The subject of this book may be thus stated by an enlargement on the opening verses. 1. The Proverbs of Solomon, the son of David, king of Israel. 2. Which treat of the knowledge of wisdom, of piety towards God, of instruction and moral discipline, of the understanding wise and prudent counsels. 3. Which treat of the attainment of instruction in wisdom, which wisdom is to be shown in the conduct of life, and consists in righteousness with regard to our fellow-creatures. 4. Which treat of the giving to the simple sagacity to discover what is right, by supplying them with just principles, and correct views of virtue and vice; and to the young man knowledge, so that he need not err through ignorance; and discretion, so that by pondering well these precepts, he may not err through obstinacy. Take the proverbs of other nations, and we shall find great numbers founded upon selfishness, cunning, pride, injustice, national contempt, and animosities. The principles of the Proverbs of Solomon are piety, charity, justice, benevolence, and true prudence. Their universal purity proves that they are the word of God.
The use of the Proverbs. (1-6) Exhortations to fear God and obey parents. (7-9) To avoid the enticings of sinners. (10-19) The address of Wisdom to sinners. (20-33)
@Verses 1-6 The lessons here given are plain, and likely to benefit those who feel their own ignorance, and their need to be taught. If young people take heed to their ways, according to Solomon's Proverbs, they will gain knowledge and discretion. Solomon speaks of the most important points of truth, and a greater than Solomon is here. Christ speaks by his word and by his Spirit. Christ is the Word and the Wisdom of God, and he is made to us wisdom.
@Verses 7-9 Fools are persons who have no true wisdom, who follow their own devices, without regard to reason, or reverence for God. Children are reasonable creatures, and when we tell them what they must do, we must tell them why. But they are corrupt and wilful, therefore with the instruction there is need of a law. Let Divine truths and commands be to us most honourable; let us value them, and then they shall be so to us.
@Verses 10-19 Wicked people are zealous in seducing others into the paths of the destroyer: sinners love company in sin. But they have so much the more to answer for. How cautious young people should be! "Consent thou not." Do not say as they say, nor do as they do, or would have thee to do; have no fellowship with them. Who could think that it should be a pleasure to one man to destroy another! See their idea of worldly wealth; but it is neither substance, nor precious. It is the ruinous mistake of thousands, that they overvalue the wealth of this world. Men promise themselves in vain that sin will turn to their advantage. The way of sin is down-hill; men cannot stop themselves. Would young people shun temporal and eternal ruin, let them refuse to take one step in these destructive paths. Men's greediness of gain hurries them upon practices which will not suffer them or others to live out half their days. What is a man profited, though he gain the world, if he lose his life? much less if he lose his soul?
@Verses 20-33
Solomon, having showed how dangerous it is to hearken to
the temptations of Satan, here declares how dangerous it is not
to hearken to the calls of God. Christ himself is Wisdom, is
Wisdoms. Three sorts of persons are here called by Him: 1.
Simple ones. Sinners are fond of their simple notions of good
and evil, their simple prejudices against the ways of God, and
flatter themselves in their wickedness. 2. Scorners. Proud,
jovial people, that make a jest of every thing. Scoffers at
religion, that run down every thing sacred and serious. 3.
Fools. Those are the worst of fools that hate to be taught, and
have a rooted dislike to serious godliness. The precept is
plain; Turn you at my reproof. We do not make a right use of
reproofs, if we do not turn from evil to that which is good. The
promises are very encouraging. Men cannot turn by any power of
their own; but God answers, Behold, I will pour out my Spirit
unto you. Special grace is needful to sincere conversion. But
that grace shall never be denied to any who seek it. The love of
Christ, and the promises mingled with his reproofs, surely
should have the attention of every one. It may well be asked,
how long men mean to proceed in such a perilous path, when the
uncertainty of life and the consequences of dying without Christ
are considered? Now sinners live at ease, and set sorrow at
defiance; but their calamity will come. Now God is ready to hear
their prayers; but then they shall cry in vain. Are we yet
despisers of wisdom? Let us hearken diligently, and obey the
Lord Jesus, that we may enjoy peace of conscience and confidence
in God; be free from evil, in life, in death, and for ever.
Promises to those who seek wisdom. (1-9) The advantages of
wisdom. (10-22)
@Verses 1-9
Those who earnestly seek heavenly wisdom, will never
complain that they have lost their labour; and the freeness of
the gift does not do away the necessity of our diligence, Joh
6:27. Let them seek, and they shall find it; let them ask, and
it shall be given them. Observe who are thus favoured. They are
the righteous, on whom the image of God is renewed, which
consists in righteousness. If we depend upon God, and seek to
him for wisdom, he will enable us to keep the paths of judgment.
@Verses 10-22
If we are truly wise, we shall be careful to avoid all
evil company and evil practices. When wisdom has dominion over
us, then it not only fills the head, but enters into the heart,
and will preserve, both against corruptions within and
temptations without. The ways of sin are ways of darkness,
uncomfortable and unsafe: what fools are those who leave the
plain, pleasant, lightsome paths of uprightness, to walk in such
ways! They take pleasure in sin; both in committing it, and in
seeing others commit it. Every wise man will shun such company.
True wisdom will also preserve from those who lead to fleshly
lusts, which defile the body, that living temple, and war
against the soul. These are evils which excite the sorrow of
every serious mind, and cause every reflecting parent to look
upon his children with anxiety, lest they should be entangled in
such fatal snares. Let the sufferings of others be our warnings.
Our Lord Jesus deters from sinful pleasures, by the everlasting
torments which follow them. It is very rare that any who are
caught in this snare of the devil, recover themselves; so much
is the heart hardened, and the mind blinded, by the
deceitfulness of this sin. Many think that this caution, besides
the literal sense, is to be understood as a caution against
idolatry, and subjecting the soul to the body, by seeking any
forbidden object. The righteous must leave the earth as well as
the wicked; but the earth is a very different thing to them. To
the wicked it is all the heaven they ever shall have; to the
righteous it is the place of preparation for heaven. And is it
all one to us, whether we share with the wicked in the miseries
of their latter end, or share those everlasting joys that shall
crown believers?
Exhortations to obedience and faith. (1-6) To piety, and to
improve afflictions. (7-12) To gain wisdom. (13-20) Guidance of
Wisdom. (21-26) The wicked and the upright. (27-35)
@Verses 1-6
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.
@Verses 7-12
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.
@Verses 13-20
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.
@Verses 21-26
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.
@Verses 27-35
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.
Exhortation to the study of wisdom. (1-13) Cautions against
bad company, Exhortation to faith and holiness. (14-27)
@Verses 1-13
We must look upon our teachers as our fathers: though
instruction carry in it reproof and correction, bid it welcome.
Solomon's parents loved him, therefore taught him. Wise and
godly men, in every age of the world, and rank in society, agree
that true wisdom consists in obedience, and is united to
happiness. Get wisdom, take pains for it. Get the rule over thy
corruptions; take more pains to get this than the wealth of this
world. An interest in Christ's salvation is necessary. This
wisdom is the one thing needful. A soul without true wisdom and
grace is a dead soul. How poor, contemptible, and wretched are
those, who, with all their wealth and power, die without getting
understanding, without Christ, without hope, and without God!
Let us give heed to the sayings of Him who has the words of
eternal life. Thus our path will be plain before us: by taking,
and keeping fast hold of instruction, we shall avoid being
straitened or stumbling.
@Verses 14-27
The way of evil men may seem pleasant, and the nearest
way to compass some end; but it is an evil way, and will end
ill; if thou love thy God and thy soul, avoid it. It is not
said, Keep at a due distance, but at a great distance; never
think you can get far enough from it. The way of the righteous
is light; Christ is their Way, and he is the Light. The saints
will not be perfect till they reach heaven, but there they shall
shine as the sun in his strength. The way of sin is as darkness.
The way of the wicked is dark, therefore dangerous; they fall
into sin, but know not how to avoid it. They fall into trouble,
but never seek to know wherefore God contends with them, nor
what will be in the end of it. This is the way we are bid to
shun. Attentive hearing the word of God, is a good sign of a
work of grace begun in the heart, and a good means of carrying
it on. There is in the word of God a proper remedy for all
diseases of the soul. Keep thy heart with all diligence. We must
set a strict guard upon our souls; keep our hearts from doing
hurt, and getting hurt. A good reason is given; because out of
it are the issues of life. Above all, we should seek from the
Lord Jesus that living water, the sanctifying Spirit, issuing
forth unto everlasting life. Thus we shall be enabled to put
away a froward mouth and perverse lips; our eyes will be turned
from beholding vanity, looking straight forward, and walking by
the rule of God's word, treading in the steps of our Lord and
Master. Lord, forgive the past, and enable us to follow thee
more closely for the time to come.
Exhortations to wisdom. The evils of licentiousness. (1-14)
Remedies against licentiousness, The miserable end of the
wicked. (15-23)
@Verses 1-14
Solomon cautions all young men, as his children, to
abstain from fleshly lusts. Some, by the adulterous woman, here
understand idolatry, false doctrine, which tends to lead astray
men's minds and manners; but the direct view is to warn against
seventh-commandment sins. Often these have been, and still are,
Satan's method of drawing men from the worship of God into false
religion. Consider how fatal the consequences; how bitter the
fruit! Take it any way, it wounds. It leads to the torments of
hell. The direct tendency of this sin is to the destruction of
body and soul. We must carefully avoid every thing which may be
a step towards it. Those who would be kept from harm, must keep
out of harm's way. If we thrust ourselves into temptation we
mock God when we pray, Lead us not into temptation. How many
mischiefs attend this sin! It blasts the reputation; it wastes
time; it ruins the estate; it is destructive to health; it will
fill the mind with horror. Though thou art merry now, yet sooner
or later it will bring sorrow. The convinced sinner reproaches
himself, and makes no excuse for his folly. By the frequent acts
of sin, the habits of it become rooted and confirmed. By a
miracle of mercy true repentance may prevent the dreadful
consequences of such sins; but this is not often; far more die
as they have lived. What can express the case of the self-ruined
sinner in the eternal world, enduring the remorse of his
conscience!
@Verses 15-23
Lawful marriage is a means God has appointed to keep from
these destructive vices. But we are not properly united, except
as we attend to God's word, seeking his direction and blessing,
and acting with affection. Ever remember, that though secret
sins may escape the eyes of our fellow-creatures, yet a man's
ways are before the eyes of the Lord, who not only sees, but
ponders all his goings. Those who are so foolish as to choose
the way of sin, are justly left of God to themselves, to go on
in the way to destruction.
Cautions against rash suretiship. (1-5) A rebuke to
slothfulness. (6-11) Seven things hateful to God. (12-19)
Exhortations to walk according to God's commandments. (20-35)
@Verses 1-5
If we live as directed by the word of God, we shall find it
profitable even in this present world. We are stewards of our
worldly substance, and have to answer to the Lord for our
disposal of it; to waste it in rash schemes, or such plans as
may entangle us in difficulties and temptations, is wrong. A man
ought never to be surety for more than he is able and willing to
pay, and can afford to pay, without wronging his family; he
ought to look upon every sum he is engaged for, as his own debt.
If we must take all this care to get our debts to men forgiven,
much more to obtain forgiveness with God. Humble thyself to him,
make sure of Christ as thy Friend, to plead for thee; pray
earnestly that thy sins may be pardoned, and that thou mayest be
kept from going down to the pit.
@Verses 6-11
Diligence in business is every man's wisdom and duty; not
so much that he may attain worldly wealth, as that he may not be
a burden to others, or a scandal to the church. The ants are
more diligent than slothful men. We may learn wisdom from the
meanest insects, and be shamed by them. Habits of indolence and
indulgence grow upon people. Thus life runs to waste; and
poverty, though at first at a distance, gradually draws near,
like a traveller; and when it arrives, is like an armed man, too
strong to be resisted. All this may be applied to the concerns
of our souls. How many love their sleep of sin, and their dreams
of worldly happiness! Shall we not seek to awaken such? Shall we
not give diligence to secure our own salvation?
@Verses 12-19
If the slothful are to be condemned, who do nothing, much
more those that do all the ill they can. Observe how such a man
is described. He says and does every thing artfully, and with
design. His ruin shall come without warning, and without relief.
Here is a list of things hateful to God. Those sins are in a
special manner provoking to God, which are hurtful to the
comfort of human life. These things which God hates, we must
hate in ourselves; it is nothing to hate them in others. Let us
shun all such practices, and watch and pray against them; and
avoid, with marked disapproval, all who are guilty of them,
whatever may be their rank.
@Verses 20-35
The word of God has something to say to us upon all
occasions. Let not faithful reproofs ever make us uneasy. When
we consider how much this sin abounds, how heinous adultery is
in its own nature, of what evil consequence it is, and how
certainly it destroys the spiritual life in the soul, we shall
not wonder that the cautions against it are so often repeated.
