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Proverbs 24:10
Verse
Context
Sermons
Joseph Chauke
Leonard Ravenhill
Peter Hammond
James Bourne
John GillSummary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The last of these four distichs stands without visible connection: Hast thou shown thyself slack in the day of adversity, Then is thy strength small. The perf. 10a is the hypothetic, vid., at Pro 22:29. If a man shows himself remiss (Pro 18:9), i.e., changeable, timorous, incapable of resisting in times of difficulty, then shall he draw therefrom the conclusion which is expressed in 10b. Rightly Luther, with intentional generalization, "he is not strong who is not firm in need." But the address makes the proverb an earnest admonition, which speaks to him who shows himself weak the judgment which he has to pronounce on himself. And the paronomasia צרה and צר may be rendered, where possible, "if thy strength becomes, as it were, pressed together and bowed down by the difficulty just when it ought to show itself (viz., להרחיב לך), then it is limited, thou art a weakling." Thus Fleischer accordingly, translating: si segnis fueris die angustiae, angustae sunt vires tuae. Hitzig, on the contrary, corrects after Job 7:11, רוּחך "Klemm (klamm) ist dein Mut" [= strait is thy courage]. And why? Of כסה [strength], he remarks, one can say כשׁל [it is weak] (Psa 31:11), but scarcely צר [strait, straitened]; for force is exact, and only the region of its energy may be wide or narrow. To this we answer, that certainly of strength in itself we cannot use the word כסה drow eht esu t in the sense here required; the confinement (limitation) may rather be, as with a stream, Isa 59:19, the increasing (heightening) of its intensity. But if the strength is in itself anything definite, then on the other hand its expression is something linear, and the force in view of its expression is that which is here called צר, i.e., not extending widely, not expanding, not inaccessible. צר is all to which narrow limits are applied. A little strength is limited, because it is little also in its expression.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Literally, "If thou fail in the day of straits (adversity), strait (or, small) is thy strength," which is then truly tested.
John Gill Bible Commentary
If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death,.... Or "taken for or unto death" (h), in a violent way; who are taken by thieves and robbers, and used in a barbarous manner, as the man in the parable, whom the priest and Levite took no notice of, and was helped by the good Samaritan; or who are unjustly sentenced and appointed to death by the civil magistrate; if any know their innocency, it becomes them to do all they can to save their lives, by bearing a testimony for them; for "a true witness delivereth souls", Pro 14:25; or by interceding for them, and giving counsel and advice concerning them, or by any lawful way they can; as Reuben delivered Joseph, Jonathan interceded for David, and Ahikam and Ebedmelech for Jeremiah. Life is valuable, and all means should be taken to save it, and to prevent the shedding of innocent blood; and a man should not forbear or spare any cost, or pains, or time, to such service: likewise such as are drawn into snares and temptations, into immorality or heresy, which tend to the ruin of the souls of men, and bring them to eternal death; all proper, methods should be taken to restore such persons, to recover them out of the snare of the devil, which is saving souls from death, and covering a multitude of sins; see Ti2 2:25, Jam 5:19; and those that are ready to be slain; or (i) "bending to slaughter"; are within a little of being executed, or put to death, upon a false accusation; for about others that suffer righteously there need not be that concern here pressed, or whose works and ways incline to destruction and lead to it, of which they seem not very far off. (h) "captos ad mortem", Montanus. Piscator, Schultens. (i) "inclinantes ad necem", Mercerus; "nutantes ad occasionem", Montanus, Coeccius; "nutantes ad lanienam", Schultens.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Note, 1. In the day of adversity we are apt to faint, to droop and be discouraged, to desist from our work, and to despair of relief. Our spirits sink, and then our hands hang down and our knees grow feeble, and we become unfit for anything. And often those that are most cheerful when they are well droop most, and are most dejected, when any thing ails them. 2. This is an evidence that our strength is small, and is a means of weakening it more. "It is a sign that thou art not a man of any resolution, any firmness of thought, any consideration, any faith (for that is the strength of a soul), if thou canst not bear up under an afflictive change of thy condition." Some are so feeble that they can bear nothing; if a trouble does but touch them (Job 4:5), nay, if it does but threaten them, they faint immediately and are ready to give up all for gone; and by this means they render themselves unfit to grapple with their trouble and unable to help themselves. Be of good courage therefore, and God shall strengthen thy heart.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
24:10 Saying 24: A wise person has self-control and strength under pressure (e.g., Dan 1:8-16; 3:1-18).
