Walking in Wisdom: God's Path of Integrity, Justice & Generational Legacy
- Be God's Glory
- Jul 10
- 11 min read
Welcome to Day 191 of The Glory Team Bible Reading plan and we are in the book of Proverbs. Proverbs 20–22 offers a powerful collection of wisdom sayings centered on living with integrity, exercising just judgment, and laying a righteous foundation for future generations. These chapters emphasize God’s sovereign role in guiding decisions and testing the heart, while warning against laziness, dishonesty, pride, and injustice. The text highlights the importance of cultivating moral character; such as honesty, diligence, humility, and discernment, over pursuing wealth or status. Proverbs 22 concludes with a call to pass on godly wisdom through parenting and influence, showing how fear of the Lord leads to lasting honor. Together, these chapters encourage believers to align their actions with divine wisdom, revealing how godly living impacts both personal growth and the legacy left behind.
Proverbs 20 focuses on the consequences of one’s actions and the importance of upright character. The chapter opens by warning against the deception and conflict that alcohol can bring (v.1), then moves into themes like honesty in business (v.10, v.23), self-control, and diligence. God is portrayed as the one who weighs motives (v.27), emphasizing that a person’s true character is known by the Lord even when hidden from others. The chapter repeatedly teaches that wise living is marked by integrity, restraint in speech (v.19), and patient observation of others’ behavior. It also contrasts the blessings of loyalty and truth with the ruin that comes from foolishness, deceit, and laziness. Ultimately, Proverbs 20 calls believers to examine their ways in light of God’s righteous judgment and to pursue a life marked by moral excellence.
Proverbs 21 continues the theme of divine justice, declaring that while people make plans, it is the Lord who directs outcomes (v.1). The chapter warns that outward religious acts mean little without righteousness and obedience (v.3), teaching that God values the heart’s intent over ritual. Themes of justice, humility, and generosity are woven throughout, along with warnings against pride and the downfall it brings (v.4, v.24). The writer contrasts the lifestyle of the wicked, marked by greed, cruelty, and dishonesty, with the security of those who walk in wisdom and fear the Lord. Vivid illustrations like a quarrelsome wife being harder to bear than desert heat (v.9, v.19) show how wisdom affects every area of life, even relationships. This chapter teaches that living wisely under God’s rule brings protection, provision, and peace.
Proverbs 22 begins by stating that a good name and favor are more valuable than riches (v.1), setting the tone for a chapter rich in practical and spiritual wisdom. It speaks to parents, encouraging them to train up children in the way of the Lord so they won’t depart from it (v.6), underscoring the long-term fruit of godly upbringing. Financial principles are addressed—warning against debt (v.7) and emphasizing generosity and fairness (v.9, v.16). Humility and the fear of the Lord are shown to bring riches, honor, and life (v.4), reinforcing the idea that prosperity follows righteousness. The final verses of the chapter (v.17–29) transition into the “Sayings of the Wise,” introducing a new collection of counsel grounded in reverence for God, personal discipline, and social justice. Proverbs 22 calls believers to value wisdom, pursue integrity, and plant seeds of righteousness that will benefit future generations.
Origin & Meaning of the Name:
The name “Proverbs” comes from the Hebrew word “Mishlei”, which is the plural form of “mashal,” meaning a parable, comparison, or concise saying that expresses a moral truth. In Greek, the title is “Paroimiai,” and in Latin, “Proverbia.” The term refers to wise sayings that are memorable and instructive, meant to impart practical life lessons through brief, impactful statements.
Purpose of the Book:
Proverbs was written to impart wisdom, discipline, and understanding, especially to the young, so they may live godly and successful lives. Its stated purpose is found in Proverbs 1:2–4:
“To know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity; to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the youth.”
The book provides moral and ethical guidance based on “the fear of the Lord,” which is the foundation of true knowledge (Proverbs 1:7). It is a practical guide to living with integrity, wisdom, justice, and spiritual discernment in everyday life.
Authorship & Sources Supporting the Author:
King Solomon is traditionally recognized as the primary author of Proverbs.
Proverbs 1:1 begins: “The proverbs of Solomon, son of David, king of Israel.”
1 Kings 4:32 supports Solomon's authorship, stating:
“He spoke 3,000 proverbs, and his songs were 1,005.”This verse validates that Solomon was known for his exceptional wisdom and literary output.
Solomon reigned around 970–931 B.C. and was famed for asking God for wisdom rather than riches or power (see 1 Kings 3:5–14), making him a fitting author for this wisdom book.
However, Proverbs was compiled in stages:
Chapters 1–24 are largely attributed to Solomon.
Chapters 25–29 were compiled later by the men of Hezekiah king of Judah (Proverbs 25:1), about 200 years after Solomon’s time.
Chapter 30 is attributed to Agur son of Jakeh.
Chapter 31 contains the sayings of King Lemuel, taught to him by his mother.
Extra-Biblical Support:
The Talmud (Baba Bathra 14b) affirms Solomon as the principal author of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs.
