Quite a number of the Proverbs here speak of how someone can end up in trouble and even face death. The two main reasons for trouble in are wickedness and foolishness.

In regards to foolishness the following proverbs speak. Good planning avoids trouble but hasty decisions lead to poverty (v5). Wandering away from the path of good sense will bring a person to death (v16). Loving pleasure takes a man into poverty as his life is directed on the wrong priorities (v17). Another cause for trouble is marrying the wrong person (v9, 19).

We need to ask ourselves are we wise in our thinking and decision-making?

In regards to wickedness we’re told that what is gained through a lying tongue will not last (v6). False witness will ultimately perish (v28). The God of all truth hates lying and deceit and will bring judgment on them. Also living a life of violence will mean being swept away (v7).

Our actions are all watched by the Righteous One who will bring the wicked to ruin (v12). Closing your ear to the cries of the poor will bring trouble (v13).

We need to ask ourselves are we righteous or wicked in our hearts?