SPIRITUAL GEMS: Week of May 12 to 18, 2025, PROVERBS 13, Answers.

SPIRITUAL GEMS: May 12-18, 2025, PROVERBS 13, Answers.

Let's look for hidden pearls (10 mins.)

Pr 13:24. What do these words teach us about love and discipline? (it-1 122 para. 2).

For these reasons, it is clear that true, well-directed love only comes from seeking and following the spirit of God and the knowledge that emanates from His Word.

For example, a father may feel affection for his child, but he may allow that love to deteriorate or, due to sentimentality, go astray. He may give the child everything, deny him nothing, and may even fail to exercise his parental authority when it comes to discipline and, when necessary, punishment.

Such supposed “love” may actually be family pride, but that is selfishness. The Bible says that such a person does not act with love, but with hate, because he is not following the course that will save his child's life.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

These words teach us that true love is not simply a feeling, but includes the responsibility to discipline wisely. A father who truly loves his child will not stop correcting him when necessary, because he knows that discipline can save his life.

If a father acts only out of sentimentality and avoids correction, he is not really showing love, but rather selfishness and lack of spiritual vision. Thus, true love is manifested by following Jehovah's principles and applying discipline with the aim of training and protecting the child.

True love does not mean avoiding correction or punishment. If a parent avoids disciplining his child out of affection, he is not really loving him as he should, because he is not teaching him what is right. Discipline is a way of showing love, as it protects the child and guides him toward a better life, according to what Jehovah teaches us.

Love and discipline go hand in hand. A parent who truly loves his child corrects him when necessary, not because he likes to hurt him, but because he knows that correction will help him learn and grow. If you only give him what he wants or allow him to do everything without consequences, the child may feel loved temporarily, but he will not learn to make responsible decisions. True discipline prepares the child to face life wisely.

Sometimes we think that love means not making the child suffer, but the Bible shows us that true love seeks the best for the person in the long run. If a father does not discipline his child when necessary, he is not really showing love, but rather selfishness. Jehovah's love, reflected in discipline, seeks to guide a person toward a better life, even if that means moments of discomfort or correction. In this way, love becomes a tool for the growth and well-being of the child.

These words teach us that true, well-directed love is intrinsically linked to discipline and comes from following the spirit of God and the knowledge of His Word.

Genuine love is not permissive or sentimental, but is manifested in a wise and thoughtful manner, including discipline as an essential part of the growth and well-being of the loved one, following the principles found in the Word of God.

Love alone is not enough: A father may feel affection for his child, but if that love is not guided by divine wisdom, it can become harmful. Allowing everything and avoiding the necessary discipline out of sentimentality is not a sign of true love.

True love seeks long-term good: “Love” that only consents and avoids discipline may be motivated by family pride or selfishness, focusing on immediate gratification rather than the long-term development and security of the loved one.

Discipline is an expression of genuine love: Refusing to discipline when necessary is not love, but potentially hate. The Bible indicates that loving discipline is vital to the well-being and life of the child.

Discipline is formative and protective: Just as Proverbs 22:15 highlights the need for correction in the child, loving discipline shapes character and protects it from harmful paths.

These words teach us that true, well-directed love involves discipline and correction. A parent who loves his child strives to discipline and correct him when necessary, not out of hatred or cruelty, but to help him grow and mature. Discipline is a way of showing love and care for your child, as it seeks to help your child develop important skills and become a responsible and mature person.

In this sense, misdirected love can be harmful, as it can lead parents to be overly permissive and not set clear boundaries for their children. This can lead to behavioral problems and hinder children's development. Therefore, these words invite us to reflect on the importance of balancing love and discipline in parenting, and to seek guidance from God's Word to understand how to show love and care effectively.

Proverbs 13:24 teaches us that true fatherly love is demonstrated through discipline, including punishment when necessary. So a father who refuses to discipline his child, despite feeling affection for him, is actually acting with hatred, since he is not following the path that will ensure his child's well-being and save his life.

