Proverbs 27:27

You will have plenty of goats' milk to feed you--food for your household and nourishment for your maidservants.

Study Bible

And there will be enough goat’s milk
This phrase emphasizes God's provision and abundance. In ancient Israel, goats were a common source of milk, which was a staple in the diet. The Hebrew word for "enough" (דַּי, dai) suggests sufficiency and satisfaction, indicating that God provides not just barely enough, but abundantly. The mention of "goat’s milk" highlights the practical and everyday nature of God's blessings, reminding us that He cares for our daily needs.

for your food
The phrase "for your food" underscores the personal benefit of God's provision. The Hebrew word for "food" (לֶחֶם, lechem) often refers to bread or sustenance in general. This reflects the idea that God’s provision is meant to sustain us physically, ensuring that we have the necessary resources to live and thrive. It is a reminder of the Lord's Prayer, where we ask for our "daily bread," trusting in God's continual provision.

for the food of your household
This phrase extends the blessing of provision beyond the individual to the entire household. In the ancient context, a household included not just immediate family but also extended family and servants. The Hebrew word for "household" (בַּיִת, bayit) can mean a physical house or a family unit. This indicates that God's provision is comprehensive, covering all those under one's care, and highlights the responsibility of the head of the household to ensure the well-being of all members.

and nourishment for your maidservants
The inclusion of "maidservants" in this verse is significant. It reflects the social structure of ancient Israel, where servants were part of the household. The Hebrew word for "nourishment" (חַיִּים, chayim) implies life and sustenance. This phrase emphasizes the ethical responsibility to care for those who serve us, ensuring they are well-fed and treated with dignity. It is a call to stewardship and compassion, recognizing that God's blessings are meant to be shared with all, regardless of social status.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom.

2. Goats
Domesticated animals that were common in ancient Israel, providing milk, meat, and other resources.

3. Household
Refers to the family unit and those living under the care and provision of the head of the family.

4. Maidservants
Female servants who were part of the household, indicating a broader community beyond the immediate family.

5. Ancient Israel
The cultural and historical context in which Proverbs was written, where agriculture and livestock were central to daily life.

Teaching Points

God's Provision
Trust in God's ability to provide for all your needs, just as He provides for the household in Proverbs 27:27.

Stewardship
Be diligent and wise in managing the resources God has given you, ensuring that your household is well cared for.

Community Care
Recognize the importance of providing not only for your immediate family but also for those who are part of your extended household or community.

Contentment
Find satisfaction in the provision God grants, understanding that He knows what is sufficient for your needs.

Faith in Action
Demonstrate your faith by actively working and trusting in God's provision, balancing prayer with practical effort.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of provision in Proverbs 27:27 encourage you in your current circumstances?

2. In what ways can you practice better stewardship of the resources God has entrusted to you?

3. How can you extend care and provision to those beyond your immediate family, reflecting the broader household mentioned in the verse?

4. What other biblical examples of God's provision can you draw upon to strengthen your faith in His care?

5. How does the concept of contentment play a role in your understanding of God's provision as described in Proverbs 27:27?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 3:9-10
This passage speaks about honoring the Lord with your wealth and the resulting abundance, similar to the provision mentioned in Proverbs 27:27.

Psalm 23:1
The imagery of God as a shepherd who provides for His flock connects to the idea of provision and care.

1 Timothy 5:8
Emphasizes the importance of providing for one's household, aligning with the responsibility highlighted in Proverbs 27:27.

Matthew 6:31-33
Jesus teaches about trusting God for provision, which complements the assurance of having enough in Proverbs 27:27.

Philippians 4:19
Paul speaks of God supplying all needs, resonating with the theme of divine provision.