Proverbs 14:26 says, In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.  We, as followers of Christ, should have a strong confidence when we go out into the world.  No matter what happens in this life, we will be victorious through Christ.  We have an everlasting refuge with God.  Verse twenty-seven states, The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.  As I have stated before, I don't believe that fear of the Lord means that we are to always be afraid that God is ready to strike us down at any moment.  Instead, we are to have a an great respect for the awesome power of God.  We must acknowledge that God always acts out of love, even when He is chastising us.  When we accept God's gift of salvation, then we will respect His authority over us.  When we accept Christ as our Savior and Lord, He becomes a fountain of life for us, and through the leadership of the Holy Spirit we escape the snares of the world that can only lead to death.  For the Christian, this would be the death of our effectiveness as a witness for God, and not an everlasting spiritual death.  Verse twenty-eight says, In the multitude of people is the king’s honour: but in the want of people is the destruction of the prince.  Basically, this tells us that when a king, or those in power, rule wisely, or by God's guidance, the country will grow and the king will be blessed, or admired.  When there is no concern for all the people, then people will rebel against the ruler.  Verse twenty-nine proclaims, He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.  We, as followers of Christ, should be slow to get angry.  When we do get angry, it should be a righteous anger concerning the things of God.  For example, we should not become angry because some cuts us off in traffic, but if they are denouncing the law of God, we should be righteously angry.  Even then, this anger should be directed at the sin and not the sinner.  We will never reach people if we hate them.  Verse thirty states, A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.  Though a sound heart does help keep the body healthy, I believe this mean a heart that is dedicated to following God leading to spiritual health of an individual.  If we are filled with envy about anyone or anything in this world, we are not living in a right relationship to God, and this allows sin, or rottenness, to enter our life.  Verse thirty-one says, He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor.  The Bible has a lot to say about treating the poor with care.  This verse says that if we oppress the poor that we reproach our Maker, or God.  Even if it is sometimes hard to know where to draw the line in helping others, we as followers of Christ should always draw it on the side of generosity.  If people take advantage of our generosity as we act under God's leadership and for His glory, then that is between God and them.  We tend to protest more about giving food vouchers to the poor than we do about giving big tax breaks to the rich, for example.  If we want to honor God, we will have mercy on the poor everywhere in the world.  Verse thirty-two states, The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death.  The wicked, those who do not accept Christ as their Savior and Lord, will be driven away from God at His judgment, but those who put their faith in Christ will have hope even in their death.  Death has been defeated by Christ.  Though we may die to this life, we know that we have everlasting life with God through Christ.  This is our hope in death.  Verse thirty-three states, Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known.
If we know God through our relationship with Christ, then we are ruled by wisdom.  If people do not accept Christ, then there is no way to know what thoughts may rule their actions.  Verse thirty-four declares, Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.  As I have said before, if we want God to bless America, then America must first bless, or obey,  God by following Him leadership.  This applies to any nation.  Righteousness exalts a nation.  This is not self-righteous that says that we are better than other people simply because of where we were born, but true righteousness that says that we are simply sinners saved by grace.  Verse thirty-five says, The king’s favour is toward a wise servant: but his wrath is against him that causeth shame.  As a general rule this may be true of earthly kingdoms, but it is always true of God.  If we act wisely, or accept His gift of salvation and follow His guidance, then we will find favor with Him.  The opposite is true of those who don't.  They will know the wrath of God.

Proverbs 14:16 says, A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.  Once more, a wise man is someone who believes in God, and as such he will depart from evil.  The wicked rage in their sin and are confident nothing will ever happen to them because of it.  Verse seventeen states, He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated.  We should not be quick to anger.  I believe those who are tend to be self-centered.  People who are always attempting to cheat or harm others are generally hated by most people.  Verse eighteen says, The simple inherit folly: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge. I don't believe this is referring to I.Q. or education, but instead to those who do not gain the knowledge of God, the simple, and those who do,, the prudent.  Verse nineteen proclaims, The evil bow before the good; and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.  I believe that this is referring to the time after the return of Christ, since in this world the evil often comes out on top.  Verse twenty states, The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich hath many friends.  Too often today, the poor are looked down on or even despised.  There tends to be an attitude that they are somehow totally responsible for their situation.  On the other hand, people tend to look up to those who are rich.  We, as followers of Christ, are called on to help the poor and not idolize or chase after the rich.  Verse twenty-one declares, He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.  This again is a call for God's people to not despise their neighbors, for any reason.  If we do, we are guilty of sinning.  Likewise, if we have mercy on the poor, we should feel good about it, and not act as though we have been imposed upon.  Verse twenty-two asks, Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.  This is a rhetorical question.  The answer is an implied yes.  When we device good, or follow God's guidance, mercy and truth will be our reward.  Verse twenty-three says, In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.  I believe that this tells us we should work instead of just talking.  God expects His people to be productive people, doers of the word of God and not just hearers or speakers.  Verse twenty-four states, The crown of the wise is their riches: but the foolishness of fools is folly.  Having wealth gained by the wisdom of God gives a person more opportunities to do good and is like a crown.  Those who gain riches through evil will have the foolishness of their riches revealed one day.  Verse twenty-five declares, A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies.  I believe that we could see this as speaking about being a true witness in worldly matters, but I believe that it especially means in our witness for Christ.  If we witness with the truth of salvation through Christ alone, and people accept our witness, then souls can be saved.

Proverbs 14:1 says,  Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.  A woman who follows Christ will do those things that build up her home.  She will use what she has under God's guidance and will instruct her children in the ways of God.  The foolish woman will be more concerned with material things, and this will result in ruin, spirituality if not materially.  Verse two states, He that walketh in his uprightness feareth the LORD: but he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him.  If we fear, or respect, God, we will walk by His guidance.  If we don't believe in God, we will walk in the perverse ways of the world.  Verse three says, In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.  The foolish, those who do not acknowledge God, speak out of self-pride.  Eventually, their own words will condemn them.  In God's judgment, we are held accountable only for our own sins.  Those who put their faith in God will speak under the leadership of Christ.  Verse four declares, Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.  Matthew Henry says this refers to those who are more concerned with things that look good than they are with working.  We do not use oxen to plow much today, but if we needed to grow our own food, they would be more important than fancy cars, let's say.  Verse five declares, A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies.  If we are to follow Christ, we must be a faithful witness, in the things of this world, but more importantly in the things of God.  Those who do not accept Christ will always be living a lie.  Verse six declares, A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth.  Those who scorn God's word will never find wisdom, which comes from God, no matter how hard they seek it.  Wisdom is easily found if a person only accepts Christ as Savior and Lord.  Verse seven says, Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge.  We should not listen to the teachings of those who deny God.  Often, we are given a choice between believing what the world teaches and what God teaches.  We are to hold fast to God's truth.  Verse eight declares, The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit.  Prudent people put their faith in understanding the way God.  Jesus said He was the way, the truth, and the light, so we must first put our faith in Him.  Any other way than the way of Christ is the way of folly.  Verse nine proclaims, Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour.  Fools, those who deny God, make sin out to be of no consequence.  Verse ten aays, The heart knoweth his own bitterness; and a stranger doth not intermeddle with his joy.  Matthew Henry says that this means that every person has their secret sorrows, but that those who put their faith in God have a secret joy in their heart that no one can take away.  Verse eleven proclaims,  The house of the wicked shall be overthrown: but the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish.  I believe that this refers to the outcome in God's judgment.  Often in the world in which we live the wicked flourish, but this will not be the ultimate outcome.  Verse twelve says, There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.  We may think that some path that is not God's way looks appealing, but if it is not God's path that we are on, the outcome will be destruction.  Verse thirteen states, Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; and the end of that mirth is heaviness.  I believe this refers to those who do not follow God.  Even if they seem happy, there is always something deep inside that keeps them from complete joy.  Verse fourteen proclaims, The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.  Those who backslide, or turn away from God, will be guided by his or her own standards instead of God's standards.  Verse fifteen says, The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going.  I believe this means that some people will believe anything they are told, but those who are prudent, or wise, will look for the truth of what is being said under God's guidance.

