PROVERBS Chapter 20
Under The Influence 20:1 Some argue that they need such beverages to relax or get in the right mood. Often the world argues that one’s personality is improved by a couple of drinks. It helps a person come out of their shell. It gives them confidence and courage. God doesn’t see courage as coming from a bottle, rather He sees sinful aggressiveness, and the attitude and type of language which is found among scoffers. If it gives a man or woman courage, it gives them the courage to mock God and His standards. “Whoever is intoxicated”: Side reference, “errs”. The word “strong drink”, was most frequently employed of any intoxicating drink not made from grapes, e.g., palm-wine, beer, and so on. Let us be impressed that such a warning is given against beverages which weren’t fortified with alcohol, like our present day wines. How much more is such a warning needed against the far more potent alcoholic beverages in our society!
Tactlessness 20:2 There were men who encountered Solomon’s wrath, and rightly so (1 Kings 2). Some say the proverb is teaching us to stay clear of any angry person, king or commoner. The proverb could also be teaching that the power a king wields tends to keep people in line (Romans 13:4). In addition, before we take on such a powerful person, we need to be aware of the risks involved. Unless you are willing to forfeit your life, opposing a unjust government is a waste of time.
Not Easily Provoked 20:3 While there are battles and arguments that we need to fight (Ephesians 5:11), the wise man picks those which are essential and which a godly man must not avoid. One cannot avoid strife entirely but should avoid every unnecessary confrontation. The wise man tries to have peace with all men (Heb. 12:14; Romans 12:18), and seeks to convert the enemy with persuasive and winsome 1