Proverbs 25:20 – The answer for a despondent heart

singing songsProverbs 25:20 – As he that taketh away [remove] a garment [robe; coat; blanket] in cold weather, and as vinegar upon nitre [soda used as a cleanser; example – baking soda], so is he that singeth songs to an heavy heart [troubled heart; wicked or evil heart].”

Proverbs 25:20 reminds me of King Saul employing David to play a musical lyre when his spirit was troubled.  Saul had sinned against the Lord (1 Samuel 15:9-23) and the Lord sent His prophet Samuel to announce the penalty of his sin would be his throne would be given to another man and his household (1 Samuel 15:28, 35).   Saul became despondent in spirit and his servants suggested music might soothe the king’s troubled soul (1 Samuel 16:16).  As a shepherd boy, David had perfected his musical skills while tending his father’s sheep and was summoned to play his lyre in the king’s court (1 Samuel 16:17-22).  David playing lyreThe soothing sounds of David’s pastoral music quieted the heart of Saul, but only temporarily.  King Saul realized what every troubled soul feels—no amount of distractions, amusements or vices can quiet the turbulence of a soul cut off from God.

Solomon draws upon three illustrations in Proverbs 25:20 to describe the futility of ministering to a heavy, sin-laden heart: 1) The cruelty of taking a man’s coat in winter; 2) The impossibility of controlling a chemical reaction when vinegar is mixed with soda powder; 3) The pointless use of cheerful music and song to bring anything more than temporal comfort to a heavy, despondent heart.

Many are the troubled souls who seek solace in drugs, alcohol and amusements.  However, when the music ends and the morning comes, those miserable souls have found no peace or relief.

What is the answer for a sinful, despondent heart?


man praying at the crossDear friend, will you not accept the futility of seeking peace and quietness of soul in the fleeting pleasures this world has to offer?  There is one place, and only one place where you can make peace with God and your soul—at the Cross where Christ died bearing the penalty of your sins.


Copyright 2014 – Travis D. Smith