Proverbs 14:9-19

9 Foolish people laugh at making things right when they sin. But honest people try to do the right thing.

10 Each heart knows its own sadness. And no one else can share its joy.

11 The houses of sinners will be destroyed. But the tents of honest people will stand firm.

12 There is a way that may seem right to a man. But in the end it leads to death.

13 Even when you laugh, your heart can be hurting. And your joy can end in sadness.

14 Those who aren't faithful will be paid back for what they've done. And good men will receive rewards for how they've lived.

15 A childish person believes anything. But a wise person thinks about how he lives.

16 A wise person has respect for the LORD and avoids evil. But a foolish person gets mad and is thoughtless.

17 Anyone who gets angry quickly does foolish things. And a man who is tricky is hated.

18 Childish people act in keeping with their foolish ways. But knowledge makes wise people feel like kings.

19 Evil people will bow down in front of good people. And those who do wrong will bow down at the gates of those who do right.

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.