15 Wise men and women are always learning, always listening for fresh insights.
16 A gift gets attention; it buys the attention of eminent people.
17 The first speech in a court case is always convincing - until the cross-examination starts!
18 You may have to draw straws when faced with a tough decision.
19 Do a favor and win a friend forever; nothing can untie that bond.
20 Words satisfy the mind as much as fruit does the stomach; good talk is as gratifying as a good harvest.
21 Words kill, words give life; they're either poison or fruit - you choose.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 18:15-21
Commentary on Proverbs 18:15
(Read Proverbs 18:15)
We must get knowledge, not only into our heads, but into our hearts.
Commentary on Proverbs 18:16
(Read Proverbs 18:16)
Blessed be the Lord, who makes us welcome to come to his throne, without money and without price. May his gifts make room for him in our souls.
Commentary on Proverbs 18:17
(Read Proverbs 18:17)
It is well to listen to our enemies, that we may form a better judgment of ourselves.
Commentary on Proverbs 18:18
(Read Proverbs 18:18)
It was customary sometimes to refer matters to God, by casting lots, with solemn prayer. The profaning the lot, by using it in matters of diversion, or coveting what belongs to others, forms an objection to this now.
Commentary on Proverbs 18:19
(Read Proverbs 18:19)
Great care must be taken to prevent quarrels among relations and those under obligations to each other. Wisdom and grace make it easy to forgive; but corruption makes it difficult.
Commentary on Proverbs 18:20
(Read Proverbs 18:20)
The belly is here put for the heart, as elsewhere; and what that is filled with, our satisfaction will be accordingly, and our inward peace.
Commentary on Proverbs 18:21
(Read Proverbs 18:21)
Many a one has caused his own death, or the death of others, by a false or injurious tongue.