Proverbs 24:28 summons the believer to exercise prudence when inserting himself in another man’s affairs.
Proverbs 24:28 – “Be not a witness [giving testimony] against thy neighbour [associate; companion; friend] without cause [for nothing; in vain; without payment]; and deceive [entice; persuade; flatter] not with thy lips [speech; implying language].”
Busybodies they are called in the New Testament (2 Thessalonians 3:11; 1 Timothy 5:13), for they are busy about matters that do not concern them and in the process wreak havoc in families, friendships and fellowships. Solomon encouraged his son to do something we would all be wise to heed: Don’t get involved in another man’s matters unless there is a righteous cause and never say what you do not mean or believe.
Permit me a personal observation before I move on to the next proverb: Proverbs 24:28 has a 21st century application in a day when communication through electronic media dominates; some might argue stifles, traditional and societal relationships. It seems every man’s activities are now public and texting, emails, messaging, Instagrams and Facebook have usurped personal letters and phone calls. Discretion is disdained when the world is invited to “Like; Dislike; or Comment”. Privacy has been sacrificed and I am afraid deception reigns in a culture that places a premium on perception over truth. Solomon’s admonition is: “Deceive not with thy lips.”
Revenge is the subject of Proverbs 24:29.
Proverbs 24:29 – “Say [speak; answer; promise] not, I will do [make; wrought; execute; accomplish] so to him as he hath done [make; wrought; execute; accomplish] to me: I will render [return; deliver; requite] to the man according to his work [deeds; act].”
Although cloaked in the aspiration of justice, a vengeful, threatening spirit assumes the role of judge, jury and executioner and evidences at its heart a spirit of pride and 
malice. Unlike God who is just and forgiving (Ephesians 4:32), a vengeful, angry spirit rules the heart of the man who lacks the humility to trust God to be both Just and Sovereign.
Romans 12:18-19 – “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. 19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.”
Copyright 2015 – Travis D. Smith
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