Pr. 15: Words

Proverbs 15:32 "He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding. "

A lot is said in this chapter about the power of words. Wise men's words spread knowledge. Gentle answers turn away wrath. The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life. You can kill and you can heal with your words. Likewise, you can teach and you can deceive with your words. It is abundantly clear in this chapter which type of person God commends, and which type of person He despises.

Are you going to be a jerk? A loudmouth? That is no way to make progress in a relationship or a discussion (argument). You turn the volume down, you sound wiser, and the weight is in the content of the words.

I suppose another aspect of Proverbs is to pay attention to what the fools do. They spurn discipline and wise teaching. They spread ignorance, resent correction, feed on folly. And by folly, I don't believe that's goofy humor. I believe that's mindlessness. Stupid actions.

God wasn't about the sacrifice in itself as an action. God was after the heart. This is emphasized here again in verse 8.

Resenting correction. True correction stops you from going down the wrong path. Stops you from making a fatal foolish mistake. Who could resent that? It's pride that makes one not want to change course. How could I be wrong? (v. 12)

Unity and harmony are valued higher than wealth. (v. 16-17)

Don't be afraid to ask advice on a difficult situation. (v. 22)