Is wisdom important in your life? Let’s continue in Proverbs 12.
Do we love being disciplined or reject all correction from others?
Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid. (Pr 12:1 ESV)
What does God think about good people and those who make evil plans?
The good person obtains favor from the Lord, but He condemns a man who schemes. (Pr 12:2 HCSB)
Which provides better security, wickedness or right living?
A person doesn’t gain security by wickedness, but the righteous won’t be uprooted. (Pr 12:3 ISV)
Why is it important to carefully choose a virtuous marriage partner?
A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones. (Pr 12:4 KJV)
Who should we listen to for advice, a righteous or a wicked person?
The thoughts of the righteous are just, But the guidance of the wicked is deceitful. (Pr 12:5 LSB)
What is the big difference between the advice of a righteous person and a wicked person?
The words of the wicked wait in ambush for blood, But the mouth of the upright will rescue them. (Pr 12:6 NASB)
What eventually happens to the righteous and the wicked person?
The wicked are overthrown and are no more, but the house of the righteous stands firm. (Pr 12:7 NIV)
What different attitudes will the public have towards a wise person and a perverse heart?
A sensible person wins admiration, but a warped mind is despised. (Pr 12:8 NKJV)
What is the difference between a humble person who employs a servant, and an arrogant person who can’t afford necessities?
Better to be an ordinary person with a servant than to be self-important but have no food. (Pr 12:9 NLT)
Is how a person treats animals indicative of their character?
A righteous man respects the life of his animal, but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel. (Pr 12:10 WEB)
How is a productive life better than pursuing worthless hobbies?
Those who work their land will have plenty to eat, but those who engage in empty pursuits have no sense. (Pr 12:11 CEB)
Does an evil person desire what others have stolen, but does a righteous life actually produce more real fruit?
An evil person tries to hide behind evil; good people are like trees with deep roots. (Pr 12:12 CEV)
Do lies and foolish talk trap an evil person, but does right living help us escape?
An evil man is ensnared by the transgression of his lips, but the righteous escapes from trouble. (Pr 12:13 ESV)
Do good speech and manual labor both provide satisfaction and good returns?
A man will be satisfied with good by the words of his mouth, and the work of a man’s hands will reward him. (Pr 12:14 HCSB)
Which is wise, to be humble or stubborn about our lifestyle opinions?
The lifestyle of the fool is right in his own opinion, but wise is the man who listens to advice. (Pr 12:15 ISV)
Is it wiser to get immediately angry over an insult, or to just overlook it?
A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame. (Pr 12:16 KJV)
Can truth be blunt but right, and can smooth words actually be deceptive flattery?
He who breathes out truth declares what is right, But a false witness, deceit. (Pr 12:17 LSB)
Is there a balance? Should we use words that cause harm, or words that heal?
There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword, But the tongue of the wise brings healing. (Pr 12:18 NASB)
Is the key then speaking truth, but with wisdom? How long do lies actually last?
Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment. (Pr 12:19 NIV)
Do we offer advice on how to deceive people or do we counsel about creating peace?
Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, But counselors of peace have joy. (Pr 12:20 NKJV)
Which is more likely to bring trouble, an honest or dishonest life?
No harm comes to the godly, but the wicked have their fill of trouble. (Pr 12:21 NLT)
Which lifestyle will God bless, that of a liar or that of someone who deals only in the truth?
Lying lips are an abomination to Yahweh, but those who do the truth are his delight. (Pr 12:22 WEB)
Is it wiser not to say everything that is on our minds like a babbling fool?
The shrewd conceal their knowledge, but the heart of fools proclaims their stupidity. (Pr 12:23 CEB)
What tends to be the different consequences of diligent and lazy people?
Work hard, and you will be a leader; be lazy, and you will end up a slave. (Pr 12:24 CEV)
Does worry tend to take away our joy, but an encouraging word can cheer us up?
Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad. (Pr 12:25 ESV)
Does a righteous person cause his neighbor to consider doing what’s right, while a wicked person will seduce them to go astray?
A righteous man is careful in dealing with his neighbor, but the ways of the wicked lead them astray. (Pr 12:26 HCSB)
Is a slacker too lazy to even roast his game, while a diligent man makes full use of everything?
The lazy person does not roast what he has hunted, but diligence is one’s most important possession. (Pr 12:27 ISV)
Where does righteousness lead, and is it an eternal condition?
In the way of righteousness is life: and in the pathway thereof there is no death. (Pr 12:28 KJV)
What was a criterion for choosing the first of what later became known as deacons?
Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this need. (Acts 6:3 LSB)
Is wisdom important in your life? You decide!