Early Church Fathers, including Origen and Jerome, also credited Solomon with the core of the book’s authorship.
Key People:
While Proverbs is largely poetic and instructional rather than narrative, a few individuals are named:
Solomon – The central figure behind most of the content.
Agur (Proverbs 30) – A wise man with a humble spirit who pondered divine mysteries.
King Lemuel (Proverbs 31) – A possibly non-Israelite king who shares wisdom from his mother, including the famous passage about the virtuous woman.
Also, Wisdom is personified (especially in Proverbs 1, 8, and 9) as a woman calling out in the streets, inviting people to choose righteousness over folly. While not a literal person, this literary device plays a key role in the theological and philosophical tone of the book.
Conclusion
Proverbs presents wisdom as a choice and a lifestyle—not merely knowledge, but skillful living in harmony with God’s truth. It contrasts the way of the wise with the way of fools and stresses the rewards of obedience, humility, integrity, and reverence for the Lord. The final chapter, Proverbs 31, highlights the virtues of a godly woman, emphasizing that wisdom is not just theoretical but lived out in daily faithfulness.
Ultimately, the book teaches that the wise person fears the Lord, walks in humility, seeks godly counsel, and avoids sin. As Proverbs 9:10 declares,
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.”
What is God's Name in these Chapters?
In this portion of our journey we want to dive deep into the character of God described in His name. By identifying who God is, we can further relate to Him personally and build a stronger relationship and connection with Our Father.
Names are important. They give significance to places, people, and things. We identify with so much based off what it's name is. This is considerably notable when it comes to the names of God.
"Jehovah" is considered a Latinized version of the Hebrew name "Yahweh" (represented by the consonants YHWH) where the vowels of the Hebrew word "Adonai" (meaning "my Lord") were added to the Tetragrammaton (YHWH) when pronounced by Jewish readers who avoided saying the sacred name directly; essentially, Christian scholars combined the consonants of YHWH with the vowels of Adonai to create the pronunciation "Jehovah" in the Latin alphabet.
Looking for the Names of God from the previous chapters? Due to the overwhelming amount of names we had to dedicate a special place for them for the sake of space. Click the link to see them:
God is revealed in Proverbs 20 as the all-knowing, just, and sovereign judge. He weighs motives (v.27) and examines the heart, even when human actions seem upright. The Lord values integrity, justice, and discipline, showing that He is deeply involved in the moral outcomes of people’s lives. His presence is not distant; He is the One who discerns our true intentions and blesses those who walk in truth.
There are no specific Hebrew names of God mentioned directly in Proverbs 20, but the character of God is clearly referenced through His role as a moral examiner and overseer of justice. The lesson God teaches in this chapter is that wise living is not about appearances, but about inner character shaped by truth and self-control. We can relate to God as our moral compass—one who desires to develop patience, diligence, and honesty in us so we may reflect His righteousness.
In Proverbs 21, God is presented as the supreme ruler over all human affairs. He directs the hearts of kings (v.1), watches every path (v.2), and loves righteousness and justice more than religious rituals (v.3). God’s character here is both sovereign and deeply ethical—He is a God of justice, who detests pride and wickedness but rewards humility and righteousness. He cannot be bribed or manipulated, and His judgments are perfect.
While no specific Hebrew names of God like YHWH or Elohim are introduced in this chapter, God's attributes shine through clearly. He is portrayed as the ultimate authority, one who governs not just nations but individual hearts. The lesson God teaches here is that right living begins with submission to Him, not outward religious performance. He desires authenticity, and He honors those who walk in wisdom, justice, and humility.
God’s character in Proverbs 22 is that of a wise and generous Father who values integrity, humility, and instruction. He honors those who fear Him (v.4) and calls His people to live upright lives, teaching children His ways so they will not depart from them (v.6). He is compassionate toward the poor and just in His dealings, rewarding those who are kind, honest, and reverent. God reveals Himself as a God who cares about both our character and our legacy.
Although Hebrew names such as Yahweh or El Elyon are not mentioned explicitly, the nature of God is made clear through His actions and expectations. The lesson He is teaching in this chapter is that wisdom and reverence lead to a life of blessing, while foolishness and pride bring destruction. God invites us to trust His guidance, practice generosity, and honor His truth through every stage of life—including how we raise the next generation.
Christ in Every Book of the Bible
Christ is the theme throughout the Bible. From Genesis to Revelation, God reveals His Son, Jesus Christ.
