- Verse 1: A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Life Application: Respond to conflict with kindness and gentleness rather than anger. - Verse 2: The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.
Life Application: Use words wisely and speak knowledgeably rather than foolishly. - Verse 3: The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good.
Life Application: Remember that God sees all actions, so strive to do what is right and avoid wrongdoing. - Verse 4: The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.
Life Application: Speak words that uplift and encourage others, as they can bring life and hope. - Verse 5: A fool spurns a parent’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.
Life Application: Be open to learning from correction and wisdom, even if it comes from parents or mentors. - Verse 6: The house of the righteous contains great treasure, but the income of the wicked brings ruin.
Life Application: Righteous living leads to blessings and abundance, while wickedness leads to destruction. - Verse 7: The lips of the wise spread knowledge, but the hearts of fools are not upright.
Life Application: Seek wisdom and share it with others, as foolishness leads to moral corruption. - Verse 8: The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the prayer of the upright pleases him.
Life Application: Genuine, upright prayers are pleasing to God, while insincere actions are detested. - Verse 9: The Lord detests the way of the wicked, but he loves those who pursue righteousness.
Life Application: Strive to live a righteous life, for it is pleasing to God and brings His love. - Verse 10: Stern discipline awaits anyone who leaves the path; the one who hates correction will die.
Life Application: Embrace discipline and correction, as they guide you back to the right path and away from harm. - Verse 11: Death and Destruction lie open before the Lord—how much more do human hearts!
Life Application: Recognize that God knows the depths of our hearts, so maintain a pure heart and seek His guidance. - Verse 12: Mockers resent correction, so they avoid the wise.
Life Application: Avoid pride and arrogance, as they can prevent you from benefiting from the wisdom of others. - Verse 13: A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit.
Life Application: Cultivate a joyful heart, for it reflects in your countenance and positively impacts your spirit. - Verse 14: The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly.
Life Application: Prioritize seeking knowledge and understanding over indulging in foolish talk. - Verse 15: All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast.
Life Application: Maintain a cheerful and grateful attitude, as it can bring joy even in difficult circumstances. - Verse 16: Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.
Life Application: Value a humble life lived in reverence for God over amassing wealth through dishonest means. - Verse 17: Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred.
Life Application: The quality of relationships is more important than material abundance; prioritize love and kindness. - Verse 18: A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.
Life Application: Practice patience and avoid anger to promote peace and harmony in relationships. - Verse 19: The way of the sluggard is blocked with thorns, but the path of the upright is a highway.
Life Application: Diligence and a strong work ethic lead to success, while laziness leads to obstacles and difficulties. - Verse 20: A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man despises his mother.
Life Application: Honor your parents and bring them joy through your wise and respectful behavior.
These verses from Proverbs 15 provide valuable wisdom and practical guidance for living a righteous and meaningful life.
One Man’s Journey 