Proverbs 15

PLUS

18. (Compare Proverbs 14:29 , 16:32 ).

19. The difficulties of the slothful result from want of energy; the righteous find a
plain [and open] way--literally, "a highway," by diligence ( 1 Samuel 10:7 , Psalms 1:3 ).

20. (Compare Proverbs 10:1 ).

21. walketh uprightly--and so finds his joy ( Proverbs 3:6 , 10:23 ).

22. Without counsel--or, "deliberation," implying a wise deference to the opinions of the wise and good, contrasted with rashness.

23. Good advice blesses the giver and receiver.

24. (Compare Colossians 3:2 ). Holy purposes prevent sinning, and so its evils.

25. The most desolate who have God's aid have more permanent good than the self-reliant sinner ( Proverbs 2:22 , 12:7 ).
border--or, "boundary for possessions" ( Psalms 78:54 ).

26. are pleasant words--that is, pleasing to God ( Proverbs 8:8 Proverbs 8:9 ).

27. (Compare Proverbs 11:17 ). Avarice brings trouble to him and his.
hateth gifts--or, "bribes" ( Exodus 23:8 , Psalms 15:5 ), and is not avaricious.

28. (Compare Proverbs 15:14 , Proverbs 10:11 ). Caution is the fruit of wisdom; rashness of folly.

29. far . . . wicked--in His love and favor ( Psalms 22:11 , 119:155 ).

30. light of the eyes--( Proverbs 13:9 ). What gives light rejoiceth the heart, by relieving from anxiety as to our course; so
good report--or, "doctrine" ( Isaiah 28:9 , 53:1 ),
maketh . . . fat--or, "gives prosperity" ( Proverbs 3:13-17 , 9:11 ). The last clause is illustrated by the first.

31, 32. (Compare Proverbs 10:17 ).
reproof of life--which leads to life.
abideth . . . wise--is numbered among them.

32. refuseth--or, "neglects," "passes by" ( Proverbs 1:25 , 4:15 ).
despiseth . . . soul--so acts as if esteeming its interests of no value.

33. The fear . . . wisdom--Wisdom instructs in true piety.
before . . . humility--(compare Luke 24:26 , 1 Peter 1:11 ); opposite (compare Proverbs 16:18 ).