Proverbs 14:21-32

21 Whoever despises his neighbor sins, but blessed is the one who is kind to humble people.

22 Don't those who stray plan what is evil, while those who are merciful and faithful plan what is good?

23 In hard work there is always something gained, but idle talk leads only to poverty.

24 The crown of wise people is their wealth. The stupidity of fools is just that--stupidity!

25 An honest witness saves lives, but one who tells lies is dangerous.

26 In the fear of the LORD there is strong confidence, and his children will have a place of refuge.

27 The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life to turn [one] away from the grasp of death.

28 A large population is an honor for a king, but without people a ruler is ruined.

29 A person of great understanding is patient, but a short temper is the height of stupidity.

30 A tranquil heart makes for a healthy body, but jealousy is [like] bone cancer.

31 Whoever oppresses the poor insults his maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors him.

32 A wicked person is thrown down by his own wrongdoing, but even in his death a righteous person has a refuge.

Proverbs 14:21-32 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.