Proverbs 14:12-22

12 There is a path that may seem straight to someone, but in the end it is a path to death.

13 The heart feels pain even in laughter, and in the end, joy turns to sorrow.

14 Rebellious hearts receive satisfaction from their ways; the good receive the due reward for their deeds.

15 The naive believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps.

16 The wise are careful and avoid evil, but fools become excited and overconfident.

17 Short-tempered people make stupid mistakes, and schemers are hated.

18 Stupidity is the lot of the naive, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

19 Evil people will bow down before the good; wicked people are at the gates of the righteous.

20 Even their neighbors hate the poor, but many love the wealthy.

21 Those who despise their neighbors are sinners, but happy are those who are kind to the needy.

22 Don't those who plan evil go astray? Those who plan good receive loyalty and faithfulness.

Proverbs 14:12-22 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO FIRST KINGS 4

As in the preceding chapter we have a proof of the wisdom and understanding which the Lord gave to Solomon, as promised, so in this an account is given of the riches and honour he was possessed of; of him, as king over all Israel, and of his princes, 1Ki 4:1-6; of the providers of food for his household in the several parts of the land, 1Ki 4:7-19; of the largeness and extent of his dominions, and of the peace and prosperity thereof, 1Ki 4:20,21,24,25; of his daily provisions for his household and for his cattle, 1Ki 4:22,23,26-28; and of his superior wisdom and knowledge to all others in all nations, which brought some out of all to hear it, 1Ki 4:29-34.