In this chapter, Solomon, again, continues his one-liners. Here’s the chapter in its entirety:
“To learn you must love discipline; it is stupid to hate correction.
The Lord approves of those who are good, but he condemns those who plan wickedness.
Wickedness never brings stability; only the godly have deep roots.
A worthy wife is her husband’s joy and crown; a shameful wife saps his strength.
The plans of the godly are just; the advice of the wicked is treacherous.
The words of the wicked are like a murderous ambush, but the words of the godly save lives.
The wicked perish and are gone, but the children of the godly stand firm.
Everyone admires a person with good sense, but a warped mind is despised.
It is better to be a nobody with a servant than to be self-important but have no food.
The godly are concerned for the welfare of their animals, but even the kindness of the wicked is cruel.
Hard work means prosperity; only fools idle away the time.
Thieves are jealous of each other’s loot, while the godly bear their own fruit.
The wicked are trapped by their own words, but the godly escape such trouble.
People can get many good things by the words they say; the work of their hands also gives them many benefits.
Fools think they need no advice, but the wise listen to others.
A fool is quick-tempered, but a wise person stays calm when insulted.
An honest witness tells the truth, a false witness tells lies.
Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.
Truth stands the test of time; lies are soon exposed.
Deceit fills hearts that are plotting evil; joy fills hearts that are planning peace!
No real harm befalls the godly, but the wicked have their fill of trouble.
The Lord hates those who don’t keep their word, but he delights in those who do.
Wise people don’t make a show of their knowledge, but fools broadcast their folly.
Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and become a slave.
Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.
The godly give good advice to their friends; the wicked lead them astray.
Lazy people don’t even cook the game they catch, but the diligent make use of everything they find.
The way of the godly leads to life; their path does not lead to death.” (Proverbs 12)
Lord, thank you for your Word today! Thank you for these great nuggets of wisdom, and thank you for speaking directly to me! Anger beat me this weekend, and I was a fool. Help us all, Lord, remain true to your counsel and remain calm when insulted, for being quick-tempered is the mark of a fool. Lord, you are amazing! We love you!
May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)
….AND MAY WE ALL PRACTICE THIS WITH ONE ANOTHER.
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