Proverbs 21:24-31

24 "Scoffer" is what you call a proud, insolent person who acts with overweening conceit.

25 A lazy man's craving will kill him, because his hands refuse to work -

26 he covets greedily all day long; but a righteous person gives without holding back.

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

28 A lying witness is doomed, but one who heard [what was said] will testify successfully.

29 A wicked man puts on a bold face, whereas the upright prepares his ways.

30 No wisdom, discernment or counsel succeeds against ADONAI.

31 A horse may be prepared for the day of battle, but victory comes from ADONAI.

Proverbs 21:24-31 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.