Definition: Wine [is] a mocker, strong drink [is] raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this biblical verse! It's a really important one about how we should use our choices and decisions. Here’s what it means in plain language: Basically, the verse is saying that relying on wrong or foolish things – like excessive alcohol – can actually make you less wise. Let’s break down each part: “Proverbs 20:1” : This is the title of the verse. It's a proverb, which means it’s a short saying that offers a general truth about life. “Wine [is] a mocker…” : This describes wine – it’s a drink often associated with celebration and pleasure. But the verse says it’s a “mocker.” A mocker is someone who repeats what they've heard, often without understanding its meaning. “…strong drink [is] raging…” : This means that drinking too much of this kind of drink – or relying on something that isn't good for you – can be destructive and chaotic. It’s like a fire that’s out of control. “and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.” : This is the core message. If you rely on something that leads to foolishness, you won’t be wise. Wisdom comes from understanding things correctly – from making good choices based on truth and knowledge. In a nutshell: Don't chase after things that promise pleasure but ultimately lead to problems or bad decisions. Seek wisdom through honest thought, truthful understanding, and good judgment. Why is this important? Proverbs 20:1 encourages us to be mindful of our choices and to prioritize wise decisions over impulsive ones. It’s a reminder that true happiness and fulfillment come from living a life guided by truth and reason. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this verse in a specific context (like relationships, work, or personal growth)?

Definition: Divers weights, [and] divers measures, both of them [are] alike abomination to the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and insightful verse from Proverbs 20:10. It's a really profound statement about how we should treat God and what He values. Here’s a simple explanation in plain language: Basically, it means: "When you approach God with respect and care, showing Him your best efforts and understanding, He will appreciate that. Let’s unpack it further: “Divers weights…” : This refers to different ways of doing things – different approaches, methods, or even different opinions. It's like having various tools for a job; each tool can be used effectively depending on the situation. “…and divers measures…” : This represents different ways of approaching God – prayer, worship, obedience, and living righteously. “[are] alike abomination to the LORD” : This is the crucial part! "Abomination" means something that is deeply disliked or repulsive. So, when you approach God with respect, care, and sincerity, your actions, thoughts, and intentions are seen as a sign of disrespect, not a blessing. It's like a foul smell – it’s not welcome, it’s not good. In simpler terms: Treating God with reverence and sincerity is the best way to show Him love and honor. It’s more valuable than any other method or approach. Why is this important? Proverbs 20:10 encourages us to be mindful of how we interact with God – to strive for a relationship that reflects His goodness and respect. It suggests that genuine worship and obedience are far more meaningful than simply doing things "right" according to our own desires. Does this have any practical implications? Be Humble: Recognize that you're dealing with a powerful and loving being. Show Respect: Treat others with kindness and consideration, just as God treats us. Live Righteously: Make choices that align with His values – honesty, compassion, justice. Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how to live this principle in your own life?

Definition: Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work [be] pure, and whether [it be] right.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Proverbs 20:11. It’s a really insightful message about how we understand ourselves and our potential. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it's saying that your actions – what you do – are more important than your qualifications or accomplishments. Let's unpack it further: “Even a child is known by his doings…” This means that even the smallest actions we take – our habits, our behavior, how we treat others – they tell us something about who we are. Just like a child learns through their actions, we learn about ourselves through our deeds. “…whether his work [be] pure, and whether [it be] right.” This is the key part. “Work” here refers to your character – your moral principles, your integrity, your honesty, your kindness, etc. “Pure” means good and without sin, and “right” means in accordance with God's standards. So, what does it mean practically? It’s a reminder that we are not defined solely by our intelligence or accomplishments. Our character – the way we treat others, how we act morally – is far more important. The message is this: Be mindful of your actions. Think about how you live your life, not just what you achieve. Live a righteous life. Strive to do good, be honest, and treat others with kindness. Your character will ultimately reveal who you are. In short, Proverbs 20:11 encourages us to focus on our moral character – it’s the foundation of our lives. --- Do you want me to explain any aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Give examples of how your actions reflect your character? Talk about the importance of integrity?

