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Proverbs 19

Proverbs 19 provides practical wisdom on how to live a righteous life, highlighting themes such as honesty, discipline, wisdom, and the consequences of one’s actions. The chapter contrasts the results of foolish behavior with those of living wisely and underscores the importance of integrity, diligence, and respecting God's commandments.

Proverbs 19:1 (NKJV)
1 Better is the poor who walks in his integrity than one who is perverse in his lips, and is a fool.

Being honest and living with integrity is better than having wealth without moral uprightness. Even if someone is poor, their character holds greater value than the foolishness of those who speak deceitfully or behave unethically. Integrity, in the long run, brings respect and peace of mind.

Proverbs 19:2 (NKJV)
2 Also it is not good for a soul to be without knowledge, and he sins who hastens with his feet.

Acting without knowledge or understanding leads to mistakes. Rushing into decisions or actions without careful thought often results in error or sin. This proverb emphasizes the importance of gaining wisdom before taking action, as haste can bring harm or regret.

Proverbs 19:3 (NKJV)
3 The foolishness of a man twists his way, and his heart frets against the Lord.

A person’s poor decisions, caused by foolishness, lead to a life filled with troubles. Instead of acknowledging their role in their struggles, they blame God for their misfortunes. This verse warns against letting pride or folly distort one's relationship with God.

Proverbs 19:4 (NKJV)
4 Wealth makes many friends, but the poor is separated from his friend.

People are often drawn to wealth, and a rich person will attract many companions. However, when someone is poor, they may find themselves abandoned, even by those they considered friends. This highlights the shallow nature of relationships based on material wealth.

Proverbs 19:5 (NKJV)
5 A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who speaks lies will not escape.

Lying and giving false testimony lead to inevitable consequences. Even if someone may appear to escape judgment for a time, eventually the truth catches up with them. This proverb teaches that dishonesty is ultimately punished.

Proverbs 19:6-7 (NKJV)
6 Many entreat the favor of the nobility, and every man is a friend to one who gives gifts.
7 All the brothers of the poor hate him; how much more do his friends go far from him! He may pursue them with words, yet they abandon him.

Wealth and power attract people, as those who give gifts or have status often have many companions. In contrast, the poor are frequently ignored, even by family and friends. This speaks to the reality of how material circumstances affect relationships and highlights the fickleness of human loyalty.

Proverbs 19:8 (NKJV)
8 He who gets wisdom loves his own soul; he who keeps understanding will find good.

A person who seeks wisdom values their own well-being. Gaining understanding leads to a life of good decisions and prosperity. This proverb encourages the pursuit of wisdom as an investment in one’s personal growth and success.

Proverbs 19:9 (NKJV)
9 A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who speaks lies shall perish.

Similar to verse 5, this verse reinforces the principle that falsehood and dishonesty have serious consequences. Those who lie will eventually face destruction, showing that truth and integrity are essential for long-term success.

Proverbs 19:10 (NKJV)
10 Luxury is not fitting for a fool, much less for a servant to rule over princes.

When a fool lives in luxury, it is an improper and unsustainable situation. Similarly, it is out of place for a servant to rule over princes, as authority should be exercised by those who are wise and capable. This speaks to the natural order of leadership and responsibility.

Proverbs 19:11-12 (NKJV)
11 The discretion of a man makes him slow to anger, and his glory is to overlook a transgression.
12 The king’s wrath is like the roaring of a lion, but his favor is like dew on the grass.

A wise person practices self-control and patience, often choosing to forgive rather than retaliate. Overlooking an offense is a mark of honor. In contrast, the wrath of a king, or any person in authority, can be terrifying and powerful, but their favor brings life and peace.

Proverbs 19:13 (NKJV)
13 A foolish son is the ruin of his father, and the contentions of a wife are a continual dripping.

A son who behaves foolishly brings sorrow and trouble to his father, and a quarrelsome wife creates constant annoyance, like the relentless drip of water. Both situations describe how relationships can lead to ongoing distress if not rooted in wisdom and harmony.

Proverbs 19:14 (NKJV)
14 Houses and riches are an inheritance from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the Lord.

Material wealth can be passed down from one generation to the next, but a wise and sensible wife is a gift from God. This highlights the superior value of a godly spouse, as wisdom in relationships is more precious than possessions.

Proverbs 19:15 (NKJV)
15 Laziness casts one into a deep sleep, and an idle person will suffer hunger.

Laziness leads to poverty and lack. Those who avoid work or neglect their responsibilities will eventually face hunger and hardship. The proverb encourages diligence and warns against the consequences of idleness.

Proverbs 19:16 (NKJV)
16 He who keeps the commandment keeps his soul, but he who is careless of his ways will die.

Obeying God’s commandments preserves one’s life and well-being. In contrast, ignoring wisdom and living carelessly leads to destruction. This verse emphasizes the importance of walking in righteousness for self-preservation.

Proverbs 19:17 (NKJV)
17 He who has pity on the poor lends to the Lord, and He will pay back what he has given.

When a person shows kindness to the poor, it is as if they are lending to God Himself. God, who values compassion, will ensure that such kindness is rewarded. This verse speaks to the blessings of generosity and helping those in need.

Proverbs 19:18 (NKJV)
18 Chasten your son while there is hope, and do not set your heart on his destruction.

Disciplining a child while they are young and impressionable is crucial. If correction is delayed, it may lead to their ruin. This proverb encourages parents to act in love by providing guidance and discipline to prevent future harm.

Proverbs 19:19 (NKJV)
19 A man of great wrath will suffer punishment; for if you rescue him, you will have to do it again.

Someone with a bad temper will repeatedly get into trouble. Trying to rescue such a person without addressing the underlying issue will only lead to more problems. The verse warns against enabling destructive behavior without seeking true change.

Proverbs 19:20 (NKJV)
20 Listen to counsel and receive instruction, that you may be wise in your latter days.

Receiving advice and instruction leads to wisdom in the long run. A teachable attitude helps one grow in understanding, especially as they age, ensuring that wisdom guides their future decisions.

Proverbs 19:21 (NKJV)
21 There are many plans in a man’s heart, nevertheless the Lord’s counsel—that will stand.

Though people may make numerous plans, only God’s will prevails. This reminds us of the importance of seeking and trusting God’s guidance, as His purpose is ultimately what endures.

Proverbs 19:22 (NKJV)
22 What is desired in a man is kindness, and a poor man is better than a liar.

People value kindness above many other traits, and even someone who is poor but honest is more admirable than a wealthy liar. This proverb stresses the importance of character over material wealth or status.

Proverbs 19:23 (NKJV)
23 The fear of the Lord leads to life, and he who has it will abide in satisfaction; he will not be visited with evil.

Reverence for God leads to a fulfilling and protected life. Those who fear the Lord live in security and contentment, knowing that God’s care prevents them from facing undue harm.

Proverbs 19:24 (NKJV)
24 A lazy man buries his hand in the bowl, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.

This comical image of extreme laziness illustrates how inaction can prevent even basic self-care. The verse warns against such indolence, as it leads to self-destruction.

Proverbs 19:25 (NKJV)
25 Strike a scoffer, and the simple will become wary; rebuke one who has understanding, and he will discern knowledge.

Correcting someone who mocks wisdom can serve as a warning to others. A wise person, when rebuked, will appreciate the correction and learn from it, growing in knowledge and discernment.

Proverbs 19:26 (NKJV)
26 He who mistreats his father and chases away his mother is a son who causes shame and brings reproach.

Disrespecting one’s parents is a serious offense, bringing shame not only to the parents but to the entire family. Honoring parents is a foundational principle of a moral and upright life.

Proverbs 19:27 (NKJV)
27 Cease listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.

If one stops paying attention to guidance and teaching, they will inevitably drift away from wisdom and truth. This verse serves as a warning that remaining teachable and open to correction is vital for staying on the path of understanding. Ignoring instruction leads to error and a lack of knowledge, which can result in poor decisions and a misguided life.

Proverbs 19:28 (NKJV)
28 A disreputable witness scorns justice, and the mouth of the wicked devours iniquity.

A false witness shows contempt for fairness and truth, and wicked people embrace wrongdoing. This verse highlights the corrupt nature of those who disregard justice, showing that their words and actions lead only to sin and further moral decay.

Proverbs 19:29 (NKJV)
29 Judgments are prepared for scoffers, and beatings for the backs of fools.

Those who mock and scoff at wisdom will eventually face punishment. Likewise, fools who persist in their foolishness will encounter consequences. The verse emphasizes that wrongdoing is met with discipline, underscoring the importance of wisdom and proper behavior to avoid suffering.

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