Proverbs 23:10-11

As in Proverbs 22:28, Solomon reminds us that the boundaries in Israel mattered to God in a special way. But verses 10-11 are also about a child that has no father. Perhaps the child’s father died. Now the child has nobody who will protect the child’s property. Perhaps nobody cares about that child.

But God is like a father to that child. God will protect the child. God will not allow you to steal from that child. God defends the child who has no parents. See Psalms 10:14. God cares for children.

Jesus said, ‘Allow the little children to come to me!’ (Mark 10:14)

v12 Learn instructions! Listen to knowledge!

v13 Teach your child to do the right things!

A smack might save him from death.

v14 Smack him!

Save his spirit from death!

v15 My son, if you learn to be wise, then I shall be glad.

v16 I shall be glad when you speak the right words.