This proverb teaches us that misdirected love, influenced by sentimentality or family pride, can lead parents to be negligent in disciplining their children. And this lack of discipline, although it may seem superficially loving by not denying anything to the child, is described by the Bible as selfish and contrary to true love, which comes from seeking and following the spirit of God and the knowledge that emanates from his Word.

What spiritual pearls have you found in this week's Bible reading?

Proverbs 13:1. The Bible indicates that “Jehovah disciplines whom he loves,” and that he “scourges everyone whom he receives as a son.” One way our Heavenly Father disciplines us is through his written Word, the Bible.

When we read it with respect and put into practice what we learn from it, God's Word truly disciplines us, which is good for us, since everything that Jehovah teaches us is for our benefit.

Proverbs 13:3. Figuratively, a "honeyed lip" means deceitful speech. Such lips, as well as those that are hard or lying, can be harmful, they can wound deeply, as if it were a sword, or poison like a viper.

A person who "opens his lips wide" is one who speaks without thinking or recklessly. That action can lead to ruin, since God holds each person responsible for their words.

Proverbs 13:4. The Hebrew verb da·schén literally means "to grow fat," but it can also convey the idea of ​​prospering. In this case, da·schén (and the related word dé·schén) indicates well-being, fertility, or abundance. That is why Jehovah told Israel that he would bring them into a land “flowing with milk and honey, and they will surely eat and be satisfied and become fat [wedha·schén].”

It also tells us that those who are generous, diligent, and trust in Jehovah "will be made fat," that is, they will enjoy prosperity. In Proverbs 15:30 it is mentioned that good news 'makes the bones fat', fills them with marrow or, in other words, invigorates the entire body.

Proverbs 13:7. It is not good to show off, but it is not good to hide either. If our material resources are scarce, spending money on luxuries just to give the impression that we are rich can deprive us and our family of what we need to live.

On the other hand, when someone who is wealthy pretends to be poor, he may come across as mean and be deprived of his dignity, as well as the happiness that comes from being generous. Living without pretending is living better.

Proverbs 13:8. Although being rich has its advantages, it also has its risks, especially in these dangerous times. In some countries, the rich and wealthy-looking tourists have become targets for thieves and kidnappers. In contrast, the Bible says that “no one threatens the poor.” What wise words!

How can you take advantage of them? If you live or work in an area where crime and crime are rife, don't make people think you are rich. Think carefully about the clothes you will wear and the items you will carry, especially if they are of a size that cannot be kept out of sight. The Bible says that the wise see the danger and turn away, “but the inexperienced go ahead and have to suffer the penalty.”

Proverbs 13:10. What should we do when we don't know how to proceed in a certain situation? What if we are not sure we have the authority to act? Proverbs 13:10 warns: “Presumption only causes strife.”

Acting without knowledge or authorization reflects insolence and is a potential source of problems. Wouldn't it be better to consult with those who have knowledge and discernment? As the Bible says: “With those who consult together there is wisdom,” assures the wise king.

Proverbs 13:11. A gambler may bet money, perhaps the fruit of his or her hard work, in the hope of winning a large sum. Yet how often does he do so at the expense of his family's well-being! Because money has come to you so easily, you may have little appreciation for its value.

Additionally, you most likely lack the skills necessary to manage your newly acquired wealth. Won't it disappear as quickly as you acquired it? On the other hand, wealth that is accumulated gradually, little by little, by working honestly, increases and can be put to good use.

Proverbs 13:12. Today, as the Bible states, “expectation postponed makes the heart sick.” But in the new world, the situation will be totally different. At that time, “the desired thing [will be] a tree of life when it does [come].”

There will never be sadness in hearts due to suffering or hopes that are not realized. On the contrary, they will be filled with happiness and joy because God will have provided many wonderful things for the human family.

