Topical Index of Proverbs
with scriptures printed in the New International Version
Table of Contents
The following is a listing of the topical categories that the Book of Proverbs have been put into in this booklet. The numbers to the right of the topics indicate the page number.
Topic Page Number
Adultery . . . . . . . . . . 3
Advice . . . . . . . . . . 4
Attitude . . . . . . . . . . 4
Discipline . . . . . . . . . . 5
Drinking . . . . . . . . . . 6
Envy . . . . . . . . . . 7
Evil . . . . . . . . . . 7
Friendship . . . . . . . . . . 8
Foolishness . . . . . . . . . . 9
God . . . . . . . . . . 10
Hardship . . . . . . . . . . 13
Hatred . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Honesty . . . . . . . . . . 13
Hope . . . . . . . . . . 13
Humility . . . . . . . . . . 14
Judging . . . . . . . . . . 14
Laziness . . . . . . . . . . 14
Leadership . . . . . . . . . . 16
Life . . . . . . . . . . 16
Love . . . . . . . . . . 17
Marriage . . . . . . . . . . 18
Money . . . . . . . . . . 19
Obedience . . . . . . . . . . 21
Patience . . . . . . . . . . 22
Parent/Child Relationships . . . . . . . . 22
Pride . . . . . . . . . . 23
Relationships . . . . . . . . . . 24
Righteousness . . . . . . . . . . 25
Sin . . . . . . . . . . 28
Talk . . . . . . . . . . 28
Temptation . . . . . . . . . . 32
Trustworthiness . . . . . . . . . 32
Wickedness . . . . . . . . . . 33
Wisdom . . . . . . . . . . 35
Work . . . . . . . . . . 38
ADULTERY
Warnings against:
5:1‑23 "1My son, pay attention to my wisdom, listen well to my words of insight, 2that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge. 3For the lips of an adulteress drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil; 4but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double‑edged sword. 5Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the grave. 6She gives no thought to the way of life; her paths are crooked, but she knows it not. 7Now then, my sons, listen to me; do not turn aside from what I say. 8Keep to a path far from her, do not go near the door of her house, 9lest you give your best strength to others and your years to one who is cruel, 10lest strangers feast on your wealth and your toil enrich another man's house. 11At the end of your life you will groan, when your flesh and body are spent. 12You will say, 'How I hated discipline! How my heart spurned correction! 13I would not obey my teachers or listen to my instructors. 14I have come to the brink of utter ruin in the midst of the whole assembly.' 15Drink water from your own cis‑tern, running water from your own well. 16Should your springs overflow in the streets, your streams of water in the public squares? 17Let them be yours alone, never to be shared with strangers. 18May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth. 19A loving doe, a graceful deer ‑ may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be captivated by her love. 20Why be captivated, my son, by an adulteress? Why embrace the bosom of another man's wife? 21For a man's ways are in full view of the Lord, and he examines all his paths. 22The evil deeds of a wicked man ensnare him; the cords of his sin hold him fast. 23He will die for lack of discipline, led astray by his own great folly."
6:23‑34 A 23For these commands are a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the corrections of discipline are the way to life, 24keeping you from the immoral woman, from the smooth tongue of the wayward wife. 25Do not lust in your heart after her beauty or let her captivate you with her eyes, 26for the prostitute reduces you to a loaf of bread, and the adulteress preys upon your very life. 27Can a man scoop fire into hi lap without his clothes being burned? 28Can a man walk on hot coals without his feet being scorched? 29So is he who sleeps with another man's wife; no one who touches her will go unpunished. 30Men do not despise a thief if he steals to satisfy his hunger when he is starving. 31Yet if he is caught, he must pay sevenfold, thought it costs him all the wealth of his house. 32But a man who commits adultery lacks judgment; whoever does so destroys himself. 33Blows and disgrace are his lot, and his shame will never be wiped away; 34for jealousy arouses a husband's fury, and he will refuse the bribe, however great it is."
7:6‑27 "6At the window of my house I looked out through the lattice. 7I saw among the simple, I noticed among the young men, a youth who lacked judgment. 8He was going down the street near her corner, walking along in the direction of her house 9at twilight, as the day was fading, as the dark of night set it. 10Then out came a woman to meet him, dressed like a prostitute and with crafty intent. 11(She is loud and defiant, her feet never stay at home; 12now in the street, now in the squares, at every corner she lurks.) 13She took hold of him and kissed him and with a brazen face she said: 14'I have fellowship offerings at home; today I fulfilled my vows. 15So I came out to meet you; I looked out for you and have found you! 16I have covered my bed with colored linens from Egypt. 17I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon. 18Come, let's drink deep of love till morning; let's enjoy our‑selves with love! 19My husband is not at home; he has gone on a long journey. 20He took his purse filled with money and will not be home till full moon.' 21With persuasive words she led him astray; she seduced him with her smooth talk. 22All at once he followed her like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer stepping into a noose 23till an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare, little knowing it will cost him his life. 24Now then, my sons, listen to me; pay attention to what I say. 25Do not let your heart turn to her ways or stray into her paths. 26Many are the victims she has brought down; her slain are a mighty throng. 27Her house is a highway to the grave, leading down to the chambers of death."
22:14 "The mouth of an adulteress is a deep pit; he who is under the Lord's wrath will fall into it."
ADVICE
Receiving it:
11:14 "For the lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisors make victory sure."
12:15 "The way of a fool seem right to him, but a wise man listens to advice."
13:13‑16 "13He who scorns instruction will pay for it, but he who respects a command is rewarded. 14The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death. 15Good understanding wins favor, but the way of the unfaithful is hard. 16Every prudent man acts out of knowledge, but a fool exposes his folly."
19:20 "Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise."
20:18 "Make plans by seeking advice; if you wage war, obtain guidance."
ATTITUDE
Boastful:
27:1"Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth."
27:2 "Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; someone else, and not your own lips."
Positive:
15:13 "A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit."
15:15 "All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast."
15:30 "A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones."
16:32 "Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city."
17:22 "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones."