Solomon's Proverbs 2 (Pr 11)
Are we wise people who desire to learn more wisdom? Let’s look at Proverbs 11.
When businesses use honest weights to measure produce, is God delighted?
A deceptive balance is an abomination to Yahweh, But a just weight is His delight. (Pr 11:1 LSB)
Does pride only lead to shame and disgrace, but do wisdom and humility go together?
When pride comes, then comes dishonor; But with the humble there is wisdom. (Pr 11:2 NASB)
What guides us, honesty or dishonesty? Where does a crooked life lead?
The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity. (Pr 11:3 NIV)
Which delivers us from death, the greedy accumulation of wealth or right living?
Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, But righteousness delivers from death. (Pr 11:4 NKJV)
Does living honestly keep our paths straight, while a wicked life brings self-destruction?
The godly are directed by honesty; the wicked fall beneath their load of sin. (Pr 11:5 NLT)
Does right living save us from destruction, but are greed and lust traps?
The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them, but the unfaithful will be trapped by evil desires. (Pr 11:6 WEB)
Can we take the things that money buys with us when we die?
When the wicked die, their hope perishes. Yes, any hope based on money perishes. (Pr 11:7 CEB)
In the end, what is the result of a faithful life versus a life of wrongdoing?
Trouble goes right past the Lord's people and strikes the wicked. (Pr 11:8 CEV)
While some tongues gossip and destroy neighbors, do the wisely righteous escape?
With his mouth the godless man would destroy his neighbor, but by knowledge the righteous are delivered. (Pr 11:9 ESV)
What two very opposite things does a city celebrate?
When the righteous thrive, a city rejoices, and when the wicked die, there is joyful shouting. (Pr 11:10 HCSB)
What is the difference between how a right living person blesses a city and what a wicked person says in that same city?
Through the blessing of the righteous a city is built up, but what the wicked say tears it down. (Pr 11:11 ISV)
Do we have neighbors that despise people, while others control their tongues?
He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace. (Pr 11:12 KJV)
Can we trust a gossiper to keep our business private? Do we have faithful friends?
He who goes about as a slanderer reveals secrets, But he who is faithful in spirit conceals a matter. (Pr 11:13 LSB)
Should we seek abundant advice or just act without it?
Where there is no guidance the people fall, But in an abundance of counselors there is victory. (Pr 11:14 NASB)
Is it wise or foolish to sign a guarantee for a loan for a complete stranger?
Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer, but whoever refuses to shake hands in pledge is safe. (Pr 11:15 NIV)
Do honest businesses care about a good reputation, while dishonest businesses only care about money?
A gracious woman retains honor, But ruthless men retain riches. (Pr 11:16 NKJV)
Does showing mercy come back to bless us, while cruelty is self-destructive?
Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you. (Pr 11:17 NLT)
How many lie about their work hours, the products they sell, and who is honest?
Wicked people earn deceitful wages, but one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward. (Pr 11:18 WEB)
What are the ultimate consequences of honest and dishonest lives?
The righteous are headed toward life, but those who pursue evil, toward death. (Pr 11:19 CEB)
What does God think about those with crooked and perverse hearts compared to those who live honest lives?
The Lord hates sneaky people, but he likes everyone who lives right. (Pr 11:20 CEV)
Though they join together hand in hand, will the wicked still be punished? Will those who live right ultimately be set free?
Be assured, an evil person will not go unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will be delivered. (Pr 11:21 ESV)
Are beauty and an ugly heart like dressing up an animal that loves mud?
A beautiful woman who rejects good sense is like a gold ring in a pig’s snout. (Pr 11:22 HCSB)
What are the two different results of lives seeking good or evil?
The desire of the righteous is to seek good, but the hope of the wicked results in wrath. (Pr 11:23 ISV)
Do stinginess and generosity often produce the exact opposite of the desired results?
There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty. (Pr 11:24 KJV)
Does generosity result in unexpected blessings coming back to us?
The soul that blesses will be enriched, And he who waters will himself be watered. (Pr 11:25 LSB)
Do people despise those who selfishly hoard what the community needs?
One who withholds grain, the people will curse him, But blessing will be on the head of him who sells it. (Pr 11:26 NASB)
Good or evil, does what we search for eventually come to us?
Whoever seeks good finds favor, but evil comes to one who searches for it. (Pr 11:27 NIV)
How reliable are riches as a device to protect us from evil?
He who trusts in his riches will fall, But the righteous will flourish like foliage. (Pr 11:28 NKJV)
What happens to those who destroy their own marriages and families from the inside? Who often ends up being employer and employee in any business?
Those who bring trouble on their families inherit the wind. The fool will be a servant to the wise. (Pr 11:29 NLT)
What is the fruit of a wise and righteous life, to win or lose friendships?