Proverbs 13:13 says, Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.  This is a very clear statement.  Those who despise God's word will be destroyed, and those who follow God's commandments will be rewarded.  Of course, to follow God's commandments we must first accept Christ as our Savior and Lord.  We will never be rewarded for our own righteousness, because we never fully keep all God's commandments.  Verse fourteen states, The law of the wise is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.  The law of the wise is the law of God, and it begins with believing that Jesus is the crucified and resurrected Lord.  When we accept Christ, He is a fountain of life, saving us from spiritual death, or that everlasting separation from God.  Verse fifteen adds, Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard.  This is a good understanding of salvation, of allowing Christ to be our Savior and Lord.  When we understand, or accep this, we live in the favor of God.  Those who reject Christ will truly find their way hard when judgment comes.  Verse sixteen declares, Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open his folly.  The knowledge that the prudent must deal with is the knowledge that comes from God.  We cannot just be wise in our own understanding.  When we reject the knowledge of God, we are living in our own folly.  Verse seventeen says, A wicked messenger falleth into mischief: but a faithful ambassador is health.  Though this could simply apply to being faithful in our acting on the part of others, I believe that it goes a little deeper and means acting faithfully as ambassadors for Christ.  We are to present God's word accurately, and not to foolishly attempt to change it.  Verse eighteen says, Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured.   I believe that this means more than just not following instructions on the job, which can lead to poverty by the loss of a job.  I believe that this means that if we refuse to follow the instructions of God, it will lead to spiritual poverty.  If we accept the reproof of God, which starts with acknowledging our sins and accepting Christ as our Savior and Lord, then we will be honored by having that everlasting relationship with God.  Verse nineteen states, The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul: but it is abomination to fools to depart from evil.  Again, though this could apply to earthly desires, I believe that it applies to the desire to have a right relationship with God.  When we have evil desires accomplished, it is an abomination in the eyes of God.  Even if we achieve all our desires outside of the will of God, it is still an abomination to Him.  Verse twenty states, He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.  We, as followers of Christ, should walk with other Christians.  This does not mean that we are not to be out in the world, but that when we are seeking guidance that we should look to other Christians to help us walk with Christ.  The foolish, those who deny God and His leadership, and those that follow them will be destroyed when Christ returns.  They will be sent away from God into everlasting punishment.  Verse twenty-one says, Evil pursueth sinners: but to the righteous good shall be repayed.  Whatever the sinner gains in life will be evil, or outside the will of God.  When we are righteous, or have a right relationship with God through Christ, then what we do for Him will be rewarded.  The main reward is an everlasting relationship with God.  Verse twenty-two states, A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.  I believe that the inheritance that this speaks of is more than material possessions.  The inheritance that the good man or woman leaves for their children is the knowledge of a right relationship with God.  When they can leave this to their children, and their children accept it, then it is an everlasting inheritance.  Those who have not accepted Christ as Savior and Lord cannot leave anything that will last.  Verse twenty-three says, Much food is in the tillage of the poor: but there is that is destroyed for want of judgment.  Even when we do not have much, if we use it wisely, under the leadership of the Holy Spirit, we will have our needs met.  If we have an abundance, but use it only for ourselves with no concern for God or others, we will lose it all, in God's day of judgment if not before.  Verse twenty-four declares, He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.   If we love our children, we will discipline them.  Allowing children to do whatever makes them happy is not a sign of love.  We must attempt to teach them right from wrong, which begins with the knowledge of God.  Verse twenty-five states, The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soul: but the belly of the wicked shall want.  If we are the righteous, or followers of Christ, we will be concerned about feeding or souls, that everlasting part of us that will never die, more than we will be concerned with feeding our body, or material things.  Those who are wicked, or do not follow Christ, put material things first and ignore the soul.

Proverbs 13:1 says, A wise son heareth his father’s instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.  I believe this would refer to a righteous, or Godly, father.  We should always obey our father, unless he is leading us away from God, as too many fathers do.  Some children will scorn a father's attempts to lead them to follow God's direction in their lives.  Verse two states, A man shall eat good by the fruit of his mouth: but the soul of the transgressors shall eat violence.  When we follow Christ, we can eat and live at peace in our soul.  Those who do not follow Christ can never have this inner peace.  Verse three advises, He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.  I believe that this tells us that we should have control of the things we say.  We should never speak in anger or to cause harm to another person, but should always speak in a way that brings honor to God.  Verse four states, The soul of the sluggard desireth, and hath nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.  We could interpret this from a material understanding, but I believe that it more accurately refers to a spiritual one.  The spiritual sluggard will always be desiring something that they do not have, but those that have accepted salvation through Christ will be spiritually filled.  Verse five says, A righteous man hateth lying: but a wicked man is loathsome, and cometh to shame.  Not only should we as followers of Christ not lie, but we should hate lying itself.  Too often today we don't want to call a lie a lie, and we are willing to believe someone who lies, even when there is abundant evidence to show that they are lying.  Verse six proclaims, Righteousness keepeth him that is upright in the way: but wickedness overthroweth the sinner.  As followers of Christ, we have a responsibility to help others stay on the path of righteousness.  If they start to go the wrong way, we are to lead them back.  Sinners will always attempt to lead people away from God.  Verse seven says, There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches.  This is speaking of earthly riches.  Some people are materially rich, but they have nothing spiritually.  Followers of Christ may have very little materially, but they are spiritually rich.  Too often, even as followers of Christ, we chase after the material instead of the spiritual.  Verse eight says, The ransom of a man’s life are his riches: but the poor heareth not rebuke.  Often, those who are rich find themselves a target of those who are jealous of their riches, at times literally having to pay a ransom for their lives.  The poor are generally left alone in this aspect.  I believe that we can also say that often a person allows riches to be more important than God, thereby becoming a ransom for, or a giving up of, their everlasting relationship with God.  Verse nine proclaims, The light of the righteous rejoiceth: but the lamp of the wicked shall be put out.  The light of the righteous is their relationship to Christ, and we can rejoice in the fact that it will never be put out.  For those who reject Christ, their lamp is their own righteousness, which will never last.  Verse ten states, Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.  I believe that this means self pride.  When one person feels superior to another, for whatever reason, that person tends to allow pride to cause him or her to feel that their opinion is correct.  This will often cause contention.  If a person, rich or poor, is willing to listen to the advise of others, then that person will act in wisdom.  Of course, the truly well advised will listen to the word of God.  Verse eleven states, Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.  I believe that this is telling us that we should come by our wealth honestly.  Of course, at the return of Christ, anything gained outside of the will of God will diminish to nothing.  Verse twelve declares, Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.  If we never see our hopes fulfilled, we become sick in our heart, or soul.  If we see Christianity as a way to earthly riches and put our hope in gaining them, we will most often be disappointed.  When we desire first to follow God, then we find the tree of life, that everlasting relationship with Christ.

Proverbs 12:15 says, The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.  Some people believe that they know more than everyone else, so in their own eyes they are always right.  Those who are truly wise are willing to listen to others, especially those who offer Godly guidance.  Verse sixteen states, A fool’s wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame.   Matthew Henry says that this means that the wicked give in to their desires, no matter what.  When they are angry, they lash out.  The prudent, or God fearing person, may feel angry, but they do not allow that anger to rule them.  Verse seventeen declares, He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.  Verse eighteen says, There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.  Some people say things that hurt others badly, but if we are God's people, we will say things that help and encourage others.  Verse nineteen adds,  The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.  When we speak the truth of God, it is everlasting.  Lies, on the other hand, are but for the moment.  Anything that is taught that is in opposition to God's word will never last.  Verse twenty says, Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellers of peace is joy.  Those who imagine evil have it come from their heart, or innermost being .Those who follow the teachings of Christ will be lead to joy.  Verse twenty-one states, There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief.  This does not mean that nothing bad will ever happen to the just, or those who are God's people, but that spiritually we are always safe and secure with God.  The wicked will always be looking for ways to cause trouble for God's people.  Verse twenty-two states, Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.  God hates lying, so as followers of Christ, we should always speak the truth, even if it costs us materially to do so.  What we say is important to God, and should be consistent with the way we live.  Verse twenty-three proclaims, A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.  We are not to brag about our wisdom, but are simply to be guided by it and glorify God by it.  The foolish, the lost of the world, can never share true wisdom, since this comes from God, but can only speak foolishness.  Verse twenty-four states, The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.  God does not expect us to sit idly by awaiting the return of Christ, but to be diligent in doing what He has called us to do.  Verse twenty-five says, Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.  I believe this is saying that sorrow can cause a person to suffer physically, but a word of encouragement or empathy can help a person overcome that sadness.  We should always attempt to encourage and uplift those who are suffering in sorrow.  Verse twenty-six says, The righteous is more excellent than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked seduceth them.  This does not mean that we are to act superior to our neighbors.  We are to live under the leadership of God and to share His gospel.  Even as we do, the wicked, those who do not follow God, will tempt people to follow the way of the world.  Verse twenty-seven says, The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious.  This is simply stating that the lazy, or slothful, people do not make the effort to provide for their needs and often have to rely on others.  The diligent are more likely to have food to feast on.  This does not mean that everyone who is hungry or in need is lazy, but that those who are lazy are more likely to be hungry or in need.  Verse twenty-eight proclaims, In the way of righteousness is life; and in the pathway thereof there is no death.  This refers to a person's spiritual life.  Once we accept Christ as our Savior and Lord, we are on the path of everlasting life with God, and nothing can knock us off that path.

