July 2, 2025
Sometimes getting a consequence is the best thing for us.
Proverbs 12-16
Arianna Flores
Big Book Idea
Living wisely: God's way.
Key Verse | Proverbs 12:1
Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge,
but he who hates reproof is stupid.
Proverbs 12-16
Chapter 12
1
Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge,
but he who hates reproof is stupid.
2
A good man obtains favor from the LORD,
but a man of evil devices he condemns.
3
No one is established by wickedness,
but the root of the righteous will never be moved.
4
An excellent wife is the crown of her husband,
but she who brings shame is like rottenness in his bones.
5
The thoughts of the righteous are just;
the counsels of the wicked are deceitful.
6
The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood,
but the mouth of the upright delivers them.
7
The wicked are overthrown and are no more,
but the house of the righteous will stand.
8
A man is commended according to his good sense,
but one of twisted mind is despised.
9
Better to be lowly and have a servant
than to play the great man and lack bread.
10
Whoever is righteous has regard for the life of his beast,
but the mercy of the wicked is cruel.
11
Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread,
but he who follows worthless pursuits lacks sense.
12
Whoever is wicked covets the spoil of evildoers,
but the root of the righteous bears fruit.
13
An evil man is ensnared by the transgression of his lips,
1
12:13
Or In the transgression of the lips, there is an evil snare
but the righteous escapes from trouble.
14
From the fruit of his mouth a man is satisfied with good,
and the work of a man's hand comes back to him.
15
The way of a fool is right in his own eyes,
but a wise man listens to advice.
16
The vexation of a fool is known at once,
but the prudent ignores an insult.
17
Whoever speaks
2
12:17
Hebrew breathes out
the truth gives honest evidence,
but a false witness utters deceit.
18
There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts,
but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
19
Truthful lips endure forever,
but a lying tongue is but for a moment.
20
Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil,
but those who plan peace have joy.
21
No ill befalls the righteous,
but the wicked are filled with trouble.
22
Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD,
but those who act faithfully are his delight.
23
A prudent man conceals knowledge,
but the heart of fools proclaims folly.
24
The hand of the diligent will rule,
while the slothful will be put to forced labor.
25
Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down,
but a good word makes him glad.
26
One who is righteous is a guide to his neighbor,
3
12:26
Or The righteous chooses his friends carefully
but the way of the wicked leads them astray.
27
Whoever is slothful will not roast his game,
but the diligent man will get precious wealth.
4
12:27
Or but diligence is precious wealth
28
In the path of righteousness is life,
and in its pathway there is no death.
Chapter 13
1
A wise son hears his father's instruction,
but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.
2
From the fruit of his mouth a man eats what is good,
but the desire of the treacherous is for violence.
3
Whoever guards his mouth preserves his life;
he who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.
4
The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing,
while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.
5
The righteous hates falsehood,
but the wicked brings shame
5
13:5
Or stench
and disgrace.
6
Righteousness guards him whose way is blameless,
but sin overthrows the wicked.
7
One pretends to be rich,
6
13:7
Or One makes himself rich
yet has nothing;
another pretends to be poor,
7
13:7
Or another makes himself poor
yet has great wealth.
8
The ransom of a man's life is his wealth,
but a poor man hears no threat.
9
The light of the righteous rejoices,
but the lamp of the wicked will be put out.
10
By insolence comes nothing but strife,
but with those who take advice is wisdom.
11
Wealth gained hastily
8
13:11
Or by fraud
will dwindle,
but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.
12
Hope deferred makes the heart sick,
but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life.
13
Whoever despises the word
9
13:13
Or a word
brings destruction on himself,
but he who reveres the commandment
10
13:13
Or a commandment
will be rewarded.
14
The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life,
that one may turn away from the snares of death.
15
Good sense wins favor,
but the way of the treacherous is their ruin.
11
13:15
Probable reading (compare Septuagint, Syriac, Vulgate); Hebrew is rugged, or is an enduring rut
16
Every prudent man acts with knowledge,
but a fool flaunts his folly.
17
A wicked messenger falls into trouble,
but a faithful envoy brings healing.
18
Poverty and disgrace come to him who ignores instruction,
but whoever heeds reproof is honored.
19
A desire fulfilled is sweet to the soul,
but to turn away from evil is an abomination to fools.