18:14 "A man's spirit sustains him in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear?"
20:29 "The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair is the splendor of the old."
21:15 "When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers."
Negative:
15:12 "A mocker resents correction; he will not consult the wise."
15:15 "All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast."
19:19 "A hot‑tempered man must pay the penalty; if you rescue him, you will have to do it again."
25:14 "Like clouds and wind without rain is a man who boasts of gifts he does not give."
DISCIPLINE
Admonition of:
9:7‑9 "7Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult; who‑ ever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse. 8Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will love you. 9Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning."
10:17 "He who heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray."
12:1 "Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid."
13:18 "He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored."
13:24 "He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him."
15:5 "A fool spurns his father's discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence."
15:10 "Stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path; he who hates correction will die."
17:2 "A wise servant will rule over a disgraceful son, and will share the inheritance as one of the brothers."
17:10 "A rebuke impresses a man of discernment more than a hundred lashes a fool."
19:18 "Discipline your son, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to his death."
23:13‑14"13Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish him with the rod, he will not die. 14Punish him with the rod and save his soul from death."
25:12 "Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a wise man's rebuke to a listening ear."
25:28 "Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self‑control."
27:5 "Better is open rebuke than hidden love."
Results of:
19:15 "Flog a mocker, and the simple will learn prudence; rebuke a discerning man, and he will gain knowledge."
22:15 "Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him."
DRINKING
Results of:
23:29‑30 "29Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? 30Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.
23:33‑35 A33Your eyes will see strange sights and your mind imagine confusing things. 34You will be like one sleeping on the high seas, lying on top of the rigging. 35`They hit me,' you will say, `but I'm not hurt! They beat me, but I don't feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?'"
Warnings Against:
20:1 "Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise."
23:19‑21 A19Listen, my son, and be wise, and keep your heart on the right path. 20Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, 21for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags."
23:31‑32 "31Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! 32In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.
ENVY
Of others:
3:31,32 "31Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways, 32for Lord detests a perverse man but takes the upright into his confidence."
24:1‑2 "1Do not envy wicked men, do not desire their company; 2for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about making trouble."
27:4 "Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?"
EVIL
Don't worry about it:
24:19‑20 "19Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of the wicked, 20for the evil man has no future hope, and the lamp of the wicked will be snuffed out."
Those who plot it:
12:20 "There is deceit in the hearts of those who plot evil, but joy for those who promote peace.
17:11 "An evil man is bent only on rebellion; a merciless official will be sent against him."
17:13 "If a man pays back evil for good, evil will never leave his house."
24:8‑9 "8He who plots evil will be know as a schemer. 9The schemes of folly are sin, and men detest a mocker."
Turning from it:
13:19 "A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest turning from evil."
20:30 "Blows and wounds cleanse away evil, and beatings purge to inmost being."
FRIENDSHIP
Importance:
12:26 "A righteous man is cautious in friendship, but the way of the wicked leads them astray."
17:17 "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."
18:24 "A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother."
27:9 "Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of one's friend springs from his earnest counsel."
Treatment of:
25:17 "Seldom set foot in your neighbor's house‑‑too much of you, and he will hate you."
27:6 "Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses."
27:10 "Do not forsake your friend and the friend of your father, and do not go to your brother's house when disaster strikes you‑‑better a neighbor nearby than a brother far away."
Type of Friends:
19:4 "Wealth brings many friends, but a poor man's friend deserts him."
19:7 "A poor man is shunned by all his relatives ‑ how much more do his friends avoid him! Though he pursues them with pleading, they are nowhere to be found."
22:24‑25 "24Do not make friends with a hot‑tempered man, do not associate with one easily angered, 25for you may learn his ways and get yourself ensnared."
FOOLISHNESS
Man's Own:
12:16 "A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult."
14:7 "Stay away from a foolish man, for you will not find knowledge on his lips."
14:9 "Fools mock at making amends for sin, but goodwill is found among the upright."
15:21,22 "21Folly delights a man who lacks judgment, but a man of understanding keeps a straight course. 22Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisors they succeed."
17:12 "Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool in his folly."
17:18 "A man lacking judgment strikes hands in pledge and puts up security for his neighbor."
18:1,2 "1An unfriendly man pursues selfish ends; he defies all sound judgement. 2A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions."
19:1 "Better a poor man whose walk is blameless than a fool whose lips are perverse."
19:3 "A man's own folly ruins his life, yet his heart rages against the Lord."
19:10 "It is not fitting for a fool to live in luxury ‑ how much worse for a slave to rule over princes!"
21:16 "A man who strays from the path of understanding comes to rest in the company of the dead."
21:20 "In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has."
24:7 "Wisdom is too high for a fool; in the assembly at the gate he has nothing to say."
27:3 "Stone is heavy and sand a burden, but provocation by a fool is heavier than both."
What a Fool is Like:
26:1 "Like snow in summer or rain in harvest, honor is not fitting for a fool."
26:3 "A whip for the horse, a halter for the donkey, and a rod for the backs of fools!"
26:4 "Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will be like him yourself."
26:5 "Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes."
26:6 "Like cutting off one's feet or drinking violence is the sending of a message by the hand of a fool."
26:7 "Like a lame man's legs that hang limp is a proverb in the mouth of a fool."
26:8 "Like tying a stone in a sling is the giving of honor to a fool."
26:9 "Like a thornbush in a drunkard's hand is a proverb in the mouth of a fool."
26:10 "Like an archer who wounds at random is he who hires a fool or any passer‑by."
26:11 "As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his folly."
26:12 "Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him."
GOD
Creative Power:
20:12 "Ears that hear and eyes that see‑‑the Lord has made them both."
Fear Him:
3:7,8 "7Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. 8This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones."
8:13 "To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech."
9:10 "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."
10:27 "The fear of the Lords adds length to life, but the years of the wicked are cut short."
15:16 "Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil."
19:23 "The fear of the Lord leads to life: Then one rests content, untouched by trouble."
23:17 "Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord."
24:21 "Fear the Lord and the king, my son, and do not join with the rebellious,
Honor Him:
3:9,10 "9Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; 10then your barns will be filled to overflowing and your vats will brim over with new wine."