Proverbs 12:1 says, Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.  The question would be do we love the instruction of God?  We will gain spiritually by following God's leadership, but if we refuse to follow God, we will hate His reproof.  Verse two states, A good man obtaineth favour of the LORD: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn.  When we follow God's leadership, which can only come after accepting salvation through Christ, we will find favor with God.  Those who are wicked, who reject Christ, will condemn themselves.  Verse three says, A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved.  We cannot establish ourselves with God by our own righteousness, but if we are rooted in Christ, we shall not be moved.  Verse four states, A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.  This refers to a wife being virtuous to her husband.  She becomes a crown to him.  This does not imply that she worship him, but that she supports him by her actions and attitude toward him.  The woman, or wife, who doesn't uplift her husband, but makes him ashamed, hurts him deep within.  Verse five says, The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit.  When we are truly following God's leadership, everything we think will be righteous, or according to God's will.  We can never be righteous by our own thoughts and abilities, but can only be so by following the leadership of God.  As followers of Christ, the Holy Spirit indwells us to give us guidance.  Verse six states, The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.  The things that the wicked say, or teach, can only lead to death, if not physically, then definitely spiritually.  When we are following God's will, we will spread His gospel, which will result in everlasting life if accepted.  Verse seven states, The wicked are overthrown, and are not: but the house of the righteous shall stand.  I believe that we have to view this from the everlasting perspective.  Even if the wicked prosper and the righteous suffer in the world, there is coming a time when the opposite will be true.  The wicked, those who refuse to accept Christ as Savior and Lord, will be overthrown.  The only things that will last at the coming judgment are the things done for God.  Verse eight says, A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised.  If we act in wisdom, which can only come from God, we will be commended and if we act from our own perverse desires, we will be despised.  Verse nine states, He that is despised, and hath a servant, is better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread.   Matthew Henry says this refers to someone attempting to present themselves as prosperous when they really aren't.  We might refer to this as putting on airs.  Some people go out of their way to glorify themselves, when they really have nothing of spiritual value.  Verse tens declares, A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.  As followers of Christ, or righteous people, we have an obligation to care for God's creation, including the animals, especially those that we consider ours.  This does not mean that we elevate them to the same status as humans though.  For the wicked, even the natural inclination to treat animals with care is not followed.  Where they should have tender mercies, they only have cruelty.  Verse eleven says,  He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.  I believe this is telling us that when we make an honest living we will be satisfied, but if we chase after the things of this world or get rich schemes we are devoid of the understanding of what brings satisfaction.  Verse twelve states, The wicked desireth the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yieldeth fruit.  Wicked people desire to gain by evil means, often desiring to prosper as others have by dishonest means.  The righteous are content to work for what they have and are satisfied.  Verse thirteen adds, The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble.  We are responsible for what we say.  The wicked or sinful man is trapped by his own words which oppose God's teachings.  The just, those who put their faith in God, will be delivered by Him.  Verse fourteen says, A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompence of a man’s hands shall be rendered unto him.  We should speak in a way that glorifies God and shows respect for others.  When we do, if we put our faith in Christ, God will reward us with an everlasting reward.

Proverbs 11:16 says, A gracious woman retaineth honour: and strong men retain riches.  A woman who is gracious in her relationship with others keeps her honor.  This is much different than what we see presented today as the way women should act to be honored.  Likewise, men who are strong, I believe in their relationship to God, will retain the riches they have with Him.  I don't believe that this is referring to claiming or keeping earthly riches by being more powerful than others.  Verse seventeen states, The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.  When a person acts out of mercy, they are content in life.  Since mercy is something freely given, there are no regrets for having shown mercy.  Verse eighteen declares, The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward.  Wicked people are always trying to devise a plan to steal from, or otherwise take, what belongs to someone else.  We, as followers of Christ, are to sow the seeds of righteousness instead.  Verse nineteen says, As righteousness tendeth to life: so he that pursueth evil pursueth it to his own death.  The righteous, those that follow God, do the things that God would have them do, which tends to, or grows, our relationship with God and our fellow man.  Those who are evil are working toward their own death in their relationship to God.  Verse twenty declares, They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the LORD: but such as are upright in their way are his delight.  This simply states that those who follow the ways of the world and refuse to accept God's gift of salvation are an abomination to Him.  Those who live under the leadership of God are a delight to Him.  Verse twenty-one declares, Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.  I believe this is basically saying that no matter how many wicked people join together, they will not escape the ultimate punishment of God.  Those who follow God will be delivered by Him.  Verse twenty-two says, As a jewel of gold in a swine’s snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion.  This tells us that a woman who does not live by the discretion of God is like a jeweled pig.  She may look great, but she is full of evil inside.  Verse twenty-three declares, The desire of the righteous is only good: but the expectation of the wicked is wrath.  We, as followers of Christ, should want only what is best for others.  We should never envy them or want them to fall.  The wicked are just the opposite, wanting only what is best for themselves.  Verse twenty-four states, There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.  Then  verse twenty-five adds, The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.  This simply means that those who are liberal in their giving will be blessed, if not materially, then spiritually.  God expects His people to share what He blesses them with, helping those in need.  Verse twenty-six declares, He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him: but blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it.  This goes beyond giving to others and speaks of those who don't even want to sell to others.  This is a true self-centered attitude.  Verse twenty-seven states, He that diligently seeketh good procureth favour: but he that seeketh mischief, it shall come unto him.  This tells us that if we earnestly seek good, or the will of God, that we will find favor, with God and most people.  There will be some who seek mischief whom we will not find favor with, but they will one day pay for their mischief.  Verse twenty-eight declares, He that trusteth in his riches shall fall: but the righteous shall flourish as a branch.  There are many people today who put their faith in their riches, which have a temporary and arbitrary value at best.  Nothing in this world is going to buy anyone salvation.  If we are righteous, which means we have accepted salvation through Christ, we will flourish spiritually.  Verse twenty-nine states, He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart.  I believe this means that we should not cause trouble in our own homes.  Those who do so out of foolishness will one day serve those who act wisely, or follow God's leadership.  Verse thirty proclaims, The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.  The reward that we receive from following Christ is everlasting life with God.  Since this is true, we should be reaching out to others with the gospel of Christ.  Verse thirty-one says, Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.  I don't believe that this means with material things, but with a peace and satisfaction that those who deny God can never know.

Proverbs 11:1 says, A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight.  God expects us, as followers of Christ, to be honest in our dealings with others.  We cannot follow God while at the same time cheating others in business deals.  Verse two states, When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.  Those who attempt to claim that they are the greatest, whatever it may be, to bring glory to themselves instead of humbly serving God and glorifying Him, will one day be brought to shame.  We are to serve God in humility, giving honor to Him.  Verse three states, The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.  As the upright, the followers of Christ, we are to be guided by integrity.  This is not just following the law and being honest because we are afraid we will be caught if we don't.  Integrity comes from our being guided by what we know is right, even if we knew we would never be caught if we did what was wrong.  Verse four declares, Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death.  Having all the money in the world will be of no benefit when the judgment of God, the day of wrath to those who have not accepted Christ as their Savior and Lord, comes.  We cannot buy salvation.  Verse five states, The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness.  This just says once more that those who follow Christ will be directed by righteousness, which I believe comes from following the guidance of the Holy Spirit.  Those who do not follow Christ will eventually fall from their own wickedness.  Our righteousness can only come from accepting Christ as our Savior and allowing Him to be the Lord of our lives, which is manifested by our being led by the Holy Spirit.  Verse six adds, The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but transgressors shall be taken in their own naughtiness.  We are delivered by the righteousness of Christ, and not by our own righteousness.  Verse seven warns, When a wicked man dieth, his expectation shall perish: and the hope of unjust men perisheth.  There is no hope of salvation after we die.  If we have not accepted Christ before we die, we are doomed forever.  Verse eight says, The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his stead.  I don't believe that this means that we will always be delivered out of trouble in this life, but we will be delivered out of trouble in our lives after Christ returns.  Verse nine declares, An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.   A hypocrite is someone who falsely proclaims to follow Christ, but doesn't really.  If we truly follow Christ, we will not attempt to destroy our neighbor, whether by word or deed.  Verse ten states, When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, there is shouting.  I am not sure that the city rejoices when it goes well with the righteous, but God tells us they should.  We can definitely say that the followers of Christ should rejoice when it goes well with other Christians.  Verse eleven says, By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.  When upright people, those that follow God, bless or pray for a city, they want what is best for everyone.  The wicked selfishly want only what is best for themselves and their friends.  Ultimately, this self-centered attitude will lead to the city suffering.  If we want our cities to be exalted, or looked at favorably, then we must seek God's guidance for them.  Verse twelve states, He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding holdeth his peace.  We cannot live by the wisdom of God and despise our neighbor.  We certainly cannot live by the wisdom of God and despise our fellow Christians, yet too often we allow petty differences to cause us to do so.  Verse thirteen declares,  A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.  Some people just don't seem to be able to wait to tell something that they learned in secret.  As followers of Christ, if someone tells us anything in confidence, we must never reveal it to anyone else.  Verse fourteen says, Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellers there is safety.  We need people to help guide us in our Christian walk, especially when we first accept Christ.  If we have more than one person to counsel us, that is even better.  As we grow in Christ, we should be there to help others in need of guidance.  Verse fifteen states, He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it: and he that hateth suretiship is sure.  This basically tells us that we should not make guarantees, especially financial ones, for people that we do not know.  The warning is that we may suffer financially from doing so.

Proverbs 10:22 says, The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.  Again, I don't believe that this is speaking about being rich materially, as many people may teach, but being spiritually blessed.  When we are obedient to God's word, we will never feel that we are lacking in anything.  Verse twenty-three states, It is as sport to a fool to do mischief: but a man of understanding hath wisdom. Some people seem to delight in doing evil things and speaking evil words.  We are told that if we have wisdom, which comes from our relationship with God, that we will not be like them.  There should be a difference between the way God's people speak and act and the way those who do not follow God speak and act.  Verse twenty-four declares, The fear of the wicked, it shall come upon him: but the desire of the righteous shall be granted.  Matthew Henry says that this means that even if the wicked prosper, they will still live in fear deep inside.  I believe there will be the fear of losing what they have materially and the fear of death, which at best would lead to uncertainty.  Since the righteous should only desire what God provides for them, it will be granted.  Verse twenty-five states, As the whirlwind passeth, so is the wicked no more: but the righteous is an everlasting foundation.  Those things that the wicked accumulate and value will eventually be blown away.  If we have built our lives in righteousness, or a right relationship with God through Christ, our lives are built on an everlasting foundation and can never be blown away or otherwise destroyed.  Verse twenty-six declares, As vinegar to the teeth, and as smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to them that send him.  The sluggard, those who would do as little as possible, should be just as painful as smoke in the eyes to those that they are supposed to be working for.  As followers of Christ, we should do our best to meet and exceed what is expected of us on our jobs.  Verse twenty-seven says, The fear of the LORD prolongeth days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened.  I don't believe that this means that obeying God's word always leads to a long life in this world, but following God's will should eliminate a lot of stress and worry, which can lead to longer life.  Still, ultimately our lives are everlasting if we accept the gift of salvation.  Though the soul of the wicked will live on, their days of any kind of pleasant life will not.  Verse twenty-eight says, The hope of the righteous shall be gladness: but the expectation of the wicked shall perish.  As followers of Christ, the righteous, we should live in gladness.  We already know the ultimate outcome.  Verse twenty-nine says, The way of the LORD is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.   Our faith in Christ, which should lead us to walk by His guidance, gives us strength to face all the cares and concerns of the world.  Since nothing can take away our salvation, we should walk in the strength of our faith.  Verse thirty declares, The righteous shall never be removed: but the wicked shall not inhabit the earth.  As just stated, nothing can separate, or remove us, from Christ.  The wicked not inhabiting the earth refers to the world after Christ returns.  Verse thirty-one says, The mouth of the just bringeth forth wisdom: but the froward tongue shall be cut out.  The just, those who have accepted salvation through Christ, will speak with the wisdom of God.  The wisdom that we speak with should glorify God and lead people to Him.  Verse thirty-two adds, The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness.  This just continues to point out that what we say matters.  We should not sound like those who are not followers of Christ.  Our speech should certainly never lead anyone away from Christ, nor should it dishonor God.

Proverbs 10:15 says, The rich man’s wealth is his strong city: the destruction of the poor is their poverty.  This can be understood to mean that the rich put their faith in their wealth.  They feel as secure as if they were in a walled city.  Of course today walls do not mean much for protection in war, but they once did.  The poor on the other hand can feel hopeless because of their poverty.  Both focus on the things of this world instead of focusing on God.  Verse sixteen states, The labour of the righteous tendeth to life: the fruit of the wicked to sin.  If we have a right relationship with God, then the things we do will lead to a better life here and an everlasting life in heaven.  Those who do not accept Christ and follow God's guidance will only be able to produce the fruits of sin.  Verse seventeen adds, He is in the way of life that keepeth instruction: but he that refuseth reproof erreth.  If we want to live a successful life in the eyes of God, then we will keep His instructions, or commandments.  Those who will not accept the reproof of God are in error.  I believe that we can be saved and yet at times refuse to follow God's guidance in a particular situation, and when we do, we are in error.  Verse eighteen declares, He that hideth hatred with lying lips, and he that uttereth a slander, is a fool.  We may say the right things, and even be friendly to someone, yet secretly hate them.  If we do, we are speaking with lying lips.  We may also spread false stories about someone, or even just repeat those that we have heard, but if we do, we are acting like a fool.  If we remember, a fool is one who has said in his heart that there is no God.  Verse nineteen says, In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.  I believe this is saying that talking a lot is not necessarily a sin, but it is better to be careful about what we say and maybe speak a little less.  Matthew Henry actually says that in a multitude of talking that sin is likely to be found.  He reminds us that at least we will be held accountable for every idle word.  At least we should never allow our speech to lead us to sinful actions, such as gossip or slander.  Verse twenty states, The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth.  We are told that the words of the just are worth more than fine silver, or material things.  The words of the wicked have little value, since they are controlled by an evil heart.  Verse twenty-one concludes,  The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.  I believe we can say this refers to spiritual feeding.  When we speak with the wisdom of God, which is the only true wisdom, we feed many people spiritually, if they will only listen.  Those who deny God can never speak with true wisdom.  They make speak with knowledge and education, but they will lack any true wisdom.

