Pro 13 | MHM | STEP | The Value of Listening to Correction This section points out that even children from the same family can be very different. Some are teachable and wise, while others refuse to listen and are foolish. The way a person responds to advice and correction, especially from parents, shows what kind of person they are becoming. v. 1 : A wise son listens to his father’s instruction. He wants to be taught, respects advice, and tries to follow it. This attitude leads him to become even wiser. In contrast, someone who refuses to listen to correction and makes fun of those who try to help is called a scorner. There is little hope for such a person, because you cannot improve if you will not accept correction. The Bible says, A wise son heareth his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke .

‏ Proverbs 13

The Value of Listening to Correction

This section points out that even children from the same family can be very different. Some are teachable and wise, while others refuse to listen and are foolish. The way a person responds to advice and correction, especially from parents, shows what kind of person they are becoming.

v. 1: A wise son listens to his father’s instruction. He wants to be taught, respects advice, and tries to follow it. This attitude leads him to become even wiser. In contrast, someone who refuses to listen to correction and makes fun of those who try to help is called a scorner. There is little hope for such a person, because you cannot improve if you will not accept correction. The Bible says, A wise son heareth his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke .

The Fruit of Our Words and Actions

This section teaches that what comes from our hearts and mouths has real effects on our lives. If we speak and act for good, we will enjoy blessings and satisfaction. But if we plan or do wrong, it will come back to hurt us. Everyone receives the results of their own choices, whether good or bad.

v. 2: Good people enjoy the rewards of their words and actions. When someone speaks in a way that helps and encourages others, it brings them comfort and happiness, almost like having a daily feast. As the Bible says, Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification (Ephesians 4:29 ^a). On the other hand, people who do evil or speak violence will suffer the results of their own actions. Their wrong choices will come back to them, and they will “eat” the trouble they have caused. The Bible warns, Reward her even as she rewarded you (Revelation 18:6 ^b), and Jesus said, By your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned (Matthew 12:37 ^c). So, as we live and speak, we will receive the results of our choices (Romans 6:21,22 ^d).

Guarding Your Words

This section teaches that being careful with what we say protects us from many problems. If we think before we speak and control our words, we avoid guilt, regret, and trouble with others. But if we speak without thinking, we can ruin our reputation and even our lives. Our words have great power, so we must use them wisely.

v. 3: A person who guards their mouth and is careful with their words keeps themselves safe from much harm. If someone controls their tongue, they save themselves from guilt and sorrow. The Bible says, If you have thought evil, lay your hand upon your mouth (Proverbs 30:32 ^e). But a person who talks too much or says whatever comes to mind will bring destruction on themselves. Their words can destroy their reputation, happiness, and even their soul. As James writes, The tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity (James 3:6 ^f).

The Results of Laziness and Diligence

This section talks about the difference between people who are lazy and people who work hard. Lazy people want good things, but they are not willing to put in the effort to get them. This leaves them empty and unhappy. On the other hand, diligent people work hard and enjoy the results of their efforts. This lesson is true in everyday life and also in spiritual matters. Those who only wish for blessings but do not seek God will miss out, but those who sincerely serve God will find joy and reward.

v. 4: Lazy people have many desires, but they do not work for what they want, so they end up with nothing. Their wishes only make them feel worse because they do not take action. The Bible says, If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat (2 Thessalonians 3:10 ^g). In contrast, those who are diligent—who work hard—will have plenty and enjoy what they have earned. The Bible teaches, The soul of the diligent shall be made fat . This is especially true in following God: people who put effort into their faith experience its true blessings.

People who are righteous hate lying and all kinds of sin. They do not just avoid telling lies, but they truly dislike all dishonesty and wrongdoing, because they love truth and want to be like God. On the other hand, people who continue in sin become shameful. If they could truly see themselves, they would feel disgusted and would want to change. Even if they try to hide their shame for a while, in the end, their lies will bring them to disgrace. The Bible says, Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting contempt (Daniel 12:2 ^h).

