Pro 15 | MHM | STEP | The Power of Gentle Words This section teaches us how to keep peace with others through the way we speak. Solomon explains that gentle words can calm anger, while harsh words make conflicts worse. The way we answer others can either stop a fight or make it bigger. v. 1 : If someone is angry, giving a soft answer can calm them down and turn away their wrath. Speaking kindly, even when others are upset, helps to make peace. For example, Gideon used gentle words to calm the Ephraimites (Judges 8:1-3 ). But when Jephthah answered roughly, it only made things worse (Judges 12:1-3 ). It is better to use gentle words and reason calmly, because strong arguments are best shared with a gentle voice. On the other hand, grievous words stir up anger and cause fights. Calling people names or making fun of their weaknesses only makes them more upset. Some people would rather make a joke and lose a friend than keep the peace. Harsh words can break relationships and make enemies, so we should be careful with what we say.

‏ Proverbs 15

The Power of Gentle Words

This section teaches us how to keep peace with others through the way we speak. Solomon explains that gentle words can calm anger, while harsh words make conflicts worse. The way we answer others can either stop a fight or make it bigger.

v. 1: If someone is angry, giving a soft answer can calm them down and turn away their wrath. Speaking kindly, even when others are upset, helps to make peace. For example, Gideon used gentle words to calm the Ephraimites (Judges 8:1-3 ^a). But when Jephthah answered roughly, it only made things worse (Judges 12:1-3 ^b). It is better to use gentle words and reason calmly, because strong arguments are best shared with a gentle voice.

On the other hand, grievous words stir up anger and cause fights. Calling people names or making fun of their weaknesses only makes them more upset. Some people would rather make a joke and lose a friend than keep the peace. Harsh words can break relationships and make enemies, so we should be careful with what we say.

The Power of Wise and Foolish Speech

This section teaches that our words can help or harm others, depending on the condition of our heart. Wise people use their knowledge to help and teach, while foolish people let out words that cause trouble. Our speech reveals what kind of person we really are.

v. 2: A person with true knowledge uses their tongue to help others. When someone’s heart is good, their words are useful and kind. They give advice, comfort, and guidance at the right time and in the right way. This is what it means to use knowledge aright. When we share what we know with humility and love, God can trust us with even more wisdom.

But a foolish person’s words cause harm. The mouth of fools belches out foolishness. Their speech is rude, silly, or even dirty. These types of words can lead others into bad habits and make good people feel sad or uncomfortable. The words we speak show what is really inside our hearts.

The LORD Sees Everything

This section reminds us of an important truth: God is always watching. His eyes are everywhere, and nothing is hidden from Him. This should comfort good people and warn those who do wrong.

The eyes of the Lord are in every place (Psalm 33:13 ^c). God sees everything that happens. He is present everywhere and pays attention to every action and thought. He knows about secret sins and private acts of kindness or sorrow. God’s watchful eye means He is always in control, caring for the world by His wisdom and power.

God also sees the difference between people and their actions. He beholds the evil and the good, and He will judge each one fairly (Psalm 1:6; 11:4 ^d). Evil people will not escape punishment, and good people will not lose their reward. This truth encourages those who do right and warns those who do wrong to change their ways.

The All-Seeing Eyes of the Lord

This proverb teaches an important truth about God: He sees everything that happens, everywhere, all the time. God’s knowledge covers every person and every action. This should warn those who do wrong and comfort those who do good .

v. 3: "The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good" (Proverbs 15:3 ^e). God can see everything, and nothing is hidden from Him. He watches over all people, both when they do wrong and when they do right (Psalm 33:13 ^f). He is present everywhere, and He truly inspects every action; nothing escapes His notice. God not only sees, but He also cares and rules over everything that happens. This means secret sins, private good deeds, and personal sorrows are all known to Him. God also judges fairly: He knows who is evil and who is good, and He will reward or punish each person based on what He sees (Psalm 1:6; Psalm 11:4 ^g). For those who do wrong, this can be scary, but for those who do right, it brings comfort and encouragement.

