Proverbs 21:14-31: The Wisdom of Temperance

King Solomon underscores the importance of wisdom, justice, and moderation. Solomon notes that discreet gifts can pacify anger and that justice brings joy to the righteous. He warns against deviation from wisdom and highlights the value of diligence and integrity. The passage emphasizes that wisdom provides true safety over material wealth and warns against the destructiveness of pride. Solomon advocates for a life marked by justice, temperance, hard work, and reliance on the Lord for ultimate victory and security.

The Rev. Steven Theiss, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in New Wells, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Proverbs 21:14-31.

Step into the spiritually rich landscape of the Book of Proverbs, a text divinely inspired and attributed to Solomon, the sage king endowed by God with unsurpassed wisdom. This ancient scripture begins with heartfelt lessons from a father to a son, laying a foundation of moral and ethical guidance before unfolding into a collection of timeless proverbs. It uniquely personifies wisdom and folly as two paths that stand before humanity, offering a choice between a life filled with virtue, fear of the Lord, and understanding, and one marred by shortsighted pleasures and foolishness. Proverbs serves as a compass for those seeking to walk in righteousness, offering insights that resonate deeply with the human experience, guiding us toward a life of purpose and discernment according to God’s will.