Envy thou not, &c. = Do not become excited against, &c. Illustrations: Moses (Hebrews 11:25 , Hebrews 11:26 ); Jezebel (1 Kings 21:7-13 . Compare 2 Kings 9:30-37 ). Psalms 34:21 . the oppressor = the man (Hebrew. 'ish) of violence. App-14 . read more
froward = those who turn aside. The same word as in Proverbs 2:15 ; not as elsewhere in Proverbs. abomination to the LORD. Note all the things thus declared: Proverbs 3:32 (Proverbs 11:20 ); Proverbs 6:16 ; Proverbs 8:7 ; Proverbs 11:1 ; Proverbs 12:22 ; Proverbs 15:8 (Proverbs 21:27 ), 9, 16, 26; Proverbs 16:5 ; Proverbs 17:15 , Proverbs 17:15 ; Proverbs 20:10 (23); Proverbs 28:9 . secret = secret counsel. What is sealed up from all save those to whom He reveals it. read more
The curse, &c. Illustrations: Baasha (1 Kings 16:1-4 , 1 Kings 16:12 , 1 Kings 16:13 ); Jehoiakim (Jeremiah 22:13-19 ); Coniah (Jeremiah 22:24-28 ); Jehu (2 Kings 19:8-12 .Hosea 1:4; Hosea 1:4 ); Hazael (Amos 1:4 ); Jeroboam II (Amos 7:9 ); Esau (Obadiah 1:18 ). the wicked = a lawless one (singular) He blesseth, &c. Illustrations: Abraham (Hebrews 11:12 . Contrast Ahab, 2 Kings 10:1-11 ); Jacob (Genesis 30:27 ); Joseph (Genesis 39:2 , Genesis 39:21 ); Obed-edom (2 Samuel 6:11 ); the... read more
He scorneth, &c. Quoted in James 4:6 . 1 Peter 5:5 . read more
Proverbs 3:32. For the froward is abomination— "He that perversely departs from all the rules of truth and justice is above all expression abominable to the Lord, even in his highest prosperity: but the Lord is a friend to men of sincere integrity; who know the secret of his providence in raising those wicked oppressors so high, that they may have the more dreadful fall." read more
Proverbs 3:34. Surely he scorneth the scorners— God will treat the scorners as they deserve. See ch. Proverbs 1:26. The Psalmist says, to the same meaning, Psalms 18:26. With the holy thou wilt shew thyself holy; with the froward thou wilt shew thyself froward. "Thou wilt present thyself to those who seek thee; thou wilt turn thy back to those who despise thee." The LXX render the verse, The Lord resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the lowly; and St. Peter and St. James have quoted it... read more
31. oppressor—or man of mischief. The destiny of successful evildoers warns against desiring their lot (Psalms 37:1; Psalms 37:2; Psalms 37:35; Psalms 37:36). read more
32-35. Reasons for the warning. froward— ( :-). secret . . . righteous—in their communion (Amos 3:7). read more
33. curse . . . wicked—It abides with them, and will be manifested. read more
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Bridgeway Bible Commentary - Proverbs 3:1-35
The whole life for God (3:1-35)Obedience and loyalty to God, in addition to guaranteeing his favour, produce the kind of life that most people acknowledge as honourable (3:1-4). If, instead of trusting in their own wisdom and ability, people live in an attitude of reverential trust in God, they can be assured that God will direct them in all their affairs. God will remove obstacles and lead them to their desired goals (5-8).Personal income is one part of everyday life where people must honour... read more