The Book of Proverbs: School of Wisdom - 26

Proverbs 26:1-28 (NIV)

Proverbs 26

¹ Like snow in summer or rain in harvest, honor is not fitting for a fool.

² Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow, an undeserved curse does not come to rest.

³ A whip for the horse, a halter for the donkey, and a rod for the backs of fools!

⁴ Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will be like him yourself.

⁵ Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.

⁶ Like cutting off one's feet or drinking violence is the sending of a message by the hand of a fool.

⁷ Like a lame man's legs that hang limp is a proverb in the mouth of a fool.

⁸ Like tying a stone in a sling is the giving of honor to a fool.

⁹ Like a thornbush in a drunkard's hand is a proverb in the mouth of a fool.

¹⁰ Like an archer who wounds at random is he who hires a fool or any passer-by.

¹¹ As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his folly.

¹² Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.

¹³ The sluggard says, "There is a lion in the road, a fierce lion roaming the streets!"

¹⁴ As a door turns on its hinges, so a sluggard turns on his bed.

¹⁵ The sluggard buries his hand in the dish; he is too lazy to bring it back to his mouth.

¹⁶ The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who answer discreetly.

¹⁷ Like one who seizes a dog by the ears is a passer-by who meddles in a quarrel not his own.

¹⁸ Like a madman shooting firebrands or deadly arrows

¹⁹ is a man who deceives his neighbor and says, "I was only joking!"

²⁰ Without wood a fire goes out; without gossip a quarrel dies down.

²¹ As charcoal to embers and as wood to fire, so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife.

²² The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man's inmost parts.

²³ Like a coating of glaze ^a]">[a] over earthenware are fervent lips with an evil heart.

²⁴ A malicious man disguises himself with his lips, but in his heart he harbors deceit.

²⁵ Though his speech is charming, do not believe him, for seven abominations fill his heart.

²⁶ His malice may be concealed by deception, but his wickedness will be exposed in the assembly.

²⁷ If a man digs a pit, he will fall into it; if a man rolls a stone, it will roll back on him.

²⁸ A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin.

Footnotes:

1. Proverbs 26:23 With a different word division of the Hebrew; Masoretic Text of silver dross

3 examples of failing curses:

1. Balaam's on Israel (Nehemiah 13:2)
2. Goliath's on David (1 Samuel 17:43)
3. Samuel's on David (2 Samuel 16:5,12)

10 proverbs about fools:

1. A rod on the back of fools is as suitable as a whip for a horse or a bridle for an ass (Prov. 26:3).

2. Do not answer a fool like a fool, lest you be considered one (Proverbs 26:4).

3. Answer a fool wisely to confute his folly and expose his senselessness, lest he be wise in his own eyes (Proverbs 26:5).

4. He that chooses a fool to be his messenger or to transact his business has to suffer the consequences of the fool's misconduct (Proverbs 26:6). He experiences in a large measure self-devised injury and deprives himself of attaining his end (Proverbs 10:26; 25:18).

5. Verse 7 is rendered several ways: As the legs of the lame are not equal so fools are not capable of uttering parables; as the legs of hte lame are useless, so are parables in the mouths of fools; as a lame man exposes his lameness, so fools expose their folly in expounding parables.

6. As it is folly to bind a stone to the sling if one wants to throw the stone, so it is folly to give honor to a fool (Proverbs 26:8).

7. As a drunkard is insensible to the prick of a thorn, so are fools in uttering parables (Prov. 26:9).

8. The word for God in verse 10 is rab and may mean either the great God or a great man. If it refers to God it means that He has created all things and will equally reward fools and transgressors accordingly to their works. If it refers to a great man it can be rendered, "A master (workman) forms all things aright: but he that hires a fool hires a transgressor who will spoil the work"

9. Fools repeat their own folly like a dog returning to his own vomit (Proverbs 26:11; 2 Peter 2:20-22). Here it isnot that foools merely make the same foolish assertions, but that they fall into the same course of action after brief endeavors or beginnings at improvement of their own lives, as in 2 Peter 2:20-22.

10.There is more hope for a fool than for men who are wise in their own eyes (Proverbs 26:12),


12 examples of returning to sin:

1. Aaron and Israel (Deuteronomy 32:8; Exodus 32:32-33; 1 Corinthians 10:1-11; Jude 5).
2. Nadab and abihu (Leviticus 10:1-20).
3. Korah and company (Numbers 16).
4. King Saul (1 Samuel 10:13-24; 1612-23; 1 Chronicles 10:13-14).
5. Many disciples of Jesus (John 6:66).
6. David (Psalm 51; 2 Samuel 12).
7. Judas (Psalm 41:9; 55:12-14; 69:25-28; 109:8; Matthew 26:24; John 13:18; Acts 1).
8. Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-14).
9. Many Galatians (Galatians 1;6-9; 5:4; 6:7-8).
10.Many early Christians (1 Timothy 1:19-20; 5:8-20; 6:1-21; 2 Timothy 2:18-21).
11.Demas (2 Timothy 4:10).
12.Whole churches (Revelation 2-3).

4 proverbs against laziness:

1. Verse 13 is almost identical with verse 22:13. The lazy man uses this as an excuse for his laziness, that there is a lion in the street so he must stay inside or be killed.

2. As the door stays on i ts hinges and never goes any palce, so the lazy man never moves from his bed to fill a useful palce in life (Proverbs 26:14; 6:10; 24:33).

3. The lazy man puts his hand in his bosom, or in the dish, and he is too overcharged with laziness to lift it to his mouth to eat (Proverbs 26:15; 19:24).

4. A lazy man is more self-conceited and wise in his own eyes than 7 reputable wise men who can truly solve problems (Proverbs 26:16).

5 examples of falling into own pit:

1. Jacob (Genesis 27:14 with 37:31-32).
2. Saul (1 Samuel 18:11 - 26:2 with 1 Samuel 31).
3. David (2 Samuel 11:14-15 with 12:10).
4. Haman (Esther 7:10).
5. Accusers of Daniel (Daniel 6:4-24).

The Book of Proverbs: School of Wisdom - 25

Proverbs 25:1-28 (NIV)

Proverbs 25

More Proverbs of Solomon

¹ These are more proverbs of Solomon, copied by the men of Hezekiah king of Judah:

² It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings.

³ As the heavens are high and the earth is deep, so the hearts of kings are unsearchable.

⁴ Remove the dross from the silver, and out comes material for ^a]">[a] the silversmith;

⁵ remove the wicked from the king's presence, and his throne will be established through righteousness.

