Category Archives: Proverbs

Reading:
Proverbs 13:1-12

What’s my attitude toward instructions?

If I can figure out the matter on my own, do I need to be instructed?

I suppose it depends on what “the matter” is. If it has to do with operating our push mower, I think I can do it without instructions. But if it has to do with flying our radio controlled helicopter, I’d better check the instructions first.

Fine. But what is my overall attitude toward being told?

And what attitude have my children grown up with?

“A wise son heareth his father’s instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke” (1).

Rebuke. Oh my. Now there’s another can of worms coming home to roost.

I must keep working at having a heart tender and receptive toward both instruction and rebuke.

I must also keep working at having a heart willing enough and tender enough to give both instruction and rebuke.

[Righteousness keepeth him that is upright in the way (Proverbs 13:6)]
from Proverbs 13:6

A little bit more from Proverbs 13: xx

Reading:
Proverbs 12:15-28

What’s a good word?

Something said that encourages, commends, or uplifts.

A good word can cause a shift in focus toward that which is positive.

A good word can be a statement of thankfulness for an individual or an acknowledgement of some good he has accomplished.

There is so much negativity going on out there. A good word fights that.

What else can you say about a good word?

Here’s what got me going on the subject:

“Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad” (25).

Perhaps this verse seized my attention because I have been struggling with heaviness of heart for the last while.

Here and there I have heard good words that have helped lift my spirit.

But the verse doesn’t stipulate who says the good word!

If the one with the heavy heart and the stooped heart chooses to give good words to others, will his own heart become glad?

I’ve got to try that!

This is exciting!!!

[To the counsellers of peace is joy (Proverbs 12:20)]
from Proverbs 12:20

A little bit more from Proverbs 12: No Death