Proverbs 22: A Good Name
Best for: Parenting, reputation building
Overview
Proverbs 22 teaches that a good name is more desirable than great riches. The chapter covers the training of children, the consequences of debt, generosity to the poor, and boundaries in friendship. It contains the famous instruction to train up a child in the way he should go.
The chapter also begins the 'Sayings of the Wise,' a section of longer teachings that continue through chapter 24.
Key Verses
"A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold."— Proverbs 22:1 (KJV)
"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."— Proverbs 22:6 (KJV)
Key Themes
Reflection
Your reputation is being built by every decision you make today. What kind of name are you building? And are you investing the time to train the next generation in wisdom?
Practical Application
Think about the legacy you are building. Spend intentional time teaching a child or younger person something valuable about faith, character, or life skills.
Memorize This
"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."— Proverbs 22:6 (KJV)
Discussion Questions
- What is one piece of training — by word or example — you can give a younger person this week?
- How does the warning about the borrower being servant to the lender (v. 7) shape your finances?
- What 'good name' choices are you making, large or small (v. 1)?
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Read wisdom guideFrequently Asked Questions
What is Proverbs 22 about?
Proverbs 22 teaches that a good name is more desirable than great riches. The chapter covers the training of children, the consequences of debt, generosity to the poor, and boundaries in friendship. It contains the famous instruction to train up a child in the way he should go. The chapter also begins the 'Sayings of the Wise,' a section of longer teachings that continue through chapter 24.
What does Proverbs 22 teach us?
Your reputation is being built by every decision you make today. What kind of name are you building? And are you investing the time to train the next generation in wisdom?
What are the key themes of Proverbs 22?
The key themes of Proverbs 22 include: Reputation, Parenting, Wealth, Boundaries.
When should I read Proverbs 22?
Proverbs 22 is especially relevant for: Parenting, reputation building. Many people read it on the 22th of each month as part of a Proverbs-a-day plan.
What is one piece of training — by word or example — you can give a younger person this week?
Reflect on Proverbs 22 and consider how this question applies to your daily walk in wisdom. Your reputation is being built by every decision you make today. What kind of name are you building? And are you investing the time to train the next generation in wisdom?
How does the warning about the borrower being servant to the lender (v. 7) shape your finances?
Reflect on Proverbs 22 and consider how this question applies to your daily walk in wisdom. Your reputation is being built by every decision you make today. What kind of name are you building? And are you investing the time to train the next generation in wisdom?
What 'good name' choices are you making, large or small (v. 1)?
Reflect on Proverbs 22 and consider how this question applies to your daily walk in wisdom. Your reputation is being built by every decision you make today. What kind of name are you building? And are you investing the time to train the next generation in wisdom?