Isaiah 10

Isaiah 10:1

Rebuke As an Expression of Love

“Open rebuke” is a frank, direct word of honest criticism or disapproval by a friend (Proverbs 27:5). This is “better … than love that is concealed”, or a love that is too timid, too afraid or not trusting enough to admit that rebuke is a part of true love. A love that does not manifest rebuke is morally worthless. It is even questionable whether such love is upright. In any case, love that shirks its responsibility is incomplete.

Paul once had to openly rebuke Peter (Galatians 2:11). But this did not cause any harm to Peter. He speaks later in his second letter about “our beloved brother Paul” (2 Peter 3:15). It is false love, and in reality hatred, if we do not rebuke one of our children or a brother or sister when necessary (Leviticus 19:17). Love “does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with truth” (1 Corinthians 13:6).

In other words, the proverb in Proverbs 27:6 says the same thing as Proverbs 27:5. We all need someone who loves us enough to tell us the truth about ourselves. He tells us not only things we want to hear, but also things we need to hear. Sometimes that can be painful and cause wounds, but it will always be wounds without scars. By “wounds” is meant especially wounds of the soul.

We may have to point something out to someone because we see that something is in danger of going wrong. The person addressed must make a correction in his or her behavior. This is sometimes hard to swallow. It may even cause a moment of estrangement because it is perceived as an unwelcome comment. But once the initial emotions are overcome and some thought is given to what has been said, on reflection one will reap his or her benefits and even consider it a favor that it happened (Psalms 141:5; cf. Revelation 3:19).

For example, grandparents may well see things in their grandchildren that elude their children, the parents of their grandchildren. It takes wisdom to say that to the children in the right way and at the right time. True love points out the wrong and does not wait until it is too late.

Opposed to the expressions of true love are the false expressions of love of the enemy. The enemy is not scanty with his “kisses”. He gives them “excessive” [as deceitful also can be translated] to cover his true intentions in this way. They are deceptive, hypocritical expressions. The most heinous example is the deceitful kiss with which Judas betrayed His Master (Mark 14:43-45).

Isaiah 10:2

Rebuke As an Expression of Love

“Open rebuke” is a frank, direct word of honest criticism or disapproval by a friend (Proverbs 27:5). This is “better … than love that is concealed”, or a love that is too timid, too afraid or not trusting enough to admit that rebuke is a part of true love. A love that does not manifest rebuke is morally worthless. It is even questionable whether such love is upright. In any case, love that shirks its responsibility is incomplete.

Paul once had to openly rebuke Peter (Galatians 2:11). But this did not cause any harm to Peter. He speaks later in his second letter about “our beloved brother Paul” (2 Peter 3:15). It is false love, and in reality hatred, if we do not rebuke one of our children or a brother or sister when necessary (Leviticus 19:17). Love “does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with truth” (1 Corinthians 13:6).

In other words, the proverb in Proverbs 27:6 says the same thing as Proverbs 27:5. We all need someone who loves us enough to tell us the truth about ourselves. He tells us not only things we want to hear, but also things we need to hear. Sometimes that can be painful and cause wounds, but it will always be wounds without scars. By “wounds” is meant especially wounds of the soul.

We may have to point something out to someone because we see that something is in danger of going wrong. The person addressed must make a correction in his or her behavior. This is sometimes hard to swallow. It may even cause a moment of estrangement because it is perceived as an unwelcome comment. But once the initial emotions are overcome and some thought is given to what has been said, on reflection one will reap his or her benefits and even consider it a favor that it happened (Psalms 141:5; cf. Revelation 3:19).

For example, grandparents may well see things in their grandchildren that elude their children, the parents of their grandchildren. It takes wisdom to say that to the children in the right way and at the right time. True love points out the wrong and does not wait until it is too late.

Opposed to the expressions of true love are the false expressions of love of the enemy. The enemy is not scanty with his “kisses”. He gives them “excessive” [as deceitful also can be translated] to cover his true intentions in this way. They are deceptive, hypocritical expressions. The most heinous example is the deceitful kiss with which Judas betrayed His Master (Mark 14:43-45).

Isaiah 10:3

Satiation and Hunger Do Change the Taste

This verse contrasts “a sated man” and “a famished man”. The former tramples on or abhors honey, while to the latter “any bitter thing is sweet”. Too much of a good thing does not make the good bad, but corrupts the user. The more we have of something, the less we appreciate it.

For a hungry person, it is exactly the other way around. Hunger makes the bitter taste sweet or as the Dutch proverb goes ‘hunger makes raw beans sweet’, meaning that everything tastes good when one is hungry. Hunger is therefore also called ‘the best cook’.

When it comes to food and drink for our bodies, increasingly the first line of verse applies to the part of the world we live in (Europe). We are much less familiar with the second line of verse. Spiritually, both lines of verse apply. Christians can feel elevated above others because of the spiritual riches they know, while despising those who – in their eyes – know far less than they do (cf. 1 Corinthians 4:8). Nor do they accept anything from those “poor” believers when the latter present them with something from God’s Word, but ‘loathes’ it.

But those who hunger and thirst for God accept everything they can learn from God’s Word with great gratitude. That same hunger for God turns bitter trials into sweet experiences (Exodus 15:23-25). Similarly, the bitterness of judgment becomes sweet when it is recognized as justified, for then faith sees its effects (Revelation 10:8-10). Suffering gives a bitter taste, but the realization that after this comes blessing makes the bitter sweet (cf. Revelation 10:9).

Isaiah 10:4

Do Not Wander From Your Home

The parallel compares “a bird that wanders from her nest” with “a man who wanders from his home”. Both cases involve giving up a place of safety and security. The reason for both cases of wandering is not given. The connection seems to indicate that it is about an irresponsible action that does not consider what valuable thing is being given up.

The word “wander” gives the impression that someone can no longer cope with the circumstances and wants to try their luck somewhere else. Dissatisfaction with current living conditions is often a motive for moving away from somewhere. The lesson is to encourage people to protect their home and be grateful for it, even when more adverse times come.

For those who are not satisfied with their circumstances, the grass is always greener next door. For economic reasons, Elimelech left Bethlehem for a while, as long as the economic malaise in Bethlehem lasted, to live as a stranger in Moab (Rth 1:1-2). Things did not go well there (Rth 1:3-21). In the parable of the prodigal son, we see that the youngest son left his father’s house for selfish reasons. He went away from his father where he had it so good and things went badly for him (Luke 15:11-13). Even a believer can ‘wander from his nest’ as Demas did (2 Timothy 4:10). A wandering foot follows a wandering heart.

Isaiah 10:5

The Affection and Help of a Friend

“Oil and perfume” are pleasing to the body (Proverbs 27:9). If someone has used them for his body so that he looks beautiful and smells good, it has a rejoicing effect on the heart. Beauty aids do something to a person. A similar beneficial effect has “a man’s counsel“ that someone gives his friend because of the affection he has for him.

The “soul’s counsel”, as it also can be translated, that is the heartfelt counsel of a friend is pleasant if it is a friend who puts God first and enjoys the same fellowship with the Savior that you yourself enjoy. We see a wonderful example in the counsel Jonathan gave his friend David (1 Samuel 20:9-23). The Lord Jesus always gives heartfelt advice. In doing so, He gladdens the hearts of those whom He calls His friends. One of His Names is “Counselor” (Isaiah 9:5).

Connected to Proverbs 27:9, in Proverbs 27:10 Solomon speaks of the value of a friend, specifically the value of a “family friend”. Solomon himself maintained a friendship with Hiram who was already his father David’s friend (1 Kings 5:1-10). It is a friend who has proven his trustworthiness for a generation. He warns his son not to forsake that friend, not to abandon him, but to cherish that friendship as something special.

A family friend is always close, both in literal and spiritual distance. He knows the family. If one day the son has an accident and needs help, he does not have to go to a brother who lives far away or with whom there is no spiritual contact, but can ask the family friend for help. He lives nearby and has known the son since childhood.

True friendship does not change. A true friend is a neighbor to whom you can always turn. For true friends there is no barrier due to a generational difference. This is especially true of the Lord Jesus Who in all generations is the reliable Friend of everyone who knows Him.

