EGW WritingsProverbs 10

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 21, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 21, 1894, par. 9

O, how can God bear with the misdeeds of those who have had great light and advantages, and yet follow the course of their own choosing, to their eternal harm? Solomon, who had solemnly charged the people at the dedication of the temple, “Let your heart be perfect with the Lord your God” [1 Kings 8:61], chose his own way, and in his own heart separated from God. The mind that was once given to God and inspired of God to write the most precious words of wisdom (the book of Proverbs)—truths which are immortalized—that noble mind, through evil associations and yielding to temptations, became inefficient, weak in moral power, and Solomon dishonored himself, dishonored Israel, and dishonored his God.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 40, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 40, 1898, par. 15

Solomon wrote the book of Proverbs, but after a time his wisdom became mingled with chaff. When came the chaff? After a manhood of such glorious promise, a change came in Solomon’s history. He did not continue true to his purity and allegiance to God. He broke through the barriers which God had erected to preserve His people from idolatry. The Lord had singled out Israel as a nation, making them the depositaries of sacred truth, to be given to the world. But Solomon cherished pride of political powers. He encouraged alliances with pagan kingdoms. He procured the silver of Tarshish and the gold of Ophir, but it was at the expense of destroying sacred trusts. Evil communications corrupted good manners. One false movement led to an acquaintance with idolaters. He formed marriage alliances with the daughters of pagan worshipers, and his wives led him away from God. His separation from God through communication with idolaters ruined him.

Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene

Chapter 11—General Hygiene

CTBH 96.3

God has given us all something to do; and in the discharge of various duties, our lives will be made useful, and we shall be blessed. “Not slothful in business,” [Romans 12:11.] is the injunction of the apostle Paul. A person might as well expect a harvest where he has not sown, as to expect to be saved while living in indolence. The race is not always to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, yet “he shall become poor that dealeth with a slack hand.” [Proverbs 10:4.] Those who are diligent in business may not always be prospered; but drowsiness and idleness are sure to grieve the Spirit of God, and destroy true godliness. A stagnant pool becomes offensive; but a pure, flowing brook spreads health and gladness over the land.

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

The Relation Between Christianity and Human Effort

CT 278.1

The race is not always to the swift, nor the battle to the strong; and those who are diligent in business may not always be prospered. But it is “the hand of the diligent” that “maketh rich.” And while indolence and drowsiness grieve the Holy Spirit and destroy true godliness, they also tend to poverty and want. “He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand.” Proverbs 10:4.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Diligence in Business

2TT 45.1

“Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.” Proverbs 22:29. “He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.” Proverbs 10:4. “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another; not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.” Romans 12:10, 11.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 58, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 58, 1890, par. 11

The race is not always to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, and those who are diligent in business may not always be prospered; but it is “the hand of the diligent” that “maketh rich.” And while idleness and drowsiness grieve the Holy Spirit and destroy true godliness, they also tend to poverty and want. “He shall become poor that dealeth with a slack hand.” Proverbs 10:4.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]

MR No. 1097—The True Sabbath versus the False Sabbath; an Appeal for Total Commitment”

14MR 94.2

It is the spirit that dwells in the children of disobedience that decides their future eternal destiny. Men who conceal their convictions of duty because they are afraid of suffering persecution are not following the true, but the false, shepherd. To maintain principle at all hazard is the highest path one can travel, because by doing this we follow Jesus. That which has a “Thus saith the Lord” is right and expedient. God has said, “He that walketh uprightly walketh surely” [Proverbs 10:9]. If you suffer for the truth’s sake, you are partakers with Christ in His suffering, and will be partakers with Him in His glory.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 17 [Nos. 1236-1300]

MR No. 1250—Lessons From Sightseeing in Nimes; The Wilderness Temptations of Christ; Faithful Sabbathkeeping Enjoined

17MR 81.2

The God-fearing Christian sees that Satan is tempting, “Worship me” and “all these things will I give thee.” But naked duty must be chosen. Worship God in obeying His commandments, and [do] not bow the knee to the man of sin. Let not Satan’s bribe be accepted, but manfully be true to God. Even if the world calls you singular, that which is right in God’s sight, do. “He that walketh uprightly walketh surely” (Proverbs 10:9).

