Proverbs 12:14-24

14 A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth, and the recompense of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him.

15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

16 A fool's wrath is known at once, but a prudent man covereth shame.

17 He that speaketh truth showeth forth righteousness, but a false witness, deceit.

18 There is he that speaketh like the piercings of a sword, but the tongue of the wise is healing.

19 The lips of truth shall be established for ever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

20 Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil, but to the counselors of peace there is joy.

21 There shall no evil happen to the just, but the wicked shall be filled with troubles.

22 Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but they that deal truly are His delight.

23 A prudent man concealeth knowledge, but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.

24 The hand of the diligent shall exercise rule, but the slothful shall be under tribute.

Proverbs 12:14-24 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO FIRST KING 2

This chapter gives an account of the charge David gave to his son Solomon, a little before his death, to walk in the ways of the Lord, 1Ki 2:1-4; and of some instructions delivered to him concerning some particular persons he should either show favour to, or execute justice on, 1Ki 2:5-9; and the next account in it is concerning his death and burial, and the years of his reign, 1Ki 2:10,11; after which it relates an address of Bathsheba to Solomon in favour of Adonijah, which was refused, and the issue of it was his death, 1Ki 2:12-25; and the deposition of Abiathar from the priesthood, 1Ki 2:26,27; and the putting of Joab to death for his treason and murders, 1Ki 2:28-34; in whose post Benaiah was put, as Zadok was in the place of Abiathar, 1Ki 2:35; and lastly the confinement of Shimei in Jerusalem, who had cursed David, 1Ki 2:36-38; who upon transgressing the orders given him was put to death, 1Ki 2:39-46.