Proverbs 24:10
Saying 25
9A foolish scheme is sin, and a mocker is detestable to men. 10If you faint in the day of distress, how small is your strength! 11Rescue those being led away to death, and restrain those stumbling toward the slaughter.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Rescue the Perishing
By Joseph Chauke73300:00PRO 24:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of preaching the gospel without compromise. He highlights the spiritual blindness that the God of this world has caused, regardless of one's education or intellectual understanding. The preacher shares a personal experience of teaching a chorus to soldiers from different armies, witnessing their emotional response and the impact of the message. He then transitions to discussing the infallible and immutable word of God, emphasizing its eternal significance. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the importance of completing a project and a reference to Proverbs and Timothy in relation to the preacher's invitation to speak.
Satan
By Leonard Ravenhill491:18:56Spiritual WarfareSatanResistance Against TemptationPRO 24:10EPH 6:101PE 5:8Leonard Ravenhill addresses the pervasive influence of Satan in the world, emphasizing the need for believers to recognize their adversary and the spiritual warfare they face. He highlights the importance of strength in adversity, referencing Peter's warning about the devil as a roaring lion, and encourages Christians to put on the full armor of God to withstand the enemy's attacks. Ravenhill also discusses the deceptive nature of Satan, who misrepresents God and tempts believers with power and shortcuts, urging the congregation to remain vigilant and grounded in their faith. He concludes by reminding them of the power they have through Christ to resist the devil and the necessity of daily choosing to serve God.
Being Prepared
By Peter Hammond0GEN 6:11GEN 41:331SA 17:45JOB 5:7PRO 3:25PRO 24:10PRO 27:12ECC 9:12MAT 7:24LUK 12:4LUK 22:36ACT 14:22ROM 8:281CO 9:24PHP 4:121TI 4:81TI 5:8Peter Hammond preaches on the importance of being prudent and prepared for adversity, drawing lessons from biblical figures like Noah, Joseph, and the Apostle Paul who faced hardships but trusted in God. The sermon emphasizes the need to fear God alone, make practical preparations for the future, and build a strong foundation on God's Word to endure life's storms. It highlights the significance of mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical preparedness, urging believers to trust in God's sovereignty and cultivate a deep personal relationship with Him.
Letter 176.
By James Bourne0PSA 34:17PRO 24:10ISA 41:10ISA 48:10JAS 4:10James Bourne encourages M. and J. G. to remain steadfast in the face of adversity, emphasizing the importance of prayer, confession, and trusting in the Lord's sovereignty. He reminds them that in times of desperation, crying out to the Lord brings relief, especially when faced with impossible situations. Bourne urges them to humbly confess their sins and weaknesses, knowing that God exalts the humble and refines them like precious metal in a furnace. He emphasizes the need for both judgment and mercy in true religion, pointing to God's wise purposes even in difficult circumstances.
Dangers in the Way #2 "Dangers of Prosperity and Adversity"
By A.W. Tozer0Dangers of AdversityDangers of ProsperityDEU 32:9PRO 24:10LUK 12:16LUK 21:34REV 3:15A.W. Tozer addresses the dual dangers of prosperity and adversity in the Christian life, emphasizing that both can lead to spiritual peril. He illustrates how prosperity can foster independence from God, as seen in the history of Israel, while adversity can either strengthen faith or lead to despair. Tozer encourages believers to remain vigilant, detached from earthly possessions, and to view themselves as pilgrims on a journey to their eternal home. He offers practical advice on how to navigate these dangers by thanking God, sharing generously, and walking circumspectly. Ultimately, he reminds the congregation that true security lies in trusting God as their Rock and Fortress.
Of Christian Fortitude.
By John Gill0Christian FortitudeStrength in AdversityJOS 24:15PSA 27:1PRO 24:10ISA 41:10ROM 8:351CO 16:132TI 1:7HEB 12:11JN 2:14REV 12:11John Gill emphasizes the importance of Christian fortitude, which is characterized by a firm and courageous spirit that aligns with God's will. He distinguishes true Christian fortitude from natural bravery and civil courage, asserting that it is rooted in faith and obedience to God, especially in the face of trials and adversities. Gill illustrates that this fortitude is necessary for performing religious duties, enduring afflictions, and engaging in spiritual warfare, ultimately leading to a fearless approach to death. He encourages believers to draw strength from God, the Scriptures, and the examples of faithful saints, highlighting that true courage comes from a deep understanding of God's love and promises. The sermon calls Christians to embody this fortitude in their daily lives, reflecting the strength that comes from their relationship with Christ.
