Proverbs 14:3-23

3 In the mouth of a fool is the rod of pride: but the lips of the wise preserve them.

4 Where there are no oxen, the crib is empty: but where there is much corn, there the strength of the ox is manifest.

5 A faithful witness will not lie: but a deceitful witness uttereth a lie.

6 A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: the learning of the wise is easy.

7 Go against a foolish man, and he knoweth not the lips of prudence.

8 The wisdom of a discreet man is to understand his way: and the imprudence of fools erreth.

9 A fool will laugh at sin, but among the just grace shall abide.

10 The heart that knoweth the bitterness of his own soul, in his joy the stranger shall not intermeddle.

11 The house of the wicked shall be destroyed: but the tabernacles of the just shall flourish.

12 There is a way which seemeth just to a man: but the ends thereof lead to death.

13 Laughter shall be mingled with sorrow, and mourning taketh hold of the ends of joy.

14 A fool shall be filled with his own ways, and the good man shall be above him.

15 The innocent believeth every word: the discreet man considereth his steps. No good shall come to the deceitful son: but the wise servant shall prosper in his dealings, and his way shall be made straight.

16 A wise man feareth, and declineth from evil: the fool leapeth over, and is confident.

17 The impatient man shall work folly: and the crafty man is hateful.

18 The childish shall possess folly, and the prudent shall look for knowledge.

19 The evil shall fall down before the good: and the wicked before the gates of the just.

20 The poor man shall be hateful even to his own neighbour: but the friends of the rich are many.

21 He that despiseth his neighbour, sinneth: but he that sheweth mercy to the poor, shall be blessed. He that believeth in the Lord, loveth mercy.

22 They err that work evil: but mercy and truth prepare good things.

23 In much work there shall be abundance: but where there are many words, there is oftentimes want.

Proverbs 14:3-23 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.