Proverbs 13:17. Let us think of the healing that is achieved through the faithful proclamation of the good news of the Kingdom. It is possible to awaken the interest of those who have a good heart condition and lead them to the truth that sets them free. Even if these people do not want to listen, the loyal messenger “will certainly deliver his own soul.” Let us never neglect our commission to declare the good news, and let us seek to “preach the Word” without softening or sweetening the message.

Proverbs 13:20. Friends who love and worship Jehovah can help us stay close to Him and make good decisions. But if we become too close to people outside the congregation, we may end up alienated from Jehovah.

Therefore, the Bible advises us to choose our friendships carefully. When our friends also love God, we all benefit. So we can obey this advice: “Keep encouraging one another and building one another up.”

Proverbs 13:4. This verse shows that just having desires does not lead to any results. Without effort and action, dreams remain empty. Those who make a real effort not only achieve their goals, but also experience deep satisfaction. Jehovah blesses constant effort.

Proverbs 13:5. The righteous hate lies because they know that it destroys trust and true love. Always seek to act with sincerity, reflecting the clean heart that pleases Jehovah. The truth strengthens relationships and builds peace between people. Therefore, the faithful servant abhors any form of deception.

Proverbs 13:6. The person who chooses to act evilly brings about his own ruin. Sin not only harms others, but ends up seriously harming those who practice it. For this reason, this proverb invites us to be aware of the paths we choose, since every day we make decisions that bring us closer to the protection of God or the danger of evil.

Proverbs 13:8. A person's worth is not determined by his wealth, but by his integrity before God. Although the world values ​​money, Jehovah values ​​those who are loyal, honest, and faithful, regardless of their financial situation.

Proverbs 13:10. Arrogance makes us think that we are always right. However, that only generates arguments and ruptures in our relationships. Therefore, it is better to cultivate humility and be willing to listen to others.

Proverbs 13:12. When our desires are delayed, we can feel discouraged, frustrated, or even emotionally hurt. This teaches us to be patient and to trust that Jehovah, in his perfect timing, knows when it is best to grant us what we ask for.

Proverbs 13:13. Respecting God's teachings protects us. When we obey the instructions that come from Jehovah, we avoid mistakes that could cause us pain or loss.

Proverbs 13:16. Prudence leads us to act with reflection. Before speaking or acting, the wise person analyzes the situation well and makes decisions based on knowledge, not impulses.

Proverbs 13:17. Our way of communicating can heal or hurt. When we deliver messages—whether news, advice, or instructions—honestly and compassionately, we can be a source of encouragement and restoration to others.

Proverbs 13:20. The people we interact with greatly influence our thoughts, attitudes and decisions. Walking with wise men helps us adopt their good habits, their discernment and their balanced way of thinking. Spending time with those who respect Jehovah, value discipline, and live by Bible principles helps us grow in wisdom.

Proverbs 13:24. He leaves us with an important lesson: a parent who truly loves his child does not ignore his bad behavior. Rather, he strives to correct him lovingly and firmly, knowing that this will be for his good.

Proverbs 13:1. This verse highlights the importance of listening to parents or those with experience. Although sometimes correction is not easy, it is valuable to avoid errors. A wise son learns from his father's advice, while he who ignores warnings ends up facing unnecessary problems. Wisdom consists of taking into account the teaching of others.

Proverbs 13:3. This verse reminds us how important it is to control what we say. Words can be powerful to both build up and destroy. If we speak without thinking, we can cause conflict or regret. Self-control in our words helps us avoid problems and protect our relationships.

Proverbs 13:11. This verse teaches us that long-term success comes with constant effort and patience. If we seek wealth in haste, we could lose it quickly. However, honest and constant work, both materially and spiritually, leads us to obtain lasting and stable results over time.

Proverbs 13:20. This verse highlights the impact of the people we surround ourselves with. If we seek the company of wise people, our lives will be more balanced and our decisions will be more accurate. On the contrary, if we surround ourselves with people who do not value what is right, we can end up making bad decisions that will harm us.