15:8,9 "8The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the prayer of the upright pleases him. 9The Lord detests the way of the wicked but he loves those who pursue righteousness."
18:10 "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteousness run to it and are safe."
His Discipline:
3:11,12 "11My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline and do not resent his rebuke, 12because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in."
20:22 "Do not say, 'I'll pay you back for this wrong!' Wait for the Lord, and he will deliver you."
His Guidance in Life:
16:1‑9 "1To man belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the reply of the tongue. 2All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the Lord. 3Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. 4The Lord works out everything for his own ends‑‑ even the wicked for a day of disaster. 5The Lord detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished. 6Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the Lord a man avoids evil. 7When a man's ways are pleasing to the Lord, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him. 8Better a little righteousness than much gain with injustice. 9In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps."
16:33 "The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord."
19:21 "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails."
20:2,3 "2All a man's ways seem right to him, but the Lord weighs the heart. 3To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice."
His Watchfulness:
5:21 "For a man's ways are in full view of the Lord, and he examines all his paths."
15:29 "The Lord is far from the wicked but he hears the prayer of the righteous."
17:3 "The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests the heart."
22:12 "The eyes of the Lord keep watch over knowledge, but he frustrates the words of the unfaithful.
Omnipresence:
15:3 "The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good."
15:11 "Death and Destruction lie open before the Lord‑‑how much more the hearts of men!"
20:27 "The lamp of the Lord searches the spirit of a man; it searches out his inmost being."
Things He hates:
6:16‑19 "16There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: 17haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, 18a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet
that are quick to rush into evil, 19a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers."
20:10 "Differing weights and differing measures‑‑the Lord detests them both."
Treatment of righteous men:
3:32‑34 "32for the Lord detests a perverse man but takes the upright into his confidence. 33The Lord's curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous. 34He mocks the proud mockers but gives grace to the humble."
12:2 "A good man obtains favor from the Lord, but the Lord condemns a crafty man."
Treatment of wicked men:
3:32‑34 "32for the Lord detests a perverse man but takes the upright into his confidence. 33The Lord's curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous. 34He mocks the proud mockers but gives grace to the humble."
Trust Him:
3:5,6 "5Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."
21:30,31 "30There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord. 31The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord."
HARDSHIP
24:10 "If you falter in times of trouble, how small is your strength.
HATRED
Results of:
10:12 "Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs."
HONESTY
Virtues of:
11:1 "The Lord abhors dishonest scales, but accurate weights are his delight."
12:17‑19 "17A truthful witness gives honest testimony, but a false witness tells lies. 18Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. 19Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment."
12:22 "The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful."
13:17 "A wicked messenger fall into trouble, but a trustworthy envoy brings healing."
20:15 "Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel."
24:26 "An honest answer is like a kiss on the lips."
HOPE
Characteristics of:
13:12 "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life."
23:18 "There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off."
HUMILITY
Benefits of:
11:2 "When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom."
12:9 "Better to be a nobody and yet have a servant than pretend to be somebody and have no food."
16:19,20 "19Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud. 20Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord."
22:4 "Humility and the fear of the Lord bring wealth and honor and life."
25:6‑7a "6Do not exalt yourself in the king's presence, and do not claim a place among great men; 7ait is better for him to say to you, `Come up here,' than for him to humiliate you before a nobleman."
JUDGING
Others:
24:23‑25 "23These are saying of the wise: To show partiality in judging is not good: 24Whoever says to the guilty, `You are innocent'‑‑peoples will curse him and nations denounce him. 25But
it will go well with those who convict the guilty, and rich blessing will come upon them."
LAZINESS
Characteristics:
12:7 "Wicked men are overthrown and are no more, but the house of the righteous stands firm."
15:19 "The way of the sluggard is blocked with thorns, but the path of the upright is a highway."
22:13 "The sluggard says, `There is a lion outside!' or, `I will be murdered in the streets!'"
26:13‑16 "13The sluggard says, 'There is a lion in the road, a fierce lion roaming the streets.!' 14As a door turns on its hinges, so a sluggard buries his hand in the dish; he is too lazy to bring it back to his mouth. 15The sluggard buries his hand in the dish; he is too lazy to bring it back to his mouth. 16The sluggard is wiser in his own eyes than seven men who answer discreetly."
27:7 "He who is full loathes honey, but to the hungry even what is bitter tastes sweet."
Results of:
6:6‑11 "6Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! 7It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, 8yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest. 9How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? 10A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest‑‑ 11and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man."
10:4,5 "4Lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth. 5He who gathers crops in summer is a wise son, but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son."
10:26 "As vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so is a sluggard to those who send him."
12:24 "Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in slave labor."
13:4 "The sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied."
18:9 "One who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys."
19:15 "Laziness brings on deep sleep, and the shiftless man goes hungry."
19:24 "The sluggard buries his hand in the dish; he will not even bring it back to the mouth."
20:4 "A sluggard does not plow in season; so at harvest time he looks but finds nothing."
20:13 "Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you will have food to spare."
21:25,26 "25The sluggard's craving will be the death of him, because his hands refuse to work. 26All day long he craves for more, but the righteous give without sparing."
24:30‑34 "30I went past the field of the sluggard, past the vineyard of the man who lacks judgment; 31thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins. 32I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw: 33A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest‑‑34and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man."
LEADERSHIP
God's direction of:
21:1 "The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases.
25:4‑5 "4Remove the dross from the silver and out comes material for the silversmith; 5remove the wicked from the king's presence, and his throne will be established through righteousness."
Qualities of:
16:10‑15 "10The lips of a king speak as an oracle, and his mouth should not betray justice. 11Honest scales and balances are from the Lord; all the weights in the bag are of his making. 12Kings detest wrongdoing, for a throne is established through righteousness. 13Kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value a man who speaks the truth. 14A king's wrath is a messenger of death, but a wise man will appease it. 15When a king's face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring."
19:12 "A king's rage is like the roar of a lion, but his favor is like dew on the grass."
