Proverbs 14:23-33

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

24 Wise people are rewarded with wealth, but fools only get more foolishness.

25 A truthful witness saves lives, but a false witness is a traitor.

26 Those who respect the Lord will have security, and their children will be protected.

27 Respect for the Lord gives life. It is like a fountain that can save people from death.

28 A king is honored when he has many people to rule, but a prince is ruined if he has none.

29 Patient people have great understanding, but people with quick tempers show their foolishness.

30 Peace of mind means a healthy body, but jealousy will rot your bones.

31 Whoever mistreats the poor insults their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.

32 The wicked are ruined by their own evil, but those who do right are protected even in death.

33 Wisdom lives in those with understanding, and even fools recognize it.

Proverbs 14:23-33 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.