The Righteous Hate Lies

This proverb contrasts the character of righteous people with that of the wicked. It teaches that those who love what is right cannot stand lies, while wicked people are disgusting and will end up ashamed. The verse reminds us that our attitudes towards truth and lies reveal our real character, and that those who choose dishonesty will eventually face disgrace .

v. 5: "A righteous man hateth lying: but a wicked man is loathsome, and cometh to shame" (Proverbs 13:5 ⁱ). People who are truly righteous hate all forms of lying and dishonesty. They do not just avoid telling lies themselves, but they dislike lies in any form, because they love truth and justice. On the other hand, wicked people are hateful to God and good people. If they could see themselves honestly, they would be disgusted, too. Lies may work for a while, but the wicked will end up disgraced and embarrassed by their actions (Daniel 12:2 ^j).

Integrity Protects, Wickedness Destroys

This section explains the difference between those who live honestly and those who do evil. People who are upright and sincere in their actions are protected by their own integrity. Their honest way of living keeps them safe from the traps of temptation and from the harm that others may try to bring. On the other hand, people who choose wickedness are trapped and ruined by their own sins. Their wrong choices lead to their downfall.

v. 6: Those who are upright and honest in their way are kept safe by their integrity. They follow God’s rules and deal sincerely with others. This protects them from the attacks of the enemy and from the harm that evil people might try to do. As the Bible says, Let integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for You (Psalm 25:21 ^k). But those who are wicked are destroyed by their own evil actions. Their sins become like ropes that tie them up and bring them to ruin. In the end, it is their own wickedness that corrects and destroys them.

True Riches and False Appearances

This section explains how people often pretend to be something they are not, both in worldly things and in their spiritual lives. Some people act rich but are actually poor, while others are truly rich but live as if they are poor. The same thing can happen with our spiritual lives—some think they are strong in faith when they are not, and others have real faith but doubt themselves. These mistakes can bring trouble, shame, or unneeded worry.

v. 7: In the world, some people who have little pretend to be rich. They spend and act as if they have great wealth, but actually may be in debt and have nothing. This kind of pride can ruin families and hurt a person’s reputation. On the other hand, some people who are truly rich pretend to be poor. They live far below their means and do not share or enjoy what God has given them. This is ungrateful to God and unfair to others, especially the poor. The Bible also says, There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, and it is common among men: a man to whom God has given riches, wealth, and honor, so that he lacks nothing for himself of all he desires; yet God does not give him power to eat of it (Ecclesiastes 6:1-2 ^l).

This idea also applies to spiritual life. Grace is the true wealth of the soul. Some people think they are rich in faith but are actually empty—they are only pretending or do not see their own spiritual need. Others have a lot of grace and faith but see themselves as poor, always doubting and worrying. The first mistake leads to ruin in the end, while the second causes unnecessary sadness along the way. Jesus warned, You say, ‘I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing,’ not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked (Revelation 3:17 ^m).

Riches, Poverty, and True Happiness

This section teaches us not to judge a person’s happiness by how much money they have. Wealth can bring respect from some people, but it also brings danger and envy from others. Poor people may be ignored or looked down on, but they are also free from some of the troubles that come with riches. In the end, having a lot or a little does not decide if someone is truly blessed.

v. 8: Rich people sometimes have to use their money to protect themselves, even to save their lives. For example, when people are attacked or threatened, they might say, Do not kill us, for we have treasures in the field (Jeremiah 41:8 ⁿ). In some places, just being rich can make someone a target. So, wealth is not always a blessing, because it can bring danger. On the other hand, poor people are often ignored by both friends and enemies. They do not face the same risks as the rich, because no one thinks it is worth troubling them. When the rich Jews were taken to Babylon, the poor of the land were left (2 Kings 25:12 ^o). Sometimes, having nothing can actually be a kind of safety. This shows that we should not envy the rich or be ashamed of being poor, because both have their own challenges and blessings.

The Light of the Righteous and the Lamp of the Wicked

This section compares the lives of good people and wicked people by using the image of light. The lives of the righteous are like a bright and growing light that brings them happiness and hope. The lives of the wicked are like a weak lamp that will soon be put out. This teaches us that true and lasting joy belongs to those who live for God.

v. 9: Good people have a light that shines and makes them glad. Their happiness grows, especially because of the gifts and comfort God gives them. As it says, The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day (Proverbs 4:18 ^p). God’s Spirit is their light, bringing them true joy. In contrast, the wicked have a lamp that burns weakly and will soon be put out. Their happiness does not last, and their light will end in darkness. The Bible warns, You shall lie down in torment (Isaiah 50:11 ^q). The righteous have a light like the sun that can be covered for a time but will never go out, while the wicked have a lamp that is easily put out forever.

