but the wise listen to advice.
16 Fools show their annoyance at once,
but the prudent overlook an insult.
17 An honest witness tells the truth,
but a false witness tells lies.
18 The words of the reckless pierce like swords,
but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
19 Truthful lips endure forever,
but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.
20 Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil,
but those who promote peace have joy.
21 No harm overtakes the righteous,
but the wicked have their fill of trouble.
22 The LORD detests lying lips,
but he delights in people who are trustworthy.
23 The prudent keep their knowledge to themselves,
but a fool's heart blurts out folly.
24 Diligent hands will rule,
but laziness ends in forced labor.
25 Anxiety weighs down the heart,
but a kind word cheers it up.
26 The righteous choose their friends carefully,
but the way of the wicked leads them astray.
27 The lazy do not roast any game,
but the diligent feed on the riches of the hunt.
28 In the way of righteousness there is life
along that path is immortality.
Questions to consider:
- How do you react to insults? Why?
- What kind of speech is most associated with you? Why?
- Contrast diligence and sloth.
- Because I think this is a cool idea, memorize a proverb again. Do you still remember the day before yesterday’s?
I am particularly fond of verse 25 in this passage. How true it is that anxiety makes our hearts heavy--and how equally true that even just the simplest kind word or gesture can make a world of difference! Today, let’s pray against anxiety to begin with, but also, let’s ask that God would be using us to offer the kind words to cheer up the anxious.
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