“Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established: and by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches. A wise man is strong; yea, a man of knowledge increaseth strength. For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety. Wisdom is too high for a fool: he openeth not his mouth in the gate.” Proverbs 24:3-7 (KJV)
A short study of the twenty fourth chapter…
VERSES 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 19-20, 24 – The evil and the wicked. The wise are instructed to not envy the evil. The devices of the evil and the wicked are contrary to God, and the wise.
Those who are just and righteous (v. 16) when they are knocked down, will get back up; but he wicked “shal fall into mischief”.
“Candle of the wicked” (v. 20) probably refers to the spirit within every man, which is the door way to knowing God. Look at these verses… Job 21:17; Psalm 18:28; Proverbs 20:27.
To call the wicked “righteous” is to bring a curse on the one who does it (v. 24).
VERSES 3 – 7, 27 – Wisdom is needed in building a house and a home; in filling that home with material blessings as well as true riches.
The foolish man does not know what to speak when it is time for good judgment (v. 7).
There is wisdom in being prepared before one builds a home (v. 27).
VERSES 10 -14 – Wisdom leads to strength to stand in times of adversity. Understanding will help us make the right decision at important, difficult times; for ourselves and others (vv. 11-12).
On verses 13-14 – The ESV Study Bible notes state…
“Prov. 24:13–14… …Just as honey is sweet to the taste and good for the body, so wisdom is pleasant to the soul that feeds on it, fostering a secure hope (cf. v. 20; see notes on 23:17–18; Ps. 37:9).”
VERSES 17 – 18 – It is not wise to rejoice when we see an enemy, or a foolish individual fall.
VERSES 28 – 34 – We ought always to refuse to return evil for evil (vv. 28-29; Romans 12:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:15; 1 Peter 3:9). The wise man or woman will not allow themselves to grow slack in following that which is good.