Proverbs 28:11-28

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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

Wisdom in Money

Solomon mentions many godly characteristics among the verses of this lesson, and many ungodly characteristics as well. Identify and list the godly characteristics which these proverbs exhort us to demonstrate in our lives.
In the proverb of verse 12, is Solomon teaching that it is acceptable to compromise one’s faith when peace and safety have been removed by wicked authorities? Is he teaching that it is wrong to hide during such times of persecution?
In the second part of verse 13, in contrast to the covering up of sin, the correct response to sin is given. Does this response apply only to believers? Does the act of confession by itself bring resolution to lingering sinfulness?
In the proverb of verse 27, what is the blessing promised to a person who is compassionate and generous toward the needs of the poor?

Several of the godly characteristics that Solomon, guided by the Holy Spirit, calls us to are: an understanding of wisdom (v 11), regular confession and repentance (v 13), maintaining a tender conscience (v 14), a repudiation of covetousness (v 16), a lifestyle above reproach (v 18), faithful stewardship of material blessings (v 20), a humble, absolute trust in the Lord (v 25), a dependency on the Lord for wisdom (v 26), and a generous response to the poor (v 27).
In verse 12, Solomon is not teaching that it is acceptable to compromise one’s faith in times of persecution, but he is teaching that it is not wrong to hide during times of persecution by wicked rulers. Remember, Joash was hidden from wicked Queen Athaliah for 6 years and godly prophets hid from wicked king Ahab and Queen Jezebel.
Unbelievers and believers alike who have been covering up sins in their lives are exhorted to confess and repent of their sins. This proverb in verse 13 also teaches that confession must be followed by a turning away from sin(s), that is, repentance.
The blessing a compassionate and generous person is promised in verse 27 is the continuing provision that makes it possible to continue to be generous. This is a reality in God’s moral universe.

Discuss parental relationships and the many ways it is possible to “rob” them rather than to honor them. Consider the many temptations that come with the awareness of your parents’ material wealth or resources. Also consider the administrative and legal means you might employ to properly and faithfully serve your parents, particularly when they become vulnerable in later years.

Euphemisms can be used as a means of rationalization, especially in regard to sinful practices. When God’s Spirit convicts you of a sin, is your first response to rationalize it away as something other than sin? Be aware of the clear description of sinful actions in God’s Word, and take the convictions of the Holy Spirit seriously. Confession and repentance is the proper response!

“He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.” Proverbs 28:13
“Whoever robs his father or his mother, and says, ‘It is no transgression,’ the same is companion to a destroyer.” Proverbs 28:24