Have you ever pondered what it truly means to live wisely? In Proverbs 12, we find timeless wisdom that illuminates the path of righteousness and highlights the contrast between the wise and the foolish.
Let’s embark on a journey through this chapter to uncover the treasures of divine insight it offers.
Reconnect: As we reflect on the wisdom found in Proverbs 12, let us remember that living wisely is not merely a matter of personal gain or success but a reflection of our reverence for God. This chapter serves as a roadmap for navigating life with integrity, diligence, and humility, honoring the Lord in all our ways. Let us continually seek to align our lives with His principles, knowing that true wisdom comes from walking in obedience to His Word.
(Summarized and continued after scripture)
Contrast the Upright and the Wicked
1Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge,
But he who hates reproof is stupid.
2A good man will obtain favor from the LORD,
But He will condemn a man who devises evil.
3A man will not be established by wickedness,
But the root of the righteous will not be moved.
4An excellent wife is the crown of her husband,
But she who shames him is like rottenness in his bones.
5The thoughts of the righteous are just,
But the counsels of the wicked are deceitful.
6The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood,
But the mouth of the upright will deliver them.
7The wicked are overthrown and are no more,
But the house of the righteous will stand.
8A man will be praised according to his insight,
But one of perverse mind will be despised.
9Better is he who is lightly esteemed and has a servant
Than he who honors himself and lacks bread.
10A righteous man has regard for the life of his animal,
But even the compassion of the wicked is cruel.
11He who tills his land will have plenty of bread,
But he who pursues worthless things lacks sense.
12The wicked man desires the booty of evil men,
But the root of the righteous yields fruit.
13An evil man is ensnared by the transgression of his lips,
But the righteous will escape from trouble.
14A man will be satisfied with good by the fruit of his words,
And the deeds of a man’s hands will return to him.
15The way of a fool is right in his own eyes,
But a wise man is he who listens to counsel.
16A fool’s anger is known at once,
But a prudent man conceals dishonor.
17He who speaks truth tells what is right,
But a false witness, deceit.
18There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword,
But the tongue of the wise brings healing.
19Truthful lips will be established forever,
But a lying tongue is only for a moment.
20Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil,
But counselors of peace have joy.
21No harm befalls the righteous,
But the wicked are filled with trouble.
22Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD,
But those who deal faithfully are His delight.
23A prudent man conceals knowledge,
But the heart of fools proclaims folly.
24The hand of the diligent will rule,
But the slack hand will be put to forced labor.
25Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down,
But a good word makes it glad.
26The righteous is a guide to his neighbor,
But the way of the wicked leads them astray.
27A lazy man does not roast his prey,
But the precious possession of a man is diligence.
28In the way of righteousness is life,
And in its pathway there is no death.
Summary Key Points:
- The Path of Righteousness: The chapter begins by contrasting the ways of the righteous and the wicked. Verse 2 emphasizes that those who walk in integrity are favored by the Lord, while those who devise evil schemes are condemned. This highlights the importance of living uprightly and seeking God’s guidance in all our endeavors.
- The Power of Words: Verses 6 and 18 underscore the impact of our words. The wise use their speech to bring healing and guidance, while the words of the wicked conceal violence and destruction. This reminds us of the weightiness of our speech and the need to speak with wisdom and kindness.
- The Fruit of Diligence: Verse 24 celebrates the rewards of diligence and hard work, contrasting it with the consequences of laziness. Those who labor diligently will prosper, while the idle will suffer want. This encourages us to embrace diligence in our work and stewardship of the resources entrusted to us.
- Receiving Instruction: Verse 15 highlights the importance of receiving correction and instruction. The wise person listens to advice and grows in understanding, while the stubborn reject guidance and face ruin. This emphasizes the humility required to receive correction and the wisdom gained through teachability.
Call to Action:
- Walk in Integrity: Commit to living a life of integrity, seeking to honor God in all your actions and decisions.
- Guard Your Words: Be mindful of the words you speak, using them to edify and uplift others rather than causing harm or discord.
- Embrace Diligence: Cultivate a spirit of diligence and excellence in your work and responsibilities, recognizing it as a means of honoring God.
- Receive Instruction: Remain open to correction and guidance, understanding that growth and wisdom come through humility and teachability.
Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the wisdom found in Your Word, which guides us in righteous living. Grant us the strength to walk in integrity, to guard our words, and to embrace diligence in all we do. Help us to receive correction with humility and to grow in wisdom day by day. In Your name, we pray, Amen.
May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.
John Golda
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