20:2 "A king's wrath is like the roar of a lion; he who angers him forfeits his life."
20:8 "When a king sits on his throne to judge, he winnows out all evil with his eyes."
20:26 "A wise king winnows out the wicked; he drives the threshing wheel over them."
21:1 "The King's heart is in the hand of the Lord; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases."
25:1‑3 "1These are more proverbs of Solomon, copied by the men of Hezekiah king of Judah: 2It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings. 3As the
heavens are high and the earth is deep, so the hearts of kings are unsearchable."
LIFE
Direction of:
4:25‑27 "25Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you. 26Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. 27Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil."
14:2 "He whose walk is upright fears the Lord, but he whose ways are devious despises him."
14:10 "Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no one else can share its joy."
16:1‑9 "1To man belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the reply of the tongue. 2All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the Lord. 3Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. 4The Lord works out everything for his own ends‑‑ even the wicked for a day of disaster. 5The Lord detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished. 6Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the Lord a man avoids evil. 7When a man's ways are pleasing to the Lord, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him. 8Better a little righteousness than much gain with injustice. 9In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps."
16:33 "The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord."
20:5 "The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out."
20:24 "A man's steps are directed by the Lord. How then can anyone understand his own way?"
21:2 "All a man's ways seem right to him, but the Lord weighs the heart."
21:8 "The way of the guilty is devious, but the conduct of the innocent is upright."
21:17 "He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich."
21:21 "He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor."
Peaceful:
4:23 "Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the well‑spring of life."
17:1 "Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting with strife."
LOVE
Importance:
3:3,4 "3Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. 4Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man."
10:12 "Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs."
15:17 "Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred."
17:9 "He who covers over an offense promotes love, but who ever repeats the matter separates close friends."
19:22 "What a man desires is unfailing love; better to be poor than a liar."
20:6 "Many a man claims to have unfailing love, but a faithful man who can find?"
20:28 "Love and faithfulness keep a king safe; through love his throne is made secure."
21:21 "He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor."
MARRIAGE
Husband / Wife Relationship:
19:13 "A foolish son is his father's ruin, and a quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping."
21:9 "Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.
21:19 "Better to live in a desert than with a quarrelsome and ill‑tempered wife."
25:24 "Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife."
27:8 "Like a bird that strays from its nest is a man who strays from his home."
Joy of:
5:18,19 "18May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth. 19A loving doe, a graceful deer ‑ may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be captivated by her love."
Virtues of a wife:
12:4 "A wife of noble character is her husbands crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones."
18:22 "He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord."
19:14 "Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the Lord."
MONEY
Being generous:
11:25‑28 "25A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed. 26People curse the man who hoards grain, but blessing crowns him who is willing to sell. 27He who seeks good finds good will, but evil comes to him who searches for it."
22:9 "A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor."
Foolishness with:
20:14 "It's no good, it's no good!" says the buyer; then off he goes and boasts about his purchase."
22:16 "He who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and he who gives gifts to the rich‑‑both come to poverty."
Gaining it:
13:11 "Dishonest money dwindles away, but he who gathers money little by little makes it grow."
13:22 "A good man leaves an inheritance for his children's children, but a sinner's wealth is stored up for the righteous."
20:21 "An inheritance quickly gained at the beginning will not be blessed at the end."
22:4 "Humility and the fear of the Lord bring wealth and honor and life."
23:4 "Do not wear yourself out to get rich; have the wisdom to show restraint."
Honesty with:
20:10 "Differing weights and differing measures‑‑the Lord detests them both."
20:16 "Take the garment of one who puts up security for a stranger; hold it in pledge if he does it for a wayward."
20:17 "Food gained by fraud tastes sweet to a man, but he ends up with a mouth full of gravel."
20:23 "The Lord detests differing weights, and dishonest scales do not please him."
21:6 "A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare.
21:14 "A gift given in secret soothes anger, and a bribe concealed in the cloak pacifies great wrath."
Lending it:
6:1‑5 "1My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have struck hands in pledge for another, 2if you have been trapped by what you said, en‑snared by the words of your mouth, 3then do this, my son, to free yourself, since you have fallen into your neighbor's hands: Go and humble yourself; press your plea with your neighbor! 4Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids. 5Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler."
11:15 "He who puts up security for another will surely suffer, but whoever refuses to strike hands in pledge is safe.
19:17 "He who is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward him for what he has done."
22:26‑27 "26Do not be a man who strikes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts; 27if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you."
Rich and poor:
13:7‑8 "7One man pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth. 8A man's riches may ransom his life, but a poor man hears no threat."
13:23 "A poor man's field may produce abundant food, but injustice sweeps it away."
18:23 "A poor man pleads for mercy, but a rich man answers harshly."
19:4 "Wealth brings many friends, but a poor man's friend deserts him."
19:7 "A poor man is shunned by all his relatives ‑ how much more do his friends avoid him! Though he pursues them with pleading, they are nowhere to be found."
20:13 "Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you will have food to spare."
21:5 "The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.
21:13 "If a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered."
21:17 "He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich."
22:2 "Rich and poor have this in common: The Lord is the maker of them all."
22:7 "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender."
22:22‑23"22Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court, 23for the Lord will take up their case and will plunder those who plunder them."
Value of:
3:9,10 "9Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; 10then your barns will be filled to overflowing and your vats will brim over with new wine."
10:2 "Ill‑gotten treasures are of no value, but righteousness delivers from death."
11:4 "Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death."
15:16 "Better a little with fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil."
17:16 "Of what use is money in the hand of a fool, since he has no desire to get wisdom?"
18:11 "The wealth of the rich is their fortified city; they imagine it an unscalable wall."
22:1 "A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold."
23:5 "5Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle."
OBEDIENCE
Virtues of:
19:16 "He who obeys instructions guards his life, but he who is contemptuous of his ways will die."
20:11 "Even a child is know by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right."
21:3 "To do what is right and just is more acceptable than sacrifice."
PATIENCE
16:32 "Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city."
19:11 "A man's wisdom give him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense."
