Proverbs 17 Explained
Proverbs 17 teaches us how to live peacefully, speak wisely, remain loyal and avoid unnecessary arguments.
- Peace is better than riches — “Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than an house full of sacrifices with strife” (verse 1). A simple home filled with peace is better than a wealthy home filled with fighting.
- God examines the heart — Just as fire tests silver and gold, the Lord tests our motives, faith and character (verse 3).
- Do not mock the poor — Anyone who makes fun of the poor insults their Creator. God cares about how we treat vulnerable people (verse 5).
- Family is a blessing — Grandchildren are a crown to grandparents, and children should honour their parents (verse 6).
- Love forgives — “He that covereth a transgression seeketh love” (verse 9). We should not continually repeat another person’s mistakes or spread gossip.
- True friends remain loyal — “A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity” (verse 17). A genuine friend remains beside us during hardship.
- Stop arguments early — Beginning a quarrel is like opening a floodgate. Once released, it can quickly become uncontrollable (verse 14).
- God requires justice — Excusing the guilty and condemning the innocent are both hateful to the Lord (verse 15).
- A joyful heart is good medicine — Happiness and gratitude can strengthen us, but a broken spirit drains our strength (verse 22).
- Wise people control their words — “Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise” (verse 28). Sometimes the wisest response is to remain silent.
The central message of Proverbs 17 is this: Seek peace, practise forgiveness, remain faithful to your friends, control your words and allow God to examine your heart. True wisdom is revealed through our character and how we treat other people.
GOD IS A GOOD GOD
GOD KNOWS, GOD LOVES, GOD CARES
Written for Georges Web Ministries.com
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14th August 2016