잠언 Chapter 18

Translation: ESV

10

The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.

Key Message

The name of the LORD is a more secure protection than any physical refuge; those who run to him in faith find true safety.

▸The name of the LORD—that is, God's character and very existence—becomes a place of refuge.

The name of the LORD—that is, God's character and very existence—becomes a place of refuge. A 'strong tower' (migdal) was the fortified tower in an ancient city where people could take shelter from enemy attack. The righteous person running to God is a concrete image expressing faith as fleeing to a refuge.

Related Verses

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
12

Before destruction a man's heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.

Key Message

Pride leads to ruin and humility leads to honor—this principle is an unchanging truth of life.

▸Similar in content to 16:18, this contrasts the outcomes of pride and humility.

21

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.

Key Message

The tongue has the powerful ability to determine life and death; the responsibility of speech is absolute.

▸This is the most powerful declaration in Proverbs about the power of the tongue.

24

A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Key Message

One true friend who is closer than a brother is more precious than many acquaintances.

▸Quality matters more than quantity in friendship.