A wonderful choice!
Here are some thought-provoking verses from Proverbs 21 in the New King James Version (NKJV):
1. **The king's heart is like channels of water:** "The king's heart is like channels of water: You direct it wherever you please." (Proverbs 21:1, NKJV)
This verse highlights the power and sovereignty of God over human hearts, including those in leadership positions.
2. **A wise servant will rule over a son:** "A wise servant will rule over a son who causes shame, and will share an inheritance as one freeborn." (Proverbs 21:5, NKJV)
This verse emphasizes the importance of wisdom and maturity in leadership, even when compared to biological relationships.
3. **The crucible is for silver, and the furnace for gold:** "The crucible is for silver, and the furnace for gold; but God tests the hearts." (Proverbs 21:31, NKJV)
This verse serves as a reminder that God is always testing our character, refining us like precious metals are refined in fire.
4. **Do not desire her beauty in your heart:** "Do not desire her beauty in your heart, nor let her capture you with her eyelashes." (Proverbs 21:2, NKJV)
This verse cautions against the dangers of lust and the allure of worldly attractions, emphasizing the importance of spiritual focus.
5. **A just weight and balance belong to His work:** "A just weight and balance belong to His work; and all the bolts of the divine tabernacle are precious to Him." (Proverbs 21:3, NKJV)
This verse highlights God's commitment to fairness, justice, and precision in all aspects of life.
These verses offer valuable wisdom on a range of topics, from leadership and character development to relationships and spiritual growth.
Proverbs 22 KJV (King James Version) is a wonderful chapter with many valuable lessons and wisdom. Here are some of the key verses:
* "A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold." (Proverbs 22:1)
+ This verse emphasizes the importance of having a good reputation over material wealth.
* "A wise servant will rule over a son who causes shame, and shall have a share of the inheritance among the brothers." (Proverbs 22:15)
+ This verse highlights the value of wisdom and self-control in leadership roles.
* "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:6)
+ This famous verse emphasizes the importance of parental guidance and instruction in shaping a child's values and character.
* "The lazy man will not slumber, though his belly be full; Nor shall the greedy one be satisfied, though he has eaten till he be sick." (Proverbs 22:25-26)
+ This passage warns against the dangers of laziness and gluttony, highlighting the importance of diligence and moderation.
* "Punishment is sure for him that is void of wisdom: but a wise man will be wise." (Proverbs 22:3)
+ This verse underscores the consequences of ignorance and the benefits of seeking wisdom.
These are just a few examples from Proverbs 22 KJV. The chapter offers many more valuable insights on topics such as family, relationships, wealth, and wisdom.
Proverbs 21 is a chapter in the book of Proverbs, which contains wisdom teachings and sayings from King Solomon. Here's a breakdown of some of the key verses and their meanings:
**Verses 1-4: The Righteous Live by Faith**
* Verse 1: "The king's heart is like a stream of water directed by the Almighty; he guides it wherever he pleases." (NKJV)
+ This verse highlights God's sovereignty over human affairs, even those of kings and leaders.
* Verses 2-4: These verses contrast the righteous and wicked, emphasizing that only the former will thrive in their endeavors.
**Verses 5-10: The Importance of Wisdom**
* Verse 5: "The way of the wicked is like a smooth road; they can't be found, but the upright will have no fear." (NKJV)
+ This verse warns against following sinful paths, which may seem appealing at first but ultimately lead to trouble.
* Verses 6-10: These verses emphasize the value of wisdom in making right decisions and avoiding pitfalls.
**Verses 11-15: The Consequences of Sin**
* Verse 11: "When a scoffer is punished, the simple are no more, and they who have enjoyed their scoffing will be wise." (NKJV)
+ This verse illustrates the consequences of rebelling against God's authority. Those who mock wisdom and ignore God's commands will ultimately suffer.
* Verses 12-15: These verses describe the consequences of sin, including poverty, shame, and destruction.
**Verses 16-26: The Rewards of Righteousness**
* Verse 17: "A righteous man cares for his inheritance; he guards it." (NKJV)
+ This verse highlights the importance of responsible stewardship over one's life, finances, and relationships.
* Verses 18-26: These verses emphasize the rewards of living a righteous life, including peace, prosperity, and honor.