Sons and Daughters of God

The Mind Fixed on Christ, April 14

SD 111.1

He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that perverteth his ways shall be known. Proverbs 10:9.

To Be Like Jesus

Build Character on Jesus, the Rock, June 13

BLJ 176.2

The very first step in the path to life is to keep the mind stayed on God, to have His fear continually before the eyes. A single departure from moral integrity blunts the conscience, and opens the door to the next temptation. “He that walketh uprightly walketh surely; but he that perverteth his ways shall be known” (Proverbs 10:9).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 108, 1886

4LtMs, Lt 108, 1886, par. 16

The God-fearing Christian sees that Satan is tempting, “Worship me,” and “All these things will I give thee.” [Matthew 4:9.] But naked duty must be chosen—worship God in obeying His commandments and not bow the knee to the man of sin. Let not Satan’s bribe be accepted, but manfully be true to God even if the world calls you singular; that which is right in God’s sight, do. “He that walketh uprightly walketh surely.” Proverbs 10:9.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 7a, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, par. 18

It is the spirit that dwells in the children of disobedience that decides their future eternal destiny. Men who conceal their convictions of duty because they are afraid of suffering persecution are not following the true, but the false, shepherd. To maintain principle at all hazard is the highest path one can travel, because by doing this we follow Jesus. That which has a “Thus saith the Lord” is right and expedient. God has said, “He that walketh uprightly walketh surely.” [Proverbs 10:9.] If you suffer for the truth’s sake, you are partakers with Christ in His suffering, and will be partakers with Him in His glory.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 94, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 94, 1902, par. 30

To walk in the light is to walk uprightly, perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord. The path of obedience is the path to heaven. It is the only path of safety. Following it, we follow on to know the Lord. “He that walketh uprightly walketh surely.” [Proverbs 10:9.] The law of the Lord is in his heart, and his steps do not slide. He stands firm in Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 92, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 92, 1893, par. 9

These special directions should be followed. The rules laid down are plain and explicit; but how few obey these rules, how few are doers of the words of Christ. How large a number neglect the very plain directions given, and as the result many souls are lost. How much we, as individuals, need tact, mercy, and the love of God. “The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life; but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.” [Proverbs 10:11.]

To Be Like Jesus

Decided Efforts Must Be Made Against Sin, July 7

BLJ 201.1

Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life, but one who rejects a rebuke goes astray. Proverbs 10:17, NRSV.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 81, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 81, 1897, par. 11

While special pains may be taken to make the school what it should be, two or three students, who act like larrikins, may make it very hard for those who are trying to maintain order. The students who want to do right, who want to think soberly, are greatly hindered by the association of those who are doing cheap, miserable work. “In the multitude of words there wanteth no sin.” [Proverbs 10:19.] A few may be able to separate from such company, and retire to some place where they can ask the Lord Jesus to guard them from all defilement by keeping their minds stayed upon Him. But the trial to which they are subjected by their associates is not at all necessary.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 19, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 19, 1897, par. 35

Christ declared that those who honor Him, He will honor. [1 Samuel 2:30.] “In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin.” [Proverbs 10:19.] Much talking does not speak forth the praises of Christ. Here is a work to be done. Every soul, unless daily converted to Christ, will dishonor God, and make the whole universe of heaven ashamed of them. They dishonor their own souls and do great injustice to themselves. The Author of our being claims from us, as His subjects, more, a great deal more, and of altogether a different character than we give Him. He has entrusted us with ability to learn of Him out of His Word, and with power to obey every requirement of His Word. This truth is able to make us wise unto salvation.

Sermons and Talks, vol. 2

Manuscript 3, 1890

2SAT 72.5

The fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth. “By their fruits ye shall know them.” Solomon testifies: “The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth” (Proverbs 10:20). Those who are one with Christ cannot enjoy listening to trifling conversation, much less will they engage in it themselves. If the heart is spiritual, there will be spiritual conversation, for “out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaketh” (Matthew 12:34). In our words and actions our thoughts will be revealed just as they are. The life is a true unfurling of the banner, testifying what is in the heart.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 3, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 3, 1890, par. 7

The fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth. “By their fruits ye shall know them.” [Matthew 7:20.] Solomon testifies: “The tongue of the just is as choice silver; the heart of the wicked is little worth.” Proverbs 10:20. Those who are one with Christ cannot enjoy listening to trifling conversation; much less will they engage in it themselves. If the heart is spiritual, there will be spiritual conversation; for “out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaketh.” Matthew 12:34. In our words and actions our thoughts will be revealed, just as they are. The life is a true unfurling of the banner, testifying what is in the heart.

