2026.09.21 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 28:1–8

Read Proverbs 28:1–8

Questions from the Scripture text: Who flee, when (Proverbs 28:1a)? Who are bold as what (verse 1b)? What causes a land to have many princes (Proverbs 28:2a)? What can come by means of just one righteous man (verse 2b–c)? Who (Proverbs 28:3a) is like what (verse 3b)? Whom do law-forsakers praise (Proverbs 28:4a)? What do law-keepers do with the same group (verse 4b)? Who do not understand justice (Proverbs 28:5a)? Who are the opposite (verse 5b)? What type of man (Proverbs 28:6a) is better than what other type of man (verse 6b)? What sort of son is a discerning one (Proverbs 28:7a)? What type does what instead (verse 7b)? How might one increase possessions (Proverbs 28:8a)? But who will end up with them (verse 8b)? 

What does a king need most? Proverbs 28:1–8 looks forward to the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these eight verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that what we need most is righteousness.

We most need righteousness because the Lord rules over all things. So, the wicked, who have the Lord against them, need no creaturely pursuer to be under terror (Proverbs 28:1a). But the righteous, who know that the Lord is for them, fear no creaturely attacker (verse 1b). Proverbs 28:2 may be saying that where sin multiplies, it is necessary that government increase to restrain it. But it is more likely saying that the Lord sovereignly visits wicked nations with the chastening of governmental instability like that of the northern kingdom in 1 Kings 16:8–22. And this sovereignty extends to ultimate outcomes: all true wealth will ultimately belong to the godly (Proverbs 28:8)

Also, we most need righteousness, because it is a right relation to YHWH’s revelation of Himself. Man is made in God’s image, so to oppress him is to reject the Lord Himself. A man who mistreats image-bearers is like that rain that should have been refreshing but strips people bare instead (Proverbs 28:3). He fails to seek YHWH (Proverbs 28:5).

Again, we most need righteousness, especially in authorities, because this is God’s way of restraining sin. If wickedness is going to be suppressed, it will be by those who keep the law (Proverbs 28:4b), not those who forsake it (verse 4a). Government by the righteous (v6a) is much better than government by the wealthy (Proverbs 28:6b).

Finally, we most need righteousness, because otherwise we are vulnerable to our own impulses. Such is the glutton, and his companions. Rehoboam, indeed, would end up bringing shame to his father’s kingdom (Proverbs 28:7), precisely because he followed his friends, rather than godly wisdom (cf. 1 Kings 12:6–10). 

What is a situation in which you have thought that you needed wealth or influence or power, but what you really needed was righteousness? What do you look for and pray for in the government?

Sample prayer:  Lord, we thank You for giving Your Son, our Lord Jesus, to be our King of righteousness. Please, count Him as our righteousness, and make us to be righteous like He is, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP24 “The Earth and the Riches” or TPH100B “All People That on Earth Do Dwell”

2026.09.14 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 27:23–27

Read Proverbs 27:23–27

Questions from the Scripture text: What should the son be diligent to do (Proverbs 27:23)? Why (Proverbs 27:24)? At what season (Proverbs 27:25) does what occur (Proverbs 27:26)? With what outcome (Proverbs 27:27)? 

What should we value more than wealth or power? Proverbs 27:23–27 looks forward to the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must learn from nature to value what God gives greater value.

Riches are used up (Proverbs 27:24a), but lambs and goats (Proverbs 27:26), and the grass that feeds them (Proverbs 27:25), are renewable resources. Men are constantly in danger of esteeming the assigned value of wealth above the inherent value of things that God created.

This is a metaphor for the son’s conduct as king. “A crown does not endure to all generations” (Proverbs 27:24). A king must care about more than the power and wealth he is able to attain in his own reign. He should care for his people, both now, and for generations to come. 

In our lives, we will be tempted to prioritize accumulating money or maintaining power. But we must prioritize the care of those whom the Lord has entrusted to us. Far more than grass or goats, His image-bearers have the true value.

We are the sheep of His pasture, and the flock of His hand. And He gives us His sheep to care for, too.

What are some situations in which you are tempted to value wealth or control too much? Whom has the Lord given to you to care for? What are some situations in which you are tempted to care for them too little?

Sample prayer:  Lord, thank You for caring us as the sheep of Your own hand. It is amazing to us that You have bestowed upon us the value of being image bearers. Forgive us, for how we have neglected Your image in others. Forgive us for valuing wealth and power above people. Give us to love them and care for them as those who bear Your image, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP100 “All Earth, With Joy” or TPH100B “All People That on Earth Do Dwell”

2026.09.07 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 27:11–22

Read Proverbs 27:11–22

Questions from the Scripture text: How does Solomon address him in Proverbs 27:11a? What does he tell him to do? Unto what end? What would the father be able to do then (verse 11b)? Who sees the evil, in this way, in Proverbs 27:12a? And what does he do in response? What should one take from whom (Proverbs 27:13a)? And when should one hold it, for what purpose (verse 13b)? What does the man in Proverbs 27:14a do? But with what kind of voice? And when? So, how is his blessing received (verse 14b)? What sort of experience does Proverbs 27:15a describe? As an analogy for whom (verse 15b)? How unrestrainable and uncontainable is she (Proverbs 27:16)? What does the iron in Proverbs 27:17a do? Who sharpens what of whom (verse 17b)? What does the man in Proverbs 27:18a enjoy as a consequence of what? And what does the man in verse 18b enjoy as a consequence of what? What is the face in the water like (Proverbs 27:19a)? And what is a man truly like (verse 19b)? What is never full (Proverbs 27:20a)? And what else have a desire that cannot be satisfied (verse 20b)? What are used to show the quality of what (Proverbs 27:21a)? And what else shows the quality of whom (verse 21b)? How difficult is it to get the foolishness out of a fool (Proverbs 27:22)? 