Proverbs 10:1 says,  The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.  A father does delight when his son lives in wisdom, and a mother has a heaviness in her heart when he doesn't.  It may be that a mother is even more saddened when a son, or daughter, does not live guided by wisdom, which can only come from God.  Verse two states, Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death.  The treasures gained by wickedness amount to nothing, because they can only benefit a person for this lifetime, and then they are left behind.  Righteous, a right relationship with God, however, lasts forever.  Too often we put too much emphasis on the temporary riches than the everlasting righteousness.  Verse three declares, The LORD will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: but he casteth away the substance of the wicked.  God will provide for the soul of the righteous.  We have everlasting security through Christ, no matter what happens to us in this world.  The opposite is true for the wicked.  Whatever the wicked gain in this world will be cast away in the judgment to come.  Verse four says, He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.  I believe that this is referring to poor and rich in one's relationship to God.  Even if a person gains materially by cheating, they will be poor in God's eyes.  Those who are honest in their dealings will be rich in God's eyes.  Verse five adds, He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.  Not only should we be honest in our business dealings, but we should be at work when there is work to be done.  We cannot sleep through the harvest and expect God to miraculously provide for our needs.  Verse six states, Blessings are upon the head of the just: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.  Once more, I believe that this is speaking of spiritual, not material, blessings.  When we live justly in our relationship to God, which leads us to live justly with all people, we will enjoy the everlasting blessings of God.  The opposite is true for the unjust.  Verse seven says, The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot.  Though the wicked may be remembered after death, they will never be remembered with honor.  Those who have lived a just life before God will be remembered with a blessed memory.  Verse eight declares, The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating fool shall fall.  If we are to live wisely and stand upright before God, we will follow His commandments.  If we don't, we will fall in our spiritual walk.  Verse ten declares, He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that perverteth his ways shall be known.  I believe that this is simply declaring that when we follow God's leadership, we can walk with surety because we know that we have an everlasting relationship with Him.  Verse ten says, He that winketh with the eye causeth sorrow: but a prating fool shall fall.  Winking can either be a sign of flirting or not being sincere about what is being said.  Those acts can cause sorrow and eventually make a person seem like nothing more than fool.  Verse eleven states, The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.  What we say as followers of Christ should help others and glorify God.  When we gossip or speak badly about other people, we are acting more like evil people than Godly people.  Verse twelve declares, Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.  We, as followers of Christ, are called on to love everyone, even our enemies.  When we begin to hate someone instead, we stir up strife in our lives.  Verse thirteen says, In the lips of him that hath understanding wisdom is found: but a rod is for the back of him that is void of understanding.  When we have an understanding of Who God is through our relationship with Christ, we will speak with wisdom.  Verse fourteen adds, Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction.  This is not just worldly knowledge, but the knowledge that comes from God and the leadership of the Holy Spirit.  This is the knowledge that we must lay up, or live by.  There is no real wisdom or knowledge apart from God, and no matter how intelligent or educated we may be, if we do not accept Christ as our Savior and Lord, then we can only speak words that will lead to our spiritual destruction.

Proverbs 9:10 says, The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.  Once more, I don't believe that fear of God means being afraid of God, but means to have respect for God.  I do not believe that God wants us to be afraid of Him, but wants us to enter in to a close personal relationship with Him based on respect for Him.  He wants us to have the same type relationship that a child should have with his or her Father.  God will always want what is best for us.  This respect for God is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the holy, the things of God, is the beginning of understanding.  Verse eleven says,  For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased. Believing in God and following Him leads to an increase in our life span.  If we do not live longer in this world, we will have an everlasting life with God.  I believe that those who do not believe in God and accept Christ as their Savior and Lord, though their souls will not die, they really want have what could be called a life.  If we follow God, ,our life here on earth will be more meaningful.  Verse twelve says, If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it.  Our wisdom in accepting Christ as our Savior and Lord benefits each of us alone.  No one else can be saved by our profession of faith.  It is the responsibility of each individual to accept Christ by faith.  The opposite is also true.  We each bear the responsibility of our own rejection by God if we do not accept Christ as our Savior and Lord.  No one else will bear the responsibility for our sins.  Verse thirteen declares, A foolish woman is clamorous: she is simple, and knoweth nothing.  A foolish woman, like a foolish man, is one who denies the truth of God.  She is clamourous or makes a lot of noise, but really knows nothing.  Without acknowledging God, we can never really know anything of value.  Whatever we say without being guided by God and His word is just so much noise in a spiritual sense.  Verse fourteen says, For she sitteth at the door of her house, on a seat in the high places of the city,  A foolish woman, one who would lead people away from God, likes to call attention to herself.  The same can be said of a foolish man.  Both are self- centered instead of being focused on God.  Verse fifteen adds, To call passengers who go right on their ways:  She calls out to those who pass by to tempt them.  Verse sixteen warns, Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: and as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him,  Matthew Henry says that it is educated young men that she tempts, but educated or not they are simple due to the fact that they are not following God's leadership.  Those who follow God are not exempt from temptation, but are often tempted even more than those who don't follow God.  Verse seventeen states, Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.  The temptation is that things taken that don't belong to us are somehow more satisfying than the things that are ours.  Christ is the living water and the bread of life freely given, but those that would tempt us tell us that there is something sweeter and more satisfying.  Verse eighteen declares, But he knoweth not that the dead are there; and that her guests are in the depths of hell.  This is simply a warning that instead of bringing satisfaction, giving in to these temptations leads not to joy, but to death and hell.  If we are saved by Christ, we will not end up in hell, but we will become dead to good works and the joy of salvation in this world.

Proverbs 9:1 says, Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her seven pillars:  Wisdom does not come from or live in man made structures.  Wisdom comes from and abides in God alone.   Everyone is invited to live in the place prepared by the wisdom of God.  The only ones excluded from coming to God and to gain His wisdom are those who refuse to believe.  Verse two states, She hath killed her beasts; she hath mingled her wine; she hath also furnished her table.  Through accepting the wisdom of God, we are invited in to feast with Him.  God prepares the feast for us.  We cannot prepare the feast for God, because everything is already His.  Likewise, we cannot find our own way to God, but must accept His call to come to Him through Christ.  Verse three says, She hath sent forth her maidens: she crieth upon the highest places of the city,  God's wisdom cries out to us from the highest places.  I believe that even though the Holy Spirit lives in us, we are to look up to God for guidance in everyday life.  This is the only way to live in wisdom.  Verse four adds, Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him,   We are all simple in our own ability to understand the ways of God, but if we accept His call to salvation, to enter into the feast of forgiveness and everlasting life that He has prepared, we will not be turned away.  Then, we can begin to gain the wisdom of God.  Verse five invites us, Come, eat of my bread, and drink of the wine which I have mingled.  Though Christ had yet to be born, we know that even before His birth that He was already the only way to salvation.  We also know that shortly before His death, that Jesus, the Christ or Messiah, said His body was the bread of life and His blood, represented by the wine, was the only way to forgiveness.  This verse makes reference to Christ years before He came to earth.  Verse six says, Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.  The foolish would be anyone who teaches anything that opposes the word of God.  We cannot even attempt to reconcile the two, as for example saying we believe in creative evolution.  We must believe either that God created as His word says He did, or believe in the cosmic explosion as the creative force.  Verse seven declares, He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot.  I believe that this means that there is no need to argue with those who go out of their way to discredit God.  This doesn't mean that we are not to witness, but that we are not to spend our time arguing with those who not only will not believe, but also deny that God, or His word, even exist.  Only God can change them to make them receptive.  Verse eight adds, Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.  This is a continuation of the same concept.  Scorners will hate us,, but wise men will welcome correction.  Verse nine concludes, Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.  The wise, those who know God through Christ, will learn from correction and not resent those who offer it.

Proverbs 8:22 says, The LORD possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old.  Solomon had been speaking about wisdom, but now we see that this wisdom comes from Christ and likewise refers to Him.  These next few verses refer to the eternal nature of Christ.  Verse twenty-three states, I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was.  Christ is eternal, without beginning or end, therefore He existed even before the earth existed.  We must accept this fact by faith if we are to put our faith in Christ.  Verse twenty-four says, When there were no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water.  This tells us that Christ predates the oceans and the fountains.  Scientists today are always attempting to find evidence that there is or was water on other planets, but we are told that God brought forth the water.  Still, if evidence of water was found elsewhere, it would not change my understanding that God created everything.  Verse twenty-five adds, Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth:  We hear the term older than the hills used to refer to someone who is getting very old, but Christ is indeed older than the hills and mountains.  Verse twenty-six declares, While as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, nor the highest part of the dust of the world.  Christ tells us that He existed before the earth itself existed.  Again, I may not fully understand everything about creation, but by faith I can accept the eternal nature of Christ.  Verse twenty-seven states, When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass upon the face of the depth:  This is a continuation of the discussion of the eternal nature of Christ.  He existed even before the heavens did.  As vast as the universe is, it is still God's creation.  Verse twenty-eight adds,  When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep:  Then verse twenty-nine continues, When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth:  These two verses continue to discuss creation, particularly the separation of the water from the land.  The way the world functions is not the result of an accident, but is according to God's plan.  Verse thirty says, Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him;  This is a reference to the eternal nature of Christ.  He was with the heavenly Father at creation, because They and the Holy Spirit are One.  Verse thirty-one declares, Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights were with the sons of men.  Jesus said He rejoiced in the habitable pert of the world, and He delighted in the people.  Mankind was God's crowning creation, given life by His breath.  We too often fail to bring God delight though, because along with the breath life, He gave us free will to choose whether to obey Him or not.  Verse thirty-two states, Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways.  Since God is the One Who created and sustains the world, we are called to listen to and obey His word.  Verse thirty-three continues, Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.  If we are to be wise, or live with wisdom guiding us, we will hear and obey the words of God.  As followers of Christ, I believe that God speaks to us continually through the Holy Spirit, if we are only listening.  Verse thirty-four states, Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors.  If we wish to be blessed, we will actively seek the will of God in our lives.  We are not to just sit by passively hoping God might speak to us.  We are to actively listen daily for God's word.  Verse thirty-five states, For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD.  Though God calls all people to Him, not all believe, or find, Him.  Those who do are promised everlasting life, beginning at the time they accept Christ as their Savior and Lord.  Verse thirty-six warns, But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.  We can either accept Christ as our Savior and Lord and have forgiveness and restoration with God through Him, or we can reject Christ and go away into eternal punishment and separation from God.  Each individual must make this choice for himself or herself alone.