⁶ Do not exalt yourself in the king's presence, and do not claim a place among great men;

⁷ it is better for him to say to you, "Come up here," than for him to humiliate you before a nobleman.
What you have seen with your eyes

⁸ do not bring ^b]">[b] hastily to court, for what will you do in the end if your neighbor puts you to shame?

⁹ If you argue your case with a neighbor, do not betray another man's confidence,

¹⁰ or he who hears it may shame you and you will never lose your bad reputation.

¹¹ A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.

¹² Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a wise man's rebuke to a listening ear.

¹³ Like the coolness of snow at harvest time is a trustworthy messenger to those who send him;
he refreshes the spirit of his masters.

¹⁴ Like clouds and wind without rain is a man who boasts of gifts he does not give.

¹⁵ Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.

¹⁶ If you find honey, eat just enough— too much of it, and you will vomit.

¹⁷ Seldom set foot in your neighbor's house— too much of you, and he will hate you.

¹⁸ Like a club or a sword or a sharp arrow is the man who gives false testimony against his neighbor.

¹⁹ Like a bad tooth or a lame foot is reliance on the unfaithful in times of trouble.

²⁰ Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar poured on soda, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.

²¹ If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.

²² In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you.

²³ As a north wind brings rain, so a sly tongue brings angry looks.

²⁴ Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.

²⁵ Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land.

²⁶ Like a muddied spring or a polluted well is a righteous man who gives way to the wicked.

²⁷ It is not good to eat too much honey, nor is it honorable to seek one's own honor.

²⁸ Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control.

Footnotes:

1. Proverbs 25:4 Or comes a vessel from
2. Proverbs 25:8 Or nobleman / on whom you had set your eyes. / 8 Do not go

6 examples of going forth to strive:

1. Gaal (Judges 9:26-40)
2. The ten tribes (Joshua 22:12-34)
3. Abner (2 Samuel 2:14-17)
4. Asahel (2 Samuel 2:14:17)
5. Amaziah (2 Kings 14:8-14)
6. Josiah (2 Chronicles 35:20-24)

6 things necessary to win a case:

1. A good cause
2. A good purse
3. Good evidence
4. A skillful attorney
5. An upright judge
6. An intelligent jury

5 kinds of word:

1. Appropriate words: words that come naturally, the run smoothly upon wheels, that are not forced, and that are without design to hurt are like apples of gold upon carvings of silver (Proverbs 25:11)

2. Reproving words: words of a wise reprover to an obedient ear are like the most beautiful and cherished ornaments of fine gold to a refined and beautiful woman (Proverbs 25:12)

3. Refreshing words: words of a faithful messenger are as refreshing and satisfying as a drink cooled by the snow in the heat of the harvest labor (Proverbs 25:13)

4. Vain words: words of the boaster are as disappointing as clouds without rain (Proverbs 25:14)

5. Kind words: by words of kindness, understanding, and longsuffering a judge is persuaded, as easily as a soft answer overcomes obstinacy in others (Proverbs 25:15)

2 examples of good for evil:

1. Azariah (2 Chronicels 28;12-15)
2. Elisha (2 Kings 6:19-23)

3 examples - good news from afar:

1. Jacob (Genesis 45:25-28)
2. Jesus Christ (Matthew 3:16-17; 17:5)
3. Paul (Colossians 1:3-4; Ephesians 1:15; Philemon 1)

The Book of Proverbs: School of Wisdom - 23

Proverbs 23:1-35 (NIV)

Proverbs 23

¹ When you sit to dine with a ruler, note well what ^a]">[a] is before you,

² and put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony.

³ Do not crave his delicacies, for that food is deceptive.

⁴ Do not wear yourself out to get rich; have the wisdom to show restraint.

⁵ Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.

⁶ Do not eat the food of a stingy man, do not crave his delicacies;

⁷ for he is the kind of man who is always thinking about the cost. ^b]">[b] "Eat and drink," he says to you,
but his heart is not with you.

⁸ You will vomit up the little you have eaten and will have wasted your compliments.

⁹ Do not speak to a fool, for he will scorn the wisdom of your words.

¹⁰ Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless,

¹¹ for their Defender is strong; he will take up their case against you.

¹² Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.

¹³ Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish him with the rod, he will not die.

¹⁴ Punish him with the rod and save his soul from death. ^c]">[c]

¹⁵ My son, if your heart is wise, then my heart will be glad;

¹⁶ my inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right.

¹⁷ Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the LORD.

¹⁸ There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.

¹⁹ Listen, my son, and be wise, and keep your heart on the right path.

²⁰ Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat,

²¹ for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.

²² Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.

²³ Buy the truth and do not sell it; get wisdom, discipline and understanding.

²⁴ The father of a righteous man has great joy; he who has a wise son delights in him.

²⁵ May your father and mother be glad; may she who gave you birth rejoice!

²⁶ My son, give me your heart and let your eyes keep to my ways,

²⁷ for a prostitute is a deep pit and a wayward wife is a narrow well.

²⁸ Like a bandit she lies in wait, and multiplies the unfaithful among men.

²⁹ Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes?

³⁰ Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.

³¹ Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly!

³² In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.

³³ Your eyes will see strange sights and your mind imagine confusing things.

³⁴ You will be like one sleeping on the high seas, lying on top of the rigging.

³⁵ "They hit me," you will say, "but I'm not hurt! They beat me, but I don't feel it! When will I wake up
so I can find another drink?"

Footnotes:

1. Proverbs 23:1 Or who
2. Proverbs 23:7 Or for as he thinks within himself, / so he is; or for as he puts on a feast, / so he is
3. Proverbs 23:14 Hebrew Sheol

5 commands to sons:

1. Consider who is before you and act accordingly. When it is the ruler and your blessing is that of honor instead of feasting (Proverbs 23:1)

2. Put a knife to your throat - do not be a glutton - subdue your own appetite and thus make a favorable impression (Proverbs 23:2)

3. Do not lust after the king's delicacies or appear as if you are not accustomed to such food (Proverbs 23:3)

4. Labor not to be rich, for riches take wings and fly away (Proverbs 23:4-5). Concentrate on eternal things

5. Cease from your own wisdom, that is, the kind which makes riches the chief end in life (Proverbs 23:4-5)

5 examples of men given to appetites:

1. Esau (Genesis 25:30)
2. Isaac (Genesis 25:28; 27:4)
3. Nabal (1 Samuel 25:36)
4. Belshazzar (Daniel 5)
5. False teachers (Philippians 3:18-19)

3 examples of laboring for riches:

1. Lot (Genesis 13:10)
2. The rich fool (Luke 12:16-20)
3. Rich men (1 Timothy 6:9-10; James 5:1-6)

2 things not to labor for:

1. To be rich only (Proverbs 23:4)
2. To have temporal food only (John 6:27)

8 things to labor for:

1. Eternal food (John 6:27)
2. To help the poor (Ephesians 4:28)
3. To win lost souls (Philippians 2:16)
4. To support the weak (Acts 20:35)
5. To perfect the saints (Colossians 4:12; Ephesians 4:11-14; Galatians 4:11; 1 Thess. 5:12)
6. Not to burden others (1 Thessalonians 2:9)
7. To enter eternal rest (Hebrews 4:1)
8. To be accepted of God (2 Corinthians 5:9)

6 commands to sons:

1. Do not carry on a conversation with a fool who will despise your words (Proverbs 23:9)
2. Remove not the old landmarks (Proverbs 23:10)
3. Enter not into the fields of orphans to rob them (Proverbs 23:10-11)
4. Apply your heart to wisdom (Proverbs 23:12)
5. Give ear to knowledge (Proverbs 23:12)
6. Do not hesitate to correct a child, even if you have to use a rod. You will not kill him, but you will save his soul from hell (Proverbs 23:13-14)

4 commands to sons:

1. Hearken
2. Depise not your parents (Proverbs 23:22)
3. Buy the truth, wisdom, instruction, and understanding (Proverbs 23:23)
4. Sell not the truth, wisdom, instruction, and understanding (Proverbs 23:23)

12 things not to despise:

1. Old mother (Proverbs 23;22)
2. Chastening of the LORD (Proverbs 3:11; Job 5:17; Hebrews 12:5)
3. A hungry thief (Proverbs 6:30; Deuteronomy 23:24-25)
4. The Word (Proverbs 13:13)
5. Neighbors (Proverbs 14:21)
6. Parents instructions (Proverbs 15:32; 30:17)
7. Children and believers (Matthew 18:10)
8. Weak Christians (Roman 14:3)
9. Prophecies (1 Thessalonians 5:20)
10.Youth (1 Timothy 4:12)
11.Masters (1 Timothy 6:12)
12.Ministers (Titus 2:15)

23 characteristics of a wise son:

1. Hears and obeys parents (Proverbs 1:5; 23:24)
2. Increases knowledge (Proverbs 1:5; 12:15)
3. Profits by examples (Proverbs 6:6)
4. Profits by rebuke (Proverbs 9:8; 15:31)
5. Increases wisdom (Proverbs 9:9)
6. Is diligent in business (Proverbs 10:5)
7. Welcomes commandments (Proverbs 10:8)
8. Lays up knowledge(Proverbs 10:14)
9. Controls lips, tongue (Proverbs 10;10; Proverbs 17:28)
10.Rules well (Proverbs 11:29)
11.Is a success in soul-winning (Proverbs 11:30)
12.Loves company of wise men (Proverbs 13:20)
13.Builds for the future (Proverbs 14:1)
14.Departs from evil (Proverbs 14:16)
15.Utters knowledge rightly (Proverbs 15:2,7)
16.Makes parents happy (Proverbs 23:15)
17.Seeks knowledge (Proverbs 18:15)
18.Lives in soberness (Proverbs 20:1)
19.Solves problems of men (Proverbs 21:22)
20.Increases strength (Proverbs 24:5)
21.Keeps the law (Proverbs 28:7)
22.Turns away from contention (Proverbs 29:8)
23.Controls self in strife (Proverbs 29:11)

18 commands concerning the heart:

1. Apply the heart to understanding (Proverbs 2:2; 22:17; 23:12)
2. Open the heart to wisdom (Proverbs 2:10)
3. Keep the commandments (Proverbs 3:1; 4:4, 21)
4. Write commandments on it (Proverbs 3:3; 7:3)
5. Trust in the LORD (Proverbs 3;5)
6. Keep it with all diligence (Proverbs 4:23)
7. Bind commandments upon it (Proverbs 6:21)
8. Do nut lust in it (Proverbs 6:25)
9. Do not be inclined to sin (Proverbs 7:25)
10.Have an understanding heart (Proverbs 8:5)
11.Be wise in it (Proverbs 11:29; 16:21; 12:23)
12.Retain wisdom in it (Proverbs 14:33)
13.Be merry in heart (Proverbs 15:13, 15)
14.Study answers with it (Proverbs 15:28)
15.Increase its knowledge (Proverbs 18:15)
16.Apply it to instruction (Proverbs 23:12)
17.Do not use it to envy sinners (Proverbs 23:17)
18.Give heart to wisdom (Proverbs 23:26)

6 curses of drunkards:

1. Woes
2. Sorrows
3. Contentions
4. Babblings
5. Wounds
6. Redness of eyes

16 characteristics of a wicked heart:

1. It despises reproof (Proverbs 5:12)
2. Is perverse: devises continual mischief, and sows discord (Proverbs 6:14)
3. Devises wicked imaginations (Proverbs 6:18)
4. Lusts after beautiful women (Proverbs 6:25)
5. Is full of subtilty (Proverbs 7:10)
6. Full of deceit (Proverbs 12:20)
7. Proclaims foolishness (Proverbs 12:23)
8. Is proud and abominable (Proverbs 16:5; 21:4; 28:25)
9. Haughty (Proverbs 18:12)
10.Fault-finding with God (Proverbs 19:3)
11.Perverse in talk (Proverbs 23:33)
12.Studies how to destroy others (Proverbs 24:2)
13.Is glad when others stumble (Proverbs 24:17)
14.Full of abominations (Proverbs 26:25)
15.Has increased hardening against God (Proverbs 28:14)
16.Trusts in self (Proverbs 28:26)

The Book of Proverbs: School of Wisdom - 22

Proverbs 22:1-29 (NIV)

Proverbs 22

¹ A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.

² Rich and poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all.

³ A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it.

⁴ Humility and the fear of the LORD bring wealth and honor and life.

⁵ In the paths of the wicked lie thorns and snares, but he who guards his soul stays far from them.

⁶ Train ^a]">[a] a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.

⁷ The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.

⁸ He who sows wickedness reaps trouble, and the rod of his fury will be destroyed.

⁹ A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.

¹⁰ Drive out the mocker, and out goes strife; quarrels and insults are ended.

¹¹ He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious will have the king for his friend.

¹² The eyes of the LORD keep watch over knowledge, but he frustrates the words of the unfaithful.

¹³ The sluggard says, "There is a lion outside!" or, "I will be murdered in the streets!"

¹⁴ The mouth of an adulteress is a deep pit; he who is under the LORD's wrath will fall into it.