What are some benefits of friendship? Proverbs 27:11–22 looks forward to the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these twelve verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that friendship guards us from harm, strengthens and sharpens us, and is a proving ground for our character.

This week’s passage (Proverbs 27:11-22) follows the same pattern as last week’s (Proverbs 27:1-10): telling us to heed a good friend (Proverbs 27:1-2, Proverbs 27:11-12), then warning us about the harm of bad friends (Proverbs 27:3-6, Proverbs 27:13-16), then giving some general truths about friendship (Proverbs 27:7-10, Proverbs 27:17-22).

First, in this case, the friend to heed is the father (Proverbs 27:11), who forewarns him of harm (Proverbs 27:12). We must not live by our own wisdom. Parents are a reminder that God gives wisdom to others for us, and especially to those over us. If we proceed and suffer, we have ourselves to blame for it.

Second, in Proverbs 27:13-16, he warns about three different sorts of harmful friends: the naïve, the inconsiderate, and the contentious. The naïve may not guard his own interests, being surety for those upon whom he cannot count, so don’t you be naïve too; require a pledge/collateral from him (Proverbs 27:13). He’s not the person to whom to entrust yourself in friendship. The inconsiderate may offer what he thinks is blessing, but it’s a curse (Proverbs 27:14), because he does not consider such things as timing and intensity of his “blessing.” The argumentative friend wears upon your soul in such a penetrating fashion that the weariness cannot be restrained (Proverbs 27:15). Verse 15 implicitly reminds us that the most important friend that a man will choose, and about whom he must heed all of this wisdom, is his wife.

Third, Proverbs 27:17-22 give important, general truths about friendship. By ourselves, we grow dull, but the companionship of a friend sharpens us again to usefulness (Proverbs 27:17). Friendship is naturally designed by God to refresh us to usefulness.

For, God has ordained for us to enjoy the fruit of the service that we render, even to a master, let alone a friend (Proverbs 27:18). In the context of a friendship passage, verse 18 cuts against the fleshly tendency to be inclined against a master, encouraging us to see him as a friend to us, given by God (cf. Ephesians 6:5–9). Friendship rewards the effort put into it.

Proverbs 27:19 indicates that what appears in the water is a reflection of a man’s face, but his heart is reflected in the sort of friend/man that he is. And Proverbs 27:21 teaches us that friendship brings out the true character of a man, just as the crucible brings out the true character of a metal. Friendship is a proving ground for character.

Proverbs 27:20 is similar to Proverbs 27:8, Proverbs 27:10. The grass is not greener on the other side. Be careful of coveting different friends, rather than the one that God has given you. When you get into the habit of looking for friends to move on to, the eye with which you do that looking will never be satisfied. This is true of covetousness in general. And in the context, it is especially true here: be grateful for, and faithful to, the friends whom God has given you.

Finally, Proverbs 27:22 reminds us of the folly of being companions with people who are in the harmful category (Proverbs 27:3-6, Proverbs 27:13-16), but whom we are hoping will change when we have them as companions. That is foolish thinking and volunteering to be harmed. Don’t take fools for your companions hoping that they will change; see grace change them first. 

Of what have your parents forewarned you? How are you avoiding being naïve, inconsiderate, or contentious? How are you being careful not to have such people for your companions? How has friendship refreshed and strengthened you? How are you showing thankfulness for your friends?

Sample prayer:  Lord, thank You for friendship. Please give us wisdom both in being friends and in benefitting from friendship. And most of all, thank You for giving us Christ, to be the Friend Who sticks closer than a brother. Help us by His grace, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP15 “Within Your Tent, Who Will Reside” or TPH520 “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”

Wisdom on Friendship (1) [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 27:1–10]

How should we navigate friendship? Proverbs 27:1–10 looks forward to the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that humility, gentleness, discernment, and loyalty are essential to making proper use of God’s good gift of friendship. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: This devotional explores biblical principles of friendship, emphasizing the need for humility and trust in a friend's judgment. It warns against associating with those who are easily angered, jealous, or deceitfully pleasant, while highlighting the value of a friend who offers faithful correction. The text encourages believers to remain content in their current relationships rather than pursuing ambitious social elevation. Finally, it calls for loyalty to established neighbors and friends over distant relatives or new acquaintances during times of trouble.

2026.08.31 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 27:1–10

Monday, August 31, 2026 ▫ Read Proverbs 27:1–10

Questions from the Scripture text: What shouldn’t we do about tomorrow (v1)? Why not? About what else should we not boast (v2a)? What should we do instead (v2b)? What are bad things to get buried under, and why (v3a)? What is worse (v3b)? What can sweep a man away (v4a)? What is worse (v4b)? What is difficult but good (v5a)? What seems pleasant but is worse (v5b)? What are painful but faithful (v6a)? What are pleasant but harmful (v6b)? What will lead to lack of appreciation for these good things (v7a)? What will lead to properly enjoying them (v7b)? What would happen to the baby bird in v8a? And what happens to the man in v8b? What tactile and olfactory sensations does v9a describe? What should give us the same enjoyment (v9b)? To whom should we be loyal (v10a)? And to whom should we go when we are in trouble (v10b–c)?

How should we navigate friendship? Proverbs 27:1–10 looks forward to the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these ten verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that humility, gentleness, discernment, and loyalty are essential to making proper use of God’s good gift of friendship.