Pride Causes Strife, Humility Brings Wisdom

This section explains that pride is often the main reason for arguments and fights. When people are proud, they do not want to be corrected, challenged, or told they are wrong. This leads to quarrels in families, communities, and even churches. On the other hand, people who are humble and willing to listen to advice are wise. They help keep peace by being willing to yield and not insisting on their own way.

v. 10: Pride leads to conflict and trouble. It makes people stubborn and unwilling to forgive or back down, which causes many arguments. The Bible asks, Where do wars and fights come from among you? (James 4:1 ^r). But those who are humble and willing to take advice show wisdom. They ask for help, listen to others, and do not act quickly or rashly. This attitude helps them avoid fights and keeps peace with others.

Honest Work Brings Lasting Wealth

This section teaches that how we get our money matters. Wealth gained in the wrong way does not last and often brings trouble. Money earned by honest work and effort will grow and bring true blessings. This is a warning not to seek quick or dishonest ways to become rich, but to trust that steady, honest work is best.

v. 11: Money that is gained through vanity or wrong actions will quickly disappear. If people win or earn money in ways that are dishonest or wasteful, it will not last long. The Bible says, Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished . In contrast, wealth gained by hard work and honesty will increase. When a person works with their hands and earns their living honestly, their wealth will grow and become a blessing not just for them, but also for others. As it is written, Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need (Ephesians 4:28 ^s).

Hope Deferred and Fulfilled

This verse teaches us about the power of hope and disappointment. When we wait for something and it does not happen, it can make us feel very sad and discouraged. But when what we hope for finally comes, it brings great joy and satisfaction. This is a lesson about managing our expectations and being patient.

v. 12: Nothing is harder than waiting for something you really want and not getting it. Hope deferred makes the heart sick . When our hopes are delayed, we can become upset and frustrated. If our hopes are completely destroyed, it hurts even more, especially if we were very excited. That is why we should not expect too much from things in this world. We should be careful not to build our happiness on things that may disappoint us. If we do hope for something, we should be ready for disappointment, so it will not hurt as much if it happens. On the other hand, nothing feels better than finally getting what we have waited for. When the desire does come, it is a tree of life (Proverbs 13:12 ^t). It is like being in a beautiful garden. For those who do not follow God, their hopes will be disappointed forever. But for those who trust in the Lord, the happiness of heaven will be even sweeter because it is what they have longed for.

The Consequences of Respecting or Rejecting God's Word

This verse contrasts two types of people: those who disrespect God's word and those who respect it. The text explains what happens to each group. It reminds us that our attitude toward God's commands has serious results for our lives.

v. 13: There is a warning for anyone who does not respect God's word. He that despises the word shall be destroyed . If someone ignores or refuses to follow God's instructions, they are choosing their own ruin. This happens because they reject what could help and heal them. People who prefer worldly advice or pleasures over God's promises are despising His word. They bring trouble upon themselves because they do not listen to warnings. On the other hand, those who respect and honor God's commands will be safe and blessed. He that fears the commandment shall be rewarded (Proverbs 13:13 ^u). If someone respects God's authority and is careful not to disobey Him, they will escape destruction and receive a reward. In keeping the commandment there is great reward (Psalm 19:11 ^v).

The Law of the Wise as a Fountain of Life

This section explains the value of wise teaching and advice. It shows how the guidance of wise people brings life, comfort, and protection. Following their instructions helps us avoid danger and live better lives.

v. 14: The teachings and advice of wise and righteous people are called the law of the wise . These principles guide their own lives and should also guide others. If we follow these wise rules, they become like a fountain of life (Proverbs 13:14 ^w). They bring comfort, peace, and satisfaction, just like a fresh spring gives water. The more we stick to these good teachings, the more we keep our peace and happiness. Also, these wise instructions protect us from falling into temptation. They help us stay away from the traps of sin and avoid the snares of death (Proverbs 13:14 ^x). If we listen to the law of the wise, we are kept safe from danger and spiritual harm.

