Proverbs 17

One Big Happy Family

Proverbs 17 is comprised of random sayings of which some are related, and some can stand alone. This particular Proverb provides principles upon which a philosophy of family can be shaped. By using the acrostic HOME, reflect on the following fundamental purposes of family, as you consider a “constitution” for your household.

The first element of purpose we see for family is the importance of Heritage. Our English word for heritage actually conveys the concept of spiritual inheritance in its original use. Proverbs 17:1 says, “Better is a dry morsel and quietness … than a house full of feasting with strife.” The Hebrew word for “quietness,” in context, can communicate spiritual “prosperity.” Satisfaction in God is infinitely more valuable than material wealth. What kind of spiritual heritage will you leave for your children (see also v.6)?

A second element of purpose for a family is Obedience. Verse 2 communicates, particularly to children, that there are consequences for disobedience. Verse 3 implies that God very well may turn up the heat in our lives to form in us a heart of obedience. Obedience to God ultimately leads to blessing.

Third, is the Ministry factor of a family. “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity” (v.17). Our families serve not only to help our neighbors, but especially to rally around those with whom we share foundational kinship (see 1Tim. 5:8).

Finally, our homes function as a department of (and for) Education (see Deut. 6:4-9,20-21). The entire Proverb is instructional. Verse 25 sums it up, “A foolish son is a grief to his father and bitterness to her who bore him.” We must be deliberate about the direction in which we take our families. With the help of “the compass” of the Scriptures, we can lead them toward a harbor of happiness.

--Jeff Teague