Isaiah 10:6

The Affection and Help of a Friend

“Oil and perfume” are pleasing to the body (Proverbs 27:9). If someone has used them for his body so that he looks beautiful and smells good, it has a rejoicing effect on the heart. Beauty aids do something to a person. A similar beneficial effect has “a man’s counsel“ that someone gives his friend because of the affection he has for him.

The “soul’s counsel”, as it also can be translated, that is the heartfelt counsel of a friend is pleasant if it is a friend who puts God first and enjoys the same fellowship with the Savior that you yourself enjoy. We see a wonderful example in the counsel Jonathan gave his friend David (1 Samuel 20:9-23). The Lord Jesus always gives heartfelt advice. In doing so, He gladdens the hearts of those whom He calls His friends. One of His Names is “Counselor” (Isaiah 9:5).

Connected to Proverbs 27:9, in Proverbs 27:10 Solomon speaks of the value of a friend, specifically the value of a “family friend”. Solomon himself maintained a friendship with Hiram who was already his father David’s friend (1 Kings 5:1-10). It is a friend who has proven his trustworthiness for a generation. He warns his son not to forsake that friend, not to abandon him, but to cherish that friendship as something special.

A family friend is always close, both in literal and spiritual distance. He knows the family. If one day the son has an accident and needs help, he does not have to go to a brother who lives far away or with whom there is no spiritual contact, but can ask the family friend for help. He lives nearby and has known the son since childhood.

True friendship does not change. A true friend is a neighbor to whom you can always turn. For true friends there is no barrier due to a generational difference. This is especially true of the Lord Jesus Who in all generations is the reliable Friend of everyone who knows Him.

Isaiah 10:7

A Wise Son Is an Answer to Reproach

A wise son first and foremost gladdens his father’s heart. An additional important effect is that he enables his father to defend himself against his critics. Parents who raise their children according to clear rules sometimes get criticized for doing it wrong. They oblige their children to follow certain rules. Also, they deny them certain freedoms that other young people do get or take. This is accompanied by the warning that their children will go out into the world later because they have found the yoke of their upbringing too oppressive.

But an upbringing from fellowship with the Lord, with wisdom from God and tender loving clear rules, will generally have a good effect in children. Children who are wise justify their parents. Children are not called upon to behave well so that the father can defend himself against attacks on his upbringing. That would be coercion and manipulation. Spiritual truths are not heritage. The wisdom a son reveals in his life is not inherited, but acquired.

Children who go their way in accordance with what they have learned from their parents are the best recommendation of the value of the upbringing given by the parents. It also applies to God as our Father. We gladden His heart when we are wise, which is only possible when we listen to His teaching through His Word. His teaching manifested in us silences opponents. We can also still apply this to all who teach God’s Word to fellow believers, for example, in Bible classes and Bible readings. We also see this with Paul in what he says to and about the believers in Thessalonica (1 Thessalonians 2:19-20).

Isaiah 10:8

A Prudent Man Hides From Evil

The contrast is between “a prudent man” and “the naive” (Proverbs 22:3). The first is the mature person who has developed prudence. The second are the inexperienced and untrained youth who are easily deceived because they are headstrong. The test that clarifies who is a prudent man and who are the naive ones is their response to the evil of judgment that is coming.

To escape announced evil, we must see the evil, recognize the evil. This is what a prudent man does, while the naive may also see the evil, but may not recognize it and may even ignore it or believe that it will all be fine. The reaction reveals whether someone takes the coming evil seriously or does not care. Indeed, a prudent man seeks a place where he can protect himself from evil, while the naive will have to pay the penalty.

David escaped Saul several times because he foresaw what Saul wanted. He hid himself and therefore stayed out of Saul’s hands. Noah is also a prudent man. He hid himself in the ark, while all the naive did not let themselves be warned and went on with their lives and had to pay the penalty for that (cf. Jeremiah 6:17).

Impending evil should not make us nervous and lead us to an over-hasty action, but to a calm consideration of what to do to escape it, for it will surely come. A prudent man will hide in the right place, in a place that truly offers protection from evil. He will not seek to protect himself from the evil of God’s judgment by hiding in a wrong place or in a wrong way, such as by clothing himself with the works of the law.

After Adam and Eve sinned, they covered themselves with homemade loin coverings of fig leaves, a picture of their own righteousness (Genesis 3:7-8). But this covering or hiding did not work. They remained naked before God (Genesis 3:10-11). God provided the proper covering, that of an animal skin, meaning that an animal had been killed in their place (Genesis 3:21). This points to the only place of hiding from the judgment of God, and that is the sacrifice of Jesus Christ (Isaiah 32:2a). He who accepts Him in faith is perfectly protected from evil. He who rejects that hiding and continues with his life will have to pay the penalty for his sins himself.

Isaiah 10:9

Obligations Have to Be Fulfilled

Connected to Proverbs 27:12, becoming surety for a stranger (Proverbs 27:13) is a matter that is announced as an evil. A prudent man sees the evil which is concealed in becoming surety for a stranger. He hides himself from evil by not taking part in it and in that way, he is kept from the loss of the pledge.

He who as a naive becomes surety for a stranger, runs the risk of losing his garment. His garment is the only thing that is left for him. If he loses it, he loses everything so that he is delivered to the cold of the night. He can never get it back, for it has fallen into the hands of “an adulterous woman”.

An application is, that we will lose the warmth of the Christian fellowship if we assume obligation which we cannot fulfill. We can recommend someone for a certain job and say that we will assist if the person that we have recommended does not comply. When the person does not comply, then we are to keep our promise. We cannot do more than what we were actually assigned for, but we have to do something which was not our assignment. In that way we lose a lot of warmth, for fulfilling our duties because of our own fault is much different than doing something out of love.

The lesson is that when we allow ourselves to be misguided to entering into obligation, we have to bear the consequences of it when it turns out that this stranger is unreliable. People must be held responsible to their obligations, no matter how foolish it was to assume them.

Isaiah 10:10

Improper Behavior

True friendship does not express itself in an exaggerated, inappropriate manner (Proverbs 27:14). Anyone who nevertheless loudly wishes his friend all kinds of good things at an inappropriate time is not looking for his friend, but for himself. He wants to show how good his friend is, to boast of being friends with such a person. It is an exaggerated expression of praise for how good someone is.

The friend is clearly not keen on this. He doesn’t really need this kind of attention. His friend’s performance is a curse to him. Those around him constantly hear his name being called, associated with all sorts of fine, religious wishes. This evokes not respect, but annoyance. Whoever expresses himself in this way may want to give the impression of piety and friendship, but he is considered a curse. If someone is too highly praised, repugnance arises instead of admiration. The friend knows this and therefore is not at all pleased with such loud wishes of blessing.

It is fine to bless someone, that is, to wish him the good, but it must be done in the right way, the appropriate time and with the right motives. A good deed at the wrong time is reckoned a curse. It is better to speak to God early in the morning in silence and listen to Him by reading His Word than to spoil a friend’s day by such a beginning.

The comparison of “a contentious woman” with “a constant dripping” has already been before us (Proverbs 27:15; Proverbs 19:13). It is now added “on a day of steady rain”, that is a day when you do have to stay at home, because the weather does not allow you to leave the house. But even inside he is not safe from the rain, for it is leaking. He finds nowhere to take shelter.

The husband is constantly exposed to his wife’s contention, without a possibility of escaping it. Incessantly she argues. It constantly goes on with the steadiness of dripping water through a leak somewhere in the roof that you just can’t discover. There is rain outside and there is rain inside, so you get wet everywhere and cold to your bones.

It is uncontrollable and unmanageable like the wind (Proverbs 27:16). The wind is elusive and unpredictable; a gust of wind could come at any moment. You cannot grasp or hold oil either, even with your right hand, the hand of power. It slips right between your fingers. It outlines the hopelessness of the situation in which human resources cannot change the situation.

Isaiah 10:11

Improper Behavior

True friendship does not express itself in an exaggerated, inappropriate manner (Proverbs 27:14). Anyone who nevertheless loudly wishes his friend all kinds of good things at an inappropriate time is not looking for his friend, but for himself. He wants to show how good his friend is, to boast of being friends with such a person. It is an exaggerated expression of praise for how good someone is.

