Proverbs 17:10-18
Q.1. What attitudes to circumstances and discipline should we cultivate? – (Prov.17:10-13)
We should learn not to react to, but rather to consider rebuke. We should not follow the example of a rebellious person. We should shun those who take delight in folly. We should never return evil for good, lest – evil will not depart from his house (Prov.17:13).
Q.2. What kinds of example from people around us are we wise to avoid? – (Prov.17:14-16, 18)
We can all find ourselves in a dispute. It takes wisdom to – abandon the quarrel before it breaks out (Prov.17:14) … and gets out of hand. There is no future for the one who – justifies the wicked and who condemns the righteous (Prov.17:15) … because this is something God hates. We cannot be selective about when we will follow the path of wisdom. We must especially guard against making thoughtless promises and pledges – A man lacking in sense pledges and becomes guarantor in the presence of his neighbour (Prov.17:18). If we make a pledge or go guarantor, we must be prepared to give the money if necessary … and that without bearing a grudge. If we cannot do this, we should not bind ourselves to such a promise.
Q.3. What are the qualities of a true friend? Why is it important to acknowledge real friends? – (Prov.17:17)
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity (Prov.17:17). It is wonderful to have such friends who will sacrifice for you just as a good sibling would. Of course, Jesus is such a Friend. He also wants us to be that kind of friend to our brothers and sisters in Christ – 13 Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. 14 You are My friends if you do what I command you. 15 No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you (Jn.15:13-15).