16-17

Proverbs 16

1. To man belongs the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the reply of the tongue.

2. In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.

Our desires & longings lead to the actions God gives us to take. Those longings/desires/holy discontents are in us for a reason - fuel to do what God has for us. And it's so cool, that He already knows that and already has the steps laid out for us to take. This is my constant prayer - God please determine the steps you want me to take in this season of deep longing.

21. The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction

23. A wise man's heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction

28. A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends.

Our words are really important and can easily be good or evil. If we are wise at heart, and listening to the wisdom of the Lord, it will be natural for us to promote instruction. But if we are not listening and blurting out folly or gossiping, we can destroy friendships.

Proverbs 17

1. Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting with strife

5. He who mocks the poor shows contempt for their Maker; whoever gloats over disaster will not go unpunished.

Wealth is not so great when you're greedy, prideful, foolish, and angry. I have seen happiness in some pretty shabby places around the world and I have seen sadness and anger in some pretty rich homes in the US.

16. Of what use is money in the hand of a fool, since he has no desire to get wisdom?



This I just think is really cute:

6. Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children

17. A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity

22. A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones