Reading
SAA Notes
It is often good to look for a subject to follow on any one reading of the Book of Proverbs. Choose one subject – such as discipline, character, the tongue, work, and find the proverbs that speak to this subject. Verse 18 is always challenging.
SJA Notes
“Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid.”
We continue to be fed these “coin” truths, two sides of each statement. Wisdom vs Folly. Righteous vs Wicked.
Much of what we read here is devoted to behaviour and then the consequences of that behaviour.
If we are thin-skinned and quick to take offence we are a fool (v16).
If we are rash with our words we cannot bring healing (v18).
If we have deceit in our hearts then joy will be far from us (v20).
If we have lying lips then we will not bring the Lord delight (v22).
But.
But if we are wise, then we will ignore insults and use our words for building up (healing). We will make plans for peace and not evil, and we will act faithfully towards our God and those around us.
“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.”
A good word is a wonderful thing!
Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians chapter 5,
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”
In Hebrews chapter 10 we read,
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
The day is approaching – Let us encourage one another!
* Gracious Father In Heaven,
Thank You for Your word, A GOOD WORD – The best word for us.
Thank You that we can encourage one another as the day approaches.
Please give us opportunity and conviction to do so today.
Amen.