Proverbs 14

Verse 20: The rich have many so-called friends who try to gain some advantage from them. But few seek the friendship of a poor man who has nothing to offer them. The poor are shunned by their neighbors and even by their relatives (Proverbs 19:7). But God watches out for them (Matthew 5:3; Luke 6:20).

Verse 22: Those who plan what is good find love and faithfulness—both from their friends and neighbors and also from God.

Verse 24: The wise are generally prosperous in this life (see Proverbs 3:2; 10:22); their wealth is like a crown that brings them honor, an inheritance. But fools inherit only their folly—that is to say, nothing (see verse 18).

Verse 25: A truthful witness saves lives—especially when his testimony discredits the false testimony brought by evil men against an innocent victim.

Verse 26: The person who fears the LORD has the Lord for his fortress, his protection and security (see 2Samuel 22:2; Psalm 18:2).

Verse 27: See Proverbs 1:7; 13:14.

Verse 29: A patient man is a wise man, a godly man; patience is a gift of the Holy Spirit (see Galatians 5:22; James 1:19–20).

Verse 30: A heart at peace is a contented heart (see Proverbs 13:25); envy, on the other hand, leads to sickness of body, mind and spirit.

Verse 31: The way we treat others is also the way we treat God (see Proverbs 19:17). Jesus said: “. . . whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:31–46).

Verse 32: This proverb teaches that God takes special care of the righteous—even after the death of their physical bodies (see Proverbs 12:28).

Verse 34: Righteousness exalts a nation. God promised the ISRAELITES that if they obeyed Him He would bless—“exalt”—their nation (see Leviticus 26:3–13). He will do the same for any people who seek to follow Him with all their heart.