1 My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:

2 For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.

3 Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart:

4 So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.

5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.

8 It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.

9 Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:

10 So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.

11 My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of his correction:

12 For whom the Lord loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.

13 Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.

14 For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.

15 She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.

16 Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour.

17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.

18 She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her.

19 The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens.

20 By his knowledge the depths are broken up, and the clouds drop down the dew.

21 My son, let not them depart from thine eyes: keep sound wisdom and discretion:

22 So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck.

23 Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble.

24 When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.

25 Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh.

26 For the Lord shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.

27 Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.

28 Say not unto thy neighbour, Go, and come again, and to morrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee.

29 Devise not evil against thy neighbour, seeing he dwelleth securely by thee.

30 Strive not with a man without cause, if he have done thee no harm.

31 Envy thou not the oppressor, and choose none of his ways.

32 For the froward is abomination to the Lord: but his secret is with the righteous.

33 The curse of the Lord is in the house of the wicked: but he blesseth the habitation of the just.

34 Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly.

35 The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to obedience and faith.
In the way of believing obedience to God's commandments health and peace may commonly be enjoyed; and though our days may not be long upon earth, we shall live for ever in heaven. Let not mercy and truth forsake thee; God's mercy in promising, and his truth in performing: live up to them, keep up thine interest in them, and take the comfort of them. We must trust in the Lord with all our hearts, believing he is able and wise to do what is best. Those who know themselves, find their own understandings a broken reed, which, if they lean upon, will fail. Do not design any thing but what is lawful, and beg God to direct thee in every case, though it may seem quite plain. In all our ways that prove pleasant, in which we gain our point, we must acknowledge God with thankfulness. In all our ways that prove uncomfortable, and that are hedged up with thorns, we must acknowledge him with submission. It is promised, He shall direct thy paths; so that thy way shall be safe and good, and happy at last.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
My law - The law of God, which might be called his law, as the gospel is called Paul's gospel, (2 Timothy 2:8) , because delivered by him.
McArther Bible Commentary
Here, the study of truth leading to wisdom is commended to all. This is enforced by a contrast of the destinies of the wise and wicked.
Bible Cross References
Exodus 20:6 Deuteronomy 30:16 Psalm 91:16 Psalm 119:61 Psalm 119:153 Proverbs 2:1 Proverbs 4:2 Proverbs 4:5 Proverbs 16:31 Proverbs 23:26

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to obedience and faith.
In the way of believing obedience to God's commandments health and peace may commonly be enjoyed; and though our days may not be long upon earth, we shall live for ever in heaven. Let not mercy and truth forsake thee; God's mercy in promising, and his truth in performing: live up to them, keep up thine interest in them, and take the comfort of them. We must trust in the Lord with all our hearts, believing he is able and wise to do what is best. Those who know themselves, find their own understandings a broken reed, which, if they lean upon, will fail. Do not design any thing but what is lawful, and beg God to direct thee in every case, though it may seem quite plain. In all our ways that prove pleasant, in which we gain our point, we must acknowledge God with thankfulness. In all our ways that prove uncomfortable, and that are hedged up with thorns, we must acknowledge him with submission. It is promised, He shall direct thy paths; so that thy way shall be safe and good, and happy at last.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 11:21 1 Kings 3:14 Psalm 91:16 Psalm 119:165 Proverbs 3:16 Proverbs 4:10 Proverbs 9:11 Proverbs 10:27 Proverbs 16:31

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to obedience and faith.
In the way of believing obedience to God's commandments health and peace may commonly be enjoyed; and though our days may not be long upon earth, we shall live for ever in heaven. Let not mercy and truth forsake thee; God's mercy in promising, and his truth in performing: live up to them, keep up thine interest in them, and take the comfort of them. We must trust in the Lord with all our hearts, believing he is able and wise to do what is best. Those who know themselves, find their own understandings a broken reed, which, if they lean upon, will fail. Do not design any thing but what is lawful, and beg God to direct thee in every case, though it may seem quite plain. In all our ways that prove pleasant, in which we gain our point, we must acknowledge God with thankfulness. In all our ways that prove uncomfortable, and that are hedged up with thorns, we must acknowledge him with submission. It is promised, He shall direct thy paths; so that thy way shall be safe and good, and happy at last.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Mercy - Mercy denotes all benignity, charity, and readiness to do good to others: truth or faithfulness respects all those duties which we owe to God or man, which we have special obligation from the rules of justice. Bind them - Like a chain, wherewith persons adorn their necks. Table - In thy mind and heart, in which all God's commands are to be received and engraven.
McArther Bible Commentary
neck … heart. The virtues of mercy (the Hebrew word for lovingkindness and loyal love) and truth that come from God are to become part of us-outwardly in our behavior for all to see as an adornment of spiritual beauty, and inwardly as the subject of our meditation (cf. Deu 6:4-9). Such internal/external mercy and truth is evidence of new covenant salvation (cf. Jer 31:33-34). Cf. 2Co 3:3.
Bible Cross References
2 Corinthians 3:3 Deuteronomy 6:8 Deuteronomy 11:18 2 Samuel 15:20 Psalm 85:10 Proverbs 1:9 Proverbs 6:21 Proverbs 7:3 Proverbs 14:22 Jeremiah 17:1

