Proverbs 11:9-11

Published: 17 July 2013

By Bryce Lowrance


Continuing with the pattern of contrast between the righteous and the wicked Solomon, in these three verses, show how the righteous are a blessing to their community while the wicked are a curse, and the people know it!

9 An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.

A hypocrite does not live a life that matches what he says. His tactics very easily snare people into his web and draw them into sin. A wise person, who reads and tries to live the word of God, can detect the wiles of this hypocrisy and deliver himself from the wicked.

10 When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, there is  shouting.

The righteous are generally a merciful and loving people. They share the blessings of The Lord with others and cause great rejoicing. The wicked are cruel and only interested in serving themselves even when it might look differently on the outside.  What is interesting about this verse is that we see two celebrations by the community that look very similar. One is when the righteous are blessed, the other is when the wicked fail or die. Both of these circumstances are causes for joy to the people.

11 By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.

This verse clearly shows the difference between a statesman and a politician. The statesman will DO things to be blessing to the community and cause it to actually improve. The politician just likes to hear himself talk. His words may sound fancy but they have no sound logic behind them and DO nothing for the community.