Proverbs 21:22-31

22 A wise man scales the city of the mighty and brings down the stronghold in which they trust.

23 He who keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.

24 "Scoffer" is the name of the proud, haughty man who acts with arrogant pride.

25 The desire of the sluggard kills him for his hands refuse to labor.

26 All day long the wicked covets, but the righteous gives and does not hold back.

27 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination; how much more when he brings it with evil intent.

28 A false witness will perish, but the word of a man who hears will endure.

29 A wicked man puts on a bold face, but an upright man considers his ways.

30 No wisdom, no understanding, no counsel, can avail against the LORD.

31 The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD.

Proverbs 21:22-31 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.