Proverbs 18 - Contrast The Upright And The Wicked Series

3. Make sure you hear both sides of a story before judging

All three principles center around seeking additional information (being prudent). This is difficult work, but it is the only way we will not be prejudice (judging before getting the facts).

16 A man's gift makes room for him And brings him before great men. Proverbs 18:16 (NASB)

To bring a precious gift to a host – gets their attention. What can we bring before God that He does not already have? Can we bring silver or gold? Can we bring rubies or diamonds? All of this He has already created in abundance. What we can bring before Him is – our heart.

17 The first to plead his case seems right, Until another comes and examines him. Proverbs 18:17 (NASB)

Don’t always believe the first things you hear. Listen carefully. Then listen to what others have to say about it.

18 The cast lot puts an end to strife And decides between the mighty ones. Proverbs 18:18 (NASB)

Once a decision is made by those in authority – don’t argue about it – support it – even if you don’t always agree with it.

19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city, And contentions are like the bars of a citadel. Proverbs 18:19 (NASB)

Once a person has been offended it is hard to win them to your side.

20 With the fruit of a man's mouth his stomach will be satisfied; He will be satisfied with the product of his lips. Proverbs 18:20 (NASB)

Be careful what you speak – for you may have to eat your words. In fact this verse says that what we speak will come back to us.

21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit. Proverbs 18:21 (NASB)

A person must – for good or evil – take the consequence of his words – as well as their deeds.

22 He who finds a wife finds a good thing And obtains favor from the Lord. Proverbs 18:22 (NASB)

This verse is stating that marriage should be enjoyed and viewed as a great gift from God. God created marriage for our enjoyment, and he pronounced it good. Married people need to see their marriages as great treasures—guarding and protecting them as such. This is one of many passages in the Bible that show marriage as a joyful and good creation of God. Note: nowhere in the Bible will you find that marriage is between two men or two women – this is a great debate in our country right now. But the fact is – God condemns such acts. (Romans 1:24-32)

23 The poor man utters supplications, But the rich man answers roughly. Proverbs 18:23 (NASB)

This verse does not condone insulting the poor; it is simply recording an unfortunate fact of life. It is wrong for rich people to treat the less fortunate with contempt and arrogance, and God will judge such actions severely (Proverbs 14:31).

24 A man of too many friends comes to ruin, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24 (NASB)

Loneliness is everywhere — many people feel cut off and alienated from others. At times being in a crowd just makes people more aware of their isolation. We all need friends who will stick close, listen, care, and offer help when it is needed — in good times and bad. It is better to have one such friend than dozens of superficial acquaintances. Instead of wishing you could find a true friend, seek to become one. If you look around, you'll find people who need your friendship. Ask God to reveal them to you, and then take on the challenge of being a true friend.