Chapter 20
We all know that person — the one who talks a big game, makes promises they can’t keep, and always has a “great idea” they never follow through on. You smile, nod, and silently think, Yeah, sure you will. I have known some. Some were friends, some were employers. But then there’s the other kind of person — the quiet, dependable type. They don’t say much, but when they do? You listen. And when they say they’ll do something, you don’t doubt that it will be done. That’s the kind of character Proverbs 20 is pointing us toward.
This chapter is a call to live with integrity — not just in public, but in private. It highlights the danger of empty words, quick decisions, and reckless behavior. And it reminds us that while people might only see the outside, God weighs the heart.
Character isn’t built in a day. It’s revealed over time — in what we say, how we act, and whether or not we follow through. Proverbs 20 isn’t about perfection; it’s about consistency. Are we living in a way that builds trust? Or are we slowly eroding it with shortcuts, half-truths, or selfish choices?
Let’s be honest, keeping our word can be hard. Especially when the excitement fades and the follow-through gets inconvenient. Ear tickling has become a popular trend. Have you ever promised, “I will pray for you” and then just…. well… didn’t? But wisdom doesn’t chase quick wins or flashy moments. It’s slow, steady, and solid. Like that friend who helps you move even when it’s 104 degrees out and you only offered pizza as payment.
This chapter also reminds us not to live reactively — jumping to conclusions, seeking revenge, or trying to control outcomes. It points us to patience, restraint, and discernment. Why? Because God sees more than we do. He’s not just looking at results — He’s always looking at the heart behind them.
And in all of this, Jesus is our model. He didn’t make shallow promises. He didn’t overpromise and underdeliver. He made bold declarations — about life, truth, peace, and salvation — and then backed up every single one with action. Even when it cost Him everything. He didn’t just talk about love — He proved it.
So, if Proverbs 20 could talk to us over coffee, it might say: “Don’t just talk a good game. Live the good game. Be the kind of person others can trust — because you trust the One who sees and knows it all.”
1 Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.
2 A king’s wrath strikes terror like the roar of a lion; those who anger him forfeit their lives.
3 It is to one’s honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.
4 Sluggards do not plow in season; so at harvest time they look but find nothing.
5 The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out.
6 Many claim to have unfailing love, but a faithful person who can find?
7 The righteous lead blameless lives; blessed are their children after them.
8 When a king sits on his throne to judge, he winnows out all evil with his eyes.
9 Who can say, “I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin”?
10 Differing weights and differing measures–the LORD detests them both.
11 Even small children are known by their actions, so is their conduct really pure and upright?
12 Ears that hear and eyes that see–the LORD has made them both.
13 Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you will have food to spare.
14 “It’s no good, it’s no good!” says the buyer–then goes off and boasts about the purchase.
15 Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel.
16 Take the garment of one who puts up security for a stranger; hold it in pledge if it is done for an outsider.
17 Food gained by fraud tastes sweet, but one ends up with a mouth full of gravel.
18 Plans are established by seeking advice; so if you wage war, obtain guidance.
19 A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.
20 If someone curses their father or mother, their lamp will be snuffed out in pitch darkness.
21 An inheritance claimed too soon will not be blessed at the end.
22 Do not say, “I’ll pay you back for this wrong!” Wait for the LORD, and he will avenge you.
23 The LORD detests differing weights, and dishonest scales do not please him.
24 A person’s steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand their own way?
25 It is a trap to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider one’s vows.
26 A wise king winnows out the wicked; he drives the threshing wheel over them.
27 The human spirit is the lamp of the LORD that sheds light on one’s inmost being.
28 Love and faithfulness keep a king safe; through love his throne is made secure.
29 The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.
30 Blows and wounds scrub away evil, and beatings purge the inmost being.