20
Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise,
but the companion of fools will suffer harm.
21
Disaster
12
13:21
Or Evil
pursues sinners,
but the righteous are rewarded with good.
22
A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children,
but the sinner's wealth is laid up for the righteous.
23
The fallow ground of the poor would yield much food,
but it is swept away through injustice.
24
Whoever spares the rod hates his son,
but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.
13
13:24
Or who loves him disciplines him early
25
The righteous has enough to satisfy his appetite,
but the belly of the wicked suffers want.
Chapter 14
1
The wisest of women builds her house,
but folly with her own hands tears it down.
2
Whoever walks in uprightness fears the LORD,
but he who is devious in his ways despises him.
3
By the mouth of a fool comes a rod for his back,
14
14:3
Or In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride
but the lips of the wise will preserve them.
4
Where there are no oxen, the manger is clean,
but abundant crops come by the strength of the ox.
5
A faithful witness does not lie,
but a false witness breathes out lies.
6
A scoffer seeks wisdom in vain,
but knowledge is easy for a man of understanding.
7
Leave the presence of a fool,
for there you do not meet words of knowledge.
8
The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way,
but the folly of fools is deceiving.
9
Fools mock at the guilt offering,
but the upright enjoy acceptance.
15
14:9
Hebrew but among the upright is acceptance
10
The heart knows its own bitterness,
and no stranger shares its joy.
11
The house of the wicked will be destroyed,
but the tent of the upright will flourish.
12
There is a way that seems right to a man,
but its end is the way to death.
16
14:12
Hebrew ways of death
13
Even in laughter the heart may ache,
and the end of joy may be grief.
14
The backslider in heart will be filled with the fruit of his ways,
and a good man will be filled with the fruit of his ways.
15
The simple believes everything,
but the prudent gives thought to his steps.
16
One who is wise is cautious
17
14:16
Or fears [the LORD]
and turns away from evil,
but a fool is reckless and careless.
17
A man of quick temper acts foolishly,
and a man of evil devices is hated.
18
The simple inherit folly,
but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.
19
The evil bow down before the good,
the wicked at the gates of the righteous.
20
The poor is disliked even by his neighbor,
but the rich has many friends.
21
Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner,
but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.
22
Do they not go astray who devise evil?
Those who devise good meet
18
14:22
Or show
steadfast love and faithfulness.
23
In all toil there is profit,
but mere talk tends only to poverty.
24
The crown of the wise is their wealth,
but the folly of fools brings folly.
25
A truthful witness saves lives,
but one who breathes out lies is deceitful.
26
In the fear of the LORD one has strong confidence,
and his children will have a refuge.
27
The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life,
that one may turn away from the snares of death.
28
In a multitude of people is the glory of a king,
but without people a prince is ruined.
29
Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding,
but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly.
30
A tranquil
19
14:30
Or healing
heart gives life to the flesh,
but envy
20
14:30
Or jealousy
makes the bones rot.
31
Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker,
but he who is generous to the needy honors him.
32
The wicked is overthrown through his evildoing,
but the righteous finds refuge in his death.
33
Wisdom rests in the heart of a man of understanding,
but it makes itself known even in the midst of fools.
21
14:33
Or Wisdom rests quietly in the heart of a man of understanding, but makes itself known in the midst of fools
34
Righteousness exalts a nation,
but sin is a reproach to any people.
35
A servant who deals wisely has the king's favor,
but his wrath falls on one who acts shamefully.
Chapter 15
1
A soft answer turns away wrath,
but a harsh word stirs up anger.
2
The tongue of the wise commends knowledge,
but the mouths of fools pour out folly.
3
The eyes of the LORD are in every place,
keeping watch on the evil and the good.
4
A gentle
22
15:4
Or healing
tongue is a tree of life,
but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.
5
A fool despises his father's instruction,
but whoever heeds reproof is prudent.
6
In the house of the righteous there is much treasure,
but trouble befalls the income of the wicked.
7
The lips of the wise spread knowledge;
not so the hearts of fools.
23
15:7
Or the hearts of fools are not steadfast
8
The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD,
but the prayer of the upright is acceptable to him.
9
The way of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD,
but he loves him who pursues righteousness.
10
There is severe discipline for him who forsakes the way;
whoever hates reproof will die.
