Are The Proverbs Believable

Every word of God is tested;
He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him.
--Proverbs 30:5

God’s word has already been tested. There is no need for us to test or evaluate God’s word to see if it holds true. For example:

Poor is he who works with a negligent hand, 
But the hand of the diligent makes rich. 
 —Proverbs 10:4

Is it necessary for you to try this out before you believe it? Do you need to research this saying by observing the results of others who are either negligent or diligent in their work? Does it upset you or make you doubt when you think of people who are ‘exceptions’ having seemingly struck it rich in other ways such as: inheritance, get-rich-quick scheme, lucky find, auction treasure, etc.?

Discipline your children while there is hope.
Otherwise you will ruin their lives.
—Proverbs 19:18 (New Living Translation)

Has modern research governed our thinking about discipline? Who wants to test this proverb on their own children only to find out that God had it right? Do you know children that appear to be exceptions (they had no discipline in the home but turned out great, and vice versa)? If so, would you be willing to omit discipline and just cross your fingers and wish for your child(ren) to turn out great?

Do not carouse with drunkards or feast with gluttons, 
     for they are on their way to poverty, 
     and too much sleep clothes them in rags. 
 —Proverbs 23:20–21 (New Living Translation)

What would it take to test this proverb? How long to prove it true or false? Do we look at teachings like this but disregard the warning about those with whom we spend our time? Can I associate with evil and not be affected?

The Proverbs do not stand as neutral teachings subject to the testing and approval of man.

In the first proverb quoted here, to ‘take refuge’ in God is to trust His word even when it seems to go against the wisdom of our day. It will serve as a protection to you just as a shield protects a warrior on the battlefield.

God’s word is true. It is trustworthy. It is ready for use.

Embrace the Proverbs. Embrace the truth of God’s word. Here are four more proverbs for our day that are important to live by:

He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, 
And he who rules his spirit, than he who captures a city. 
—Proverbs 16:32

A youngster’s heart is filled with foolishness, 
but physical discipline will drive it far away.
 —Proverbs 22:15 (New Living Translation)

A good name is to be more desired than great wealth, 
Favor is better than silver and gold. 
—Proverbs 22:1

Do not let your heart envy sinners, 
But live in the fear of the Lord always. 
—Proverbs 23:17

You will need to supply only one thing: genuine faith.

Mark Stinnett