1 The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.

2 Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the Lord pondereth the hearts.

3 To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.

4 An high look, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sin.

5 The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.

6 The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death.

7 The robbery of the wicked shall destroy them; because they refuse to do judgment.

8 The way of man is froward and strange: but as for the pure, his work is right.

9 It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.

10 The soul of the wicked desireth evil: his neighbour findeth no favour in his eyes.

11 When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.

12 The righteous man wisely considereth the house of the wicked: but God overthroweth the wicked for their wickedness.

13 Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.

14 A gift in secret pacifieth anger: and a reward in the bosom strong wrath.

15 It is joy to the just to do judgment: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.

16 The man that wandereth out of the way of understanding shall remain in the congregation of the dead.

17 He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich.

18 The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, and the transgressor for the upright.

19 It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman.

20 There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up.

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

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

23 Whoso 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 labour.

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 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 believer, perceiving that the Lord rules every heart as he sees fit, like the husbandman who turns the water through his grounds as he pleases, seeks to have his own heart, and the hearts of others, directed in his faith, fear, and love.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The kings - He names kings not to exclude other men, but because they are more arbitrary and uncontrollable than others. As rivers - Which husband - men draw by little channels into the adjacent grounds as they please.
McArther Bible Commentary
He turns it. See note on Pro 16:1, Pro 16:9, Pro 16:33; cf. Pro 19:21; Pro 20:24. Note the examples of the divine hand of God in the cases of Artaxerxes (Ezr 7:21-23), Tiglath-Pileser (Isa 10:5-7), Cyrus (Isa 45:1-4), and Nebuchadnezzar (Dan 4:34; Dan 5:23-25).
Bible Cross References
Ezra 6:22 Jeremiah 39:12

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.
We are partial in judging ourselves and our actions.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Sometimes on Lucifer's Ground
—When a man takes the position that when he has once made a decision he must stand by it, and never to alter his decision, he is on the same ground as was Lucifer when he rebelled against God. He held his plans regarding the government of heaven as an exalted, unchangeable theory.No man should think that human opinions are to be immortalized. Any man taking the stand that he will never change his views places himself on dangerous ground. Those who hold the position that their views are unchangeable can not be helped; for they place themselves where they are not willing to receive counsel and admonition from their brethren (Letter 12, 1911).
McArther Bible Commentary
See note on Pro 16:2.
Bible Cross References
Luke 16:15 Proverbs 12:15 Proverbs 16:2 Proverbs 24:12

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.
Many deceive themselves with a conceit that outward devotions will excuse unrighteousness.
McArther Bible Commentary
See note on Pro 15:8 (cf. 1Sa 15:22; Isa 1:10-20; Hos 6:6; Mic 6:6-8).
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 15:22 Proverbs 15:8 Isaiah 1:11 Isaiah 1:16 Hosea 6:6 Micah 6:7 Micah 6:8

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.
Sin is the pride, the ambition, the glory, the joy, and the business of wicked men.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The plowing - Even their civil or natural actions, which in themselves are lawful, are made sinful as they are managed by ungodly men, without any regard to the glory of God, which ought to be the end of all our actions.
McArther Bible Commentary
plowing. Cf. Pro 6:17; Pro 30:13; Psa 18:27; Psa 131:1. This is best understood as the "lamp of the wicked," lamp being used as a symbol for the eyes, which conveys their pride.
Bible Cross References
Luke 11:34 Proverbs 6:17 Proverbs 24:20

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.
The really diligent employ foresight as well as labour.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Hasty - Who manages his affairs rashly.
McArther Bible Commentary
These verses address the evils of ill-gotten gain. They show three major defects in the way this gain is acquired: (1) hastily (Pro 21:5; cf. Pro 19:2; Pro 28:20); (2) deceitfully (Pro 21:6; cf. Pro 13:11); and (3) violently (Pro 21:7; cf. Pro 12:6).
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 10:4 Proverbs 13:4 Proverbs 19:2 Proverbs 28:22

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.
While men seek wealth by unlawful practices, they seek death.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Lying tongue - By any false or deceitful words or actions. Is tossed - Is like the chaff or smoak driven away by the wind. Of them - That take those courses which will bring destruction upon them.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 8:36 Proverbs 10:2 Proverbs 13:11 Proverbs 20:21

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.
Injustice will return upon the sinner, and will destroy him here and for ever.
McArther Bible Commentary
Cf. Pro 1:18-19.
Bible Cross References
Amos 5:7 Micah 3:9