Proverbs 8:13 says, The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.  We can now see that wisdom points us to Christ.  The first step in gaining the wisdom of Christ is to not be filled with evil pride and arrogance.  Anyone who promotes themself as being superior to other people is not following God's teachings.  Verse fourteen states, Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength.  When we accept the council of God, we gain sound wisdom and understanding.  The wisdom of the world, when it denies God, can never be sound wisdom.   Verse fifteen adds, By me kings reign, and princes decree justice.  I believe that this means that without God allowing them to that no one could be an earthly ruler.  Though some might disagree, I don't believe that this means that God has placed all earthly rulers in their position.  God simply allows them to be in power for a time.  Verse sixteen continues, By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth.  As just discussed, I believe this means by God allowing them to that the princes and nobles rule, and not that God placed them in power.  Verse seventeen declares, I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.  This does not mean that God's love is limited to a particular group of people, but that God's love only benefits us when we accept Christ as our Savior and Lord.  We are better off if we do this early in life instead of delaying our acceptance of salvation.  Verse eighteen states, Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness.  I do not believe this is referring to earthly riches and honor, which are but temporary, but the riches and honor of God, which are indeed durable.  They will last forever.  Verse nineteen declares, My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver. This is just another way of saying that the things of God are worth more than any earthly riches.  Verse twenty states,  I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment:  God leads us in the way of righteousness in the world.  We simply have to be willing to follow Him.  Verse twenty-one adds, That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.  When we love and follow God, we will inherit a things of substance, which begins with everlasting life with the heavenly Father through our faith in Christ.  Anything other than that is just a bonus and should never be the reason we follow Christ.

Proverbs 8:1 says, Doth not wisdom cry? and understanding put forth her voice?  Solomon asks doesn't wisdom cry out to us.  Wisdom and understanding are easy to find if we are truly seeking them.  The wisdom and understanding of God's call to follow Him are easily understandable.  Even a child can understand God's call.  Verse two states, She standeth in the top of high places, by the way in the places of the paths.   Wisdom, which can really only come from God, is all around us if we are looking for it.  Far from being hidden, wisdom cries to us from the high places.  Verse three adds, She crieth at the gates, at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors.  I believe that we can say that the wisdom of God calls out to us from everywhere.  I believe this means that instead of not being able to understand God's wisdom, which comes from His word, we must reject it instead.  No one will be able to stand before God and claim that He never revealed Himself to that person.  Verse four declares, Unto you, O men, I call; and my voice is to the sons of man.  God calls everyone to Him.  God may work through His followers to reach people with the message of Christ, but He is already at work calling them to Him.  We have the responsibility to share the gospel, but we cannot cause anyone to accept it.  This is entirely between each individual and God.  Until someone responds to God's call in faith, no matter how loudly the wisdom of God is proclaimed, it will mean nothing to that person.  Verse five says, O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart.  We do not have to be the brightest student to understand the wisdom of God.  Even simple, foolish people can understand God's call to Christ, which is the first step toward wisdom and understanding.  Then, once we accept Christ as our Savior and Lord, we have the Holy Spirit to lead us to a greater understanding of God.  Verse six declares, Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things.  In order to understand Gods word, or the wisdom of God, we must first listen to God.  Even when studying God's written word for us, the Bible, we must do so under the leadership of the Holy Spirit.  When we do listen to God's word, we do hear things that are right.  Verse seven says, For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips.  God's word is always the truth.  We cannot pick and choose which parts of God's word to believe.  We must accept all of God's word as truth, even if we do not fully understand parts of it, for example, the events of the second coming.  We are to accept the truth of the second coming, but cannot know the date of it.  Verse eight says, All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them.  God's word is always righteous.  There is really nothing to add to that statement, other than the fact that we should therefore believe it.  Verse nine says, They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.  God's words are plain enough, and lead us to knowledge and understanding of God.  Understanding God's word begins with believing in Jesus as our Savior and making Him the Lord of our life, and this is done through faith.  It is so simple even a child can understand it.  Verse ten declares, Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold.  This tells us to value God's word more than silver or gold.  We, as followers of Christ, cannot allow the things of this world to become more important than God's word.  Verse eleven adds, For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.  This is the wisdom of God and what His word teaches us, and not the wisdom of the world.  True wisdom can only come from God.  Verse twelve says, I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.  Wisdom of God leads us to prudence, and knows the way that all witty inventions, of which we have many.

Proverbs 7:10 says, And, behold, there met him a woman with the attire of an harlot, and subtil of heart.  Solomon is still talking about the simple young man who was passing the house of this wife, who was dressed and acting like anything but a wife.  She was dressed to entice someone, though it may not have been this particular young man.  Verse eleven states, (She is loud and stubborn; her feet abide not in her house:  Then verse twelve adds, Now is she without, now in the streets, and lieth in wait at every corner.)  Solomon tells us that even though the young man had possibly been watching or noticing her, that the woman did not wait to see if he was going to come to her.  She went out in the streets looking for him, or maybe more accurately someone like him.  Verse thirteen declares, So she caught him, and kissed him, and with an impudent face said unto him,  Here, the woman was the aggressor, though more often it is the man.  She caught the young man and kissed him.  Had the young man been following the wisdom of God, he would have fled, or not have even put himself in this position to start with.   Verse fourteen says, I have peace offerings with me; this day have I payed my vows.  She said that the young man did not have to worry about money, because she had money, or peace offerings.  She also said that she had paid her vows.  Matthew Henry says that she had been to the temple and made offerings for her sins, and now she felt free to begin again.  This is not the way the forgiveness of God works.  We cannot buy God's forgiveness, nor can we buy His indulgence.  Verse fifteen adds, Therefore came I forth to meet thee, diligently to seek thy face, and I have found thee.  The woman basically said that having paid her vows, she was now seeking out this young man.  Again, I believe that it could have basically been any young man, but she chose this one, possibly because she had seen him watching her.  We do know that sin often begins by looking at someone or something with a self centered attitude instead of an attitude of glorifying God.  In verse sixteen she continues, I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, with carved works, with fine linen of Egypt.  Then verse seventeen adds, I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.  The women told the young man that she had prepared nicely for their sinful encounter.  She wasn't leaving anything to chance.  People today often spend a lot of time and money to set up sinful encounters, whether they be sexual or otherwise.  Though in this case the woman is seen as the one pursuing the young man, she could not have enticed him if he had not been willing to follow her invitation.  We are just as guilty of sin whether we initiate it or simply give in to it.  If we are following God with wisdom and understanding of His commandments, the we will not give in to temptation if we encounter it.  In verse eight she says, Come, let us take our fill of love until the morning: let us solace ourselves with loves.  Though she described the encounter as acting in love, it was far from it.  She was married, and not to him.  Verse nineteen states, For the goodman is not at home, he is gone a long journey:  Verse twenty adds,  He hath taken a bag of money with him, and will come home at the day appointed.  Her husband was to be away on business for a long time, and she knew when to expect him back.  She wasn't worried about her husband coming back suddenly.  Sometimes, conditions seem to make sinning easier.  Verse twenty-one says, With her much fair speech she caused him to yield, with the flattering of her lips she forced him.  This says that she seduced the young man, though often just the opposite happens.  Verse twenty-two states, He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks;  We are told that the young man goes away guilty, because even if he was seduced, he knew that what he was doing was wrong.  We cannot avoid our guilt from sin simply because we were tempted into it.  Verse twenty-three states, Till a dart strike through his liver; as a bird hasteth to the snare, and knoweth not that it is for his life.  Even if the young man doesn't feel guilty, the result of the sin is just as deadly spiritually.  We cannot commit sin without a penalty.  Fortunately, if we are a follower of Christ, He has paid the penalty.  This still doesn't give us a license to sin.  Verse twenty-four declares, Hearken unto me now therefore, O ye children, and attend to the words of my mouth.  This is a call for us to both listen and obey the teachings of God.  Verse twenty-five adds, Let not thine heart decline to her ways, go not astray in her paths.  This is the message we are to hear and heed.  We are not to allow ourselves to be tempted by the actions of others, no matter how appealing they may be.  Verse twenty-six states, For she hath cast down many wounded: yea, many strong men have been slain by her.  This young man was no one special to her, and he wasn't the first to be led into sin.  Verse twenty-seven concludes, Her house is the way to hell, going down to the chambers of death.  Any temptation that leads us away from God leads us toward hell.  Though we will not lose our salvation if we have accepted Christ as Savior, at least in the instance when we give in to temptation to sin, He is not the Lord of our life.  If we keep Christ first, we will act in wisdom and not be tempted by worldly lusts or desires.