Some key takeaways from Proverbs 21 include:
1. God is sovereign over human affairs, even those of kings and leaders (Verse 1).
2. Righteousness is essential for success and protection in this life.
3. Sin has severe consequences, including poverty, shame, and destruction.
4. Wisdom is vital for making right decisions and avoiding pitfalls.
5. Living a righteous life leads to peace, prosperity, and honor.
Overall, Proverbs 21 presents a clear contrast between the righteous and wicked, emphasizing the importance of living according to God's ways.
Proverbs 21 in the NIV (New International Version) reads:
1 The king's heart is like a stream of water;
he guides it wherever he pleases.
2 All a person's ways are upright, but the Lord examines their motives.
3 The righteous may face many troubles, but the Lord delivers them from them all.
4 The Lord detests lying lips, but prophets in his name he honors.
5 The faithful will obey him on earth; his praiseworthy acts have been done!
6 A corrupt judge will not seek justice, and a priest who seeks to please his own needs is like a wicked man.
7 One who pursues righteousness and love will find life, yes, riches too,
8 The wise in heart are called discerning, and yet their foolishness despises wisdom.
9 If the righteous gain wealth, God will take it away, but those who seek wisdom have it forever.
10 The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are truthful.
This chapter of Proverbs offers some insightful teachings about human nature, morality, and the ways of God. Some key verses to note include:
* Verse 1: This verse highlights the importance of having a good leader who is guided by wisdom and integrity.
* Verse 2: This verse reminds us that our actions are not always motivated by pure intentions, and that God sees into our hearts.
* Verse 3: This verse emphasizes God's care for his righteous people, even in the midst of difficulties.
* Verse 6: This verse warns against corrupt leaders who prioritize their own interests over justice, as well as those who seek to please themselves at the expense of others.
* Verse 9: This verse reminds us that true wealth and security come from seeking wisdom and living righteously before God.
These verses offer a mix of practical advice, moral guidance, and spiritual encouragement for living a life pleasing to God.
Proverbs 31 is a beautiful and uplifting chapter in the Bible, often referred to as the "Proverbs of the Virtuous Woman." It's a poetic description of an exemplary woman, highlighting her qualities, characteristics, and actions. Here are some key takeaways from Proverbs 31:10-31 KJV:
**The Virtuous Woman**
* She is praised for her many excellent qualities (v. 10)
* Her husband trusts her, and she honors him (v. 11)
* Her worth is far above jewels or other precious things (v. 10)
**Her Characteristics**
* She works with eager hands (v. 13)
* Her lamp does not go out at night (v. 18)
* She stretches out her hands to the poor and opens them to the needy (v. 20)
* She is clothed in strength and dignity, and laughs at the days to come (v. 25)
**Her Actions**
* She seeks wool and flax, and works with eager hands (v. 19)
* She makes her own clothing, as well as that of her household (v. 20)
* She is a hard worker, caring for her family and others (vv. 15-27)
* She fears the Lord, and is not afraid of the future (v. 30)
**The Result**
* Her children rise up and bless her (v. 28)
* Her husband praises her, saying she is more precious than rubies (v. 10)
* She is a blessing to all who know her (v. 31)
This chapter celebrates the value of a virtuous woman who has a strong faith in God, is dedicated to her family and community, and possesses a strong sense of purpose and character. It's a beautiful tribute to women everywhere, encouraging them to strive for excellence and trust in God's provision and guidance.
Proverbs 21 is a great chapter in the Bible!
Here's the KJV (King James Version) text of Proverbs 21, along with an audio clip:
**Proverbs 21:1-31**
1. The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.
[KJV Audio](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=proverbs+21&version=kjv#fen)
2. Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the Lord pondereth the hearts.