The Power of Words to Heal or Harm

This section explains how our words can help and heal, or hurt and destroy. The way we speak to others has a strong effect on their emotions and relationships. Kind words can bring comfort and peace, while harsh or twisted words can cause deep pain.

v. 4: A gentle and wise tongue is like a tree of life. It brings healing to people who are sad, guilty, or troubled. Encouraging words can comfort those with a wounded conscience or help those who feel far from God. When someone helps others make peace, their words heal broken friendships. Just like the leaves of the tree in Revelation 22:2 ^h, good words can bring health and happiness wherever we go.

But a tongue that speaks evil, with lies, anger, or bad jokes, causes damage. Perverseness in it is a breach in the spirit. Hurtful words can break a person’s heart, causing guilt or sadness for both the speaker and the listener. Even though people say “words can’t break bones,” many hearts have been broken by cruel things others have said.

The Importance of Accepting Correction

This section teaches about the relationship between those who guide others and those who are guided. It encourages teachers, parents, and leaders to correct those in their care. It also tells children and students to listen to advice and correction, because this is the path to wisdom.

v. 5: Those in authority, like parents or teachers, should give both instruction and correction. They must teach with knowledge and also reprove with care and seriousness, just like a loving father. Even if people do not listen at first, leaders should not give up. If someone ignores advice, a sharp rebuke may be necessary. Although it can be hard to correct others, it is better than letting them continue doing wrong and harming themselves.

Those who are under authority should accept both instruction and correction. Even when it is difficult, they should see correction as a gift, not an insult. Listening to advice and using it for guidance shows true wisdom. If someone rejects good teaching and refuses to learn, the Bible calls that person a fool, and they may stay foolish all their life.

Treasure and Trouble in Different Houses

This section compares the homes of righteous and wicked people. It teaches that true riches come from living in a good and honest way, not just from having a lot of money. The blessings in a righteous home bring peace, but riches gained by wickedness only bring trouble.

v. 6: In the house of a righteous person, there is much treasure. This is not just about money, but also about the blessings and peace that come from following God. Righteous people are usually hardworking, self-controlled, and fair. Because of this, their lives are often blessed with enough for their needs. Even if they do not have a lot of wealth, they are content and thankful, which is true treasure. Sometimes, God’s blessing remains in their home and helps their children in the future. Their main concern is the soul and spiritual riches, not just physical things (Psalm 17:14 ⁱ).

In the house of a wicked person, there might be great revenues, but there is also trouble. The money they have brings no real peace. There is often guilt, arguments, pride, and jealousy in their lives. These things destroy the joy of having wealth. In the end, their riches only cause problems for themselves and for others around them.

Spreading Knowledge vs. Spreading Foolishness

This section is similar to verse 2 and shows how wise people bless others, while fools are a burden. It highlights the importance of sharing what we know for the good of many. Wisdom should not be kept to ourselves, but used to help as many people as possible.

v. 7: Wise people use their knowledge by sharing it with others. They do not keep it just for their close friends or themselves. Instead, they spread helpful advice and teaching widely, like giving out spiritual alms to many people (Ecclesiastes 11:2 ^j). A wise person works to make useful knowledge available to others so that it continues to grow and help more people. This is how knowledge is used in the right way.

In contrast, fools do not share anything good. The heart of the foolish does not so. Either they do not have anything wise to give, or they do not know how, or they simply do not want to help others. It is not only wrong to speak foolishly, but it is also a shame to keep wisdom to yourself when you could help someone else learn and grow.

God Looks at the Heart, Not Just the Offering

This section explains that God cares more about a person's heart than about their religious actions. If someone is wicked, even their sacrifices and worship do not please God. But if a person is truly good and honest, God loves their prayers and enjoys blessing them.

v. 8: God hates the sacrifices of wicked people. Even if they offer expensive gifts, their hearts are not sincere. Sometimes wicked people bring sacrifices just to quiet their conscience or look good to others. These offerings are not true worship, so God calls them an abomination. They try to hide their sins with religious acts, but God sees through their lies (Proverbs 7:14; Isaiah 1:11 ^k).

In contrast, God loves the prayers of upright people. Even if they cannot give much, their prayer is a delight to Him. God gives them the desire and ability to pray, and He enjoys hearing from them. He not only answers their prayers but also takes pleasure in their sincere relationship with Him.

God Delights in Those Who Follow Righteousness

This section continues to show why God cares more about a person’s whole life than about their religious actions alone. God sees what is in our hearts and how we live every day. He is pleased with those who try to do what is right, not just those who perform religious ceremonies.

v. 9: The way of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord. God rejects the worship of people who keep on doing wrong. It is not the details of their ceremonies that He dislikes, but the fact that their whole way of living is evil. Even sacrifices for sin do not please God if someone plans to continue sinning. If a person uses religious acts to cover up their bad behavior, God is especially displeased.

On the other hand, the prayer of the upright is his delight. God loves people who are His friends and who truly seek to do right. Even if they are not perfect, He is happy with those who are following after righteousness and trying their best to please Him, just like Paul did (Philippians 3:13 ^l).

The Danger of Hating Correction

This section warns about the serious results of refusing to accept correction. It is especially dangerous for people who once knew what was right but have turned away. Accepting reproof is important for everyone who wants to live a good life.

v. 10: People who have learned the right way but leave it often become angry when someone tries to correct them. They feel insulted by reproof and do not want to listen. Because they do not want to change, they also dislike those who try to help them. Apostates, or people who turn away from what they once believed, usually react the worst to being corrected.

The Bible says that anyone who refuses correction will be destroyed. He that hates reproof shall die, because he chooses to keep his sins instead of changing his ways. This is a serious warning, like what was said to King Amaziah in 2 Chronicles 25:15 ^m: I know that God has determined to destroy thee, because thou couldst not bear to be reproved. The same message is also found in Proverbs 29:1 ⁿ. If someone will not listen to correction, they are heading for ruin.

God Sees All Things, Even the Secret Places

This section reminds us that God is everywhere and knows everything, even the most hidden things. Nothing is out of His sight. He is the perfect judge because He sees not only what people do, but also what is deep inside every heart.

v. 11: Hell and destruction are before the Lord. God knows all things, even those hidden from everyone else. The grave and all the dead are not hidden from Him. God knows exactly where every person is buried, even those in the deepest or most secret places. No one is lost to God, and He will have no trouble raising the dead when the time comes. Even the place of punishment and those who suffer there are under God’s eye. The word destruction here is “Abaddon,” which is also a name for the devil (Revelation 9:11 ^o). God sees and understands everything the devil does, no matter how sneaky he is (Job 1:7; Job 26:6 ^p).

If God can see through Satan’s tricks, He can easily see into the hearts of people. Much more the hearts of the children of men. Our hearts may be tricky and hard to understand, but God knows them better than we do, because God is greater than our hearts (Hebrews 4:13 ^q). He is a perfect judge because nothing is hidden from Him.

The Scorner Rejects Correction

This section describes the attitude of a scorner—someone who mocks God and refuses to listen to correction. Such a person does not want to be challenged or changed, either by their own conscience or by wise friends. This makes it very hard for them to improve or find true wisdom.

v. 12: A scorner cannot stand being corrected, even by his own conscience. He avoids thinking deeply about his actions and does not want to have honest conversations with himself. He does not allow his heart to warn or correct him. This is a sad situation, because a person who is afraid to face the truth about themselves cannot grow or change.

The scorner also refuses to listen to the advice of wise people. He will not go unto the wise because he does not want to hear wise counsel or be told about his faults. Instead of seeking help, he avoids those who could help him become better. We should not only welcome wise people when they come to us, but also seek them out for advice. The scorner misses out on this blessing because he does not want to be corrected or reformed.

The Effects of Joy and Sorrow

This section teaches us about the power of our emotions—how joy can help us and sadness can harm us. It encourages us to keep a cheerful heart, which brings health and makes us pleasant to others. But it also warns that giving in to deep sadness can break our spirit and make it hard to serve God or enjoy life.

v. 13: When our hearts are cheerful, it shows on our faces. A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance. Joy makes us lively, fit for work, and enjoyable to be around. A happy spirit, guided by wisdom and grace, is an ornament to our faith and helps us to do more good. But when our hearts are filled with sorrow, it can crush our spirit. By sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken. If we allow sadness to take over, it can make us weak and unable to do what God wants. The Bible warns that the sorrow of the world works death (2 Corinthians 7:10 ^r), so we should not let sadness rule us for too long.

Wisdom and Folly

Here we see two different attitudes: the wise person always wants to learn more, while the fool is happy to remain foolish and just looks for pleasure. This teaches us the value of always seeking wisdom and not settling for empty fun.

A wise person is never satisfied with what they already know. The heart of him that has understanding seeks knowledge. The more wisdom they have, the more they want to learn. They keep working to grow in grace and in knowing Christ. If we ever say, “I know enough,” we stop growing and may lose what we have.

On the other hand, a fool is content with his foolishness. He does not try to become wiser. Instead, he feeds on silly pleasures and things that do not last. While a good person wants the true satisfaction that comes from God, a fool flatters himself and is happy with worthless things.

Seeking Knowledge Versus Feeding on Foolishness

This proverb contrasts the desires of a wise person with those of a fool. A wise person is always looking to grow in understanding, while a fool is content to indulge in meaningless or harmful things. It highlights the importance of continually seeking what is good and beneficial for the mind and soul .

v. 14: "The heart of him that hath understanding seeketh knowledge: but the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness" (Proverbs 15:14 ^s). A wise person is never satisfied with their current level of knowledge. They are eager to learn more and to grow in wisdom and grace. This desire for knowledge comes from a heart that values truth and seeks to know God better (2 Peter 3:18 ^t). On the other hand, a fool is satisfied with foolishness. They consume things that feed their selfish desires or entertain them without any real benefit. Instead of seeking what is right and good, they are content with distractions and vanity. This verse reminds us to choose wisdom and to avoid wasting time on things that do not help us grow in understanding.

The Difference Between Sorrow and Joy

This section explains how people can experience very different lives. Some people live with sadness and trouble, while others enjoy happiness and peace. We should try to understand both situations and learn from them.

v. 15: Some people face many troubles and feel sad most days. Their lives are hard, like when the Bible says, they have no pleasure in them(Ecclesiastes 12:1 ^u). They may eat in darkness(Ecclesiastes 5:17 ^v), and never eat with pleasure(Job 21:25 ^w). Many people in this world have many sorrows. We should not judge or look down on them. Instead, we should feel sorry for them, pray for them, and help them. Their troubles could easily be ours, even if we are happy now.

Other people have good lives and are very cheerful. For them, every day is like a continual feast. If they use their blessings to serve God with gladness, it helps them obey Him with joy. These people have a good life now, and also hope for heaven. However, they should not be careless or proud. Life can change quickly, so they should rejoice with trembling(Psalm 2:11 ^x).

The Value of Holiness and Love Over Wealth

This section teaches that true happiness does not come from having many possessions. Instead, being content, fearing God, and loving others lead to a joyful life. Even if we have little, a pure heart and kindness make life rich and pleasant.

v. 16: Solomon explains that having only a littlecan still feel like a continual feast(Proverbs 15:15 ^y) if we enjoy it with the fear of the Lord. A good conscience and faithful service to God bring more comfort than great treasure and trouble therewith. Often, people who fear God may not have much in this world, as it says, the poor receive the gospel(James 2:5 ^z). On the other hand, those with much wealth often have more worries. The Bible says, the abundance of the rich will not suffer them to sleep(Ecclesiastes 5:12 ^aa). If rich people lack peace, it is often because they do not fear God. So, it is better to have a little with God than much without Him.

v. 17: After holiness, love is also important for a comfortable life. If people live together in unity and friendship, even a dinner of herbscan feel like a feast (Psalm 133:1 ^ab). Love makes even simple meals enjoyable. But if there is hatred or strife, even a meal with a whole oxbrings no joy. Anger and bitterness ruin everything. It is better to have a simple meal with a kind welcome than a fancy feast with an unfriendly host.

