Thought for Today
Proverbs Day Five
"Don't cast pearls before swine." Meaning: Don't waste valuable or meaningful words on those who cannot appreciate them. Example: He decided not to share his personal thoughts with someone who constantly insulted him, remembering the saying, "Don't cast pearls before swine."
"A closed mouth catches no flies." Meaning: Keeping quiet and not engaging in arguments can help avoid unnecessary conflicts. Example: He chose not to respond to the insult, adhering to the belief that a closed mouth catches no flies.
"Don't wrestle with a pig; you both get dirty, and the pig likes it." Meaning: Engaging in a verbal fight with someone who enjoys confrontation is futile and counterproductive. Example: Instead of arguing further, she walked away, remembering the saying, "Don't wrestle with a pig; you both get dirty, and the pig likes it."
"A fool's tongue runs before his wit." Meaning: People who speak impulsively often say insulting or foolish things without thinking. Example: His thoughtless insult during the meeting illustrated the truth of the proverb, "A fool's tongue runs before his wit."
"God helps those who help themselves." Meaning: One should take initiative and make efforts rather than relying solely on divine intervention. Example: She knew that waiting for a miracle wouldn't solve her problems; God helps those who help themselves.
"In God we trust." Meaning: Faith and reliance on a higher power, often associated with trust in divine guidance. Example: The phrase "In God we trust" is printed on the currency of the United States, reflecting a belief in the importance of faith.
"Man proposes, God disposes." Meaning: Despite making plans, the ultimate outcome is determined by a higher power. Example: They had meticulously planned their wedding, but a sudden storm disrupted their outdoor ceremony, reminding them that man proposes, God disposes.
"God's mill grinds slow but sure." Meaning: Divine justice may take time, but it eventually prevails. Example: Despite the delays, the wrongdoer was eventually held accountable, illustrating that God's mill grinds slow but sure.
"God moves in mysterious ways." Meaning: Divine actions or plans may not always be clear or immediately understandable. Example: Despite facing adversity, she remained hopeful, believing that God moves in mysterious ways and had a plan for her.
"Put your trust in God, and keep your powder dry." Meaning: Have faith in divine protection but also be prepared and take necessary precautions. Example: As they faced a difficult journey, they put their trust in God but also ensured they had enough supplies; put your trust in God, and keep your powder dry.
"The Lord helps those who help themselves." Meaning: Self-reliance and effort are important, and divine assistance often comes to those who are proactive. Example: He believed that by working hard and being responsible, he would receive the Lord's assistance; the Lord helps those who help themselves.
"God's grace is free, but it's not cheap." Meaning: Divine blessings are given freely, but they require sincere devotion and gratitude in return. Example: They attended church regularly and volunteered to help others, understanding that God's grace is free, but it's not cheap.
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Meaning: A comforting reminder of God's support and presence during difficult times. Example: She found solace in the Bible verse that begins with "God is our refuge and strength," knowing that God is a very present help in trouble.
"God sees the truth but waits." Meaning: Divine justice may not be immediate, but it eventually prevails. Example: He was wrongly accused and imprisoned, but after years of waiting, the truth was revealed, affirming the saying that God sees the truth but waits.
"Don't judge a book by its cover." Meaning: One should not form opinions based solely on appearances. Example: She discovered that the unassuming café had the most delicious food, teaching her not to judge a book by its cover.
"All that glitters is not gold." Meaning: Things that appear attractive or valuable on the surface may not be so in reality. Example: The expensive-looking jewelry turned out to be fake; all that glitters is not gold.
"Look before you leap." Meaning: It's important to consider the consequences before taking action. Example: He decided to research the job offer thoroughly, remembering the advice to look before you leap.
"Look on the bright side." Meaning: Focus on the positive aspects of a situation, even in challenging times. Example: Despite facing difficulties, she tried to look on the bright side and find reasons to be grateful.
"Out of sight, out of mind." Meaning: People tend to forget about things or people they no longer see or interact with. Example: After moving to a different city, he realized that some friendships had faded because, out of sight, out of mind.
"Look after the pennies, and the pounds will look after themselves." Meaning: Saving small amounts of money can lead to significant savings over time. Example: By cutting unnecessary expenses, they followed the principle that looking after the pennies, and the pounds will look after themselves.
"Look the gift horse in the mouth." Meaning: Don't be overly critical of something received as a gift. Example: She received a beautiful book as a gift and didn't question its condition, remembering not to look the gift horse in the mouth.
"Eyes are the windows to the soul." Meaning: One's true thoughts and feelings can often be seen in their eyes. Example: She could tell he was upset just by looking into his eyes, understanding that eyes are the windows to the soul.
"Seek and you shall find." Meaning: If you actively search for something, you're more likely to discover it. Example: He scoured the library to find the information he needed, knowing that if you seek, you shall find.
"Look for a needle in a haystack." Meaning: Searching for something extremely difficult to find within a vast or cluttered space. Example: Finding the lost earring in the tall grass was like looking for a needle in a haystack.
"The eyes are the windows to the soul." Meaning: One's true thoughts and emotions can often be seen in their eyes. Example: She could tell he was nervous just by looking into his eyes; the eyes are the windows to the soul.
"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder." Meaning: The perception of beauty is subjective and varies from person to person. Example: Some people prefer modern art, while others find beauty in classical paintings, illustrating that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
"An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth." Meaning: Retribution or revenge in which the punishment matches the offense. Example: The principle of "an eye for an eye" was used in ancient legal systems to ensure that punishments were proportionate to the crimes.
"More than meets the eye." Meaning: There is more to something or someone than what is initially apparent. Example: Though the old house looked abandoned, there was more than meets the eye; it had a hidden treasure inside.
"Keep an eye on." Meaning: To watch or monitor closely. Example: She asked her neighbor to keep an eye on her plants while she was away on vacation.
"In the blink of an eye." Meaning: Something happens very quickly or suddenly. Example: The car accident occurred in the blink of an eye, leaving everyone shocked.
"Eyes are bigger than the stomach." Meaning: Taking more food than one can eat; overestimating one's capacity. Example: At the buffet, he piled his plate high, but his eyes were bigger than his stomach, and he couldn't finish it all.
"An eye-opener." Meaning: Something that provides new insight or perspective. Example: The documentary about climate change was an eye-opener, prompting people to take action to protect the environment.
"All eyes are on." Meaning: Everyone is paying attention to or watching someone or something closely. Example: During the championship game, all eyes were on the star player, hoping for a winning performance.
"Turn a blind eye." Meaning: To ignore or pretend not to notice something, especially wrongdoing. Example: The manager decided to turn a blind eye to his employee's minor rule violation, considering it a one-time mistake.
"Silence is golden." Meaning: Sometimes, it's better to say nothing and keep quiet. Example: He chose to remain silent during the heated argument, understanding that silence is golden.
"Speech is silver; silence is golden." Meaning: Verbal communication is valuable, but sometimes silence is even more precious. Example: She found solace in the peacefulness of the forest, remembering the saying, "Speech is silver; silence is golden."
"Silence speaks louder than words." Meaning: Silence can convey more meaning or impact than speech. Example: Her refusal to respond to the accusation spoke volumes; silence speaks louder than words.
"Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt." Meaning: It's wiser to stay quiet than to say something foolish that reveals your lack of knowledge. Example: When asked a difficult question, he chose not to answer, following the principle that it's better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt.
"When in doubt, don't shout." Meaning: If you're uncertain, it's best not to make a loud or assertive statement. Example: He hesitated to voice his opinion in the meeting, adhering to the belief that when in doubt, don't shout.
"Silence is the sleep that nourishes wisdom." Meaning: Quiet contemplation and reflection contribute to one's intellectual growth. Example: During his meditation sessions, he found that silence is the sleep that nourishes wisdom.
"In silence, there is eloquence." Meaning: Profound messages can be conveyed without words. Example: The artist's painting was a masterpiece of emotion and meaning; in silence, there is eloquence.
