Proverbs 15 Devotional from Pastor Jason Van Bemmel

Forest Hill Presbyterian Church

www.foresthillpca.org

Proverbs 15 emphasizes the importance of wisdom, which is rooted in the fear of the Lord. A key aspect of wisdom is controlling one's tongue, using soft answers to turn away wrath instead of harsh words that stir up anger. The wise use their tongues to commend knowledge and speak truth, while fools pour out folly. The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, observing both the good and the evil.

Wisdom also involves heeding instruction and reproof. Fools despise their father's instruction, but the prudent heed reproof. The path of wisdom leads to a glad heart and cheerful face, while focusing on what one lacks leads to sorrow and a crushed spirit. A life lived with the fear of the Lord is marked by contentment and gratitude for God’s blessings. Though the righteous may not always have great treasure, a little with the fear of the Lord is better than much wealth with trouble. Ultimately, the way to true wisdom is by trusting God and humbling oneself before Him.