25:15 "Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone."
PARENT/CHILD RELATIONSHIPS
Discipline:
17:6 "Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children."
19:18 "Discipline your son, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to his death."
20:11 "Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right."
22:6 "Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it."
23:13‑14 "13Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish him with the rod, he will not die. 14Punish him with the rod and save his soul from death."
Generations:
22:28 "Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your forefathers."
23:10‑11 "10Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, 11for their Defender is strong; he will take up their case against you."
Joy of:
10:1 "A wise son brings joy to his father but a foolish son grief to his mother."
Listening:
1:8,9 "8Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching. 9They will be a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck."
4:1‑4 "1Listen, my sons, to a father's instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. 2I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching. 3When I was a boy in my father's house, still tender, and an only child of my mother, 4he taught me and said, 'Lay hold of my words with all your heart; keep my commands and you will live.'"
6:20‑22 "20My son, keep your father's commands and do not forsake your mother's teaching. 21Bind them upon your heart forever, fasten them around your neck. 22When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you."
13:1 "A wise son heeds his father's instruction, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke."
23:22‑25 "22Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. 23Buy the truth and do not sell it; get wisdom, discipline and understanding. 24The father of a righteous man has great joy; he who has a wise son delights in him. 25May your father and mother be glad; may she who gave you birth rejoice!"
Trouble Between:
11:29 "He who brings trouble on his family will inherit only wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise."
17:21 "To have a fool for a son brings grief; there is no joy for the father of a fool."
17:25 "A foolish son brings grief to his father and bitterness to the one who bore him."
19:13 "A foolish son is his father's ruin, and a quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping."
19:26 "He who robs his father and drives out his mother is a son who brings shame and disgrace."
20:20 "If a man curses his father or mother, his lamp will be snuffed out in pitch darkness."
27:8 "Like a bird that strays from its nest is a man who strays from his home."
PRIDE
Results of:
11:2 "When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom."
13:10 "Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice."
15:25 "The Lord tears down the proud man's house but he keeps the widow's boundaries intact."
16:18 "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall."
18:12 "Before his downfall a man's heart is proud, but humility comes before listening ‑ that is his folly and his shame."
21:4 "Haughty eyes and a proud heart, the lamp of the wicked are sin!"
21:24 "The proud and arrogant man 'Mocker' is his name; he behaves with overweening pride."
25:27 "It is not good to eat too much honey, nor is it honorable to seek one's own honor."
RELATIONSHIPS
Doing good for:
3:27,28 "27Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act. 28Do not say to your neighbor, 'Come back later; I'll give it tomorrow'‑‑ when you now have it with you."
12:2 "A good man obtains favor from the Lord, but the Lord condemns a crafty man."
18:16 "A gift opens the way for the giver and ushers him into the presence of the great."
24:11‑12 "11Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter. 12If you say, `But we knew nothing about this,' does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay each person according to what he has done?"
Envy in:
3:31,32 "31Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways, 32for the Lord detests a perverse man but takes the upright into his confidence."
19:6 "Many curry favor with a ruler, and everyone is the friend of a man who gives gifts."
Kind to Avoid:
20:19 "A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much."
24:21‑22 "21Fear the Lord and the king, my son, and do not join with the rebellious, 22for those two will send sudden destruction upon them, and who knows what calamities they can bring?"
Revenge in:
20:22 "Do not say, 'I'll pay you back for this wrong!' Wait for the Lord, and he will deliver you."
Warnings against mistreating:
3:29,30 "29Do not plot harm against your neighbor, who lives trustfully near you. 30Do not accuse a man for no reason‑‑when he has done you no harm."
17:15 "Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent ‑ the Lord detests them both."
17:26 "It is not good to punish an innocent man, or to flog officials for their integrity."
18:19 "An offended brother is more unyielding than a fortified city, and disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel."
24:17‑18 "17Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when he stumbles, do not let your heart rejoice, 18or the Lord will see and disapprove and turn his wrath away from him."
25:18 "Like a club or a sword or a sharp arrow is the man who gives false testimony against his neighbor."
25:20‑22 "20Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar poured on soda, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart. 21If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. 22In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you."
RIGHTEOUSNESS
Characteristics of:
13:5,6 "5The righteous hate what is false, but the wicked bring shame and disgrace. 6Righteousness guards the man of integrity, but wickedness overthrows the sinner.
13:9 "The light of the righteous shines brightly, but the lamp of the wicked is snuffed out."
13:25 "The righteous eat to their hearts' content, but the stomach of the wicked goes hungry."
15:28 "The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil."
16:31 "Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life."
20:7 "The righteous man leads a blameless life; blessed are his children after him."
21:3 "To do what is right and just is more acceptable than sacrifice."
21:12 "The Righteous One takes note of the house of the wicked and brings the wicked to ruin."
Virtues of:
4:18 "The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day."
10:2,3 "2Ill‑gotten treasures are of no value, but righteousness delivers from death. 3The Lord does not let the righteous go hungry but he thwarts the craving of the wicked."
10:6,7 "6Blessings crown the head of the righteous, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked. 7The memory of the righteous will be a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot."
10:15,16 A15The wealth of the rich is their fortified city, but poverty is the ruin of the poor. 16The wages of the righteous bring them life, but the income of the wicked brings them punishment."
10:22‑25 "22The blessing of the Lord brings wealth, and he adds no trouble to it. 23A fool finds pleasure in evil conduct, but a man of understanding delights in wisdom. 24What the wicked dreads will overtake him; what the righteous desire will be granted. 25When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm forever."
10:28‑32 "28The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing. 29The way of the Lord is a refuge for the righteous, but it is the ruin of those who do evil. 30The righteous will never be uprooted, but the wicked will not remain in the land. 31The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but a perverse tongue will be cut out. 32The lips of the righteous know what is fitting, but the mouth of the wicked only what is perverse."
11:3‑6 "3The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity. 4Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death. 5The righteousness of the blameless makes a straight way for them, but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness. 6The righteousness of the upright delivers them, but the unfaithful are trapped by evil desires."
