Proverbs 14:16-26

16 A wise man feareth, and declineth from evil: the fool leapeth over, and is confident.

17 The impatient man shall work folly: and the crafty man is hateful.

18 The childish shall possess folly, and the prudent shall look for knowledge.

19 The evil shall fall down before the good: and the wicked before the gates of the just.

20 The poor man shall be hateful even to his own neighbour: but the friends of the rich are many.

21 He that despiseth his neighbour, sinneth: but he that sheweth mercy to the poor, shall be blessed. He that believeth in the Lord, loveth mercy.

22 They err that work evil: but mercy and truth prepare good things.

23 In much work there shall be abundance: but where there are many words, there is oftentimes want.

24 The crown of the wise, is their riches: the folly of fools, imprudence.

25 A faithful witness delivereth souls: and the double dealer uttereth lies.

26 In the fear of the Lord is confidence of strength, and there shall be hope for his children.

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.