From the Death of Judas Maccabeus to the Death of Queen Alexandra
By Flavius Josephus0DEU 31:6JOS 1:92CH 15:7PSA 27:1PSA 31:24PSA 56:3PSA 112:7PRO 24:101CO 16:13Flavius Josephus recounts the historical events from the death of Judas Maccabeus to the rise of Simon as the leader of the Jewish people. Jonathan, the high priest, is treacherously killed by Trypho, leading to fear and uncertainty among the Jews. Simon, Jonathan's brother, steps up as a courageous leader, rallying the people to stand strong against their enemies and promising to avenge his brother's death. Simon's speech inspires the people to have hope and confidence in facing the upcoming challenges.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The last of these four distichs stands without visible connection: Hast thou shown thyself slack in the day of adversity, Then is thy strength small. The perf. 10a is the hypothetic, vid., at Pro 22:29. If a man shows himself remiss (Pro 18:9), i.e., changeable, timorous, incapable of resisting in times of difficulty, then shall he draw therefrom the conclusion which is expressed in 10b. Rightly Luther, with intentional generalization, "he is not strong who is not firm in need." But the address makes the proverb an earnest admonition, which speaks to him who shows himself weak the judgment which he has to pronounce on himself. And the paronomasia צרה and צר may be rendered, where possible, "if thy strength becomes, as it were, pressed together and bowed down by the difficulty just when it ought to show itself (viz., להרחיב לך), then it is limited, thou art a weakling." Thus Fleischer accordingly, translating: si segnis fueris die angustiae, angustae sunt vires tuae. Hitzig, on the contrary, corrects after Job 7:11, רוּחך "Klemm (klamm) ist dein Mut" [= strait is thy courage]. And why? Of כסה [strength], he remarks, one can say כשׁל [it is weak] (Psa 31:11), but scarcely צר [strait, straitened]; for force is exact, and only the region of its energy may be wide or narrow. To this we answer, that certainly of strength in itself we cannot use the word כסה drow eht esu t in the sense here required; the confinement (limitation) may rather be, as with a stream, Isa 59:19, the increasing (heightening) of its intensity. But if the strength is in itself anything definite, then on the other hand its expression is something linear, and the force in view of its expression is that which is here called צר, i.e., not extending widely, not expanding, not inaccessible. צר is all to which narrow limits are applied. A little strength is limited, because it is little also in its expression.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Literally, "If thou fail in the day of straits (adversity), strait (or, small) is thy strength," which is then truly tested.
John Gill Bible Commentary
If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death,.... Or "taken for or unto death" (h), in a violent way; who are taken by thieves and robbers, and used in a barbarous manner, as the man in the parable, whom the priest and Levite took no notice of, and was helped by the good Samaritan; or who are unjustly sentenced and appointed to death by the civil magistrate; if any know their innocency, it becomes them to do all they can to save their lives, by bearing a testimony for them; for "a true witness delivereth souls", Pro 14:25; or by interceding for them, and giving counsel and advice concerning them, or by any lawful way they can; as Reuben delivered Joseph, Jonathan interceded for David, and Ahikam and Ebedmelech for Jeremiah. Life is valuable, and all means should be taken to save it, and to prevent the shedding of innocent blood; and a man should not forbear or spare any cost, or pains, or time, to such service: likewise such as are drawn into snares and temptations, into immorality or heresy, which tend to the ruin of the souls of men, and bring them to eternal death; all proper, methods should be taken to restore such persons, to recover them out of the snare of the devil, which is saving souls from death, and covering a multitude of sins; see Ti2 2:25, Jam 5:19; and those that are ready to be slain; or (i) "bending to slaughter"; are within a little of being executed, or put to death, upon a false accusation; for about others that suffer righteously there need not be that concern here pressed, or whose works and ways incline to destruction and lead to it, of which they seem not very far off. (h) "captos ad mortem", Montanus. Piscator, Schultens. (i) "inclinantes ad necem", Mercerus; "nutantes ad occasionem", Montanus, Coeccius; "nutantes ad lanienam", Schultens.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Note, 1. In the day of adversity we are apt to faint, to droop and be discouraged, to desist from our work, and to despair of relief. Our spirits sink, and then our hands hang down and our knees grow feeble, and we become unfit for anything. And often those that are most cheerful when they are well droop most, and are most dejected, when any thing ails them. 2. This is an evidence that our strength is small, and is a means of weakening it more. "It is a sign that thou art not a man of any resolution, any firmness of thought, any consideration, any faith (for that is the strength of a soul), if thou canst not bear up under an afflictive change of thy condition." Some are so feeble that they can bear nothing; if a trouble does but touch them (Job 4:5), nay, if it does but threaten them, they faint immediately and are ready to give up all for gone; and by this means they render themselves unfit to grapple with their trouble and unable to help themselves. Be of good courage therefore, and God shall strengthen thy heart.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
24:10 Saying 24: A wise person has self-control and strength under pressure (e.g., Dan 1:8-16; 3:1-18).