Proverbs 15:1-2
The Voice
15 A tender answer turns away rage,
but a prickly reply spikes anger.
2 The words of the wise extend knowledge,
but foolish people utter nonsense.
Proverbs 15:4
The Voice
4 A word of encouragement heals the one who receives it,
but a deceitful word breaks the spirit.
Proverbs 15:7
The Voice
7 When the wise speak, knowledge spreads far and wide,
but fools care nothing about such matters.
Proverbs 15:23
The Voice
23 There is great joy in having the right answer,
and how sweet is the right word at the right time!
Proverbs 15:26
The Voice
It is ironic that we may have more to fear from the proud and powerful than from the poor and needy. Those who have want more, and so they take it. Oh, maybe they won’t pick your pocket or break into your home. Their ways are more subtle and more effective. As James, Jesus’ brother, wrote, “Isn’t it the rich who step on you while climbing the ladder of success? And isn’t it the rich who take advantage of you and drag you into court?” (James 2:6b). James isn’t describing all the rich, of course, but many have made their fortunes off the backs of others. God is the One who can protect the poor, the One who can reduce the grand houses of the haughty to splinters.
26 The thoughts of the wrongdoers repulse the Eternal,
but kind words are pure pleasure for Him.
The Voice Bible Copyright © 2012 Thomas Nelson, Inc. The Voice™ translation © 2012 Ecclesia Bible Society All rights reserved.