Proverbs 13:24. Correction is not only necessary, but it is a sign of love. A parent who corrects their child does so to teach them to avoid problems in the future. Although correction is sometimes difficult to accept, it is essential for well-being and growth. Correction is part of true love.

Proverbs 13:12. This verse teaches us about the importance of patience. When we look forward to something and it doesn't come soon, we can feel sadness. However, when we finally get what we expected, the satisfaction is deep. Patience allows us to enjoy achievements when they occur at the right time.

Proverbs 13:9. People who follow righteous principles have a life full of peace and joy, which makes them stand out positively. Even though they face difficulties, their lives reflect Jehovah's wisdom and blessing. On the other hand, those who choose poorly, even if they seem to prosper, will eventually see their wrong decisions lead them into darkness.

Proverbs 13:1. This teaching highlights the value of having a humble and receptive attitude toward correction, especially from those who wish us well. Listening respectfully demonstrates wisdom and helps us avoid serious mistakes.

Proverbs 13:3. The text reminds us that controlling what we say is a sign of prudence. Being careful with our words can avoid conflict and protect our relationships. On the other hand, speaking without thinking can have negative consequences.

Proverbs 13:20. The verse tells us that friendships influence the way we think and act. Surrounding ourselves with spiritually wise people can help us grow and remain faithful to Jehovah.

Proverbs 13:10. The verse highlights that arrogance prevents peace and breaks relationships. Instead, accepting advice with humility shows wisdom and fosters an atmosphere of harmony in the congregation and family.

Proverbs 13:7. This passage teaches us that outward appearances can be deceptive. Some people project false images of wealth and happiness, but what really matters is the heart and the relationship with Jehovah. It reminds us that we should value spiritual blessings more than material goods.

Proverbs 13:16. This verse contrasts the way of acting of the wise person with that of the fool. The clever person thinks before acting and demonstrates knowledge in his actions. On the other hand, the fool speaks and acts impulsively, revealing his lack of judgment. This pearl encourages us to cultivate prudence and reflect before speaking or acting.

Proverbs 13:4. This verse highlights the value of constant effort. Wishing for good things is not enough, you have to act diligently. Hard work, especially in the spiritual sense, brings real blessings and satisfaction.

Proverbs 13:24. This principle shows that correcting with love is a sign of true interest in the well-being of the child. This pearl reminds us that discipline is an expression of love and is essential for the development of others, both in the family and in the congregation.

Proverbs 13:6. The verse highlights that living righteously not only pleases Jehovah, but also acts as a practical protection against harmful decisions. It motivates us to maintain impeccable conduct.

Proverbs 13:11. This verse teaches us about the difference between poorly acquired wealth and that obtained with effort and honesty. Unjust wealth does not last, while that which is accumulated gradually through honest work tends to grow. This pearl reminds us of the importance of integrity in our financial affairs and in all our actions.

Proverbs 13:14. This verse shows us that wise instruction, based on Jehovah's principles, protects us from decisions that could harm us spiritually. It encourages us to value the study of the Bible and the guidance of the congregation, applying what we learn to remain firm on the path of eternal life.

Proverbs 13:19. This verse shows us different perspectives on good and evil. For the righteous person, seeing his righteous desires fulfilled brings joy. However, for the fool, abandoning evil is something he hates. This pearl reminds us of the importance of cultivating correct desires and valuing turning away from evil as something positive.

Proverbs 13:16. This verse reminds us that wise people make informed and thoughtful decisions, while fools act without thinking and cause problems. It encourages us to seek biblical knowledge and carefully apply it in our lives, especially in preaching and in our interactions in the congregation, to honor Jehovah and edify others.

Proverbs 13:8. Being rich can bring problems, such as being the target of thieves or kidnappers. On the other hand, the poor may go unnoticed more and do not face the same risks. The key is to be cautious and not draw attention to personal wealth. Biblical wisdom advises seeing danger and taking steps to avoid it, which shows the Creator's care for our safety.