The vocabulary of v1–22 hold the whole together, striking the theme of counsel about friendship. The same pattern repeats twice (v1–10 and v11–22), telling us to heed a good friend (v1–2, 11–12), then warning us about the harm of bad friends (v3–6, 13–16), then giving some general truths about friendship (v7–10, 17–22).

Heed a good friend, v1–2. The friend to heed has especially been the parents. The beginning of the parallel section (v11–12) indicates this using similar language to the first part of the book (ch. 1–9). But the friend in this case (v1–2) is not specified. Humility and heeding others go hand-in-hand. Here, it is specifically with respect to praise. The “day” in v1 is described as pregnant with its events; we do not know if it is a boy or a girl or what the characteristics or successfulness of the offspring will be. So, we should have the humility not to boast about that day. Similarly, there are ways in which our friend has the perspective to know whether we are praiseworthy and whether it is an appropriate time or reason to praise us. Humility and wisdom both tell us to let another man be the one to praise us.

Spare yourself the harm of bad friends, v3–6. The imagery of what one suffers from a bad friend is vivid. Anyone who has suffered betrayal in friendship can attest to how greatly painful that is. So, v3 compares what one suffers from a hot-tempered friend to being crushed by a stone or buried under an avalanche of sand. And, v4 changes the image to a raging river, or a flood, or a tidal wave, indicating that the jealous friend, who is in it for what they can get out of you, is even more dangerous than the hot-tempered friend. Then there is the friend whose “love” does not make an appearance when you are in danger and need to be rebuked. Though we mustn’t take v5 as an excuse for a censorious spirit, it reminds us that love must not be unwilling to rebuke when required. When a friend is like a surgeon, cutting out an infection or a cancer, his wounds are kind and faithful (v6a). But there are kisses that have more to do with ingratiating themselves to you than with doing you good. Such kisses seem to say “friend,” but actually come from an enemy.

General truths about friendship, v7–10. Thinking especially about rebuke, then, it is important that we develop an “appetite” for it. If we are out of appetite, then we will not want the nourishing rebukes of our friends (v7a), but if we have an appetite for the help that God gives us by such sharpening (v7b), we will find them sweet; the soul-counsel of a man’s friend should be soothing to us like ointment to our skin, or delightful to us like perfume to our nose (v9).

Finally, our friends are a good providence of God. If we disregard those whom He has placed around us, because we are ambitious to attain a higher class or social standing, then we are like a baby bird that leaves the nest before it is ready (v8). We should be content with our divinely-appointed station in life. Similarly, we owe loyalty to those who are generational friends (v10a), and those into whose proximity providence has put us (v10c). Since this brother is “far away,” there is an implication here that he is a wealthier, or perhaps less embarrassing, option. But we must not let pride get in our way. We should establish good relationships with our neighbors, since providence has put them near us. And we should have the humility to receive their divinely-appointed help when needed.

Of course, the greatest Friend that providence has assigned to us is the Lord Jesus Christ Himself, Who laid down His life for His friends. He is the One Who sticks closer than a brother. To Him we must be loyal, and to Him we must go with every care, because He cares for us. Particularly when crushed or overwhelmed by the betrayal of earthly friends, we may find comfort, strength, wisdom, and gladness in Jesus.

Much of our life is bound up in relationships and interaction with those whom God has placed around us. Let us embrace friendship as a gift from God and heed His wisdom in it.

What good friends do you have, to whom you can leave it, if you are going to be praised? How are you in danger of being a dangerous friend? Who might be a danger to you as a friend? How is your “appetite” for the rebukes of a friend? Who is someone who has been a friend to you for generations? How is your relationship with your neighbors?

Sample prayer: Lord, we thank You for the gift of friendship. Give us humility to heed their wisdom. And give us discernment to recognize who would be a dangerous friend to us. We thank You for giving us Christ as our greatest Friend. Please give us to enjoy His friendship, and to be a friend like Him to others, we ask in His Name, AMEN! 

Suggested songs: ARP15 “Within Your Tent, Who Will Reside” or TPH520 “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”

2026.08.24 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 26:23–28

Read Proverbs 26:23–28

Questions from the Scripture text: What are the two components of the condition in Proverbs 26:23a? To what does verse 23b compare it? What does the one in Proverbs 26:24a do? With what does he disguise it? What might he do anyway (Proverbs 26:25a)? But what mustn’t the hearer do? Why (verse 25b)? With what does he cover his hatred (Proverbs 26:26a)? But what will happen, in what context (verse 26b)? What does the man in Proverbs 26:27a do? With what result? What does the man in verse 27b do? With what result? To what sort of tongue does Proverbs 26:28a refer? What does it do to whom? To what sort of mouth does verse 28b refer? What does it work?

What is the key to godly speech? Proverbs 26:23–28 looks forward to the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that a grace-changed heart is the key to godly speech.

The wicked heart, Proverbs 26:23. Our words should be good food (cf. Job 6:6–7, Job 12:11), but out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks (cf. Luke 6:45). When someone with a wicked heart tries to serve up good food, it is polluted by the dross on which it is served, like putting a nutritious meal on a filthy plate. If we wish to do others good with our mouths, we must seek God’s grace to cleanse our hearts, first.

The hateful heart, Proverbs 26:24-26. The fool doesn’t think about how God sees his heart, so he is not concerned about the hatefulness he finds within himself. He cares more about what others think, and disguises that hateful heart with gracious-sounding words (Proverbs 26:24-25). There is coming a day, in the great assembly of the judgment, when the heart will be laid bare (Proverbs 26:26). When we go to worship, if we realize that our hearts are already laid bare before God, we may be helped to think about what it would be like if the entire congregation knew our heart. They will! How we need God’s grace to change and cleanse our heart!

