Proverbs chapter 21

vs 21

You might read the translation note and say, "Surely it wouldn't say that he who pursues righteousness finds righteousness?" Which book of proverbs have you been reading?

I think it's actually implied, though, that you also find the righteousness and love too. The other things just sort of turn up on the way, like hitchhikers. And they stick with you too, and they're good things - like good hitchhikers, not like the murdering ones.

vs 22

I don't think it necessarily means one who is wise is a trained siege engineer. After all, we've already learned that those preparing for war take lots of advice. So the wise person, for example, will consult his seige engineer. The wise person will have one to consult. There is no wall high enough that will keep a wise person out is the point. They have wisdom, and it is mightier than a fortress.

vs 23

Every time I read one of these verses, I just feel a little more stupid at all the dumb things I've ever said, or written, or caused to be. I think of the latest calamity I have caused, and previous calamitous occasions too. Stupid smart wisdom.

vs 24

You can tell if it's mockery if it's proud and arrogant. Also, they behave with insolent fury. So note those things.

vs 25

So when you're a sluggard, you still have things you want, and you get them. You just don't then work to pay for them, and so you end up in debt, or dead. Sorry, lazy people. I can't really read it any other way.

vs 26

So the sluggard who does nothing has constant wants for stuff. Righteous people, on the other hand, are always giving up stuff, without sparing any.

vs 27

God will accept the sacrifice of the contrite, but not of the wicked, and definitely not to further their wicked schemes. God hates this stuff. So watch what you say in your prayers.

vs 28

So there is more to being a good witness than just not telling lies. We should all be careful in what we do. We should actually listen to what gets said, be reliable, not vacuous.

vs 29

So even though the wicked seem brave and stuff, the righteous might bug out sometimes, and yet still be righteous.

vs 30

Wisdom is subservient to God. As if it would help you win against him. That's why we must always lose against God. What are we going to use against him, foolishness?

vs 31

No matter how ready we make ourselves, or our horses, God is in control of outcomes. That doesn't mean we can't steer outcomes ourselves - I mean, if we had no control over cause and effect life would be unliveable - but God has a yet greater control. His control allows our control, and guides and controls our control.