The Problem of Co-signing For Someone
September 24, 2020
Commentary
We find in these verses a strong warning against taking advantage of the poor (vv. 22-23). The Lord is on the side of the weak and helpless and will bring judgment on those who take advantage of those who are needy. Next, we have a warning against being a friend or even associating with a hot-tempered person (vv. 24-25). Being associated with such a person will cause you to take on the wrathful ways of this person and even get caught up in a situation that is hard to get out of.
THE COMPANY YOU KEEP MAY DETERMINE THE TROUBLE YOU MEET.
We are warned several places in Scripture about putting up surety for another person’s debts (vv. 26-27). If you cosign for another and he fails to pay, you are in danger of losing your own bed. It would not be difficult to find numerous examples of people who have read Proverbs all their lives and still did not heed this warning. Many have lost nearly all they had by endorsing notes or going on the bond of those who failed to meet their financial obligations.
We find several places in Scripture the sin of moving boundary stones. A farmer could easily increase the size of his land and decrease his neighbor’s by moving the boundary lines. Its removal was prohibited (v. 28). Being diligent in one’s work is the best way to influence an employer. Diligence often results in a promotion (v. 29). Hearing about a good worker, a king will want to hire him.
Application
What has been your feelings about cosigning for another person or having another person cosign for you? Consider doing a study on this by looking up all the references that have to do with this subject.
Proverbs 22:22– 29 (NET)
22 Do not exploit a poor person because he is poor and do not crush the needy in court,
23 for the Lord will plead their case and will rob the life of those who are robbing them.
24 Do not make friends with an angry person, and do not associate with a wrathful person,
25 lest you learn his ways and entangle yourself in a snare.
26 Do not be one who strikes hands in pledge or who puts up security for debts.
27 If you do not have enough to pay, your bed will be taken right out from under you!
28 Do not move an ancient boundary stone that was put in place by your ancestors.
29 You have seen a person skilled in his work— he will take his position before kings; he will not take his position before obscure people.