The scheming heart, Proverbs 26:27-28. This final section is both a warning and a comfort. If we find in our hearts that we are trying to lay traps for others, Proverbs 26:27 warns us that we are the ones whom we will end up harming, and Proverbs 26:28 alerts us to how such thinking is truly hateful to oneself. But if others are trying to set traps for us, these verses give us comfort from God, Who assures us of these outcomes. God give us grace to be honest about the schemes of our hearts.

To whom have you been trying to sound better than you are? In which area do you most need heart-help: wickedness, hatefulness, or scheming? How will you seek that help?

Sample prayer: Lord, please give us new hearts from Christ, by Your Spirit. And make the words of our mouths to overflow from the good with which You fill our hearts by Christ’s grace, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP15 “Within Your Tent, Who Will Reside” or TPH400 “Gracious Spirit, Dwell with Me”

2026.08.10 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 26:20–22

Read Proverbs 26:20–22

Questions from the Scripture text: Whom must we avoid? Proverbs 26:20–22 looks forward to the opening portion of morning public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these three verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must avoid.  

Blessed are the peacemakers, for the shall be called the sons of God (cf. Matthew 5:9). Whether a king, as Solomon was preparing his son to be, or someone of the most lowly class, we ought to be careful about with whom we surround ourselves. For the king, this touches especially his court of officials. For you, it may be your inner circles of friends. In either case, as God hates the one who stirs up strife among the brethren (cf. Proverbs 6:19), we must watch especially against either being such an one, or surrounding ourselves with them. What person must we not be, and with whom must we not surround ourselves?

The gossip. The talebearer (Proverbs 26:20b), or whisperer, is always mentioning something about someone. Almost imperceptibly, conflict arises around him. Your life may be full of strife as with a fire, and then, if you have the wisdom to eliminate the gossip, you find that the strife dies out. 

The quarreler. The contentious man (Proverbs 26:21b) is that quarrelsome person who seems always to judge, always to correct, everything that everyone says. Nothing is said or done correctly enough for him, and every correction is important to make. Where there is not yet any strife, he is sure to kindle it. If we are to avoid being this one, we must learn to be slow to speak. And as we realize that someone else false into this category, we should limit our exposure to them as much as may be done righteously.

The listener to gossip. This is primarily a warning to ourselves about how much the whispered words of the talebearer really do affect us. “Tasty trifles” (Proverbs 26:22a) refers to something readily and eagerly swallowed down. And once swallowed down, those words take up residence in the “inner belly” (verse 22b). We must not think that we can “deal with” a gossip by simply letting them talk themselves out. If we hear it, it will affect us. And we must note also those who are willing to listen to gossip. For, their judgment is made less valuable to us by being necessarily skewed by the gossip they have heard. 

If someone begins to gossip, let us directly tell them that our Master does not permit us to listen to such speech. Or, if we lack the fortitude to do so, let us be quick to remove ourselves. And, let us also note those who continue to give that gossip a ready ear, so that we may be careful not to give so much heed their own opinions and judgments. 

Strife is opposed to the nature of God and the design of man. He dwells in perfect fellowship and adoration among the Godhead from all eternity. And we were created for fellowship with Him, and imaging His fellowship in the fellowship that we have with one another. It is no wonder that God hates the one who sows discord among the brethren. So, let us be careful that we would neither be, nor surround ourselves with, the gossip, the quarreler, or the listener to gossip.

In what situations are you tempted to gossip? With whom are you tempted to be quarrelsome? With which people might you need to spend less time? 

Sample prayer:  Lord, we praise You, Who dwell in perfect fellowship, within Yourself, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. And, we thank You for creating us for fellowship with You, and to image You in our fellowship with each other. Forgive us, for how we contribute to strife. By Your Spirit, give us wisdom, according to Your Word, to note those who sow discord, and to avoid them. And grant us grace that we might be those peacemakers who will be called the sons of God, we ask in the Name of the Son of God, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP197 “Christian Unity” or TPH400 “Gracious Spirit, Dwell with Me” 

2026.07.20 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 26:17–19

Read Proverbs 26:17–19

Questions from the Scripture text: What is the man in Proverbs 26:17a doing? What is he like (verse 17b)? What does the man in Proverbs 26:19 do? What is he like (Proverbs 26:18)?

What harm is there in a little mischief? Proverbs 26:17–19 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that mischievous people harm themselves and others.

Having warned his son about the fool and the sluggard, Solomon closes out the warnings with a trio of people to warn about: the troublemaker, the slanderer, and the hater. Here with the troublemaker, as with the slanderer and the hater, we find that he harms both himself and others.

The busybody of Proverbs 26:17 thinks that he fixes others, but he ends up hurting himself. There will be many disputes or contentions that you observe, that really don’t belong to you. The first sort of troublemaker that Solomon identifies is the confrontational and outspoken busybody who inserts himself into such disputes. The word translated “meddles” actually means to be furious… even before either of the disputing parties “bites back” like a dog, the meddler has already harmed himself by entering into the discomfort of fury for no reason.

Of a similar spirit is the jokester of Proverbs 26:18-19. He makes himself the center of attention by stirring the pot with some sort of deception. He claims, literally, to have been “making merry,” teaching others to lighten up. He is like a madman, because he cannot discern right from wrong. 

But he is worse than the madman, because he launches his deadly weapons with more intent than the ignorant madman would. While others can clearly see what is (or isn’t) appropriate, the man in Proverbs 26:19 has a self-blinding agenda that disregards the propriety that sane people understand. Thus, he does much harm to all around him, even in the midst of contending that it’s no big deal.