The friend is clearly not keen on this. He doesn’t really need this kind of attention. His friend’s performance is a curse to him. Those around him constantly hear his name being called, associated with all sorts of fine, religious wishes. This evokes not respect, but annoyance. Whoever expresses himself in this way may want to give the impression of piety and friendship, but he is considered a curse. If someone is too highly praised, repugnance arises instead of admiration. The friend knows this and therefore is not at all pleased with such loud wishes of blessing.

It is fine to bless someone, that is, to wish him the good, but it must be done in the right way, the appropriate time and with the right motives. A good deed at the wrong time is reckoned a curse. It is better to speak to God early in the morning in silence and listen to Him by reading His Word than to spoil a friend’s day by such a beginning.

The comparison of “a contentious woman” with “a constant dripping” has already been before us (Proverbs 27:15; Proverbs 19:13). It is now added “on a day of steady rain”, that is a day when you do have to stay at home, because the weather does not allow you to leave the house. But even inside he is not safe from the rain, for it is leaking. He finds nowhere to take shelter.

The husband is constantly exposed to his wife’s contention, without a possibility of escaping it. Incessantly she argues. It constantly goes on with the steadiness of dripping water through a leak somewhere in the roof that you just can’t discover. There is rain outside and there is rain inside, so you get wet everywhere and cold to your bones.

It is uncontrollable and unmanageable like the wind (Proverbs 27:16). The wind is elusive and unpredictable; a gust of wind could come at any moment. You cannot grasp or hold oil either, even with your right hand, the hand of power. It slips right between your fingers. It outlines the hopelessness of the situation in which human resources cannot change the situation.

Isaiah 10:12

Improper Behavior

True friendship does not express itself in an exaggerated, inappropriate manner (Proverbs 27:14). Anyone who nevertheless loudly wishes his friend all kinds of good things at an inappropriate time is not looking for his friend, but for himself. He wants to show how good his friend is, to boast of being friends with such a person. It is an exaggerated expression of praise for how good someone is.

The friend is clearly not keen on this. He doesn’t really need this kind of attention. His friend’s performance is a curse to him. Those around him constantly hear his name being called, associated with all sorts of fine, religious wishes. This evokes not respect, but annoyance. Whoever expresses himself in this way may want to give the impression of piety and friendship, but he is considered a curse. If someone is too highly praised, repugnance arises instead of admiration. The friend knows this and therefore is not at all pleased with such loud wishes of blessing.

It is fine to bless someone, that is, to wish him the good, but it must be done in the right way, the appropriate time and with the right motives. A good deed at the wrong time is reckoned a curse. It is better to speak to God early in the morning in silence and listen to Him by reading His Word than to spoil a friend’s day by such a beginning.

The comparison of “a contentious woman” with “a constant dripping” has already been before us (Proverbs 27:15; Proverbs 19:13). It is now added “on a day of steady rain”, that is a day when you do have to stay at home, because the weather does not allow you to leave the house. But even inside he is not safe from the rain, for it is leaking. He finds nowhere to take shelter.

The husband is constantly exposed to his wife’s contention, without a possibility of escaping it. Incessantly she argues. It constantly goes on with the steadiness of dripping water through a leak somewhere in the roof that you just can’t discover. There is rain outside and there is rain inside, so you get wet everywhere and cold to your bones.

It is uncontrollable and unmanageable like the wind (Proverbs 27:16). The wind is elusive and unpredictable; a gust of wind could come at any moment. You cannot grasp or hold oil either, even with your right hand, the hand of power. It slips right between your fingers. It outlines the hopelessness of the situation in which human resources cannot change the situation.

Isaiah 10:13

To Sharp and to Guard

Man is not created to be alone, but with others. He is a social being and needs others to allow him to be human. One aspect of being together is sharpening each other’s understanding and thoughts by talking to each other. “One man” here stands for the personality or character of the person (Proverbs 27:17). The comparison to sharpening iron with iron shows that it is about two equivalent materials. When two people talk to each other about a subject and also listen carefully to each other, it sharpens the understanding of both of them about that subject. It is a win-win situation.

It is about sharpening character and understanding. A character is largely shaped by contacts with others. Friends don’t always have to agree with each other, but by talking about something, both gain understanding. It sharpens them in their convictions while at the same time it removes the sharp edges.

That intercourse is formative is especially true in our dealings with our brothers and sisters with whom we share thoughts about God’s Word. Sharing what we have come to know of God’s truth sharpens the faith of all. It gives a sharper understanding of God’s thoughts, which also allows us to serve Him and each other with greater understanding.

In Proverbs 27:18, it is about the care of working on our relationships so that there is not only better understanding and character (Proverbs 27:17), but following on from that, fruitfulness and service. It’s not about sharpening, but about caring and serving faithfully. The tending of a fig tree is a matter that requires attention. Sufficient and appropriate tending have the result that the tending person will eat its fruit. That is his reward.

The comparison is drawn to one who cares for his master. Those who do so faithfully will not worry about whether their efforts will be recognized and rewarded (cf. Proverbs 22:29). Paul was a zealous and faithful servant who cared for all the truths his Master had entrusted to him. He did not give up any of it. He knew that for this the Lord would honor him with a crown (2 Timothy 4:7-8). Thus the Lord will appropriately reward each one for the faithfulness with which he or she has served Him (1 Samuel 2:30; Matthew 25:21; 23; John 12:26).

Isaiah 10:14

To Sharp and to Guard

Man is not created to be alone, but with others. He is a social being and needs others to allow him to be human. One aspect of being together is sharpening each other’s understanding and thoughts by talking to each other. “One man” here stands for the personality or character of the person (Proverbs 27:17). The comparison to sharpening iron with iron shows that it is about two equivalent materials. When two people talk to each other about a subject and also listen carefully to each other, it sharpens the understanding of both of them about that subject. It is a win-win situation.

It is about sharpening character and understanding. A character is largely shaped by contacts with others. Friends don’t always have to agree with each other, but by talking about something, both gain understanding. It sharpens them in their convictions while at the same time it removes the sharp edges.

That intercourse is formative is especially true in our dealings with our brothers and sisters with whom we share thoughts about God’s Word. Sharing what we have come to know of God’s truth sharpens the faith of all. It gives a sharper understanding of God’s thoughts, which also allows us to serve Him and each other with greater understanding.

In Proverbs 27:18, it is about the care of working on our relationships so that there is not only better understanding and character (Proverbs 27:17), but following on from that, fruitfulness and service. It’s not about sharpening, but about caring and serving faithfully. The tending of a fig tree is a matter that requires attention. Sufficient and appropriate tending have the result that the tending person will eat its fruit. That is his reward.

The comparison is drawn to one who cares for his master. Those who do so faithfully will not worry about whether their efforts will be recognized and rewarded (cf. Proverbs 22:29). Paul was a zealous and faithful servant who cared for all the truths his Master had entrusted to him. He did not give up any of it. He knew that for this the Lord would honor him with a crown (2 Timothy 4:7-8). Thus the Lord will appropriately reward each one for the faithfulness with which he or she has served Him (1 Samuel 2:30; Matthew 25:21; 23; John 12:26).

Isaiah 10:15

The Heart and the Eyes of Man

Just as clear water is a mirror that fully reflects a face when you look into it, so “the heart of man” reflects his true nature (Proverbs 27:19; Matthew 12:34). God’s Word, which is compared to water (Ephesians 5:26), is also compared to a mirror (James 1:23-24). It shows every person who looks into it his own heart. What is in his heart is what he is. When a man becomes aware of that, he will be startled by it and acknowledge his wickedness and beg God for mercy.

The same is true for the believer. By looking at the attitude of our heart, we come to true self-awareness. What is our heart set on? For example, when someone has retired, it often becomes clear where his priorities lie. Will he now devote all his time to traveling or fishing, for example, or will he see new opportunities to serve the Lord? We can often tell by the way a person spends his free time where his heart is, whether it is about his own pleasure and enjoyment or whether Christ is central.