Proverbs 13:9. Obedience to Jehovah is what is best for us. The light of the righteous symbolizes the joy and guidance that comes from following God's will, while the lamp of the wicked will go out, leading them into darkness and failure. God's Word is our source of wisdom and guidance, and trusting in it brings us blessings and protection.

Proverbs 13:10. This text teaches us that acting presumptuously and without knowledge can generate problems and conflicts. Instead, seeking wisdom and advice from others, such as elders or mature siblings, is a wise way to proceed. The key is to be humble and open to learning from others to make wise decisions.

Proverbs 13:1. This text teaches us that the correction and discipline of the Word of God are fundamental for our lives. The Word of God is a source of wisdom and guidance for making good decisions. By submitting to his discipline, we can enjoy a good relationship with Jehovah God.

Proverbs 13:2. This proverb teaches us that our words have consequences and that we must be careful what we say. If we speak with kindness and sincerity, we can enjoy peaceful and happy relationships. But if our words are full of violence or evil, we can cause harm to ourselves and others. In essence, it teaches us to be responsible with our words and use them to build positive relationships.

Proverbs 13:3. This proverb teaches us the importance of controlling our speech to protect our lives and our relationships. Watching our mouth means thinking before we speak and avoiding words that could cause harm or ruin.

Foolish speech can have serious consequences, such as damaging our reputation, hurting feelings, and causing problems. Therefore, it is essential to learn to control our words and speak responsibly to avoid these negative consequences.

Proverbs 13:4. This proverb teaches us that laziness is a problem that can grow and worsen over time. Just as money can create more desire to have, laziness can create more laziness and make action and productivity even more difficult.

Proverbs 13:4. It teaches us that laziness is not only a lack of motivation, but also a self-reinforcing habit that can have negative consequences in our lives. Therefore, it is important to work to overcome laziness and develop work habits and discipline.

Proverbs 13:5. This text teaches us that we must hate lies and speak truthfully and honestly. This is essential for maintaining a good relationship with Jehovah and with others. By avoiding lies and practicing honesty, we demonstrate our integrity and commitment to justice, allowing us to live with dignity and respect before God and others.

Proverbs 13:6. This teaches us that justice and righteousness protect and benefit us, while evil leads us to ruin. By acting with justice and righteousness, we can walk the right path and avoid harm.

Proverbs 13:6. By imitating Jehovah and acting justly, we not only benefit ourselves, but we also please Him. This shows us the importance of living according to divine principles and seeking justice in all our actions.

Proverbs 13:7. This text teaches us that appearances can be deceiving and that we cannot always judge people by their outward appearance or by what they pretend to be. It shows us that some people can pretend to be something they are not, whether to impress others, to hide their true situation or to achieve some benefit. This teaches us to be cautious and not to judge people only by appearances, but to seek to know them more deeply.

Proverbs 13:1. It teaches us that Jehovah is a loving father who wants us to be wise and accept his instruction, discipline, and guidance, because they are vital to our well-being and spiritual growth.

Proverbs 13:1. We can use this proverb in ministry to illustrate how Jehovah speaks to us through his Word, the Bible, like a father who wants to guide his children along the right path so that they may do well. Hence, whoever rejects that guidance demonstrates folly.

Proverbs 13:1. It teaches me that those who reject correction demonstrate the same rebellious spirit as the mockers, while the wise son shows humility and a willingness to learn. Hence this lesson is fundamental in our relationship with Jehovah, since He corrects us out of love, just as a loving father disciplines his children.

Proverbs 13:3. This proverb teaches me that controlling the tongue is not simply an exercise in self-control, but a protection for our spiritual and emotional life. Because he who speaks without thinking can cause irreparable damage to his relationships, while he who reflects before speaking demonstrates the wisdom that comes from Jehovah. Hence this principle is especially relevant in the congregation, where our words should edify others.

Proverbs 13:4. This proverb shows that the lazy person lives on desires and fantasies, so he never achieves anything, while the diligent worker sees the fruits of his constant effort.

From this I learn that Jehovah values ​​honest work and blesses the efforts of those who remain active in their ministry and serve Him without laziness. This encourages me to be productive both secularly and spiritually.

Proverbs 13:7. This proverb shows that external appearance can be deceptive, so it warns us about the danger of judging by appearances. Although in this world some pretend to be what they are not to impress or to hide their true circumstances, for Jehovah what matters is the condition of the heart. So meditating on this text can protect us from materialism.

Proverbs 13:10. This verse shows how arrogance creates conflict and is a barrier to peace and spiritual growth, while the willingness to accept advice is a sign of true wisdom. Hence, in the congregation this principle is vital to maintain unity and the spirit of cooperation, learn from others and grow spiritually.

Proverbs 13:11. This proverb shows that ill-gotten riches never bring true satisfaction or stability. In fact, this proverb contrasts fraudulent profits, which are temporary, with the gradual growth that comes from honest work. This teaches us that Jehovah blesses honesty and integrity, values ​​that should characterize every servant of God in their work, commercial and business relationships.

Proverbs 13:12. This proverb shows that hope is like a tree of life for the Christian, but when it is postponed too long it can cause discouragement. From this I learn that I must keep my hope alive in Jehovah's promises, convinced that in the end they will be fulfilled, since in times of trial and adversity this conviction will help me endure with patience.

Proverbs 13:20. This proverb shows that the friendships we choose have a profound impact on our spiritual development. Walking with wise people helps us grow in understanding, while hanging out with wrong people results in bad influences that can lead us down dangerous paths. Hence this principle is especially relevant for young people, although it applies to all servants of Jehovah.

Proverbs 13:24. This proverb shows that loving discipline is an expression of genuine concern for the well-being of others. Hence this verse teaches that parents who truly love their children correct them when necessary, just as Jehovah disciplines us because he loves us and wants us to achieve eternal life.

Proverbs 13:5. This proverb shows that the righteous hate lying, but the wicked behave in a shameful and dishonorable manner. Therefore, it teaches me that the righteous must not only avoid lying, but also develop a genuine rejection of all forms of deception. It is important to apply this teaching in our daily lives, where the temptation to be dishonest can appear often and in seemingly small situations.

Proverbs 13:13. This proverb says that he who despises the Word of God is ruined, but he who respects his commandments will be rewarded. This teaches me that disregarding Jehovah's instructions inevitably leads to spiritual failure, while treasuring and obeying his commandments brings blessings. This motivates me to deepen my study of the Bible and apply its teachings in my daily life, recognizing that they are a sure guide for my path.

Proverbs 13:14. This proverb shows that instructions based on Jehovah's wisdom are not simple suggestions, but true sources of life that protect us from spiritual dangers. Hence, we are encouraged to value the biblical advice and guidance of mature elders and brothers in the congregation, recognizing that they can save us from wrong decisions and their serious consequences.

Proverbs 13:16. This proverb says that every prudent man acts with knowledge, but a fool exhibits his folly. From this I learn that our prudence will be manifested in our well-thought-out actions based on solid knowledge, while our foolishness will reveal itself through impulsivity and lack of reflection. Therefore, this proverb invites me to reflect on what my way of being and acting is revealing.

Proverbs 13:17. This proverb shows that trustworthiness is an essential quality for Jehovah's servants. Hence, as ambassadors of his Kingdom, we must be careful in how we convey the biblical message and how we fulfill our assignments, so that we can be trustworthy messengers who contribute to the spiritual well-being of others.

Proverbs 13:25. This proverb says that the righteous eat and satisfy their appetite, but the stomach of the wicked is empty. So, beyond the literal sense, this verse teaches us that Jehovah provides what is necessary for his faithful servants, while those who reject him will never find true satisfaction. This should encourage us to trust in divine care and to seek the Kingdom first, knowing that Jehovah will care for us.