Proverbs 14:16-26

16 A wise [man] feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.

17 [He that is] soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated.

18 The simple inherit folly: but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

19 The evil bow before the good; and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

20 The poor is hated even by his own neighbor: but the rich [hath] many friends.

21 He that despiseth his neighbor sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy [is] he.

22 Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth [shall be] to them that devise good.

23 In all labor there is profit: but the talk of the lips [tendeth] only to penury.

24 The crown of the wise [is] their riches: [but] the foolishness of fools [is] folly.

25 A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful [witness] speaketh lies.

26 In the fear of the LORD [is] strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.

Proverbs 14:16-26 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.