Proverbs in 31 DaysSample

Proverbs 25 covers many facets of life and relationships, including business, neighbor, home, and oneself. Undisturbed heart, character, and integrity are foundational to positive, successful relationships in every area of life. The good news is this foundation is possible for all of us as we submit our hearts and lives to the lordship of Jesus Christ.

The first 15 verses of this proverb flow between the thoughts of God and those of man. Solomon wrote most of the Proverbs and, to this day, He is considered one of the wisest people to ever live. His wisdom was God-given because He asked for it. James 1:5 says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." Both Solomon and James make it clear that seeking wisdom is good and valuable. As a king, Solomon explains the wisdom of speaking and acting with humility and self-control. The proverb warns us to never judge or speak harshly or hastily, and it emphasizes the importance of being discreet.

Verses 16-20 encourage sincerity and respect with neighbors. Is there anything better than a kind, dependable, and thoughtful neighbor? As believers who are called to love our neighbor, we can heed the wisdom to be humble, helpful, and unselfish. These verses teach us to trust people who tell the truth. Our God loves to see us walking in love toward our neighbors!

Verses 21-24 teach us to be kind to our enemies. This is where the rubber meets the road for many of us, but Jesus taught us the same saying, "Don't insist on getting even; that's not for you to do. ‘I'll do the judging,’ says God. ‘I'll take care of it.’ If you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch; or if He's thirsty, get Him a drink. Your generosity will surprise Him with goodness" (Romans 12:19-20, MSG).

Kindness and love always win over revenge and hate. Scripture makes it clear we are to treat others with kindness and leave the judging to God. In verse 24, we are taught that if we live with someone who is contentious, it is better to avoid Him or her and hold our tongue than to engage in the quarrel. The verse also causes us to pause as we examine ourselves to see if we are guilty of contentious behavior at home. There are always moments of disagreement in relationships, but constant criticism and battle in any marriage is a recipe for disaster and deep hurt. The Lord asks us to examine ourselves and our hearts regularly in Psalm 139:24: "See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Let God examine your heart and lead you in His everlasting way of love. As you remain humbly committed to His ways, watch Him work inside your own heart and that of others.

Finally, verses 25-28 encourage us to develop self-control and humility that will endure. Seek God's glory always and not your own. Ask the Lord to continue to pour His living water into you as He promises it to anyone who simply asks for it. Commit to studying the Scriptures, like Proverbs, to grow in His fruit of the Spirit. Growing in God’s ways of relating to other people will impact your home, business, neighborhood, school, and, yes, even your enemy. To God be the glory!