Proverbs 15:11-21

11 Death and the Grave lie open in front of the Lord. So the hearts of mere men certainly lie open to him!

12 Anyone who makes fun of others doesn't like to be corrected. He won't ask wise people for advice.

13 A happy heart makes a face look cheerful. But a sad heart produces a broken spirit.

14 A heart that understands what is right looks for knowledge. But the mouths of foolish people feed on what is foolish.

15 All the days of those who are crushed are filled with pain and suffering. But a cheerful heart enjoys a good time that never ends.

16 It is better to have respect for the LORD and have little than to be rich and have trouble.

17 A meal of vegetables where there is love is better than the finest meat where there is hatred.

18 A man who burns with anger stirs up fights. But a person who is patient calms things down.

19 The way of people who don't want to work is blocked with thorns. But the path of honest people is a wide road.

20 A wise son makes his father glad. But a foolish son hates his mother.

21 A person who has no sense enjoys doing foolish things. But a man who has understanding walks straight ahead.

Proverbs 15:11-21 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO FIRST KINGS 5

This chapter relates Solomon's preparation for building the temple: on Hiram, king of Tyre, sending a congratulatory letter to him, he returned another to him, signifying his intention to build an house for God, and requesting him to supply him with timber, and men to work it, 1Ki 5:1-6; to which Hiram readily agreed, and sent him cedar and fir, and Solomon in return sent him food for his household; and things went on very amicably between them, 1Ki 5:7-12; the chapter concludes with an account of Solomon's workmen, where, how, and in what they were employed, 1Ki 5:13-18.