Pro 10 | MHM | STEP | Weighty Sayings. This verse introduces a new section of Proverbs, where Solomon gives many short and wise sayings. Here, he reminds us how much a child’s behavior affects their parents. Good children bring joy and comfort to their parents, while foolish or wicked children bring them sadness. This is a reason for parents to teach their children well, and for children to live wisely and honor their upbringing. When children do well, it rewards the hard work and love of their parents, especially as parents grow older. But when children do wrong, it brings pain, especially to mothers who have cared for them with so much hope and effort. v. 1 : “A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother” . If a child is wise and lives well, it makes their father happy. But if a child is foolish and does wrong, it brings sorrow to their mother. This shows how important it is for children to choose wisdom and goodness, not just for themselves, but also for the happiness of their families.

‏ Proverbs 10

Weighty Sayings.

This verse introduces a new section of Proverbs, where Solomon gives many short and wise sayings. Here, he reminds us how much a child’s behavior affects their parents. Good children bring joy and comfort to their parents, while foolish or wicked children bring them sadness. This is a reason for parents to teach their children well, and for children to live wisely and honor their upbringing. When children do well, it rewards the hard work and love of their parents, especially as parents grow older. But when children do wrong, it brings pain, especially to mothers who have cared for them with so much hope and effort.

v. 1: “A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother” . If a child is wise and lives well, it makes their father happy. But if a child is foolish and does wrong, it brings sorrow to their mother. This shows how important it is for children to choose wisdom and goodness, not just for themselves, but also for the happiness of their families.

Weighty Sayings.

These verses teach us about the difference between wealth gained through wrongdoing and wealth that comes from living rightly. Solomon explains that money or treasure obtained by evil actions will not help a person in the end. Only what is gained honestly and used in a good way will truly benefit us. God cares more about righteousness than riches, and He blesses those who live by His ways.

v. 2: “Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death” . Money or riches gained through sin, cheating, or hurting others cannot give real happiness or save a person when trouble or judgment comes (Matthew 16:26 ^a). But living righteously, being honest and kind, brings true safety and even saves from death. God honors those who do right.

v. 3: “The Lord will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: but he casteth away the substance of the wicked” . God promises to take care of people who do what is right. He will not let them go hungry or be forgotten. But He will take away what the wicked have gained, even if it seems like a lot. God’s blessing is what truly keeps us safe and provides for our needs.

Weighty Sayings.

This verse teaches us about the importance of hard work and honesty. Solomon points out that laziness and dishonesty lead to poverty, while diligence and a careful attitude lead to success. This is true in both our daily lives and our spiritual lives. God blesses those who do their best with what they have, but those who are careless or try to cheat others will suffer loss in the end.

v. 4: “He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich” . If someone is lazy or does not work hard, they are likely to become poor. People who are active, honest, and work hard often improve their situation and may become rich. The same is true spiritually. Those who are lazy in doing good or following God will not grow, but those who are eager to serve the Lord and do good will become “rich in faith” (Romans 12:11; James 2:5 ^b).

Weighty Sayings.

This verse highlights the importance of using our time and opportunities wisely. Solomon praises people who work hard and plan for the future, both for themselves and for their families. At the same time, he warns against laziness and wasting important opportunities, especially when it is time to work and prepare for what is ahead.

v. 5: “He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame” . A wise person makes good use of opportunities, working hard when it is time to gather or prepare. This brings honor to themselves and their family. But someone who is lazy or careless, especially when work is needed most, brings shame on themselves and their loved ones. In the same way, young people should use their time to learn and grow, so they will be ready for the future and not regret wasted chances later in life.

Weighty Sayings.

This verse contrasts the blessings that come to the righteous with the shame and destruction that befall the wicked. Solomon assures us that those who live justly are honored and protected, while those who act wickedly will face the consequences of their actions. God's justice ensures that blessings and curses are given where they are deserved.

v. 6: “Blessings are upon the head of the just: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked” . The righteous are crowned with blessings, both from God and from others. These blessings are like a crown that honors and protects them. On the other hand, the wicked are silenced by the violence they cause. Their own evil deeds return to them, bringing shame and punishment (Job 5:16 ^c).

Weighty Sayings.

