1 The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the Lord.

2 All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits.

3 Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.

4 The Lord hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.

5 Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord: though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished.

6 By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil.

7 When a man's ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.

8 Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues without right.

9 A man's heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.

10 A divine sentence is in the lips of the king: his mouth transgresseth not in judgment.

11 A just weight and balance are the Lord's: all the weights of the bag are his work.

12 It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness.

13 Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.

14 The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.

15 In the light of the king's countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the latter rain.

16 How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!

17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil: he that keepeth his way preserveth his soul.

18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

19 Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.

20 He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.

21 The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the sweetness of the lips increaseth learning.

22 Understanding is a wellspring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly.

23 The heart of the wise teacheth his mouth, and addeth learning to his lips.

24 Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

26 He that laboureth laboureth for himself; for his mouth craveth it of him.

27 An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire.

28 A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.

29 A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good.

30 He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass.

31 The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.

32 He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

33 The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
The renewing grace of God alone prepares the heart for every good work. This teaches us that we are not sufficient of ourselves to think or speak any thing wise and good.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
From the Lord - Men can neither think nor speak wisely and well without Divine assistance.
McArther Bible Commentary
preparations … answer. Human responsibility is always subject to God's absolute sovereignty (cf. Pro 3:6; Pro 16:2, Pro 16:9, Pro 16:33; Pro 19:21; Pro 20:24; Pro 21:1, Pro 21:30-31).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 15:33 Proverbs 16:9 Proverbs 19:21 Jeremiah 10:23

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Ignorance, pride, and self-flattery render us partial judges respecting our own conduct.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
God Reads the Secret Devisings
—It is for the eternal interest of every one to search his own heart, and to improve every God-given faculty. Let all remember that there is not a motive in the heart of any man that the Lord does not clearly see. The motives of each one are weighed as carefully as if the destiny of the human agent depended upon this one result. We need a connection with divine power, that we may have an increase of clear light and an understanding of how to reason from cause to effect. We need to have the powers of the understanding cultivated, by our being partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. Let each one consider carefully the solemn truth, God in heaven is true, and there is not a design, however intricate, nor a motive, however carefully hidden, that He does not clearly understand. He reads the secret devisings of every heart. Men may plan out crooked actions for the future, thinking that God does not understand; but in that great day when the books are opened, and every man is judged by the things written in the books, those actions will appear as they are....[Psalm 139:1-5, 11, 12 quoted.]The Lord sees and understands all dishonesty in planning, all unlawful appropriation in any degree of property or means, all injustice in man's dealing with his fellow men ... [Daniel 5:27 quoted] (The Review and Herald, March 8, 1906).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Weigheth - Exactly knows as men do the things which they weigh. Spirits - The hearts of men.
McArther Bible Commentary
spirits. While man can be self-deceived, God determines his true motives (cf. Pro 21:2; Pro 24:12; 1Sa 16:7; 1Co 4:4).
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 2:3 1 Samuel 16:7 Proverbs 12:15 Proverbs 21:2 Proverbs 30:12 Daniel 5:27

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Roll the burden of thy care upon God, and leave it with him, by faith and dependence on him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Commit - Refer all thy actions and concerns to God, as the end of them, and depend upon God's providence for success. Established - Thy designs shall be brought to an happy issue.
McArther Bible Commentary
Commit. Lit. "roll upon" in the sense of both total trust (Pro 3:5-6) and submission to the will of God (Psa 22:8; Psa 37:5; Psa 119:133). He will fulfill a person's righteous plans.
Bible Cross References
1 Peter 5:7 Psalm 37:5 Psalm 55:22 Proverbs 3:6

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
God makes use of the wicked to execute righteous vengeance on each other; and he will be glorified by their destruction at last.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Doth work - He orders or disposes. For - For his own glory; for the discovery of his wisdom, power, goodness, truth, justice. The wicked - Wilful and impenitent sinners. Men make themselves wicked, and God therefore makes them miserable.
McArther Bible Commentary
The wicked will bring glory to God in the day of their judgment and eternal punishment. See notes on Rom 9:17-23.
Bible Cross References
Romans 9:22 Genesis 1:31 Exodus 9:16 Job 21:30 Proverbs 16:5 Ecclesiastes 3:11