¹⁵ Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him.

¹⁶ He who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and he who gives gifts to the rich—both come to poverty.

Sayings of the Wise

¹⁷ Pay attention and listen to the sayings of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach,

¹⁸ for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have all of them ready on your lips.

¹⁹ So that your trust may be in the LORD, I teach you today, even you.

²⁰ Have I not written thirty ^b]">[b] sayings for you, sayings of counsel and knowledge,

²¹ teaching you true and reliable words, so that you can give sound answers to him who sent you?

²² Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court,

²³ for the LORD will take up their case and will plunder those who plunder them.

²⁴ Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man, do not associate with one easily angered,

²⁵ or you may learn his ways and get yourself ensnared.

²⁶ Do not be a man who strikes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts;

²⁷ if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you.

²⁸ Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your forefathers.

²⁹ Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men.

Footnotes:

1. Proverbs 22:6 Or Start
2. Proverbs 22:20 Or not formerly written ; or not written excellent

5 examples of rod of anger failing:

1. Balak (Numbers 24:10)
2. Solomon (1 Kings 11:14, 23, 31, 40)
3. Ahaziah (2 Kings 1:9-17)
4. Sennacherib (2 Chronicles 32:21; Isaiah 30:31)
5. Haman (Esther 5:11-13; 7:10)

4 examples of overthrowing traitors:

1. Ahithophel (2 Samuel 17:14)
2. Noadiah (Nehemiah 6:14-16)
3. Ezra's opponents (Ezra 3:3, 3)
4. The Sanhedrin (Acts 5:34)

2 great evils that affect life:

1. Oppression of the poor to increase personal riches (Proverbs 22:16; James 2:6; 5:1-6)
2. Giving to the rich great gifts (aka bribes) to obtain personal favors (Proverbs 18:16; 22:16)

Both classes guilty of these evils will come to want because the poor are robbed in either case. While in the first, the poor are oppressed, in the second, the gifts given to the rich to secure favor should be given to the poor that they might be supplied.

In verses 17-21 there are no proverbs, but directions on how to profit by that which wisdom has already delivered, the nature of the instructions given, and purpose of which they were written:

3-fold command how to profit:

1. Bow down your ears (Proverbs 22:17)
2. Hear the words of the wise
3. Apply your heart to knowledge

4-fold purpose of these commands:

1. That one may receive personal pleasure and profit tot he soul (Proverbs 22:18)
2. That one may get experimental knowledge and be equipped to speak wisdom to others (Proverbs 22:18, 21)
3. That one may learn to trust in the LORD (Proverbs 22:19)
4. That one may know the absolute certainty of truth (Proverbs 22:21)

5-fold nature of the message:

1. The words of the wise (Proverbs 22:17)
2. Knowledge (Proverbs 22:17, 20)
3. Pleasant things (Proverbs 22:18)
4. Excellent things in counsels and knowledge (Proverbs 22:20)

The Book of Proverbs: School of Wisdom - 21

Proverbs 21:1-31 (NIV)

Proverbs 21

1 The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases.

2 All a man's ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs the heart.

3 To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.

4 Haughty eyes and a proud heart, the lamp of the wicked, are sin!

5 The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.

6 A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare. [a]

7 The violence of the wicked will drag them away, for they refuse to do what is right.

8 The way of the guilty is devious, but the conduct of the innocent is upright.

9 Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.

10 The wicked man craves evil; his neighbor gets no mercy from him.

11 When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; when a wise man is instructed, he gets knowledge.

12 The Righteous One [b] takes note of the house of the wicked and brings the wicked to ruin.

13 If a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered.

14 A gift given in secret soothes anger, and a bribe concealed in the cloak pacifies great wrath.

15 When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers.

16 A man who strays from the path of understanding comes to rest in the company of the dead.

17 He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich.

18 The wicked become a ransom for the righteous, and the unfaithful for the upright.

19 Better to live in a desert than with a quarrelsome and ill-tempered wife.

20 In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has.

21 He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity [c] and honor.

22 A wise man attacks the city of the mighty and pulls down the stronghold in which they trust.

23 He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity.

24 The proud and arrogant man-"Mocker" is his name; he behaves with overweening pride.

25 The sluggard's craving will be the death of him, because his hands refuse to work.

26 All day long he craves for more, but the righteous give without sparing.

27 The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable—how much more so when brought with evil intent!

28 A false witness will perish, and whoever listens to him will be destroyed forever. [d]

29 A wicked man puts up a bold front, but an upright man gives thought to his ways.

30 There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD.

31 The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD.

Footnotes:

1. Proverbs 21:6 Some Hebrew manuscripts, Septuagint and Vulgate; most Hebrew manuscripts vapor for those who seek death
2. Proverbs 21:12 Or The righteous man
3. Proverbs 21:21 Or righteousness
4. Proverbs 21:28 Or / but the words of an obedient man will live on


7 examples of Kings obeying God:

1. David (1 Samuel 13:14)
2. Solomon (1 Kings 3:9-12)
3. Ahasuerus (Esther 6; Nehemiah 2)
4. Nebuchadnezzar (Ezekiel 29:18; Daniel 4)
5. Cyrus (Ezra 1:1; Isaiah 44:28; 45:1)
6. Darius (Ezra 6:22)
7. Augustus (Luke 2:1-7)

4 examples of being more acceptable:

1. Saul (! Samuel 13:10-13; 15:22)
2. Israel (Jeremiah 7:22-23; Amos 5:21-24)
3. Judah (Isaiah 1:11-17)
4. Pharisees (Matthew 9:13)

3 common sinful things:

1. A high look (Proverbs 6:17; Psalm 101:5)
2. A proud heart (Psalm 101:5)
3. Tilling (works) of the wicked

3 blessings of righteousness and mercy:

1. Eternal life (Proverbs 21:21; Romans 2:7-8)
2. Righteousness (Proverbs 21:21; Romans 3:24 - 4:25)
3. Honor (Proverbs 21:21; John 12:26)

2 examples of casting down confidence:

1. Joshua (Joshua 6:3-21; 8:4-8)
2. A wise woman (2 Samuel 20:16-22)

6 common classes:

1. The infidel or scoffer (Proverbs 21:24; . He is arrogant, proud, haughty and conceited
2. The slothful (Proverbs 21:25; Proverbs 19:24. He desires to eat, drink, and be clothed, but he refuses to work. He covets greedily all day long. Hence, he lives and dies with his desires unsatisfied, envying those who possess plenty through hard labor.
3. The righteous (Proverbs 21:26). He gives and does not hold back from doing good.
4. The wicked (Proverbs 21:27, 29). His sacrifice is an abomination to God; how much more is it abominable for him to offer to God with evil intent (Psalm 26:10; 119:150).
5. The liar (Proverbs 21:28)
6. The upright (Proverbs 21:28-29)