"Silence is the best reply to a fool." Meaning: Ignoring foolish comments or actions is often the most effective response. Example: Instead of engaging in an argument, she maintained her silence, believing that silence is the best reply to a fool.
"The deepest rivers flow with the least sound." Meaning: Profound or significant things are often understated or subtle. Example: Her philanthropic work went unnoticed by many, reflecting the idea that the deepest rivers flow with the least sound.
"He who does not understand your silence will probably not understand your words." Meaning: Some people may not comprehend or appreciate your thoughts and feelings, whether spoken or unspoken. Example: She realized that her friend's inability to understand her silence indicated a lack of empathy; he who does not understand your silence will probably not understand your words.
"Too many cooks spoil the broth." Meaning: When too many people are involved in a task, it can become chaotic and less efficient. Example: The project suffered delays because of conflicting ideas and too many people trying to lead; too many cooks spoil the broth.
"Too much of a good thing is a bad thing." Meaning: Excessive indulgence in something enjoyable can lead to negative consequences. Example: She enjoyed sweets, but too much of a good thing led to cavities; too much of a good thing is a bad thing.
"Too little, too late." Meaning: Taking action or making an effort when it's too late to have a significant impact. Example: He apologized for his behavior, but it was too little, too late to salvage the relationship.
"You can never be too rich or too thin." Meaning: There's no limit to being wealthy or maintaining a slim physique. Example: Some people believe in striving for financial success and physical fitness, following the motto that you can never be too rich or too thin.
"Too clever by half." Meaning: Being overly confident or trying to be too clever can lead to mistakes. Example: He attempted a complicated shortcut, but he ended up getting lost; he was too clever by half.
"Too little, too soon." Meaning: Rushing or expecting results too quickly can lead to disappointment. Example: He wanted to see immediate progress in his fitness routine, but too little, too soon led to burnout.
"Too old to learn." Meaning: There's no age limit on acquiring new knowledge or skills. Example: Despite being retired, she decided to pursue a college degree, believing that you're never too old to learn.
"Too proud to beg." Meaning: Being too self-respecting to ask for help or assistance when needed. Example: He faced financial difficulties but refused to seek assistance from friends because he was too proud to beg. "Too much of one thing is good for nothing." Meaning: Overemphasis on a single aspect can lead to imbalance and ineffectiveness. Example: Focusing solely on work and neglecting personal relationships resulted in loneliness; too much of one thing is good for nothing.
"Too true to be good." Meaning: Something is so accurate or genuine that it seems unbelievable. Example: The story of his unexpected success was too true to be good; it sounded like a fairy tale.
"In the land of the blind, the one-eyed man is king." Meaning: When others lack knowledge or ability, even a person with limited skills or understanding can appear superior. Example: His basic computer skills made him the go-to person in the office; in the land of the blind, the one-eyed man is king.
"Love is blind." Meaning: When in love, people often overlook flaws or imperfections in the person they love. Example: Despite his faults, she saw only his positive qualities because love is blind.
"Blind leading the blind." Meaning: When inexperienced or uninformed people are guiding others who are equally inexperienced. Example: The project was doomed with the inexperienced team; it was like the blind leading the blind.
"Justice is blind." Meaning: The legal system should be impartial and not influenced by personal biases. Example: The judge's decision was fair and unbiased, reflecting the principle that justice is blind.
"The blind man's meal is not spoiled by flies." Meaning: Ignorance can sometimes protect you from unpleasant truths or experiences. Example: She remained blissfully unaware of the office gossip; the blind man's meal is not spoiled by flies.
"Blind faith." Meaning: Having unwavering belief or trust in something without questioning or seeking evidence. Example: Some people follow their leaders with blind faith, never doubting their decisions.
"Blind as a bat." Meaning: Describing someone who can't see well or is completely unaware. Example: Without her glasses, she's as blind as a bat and can't read the signs.
"Blind obedience." Meaning: Following orders or instructions without questioning them. Example: The soldiers practiced blind obedience, carrying out their commander's orders without hesitation.
