Proverbs 14:9-19

9 Guilt offerings make a mockery of fools; but among the upright there is good will.

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

11 The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of the upright will flourish.

12 There can be a way which seems right to a person, but at its end are the ways of death.

13 Even in laughter the heart can be sad, and joy may end in sorrow.

14 A backslider is filled up with his own ways, but a good person gets satisfaction from himself.

15 One who doesn't think believes every word, but the cautious understands his steps.

16 A wise person fears and turns away from evil, but a fool is reckless and overconfident.

17 He who is quick-tempered does stupid things, and one who does vile things is hated.

18 Thoughtless people inherit folly, but the cautious are crowned with knowledge.

19 The evil bow down before the good, and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

Proverbs 14:9-19 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.