5 examples of false witnesses perishing:

1. Pashur (Heremiah 20:4-6)
2. Hananiah (Jeremiah 28:1-17)
3. False prophets (Jeremiah 29:21)
4. Shemaiah (Jeremiah 29;31-32)
5. Amaziah (Amos 7:10-17)

5 examples of no human wisdom, or counsel standing in opposition to God:

1. Pharaoh (Exodus 1:10; 7:1 - 12:51)
2. Balak (Numbers 24:10)
3. Ahaziah (2 Kings 1:9-17)
4. Sennacherib (2 Chronicles 32:21; Isaiah 30:31)
5. Haman (Esther 5:11-13; 7:10)

The Book of Proverbs: School of Wisdom - 20

Proverbs 20:1-30 (NIV)

Proverbs 20

¹ Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.

² A king's wrath is like the roar of a lion; he who angers him forfeits his life.

³ It is to a man's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.

⁴ A sluggard does not plow in season; so at harvest time he looks but finds nothing.

⁵ The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out.

⁶ Many a man claims to have unfailing love, but a faithful man who can find?

⁷ The righteous man leads a blameless life; blessed are his children after him.

⁸ When a king sits on his throne to judge, he winnows out all evil with his eyes.

⁹ Who can say, "I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin"?

¹⁰ Differing weights and differing measures— the LORD detests them both.

¹¹ Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right.

¹² Ears that hear and eyes that see— the LORD has made them both.

¹³ Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you will have food to spare.

¹⁴ "It's no good, it's no good!" says the buyer; then off he goes and boasts about his purchase.

¹⁵ Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel.

¹⁶ Take the garment of one who puts up security for a stranger; hold it in pledge if he does it for a wayward woman.

¹⁷ Food gained by fraud tastes sweet to a man, but he ends up with a mouth full of gravel.

¹⁸ Make plans by seeking advice; if you wage war, obtain guidance.

¹⁹ A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much.

²⁰ If a man curses his father or mother, his lamp will be snuffed out in pitch darkness.

²¹ An inheritance quickly gained at the beginning will not be blessed at the end.

²² Do not say, "I'll pay you back for this wrong!" Wait for the LORD, and he will deliver you.

²³ The LORD detests differing weights, and dishonest scales do not please him.

²⁴ A man's steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand his own way?

²⁵ It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider his vows.

²⁶ A wise king winnows out the wicked; he drives the threshing wheel over them.

²⁷ The lamp of the LORD searches the spirit of a man ^a]">[a] ; it searches out his inmost being.

²⁸ Love and faithfulness keep a king safe; through love his throne is made secure.

²⁹ The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.

³⁰ Blows and wounds cleanse away evil, and beatings purge the inmost being.

Footnotes:

1. Proverbs 20:27 Or The spirit of man is the LORD 's lamp

8 examples of intoxication:

1. Noah (Genesis 9:20-21)
2. Lot (Genesis 19:30-38)
3. Nabal (1 Samuel 25:36)
4. Elah (1 Kings 16:8-10)
5. Ben-hadad (1 Kings 20:16-21)
6. Ephraim (Isaiah 28:7)
7. Belshazzar (Daniel 5)
8. Ninevah (Nahum 1:10)

3 examples from ceasing from strife:

1. Abraham (Genesis 13:7-9)
2. Isaac (Genesis 26:12-30)
3. David (1 Samuel 25:32-34)

5 examples proclaiming own goodness:

1. Absalom (2 Samuel 15:4)
2. Jehu (2 Kings 10:16, 31)
3. The scribes (Matthew 6:2; 23:5)
4. The rich young ruler (Matthew 19:20-22)
5. The Pharisees (Luke 18:9-14)

3 unfailing laws:

1. He that curses father and mother shall be put to death and leave no posterity (Proverbs 20:20; Exodus 21:17; Leviticus 20:9)
2. Inheritances hastily gotten generally lead to idleness, pride, and sin (Proverbs 20:21)
3. To recompense evil for evil will not be blessed of the LORD; but those who trust God to reward evil in His own time shall be saved (Proverbs 20:22)

The Book of Proverbs: School of Wisdom - 19

Proverbs 19:1-29 (NIV)

1 Better the poor whose walk is blameless than a fool whose lips are perverse.

2 Desire without knowledge is not good — how much more will hasty feet miss the way!

3 A person’s own folly leads to their ruin,yet their heart rages against the LORD.

4 Wealth attracts many friends,but even the closest friend of the poor person deserts them.

5 A false witness will not go unpunished,and whoever pours out lies will not go free.

6 Many curry favor with a ruler,and everyone is the friend of one who gives gifts.

7 The poor are shunned by all their relatives — how much more do their friends avoid them! Though the poor pursue them with pleading,they are nowhere to be found.[a]

8 The one who gets wisdom loves life; the one who cherishes understanding will soon prosper.

9 A false witness will not go unpunished, and whoever pours out lies will perish.

10 It is not fitting for a fool to live in luxury — how much worse for a slave to rule over princes!

11 A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.

12 A king’s rage is like the roar of a lion, but his favor is like dew on the grass.

13 A foolish child is a father’s ruin, and a quarrelsome wife is like the constant dripping of a leaky roof.

14 Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the LORD.

15 Laziness brings on deep sleep, and the shiftless go hungry.

16 Whoever keeps commandments keeps their life, but whoever shows contempt for their ways will die.

17 Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done.

18 Discipline your children, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to their death.

19 A hot-tempered person must pay the penalty; rescue them, and you will have to do it again.

20 Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise.

21 Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.

22 What a person desires is unfailing love[b]; better to be poor than a liar.

23 The fear of the LORD leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble.

24 A sluggard buries his hand in the dish; he will not even bring it back to his mouth!

25 Flog a mocker, and the simple will learn prudence; rebuke the discerning, and they will gain knowledge.

26 Whoever robs their father and drives out their mother is a child who brings shame and disgrace.

27 Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.

28 A corrupt witness mocks at justice, and the mouth of the wicked gulps down evil.

29 Penalties are prepared for mockers, and beatings for the backs of fools.

Footnotes:

1. Proverbs 19:7 The meaning of the Hebrew for this sentence is uncertain.
2. Proverbs 19:22 Or Greed is a person’s shame

The Book of Proverbs: School of Wisdom - 18

Proverbs 18:1-24 (NIV)

1 An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends and against all sound judgment starts quarrels.

2 Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.

