Proverbs chapter 15

vs 1

Don't I know it. Just because it's true doesn't make it the best thing to say. Not that I'm saying you lie, but diplomatic language is important. It's funny - if the person was strong and powerful and liable to hurt you, you'd say something placating. So if they'll hurt you to are gentle, but if you'll hurt them, why is it suddenly okay?

vs 2

This again seems obvious - the vast majority of that which comes out of the mouths of these will coincide with their wisdom quotient.

vs 3

Something that is too easily forgotten. I don't know what it is about modern times, but we forget about this I think.

vs 4

A lot of good can be done with words, but they can also be very painful and hurtful. I think sometimes we discount the pain that words can cause, as if it's not physical. But physical pain heals (generally - sometimes you can get ailments that produce ongoing pain), but some people can really get hurt by words, and still remember them years later.

vs 5

A word of wisdom for the younger. They're not too young to learn these lessons, apparently. Parents are here for good reason, it seems - sharing the wisdom of their years with their kids.

vs 6

Both houses have income. Only one is valuable, though, in the scheme of wisdom.

vs 7

I wonder if perhaps this means they don't care what they spread. Knowledge, foolishness, truth, lies - whatever is going.

vs 8

That's a sobering thought. See, most people today I think wouldn't think there is anything in such a claim - because you can't factually prove it. But wisdom includes these sorts of spiritual truths.

vs 9

Fairly obvious, to those who know God, anyway.

vs 10

I wonder if what this is saying is that everyone who strays from the path will get disciplined, but for those who spurn it, it will be deadly? That's a pretty good message.

vs 11

We are, after all, a part of his creation, just like death, and just like destruction. What exactly is meant by destruction here is an interesting question. I would tend to think it is a certain finality. The final destruction, akin to the finality of death.