3. To do justly and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.
4. The folly of men casteth down their own wise counsel: and oh, how great is this foolishness!
5. Whoso trusteth in the Lord shall be made fat, and he whose hope is the Lord shall flourish.
6. Thou wilt eat the fruit of thine own way; and thy confidence shall be in thy own integrity.
7. To deliver thee from the way of the wicked, from the unjust man who speaketh froward things.
8. To turn aside the unrighteous: and to take away the wicked out of thy sight.
9. The righteous also shall follow his heart: but the treacherous shall be all of a sudden destroyed.
10. Whoso hath despised small matters is honored: but he that honoureth himself is wisely considered.
11. Humble thyself in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift thee up.
12. The haughty eyes of man shall be brought low: and the pride of man shall be brought to nought.
13. To deliver him from the pit, and to set his feet with the word of his testimony.
14. With which he wouldst have guided them, that they might dwell in the land: and vex not the rock of His habitation.
15. To turn aside evil from him, and at his mouth all good things shall be established.
16. The king's wrath is as the roaring of a lion; but His favor is like the sunshine of a cloudless sky.
17. A just weight and balance are the Lord's: even the weights of the bag are His work.
18. Every thing by measure, and with justice.
19. To maintain the rights of the poor man, and to take away from the hand of the oppressor his goods.
20. Open rebuke is better than secret love.
21. The soul of the wise is among good things; but the baits of a fool are very bad things.
22. How much more abominable and foul is he that is vile and hath not so great a desire as he that feareth God!
23. Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth himself from trouble.
24. A wise servant shall have understanding: but the foolish shall serve the foolish.
25. He that is the master of his own vessel, being alone with himself, is wise to be a friend unto himself.
26. Yoke not thine ox with another's ox; nor with young camels; neither go near them that are sent.
27. Lest thou have a fall and the judgment be not thine; and thy great deliverance be from them.
28. For the commandment is at first sight, and the scorner is as a scorn to others.
29. The fear of the Lord is to be this: the punishment of evil doers is sweet indeed, for they that fear God shall of a truth have no lack.
30. The just shall never be moved; but the wicked shall not stand in judgment.
31. The righteous Lord will not cast off His people, nor forsake His inheritance.
I hope you enjoy listening to this audio clip and reflecting on the wisdom of Proverbs 21!
Another great reference!
Proverbs 21:1 in the King James Version (KJV) reads:
"The king's heart is in his hand, even as the rivers of waters, whithersoever he will."
This proverb highlights the incredible power and sovereignty of a ruler, comparing their authority to the control a person has over water. Just as one can direct a river to flow in various directions, so too can a king shape the direction of his kingdom.
In essence, this proverb emphasizes that:
1. **The king's will is supreme**: The king's decisions and actions are not bound by external constraints; they have complete autonomy.
2. **Human nature is malleable**: Just as water can be diverted or channeled in various ways, human hearts (or motivations) can be influenced and directed by a wise and just ruler.
3. **Responsibility accompanies power**: With great authority comes the duty to make wise and just decisions, just like a king must carefully manage the flow of water.
This proverb serves as a reminder of the importance of wise leadership, accountability, and the impact of individual choices on the world around us.
A great choice!
Proverbs 21 is a chapter that offers many insightful sayings and wisdom from King Solomon. Here's a brief commentary on each verse:
**Proverbs 21:1-6**: The first six verses of this chapter are a collection of proverbs that highlight the consequences of our choices. Verse 1 says, "The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He pleases." This verse reminds us that God has a sovereign role in shaping the hearts and decisions of kings (and leaders). The next few verses emphasize that our choices have consequences. For example, verse 2 says, "Every one who is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord; Though handed peaceably he shall not possess it." This proverb warns against pride and self-importance.
**Proverbs 21:7-12**: These verses offer some practical wisdom for living a righteous life. Verse 8 says, "The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination: but the prayer of the upright is acceptable." This verse highlights the importance of our motivations and intentions in our actions. The next few verses emphasize the value of humility, diligence, and kindness (e.g., verse 12, "It is a trap for every one who does not hate his soul; He will keep his soul from poverty").
**Proverbs 21:13-25**: The second half of this chapter deals with various aspects of life, including wealth, poverty, wisdom, and foolishness. Verse 16 says, "The wise will inherit glory; But shame will be the legacy of fools." This proverb highlights the importance of wisdom in achieving lasting success.
Some key takeaways from Proverbs 21:
1. **Consequences matter**: Our choices have consequences, both positive and negative.
2. **God is sovereign**: God has a role in shaping our hearts and decisions, including those of leaders (verse 1).
3. **Pride is a major obstacle**: Pride can lead to destruction, as seen in verse 4 ("Haughty eyes presume arrogance").
4. **Wisdom is key**: Wisdom is essential for living a righteous life, achieving success, and avoiding shame.
5. **Humility is vital**: A humble heart is crucial for maintaining good relationships and achieving lasting success (e.g., verse 22, "A wise king will not oppress his people").
Overall, Proverbs 21 offers practical wisdom for navigating the complexities of life. It reminds us that our choices have consequences, and that humility, diligence, and kindness are essential for achieving success and living a righteous life.