Proverbs 30-31
These last chapters of Proverbs are attributed to two very unknown and probably non-Jewish people: Agur and King Lemuel. Actually, King Lemuel’s words are attributed to his mom! These chapters are proof that God’s wisdom was NOT restricted to Israel. Have you ever read any of Lao-Tzu’s words? Tao-ism is based on his brief writings, many of which have a Jesus-like ring to them! God’s truth is not limited to Scripture, but it is to be evaluated by Scripture.
Agur’s words (Proverbs 30) are described as an oracle, that is, words from God! In v. 5, he provides one of the Bible’s great testimonies to itself: “Every word of God is flawless...” He begins with humility, “I am the most ignorant of men,” (30:2) and continues with words that make us think he had read the book of Job. I very much enjoy his use of lists; he’s says, “two things I ask of you, O Lord...” (30:7), “three things that are never satisfied...” (30:15), “four things on earth that are small...but wise,” (30:24). Which is your favorite list?
Lemuel’s Mom’s words (Proverbs 31) are an example of motherly advice: “Don’t get wound up with women (31:3) and alcohol (31:4-7); and don’t forget the powerless.” Proverbs 31:10-31 is the famous “Who can find a wife of noble character?” section. It forms an acrostic poem, each verse beginning with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet (similar to some of the psalms). I wonder if Lemuel’s mom wrote this, too. Wouldn’t be just like a mom to be concerned for the character of her son’s future spouse? I think so. So, what kind of girl should Lemuel look for?
- A woman of character! (31:10)
- Who inspires confidence! (31:11-12; 27-29)
- Who works diligently! (31:14-24)
- Who cares for the poor! (31:20) and
- Especially her family! (31:21-23)
- Who does not fear the future! (31:25)
- Who speaks wisdom! (31:26)
- Who fears the Lord! (31:30) and
- Who will receive praise and honor! (31:32)
Lord God, thank You for the words of the wise, which You have preserved for us in Proverbs! In Christ’s Name, AMEN.
Tomorrow, we begin Ecclesiastes!
Your fellow wisdom wanderer,
Pastor Gary
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