Proverbs - Chapter 18

Proverbs 18.1 Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom. Proverbs 18.2 A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself. Proverbs 18.3 When the wicked cometh, then cometh also contempt, and with ignominy reproach. Proverbs 18.4 The words of a man’s mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook. Proverbs 18.5 It is not good to accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment. Proverbs 18.6 A fool’s lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes. Proverbs 18.8 The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly. Proverbs 18.9 He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster. Proverbs 18.10 The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe. Proverbs 18.11 The rich man’s wealth is his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit. Proverbs 18.12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility. Proverbs 18.13 He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him. Proverbs 18.14 The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear? Proverbs 18.15 The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge. Proverbs 18.16 A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men. Proverbs 18.17 He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him. Proverbs 18.18 The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty. Proverbs 18.19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle. Proverbs 18.20 A man’s belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled. Proverbs 18.21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. Proverbs 18.22 Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD. Proverbs 18.23 The poor useth intreaties; but the rich answereth roughly. Proverbs 18.24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

Proverbs : Chapter 18

The Power of Words and Isolation in Proverbs Chapter 18

Proverbs chapter 18 takes an in-depth look at the power of words and the consequences of isolation. How do our choices influence our lives? This insightful text addresses essential themes such as the dangers of social isolation, the wise use of our tongue, and the importance of diligence.

The Advice of Proverbs 18

This chapter offers valuable advice on friendship, conflict resolution, and the pursuit of knowledge. Proverbs 18 highlights how our words and actions shape our destiny and our relationships. We invite you to consider five crucial verses that reveal the practical wisdom of this instructive chapter.

Revelatory Verses

James 3:5-6: "Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it possesses great things. Consider how a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue is a fire; it is a world of iniquity." This passage reflects the theme of Proverbs 18:21, highlighting the power of the tongue for both good and evil.

John 7:24: "Stop judging by appearances and start judging correctly." This verse refers to Proverbs 18:17, emphasizing the importance of hearing all sides before passing judgment.

Hebrews 4:12: "For the word of God is living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, and judging the thoughts and intentions of the heart." This passage echoes Proverbs 18:4, revealing the power and depth of wise words.

Matthew 18:15: "If your brother sins against you, go and be with him alone and point out his error. If he listens to you, you have won your brother." This verse reflects the theme of Proverbs 18:19, emphasizing the difficulty and importance of reconciling with an offended brother.

Ephesians 5:31: "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh." This excerpt refers to Proverbs 18:22, revealing the importance and blessing of marriage.

Conclusion

As we meditate on these verses and their connection to Proverbs chapter 18, we are called to reflect on the power of our words and how we interact with others. May we always use our tongues wisely and kindly, cultivating relationships based on love and respect.