Relating To Other People

Proverbs 18:13-24

“He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.” (Proverbs 18:13)

It is stupid to make decisions without knowing the facts, and almost always results in our being embarrassed by the results.   Few decisions are so urgent that time can’t be taken to find out what is needed, and if they are, you definitely will not have time to correct things if your decision is wrong.   

“The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?” (Proverbs 18:14)

A person can live with almost any physical injury or illness, as demonstrated by many who return from service in the Middle East.  Those who become depressed or suffer PTSD often find it harder to live with than those with even life threatening injuries. 

  

“The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.” (Proverbs 18:15)

Careful, thoughtful and wise people are constantly learning new things wherever they can. 

“A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.” (Proverbs 18:16)

Gifts get people’s attention and open doors that would not otherwise be opened.  They can give great opportunities, but they can also cause a lot of trouble, especially when viewed as a bribe.

He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.” (Proverbs 18:17)

When a person presents their case they try to make it sound valid and fair, but people who live close by will check out the facts before they decide.   They don’t want to make a foolish decision they will regret later.   Being neighbors they can’t easily escape the consequences. 

“The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty.” (Proverbs 18:18)

Agreeing to accept an unbiased decision, even if it is made by flipping a coin can settle an argument and prevent fighting. 

“A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.” (Proverbs 18:19)

Hurt feelings are hard to overcome, and the person whose feelings were hurt is hard to mollify and win back. 

“A man's belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.   Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” (Proverbs 18:20-21)

A person will have to live with the consequences of what he says.    If it was only empty talk, he may get pretty hungry, but if it led to something good, it may be really satisfying.  The tongue can cause a person to be killed or can cause him to be richly blessed and protected.    

“Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD. “ (Proverbs 18:22)

A wife or helpmeet is one who helps one both physically and emotionally.  A man who finds such a woman is blessed by God and has something worth keeping. 

“The poor useth entreaties; but the rich answereth roughly.” (Proverbs 18:23)

Poor people have to use good manners and ask nicely, but rich people can get by with being rude and abusive because they don’t need the help. 

“A man that hath friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” (Proverbs 18:24)

A friendly attitude is essential if a person is to make friends.   Nobody wants to be friends with somebody who is selfish and rude.  A close friend can be even closer that one’s own brother or sister.  Most school shootings have been by kids who avoided other people and complained that they didn’t have any friends.  Too bad someone didn’t teach them how to be friendly.