This verse teaches about the different ways people are remembered after they die. While everyone, both righteous and wicked, will die and be buried, there is a big difference in how they are remembered. Good people leave behind a reputation that is praised and valued, while wicked people are forgotten or spoken of with shame. Our actions in life shape how others will remember us.

v. 7: “The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot” . Good people are remembered with honor and gratitude. Their lives are like a sweet fragrance, and people thank God for them even after they are gone (Ecclesiastes 7:1; Psalm 112:3, 6, 9 ^d; Hebrews 11:2 ^e). But the wicked will be forgotten or remembered with disgust. Their names do not last, and people do not want to talk about them except to warn others.

Marks of Wisdom and of Folly.

This verse shows the difference between wise and foolish people, especially in how they respond to instructions. The wise are willing to learn and accept guidance, while fools reject advice and talk too much. Wisdom leads to success and safety, but foolishness leads to trouble and downfall.

v. 8: “The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating fool shall fall” . Wise people are glad to receive instructions and obey what is right. They see it as a privilege to be taught and to know their duty. This makes their lives stable and strong. But foolish people do not want to be told what to do. They talk a lot, often saying things that do not matter or are even wrong (3 John 10). Because they refuse to listen and only care about their own opinions, they end up falling into trouble and even ruin.

Marks of Wisdom and of Folly.

This verse compares the safety that comes from living honestly with the danger that comes from being dishonest. Solomon teaches that people who do what is right can feel confident and secure, while those who act wrongly will eventually be found out and put to shame. Our choices shape not only our reputation, but also our peace and safety in life.

v. 9: “He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that perverteth his ways shall be known” . If you live with honesty and integrity before God and people, you can walk through life with confidence and peace. You know you have nothing to hide and God protects you (Isaiah 32:17; Isaiah 33:15-16 ^f). But if you cheat or act in secret, your wrongdoing will eventually be discovered. Even if you fool people for a while, the truth will come out in the end, and you may become an example for others of what not to do.

Marks of Wisdom and of Folly.

This verse warns about two types of foolish people: those who hide their evil plans with secret signals and those who openly talk without thinking. Both cause trouble, but the person who pretends and plots in secret can hurt more people. Solomon teaches that clever tricks or sneaky actions never lead to true success, and open foolishness is also dangerous.

v. 10: “He that winketh with the eye causeth sorrow: but a prating fool shall fall” . Someone who winks with the eye is trying to hide their real intentions and plan mischief in secret. Their actions bring sadness and hurt to others, and often to themselves too. On the other hand, a person who talks foolishly and carelessly will end up falling into trouble, just as it says in Proverbs 10:8 ^g. Secret sin and open foolishness both lead to ruin, but the one who plots in secret may do even more harm before they fall.

The Mouth of the Righteous is a Well of Life

This section explains the differences between a good person and a bad person, using what they say as the example. The words people speak can either help others or hide harmful intentions. Wise words bring life and good to those who hear them, but wicked words can be used to hide evil plans.

v. 11: The mouth of a righteous person is described as a well of life . This means that what a good person says helps and refreshes others, like water for someone who is thirsty. Their words encourage, teach, and comfort people. The righteous do not use bad or dirty language, but speak in ways that help others grow.

v. 11 (second part): In contrast, the mouth of the wicked covers violence . Evil people use nice words to hide their bad intentions. They may pretend to be friends, but secretly plan to harm others, just like Joab who pretended to greet and then killed, or Judas who kissed Jesus and then betrayed Him (2 Samuel 20:9-10; Matthew 26:48-49 ^h). Their punishment will match their sin: the violence they hide with lies will return upon them (Job 5:4-5 ⁱ).

Hatred Stirs Up Strife, but Love Covers All Sins

This section shows the difference between people who cause trouble and those who bring peace. It explains how hatred and love affect relationships. Hatred looks for reasons to start fights, but love tries to forgive and forget mistakes.

v. 12: Hatred is a great troublemaker. Even when there is no clear reason for conflict, people who hate will find ways to create arguments. They enjoy spreading rumors, making others suspicious, and turning small problems into big fights. This is doing the devil’s work, because it destroys peace among neighbors. On the other hand, love is a great peacemaker. Love covers all sins . This means that love does not make a big deal out of every mistake. Instead, it tries to hide and forgive the faults of others, especially when they are not meant to hurt. Love will excuse mistakes made by accident and will not hold grudges. By doing this, love stops fights from starting, or quickly brings peace if a fight has begun. The apostle Peter also says, Love will cover a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8 ^j).