3 When wickedness comes, so does contempt, and with shame comes reproach.

4 The words of the mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a rushing stream.

5 It is not good to be partial to the wicked and so deprive the innocent of justice.

6 The lips of fools bring them strife, and their mouths invite a beating.

7 The mouths of fools are their undoing, and their lips are a snare to their very lives.

8 The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts.

9 One who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys.

10 The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.

11 The wealth of the rich is their fortified city; they imagine it a wall too high to scale.

12 Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.

13 To answer before listening — that is folly and shame.

14 The human spirit can endure in sickness,but a crushed spirit who can bear?

15 The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.

16 A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.

17 In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and cross-examines.

18 Casting the lot settles disputes and keeps strong opponents apart.

19 A brother wronged is more unyielding than a fortified city; disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel.

20 From the fruit of their mouth a person’s stomach is filled; with the harvest of their lips they are satisfied.

21 The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.

22 He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD.

23 The poor plead for mercy, but the rich answer harshly.

24 One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

The Book of Proverbs: School of Wisdom - 17

Proverbs 17:1-28 (NIV)

Proverbs 17

¹ Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting, ^a]">[a] with strife.

² A wise servant will rule over a disgraceful son, and will share the inheritance as one of the brothers.

³ The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart.

⁴ A wicked man listens to evil lips; a liar pays attention to a malicious tongue.

⁵ He who mocks the poor shows contempt for their Maker; whoever gloats over disaster will not go unpunished.

⁶ Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.

⁷ Arrogant ^b]">[b] lips are unsuited to a fool— how much worse lying lips to a ruler!

⁸ A bribe is a charm to the one who gives it; wherever he turns, he succeeds.

⁹ He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.

¹⁰ A rebuke impresses a man of discernment more than a hundred lashes a fool.

¹¹ An evil man is bent only on rebellion; a merciless official will be sent against him.

¹² Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool in his folly.

¹³ If a man pays back evil for good, evil will never leave his house.

¹⁴ Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.

¹⁵ Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent— the LORD detests them both.

¹⁶ Of what use is money in the hand of a fool, since he has no desire to get wisdom?

¹⁷ A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

¹⁸ A man lacking in judgment strikes hands in pledge and puts up security for his neighbor.

¹⁹ He who loves a quarrel loves sin; he who builds a high gate invites destruction.

²⁰ A man of perverse heart does not prosper; he whose tongue is deceitful falls into trouble.

²¹ To have a fool for a son brings grief; there is no joy for the father of a fool.

²² A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

²³ A wicked man accepts a bribe in secret to pervert the course of justice.

²⁴ A discerning man keeps wisdom in view, but a fool's eyes wander to the ends of the earth.

²⁵ A foolish son brings grief to his father and bitterness to the one who bore him.

²⁶ It is not good to punish an innocent man, or to flog officials for their integrity.

²⁷ A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered.

²⁸ Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue.

Footnotes:

1. Proverbs 17:1 Hebrew sacrifices
2. Proverbs 17:7 Or Eloquent

6 examples of being tested:

1. Abraham (Genesis 22)
2. Israel (Deuteronomy 8:2)
3. Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 32:31)
4. Mary and Martha (John 11:5-6)
5. Rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16-22)
6. The Syrophenecian woman (Matthew 15:23-28)

4 great sins:

1. Lying (v 4)
2. Deceit (v 4)
3. Mockery (v 5)
4. Gloating (v 5)

2 examples of mocking the poor:

1. Princes of Judah (Isaiah 3:14-15; 10:2)
2. The rich (James 5:4)

4 examples of beginning strife:

1. The Ephraimites (Judges 12:1-6)
2. Abner (2 Samuel 2:14-17)
3. Rehoboam (2 Chronicles 10:1-16)
4. Jeroboam (2 Chronicles 13:17)

4 examples of condemning the just:

1. The counsellors (Ezra 4:1-16)
2. Ahab and Jezebel (1 Kings 21:5-24)
3. The Jews (Matthew 27:11-50)
4. Tertullus (Acts 24:1-9)

7 examples of lack of wisdom:

1. Israel (2 Chronicles 30:10)
2. The Jews (Luke 4:28)
3. Herod Antipas (Luke 23:11)
4. The Jews (John 5:40; 8:45)
5. Athenians (Acts 17:32-33)
6. Felix (Acts 24:25-27)
7. Herod Agrippa (Acts 26:28)

10 examples of lasting friendship:

1. Abraham (Genesis 14:14)
2. Joseph (Genesis 45:5; 50:2)
3. Moses (Exodus 32:11-13; Deuteronomy 9:18-29)
4. Jonathan (1 Samuel 20:33)
5. Barzillai (2 Samuel 19:32)
6. Ahikam (Jeremiah 26:24)
7. Ebed-melech (Jeremiah 38:7)
8. Paul (Philemon 12, 20)
9. Barnabas (Acts 9:27)
10.Epaphroditus (Philippians 2:26)

4 examples of sparing words:

1. Aaron (Leviticus 10:3)
2. Moses (Numbers 16:4; 20:6)
3. Samuel (1 Samuel 8:6-8)
4. Christ (1 Peter 2:23)

The Book of Proverbs: School of Wisdom - 16

Proverbs 16:1-33 (NIV)

Proverbs 16

¹ To man belong the plans of the heart, but from the LORD comes the reply of the tongue.

² All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the LORD.

³ Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.

⁴ The LORD works out everything for his own ends— even the wicked for a day of disaster.

⁵ The LORD detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.

⁶ Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the LORD a man avoids evil.

⁷ When a man's ways are pleasing to the LORD, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him.

⁸ Better a little with righteousness than much gain with injustice.

⁹ In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.

¹⁰ The lips of a king speak as an oracle, and his mouth should not betray justice.

¹¹ Honest scales and balances are from the LORD; all the weights in the bag are of his making.

¹² Kings detest wrongdoing, for a throne is established through righteousness.

¹³ Kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value a man who speaks the truth.

¹⁴ A king's wrath is a messenger of death, but a wise man will appease it.

¹⁵ When a king's face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring.

¹⁶ How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver!

¹⁷ The highway of the upright avoids evil; he who guards his way guards his life.

¹⁸ Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.

¹⁹ Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.

²⁰ Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD.

²¹ The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction. ^a]">[a]

²² Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but folly brings punishment to fools.

²³ A wise man's heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction. ^b]">[b]

²⁴ Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

²⁵ There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.