The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life. He who is wise wins souls. (Pr 11:30 WEB)
Does the life we live have its natural consequences, whether good or evil?
If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more the wicked and sinners? (Pr 11:31 CEB)
Do many people claim to be wise, but in reality are something else entirely?
They claim to be wise, but they are fools. (Rom 1:22 CEV)
Are we wise people who desire to learn more wisdom? You decide!
When businesses use honest weights to measure produce, is God delighted?
A deceptive balance is an abomination to Yahweh, But a just weight is His delight. (Pr 11:1 LSB)
Does pride only lead to shame and disgrace, but do wisdom and humility go together?
When pride comes, then comes dishonor; But with the humble there is wisdom. (Pr 11:2 NASB)
What guides us, honesty or dishonesty? Where does a crooked life lead?
The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity. (Pr 11:3 NIV)
Which delivers us from death, the greedy accumulation of wealth or right living?
Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, But righteousness delivers from death. (Pr 11:4 NKJV)
Does living honestly keep our paths straight, while a wicked life brings self-destruction?
The godly are directed by honesty; the wicked fall beneath their load of sin. (Pr 11:5 NLT)
Does right living save us from destruction, but are greed and lust traps?
The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them, but the unfaithful will be trapped by evil desires. (Pr 11:6 WEB)
Can we take the things that money buys with us when we die?
When the wicked die, their hope perishes. Yes, any hope based on money perishes. (Pr 11:7 CEB)
In the end, what is the result of a faithful life versus a life of wrongdoing?
Trouble goes right past the Lord's people and strikes the wicked. (Pr 11:8 CEV)
While some tongues gossip and destroy neighbors, do the wisely righteous escape?
With his mouth the godless man would destroy his neighbor, but by knowledge the righteous are delivered. (Pr 11:9 ESV)
What two very opposite things does a city celebrate?
When the righteous thrive, a city rejoices, and when the wicked die, there is joyful shouting. (Pr 11:10 HCSB)
What is the difference between how a right living person blesses a city and what a wicked person says in that same city?
Through the blessing of the righteous a city is built up, but what the wicked say tears it down. (Pr 11:11 ISV)
Do we have neighbors that despise people, while others control their tongues?
He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace. (Pr 11:12 KJV)
Can we trust a gossiper to keep our business private? Do we have faithful friends?
He who goes about as a slanderer reveals secrets, But he who is faithful in spirit conceals a matter. (Pr 11:13 LSB)
Should we seek abundant advice or just act without it?
Where there is no guidance the people fall, But in an abundance of counselors there is victory. (Pr 11:14 NASB)
Is it wise or foolish to sign a guarantee for a loan for a complete stranger?
Whoever puts up security for a stranger will surely suffer, but whoever refuses to shake hands in pledge is safe. (Pr 11:15 NIV)
Do honest businesses care about a good reputation, while dishonest businesses only care about money?
A gracious woman retains honor, But ruthless men retain riches. (Pr 11:16 NKJV)
Does showing mercy come back to bless us, while cruelty is self-destructive?
Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you. (Pr 11:17 NLT)
How many lie about their work hours, the products they sell, and who is honest?
Wicked people earn deceitful wages, but one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward. (Pr 11:18 WEB)
What are the ultimate consequences of honest and dishonest lives?
The righteous are headed toward life, but those who pursue evil, toward death. (Pr 11:19 CEB)
What does God think about those with crooked and perverse hearts compared to those who live honest lives?
The Lord hates sneaky people, but he likes everyone who lives right. (Pr 11:20 CEV)
Though they join together hand in hand, will the wicked still be punished? Will those who live right ultimately be set free?
Be assured, an evil person will not go unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will be delivered. (Pr 11:21 ESV)
Are beauty and an ugly heart like dressing up an animal that loves mud?
A beautiful woman who rejects good sense is like a gold ring in a pig’s snout. (Pr 11:22 HCSB)
What are the two different results of lives seeking good or evil?
The desire of the righteous is to seek good, but the hope of the wicked results in wrath. (Pr 11:23 ISV)
Do stinginess and generosity often produce the exact opposite of the desired results?
There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty. (Pr 11:24 KJV)
Does generosity result in unexpected blessings coming back to us?
The soul that blesses will be enriched, And he who waters will himself be watered. (Pr 11:25 LSB)
Do people despise those who selfishly hoard what the community needs?
One who withholds grain, the people will curse him, But blessing will be on the head of him who sells it. (Pr 11:26 NASB)
Good or evil, does what we search for eventually come to us?
Whoever seeks good finds favor, but evil comes to one who searches for it. (Pr 11:27 NIV)
How reliable are riches as a device to protect us from evil?