Let us notice the subjects of this chapter. Let us remember Him
who willingly became our Surety, when we were strangers and
enemies. And shall Christians, who have such prospects, motives,
and examples, be slothful and careless? Shall we neglect what is
pleasing to God, and what he will graciously reward? May we
closely watch every sense by which poison can enter our minds or
affections.
Invitations to learn wisdom. (1-5) The arts of seducers, with
warnings against them. (6-27)
@Verses 1-5
We must lay up God's commandments safely. Not only, Keep
them, and you shall live; but, Keep them as those that cannot
live without them. Those that blame strict and careful walking
as needless and too precise, consider not that the law is to be
kept as the apple of the eye; indeed the law in the heart is the
eye of the soul. Let the word of God dwell in us, and so be
written where it will be always at hand to be read. Thus we
shall be kept from the fatal effects of our own passions, and
the snares of Satan. Let God's word confirm our dread of sin,
and resolutions against it.
@Verses 6-27
Here is an affecting example of the danger of youthful
lusts. It is a history or a parable of the most instructive
kind. Will any one dare to venture on temptations that lead to
impurity, after Solomon has set before his eyes in so lively and
plain a manner, the danger of even going near them? Then is he
as the man who would dance on the edge of a lofty rock, when he
has just seen another fall headlong from the same place. The
misery of self-ruined sinners began in disregard to God's
blessed commands. We ought daily to pray that we may be kept
from running into temptation, else we invite the enemies of our
souls to spread snares for us. Ever avoid the neighbourhood of
vice. Beware of sins which are said to be pleasant sins. They
are the more dangerous, because they most easily gain the heart,
and close it against repentance. Do nothing till thou hast well
considered the end of it. Were a man to live as long as
Methuselah, and to spend all his days in the highest delights
sin can offer, one hour of the anguish and tribulation that must
follow, would far outweigh them.
Christ, as Wisdom, calls to the sons of men. (1-11) The nature
and riches of Wisdom. (12-21) Christ one with the Father, in the
creation of the world, and rejoicing in his work for the
salvation of man. (22-31) Exhortations to hear Christ's word.
(32-36)
@Verses 1-11
The will of God is made known by the works of creation,
and by the consciences of men, but more clearly by Moses and the
prophets. The chief difficulty is to get men to attend to
instruction. Yet attention to the words of Christ, will guide
the most ignorant into saving knowledge of the truth. Where
there is an understanding heart, and willingness to receive the
truth in love, wisdom is valued above silver and gold.
@Verses 12-21
Wisdom, here is Christ, in whom are all the treasures of
wisdom and knowledge; it is Christ in the word, and Christ in
the heart; not only Christ revealed to us, but Christ revealed
in us. All prudence and skill are from the Lord. Through the
redemption of Christ's precious blood, the riches of his grace
abound in all wisdom and prudence. Man found out many inventions
for ruin; God found one for our recovery. He hates pride and
arrogance, evil ways and froward conversation; these render men
unwilling to hear his humbling, awakening, holy instructions.
True religion gives men the best counsel in all difficult cases,
and helps to make their way plain. His wisdom makes all truly
happy who receive it in the love of Christ Jesus. Seek him
early, seek him earnestly, seek him before any thing else.
Christ never said, Seek in vain. Those who love Christ, are such
as have seen his loveliness, and have had his love shed abroad
in their hearts; therefore they are happy. They shall be happy
in this world, or in that which is beyond compare better. Wealth
gotten by vanity will soon be diminished, but that which is well
got, will wear well; and that which is well spent upon works of
piety and charity, will be lasting. If they have not riches and
honour in this world, they shall have that which is infinitely
better. They shall be happy in the grace of God. Christ, by his
Spirit, guides believers into all truth, and so leads them in
the way of righteousness; and they walk after the Spirit. Also,
they shall be happy in the glory of God hereafter. In Wisdom's
promises, believers have goods laid up, not for days and years,
but for eternity; her fruit therefore is better than gold.
@Verses 22-31
The Son of God declares himself to have been engaged in
the creation of the world. How able, how fit is the Son of God
to be the Saviour of the world, who was the Creator of it! The
Son of God was ordained, before the world, to that great work.
Does he delight in saving wretched sinners, and shall not we
delight in his salvation?
@Verses 32-36
Surely we should hearken to Christ's voice with the
readiness of children. Let us all be wise, and not refuse such
mercy. Blessed are those who hear the Saviour's voice, and wait
on him with daily reading, meditation, and prayer. The children
of the world find time for vain amusements, without neglecting
what they deem the one thing needful. Does it not show contempt
of Wisdom's instructions, when people professing godliness, seek
excuses for neglecting the means of grace? Christ is Wisdom, and
he is Life to all believers; nor can we obtain God's favour,
unless we find Christ, and are found in him. Those who offend
Christ deceive themselves; sin is a wrong to the soul. Sinners
die because they will die, which justifies God when he judges.
The invitations of Wisdom. (1-12) The invitations of folly.
(13-18)
@Verses 1-12
Christ has prepared ordinances to which his people are
admitted, and by which nourishment is given here to those that
believe in him, as well as mansions in heaven hereafter. The
ministers of the gospel go forth to invite the guests. The call
is general, and shuts out none that do not shut out themselves.
Our Saviour came, not to call the righteous, but sinners; not
the wise in their own eyes, who say they see. We must keep from
the company and foolish pleasures of the ungodly, or we never
can enjoy the pleasures of a holy life. It is vain to seek the
company of wicked men in the hope of doing them good; we are far
more likely to be corrupted by them. It is not enough to forsake
the foolish, we must join those that walk in wisdom. There is no
true wisdom but in the way of religion, no true life but in the
end of that way. Here is the happiness of those that embrace it.
A man cannot be profitable to God; it is for our own good.
Observe the shame and ruin of those who slight it. God is not
the Author of sin: and Satan can only tempt, he cannot force.
Thou shalt bear the loss of that which thou scornest: it will
add to thy condemnation.