After the heart of man (Proverbs 27:19), our attention is turned to “the eyes of man” (Proverbs 27:20). The eyes of man are as insatiable as “Sheol and Abaddon”, or grave and decay, are. The eye here represents man’s lust that is never satisfied (cf. Ecclesiastes 1:8a). The apostle John speaks of “the lust of the eyes” (1 John 2:16).

There is a tremendous amount of supply before our eyes. We no longer just see the things happening around us, but because of television and the Internet, there is a limitless supply of things we can look at. Much of this influences us in our desires. Advertising flyers, which come through the mailbox in a ceaseless stream, also do their best to attract our eyes and arouse desire for what is on offer. Eyes devour everything they see just as Sheol and Abaddon devour all men. The lust of the eyes always continues.

When it is about the lust for the things of this life, we must learn not to give in to it, but to be content with what we have (1 Timothy 6:8; Hebrews 13:5; Philippians 4:11). When it is about coveting spiritual things, believers may “see the King in His beauty” (Isaiah 33:17), by which they will be satisfied with His likeness (Psalms 17:15).

Isaiah 10:16

The Heart and the Eyes of Man

Just as clear water is a mirror that fully reflects a face when you look into it, so “the heart of man” reflects his true nature (Proverbs 27:19; Matthew 12:34). God’s Word, which is compared to water (Ephesians 5:26), is also compared to a mirror (James 1:23-24). It shows every person who looks into it his own heart. What is in his heart is what he is. When a man becomes aware of that, he will be startled by it and acknowledge his wickedness and beg God for mercy.

The same is true for the believer. By looking at the attitude of our heart, we come to true self-awareness. What is our heart set on? For example, when someone has retired, it often becomes clear where his priorities lie. Will he now devote all his time to traveling or fishing, for example, or will he see new opportunities to serve the Lord? We can often tell by the way a person spends his free time where his heart is, whether it is about his own pleasure and enjoyment or whether Christ is central.

After the heart of man (Proverbs 27:19), our attention is turned to “the eyes of man” (Proverbs 27:20). The eyes of man are as insatiable as “Sheol and Abaddon”, or grave and decay, are. The eye here represents man’s lust that is never satisfied (cf. Ecclesiastes 1:8a). The apostle John speaks of “the lust of the eyes” (1 John 2:16).

There is a tremendous amount of supply before our eyes. We no longer just see the things happening around us, but because of television and the Internet, there is a limitless supply of things we can look at. Much of this influences us in our desires. Advertising flyers, which come through the mailbox in a ceaseless stream, also do their best to attract our eyes and arouse desire for what is on offer. Eyes devour everything they see just as Sheol and Abaddon devour all men. The lust of the eyes always continues.

When it is about the lust for the things of this life, we must learn not to give in to it, but to be content with what we have (1 Timothy 6:8; Hebrews 13:5; Philippians 4:11). When it is about coveting spiritual things, believers may “see the King in His beauty” (Isaiah 33:17), by which they will be satisfied with His likeness (Psalms 17:15).

Isaiah 10:17

A Good Name as a Test

Silver is melted in a crucible to test its purity. A furnace does the same with gold. The means of testing show whether there is something in the silver or gold that makes these precious metals impure. Solomon compares “the praise” or the “good name” a person has with silver and gold and also connects the submission of a test to that. Someone who is praised or has a good name must be tested to see if he is truly worthy of that praise or that name.

That test is fame. There is fame attached to a person’s praise or good name. His reaction to it reveals what he is really like. He can take the fame he receives as something he attributes to his own accomplishments, or he can be grateful to God for it, because he owes everything to Him. This is true when we are praised or have made name by what we have done, in whatever field.

Just as the crucible brings all impurity to the surface, so a praising public opinion brings out all the badness of a person. If it does not, he is worthy of his praise or good name. This will only be with one who realizes that he has nothing he did not receive, but that he owes everything to God (1 Corinthians 4:7a).

Every person who calls himself a Christian, after the ‘good name’ of Christ, will be tested on his confession. God can use all kinds of means or circumstances to do this. When people praise us because of our being a Christian, that is a test. Do we take that credit or do we give God the credit?

Isaiah 10:18

The Fool Is and Will Remain a Fool

Foolishness cannot be removed by harsh discipline because foolishness is the nature of a fool. Even the most drastic discipline does not work a change in the fool. This is represented in the picture of grinding grain in a mortar with a pestle (a mortar is a cup with a pestle in which something can be pounded). However he would be pulverized, he is and remains foolish (cf. Jeremiah 13:23).

Judgment alone does not change a man. Pharaoh was pounded again and again as it were with a pestle in a mortar by the plagues God sent upon him and his people and his land, but he did not change (Exodus 7-11). The grace of God must intervene if a man is truly to be delivered from his folly. Through repentance he receives a new nature and becomes a new creation.

Isaiah 10:19

The Work of Man and the Care of God

These verses are like a short poem about a man’s responsibility to provide income to give the family and those who belong to it what they need. These verses show the importance of working diligently. They also speak of the satisfaction that diligent work gives and of God’s providential care.

It is about being busy in the calling to which God has called us in daily life with the purpose of providing for the livelihood of all those entrusted to the worker (1 Corinthians 7:20). God wants man to work and to do so diligently. If he does not, he and all who belong to his house will go hungry. To help him, God provides resources that man needs and that He alone can give. This should make man realize that he depends on God in all his work.

We must know well what we are doing, what our work consists of, and how to do our work. Solomon tells his son that he must master his ‘trade’ well. He advises him to make sure he knows the condition of his flocks, his sheep, well (Proverbs 27:23). This can only be done by giving each sheep personal attention, looking after them and taking good care of them so that they all have everything they need in terms of food and protection. He can only put that into practice if he pays attention to his herds and sets his heart on it, his heart must go out to it. One must set his heart on his business, otherwise in no time he will have no business to set his heart on.

We can apply this verse to our family, to our children and our work. The same applies to the care in the church of God. Among other things, the church of God is compared to a flock (Acts 20:28). God has given the care of it to elders. Peter was given the care of the lambs and sheep by the Lord Jesus (John 21:15-17; 1 Peter 5:1-4).

“For” (Proverbs 27:24) indicates the reason for the exhortation of the previous verse. In the case of negligence and laziness, riches or prosperity will disappear. There is no guarantee that prosperity ( riches) and kingship (crown) are permanent, that you can continue to enjoy them. You cannot automatically count on it. To benefit from it permanently, it must be worked on permanently.

The believer has been given many spiritual riches and a royal position. These are eternal, but not transferable. Of these, too, the Lord expects us to work with them and serve others. In doing so, we must realize that the time to work for the Lord is limited. We can only work for Him now while we are on earth. To this end He also encourages us: “Do business [with this] until I come [back]” (Luke 19:13).

Proverbs 27:25 combines hard work by man with God’s work. God makes “the grass” grow, no man is involved (Mark 4:28). He does so according to His wise policy in stages. When this first grass has come up, man can mow it and take it off the field as hay. Then it has disappeared from the field. But God’s work continues, “the new grass is seen”. God always provides new growth (cf. Amos 7:1). Man does not have to sow for it. God gives it and man may mow it.

He has also caused “the herbs of the mountains” to grow and man may gather them in too. Mountains, among other things, are a picture of difficulties. Gathering in herbs on mountains requires extra effort. Mountains must be climbed, but then something of value is obtained. Extra money is made. Herbs make food palatable and are also sometimes used to manufacture medicine. Thus any extra effort in the Lord’s work is extra rewarded (1 Corinthians 15:58).

The lambs provide wool (Proverbs 27:26). From that, clothing can be manufactured that the shepherd can use to keep himself warm (Job 31:20). His goats he can sell (cf. Ezekiel 27:21). This gives him the opportunity to make new investments, such as buying a new field.

Besides clothing, he also has “goats’ milk enough for … food” (Proverbs 27:27). That food serves both for himself and for his household and the maidens. From his care for his affairs all those around him benefit. The same is true spiritually. One who is faithful in the things of the Lord is a blessing to others.

Isaiah 10:20

The Work of Man and the Care of God

These verses are like a short poem about a man’s responsibility to provide income to give the family and those who belong to it what they need. These verses show the importance of working diligently. They also speak of the satisfaction that diligent work gives and of God’s providential care.

It is about being busy in the calling to which God has called us in daily life with the purpose of providing for the livelihood of all those entrusted to the worker (1 Corinthians 7:20). God wants man to work and to do so diligently. If he does not, he and all who belong to his house will go hungry. To help him, God provides resources that man needs and that He alone can give. This should make man realize that he depends on God in all his work.

We must know well what we are doing, what our work consists of, and how to do our work. Solomon tells his son that he must master his ‘trade’ well. He advises him to make sure he knows the condition of his flocks, his sheep, well (Proverbs 27:23). This can only be done by giving each sheep personal attention, looking after them and taking good care of them so that they all have everything they need in terms of food and protection. He can only put that into practice if he pays attention to his herds and sets his heart on it, his heart must go out to it. One must set his heart on his business, otherwise in no time he will have no business to set his heart on.

We can apply this verse to our family, to our children and our work. The same applies to the care in the church of God. Among other things, the church of God is compared to a flock (Acts 20:28). God has given the care of it to elders. Peter was given the care of the lambs and sheep by the Lord Jesus (John 21:15-17; 1 Peter 5:1-4).

“For” (Proverbs 27:24) indicates the reason for the exhortation of the previous verse. In the case of negligence and laziness, riches or prosperity will disappear. There is no guarantee that prosperity ( riches) and kingship (crown) are permanent, that you can continue to enjoy them. You cannot automatically count on it. To benefit from it permanently, it must be worked on permanently.

The believer has been given many spiritual riches and a royal position. These are eternal, but not transferable. Of these, too, the Lord expects us to work with them and serve others. In doing so, we must realize that the time to work for the Lord is limited. We can only work for Him now while we are on earth. To this end He also encourages us: “Do business [with this] until I come [back]” (Luke 19:13).

Proverbs 27:25 combines hard work by man with God’s work. God makes “the grass” grow, no man is involved (Mark 4:28). He does so according to His wise policy in stages. When this first grass has come up, man can mow it and take it off the field as hay. Then it has disappeared from the field. But God’s work continues, “the new grass is seen”. God always provides new growth (cf. Amos 7:1). Man does not have to sow for it. God gives it and man may mow it.

He has also caused “the herbs of the mountains” to grow and man may gather them in too. Mountains, among other things, are a picture of difficulties. Gathering in herbs on mountains requires extra effort. Mountains must be climbed, but then something of value is obtained. Extra money is made. Herbs make food palatable and are also sometimes used to manufacture medicine. Thus any extra effort in the Lord’s work is extra rewarded (1 Corinthians 15:58).

The lambs provide wool (Proverbs 27:26). From that, clothing can be manufactured that the shepherd can use to keep himself warm (Job 31:20). His goats he can sell (cf. Ezekiel 27:21). This gives him the opportunity to make new investments, such as buying a new field.

Besides clothing, he also has “goats’ milk enough for … food” (Proverbs 27:27). That food serves both for himself and for his household and the maidens. From his care for his affairs all those around him benefit. The same is true spiritually. One who is faithful in the things of the Lord is a blessing to others.

Isaiah 10:21

The Work of Man and the Care of God

These verses are like a short poem about a man’s responsibility to provide income to give the family and those who belong to it what they need. These verses show the importance of working diligently. They also speak of the satisfaction that diligent work gives and of God’s providential care.

It is about being busy in the calling to which God has called us in daily life with the purpose of providing for the livelihood of all those entrusted to the worker (1 Corinthians 7:20). God wants man to work and to do so diligently. If he does not, he and all who belong to his house will go hungry. To help him, God provides resources that man needs and that He alone can give. This should make man realize that he depends on God in all his work.

We must know well what we are doing, what our work consists of, and how to do our work. Solomon tells his son that he must master his ‘trade’ well. He advises him to make sure he knows the condition of his flocks, his sheep, well (Proverbs 27:23). This can only be done by giving each sheep personal attention, looking after them and taking good care of them so that they all have everything they need in terms of food and protection. He can only put that into practice if he pays attention to his herds and sets his heart on it, his heart must go out to it. One must set his heart on his business, otherwise in no time he will have no business to set his heart on.

We can apply this verse to our family, to our children and our work. The same applies to the care in the church of God. Among other things, the church of God is compared to a flock (Acts 20:28). God has given the care of it to elders. Peter was given the care of the lambs and sheep by the Lord Jesus (John 21:15-17; 1 Peter 5:1-4).

“For” (Proverbs 27:24) indicates the reason for the exhortation of the previous verse. In the case of negligence and laziness, riches or prosperity will disappear. There is no guarantee that prosperity ( riches) and kingship (crown) are permanent, that you can continue to enjoy them. You cannot automatically count on it. To benefit from it permanently, it must be worked on permanently.

The believer has been given many spiritual riches and a royal position. These are eternal, but not transferable. Of these, too, the Lord expects us to work with them and serve others. In doing so, we must realize that the time to work for the Lord is limited. We can only work for Him now while we are on earth. To this end He also encourages us: “Do business [with this] until I come [back]” (Luke 19:13).

Proverbs 27:25 combines hard work by man with God’s work. God makes “the grass” grow, no man is involved (Mark 4:28). He does so according to His wise policy in stages. When this first grass has come up, man can mow it and take it off the field as hay. Then it has disappeared from the field. But God’s work continues, “the new grass is seen”. God always provides new growth (cf. Amos 7:1). Man does not have to sow for it. God gives it and man may mow it.

He has also caused “the herbs of the mountains” to grow and man may gather them in too. Mountains, among other things, are a picture of difficulties. Gathering in herbs on mountains requires extra effort. Mountains must be climbed, but then something of value is obtained. Extra money is made. Herbs make food palatable and are also sometimes used to manufacture medicine. Thus any extra effort in the Lord’s work is extra rewarded (1 Corinthians 15:58).

The lambs provide wool (Proverbs 27:26). From that, clothing can be manufactured that the shepherd can use to keep himself warm (Job 31:20). His goats he can sell (cf. Ezekiel 27:21). This gives him the opportunity to make new investments, such as buying a new field.

Besides clothing, he also has “goats’ milk enough for … food” (Proverbs 27:27). That food serves both for himself and for his household and the maidens. From his care for his affairs all those around him benefit. The same is true spiritually. One who is faithful in the things of the Lord is a blessing to others.

Isaiah 10:22

The Work of Man and the Care of God

These verses are like a short poem about a man’s responsibility to provide income to give the family and those who belong to it what they need. These verses show the importance of working diligently. They also speak of the satisfaction that diligent work gives and of God’s providential care.

It is about being busy in the calling to which God has called us in daily life with the purpose of providing for the livelihood of all those entrusted to the worker (1 Corinthians 7:20). God wants man to work and to do so diligently. If he does not, he and all who belong to his house will go hungry. To help him, God provides resources that man needs and that He alone can give. This should make man realize that he depends on God in all his work.

We must know well what we are doing, what our work consists of, and how to do our work. Solomon tells his son that he must master his ‘trade’ well. He advises him to make sure he knows the condition of his flocks, his sheep, well (Proverbs 27:23). This can only be done by giving each sheep personal attention, looking after them and taking good care of them so that they all have everything they need in terms of food and protection. He can only put that into practice if he pays attention to his herds and sets his heart on it, his heart must go out to it. One must set his heart on his business, otherwise in no time he will have no business to set his heart on.

We can apply this verse to our family, to our children and our work. The same applies to the care in the church of God. Among other things, the church of God is compared to a flock (Acts 20:28). God has given the care of it to elders. Peter was given the care of the lambs and sheep by the Lord Jesus (John 21:15-17; 1 Peter 5:1-4).

“For” (Proverbs 27:24) indicates the reason for the exhortation of the previous verse. In the case of negligence and laziness, riches or prosperity will disappear. There is no guarantee that prosperity ( riches) and kingship (crown) are permanent, that you can continue to enjoy them. You cannot automatically count on it. To benefit from it permanently, it must be worked on permanently.