"The blind leading the sighted." Meaning: When someone who lacks expertise or knowledge tries to guide those who are already knowledgeable. Example: His attempt to teach advanced mathematics to the professors was like the blind leading the sighted.
"The blind eat many a fly." Meaning: People who are unaware or gullible can fall victim to deception or manipulation. Example: He invested in a fraudulent scheme because he didn't do his research; the blind eat many a fly.
"Oil and water don't mix." Meaning: People or things with very different characteristics or beliefs are unlikely to get along. Example: Their political views were so opposing that they couldn't collaborate on the project; oil and water don't mix.
"You can't get blood from a stone, but you can get oil." Meaning: It's impossible to obtain something from a source that doesn't have it, but certain resources can be extracted efficiently. Example: Despite his financial difficulties, he found that he could start a small business and earn income; you can't get blood from a stone, but you can get oil.
"Pouring oil on troubled waters." Meaning: Taking steps to calm a difficult or tense situation. Example: She offered a sincere apology to resolve the argument, effectively pouring oil on troubled waters.
"Where there's muck, there's brass." Meaning: In dirty or unpleasant work, there is often an opportunity for profit. Example: He started a garbage collection business and found success; where there's muck, there's brass.
"Strike while the iron is hot." Meaning: Act quickly when conditions are favorable. Example: The real estate market was booming, so they decided to sell their property; strike while the iron is hot.
"The squeaky wheel gets the grease." Meaning: Those who complain or make their needs known are more likely to receive attention or assistance. Example: She spoke up about the issues with the project, and management took action; the squeaky wheel gets the grease.
"Empty barrels make the most noise." Meaning: Those who talk a lot may not necessarily have much substance or knowledge. Example: He boasted about his expertise, but his performance revealed otherwise; empty barrels make the most noise.
"One drop of oil can spoil a barrel of honey." Meaning: A small negative influence can have a significant impact on something positive or pure. Example: One dishonest member of the team caused the whole project to suffer; one drop of oil can spoil a barrel of honey.
"The proof of the pudding is in the eating." Meaning: The true quality or value of something is determined by experiencing or using it. Example: He claimed his recipe was the best, but the proof of the pudding is in the eating, so they tasted it to judge for themselves.
"Oil and vinegar." Meaning: Describing two people or things that don't mix well or have a contentious relationship. Example: Their personalities clashed so much that they were like oil and vinegar in the office.
"Let your light shine." Meaning: Be yourself and express your talents and qualities. Example: She encouraged her daughter to pursue her passions and let her light shine.
"A diamond that is well cut will shine." Meaning: Proper preparation and effort can make something or someone stand out. Example: With rigorous training and practice, he became an outstanding athlete; a diamond that is well cut will shine.
"The sun does not shine on the same dog every day." Meaning: Luck or fortune varies from one person to another. Example: Although he faced setbacks, he knew that eventually, the sun would shine on him.
"Make hay while the sun shines." Meaning: Take advantage of opportunities when they are available. Example: The weather was perfect for outdoor activities, so they decided to make hay while the sun shines.
"All that glitters is not gold, but it may still be precious." Meaning: Not everything that appears attractive or valuable is genuine, but it may still have value. Example: The antique store had many items that weren't gold but were still valuable; all that glitters is not gold, but it may still be precious.
"If you want your shoes to last, shine them." Meaning: Regular maintenance and care are essential for preserving something's quality. Example: He polished his leather shoes regularly, knowing that if you want your shoes to last, shine them.
"A rising tide lifts all boats." Meaning: Improvements in a particular situation benefit everyone involved. Example: The economic growth in the region boosted businesses and improved the quality of life for residents; a rising tide lifts all boats.
"The darkest hour has only sixty minutes." Meaning: Difficult times are temporary, and things will eventually get better. Example: She faced challenges in her career, but she reminded herself that the darkest hour has only sixty minutes.
