Proverbs 14:8-18

8 The wisdom of a prudent man is to discern his way, but the folly of fools is deceiving.

9 God scorns the wicked, but the upright enjoy his favor.

10 The heart knows its own bitterness, and no stranger shares its joy.

11 The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of the upright will flourish.

12 There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.

13 Even in laughter the heart is sad, and the end of joy is grief.

14 A perverse man will be filled with the fruit of his ways, and a good man with the fruit of his deeds.

15 The simple believes everything, but the prudent looks where he is going.

16 A wise man is cautious and turns away from evil, but a fool throws off restraint and is careless.

17 A man of quick temper acts foolishly, but a man of discretion is patient.

18 The simple acquire folly, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

Proverbs 14:8-18 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.