Proverbs 17

Verse 16: This proverb asks a rhetorical question: Of what use is money—opportunity, training, God’s word—in the hands of a fool, for what the fool needs (wisdom) he can’t obtain.

Verse 17: A friend, brother or spouse’s love persists in all circumstances; especially in adversity such faithful love is needed (John 13:34; 15:12–13).

Verse 18: See Proverbs 6:1–5 and comment.

Verse 19: Quarreling is a sin; quarreling always involves personal animosity or unseemly self-assertion.⁵⁶ The quarreler is like someone who builds a high gate; the “gate” represents self-assertion, pride, hostility. Such a “gate” will not protect one from destruction.

Verse 20: A wicked man might prosper for a while, but he does not prosper forever; either in this life or the next he will be paid back for what he has done (Matthew 16:27; Romans 2:6).

Verse 22: One’s psychological state affects one’s physical health. A cheerful heart, therefore, is good medicine (see Proverbs 15:15).

Verse 23: See verse 8.

Verses 27–28: A wise, even-tempered person learns to control his tongue and to use words sparingly (see Proverbs 10:19). Using few words is such a mark of wisdom that even a fool can appear “wise” if he says nothing. The moment he speaks, of course, he will reveal his foolishness.