Proverbs 20
v.3
It is to a man’s honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.
v.4
A sluggard does not plow in season; so at harvest time he looks but finds nothing.
This character is typical of all who want excellence without putting forth the effort.
v.5
The purposes of a man’s heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out.
v.6
Many a man claims to have unfailing love, but a faithful man who can find?
v.15
Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel.
v.19
A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much.
The first line pictures the gossip as one who goes about revealing secrets, and the second line warns against association with those who are always ready to talk.
v.21
An inheritance quickly gained at the beginning will not be blessed at the end.
v.24
A man’s steps are directed by the Lord. How then can anyone understand his own way?
God’s control of our lives is beyond human comprehension. This proverb asks a rhetorical question regarding this topic: since the steps of a mighty person are from the Lord—how, then, can anyone discern or “understand” his way? How can we delude ourselves into thinking that we do not need the Lord when even a strong person’s activities are divinely prepared? As an example, see Ge 50:20; see also Pr 3:6 for the proper advice in view of this truth.
v.30
Blows and wounds cleanse away evil, and beatings purge the inmost being.
See also 1 Peter 4:1.