13 Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself,
but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded. – Does ‘word’ equal commandment or is it wider as ‘the Bible is the Word of God? Or one of Jesus’ titles is the ‘Word of God’?
14 The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life,
that one may turn away from the snares of death.
15 Good sense wins favor,
but the way of the treacherous is their ruin.
16 Every prudent man acts with knowledge,
but a fool flaunts his folly. – The underlined words all have virtually the same thought (wise decisions) – they are compared to foolishness, ruined, snared in death if they are avoided!
17 A wicked messenger falls into trouble,
but a faithful envoy brings healing.
18 Poverty and disgrace come to him who ignores instruction,
but whoever heeds reproof is honored. – In all of life listening to good advice and being faithful is a basis for success!
19 A desire fulfilled is sweet to the soul,
but to turn away from evil is an abomination to fools.
20 Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise,
but the companion of fools will suffer harm. – Life’s outcome depends on the way and with whom you spend your time!
21 Disaster pursues sinners,
but the righteous are rewarded with good.
22 A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children,
but the sinner’s wealth is laid up for the righteous. – The inheritance left is often with character and insight rather than money!
23 The fallow ground of the poor would yield much food,
but it is swept away through injustice. – Does this mean that poverty itself is an injustice or do the rich maltreat. unjustly the poor? Which do you think is the correct meaning? Or maybe both are correct?
24 Whoever spares the rod hates his son,
but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him. – The cupped hand exactly mirrors the buttock of both boys and girls- convex to concave! But it must be applied wisely and lovingly!
25 The righteous has enough to satisfy his appetite,
but the belly of the wicked suffers want. – The satisfaction which comes with a righteous life style is more important than a full stomach! Although the latter is nice but beware obesity!
Prayer: Help me to listen to Your advice and to chose wiswely. I have to ask this so often, my Father.
As I read it! 