Proverbs 15:14-24

14 The mind of him who has understanding seeks knowledge, but the mouths of fools feed on folly.

15 All the days of the afflicted are evil, but a cheerful heart has a continual feast.

16 Better is a little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble with it.

17 Better is a dinner of herbs where love is than a fatted ox and hatred with it.

18 A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger quiets contention.

19 The way of a sluggard is overgrown with thorns, but the path of the upright is a level highway.

20 A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish man despises his mother.

21 Folly is a joy to him who has no sense, but a man of understanding walks aright.

22 Without counsel plans go wrong, but with many advisers they succeed.

23 To make an apt answer is a joy to a man, and a word in season, how good it is!

24 The wise man's path leads upward to life, that he may avoid Sheol beneath.

Proverbs 15:14-24 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO FIRST KINGS 5

This chapter relates Solomon's preparation for building the temple: on Hiram, king of Tyre, sending a congratulatory letter to him, he returned another to him, signifying his intention to build an house for God, and requesting him to supply him with timber, and men to work it, 1Ki 5:1-6; to which Hiram readily agreed, and sent him cedar and fir, and Solomon in return sent him food for his household; and things went on very amicably between them, 1Ki 5:7-12; the chapter concludes with an account of Solomon's workmen, where, how, and in what they were employed, 1Ki 5:13-18.