Proverbs 14-16

“A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones” (14:30). The proverbs teach that our hearts (feelings, desires, motivations) influence what we say and do. When our hearts are right with God, our words reflect this, just as anger and envy also overflow into what we say (15:28). God sees our hearts clearly, even if we do not (15:11), and His desire is that we become “wise in heart” with His help (16:21). Our emotions are important to Him; He cares about our happiness and heartache (15:13).

“The discerning heart seeks knowledge” (15:13). The good news is that we can grow in heart-wisdom by seeking more of Jesus, who brings healing to our innermost being.