11
Sheol and Abaddon lie open before the LORD;
how much more the hearts of the children of man!
12
A scoffer does not like to be reproved;
he will not go to the wise.
13
A glad heart makes a cheerful face,
but by sorrow of heart the spirit is crushed.
14
The heart of him who has understanding seeks knowledge,
but the mouths of fools feed on folly.
15
All the days of the afflicted are evil,
but the cheerful of heart has a continual feast.
16
Better is a little with the fear of the LORD
than great treasure and trouble with it.
17
Better is a dinner of herbs where love is
than a fattened ox and hatred with it.
18
A hot-tempered man stirs up strife,
but he who is slow to anger quiets contention.
19
The way of a sluggard is like a hedge of thorns,
but the path of the upright is a level highway.
20
A wise son makes a glad father,
but a foolish man despises his mother.
21
Folly is a joy to him who lacks sense,
but a man of understanding walks straight ahead.
22
Without counsel plans fail,
but with many advisers they succeed.
23
To make an apt answer is a joy to a man,
and a word in season, how good it is!
24
The path of life leads upward for the prudent,
that he may turn away from Sheol beneath.
25
The LORD tears down the house of the proud
but maintains the widow's boundaries.
26
The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD,
but gracious words are pure.
27
Whoever is greedy for unjust gain troubles his own household,
but he who hates bribes will live.
28
The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer,
but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.
29
The LORD is far from the wicked,
but he hears the prayer of the righteous.
30
The light of the eyes rejoices the heart,
and good news refreshes
24
15:30
Hebrew makes fat
the bones.
31
The ear that listens to life-giving reproof
will dwell among the wise.
32
Whoever ignores instruction despises himself,
but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence.
33
The fear of the LORD is instruction in wisdom,
and humility comes before honor.
Chapter 16
1
The plans of the heart belong to man,
but the answer of the tongue is from the LORD.
2
All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes,
but the LORD weighs the spirit.
25
16:2
Or spirits
3
Commit your work to the LORD,
and your plans will be established.
4
The LORD has made everything for its purpose,
even the wicked for the day of trouble.
5
Everyone who is arrogant in heart is an abomination to the LORD;
be assured, he will not go unpunished.
6
By steadfast love and faithfulness iniquity is atoned for,
and by the fear of the LORD one turns away from evil.
7
When a man's ways please the LORD,
he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
8
Better is a little with righteousness
than great revenues with injustice.
9
The heart of man plans his way,
but the LORD establishes his steps.
10
An oracle is on the lips of a king;
his mouth does not sin in judgment.
11
A just balance and scales are the LORD's;
all the weights in the bag are his work.
12
It is an abomination to kings to do evil,
for the throne is established by righteousness.
13
Righteous lips are the delight of a king,
and he loves him who speaks what is right.
14
A king's wrath is a messenger of death,
and a wise man will appease it.
15
In the light of a king's face there is life,
and his favor is like the clouds that bring the spring rain.
16
How much better to get wisdom than gold!
To get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.
17
The highway of the upright turns aside from evil;
whoever guards his way preserves his life.
18
Pride goes before destruction,
and a haughty spirit before a fall.
19
It is better to be of a lowly spirit with the poor
than to divide the spoil with the proud.
20
Whoever gives thought to the word
26
16:20
Or to a matter
will discover good,
and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD.
21
The wise of heart is called discerning,
and sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness.
22
Good sense is a fountain of life to him who has it,
but the instruction of fools is folly.
23
The heart of the wise makes his speech judicious
and adds persuasiveness to his lips.
24
Gracious words are like a honeycomb,
sweetness to the soul and health to the body.
25
There is a way that seems right to a man,
but its end is the way to death.
27
16:25
Hebrew ways of death
26
A worker's appetite works for him;
his mouth urges him on.
27
A worthless man plots evil,
and his speech
28
16:27
Hebrew what is on his lips
is like a scorching fire.
28
A dishonest man spreads strife,
and a whisperer separates close friends.
29
A man of violence entices his neighbor
and leads him in a way that is not good.
30
Whoever winks his eyes plans
29
16:30
Hebrew to plan
dishonest things;
he who purses his lips brings evil to pass.
31
Gray hair is a crown of glory;
it is gained in a righteous life.
32
Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty,
and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.
