Know
well the state of your flocks, and pay attention to your herds
Proverbs 27:23
Proverbs 27 [20.] Sheol and Abaddon are never satisfied;
and a man’s eyes are never satisfied.
but man is refined by his praise.
Though you grind a fool in a mortar with a pestle along with grain,
yet his foolishness will not be removed from him.
Know well the state of your flocks,
and pay attention to your herds:
for riches are not forever,
nor does even the crown endure to all generations.
Meaning:
This verse, while simple in its wording, carries profound wisdom regarding stewardship, responsibility, and the importance of diligence in caring for what has been entrusted to us.
Authorship: Proverbs is traditionally attributed to King Solomon, known for his wisdom. The book contains practical advice and moral teachings that are timeless in their application.
Focus on Responsibility: This specific proverb falls within a section that emphasizes the importance of careful management and attentiveness to one’s responsibilities.
Significance
- Knowing the State of Your Flocks:
Stewardship: In an agricultural society, flocks and herds represented wealth, livelihood, and sustenance. Knowing their state implies being fully aware of their health, needs, and well-being.
Responsibility: The proverb emphasizes the importance of being responsible for what has been entrusted to us. Whether it’s livestock, a business, or any other resource, we must be attentive and proactive in our management.
- Paying Attention to Your Herds:
Diligence: This phrase underscores the need for diligence and regular oversight. It suggests that we shouldn’t be passive or neglectful in our duties but should consistently monitor and care for our resources.
Preventative Care: By paying attention, potential issues can be identified and addressed before they become major problems. This proactive approach helps ensure long-term prosperity and success.
Theological Reflection
- Biblical Stewardship:
God’s Entrustment: Everything we have is a gift from God, and we are called to be good stewards of these gifts (1 Corinthians 4:2). This proverb aligns with the broader biblical teaching on stewardship, where we are accountable to God for how we manage what He has given us.
Faithfulness in Small Things: Jesus taught that those who are faithful in little will be given much (Luke 16:10). Proverbs 27:23 reflects this principle, encouraging us to be faithful in the seemingly small or mundane tasks, as they have significant impact.
- Practical Wisdom:
Planning and Preparation: The wisdom in this proverb is not only spiritual but practical. It encourages foresight, planning, and preparation—qualities that lead to stability and success in both personal and professional life.
Avoiding Neglect: The verse serves as a warning against neglect, reminding us that failure to care for what we have can lead to loss and hardship. Diligence in our duties protects against unforeseen difficulties.
Practical Applications
- Personal Responsibility:
Attentiveness in Roles: Whether in our careers, homes, or communities, it’s essential to be attentive and responsible. Know the "state" of your work, relationships, finances, and spiritual life. Regularly assess and make adjustments as needed.
Daily Diligence: Develop a habit of daily diligence in your tasks. Small, consistent efforts can prevent larger issues from arising and contribute to long-term success.
- Stewardship of Resources:
Manage Finances Wisely: Just as a shepherd must know the condition of their flock, we should be aware of our financial situation, budgeting carefully and planning for the future. This includes saving, investing, and giving generously.
Care for Relationships: This proverb can also be applied to our relationships. Pay attention to the "state" of your relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. Regularly invest time and effort to maintain and strengthen these connections.
- Leadership and Oversight:
Effective Leadership: For those in leadership roles, this proverb encourages close oversight of those under your care. Whether managing a team at work or leading a family, knowing the condition of those you lead is crucial for their well-being and success.
Accountability: Be accountable in your role as a leader or steward. Recognize that God has entrusted you with certain responsibilities, and you are to manage them with wisdom and care.
Cross-References:
1 Peter 5:2-3: "Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but voluntarily, not for dishonest gain, but willingly." This New Testament passage uses the metaphor of shepherding to describe the care and responsibility of church leaders, paralleling the wisdom found in Proverbs 27:23.
Luke 12:42-44: "The Lord said, 'Who then is the faithful and wise steward, whom his lord will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the right times? Blessed is that servant whom his lord will find doing so when he comes.'" Jesus emphasizes the blessing that comes from being a faithful and wise steward, diligently fulfilling one’s responsibilities.
Proverbs 6:6-8: "Go to the ant, you sluggard. Consider her ways, and be wise; which having no chief, overseer, or ruler, provides her bread in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest." This passage also emphasizes the importance of diligence and preparation, encouraging us to be proactive and responsible.
Conclusion: Proverbs 27:23 offers timeless wisdom on the importance of stewardship, responsibility, and diligence. It encourages us to be attentive to the resources, roles, and relationships that have been entrusted to us, whether in our personal lives, careers, or spiritual journey. By knowing the state of our "flocks" and paying attention to our "herds," we can prevent problems, ensure long-term success, and honor God with how we manage what He has given us. Let this verse inspire us to live with diligence and responsibility, always seeking to be faithful stewards of all that God has entrusted to our care.
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible