Proverbs 18:24

A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

Good morning, family and friends!

Once again, thanks for stopping by as we continue on Day 18, Chapter 18 of Perusing the Proverbs. Here is today's verse-by-verse comments:

1- One who pulls away from others often seeks to start quarrels.

2- A fool has no desire to obtain understanding; he just wants to expose his own foolishness.

3- When the wicked come, they bring with them dishonor; shame brings disapproval.

4- Our words are as deep waters, and wisdom is like a flowing brook. (Word pictures)

5- We are advised against accepting the person of the wicked and we should never overthrow the righteous in judgment.

6- The ESV translation for this verse reads like this: "A fool's lips walk into a fight, and his mouth invites a beating." (A very clear word picture, don't you think?)

7- A fool's mouth will cause him to be destroyed; his lips keep his soul from escaping.

8- The words of a talebearer are as wounds. I believe each one of us has at some time hurt someone through gossip or been hurt by it. The wounds run very deep.

9- The lazy man is brother to the man who wastes.

10- A precious verse that is often quoted among Christians: "The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe." A tower is high, so if we run into the name of the Lord, in Him, with Him and through Him we are ABOVE our situation!!

11- The rich man's wealth is his strength; his conceit is like a high wall.

12- To be haughty brings destruction, but humility brings honor.

13- Hear the matter before we speak - or else we will reap folly and shame.

14- A man's spirit can handle sickness but, when the spirit is crushed, who can bear that?

15- The heart of the prudent (or discerning) gets knowledge; the ear of the wise looks for knowledge. Have you ever seen an ear seeking something???

16- A man's gift makes room for him, and brings him before great men.

17- We can state our case first but others will come and examine it.

18- Casting lots stops contention and ends arguments.

19- How true this verse is - a brother who has been offended is harder to reconcile with than taking down a strong city. Offended people build walls around their hearts much like the walls of a castle.

20- If we speak fruitful words, our bellies will be satisfied. We will be filled from the increase of our lips.

21- Death and life are truly found in the power of the tongue. James 3 gives further description of the power of the tongue. Those who love it shall eat its fruit.

22- Whoso finds a wife finds a good thing, and receives favor of the Lord. Nothing like a good wife or husband!!!

23- The poor plead for mercy but the rich speak roughly.

24- A precious verse and one that I love - If we want friends, we must be friendly. Praise God that HE is a Friend that sticks closer than a brother. I know the love of two brothers, so I know that the "glue" of God's friendship is very strong!!!!

May your Tuesday be terrific. Go with God and He will go with you. Lord willing, I'll see you tomorrow!!