The believer has been given many spiritual riches and a royal position. These are eternal, but not transferable. Of these, too, the Lord expects us to work with them and serve others. In doing so, we must realize that the time to work for the Lord is limited. We can only work for Him now while we are on earth. To this end He also encourages us: “Do business [with this] until I come [back]” (Luke 19:13).

Proverbs 27:25 combines hard work by man with God’s work. God makes “the grass” grow, no man is involved (Mark 4:28). He does so according to His wise policy in stages. When this first grass has come up, man can mow it and take it off the field as hay. Then it has disappeared from the field. But God’s work continues, “the new grass is seen”. God always provides new growth (cf. Amos 7:1). Man does not have to sow for it. God gives it and man may mow it.

He has also caused “the herbs of the mountains” to grow and man may gather them in too. Mountains, among other things, are a picture of difficulties. Gathering in herbs on mountains requires extra effort. Mountains must be climbed, but then something of value is obtained. Extra money is made. Herbs make food palatable and are also sometimes used to manufacture medicine. Thus any extra effort in the Lord’s work is extra rewarded (1 Corinthians 15:58).

The lambs provide wool (Proverbs 27:26). From that, clothing can be manufactured that the shepherd can use to keep himself warm (Job 31:20). His goats he can sell (cf. Ezekiel 27:21). This gives him the opportunity to make new investments, such as buying a new field.

Besides clothing, he also has “goats’ milk enough for … food” (Proverbs 27:27). That food serves both for himself and for his household and the maidens. From his care for his affairs all those around him benefit. The same is true spiritually. One who is faithful in the things of the Lord is a blessing to others.

Isaiah 10:23

The Work of Man and the Care of God

These verses are like a short poem about a man’s responsibility to provide income to give the family and those who belong to it what they need. These verses show the importance of working diligently. They also speak of the satisfaction that diligent work gives and of God’s providential care.

It is about being busy in the calling to which God has called us in daily life with the purpose of providing for the livelihood of all those entrusted to the worker (1 Corinthians 7:20). God wants man to work and to do so diligently. If he does not, he and all who belong to his house will go hungry. To help him, God provides resources that man needs and that He alone can give. This should make man realize that he depends on God in all his work.

We must know well what we are doing, what our work consists of, and how to do our work. Solomon tells his son that he must master his ‘trade’ well. He advises him to make sure he knows the condition of his flocks, his sheep, well (Proverbs 27:23). This can only be done by giving each sheep personal attention, looking after them and taking good care of them so that they all have everything they need in terms of food and protection. He can only put that into practice if he pays attention to his herds and sets his heart on it, his heart must go out to it. One must set his heart on his business, otherwise in no time he will have no business to set his heart on.

We can apply this verse to our family, to our children and our work. The same applies to the care in the church of God. Among other things, the church of God is compared to a flock (Acts 20:28). God has given the care of it to elders. Peter was given the care of the lambs and sheep by the Lord Jesus (John 21:15-17; 1 Peter 5:1-4).

“For” (Proverbs 27:24) indicates the reason for the exhortation of the previous verse. In the case of negligence and laziness, riches or prosperity will disappear. There is no guarantee that prosperity ( riches) and kingship (crown) are permanent, that you can continue to enjoy them. You cannot automatically count on it. To benefit from it permanently, it must be worked on permanently.

The believer has been given many spiritual riches and a royal position. These are eternal, but not transferable. Of these, too, the Lord expects us to work with them and serve others. In doing so, we must realize that the time to work for the Lord is limited. We can only work for Him now while we are on earth. To this end He also encourages us: “Do business [with this] until I come [back]” (Luke 19:13).

Proverbs 27:25 combines hard work by man with God’s work. God makes “the grass” grow, no man is involved (Mark 4:28). He does so according to His wise policy in stages. When this first grass has come up, man can mow it and take it off the field as hay. Then it has disappeared from the field. But God’s work continues, “the new grass is seen”. God always provides new growth (cf. Amos 7:1). Man does not have to sow for it. God gives it and man may mow it.

He has also caused “the herbs of the mountains” to grow and man may gather them in too. Mountains, among other things, are a picture of difficulties. Gathering in herbs on mountains requires extra effort. Mountains must be climbed, but then something of value is obtained. Extra money is made. Herbs make food palatable and are also sometimes used to manufacture medicine. Thus any extra effort in the Lord’s work is extra rewarded (1 Corinthians 15:58).

The lambs provide wool (Proverbs 27:26). From that, clothing can be manufactured that the shepherd can use to keep himself warm (Job 31:20). His goats he can sell (cf. Ezekiel 27:21). This gives him the opportunity to make new investments, such as buying a new field.

Besides clothing, he also has “goats’ milk enough for … food” (Proverbs 27:27). That food serves both for himself and for his household and the maidens. From his care for his affairs all those around him benefit. The same is true spiritually. One who is faithful in the things of the Lord is a blessing to others.

Isaiah 10:25

A Bad or a Good Conscience

“The wicked” may have a big mouth, but inwardly they are always afraid. They have a guilty conscience and fear judgment. They trust no one, are suspicious, and even flee from imaginary danger (cf. Leviticus 26:36; Psalms 53:6a). Wicked people keep fleeing, for they always carry their bad conscience with them wherever they go. Sin makes a man a fearful person.

“But the righteous” are aware of the favor of God and people. The righteous one has a clear conscience. He doesn’t have to keep looking back over his shoulder to see if anyone is on his heels to do him harm. Like “a lion” he is free from fear. He is bold because he trusts not in his own strength, but in God. A righteous person does not go running for an imaginary enemy, for no such enemy exists for him.

The verse shows the connection between boldness and a good conscience and also the result of a bad conscience. “For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7). He who is guided by God’s Spirit does not need to flee. Elijah, a righteous man, stood as a man of God “bold as lion” on Mount Carmel against hundreds of false prophets (1 Kings 18:22).

Isaiah 10:26

Not Acknowledging God’s Authority

National sins bring national disasters. If a land has no regard for God and His Word, the cause is that there is no God-fearing ruler. As a result, rulers succeed one another in rapid succession, for each ruler is only after his own interest (Proverbs 28:2). The period of the judges with thirteen judges and the days of the northern kingdom of Israel with nine dynasties are examples of political instability due to sin. During rebellious, turbulent times, a nation has many takeovers and many people competing for power.

A people get the government they deserve. We see this not only in kingdoms, but also in countries with self-elected governments. One government succeeds another, while the government that steps down leaves the country in greater chaos than when it took office.

But if there is “a man of understanding [and] knowledge” in the government, justice “endures”. It is about understanding and knowledge of the will of God. If that is present, there will be good and also ‘enduring’ that is long lasting, government. Enduring justice means that as soon as evil elements reveal themselves that threaten the rule of law, that evil will be judged. Once this is ignored, the cycle of many rulers succeeding one another begins again, resulting in instability in the land. If the rule of law is upheld justly, a change of government does not take place again and again. This greatly benefits the stability of a land.

It is very tragic, though, when “a poor man” becomes powerful, when he becomes a ruler, and in that position “oppresses the lowly” (Proverbs 28:3). A poor man, in a place of authority given to him because of his experiences, could have become a refreshing rain for his former companions. After all, no one better than he knows what it is to be “lowly”. But it is precisely then that a person can show the greatest contempt toward those among whom he used to find himself. His oppression of the lowly implies betrayal.

The second line of verse shows by comparison the result of the behavior of the man who was poor and has become powerful. He is like “a driving rain which leaves no food”. Rain should serve to bless the crop so that the harvest becomes good and there is bread, but here he does a destructive work. Hunger ensues. A ruler must provide a beneficent society (Psalms 72:5-7) and not drive it away by heavy pressure (2 Chronicles 10:10-19).

People who “forsake the law” have lost the good view, God’s view, of the wicked (Proverbs 28:4). They are no longer able to distinguish between good and evil. They disobey God’s law and therefore gain admiration for those who have clearly cast God aside and determine their own life. In a society where wicked people are praised, God’s Word has been thrown overboard. Free will, saying anything you think and doing anything you want, has become the highest good. Those who adhere to that praise the wicked for their wickedness (cf. Romans 1:32). An example is same-sex sexual intercourse.

