Definition: Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh [and] intermeddleth with all wisdom.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this proverb from Proverbs 18:1 – it’s a really insightful message about how we approach life and achieving our goals. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that we need to be motivated by a desire to do good, but we also need to use our intelligence and thoughtful planning to achieve what we want. It's not enough to just want something; you need to actively work towards it with careful consideration. Let’s unpack the parts: “Through desire…” : This means that a strong feeling of wanting something – a goal, a reward, or even a purpose – is the starting point. It's a natural human inclination. “…having separated himself…” : “Separated” means to focus your attention and energy on a particular thing. It suggests we’re not just passively drifting; we’re consciously choosing a path. “Seeketh [and] intermeddleth with all wisdom.” : This is the crucial part. "Seeketh" means looking for something, trying to find it. “Intermeddleth” means to deal with it carefully and thoughtfully – to use your mind to guide your actions. Putting it Together: The verse suggests that true success isn’t just about wanting something; it’s about actively working towards it, using your intelligence and planning to make a good choice. It's about being thoughtful and deliberate in pursuing your goals, rather than impulsively acting. It highlights the importance of wisdom – knowing what you want and how to get there - as a key ingredient for achieving success. In short: It’s a reminder that desire is important, but it needs to be combined with careful thought and action to reach your desired outcomes. --- Would you like me to: Explain another verse from Proverbs? Discuss the meaning of this proverb in a specific context (e.g., career, relationships)?

Definition: The name of the LORD [is] a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this beautiful verse from Proverbs 18:10. It’s really about the importance of recognizing and trusting in God! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that God’s name – His name is powerful and safe. Let's unpack that a little bit: “The name of the LORD…” This refers to God, the creator and ruler of everything. It’s a very special and important word. “…is a strong tower.” A tower is a sturdy structure built to protect something valuable. So, God's name is like a protective and secure foundation. “The righteous runneth into it…” "Righteous" means honest, just, and morally good. When someone is righteous, they’re walking in God’s path – doing what’s right and following His rules. They’re running into the tower of God's goodness. “…and is safe.” This means that when you trust in God and live a righteous life, you’re protected from harm and are secure in knowing He’s with you. In essence, the verse encourages us to: Trust in God: Don’t rely on anything else – your own strength or abilities – because it's ultimately based on God’s goodness. Live a good life: Being righteous and following His laws brings safety and security for yourself and others. It’s a reminder that God is the ultimate source of protection and stability. --- Do you want me to: Explain it in more detail? Give you some examples of how this verse applies to your life?

Definition: The rich man’s wealth [is] his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Proverbs 18:11. It's a really interesting idea about wealth – it’s not just about having lots of money, but how that money shapes your life and perspective. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Think of it like this: A rich man’s wealth is actually his own security . It’s like a strong, fortified city – that’s the wealth itself. But if he’s too proud and thinks his wealth is his alone, it becomes a wall, protecting him but also keeping him isolated and vulnerable. Let's unpack it further: “The rich man’s wealth [is] his strong city…” : This isn’t just about having lots of money; it’s about the quality of that money – its security and protection. "...and as an high wall in his own conceit." This is the key part! “Conceit” means pride, arrogance, or self-importance. So, the rich man's wealth becomes a wall because he’s so focused on himself and how much he has, that he builds a barrier around it. It keeps him from seeing the world with humility and understanding. So, what does this mean for us? It suggests that true happiness and fulfillment aren't found in accumulating wealth, but in: Humility: Recognizing you’re not the center of the universe. Generosity: Focusing on helping others rather than just your own gain. Wisdom: Understanding that true strength comes from inner peace and good character, not just material possessions. In short, Proverbs 18:11 is a warning against pride – urging us to be grounded in our values and focus on what truly matters beyond wealth. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the broader meaning of this concept? Give some real-life examples related to humility or generosity?

Definition: Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour [is] humility.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Proverbs 18:12. It's a really insightful statement about human behavior and how we should strive for good things. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse basically says that before people become arrogant or boastful, they need to be humble. It suggests that pride and self-importance can lead to disaster – both personal and societal. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Before destruction the heart of man is haughty…” "Destruction" in this context doesn’t mean literal destruction like a fire or earthquake. It refers to something worse – a downfall, failure, or a loss of what’s important. "Haughty" means puffed up with pride and self-importance. “…and before honour [is] humility.” “Honour” represents respect, dignity, good standing, and being worthy of praise. “Humility” is the opposite – a gentle spirit, lowliness, and recognizing your place in the world. What does this mean practically? It’s telling us to: Be humble: Don't act like you think you're better than everyone else. Don't brag or show off. Avoid arrogance: Recognize that you don’t know everything and be open to learning from others. Recognize your worth: Understand that you are valuable, regardless of your accomplishments or status. The Bigger Picture (a little deeper): This verse isn't just about avoiding pride. It suggests that a healthy spirit is essential for a good life. Pride can lead to bad decisions, selfishness, and ultimately, problems. Humility allows us to listen to others, learn from their experiences, and make better choices. In short, Proverbs 18:12 encourages us to be gentle, modest, and respectful – qualities that will protect us from disaster. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give a little context about the story behind this proverb? Discuss how this verse applies to modern life?

Definition: He that answereth a matter before he heareth [it], it [is] folly and shame unto him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Proverbs 18:13: “He who answers a matter before he heareth [it], it is folly and shame unto him.” Here's what it means in simpler terms: Think of it like this: It’s better to think things through before you act. It’s wiser to consider the consequences of your actions rather than rushing into them without thinking. Let’s unpack each part: “He who answers a matter before he heareth [it]” : This means someone is making a decision or taking action without first carefully considering it. They're jumping in without weighing the potential outcomes. It’s like trying to build a house without laying a foundation – it’s unstable! “it is folly and shame unto him” : This highlights the negative consequences of this behavior. It means it’s foolish, embarrassing, and bad for their reputation or future prospects. In essence, the verse is a warning against rash decisions. It emphasizes the importance of prudence, careful consideration, and waiting before taking action to avoid mistakes and potential harm. Think of it as a gentle nudge: Don't act without thinking! --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Give you some examples of how this principle applies in everyday life?

Definition: The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and insightful verse from Proverbs 18:14. It's a really profound statement about resilience and hope. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that your spirit – your attitude, your emotional state – is much more important than your physical health or any specific misfortune. It suggests that when you're struggling with hardship, your inner strength and outlook will help you get through it. However, if you’re carrying a wounded or damaged spirit (like grief, anger, sadness), it's incredibly difficult to cope and heal. Let's unpack it further: “The spirit of a man…” – This refers to your emotional nature, your character, and how you react to life’s challenges. “…will sustain his infirmity…” - "Infection" or “ infirmity” means suffering, hardship, or illness – essentially anything that weakens you. This part emphasizes that you are vulnerable to negative emotions. “But a wounded spirit who can bear?” – This is the crucial part! It highlights the power of hope and resilience. It’s saying that if you have a good, hopeful spirit, you're better equipped to handle difficulties than someone with a damaged or pessimistic one. A wounded spirit can endure, even when things are tough, because it has something inside to hold onto. In essence, the verse is advocating for: Positive Attitude: Focus on hope and optimism. Self-Care: Take care of your emotional well-being – seek support if needed, practice self-compassion. Resilience: Develop the ability to bounce back from setbacks and difficult times. Why is this a powerful message? It’s about recognizing that our mental state has a huge impact on how we respond to life's challenges. It's a reminder that strength isn't just about physical health, but also about how we feel internally. --- Would you like me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of ways to cultivate a “wounded spirit” (and perhaps offer some helpful advice)?

Definition: The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Proverbs 18:15: “The heart of the prudent gets knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.” Here's what it means in simpler terms: “The heart of the prudent…” – This refers to a person who is thoughtful, wise, and makes good decisions. "Heart" here represents your mind and understanding. “…gets knowledge…” - This means they learn and gain wisdom. It’s about developing an understanding of things. “And the ear of the wise seeks knowledge…” – This highlights that those who are thoughtful and wise actively look for information, understand things better, and aren't just passively accepting things. They are curious and driven to learn. Essentially, it’s saying: Wisdom is about learning. It’s not just knowing facts, but understanding the why behind them and being able to apply that knowledge effectively. Intelligence is about seeking out knowledge. It's a proactive pursuit of understanding – constantly asking questions and exploring new ideas. In short, it’s encouraging us to be thoughtful, curious, and always striving to learn more. What do you think? Does this explanation make sense? Would you like me to: Explain another verse in Proverbs? Discuss the importance of wisdom and knowledge in a broader context?

Definition: A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Proverbs 18:16: “A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.” Here's a simplified explanation: Essentially, it means that when someone is given opportunity, good things, or a chance to grow, they become valuable and are recognized as important. Let’s unpack it further: “A man’s gift maketh room for him…” – This refers to a person's talents, abilities, skills, or blessings. Think of it like a space in your life that’s being filled with something positive. “…and bringeth him before great men.” – This is the key part. It means that when someone has these gifts and opportunities, they are noticed, appreciated, and elevated to a higher level or position. They're brought into contact with people who are influential, respected, or successful in their field. Think of it like this: Imagine you’re planting a seed. The seed itself is just a tiny thing – it doesn’t have much power yet. But when you give it the right conditions (sunlight, water, soil), it grows into something amazing! That's what this verse is about – allowing someone to grow and flourish through opportunity. In short, it emphasizes that good things lead to recognition and advancement. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of the verse in more detail? Give you an example of how this principle applies in real life?

Definition: [He that is] first in his own cause [seemeth] just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this proverb from Proverbs 18:17. It’s a really wise saying about how we treat others and the impact it has on our own standing. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it means that while you might appear to be doing something right or good on your own, your actions are often judged more harshly by those around you. Let’s unpack it a little: “He who is first in his own cause…” : This refers to someone who is taking pride in their own accomplishments, talents, or status. They're perhaps bragging about something they’ve achieved. It suggests a sense of self-importance. “…seemeth” : This part highlights that it looks like they are being good or righteous. They might be helpful, kind, and honest – things we often associate with goodness. “But his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.” : This is the key part! When someone else comes to you (or to a situation where you're involved) and searches for something wrong or difficult, it reveals that they are looking for fault. They’re actively trying to find weaknesses in what you've done. In short, it’s about responsibility. It’s good to be proud of yourself, but it’s crucial to be mindful of how your actions affect others. Why is this important? This proverb encourages us to: Be humble: Don't boast or act superior. Think before you act: Consider the impact your choices will have on others. Practice kindness and empathy: Genuine goodness often shines through, even when we make mistakes. Does this mean you always need to be careful? Not necessarily! It means that while it's good to strive for integrity, it’s important to be aware of the potential consequences of your behavior on others. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Proverbs? Discuss how this proverb applies to a specific situation you have in mind?

Definition: The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Proverbs 18:18. It's a really wise saying about how we can create peace and harmony! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, this verse says that when people work together and don’t argue or cause trouble, things will settle down and become peaceful. Let’s unpack it a little further: “The lot causeth contentions to cease” : "Lot" is a metaphor for a situation – maybe a disagreement, conflict, or struggle. "Causes" means causes or brings about. So this part says that these kinds of situations stop happening. It’s like a ripple effect – when things are peaceful, they don't keep growing and causing problems. “And parteth between the mighty” : “Parteth” means to divide or separate. "Between the mighty" refers to powerful people, leaders, or those who have influence. This part suggests that these peaceful situations will naturally create a separation – a division – where they can work together and understand each other better. So, putting it all together: It’s saying that when we foster cooperation, understanding, and good relationships between people, especially those in positions of power or influence, it creates an environment where conflict will lessen and things will be more balanced. In a nutshell, the verse encourages us to build strong relationships – because peaceful relationships lead to peace. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Give you a real-life example of how this principle applies? Discuss the deeper meaning behind it (beyond just conflict resolution)?