Proverbs 17

The nuggets I gleaned from today’s study. ..
There is so much less we desire materially when there is peace in our home. The value of peace is so precious. I have noticed the value of peace and quietness so much more in the last few days, than I have ever noticed in my life. When there is strife in the home, it doesn’t matter what a wonderful house you have. You’d live in a tent to have peace.
It is so important to have a teachable spirit.
Rebellion isn’t to be taken lightly. There is a direct correlation between rebellion and evil.
A fool in his foolishness is dangerous. I know this to be true firsthand.
I would like to memorize verse 14. I wish I naturally stopped contention before a quarrel started. The releasing of water is such a vivid picture.
We are not to justify bad behavior.
“The difference between a friend and a brother is noted here. A true friend is a constant source of love, while a brother in one’s family may not be close, but is drawn near to help in trouble. Friends are closer than brothers because they are available at all times, not just in the crisis.” (McArther Study Bible Commentary) My brothers and sisters in Christ are my most valued friends and family. They are the ones I depend on in my most difficult times.
The theme throughout Proverbs of foolishness grieving parents has really been in on my mind. Unfortunately I know what it is to stumble through this life without following God. I have prayed for my children that they would never know what it is to live in the world. I have prayed since they were in my belly that they would love and serve the Lord with their whole hearts all of their days. I can only imagine the grief I would feel watching them try to live their lives in foolishness. It reminds me to continually be on my knees for my children.
If I could just keep my mouth shut sometimes, maybe people would, at the very least, see me as perceptive.