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.
The way of mankind by nature is froward and strange.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The way - Of every man by nature. Strange - Estranged from God. Right - But he whose heart is pure, his conversation is agreeable to it.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 2:15 Proverbs 21:9

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.
It is best to shun bitter contention by pouring out the heart before God. For by prudence and patience, with constant prayer, the cross may be removed.
McArther Bible Commentary
corner of a housetop. Since roofs were open like patios (cf. Deu 22:8; 1Sa 9:25; 2Ki 4:10), a small arbor or enclosure in the corner of a flat roof was a very inconvenient place to live. contentious woman. Cf. Pro 21:19; Pro 19:13; Pro 25:24; Pro 27:15-16; see note on Pro 19:13.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 19:13 Proverbs 21:8 Proverbs 21:10 Proverbs 21:19 Proverbs 25:24

Verse 10

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 evil desires of a wicked man's heart, lead to baseness in his conduct.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Desireth - To do mischief. No favour - He spares neither friend nor foe.
McArther Bible Commentary
wicked desires evil. So strongly does the wicked person seek to do evil (cf. Ecc 8:11), that he will not spare his neighbor if he gets in his way.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 52:3 Proverbs 2:14 Proverbs 12:12 Proverbs 14:21 Proverbs 21:9

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.
The simple may be made wise by punishments on the wicked, and by instructions to those who are willing to be taught.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The wise - The simple learn wisdom, both from the punishment of wicked men, and from the prosperity of good men.
McArther Bible Commentary
See note on Pro 19:25.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 9:7 Proverbs 19:25

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.
Good men envy not the prosperity of evil-doers; they see there is a curse on them.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Considereth - He looks through its present glory to that ruin for which it is designed.
McArther Bible Commentary
See note on Pro 20:22; cf. Pro 10:25; Pro 14:11.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 14:11 Proverbs 29:16

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.
Such as oppress the poor by beating down wages, such as will not relieve according to their ability those in distress, and those in authority who neglect to do justice, stop their ears at the cry of the poor. But doubtless care is to be used in the exercise of charity.
McArther Bible Commentary
poor. See note on Pro 14:31.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 18:30 James 2:13 1 John 3:17 Job 29:12

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.
If money can conquer the fury of the passions, shall reason, the fear of God, and the command of Christ, be too weak to bridle them?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
In secret - Which makes it more acceptable. In the bosom - Secretly conveyed into the bosom.
McArther Bible Commentary
Cf. Pro 17:8; Pro 18:16; Pro 19:6.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 17:8 Proverbs 18:16 Proverbs 19:6

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.
There is true pleasure only in the practice of religion.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 10:29 Proverbs 21:16

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.
Of all wanderers in the ways of sin, those are in the most dangerous condition who turn aside into the ways of darkness. Yet there is hope even for them in the all-sufficient Saviour; but let them flee to him without delay.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Shall remain - Shall, without repentance, be condemned to eternal death.
McArther Bible Commentary
This is proven in the account of the simple man who was seduced (Pro 2:18; Pro 7:22-23; Pro 9:18).
Bible Cross References
Psalm 49:14 Proverbs 2:13 Proverbs 11:19 Ezekiel 18:24

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 life of worldly pleasure brings ruin on men.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Wine and oil - Delicious fare and luxurious feasting. Wine and oil were much used in feasts in those parts.
McArther Bible Commentary
wine and oil. These are associated with unbridled luxury in feasting (Deu 14:26; Neh 8:12; Psa 104:15; Amo 6:6; Joh 12:5). Costly indulgences impoverish.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 23:21 Proverbs 21:18

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.
The righteous is often delivered out of trouble, and the wicked comes in his stead, and so seems as a ransom for him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A ransom - The wicked shall be brought into those troubles, which were designed by wicked men for the righteous: thus Haman was a ransom for Mordecai.
McArther Bible Commentary
By suffering the very thing they had devised for the righteous, or brought on them, the wicked became their ransom, in the sense of being a substitute in judgment.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 11:8 Isaiah 43:3

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.
Unbridled passions spoil the comfort of all relations.
McArther Bible Commentary
See note on Pro 19:13. Cf. verse Pro 21:9.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 19:13 Proverbs 21:9

Verse 20

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 plenty obtained by prudence, industry, and frugality, is desirable. But the foolish misspend what they have upon their lusts.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The wise - Wise men lay up desirable treasures for their own use, and for their families. Oil is particularly mentioned, because that was a considerable part of their wealth and treasures in those countries.
Bible Cross References
Job 20:15 Job 20:18 Psalm 112:3 Proverbs 8:21 Proverbs 14:24 Proverbs 22:4

