Proverbs chapter 15

vs 12

I've been like this before, where I just didn't want to talk to people who had the right answers, because I'd rather be wrong than be corrected.

vs 13

What's inside affects what's outside. Not that you can't hide what's inside, but if you don't, it will be reflected.

It's also not saying that what's outside can't affect what's inside.

vs 14

What the mind has, it will want more of. It's almost like it gets used to getting it.

vs 15

I don't think this is a perfect mirror. Having a cheerful heart doesn't stop you being oppressed. I think this is a case of trumps - the cheerful heart can trump the oppressive situation.

vs 16

This almost comes straight out of the pages of Ecclesiastes, although I have a feeling it would also add, "But having lots and fearing God is best."

vs 17

Again, a fattened calf with love is best. But it shows that it's the love that is more valuable.

vs 18

Depends what you're going for, really. But it certainly shows what sort of result you want dependent on who you send into negotiations.

vs 19

So things in fact are more difficult when you're lazy, than when you're doing the right thing. It's not just that they seem difficult because you're lazy.

vs 20

It goes without saying that wise children love their parents. Well, not really, because it's been said earlier. But wise children are a joy to their parents, whereas foolish kids are frustrating. So there's obviously plenty of them.

vs 21

It's not that folly can't be fun - it just shouldn't be.

vs 22

There is never too much advice, according to Proverbs. So long as it is wise advice, I'm guessing. Because there's plenty of examples of stupid advice in the Bible too.