Proverbs 22

Verse 16: He who extorts money from the poor or gives gifts (bribes) to the rich will come to poverty. God will punish the oppressor (extorter) by taking away his ill-gotten gains (see James 5:4–5); the briber will end up squandering his wealth for nothing.

Sayings of the Wise (22:17–29)

17–29 Verses 17–21: These verses form an introduction to the thirty sayings that follow. The young person or disciple is again encouraged to take these sayings to heart and to apply them (see Proverbs 1:16,8–7). These are not merely clever statements with which to impress one’s friends; these sayings—in common with all Scripture—are God’s word, which must be obeyed. When one has committed himself to obeying God, he will fully realize that these words are indeed from Him (see John 1:17). With God’s word impressed on his heart, the disciple will be able to give sound answers to those who sent him for teaching—perhaps a parent or guardian (verse 21).

Verses 22–23: See verse 16.

Verses 24–25: Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man. This instruction doesn’t relate only to a “hot-tempered” person; it can be applied to any kind of wrongdoer (see Proverbs 12:26; 14:29). We may not realize it, but wrong friends can subtly lead us to become like them. Scripture says: Do not associate closely with such people.⁶²

Verses 26–27: See Proverbs 6:1–5.

Verse 28: See Proverbs 15:25; 23:10.

Verse 29: In biblical times, people who were skilled in their work were considered to be wise and even godly (Exodus 35:3035). A skilled worker will gain recognition and be given greater and greater responsibility.