Proverbs 22:17-29
The break between verse 16 and 17 is more significant than we might first notice. Beginning in verse 17, there is a series of 30 sayings that will conclude near the end of chapter 24. Sometimes these sayings are a single verse, some are a few verses long. Verses 17 to 21 seem to be an introduction to the section of sayings. These sayings are, in a way, a summary of the Proverbs which began in chapter 10.
As we look at this section, we see what might be called, in our terms, an orientation for someone who would be serving in the court of the king. What we see in this orientation is, not so much a list of rules, but rather the inner character of a good worker whose inner life is being expressed in specific behaviors. Generally the pattern we see is the description of a specific behavior, followed by a supporting truth or principle. For example, in verses 22 to 23, the behavior is ‘don't take advantage of the poor’. Followed by the principle, “the Lord will take up their cause”.
“Lord, help me to shape my life by godly principles so that on every occasion I will understand how to serve You. AMEN."
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