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Though sinners strengthen themselves and one another, they shall not escape God's judgments.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:29 Proverbs 16:4 Proverbs 16:6 Jeremiah 13:15

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
By the mercy and truth of God in Christ Jesus, the sins of believers are taken away, and the power of sin is broken.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
By mercy - By a merciful and just and faithful frame of heart and course of life. Is purged - As they qualify a man to offer up acceptable prayers to God for the pardon of his sins. By fear - By a filial reverence unto God. Depart - They are kept from abusing pardoning mercy, and from returning to folly or wickedness.
McArther Bible Commentary
By God's mercy and truth, He affects the "atonement" or covering of sin, which for the believing sinner inclines him to depart from evil. See notes on Lev 16:1-34; Pro 17:11 for explanation of atonement. fear of the Lord. See note on Pro 1:7.
Bible Cross References
Luke 11:41 Genesis 20:11 Exodus 1:17 Exodus 20:20 Proverbs 3:7 Proverbs 8:13 Proverbs 14:16 Proverbs 16:5 Daniel 4:27

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
He that has all hearts in his hand, can make a man's enemies to be at peace with him.
McArther Bible Commentary
This general rule does not preclude persecution from some people. See note on 2Ti 3:12.
Bible Cross References
1 Peter 3:13 Genesis 33:4 Exodus 3:21 2 Chronicles 17:10 Proverbs 3:17 Proverbs 16:8 Jeremiah 39:12 Jeremiah 42:12 Daniel 1:9

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
A small estate, honestly come by, will turn to better account than a great estate ill-gotten.
McArther Bible Commentary
righteousness … justice. These words are used as synonyms here.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 37:16 Proverbs 15:16 Proverbs 16:7 Proverbs 16:9 Ecclesiastes 4:6

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
If men make God's glory their end, and his will their rule, he will direct their steps by his Spirit and grace. 10. Let kings and judges of the earth be just, and rule in the fear of God.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Deviseth - Proposes what he will do. Directeth - Over - rules and disposes all his designs and actions.
McArther Bible Commentary
See notes on Pro 16:1-2. Sovereign God overrules the plans of people to fulfill His purposes. See Gen 50:20; 1Ki 12:15; Psa 119:133; Jer 10:23; Dan 5:23-30; 1Co 3:19-20.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 37:23 Proverbs 16:1 Proverbs 16:8 Proverbs 19:21 Proverbs 20:24 Jeremiah 10:23

Verse 10

John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A divine sentence - Great sagacity and piercing judgment. Of the king - Of wise kings; who only are worthy of that name and office.
McArther Bible Commentary
Divination. This does not imply any occultic practice forbidden in Lev 19:26, but is literally a decision from divine wisdom, via the words of the king who represented God (cf. Rom 13:1-2). The king was under mandate (Deu 17:18-20) to seek out and speak God's wisdom (cf. David in 2Sa 14:17-20; Solomon in 1Ki 3:9-12; and Christ as King in Isa 11:2).
Bible Cross References
1 Kings 3:28 2 Chronicles 26:16

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
To observe justice in dealings between man and man is God's appointment.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
(Hosea 12:7). Religion With Deceitful Balances an Abomination
—Fraud in any business transaction is a grievous sin in God's sight; for the goods men are handling belong to Him, and must be used to the glory of His name if men would be pure and clean in His sight. The religion that carries in its hand the scant measure and the deceitful balance is an abomination in the sight of God. He who cherishes such a religion will be brought to confusion; for God is a jealous God (Letter 8, 1901).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The Lord's - Are made by his direction and appointment, so that no man can alter them without violating God's rights and authority.
McArther Bible Commentary
See note on Pro 11:1.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 11:1 Ezekiel 45:10

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
The ruler that uses his power aright, will find that to be his best security.
McArther Bible Commentary
See note on Pro 14:34.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 16:13 Proverbs 25:5 Proverbs 29:14

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Put those in power who know how to speak to the purpose.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 16:12 Proverbs 16:14 Proverbs 22:11

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Those are fools, who, to obtain the favour of an earthly prince, throw themselves out of God's favour.
McArther Bible Commentary
This points to the king's power of "life or death," which can be abused (cf. 1Sa 22:16-18; Esth. Pro 16:7-10; Dan 2:5) or used for good (cf. 2Sa 1:1-16; 2Sa 4:5-12).
Bible Cross References
Genesis 40:2 Proverbs 15:18 Proverbs 16:13 Proverbs 16:15 Proverbs 19:12 Proverbs 29:8

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Those are fools, who, to obtain the favour of an earthly prince, throw themselves out of God's favour.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A cloud - As acceptable as those clouds which bring the latter rain, whereby the fruits are filled and ripened a little before the harvest.
McArther Bible Commentary
cloud of the latter rain. The late spring rain, which matured the crop, fell before the harvest (cf. 2Sa 23:3-4; Psa 72:6) and is here compared to the king's power to grace his subjects with encouragement.
Bible Cross References
Job 29:23 Proverbs 16:14

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
There is joy and satisfaction of spirit, only in getting wisdom.
McArther Bible Commentary
better. Cf. Pro 3:13-16; Pro 8:10-11, Pro 8:18-19. See note on Pro 12:9.
Bible Cross References
Job 28:15 Job 28:17 Proverbs 3:14 Proverbs 4:5 Proverbs 8:10 Proverbs 8:19

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
A sincerely religious man keeps at a distance from every appearance of evil. Happy is the man that walks in Christ, and is led by the Spirit of Christ.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The high - way - Their common road, in which they walk, tho' through frailty or temptation they slip into the bypath of sin. From evil - From the evil of sin, and consequently from the evil of punishment. Keepeth - That takes heed to walk in that high - way.
McArther Bible Commentary
A plain road represents the habitual course of the righteous in departing from evil. As long as he stays on it, he is safe.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 19:16 Isaiah 35:8

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
When men defy God's judgments, and think themselves far from them, it is a sign they are at the door. Let us not fear the pride of others, but fear pride in ourselves.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 17:42 Proverbs 8:13 Proverbs 11:2 Proverbs 17:19 Proverbs 18:12 Proverbs 29:23 Jeremiah 49:16 Ezekiel 29:9 Obadiah 1:3

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Humility, though it exposes to contempt in the world, is much better than high-spiritedness, which makes God an enemy. He that understands God's word shall find good.
McArther Bible Commentary
The proud are those who have plundered the poor.
Bible Cross References
Exodus 15:9 Judges 5:30 Proverbs 1:13 Proverbs 1:14 Proverbs 3:34 Proverbs 29:23 Isaiah 57:15

Verse 20

John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Good - He who orders his affairs with discretion.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 2:12 Psalm 32:10 Psalm 34:8 Proverbs 19:8 Jeremiah 17:7

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
The man whose wisdom dwells in his heart, will be found more truly prudent than many who possess shining talents.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The wise - He who is truly wise, shall be so accounted by others. Sweetness - Eloquence added to wisdom. Increaseth - Both in himself, for while a man teaches others, he improves himself; and others, who by this means are induced to hear and receive his instructions.
McArther Bible Commentary
sweetness of the lips. "Honeyed words," which reflect intelligence, judiciousness, and discernment in speech. This refers to eloquent discourse from the wise (cf. Pro 16:24).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 11:25 Proverbs 16:22 Proverbs 16:23 Hosea 14:9

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
As waters to a thirsty land, so is a wise man to his friends and neighbours.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The instruction - Their most grave and serious counsels are foolish.
McArther Bible Commentary
wellspring of life. See note on Pro 10:11. The advice of the understanding person brings blessing, while the correction offered by a fool is useless.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 3:22 Proverbs 16:21 Proverbs 16:23

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
The wise man's self-knowledge, always suggests something proper to be spoken to others.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Teacheth - Directs him what to speak, and keeps him from speaking foolishly. Addeth - Enables him to speak learnedly and wisely.
McArther Bible Commentary
heart. See note on Pro 4:21-23.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 12:34 Psalm 37:30 Proverbs 15:28 Proverbs 16:21 Proverbs 16:22

