Proverbs 11:5

Solomon compares life to a journey. We must be honest. Then we will be like travellers who walk along good paths. We shall take the correct route to heaven. This is a good, straight path. It does not bend into dangerous places. We shall not lose our way.

Verse 6 We have a simple choice. We can choose to do good things. Or we can choose to do evil things. We can choose to do the right things. Or we can choose to do the wrong things. We can choose freedom, or prison.

The decision to obey God is also a simple choice. A wise person invites God into his life. This person loves God, and God looks after him. But a foolish person will not listen to God’s wisdom.

v7 When an evil man dies, he loses everything.

His best hopes achieved nothing.

v8 God will rescue a good man who is in trouble.

But an evil man will not avoid trouble.

v9 If a man does not respect God, then the man’s words will ruin his neighbour’s life.

A good man will escape because of his knowledge.

v10 If good men succeed, then the people in their city are glad.

If evil men die, then the people in their city shout for joy.

v11 The words of good people will make their city great.

But the words of evil people will destroy a city.

v12 Only a fool will say bad things about his neighbour.

A wise man would rather say nothing.

v13 If you speak too much, you will tell someone else’s secrets.

If you can keep a secret, then people will trust you.

v14 Without advice, the nation loses the war.

With many advisers, the nation wins the war.