33
The lot is cast into the lap,
but its every decision is from the LORD.
Footnotes
[1] 12:13 Or In the transgression of the lips, there is an evil snare[2] 12:17 Hebrew breathes out
[3] 12:26 Or The righteous chooses his friends carefully
[4] 12:27 Or but diligence is precious wealth
[5] 13:5 Or stench
[6] 13:7 Or One makes himself rich
[7] 13:7 Or another makes himself poor
[8] 13:11 Or by fraud
[9] 13:13 Or a word
[10] 13:13 Or a commandment
[11] 13:15 Probable reading (compare Septuagint, Syriac, Vulgate); Hebrew is rugged, or is an enduring rut
[12] 13:21 Or Evil
[13] 13:24 Or who loves him disciplines him early
[14] 14:3 Or In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride
[15] 14:9 Hebrew but among the upright is acceptance
[16] 14:12 Hebrew ways of death
[17] 14:16 Or fears [the LORD]
[18] 14:22 Or show
[19] 14:30 Or healing
[20] 14:30 Or jealousy
[21] 14:33 Or Wisdom rests quietly in the heart of a man of understanding, but makes itself known in the midst of fools
[22] 15:4 Or healing
[23] 15:7 Or the hearts of fools are not steadfast
[24] 15:30 Hebrew makes fat
[25] 16:2 Or spirits
[26] 16:20 Or to a matter
[27] 16:25 Hebrew ways of death
[28] 16:27 Hebrew what is on his lips
[29] 16:30 Hebrew to plan
Table of Contents
Introduction to Proverbs
Timeline
Author and Date
Proverbs itself mentions Solomon (reigned c. 971–931 B.C.) as author or collector of its contents (1:1; 10:1), including the proverbs copied by Hezekiah’s men (25:1). There are also two batches of sayings from a group called “the wise” (22:17–24:22; 24:23–34), and “oracles” from Agur (30:1–33) and Lemuel (31:1–9). No author is named for the song in praise of the excellent wife that ends the book (31:10–31). Although Proverbs was begun in the time of Solomon, it probably was not in its present form until the time of Hezekiah (reigned c. 715–686 B.C.).
Theme
The goal of the book is stated right at the beginning (1:1–7): to describe what wisdom is and to help God’s people become wise. Wisdom is founded in the “fear of the Lord,” and it enables believers to express their faith in the practical details of everyday life.
Audience
The book is addressed to a young man. The situations he will face while he is young receive much attention. These situations supply concrete examples from which all readers can apply lessons to their own lives. Anyone who is wise and who pays attention will benefit (1:5) from this instruction.
Reading Proverbs
The reader of Proverbs must seek to understand the various types of people the book describes. The most obvious characters in the book are the wise, the fool, and the simple. Proverbs urges its readers to be wise, which means embracing God’s covenant and living out the covenant in everyday situations (compare 2:2; 10:1). The fool is the person who constantly opposes God’s covenant (1:7b). The simple is the person who is not firmly committed, either to wisdom or to folly; he is easily misled (14:15).
The first nine chapters of Proverbs are “wisdom poems” that urge the reader to pursue wisdom. The main section of Proverbs—the concise, memorable statements of two or three lines—begins in 10:1. Proverbs often seem to be mere observations about life, but their deeper meanings will reveal themselves if the following questions are kept in mind: (1) What virtue does this proverb commend? (2) What vice does it disapprove of? (3) What value does it affirm?
Key Themes
Proverbs offers wisdom on a wide array of topics from daily life: diligence and laziness (6:6–11); friendship (3:27–28; 18:24); speech (10:19–21); marriage (18:22; 19:14); child rearing (22:6); domestic peace (15:17; 17:1); work (11:1); getting along and good manners (23:1–2; 25:16–17; 26:17–19; 27:14); eternity (14:32; 23:17–18); and much more. It shows that “godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Tim. 4:8).
- God’s will is intensely practical, applying to every aspect of life. A proper relation to God involves trying hard to understand his truth, and then embracing and obeying that truth.
- A life lived by God’s will is a happy life (3:21–26).
- A life lived by God’s will is a useful life (3:27–28; 12:18, 25).
- A life lived by God’s will does not just happen. One must seek after it (9:1–6).
