Proverbs 14:21-31

21 Those who despise their neighbors are sinners, but happy are those who are kind to the needy.

22 Don't those who plan evil go astray? Those who plan good receive loyalty and faithfulness.

23 There is profit in hard work, but mere talk leads to poverty.

24 Wealth is the crown of the wise, and the folly of fools is folly.

25 A truthful witness saves lives, but a deceiver proclaims lies.

26 In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence and refuge for one's children.

27 The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning people away from deathtraps.

28 A king's glory is a large population, but a dwindling people is a ruler's ruin.

29 Patience leads to abundant understanding, but impatience leads to stupid mistakes.

30 A peaceful mind gives life to the body, but jealousy rots the bones.

31 Those who exploit the powerless anger their maker, while those who are kind to the poor honor God.

Proverbs 14:21-31 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.