Proverbs 7:1 says, My son, keep my words, and lay up my commandments with thee.
This is another call for us to keep the commandments of God.  If we are to keep them, then we must know them.  Verse two states, Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye.  Keeping God's commandments, under the leadership of the Holy Spirit, brings life.  Though we cannot claim everlasting life through simply keeping the commandments, because we all fall short of keeping them completely, they do lead to a better relationship with people and with God.  They are still to direct our path.  Verse three says, Bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart.  God's commandments are to be written in our hearts.  Even if we have them bound on our fingers, the most important thing is to have them guide our every action.  Verse four declares, Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister; and call understanding thy kinswoman:  Wisdom and understanding are to be like close kinsmen to us.  We must live every day with wisdom and understanding, which can only come when we acknowledge the leadership of God through our relationship with Christ.  This is not a call to learn more facts, but a call to live by the wisdom that God is alive in our lives and directs our path.  Worldly wisdom will not do, but only God given wisdom will lead us to the best in life.  Verse five adds, That they may keep thee from the strange woman, from the stranger which flattereth with her words.  This is another warning that God's wisdom will keep us from falling into sexual temptations.  If we are following Christ in every aspect of our life, then we will not be tempted by things that oppose what He teaches us.  Verse six states, For at the window of my house I looked through my casement,  Solomon simply says he was looking out his window.  We may often be looking out on life as well.  Verse seven states, And beheld among the simple ones, I discerned among the youths, a young man void of understanding,  Solomon said he saw a young man devoid of understanding among the youth.  How often do we look out on the youth of the world today and see those that appear to be devoid of understanding by the way they act.  Verse eight states, Passing through the street near her corner; and he went the way to her house,  Matthew Henry says this was a married woman whose husband wasn't at home.  Whether married or single, she tempted the simple youth.  I believe this means that he was inexperienced in sexual situations.  Verse nine adds, In the twilight, in the evening, in the black and dark night:  This occurred not in the light of day, but in the darkness of night.  People often want the darkness of night to cover them when they know that they are doing something wrong.  Of course, some people don't seem to care whether it is day or night, because they aren't worried about hiding their sins.   Without the wisdom and understanding of God, we are always in spiritual darkness, whether it is daylight or dark outside.

Proverbs 6:24 says, To keep thee from the evil woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a strange woman.  This still comes under the reasons to keep God's commandments, and when we do they will keep us from evil women who would entice us with flattery, and I believe would also apply to evil men who would tempt women.  Satan will never come to us to tempt us with things that will not appeal to us, but will always appear in a way that is tempting.  Verse twenty-five states, Lust not after her beauty in thine heart; neither let her take thee with her eyelids.  We are warned against lusting after a strange woman, or even looking at her with lust.  We need to view women as God's children, even if they don't act like it.  We are never to view them simply as objects of lust, as we hear so much about men doing today.  Of course, the same could be said of the way some women view men.  Verse twenty-six declares, For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adulteress will hunt for the precious life.  Giving in to temptation, whether it be sexual or otherwise, will always lead to destruction.  This is why we should be guided by God's commandments and laws.  Verse twenty-seven asks, Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?  This is just another way of saying if we play with the fire of temptation, then we are going to get burned.  Verse twenty-eight adds, Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned?  There may be people who walk on hot coals without being burned, but this is not normally the situation.  The best way to avoid being burned is to not step on the coals, just as the best way to keep from giving in to temptation is to avoid it to start with.  If God's word is written in our hearts, we will not be tempted by the things of this world, no matter how appealing they may be.  Verse twenty-nine warns, So he that goeth in to his neighbour’s wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent.  This is a warning against adultery.  If we follow God's commandments, we will certainly not give in to this temptation, or any other for that matter.  Verse thirty states, Men do not despise a thief, if he steal to satisfy his soul when he is hungry;  Though it does not justify stealing, if a person is stealing simply because they are hungry, it is easier to be forgiving.  Verse thirty-one says, But if he be found, he shall restore sevenfold; he shall give all the substance of his house.  There was also a penalty for stealing if a person was caught, and it was fairly severe.  The person was to repay sevenfold and give all the substance of their house.  The reason for the theft did not remove the penalty.  Verse thirty-two says, But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul.  There can be no justification for adultery.  It does not sustain a person, but destroys their very soul.  This does not mean that adultery cannot be forgiven, but that it is more than just a physical act, as some would claim.  Verse thirty-three states, A wound and dishonour shall he get; and his reproach shall not be wiped away.  Adultery brings dishonor and reproach.  Verse thirty-four declares, For jealousy is the rage of a man: therefore he will not spare in the day of vengeance.  I believe that this is a warning that adultery will never be viewed with any sympathy, which might have been felt for a hungry thief.  Verse thirty-five adds,  He will not regard any ransom; neither will he rest content, though thou givest many gifts.  There can be no restitution made for adultery.  It affects both the body and the soul, and more than just the two people involved.

Proverbs 6:12 says, A naughty person, a wicked man, walketh with a froward mouth.  The wicked person walks with a desire to deceive everyone and do what is best for himself or herself.  This person will say anything to advance His or her own purpose and enrich himself or herself.  Verse thirteen states, He winketh with his eyes, he speaketh with his feet, he teacheth with his fingers:  I believe that this means that such a person will use every means available to bring riches or glory to himself, or herself.  Verse fourteen declares, Frowardness is in his heart, he deviseth mischief continually; he soweth discord.  Wicked or evil people are always looking for ways to sow discord, because the have mischief in their hearts.  This is not a fun seeking mischief, but one that seeks only what will lead to personal good, and not be considered about others.  Verse fifteen says, Therefore shall his calamity come suddenly; suddenly shall he be broken without remedy.   One day, the wicked and evil will pay for their actions.  They may live a lifetime without being held accountable, but when Christ returns they will find themselves suddenly accountable for their actions.  Verse sixteen warns, These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him:  If there is a warning about what God hates, we need to pray attention.  Though God hates all sin, we are told that there are seven things that He especially hates.  Verse seventeen states, A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,  The first thing may not sound very significant, but I believe that a proud look refers to always pointing to one's self as being better and smarter than anyone else, or self glorification in other words.  God also hates a lying tongue.  Again, we might rank this as not that significant in the list of possible sins, but it is high on God's list.  Unless we accept the truth of Christ being our Savior and Lord, we cannot speak the truth.  Then, we hear that God hates hands that shed innocent  blood.  We can easily understand this, but I believe it also would apply to oppressing the less fortunate.  Verse eighteen adds, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,  We definitely see enough of people devising wicked plans today, sometimes even in the name of some god.  Though people might have more means to carry out their evil plans, this is nothing new nor will it stop before the return of Christ.  Verse nineteen continues,, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.  This is just more of the ways that people attempt to deny or discredit God and harm His people.  We cannot obediently follow God and lie about anything.  We certainly shouldn't use lies to cause discord in the church.  Verse twenty says,  My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:  The commandments and laws that we should keep are God's, but Godly parents should teach them to us, then we are to be guided by them.  I realize that not at parents teach their children by the laws of God, which why it is His commandments and laws that we must live by., and not just those of our parents.  Verse twenty-one says, Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck.  Though we don't wear signs around our necks, we most certainly should have God's word bound in our heart, and should be directed by it.  Verse twenty-two says, When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee.  Following God's word keeps us safe, whether we are at home, out in public, or even asleep in our bed.  Verse twenty-three declares, For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:  God's commandments are a light to guide our path, and also a source of reproof when we stray.  We cannot claim to follow God and ignore His commandments.