The Results of Wisdom and Folly

This section compares the lives of those who follow wisdom and those who choose sin. It shows how living with understanding brings favor and peace, while living in sin leads to hardship and trouble.

v. 15: Wise people, who have good understanding, gain favour with both God and other people . Jesus also grew in favor as He increased in wisdom (Luke 2:52 ^y). When we act wisely and do what is right, we are accepted by God and respected by others. Serving Christ brings righteousness, peace, and joy through the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17-18 ^z). Life is much easier and more pleasant for those who are wise and well-accepted. But those who live in sin find their way rough and difficult. Their actions bring problems for both themselves and others. The path of the sinner is hard (Proverbs 13:15 ^aa). It is full of pain and slavery to sin. The road to destruction is filled with trouble, like thorns and thistles from the curse. Sinners work hard but only find suffering in the end.

Wisdom in Acting with Knowledge

This section focuses on the difference between wise and foolish behavior. It highlights how a wise person thinks carefully before acting, while a foolish person acts without understanding and ends up embarrassed.

v. 16: It is wise to be careful and thoughtful in everything we do. Every prudent man acts with knowledge . A wise person thinks things through, gets advice from others, and avoids getting involved in matters they do not understand. They do not start new things without first learning about them, and they do not trust people they know nothing about. Instead, they always try to learn more, so they can make better decisions. On the other hand, a foolish person is quick to speak and act without thinking. They often try things they are not ready for, and so lays open his folly (Proverbs 13:16 ^ab). Their lack of preparation is obvious to everyone, and they may fail, just like someone who began to build and was not able to finish (Luke 14:30 ^ac).

The Effects of Faithfulness and Unfaithfulness

This section compares the outcomes for people who are trusted with important tasks. It shows the dangers of being unfaithful and the blessings that come from being trustworthy and honest.

v. 17: There are serious consequences for someone who betrays a trust. A wicked messenger falls into mischief . If a person is sent to do a job and is dishonest or reveals secrets, they will not succeed. Instead, they will face trouble and be punished. Betraying trust is hated by both God and people. On the other hand, being faithful brings good results. A faithful ambassador is health (Proverbs 13:17 ^ad). If someone carries out their job honestly, they bring peace and healing to others. They also keep good relationships and protect their own interests. This can also be applied to ministers or anyone who represents Christ. Those who are false hurt themselves and others, but those who are faithful bring healing and blessings through their words and actions.

The Results of Accepting or Rejecting Instruction

This section teaches about the consequences of how we respond to advice and correction. It explains that pride leads to trouble, but humility and willingness to learn lead to respect and success.

v. 18: If someone is too proud to accept guidance or correction, they will suffer for it. Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuses instruction . A person who rejects good advice, thinking it is an insult or a restriction of their freedom, will end up poor and embarrassed. People will see them as foolish and stubborn. But if a person is humble and willing to listen when corrected, things will go well for them. He that regards reproof shall be honoured (Proverbs 13:18 ^ae). Those who accept correction and improve themselves gain respect and avoid disgrace. They are seen as wise and are more likely to succeed in life.

The Sweetness of Fulfilled Desire

This section explains why it is foolish to reject good advice and instruction. It points out that true happiness is possible, but many people miss it because they do not want to turn away from sin.

v. 19: People naturally desire to be happy, and God has made it possible for us to find real joy. When good desires are fulfilled, it is sweet to the soul . The greatest happiness comes from seeking God's favor and spiritual blessings, which satisfy us deep inside—not just our physical desires. The experience of those who trust God shows that this joy is real (Psalm 4:6-7 ^af). However, some people refuse to be happy because they do not want to give up their sins. For them, it is an abomination to depart from evil . If someone loves their sins too much to let them go, they should not expect to find anything truly sweet for their soul. True happiness only comes to those who are willing to leave evil behind.

The Importance of Choosing Good Friends

This section teaches about the influence of the people we spend time with. It shows that our friends shape our character and can lead us either to wisdom or to trouble. The company we choose is very important for our future.

v. 20: If you want to be wise and good, you must spend time with good and wise people. He that walks with wise men shall be wise . The friends we choose say a lot about who we are and who we want to become. Being around wise people helps us learn, encourages us to do what is right, and gives us good examples to follow. We should listen to their advice, have good conversations with them, and learn from their experience. The book of Ecclesiasticus says, Miss not the discourse of the elders, for they also learned of their fathers (Ecclesiasticus viii. 9), and Be willing to hear every godly discourse (Ecclesiasticus vi. 35). But spending time with foolish people is dangerous. A companion of fools shall be destroyed (Proverbs 13:20 ^ag). Bad company can ruin your character and your life. If you choose foolish friends, you will become like them and may end up in trouble or disgrace. People are often known by the friends they keep, and those who join with evil-doers will share in their downfall.