He who trusts in his riches will fall, But the righteous will flourish like foliage. (Pr 11:28 NKJV)
What happens to those who destroy their own marriages and families from the inside? Who often ends up being employer and employee in any business?
Those who bring trouble on their families inherit the wind. The fool will be a servant to the wise. (Pr 11:29 NLT)
What is the fruit of a wise and righteous life, to win or lose friendships?
The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life. He who is wise wins souls. (Pr 11:30 WEB)
Does the life we live have its natural consequences, whether good or evil?
If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more the wicked and sinners? (Pr 11:31 CEB)
Do many people claim to be wise, but in reality are something else entirely?
They claim to be wise, but they are fools. (Rom 1:22 CEV)
Are we wise people who desire to learn more wisdom? You decide!
Solomon's Proverbs 1 (Pr 10)
What are some of the wisest things that we can do in life? Let’s begin in Proverbs 10.
Who is acknowledged for this large group of 375 separate proverbs from Proverbs 10:1 to 22:16?
The proverbs of Solomon: (Pr 10:1a NIV)
Would our parents rejoice at our life’s choices or do they grieve for us?
A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son brings grief to his mother. (Pr 10:1b NIV)
How many put profit ahead of doing the right thing in business?
Treasures of wickedness profit nothing, But righteousness delivers from death. (Pr 10:2 NKJV)
Do we trust God to provide when we choose only honest business practices?
The Lord will not let the godly go hungry, but he refuses to satisfy the craving of the wicked. (Pr 10:3 NLT)
Is laziness one cause of poverty among many?
He becomes poor who works with a lazy hand, but the hand of the diligent brings wealth. (Pr 10:4 WEB)
Is there a time to get up and do an honest day’s work and not sleep?
A wise son harvests in the summer; a disgraceful son sleeps right through the harvest. (Pr 10:5 CEB)
Is doing the right thing the path to blessings? What do wicked people hide?
Blessings are on the head of the righteous, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence. (Pr 10:6 ESV)
What are the legacies of good and evil people down through history?
Good people are remembered long after they are gone, but the wicked are soon forgotten. (Pr 10:7 CEV)
Does a wise person keep the rules, while a fool just mocks them?
A wise heart accepts commands, but foolish lips will be destroyed. (Pr 10:8 HCSB)
Does an honest business need minimal advertising, while a dishonest business loses customers?
He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that perverteth his ways shall be known. (Pr 10:9 KJV)
Does quiet evil also hurt the villain? Do loose lips also bring fools suffering?
He who winks the eye causes pain, And an ignorant fool of loose lips will be ruined. (Pr 10:10 LSB)
Does the mouth of a person eventually reveal who they really are, good or evil?
The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, But the mouth of the wicked conceals violence. (Pr 10:11 NASB)
Does love cover other people’s faults, while gossip causes trouble?
Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs. (Pr 10:12 NIV)
Do we listen to wisdom or the punishment that comes because we ignored it?
Wisdom is found on the lips of him who has understanding, But a rod is for the back of him who is devoid of understanding. (Pr 10:13 NKJV)
Are there those who love education and those who babble foolishness?
Wise people treasure knowledge, but the babbling of a fool invites disaster. (Pr 10:14 NLT)
While the wealthy hide behind their money, does poverty destroy many people’s lives?
The rich man’s wealth is his strong city. The destruction of the poor is their poverty. (Pr 10:15 WEB)
Is the fruit of our labor used to make life better or worse?
The wages of the righteous lead to life; the earnings of the wicked lead to sin. (Pr 10:16 CEB)
Do we accept correction or do we just arrogantly dismiss it?
Accept correction, and you will find life; reject correction, and you will miss the road. (Pr 10:17 CEV)
Are the two extremes of hiding our hatred and gossiping both bad?
The one who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever utters slander is a fool. (Pr 10:18 ESV)
What happens if we have a habit of talking too much?
When there are many words, sin is unavoidable, but the one who controls his lips is wise. (Pr 10:19 HCSB)
How valuable are the words of a righteous person? Are the words of the wicked of little value?
What the righteous person says is like precious silver; the thoughts of the wicked are compared to small things. (Pr 10:20 ISV)
How nourishing are the words of a righteous person? Why do fools die?
The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom. (Pr 10:21 KJV)
What makes someone truly rich without any suffering, money or God’s blessing?
It is the blessing of Yahweh that makes rich, And He adds no pain with it. (Pr 10:22 LSB)
Does a fool delight in bad things? Does a wise man enjoy wisdom?
Doing wickedness is like sport to a fool, And so is wisdom to a person of understanding. (Pr 10:23 NASB)
Do the wicked and the righteous face totally opposite consequences?
