Proverbs 17

Proverbs 17: Proverbs of Solomon (Cont.).

Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting with strife. The Lord tests the heart like the furnace tests gold. Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends. Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out. A friend loves at all times. A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. A discerning person keeps wisdom in view, but a fool's eyes wander to the ends of the earth. The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.

God wants us to live peaceful lives, slow to anger, and quick to drop an offense. The Lord tests our hearts that they would be pure. We are to love always because love covers an offense and is quick to forgive. Love does not repeat an offense. God wants us to be wise and keep wisdom in view. We are to use words with restraint and keep ourselves even-tempered lest we create a quarrel.