Read Proverbs 27
for you do not know what a day may bring.
an outsider, and not your own lips.
but a fool’s provocation is heavier than both.
but who can stand before jealousy?
than hidden love.
but an enemy multiplies kisses.
but to the hungry even what is bitter tastes sweet.
is anyone who flees from home.
and the pleasantness of a friend
springs from their heartfelt advice.
and do not go to your relative’s house when disaster strikes you—
better a neighbor nearby than a relative far away.
then I can answer anyone who treats me with contempt.
but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.
hold it in pledge if it is done for an outsider.
it will be taken as a curse.
of a leaky roof in a rainstorm;
16 restraining her is like restraining the wind
or grasping oil with the hand.
so one person sharpens another.
and whoever protects their master will be honored.
so one’s life reflects the heart.
and neither are human eyes.
but people are tested by their praise.
grinding them like grain with a pestle,
you will not remove their folly from them.
give careful attention to your herds;
24 for riches do not endure forever,
and a crown is not secure for all generations.
25 When the hay is removed and new growth appears
and the grass from the hills is gathered in,
26 the lambs will provide you with clothing,
and the goats with the price of a field.
27 You will have plenty of goats’ milk to feed your family
and to nourish your female servants.
Go Deeper
Proverbs 27 references the sin of pride, the value of Biblical friendships, and good stewardship.
This chapter begins with a famous warning about the uncertainties of life, “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” (v. 1). Solomon cautions us not to assume anything about tomorrow. Only God is sovereign and in complete control, and only He knows what will happen this day and the next. He knows the future because He’s already there. Each time we try and boast about the future as if we’re in control, it’s a sign that we want to play the role of God in our own lives.
In verse 6, Solomon talks about the importance of surrounding yourself with fellow believers and why it is crucial for our own spiritual growth. This world has many distractions and oftentimes there are people who distract us from God’s best. We value their opinions, their love, and their acceptance. We must remember to not live for the approval of others because their approval is fleeting. If we go throughout this world seeking the approval of everyone else, we’ll be forever imprisoned by needing to gain or maintain their affirmation. God has called us to something higher, which is why surrounding yourself with a community of believers is crucial. Verse 6 says, “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.” When someone loves you and they deliver a measured and purposeful rebuke, their aim is to serve you well. An enemy will lie, manipulate, and distract you from God’s desires over your life. Therefore, it is important to be aware of who you have invited into your life to righteously counsel you. Wise counsel will help us seek God’s best over our lives by looking at all sides of issues from a Biblical perspective.
In verses 23-27 it’s important to remember that riches can come and riches can go. Wealth is fleeting. Those who have faithfully tended to the little things day after day will find that they have what they need in times of trouble. Always remember spiritual fruit is often the result of daily investments made rather than one big accomplishment or event.
To summarize, in this broken world there are many distractions that can take our eyes away from what truly matters. Proverbs 27 helps us distinguish between what is right and what is wrong, what is good and what is bad, and what matters most and what does not matter at all. God’s approval of us in Christ is immovable. It’s constant, it doesn’t change and it’s the only thing that lasts forever.
Questions
- Is it hard for you to remember God has complete control over your life? If so, discuss with your Life Group why that is so hard to remember at times.
- Who have you invited into your life to righteously counsel you? Do you trust their counsel? Other than Jesus Christ, being surrounded by a community of true believers is the best gift God has given to all of us.
- What are you doing today to invest in your spiritual growth that you can lean on in times of trouble?
Pray This
Proverbs 27 calls us to surround ourselves with wise counsel. Verse 17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Pray and ask God to surround you with a group of believers who will sharpen you! If you’re already in a Life Group, set aside some time today to pray for them individually by name. Pray for your next meeting together. They will be the most influential people God has given you.
3 responses to “Proverbs 27”
“ As water reflects the face,
so one’s life reflects the heart” (v19).
Every moment we make deposits in our hearts. As Christ followers we are to mirror his ways as we navigate life. May the world be drawn to his reflection on display in us as we choose to lay down our lives and follow him.
Yes! What and how we reflect is important to keep in mind!
17 As iron sharpens iron so one person sharpens another.
This is such an important concept. We are to help male each other better!