What the wicked dread will overtake them; what the righteous desire will be granted. (Pr 10:24 NIV)
When the storms of life come, are there different results for the wicked and the righteous?
When the whirlwind passes by, the wicked is no more, But the righteous has an everlasting foundation. (Pr 10:25 NKJV)
What is a lazy sluggard like to those who rely on them?
Lazy people irritate their employers, like vinegar to the teeth or smoke in the eyes. (Pr 10:26 NLT)
Do the lifespans of the wicked and those who show deep respect for God differ greatly?
The fear of Yahweh prolongs days, but the years of the wicked shall be shortened. (Pr 10:27 WEB)
How different does the future look for a righteous versus a wicked person?
The expectations of the righteous result in joy, but the hopes of the wicked will perish. (Pr 10:28 CEB)
Is doing right like living in God’s fort? Do those who do wrong face destruction?
The Lord protects everyone who lives right, but he destroys anyone who does wrong. (Pr 10:29 CEV)
While Israel had an earthly land, do we look forward to an eternal promised land?
The righteous will never be removed, but the wicked will not dwell in the land. (Pr 10:30 ESV)
What is the difference between the mouths of a godly and a perverse person?
The mouth of the righteous produces wisdom, but a perverse tongue will be cut out. (Pr 10:31 HCSB)
Who uses acceptable language and who speaks perversely?
Righteous lips know what is prudent, but the words of the wicked are perverse. (Pr 10:32 ISV)
What did Jesus say is wise, just hearing His sayings or hearing and doing them?
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. (Mat 7:24-25 KJV)
What are some of the wisest things that we can do in life? You decide!
Who is acknowledged for this large group of 375 separate proverbs from Proverbs 10:1 to 22:16?
The proverbs of Solomon: (Pr 10:1a NIV)
Would our parents rejoice at our life’s choices or do they grieve for us?
A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son brings grief to his mother. (Pr 10:1b NIV)
How many put profit ahead of doing the right thing in business?
Treasures of wickedness profit nothing, But righteousness delivers from death. (Pr 10:2 NKJV)
Do we trust God to provide when we choose only honest business practices?
The Lord will not let the godly go hungry, but he refuses to satisfy the craving of the wicked. (Pr 10:3 NLT)
Is laziness one cause of poverty among many?
He becomes poor who works with a lazy hand, but the hand of the diligent brings wealth. (Pr 10:4 WEB)
Is there a time to get up and do an honest day’s work and not sleep?
A wise son harvests in the summer; a disgraceful son sleeps right through the harvest. (Pr 10:5 CEB)
Is doing the right thing the path to blessings? What do wicked people hide?
Blessings are on the head of the righteous, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence. (Pr 10:6 ESV)
What are the legacies of good and evil people down through history?
Good people are remembered long after they are gone, but the wicked are soon forgotten. (Pr 10:7 CEV)
Does a wise person keep the rules, while a fool just mocks them?
A wise heart accepts commands, but foolish lips will be destroyed. (Pr 10:8 HCSB)
Does an honest business need minimal advertising, while a dishonest business loses customers?
He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that perverteth his ways shall be known. (Pr 10:9 KJV)
Does quiet evil also hurt the villain? Do loose lips also bring fools suffering?
He who winks the eye causes pain, And an ignorant fool of loose lips will be ruined. (Pr 10:10 LSB)
Does the mouth of a person eventually reveal who they really are, good or evil?
The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, But the mouth of the wicked conceals violence. (Pr 10:11 NASB)
Does love cover other people’s faults, while gossip causes trouble?
Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs. (Pr 10:12 NIV)
Do we listen to wisdom or the punishment that comes because we ignored it?
Wisdom is found on the lips of him who has understanding, But a rod is for the back of him who is devoid of understanding. (Pr 10:13 NKJV)
Are there those who love education and those who babble foolishness?
Wise people treasure knowledge, but the babbling of a fool invites disaster. (Pr 10:14 NLT)
While the wealthy hide behind their money, does poverty destroy many people’s lives?
The rich man’s wealth is his strong city. The destruction of the poor is their poverty. (Pr 10:15 WEB)
Is the fruit of our labor used to make life better or worse?
The wages of the righteous lead to life; the earnings of the wicked lead to sin. (Pr 10:16 CEB)
Do we accept correction or do we just arrogantly dismiss it?
Accept correction, and you will find life; reject correction, and you will miss the road. (Pr 10:17 CEV)
Are the two extremes of hiding our hatred and gossiping both bad?
The one who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever utters slander is a fool. (Pr 10:18 ESV)
What happens if we have a habit of talking too much?
