Proverbs 15:1-33

15:1 | Mean-spirited words are the slowest and most venomous of toxins, a poinon that ultimately brings down two lives. And nearly always, one’s tone of voice makes the difference. This is why Solomon so wisely counsels a soft answer in response to someone’s wrath.

15:4 | The word wholesome here is the Hebrew word for “healing, restoration, and cure.” It can also mean “calmness.”

15:10 | Wisdom’s instruction is not always pleasant. Acquiring wisdom often requires discipline and correction as God’s people wander from the way the Lord intends for them to take. While discipline is rarely enjoyable, it can mean the difference between life and death.

15:20 | A foolish son not only fails to make his father glad but likely laughs at his parents. Despises may imply that the fool is callous toward his mother.

15:22 | Seeking wisdom from godly, mature Christians allows believers to increase their understanding of God and His ways.

15:27 | The problem with weatlh is that it is never enough - no matter how much a person gets, he or she always wants more (Ecc. 5:10-17). Many wealthy people throughout history have reported that at some point, even the money itself takes a backseat to the all-consuming game of getting more to accumulate more. It is a cycle that inevitably leads to destruction.

15:30 | A positive outlook (light of the eyes) creates a ripple-effect: it spreads joy to others and produces encouraging words, all of which create a healthier environment at work or home.