Proverbs 22:1-16 [Part 3 of 3]
:: Words of Wisdom ::
A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches,
and favor is better than silver or gold.
2 The rich and the poor meet together;
the Lord is the Maker of them all.
3 The prudent sees danger and hides himself,
but the simple go on and suffer for it.
4 The reward for humility and fear of the Lord
is riches and honor and life.
5 Thorns and snares are in the way of the crooked;
whoever guards his soul will keep far from them.
6 Train up a child in the way he should go;
even when he is old he will not depart from it.
7 The rich rules over the poor,
and the borrower is the slave of the lender.
8 Whoever sows injustice will reap calamity,
and the rod of his fury will fail.
9 Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed,
for he shares his bread with the poor.
10 Drive out a scoffer, and strife will go out,
and quarreling and abuse will cease.
11 He who loves purity of heart,
and whose speech is gracious, will have the king as his friend.
12 The eyes of the Lord keep watch over knowledge,
but he overthrows the words of the traitor.
13 The sluggard says, “There is a lion outside!
I shall be killed in the streets!”
14 The mouth of forbidden women is a deep pit;
he with whom the Lord is angry will fall into it.
15 Folly is bound up in the heart of a child,
but the rod of discipline drives it far from him.
16 Whoever oppresses the poor to increase his own wealth,
or gives to the rich, will only come to poverty.
:: Proverbs 22:1 16 :: Part 3 of 3 ::
:: Proverbs 22:1 16 :: Part 3 of 3 ::
“He who loves purity of heart and whose speech is gracious, will have the king as his friend.” - Proverbs 22:11
Proverbs 22:11 states, "He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious will have the king for his friend." This verse highlights the importance of inner purity and graciousness in one's speech. A pure heart reflects sincerity and integrity, while gracious speech fosters positive relationships and respect. The "king" symbolizes authority and influence, suggesting that those who embody these qualities earn favor not only from earthly rulers but also from God. This passage teaches that a character shaped by purity and kindness builds strong, trustworthy connections, which lead to meaningful opportunities and relationships in life.
What are some current day examples of “pure hearts and gracious speech”?
Current-day examples of “pure hearts and gracious speech” can be seen in individuals who lead with kindness, humility, and integrity, both in their personal and professional lives. Here are a few examples:
Community Leaders – Local leaders or activists who dedicate themselves to the well-being of their communities, speaking with empathy and offering solutions to improve lives, often without seeking personal gain.
Public Figures Advocating for Justice – Celebrities or public figures using their platforms for positive causes, speaking out for social justice, and advocating for those without a voice with humility and respect.
Educators and Mentors – Teachers and mentors who not only impart knowledge but also encourage students with kindness and understanding, fostering an environment where all feel valued and heard.
Healthcare Workers – Doctors, nurses, and caregivers who treat patients with genuine care and empathy, showing grace in times of hardship, and offering comforting words even in difficult situations.
Faith Leaders – Pastors, priests, and religious leaders who speak with grace and compassion, inspiring their congregations to lead lives of faith, integrity, and love.
These individuals embody "pure hearts" by acting out of genuine concern for others and "gracious speech" through words that uplift, encourage, and promote peace.
“He who loves purity of heart and whose speech is gracious, will have the king as his friend.”
“He who loves purity of heart and whose speech is gracious, will have the king as his friend.”
:: Prayer ::
Heavenly Father,
We come before You with humble hearts, grateful for Your wisdom and guidance. As we reflect on the teachings of Proverbs 22, we ask for Your help in applying these truths to our lives.
Lord, help us to value a good name and Your favor above earthly riches. Remind us that true wealth lies in our character and our relationship with You.
Grant us the wisdom to see all people as Your creation, regardless of their social status. May we treat both rich and poor with equal dignity and respect.
Give us the foresight to avoid danger and the prudence to make wise decisions. Help us to walk in humility and to fear You, for these are the path to life, honor, and true riches.
Father, guide us in raising our children. May we train them in the way they should go, disciplining them with love and wisdom.
Protect us from the pitfalls of debt and teach us to be generous to those in need. Let our hearts be pure and our speech gracious, that we may have the love of knowledge and find favor in Your sight.
Keep us from laziness and excuses. Instead, instill in us a strong work ethic and a desire to serve others.
Lord, guard our hearts against temptation and help us to stay on the straight path. May we never oppress the poor or show favoritism to the rich, but always seek justice and mercy.
We ask all this in Your holy name,
Amen.
Remember
“He who loves purity of heart and whose speech is gracious, will have the king as his friend.”
Never forget
“Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him.”
Amen
“Whoever oppresses the poor to increase his own wealth, or gives to the rich, will only come to poverty.”
Ask Proverbs 22:11-16 Questions of Your Own
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