Proverbs 17:14-24

14 Starting a quarrel is [like] opening a floodgate, so stop before the argument gets out of control.

15 Whoever approves of wicked people and whoever condemns righteous people is disgusting to the LORD.

16 Why should a fool have money in his hand to buy wisdom when he doesn't have a mind to grasp anything?

17 A friend always loves, and a brother is born to share trouble.

18 A person without good sense closes a deal with a handshake. He guarantees a loan in the presence of his friend.

19 Whoever loves sin loves a quarrel. Whoever builds his city gate high invites destruction.

20 A twisted mind never finds happiness, and one with a devious tongue [repeatedly] gets into trouble.

21 The parent of a fool has grief, and the father of a godless fool has no joy.

22 A joyful heart is good medicine, but depression drains one's strength.

23 A wicked person secretly accepts a bribe to corrupt the ways of justice.

24 Wisdom is directly in front of an understanding person, but the eyes of a fool [are looking around] all over the world.

Proverbs 17:14-24 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO 1 KINGS 7

This chapter gives an account of some buildings of Solomon for himself, 1Ki 7:1-12; and of other things for the use of the temple; of two pillars of brass, 1Ki 7:13-22; of the molten sea, 1Ki 7:23-26; and of ten bases, and ten layers on them, 1Ki 7:27-39; with other utensils and ornaments, 1Ki 7:40-51.