Warnings and instructions are continued in chapter 29. In verse 15 Solomon says, "The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame." Too many parents today fail to apply the rod of correction to a child. I am sure no parent enjoys spanking his children but, according to God's Word, the rod is to be used for correction.
Verses 25 and 26 present the major hangup for Christians today. "The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe. Many seek the ruler's favour, but every man's judgment cometh from the Lord." It makes no difference whether you are in favor of the ruler, as long as your life is right with God. Too many people sell their birthright for a bowl of pottage, as Esau did. Do not try to gain favor with the rulers or the wrong crowd at the expense of your testimony. Have no fear of those who may laugh at you or mock you, but trust in the Lord and His promise is that you will be safe.
Only eternity will reveal the blessings that godly women have been down through the years. The Book of Proverbs has much to say about wicked women in chapters 1--9; about nagging wives in chapters 21 and 25, but the book closes with a glorious tribute to the godly, dedicated wife who brings honor to God and joy to her family. It has been said that behind every great man is an even greater woman. Certainly many servants of God thank Him for their godly wives and mothers. The most important decision a person will make, other than his decision for Christ, is the choice of a life's mate. "A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband" (Proverbs 12:4); "Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord" (Proverbs 1:22); "A prudent wife is from the Lord" (Proverbs 19:14).
