Proverbs 14:14-24

14 The disloyal will get what their conduct deserves, and a good man, what his [deeds deserve.]^[a]

15 The inexperienced believe anything, but the sensible watch^[b] their steps.^[c]

16 A wise man is cautious and turns from evil, but a fool is easily angered and is careless.^[d]

17 A quick-tempered man acts foolishly, and a man who schemes is hated.^[e]

18 The gullible inherit foolishness, but the sensible are crowned with knowledge.

19 The evil bow before those who are good, the wicked, at the gates of the righteous.

20 A poor man is hated even by his neighbor, but there are many who love the rich.^[f]

21 The one who despises his neighbor sins,^[g] but whoever shows kindness to the poor will be happy.

22 Don't those who plan evil go astray?^[h] But those who plan good find loyalty and faithfulness.^[i]

23 There is profit in all hard work, but endless talk^[j] leads only to poverty.^[k]

24 The crown of the wise is their wealth, but the foolishness of fools produces foolishness.

Proverbs 14:14-24 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO FIRST KINGS 4

As in the preceding chapter we have a proof of the wisdom and understanding which the Lord gave to Solomon, as promised, so in this an account is given of the riches and honour he was possessed of; of him, as king over all Israel, and of his princes, 1Ki 4:1-6; of the providers of food for his household in the several parts of the land, 1Ki 4:7-19; of the largeness and extent of his dominions, and of the peace and prosperity thereof, 1Ki 4:20,21,24,25; of his daily provisions for his household and for his cattle, 1Ki 4:22,23,26-28; and of his superior wisdom and knowledge to all others in all nations, which brought some out of all to hear it, 1Ki 4:29-34.

Footnotes

• [a] Pr 1:31; 12:14; 18:20; 28:19
• [b] Lit the prudent understand
• [c] Jms 1:5-8
• [d] Or and falls
• [e] Pr 12:2; 24:8
• [f] Pr 19:4,6
• [g] Pr 11:12
• [h] Pr 6:14-15; 12:26
• [i] Pr 12:20
• [j] Lit but word of lips
• [k] Pr 21:5