyes, and you will be satisfied with food. Proverbs 20:13 (NASB)

There is a proper time for rest and sleep – but not when it is planting and harvest time. Use your time wisely.

14 "Bad, bad," says the buyer, But when he goes his way, then he boasts. Proverbs 20:14 (NASB)

The purchaser says the item is worthless – yet after they buy it thy brag on what a good deal that they got. Is there dishonesty in this?