@Verses 13-18
How diligent the tempter is, to seduce unwary souls into
sin! Carnal, sensual pleasure, stupifies conscience, and puts
out the sparks of conviction. This tempter has no solid reason
to offer; and where she gets dominion in a soul, all knowledge
of holy things is lost and forgotten. She is very violent and
pressing. We need to seek and pray for true wisdom, for Satan
has many ways to withdraw our souls from Christ. Not only
worldly lusts and abandoned seducers prove fatal to the souls of
men; but false teachers, with doctrines that flatter pride and
give liberty to lusts, destroy thousands. They especially draw
off such as have received only partial serious impressions. The
depths of Satan are depths of hell; and sin, without remorse, is
ruin, ruin without remedy. Solomon shows the hook; those that
believe him, will not meddle with the bait. Behold the wretched,
empty, unsatisfying, deceitful, and stolen pleasure sin
proposes; and may our souls be so desirous of the everlasting
enjoyment of Christ, that on earth we may live to him, daily, by
faith, and ere long be with him in glory.
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.
@Verse 1
The comfort of parents much depends on their children; and
@
the righteous may be poor, the Lord will not suffer him to want
what is needful for spiritual life.
@4
. Those who are fervent
in spirit, serving the Lord, are likely to be rich in faith, and
rich in good works.
@5
. Here is just blame of those who trifle
away opportunities, both for here and for hereafter.
@6
.
Abundance of blessings shall abide on good men; real blessings.
@7
. Both the just and the wicked must die; but between their
souls there is a vast difference.
@8
. The wise in heart puts
his knowledge in practice.
@9
. Dissemblers, after all their
shuffling, will be exposed.
@10
. Trick and artifice will be no
excuse for iniquity.
@11
. The good man's mouth is always open
to teach, comfort, and correct others.
@12
. Where there is
hatred, every thing stirs up strife. By bearing with each other,
peace and harmony are preserved.
@13
. Those that foolishly go
on in wicked ways, prepare rods for themselves.
@14
. Whatever
knowledge may be useful, we must lay it up, that it may not be
to seek when we want it. The wise gain this wisdom by reading,
by hearing the word, by meditation, by prayer, by faith in
Christ, who is made of God unto us wisdom.
@15
. This refers to
the common mistakes both of rich and poor, as to their outward
condition. Rich people's wealth exposes them to many dangers;
while a poor man may live comfortably, if he is content, keeps a
good conscience, and lives by faith.
@16
. Perhaps a righteous
man has no more than what he works hard for, but that labour
tends to life.
@17
. The traveller that has missed his way, and
cannot bear to be told of it, and to be shown the right way,
must err still.
@18
. He is especially a fool who thinks to hide
anything from God; and malice is no better.
@19
. Those that
speak much, speak much amiss. He that checks himself is a wise
@
the just is sincere, freed from the dross of guile and evil
design. Pious discourse is spiritual food to the needy. Fools
die for want of a heart, so the word is; for want of thought.
@22
. That wealth which is truly desirable, has no vexation of
spirit in the enjoyment; no grief for the loss; no guilt by the
abuse of it. What comes from the love of God, has the grace of
God for its companion.
@23
. Only foolish and wicked men divert
themselves with doing harm to others, or tempting to sin.
@24
.
The largest desire of eternal blessings the righteous can form,
will be granted.
@25
. The course of prosperous sinners is like
a whirlwind, which soon spends itself, and is gone.
@26
. As
vinegar sets the teeth on edge, and as the smoke causes the eyes
@
is he that loves life? Let him fear God, and that will secure to
him life enough in this world, and eternal life in the other.
@29
. The believer grows stronger in faith, and obeys with
increased delight.
@30
. The wicked would be glad to have this
earth their home for ever, but it cannot be so. They must die
@
wisely for the benefit of others. But it is the sin, and will be
the ruin of a wicked man, that he speaks what is displeasing to
God, and provoking to those he converses with. The righteous is
kept by the power of God; and nothing shall be able to separate
him from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus.
@Verse 1
However men may make light of giving short weight or measure,
and however common such crimes may be, they are an abomination
to the Lord.
@2
. Considering how safe, and quiet, and easy the
humble are, we see that with the lowly is wisdom.
@3
. An honest
man's principles are fixed, therefore his way is plain.
@4
.
@
The ways of wickedness are dangerous. And sin will be its own
punishment.
@7
. When a godly man dies, all his fears vanish;
but when a wicked man dies, his hopes vanish.
@8
. The righteous
are often wonderfully kept from going into dangerous situations,
and the ungodly go in their stead.
@9
. Hypocrites delude men
into error and sin by artful objections against the truths of
@
down.
@12
. A man of understanding does not judge of others by
their success.
@13
. A faithful man will not disclose what he is
trusted with, unless the honour of God and the real good of
society require it.
@14
. We shall often find it to our
advantage to advise with others.
@15
. The welfare of our
families, our own peace, and our ability to pay just debts, must
not be brought into danger. But here especially let us consider
the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ in becoming Surety even for
enemies.
@16
. A pious and discreet woman will keep esteem and
respect, as strong men keep possession of wealth.
@17
. A cruel,
froward, ill-natured man, is vexatious to those that are, and
should be to him as his own flesh, and punishes himself.
@18
.
He that makes it his business to do good, shall have a reward,
as sure to him as eternal truth can make it.
@19
. True holiness
is true happiness. The more violent a man is in sinful pursuits,
the more he hastens his own destruction.
@20
. Nothing is more
hateful to God, than hypocrisy and double dealing, which are
here signified. God delights in such as aim and act with
uprightness.
@21
. Joining together in sin shall not protect the
sinners.
@22
. Beauty is abused by those who have not discretion
or modesty with it. This is true of all bodily endowments.
@23
.
The wicked desire mischief to others, but it shall return upon
themselves.
@24
. A man may grow poor by not paying just debts,
not relieving the poor, not allowing needful expenses. Let men
be ever so saving of what they have, if God appoints, it comes
to nothing.
@25
. Both in temporal and spiritual things, God
commonly deals with his people according to the measure by which
they deal with their brethren.
@26
. We must not hoard up the
gifts of God's bounty, merely for our own advantage.
@27
.
Seeking mischief is here set against seeking good; for those
that are not doing good are doing hurt, even to themselves.
@28
. The true believer is a branch of the living Vine. When
those that take root in the world wither, those who are grafted
into Christ shall be fruitful.
@29
. He that brings trouble upon
himself and his family, by carelessness, or by wickedness, shall
be unable to keep and enjoy what he gets, as a man is unable to
hold the wind, or to satisfy himself with it.
@30
. The
righteous are as trees of life; and their influence upon earth,
like the fruits of that tree, support and nourish the spiritual
life in many.
