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STUDY 159

Text: Proverbs 16
11 July 2004

Dear Parents,

MORE ABOUT KINGS
Kings of ancient days had absolute power. Life and death were in their hands, virtually. This observation is well captured in the following text.

As messengers of death is the king’s wrath,
But a wise man will appease it.
In the light of the king’s face is life,
And his favour is like a cloud of latter rain.

Proverbs 16:14-15

1. The wrath of a king

The despotic king appeases his own wrath by slaying people! His anger may indeed be described as “messengers of death”.

2. The favour of a king

On the other hand, when the king is in a good mood, or when he is well-disposed to certain people, great favour would be granted.

3. Who could benefit?

Only the truly wise would know how to appease the king’s anger. Only the wise would be able to obtain favour from the king.

4. Application today

We may not have to deal with kings today, but there are leaders (bosses) who have powers similar to that wielded by kings of days gone by. The wise learn the skills of relationship that will ensure survival and more!

EXTOLLING WISDOM
We cannot say enough about the virtue of wisdom! Let us ponder this text that extols wisdom.

How much better to get wisdom than gold!
And to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.

Proverbs 16:16

A rich man may not know how to escape the wrath of the kind. The wise man may be poor, but at least he knows how to escape the messengers of death!

1. Let us impress upon our children the need to obtain wisdom.

2. Let us encourage our children to cultivate an understanding heart and mind.

Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie