PROVERBS 14
15 The simple believes everything,
but the prudent gives thought to his steps.
16 One who is wise is cautious and turns away from evil,
but a fool is reckless and careless.
17 A man of quick temper acts foolishly,
and a man of evil devices is hated.
18 The simple inherit folly,
but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.
19 The evil bow down before the good,
the wicked at the gates of the righteous.
20 The poor is disliked even by his neighbor,
but the rich has many friends.
21 Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner,
but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.
– Proverbs 14:15-21
PROVERBS 14 THE WISE AND THE FOOLS
A poem by ILMA inspired by these verses
Those who fear the Lord are cautious and prudent
They know what to say and are mindful of their timing
They guard their mouths and speaks words of life
The wicked on the other hand are careless and reckless
They always say the things that would hurt someone
They have no control over their tongue and emotions.
In these following verses, Solomon continues to compare the wise against the fools. One of the characteristics of a wise person is that they are mindful of what they say and they aim to build up and encourage others. They show concern to their neighbors and have self control.
On the other hand, the fools and the wicked have no respect for anyone else. They do not care for the welfare of other, are reckless and only interested in their own pursuits.
REFLECTION
- Why is it important to know the difference between the cautious & the reckless?