Dear reader, let us watch against being the sort of person who takes it upon ourselves to fix others’ disputes, or teach them to lighten up. Let us serve others, instead, in those ways that we have been commanded, and in those offices and roles to which we have been legitimately called. 

What are some people’s disputes, in which you are tempted or prone to meddle, that really aren’t yours to solve? Whom might you be tempted to “lighten up” with some mischief or joking? How do these warnings help you restrain yourself? Whom do you know, that these verses aptly describe? How will you steer clear of them?

Sample prayer: Lord, thank You for warning us against both meddling and mischief. Make us of a humble and gentle spirit, so that we would not insert ourselves into others’ affairs in the ways that You warn about here. Forgive us our sins, and keep them from bringing much harm upon either ourselves or others. Instead, deal with us according to what Christ deserves, and make us to be more and more like He is, we ask in His Name, AMEN! 

Suggested songs: ARP1 “How Blessed the Man” or TPH400 “Gracious Spirit, Dwell with Me”

The Peril of Laziness [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 26:13–16]

Why should we watch against laziness? Proverbs 26:13–16 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that laziness is a very deadly folly. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: This passage exposes the great danger of laziness. Pastor describes how the lazy person fabricates excuses, mimics activity without making real progress, and feels weary simply at the thought of work. A central theme is the delusion of self-wisdom, where the lazy individual considers himself superior to those who act justly. This hardened state of foolishness leaves little hope for deliverance. The message concludes with a call to seek God's mercy and cultivate genuine diligence in life.

2026.07.13 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 26:13–16

Read Proverbs 26:13–16

Questions from the Scripture text: Who is the subject of each of these four verses? What two things does he say in Proverbs 26:13? What is he like in Proverbs 26:14? In which specific situation? What does he do in Proverbs 26:15a? Why (verse 15b)? How wise is he, in his own eyes (Proverbs 26:16, cf. Proverbs 26:12)?

Why should we watch against laziness? Proverbs 26:13–16 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that laziness is a very deadly folly.

As Solomon has been preparing his son to be king, he has painted for him a cautionary portrait of the fool in Proverbs 26:1-12, where eleven of the verses specifically mentioned the fool. Now, he paints for him a cautionary portrait of a specific sort of fool: the sluggard. “Lazy man” appears in each verse of this text, marking it off as a unit. As the passage progresses, we can see the lazy man’s existence grinding to a halt—until he perishes.

What the lazy man says. The lazy man is an excuse-maker. He doesn’t admit to being lazy. He gives what seems like a good reason: I would die, if I left the house to go to work. Beware of excuses for why working doesn’t “work” for you.

What the lazy man does. The lazy man seems to move, but makes no progress. His movement is restricted by being attached to his comfort like a door is attached by its hinges. Many are they, who are not so much trying to accomplish work as trying to appear to have been working (cf. Ephesians 6:6). Now, the lazy man isn’t just stuck at home, but to his couch.

What the lazy man feels. The lazy man is wearied by everything, not just by those things upon which we actually spend ourselves. His hand doesn’t go to the bowl to retrieve something; it hides there. It was common to eat, reclined on a couch, so the paralysis of the lazy man is now complete, on his couch, with his hand frozen in the bowl. And he dies.

What the lazy man thinks. The lazy man isn’t laying there, frozen, dying, bemoaning his laziness. He is congratulating himself that he wasn’t so foolish as those seven men who could answer sensibly (Proverbs 26:16). If the man wise in his own eyes was the advanced state of the fool in Proverbs 26:12, then the lazy man in Proverbs 26:16 is the most hopeless sort of fool available. Truly, if you find yourself in the portrait of the sluggard, you ought to be crying out to God of converting mercy!

What excuses do you make for not working? When are you tempted to work as an eye-pleaser, rather than to accomplish things? When have you been wearied in mind and soul by things that were not actually wearying your body? When have you thought yourself clever not to put in so much effort as others?

Sample prayer: Lord, please keep us from being the lazy man—especially in the care of our souls. Thank You for giving Christ to be our righteousness and sacrifice. Please make us diligence by His life and wisdom, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP1 “How Blessed the Man” or TPH400 “Gracious Spirit, Dwell with Me” 

2026.07.06 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 26:1–12

Read Proverbs 26:1–12

Questions from the Scripture text: What are not fitting at what times (Proverbs 26:1a)? What else is not fitting for whom (verse 1b)? What do not land long (Proverbs 26:2a)? What else does not land (verse 2b)? What are designed/destined for which particular objects (Proverbs 26:3)? What mustn’t be done to a fool (Proverbs 26:4a)? Why not (verse 4b)? What must be done to a fool (Proverbs 26:5a)? Why (verse 5b)? What does the person in Proverbs 26:6a do? What is he essentially doing to himself (verse 6b)? What are ineffective in Proverbs 26:7a? What else is ineffective (verse 7b)? What is rendered pointless in Proverbs 26:8a? What else is pointless (verse 8b)? What mishandling causes pain in Proverbs 26:9a? Who else painfully mishandles what (verse 9b)? Who is the One Who makes sure that fools and transgressors get what’s coming to them (Proverbs 26:10)? To what does a dog return (Proverbs 26:11a)? Who is like this, in repeating what (verse 11b)? Who is even more hopeless than a fool (Proverbs 26:12)?

What should be done for the fool? Proverbs 26:1–12 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these twelve verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the fool must not be treated as if he were as wise as others, but rather warned and answered wisely.