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to obedience and faith.
In the way of believing obedience to God's commandments health and peace may commonly be enjoyed; and though our days may not be long upon earth, we shall live for ever in heaven. Let not mercy and truth forsake thee; God's mercy in promising, and his truth in performing: live up to them, keep up thine interest in them, and take the comfort of them. We must trust in the Lord with all our hearts, believing he is able and wise to do what is best. Those who know themselves, find their own understandings a broken reed, which, if they lean upon, will fail. Do not design any thing but what is lawful, and beg God to direct thee in every case, though it may seem quite plain. In all our ways that prove pleasant, in which we gain our point, we must acknowledge God with thankfulness. In all our ways that prove uncomfortable, and that are hedged up with thorns, we must acknowledge him with submission. It is promised, He shall direct thy paths; so that thy way shall be safe and good, and happy at last.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Understanding - Whereby to know thy duty, and to discern between good and evil. Of God - Grace or favour with God, and that understanding which is good in God's sight.
McArther Bible Commentary
God and man. Cf. Christ in Luk 2:52.
Bible Cross References
Luke 2:52 2 Corinthians 8:21 1 Samuel 2:26 Psalm 111:10 Proverbs 8:35 Proverbs 12:2 Proverbs 13:15

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to obedience and faith.
In the way of believing obedience to God's commandments health and peace may commonly be enjoyed; and though our days may not be long upon earth, we shall live for ever in heaven. Let not mercy and truth forsake thee; God's mercy in promising, and his truth in performing: live up to them, keep up thine interest in them, and take the comfort of them. We must trust in the Lord with all our hearts, believing he is able and wise to do what is best. Those who know themselves, find their own understandings a broken reed, which, if they lean upon, will fail. Do not design any thing but what is lawful, and beg God to direct thee in every case, though it may seem quite plain. In all our ways that prove pleasant, in which we gain our point, we must acknowledge God with thankfulness. In all our ways that prove uncomfortable, and that are hedged up with thorns, we must acknowledge him with submission. It is promised, He shall direct thy paths; so that thy way shall be safe and good, and happy at last.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Trust - Wholly rely upon God's promises and providences. Lean not - Under this one kind of carnal confidence, he understands all other confidence in bodily strength, wealth, or friends.
Bible Cross References
Numbers 9:20 Psalm 37:3 Psalm 37:5 Proverbs 22:19 Proverbs 23:4 Proverbs 28:26 Jeremiah 9:23

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortations to obedience and faith.
In the way of believing obedience to God's commandments health and peace may commonly be enjoyed; and though our days may not be long upon earth, we shall live for ever in heaven. Let not mercy and truth forsake thee; God's mercy in promising, and his truth in performing: live up to them, keep up thine interest in them, and take the comfort of them. We must trust in the Lord with all our hearts, believing he is able and wise to do what is best. Those who know themselves, find their own understandings a broken reed, which, if they lean upon, will fail. Do not design any thing but what is lawful, and beg God to direct thee in every case, though it may seem quite plain. In all our ways that prove pleasant, in which we gain our point, we must acknowledge God with thankfulness. In all our ways that prove uncomfortable, and that are hedged up with thorns, we must acknowledge him with submission. It is promised, He shall direct thy paths; so that thy way shall be safe and good, and happy at last.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
God Guides Us in Doing His Will
—Has not God said He would give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him? and is not this spirit a real, true actual guide? Some men seem afraid to take God at His word as though it would be presumption in them. They pray for the Lord to teach us and yet are afraid to credit the pledged word of God and believe we have been taught of Him. So long as we come to our heavenly Father humbly and with a spirit to be taught, willing and anxious to learn, why should we doubt God's fulfilment of His own promise? You must not for a moment doubt Him and dishonor Him thereby. When you have sought to know His will, your part in the operation with God is to believe that you will be led and guided and blessed in the doing of His will. We may mistrust ourselves lest we misinterpret His teachings, but make even this a subject of prayer, and trust Him, still trust Him to the uttermost, that His Holy Spirit will lead you to interpret aright His plans and the working of His providence (Letter 35, 1893).It was Christ who guided the Israelites through the wilderness. And it is Christ who is guiding His people today, showing them where and how to work (Letter 335, 1904).
Bible Cross References
Philippians 4:6 James 1:5 Numbers 9:20 1 Chronicles 28:9 Nehemiah 7:5 Proverbs 11:5 Proverbs 16:3 Isaiah 30:21 Isaiah 45:13 Jeremiah 10:23 Jeremiah 42:3

