Board index ‹ Specific Bible verses, texts, and passages ‹ Proverbs

[Human]

In 1 corinthian 13:7 it says that love believes all things yet in Proverbs 14:15 it says the simple believes everything but the prudent gives thought to his steps?

[jimwalton]

I Cor. 13.7 can also be translated "always trusts." It is specifically talking about how people who are truly loving treat those that are loved. It means we're neither always suspicious nor always gullible. Love isn't deceived by false fronts, but is also willing to give the benefit of the doubt.

Proverbs 14.15 is a completely different subject. It is saying that foolish people (the simple) are characterized by uncritical thinking that makes them more vulnerable to deception and mistaken thinking. The wise (the prudent), in contrast, use their brains. The cure for uncritical thinking is a healthy dose of research and reflective thinking. The fool says, “Whatever.” The wise say, “Let me think about this.” The fool lives by misleading slogans; the prudent live by the power of reason.

[Human]

I like your response!