Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting, with strife. (Prov. 17:1) What an excellent contrast between peace and strife as it relates to wealth and poverty. Oftentimes, the world thinks that money can buy happiness and build relationships with others. But this proverb here shows that no matter... Continue Reading →
Proverb 16:1-8: A Modern Bible Commentary
“The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord.” (Prov. 16:1) This verse demonstrates God's sovereignty over human will. The human may plan out what they desire to do, but the final decision or answer comes from the Lord. Jeremiah 10:23 also expresses this same idea:... Continue Reading →
Proverbs 15:1-10: A Modern Bible Commentary
Proverbs 15:1 – "A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." The wisdom of gentleness in speech is profound here. The Hebrew word for "soft" is rak, meaning tender or gentle, contrasting sharply with a "harsh" word, which comes from etsev, meaning painful or hurtful. This verse connects with James... Continue Reading →
Proverbs 14:1-8: A Modern Bible Commentary
Every wise woman builds her house, but a foolish one tears it down with her own hands. (Proverbs 14:1 ESV) In Proverbs 14:1, it is emphasized that a wise woman builds her house, while a foolish one tears it down with her own hands. The Hebrew word "חָכְמָה" (chokhmah), meaning "wise," is significant here, indicating... Continue Reading →
A Path To Wisdom: Proverbs 15:1-5
Proverbs 15:1 states, "A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." This verse emphasizes the power of gentle speech to defuse anger and conflict, while harsh words can escalate tension. The important Hebrew word here is "מַעֲנֶה" (ma'aneh), meaning "answer" or "response." One notable example that illustrates the principle of... Continue Reading →
Bible Commentary On Proverbs 13:1-10: Insights For Integrity and Diligence
"A wise son hears his father's instruction, but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke." The Hebrew word for "wise" is "חָכָם" (chakam), which denotes someone who is skilled or experienced. In this verse, the contrast is drawn between a wise son who heeds parental guidance and a scoffer who rejects correction. This highlights the... Continue Reading →
A Modern Bible Commentary on Proverbs 12:16-23
"A fool shows his annoyance the same day, but one who overlooks an insult is prudent (Prov. 12:16)." King Solomon continues his wise sayings and teachings throughout the book of Proverbs. In this verse, "overlook" derives from the Hebrew word כָּלָ֑ה (kā·lāh). It denotes this idea of ceasing, coming to an end, or failing. This... Continue Reading →
Proverbs 12:9-15: A Modern Bible Commentary
"Better is he who is lightly esteemed and has a servant than he who honors himself and lacks bread (Prov. 12:9)." In Proverbs 12:9, the most significant Hebrew word is "אֶבְיוֹן" (Evyon), which means "nobody," "poor," or "needy." This word emphasizes the concept of humility and contentment with one's station in life, contrasting it with... Continue Reading →
A Modern Bible Commentary on Proverbs 12:1-8
"He who loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid (Prov. 12:1)." This proverb highlights the importance of embracing correction and discipline for personal growth and wisdom. The one who loves discipline seeks to learn and grow in knowledge, while the one who rejects correction out of pride or stubbornness is foolish.... Continue Reading →
Proverbs 11: A Guide to Righteous Living
Introduction Proverbs 11, part of the timeless wisdom literature in the Bible, is a chapter filled with insights and guidance for righteous living. Often referred to as the Book of Proverbs, this collection of wise sayings provides practical advice on various aspects of life, from personal conduct to financial matters. This chapter contrasts the outcomes... Continue Reading →