Definition: The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the LORD hath made even both of them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Proverbs 20:12: “The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the LORD hath made even both of them.” Essentially, it means that God has a plan for everyone, and He wants us to be able to understand and appreciate His guidance. Here's a more detailed explanation: “The hearing ear…” – This refers to our ability to listen carefully. It suggests we need to be open to wisdom, understanding, and truth. It’s about hearing God’s message, even when it’s not immediately obvious. “…and the seeing eye…” – This represents our ability to see things clearly. It means we need to have a good mind, a clear vision, and the ability to recognize what is right and wrong. It's about seeing God’s truth and recognizing it for what it is. “The LORD hath made even both of them.” – This is the really important part! It means that God has orchestrated everything in our lives, including our opportunities to learn, grow, and understand Him. He's given us both the ability to hear and see, and He’s intentionally placed them together so we can benefit from both. So, it’s a message of blessing! It suggests that God wants us to be wise, thoughtful, and open to His guidance. He's not just giving us opportunities; He’s creating those opportunities for us to grow into the best versions of ourselves. Think of it this way: God’s plan is like a perfectly crafted puzzle. He has all the pieces – our potential, our experiences, and our circumstances – but He also wants us to be able to see how they fit together and understand His design. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the meaning of this verse in a specific context (like relationships or decision-making)?

Definition: Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty; open thine eyes, [and] thou shalt be satisfied with bread.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and insightful verse from Proverbs 20:13. It’s a really powerful message about living a fulfilling life. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Don’t waste your life waiting for things to magically improve – don't become complacent or stagnant. Instead, actively seek out happiness and contentment through effort and responsibility. Let's unpack each part: “Love not sleep…” - This isn’t about laziness. It means don’t give up on your dreams, goals, or ambitions . Don't become complacent with a life that feels dull or unfulfilled. It’s about maintaining a sense of purpose and striving for something more. “…lest thou come to poverty…” - This is the warning. If you stop working, don't pursue your passions, and don't take responsibility for your life, you risk falling into a situation where you lack resources (financial stability, opportunities) and are left with nothing. It’s about avoiding a bleak future. “…open thine eyes…” - This is the key instruction. It means be aware of what truly matters . It's not enough to simply exist; you need to be actively engaged in life and seeking your own well-being. You need to see what’s important to you. “[and] thou shalt be satisfied with bread.” - This isn’t about material comfort. It means finding contentment and satisfaction through practical things – simple needs, a steady job, a healthy lifestyle, and the rewards of honest work. It suggests that true happiness isn't found in extravagant wealth, but in what you have and how you use your time and talents. In short: The verse is telling us to be proactive, diligent, and focused on building a life that’s worth living – not just passively waiting for things to improve. It encourages taking responsibility and actively seeking out opportunities to grow and prosper. Think of it like this: Don't just drift aimlessly through life; actively build your life with purpose and effort. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Give you some examples of how this principle applies to everyday life?

Definition: [It is] naught, [it is] naught, saith the buyer: but when he is gone his way, then he boasteth.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this beautiful and slightly mysterious passage from Proverbs 20:14. It’s a really poetic statement about pride and its consequences. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: “It is naught, naught…” : This part sets up a warning – it's a simple truth. It’s saying that boasting or being proud is nothing . It’s like saying something is empty and meaningless. “… saith the buyer:” : This is a very Old English style of speaking, meaning "it is said by the buyer." It's like a wise old man offering a warning – he’s seen this before. “but when he is gone his way…” : This is the key part. The proverb continues: "But when he is gone his way..." – meaning when someone starts boasting or showing off, that’s when they begin to feel proud . What it means in practical terms: The verse suggests that our pride can become a problem for us. It's like this: Pride clouds your judgment: When you're feeling boastful, you might not think clearly or consider the consequences of your actions. Pride leads to problems: When you’re focused on yourself and your accomplishments, you’re more likely to make mistakes, hurt others, or fail in the long run. It’s a fleeting feeling: The proverb emphasizes that boasting is temporary . It's like a bubble – it pops when someone else starts to focus on something else. In essence, Proverbs 20:14 encourages humility and a focus on serving others rather than boasting about yourself. It’s a reminder that true worth isn’t found in our accomplishments but in how we treat others. Let's summarize it like this: “Don't let your pride grow too big. It will eventually cause problems, but when you are gone, your boastfulness is revealed and can lead to trouble.” --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Give an example of how this proverb applies in everyday life?

