Proverbs 17:1-13

< Back to Proverbs Index


TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

Wisdom in the Heart

BACKGROUND NOTES



DOCTRINAL POINT(S)

  1. The Proverbs are wise advice for everyday living.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

  1. Let the Lord’s face be reflected in your life!

QUESTIONS

  1. Many of the proverbs of previous chapters have given counsel on the words that proceed from our hearts and out of our mouths. In this lesson, identify the proverb that gives guidance on the words that others speak and that we listen to. What does this proverb teach about the character of the listener?

  2. Does the proverb in verse 9 teach us that if we are loving we will cover up the sin of another?

  3. A single ________ to the wise accomplishes more than 100 ______ to the fool.

ANSWERS

  1. The proverb in verse 4 gives us guidance regarding words that others speak. It is evildoers and liars who are enticed to listen to lips which speak falsehoods and to a tongue full of spite.

  2. No. It teaches us that a loving person, in order to promote friendship, will refrain from continually bringing up the past transgressions in another’s life.

  3. A single rebuke to the wise accomplishes more than 100 blows to the fool.

DISCUSS/CONSIDER

  1. Discuss the possible connection between the wisdom teachings in verses 1 and 6. Consider other characteristics of a godly home that would promote results similar to those noted in verse 6.

CHALLENGE

  1. Ask yourself the question, “Is the Lord’s face being reflected to others by the way I am living my life?” If there is any doubt, pray that God would reveal to you and help you remove any dross of sinfulness that is compromising your Christian witness. Seek to live a life which clearly reflects the loveliness of the Lord’s face!

KEY VERSES

  • “Better is a dry morsel with quietness, than a house full of feasting with strife.” Proverbs 17:1

  • “Children’s children are the crown of old men, and the glory of children is their father.” Proverbs 17:6