Proverbs 15 focuses on the impact of words, wisdom, and righteousness in everyday life. Solomon contrasts gentle speech with harsh words, illustrating how words shape relationships and influence our spiritual well-being. This chapter also emphasizes the value of seeking counsel, fearing the Lord, and living with integrity.

Proverbs 15:1-2 – The Power of Gentle Words

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

  • NIV (New International Version): “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
  • KJV (King James Version): “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.”
  • ESV (English Standard Version): “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

Commentary: The way we respond in tense situations determines whether conflicts escalate or dissolve. Solomon emphasizes that gentle speech has the power to defuse anger, while harsh words intensify strife.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Gentle” (רַךְ, rakh) – Suggests tenderness and softness in speech.
  • “Harsh” (עֶצֶב, etzev) – Indicates grievous or hurtful words.

Application: Practicing self-control in our words promotes peace and understanding. Responding with kindness even in difficult moments can transform relationships.

Proverbs 15:3 – The Omniscience of God

“The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good.”

  • NIV: “The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good.”
  • KJV: “The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.”
  • ESV: “The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.”

Commentary: This verse reminds us that nothing escapes God’s notice. He sees both righteous and wicked actions, ensuring that justice will be done.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Eyes of the Lord” (עֵינֵי יְהוָה, einei YHWH) – Represents God’s omniscience and awareness.
  • “Keeping watch” (צָפָה, tzafah) – Means to observe attentively or guard.

Application: Recognizing God’s ever-present knowledge should encourage us to live with integrity, knowing that our actions matter in His sight.

Proverbs 15:5 – The Importance of Discipline

“A fool spurns a parent’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.”

  • NIV: “A fool spurns a parent’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.”
  • KJV: “A fool despiseth his father’s instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.”
  • ESV: “A fool despises his father’s instruction, but whoever heeds reproof is prudent.”

Commentary: Rejecting discipline leads to foolishness, while accepting correction fosters wisdom. A teachable heart is essential for personal and spiritual growth.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Spurns” (נָאַץ, na’atz) – Means to reject or despise.
  • “Prudence” (עָרוּם, arum) – Denotes shrewdness and good judgment.

Application: Correction, whether from parents, mentors, or God, is for our benefit. Embracing discipline leads to wisdom and maturity.

Proverbs 15:16 – The Value of Contentment

“Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.”

  • NIV: “Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.”
  • KJV: “Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith.”
  • ESV: “Better is a little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble with it.”

Commentary: True prosperity is found in a relationship with God, not in material wealth. Riches without righteousness lead to distress, while godly contentment brings peace.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Fear of the Lord” (יִרְאַת יְהוָה, yirat YHWH) – Refers to reverence and awe for God.
  • “Turmoil” (מְהוּמָה, mehumah) – Suggests confusion, disorder, or distress.

Application: Pursuing godliness over wealth brings lasting satisfaction. A heart aligned with God’s will is greater than riches gained through strife.

Proverbs 15:22 – Seeking Wise Counsel

“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.”

  • NIV: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.”
  • KJV: “Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.”
  • ESV: “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.”

Commentary: Seeking guidance from wise individuals leads to better decision-making. Relying solely on personal insight increases the likelihood of failure.

Word Study & Analysis:

  • “Counsel” (עֵצָה, etzah) – Means advice or consultation.
  • “Advisers” (יוֹעֵץ, yo’etz) – Refers to those who give wise guidance.

Application: Consulting trusted mentors and godly advisors leads to success. Seeking wisdom prevents costly mistakes.

General Overview of Proverbs 15

Proverbs 15 teaches that words, discipline, humility, and wisdom shape our lives. It highlights the power of speech, the importance of fearing God, and the blessings of righteousness.

Key Takeaways:

  • Gentle words defuse anger, while harsh words create conflict.
  • God sees all actions, and nothing escapes His notice.
  • Accepting discipline leads to growth and wisdom.
  • True contentment comes from fearing the Lord, not material wealth.
  • Seeking wise counsel leads to success.

References

  • HENRY, Matthew. Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible: Complete and Unabridged. Hendrickson Publishers, 1991.
  • KIDNER, Derek. Proverbs: An Introduction and Commentary. Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries, 1981.
  • WIERSBE, Warren W. Be Skillful (Proverbs): God’s Guidebook to Wise Living. David C. Cook, 1995.