What is the meaning of Proverbs 15:20? a wise son • Scripture calls wisdom a moral choice rooted in “the fear of the LORD” (Proverbs 1:7). • A wise son aligns his life with God’s revealed truth, imitating the “wisdom from above” that is “first pure, then peaceable” (James 3:17). • Wisdom shows up in everyday decisions—speech that edifies, finances handled ethically, friendships chosen carefully (compare Proverbs 13:20; 20:7). • Solomon often addresses “my son,” urging a heart tuned to God; when that counsel is heeded, parents—and heaven—rejoice (Proverbs 23:15-16). brings joy to his father • The joy here is more than a passing smile; it is deep satisfaction that a child is walking in truth (3 John 4). • Proverbs 23:24 affirms, “The father of a righteous man will greatly rejoice,” highlighting the link between a child’s righteous choices and a parent’s glad heart. • Jesus’ parable of the returning son pictures a father running to embrace and celebrate obedience restored (Luke 15:20-24). • Practical outworking: – Honesty in business dealings lifts a father’s reputation. – Sexual purity guards the family’s name (Proverbs 5:18-19). – Compassionate service reflects the Father’s own heart (Matthew 5:16). but a foolish man • Foolishness in Proverbs is never mere mental deficiency; it is willful rejection of God’s ways (Psalm 14:1). • Characteristics include: – Self-reliance: “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes” (Proverbs 12:15). – Quick temper and reckless words (Proverbs 14:16-17). – Mockery of sin and authority (Proverbs 14:9). • The tragic irony: the fool thinks he is free, yet he is enslaved to sin and brings sorrow on those who love him (Proverbs 10:1). despises his mother • “Despise” goes beyond surface disrespect; it signifies contempt and rejection of the one who nurtured him. • God’s law elevates a mother’s honor: “Each of you is to respect his mother and father” (Leviticus 19:3); to violate this is rebellion against God Himself (Exodus 20:12). • Jesus rebuked religious leaders who excused dishonor under the guise of piety (Matthew 15:4-6). • Practical expressions of despising a mother: – Ignoring her counsel (Proverbs 1:8). – Abandoning her in old age (Proverbs 19:26). – Speaking harshly or with ridicule (Proverbs 30:17). • In stark contrast, the wise son “brings joy” by valuing his mother, providing for her needs, and listening to her instruction (Ephesians 6:2). summary Proverbs 15:20 sets two clear paths: the wise son, whose reverence for God translates into righteous living that delights his father, and the foolish man, whose disdain for divine order shows up in contempt for his mother. The verse reminds us that choices rooted in godly wisdom bless the family, honor parental authority established by God, and ultimately reflect the heart of the Heavenly Father. |
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