Outline
- Title, Goal, and Motto (1:1–7)
- A Father’s Invitation to Wisdom (1:8–9:18)
- Proverbs of Solomon (10:1–22:16)
- The Thirty Sayings of “the Wise” (22:17–24:22)
- Further Sayings of “the Wise” (24:23–34)
- Hezekiah’s Collection of Solomonic Proverbs (25:1–29:27)
- The Sayings of Agur (30:1–33)
- The Sayings of King Lemuel (31:1–9)
- An Alphabet of Womanly Excellence (31:10–31)
Fact: Wisdom
Wisdom is a key term in Job, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes. The word can mean “skilled at making sound decisions in life.” Proverbs 9:10 states that “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.”
Fact: A different kind of security
A different kind of security. In biblical times, if a person was unable to pay his debt, the consequences could be serious. The whole family could be sold into slavery. If someone put up “security” for another person, he promised to pay that person’s debt if he was unable to do so himself. Proverbs teaches that putting up security for another person is generally unwise, since those who do so risk losing everything if the other person cannot pay his debt (11:15).
Fact: Hezekiah’s contribution to Proverbs
Hezekiah’s contribution to Proverbs. Although most of the Proverbs were collected or written by King Solomon, who reigned from 971–931 B.C., the book of Proverbs did not exist in its present form until the time of King Hezekiah, some 200 years later. Hezekiah and “his men,” probably his scribes, recorded chs. 25–29.
Fact: Rock badgers
Rock badgers are small cliff-dwelling animals closely resembling guinea pigs. They live and forage for food in large groups and are good at hiding. They are best known for posting sentries that alert the group when danger is near. Perhaps it was this mark of wisdom that earned them a mention in Proverbs (30:26).
Fact: What is an “abomination”?
What is an “abomination”? When the Bible refers to something as an “abomination” (12:22), it means that it is repulsive or detestable to the Lord. Things that are an abomination are contrary to the will of God and his commandments.
Fact: What does it mean to be prudent?
What does it mean to be prudent? The “prudent” person (13:16) is one who uses good sense. A prudent person carefully thinks through situations and their possible consequences and acts accordingly. Prudence also involves carefully managing resources so that one has what is needed in the future.
Fact: Tents
Tents were the most common type of housing in biblical times, as is the case in some parts of the world today. The simple structure and sparse furnishings made them easy to move from place to place. Tents were made by setting poles in the ground, then stretching animal skin or cloth over the poles. Curtains could be used inside the tent to divide it into rooms. Mats often covered the floor, with an open area left in the middle for building a fire.
Fact: Thorns
Thorns grew abundantly in the lands of the Bible (15:19). In both the OT and NT, thorns were used as instruments of torture and punishment. During the crucifixion, Roman soldiers mocked Jesus by placing a crown made from thorns on his head (Matt. 27:29).
Fact: Fountains
The fountains of ancient Israel (16:22) were not the decorative kind seen today. A fountain was a natural spring-fed pool and was considered a treasure in the arid climate. Cities were often built around such water sources.
OT Testimony that All Are under Sin (3:9)
| Romans 3 | OT Reference |
|---|---|
| Sinful Condition | |
| v. 10, none is righteous | Ps. 14:3/53:3; Eccles. 7:20 |
| v. 11a, no one understands | Ps. 14:2/53:2 |
| v. 11b, no one seeks for God | Ps. 14:2/53:2 |
| v. 12, all have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one | Ps. 14:3/53:3 |
| Sinful Speech (note progression from throat to tongue to lips) | |
| v. 13a, b, their throat is an open grave; they use their tongues to deceive | Ps. 5:10, Septuagint (English, 5:9) |
| v. 13c, the venom of asps is under their lips | Ps. 140:3 |
| v. 14, their mouth is full of curses and bitterness | Ps. 10:7 |
| Sinful Action | |
| v. 15, their feet are swift to shed blood | Prov. 1:16/Isa. 59:7 |
| v. 16, in their paths are ruin and misery | Isa. 59:7 |
| v. 17, and the way of peace they have not known | Isa. 59:8 |
| Summary Statement | |
| v. 18, there is no fear of God before their eyes | Ps. 36:1 |
Prov. 12:1–4 These verses begin by encouraging the reader to be one who loves discipline and not one who hates reproof or moral correction. Such an attitude produces a life that will never be moved.