The lesson is simple: The most sumptuous entertainment, presented with a sullen brow, would offend me; while the plainest repast, presented kindly, would delight me.True joy comes from a loving heart, not from riches.

The Trouble Caused by Anger and the Peace of Patience

This section teaches that anger leads to conflict, but patience brings peace. It shows how our attitudes can either start fights or help to stop them. We all have the choice to be someone who makes things worse or someone who calms things down.

v. 18: Anger causes many problems among people. A wrathful man stirs up strife. When someone is quick to get angry, they often start arguments and fights. Even small problems can become big when anger is involved. Fighting and quarrels often begin because people let their anger control them. On the other hand, he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife(Proverbs 15:18 ^ac). A patient person helps stop arguments, even after they have begun. Patience is like water on a fire. Gentle people help others make peace and encourage everyone to forgive and get along.

The Way of the Lazy and the Righteous

This section explains why some people find it hard to do what is right. Often, the problem is not the duty itself but the unwillingness to work hard. When we truly want to do what is right, God helps make the way easier and more pleasant.

v. 19: Some people say that doing what is right is very difficult. They describe the path as hedged up with thorns, meaning full of problems and dangers. But these troubles come from their own laziness and lack of willingness. They act as if God is a harsh master who demands too much. Because of this, they go about their work with unwillingness, like walking barefoot through a thorny bush. However, those who honestly want to follow God will find the path easier. The Bible says, The way of the righteous is made plain. With God's grace, the journey becomes smoother and more joyful, like a path strewn with roses instead of thorns.

Wise Children and Their Parents

This section teaches about the relationship between children and their parents. Good children bring happiness to their families, especially to parents who have worked hard to raise them. On the other hand, foolish or wicked children cause their parents pain and sadness.

v. 20: Wise children make their parents glad. Parents spend much effort and care raising their children, so it is right for them to feel joy when their children do well. It is especially comforting to parents in their old age to know their children are a blessing. But foolish children bring shame to their parents. A foolish son despises his mother. This means he disrespects her, ignores her advice, and repays her kindness with unkindness. If a mother showed him too much kindness, his disrespect is even more hurtful, and her sorrow is even deeper.

Pleasure in Folly Versus Joy in Wisdom

This section shows the difference between wicked and wise people. Wicked people find happiness in doing wrong things, while wise people seek to live in a good and honest way. Our actions and what we enjoy reveal what kind of person we are.

v. 21: A wicked person finds pleasure in sin. Folly is joy to him. He enjoys doing foolish things and is happy about his own and others’ mistakes. He does wrong without feeling sorry and may even brag about it. This shows he does not have God’s grace in his heart. On the other hand, a wise person is careful to do what is right. A man of understanding walks uprightly. He tries to live a good and orderly life. He wants to follow God’s will in everything. When he does make a mistake, he feels sad about it and is ashamed. We can test our own hearts by what kind of joy we seek—whether it is in doing good or in doing wrong.

The Value of Good Advice

This section teaches the importance of getting advice from others before making decisions. Acting alone or too quickly often leads to failure. Wise people ask for help and listen to experienced friends so their plans can succeed.

v. 22: When people act without thinking or asking for advice, their purposes are disappointed. Plans often fail because people are too proud to listen to others or do not take time to think things through. Problems that could have been avoided are missed when we do not talk things over with others. It is always better to be careful and not to rush into anything alone. As the saying goes, “Many eyes see more than one.” This means that more people together can see and solve problems better. On the other hand, in the multitude of counsellors purposes are established(Proverbs 15:22 ^ad). If we listen to wise and honest friends, our plans are more likely to succeed. But we must be careful to choose good advisers, not just many advisers, as Solomon’s son learned when he listened to the wrong people (1 Kings 12:8 ^ae).

The Joy of Giving a Timely and Wise Answer

This section teaches us about the value of speaking at the right time and with wisdom. When we say the right thing in the right moment, it helps others and also brings us happiness. Well-chosen words can make a big difference.

v. 23: Wise words are most helpful when they are spoken at the right time. A man has joy by the answer of his mouth. When someone gives a good answer that fits the situation, it brings credit to the speaker and helps those who listen. A word spoken in due season, how good is it!(Proverbs 15:23 ^af). Sometimes, even good advice does not help because it is not given at the right moment. It is a special skill to have the right words ready when they are needed. When we speak well, it makes us glad and benefits others too. People notice and appreciate words that are wise and timely.