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
To piety, and to improve afflictions.
There is not a greater enemy to the fear of the Lord in the heart, than self-conceit of our own wisdom. The prudence and sobriety which religion teaches, tend not only to the health of the soul, but to the health of the body. Worldly wealth is but poor substance, yet, such as it is, we must honour God with it; and those that do good with what they have, shall have more to do more good with. Should the Lord visit us with trials and sickness, let us not forget that the exhortation speaks to us as to children, for our good. We must not faint under an affliction, be it ever so heavy and long, not be driven to despair, or use wrong means for relief. The father corrects the son whom he loves, because he loves him, and desires that he may be wise and good. Afflictions are so far from doing God's children any hurt, that, by the grace of God, they promote their holiness.
McArther Bible Commentary
This proverb is alluded to by Paul in Rom 12:16.
Bible Cross References
Romans 12:16 Exodus 20:20 2 Samuel 12:20 Job 1:1 Job 28:28 Proverbs 8:13 Proverbs 14:16 Proverbs 16:6 Proverbs 23:4 Proverbs 26:5 Proverbs 26:12 Proverbs 28:11 Isaiah 5:21

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
To piety, and to improve afflictions.
There is not a greater enemy to the fear of the Lord in the heart, than self-conceit of our own wisdom. The prudence and sobriety which religion teaches, tend not only to the health of the soul, but to the health of the body. Worldly wealth is but poor substance, yet, such as it is, we must honour God with it; and those that do good with what they have, shall have more to do more good with. Should the Lord visit us with trials and sickness, let us not forget that the exhortation speaks to us as to children, for our good. We must not faint under an affliction, be it ever so heavy and long, not be driven to despair, or use wrong means for relief. The father corrects the son whom he loves, because he loves him, and desires that he may be wise and good. Afflictions are so far from doing God's children any hurt, that, by the grace of God, they promote their holiness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Navel - To thy body, which is signified by one part of it. Marrow - Which is the nourishment and strength of the bones.
McArther Bible Commentary
health … strength. The strength here is in the marrow, the inner parts (Job 21:24). God is promising physical well-being for those who live wisely according to His will. Such physical well-being is what David forfeited before he confessed that he had sinned against Bathsheba and Uriah (see Psa 32:3-4; Psa 51:8).
Bible Cross References
Job 21:24 Proverbs 4:22 Isaiah 66:14

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
To piety, and to improve afflictions.
There is not a greater enemy to the fear of the Lord in the heart, than self-conceit of our own wisdom. The prudence and sobriety which religion teaches, tend not only to the health of the soul, but to the health of the body. Worldly wealth is but poor substance, yet, such as it is, we must honour God with it; and those that do good with what they have, shall have more to do more good with. Should the Lord visit us with trials and sickness, let us not forget that the exhortation speaks to us as to children, for our good. We must not faint under an affliction, be it ever so heavy and long, not be driven to despair, or use wrong means for relief. The father corrects the son whom he loves, because he loves him, and desires that he may be wise and good. Afflictions are so far from doing God's children any hurt, that, by the grace of God, they promote their holiness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Substance - Lay out thy estate not to please thyself, but to glorify God. First - fruits - Or, with the chief or best; which answers to the first - fruits under the law.
McArther Bible Commentary
Honor the Lord … possessions. A biblical view of possessions demands using them for honoring God. This is accomplished by trusting God (Pro 3:5); by giving the first and best to God ("firstfruits"; cf. Exo 22:29; Exo 23:19; Deu 18:4); by being fair (Pro 3:27-28); by giving generously (Pro 11:25); and by expressing gratitude for all He gives (Deu 6:9-11). The result of such faithfulness to honor Him is prosperity and satisfaction.
Bible Cross References
Exodus 22:29 Exodus 23:19 Deuteronomy 26:2 2 Chronicles 31:21 Psalm 144:13 Proverbs 11:25 Isaiah 43:23 Malachi 3:10

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
To piety, and to improve afflictions.
There is not a greater enemy to the fear of the Lord in the heart, than self-conceit of our own wisdom. The prudence and sobriety which religion teaches, tend not only to the health of the soul, but to the health of the body. Worldly wealth is but poor substance, yet, such as it is, we must honour God with it; and those that do good with what they have, shall have more to do more good with. Should the Lord visit us with trials and sickness, let us not forget that the exhortation speaks to us as to children, for our good. We must not faint under an affliction, be it ever so heavy and long, not be driven to despair, or use wrong means for relief. The father corrects the son whom he loves, because he loves him, and desires that he may be wise and good. Afflictions are so far from doing God's children any hurt, that, by the grace of God, they promote their holiness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
So - This is not the way to diminish thy estate, but rather to increase it.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 28:8 2 Chronicles 31:21 Psalm 144:13 Proverbs 11:25 Joel 2:24

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
To piety, and to improve afflictions.
There is not a greater enemy to the fear of the Lord in the heart, than self-conceit of our own wisdom. The prudence and sobriety which religion teaches, tend not only to the health of the soul, but to the health of the body. Worldly wealth is but poor substance, yet, such as it is, we must honour God with it; and those that do good with what they have, shall have more to do more good with. Should the Lord visit us with trials and sickness, let us not forget that the exhortation speaks to us as to children, for our good. We must not faint under an affliction, be it ever so heavy and long, not be driven to despair, or use wrong means for relief. The father corrects the son whom he loves, because he loves him, and desires that he may be wise and good. Afflictions are so far from doing God's children any hurt, that, by the grace of God, they promote their holiness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Despise not - Either by making light of it, or not being duly affected with it; or by accounting it an unnecessary thing: but rather esteem it a privilege and favour from God. Weary - Neither think it tedious or hard, but endure it with patience and chearfulness.
McArther Bible Commentary
not despise … chastening . Since even the wisest of God's children are subject to sin, there is necessity of God's fatherly discipline to increase wisdom and blessing. Such correction should not be resisted. See notes on Heb 12:5-11.
Bible Cross References
Hebrews 12:5 Hebrews 12:6 Job 5:17 Psalm 94:12

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
To piety, and to improve afflictions.
There is not a greater enemy to the fear of the Lord in the heart, than self-conceit of our own wisdom. The prudence and sobriety which religion teaches, tend not only to the health of the soul, but to the health of the body. Worldly wealth is but poor substance, yet, such as it is, we must honour God with it; and those that do good with what they have, shall have more to do more good with. Should the Lord visit us with trials and sickness, let us not forget that the exhortation speaks to us as to children, for our good. We must not faint under an affliction, be it ever so heavy and long, not be driven to despair, or use wrong means for relief. The father corrects the son whom he loves, because he loves him, and desires that he may be wise and good. Afflictions are so far from doing God's children any hurt, that, by the grace of God, they promote their holiness.
Bible Cross References
Hebrews 12:6 Revelation 3:19 Deuteronomy 8:5 Psalm 94:12 Proverbs 13:24

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
To gain wisdom.
No precious jewels or earthly treasures are worthy to be compared with true wisdom, whether the concerns of time or eternity be considered. We must make wisdom our business; we must venture all in it, and be willing to part with all for it. This Wisdom is the Lord Jesus Christ and his salvation, sought and obtained by faith and prayer. Were it not for unbelief, remaining sinfulness, and carelessness, we should find all our ways pleasantness, and our paths peace, for his are so; but we too often step aside from them, to our own hurt and grief. Christ is that Wisdom, by whom the worlds were made, and still are in being; happy are those to whom he is made of God wisdom. He has wherewithal to make good all his promises.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
The Meaning of Enduring Wisdom
—True wisdom is a treasure as lasting as eternity. Many of the world's so-called wise men are wise only in their own estimation. Content with the acquisition of worldly wisdom, they never enter the garden of God, to become acquainted with the treasures of knowledge contained in His holy Word. Supposing themselves to be wise, they are ignorant concerning the wisdom which all must have who gain eternal life. They cherish a contempt for the Book of God, which, if studied and obeyed, would make them truly wise. The Bible is to them an impenetrable mystery. The grand, deep truths of the Old and New Testaments are obscure to them, because spiritual things are not spiritually discerned. They need to learn that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and that without this wisdom, their learning is of little worth.Those who are striving for an education in the sciences, but who have not learned the lesson that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom, are working helplessly and hopelessly, questioning the reality of everything. They may acquire an education in the sciences, but unless they gain a knowledge of the Bible and a knowledge of God, they are without true wisdom. The unlearned man, if he knows God and Jesus Christ, has a more enduring wisdom than has the most learned man who despises the instruction of God (Manuscript 33, 1911).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Findeth - Which supposes his diligent searching for it.
Bible Cross References
Job 28:15 Proverbs 8:9 Proverbs 8:32 Proverbs 8:34

