Proverbs 14:2-12

2 Whoever lives right fears the LORD, but a person who is devious in his ways despises him.

3 Because of a stubborn fool's words a whip is lifted against him, but wise people are protected by their speech.

4 Where there are no cattle, the feeding trough is empty, but the strength of an ox produces plentiful harvests.

5 A trustworthy witness does not lie, but a dishonest witness breathes lies.

6 A mocker searches for wisdom without finding it, but knowledge comes easily to a person who has understanding.

7 Stay away from a fool, because you will not receive knowledge from his lips.

8 The wisdom of a sensible person guides his way of life, but the stupidity of fools misleads them.

9 Stubborn fools make fun of guilt, but there is forgiveness among decent people.

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

11 The houses of wicked people will be destroyed, but the tents of decent people will continue to expand.

12 There is a way that seems right to a person, but eventually it ends in death.

Proverbs 14:2-12 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.