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The first 17 verses of Proverbs 15 are an extended section of wisdom sayings that cover three major topics: the use of the tongue, listening to instruction, and God’s ruling the world with sovereign power.
First, the use of the tongue. A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouths of fools pour out folly. In verse 4 we encounter the tree of life again and find it associated with the tongue. A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit. Verse 7, the lips of the wise spread knowledge; not so the hearts of the fools. The next verse also deals with the tongue though this time it is the tongue in prayer. Verse 8, The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD, but the prayer of the upright is acceptable to him.
Next, the value of listening to instruction. It is important for the Proverbs to demonstrate the importance of listening to instruction, after all, the Proverbs are patterned after instructing us wisely. Fittingly, verse 5 starts with the benefit a son will receive when he listens to his father. A fool despises his father’s instructions, but whoever heeds reproof is prudent. Verse 10, There is severe discipline for him who forsakes the way; whoever hates reproof will die. Verse 12, A scoffer does not like to be reproved; he will not go to the wise. Then, verse 14, The heart of him who has understanding seeks knowledge, but the mouths of fools feed on folly.
Finally, the most extended topic in the first section of Proverbs 15 focuses on God’s sovereign rule over the world. We are reminded right away, The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good. Because God determines the consequences of the world, we learn, verse 6, In the house of the righteous there is much treasure, but trouble befalls the income of the wicked. Verse 9, The way of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD, but he loves him who pursues righteousness. Notice the imagery in verse 11, Sheol and Abaddon lie open before the LORD; how much more the hearts of the children of man! Verse 13, A glad heart makes a cheerful face, but by sorrow of heart the spirit is crushed. Verses 15-17 showcase the good that comes from recognizing God’s sovereignty. (READ 15-17)
Continuing the themes of the guarding what you say, heeding instruction, and fearing the Lord, Proverbs 15:18-33 is the next extended section of this Proverb. This section of Proverbs is one of my favorites in the entire book of Proverbs. The last verse is like a sharp knife that brings healing. Let’s get there by taking it one verse at a time.
Comment in verse 33 – so it is with salvation in Christ. Before we can be exalted we have to acknowledge our depravity, acknowledge our need for the healing of our terminal condition called sin. God is telling us in these proverbs, The fear of the LORD is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor. (ESV)