Proverbs 27
Read Proverbs 27 (WEB)+
1Don’t boast about tomorrow; for you don’t know what a day may bring. 2Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips. 3A stone is heavy, and sand is a burden; but a fool’s provocation is heavier than both. 4Wrath is cruel, and anger is overwhelming; but who is able to stand before jealousy? 5Better is open rebuke than hidden love. 6Faithful are the wounds of a friend; although the kisses of an enemy are profuse. 7A full soul loathes a honeycomb; but to a hungry soul, every bitter thing is sweet. 8As a bird that wanders from her nest, so is a man who wanders from his home. 9Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart; so does earnest counsel from a man’s friend. 10Don’t forsake your friend and your father’s friend. Don’t go to your brother’s house in the day of your disaster: better is a neighbor who is near than a distant brother. 11Be wise, my son, and bring joy to my heart, then I can answer my tormentor. 12A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge; but the simple pass on, and suffer for it. 13Take his garment when he puts up collateral for a stranger. Hold it for a wayward woman! 14He who blesses his neighbor with a loud voice early in the morning, it will be taken as a curse by him. 15A continual dropping on a rainy day and a contentious wife are alike: 16restraining her is like restraining the wind, or like grasping oil in his right hand. 17Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens his friend’s countenance. 18Whoever tends the fig tree shall eat its fruit. He who looks after his master shall be honored. 19Like water reflects a face, so a man’s heart reflects the man. 20Sheol and Abaddon are never satisfied; and a man’s eyes are never satisfied. 21The crucible is for silver, and the furnace for gold; but man is refined by his praise. 22Though you grind a fool in a mortar with a pestle along with grain, yet his foolishness will not be removed from him. 23Know well the state of your flocks, and pay attention to your herds: 24for riches are not forever, nor does the crown endure to all generations. 25The hay is removed, and the new growth appears, the grasses of the hills are gathered in. 26The lambs are for your clothing, and the goats are the price of a field. 27There will be plenty of goats’ milk for your food, for your family’s food, and for the nourishment of your servant girls.
World English Bible (public domain)
“"Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another."”
Proverbs 27:17
Summary
Proverbs 27 offers wisdom on various aspects of relationships, character, and life lessons. It begins by cautioning against boasting about the future, highlighting the uncertainty of life and encouraging humility. The chapter underscores the value of genuine friendship, emphasizing that a true friend’s counsel is precious, enduring, and more valuable than the superficiality of many acquaintances. Through vivid imagery, Solomon contrasts foolishness and wisdom, illustrating the destructive nature of unchecked anger and the futility of pride. Additionally, the chapter stresses the importance of maintaining one's responsibilities and being diligent in one's affairs as a reflection of wise living. Theologically, Proverbs 27 delineates the intricate balance between human agency and divine sovereignty, encouraging readers to lean into wisdom and discernment in their conduct and relationships. Themes of humility, foresight, and accountability emerge as central, urging individuals to pursue integrity and discernment. By seeking wise counsel and valuing trustworthy relationships, one aligns their life with God's wisdom and order, creating a life marked by stability and blessing. Overall, the chapter inspires an approach to life that prioritizes wisdom, ethical living, and the cultivation of relationships grounded in truth and love. The practical advice given serves as a guide for leading a life that reflects God's character and purpose, while also warning against the perils of foolishness and self-centeredness.
Key Themes
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