
Proverbs 21:1-31
21:1 | Government was never meant to reflect a Christian’s total value system - it can never do that in a pluralistic society. Still, we can become discouraged when we see our leaders pursuing policies that are contrary to God’s values. Knowing that god is in control and His will cannot be thwarted (8:15-16), we can pray for our leaders with wisdom and hope - even when we don’t agree with their policies.
21:3 | The sacrificial system played an important role in Israel’s religious life, but it was no substitute for righteous living (1 Sam. 15:22; Hosea 6:6; Micah 6:7-8).
21:9 | A houstop in the ancient Near East was flat, and people used it as living space, but it was not a desirable place to sleep or spend the majority of one’s time. The point is that spartan conditions with peace are better than physical comforts with strife.
21:16 | Understanding means discernment, seeing things as God sees them.
21:18 | A ransom is paid to free a person from a penalty, similar to posting bail to get someone out of jail. God delivers the righteous by punishing the wicked who oppress them.
21:28 | The false witness will perish, or be discredited, so that their reputation is destroyed. The person who hears seeks to know and understand rather than simply waiting to express his or her opinion. That person is worth listening to.