Fools make many things ineffective or pointless. It is very out of place to honor a fool (Proverbs 26:1). And one hallmark of foolishness is to be careless with cursing (Proverbs 26:2); it is God Who executes the curse (Proverbs 26:10), so a causeless one does not land. What does land is the rod upon the fool’s own back. 

Another hallmark of the fool is that he projects himself as wise. Others even treat a fool as wise, when there are proverbs in his mouth. But both come to no effect. Those who speak by a fool do great harm to themselves (Proverbs 26:6). Wise sayings have no leg to stand upon in the mouth a fool (Proverbs 26:7). Giving weight to a fool is self-crippling (Proverbs 26:8). Fools handle proverbs in the way that drunks handle a thorned stick—to their own harm (Proverbs 26:9). And they lack the sense not to repeat this (Proverbs 26:11). 

Ultimately, there is one very advanced case of folly: the man who is wise in his own eyes. After all of this caution that a wise proverb may end up, useless and harmfully, in the mouth of a fool, the section concludes with a zinger: as hopeless as the fool is, there is more hope for him than one who is wise in his own eyes.

This is why one ought to answer the fool’s foolish content (Proverbs 26:4), without getting dragged into the fool’s own manner of speech (Proverbs 26:3). It is a mercy at least to lay the truth before his eyes.

What are you doing, in dependence upon grace, to keep from being foolish, or even wise in your own eyes? To what fools have you been assigned to give a wise answer? What honors are you tempted to give them?

Sample prayer: Lord, have mercy upon us, because we are so easily foolish, or even wise in our own eyes. Give us to be quick to listen and slow to speak. And, when You assign us to the help of fools, grant that we would be careful not to honor them, or entrust them with messaging. Please help us in this thorny area of life, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP15 “Within Your Tent, Who Will Reside?” or TPH400 “Gracious Spirit, Dwell with Me”

2026.06.29 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 25:23–28

Read Proverbs 25:23–28

Questions from the Scripture text: What surely brings what (Proverbs 25:23a)? And what else surely brings what else (verse 23b)? What is better (Proverbs 25:24a)? Than what (verse 24b)? What is refreshing to whom (Proverbs 25:25a)? What else is refreshing to whom else (verse 25b)? Who (Proverbs 25:26a) is like what (verse 26b)? What is not good (Proverbs 25:27a)? What else is not good (verse 27b)? Who (Proverbs 25:28a) is what (verse 28b)?

What must we watch against, as a friend? Proverbs 25:23–28 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these six verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we must watch against being a “friend” who is harmful rather than a blessing.

Don’t be a gossip. For them, the north wind (Proverbs 25:23a) was a welcome indicator that they would finally get the rain that they needed. And there is something much less welcome, but just as certain: gossip destroys relationships, changing the face from a smile to scowl (verse 23b). Our friend’s name must be safe in our mouth.

Don’t be contentious. There is no greater blessing than a good wife. But one who is always arguing, always nagging, always complaining, always criticizing… she performs a wonder: she transforms the corner of the housetop into a desirable place to dwell (Proverbs 25:24a). Ordinarily, the roof was pleasant to visit when the sun had gone down, to take advantage of a breeze. It was not a good place to be at all times, particularly in the heat and sun of the day. But, better to dwell there, than with contentiousness (verse 24b)!

Don’t be negative. Others’ souls are weary (Proverbs 25:25a). They need the cool water (verse 25a) of good news (verse 25b). There is an obvious and easy way to be one whose speech is like this: speak often of the Lord Himself, His character, His work, the gospel of His salvation, His promises. We have all known the one who always has a new bit of bad news. That just parches the weary soul all the more! 

Don’t be spineless. The righteous man is a blessing to those around him, but this blessing becomes all the more urgent in the face of wickedness. The metaphor of a refreshing drink carries into Proverbs 25:26. If, when his righteousness is needed most, he falters instead (verse 26a), the “help” of his righteousness is corrupted. Can you imagine, going to take a sip from your water bottle and getting a mouthful of pond scum instead (verse 26b)? This is what it’s like when the righteous are spineless.

Don’t be self-promoting. Honey is a blessing. In many places, Scripture identifies it as both sweet and nourishing. But this is the second time in the space of 12 verses (Proverbs 25:27a, cf. Proverbs 25:16) that there is a caution against overindulging in it. Similarly, it is a blessing for those around us that we would have a good reputation. But a good reputation is that of a man who seeks God’s glory, rather than his own. Seeking one’s own glory brings not glory but shame (Proverbs 25:27b). 

Don’t be self-indulgent. Finally, self-control is as necessary as a city wall for protection from a most dangerous enemy: the sinful inclinations of our own spirit. Cities are good for mutual defense, as long as the city wall is intact. But without it, the city goes from being a protection to a hazard, as all those people are now gathered into something of a kill-box. So also, friendships with the godly can be a help in defense against our own sin. But, if we are self-indulgent, instead of self-controlled, we increase one-another’s danger, rather than decreasing it.

We have focused on the sort of friend that we ought to be, but the passage is also very instructive for what sorts of friends to choose and to spend time with. And it is a reminder of what a great blessing it is that Jesus Christ has become, for us, the Friend Who sticks closer than a brother. Not only is He the perfect example of every virtue, and not only has His righteousness been counted for us, but He is genuinely our best Friend, and living in fellowship with Him is the way that, by His grace, we may be genuinely good friends to others.

Who are your friends? What sort of friend are you to them, by these standards? What sort of friends are they to you?