@31
. Even the righteous, when they offend on
earth, shall meet with sharp corrections; much more will the
wicked meet the due reward of their sins. Let us then seek those
blessings which our Surety purchased by his sufferings and
death; let us seek to copy his example, and to keep his
commandments.
@Verse 1
Those who have grace, will delight in the instructions given
them. Those that stifle their convictions, are like brutes.
@2
.
The man who covers selfish and vicious designs under a
profession of religion or friendship, will be condemned.
@3
.
Though men may advance themselves by sinful arts, they cannot
settle and secure themselves. But those who by faith are rooted
in Christ, are firmly fixed.
@4
. A wife who is pious, prudent,
and looks well to the ways of her household, who makes
conscience of her duty, and can bear crosses; such a one is an
honour and comfort to her husband. She that is the reverse of
this, preys upon him, and consumes him.
@5
. Thoughts are not
free; they are under the Divine knowledge, therefore under the
Divine command. It is a man's shame to act with deceit, with
trick and design.
@6
. Wicked people speak mischief to their
neighbours. A man may sometimes do a good work with one good
word.
@7
. God's blessing is often continued to the families of
godly men, while the wicked are overthrown.
@8
. The apostles
showed wisdom by glorying in shame for the name of Christ.
@9
.
He that lives in a humble state, who has no one to wait upon
him, but gets bread by his own labour, is happier than he that
glories in high birth or gay attire, and wants necessaries.
@10
. A godly man would not put even an animal to needless pain.
But the wicked often speak of others as well used, when they
would not endure like treatment for a single day.
@11
. It is
men's wisdom to mind their business, and follow an honest
calling. But it is folly to neglect business; and the grace of
God teaches men to disdain nothing but sin.
@12
. When the
ungodly see others prosper by sin, they wish they could act in
the same way. But the root of Divine grace, in the heart of the
righteous, produces other desires and purposes.
@13
. Many a man
has paid dear in this world for the transgression of his lips.
@14
. When men use their tongues aright, to teach and comfort
others, they enjoy acceptance through Christ Jesus; and the
testimony of their conscience, that they in some measure answer
the end of their being.
@15
. A fool, in the sense of Scripture,
means a wicked man, one who acts contrary to the wisdom that is
from above. His rule is, to do what is right in his own eyes.
@16
. A foolish man is soon angry, and is hasty in expressing
it; he is ever in trouble and running into mischief. It is
kindness to ourselves to make light of injuries and affronts,
instead of making the worst of them.
@17
. It is good for all to
dread and detest the sin of lying, and to be governed by
honesty.
@18
. Whisperings and evil surmises, like a sword,
separate those that have been dear to each other. The tongue of
the wise is health, making all whole.
@19
. If truth be spoken,
it will hold good; whoever may be disobliged, still it will keep
its ground.
@20
. Deceit and falsehood bring terrors and
perplexities. But those who consult the peace and happiness of
others have joy in their own minds.
@21
. If men are sincerely
righteous, the righteous God has engaged that no evil shall
happen to them. But they that delight in mischief shall have
enough of it.
@22
. Make conscience of truth, not only in words,
but in actions.
@23
. Foolish men proclaim to all the folly and
emptiness of their minds.
@24
. Those who will not take pains in
an honest calling, living by tricks and dishonesty, are paltry
and beggarly.
@25
. Care, fear, and sorrow, upon the spirits,
deprive men of vigour in what is to be done, or courage in what
is to be borne. A good word from God, applied by faith, makes
the heart glad.
@26
. The righteous is abundant; though not in
this world's goods, yet in the graces and comforts of the
Spirit, which are the true riches. Evil men vainly flatter
themselves that their ways are not wrong.
@27
. The slothful man
makes no good use of the advantages Providence puts in his way,
and has no comfort in them. The substance of a diligent man,
though not great, does good to him and his family. He sees that
God gives it to him in answer to prayer.
@28
. The way of
religion is a straight, plain way; it is the way of
righteousness. There is not only life at the end, but life in
the way; all true comfort.
@Verse 1
There is great hope of those that reverence their parents.
There is little hope of any who will not hear those that deal
faithfully with them.
@2
. By our words we must be justified or
condemned,
@ #3
. He that thinks before he speaks,
that suppresses evil if he have thought it, keeps his soul from
a great deal both of guilt and grief. Many a one is ruined by an
ungoverned tongue.
@4
. The slothful desire the gains the
diligent get, but hate the pains the diligent take; therefore
they have nothing. This is especially true as to the soul.
@5
.
Where sin reigns, the man is loathsome. If his conscience were
awake, he would abhor himself, and repent in dust and ashes.
@6
. An honest desire to do right, preserves a man from fatal
mistakes, better than a thousand fine-drawn distinctions.
@7
.
Some who are really poor, trade and spend as if they were rich:
this is sin, and will be shame, and it will end accordingly.
Some that are really rich, would be thought to be poor: in this
there is want of gratitude to God, want of justice and charity
to others. There are many hypocrites, empty of grace, who will
not be convinced of their poverty. There are many fearing
Christians, who are spiritually rich, yet think themselves poor;
by their doubts, and complaints, and griefs, they make
themselves poor.
@8
. Great riches often tempt to violence
against those that possess them; but the poor are free from such
perils.
@9
. The light of the righteous is as that of the sun,
which may be eclipsed and clouded, but will continue: the Spirit
is their Light, he gives a fulness of joy: that of the wicked is
as a lamp of their own kindling, easily put out.
@10
. All
contentions, whether between private persons, families,
churches, or nations, are begun and carried forward by pride.
Disputes would be easily prevented or ended, if it were not for
pride.
@11
. Wealth gotten by dishonesty or vice, has a secret
curse, which will speedily waste it.
@12
. The delay of what is
anxiously hoped for, is very painful to the mind; obtaining it
is very pleasant. But spiritual blessings are chiefly intended.
@13
. He that stands in awe of God, and reverences his word,
shall escape destruction, and be rewarded for his godly fear.
@14
. The rule by which the wise regulate their conduct, is a
fountain yielding life and happiness.
@15
. The way of sinners
is hard upon others, and hard to the sinner himself. The service
of sin is slavery; the road to hell is strewed with the thorns
and thistles that followed the curse.
@16
. It is folly to talk
of things of which we know nothing, and to undertake what we are
no way fit for.
@17
. Those that are wicked, and false to Christ
and to the souls of men, do mischief, and fall into mischief;
but those that are faithful, find sound words healing to others
and to themselves.
