Proverbs 17:1-28

Proverbs 17:1‑28
Listen from:
3.“The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the Lord trieth the hearts.” The art of man hath found out means to prove whether gold and silver be pure or no; but none can search into the secret thoughts, designs and inclinations of men’s Souls, but the Lord: who (as those metals are tried by fire) many times proves and discovers what they are by sharp afflictions and troubles.
8. “A gift is as a precious stone in the eyes of him that hath it: whithersoever it turneth, it prospereth.” A gift is so tempting that it can no more be refused, than a lovely Jewel by him to whom it is presented: and such is its power, it commonly prevails over all men, dispatches all business, carries all causes; and, in a word, effects whatsoever a man desires.
14. “The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.” When men begin a quarrel or a difference they know not where it will end: For the very first breach is like cutting the banks of a river; which presently overflows the neighboring grounds, but cannot easily be reduced into its bounds again. It is best therefore to make peace immediately, before both parties be involved in such troubles, as, like a deluge of water, lay all desolate.
17. “A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” Time makes proof of a Friend; who, if he be sincere, loves not merely for a fit, nor alters with the change of one’s condition: but continues steadfast in adversity, as well as in prosperity; nay, in straits and distresses, shows himself more like a Brother than a Friend.
28. “Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips, is esteemed a man of understanding.” Such a vertue it is to be silent, that he who understands nothing is deemed wise, as long as he holds his peace: and he whose mind hath such power over his mouth, as to keep it shut, that nothing may suddenly and impetuously go out, is wise indeed.