Proverbs 12:11
Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows [runs after] worthless pursuits lacks sense.
Proverbs is so full of admonitions to use our energy wisely. It is a precious commodity, of limited supply, and non-renewable for the day, so it must not be squandered but rather wisely portioned out on the most profitable pursuits.
Proverbs 12:20
Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, but those who plan peace have joy.
Peace doesn’t necessarily happen by accident; sometimes we have to think ahead and purposefully lay the groundwork for it. If I take the advice of verse 11—to pursue worthwhile things during my day—it paves the way for a more peaceful night when everybody gets home.
Plan peace = have joy.
Proverbs 13:20
Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion [to pasture, to graze] of fools [stupid, silly] will suffer harm [be marred].
Don’t graze with the silly or you’ll become one of them. Choose wisely who you are friends with; don’t let it happen by default.
Proverbs 14:7
Leave [walk away] the presence of a fool, for there you do not meet words of knowledge.
Same thing. Walk away from the constant company of the unwise if it's knowledge you’re seeking.
