A gentle answer turns away anger, but a harsh word stirs up wrath (Proverbs 15:1 CSB). Have you noticed that when people approach you in wrath or with an angry attitude your response tends to be equally (or even more) angry in attitude? This concept was noted by Solomon many...

There is a way that seems right to a person, but its end is the way to death (Proverbs 14:12 CSB). As we have seen, Proverbs often talks about the way - meaning the pathway - of life that we walk. Solomon tells us that although this way often seems...

The one who will not use the rod hates his son, but the one who loves him disciplines him diligently (Proverbs 13:24 CSB). The rod is a figure of correction in this chapter including, but not limited to, the appropriate use of physical discipline of children. The parent who refuses...

Lying lips are detestable to the Lord, but faithful people are his delight (Proverbs 12:22 CSB). The God of truth regards lips that spread lies an offensive abomination (something that God hates). The same God who regards lying lips as an abomination takes delight in those who value and tell...

A generous person will be enriched, and the one who gives a drink of water will receive water (Proverbs 11:25 CSB). We know God has promised to bless those who are generous, and He will do so in this life and the next. Being enriched is also a marvelous statement...

Hatred stirs up conflicts, but love covers all offenses (Proverbs 10:12 CSB). When your life is filled with constant strife, controversy, disagreement, and frustration, it is typically an environment where hatred abounds and love and care are either not evident. We’ve all seen this at times in our families; hopefully...

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding (Proverbs 9:10 CSB). This chapter emphasizes wisdom’s feast and folly’s end and gives key insights and reminders of wisdom that we see throughout Proverbs.  Fear of the LORD: This is a...

For the one who finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord, but the one who misses me harms himself; all who hate me love death (Proverbs 8:35-36 CSB). This chapter is written in praise of wisdom and the pursuit of wisdom. In our key verses, two incredible...

Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call understanding your relative. She will keep you from a forbidden woman, a wayward woman with her flattering talk. (Proverbs 7:4,5 CSB). Solomon wanted his son to have a living and breathing relationship with the Lord. We need the same thing --...

The Lord hates six things; in fact, seven are detestable to him: arrogant eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that plots wicked schemes, feet eager to run to evil, a lying witness who gives false testimony, and one who stirs up trouble among brothers (Proverbs...