Chapter 19 is a string of pearls with many truths. While some stand on their own, a few are linked together. Verses two and three are an example of this that pair up nicely to begin the chapter with a bang:
“Desire[a] without knowledge is not good, and whoever makes haste with his feet misses his way. When a man’s folly brings his way to ruin, his heart rages against the Lord.” Proverbs 19:2-3
Verse two shows us that quick responses, hasty words, and sudden acts lead to … harm. Verse three recites a familiar refrain, “Selfish people do dumb things.” Also, it teaches us that selfish folks can turn straight lines into spirals, then in their self pity they place the blame on God.
“Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.” Proverbs 19:11
Verse 11 contains some good, old-fashioned truth ready to wear. Wisdom and discretion can make us calm-headed and help us to know what to “let go.” The wise are not quick-tempered or looking for a grudge to hold. In fact, a grudge will not fit in the heart of the wise.
Let’s move on to the speed round of wise lessons:
13a – A nagging wife = a dripping faucet. Guys, you are welcome. Ladies, those are God’s words, not mine. Is it the words or attitude behind the words that causes the aggravation? Answer: Both. We all have to be careful regarding our choice of words and tone with others. Will you fellows please stop giggling? Your wives might hear you, and then …
15 – God is hard on the lazy; they are soft on themselves.
16 – Pay attention! Keeping God’s Word is an intentional process; carelessness is long term ignorance in all directions.
17 – Memory verse alert! Here is a great verse about generosity:
Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.
18 – Skipping discipline is a commitment to destruction.
20 – Wisdom doesn’t always arrive with age; age often shows up alone. Old age sometimes waltzes in with its fly unzipped, and, lots of untrimmed nose hairs. Listening to counsel and receiving instruction are prerequisites for attaining wisdom. It’s an active process.
27 – The best short cut to trouble is around God’s word.
29 – The chapter closes with … Let’s grab a stick and use a fool for a piñata! Amen!
So, the lessons from chapter 19 for the guys are:
- Listen to wisdom
- Never say “nagging” and “wife” aloud in the same sentence.
- Regularly trim your nose hairs!
Have a good weekend!
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