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
To gain wisdom.
No precious jewels or earthly treasures are worthy to be compared with true wisdom, whether the concerns of time or eternity be considered. We must make wisdom our business; we must venture all in it, and be willing to part with all for it. This Wisdom is the Lord Jesus Christ and his salvation, sought and obtained by faith and prayer. Were it not for unbelief, remaining sinfulness, and carelessness, we should find all our ways pleasantness, and our paths peace, for his are so; but we too often step aside from them, to our own hurt and grief. Christ is that Wisdom, by whom the worlds were made, and still are in being; happy are those to whom he is made of God wisdom. He has wherewithal to make good all his promises.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
The Meaning of Enduring Wisdom
—True wisdom is a treasure as lasting as eternity. Many of the world's so-called wise men are wise only in their own estimation. Content with the acquisition of worldly wisdom, they never enter the garden of God, to become acquainted with the treasures of knowledge contained in His holy Word. Supposing themselves to be wise, they are ignorant concerning the wisdom which all must have who gain eternal life. They cherish a contempt for the Book of God, which, if studied and obeyed, would make them truly wise. The Bible is to them an impenetrable mystery. The grand, deep truths of the Old and New Testaments are obscure to them, because spiritual things are not spiritually discerned. They need to learn that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and that without this wisdom, their learning is of little worth.Those who are striving for an education in the sciences, but who have not learned the lesson that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom, are working helplessly and hopelessly, questioning the reality of everything. They may acquire an education in the sciences, but unless they gain a knowledge of the Bible and a knowledge of God, they are without true wisdom. The unlearned man, if he knows God and Jesus Christ, has a more enduring wisdom than has the most learned man who despises the instruction of God (Manuscript 33, 1911).
McArther Bible Commentary
Cf. Psa 19:10-11. Divine wisdom yields the richest treasures, described in verses Pro 3:14-18 as "profits," "length of days," "riches," "honor," "pleasantness," "peace," "life," and happiness.
Bible Cross References
Job 28:15 Proverbs 2:4 Proverbs 8:10 Proverbs 8:19 Proverbs 16:16

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
To gain wisdom.
No precious jewels or earthly treasures are worthy to be compared with true wisdom, whether the concerns of time or eternity be considered. We must make wisdom our business; we must venture all in it, and be willing to part with all for it. This Wisdom is the Lord Jesus Christ and his salvation, sought and obtained by faith and prayer. Were it not for unbelief, remaining sinfulness, and carelessness, we should find all our ways pleasantness, and our paths peace, for his are so; but we too often step aside from them, to our own hurt and grief. Christ is that Wisdom, by whom the worlds were made, and still are in being; happy are those to whom he is made of God wisdom. He has wherewithal to make good all his promises.
Bible Cross References
Job 28:18 Proverbs 8:10 Proverbs 8:11

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
To gain wisdom.
No precious jewels or earthly treasures are worthy to be compared with true wisdom, whether the concerns of time or eternity be considered. We must make wisdom our business; we must venture all in it, and be willing to part with all for it. This Wisdom is the Lord Jesus Christ and his salvation, sought and obtained by faith and prayer. Were it not for unbelief, remaining sinfulness, and carelessness, we should find all our ways pleasantness, and our paths peace, for his are so; but we too often step aside from them, to our own hurt and grief. Christ is that Wisdom, by whom the worlds were made, and still are in being; happy are those to whom he is made of God wisdom. He has wherewithal to make good all his promises.
Bible Cross References
1 Kings 3:13 Psalm 112:3 Proverbs 3:2 Proverbs 8:18 Proverbs 9:11 Proverbs 22:4

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
To gain wisdom.
No precious jewels or earthly treasures are worthy to be compared with true wisdom, whether the concerns of time or eternity be considered. We must make wisdom our business; we must venture all in it, and be willing to part with all for it. This Wisdom is the Lord Jesus Christ and his salvation, sought and obtained by faith and prayer. Were it not for unbelief, remaining sinfulness, and carelessness, we should find all our ways pleasantness, and our paths peace, for his are so; but we too often step aside from them, to our own hurt and grief. Christ is that Wisdom, by whom the worlds were made, and still are in being; happy are those to whom he is made of God wisdom. He has wherewithal to make good all his promises.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
(1 Timothy 4:8). Devotion to God Advances Health and Cheerfulness
—The wise man says that wisdom's “ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.” Many cherish the impression that devotion to God is detrimental to health and to cheerful happiness in the social relations of life. But those who walk in the path of wisdom and holiness find that “godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.” They are alive to the enjoyment of life's real pleasures, while they are not troubled with vain regrets over misspent hours, nor with gloom or horror of mind, as the worldling too often is when not diverted by some exciting amusement....Godliness does not conflict with the laws of health, but is in harmony with them. Had men ever been obedient to the law of ten commandments, had they carried out in their lives the principles of these ten precepts, the curse of disease that now floods the world would not be.... One whose mind is quiet and satisfied in God is on the highway to health (The Signs of the Times, October 23, 1884).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Peace - Procure a blessed tranquility in a man's mind and conscience.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 11:29 Psalm 119:165 Proverbs 16:7

