Proverbs 29:2-12

2 When those who do right grow stronger, the people are glad. But when those who do wrong become rulers, the people groan.

3 A man who loves wisdom makes his father glad. But a man who spends time with prostitutes wastes his father's wealth.

4 By doing what is fair, a king makes a country secure. But the one who wants to be paid off tears it down.

5 A man who only pretends to praise his neighbor is spreading a net to catch him by the feet.

6 A sinful man is trapped by his own sin. But a godly person can sing and be glad.

7 Those who do what is right want to treat poor people fairly. But those who do what is wrong don't care about the poor.

8 Those who make fun of others stir up a city. But wise people turn anger away.

9 Suppose a wise man goes to court with a foolish person. Then the foolish person gets mad and pokes fun. And there is no peace.

10 Murderers hate honest people. They try to kill those who do what is right.

11 A foolish person lets his anger run wild. But a wise person keeps himself under control.

12 If rulers listen to lies, all their officials become evil.

Proverbs 29:2-12 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO 1 KINGS 16

This chapter contains a prophecy of the ruin of the family of Baasha, and an account of his death, 1Ki 16:1-7, and of his son's reigning in his stead two years, who was slain by Zimri one of his captains, 1Ki 16:8-14, and who reigned but seven days, 1Ki 16:15-20, and the people being divided between Tibni and Omri, the party for the latter prevailed, and he was made king, and reigned twelve years, 1Ki 16:21-28, and was succeeded by his son Ahab, a very wicked prince, 1Ki 16:29-33, and the chapter is concluded with the rebuilding of Jericho, 1Ki 16:34.