We usually think of the Proverbs as being written by Solomon, but Proverbs 25 opens by introducing us to a new divinely inspired author. Both the first section of the book, chapters 1-9, and the second section, chapters 10-24, were authored by Solomon. However, “the men of Hezekiah king of Judah” discovered and incorporated these chapters into the book of Proverbs years after the death of King Solomon. It is possible these two men may be named in Isaiah 37:2, Eliakim the house steward and Shebna the scribe. Whether the men are identified by name in holy writ or not, they were led by the Spirit to compile inspired Scripture. The God who inspired both Solomon and Hezekiah to write also presided over the book of Proverbs. This statement at the beginning of the third section of Proverbs that glorifies the Lord in this way is a fitting beginning to chapter 25, for the theme of this chapter is “Wisdom’s Glory.”
The first aspect of glory in the chapter is the emphasis on authority in verses 1-7. God is our heavenly authority, while kings represent earthly authority. Verse 2 explains that “it is the glory of God to conceal a thing.” Our Lord has the authority to keep certain things hidden from us. God has revealed Himself to us in many ways, but many more things are a complete mystery to us. That mystique is part of His glory. Earthly authority, though, has a different responsibility. The same Hebrew word used for God’s glory is used to refer to “the honor of the king.” This human honor or glory “is to search out the matter.” A quality leader will receive glory, honor, or credit from his followers when he does the work of discovering the truth of a situation.
While kings receive glory by ruling wisely, the wicked receive shame from their sinful behavior.
Notice how the words “take away” are used at the beginning of verses 4 and 5. Verse 4 describes a universally true statement about purifying metal; verse 5 explains how that statement applies to our theme of glory. The “wicked“ of verse 5 is the “dross” of verse 4. The wicked are worthless men who bring shame and not glory to any society, family, or workplace. They may try to promote themselves as verses 6-7 describe, awkwardly exalting themselves to achieve self-glory. But once that “dross” is removed, the social group can again be established in righteousness. Self-promotion is turned to shame, glory and honor returns, and those in authority can prosper. Oh that America’s leaders would understand and apply these simple verses and cast out the wicked! May we also apply this principle in our homes and workplaces and refuse to grant the opportunity of influence to wicked men.
The second discussion of glory, found in verses 8-19, continue to contrast between glory and shame. Here, the context is interacting with the people that live closest to you. This text explains that shame rests on us when we misuse our tongue. Hezekiah the king no doubt draws on his experience when he instructs the reader not to tell the courthouse to judge a problem with our neighbor if we haven’t talked to him first. You can avoid a lot of shame if you use “fitly spoken,” winsome words instead of antagonistic words. Be “a faithful messenger” or communicator as verse 13 says. How we choose to communicate with the people closest to us determines whether we will receive glory or experience shame.
Verses 20-26 describe the third aspect of glory. While the previous section contrasted words that bring glory or shame, this section contrasts actions that bring the same results. Your actions can affect people beyond your immediate sphere. From the example in verse 20, perhaps your flippant attitude toward a grieving person damages your character. The grieving process is not the time to be lighthearted, silly, or stingy.
According to verses 21-22, how we treat your enemy also brings glory or shame on us. Do we respond to our enemies in a way that helps them, helps you, and brings glory to the Lord? How do we respond to angry people? Verses 23-24 describe the shame and headache of closely associating with angry and contentious people. According to verses 25-26, sometimes the mere report of good or bad news is enough to bring glory or shame. Good news from a far country is refreshing and glorious, while it is shameful to hear of a righteous man being slain by the wicked (v. 26). It is super sad to learn evil is winning. Truly, glory and shame often arise from unexpected places.
Proverbs 25 concludes with personal applications about glory and shame. “It is not good to eat much honey: so for men to search their own glory is not glory” (v. 27). Verbal praise is like honey: we ruminate on it and appreciate it, but we should never indulge in it by seeking it. Verse 16 reminds us that too much honey will make you vomit. Likewise, seeking glory brings not glory, as verse 27 says, but shame and vanity.
This chapter written by Hezekiah closes with an illustration about self-control. Taking verses 27 and 28, together, we discover more about the danger of searching for self-glory. We ought to “rule over our own spirit” and avoid excessively pursuing our desires, specifically the adulation of others. A little praise tastes good, but too much will make you sick and sour on the inside, so that your relationship with others will suffer. Control yourself when it comes to seeking glory and praise from others. Serve others as unto the Lord, and let Him receive the glory. This is wisdom.
The above article was written by Pastor James C. Johnson. He is the pastor of NorthStone Baptist Church in Pensacola, Fl. To offer him your feedback, comment below or email us at strengthforlife461@gmail.com.
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