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
To gain wisdom.
No precious jewels or earthly treasures are worthy to be compared with true wisdom, whether the concerns of time or eternity be considered. We must make wisdom our business; we must venture all in it, and be willing to part with all for it. This Wisdom is the Lord Jesus Christ and his salvation, sought and obtained by faith and prayer. Were it not for unbelief, remaining sinfulness, and carelessness, we should find all our ways pleasantness, and our paths peace, for his are so; but we too often step aside from them, to our own hurt and grief. Christ is that Wisdom, by whom the worlds were made, and still are in being; happy are those to whom he is made of God wisdom. He has wherewithal to make good all his promises.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A tree - A pledge of everlasting life. He alludes to the tree of life, and intimates, that this is the only restorer of that life which we have lost by sin.
McArther Bible Commentary
tree of life. This expression is a metaphor referring to temporal and spiritual renewal and refreshment (cf. Pro 11:30; Pro 13:12; Pro 15:4).
Bible Cross References
Revelation 2:7 Genesis 2:9 Proverbs 4:13 Proverbs 8:34 Proverbs 11:30 Proverbs 13:12 Proverbs 15:4 Ecclesiastes 7:12

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
To gain wisdom.
No precious jewels or earthly treasures are worthy to be compared with true wisdom, whether the concerns of time or eternity be considered. We must make wisdom our business; we must venture all in it, and be willing to part with all for it. This Wisdom is the Lord Jesus Christ and his salvation, sought and obtained by faith and prayer. Were it not for unbelief, remaining sinfulness, and carelessness, we should find all our ways pleasantness, and our paths peace, for his are so; but we too often step aside from them, to our own hurt and grief. Christ is that Wisdom, by whom the worlds were made, and still are in being; happy are those to whom he is made of God wisdom. He has wherewithal to make good all his promises.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Wisdom - Either by Christ, or by that Divine perfection of wisdom, which is the fountain of wisdom in man.
McArther Bible Commentary
Solomon is indicating that wisdom is basic to all of life, for by it God created everything. Since God used it to create the universe, how eager must a person be to use it to live in this universe.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 104:24 Psalm 136:5 Proverbs 8:22 Proverbs 8:27 Proverbs 8:28

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
To gain wisdom.
No precious jewels or earthly treasures are worthy to be compared with true wisdom, whether the concerns of time or eternity be considered. We must make wisdom our business; we must venture all in it, and be willing to part with all for it. This Wisdom is the Lord Jesus Christ and his salvation, sought and obtained by faith and prayer. Were it not for unbelief, remaining sinfulness, and carelessness, we should find all our ways pleasantness, and our paths peace, for his are so; but we too often step aside from them, to our own hurt and grief. Christ is that Wisdom, by whom the worlds were made, and still are in being; happy are those to whom he is made of God wisdom. He has wherewithal to make good all his promises.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The depths - That great abyss contained in the bowels of the earth, breaks forth into fountains and rivers.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 7:11 Genesis 27:28 Deuteronomy 33:28 Job 36:28 Proverbs 8:24

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Guidance of Wisdom.
Let us not suffer Christ's words to depart from us, but keep sound wisdom and discretion; then shall we walk safely in his ways. The natural life, and all that belongs to it, shall be under the protection of God's providence; the spiritual life, and all its interests, under the protection of his grace, so that we shall be kept from falling into sin or trouble.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Eyes - The eyes of thy mind. Constantly and seriously meditate upon them.
Bible Cross References
Hebrews 2:1 Proverbs 1:4 Proverbs 4:21 Proverbs 5:2 Proverbs 8:14 Proverbs 18:1

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Guidance of Wisdom.
Let us not suffer Christ's words to depart from us, but keep sound wisdom and discretion; then shall we walk safely in his ways. The natural life, and all that belongs to it, shall be under the protection of God's providence; the spiritual life, and all its interests, under the protection of his grace, so that we shall be kept from falling into sin or trouble.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Grace - Like a beautiful chain or ornament.
McArther Bible Commentary
life to your soul. The association of wisdom with the inner spiritual life (cf. Pro 3:2, Pro 3:16) unfolds throughout the book (cf. Pro 4:10, Pro 4:22; Pro 7:2; Pro 8:35; Pro 9:11; Pro 10:11, Pro 10:16-17; Pro 11:19, Pro 11:30; Pro 12:28; Pro 13:14; Pro 14:27; Pro 15:4, Pro 15:24; Pro 16:22; Pro 19:23; Pro 21:21; Pro 22:4). grace to your neck. The wisdom of God will adorn one's life for all to see its beauty (cf. Pro 1:9).
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 32:47 Proverbs 1:9 Proverbs 4:13 Proverbs 4:22 Proverbs 8:35 Proverbs 16:22 Proverbs 21:21

