Lesson 117: Proverbs 25:21
Proverbs 25:21
The Blueprint — The Verse
If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.
Memorization Practice
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The Context — The History
Proverbs 25 collects Solomon's proverbs copied in Hezekiah's era. Retaliatory justice was common in the ancient world; wisdom taught counterintuitive kindness that could shame an enemy into peace.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
This instruction appears among royal sayings about self-control and speech. Feeding a hungry enemy mirrors later teaching of Jesus and Paul about overcoming evil with good.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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Proverbs 25:20
20Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day,or like vinegar poured on a wound,is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.
Read the verse immediately before this lesson (Proverbs 25:20) to hear the lead-in to the passage.
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Proverbs 25:22
22In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head,and the Lord will reward you.
Read the verse immediately after this lesson (Proverbs 25:22) to continue the passage.
Discussion
- How does serving an enemy test your faith?
- What practical kindness can you show someone difficult?
- Why might kindness be 'burning coals' on an enemy's head?