When there are many words, sin is unavoidable, but the one who controls his lips is wise. (Pr 10:19 HCSB)
How valuable are the words of a righteous person? Are the words of the wicked of little value?
What the righteous person says is like precious silver; the thoughts of the wicked are compared to small things. (Pr 10:20 ISV)
How nourishing are the words of a righteous person? Why do fools die?
The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom. (Pr 10:21 KJV)
What makes someone truly rich without any suffering, money or God’s blessing?
It is the blessing of Yahweh that makes rich, And He adds no pain with it. (Pr 10:22 LSB)
Does a fool delight in bad things? Does a wise man enjoy wisdom?
Doing wickedness is like sport to a fool, And so is wisdom to a person of understanding. (Pr 10:23 NASB)
Do the wicked and the righteous face totally opposite consequences?
What the wicked dread will overtake them; what the righteous desire will be granted. (Pr 10:24 NIV)
When the storms of life come, are there different results for the wicked and the righteous?
When the whirlwind passes by, the wicked is no more, But the righteous has an everlasting foundation. (Pr 10:25 NKJV)
What is a lazy sluggard like to those who rely on them?
Lazy people irritate their employers, like vinegar to the teeth or smoke in the eyes. (Pr 10:26 NLT)
Do the lifespans of the wicked and those who show deep respect for God differ greatly?
The fear of Yahweh prolongs days, but the years of the wicked shall be shortened. (Pr 10:27 WEB)
How different does the future look for a righteous versus a wicked person?
The expectations of the righteous result in joy, but the hopes of the wicked will perish. (Pr 10:28 CEB)
Is doing right like living in God’s fort? Do those who do wrong face destruction?
The Lord protects everyone who lives right, but he destroys anyone who does wrong. (Pr 10:29 CEV)
While Israel had an earthly land, do we look forward to an eternal promised land?
The righteous will never be removed, but the wicked will not dwell in the land. (Pr 10:30 ESV)
What is the difference between the mouths of a godly and a perverse person?
The mouth of the righteous produces wisdom, but a perverse tongue will be cut out. (Pr 10:31 HCSB)
Who uses acceptable language and who speaks perversely?
Righteous lips know what is prudent, but the words of the wicked are perverse. (Pr 10:32 ISV)
What did Jesus say is wise, just hearing His sayings or hearing and doing them?
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. (Mat 7:24-25 KJV)
What are some of the wisest things that we can do in life? You decide!
Two Women (Pr 9)
Does our neighborhood contain two women, a wise and a foolish woman? Let’s look at Proverbs 9.
Pictured as a woman, what is wisdom inviting us to learn from her?
Wisdom has built her house; she has carved out her seven pillars. She has prepared her meat; she has mixed her wine; she has also set her table. She has sent out her female servants; she calls out from the highest points of the city: “Whoever is inexperienced, enter here!” To the one who lacks sense, she says, “Come, eat my bread, and drink the wine I have mixed. Leave inexperience behind, and you will live; pursue the way of understanding. (Pr 9:1-6 HCSB)
Is it a waste of energy to talk a mocker into good sense, or a wicked man into changing his ways? Who will actually listen to wisdom?
Whoever corrects a mocker invites only insult, and whoever rebukes the wicked will himself become stained. Don’t rebuke a mocker or he will hate you. Rebuke a wise person, and he will love you. Counsel a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will add to his learning. (Pr 9:7-9 ISV)
What are the first steps to wisdom and understanding? What is the result?
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased. If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it. (Pr 9:10-12 KJV)
Is a foolish woman contrasted with the wise woman and a different result?
The woman of foolishness is boisterous, A woman of simplicity, and does not know anything. She sits at the doorway of her house, On a seat by the high places of the city, To call to those who pass by that way, Who are making their paths straight: “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here,” And to him who lacks a heart of wisdom she says, “Stolen water is sweet; And bread eaten in secret is pleasant.” But he does not know that the dead are there, That those she called are in the depths of Sheol. (Pr 9:13-18 LSB)
What is the missing ingredient between the five wise and five foolish virgins, in the parable that Jesus told?
Then the kingdom of heaven will be comparable to ten virgins, who took their lamps and went out to meet the groom. Five of them were foolish, and five were prudent. For when the foolish took their lamps, they did not take extra oil with them; but the prudent ones took oil in flasks with their lamps. Now while the groom was delaying, they all became drowsy and began to sleep. But at midnight there finally was a shout: ‘Behold, the groom! Come out to meet him.’ Then all those virgins got up and trimmed their lamps. But the foolish virgins said to the prudent ones, ‘Give us some of your oil, because our lamps are going out.’ However, the prudent ones answered, ‘No, there most certainly would not be enough for us and you too; go instead to the merchants and buy some for yourselves.’ But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the groom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast; and the door was shut. Yet later, the other virgins also came, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open up for us.’ But he answered, ‘Truly I say to you, I do not know you.’ Be on the alert then, because you do not know the day nor the hour. (Mat 25:1-13 NASB)
Does our neighborhood contain two women, a wise and a foolish woman? You decide!