Christ is the Seed of the woman Genesis 3:14 , He is the Passover Lamb Exodus 12:3, The Atoning Sacrifice Leviticus 17:11, The Smitten Rock Numbers 20:8, 11, The Faithful Prophet Deuteronomy 18:18, Christ is the Captain of the Lord's Host Joshua 5:15, The Divine Deliverer Judges 2:18, The Kinsman Redeemer Ruth 3:12, Christ is the anticipated as the Anointed One,1 Samuel 2:10, The Son of David 2 Samuel 7:14, The Coming King 1 & 2 Kings, Builder of the Temple 1 & 2 Chronicles (1 Chronicles 28:20), Ezra represents Christ as the Restorer of the Nation Ezra 6:14, 15, Nehemiah shows Him as the Restorer of the Temple Nehemiah 6:15, and Esther portrays Him as the Preserver of the Nation Ester 4:14, Christ is seen as the Living Redeemer Job 19:25, The Praise of Israel Psalm 150:6, The Wisdom of God Proverbs 8:22, 23, The Great Teacher Ecclesiastics 12:11, The Fairest of Ten Thousand Song of Solomon 5:10. Christ is the Suffering Servant Isaiah 53:11, The Maker of the New Covenant Jeremiah 31:31, The Man of Sorrows Lamentations 3:28-30, The Glory of God Ezekiel 43:2, The coming Messiah Daniel 9:25, The Lover of the Unfaithful Hosea 3:1, The Hope of Israel Joel 3:16, The Husbandman Amos 9:13, the Savior Obadiah 21, the Resurrected One Jonah 2:10, the Ruler in Israel Micah 5:2, the Avenger Nahum 2:1, the Holy God Habakkuk 1:13, the King of Israel Zephaniah 3:15, the Desire of Nations Haggai 2:7, the Righteous Branch Zechariah 3:8, and the Sun of Righteousness Malachi 4:2.
The King of the Jews Matthew 2:2, the Servant of the Lord Mark 10:45, the Son of Man Luke 19:10, and the Son of God John 1:1. Christ is the Ascended Lord Acts 1:10, the believer's Righteousness Romans 1:17, Sanctification 1 Corinthians 1:30, Sufficiency 2 Corinthians 12:9, and Liberty Galatians 2:4. He is the Exalted Head of the church Ephesians 1:22, the Christian's Joy Philippians 1:26, and the Fullness of Deity Colossians 2:9. In the Thessalonian epistles Christ is the believer's Comfort 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17 and Glory 2 Thessalonians 1:12. The Christian's Preserver 1 Timothy 4:10, Rewarder 2 Timothy 4:8, Blessed Hope Titus 2:13, and Substitute Philemon 17. He is the High Priest Hebrews 4:15, the Giver of Wisdom James 1:5, the Rock 1 Peter 2:6, and Precious Promise 2 Peter 1:4. John represents Christ as the Life 1 John, the Truth 2 John, and the Way 3 John, Jude portrays Christ as the Advocate and Revelation shows Him as King of Kings and Lord of Lords Revelation 19:16. The whole Bible is literally all about Christ!
Questions:
Let's expand how these chapters expanded your faith and your relationship with God.
Questions About God's Character: What do these chapters reveal about God’s faithfulness to His word and promises?
How does Proverbs describe God as the One who weighs the heart and motives (see Proverbs 20:27 and 21:2)?
What does God’s response to unjust scales and dishonest practices reveal about His nature (Proverbs 20:10, 23)?
In Proverbs 21:1, how does God’s control over a king’s heart show His sovereignty in human affairs?
What does Proverbs 21:3 teach us about God’s priorities when it comes to righteousness vs. religious performance?
How is God’s justice reflected in His care for the poor and warnings against exploiting them (Proverbs 22:22–23)?
What kind of reward does God promise to those who fear Him and walk humbly (Proverbs 22:4)?
How does God’s character shape His expectations for how we treat others in our daily dealings?
Questions About Themes:
What do these chapters teach about the importance of integrity in one’s personal and public life?
How do Proverbs 20–22 contrast the paths of the wise and the foolish, especially in relationships and finances?
How is discipline presented as a theme in parenting and personal development (see Proverbs 20:30 and 22:6, 15)?
What do these chapters say about the consequences of pride versus the rewards of humility?
How are justice and fairness emphasized as recurring moral themes, especially in leadership and business?
In what ways does diligence lead to life and laziness lead to ruin across these chapters?
What repeated warnings are given about quarrelsome behavior, gossip, and rash decisions?
Reflective Application Questions:
In what areas of your life do you need to let God search your heart and reveal hidden motives?
Are there any habits or speech patterns you need to change in light of the warnings about gossip and quarrelsome behavior?
How can you grow in practicing fairness and honesty in your work or business dealings?
In what ways can you model humility and wisdom in your daily interactions?
If you're a parent, how are you intentionally training your children in the ways of the Lord (Proverbs 22:6)?
How are you investing in your “good name” (reputation) and legacy for future generations (Proverbs 22:1)?
Are there areas where you’ve trusted in rituals or good works over true obedience and righteousness before God?
These questions can help deepen understanding of the themes of these chapters, while encouraging trust in God's sovereignty, justice, faithfulness, and timing. We hope thoughts to these questions invite you to reflect on your own journeys, grow in faith, and understand more about God's nature.
Reference Guides:
Life Application Study Guide
A Popular Survey of the Old Testament by Norman L. Geisler
The Power of God's Names by Tony Evans
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