Wisdom Brings Honor, Folly Brings Shame

This section compares the results of wisdom and foolishness. It shows that wise people are respected and help others, while foolish people bring trouble on themselves. The way a person speaks reveals what is in their heart.

v. 13: A person who has understanding will show it in what they say. Wisdom is found in his lips . This means that wise people not only have wisdom inside, but they also share it with others through their words. It is an honor to be wise, but it is even better to help others become wise too. On the other hand, someone who lacks understanding will suffer for it. A rod is for the back of him that is void of understanding (Proverbs 10:13 ^k). Foolish people often get into trouble and are punished by their own conscience, by what others say, by the law, and by God’s judgment. Those who continue in foolish and sinful ways are preparing punishment for themselves, and this will bring them shame.

The Wise Store Up Knowledge

This section teaches us about the difference between wise and foolish people. Wise people collect useful knowledge and keep it safe for when they need it. Fools, however, keep harmful thoughts in their hearts, and their words often hurt others and themselves.

v. 14: Wise people are careful to gather and remember knowledge. They store it in their hearts, so when the time comes, they can share it with others. This is why wisdom is found in their lips (Proverbs 10:13 ^l). We should always be learning and saving what we learn, because we never know when it will be useful. On the other hand, fools fill their hearts with evil plans. Their words are often dangerous, like devouring words (Psalm 52:4 ^m). Their mouths are close to destruction, always ready to speak sharp and bitter things that can hurt others and themselves.

The Rich Man’s Wealth and the Poor Man’s Poverty

This section talks about how people see wealth and poverty. It explains that both rich and poor people can make mistakes in how they think about their situation. Being rich or poor is not what truly keeps a person safe or happy.

v. 15: Some people believe that money will make them safe and happy. The rich man's wealth is his strong city . Rich people often feel secure because of their wealth, but this feeling is not always true. Money cannot protect them from every problem, and sometimes it can even bring more trouble. In the same way, poor people sometimes feel hopeless because of their situation. The destruction of the poor is their poverty (Proverbs 10:15 ⁿ). Poverty can make people feel discouraged and take away their comfort, but a person can still have a good life if they are content, keep a clear conscience, and trust in God. Real security and happiness do not depend on how much money a person has.

The Rewards of the Righteous and the Wicked

This section compares the results of hard work by righteous people and the wealth of the wicked. It shows that what matters is not how much a person has, but how it is gained and used. True value comes from honest work and right living, not just from getting rich.

v. 16: Solomon teaches the same lesson as his father David: A little that a righteous man has is better than the riches of many wicked (Psalm 37:16 ^o). A righteous person may only have what he earns through honest work, but the labour of the righteous tends to life . He works to provide for himself and his family, and also to help others, like it says, that he may have to give (Ephesians 4:28 ^p). This can also mean that he works hard in his faith, aiming for eternal life by sowing to the Spirit and hoping to reap life everlasting (Galatians 6:8 ^q). In contrast, a wicked person may have wealth that he did not work hard for, but the fruit of the wicked to sin (Proverbs 10:16 ^r). He uses his money for selfish and sinful things, like pride and luxury. In the end, the way we use what we have shows if it is truly good or bad for us.

The Importance of Accepting Correction

This section explains the difference between people who accept correction and those who reject it. Keeping and learning from good advice leads to a better life. Ignoring or refusing advice causes people to go the wrong way and miss out on true happiness.

v. 17: People who not only receive instruction but also keep it in their hearts are in the way of life . They do not forget what they learn or let others take it from them. They use this instruction to guide their own actions and also to help others. This way leads to true comfort now and eternal life later. On the other hand, people who stubbornly refuse to accept correction are making a big mistake. They do not want to learn because it shows them their faults. They especially dislike instruction that corrects them, and this is a sign that they do not understand right and wrong. If someone will not listen when they are told they are going the wrong way, they will keep making mistakes and miss the way of life (Proverbs 10:17 ^s).

The Proper Use of the Tongue

This section discusses how people sometimes use their words in the wrong way. It explains that hiding hatred with false words or speaking slander are both foolish and wrong. We should always remember that God sees our true thoughts and will bring the truth to light.

v. 18: Malice, or wanting to harm others, is foolish and evil. Some people try to hide their hatred by using lying lips . They pretend to be friendly, but it is just a cover for their bad feelings. This kind of lying is especially harmful because it hides evil intentions. But anyone who thinks they can hide their hatred from God is truly a fool. Other people show their hatred by speaking badly of others. He that utters slander is a fool (Proverbs 10:18 ^t). Speaking lies about someone damages their reputation, but God will one day reveal the truth and remove the shame that slander brings.