The Way of Life and the End of Pride

This section encourages us to choose the path of wisdom and holiness. This way is safe and leads to real happiness and eternal life. It also reminds us that God brings down the proud but protects and lifts up those who are humble and weak.

v. 24: The path of wisdom is called the way of life. This way leads to true joy and finally to eternal life with God. When we are wise and follow God, we escape the dangers and pain of sin and depart from hell beneath(Proverbs 15:24 ^ag). The wise person’s thoughts and hopes are set on things above(Colossians 3:2 ^ah). Their life points toward heaven, where their treasure is kept safe and cannot be lost. Living in God’s way is noble and raises us above the ordinary problems of life. Foolish people do not understand this high path.

God does not approve of pride. The proudlift themselves up and look down on others, but God brings them low and even destroys their houses(Proverbs 15:25 ^ai). Pride leads to ruin for many people. But God cares for those who are weak and helpless. He will establish the border of the poor widow(Proverbs 15:25 ^aj) and protect what belongs to her, even when others try to take it away. It is an honor for God to defend the weak and help those who are oppressed.

God Opposes the Proud and Supports the Helpless

This proverb teaches that God acts against those who are proud and defends those who are weak and alone. It reminds us that pride leads to ruin, while God takes care of people who have no one else to help them, especially widows and the poor. The verse shows us both a warning against arrogance and a promise of God’s protection for the humble .

v. 25: "The Lord will destroy the house of the proud: but he will establish the border of the widow" (Proverbs 15:25 ^ak). God often brings down people who think too highly of themselves and act as if they are above everyone else. Their pride makes them feel safe and secure, but God will bring their plans and even their homes to nothing. Pride has caused the fall of many people. On the other hand, God watches over those who are weak, like widows, and protects what they have, even when they cannot defend themselves. God’s honor is shown by supporting those who are oppressed and humble.

The Thoughts and Words of the Wicked and the Pure

This section teaches that both our thoughts and our words matter to God. He knows what is in our hearts and judges our words by the thoughts that produce them. God is pleased with those who are pure in heart and speech, but He is displeased with wicked people and their evil plans.

v. 26: The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the Lord. God sees the plans and intentions of those who do wrong. Even their secret thoughts, which often aim to hurt or deceive, are offensive to Him. God knows everything in our hearts and wants to be first in our thoughts. On the other hand, the words of the pure are pleasant words(Proverbs 15:26 ^al). When people are honest and sincere, their prayers, praises, and conversations are pleasing to God. The Bible says, Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord(Psalm 19:14 ^am). Both our words to God and our words to others should come from a pure heart, because God delights in purity.

Greed Brings Trouble, Generosity Brings Blessing

This section explains how our attitude toward money affects not only ourselves but also our families. Greed and dishonest gain bring problems, while honesty and generosity lead to a good and peaceful life.

v. 27: A person who is greedy for money brings trouble to his own house. He that is greedy of gainworks too hard, worries about losses, and argues with anyone who stands in his way. If he takes bribes or uses dishonest ways to get rich, he leaves a curse for his family, which will bring trouble later (Habakkuk 2:9-10 ^an). On the other hand, he that hates gifts—meaning he refuses bribes and avoids dishonest gain—will live well. He will enjoy a good life, and his family will be blessed and respected. Generosity and honesty bring lasting happiness and security.

The Speech of the Righteous and the Wicked

This section teaches us that what we say shows what is in our hearts. Wise and good people think carefully before they speak, while wicked people speak carelessly and cause harm. Our words can help or hurt others, so we must be thoughtful with what we say.

v. 28: A good and wise person controls his tongue. He knows that he will have to give an account for every word he says (James 3:2 ^ao). He tries to speak honestly and with purpose. The heart of the righteous studieth to answer, which means he thinks before he speaks, making sure his words are true and helpful. The Bible says, he speaks the truth in his heart(Psalm 15:2 ^ap). He also wants his words to be kind and wise (Nehemiah 2:4; 5:7 ^aq). In contrast, a wicked person does not think about his words. The mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things(Proverbs 15:28 ^ar). His words bring dishonor to God, trouble to himself, and harm to others. This shows that his heart is full of evil.