@18
. He that scorns to be taught, will
certainly be brought down.
@19
. There are in man strong desires
after happiness; but never let those expect any thing truly
sweet to their souls, who will not be persuaded to leave their
sins.
@20
. Multitudes are brought to ruin by bad company. And
all that make themselves wicked will be destroyed.
@21
. When
God pursues sinners he is sure to overtake them; and he will
reward the righteous.
@22
. The servant of God who is not
anxious about riches, takes the best method of providing for his
children.
@23
. The poor, yet industrious, thrive, though in a
homely manner, while those who have great riches are often
brought to poverty for want of judgment.
@24
. He acts as if he
hated his child, who, by false indulgence, permits sinful habits
to gather strength, which will bring sorrow here, and misery
hereafter.
@25
. It is the misery of the wicked, that even their
sensual appetites are always craving. The righteous feeds on the
word and ordinances, to the satisfying of his soul with the
promises of the gospel, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who is the
Bread of life.
@Verse 1
A woman who has no fear of God, who is wilful and wasteful,
and indulges her ease, will as certainly ruin her family, as if
she plucked her house down.
@2
. Here are grace and sin in their
true colours. Those that despise God's precepts and promises,
despise God and all his power and mercy.
@3
. Pride grows from
that root of bitterness which is in the heart. The root must be
plucked up, or we cannot conquer this branch. The prudent words
of wise men get them out of difficulties.
@4
. There can be no
advantage without something which, though of little moment, will
affright the indolent.
@5
. A conscientious witness will not
dare to represent anything otherwise than according to his
knowledge.
@6
. A scorner treats Divine things with contempt. He
that feels his ignorance and unworthiness will search the
Scriptures in a humble spirit.
@7
. We discover a wicked man if
there is no savour of piety in his discourse.
@8
. We are
travellers, whose concern is, not to spy out wonders, but to get
to their journey's end; to understand the rules we are to walk
by, also the ends we are to walk toward. The bad man cheats
himself, and goes on in his mistake.
@9
. Foolish and profane
men consider sin a mere trifle, to be made light of rather than
mourned over. Fools mock at the sin-offering; but those that
make light of sin, make light of Christ.
@10
. We do not know
what stings of conscience, or consuming passions, torment the
prosperous sinner. Nor does the world know the peace of mind a
serious Christian enjoys, even in poverty and sickness.
@11
.
Sin ruins many great families; whilst righteousness often raises
and strengthens even mean families.
@12
. The ways of
carelessness, of worldliness, and of sensuality, seem right to
those that walk in them; but self-deceivers prove
self-destroyers. See the vanity of carnal mirth.
@14
. Of all
sinners backsliders will have the most terror when they reflect
on their own ways.
@15
. Eager readiness to believe what others
say, has ever proved mischievous. The whole world was thus
ruined at first. The man who is spiritually wise, depends on the
Saviour alone for acceptance. He is watchful against the enemies
of his salvation, by taking heed to God's word.
@16
. Holy fear
guards against every thing unholy.
@17
. An angry man is to be
pitied as well as blamed; but the revengeful is more hateful.
@18
. Sin is the shame of sinners; but wisdom is the honour of
the wise.
@19
. Even bad men acknowledge the excellency of God's
people.
@20
. Friendship in the world is governed by
self-interest. It is good to have God our Friend; he will not
desert us.
@21
. To despise a man for his employment or
appearance is a sin.
@22
. How wisely those consult their own
interest, who not only do good, but devise it!
@23
. Labour of
the head, or of the hand, will turn to some good account. But if
men's religion runs all out in talk and noise, they will come to
nothing.
@24
. The riches of men of wisdom and piety enlarge
their usefulness.
@25
. An upright man will venture the
@
Those who fear the Lord so as to obey and serve him, have a
strong ground of confidence, and will be preserved. Let us seek
to this Fountain of life, that we may escape the snares of
death.
@28
. Let all that wish well to the kingdom of Christ, do
what they can, that many may be added to his church.
@29
. A
mild, patient man is one that learns of Christ, who is Wisdom
itself. Unbridled passion is folly made known.
@30
. An upright,
contented, and benevolent mind, tends to health.
@31
. To
oppress the poor is to reproach our Creator.
@32
. The wicked
man has his soul forced from him; he dies in his sins, under the
guilt and power of them. But godly men, though they have pain
and some dread of death, have the blessed hope, which God, who
cannot lie, has given them.
@33
. Wisdom possesses the heart,
and thus regulates the affections and tempers.
@34
. Piety and
holiness always promote industry, sobriety, and honesty.
@35
.
The great King who reigns over heaven and earth, will reward
faithful servants who honour his gospel by the proper discharge
of the duties of their stations: he despises not the services of
the lowest.
@Verse 1
A right cause will be better pleaded with meekness than with
passion. Nothing stirs up anger like grievous words.
@2
. He
that has knowledge, is to use it aright, for the good of others.
@3
. Secret sins, services, and sorrows, are under God's eye.
This speaks comfort to saints, and terror to sinners.
@4
. A
good tongue is healing to wounded consciences, by comforting
them; to sin-sick souls, by convincing them; and it reconciles
parties at variance.
@5
. If instruction is despised, reprove
men rather than suffer them to go on undisturbed in the way to
ruin.
@6
. The wealth of worldly men increases their fears and
suspicions, adds strength to their passions, and renders the
fear of death more distressing.
@7
. We use knowledge aright
when we disperse it; but the heart of the foolish has nothing to
@
stead of Christ's atonement, or in the place of holy obedience.
Praying graces are his gift, and the work of his Spirit, with
which he is well pleased.
@10
. He that hates reproof shall
perish in his sins, since he would not be parted from them.
@11
. There is nothing that can be hid from the eyes of God, not
even man's thoughts.
@12
. A scorner cannot bear to reflect
seriously within his own heart.
@13
. A gloomy, impatient,
unthankful spirit, springing from pride and undue attachment to
worldly objects, renders a man uneasy to himself and others.
@14
. A wise man seeks to gain more wisdom, growing in grace and
in the knowledge of Christ. But a carnal mind rests contented,
flattering itself.
@15
. Some are much in affliction, and of a
sorrowful spirit. Such are to be pitied, prayed for, and
comforted. And others serve God with gladness of heart, and it
prompts their obedience, yet they should rejoice with trembling.
@
little; the Lord is with them, without the cares, troubles, and
temptations which are with the wealth of the wicked.