Prov. 12:4 crown. A woman of good character helps her husband live faithfully and brings him visible public honor. excellent wife. See ch. 31.
Prov. 12:5–7 These three proverbs are united by the word pairs righteous/wicked, wicked/upright, and wicked/righteous. The proverbs progress from righteous counsel vs. wicked counsel (v. 5), to treachery vs. deliverance (v. 6), and finally to the destruction of the wicked vs. the stability of the righteous (v. 7).
Prov. 12:9–11 These sayings about ordinary workers illustrate either the “good sense” or the “twisted mind” of v. 8. Lack bread is paralleled by lacks sense. The righteous person cares even for his animals (v. 10a) and provides for his household by a sensible perspective on life (v. 9a) and sensible labors (v. 11a). By contrast, he who follows worthless pursuits (such as get-rich-quick schemes or gambling) lacks sense and will probably end up in poverty (compare 28:19).
Prov. 12:12–14 One who covets illegitimate spoil will be trapped by his own transgression. In contrast, the labor of the righteous takes root, bears fruit, and leads in a path that ultimately escapes from trouble.
Prov. 12:15 The person who is right (or wise) in his own eyes sees no need to seek instruction or counsel from others. He is unwilling to listen to correction.
Prov. 12:18 The normal speech pattern of some people is constantly to accuse, belittle, manipulate, mock, insult, or condemn. Their rash words hurt other people and feel like sword thrusts. This is the opposite of the way of wisdom taught in Proverbs, for the tongue of the wise brings healing (compare Eph. 4:29).
Fact: What is an “abomination”?
What is an “abomination”? When the Bible refers to something as an “abomination” (12:22), it means that it is repulsive or detestable to the Lord. Things that are an abomination are contrary to the will of God and his commandments.
Prov. 12:16–23 The fool’s perspective of being “right in his own eyes” (v. 15) is illustrated in his speech, which is contrasted with that of the wise.
Prov. 13:1–6 The present section of Proverbs (10:1–22:16) began with a call to be a wise son (compare 10:1). This present sub-section (13:1–6) uses word play (compare 10:6–32) relating to speech (hears/listen, 13:1; mouth, vv. 2–3; lips, v. 3; falsehood, v. 5) and eating or desire (eats, v. 2; desire, v. 2; craves and richly supplied, v. 4). Those who seek to guard their mouth (v. 3) through righteousness (v. 6) are assured that such a path will have a positive impact on their heart and actions.
Prov. 13:9 The images of light and lamp refer to a person’s joy, energy, and visible success in life, all of which cause the righteous to rejoice. For the wicked, this light will be put out. This may also imply the actual end of life for the wicked (compare 24:20).
Prov. 13:11 Wealth gained hastily will dwindle. The person who receives sudden wealth has not worked for it enough to understand its value and has not gained sufficient skill in managing it (see 28:20). By contrast, Proverbs prefers diligent, patient, careful labor that will increase wealth over time.
Fact: What does it mean to be prudent?
What does it mean to be prudent? The “prudent” person (13:16) is one who uses good sense. A prudent person carefully thinks through situations and their possible consequences and acts accordingly. Prudence also involves carefully managing resources so that one has what is needed in the future.
Prov. 13:23 The causes of poverty are complex. It can be caused by injustice and oppression (as here; compare 22:16; 28:3, 15); by laziness (6:9–11; 28:19); by God’s punishment on wickedness (10:2–3; 13:25); or by his mysterious providence (e.g., 22:2).
Prov. 13:24 Physical discipline is a common theme in Proverbs (e.g., 10:13; 17:10; 22:15; 23:13–24; 29:15). It is viewed as an important part of training of a child: to teach him to avoid wrong behavior, to embrace what is right, and to build godly character. See Heb. 12:5–11.
Prov. 13:22–25 Walking with the wise (see vv. 20–21) includes caring for children by providing both a material inheritance and moral discipline.
Prov. 14:1–3 The benefits of the sensible labor of the wisest of women and the careful speech of the wise are contrasted with the harmful effects of the acts of folly and the words of the fool. with her own hands tears it down. Sinful people sometimes foolishly destroy the results of many years’ work.