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Guidance of Wisdom.
Let us not suffer Christ's words to depart from us, but keep sound wisdom and discretion; then shall we walk safely in his ways. The natural life, and all that belongs to it, shall be under the protection of God's providence; the spiritual life, and all its interests, under the protection of his grace, so that we shall be kept from falling into sin or trouble.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 91:12 Psalm 119:165 Proverbs 4:12 Proverbs 6:22 Proverbs 10:9 Isaiah 5:27 Isaiah 63:13

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Guidance of Wisdom.
Let us not suffer Christ's words to depart from us, but keep sound wisdom and discretion; then shall we walk safely in his ways. The natural life, and all that belongs to it, shall be under the protection of God's providence; the spiritual life, and all its interests, under the protection of his grace, so that we shall be kept from falling into sin or trouble.
Bible Cross References
Job 11:19 Psalm 3:5 Psalm 112:8 Psalm 127:2 Proverbs 1:33 Proverbs 6:22 Ecclesiastes 5:12 Jeremiah 31:26

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Guidance of Wisdom.
Let us not suffer Christ's words to depart from us, but keep sound wisdom and discretion; then shall we walk safely in his ways. The natural life, and all that belongs to it, shall be under the protection of God's providence; the spiritual life, and all its interests, under the protection of his grace, so that we shall be kept from falling into sin or trouble.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Be not - Thou shalt not be afraid. Sudden - For sudden and unexpected evils are most frightful. And fear is here put for the evils feared. Desolation - Which cometh upon the wicked.
McArther Bible Commentary
afraid … confidence. Living in God's wisdom provides the basis for the believer's peace of mind (Pro 3:24) and removes fear (Pro 3:25).
Bible Cross References
1 Peter 3:14 Job 5:21 Psalm 91:5

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Guidance of Wisdom.
Let us not suffer Christ's words to depart from us, but keep sound wisdom and discretion; then shall we walk safely in his ways. The natural life, and all that belongs to it, shall be under the protection of God's providence; the spiritual life, and all its interests, under the protection of his grace, so that we shall be kept from falling into sin or trouble.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Shall be - A sure ground of confidence to thee. Taken - In the snares either of sin or mischief.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 2:9 Job 4:6

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The wicked and the upright.
Our business is to observe the precepts of Christ, and to copy his example; to do justice, to love mercy, and to beware of covetousness; to be ready for every good work, avoiding needless strife, and bearing evils, if possible, rather than seeking redress by law. It will be found there is little got by striving. Let us not envy prosperous oppressors; far be it from the disciples of Christ to choose any of their ways. These truths may be despised by the covetous and luxurious, but everlasting contempt will be the portion of such scorners, while Divine favour is shown to the humble believer.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
With - hold not - Do not deny it, but readily and chearfuly impart it. Good - Any thing which is good, either counsel, comfort, reproof, or the good things of the present life. Due - That is, to all men, by that great and sovereign law of love.
Bible Cross References
Romans 13:7 Galatians 6:10 Micah 2:1

Verse 28

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The wicked and the upright.
Our business is to observe the precepts of Christ, and to copy his example; to do justice, to love mercy, and to beware of covetousness; to be ready for every good work, avoiding needless strife, and bearing evils, if possible, rather than seeking redress by law. It will be found there is little got by striving. Let us not envy prosperous oppressors; far be it from the disciples of Christ to choose any of their ways. These truths may be despised by the covetous and luxurious, but everlasting contempt will be the portion of such scorners, while Divine favour is shown to the humble believer.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Say not - The former verse forbad the denial, and this forbids the delay of this duty.
McArther Bible Commentary
neighbor. A neighbor is anyone in need whom God brings across one's path. See Luk 10:29-37.
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 19:13 Deuteronomy 24:15

Verse 29

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The wicked and the upright.
Our business is to observe the precepts of Christ, and to copy his example; to do justice, to love mercy, and to beware of covetousness; to be ready for every good work, avoiding needless strife, and bearing evils, if possible, rather than seeking redress by law. It will be found there is little got by striving. Let us not envy prosperous oppressors; far be it from the disciples of Christ to choose any of their ways. These truths may be despised by the covetous and luxurious, but everlasting contempt will be the portion of such scorners, while Divine favour is shown to the humble believer.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Securely - Relying upon thine integrity.
McArther Bible Commentary
devise … dwells. Do not plan evil against one trusting in your protection.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 6:14 Proverbs 14:22 Zechariah 8:17