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.
True repentance and faith will lead him that relies on the mercy of God in Christ, to follow after righteousness and mercy in his own conduct.
McArther Bible Commentary
Those who pursue righteousness and mercy receive more than they seek (see Mat 5:6-7; Mat 6:33).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 5:6 1 Corinthians 15:58 Proverbs 3:22 Proverbs 15:9

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.
Those that have wisdom, often do great things, even against those confident of their strength.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The strength - The strongest sorts to which the citizens trust.
McArther Bible Commentary
Cf. Pro 24:5. Wisdom is better than strength (cf. Ecc 7:19; Ecc 9:15).
Bible Cross References
2 Samuel 5:6 Proverbs 24:5 Ecclesiastes 7:19 Ecclesiastes 9:15 Ecclesiastes 9:16

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.
It is our great concern to keep our souls from being entangled and disquieted.
Bible Cross References
James 3:2 Psalm 141:3 Proverbs 12:13 Proverbs 13:3 Proverbs 18:21

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.
Pride and haughtiness make men passionate; such continually deal in wrath, as if it were their trade to be angry.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 1:1 Proverbs 1:22 Proverbs 3:34 Proverbs 24:9 Isaiah 16:6 Isaiah 29:20 Jeremiah 48:29 Habakkuk 2:5

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.
Here is the misery of the slothful; their hands refuse to labour in an honest calling, by which they might get an honest livelihood; yet their hearts cease not to covet riches, pleasures, and honours, which cannot be obtained without labour. But the righteous and industrious have their desires satisfied.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Killeth - Torments him to death, while he passionately desires what he sees, he shall not enjoy, and will not take pains to procure.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 13:4 Proverbs 20:4

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.
Here is the misery of the slothful; their hands refuse to labour in an honest calling, by which they might get an honest livelihood; yet their hearts cease not to covet riches, pleasures, and honours, which cannot be obtained without labour. But the righteous and industrious have their desires satisfied.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Coveteth - Spends his whole time in vain and lazy desires. Giveth - By God's blessing upon his industry he procures enough, not only for his own support, but for the relief of others.
McArther Bible Commentary
The sin of covetousness marks the lazy man as the virtue of benevolence marks the righteous.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 5:42 Ephesians 4:28 2 Samuel 17:29 Psalm 37:26 Psalm 112:5 Psalm 112:9

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.
When holiness is pretended, but wickedness intended, that especially is an abomination.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The sacrifice - All the most costly services which they offer to God. Because - As all the ancient translators render it, the Hebrew particle, aph, being expletive: or, even because; so the following clause gives the reason. A wicked mind - Not in obedience to God's command, but either to cover, or countenance, or promote some wicked design.
McArther Bible Commentary
See note on Pro 15:8; cf. verse Pro 21:3; Isa 1:13-15.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 15:8 Proverbs 28:9 Ecclesiastes 5:1 Isaiah 66:3 Jeremiah 6:20 Amos 5:22

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.
The doom of a false witness is certain.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Heareth - He witnesses nothing but what he has heard or seen. Constantly - Always affirms the same thing.
McArther Bible Commentary
false witness. See note on Pro 12:17.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:19 Proverbs 19:5 Proverbs 19:9

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.
A wicked man bids defiance to the terrors of the law and the rebukes of Providence. But a good man asks, What does God require of me?
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Hardeneth - Continues in evil with obstinacy and impudence. Directs - He orders his steps aright.
McArther Bible Commentary
The wicked become obstinate, maintaining what suits them without regard for others or the truth, while good people proceed with integrity.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 119:5 Proverbs 7:13 Proverbs 11:5 Ecclesiastes 8:1

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.
Means are to be used, but, after all, our safety and salvation are only of the Lord. In our spiritual warfare we must arm ourselves with the whole armour of God; but our strength must be in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Bible Cross References
Acts 5:38 Acts 5:39 1 Corinthians 3:19 1 Corinthians 3:20 Ecclesiastes 6:10 Isaiah 45:9 Jeremiah 9:23

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.
Means are to be used, but, after all, our safety and salvation are only of the Lord. In our spiritual warfare we must arm ourselves with the whole armour of God; but our strength must be in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The horse - Under which all war - like provisions are comprehended.
McArther Bible Commentary
prepared … deliverance. This is not a condemnation of adequate preparation, but of reliance on it for victory instead of on the Lord (cf. Ezr 8:22; Psa 20:7; Isa 31:1-3; Hos 1:7).
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 15:57 Psalm 3:8 Psalm 20:7 Psalm 33:17 Isaiah 31:1 Jeremiah 3:23