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
The word of God cures the diseases that weaken our souls.
McArther Bible Commentary
Pleasant words. See note on Pro 16:21; cf. Pro 24:13-14; Psa 19:10.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 19:10 Proverbs 4:22 Proverbs 15:26 Proverbs 17:22 Proverbs 24:13 Proverbs 24:14

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
This is caution to all, to take heed of deceiving themselves as to their souls.
McArther Bible Commentary
way of death. Cf. Pro 14:12.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 12:15 Proverbs 14:12 Proverbs 16:26

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
We must labour for the meat which endureth to everlasting life, or we must perish.
McArther Bible Commentary
labors for himself. Labor is hard and often grievous, but necessary, even for the lazy (cf. Ecc 6:7; Eph 4:28; Eph 6:7; 2Th 3:10-12).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 16:25 Proverbs 16:27 Ecclesiastes 6:7

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Ungodly men bestow more pains to do mischief than would be needful to do good. The whisperer separates friends: what a hateful, but how common a character!
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Diggeth up - Prosecutes his evil designs with great industry. His lips - His tongue is set on fire of hell.
McArther Bible Commentary
ungodly man. See note on Pro 6:12. He literally digs a pit for his neighbor as a hunter would for prey (cf. Psa 7:15; Psa 62:6), and his speech is incendiary (cf. Jas 3:6).
Bible Cross References
James 3:6 Proverbs 6:12 Proverbs 6:14 Proverbs 16:26 Proverbs 16:28

Verse 28

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Ungodly men bestow more pains to do mischief than would be needful to do good. The whisperer separates friends: what a hateful, but how common a character!
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on ch. 26:20-22.
McArther Bible Commentary
sows. The same root word is used for the release of flaming foxes in the grain fields of the Philistines (Jdg 15:4-5; cf. Pro 17:9). whisperer. A slanderer or gossip. See note on Pro 6:14; cf. Pro 8:8; Pro 26:20, Pro 26:22 for the same Hebrew term.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:14 Proverbs 15:18 Proverbs 16:27 Proverbs 16:29 Proverbs 17:9 Proverbs 26:20

Verse 29

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Some do all the mischief they can by force and violence, and are blind to the result.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 1:10 Proverbs 11:9 Proverbs 12:26 Proverbs 16:28 Proverbs 16:30

Verse 30

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Some do all the mischief they can by force and violence, and are blind to the result.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Shutteth - That his thoughts may be more intent. Moving - Which is the gesture of one whose thoughts are deeply engaged.
McArther Bible Commentary
purses. The idea of winking or squinting the eyes and compressing one's lips was to express the posture showing deep thought and determined purpose.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 16:29 Proverbs 16:31

Verse 31

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
Old people especially should be found in the way of religion and godliness.
McArther Bible Commentary
This calls for respecting elders. Cf. Pro 20:29.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 3:1 Proverbs 3:2 Proverbs 16:30 Proverbs 16:32 Proverbs 20:29

