Question 1

What does it mean to not be envious of evil men in this passage?

Accepted Answer

The passage tells us not to envy evil men or want to be with them, even if they seem to be doing well. Their hearts are busy planning harm, and their words are full of trouble. The point is that their success is only on the surface. Inside they are set on destruction, and their path ends badly. Instead of wishing we were like them, we should see where their way leads and choose wisdom and righteousness, trusting that God sees and will judge fairly.

Question 2

How does wisdom build and establish a house here?

Accepted Answer

When the passage says a house is built by wisdom, it is talking about building a stable life and home, not just putting up walls and a roof. Wisdom, understanding, and knowledge help a person manage their family, work, and choices in a way that brings strength and good order. The “precious and pleasant riches” picture the solid, lasting blessings that come from living by God’s ways, in contrast to wealth gained by evil, which does not last. Wisdom gives strength and safety, especially when joined with good counsel.

Question 3

What does “if you faint in the day of adversity” mean for us?

Accepted Answer

The line about fainting in the day of adversity shows that real strength is tested when trouble comes. If we give up or lose heart as soon as things get hard, it shows that our strength is small. This is not said to crush us, but to call us to seek deeper strength from God and his wisdom before and during trials. Hard times reveal what we truly lean on. The passage invites us to stand firm, not in our own power alone, but by the strength and insight that God gives.

Question 4

Why does this passage tell us to help those drawn to death?

Accepted Answer

The passage speaks very strongly about our duty to help people who are being led to death or are close to being killed. It says we must not hold back when we can rescue or protect them. We cannot excuse ourselves by saying, “We did not know,” because God sees the heart and knows what we really understood and could have done. He watches over each soul and will repay each person according to their works. So this teaches that staying silent or passive when the innocent are in danger is wrong before God.

Question 5

Why is wisdom compared to honey for the soul?

Accepted Answer

Honey in this passage is sweet, pleasant, and good for the body. In the same way, the knowledge of wisdom is sweet and good for the soul. It is not bitter or harsh, but brings a deep, steady joy. The passage says that when you find wisdom, there is a reward and your hope will not be cut off. That means wisdom brings real benefit now and a sure future, unlike sinful pleasures that taste sweet for a moment but end in sorrow. We are being invited to seek wisdom as something truly enjoyable and satisfying.

Question 6

What does it mean that a just man falls seven times and rises again?

Accepted Answer

When it says a just man falls seven times and rises again, it does not mean he never faces trouble. It says the opposite. A righteous person may fall into many troubles or setbacks. “Seven times” shows repeated and serious falls. But each time, God helps him rise again. His story is not ended by his falls. In contrast, the wicked fall into mischief and stay there. Their fall is ruin, not a passing trial. This encourages those who belong to God not to lose heart when they stumble or suffer.

Question 7

Why are we told not to rejoice when our enemy falls?

Accepted Answer

The passage warns against gloating when an enemy falls or stumbles. Even if someone has done wrong to us, we are not to be glad at their ruin. It says that if the Lord sees our joy at their fall, it may displease him, and he may turn away his anger from them and toward us. The idea is that God cares about the heart. Delighting in someone’s downfall shows a proud and cruel spirit. Instead, we should leave judgment to God, who knows every case, and guard our hearts from bitterness and revenge.

Question 8

What does this teach about fearing the Lord and the king?

Accepted Answer

Near the end, the passage says, “My son, fear thou the Lord and the king,” and not to mix with people who love constant change and rebellion. To fear the Lord is to honor, trust, and obey him. To fear the king is to respect the ruler God has set over you, as far as this does not go against God’s will. Those who stir up unrest and throw off all order can face sudden disaster, and no one knows how far that ruin may go. The warning calls us to a humble, steady life under God and rightful authority.

Proverbs 24:1

Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.

Do Not Envy

Saying 20

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Proverbs 24:1

Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.

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Do Not Envy

Saying 20

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