Proverbs 14:13-23

13 Someone who is laughing may be sad inside, and joy may end in sadness.

14 Evil people will be paid back for their evil ways, and good people will be rewarded for their good ones.

15 Fools will believe anything, but the wise think about what they do.

16 Wise people are careful and stay out of trouble, but fools are careless and quick to act.

17 Someone with a quick temper does foolish things, but someone with understanding remains calm.

18 Fools are rewarded with nothing but more foolishness, but the wise are rewarded with knowledge.

19 Evil people will bow down to those who are good; the wicked will bow down at the door of those who do right.

20 The poor are rejected, even by their neighbors, but the rich have many friends.

21 It is a sin to hate your neighbor, but being kind to the needy brings happiness.

22 Those who make evil plans will be ruined, but those who plan to do good will be loved and trusted.

23 Those who work hard make a profit, but those who only talk will be poor.

Proverbs 14:13-23 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.