Proverbs 6:1 says, My son, if thou be surety for thy friend, if thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger,  This is a warning about becoming indebted to or entangled in the things of this world.  If we go into debt, or if we have others indebted to us, this can become a concern that might lead us away from worshipping and following God.  Most of our borrowing today is done with strangers, and we are to be wary of entering into such deals.  I believe that the overall warning is to not allow ourselves to get to the point where debt controls our lives.  Verse two states, Thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.  I believe this means that when we promise something, either as the borrower or the lender, that we are bound by our word, and this can lead us into the trap of having to spend too much time concerned with the things of this world instead of the things of God.  Even easy credit must be repaid.  Verse three says, Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, when thou art come into the hand of thy friend; go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend.  We are advised to humble ourselves and make things right between our friend and us if we have a problem with them, especially about money.  Even if we cannot satisfy the debt immediately, we should not just ignore the friend.  Verse four adds, Give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber to thine eyelids.  We are called on to deal with the situation today.  We do not need to sleep on it to decide what to do.  Verse five says, Deliver thyself as a roe from the hand of the hunter, and as a bird from the hand of the fowler.  We are to go as the animal caught by the hunter.  Neither the deer nor the fowl is in control, but must rely on the mercy of the hunter in order to be saved.  We are to go to those we are indebted if we are having trouble repaying them with the same attitude, especially if it is a friend we are indebted to.  Verse six states, Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:  We are advised to learn form the ant, which is but a lowly insect.  Then, the next two verses tell us what we are to learn.  Verse seven says, Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler,   Then, verse eight concludes, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.  Instead of being sluggards, we should learn from the ant to work without the need for someone to tell us or force us to.  We should be busy preparing for God's coming kingdom.  I believe that this is more than just a call to be busy about the things of this world, but is a call for to be busy with the purpose of doing what is right for God.  Verse nine asks, How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep?  I believe that question concerns not physical sleep, but spiritual sleep.  We may be wide awake physically and still be asleep spiritually, and I believe this is a call for us to be spiritually awake.  Verse ten says, Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep:  Then verse eleven adds, So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man.  We can apply this to material needs, but again, I believe the meaning is much more than that.  When we are spiritually slumbering or sleeping, we are in poverty in our relationship to God.  God expects us to be busy spreading His message and His love to the world.

Proverbs 5:15 says, Drink waters out of thine own cistern, and running waters out of thine own well.  I believe that this is a call for us to be satisfied with what God provides.  We know that Jesus is called the living water, and we are told by putting our faith in Him that we will thirst no more.  Still, even as followers of Christ we are not always satisfied with the provisions of God, and we look elsewhere to have our thirst satisfied.  Verse sixteen states, Let thy fountains be dispersed abroad, and rivers of waters in the streets.  We are called to share this living water, the gospel of Christ, with everyone.  We are to freely spread the gospel everywhere we go, and are never called on to hoard the gospel.  There is no one group of people who deserve the gospel more than another, because no one deserves salvation.  It is a free gift from God to all who believe.  We are not to put walls around the gospel to keep people from receiving it.  Verse seventeen declares,  Let them be only thine own, and not strangers’ with thee.  When we put our faith in Christ, we become a part of the whole family of God.  If we feel superior to any other Christian and more deserving of the things of this world, then we have an attitude problem.  Verse eighteen says, Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.  We are told that if we are to be blessed that we are always to rejoice in our wife, though we could just as easily say spouse.  Marriage is not just between a man and a woman, but between a man, a woman, and most importantly God.  We too often view marriage as a legal contract and not a spiritual relationship.  Verse nineteen says, Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love.  We are to be ravished with a love for our wife, and I believe likewise by the wife for her husband.  When we are totally committed in a spiritual marriage, we will not be tempted to stray.  Verse twenty asks, And why wilt thou, my son, be ravished with a strange woman, and embrace the bosom of a stranger?  This is more of a rhetorical question I believe.  Solomon was asking why, if a person loves his wife, or a wife her husband, would they person be tempted by anyone else.  The implication is that this should never be possible.  Verse twenty-one says, For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings.  There is nothing that we do that is hidden from God.  We might think that we are capable of keeping our sins hidden, but God always knows what we are doing.  Verse twenty-two declares, His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins.  We cannot hold anyone else responsible for our sins.  Verse twenty-three says, He shall die without instruction; and in the greatness of his folly he shall go astray.  Those who will not accept the wisdom of God, which begins by accepting Christ as one's personal Savior and Lord, will die in their foolishness.  This is indeed a great folly.

Proverbs 5:1 says, My son, attend unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my understanding:  This is once more a call to Solomon's son to listen to what he has to say.  We know this applies to all people as a call for us to listen to God with wisdom and understanding.  Verse two states, That thou mayest regard discretion, and that thy lips may keep knowledge.  If we are to follow Christ, we must first hear what He has to say to us.  The first thing that anyone hears from God is the call to follow Christ.  We do not just find salvation on our own.  God always calls us to salvation.  Verse three says, For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil:  Matthew Henry says this could be seen as a woman leading us astray to sexual impunity, or as some seducing us with false doctrine.  Though referring to a woman leading a man astray, it could just as easily apply to a man leading a woman astray.  Verse four declares, But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a twoedged sword.  This is a warning of the result of allowing ourselves to be led astray by the things of this world, no matter how tempting they may be.  The result of straying from God will always be bitter and destructive.  Verse five says, Her feet go down to death; her steps take hold on hell.  Though we as followers of Christ are forever secure in our relationship to God, if we give in to the temptations of the world, we lose the joy of our salvation.  We are living closer to hell than to heaven.  Verse six warns, Lest thou shouldest ponder the path of life, her ways are moveable, that thou canst not know them.  We cannot find the path of life by our own ponderings, or thoughts.  We can only find the path of life by listening to and heeding the call of God.  Verse seven declares, Hear me now therefore, O ye children, and depart not from the words of my mouth.  This is not just a call from Solomon for his children to hear Him, but is a call from God for His children to hear Him.  We cannot follow God without listening to His words that direct our paths.  Verse eight warns, Remove thy way far from her, and come not nigh the door of her house:  Not only are we to not listen to someone who would lead us away from God, but we are to remove ourselves far from them.  The best way to avoid temptation is to not place ourselves in a position where we would be tempted.  Verse nine adds, Lest thou give thine honour unto others, and thy years unto the cruel:  If we give in to temptation, then we lose our honor with other followers of Christ.  If this happens, then all we can do is ask God to forgive us and get back on the path of righteousness.  Hopefully, we will find forgiveness by others then.  Verse ten adds, Lest strangers be filled with thy wealth; and thy labours be in the house of a stranger;  This is still in reference to giving in to the ways of the world instead of following God.  Ultimately, everything we have in this world will pass to others, whether while we are alive or when we die.  Verse eleven states, And thou mourn at the last, when thy flesh and thy body are consumed,  Verse twelve continues, And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof;  Verse thirteen adds, And have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that instructed me!  Then verse fourteen concludes, I was almost in all evil in the midst of the congregation and assembly.  People may mourn our death, but at the same time question how unwisely we lived our lives.  Even if sin leads to all the riches of the world, at death it will all be left behind.  Then, people, especially those who follow Christ, should marvel or question how anyone could waste his or her life for material things.  When we are seduced by the things of this world, and refuse to follow God, then we really are most wicked, and everlasting separation from God is the result.