The Proper Use of the Tongue

This section teaches us about the importance of controlling what we say. Speaking too much often leads to mistakes and sin. Wise people know when to stay quiet and think before they speak.

v. 19: We are warned that in the multitude of words there wanteth not sin . This means that when people talk a lot, they are likely to say something wrong. Many words can lead to many careless or harmful statements, and we will have to answer for them. It is wise to keep our mouth as with a bridle and to refrain our lips . Holding back words and thinking before speaking shows wisdom and brings peace. As the Bible says elsewhere, he that keeps silence is wise (Amos 5:13; James 1:19 ^u).

The Proper Use of the Tongue

This section teaches us how to judge people, not by their money or position, but by their character and the words they speak. Good people are valuable and helpful to others, while wicked people have little to offer.

v. 20: Good people, even if they are poor, are valuable because of their words. The tongue of the just is as choice silver . Their words are honest and pure, like silver that has been cleaned. Just as God’s words are compared to silver purified (Psalm 12:6 ^v), the words of righteous people are trustworthy and helpful. The lips of the righteous feed many (Proverbs 10:21 ^w). Their words are like food for the soul, giving wisdom and encouragement to those who listen. On the other hand, the heart of the wicked is little worth (Proverbs 10:20 ^x). What comes from a wicked person’s heart is not valuable. Their thoughts and words are focused on worldly things and do not help others. As Jesus said, He that is of the earth speaks of the earth (John 3:31; 1 Corinthians 2:14 ^y). Some wicked people claim to have a good heart, but God knows the truth—it is worth nothing.

v. 21: While the righteous help many people with their wise words, fools die for want of wisdom . Fools do not listen or learn, so they miss out on the wisdom that could save them. They do not have the heart or desire to do what is good for themselves. While the righteous feed others, fools let themselves starve for lack of understanding.

The Advantages of the Righteous

This section explains what true wealth is and where it comes from. Many people desire riches, but they often misunderstand what makes wealth truly good and how it should be gained. Real blessing is not just having a lot, but having it with peace and joy, without worry or guilt.

v. 22: The Bible teaches that the blessing of the Lord, it makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it . This means that wealth from God brings happiness and does not come with trouble or regret. It is not just about having money, but about having it in a way that brings comfort, allows us to do good, and lets us serve God with joy. True wealth is not gained by working endlessly for the world (Psalm 127:2 ^z), but by receiving God’s blessing. When God gives riches, He also gives grace to protect us from the problems that often come with wealth. While hard work is important (Proverbs 10:4 ^aa), it is God’s blessing that truly makes us rich. This is true for spiritual riches as well—our effort is needed, but all the glory belongs to God, who gives us everything we have (Deuteronomy 8:17-18 ^ab).

The Advantages of the Righteous

This section shows the difference between how fools and wise people view sin and wisdom. Fools enjoy doing wrong and make jokes about it, while wise people find joy in understanding and doing what is right.

v. 23: For a fool, doing evil is like a game. It is as laughter to a fool to do mischief . Sin is his delight, and he even laughs at warnings and feels proud of his bad actions. When someone tries to correct him, he makes fun of it and ignores his own conscience (Proverbs 14:9 ^ac). But for a wise person, the real joy comes from having wisdom and living by it. It is a sport to a man of understanding to have wisdom (Proverbs 10:23 ^ad). Wise people do not joke about sin. Instead, they find pleasure in learning, doing good, and following God. The happiness that comes from wisdom is much better than any fun that comes from sin.