Pictured as a woman, what is wisdom inviting us to learn from her?
Wisdom has built her house; she has carved out her seven pillars. She has prepared her meat; she has mixed her wine; she has also set her table. She has sent out her female servants; she calls out from the highest points of the city: “Whoever is inexperienced, enter here!” To the one who lacks sense, she says, “Come, eat my bread, and drink the wine I have mixed. Leave inexperience behind, and you will live; pursue the way of understanding. (Pr 9:1-6 HCSB)
Is it a waste of energy to talk a mocker into good sense, or a wicked man into changing his ways? Who will actually listen to wisdom?
Whoever corrects a mocker invites only insult, and whoever rebukes the wicked will himself become stained. Don’t rebuke a mocker or he will hate you. Rebuke a wise person, and he will love you. Counsel a wise man, and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man, and he will add to his learning. (Pr 9:7-9 ISV)
What are the first steps to wisdom and understanding? What is the result?
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased. If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it. (Pr 9:10-12 KJV)
Is a foolish woman contrasted with the wise woman and a different result?
The woman of foolishness is boisterous, A woman of simplicity, and does not know anything. She sits at the doorway of her house, On a seat by the high places of the city, To call to those who pass by that way, Who are making their paths straight: “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here,” And to him who lacks a heart of wisdom she says, “Stolen water is sweet; And bread eaten in secret is pleasant.” But he does not know that the dead are there, That those she called are in the depths of Sheol. (Pr 9:13-18 LSB)
What is the missing ingredient between the five wise and five foolish virgins, in the parable that Jesus told?
Then the kingdom of heaven will be comparable to ten virgins, who took their lamps and went out to meet the groom. Five of them were foolish, and five were prudent. For when the foolish took their lamps, they did not take extra oil with them; but the prudent ones took oil in flasks with their lamps. Now while the groom was delaying, they all became drowsy and began to sleep. But at midnight there finally was a shout: ‘Behold, the groom! Come out to meet him.’ Then all those virgins got up and trimmed their lamps. But the foolish virgins said to the prudent ones, ‘Give us some of your oil, because our lamps are going out.’ However, the prudent ones answered, ‘No, there most certainly would not be enough for us and you too; go instead to the merchants and buy some for yourselves.’ But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the groom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast; and the door was shut. Yet later, the other virgins also came, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open up for us.’ But he answered, ‘Truly I say to you, I do not know you.’ Be on the alert then, because you do not know the day nor the hour. (Mat 25:1-13 NASB)
Does our neighborhood contain two women, a wise and a foolish woman? You decide!
Wisdom Cries Out (Pr 8)
Is wisdom available to all who care to seek her out? What are the results of finding or ignoring wisdom? Let’s look at Proverbs 8.
In contrast to the immoral woman who seduces naïve men secretly, does wisdom cry out openly?
Does not wisdom cry out, And understanding lift up her voice? She takes her stand on the top of the high hill, Beside the way, where the paths meet. She cries out by the gates, at the entry of the city, At the entrance of the doors: “To you, O men, I call, And my voice is to the sons of men. O you simple ones, understand prudence, And you fools, be of an understanding heart. Listen, for I will speak of excellent things, And from the opening of my lips will come right things; For my mouth will speak truth; Wickedness is an abomination to my lips. All the words of my mouth are with righteousness; Nothing crooked or perverse is in them. They are all plain to him who understands, And right to those who find knowledge. Receive my instruction, and not silver, And knowledge rather than choice gold; For wisdom is better than rubies, And all the things one may desire cannot be compared with her. (Pr 8:1-11 NKJV)
What are some other traits that accompany wisdom? What do wise people hate?
“I, Wisdom, live together with good judgment. I know where to discover knowledge and discernment. All who fear the Lord will hate evil. Therefore, I hate pride and arrogance, corruption and perverse speech. Common sense and success belong to me. Insight and strength are mine. Because of me, kings reign, and rulers make just decrees. Rulers lead with my help, and nobles make righteous judgments. (Pr 8:12-16 NLT)
What about wisdom makes it true wealth, more desirable than material wealth?
