Proverbs 14:16-26

16 A wise man fears, and departs from evil; but the fool trusts in himself, and joins himself with the transgressor.

17 A passionate man acts inconsiderately; but a sensible man bears up under many things.

18 Fools shall have mischief for their portion; but the prudent shall take fast hold of understanding.

19 Evil men shall fall before the good; and the ungodly shall attend at the gates of the righteous.

20 Friends will hate poor friends; but the friends of the rich are many.

21 He that dishonours the needy sins: but he that has pity on the poor is most blessed.

22 They that go astray devise evils: but the good devise mercy and truth. The framers of evil do not understand mercy and truth: but compassion and faithfulness are with the framers of good.

23 With every one careful there is abundance: but the pleasure-taking and indolent shall be in want.

24 A prudent man is the crown of the wise: but the occupation of fools is evil.

25 A faithful witness shall deliver a soul from evil: but a deceitful kindles falsehoods.

26 In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: and he leaves his children a support.

Proverbs 14:16-26 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.