What is the meaning of Proverbs 27:6? The wounds of a friend are faithful “The wounds of a friend are faithful” sounds startling, yet it highlights that genuine friendship values truth over comfort. • A real friend loves you enough to confront sin, blind spots, or foolish choices even when it stings (Proverbs 27:17; Galatians 6:1). • David trusted Nathan’s painful rebuke because it saved him from deeper ruin (2 Samuel 12:7-13). • The psalmist welcomes such honesty: “Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness” (Psalm 141:5). When correction comes from someone who consistently seeks your good, you can receive it as an act of covenant love, confident that the wound is a surgical cut meant to heal, not a random blow meant to harm. but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful “Kisses” suggest affection, praise, or flattery—but here they hide hostile intent. • Judas greeting Jesus with a kiss (Matthew 26:48-49) perfectly illustrates polished treachery. • Absalom stole Israel’s hearts by embracing and flattering citizens at the gate while plotting against his father (2 Samuel 15:5-6). • Proverbs warns that smooth lips can conceal a malicious heart (Proverbs 26:23-25; Luke 6:26). An enemy’s compliments feel pleasant, yet they lull the unwary into vulnerability. Unlike a friend’s hard truth that safeguards, false praise manipulates for selfish gain. summary Proverbs 27:6 contrasts helpful hurt with harmful sweetness. A faithful friend’s painful honesty protects and matures us; an enemy’s flattering affection masks danger. Seek companions who will speak truth in love, and be that kind of friend yourself, trusting that God uses faithful wounds to refine His people. |
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