What does Proverbs 15:20 reveal about wisdom's impact on family relationships? The verse in focus “A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man despises his mother.” (Proverbs 15:20) What the wording tells us • One line celebrates wisdom; the other warns about folly. • “Brings joy” implies visible, felt delight in the home. • “Despises” pictures open disrespect that wounds a parent’s heart. Wisdom’s blessings on the family • Parents become glad observers of God’s work in their child. • The atmosphere shifts from tension to rejoicing (cf. Proverbs 23:24–25). • A wise child’s choices broadcast honor to father and mother, fulfilling the fifth commandment (Exodus 20:12). Foolishness and its fallout • Folly isn’t neutral; it “despises” the very ones who gave life. • Such scorn drains peace from the household (Proverbs 17:25). • Foolish behavior invites God’s discipline (Proverbs 30:17). Echoes of the theme elsewhere • Proverbs 10:1—“A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son grief to his mother.” • Proverbs 29:3—“A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth.” • Ephesians 6:1–3—obedience to parents is “right” and “brings a long life,” showing the continuing value of the principle. Life-shaping applications • Cultivate teachability; wisdom starts with humble listening (Proverbs 1:8). • Speak words that honor parents; blessing replaces bitterness (Ephesians 4:29). • Model decision-making that reflects God’s truth, inviting parental joy. • Pray for and pursue wisdom daily (James 1:5); the whole family reaps the reward. The bottom line When a son or daughter walks in wisdom, parents taste deep, God-given joy; when a child chooses folly, parents feel devalued and distressed. Proverbs 15:20 therefore underscores that personal wisdom—or the lack of it—sets the tone for the entire family. |
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