@18
. He
that is slow to anger, not only prevents strife, but appeases
it, if kindled.
@19
. Those who have no heart to their work,
pretend that they cannot do their work without hardship and
danger. And thus many live always in doubt about their state,
because always in neglect of some duty.
@20
. Those who treat an
aged mother or a father with contempt or neglect, show their own
folly.
@21
. Such as are truly wise, study that their thoughts,
words, and actions should be regular, sincere, and holy.
@22
.
If men will not take time and pains to deliberate, they are not
likely to bring any thing to pass.
@23
. Wisdom is needed to
suit our discourse to the occasions.
@24
. A good man sets his
affections on things above; his way leads directly thither.
@25
. Pride is the ruin of multitudes. But those who are in
affliction God will support.
@26
. The thoughts of wicked men
offend Him who knows the heart.
@27
. The covetous man lets none
of his family have rest or enjoyment. And greediness of gain
often tempts to projects that bring ruin.
@28
. A good man is
proved to be a wise man by this; he governs his tongue well.
@29
. God sets himself at a distance from those who set him at
defiance.
@30
. How delightful to the humbled soul to hear the
good report of salvation by the Lord Jesus Christ!
@31
.
Faithful, friendly reproofs help spiritual life, and lead to
eternal life.
@32
. Sinners undervalue their own souls;
therefore they prefer the body before the soul, and wrong the
soul to please the body.
@33
. The fear of the Lord will dispose
us to search the Scriptures with reverence; and it will cause us
to follow the leadings of the Holy Spirit. While we humbly place
all our dependence on the grace of God, we are exalted in the
righteousness of Christ.
@Verse 1
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.
@2
.
Ignorance, pride, and self-flattery render us partial judges
respecting our own conduct.
@3
. Roll the burden of thy care
upon God, and leave it with him, by faith and dependence on him.
@4
. God makes use of the wicked to execute righteous vengeance
on each other; and he will be glorified by their destruction at
last.
@5
. Though sinners strengthen themselves and one another,
they shall not escape God's judgments.
@6
. By the mercy and
truth of God in Christ Jesus, the sins of believers are taken
away, and the power of sin is broken.
@7
. He that has all
hearts in his hand, can make a man's enemies to be at peace with
him.
@8
. A small estate, honestly come by, will turn to better
account than a great estate ill-gotten.
@9
. 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.
@11
. To observe
justice in dealings between man and man is God's appointment.
@12
. The ruler that uses his power aright, will find that to be
his best security.
@13
. Put those in power who know how to
@
the favour of an earthly prince, throw themselves out of God's
favour.
@16
. There is joy and satisfaction of spirit, only in
getting wisdom.
@17
. 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.
@18
. 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.
@19
. 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.
@21
. The man whose wisdom dwells in
his heart, will be found more truly prudent than many who
possess shining talents.
@22
. As waters to a thirsty land, so
is a wise man to his friends and neighbours.
@23
. The wise
man's self-knowledge, always suggests something proper to be
spoken to others.
@24
. The word of God cures the diseases that
weaken our souls.
@25
. This is caution to all, to take heed of
deceiving themselves as to their souls.
@26
. We must labour for
the meat which endureth to everlasting life, or we must perish.
@
be needful to do good. The whisperer separates friends: what a
@
mischief they can by force and violence, and are blind to the
result.
@31
. Old people especially should be found in the way
of religion and godliness.
@32
. To overcome our own passions,
requires more steady management, than obtaining victory over an
enemy.
@33
. 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.
@Verse 1
These words recommend family love and peace, as needful for
the comfort of human life.
@2
. The wise servant is more
deserving, and more likely to appear one of the family, than a
profligate son.
@3
. God tries the heart by affliction. He thus
has often shown the sin remaining in the heart of the believer.
@4
. Flatterers, especially false teachers, are welcome to those
that live in sin.
@5
. Those that laugh at poverty, treat God's
providence and precepts with contempt.
@6
. It is an honour to
children to have wise and godly parents continued to them, even
after they are grown up and settled in the world.
@7
. A fool,
in Solomon's Proverbs, signifies a wicked man, whom excellent
speech does not become, because his conversation contradicts it.
@8
. Those who set their hearts upon money, will do any thing
for it. What influence should the gifts of God have on our
hearts!
@9
. The way to preserve peace is to make the best of
every thing; not to notice what has been said or done against
ourselves.
@10
. A gentle reproof will enter, not only into the
head, but into the heart of a wise man.
@11
. Satan, and the
messengers of Satan, shall be let loose upon an evil man.
@12
.
Let us watch over our own passions, and avoid the company of
furious men.
@13
. To render evil for good is devilish. He that
does so, brings a curse upon his family.
@14
. What danger there
is in the beginning of strife! Resist its earliest display; and
leave it off, if it were possible, before you begin.
@15
. It is
an offence to God to acquit the guilty, or to condemn those who
are not guilty.
@16
. Man's neglect of God's favour and his own
interest is very absurd.
@17
. No change of outward
circumstances should abate our affection for our friends or
relatives. But no friend, except Christ, deserves unlimited
confidence. In Him this text did receive, and still receives its
most glorious fulfilment.
@18
. Let not any wrong their
families. Yet Christ's becoming Surety for men, was a glorious
display of Divine wisdom; for he was able to discharge the bond.
@19
. If we would keep a clear conscience and a quiet mind, we
must shun all excitements to anger. And a man who affects a
style of living above his means, goes the way to ruin.
@20
.
There is nothing got by ill designs. And many have paid dear for
an unbridled tongue.
@21
. This speaks very plainly what many
wise and good men feel very strongly, how grievous it is to have
a foolish, wicked child.
@22
. It is great mercy that God gives
us leave to be cheerful, and cause to be cheerful, if by his
grace he gives us hearts to be cheerful.
@23
. The wicked are
ready to part with their money, though loved, that they may not
suffer for their crimes.
@24
. The prudent man keeps the word of
God continually in view. But the foolish man cannot fix his
thoughts, nor pursue any purpose with steadiness.
@25
. Wicked
children despise the authority of their father, and the
tenderness of their mother.
@26
. It is very wrong to find fault
@
wise man, by the good temper of his mind, and by the good
government of his tongue. He is careful when he does speak, to
speak to the purpose. God knows his heart, and the folly that is
bound there; therefore he cannot be deceived in his judgment as
men may be.
@Verse 1
If we would get knowledge and grace, we must try all methods
of improving ourselves.
