Proverbs 18 - Contrast The Upright And The Wicked Series

Pearls From Proverbs – Chapter Eighteen

We will now look at Proverbs chapter eighteen:

Contrast the Upright and the Wicked

1 He who separates himself seeks his own desire, He quarrels against all sound wisdom. Proverbs 18:1 (NASB)

We were made to be social creators. There are times when we should seek isolation – but to only listen to your own advice is not wise. We can talk ourselves into most anything. The Bible tells us:

“Iron sharpens iron, So one man sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17 (NASB)

2 A fool does not delight in understanding, But only in revealing his own mind. Proverbs 18:2 (NASB)

Each of us has an opinion but it is better to seek understanding than anything else.

3 When a wicked man comes, contempt also comes, And with dishonor comes scorn. Proverbs 18:3 (NASB)

Wicked people bring contempt with them. Those who practice evil bring on criticism and scorn.

4 The words of a man's mouth are deep waters; The fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook. Proverbs 18:4 (NASB)

The words of a person’s mouth reveal their soul. It is deep water. Wisdom is fresh water – like a babbling brook.

5 To show partiality to the wicked is not good, Nor to thrust aside the righteous in judgment. Proverbs 18:5 (NASB)

Two things are not good:

1. To side with the wicked

2. To stand against the righteous

6 A fool's lips bring strife, And his mouth calls for blows. Proverbs 18:6 (NASB)

The words of a fool bring on arguments.

7 A fool's mouth is his ruin, And his lips are the snare of his soul. Proverbs 18:7 (NASB)

We will be judged by what we say. For a fool it will be their ruin. The Bible says:

"But I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned." Matthew 12:36-37 (NASB)

8 The words of a whisperer are like dainty morsels, And they go down into the innermost parts of the body. Proverbs 18:8 (NASB)

It is as hard to refuse to listen to rumors and gossip as it is to turn down a delicious dessert. Taking just one morsel of either one creates a taste for more. You can resist rumors the same way a determined dieter resists candy—never even open the box. If you don't nibble on the first bite of gossip, you can't take the second and the third.

9 He also who is slack in his work Is brother to him who destroys. Proverbs 18:9 (NASB)

Believers ought to have a very strong work ethic. “An honest day’s work for an honest day’s wage” – ought to be our motto.

10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe. Proverbs 18:10 (NASB)

Our God is a strong tower. In Him alone can we find true security.

11 A rich man's wealth is his strong city, And like a high wall in his own imagination. Proverbs 18:11 (NASB)

In imagining that their wealth is their strongest defense – rich people are sadly mistaken. Money cannot provide safety – there are too many ways for it to lose its power. The government may cease to back it; thieves may steal it; inflation may rob it of all value. But God never loses his power. He is always dependable. Where do you look for security and safety?

12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, But humility goes before honor. Proverbs 18:12 (NASB)

Pride will lead to destruction. With humility comes honor.

13 He who gives an answer before he hears, It is folly and shame to him. Proverbs 18:13 (NASB)

I remember a meeting that I attended where I was asked a question. The problem is that I thought that I had to come up with such a wise answer that I did not listen to the question. I gave some stupid answer and then I was called on it. The second round began and I did the same thing. How stupid could I be – but I did it. I am still ashamed of it.

14 The spirit of a man can endure his sickness, But as for a broken spirit who can bear it? Proverbs 18:14 (NASB)

Resiliency has to do with attitude. If a person’s spirit is strong they can withstand much. But a broken spirit will fall at the slightest sign of trouble.

15 The mind of the prudent acquires knowledge, And the ear of the wise seeks knowledge. Proverbs 18:15 (NASB)

Here are three basic principles for making sound decisions:

1. Get the facts before answering

2. Be open to new ideas