God’s Nearness to the Righteous and Distance from the Wicked

This section explains how God responds differently to the wicked and the righteous. God keeps away from those who reject Him, but He listens closely to those who try to live rightly and seek Him in prayer.

v. 29: God stays far away from people who do evil and do not want Him in their lives. The Bible says, The wicked say to the Almighty, Depart from us(Job 21:14 ^as), so God does not show Himself to them or answer their prayers. Even in times when they need help, He will not listen. In the end, they will be completely separated from Him, as Jesus said, Depart from me, you cursed(Matthew 25:41 ^at). But God is close to those who do what is right. He hears the prayer of the righteous. He listens, is pleased, and answers with peace. The prayer of a righteous man avails much(James 5:16 ^au). God is always ready to help those who call on Him with honest hearts.

The Joy of Good News and a Good Name

This section shows how simple blessings, like seeing the light and hearing good news, can bring great joy. It reminds us to be thankful for these gifts and to value a good reputation. A good name and encouraging words strengthen and encourage us deep inside.

v. 30: It is a great blessing to have eyesight and to enjoy the beauty of the world. The Bible says, Truly the light is sweet, and a pleasant thing it is for the eyes to behold the sun(Ecclesiastes 11:7 ^av). People who are blind understand how valuable seeing really is. In the same way, hearing a good reportbrings happiness and strength. Having a good name—that is, being known for good things among God and people—is even more precious, like precious ointment(Ecclesiastes 7:1 ^aw). It makes us feel happy and strong inside—it makes the bones fat. It is also wonderful to hear good things about others, especially knowing that our friends are walking in truth (3 John 1:4 ^ax). These blessings bring real and lasting joy to our hearts.

The Value of Accepting Correction

This section teaches that wise people are open to correction. They welcome advice and even rebuke, knowing that it helps them grow. Accepting correction is important for spiritual life and will make us wiser over time.

v. 31: A wise person listens to correction and values those who point out their mistakes. The ear that hears the reproof of life abides among the wise. Friendly and faithful correction is called the reproof of lifebecause it helps us live better and can lead us to eternal life. When we accept correction given in a good spirit, it helps us avoid mistakes and grow stronger. Those who listen to correction will become wiser, as the Bible says, Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser(Proverbs 9:9 ^ay). In time, they may also help and teach others. Wise people love learning and are open to advice that helps them improve.

The Danger of Rejecting Correction and the Wisdom of Accepting It

This section teaches that refusing to listen to instruction or correction is foolish and harmful to ourselves. People who accept correction show that they value their own souls and want to grow in wisdom and understanding.

v. 32: Those who refuse to be taught or corrected are hurting themselves. He that refuses instruction despises his own soul. This means they do not care about their true well-being or their future. They ignore what is good for their minds and souls, and often choose what pleases their bodies instead. But the person who listens to correction and learns from it gets understanding(Proverbs 15:32 ^az). This wisdom protects their soul from bad choices and guides them to do what is right. Accepting correction shows respect for oneself and leads to true honor and growth.

The Importance of Fearing God and Being Humble

This section teaches that respecting God and being humble are both wise and good for us. When we honor the Lord and accept correction, we grow in wisdom. True humility also prepares us for future honor and respect.

v. 33: The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom(Proverbs 15:33 ^ba). Respect for God is not only the beginning of wisdom, but it also teaches and corrects us. Keeping God in our thoughts helps us make better decisions and avoid mistakes. Religion and faith guide us and help us learn what is right. Before honor is humility(Proverbs 15:33 ^bb). When we are humble, we show respect to others and are ready to be honored by God and people. Jesus said, Whoever humbles himself will be exalted(Matthew 23:12 ^bc). If we want true honor, we must first learn to be humble.