Tag: Proverbs 13:17-21

Monday, June 20, 2022

17 Irresponsible talk makes a real mess of things,

    but a reliable reporter is a healing presence.

18 Refuse discipline and end up homeless;

    embrace correction and live an honored life.

19 Souls who follow their hearts thrive;

    fools bent on evil despise matters of soul.

20 Become wise by walking with the wise;

    hang out with fools and watch your life fall to pieces.

21 Disaster entraps sinners,

    but God-loyal people get a good life.

-Proverbs 13:17-21 The Message

17 A wicked messenger falls into trouble,

    but a faithful envoy brings healing.

18 Poverty and disgrace come to him who ignores instruction,

    but whoever heeds reproof is honored.

19 A desire fulfilled is sweet to the soul,

    but to turn away from evil is an abomination to fools.

20 Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise,

    but the companion of fools will suffer harm.

21 Disaster pursues sinners,

    but the righteous are rewarded with good.

Verse 17 study: In Solomon’s day, the king relied on messengers about his country. These messengers had to be trustworthy; otherwise, inaccurate information could lead to bad situations. Even today, reliable information is vital. If you are learning information different from what is sent, marriages, businesses, and diplomatic relationships can all break down. Choose your words to avoid reacting until you can choose your words well and understand what people are trying to say.

Verse 20 study: An old expression goes, “A rotten apple spoils the barrel,” is applies to friendship in many situations and with good reason. Friends and associates affect us many times. Be careful who you choose as your friends. Spend time with people you want to be like because friends grow to be alike.

People need advice and sometimes are uncomfortable asking. But, at the same time, people tend to go to their friends for advice because they can relate. Friends relate so much that they have answers they have already heard of before, which is why it is hard for friends that are alike to give answers to the situation. Seek out older people, wise people. They can advise us more because they live life, have been through it, and can provide advice without hesitation. Godly people can warn you of the pitfalls ahead.