11:8‑10 "8The righteous man is rescued from trouble, and it comes on the wicked instead. 9With his mouth the godless destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous escape. 10When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices; when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy."
11:16‑23 "16A kindhearted woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth. 17A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself. 18The wicked man earns deceptive wages, but he who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward. 19The truly righteous man attains life, but he who pursues evil goes to his death. 20The Lord detests men of perverse heart but he delights in those whose ways are blame‑less 21Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished, but those who are righteous will go free. 22Like a gold ring in a pig's snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion. 23The desire of the righteous ends only in good, but the hope of the wicked only in wrath."
11:30‑31"30The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise. 31If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more the ungodly and the sinner!"
12:3 "A man cannot be established through wickedness, but the righteous cannot be uprooted."
12:5 "The plans of the righteous are just, but the advice of the wicked is deceitful."
12:10 "A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel."
12:21 "No harm befalls the righteous, but the wicked have their fill of trouble."
12:28 "In the way of righteousness there is life; along that path is immortality."
15:6 "The house of the righteous contains great treasure, but the income of the wicked brings them trouble."
16:8 "Better a little righteousness than much gain with injustice."
21:21 "He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor."
10:2 "Illgotten treasures are of no value, but righteousness delivers from death."
11:4"Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death."
SIN
Man's:
20:9 "Who can say, 'I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin'?"
TALK
Guard it:
4:23 "Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the well‑spring of life."
10:8‑11 "8The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin. 9The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out. 10He who winks maliciously causes grief, and a chattering fool comes to ruin. 11The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.
10:18‑21 "18He who conceals his hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool. 19When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. 20The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value. 21The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of judgment."
11:12‑13 "12A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his tongue. 13A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret."
12:13‑14 "13An evil man is trapped by his sinful talk, but a righteous man escapes trouble. 14From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things as surely as the work of his hands rewards him."
12:23 "A prudent man keeps his knowledge to himself, but the heart of fools blurts out folly."
13:3 "He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin."
15:1,2 "1A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. 2The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly."
15:4 "The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit."
15:18 "A hot‑tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel."
17:28 "Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue."
18:4 "The words of a man's mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook."
20:15 "Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel."
20:19 "A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much."
20:25 "It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider his vows."
23:9 "Do not speak to a fool, for he will scorn the wisdom of your words."
24:28‑29 "28Do not testify against your neighbor without cause, or use your lips to deceive. 29Do not say, `I'll do to him as he has done to me; I'll pay back for what he did.'"
25:7b‑10 "7bWhat you have seen with your eyes 8do not bring hastily to court, for what will you do in the end if your neighbor puts you to shame? 9If you argue your case with a neighbor, do not betray another man's confidence, 10or he who hears it may shame you and you will never lose your bad reputation.
25:23 "As a north wind brings rain, so a sly tongue brings angry looks."
26:20 "Without wood a fire goes out; without gossip a quarrel dies down."
26:22‑23 "22The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man's inmost parts. 23Like a coating of glaze over earthenware are fervent lips with an evil heart."
Lying:
12:17‑19 "17A truthful witness gives honest testimony, but a false witness tells lies. 18Reckless words pierce like a sword but the tongue of the wise brings healing. 19Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment."
12:22 "The Lord detests lying lips, but he who delights in men who are truthful."
14:5 "A truthful witness does not deceive, but a false witness pours out lies."
17:7 "Arrogant lips are unsuited to a fool‑‑how much worse lying lips to a ruler!
19:5 "A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who pours out lies will not go free."
19:9 "A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who pours out lies will perish."
19:22 "What a man desires is unfailing love; better to be poor than a liar."
21:6 "A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare.
21:28 "A false witness will perish, and whoever listens to him will be destroyed forever."
26:18‑19"18Like a madman shooting firebrands or deadly arrows 19is a man who deceives his neighbor and says, 'I was only joking!'"
26:24‑28 "24A malicious man disguises himself with his lips, but in his heart he harbors deceit. 25Though his speech is charming, do not believe him, for seven abominations fill his heart. 26His malice may be concealed by deception, but his wickedness will be exposed in the assembly. 27If a man digs a pit, he will fall into it; if a man rolls a stone, it will roll back on him. 28a lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin."
Results of, negative:
13:3 "He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin."
14:3 "A fool's talk brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise protect them."
16:28‑30 "28A perverse man stirs up dissension and a gossip separates close friends. 29A violent man entices his neighbor and leads him down a path that is not good. 30He who winks with his eye is plotting perversity; he who purses his lips is bent on evil."
18:5‑8 "5It is not good to be partial to the wicked or to deprive the innocent of justice. 6A fool's lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating. 7A fool's mouth is his undoing, and his lips are a snare to his soul. 8The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to a man's inmost parts."
18:21 "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit."
19:27‑29 "27Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge. 28A corrupt witness mocks at justice, and the mouth of the wicked gulps down evil. 29Penalties are prepared for mockers, and beatings for the backs of fools."
26:2 "Like a fluttering sparrow or a darting swallow, an undeserved curse does not come to rest."
Results of, positive:
13:2 "From the fruit of his lips a man enjoys good things, but the unfaithful have a craving for violence."
15:7 "The lips of the wise spread knowledge; not so the hearts of fools."
15:23 "A man finds joy in giving an apt reply ‑‑ and how good is a timely word."
16:21‑24 "21The wise in heart are called discerning and pleasant words promote instruction. 22Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but folly brings punishment to fools. 23A wise man's heart guides his mouth and his lips promote instruction. 24Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones."
17:27 "A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and man of understanding is even‑tempered."
18:20 "From the fruit of his mouth a man's stomach is filled; with the harvest from his lips he is satisfied."
21:23 "He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity."
22:11 "He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious will have the king for his friend."
25:11 "A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver."
25:15 "Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone."
25:25 "Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land."
Quarrels:
17:14 "Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out."
17:19 "He who loves a quarrel loves sin; he who builds a high gate invites destruction."