I love those who love me. Those who seek me diligently will find me. With me are riches, honor, enduring wealth, and prosperity. My fruit is better than gold, yes, than fine gold, my yield than choice silver. I walk in the way of righteousness, in the middle of the paths of justice, that I may give wealth to those who love me. I fill their treasuries. (Pr 8:17-21 WEB)
How ancient is wisdom? Did God have it at the very beginning?
The Lord created me at the beginning of his way, before his deeds long in the past. I was formed in ancient times, at the beginning, before the earth was. When there were no watery depths, I was brought forth, when there were no springs flowing with water. Before the mountains were settled, before the hills, I was brought forth; before God made the earth and the fields or the first of the dry land. I was there when he established the heavens, when he marked out the horizon on the deep sea, when he thickened the clouds above, when he secured the fountains of the deep, when he set a limit for the sea, so the water couldn’t go beyond his command, when he marked out the earth’s foundations. I was beside him as a master of crafts. I was having fun, smiling before him all the time, frolicking with his inhabited earth and delighting in the human race. (Pr 8:22-31 CEB)
What happens to those who follow wise advice, and what happens to those who don’t want to find it?
Pay attention, my children! Follow my advice, and you will be happy. Listen carefully to my instructions, and you will be wise. Come to my home each day and listen to me. You will find happiness. By finding me, you find life, and the Lord will be pleased with you. But if you don't find me, you hurt only yourself, and if you hate me, you are in love with death. (Pr 8:32-36 CEV)
Is wisdom at the top of a list, summarizing just a few of the many spiritual gifts that the Holy Spirit can give us?
To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, (1 Cor 12:7-8 ESV)
Is wisdom available to all who care to seek her out? What are the results of finding or ignoring wisdom? You decide!
In contrast to the immoral woman who seduces naïve men secretly, does wisdom cry out openly?
Does not wisdom cry out, And understanding lift up her voice? She takes her stand on the top of the high hill, Beside the way, where the paths meet. She cries out by the gates, at the entry of the city, At the entrance of the doors: “To you, O men, I call, And my voice is to the sons of men. O you simple ones, understand prudence, And you fools, be of an understanding heart. Listen, for I will speak of excellent things, And from the opening of my lips will come right things; For my mouth will speak truth; Wickedness is an abomination to my lips. All the words of my mouth are with righteousness; Nothing crooked or perverse is in them. They are all plain to him who understands, And right to those who find knowledge. Receive my instruction, and not silver, And knowledge rather than choice gold; For wisdom is better than rubies, And all the things one may desire cannot be compared with her. (Pr 8:1-11 NKJV)
What are some other traits that accompany wisdom? What do wise people hate?
“I, Wisdom, live together with good judgment. I know where to discover knowledge and discernment. All who fear the Lord will hate evil. Therefore, I hate pride and arrogance, corruption and perverse speech. Common sense and success belong to me. Insight and strength are mine. Because of me, kings reign, and rulers make just decrees. Rulers lead with my help, and nobles make righteous judgments. (Pr 8:12-16 NLT)
What about wisdom makes it true wealth, more desirable than material wealth?
I love those who love me. Those who seek me diligently will find me. With me are riches, honor, enduring wealth, and prosperity. My fruit is better than gold, yes, than fine gold, my yield than choice silver. I walk in the way of righteousness, in the middle of the paths of justice, that I may give wealth to those who love me. I fill their treasuries. (Pr 8:17-21 WEB)
How ancient is wisdom? Did God have it at the very beginning?
The Lord created me at the beginning of his way, before his deeds long in the past. I was formed in ancient times, at the beginning, before the earth was. When there were no watery depths, I was brought forth, when there were no springs flowing with water. Before the mountains were settled, before the hills, I was brought forth; before God made the earth and the fields or the first of the dry land. I was there when he established the heavens, when he marked out the horizon on the deep sea, when he thickened the clouds above, when he secured the fountains of the deep, when he set a limit for the sea, so the water couldn’t go beyond his command, when he marked out the earth’s foundations. I was beside him as a master of crafts. I was having fun, smiling before him all the time, frolicking with his inhabited earth and delighting in the human race. (Pr 8:22-31 CEB)
What happens to those who follow wise advice, and what happens to those who don’t want to find it?
Pay attention, my children! Follow my advice, and you will be happy. Listen carefully to my instructions, and you will be wise. Come to my home each day and listen to me. You will find happiness. By finding me, you find life, and the Lord will be pleased with you. But if you don't find me, you hurt only yourself, and if you hate me, you are in love with death. (Pr 8:32-36 CEV)
Is wisdom at the top of a list, summarizing just a few of the many spiritual gifts that the Holy Spirit can give us?
To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, (1 Cor 12:7-8 ESV)
Is wisdom available to all who care to seek her out? What are the results of finding or ignoring wisdom? You decide!
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)