Proverbs 15:7-17

7 Wise people use their words to spread knowledge, but there is no knowledge in the thoughts of fools.

8 The Lord hates the sacrifice that the wicked offer, but he likes the prayers of honest people.

9 The Lord hates what evil people do, but he loves those who do what is right.

10 The person who quits doing what is right will be punished, and the one who hates to be corrected will die.

11 The Lord knows what is happening in the world of the dead, so he surely knows the thoughts of the living.

12 Those who make fun of wisdom don't like to be corrected; they will not ask the wise for advice.

13 Happiness makes a person smile, but sadness can break a person's spirit.

14 People with understanding want more knowledge, but fools just want more foolishness.

15 Every day is hard for those who suffer, but a happy heart is like a continual feast.

16 It is better to be poor and respect the Lord than to be wealthy and have much trouble.

17 It is better to eat vegetables with those who love you than to eat meat with those who hate you.

Proverbs 15:7-17 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO FIRST KINGS 5

This chapter relates Solomon's preparation for building the temple: on Hiram, king of Tyre, sending a congratulatory letter to him, he returned another to him, signifying his intention to build an house for God, and requesting him to supply him with timber, and men to work it, 1Ki 5:1-6; to which Hiram readily agreed, and sent him cedar and fir, and Solomon in return sent him food for his household; and things went on very amicably between them, 1Ki 5:7-12; the chapter concludes with an account of Solomon's workmen, where, how, and in what they were employed, 1Ki 5:13-18.