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Proverbs 11:1 ¶ A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight.

Weights and balances are part of ensuring fair business transactions.  Wicked men use false balances or weights to cheat the buyer.  The LORD is disgusted by such actions.  He delights in those who conduct business with integrity.  I’m sure Solomon is again referencing the words of Moses.

Deuteronomy 25:13–15 “Thou shalt not have in thy bag divers weights, a great and a small. Thou shalt not have in thine house divers measures, a great and a small. But thou shalt have a perfect and just weight, a perfect and just measure shalt thou have: that thy days may be lengthened in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.”

Proverbs 11:2 ¶ When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.

This verse immediately brought to mind a verse in chapter 16: “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.”  Arrogance and pride bring shame and dishonor.  One who is humble is wise.

EBC Abridged: “‘Pride' is literally a boiling up; thus an overstepping of the boundaries and insubordination is meant. The proud are inflated to the level of self-bestowed divinity; they will have their egos deflated.”

Proverbs 11:3 ¶ The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.

The honesty of an upright, godly man governs his actions.  The dishonest actions of those who have rejected God’s law will destroy them.  Context implies that the actions of the upright lead to life, and scripture affirms that truth.

Psalm 36:7&9 “How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings….For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light.”

Romans 8:6 “For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.”

Romans 6:23 “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Proverbs 11:4 ¶ Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death.

The day of wrath is the day of God’s anger, the day when God judges.  No matter how wealthy you may be, you can’t bribe God.  Only righteousness can deliver one from from a sentence of condemnation and death.  Scripture is clear that none are righteous.

Romans 3:10 “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one….”

Only through faith in Jesus can one be clothed in the righteousness of God in Jesus.

2 Corinthians 5:21 “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”

The Old Testament saints are clothed in this righteousness just as surely as New Testament saints.  Faith in God is the key.  The Old Testament saints were saved by faith just as surely as are we New Testament saints.  When Jesus died on the cross, He paid for the sins of all men of all times, providing salvation for all who choose to accept that gift in faith.

Romans 4:3 “For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.”

Romans 4:20–24 “He [Abraham] staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness.  Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him; But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead….”

Romans 5:18–19 “Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.”

Proverbs 11:5 ¶ The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness.

Proverbs 11:6 The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but transgressors shall be taken in their own naughtiness.

The righteousness of a man with moral integrity will keep him straight, in alignment with God’s will, and will deliver him from God’s judgment.  The wicked actions of a wicked man will result in his downfall and cause him to perish.  

As I read these verses, I thought of others spoken by Jesus that go hand-in-hand with these.

Matthew 7:13–14 “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”  

Proverbs 11:7 ¶ When a wicked man dieth, his expectation shall perish: and the hope of unjust men perisheth.

I liked the CJB for this verse: “When a wicked man dies, his hope perishes; what he hopes for from evil comes to nothing.”

It reminds me of the saying, “You can’t take it with you.”  Paul advised Timothy accordingly.

1 Timothy 6:7 “For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.”

Proverbs 11:8 ¶ The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his stead.

The righteous man is strengthened and prepared (from Hebrew for “delivered”) to avoid despair and endure trouble.  The wicked, however, will be brought down by trouble.

Guzik: “For the righteous, this life is the worst trouble they will ever experience. For the wicked, their greatest trouble is yet to come.”

Ironside: “The path of righteousness leads to endless glory; the way of lawlessness ends in sorrow and woe. He who seeks to ensnare the upright will fall into the meshes of his own trap. The entire book of Esther is one of the best examples of the instruction of this section.  Daniel’s experience with his accusers, as noted earlier, emphasizes the same principle. God’s retributive justice is swift and sure. It is futile to seek to change His holy and righteous administration.”

Proverbs 11:9 ¶ An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.

“Hypocrite” refers to one who is soiled morally and has no reverence for God; he is deceitful.   He can ruin a person’s reputation by spreading lies.  Knowledge (as found in God’s word is the context) will strengthen the just and deliver him.  

Those who have rejected the LORD and His word take great delight in trying to ruin those that publicly declare their faith in the LORD and try to live in obedience to His word.  This is becoming an ever more evident part of the culture in America today.  The true man or woman of faith will find strength in their faith in God and the truth of His word to carry them through the troubles caused by such slander.  Theirs will be the victory in the end.  I am reminded of the words of Jesus.

John 16:33 “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

Proverbs 11:10 ¶ When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, there is shouting.

Proverbs 11:11 By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.

These verses are spoken with the assumption that the people of the city as a whole worship the LORD, as they did in Solomon’s reign (at least for the first part).  When godly men prosper with God’s blessing, it causes the people of the city to rejoice and brings honor to the city.  They rejoice when the wicked are destroyed.  A city’s honor can be destroyed through the evil deceit and propaganda of the wicked.

This actually serves to testify to the spiritual health of a city or nation.  Once the people vilify the success and prosperity of the righteous and applaud the success and prosperity of the wicked, it is a sad indicator revealing the spiritual depravity of that city or nation.  It grieves me to say that America is transitioning to just such a nation.  

Proverbs 11:12 ¶ He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.

Proverbs 11:13 A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.

Only a person lacking wisdom, who does not reverence God, will spread tales or reveal secrets about his neighbor (brother, companion, friend, husband).  A wise person, however, will hold his tongue; a true friend will keep your secrets.

Clarke: “A foolish man is generally abundant in his censures; he dwells on the defects of his neighbor, and is sure to bring them into the most prominent view. But a man of understanding — a prudent, sensible man, hides those defects wherever he can, and puts the most charitable construction on those which he cannot conceal.”

Chuck Smith (beautiful application - 4 paragraphs): “There is an instructive word in this connection in Exodus 37:17-24.  These verses relate to the making of the candlestick, or lampstand, for the tabernacle. Among the accessories to it, Moses ‘made his seven lamps, and his snuffers, and his snuffdishes, of pure gold’ (23). There is something here that is intensely interesting and precious when applied to the subject of tale-bearing.

No lamp will burn well for long without occasional snuffing. God has made provision even for such an apparently insignificant matter as this. It might not seem important how a light was snuffed and what was done with the black snuff afterwards. But in God’s eye nothing is trivial that concerns the glory of His Son or the welfare of His people.

The snuffers were made of pure gold—that which symbolizes divine glory and perfect righteousness. It may often happen that some saint of God is losing his brightness and no longer shining for Him as he once did. The priest with the golden tongs is entrusted with the delicate task of trimming the charred end of the candlestick. ‘Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted’ (Galatians 6:1). In this way the ‘snuffing’ of evil is accomplished God’s way and the restored brother’s light burns all the brighter.

Is the evil then to be spread abroad and made a matter of common knowledge? There were not only the snuffers, but the snuff-dishes, which were also made of pure gold. The priest was to put carefully the black, dirty snuff which he had removed from the wick in these golden receptacles. To have spread the filth on the spotless garments of other priests would have been to defile them all. It must be hidden away in the presence of God! Is not this where we often fail?”

Proverbs 11:14 ¶ Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.

Other translations vary, but all are in line with the Hebrew.

NIV: “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisers make victory sure.”

CJB: “Without clever tactics an army is defeated, and victory comes from much planning.”

This proverb assumes that such counsel aligns with the word of God and the counsellors are men who honor God.

Ironside: “Even the wisest and godliest are often given to blunders and errors of discernment. No one is infallible. To weigh a matter in the presence of God and to invite the spiritual counsel of those who are able to discern differences is the course of wisdom.”

Proverbs 11:15 ¶ He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.

I think the NLT expresses it well: “Guaranteeing a loan for a stranger is dangerous; it is better to refuse than to suffer later.”

It is understandable to want to help family or a close friend, especially if they are of good character.  A stranger, however, is an unknown.  There is great likelihood of getting stuck with their debt.

Beautiful observation from Ironside: “He [Jesus] fully proved the truth of the words of Proverbs 11:15 when He endured that cross of shame. How He had to suffer when God‘s awful judgment against sin fell on Him! But He wavered not. In love to God and to the strangers whose surety He had become, He ‘endured the cross, despising the shame’ (Hebrews 12:2).”

Proverbs 11:16 ¶ A gracious woman retaineth honour: and strong men retain riches.

Proverbs 11:17 ¶ The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.

A gracious, kind woman is honored and respected.  Powerful, violent, tyrannical men are focused on getting and maintaining wealth—implied, having no honor or respect.  The merciful, kind man benefits himself.  The cruel man (with his ill-gotten gains) brings trouble upon himself.  

As I noted in the first chapter, these proverbs apply to both men and women.  I think Solomon specifically mentions the woman from time to time to emphasize this truth.

Guzik used an interesting quote from Morgan: “The method of this proverb is of comparison rather than of contrast, the idea being that a ‘gracious woman’ will defend honor with the same strength and persistency as ‘violent men,’ or ‘strong men,’ as the Authorized Version had it, will retain riches. The word ‘violent’ here suggests evil rather than good.”

Proverbs 11:18 ¶ The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward.

I think the NLT expresses the idea well: “Evil people get rich for the moment, but the reward of the godly will last.”

As mentioned in the comments on verse 7, we can take nothing of material wealth out of this world.  However, spiritual treasure earned by honoring God with our actions will be ours for eternity.

Matthew 6:20 “But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal….”

Proverbs 11:19 ¶ As righteousness tendeth to life: so he that pursueth evil pursueth it to his own death.

The righteous man will inherit eternal life; the man that pursues evil will suffer eternal condemnation.

Romans 6:23 “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

2 Thessalonians 1:7–9 “And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power….”

Proverbs 11:20 ¶ They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the LORD: but such as are upright in their way are his delight.

One with a froward heart has purposely rejected the LORD and His laws; such people disgust Him.  He delights in those who live with integrity and seek to obey Him.

Proverbs 11:21 ¶ Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.

Hand-in-hand implies that the following truths are sure.  The wicked will not go unpunished, and the righteous will be delivered from this wicked world.  I almost overlooked the reference to the children of the righteous.  Though each person is responsible to make the choice to follow God in faith and obedience, those that have godly parents are more likely to choose to follow in the footsteps of their parents.

Proverbs 11:22 ¶ As a jewel of gold in a swine’s snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion.

This verse paints a pretty clear word picture.  To see a woman that is beautiful but lacks wisdom as evidenced by proper behavior and self-control is like looking at a precious jewel in a pig’s nose.  It reminds me of the truth that true beauty shines from within.

1 Peter 3:1–4 “Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.”

Proverbs 11:23 ¶ The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath.

This verse contrasts the desire of one who is righteous and honors God and one who is wicked and rejects God.  The righteous man will only desire what is good (according to God’s word); the wicked man is filled with longing for all that goes against God’s word.

Proverbs 11:24 ¶ There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.

Proverbs 11:25 ¶ The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.

I like the CJB for these verses: “Some give freely and still get richer, while others are stingy but grow still poorer.  The person who blesses others will prosper; he who satisfies others will be satisfied himself.” 

These verses remind me of the truth that you can’t outgive the LORD.  Whatever we give to others as we seek to serve Him will be richly rewarded. 

Malachi 3:10 “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.”

Luke 6:38 “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”

Proverbs 11:26 ¶ He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him: but blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it.

This seems to be a statement about the evil of selfishness and hoarding when there are so many who could benefit from your willingness to sell your stores and provide for their needs.  Many commentaries indicate that the hoarding is for the purpose of pushing up the prices for greater profit.

Great application from Ironside: “If in this world the curses of the dying will fall on those who refuse to share physical bread, what will be said of him who refuses to share the Bread of life. He has the knowledge of the precious grace of God and yet is quite unconcerned about the need of the vast multitudes who are going on to the second death, the lake of fire. It is not enough to plead that they know but do not heed. The Christian is responsible to warn, to preach, to entreat the lost to be reconciled to God. We are debtors to all men because of the treasure committed to us. Sad indeed will be the accounting for those who live to themselves, withholding that spiritual food which alone can meet the dire need of the spiritually starving. Blessings will be on the head of those who seek to offer to men the free grace of God, as earnestly as businessmen seek to sell their goods.”

Proverbs 11:27 ¶ He that diligently seeketh good procureth favour: but he that seeketh mischief, it shall come unto him.

This is another statement of reaping what you sow.  One who earnestly pursues doing good will find favor, both with God and others; one who continually pursues what is wicked and harmful will himself come to grief.  Obviously, the moral standard being referenced of what is good and what is mischief is God’s word.

Proverbs 11:28 ¶ He that trusteth in his riches shall fall: but the righteous shall flourish as a branch.

Those who find their security in the riches of this world will perish; however, one who is righteous and places his faith in the LORD will flourish for eternity.

Proverbs 11:29 ¶ He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart.

I think this is basically saying that if you make trouble for your family, you stand to inherit nothing substantial.  The wind is a reference to something that can’t be seen or held; you can only see its effects.  One who is foolish and unwise is likely to end up serving those that are wise.

The EBC Abridged certainly gave a different perspective: “An avaricious man deprives his family of livelihood and brings them to nothing but distress. He gains nothing for his efforts, ‘wind’ signifying that which cannot be grasped. The second line suggests that those who foolishly mismanage their accounts may have to sell themselves into slavery to the wise. So the ideas in the verse are complementary.”

Proverbs 11:30 ¶ The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.

The tree of life was a tree in the Garden of Eden.  Once Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit of the tree of knowledge, the LORD sent them out of the garden to keep them from eating the fruit of the tree of life.  He didn’t want them to live forever in their sinful state; its fruit is connected to everlasting life.

Genesis 3:22–24 “And the LORD God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever: Therefore the LORD God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken. So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.”

Those that produced the spiritual fruit of righteousness in their life will inherit eternal life as represented by that tree and will be able to eat of it freely in the New Jerusalem.

Revelation 22:2 & 14 “In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations….Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.”

One that wins souls, that gets others to follow God in faith and obedience is wise; he is producing spiritual fruit.

Proverbs 11:31 ¶ Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.

I had to think about this one for a while.  To be recompensed is to receive in accordance with what one has done.  Just as surely as the righteous are blessed for their obedience, the wicked will suffer the consequences of their sin.  If God oversees such recompense to those that honor Him, how much more will He ensure that those who have rejected Him receive their just due.

Clarke: “The Septuagint, Syrian, and Arabic read this verse as follows: "And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?" And this St, Peter quotes literatim, 1Peter 4:18.…”

1 Peter 4:17-18 “For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?  And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?”

Proverbs 12:1 ¶ Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.

One who likes to receive instruction, including correction, loves to learn.  Correction and discipline are necessary for one who wants to learn and obtain wisdom.  One who hates reproof is foolish; he will never learn.  Scripture tells us that correction and chastening are signs of love.

Proverbs 13:24 “He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.”

Hebrews 12:6 “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.”

Proverbs 12:2 ¶ A good man obtaineth favour of the LORD: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn.

One who is good is the LORD’s delight, but He will destroy the man who is always making evil plans with evil intent.  The only valid standard for determining what is good or wicked is the word of God.

The wicked man has chosen to reject the gift of salvation provided by Jesus that would clothe him in the righteousness of God.

2 Corinthians 5:21 “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”

John 3:17–18 “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.”

Proverbs 12:3 ¶ A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved.

The wicked man has no firm foundation in his life.  The righteous man has a firm foundation of faith that is secured by Almighty God; he has an anchor to hold him firm in the storms of life.  Jesus gave an illustration of this truth.

Luke 6:47–49 “Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like: He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.”

Clarke: “Evil is always variable: it has no fixed principle, except the root that is in the human heart; and even that is ever assuming new forms.”

Proverbs 12:4 ¶ A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.

A woman of moral excellence brings honor to her husband.  A woman that acts shamefully disgusts her husband.

The virtuous woman is described in detail in chapter 31. 

Proverbs 12:5 ¶ The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit.

The plans and intents of one who is righteous are right; they align with the standards set forth in God’s word.  The advice or guidance of a wicked man cannot be trusted; he is fraudulent and deceitful.  He will counsel you to act in disobedience to God’s word.

Proverbs 12:6 ¶ The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.

I liked the NLT: “The words of the wicked are like a murderous ambush, but the words of the godly save lives.”  Any counsel that leads you to disregard God’s word leads to danger.  Counsel from the word of God will lead you to make safe choices.

EBC Abridged: “The vivid picture of ‘lying in wait for blood’ conveys that the wicked make a trap by their false accusations. The righteous, who through discipline and instruction have gained knowledge and perception, are able to avoid this danger.”

Proverbs 12:7 ¶ The wicked are overthrown, and are not: but the house of the righteous shall stand.

Because it is worded as a contrast, I believe the point being made is how the actions of a person affect their family.  The family of a wicked man has no legacy upon which to build their future.  The family of a righteous man, however, has a legacy of faith in God that provides a firm foundation upon which his family can build for the future.

Clarke: “Generally the bad root produces not only a bad plant, but one worse than itself.”

Proverbs 12:8 ¶ A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised.

A wise person will be praised for his wisdom, his obedience and commitment to the word of God.  A person who is perverse, that has rejected God’s law, receives no respect.

This is always true in the eyes of God, but not always true in this world.  Once again, I cannot help but make application to what is happening in America today.  Those that wisely are committed to living according to the truth of God’s word are vilified more than praised.  Those that blatantly disregard His word are being praised more than vilified.  Sadly, this is not the America in which I grew up.  When people are celebrating the murder of babies, I think we have reached our lowest low—let alone that we no longer recognize the difference in male and female and embrace homosexuality.  God’s judgment is sure to come.

Proverbs 12:9 ¶ He that is despised, and hath a servant, is better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread.

I liked the NLT for this one: “It is better to be a nobody with a servant than to be self-important but have no food.”  

EBC Abridged: “The point seems to be that some people live beyond their means in a vain show (“pretend to be somebody”), whereas, if they lived modestly, they could have some of the conveniences of life, e.g., a servant.”

Guzik: “Kidner suggested an alternative translation: ‘But RSV, following LXX, Syr., reads the same Heb. consonants to mean: Better is a man of humble standing who works for himself than one who plays the great man but lacks bread. This is stronger, and gives more content to the word ‘better’.’”

Proverbs 12:10 ¶ A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.

I liked the CJB: "A righteous man takes care of his animal, but the wicked? Even his compassion is cruel.”  

It is true that the LORD expects us to take care of our animals.  However, in America today, more emphasis is given to taking care of animals than of taking care of humans.  We have laws that protect the habitats of animals, yet we think nothing of taking the life of the unborn.  There are all kinds of advertisements about adopting homeless “pets,” yet the airwaves are silent regarding the need for homes for foster kids.  Nursing homes are full of neglected seniors, and the current solution being promoted is assisted suicide.  How the LORD must be grieved!  

Proverbs 12:11 ¶ He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.

A person that puts in the work to garner a harvest will have plenty to eat.  A person that spends his time with lazy people will suffer the consequences for his lack of wisdom.

Great application from Ironside: “This is a challenging word for young Christians. God’s Word is a field well worth cultivating. The apostle urged, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2Timothy 2:15).  Those who obey this injunction are invariably repaid for every hour earnestly devoted to the consideration of this precious field….The loss by those who do not study the Scriptures is incalculable, both here and in eternity. This neglect of the Bible is the root of much backsliding, coldness of heart, and departure from God.”

Proverbs 12:12 ¶ The wicked desireth the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yieldeth fruit.

NLT: “Thieves are jealous of each other’s loot, while the godly bear their own fruit.”

The wicked are always looking to profit from what others have worked for.  Godly men take satisfaction in working for their profit, and will reap the fruit of their labor.

Proverbs 12:13 ¶ The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble.

I immediately thought of the following saying:  “Loose lips sink ships.”  It is true that the words of a wicked man set a trap for him.  The just man has nothing to fear in consequence of what he has to say; he is a person of integrity.

Clarke: “There is another proverb as true as this: A liar had need of a good memory; for as the truth is not in him, he says and unsays, and often contradicts himself.”

Proverbs 12:14 ¶ A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompence of a man’s hands shall be rendered unto him.

This is a general statement that obviously refers to a man that honors the LORD.  His speech will result in good things that will give him satisfaction (gratification, contentment and enjoyment - Webster).  It will bring honor and praise from others as he comforts and encourages others, provides wise counsel, provides loving instruction to the young, etc.  His actions will reap the honor and praise of others as he works hard to provide for his family, gives a neighbor a helping hand, etc.

Proverbs 12:15 ¶ The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

The foolish man is so stubborn that he is unwilling to consider the advice of others; he’s just positive he is right.  

That is one of the hardest things when it comes to studying scripture.  We can get so rooted in what we think we know because of what we have always been taught that our eyes aren’t open to the teaching of the Spirit to correct our thinking where needed—especially when it comes to biblical prophecy.  I continually pray that the LORD will keep my heart soft and my spiritual eyes and ears open for new insight and/or needed correction.

Proverbs 12:16 ¶ A fool’s wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame.

NLT: “A fool is quick-tempered, but a wise person stays calm when insulted.”

EBC Abridged: “Mature people are able to handle criticism without responding instinctively and irrationally. The wise do not give the enemy that satisfaction. It is not so much that the wise repress anger or feelings but that they are more shrewd in dealing with it.”

Proverbs 12:17 ¶ He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.

Integrity and telling the truth characterize a righteous man.  One who tells lies shows himself to be a fraud, to be unrighteous.

Ironside:  A lying tongue “is an abomination to Him who is Himself the Truth. He delights in truth because it is in accord with His own nature.”

John 14:6 “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

Proverbs 12:18 ¶ There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.

NLT: “Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.”

I remember the old saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words may never hurt me.”  May sound good, but it’s a lie.  Words can hurt more than a physical wound, and healing from their hurt can take much longer.  I am reminded of the words of James.

James 3:8 “But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.”

Good application from Chuck Smith: “It seems that there are two types of people in the world. Those who are building up, those who are tearing down. Now when you’re looking for a friend, which kind do you look for? You are drawn to and you look for the person who is constantly building up. You don’t like to be around a person who's constantly tearing you down. You avoid them like the plague. But a person who is kind, a person who is gentle, a person who is complimentary, you enjoy being around those kind of people.”

Proverbs 12:19 ¶ The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

As the NLT puts it, “Truth stands the test of time.”  Lies only hold up for a while before eventually being exposed by the truth.  Sad but true, some lies endure for a lot longer than others.  Darwin’s lies about evolution are being recognized as such by more and more scientists, but there are still many that refuse to accept the mountain of evidence that refutes it.  The lie declaring that the fetus/embryo of a baby is not a real person is still embraced by many despite the mountain of evidence that refutes it.  And I could go on and on.

Genesis 1:1 “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.”

Psalm 139:7, 13 & 16 “Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence?…thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb….Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.”

Proverbs 12:20 ¶ Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.

Evil plots are made because a person wants to defraud or hurt someone.  The hearts of those who make plans for the good of others are filled with joy; their hearts are aligned with the will of God.

Thought-provoking comment by Ironside: “It should be remembered that it is intentional deceit that is here in question. It is sad to hear good men recklessly charge others with lying because they have uttered an untruth in the innocency of their hearts. A statement may be false as to fact, but true in its intent; just as a statement may be true as to fact, which was uttered with the intent to deceive. It is the deceit in the heart that causes the lips to utter a lie. None should be so charged unless the evidence makes it clear there was intention to prevaricate.”

Proverbs 12:21 ¶ There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief.

Again, this proverb presupposes a society in which the LORD is revered and His word honored.  No harm will befall the just man who acts and speaks within the boundaries established in God’s word.  The wicked man, however, will experience all sorts of trouble as a consequence of acting outside God’s established boundaries.

Though the culture that surrounds us today is ungodly, the righteous person can take comfort in the truth declared by Paul.

Romans 8:28 “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

God will always turn to good whatever He allows to touch the lives of those that love Him and have accepted His gift of salvation.  AND He has assured us that the victory is His.

John 16:33 “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

Proverbs 12:22 ¶ Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.

Scripture declares over and over again how the LORD hates lying lips but delights in honesty and integrity.

Proverbs 12:23 ¶ A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.

A man of discretion and wisdom doesn’t go around talking about how much he knows.  The foolish man, however, is apt to go about bragging about what he thinks he knows.

Guzik quoting Garrett: “Someone who is careful in what he says will be equally careful about whom he confides in.”

Ironside: "The man who has least worth saying is generally the man who says the most.”

Proverbs 12:24 ¶ The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.

I liked the NLT:  “Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and become a slave.”  This reminds me of the old saying, “The cream rises to the top.”

Ironside: “It is not ability only that causes one to succeed and advance in life. There must be earnest endeavor, otherwise talent and brilliancy count for nothing.”

Guzik quoting Bridges: “So, Christian, be diligent. Spend and be spent in Christ’s service. Your privileges will be enlarged. Your God will be honored. Your crown will be secure.”

Proverbs 12:25 ¶ Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.

It is so true, how we feel is often pictured in how we carry ourselves.  It is often obvious just by looking at someone that they are depressed, and you can often quickly see the impact of an encouraging word.  I’m reminded of a verse that I include in every scripture book I make for children.

Hebrews 3:13 “Encourage one another daily.” (NIV)

Proverbs 12:26 ¶ The righteous is more excellent than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked seduceth them.

In the context of contrast, I believe this proverb is saying that a righteous man will lead his friends and family to follow God’s word.  A wicked man, however, will lead his friends and family “out of the way” (from the Hebrew); he will cause them to go astray in disobedience to God’s word.

Clark offers a different perspective: “The spirit of the proverb lies here: The Poor righteous man is more excellent than his sinful neighbor, though affluent and noble.”

Proverbs 12:27 ¶ The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious.

This seems to be a statement against hunting as a sport rather than for providing for one’s needs or the needs of others.

Guzik has a different perspective: “Using a somewhat humorous illustration, Solomon showed that the lazy man does not finish the job. He went to all the trouble of hunting and capturing the prey but will never enjoy the fruit of his work because he is too lazy to do it.”

Guzik: “There are many precious things a man or woman can have, but diligence is near the top of the list. Many great things are accomplished with little talent but great diligence.”

Proverbs 12:28 ¶ In the way of righteousness is life; and in the pathway thereof there is no death.

NIV: “In the way of righteousness there is life; along that path is immortality.”  I think that is the best perspective on this verse.  One who is righteous is living his/her life to honor God, trying to be obedient to His word.  Today, we recognize that the ultimate expression of one’s faith in God is to accept the gift of salvation made possible because of the death and resurrection of Jesus.  We know that everyone dies and that everyone exists for eternity.  It’s just that eternity for some will be life in the presence of God, while eternity for others is condemnation outside the presence of God for eternity.

Daniel 12:2 “And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.”

Matthew 18:8 “Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire.”

Matthew 25:41 & 46 “Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels….And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.”

2 Corinthians 5:1, 6 & 8 “For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens….therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord…We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.”

2 Thessalonians 1:7–9 “And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power….”