Proverbs 21:21-31

21 He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honor.

22 A wise [man] scaleth the city of the mighty, and casteth down the strength of its confidence.

23 Whoever keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.

24 Proud [and] haughty scorner [is] his name, who dealeth in proud wrath.

25 The desire of the slothful killeth him; for his hands refuse to labor.

26 He coveteth greedily all the day long: but the righteous giveth and spareth not.

27 The sacrifice of the wicked [is] abomination: how much more, [when] he bringeth it with a wicked mind?

28 A false witness shall perish: but the man that heareth speaketh constantly.

29 A wicked man hardeneth his face: but [as for] the upright, he directeth his way.

30 [There is] no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the LORD.

31 The horse [is] prepared against the day of battle: but safety [is] from the LORD.

Proverbs 21:21-31 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO 1 KINGS 9

This chapter relates a second vision Solomon had at Gibeon, in which he received an answer to his prayer in the preceding chapter, 1Ki 9:1-9 that passed between him and Hiram king of Tyre, 1Ki 9:10-14, the places that Solomon built or repaired, 1Ki 9:15-19, the Canaanitish people that became bondmen to him, and the officers he had among the children of Israel, 1Ki 9:20-23 the removal of Pharaoh's daughter to the house built for her, 1Ki 9:24. Solomon's attention to religious services, 1Ki 9:25 and the navy of ships he employed, which brought him in great riches, 1Ki 9:26-28.