Proverbs 15:11-21Â
Q.1. Why should we refrain from surface judgments? What is the fruit of joy and gratitude? – (Prov.15:12-17)
God made Sheol, the resting place of the dead, and Abaddon, the place of ultimate destruction. If God knows all about these unseen things, He certainly knows the hearts of people (Prov.15:11). No one who despises reproof and knowledge, grows in wisdom. Wisdom belongs to those who welcome discipline (Prov.15:12 & 14). Cheerfulness and sadness express what is in our hearts. In fact – a cheerful heart has a continual feast (Prov.15:15 c.f. Prov.15:13). Blessing is not defined by people’s wealth but by their fear of God for – Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and turmoil with it (Prov.15:16). Our days of affliction can be hard to endure, but a cheerful heart rides above the circumstances … and spreads joy to others.
Q.2. What are the benefits of self-control and diligence? Why is respect for our father and mother so crucial? (Prov.15:18-21)
Self- control brings a much better outcome because – A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but the slow to anger calms a dispute (Prov.15:18). Interestingly, Solomon contrasted laziness with being upright and industrious (Prov.15:19). Respect for those in authority is crucial. – A wise son makes a father glad, but a foolish man despises his mother (Prov.15:20). Conversely, a foolish man makes his father sad and a wise son respects his mother. A man of understanding walks straight and does not deviate either to the left or the right (Prov.15:21).