18:17,18 "17The first to present his case seems right, till another comes forward and questions him. 18Casting the lot settles disputes and keeps strong opponents apart."
20:3 "It is to a man's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel."
21:9 "Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.
21:19 "Better to live in a desert than with a quarrelsome and ill‑tempered wife."
22:10 "Drive out the mocker, and out goes strife; quarrels and insults are ended."
26:17 "Like one who seizes a dog by the ears is a passer‑by who meddles in a quarrel not his own."
26:20‑21 "20Without wood a fire goes out; without gossip a quarrel dies down." 21As charcoal to embers and as wood to fire, so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife."
TEMPTATION
Results of giving in:
1:10‑19 "10My son, if sinners entice you, do not give in to them. 11If they say, 'Come along with us; let's lie in wait for someone's blood, let's waylay some harm‑less soul; 12let's swallow them alive, like the grave, and whole, like those who go down to the pit; 13we will get all sorts of valuable things and fill our houses with plunder; 14throw in your lot with us, and we will share a common purse ‑‑ 15my son, do not go along with them, do not set foot on their paths; 16for their feet rush into sin, they are swift to shed blood. 17How useless to spread a net in full view of all the birds! 18These men lie in wait for their own blood; they waylay only themselves! 19Such is the end of all who go after ill‑gotten gain; it takes away the lives of those who get it."
4:14‑17 "14Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evil men. 15Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way. 16For they cannot sleep till they do evil; they are robbed of slumber till they make someone fall. 17They eat the bread of wickedness and drink the wine of violence."
15:27 "A greedy man brings trouble to his family, but he who hates bribes will live."
23:1‑3 "1When you sit to dine with a ruler, note well what is before you, 2and put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony. 3Do not crave his delicacies, for that food is deceptive."
23:6‑8 "6Do not eat the food of a stingy man, do not crave his delicacies; 7for he is the kind of man who is always thinking about the cost. `Eat and drink,' he say to you, but his heart is not with you. 8You will vomit up the little you have eaten and will have wasted your compliments."
25:16 "If you find honey, eat just enough‑‑too much of it, and you will vomit."
TRUSTWORTHINESS
Importance of:
25:19 "Like a bad tooth or a lame foot is reliance on the unfaithful in times of trouble"
Results of:
25:13 "Like the coolness of snow at harvest time is a trustworthy messenger to those who send him; he refreshes the spirit of his masters."
WICKEDNESS
Results of Following it:
4:14‑17 "14Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evil men. 15Avoid it, do not travel on it: turn from it and go on your way. 16For they cannot sleep till they do evil; they are robbed of slumber till they make someone fall. 17They eat the bread of wickedness and drink the wine of violence."
4:19 "But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble."
5:22,23 "22The evil deeds of a wicked man ensnare him; the cords of his sin hold him fast. 23He will die for lack of discipline, led astray by his own great folly."
6:12‑15 "12A scoundrel and villain, who goes about with a corrupt mouth, 13who winks with his eye, signals with his feet and motions with his fingers, 14who plots evil with deceit in his heart ‑‑ he always stirs up dissension. 15Therefore disaster will overtake him in an instant; he will suddenly be destroyed ‑‑ without remedy."
10:6,7 "6Blessings crown the head of the righteous, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked. 7The memory of the righteous will be a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot.
10:22‑25 "22The blessing of the Lord brings wealth, and he adds no trouble to it. 23A fool finds pleasure in evil conduct, but a man of understanding delights in wisdom. 24What the wicked dreads will overtake him; what the righteous desire will be granted. 25When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm forever."
10:28‑32 "28The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing. 29The way of the Lord is a refuge for the righteous, but it is the ruin of those who do evil. 30The righteous will never be uprooted, but the wicked will not remain in the land. 31The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but a perverse tongue will be cut out. 32The lips of the righteous know what is fitting, but the mouth of the wicked only what is perverse."
11:5‑11 "5The righteousness of the blameless makes a straight way for them, but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness. 6The righteousness of the upright delivers them, but the unfaithful are trapped by evil desires. 7When a wicked man dies, his hope perishes; all he expected from his power comes to nothing. 8The righteous man is rescued from trouble, and it comes on the wicked instead. 9With his mouth the godless destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous escape. 10When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices; when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy. 11Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed."
11:16‑23 "16A kindhearted woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth. 17A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself. 18The wicked man earns deceptive wages, but he who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward. 19The truly righteous man attains life, but he who pursues evil goes to his death. 20The Lord detests men of perverse heart but he delights in those whose ways are blameless. 21Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished, but those who are righteous will go free. 22Like a gold ring in a pig's snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion. 23The desire of the righteous ends only in good, but the hope of the wicked only in wrath."
11:31 "If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more the ungodly and the sinner!"
12:3 "A man cannot be established through wickedness, but the righteous cannot be uprooted."
12:6,7 "6The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the speech of the upright rescues them. 7Wicked men are overthrown and are no more, but the house of the righteous stands firm."
12:12‑13 "12The wicked desire the plunder of evil men, but the root of the righteous flourishes. 13An evil man is trapped by his sinful talk, but a righteous man escapes trouble."
15:26 "The Lord detests the thoughts of the wicked, but those of the pure are pleasing to him."
17:4,5 "4A wicked man listens to evil lips; a liar pays attention to a malicious tongue. 5He who mocks the poor shows contempt for their Maker; whoever gloats over disaster will not go unpunished."
17:20 "A man of perverse heart does not prosper; he whose tongue is deceitful falls into trouble."
17:23 "A wicked man accepts a bribe in secret to pervert the course of justice."
18:3 "When wickedness comes, so does contempt, and with shame comes disgrace."
21:7 "The violence of the wicked will drag them away, for they refuse to do what is right."
21:10 "The wicked man craves evil; his neighbor gets no mercy from him."
21:18 "The wicked become a ransom for the righteous, and the unfaithful for the upright."
21:27 "The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable ‑‑ how much more so when brought with evil intent!"
21:29 "A wicked man puts up a bold front, but an upright man gives thought to his ways."
