Introduction
‘These are more proverbs of Solomon, compiled by the men of Hezekiah king of Judah’ Proverbs 25:1
Nothing Is Hidden From God
Hezekiah was one of the few kings who actually honoured God, 2 Chronicles 31:20-21. This verse has given scholars much to think about. Did Hezekiah do the following?
1. Transcribe from one book to another, 2. Translate, 3. Collate?
What effect does this have on our understanding of inspiration? None. All were inspired by God, 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
‘It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings. As the heavens are high and the earth is deep, so the hearts of kings are unsearchable. Remove the dross from the silver, and a silversmith can produce a vessel; remove wicked officials from the king’s presence, and his throne will be established through righteousness.’ Proverbs 25:2-5
Prophecy is a perfect example of inspiration. It’s partially concealed until its fulfilment, then the glory of God’s wisdom and providence can be seen, Deuteronomy 29:29. There are so many things man does not know, Job 38-41.
How many times have our leaders listened to bad advice? Only when the kings, presidents and ministers are wise and good, will the government be established in righteousness, 1 Kings 12:1-17.
‘Do not exalt yourself in the king’s presence, and do not claim a place among his great men; it is better for him to say to you, ‘Come up here,’ than for him to humiliate you before his nobles.’ Proverbs 25:6-7
Everyone needs a taste of humility from time to time, Philippians 2:3-8, if we won’t humble ourselves then God will humble us, James 4:10 / Luke 14:7-11.
‘What you have seen with your eyes do not bring hastily to court, for what will you do in the end if your neighbour puts you to shame? If you take your neighbour to court, do not betray another’s confidence, or the one who hears it may shame you and the charge against you will stand.’ Proverbs 25:8-10
Once again, we’re reminded that we must obtain all of your information first before making any judgments on anyone else. We must understand all of the facts accurately, Matthew 18:15.
‘Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is the rebuke of a wise judge to a listening ear. Like a snow-cooled drink at harvest time is a trustworthy messenger to the one who sends him; he refreshes the spirit of his master.’ Proverbs 25:11-13
This could be a gold earring or a gold nose ring. The point is that gold pleases the eye and a cool drink pleases the heart. Normally, harvest time is a hot and sweaty time. The cool snow is a welcome change. It is refreshing to find an honest and faithful messenger, in other words, someone you trust.
‘Like clouds and wind without rain is one who boasts of gifts never given.’ Proverbs 25:14
These clouds are not worth much, neither is this person. This person boasts how good they are, but when it is time to produce the results there is nothing. We must keep our promises, 2 Peter 2:17.
‘Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.’ Proverbs 25:15
Once again, we’re reminded of the tremendous power of the tongue it can be sued for good or bad, Luke 18:1-8 / James 3:3-6.
‘If you find honey, eat just enough—too much of it, and you will vomit.’ Proverbs 25:16
Solomon is basically saying that we should be moderate with all of our enjoyments, don’t overindulge.
‘Seldom set foot in your neighbour’s house—too much of you, and they will hate you.’ Proverbs 25:17
Here we’re reminded not to impose on our neighbour. In other words, everyone needs some privacy, Matthew 26:36-36.
‘Like a club or a sword or a sharp arrow is one who gives false testimony against a neighbour. Like a broken tooth or a lame foot is reliance on the unfaithful in a time of trouble. Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar poured on a wound, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.’ Proverbs 25:18-20
When someone is sad, they don’t usually appreciate laughing and joking. Such actions do not make sense given the circumstances, Romans 12:15.
‘If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you. Like a north wind that brings unexpected rain is a sly tongue—which provokes a horrified look.’ Proverbs 25:21-23
This verse is quoted in Romans 12:20. We should always go the extra mile to help others, even our enemies, 2 Kings 6:22 / Matthew 5:40-48 / Romans 12:14-21. When you find out that someone has been talking about you ‘behind your back’, it certainly does not bring smiles!
‘Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.’ Proverbs 25:24
The husband has to go to the corner of the attic to get away from his wife. Solomon should know with his many wives, 1 Kings 11:3 / Proverbs 21:9.
‘Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land. Like a muddied spring or a polluted well are the righteous who give way to the wicked. It is not good to eat too much honey, nor is it honourable to search out matters that are too deep. Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control. Proverbs 25:25-28
We all love a cool drink on a hot day and we all love to hear nothing but good news, but there are times when we waste that good news on those who are just not interested, Matthew 10:14.
These verses are basically describing someone we cannot depend upon to stay within their limits. In other words, this is someone who what we would say just, ‘flies off the handle.’