Proverbs 21:15-25

15 It is a joy for the just to do justice, But destruction will come to the workers of iniquity.

16 A man who wanders from the way of understanding Will rest in the assembly of the dead.

17 He who loves pleasure will be a poor man; He who loves wine and oil will not be rich.

18 The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, And the unfaithful for the upright.

19 Better to dwell in the wilderness, Than with a contentious and angry woman.

20 There is desirable treasure, And oil in the dwelling of the wise, But a foolish man squanders it.

21 He who follows righteousness and mercy Finds life, righteousness and honor.

22 A wise man scales the city of the mighty, And brings down the trusted stronghold.

23 Whoever guards his mouth and tongue Keeps his soul from troubles.

24 A proud and haughty man--"Scoffer" is his name; He acts with arrogant pride.

25 The desire of the lazy man kills him, For his hands refuse to labor.

Proverbs 21:15-25 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO 1 KINGS 9

This chapter relates a second vision Solomon had at Gibeon, in which he received an answer to his prayer in the preceding chapter, 1Ki 9:1-9 that passed between him and Hiram king of Tyre, 1Ki 9:10-14, the places that Solomon built or repaired, 1Ki 9:15-19, the Canaanitish people that became bondmen to him, and the officers he had among the children of Israel, 1Ki 9:20-23 the removal of Pharaoh's daughter to the house built for her, 1Ki 9:24. Solomon's attention to religious services, 1Ki 9:25 and the navy of ships he employed, which brought him in great riches, 1Ki 9:26-28.