Sample prayer: Our gracious God and our heavenly Father, thank You for giving to us Your own Son, our Lord Jesus, to be the Friend Who sticks closer than a brother. Please grant that we would be friends such as He is, and that we would have friends such as He is, by His own grace in each of us, we ask in His Name, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP15 “Within Your Tent, Who Will Reside?” or TPH73B “Yes, God Is Good to Israel” 

Truly Sweet Friendship [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 27:9]

Pastor teaches his family a selection from “the Proverb of the day.” In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that truly sweet friendship is friendship that is good for the soul, before God. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: The devotional explores the biblical concept of friendship as a spiritual discipline rooted in Proverbs 27:9. It argues that true companionship transcends superficial enjoyment and must include hearty counsel that benefits the soul. Believers are called to interact with mutual encouragement that deepens their knowledge of God and the gospel. Such relationships reflect the dignity of having souls rather than merely earthly desires. The message concludes by praying for grace to be and find friends who glorify God together.

Love Your Enemy [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 25:21–22]

How should we treat our enemies? Proverbs 26:21–22 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should love our enemies and do good to them. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: This devotional explores the biblical command to show active kindness to enemies by meeting their physical needs, such as hunger and thirst. It explains that this behavior requires genuine observation and empathy, reflecting Christ's love for sinners while leaving ultimate vengeance to God. The text clarifies that such acts do not excuse the enemy's sin but rather highlight its severity through continued rebellion against grace. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's righteous judgment and rely on His grace rather than personal merit when responding to hostility. The central message calls for a transformative attitude of love and service toward those who oppose the faithful.

2026.06.22 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 25:21–22

Read Proverbs 25:21–22

Questions from the Scripture text: To whom does Proverbs 25:21 teach us how to relate? What might his condition be? What should we do then? What else might his condition be? What should we do then? What will we do by this (Proverbs 25:22a)? And what will YHWH do (verse 22b)?

How should we treat our enemies? Proverbs 26:21–22 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these two verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should love our enemies and do good to them.

This chapter has been teaching us how to conduct ourselves with authorities (Proverbs 26:1-5), in public life (Proverbs 26:6-10), as citizens (Proverbs 26:11-15), and with our neighbors (Proverbs 26:16-20). But there is a special sub-case that belongs to any of these situations. We live in a fallen world of sinners, and so we will have enemies. This is particularly difficult for us, because we ourselves are only partially sanctified, and the ordinary responses of our flesh may be to be anxious over, fearful of, obsessive about, or especially vengeful toward our enemies. 

But none of those are the right way of responding to our enemy. The Lord reigns over all now, and His ultimate justice is righteous and full. Our conduct toward our enemies must be in service of this justice, not a substitute for it. And how does our conduct serve His justice? Well, if we are in civil office, we do serve that justice by way of rendering just judgments (cf. Romans 13:1–7). But, just before saying that in Romans 13, the apostle quotes from our passage, because more frequently, the believer is not in the place of an authority.

A believer is a former-enemy, who has been loved. When we love our enemies, we are glorifying the Lord by imitating His sweet love to us. And, our loving our enemy serves His justice by exposing, further, the wickedness of this enemy. Thus, the burning coals of His wrath are heaped up on their heads—not an incentive to a vindictive spirit in us, but an incentive to bring glory to our God in His justice.

So, how do we go about loving the enemy? In order to obey Proverbs 26:21, you need to care enough about your enemy to have consideration of what he is experiencing and observe it. You need to care enough that he might be hungry or thirsty, in order to observe whether he’s hungry or thirsty. And then you need to do something about it. There is no room here for ill will in the heart, or inner gloating over your enemy’s difficulty. There is compassion and action. After all, you were an enemy. And you weren’t just hungry or thirsty; you were under wrath and curse. 

Who have been enemies to you in the government? In the neighborhood? In the church? Who else? How are you fostering genuine compassion for them in your heart? How are you staying aware of what they might need? What do they need most of all? How are you praying, and acting, for these needs of theirs to be met?

Sample prayer: Lord, thank You for loving us, when we were Your enemies. Please grant unto us to love our enemies, so that whether You are glorified by their redemption, or by their just condemnation, our attitude and action toward our enemies will bring you glory, we ask through Christ, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP15 “Within Your Tent, Who Will Reside?” or TPH73B “Yes, God Is Good to Israel” 

Heart-Keeping [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 4:23]

Pastor teaches his family a selection from “the Proverb of the day.” In this verse of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that the heart is the thing that must be kept, for the keeping of the life. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: [Transcription unavailable at time of publication].

2026.06.01 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 25:11–15

Read Proverbs 25:11–15

Questions from the Scripture text: How is the word in Proverbs 25:11 spoken? How is the word in Proverbs 25:12 received? What sort of messenger does Proverbs 25:13 describe? Whom does he refresh? What other sort of messenger does Proverbs 25:14 describe? What is he like? What two characteristics does the speaker in Proverbs 25:15 have? How does verse 15 describe his power?

What must our speech be like? Proverbs 25:11–15 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that our speech should be fitting, faithful, and forbearing.

Fitting speech. It is a truly beautiful thing when someone says the right thing, at the right time, with the right words, in the right way (Proverbs 25:11). We should not be satisfied merely with speech that is accurate. We ought to strive, by grace for speech that is fitting. And we ought to listen in a fitting manner as well—even (especially!) to rebuke. If we receive it as a kindness from God, we will find it to be truly beautiful.

