Statement 1: 1+1 = 2. This is true. It is true in Australia. It is true in every place on the planet. In fact, we think it's true everywhere in the Universe. You can count on it.
Statement 2: "The early bird catches the worm." Is this true? Is it true in the same way? Is it true at all times an in all places? Can you count on it in the same way?
Clearly, the two statements are different. Though we would consider them both true. They are, however, true in different ways.
When we think about Proverbs in the Bible, they are more like the second statement than the first.
The Proverbs bring truthful observations to us; observations about life, about human relationships, about God. We interact with them by considering them, reflecting on them, and looking to them for guidance in making decisions. The feel true to us, and they prove their truthfulness when we begin to live our lives consistent with their advice.
Many things have changed in the world since the proverbs were written. But some things have not changed. People are still essentially the same. Relationships still work in the same way. Good character is still developed in the same way. And God has not changed.
Proverbs point us to these unchanging realities. Though expressed in cultural language and forms, they point us to unchanging realities about human life. We do well to read them, reflect on them, and accept their wisdom. Let's consider...
Proverbs 10:26 - Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so is the lazy person to those who send them.