Proverbs 13

Verse 16: A prudent man acts out of knowledge, out of wisdom. By our acts (and our words) we reveal whether we are wise or foolish (see Matthew 7:17,20).

Verse 18: See Proverbs 5:11–14.

Verse 19: A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul (see verse 12); but a fool will not turn from evil—even to obtain such sweetness.

Verse 20: This proverb teaches the importance of choosing our friends wisely (see Proverbs 12:26). The more we associate with godly people, the more godly we’ll become.

Verse 21: As a general rule, prosperity is the reward of the righteous (see Proverbs 3:1–2 and comment). Misfortune comes to the sinner. The book of Proverbs teaches the common truth: “In life we get what we deserve.”

Verse 23: This proverb reflects God’s concern for the poor, as well as His hatred of injustice. The proverb implies that there would be abundant food for everyone if human beings would only eliminate “injustice”—selfishness, exploitation, hardheartedness.

Verse 24: Neglecting to discipline our children is equivalent to “hating” them, for we are with holding from them that which is essential to their well-being (see Proverbs 3:11–12). We parents need to remember that we too require “discipline,” God’s discipline; when God disciplines us, He is showing us not His hatred but His love (see Hebrews 12:5–11).

Verse 25: The righteous eat and are content (see Philippians 4:12; 1 Timothy 6:6). The wicked are never content, but always go hungry; whatever they have, they crave even more.