Faithful speech. It is also a great blessing to the sender, when he knows that he doesn’t have to worry at all about the message being delivered, and with the sort of speech from Proverbs 25:11. When there is a message to be sent, there may be some stress about whether it will get there, or get across. But, in the hands of a faithful messenger, the message will be sure, and the sender’s soul will be refreshed (Proverbs 25:13). We wish to be faithful in speech as those sent, ultimately, by the Lord Himself, so that our speech will be always with grace (cf. Colossians 4:5–6). The fool, on the other hand, is all talk; when the substance and follow-through are absent, the situation is worse for his having spoken at all (Proverbs 25:14). 

Forbearing speech. Finally, godly speech will be forbearing. It should be careful, thought-through, and humbly spoken. This is the sort of speech that persuades even rulers. It is much stronger, as with bone-breaking power, than gruff or hasty speech.

How are you working on speaking in a fitting, faithful, and forbearing manner? How do you receive wise rebukes?

Sample prayer: Lord, thank You for making us to be speaking creatures, and for interacting with us as a speaking God. Thank You that Christ is the eternal Word, as well as our ultimate Prophet. Grant that, in our speech, we would image You as creatures and imitate You as children, by the grace of Christ, through Whom we pray, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP15 “Within Your Tent, Who Will Reside?” or TPH73B “Yes, God Is Good to Israel”

Priorities in Public Life [Family Worship lesson in Proverbs 25:6–10]

How should we conduct ourselves publicly? Proverbs 25:6–10 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should conduct ourselves before others as those who are before God first. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: Proverbs 25:6–10 delivers a wisdom-based guide for navigating authority, reputation, and conflict with integrity. It warns against seeking honor prematurely, urging humility and faithfulness in one’s current role, as exaltation should come from God, not self-promotion. The passage cautions against hasty legal action, emphasizing the need for thorough discernment to avoid public shame, and underscores the greater value of trustworthiness over material gain. It condemns betraying confidences, even in pursuit of justice, highlighting that preserving relationships and moral character outweigh winning a case. These principles apply not only to public life but also to family and personal relationships, calling believers to prioritize humility, wisdom, and Christlike integrity over pride, litigation, and self-interest..

2026.05.25 Hopewell @Home ▫ Proverbs 25:6–10

Read Proverbs 25:6–10

Questions from the Scripture text: What should one not do, in whose presence (Proverbs 25:6a)? And in whose place should you not stand (verse 6b)? What is better (Proverbs 25:7a)? Than what (verse7b)? Where should you not go hastily (Proverbs 25:8a)? Because what might happen there (verse 8b–c)? What should you do (Proverbs 25:9a)? Instead of what (verse 9b)? Or else what may happen (Proverbs 25:10)?

How should we conduct ourselves publicly? Proverbs 25:6–10 looks forward to the midweek sermon. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that we should conduct ourselves before others as those who are before God first.

Having given instruction with regard to the king himself (Proverbs 25:1-5), the attention now turns to the subjects, and how to conduct ourselves in public life.

We should not presume that we are royal, Proverbs 25:6-7. It is tempting to put on airs (Proverbs 25:6a), but this is a recipe for being humiliated (verse 6b, cf. Luke 14:8). Instead, excel at your labor, service, and prudence, and let those in authority lift you to that position. Even if they never do, the believer will ultimately be exalted by God in due time (cf. 1 Peter 5:6). 

We should also not presume that we are in the right, Proverbs 25:8. The end of Proverbs 25:7 actually goes with Proverbs 25:8. Just because our eyes have seen something, we should not be hasty to presume that we understand the context, or that we are justified in the case that we make. As with the heart of the king in Proverbs 25:3, there is a great deal of knowledge and information to which we may not be privy, and going to court hastily is another recipe for being humiliated. 

Finally, we should not presume to be a reporter, Proverbs 25:9-10. There are situations in which it is proper to plead a (right) case with a neighbor (Proverbs 25:9a). But, we must not do so at the cost of sharing someone else’s information that is not ours to give (verse 9b). Obtaining vindication or restitution is not worth wronging one another, and exposing ourselves as untrustworthy (Proverbs 25:10). 

How we engage publicly reveals much about whether we are more interested in “doing what’s right” or “getting our rights.”

What higher position are you tempted to take for yourself? What does your public conduct reveal about your heart?

Sample prayer: Lord, forgive us for our pride, and vainly ambition. Lest we humiliate ourselves by folly, please grant to us the humility to do what is right by You and by our neighbor. For, we ask it through Him Who humbled Himself for us, AMEN!

Suggested songs: ARP1 “How Blessed the Man” or TPH73B “Yes, God Is Good to Israel” 

First Song for Next Lord’s Day — ARP102A To This My Prayer

Life-long Lesson about Laziness [2026.05.13 Midweek Sermon in Proverbs 24:20–34]

The wise keep reminding themselves of wisdom, because they know the dangers of folly.

(click here to DOWNLOAD video/mp3/pdf files of this sermon) Summary of the transcript of the audio:The sermon draws a powerful moral and spiritual lesson from Proverbs 24:30–34, using the image of a neglected field to illustrate the devastating consequences of laziness and spiritual complacency. It emphasizes that true wisdom is not merely intellectual but involves constant vigilance, learning from both Scripture and the observable world, which reflects God’s governance and the ongoing effects of the Fall. The passage reminds that the world is under a curse, human hearts remain corrupted, and even small lapses—like the excuse of 'a little sleep'—can lead to irreversible ruin, as seen in the parallel of David’s sin. The preacher warns against self-deception, urging believers to recognize that God’s discipline, though painful, is evidence of His love, and that growth in wisdom requires continual dependence on Christ, who exemplified perfect diligence and teaches us through His Spirit. Ultimately, the message calls for a life of intentional, God-centered diligence, rooted in humility and the recognition that no sin is too small to be ignored.