Conflict and Courage

A Place in Line, January 3

CC 9.1

The lips of the righteous feed many. Proverbs 10:21.

Conflict and Courage

True Riches, July 7

CC 194.1

The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. Proverbs 10:22.

The Ministry of Healing

Myths and Fairy Tales

MH 448.2

“The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich,
And He addeth no sorrow with it.” Proverbs 22:17-21; Psalm 78:5, 4, 6, 7; Proverbs 10:22.

From Splendor to Shadow

None of Us Is Wiser Than Solomon

SS 30.4

Pride, feeling no need, closes the heart against the infinite blessings of Heaven. He who makes self-glorification his aim will find himself destitute of the grace of God, through whose efficiency the truest riches and the most satisfying joys are won. But he who gives all and does all for Christ will know the fulfillment of the promise, “The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and He addeth no sorrow with it.” Proverbs 10:22. The Saviour banishes from the soul unrest and unholy ambition, changing enmity to love and unbelief to confidence. When He speaks to the soul, saying, “Follow Me,” the spell of the world’s enchantment is broken. At the sound of His voice, greed and ambition flee from the heart, and men arise, emancipated, to follow Him.

Radiant Religion

God Only Permits Sorrow, April 26

RRe 118.1

The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and He addeth no sorrow with it. Proverbs 10:22.

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

A Purer Fountain

CT 385.6

“The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich,
And He addeth no sorrow with it.” Proverbs 10:22.

Education

Honest Business Dealings

Ed 142.7

“The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and He addeth no sorrow with it.” Proverbs 10:22.

God’s Amazing Grace

Invincible, September 28

AG 279.1

The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. Proverbs 10:22.

In Heavenly Places

Cheerfulness Without Levity, August 26

HP 245.1

The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. Proverbs 10:22.

Our Father Cares

The Smiles of God, April 16

OFC 118.1

The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. Proverbs 10:22.

Our High Calling

The Smiles of God, July 9

OHC 196.1

The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. Proverbs 10:22.

Prophets and Kings

Chapter 3—Pride of Prosperity

PK 60.2

Whenever pride and ambition are indulged, the life is marred, for pride, feeling no need, closes the heart against the infinite blessings of Heaven. He who makes self-glorification his aim will find himself destitute of the grace of God, through whose efficiency the truest riches and the most satisfying joys are won. But he who gives all and does all for Christ will know the fulfillment of the promise, “The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and He addeth no sorrow with it.” Proverbs 10:22. With the gentle touch of grace the Saviour banishes from the soul unrest and unholy ambition, changing enmity to love and unbelief to confidence. When He speaks to the soul, saying, “Follow Me,” the spell of the world’s enchantment is broken. At the sound of His voice the spirit of greed and ambition flees from the heart, and men arise, emancipated, to follow Him.

The Faith I Live By

Ambition Brings Sorrow, March 2

FLB 67.1

The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it. Proverbs 10:22.

Radiant Religion

To Do Wickedness, August 21

RRe 235.1

It is as sport to a fool to do mischief [Revised Version, “wickedness”]: but a man of understanding hath wisdom. Proverbs 10:23.

My Life Today

Security in Christ Improves Health, May 25

ML 149.1

The fear of the Lord prolongeth days. Proverbs 10:27.

Radiant Religion

The Coming of the Lord Is My Hope, March 31

RRe 92.1

The hope of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish. Proverbs 10:28.

Our Father Cares

To Walk in His Way, January 22

OFC 33.1

The way of the Lord is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity. Proverbs 10:29.

Sons and Daughters of God

To Walk in His Way, July 4

SD 192.1

The way of the Lord is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity. Proverbs 10:29.