Those who want to live according to God’s Word will fight against it. This may mean openly pointing out evil. In any case, it means not participating in praising the wicked. Then the prevailing opinion is fought against. The result is opposition.

To “understand justice” (Proverbs 28:5) is dependent on one’s mind, not one’s intellect (cf. Psalms 119:100; John 7:17). “Evil men” are people who are not attuned to God, but to their own evil nature. They lust after evil. Their minds are corrupted. Therefore, they cannot understand “justice”, the legal rights of persons that have been established by God. They have no ‘antenna’ for it, for they are darkened in their mind. This becomes evident in the injustice they do to their neighbor.

The word “but” at the beginning of the second line of verse introduces the contrast with what is stated in the first line of verse. To “seek the LORD” means to ask Him for His will in order to do it (2 Samuel 21:1). We seek God’s will when we examine His Word. If we keep the Word closed, we do not seek Him. The Spirit causes us to find God’s will in God’s Word, understand it and carry it out. We “understand all things” through the Spirit Who dwells in us (1 John 2:20; 27). For us to experience the full benefit of this in our lives, we must be spiritually minded, for then we can appraise all things (1 Corinthians 2:14-15).

Isaiah 10:27

Not Acknowledging God’s Authority

National sins bring national disasters. If a land has no regard for God and His Word, the cause is that there is no God-fearing ruler. As a result, rulers succeed one another in rapid succession, for each ruler is only after his own interest (Proverbs 28:2). The period of the judges with thirteen judges and the days of the northern kingdom of Israel with nine dynasties are examples of political instability due to sin. During rebellious, turbulent times, a nation has many takeovers and many people competing for power.

A people get the government they deserve. We see this not only in kingdoms, but also in countries with self-elected governments. One government succeeds another, while the government that steps down leaves the country in greater chaos than when it took office.

But if there is “a man of understanding [and] knowledge” in the government, justice “endures”. It is about understanding and knowledge of the will of God. If that is present, there will be good and also ‘enduring’ that is long lasting, government. Enduring justice means that as soon as evil elements reveal themselves that threaten the rule of law, that evil will be judged. Once this is ignored, the cycle of many rulers succeeding one another begins again, resulting in instability in the land. If the rule of law is upheld justly, a change of government does not take place again and again. This greatly benefits the stability of a land.

It is very tragic, though, when “a poor man” becomes powerful, when he becomes a ruler, and in that position “oppresses the lowly” (Proverbs 28:3). A poor man, in a place of authority given to him because of his experiences, could have become a refreshing rain for his former companions. After all, no one better than he knows what it is to be “lowly”. But it is precisely then that a person can show the greatest contempt toward those among whom he used to find himself. His oppression of the lowly implies betrayal.

The second line of verse shows by comparison the result of the behavior of the man who was poor and has become powerful. He is like “a driving rain which leaves no food”. Rain should serve to bless the crop so that the harvest becomes good and there is bread, but here he does a destructive work. Hunger ensues. A ruler must provide a beneficent society (Psalms 72:5-7) and not drive it away by heavy pressure (2 Chronicles 10:10-19).

People who “forsake the law” have lost the good view, God’s view, of the wicked (Proverbs 28:4). They are no longer able to distinguish between good and evil. They disobey God’s law and therefore gain admiration for those who have clearly cast God aside and determine their own life. In a society where wicked people are praised, God’s Word has been thrown overboard. Free will, saying anything you think and doing anything you want, has become the highest good. Those who adhere to that praise the wicked for their wickedness (cf. Romans 1:32). An example is same-sex sexual intercourse.

Those who want to live according to God’s Word will fight against it. This may mean openly pointing out evil. In any case, it means not participating in praising the wicked. Then the prevailing opinion is fought against. The result is opposition.

To “understand justice” (Proverbs 28:5) is dependent on one’s mind, not one’s intellect (cf. Psalms 119:100; John 7:17). “Evil men” are people who are not attuned to God, but to their own evil nature. They lust after evil. Their minds are corrupted. Therefore, they cannot understand “justice”, the legal rights of persons that have been established by God. They have no ‘antenna’ for it, for they are darkened in their mind. This becomes evident in the injustice they do to their neighbor.

The word “but” at the beginning of the second line of verse introduces the contrast with what is stated in the first line of verse. To “seek the LORD” means to ask Him for His will in order to do it (2 Samuel 21:1). We seek God’s will when we examine His Word. If we keep the Word closed, we do not seek Him. The Spirit causes us to find God’s will in God’s Word, understand it and carry it out. We “understand all things” through the Spirit Who dwells in us (1 John 2:20; 27). For us to experience the full benefit of this in our lives, we must be spiritually minded, for then we can appraise all things (1 Corinthians 2:14-15).

Isaiah 10:28

Not Acknowledging God’s Authority

National sins bring national disasters. If a land has no regard for God and His Word, the cause is that there is no God-fearing ruler. As a result, rulers succeed one another in rapid succession, for each ruler is only after his own interest (Proverbs 28:2). The period of the judges with thirteen judges and the days of the northern kingdom of Israel with nine dynasties are examples of political instability due to sin. During rebellious, turbulent times, a nation has many takeovers and many people competing for power.

A people get the government they deserve. We see this not only in kingdoms, but also in countries with self-elected governments. One government succeeds another, while the government that steps down leaves the country in greater chaos than when it took office.

But if there is “a man of understanding [and] knowledge” in the government, justice “endures”. It is about understanding and knowledge of the will of God. If that is present, there will be good and also ‘enduring’ that is long lasting, government. Enduring justice means that as soon as evil elements reveal themselves that threaten the rule of law, that evil will be judged. Once this is ignored, the cycle of many rulers succeeding one another begins again, resulting in instability in the land. If the rule of law is upheld justly, a change of government does not take place again and again. This greatly benefits the stability of a land.

It is very tragic, though, when “a poor man” becomes powerful, when he becomes a ruler, and in that position “oppresses the lowly” (Proverbs 28:3). A poor man, in a place of authority given to him because of his experiences, could have become a refreshing rain for his former companions. After all, no one better than he knows what it is to be “lowly”. But it is precisely then that a person can show the greatest contempt toward those among whom he used to find himself. His oppression of the lowly implies betrayal.

The second line of verse shows by comparison the result of the behavior of the man who was poor and has become powerful. He is like “a driving rain which leaves no food”. Rain should serve to bless the crop so that the harvest becomes good and there is bread, but here he does a destructive work. Hunger ensues. A ruler must provide a beneficent society (Psalms 72:5-7) and not drive it away by heavy pressure (2 Chronicles 10:10-19).

People who “forsake the law” have lost the good view, God’s view, of the wicked (Proverbs 28:4). They are no longer able to distinguish between good and evil. They disobey God’s law and therefore gain admiration for those who have clearly cast God aside and determine their own life. In a society where wicked people are praised, God’s Word has been thrown overboard. Free will, saying anything you think and doing anything you want, has become the highest good. Those who adhere to that praise the wicked for their wickedness (cf. Romans 1:32). An example is same-sex sexual intercourse.

Those who want to live according to God’s Word will fight against it. This may mean openly pointing out evil. In any case, it means not participating in praising the wicked. Then the prevailing opinion is fought against. The result is opposition.

To “understand justice” (Proverbs 28:5) is dependent on one’s mind, not one’s intellect (cf. Psalms 119:100; John 7:17). “Evil men” are people who are not attuned to God, but to their own evil nature. They lust after evil. Their minds are corrupted. Therefore, they cannot understand “justice”, the legal rights of persons that have been established by God. They have no ‘antenna’ for it, for they are darkened in their mind. This becomes evident in the injustice they do to their neighbor.

The word “but” at the beginning of the second line of verse introduces the contrast with what is stated in the first line of verse. To “seek the LORD” means to ask Him for His will in order to do it (2 Samuel 21:1). We seek God’s will when we examine His Word. If we keep the Word closed, we do not seek Him. The Spirit causes us to find God’s will in God’s Word, understand it and carry it out. We “understand all things” through the Spirit Who dwells in us (1 John 2:20; 27). For us to experience the full benefit of this in our lives, we must be spiritually minded, for then we can appraise all things (1 Corinthians 2:14-15).