Prov. 14:4 If the strength of the ox is the means for plowing the ground to produce abundant crops, then protecting oxen in a stable is a necessary part of the labor, even though it involves the unpleasant work of cleaning the stable. An empty stable may be clean (thus not requiring any unpleasant work), but it won’t produce any abundance.
Prov. 14:5–7 A person’s character is shown through his speech.
Prov. 14:9 guilt offering. See Lev. 5:14–6:7. The upright finds acceptance from the Lord because his sacrifice was sincerely given (see Lev. 1:3–4).
Fact: Tents
Tents were the most common type of housing in biblical times, as is the case in some parts of the world today. The simple structure and sparse furnishings made them easy to move from place to place. Tents were made by setting poles in the ground, then stretching animal skin or cloth over the poles. Curtains could be used inside the tent to divide it into rooms. Mats often covered the floor, with an open area left in the middle for building a fire.
Prov. 14:8–15 This section begins and ends with contrasts between the prudent (vv. 8a, 15b) and fools and the simple (vv. 8b, 15a). A person’s conduct in life always has consequences.
Prov. 14:20 The poor is disliked is an observation on how the world works, not an endorsement of such an attitude (see v. 21; and note on 10:15).
Prov. 14:21 Proverbs commends being generous to the poor, particularly those among God’s people (see 19:17; 21:13; 31:20; see Deut. 15:7–11).
Prov. 14:24 The phrase the folly of fools brings folly appropriately captures the continuous nature of the foolish path. See v. 8; 16:22.
Prov. 14:26–27 The fear of the LORD brings the confidence of lasting security (v. 26) and molds a person’s character to follow the right path (v. 27).
Prov. 14:27 The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life. The “teaching of the wise” is also called a “fountain of life” in an otherwise identical proverb (13:14).
Prov. 14:34 Righteousness exalts a nation. Morally righteous behavior has far-reaching effects, especially when rulers make fair laws and show concern for their people.
Prov. 14:28–35 Verses 28 and 35, both of which concern a king, provide a frame for this paragraph. A person must rule his heart with wisdom (vv. 29–30, 33). He must understand that all are under a higher sovereign (v. 31). And he must have confidence that the wicked, however powerful they are, will be removed (v. 32).
Prov. 15:3 The eyes of the LORD is a major theme in Proverbs. The Lord knows the actions and hearts of all. He is neither pleased with nor fooled by one who offers sacrifices while continuing in the way of wickedness (see vv. 8–9, 11, 26, 29).
Prov. 15:1–2, 4 Harsh word is literally “word of pain,” that is, a word that is hurtful. Words wisely chosen promote peace rather than anger, they instruct by example (v. 2), and they encourage rather than discourage (v. 4).
Prov. 15:5 The description of a fool who despises his father’s instruction mirrors that of the foolish man who “despises his mother” (v. 20). In Proverbs, the way a person responds to wise parental instruction is an indication of whether he or she will follow the path of wisdom or the way of folly (see 1:8; 4:1; 6:20; 13:1). Note also the references in ch. 15 to how a person responds to reproof (vv. 5, 10, 12, 31, 32).
Prov. 15:8–9 The sacrifice of the wicked is meaningless. By contrast, the prayer of the upright, as a part of a life that pursues righteousness, is pleasing to the Lord (see also vv. 26, 29; 21:3, 27; 28:9).
Prov. 15:13–15 These proverbs focus on the heart. A cheerful face indicates a positive attitude toward life. Such a person has inner joy (v. 15b). But circumstances can rob a person of this joy (vv. 13b, 15a). The key to regaining a joyful heart is in v. 14: seek knowledge.
Prov. 15:1–17 This is a series of proverbs dealing primarily with speech, submission to instruction, and God’s providence.
Prov. 15:16–17 These verses show how to develop the kind of heart described in vv. 13–15. One who “seeks knowledge” (v. 14) recognizes that contentment is found not primarily in external circumstances but in a life governed by the fear of the LORD.
Prov. 15:19 The life of the sluggard is like a hedge of thorns. It is filled with one difficulty after another.
Fact: Thorns
Thorns grew abundantly in the lands of the Bible (15:19). In both the OT and NT, thorns were used as instruments of torture and punishment. During the crucifixion, Roman soldiers mocked Jesus by placing a crown made from thorns on his head (Matt. 27:29).
Prov. 15:20 On the fool who despises his mother, see the complementary proverb of v. 5.