22:5 "In the paths of the wicked lie thorns and snares, but he who guards his soul stays far from them."
22:8 "He who sows wickedness reaps trouble, and the rod of his fury will be destroyed."
24:1‑2 "1Do not envy wicked men, do not desire their company; 2for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about making trouble."
24:15‑16 "15Do not lie in wait like an outlaw against a righteous man's house, do not raid his swelling place; 16for though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again, but the wicked are brought down by calamity."
24:19‑20 "19Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of the wicked, 20for the evil man has no future hope, and the lamp of the wicked will be snuffed out."
25:26 "Like a muddied spring or a polluted well is a righteous man who gives way to the wicked."
WISDOM
Actions of:
21:22"A wise man attacks the city of the mighty and pulls down the stronghold in which they trust."
22:3 "A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it."
Gaining it:
1:1‑7 "1The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: 2for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; 3for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair; 4for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young‑‑ 5let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance‑‑ 6for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. 7The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline."
4:5‑13 "5Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or swerve from them. 6Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. 7Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. 8Esteem her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you; 9She will set a garland of grace on your head and present you with a crown of splendor. 10Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many. 11I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. 12When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble."
13Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.
4:20‑22 "20My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words. 21Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; 22for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body."
7:1‑5 "5My son, keep my words and store up my commands within you. 2Keep my commands and you will live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye. 3Bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart. 4Say to wisdom, 'You are my sister,' and call understanding your kinsman; 5they will keep you from the adulteress, from the wayward wife with her seductive words."
8:1‑13 "1Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice? 2On the heights along the way, where the paths meet, she takes her stand; 3beside the gates leading into the city, at the entrances, she cries aloud: 4'To you, O men, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind. 5You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, gain understanding. 6Listen, for I have worthy things to say; I open my lips to speak what is right. 7My mouth speaks what is true, for my lips detest wickedness. 8All the words of my mouth are just; none of them is crooked or perverse. 9To the discerning all of them are right; they are faultless to those who have knowledge. 10Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, 11for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her. 12'I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion. 13To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.'"
10:13,14 "13Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning, but a rod is for the back of him who lacks judgment. 14Wise men store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin."
14:6 "The mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the discerning."
15:14 "The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly."
15:31‑33 "31He who listens to a life‑giving rebuke will be at home among the wise. 32He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding."
16:16,17 "16How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver! 17The highway of the upright avoids evil; he who guards his way guards his life."
17:24 "A discerning man keeps wisdom in view, but a fool's eyes wander to the ends of the earth.
21:11 When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; when a wise man is instructed, he gets knowledge.
22:17‑21 "17Pay attention and listen to the saying of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach, 18for it is pleasing when you keep them in you heart and have all of them ready on your lips. 19So that your trust may be in the Lord, I teach you today, even you. 20Have I not written thirty sayings for you, sayings of counsel and knowledge, 21teaching you true and reliable words, so that you can give sound answers to him who sent you?"
23:12 "Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge."
Man's own wisdom:
3:7,8 "7Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. 8This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones."
9:13‑18 "13The woman Folly is loud; she is undisciplined and without knowledge. 14She sits at the door of her house, on a seat at the highest point of the city, 15calling out to those who pass by, who go straight on their way. 16'Let all who are simple come in here!' she says to those who lack judgment, 17'Stolen water is sweet; food eaten in secret is delicious!' 18But little do they know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of the grave."
12:15 "The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice."
16:25‑27 "25There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death. 26The laborer's appetite works for him; his hunger drives him on. 27A scoundrel plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire."
17:8 "A man lacking in judgment strikes hands in pledge and puts up security for his neighbor."
19:2 "It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way."
Results of accepting it:
1:33‑3:2 "33but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm. 2:1My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, 2turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, 3and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, 4and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, 5thenyou will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. 6For the Lord gives wisdom and from his mouth come knowledge and under‑standing. 7He holds victory in store for the up‑right, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, 8for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones. 9Then you will understand what is right and just and fair‑‑every good path. 10For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. 11Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you. 12Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse, 13who leave the straight paths to walk in dark ways, 14who delight in doing wrong and rejoice in the perverseness of evil, 15whose paths are crooked and who are devious in their ways. 16I will save you also from the adulteress, from the wayward wife with her seductive words, 17who has left the partner of her youth and ignored the covenant she made before God. 18For her house leads down to death and her paths to the spirits of the dead. 19None who go to her return or attain the paths of life. 20Thus you will walk in the ways of good men and keep to the paths of the righteous. 21For the upright will live in the land, and the blameless will remain in it; 22but the wicked will be cut off from the land, and the unfaithful will be torn from it. 3:1My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, 2for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity."
3:13‑26 "13Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding, 14for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. 15She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. 16Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. 17Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace. 18She is a tree of life to those who embrace her; those who lay hold of her will be blessed. 19By wisdom the Lord laid the earth's foundations, by understanding he set the heavens in place; 20by his knowledge the deeps were divided, and the clouds let drop the dew. 21My son, preserve sound judgment and discernment, do not let them out of your sight; 22they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. 23Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble; 24when you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down,
23:15‑16 "15My son, if your heart is wise, then my heart will be glad; 16my inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right."
24:3‑7 "3By wisdom a house is built, and through under‑standing it is established; 4through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. 5A wise man has great power, and a man of knowledge increases strength; 6for waging war you need guidance, and for victory many advisers. 7Wisdom is too high for a fool; in the assembly at the gate he has nothing to say."
24:13‑14 "13Eat honey, my son, your soul; if you find it, there is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off." 14 Know also that wisdom is sweet to your soul; if you find it, there is a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.
WORK
Admonition to:
Prov 6:6‑11
6 Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise!
7 It has no commander, no overseer or ruler,
8 yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.
9 How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep?
10 A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest‑‑
11 and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man.
Prov 14:23
23 All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.
Prov 18:9
9 One who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys.
Rewards of:
12:14 From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things as surely as the work of his hands rewards him.
22:29 "Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men."
24:27 "Finish your outdoor work and get your fields ready; after that, build your house."