Isaiah 10:29

Not Acknowledging God’s Authority

National sins bring national disasters. If a land has no regard for God and His Word, the cause is that there is no God-fearing ruler. As a result, rulers succeed one another in rapid succession, for each ruler is only after his own interest (Proverbs 28:2). The period of the judges with thirteen judges and the days of the northern kingdom of Israel with nine dynasties are examples of political instability due to sin. During rebellious, turbulent times, a nation has many takeovers and many people competing for power.

A people get the government they deserve. We see this not only in kingdoms, but also in countries with self-elected governments. One government succeeds another, while the government that steps down leaves the country in greater chaos than when it took office.

But if there is “a man of understanding [and] knowledge” in the government, justice “endures”. It is about understanding and knowledge of the will of God. If that is present, there will be good and also ‘enduring’ that is long lasting, government. Enduring justice means that as soon as evil elements reveal themselves that threaten the rule of law, that evil will be judged. Once this is ignored, the cycle of many rulers succeeding one another begins again, resulting in instability in the land. If the rule of law is upheld justly, a change of government does not take place again and again. This greatly benefits the stability of a land.

It is very tragic, though, when “a poor man” becomes powerful, when he becomes a ruler, and in that position “oppresses the lowly” (Proverbs 28:3). A poor man, in a place of authority given to him because of his experiences, could have become a refreshing rain for his former companions. After all, no one better than he knows what it is to be “lowly”. But it is precisely then that a person can show the greatest contempt toward those among whom he used to find himself. His oppression of the lowly implies betrayal.

The second line of verse shows by comparison the result of the behavior of the man who was poor and has become powerful. He is like “a driving rain which leaves no food”. Rain should serve to bless the crop so that the harvest becomes good and there is bread, but here he does a destructive work. Hunger ensues. A ruler must provide a beneficent society (Psalms 72:5-7) and not drive it away by heavy pressure (2 Chronicles 10:10-19).

People who “forsake the law” have lost the good view, God’s view, of the wicked (Proverbs 28:4). They are no longer able to distinguish between good and evil. They disobey God’s law and therefore gain admiration for those who have clearly cast God aside and determine their own life. In a society where wicked people are praised, God’s Word has been thrown overboard. Free will, saying anything you think and doing anything you want, has become the highest good. Those who adhere to that praise the wicked for their wickedness (cf. Romans 1:32). An example is same-sex sexual intercourse.

Those who want to live according to God’s Word will fight against it. This may mean openly pointing out evil. In any case, it means not participating in praising the wicked. Then the prevailing opinion is fought against. The result is opposition.

To “understand justice” (Proverbs 28:5) is dependent on one’s mind, not one’s intellect (cf. Psalms 119:100; John 7:17). “Evil men” are people who are not attuned to God, but to their own evil nature. They lust after evil. Their minds are corrupted. Therefore, they cannot understand “justice”, the legal rights of persons that have been established by God. They have no ‘antenna’ for it, for they are darkened in their mind. This becomes evident in the injustice they do to their neighbor.

The word “but” at the beginning of the second line of verse introduces the contrast with what is stated in the first line of verse. To “seek the LORD” means to ask Him for His will in order to do it (2 Samuel 21:1). We seek God’s will when we examine His Word. If we keep the Word closed, we do not seek Him. The Spirit causes us to find God’s will in God’s Word, understand it and carry it out. We “understand all things” through the Spirit Who dwells in us (1 John 2:20; 27). For us to experience the full benefit of this in our lives, we must be spiritually minded, for then we can appraise all things (1 Corinthians 2:14-15).

Isaiah 10:30

Integrity Is Better Than Being Crooked

This verse is another “better … than” proverb. The proverb says that honest poverty is better than dishonest riches. Certainly, there are dishonest poor and honest rich. The verse only contrasts “the poor who walks in his integrity” with one who “who is crooked though he be rich” (Proverbs 19:1). The word for “crooked” suggests that the rich man goes several ways, sometimes to the right, sometimes to the left. It means that he is hypocritical, that he acts in more ways. Outwardly he is religious, but inside he is depraved and greedy. One moment he presents himself as a religious man, but another moment he acts as a greedy man.

Integrity is not automatically associated with wealth as a proof of God’s appreciation of that integrity. Being poor carries with it the danger of being dishonest or insincere. The poor who walks in his integrity does not succumb to that danger. His walk with God preserves him in his integrity.

Riches are not automatically evidence of God’s appreciation. The rich person who is crooked proves that he does not see his riches as a gift from God. His crooked ways are ways without God. He does not walk with God, but according to his own crooked views by which he believes he can hold and increase his riches.

Isaiah 10:31

A Discerning Son or a Son Who Humiliates

A person who is obedient to the law proves that he is “a discerning son”. His father has taught and demonstrated by his example to him the importance of observing the law: the discerning son has taken that teaching to heart. As a result, he makes wise choices and is a joy to his father.

A son “who is a companion of gluttons” – for example, indulging in eating and drinking and sexuality – has taken no notice of his father’s teaching. He has not said, “Depart from me, evildoers, that I may observe the commandments of my God” (Psalms 119:115). Instead, he has chosen his own friends who are transgressing boundaries in all kinds of areas. He is a debaucher. This bad company and debauched life are much to the grievance of his father, whom he also “humiliates” by his behavior. He throws defamation on his entire family.

Isaiah 10:32

Dishonest Wealth Increase

The connection between the first line of verse and the second line of verse seems to assume that the increase in possession is the result of the plucking from the poor who have had to borrow or buy from him. This saying assumes that the property of one who obtained it dishonestly will eventually find its way to the poor (cf. Jeremiah 17:11; James 5:1-6). God will see to that (Job 27:16-17; Ecclesiastes 2:26). He will see to it that it gets into the hands of someone “who is gracious to the poor”.

The law forbids asking interest from a neighbor, a fellow citizen (Exodus 22:25; Leviticus 25:36-37; Deuteronomy 23:19-20; Psalms 15:5). If the poor needed help, the rich were to give it to them as charity. They were not to exploit the plight of another Israelite for their own benefit.

Isaiah 10:33

God Is Deaf to Those Who Are Deaf to Him

Fellowship with God takes place through His Word and prayer. Through His Word God speaks to man and through prayer man speaks to God. If God speaks, but a man does not listen, God will not listen if that man speaks to Him. Listening means not only hearing, but also doing. If a person on his part is deaf to teaching from God’s Word, closes himself to it, God on His part will be deaf to his prayer.

The prayer will certainly not be a pure prayer. God is not only deaf to it, but it is an abomination to Him. He who refuses to obey God cannot possibly pray according to God’s will. Should anyone nevertheless have the audacity to ask God for something in an attitude of disobedience, he is told that God rejects his prayer (Isaiah 1:15). When the elders of Israel came to Ezekiel to ask about God’s will, God said He would not respond to their question because they had not obeyed what He had previously told them to do (Ezekiel 20:1-8). Those who do not hear do not deserve to be heard. Of course, a prayer of repentance is not an abomination to the Lord.

Isaiah 10:34

Fall Into His Own Pit or Inherit the Good

Judgment is certain for him who “who leads the upright astray in an evil way”, that is, who tempts them to do sin. It is a great evil for God to cause “the upright”, those who are connected to Him, to go astray (Matthew 18:6-7). Satan will try anything to lead the upright astray, and he has plenty of people he can use to do so. The world has a huge offer to lead upright people astray down a wrong path. This is done through advertisements and the Internet. The evil of unfaithfulness in marriage is denied, ‘an affair’ should be allowed. Satan, together with every creature who does as he does, will fall into the pit he and they have dug themselves.

But if we are and remain “blameless” we are not only kept from falling into the pit of the false teacher, but we “will inherit the good”. God will give the good as an inheritance to us. “The good” is everything that God gave to the Lord Jesus as a reward and which we will be allowed to share with Him. We can think of the good things we will enjoy in the kingdom of peace.