Proverbs 18 - Wesley's Explanatory Notes

Desire — Thro' desire of wisdom, a man having separated himself from the company, and noise, and business of the world, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom, uses all diligence, that he may search and find out all solid knowledge and true wisdom.

Understanding — In getting sound and saving, knowledge. The discovery — In uttering that folly and wickedness which is in his heart.

Cometh — Into any place or company. Contempt — He despiseth all instruction and reproof. Reproach — And he shews his contempt by ignominious and reproachful expressions.

A man's — A wise man's. As a brook — That wisdom which is in his heart is continually pouring forth wise and good counsels.

They go — They wound mortally.

Is brother — Though they take several paths, yet both come to one end.

The name — The Lord, as he hath revealed himself in his works, and in his word by his promises.

Sustain — Will easily support him under any outward troubles. Wounded — Dejected with the sense of its own guilt and misery.

Parteth — Gives to every one what is right or meet.

Satisfied — Wise discourses tend to the satisfaction of the speaker, as well as to the good of the hearers.

Death and life — Are brought upon men by, the good or bad use of their tongues. Lovest — That love much talking.

A wise — A good wife; one that deserves the name, and performs the duty of that relation. Favour — Obtains her not by his own diligence, but by God's good providence.

A man — Heb. A man of friends; who desires the friendship of others.