18:1 Our selfish desires cause us to demand our own way, and by doing so we abandon sound principles of conduct.
18:8 It is as hard to refuse to listen to a rumor as it is to turn down a delicious dessert. Taking just one morsel of either one creates a taste for more. You can resist rumors the same way a determined dieter resists candy—never open the box. If you don’t nibble on the first bite of gossip, you can’t take the second and the third.
18:11 In thinking of his wealth as his strongest defense, the rich man is sadly mistaken. Money cannot provide safety—there are too many ways for it to lose its power. The government may cease to back it; thieves may steal it; inflation may rob it of all value. But God never loses his power. He is always dependable. Whom do you look to for security and safety—uncertain wealth or God who is always faithful?
18:13, 15, 17 In these concise statements, the writer gives give three basic principles for making sound decisions: (1) Get the facts before deciding; (2) be open to new ideas; (3) make sure you hear both sides of the story before judging. All three principles center around seeking additional information. This is difficult work, but the only alternative is prejudice—judging before getting the facts.
18:22 This verse states that it is good to be married. Today’s emphasis on individual freedom is misguided. Strong individuals are important, but so are strong marriages. God created marriage for our enjoyment and he pronounced it good. This is one of many passages in the Bible that show marriage as a joyful and good creation of God (Genesis 2:21-25; Proverbs 5:15-19; John 2:1-11).
18:24 Loneliness is rampant. Many people today feel cut off and alienated from others. Being in a crowd just makes people more aware of their isolation. Lonely people don’t need to hear “Have a nice day.” They need friends who will stick close, listen, care, and offer help when it is needed—in good times and bad. It is better to have one such friend than dozens of superficial acquaintances. Instead of wishing you could find a true friend, seek to become one. There are people who need your friendship. Ask God to reveal them to you, and then take on the challenge of being a true friend.