Definition: There is gold, and a multitude of rubies: but the lips of knowledge [are] a precious jewel.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this beautiful verse from Proverbs 20:15. It’s a really poetic and insightful statement about valuing wisdom and understanding. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, the verse is saying that true wealth – lasting value and success – isn’t just about material things like gold or jewels. It highlights the importance of knowledge as being far more valuable than any physical treasure. Let's unpack it a bit: “There is gold, and a multitude of rubies…” - This part acknowledges that we can have plenty of wealth – lots of riches. It’s about having abundance. “…but the lips of knowledge [are] a precious jewel.” – This is the key part! The verse uses a metaphor. “Lips” represent wisdom, understanding, and knowledge. "A precious jewel" means that knowledge is truly valuable, rare, and irreplaceable. It's something you can’t simply get or gain . So, the whole message is: True wealth isn’t about accumulating things; it’s about cultivating your mind and learning to understand the world around you. It suggests that wisdom – achieved through knowledge and understanding – is far more valuable and fulfilling than any material possessions. In a nutshell, Proverbs 20:15 encourages us to prioritize learning and wisdom because they are the keys to lasting happiness and success. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the meaning of this verse in a specific context (like its role in life lessons)?

Definition: Take his garment that is surety [for] a stranger: and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Proverbs 20:16. It's a bit poetic, but it has a really important message about carefulness and responsibility. Here's the simple explanation: Basically, it means: Don’t be careless with your commitments or promises – especially when you’re dealing with someone unfamiliar or vulnerable. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Take his garment that is surety” : This refers to a promise, a pledge, or an oath. Think of it like a sign of trust and commitment. “…for a stranger” : This highlights the importance of treating others with respect and consideration, especially those you don’t know well. “and take a pledge of him for a strange woman” : This is the crucial part! It means to make a formal agreement or promise with someone unfamiliar – someone who isn't your close friend or trusted companion. It implies that this person is potentially vulnerable or in need of protection. What does it mean practically? The verse suggests that we should be cautious and deliberate when making agreements with people we don’t know well, especially those who might be relying on us. It’s a warning against being hasty or giving away too much trust without careful consideration. It encourages thoughtfulness and responsibility in our interactions. In short, it's a reminder to be mindful of the people we are committing to and to treat them with respect. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger book of Proverbs?

Definition: Bread of deceit [is] sweet to a man; but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this proverb from Proverbs 20:17. It's a really insightful and slightly cautionary message about the dangers of focusing on short-term rewards over long-term thinking and integrity. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that things that seem good now might actually lead to problems down the road. Let’s unpack each part: “Bread of deceit”: This refers to something that is tempting but ultimately harmful. It’s like a sugary treat – initially pleasing, but eventually makes you feel sick and uncomfortable. It represents actions or choices that are designed to look good in the moment but have negative consequences. “Is sweet to a man”: This means it's enjoyable and rewarding for the person doing it . It’s attractive and appealing. “But afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel.” This is the key part! The sweetness fades away when you realize the consequences are coming. “Gravel” represents a sense of guilt, shame, regret, or discomfort. It's the unpleasant feeling that arises when you’ve made a mistake or acted dishonestly. So, what does this mean practically? It warns us against: Short-sightedness: Focusing on immediate gains without considering the long-term impact of our actions. Greed and Materialism: Being tempted by things that seem good now but ultimately lead to unhappiness or loss (like wealth, status, or possessions). Dishonesty and Deceit: Seeking rewards through trickery or misleading behavior – because those are temporary and can cause lasting damage. In essence, the verse is a call to prioritize integrity, honesty, and wisdom over immediate gratification. It encourages us to think beyond what seems immediately pleasurable and consider the potential consequences of our choices. Do you want me to elaborate on any specific aspect of this verse or provide an example? For instance, we could discuss: What kinds of things might be considered "bread of deceit"? How does this relate to ethical decision-making?

Definition: [Every] purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this biblical verse! It’s a really powerful and insightful one about life and how we should approach things. Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, it says that: “Every” purpose is established by counsel: This means that everything we do, everything we decide to do, has a reason or plan behind it. It's not random; there’s a guiding principle or direction. “With good advice make war”: This is the really important part. It suggests that when we’re making big decisions – whether it’s choosing a career, starting a business, or even just how to treat someone – it's best and often necessary to get advice from wise people. “Make war” isn’t necessarily about fighting physically; it means making a thoughtful and strategic choice. Let’s unpack that a little further: Counsel is key: “Good advice” refers to wisdom, understanding, and guidance. It's about knowing what's right and avoiding mistakes. Strategic Thinking: Proverbs emphasizes the idea that we need to think carefully before acting or making decisions. In a nutshell, the verse encourages us to be thoughtful and wise in our choices, especially when facing important decisions. It’s saying that sometimes, it’s better to seek guidance from those who have experience and knowledge than to go it alone. Think of it like this: You're planning a big adventure – you wouldn't just jump in without thinking about the route or potential challenges, right? Proverbs is telling us to do the same with our lives! --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Proverbs? Discuss the meaning of this verse within a specific context (like relationships, career, etc.)?