Proverbs 14:19-29

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

20 The poor is hated even of his own neighbour, but many are those who love the rich.

21 The sinner despises his neighbour, but he that has mercy on the poor is blessed.

22 Do they not err that meditate upon evil? but those that meditate upon good shall attain mercy and truth.

23 In all labour there is fruit, but to talk and not do, brings poverty.

24 The crown of the wise is their wisdom, but that which distinguishes fools is their folly.

25 The true witness delivers souls, but the deceitful one speaks lies.

26 In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence, and there his sons shall have hope.

27 The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

28 In the multitude of the people is the king’s glory, but in the failure of the people is the weakness of the prince.

29 He that is slow to wrath is of great intelligence, but he that is short of spirit exalts folly.

Proverbs 14:19-29 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.