Proverbs 16:20–24

PROVERBS CHAPTER 16.

V. 20. He that handleth a matter wisely, giving careful heed to the Word of God in every situation in life, shall find good, obtain true prosperity; and whoso trusteth in the Lord, being united with Him in the personal, confidential relation of faith, happy is he, the possessor of true blessedness.

V. 21. The wise in heart shall be called prudent, regarded as possessing true discernment, and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning, that is, where one makes use of grace, of a pleasant and attractive manner, in teaching, he will have easy access to ever-widening circles of hearers.

V. 22. Understanding, proper insight and watchful discretion, is a well-spring of life unto him that hath it, a source of life and power to its possessor; but the instruction of fools is folly, their folly, serving for their correction, being a source of all possible disadvantages; for a lack of reason is its own punishment, destroying a person’s own happiness.

V. 23. The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, for wisdom of heart and mind is shown in sensible speech, and addeth learning to his lips, giving greater emphasis and weight to his teaching.

V. 24. Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul and health to the bones; for the spirit of friendliness inspired by love is evident in them, to strengthen the hearer.