The proverbs have been a source of inspiration and motivation for Catholics throughout history.
Here are the 20 most powerful proverbs in the Catholic Bible.
1. Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." This proverb reminds us to trust in God's guidance and direction for our lives.
2. Proverbs 4:23 - "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." This proverb is a reminder to focus on keeping our hearts pure and holy, as it will determine our actions and thoughts.
3. Proverbs 6:16-19 - "There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community." This proverb highlights what God detests and reminds us to avoid these things in order to please Him.
4. Proverbs 10:12 - "Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs." This proverb teaches us the power of love and forgiveness in overcoming conflicts.
5. Proverbs 11:2 - "When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom." This proverb is a reminder to stay humble and reminds us that having wisdom is more valuable than pride.
6. Proverbs 12:15 - "The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice." This proverb reminds us to seek wise counsel and not to rely solely on our own understanding.
7. Proverbs 14:30 - "A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones." This proverb teaches us the importance of having peace and contentment in our lives.
8. Proverbs 15:1 - "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." This proverb teaches us the power of gentleness and how it can diffuse tense situations.
9. Proverbs 16:3 - "Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." This proverb is a reminder to seek God's guidance and direction in all aspects of our lives.
10. Proverbs 17:17 - "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity." This proverb highlights the importance of true, authentic friendships, especially during difficult times in our lives.
11. Proverbs 18:24 - "One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." This proverb reminds us to choose our friends wisely, as true friends are reliable and dependable.
12. Proverbs 19:17 - "Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done." This proverb teaches us the importance of showing kindness and compassion for those in need.
13. Proverbs 22:6 - "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." This proverb emphasizes the importance of providing godly guidance and instruction to the next generation.
14. Proverbs 25:21-22 - "If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you." This difficult proverb teaches us the power of showing kindness and love to our enemies.
15. Proverbs 27:17 - "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." This proverb highlights the importance of having accountability and encouraging one another in our faith journeys.
16. Proverbs 29:25 - "Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe." This proverb reminds us of the danger of seeking the approval of others over pleasing God.
17. Proverbs 31:8-9 - "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy." This powerful proverb reminds us of our obligation to speak up for justice and defend the rights of the oppressed.
18. Proverbs 31:30 - "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised." This proverb emphasizes the value of inner beauty and godliness over external appearance.
19. Proverbs 14:26 - "Whoever fears the LORD has a secure fortress, and for their children it will be a refuge." This proverb highlights the security and protection that comes from fearing and trusting in the Lord.
20. Proverbs 18:10 - "The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe." This final proverb emphasizes the power and protection that comes from calling on the name of the Lord.