Proverbs 17:14-24

14 To release the waters (to speak rashly) is the beginning of contention; therefore, leave off strife before it gets started.

15 He that justifies the wicked and he that condemns the just, even they both are abomination to the LORD.

16 Of what good is the price to buy wisdom in the hand of the fool, seeing he has no heart to understand?

17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

18 A man void of understanding strikes hands and becomes surety in the presence of his friend.

19 Transgression loves him that loves strife, and he that exalts his gate seeks destruction.

20 He that has a perverse heart shall never find good, and he that stirs up trouble with his tongue shall fall into evil.

21 He that begets a fool does it to his sorrow, and the father of a fool shall have no joy.

22 A joyful heart shall do good like a medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.

23 A wicked man takes a gift in secret to pervert the paths of judgment.

24 Wisdom appears upon the countenance of him that has understanding, but the eyes of a fool manifest his folly unto the ends of the earth.

Proverbs 17:14-24 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO 1 KINGS 7

This chapter gives an account of some buildings of Solomon for himself, 1Ki 7:1-12; and of other things for the use of the temple; of two pillars of brass, 1Ki 7:13-22; of the molten sea, 1Ki 7:23-26; and of ten bases, and ten layers on them, 1Ki 7:27-39; with other utensils and ornaments, 1Ki 7:40-51.