God’s Justice to Sinners and Reward to the Righteous

This section explains the certainty of God’s justice. It shows that those who do evil cannot escape punishment, while those who do right will always be rewarded by God, even if the reward is delayed.

v. 21: Sinners cannot avoid the consequences of their actions. Evil pursues sinners . God's anger and punishment follow them wherever they go, just like the avenger chased the person who killed someone by accident in the Old Testament. There is no safe place for them to hide. Even if they seem successful for a while, their punishment will come. God always keeps His word, and He will not let the guilty escape. But those who live righteously are promised good things. To the righteous good shall be repaid . God will reward the righteous for all the good they have done and all the suffering they have experienced for doing what is right. Even if the reward does not come quickly, it will come at the right time, and it will be more than enough to make up for any loss or hardship they faced.

The Lasting Blessings of the Good

This section highlights how a good person’s choices can benefit future generations. It also explains that God sometimes takes wealth from the wicked and gives it to the righteous, showing His justice and care for those who honor Him.

v. 22: A good person leaves lasting blessings for their family. A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children . This means he is thoughtful about the future and does not spend everything on himself. He manages his money wisely so his children and even grandchildren can benefit. More important than money, a good man leaves his family God’s blessings, good teaching, and a good example. This spiritual inheritance is even better than wealth, as the Bible says, the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children (Psalm 103:17 ^ah). On the other hand, the wealth of wicked people will not last. Sometimes, the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just (Proverbs 13:22 ^ai). God can cause the riches of bad people to end up helping the innocent, like when the innocent shall divide the silver (Job 27:16-17 ^aj), or when the Israelites took treasures from the Egyptians (Exodus 12:36 ^ak). God makes sure that those who do right are provided for, even if their blessings come from unexpected places (Isaiah 61:6 ^al).

Industry and Wisdom in Managing What We Have

This section teaches that both hard work and wise management are important. Even a small amount can become enough if used well, but a large amount can be lost through poor decisions.

v. 23: Hard work can make a big difference, even for those who have little. Much food is in the tillage of the poor . Poor farmers who work hard and use their land wisely can provide well for themselves. Some people say they cannot succeed because they have little, but if they use what they have with skill and effort, it can be enough. On the other hand, having a lot does not guarantee success. There is that is destroyed for want of judgment (Proverbs 13:23 ^am). Some people lose everything because they do not manage their resources wisely. They may spend too much, make bad decisions, or neglect what they have. Without good judgment, even a large estate can be ruined, and families can end up in need.

Discipline Is an Act of Love

This section explains why discipline is necessary in raising children. It teaches that loving correction helps children learn right from wrong and protects them from harm in the future.

v. 24: Teaching children what is good requires correcting them when they do wrong. Every child is born with foolishness in their heart, so they need guidance and sometimes discipline. He that spares his rod hates his son: but he that loves him chasteneth him betimes . The correction should come from the parent, used with wisdom and love, not anger. It is best to start teaching and correcting children early, while they are still young and open to learning. If parents do not discipline their children, they are not truly showing love. Instead, they allow their children to continue in harmful ways, which will hurt them in the end. Children should remember that when their parents correct them, it is because they care for them and want the best for their lives (Hebrews 12:7-9 ^an).

The Satisfaction of the Righteous and the Hunger of the Wicked

This section shows the difference between those who live righteously and those who live wickedly. It explains that righteous people find true satisfaction, while the wicked are never truly content.

v. 25: The righteous experience real happiness because they have enough and know when to be satisfied. The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soul (Proverbs 13:25 ^ao). They do not desire too much, and they are content with what they receive. Even a small amount is enough for someone who is thankful and trusts God. Those who find their joy in God’s promises and the “bread of life” are always filled and satisfied in their souls (John 6:35 ^ap). On the other hand, the wicked are always craving more and are never truly satisfied. The belly of the wicked shall want (Proverbs 13:25 ^aq). Their desires are never filled, and they remain empty inside. In the end, their selfishness leaves them with nothing, and even in eternity, their needs will never be met (Luke 16:24 ^ar).