Proverbs - Chapter 25

Proverbs 25.1 These are also proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied out. Proverbs 25.2 It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings is to search out a matter. Proverbs 25.3 The heaven for height, and the earth for depth, and the heart of kings is unsearchable. Proverbs 25.4 Take away the dross from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel for the finer. Proverbs 25.5 Take away the wicked from before the king, and his throne shall be established in righteousness. Proverbs 25.6 Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men: Proverbs 25.7 For better it is that it be said unto thee, Come up hither; than that thou shouldest be put lower in the presence of the prince whom thine eyes have seen. Proverbs 25.8 Go not forth hastily to strive, lest thou know not what to do in the end thereof, when thy neighbour hath put thee to shame. Proverbs 25.9 Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself; and discover not a secret to another: Proverbs 25.10 Lest he that heareth it put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not away. Proverbs 25.11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver. Proverbs 25.12 As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear. Proverbs 25.13 As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soul of his masters. Proverbs 25.14 Whoso boasteth himself of a false gift is like clouds and wind without rain. Proverbs 25.15 By long forbearing is a prince persuaded, and a soft tongue breaketh the bone. Proverbs 25.16 Hast thou found honey? eat so much as is sufficient for thee, lest thou be filled therewith, and vomit it. Proverbs 25.17 Withdraw thy foot from thy neighbour’s house; lest he be weary of thee, and so hate thee. Proverbs 25.18 A man that beareth false witness against his neighbour is a maul, and a sword, and a sharp arrow. Proverbs 25.19 Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint. Proverbs 25.20 As he that taketh away a garment in cold weather, and as vinegar upon nitre, so is he that singeth songs to an heavy heart. Proverbs 25.21 If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink: Proverbs 25.22 For thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head, and the LORD shall reward thee. Proverbs 25.23 The north wind driveth away rain: so doth an angry countenance a backbiting tongue. Proverbs 25.24 It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman and in a wide house. Proverbs 25.25 As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country. Proverbs 25.26 A righteous man falling down before the wicked is as a troubled fountain, and a corrupt spring. Proverbs 25.27 It is not good to eat much honey: so for men to search their own glory is not glory. Proverbs 25.28 He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.

Proverbs : Chapter 25

The Wisdom of Proverbs 25

Proverbs chapter 25 offers valuable advice on interpersonal relationships and self-control. How can we behave wisely in various social situations? This insightful text addresses essential topics such as the importance of discretion, the power of kind words, and the wisdom needed to manage conflict.

This chapter provides vivid metaphors to illustrate principles of conduct, including how to deal with enemies and authorities. Proverbs 25 emphasizes the importance of integrity and moderation in all our interactions. Let's reflect together on five key verses that capture the essence of this instructive chapter.

Key Verses

Matthew 5:44: "But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." This verse reflects the principle of Proverbs 25:21-22 regarding the proper treatment of the enemy.

James 1:19: "My beloved brothers, keep this in mind: all of you be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger." This relates to Proverbs 25:11-12 on the importance of the right words.

Philippians 2:3: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves." This verse echoes the advice of Proverbs 25:6-7 on humility.

2 Timothy 2:23: "Avoid foolish and pointless arguments, for you know that they lead to fights." This passage reflects the theme of Proverbs 25:8-10 on the need to avoid unnecessary conflict.

1 Peter 3:15: "Instead, sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give a reason for the hope that is in you." This relates to Proverbs 25:11 on the importance of well-placed words.

Meditating on these verses, we are called to live wisely and foster relationships marked by respect and love. May these teachings guide us in our daily lives.