The Advantages of the Righteous

This section compares the future of the righteous and the wicked. It shows that God promises good things to those who follow Him, but warns of trouble for those who do evil. The destinies of both groups are set side by side to help us understand the difference.

v. 24: The wicked often have fears about what might happen to them, and these fears will come true. The fear of the wicked, it shall come upon him . Even if they sometimes hope for good things, their worries about punishment are real, and God will be as terrible as they fear (Psalm 90:11 ^ae). On the other hand, the righteous may also have fears, but their main desire is to know God’s favor and happiness in Him. The desire of the righteous shall be granted (Proverbs 10:24 ^af). God will give them what they truly want, according to their faith, not their fears (Psalm 37:4 ^ag).

v. 25: The success of the wicked is short-lived. They may seem powerful and cause a lot of trouble, like a whirlwind, but soon they are gone and forgotten . After the storm, there is peace, and people are glad when the wicked are no more (Psalm 37:10, 36; Job 20:5 ^ah). In contrast, the righteous are like a strong foundation. They may not be noticed, but they are steady and will last forever. The righteous is an everlasting foundation (Proverbs 10:25 ^ai). Their hope is built on God, so they are not shaken by trouble (Matthew 7:24 ^aj). The world is made stronger and better because of them.

The Righteous Exclusively Happy

This section teaches about the problems caused by lazy people. It explains that those who do not like to work are not reliable, even for simple tasks. Trusting such people leads to disappointment and trouble.

v. 26: People who are lazy and do not want to work are not good to trust with any job. They will not do the work carefully or quickly. This makes them unfit to be messengers, especially for important work like serving Christ. If someone trusts a lazy person, they will be upset and frustrated. A lazy servant is as annoying as vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes . Just as vinegar makes your teeth feel strange and smoke makes your eyes water, a lazy worker causes anger and sadness because the job is not done well.

The Righteous Exclusively Happy

This section teaches that following God brings long life and true happiness, while living in wickedness leads to disappointment and a shorter life. The hopes of the righteous will be fulfilled, but the hopes of the wicked will fail.

v. 27: Religion and respect for God can make life longer and better. The Bible says, The fear of the Lord prolongs days . Those who fear God are protected from many dangers and receive both a full life here and eternal life after. If you want to enjoy good days, follow God and you will find happiness now and forever. The hope of the righteous shall be gladness (Proverbs 10:28 ^ak). The righteous look forward to things not yet seen, and this hope will finally become real joy (Romans 8:24-25 ^al). For them, hope will turn into everlasting gladness, as Jesus says, Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord (Matthew 25:21 ^am).

v. 28: On the other hand, a sinful life shortens a person’s days. The years of the wicked shall be shortened (Proverbs 10:27 ^an). Wicked people may expect happiness and good things, but their expectations will not come true. The expectation of the wicked shall perish . Their hope will end in disappointment and despair.

The Righteous Exclusively Happy

This section again shows the difference between the lives of the righteous and the wicked. God’s way gives strength, safety, and happiness to those who live right. But for those who do evil, God’s way brings ruin and destruction.

v. 29: The way of the Lord is strength to the upright . For those who live honestly and trust God, everything God does—whether it is kindness or discipline—helps them grow stronger and do their duty. God’s path gives them courage and energy, even when life is hard. The more we follow God’s way, the more able we are to face challenges. A clean heart and hard work give us confidence and make life easier. As the Bible says, The joy of the Lord is your strength (Nehemiah 8:10 ^ao), and the righteous shall never be removed (Proverbs 10:25 ^ap). Their lives are built on a solid foundation that cannot be shaken (Job 17:9 ^aq).

v. 30: Wicked people will face destruction. Destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity (Proverbs 10:29 ^ar). They will not even be able to live safely in the land, no matter how much they collect or hope for. God’s judgment will remove them completely. The very things that help good people, like God’s commands and His presence, will be a terror to those who do evil. The same message of God that gives life to some will mean death to others (Hosea 14:9 ^as). God’s way is a blessing for the righteous but brings fear and punishment to the wicked.

The Righteous Exclusively Happy

This section explains that people are judged by the words they speak. Good words show a wise and righteous heart, while evil words reveal a wicked heart. Our speech can either help or harm us in the end (Matthew 12:37 ^at).

v. 31: A good person shows his wisdom by speaking helpful and wise words. The mouth of the just brings forth wisdom . God rewards the righteous with wisdom, and they use it to help and teach others. They know what kind of speech pleases God and benefits those who listen. Their words are thoughtful and kind, making them a blessing to everyone around them (Ecclesiastes 2:26 ^au).

v. 32: In contrast, wicked people speak in a way that is twisted and wrong. The mouth of the wicked speaks frowardness (Proverbs 10:32 ^av). Their words are displeasing to God and often upset others. Because of this, their speech will lead to their ruin. The Bible says, The froward tongue shall be cut out (Psalm 12:3 ^aw). In the end, evil words will bring judgment and punishment.