Verse 32

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
To overcome our own passions, requires more steady management, than obtaining victory over an enemy.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
(See EGW on 1 Samuel 24:6, Vol. 2, p. 1021). How to Be Stronger Than Kings or Conquerors
—Is Christ using cutting words, stern criticism and unkind suspicion toward His people who commit faults? No. He takes every infirmity into account; He acts with discernment. He knows every one of our failings; but He uses patience; for otherwise we would have perished long ago on account of our bad treatment of Him. The greatest insult we can inflict upon Him, is to pretend to be His disciples while manifesting the spirit of Satan in our words, our dispositions and our actions. It does not behoove those from whom Jesus has so much to bear, in their failings and perversity, to be ever mindful of slights and real or imaginary offense. And yet there are those who are ever suspecting the motives of others about them. They see offense and slights where no such thing was intended. All this is Satan's work in the human heart. The heart filled with that love which thinketh no evil will not be on the watch to notice discourtesies and grievances of which he may be the object. The will of God is that His love shall close the eyes, the ears and the heart to all such provocations and to all the suggestions with which Satan would fill them. There is a noble majesty in the silence of the one exposed to evil-surmising or outrage. To be master of one's spirit is to be stronger than kings or conquerors. A Christian leads one to think of Christ. He will be affable, kind, patient, humble and yet courageous and firm in vindicating the truth and the name of Christ (Manuscript 24, 1887).We must not consider as our enemies all those who do not receive us with a smile upon their lips and with demonstrations of love. It is much easier to play the martyr than to overcome a bad temper.We must give others an example of not stopping at every trifling offense in order to vindicate our rights. We may expect that false reports will circulate about us; but if we follow a straight course, if we remain indifferent to these things, others will also be indifferent. Let us leave to God the care of our reputation. And thus, like sons and daughters of God, we shall show that we have self-control. We shall show that we are led by the Spirit of God, and that we are slow to anger. Slander can be lived down by our manner of living; it is not lived down by words of indignation. Let our great anxiety be to act in the fear of God, and show by our conduct that these reports are false. No one can injure our character as much as ourselves. It is the weak trees and the tottering houses that need to be constantly propped. When we show ourselves so anxious to protect our reputation against attacks from the outside, we give the impression that it is not blameless before God, and that it needs therefore to be continually bolstered up (Manuscript 24, 1887).Avoid Intoxication Through Wrath—One class have come up without self-control; they have not bridled the temper or the tongue; and some of these claim to be Christ's followers, but they are not. Jesus has set them no such example. When they have the meekness and lowliness of the Saviour, they will not act out the promptings of the natural heart, for this is of Satan. Some are nervous, and if they begin to lose self-control in word or spirit under provocation, they are as much intoxicated with wrath as the inebriate is with liquor. They are unreasonable, and not easily persuaded or convinced. They are not sane; Satan for the time has full control. Every one of these exhibitions of wrath weakens the nervous system and the moral powers, and makes it difficult to restrain anger or another provocation. With this class there is only one remedy,—positive self-control under all circumstances. The effort to get into a favorable place, where self will not be annoyed, may succeed for a time; but Satan knows where to find these poor souls, and will assail them in their weak points again and again. They will be continually troubled so long as they think so much of self. They carry the heaviest load a mortal can lift, that is self, unsanctified and unsubdued. But there is hope for them. Let this life, so stormy with conflicts and worries, be brought into connection with Christ, and then self will no longer clamor for the supremacy (The Youth's Instructor, November 10, 1886).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Is better - Of a more gallant and generous spirit, and more valiant and victorious.
McArther Bible Commentary
slow to anger. See notes on Pro 14:17; Pro 25:28. Cf. Ecc 9:17-18; Jas 1:19-20.
Bible Cross References
James 1:19 2 Kings 5:12 Proverbs 14:29 Proverbs 16:31 Proverbs 16:33 Proverbs 19:11 Proverbs 25:28 Ecclesiastes 7:8

Verse 33

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Through the whole of the Proverbs, we are to look for somewhat beyond the first sense the passage may imply, and this we shall find to be Christ. He is the Wisdom so often spoken of in this book.
All the disposal of Providence concerning our affairs, we must look upon to be the determining what we referred to God; and we must be reconciled to them accordingly. Blessed are those that give themselves up to the will of God; for he knows what is good for them.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The lot - As the ancient practice was in deciding doubtful things. The event of which though casual to men, is directed by God's providence.
McArther Bible Commentary
lot. See note on Pro 16:1. Casting lots was a method often used to reveal God's purposes in a matter (cf. Jos 14:1-2; 1Sa 14:38-43; 1Ch 25:8-31; Jon 1:7; Act 1:26). The high priest may have carried lots in his sacred vest, along with the Urim and Thummim (see note on Exo 28:30).
Bible Cross References
Acts 1:26 Joshua 7:14 1 Samuel 10:19 Proverbs 16:32 Proverbs 18:18 Proverbs 29:26 Ezekiel 21:21 Jonah 1:7