"Even the darkest night will end, and the sun will rise." Meaning: No matter how difficult the situation, there is always hope for a better future. Example: During their struggle, they held onto the belief that even the darkest night will end, and the sun will rise.
"Shine like a star." Meaning: Stand out and excel in whatever you do. Example: She worked hard in her studies and sports, aiming to shine like a star in both areas.
"Don't bite off more than you can chew." Meaning: Don't take on more responsibilities or tasks than you can handle. Example: He accepted too many projects at once and became overwhelmed; he bit off more than he could chew.
"An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth." Meaning: Retribution or revenge in which the punishment matches the offense. Example: The ancient legal code called for an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, ensuring that punishments were proportionate.
"Like pulling teeth." Meaning: Describing something that is very difficult or requires great effort. Example: Getting information from him was like pulling teeth; he was reluctant to share.
"A loose tooth will not rest until it's out." Meaning: A small problem can become more significant if not addressed promptly. Example: The minor issue with the car's engine became a major problem because he didn't address it early; a loose tooth will not rest until it's out.
"Put your money where your mouth is." Meaning: Back up your words with action or financial commitment. Example: He claimed he could improve the company's profits, so the investors challenged him to put his money where his mouth is.
"Tooth and nail." Meaning: Using all available means and efforts to defend or achieve something. Example: She fought tooth and nail for her right to equal pay at work.
"Cleanliness is next to godliness." Meaning: Maintaining good oral hygiene and cleanliness is essential for overall well-being. Example: She emphasized the importance of daily brushing and flossing, believing that cleanliness is next to godliness for dental health.
"Don't count your chickens before they hatch." Meaning: Don't make plans or assumptions about something that may not happen. Example: He was already planning a vacation with the lottery winnings he expected, but his friend warned, "Don't count your chickens before they hatch."
"The tooth of time gnaws everything." Meaning: Over time, everything deteriorates or changes. Example: The old building had once been magnificent, but the tooth of time had taken its toll, causing decay and damage.
"The sweetest tooth has the sourest toothache." Meaning: Overindulgence in enjoyable things can lead to negative consequences. Example: She loved sugary treats, but her constant snacking resulted in a painful toothache; the sweetest tooth has the sourest toothache.
"Necessity is the mother of invention." Meaning: When there's a need or necessity, people find creative solutions. Example: The need for faster communication led to the invention of the telephone; necessity is the mother of invention.
"When in need, a friend indeed." Meaning: A true friend will be there to help when you're in need. Example: During a difficult time, she found out who her real friends were; when in need, a friend indeed.
"You never miss the water till the well runs dry." Meaning: People often don't appreciate something until they no longer have it. Example: He didn't realize how much he enjoyed his job until he was laid off; you never miss the water till the well runs dry.
"A penny saved is a penny earned." Meaning: Saving money is as valuable as earning it. Example: By cutting unnecessary expenses, he managed to save money each month, understanding that a penny saved is a penny earned.
"Beggars can't be choosers." Meaning: When you're in need, you must accept whatever help or assistance is offered. Example: She needed a place to stay, so she couldn't be picky about the accommodations; beggars can't be choosers.
"Where there's a will, there's a way." Meaning: If you're determined and have the desire to achieve something, you'll find a solution. Example: Despite facing many obstacles, he managed to complete the project because where there's a will, there's a way.
"The first step is always the hardest." Meaning: Starting something new or making a change can be challenging, but it's essential to progress. Example: Beginning a fitness routine was tough, but she knew that the first step is always the hardest.
"A stitch in time saves nine." Meaning: Addressing a problem early can prevent it from becoming more significant and requiring more effort to fix. Example: He repaired the roof as soon as he noticed a small leak, knowing that a stitch in time saves nine.
"Needs must when the devil drives." Meaning: In desperate situations, you must do whatever is necessary. Example: He had to work overtime to pay the unexpected medical bills; needs must when the devil drives.
"Ask and you shall receive." Meaning: If you express your needs or desires, you're more likely to receive assistance or support. Example: She asked for help with her school project, and her teacher provided guidance; ask and you shall receive.