Proverbs 12

Here, again, we see coupled proverbs. I’m just going to pull out a few that really stood out to me.

^"1 Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, 
   but whoever hates correction is stupid."

I never really considered the prospect of loving discipline. Most of the time it’s viewed as a hinderance, something that keeps us from doing something that we’d like to do. But I think spiritual discipline really is important, because it keeps us from going astray onto the path of the wicked. If we were not disciplined--if we did not accept the knowledge of God in our hearts-- then how devout could we really be? To ignore rebuke is foolish, for and advice from our Father is intended to further our hearts in our relationship with Him.

^"9 Better to be a nobody and yet have a servant 
   than pretend to be somebody and have no food."

I’m not quite sure what Solomon is specifically talking about in this verse, but I love the way it’s written. If you want to help a sister out, that would be awesome!

^"10 The righteous care for the needs of their animals, 
   but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel."

God knows our hearts, our every thought and intention. Good deeds or acts are not enough, clearly, to put you in right standing with the Lord. He knows the nature of your heart, for He has searched it. Just look at that last verse. Even the kindest acts performed by the wicked are still cruel! Wrapping my mind around that... so intense!

^"15 The way of fools seems right to them, 
   but the wise listen to advice."

Those who are foolish do not realize that what they are doing is wrong, but the wise listen to the advice they are given. They accept wisdom that is not their own! Often we think that the wise have all of the answers, that they can do or say nothing wrong. But if a “wise man” were to also carry that mindset, then he would in fact be lacking wisdom. Our Father is constantly guiding our lives with words of correction and discernment; to accept these words and allow them to alter our lives is a sign of wisdom.

^"19 Truthful lips endure forever, 
   but a lying tongue lasts only a moment."

Speaking the truth in your life and the lives of others brings knowledge of our Father and eternal life for those who follow Him. I’m sure you all have heard the saying, “The truth speaks volumes.” Well, it does! It has a lasting impact, and the truth will never cease to endure. A lie, however, has short-term effects that are often harmful. No progression results from it, and the opportunity to make it right is fleeting.

^"25 Anxiety weighs down the heart, 
   but a kind word cheers it up."

This is just so true! I mean, everything in scripture is true. But this is something I think we all can relate to. Anxiety puts a major damper on your mood and well-being (to say the least), and a simple word of kindness can make us feel SO much better! It’s amazing how much a few choice words can impact a person.

^"28 In the way of righteousness there is life; 
   along that path is immortality."

Choose the path of righteousness. Choose life!