²⁶ The laborer's appetite works for him; his hunger drives him on.

²⁷ A scoundrel plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire.

²⁸ A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends.

²⁹ A violent man entices his neighbor and leads him down a path that is not good.

³⁰ He who winks with his eye is plotting perversity; he who purses his lips is bent on evil.

³¹ Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life.

³² Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city.

³³ The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.

Footnotes:

1. Proverbs 16:21 Or words make a man persuasive
2. Proverbs 16:23 Or mouth / and makes his lips persuasive

3 examples of being clean in own eyes:

1. Jehu (2 Kings 10:16, 31)
2. Pharisee (Luke 18:11-14)
3. Paul (Acts 26:9)

5 examples of plans being established:

1. Jacob (Genesis 32:24-30; 46:1-6)
2. David (1 Samuel 17:45; 30:8-19)
3. Ezra (8:21-32)
4. Esther (Esther 4::14-17; 8:15-17)
5. Daniel (Daniel 6:10)

8 examples of being directed by God:

1. Joseph's brethren (Genesis 37:18-28; 45:5)
2. Paraoh's daughter (Exodus 2:5)
3. Saul (1 Samuel 9:3-16; 23:26-28)
4. Jesse (1 Samuel 16:8-11, 17:23, 53)
5. Syrians (2 Kings 5:2)
6. Zaccheus (Luke 19:1-10)
7. The Samaritan woman (John 4:7)
8. Saul (Acts 9:1-18)

15 facts about kings:

1. They are to rule in justice (Proverbs 16:10; 29:14; 31:5, 8,9)
2. To be righteous (Proverbs 16:12)
3. Stand for righteousness (Proverbs 16:12; 25:5)
4. Delight in truth (Proverbs 16:13)
5. Love the righteous (Proverbs 16:13; 20:26)
6. Have power of death (Proverbs 16:14)
7. Can be pacified (Proverbs 16:14)
8. Their favor is a blessing (Proverbs 16:15)
9. Must not be provoked (Proverbs 20:2)
10.Are to be feared by the wicked (Proverbs 20:8)
11.Are preserved by mercy and truth (Proverbs 20:28)
12.To be respected (Proverbs 24:21)
13.Are a stabilizing influence to a people (Proverbs 29:4)
14.Are to be virtuous and sober (Proverbs 31:1-4)
15.Are to obey the law (Proverbs 31:5)

7 examples of pride before destruction:

1. Asabel (2 Samuel 2:18-23)
2. Ben-hadad (1 Kings 20:3; 11, 32)
3. Babylon (Isaiah 47:10-11)
4. Azariah (Jeremiah 43:2-11)
5. Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:30-31)
6. Edom (Obadiah 3-4)
7. Herod Agrippa (Acts 12:21-23)

8 fundamental principles of life:

1. Handle matters wisely (Proverbs 16:20)
2. Trust in the Lord (Proverbs 16:20)
3. Be wise and prudent (Proverbs 16:21)
4. Increase knowledge (Proverbs 16:21)
5. Be sympathetic and understanding (Proverbs 16:22)
6. Reject folly and be open to instruction and education (Proverbs 16:22)
7. Speak always in wisdom (Proverbs 16:23)
8. Be pleasant and kind (Proverbs 16:24)

5 examples of wise hearts:

1. Eleazar (Genesis 24:34-49)
2. Jacob (Genesis 47:9)
3. Jesus Christ (Matthew 22:46; Luke 2:40-52)
4. Peter (Acts 3:12)
5. Paul (Acts 13:16-21; 14:17; 17:28; 24:25; 26:2-27; 1 Timothy 1:12-16)

6 common classes:

1. The laboring man (Proverbs 16:26)
2. The ungodly man (Proverbs 16:27)
3. The perverse man (Proverbs 16:28)
4. The whisperer (Proverbs 16:28)
5. The violent man (Proverbs 16:29)
6. The older man (Proverbs 16:31)

4 examples of sowing strife:

1. Princes of Ammon (2 Samuel 10:3)
2. Ziba (2 Samuel 16:3)
3. The Chaldeans (Daniel 3:18-13)
4. Herodias (Mark 6:19-20)

5 examples of righteous hoary heads:

1. Jacob (Genesis 47:9; 48:1)
2. Samuel (1 Samuel 12:2-4; 25:1)
3. Barzillai (2 Samuel 19:32-37)
4. Elisha (2 Kings 13:14)
5. Jehoida (2 Chronicles 24.15-16)

5 examples of slow to anger:

1. Isaac (Genesis 26:13-35)
2. Joseph (Genesis 37:23-36; 39:7-23)
3. Samson (Judges 16)
4. David (1 Samuel 17:22-51; 19:1-24:22)
5. Paul (2 Corinthians 6:4; Titus 1:7)

7 examples of being soon angry:

1. Cain (Genesis 4)
2. Esau (Genesis 27:41-46)
3. Simeon and Levi (Genesis 49:5-7)
4. Moses (Exodus 32:19)
5. Balaam (Numbers 22:22, 27)
6. Saul (1 Samuel 20:30, 34)
7. Jonah (Jonah 4)

The Book of Proverbs: School of Wisdom - 15

Proverbs, 15:1-33 (NIV)

Proverbs 15

¹ A gentle answer turns away wrath but a harsh word stirs up anger.

² The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.

³ The eyes of the LORD are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good.

⁴ The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

⁵ A fool spurns his father's discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.

⁶ The house of the righteous contains great treasure, but the income of the wicked brings them trouble.

⁷ The lips of the wise spread knowledge; not so the hearts of fools.

⁸ The LORD detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the prayer of the upright pleases him.

⁹ The LORD detests the way of the wicked but he loves those who pursue righteousness.

¹⁰ Stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path; he who hates correction will die.

¹¹ Death and Destruction ^a]">[a] lie open before the LORD—how much more the hearts of men!

¹² A mocker resents correction; he will not consult the wise.

¹³ A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit.

¹⁴ The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly.

¹⁵ All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast.

¹⁶ Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great wealth with turmoil.

¹⁷ Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred.

¹⁸ A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel.

¹⁹ The way of the sluggard is blocked with thorns, but the path of the upright is a highway.

²⁰ A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man despises his mother.

²¹ Folly delights a man who lacks judgment, but a man of understanding keeps a straight course.

²² Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.

²³ A man finds joy in giving an apt reply—and how good is a timely word!

²⁴ The path of life leads upward for the wise to keep him from going down to the grave. ^b]">[b]

²⁵ The LORD tears down the proud man's house but he keeps the widow's boundaries intact.

