Proverbs 12:8 Commentary and Bible Study

The word translated ‘wisdom’ here, is not the same as we have been reading up till now. It is a Hebrew word meaning thoughtfulness with a tinge of feelingfullness. Some of the modem versions say integrity and straightforwardness because it has to do with that: thoughtfulness, which is thinking and planning how to do the thing right. Can a good mind be seen or detected by other people? Yes, another person may look at us and disagree with us, but nevertheless see that we are fair and unselfish, and they are able to respect us for that. There is an appreciation of honesty and straightforwardness, even in this world. Wisdom is admired for the solutions that it brings and the difficult paths that it is able to navigate through life. Of course, evil men commend what it is to their advantage to commend and they do not hesitate to call good evil, and evil good, but when their interests are at stake they would rather deal with one who is sincere than with one who has a twisted heart. And certainly the righteous appreciate wisdom. The perverted heart is despised because it operates only for the selfish interests of the individual and is ready to sacrifice much nobler and greater things for something so small and so unimportant. If wisdom attains praise in this fallen world, how much more does God attach importance to it, for he weighs every word and action and will reward each one with perfect fairness.