Verse 30

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The wicked and the upright.
Our business is to observe the precepts of Christ, and to copy his example; to do justice, to love mercy, and to beware of covetousness; to be ready for every good work, avoiding needless strife, and bearing evils, if possible, rather than seeking redress by law. It will be found there is little got by striving. Let us not envy prosperous oppressors; far be it from the disciples of Christ to choose any of their ways. These truths may be despised by the covetous and luxurious, but everlasting contempt will be the portion of such scorners, while Divine favour is shown to the humble believer.
McArther Bible Commentary
strive. This can mean "come to hand blows," or, with legal overtones, "accuse a man."
Bible Cross References
Romans 12:18 Proverbs 26:17

Verse 31

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The wicked and the upright.
Our business is to observe the precepts of Christ, and to copy his example; to do justice, to love mercy, and to beware of covetousness; to be ready for every good work, avoiding needless strife, and bearing evils, if possible, rather than seeking redress by law. It will be found there is little got by striving. Let us not envy prosperous oppressors; far be it from the disciples of Christ to choose any of their ways. These truths may be despised by the covetous and luxurious, but everlasting contempt will be the portion of such scorners, while Divine favour is shown to the humble believer.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Envy not - For his impunity and success.
McArther Bible Commentary
envy. Many law-keepers wish they were law-breakers (Psa 37:1-7). They would like to be oppressors rather than the oppressed.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 37:1 Proverbs 24:1

Verse 32

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The wicked and the upright.
Our business is to observe the precepts of Christ, and to copy his example; to do justice, to love mercy, and to beware of covetousness; to be ready for every good work, avoiding needless strife, and bearing evils, if possible, rather than seeking redress by law. It will be found there is little got by striving. Let us not envy prosperous oppressors; far be it from the disciples of Christ to choose any of their ways. These truths may be despised by the covetous and luxurious, but everlasting contempt will be the portion of such scorners, while Divine favour is shown to the humble believer.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Abomination - Therefore sooner or later he must be miserable. The righteous - They are God's friends, to whom he imparts the favours and comforts to which other men are strangers.
McArther Bible Commentary
abomination. Specifically, an abomination is an attitude or act that is incompatible with God's nature and intolerable to Him, leading to His anger and judgment. This is an important theme in Proverbs (see note on Pro 6:16-19). secret counsel. This means that God discloses Himself and His truth to the upright (cf. Psa 25:14).
Bible Cross References
John 7:17 Job 29:4 Psalm 25:14 Proverbs 11:20 Isaiah 41:24

Verse 33

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The wicked and the upright.
Our business is to observe the precepts of Christ, and to copy his example; to do justice, to love mercy, and to beware of covetousness; to be ready for every good work, avoiding needless strife, and bearing evils, if possible, rather than seeking redress by law. It will be found there is little got by striving. Let us not envy prosperous oppressors; far be it from the disciples of Christ to choose any of their ways. These truths may be despised by the covetous and luxurious, but everlasting contempt will be the portion of such scorners, while Divine favour is shown to the humble believer.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The house - Not only upon his own person, but also upon his posterity.
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 26:14 Leviticus 26:16 Deuteronomy 11:28 Job 8:6 Psalm 1:3 Psalm 37:22 Zechariah 5:3 Zechariah 5:4 Malachi 2:2

Verse 34

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The wicked and the upright.
Our business is to observe the precepts of Christ, and to copy his example; to do justice, to love mercy, and to beware of covetousness; to be ready for every good work, avoiding needless strife, and bearing evils, if possible, rather than seeking redress by law. It will be found there is little got by striving. Let us not envy prosperous oppressors; far be it from the disciples of Christ to choose any of their ways. These truths may be despised by the covetous and luxurious, but everlasting contempt will be the portion of such scorners, while Divine favour is shown to the humble believer.
McArther Bible Commentary
humble. Lit. "he who bends himself" (Jas 4:6; 1Pe 5:5).
Bible Cross References
James 4:6 1 Peter 5:5 Psalm 18:26 Psalm 138:6 Proverbs 14:9 Proverbs 16:19 Proverbs 21:24

Verse 35

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The wicked and the upright.
Our business is to observe the precepts of Christ, and to copy his example; to do justice, to love mercy, and to beware of covetousness; to be ready for every good work, avoiding needless strife, and bearing evils, if possible, rather than seeking redress by law. It will be found there is little got by striving. Let us not envy prosperous oppressors; far be it from the disciples of Christ to choose any of their ways. These truths may be despised by the covetous and luxurious, but everlasting contempt will be the portion of such scorners, while Divine favour is shown to the humble believer.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Shame - Instead of that glory which they seek.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 8:5 Proverbs 13:5 Daniel 12:3