Prov. 15:25–33 These proverbs begin and end with a contrast: the LORD opposes the proud (v. 25) but is near those who act in humility that comes from the fear of the LORD (v. 33). Verses 24–32 expand on this by illustrating the pride of the wicked and the humility of the righteous. At the center of this section is the reminder that the Lord is far from the wicked but hears the prayer of the righteous (v. 29).
Prov. 16:6 This proverb portrays the sacrificial system, by which iniquity is atoned for, as an expression of God’s steadfast love and faithfulness (see Ex. 34:6; Prov. 3:3; 14:22; 20:28). The right response is the fear of the LORD, by which one turns away from doing evil (compare 3:7; 14:16; Job 1:1; Ps. 34:14). The Bible consistently presents the effort to behave morally as the right response to God’s grace.
Prov. 16:1–9 The comparison between the plans of a man’s heart (vv. 1a, 9a) and the sovereign direction of the LORD (vv. 1b, 9b) unifies this section. Verses 2–8 focus on the heart-action connection.
Prov. 16:10–15 These verses concern the king, who is mentioned in all but v. 11. These proverbs represent the ideal ruler, and imply that people should have respect for their leaders.
Prov. 16:16–19 The “better” sayings of vv. 16 and 19 value wisdom over gold and humility with the poor over spoil with the proud. The middle verses offer guidance on how to continue in the way of the wise (v. 17) and humble (v. 18). For similar statements of what the wise person should value, see 15:16–17; 16:8; 19:1, 22; 28:6.
Fact: Fountains
The fountains of ancient Israel (16:22) were not the decorative kind seen today. A fountain was a natural spring-fed pool and was considered a treasure in the arid climate. Cities were often built around such water sources.
Prov. 16:20–24 These verses commend the kind of speech that is typical of those who are wise of heart.
Prov. 16:25–32 a way that seems right . . . but. People often have the wrong idea about what is good and what is bad. Hunger seems a bad thing, but it forces people to work and keeps them from idleness (v. 26). Gray hair seems to be a mark of decline but actually is a crown of glory (v. 31; compare 20:29). Finally, a mighty warrior seems to be the strongest man of all, but in reality a man who can control himself is stronger than a conqueror (16:32).
Prov. 16:10–33 The remaining sections of ch. 16 illustrate the benefits of wisdom for the well-being of the heart (vv. 16–19, 20–24, 25–33).
S4: 157 Proverbs 12-16
Listen NowDive Deeper | Proverbs 12-16
The joy of being a teacher allows me to see the growth in my students over the course of the school year. There are always growing pains when they are learning about logical consequences. Someone helping you to recognize your mistakes and grow isn't always fun. Some of us welcome different perspectives and want help when we are in the wrong, and others run away from guidance or the advice of other people because of their pride.
When I am struggling with being in the wrong in a circumstance, I am grateful that God reminds me of Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." I am grateful for my community group that redirects me to God's truth when I'm making choices that don't honor him or when I'm not seeking their counsel with big decisions in my life. When I'm authentic and open with them, they're better equipped to show me God's love and remind me of his truth.
I have often found myself giving into isolation, fearing what people might think or what amends I might have to make based on decisions I've made. It's easy to get caught up in this world where everyone takes pride in their independent decision-making, but I'm never more at peace than when I'm abiding with Jesus and receive counsel and admonishment from my community group.
The Bible even compares those who refuse to be corrected to unreasoning animals. Psalm 32:9 says, "Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding, which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you." God wants us to honor him with our choices, and that includes seeking correction and counsel when we go astray. Every day, we will fall short, but I'm so grateful that God's grace and mercy renews each morning with a reminder in Proverbs 1:7, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction."
This month's memory verse
"But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.”
– Isaiah 53:5-6
Discussion Questions
1. Do you have a community group of friends by whom you can be fully known and loved? Will they remind you of God's truth and admonish you lovingly? If so, is there anything God is nudging you to bring to your community group?
2. Is it hard for you to live in God's discipline and abundance according to the Bible? If so, what are some areas of your life that you're struggling with correcting?
3. When you fall short and find yourself in sin, is it hard for you to seek counsel, confess, and find action steps to stay accountable? If so, what are some actions you can take to make these steps a regular habit of your relationship with Jesus?