²⁶ The LORD detests the thoughts of the wicked, but those of the pure are pleasing to him.

²⁷ A greedy man brings trouble to his family, but he who hates bribes will live.

²⁸ The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.

²⁹ The LORD is far from the wicked but he hears the prayer of the righteous.

³⁰ A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.

³¹ He who listens to a life-giving rebuke will be at home among the wise.

³² He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding.

³³ The fear of the LORD teaches a man wisdom, ^c]">[c] and humility comes before honor.

Footnotes:

1. Proverbs 15:11 Hebrew Sheol and Abaddon
2. Proverbs 15:24 Hebrew Sheol
3. Proverbs 15:33 Or Wisdom teaches the fear of the LORD

5 examples of turning away wrath:

1. Aaron (Leviticus 10:16-20)
2. Reubenites (Joshua 22:15-34)
3. Gideon (Judges 8:1-3; Proverbs 15:18)
4. Hannah (1 Samuel 1:15-17)
5. Abigail (Samuel 25:23)

5 examples of grievous words:

1. The Ephraimites (Judges 12:1-4)
2. Men of Israel and Judah (2 Samuel 19:41)
3. Saul and Jonathan (1 Samuel 20:30-34)
4. Rehoboam (2 Chronicles 10:13-16
5. Eliphaz (Job 22:5)

3 examples of God seeing evil:

1. Adam and Eve (Genesis 3)
2. Achan and his sin (Joshua 7)
3. Belshazzar (Daniel 5)

3 examples of God seeing good:

1. Abraham (Genesis 22)
2. Joseph (Genesis 39)
3. Jesus Christ (Acts 10:38)

46 ways of a fool: He:

1. Is jealous and envious (1 Samuel 26:21)
2. Insensible to danger (2 Samuel 3:33)
3. Denies God (Psalm 14:1; 53:1)
4. Is ignorant of the future (Psalm 49:10)
5. Is ignorant of God (Psalm 92:6)
6. Is a whoremonger (Proverbs 7:22)
7. Reject's God's commandments (Proverbs 10:8)
8. Chatters empty talk (Proverbs 10:8, 10)
9. Utters slander (Proverbs 10:18)
10. Is a mischief maker (Proverbs 10:23)
11. Is self-conceited (Proverbs 12:15)
12. Proclaims foolishness (Proverbs 12:23)
13. Parades his own folly (Proverbs 13:16)
14. Quick-tempered (Proverbs 14:17)
15. Rages and lives in sin (Proverbs 14:16)
16. Pours out foolishness (Proverbs 15:2)
17. Despises parents (Proverbs 15:5)
18. Incapable of decent speech (Proverbs 17:7)
19. Does not profit by reproof (Proverbs 17:10)
20. Is insensible (Proverbs 17:12)
21. Is not interested in wisdom (Proverbs 17:16)
22. Is a shame to parents (Proverbs 17:21)
23. Is always dissatisfied (Proverbs 17:24)
24. Is contentious (Proverbs 18:6)
25. Has no delight in knowledge (Proverbs 18:2)
26. Is perverse in speech (Proverbs 19:1)
27. Cannot appreciate luxury and honor (Proverbs 19:10; 26:1, 8)
28. Is a meddler (Proverbs 20:3)
29. Despises wisdom (23:9)
30. Is incapable of wisdom (Proverbs 24:7)
31. Gives foolish answers (Proverbs 26:4-5)
32. Is not dependable (Proverbs 26:6)
33. Is hopeless (Proverbs 26:12)
34. Is inseparable from folly (Proverbs 26:11; 27:22)
35. Trusts in himself (Proverbs 28:26)
36. Utters all he knows (Proverbs 29:11)
37. Is unbearable (Proverbs 30:21-22)
38. Walks in darkness (Ecclesiastes 2:14)
39. Destroys self (Ecclesiastes 4:5; 10:12)
40. Is light and frivolous (Ecclesiastes 7:6)
41. Acknowledges he is a fool (Ecclesiastes 10:3)
42. Is full of empty words (Ecclesiastes 10:14)
43. Has no foresight (Matthew 7:26; 25:2-3)
44. Is covetous (Luke 12:20-21)
45. Constantly debates non-essentials (2 Timothy 2:23)
46. Is ignorant (1 Peter 2:15)

3 examples of wicked sacrificing:

1. Cain (Genesis 4:5)
2. Saul (1 Samuel 15)
3. Jews (Isaiah 1:11-15; 66:3)

3 examples of hating reproof:

1. Ahab (2 Chronicles 18:7; Proverbs 17:4)
2. The Jews (Amos 5:10)
3. The Pharisees (Luke 7:30)

4 examples of seeking knowledge:

1. Solomon (1 Kings 3:5-10; Proverbs 19:8)
2. Queen of Sheba (1 Kings 10; Matthew 12:42)
3. The Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:28)
4. The Bereans (Acts 17:11)

4 contrasted ways:

1. The way of the wise - way of the fool
2. The way of life - the way of death
3. The way above - the way beneath
4. The way to heaven - the way to hell

6 examples of hating own soul:

1. Dathan (Numbers 16:12-14, 31-33)
2. Zedekiah (2 Chronicles 36:12; Jeremiah 39:1-7)
3. Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:27-33)
4. Belshazzar (Daniel 5:22-30)
5. The Jews (Matthew 23:34-38)
6. The Gadarenes (Luke 8:37)

4 examples of getting knowledge:

1. Job's friends (Job 42:7-9)
2. The Samaritan woman (John 4:17)
3. Two disciples (Luke 23:26-32)
4. Paul (Acts 9:6-22)

12 blessings of fear of the Lord: It

1. Is the beginning of the wisdom (Proverbs 1:7; 9:10)
2. Determine destiny (Proverbs 1:29)
3. Helps depart from evil (Proverbs 3:7; 16:6)
4. Is to hate evil (Proverbs 8:13)
5. Prolongs days (10:27)
6. Gives strong confidence (Proverbs 14:26)
7. Is a fountain of life (Proverbs 14:27)
8. Produces satisfaction (Proverbs 15:16)
9. Is the instruction of wisdom (Proverbs 15:33)
10. Tends to life (Proverbs 19:23)
11. Gives riches, honor and life (Proverbs 22:4)
12. Brings blessings (Ecclesiastes 8:12)

5 examples of humility before honor:

1. Joseph (Genesis 39:1 - 41:57)
2. Gideon (Judges 6:15)
3. Daniel (Daniel 2:30-48)
4. Hananiah (Nehemiah 7:2)
5. Jesus Christ (Philippians 2:5-11)