@2
. Those make nothing to purpose, of
learning or religion, whose only design is to have something to
make a show with.
@3
. As soon as sin entered, shame followed.
@4
. The well-spring of wisdom in the heart of a believer,
continually supplies words of wisdom.
@5
. The merits of a cause
@
do to themselves by their ungoverned tongues!
@8
. How base are
those that sow contention! and what fatal effects may be
expected from small beginnings of jealousy!
@9
. Omissions of
duty, and in duty, are fatal to the soul, as well as commissions
@
Lord Jesus Christ, forms a strong tower for the believer, who
relies on the Lord. How deceitful the defence of the rich man,
who has his portion and treasure in this world! It is a strong
city and a high wall only in his own conceit; for it will fail
when most in need. They will be exposed to the just wrath of
that Judge whom they despised as a Saviour.
@12
. After the
heart has been lifted up with pride, a fall comes. But honour
shall be the reward of humility.
@13
. Eagerness, with
self-conceit, will expose to shame.
@14
. Firmness of mind
supports under many pains and trials. But when the conscience is
tortured with remorse, no human fortitude can bear the misery;
what then will hell be?
@15
. We must get knowledge, not only
into our heads, but into our hearts.
@16
. Blessed be the Lord,
who makes us welcome to come to his throne, without money and
without price. May his gifts make room for him in our souls.
@17
. It is well to listen to our enemies, that we may form a
better judgment of ourselves.
@18
. It was customary sometimes
to refer matters to God, by casting lots, with solemn prayer.
The profaning the lot, by using it in matters of diversion, or
coveting what belongs to others, forms an objection to this now.
@19
. Great care must be taken to prevent quarrels among
relations and those under obligations to each other. Wisdom and
grace make it easy to forgive; but corruption makes it
difficult.
@20
. The belly is here put for the heart, as
elsewhere; and what that is filled with, our satisfaction will
be accordingly, and our inward peace.
@21
. Many a one has
caused his own death, or the death of others, by a false or
injurious tongue.
@22
. A good wife is a great blessing to a
man, and it is a token of Divine favour.
@23
. Poverty tells men
they must not order or demand. And at the throne of God's grace
we are all poor, and must use entreaties.
@24
. Christ Jesus
never will forsake those who trust in and love him. May we be
such friends to others, for our Master's sake. Having loved his
own, which were in the world, he loved them unto the end; and we
are his friends if we do whatever he commands us,
@john 15:14
.
@Verse 1
A poor man who fears God, is more honourable and happy,
than a man without wisdom and grace, however rich or advanced in
rank.
@2
. What good can the soul do, if without knowledge? And
he sins who will not take time to ponder the path of his feet.
@3
. Men run into troubles by their own folly, and then fret at
the appointments of God.
@4
. Here we may see how strong is
men's love of money.
@5
. Those that tell lies in discourse, are
in a fair way to be guilty of bearing false-witness.
@6
. We are
without excuse if we do not love God with all our hearts. His
gifts to us are past number, and all the gifts of men to us are
fruits of his bounty.
@7
. Christ was left by all his disciples;
but the Father was with him. It encourages our faith that he had
so large an experience of the sorrows of poverty.
@8
. Those
only love their souls aright that get true wisdom.
@9
. Lying is
a damning, destroying sin.
@10
. A man that has not wisdom and
grace, has no right or title to true joy. It is very unseemly
for one who is a servant to sin, to oppress God's free-men.
@11
. He attains the most true glory who endeavours most
steadily to overcome evil with good.
@12
. Christ is a King,
whose wrath against his enemies will be as the roaring of a
lion, and his favour to his people as the refreshing dew.
@13
.
It shows the vanity of the world, that we are liable to the
greatest griefs where we promise ourselves the greatest comfort.
@14
. A discreet and virtuous wife is more valuable than house
and riches.
@15
. A sluggish, slothful disposition makes men
poor; it brings them to want. And this applies both to the
present life and that which is to come.
@16
. If we keep God's
word, God's word will keep us from every thing really hurtful.
We abuse the doctrine of free grace, if we think that it does
away the necessity and advantage of obedience. Those that live
at random must die. This truth is clearly taught in words enough
to alarm the stoutest sinner.
@17
. God has chosen the poor of
this world, to be rich in faith, and heirs of his kingdom.
@18
.
When parents keep under foolish tenderness, they do their best
to render children a comfort to them, and happy in themselves.
@19
. The spared and spoiled child is likely to become a man of
great wrath.
@20
. Those that would be wise in their latter end,
must be taught and ruled when young.
@21
. What should we
desire, but that all our purposes may agree with God's holy
will?
@22
. It is far better to have a heart to do good, and
want ability for it, than to have ability for it, and want a
heart to it.
@23
. Those that live in the fear of God, shall get
safety, satisfaction, and true and complete happiness.
@24
.
Indolence, when indulged, so grows upon people, that they have
no heart to do the most needful things for themselves.
@25
. A
gentle rebuke goes farthest with a man of understanding.
@26
.
The young man who wastes his father's substance, or makes his
aged mother destitute, is hateful, and will come to disgrace.
@27
. It is the wisdom of young men to dread hearing such talk
as puts loose and evil principles into the mind.
@28
. Those are
the worst of sinners, who are glad of an opportunity to sin.
@29
. The unbelief of man shall not make God's threatenings of
no effect. Christ himself, when bearing sins not his own, was
not spared. Justice and judgment took hold of our blessed
Surety; and will God spare obstinate sinners?
@Verse 1
It seems hard to believe that men of the greatest abilities,
as well as the ignorant, should render themselves fools and
madmen, merely for the taste or excitement produced by strong
liquors.
@2
. How formidable kings are to those who provoke
them! how much more foolish then is it to provoke the King of
kings!
@3
. To engage in quarrels is the greatest folly that can
be. Yield, and even give up just demands, for peace' sake.
@4
.
He who labours and endures hardship in his seed-time for
eternity, will be properly diligent as to his earthly business.
@5
. Though many capable of giving wise counsel are silent, yet
something may be drawn from them, which will reward those who
obtain it.
@6
. It is hard to find those that have done, and
will do more good than they speak, or care to hear spoken of.
@7
. A good man is not liable to uneasiness in contriving what
he shall do, or in reflecting on what he has done, as those who
walk in deceit. And his family fare better for his sake.
@8
. If
great men are good men, they may do much good, and prevent very
much evil.
@9
. Some can say, Through grace, we are cleaner than
we have been; but it was the work of the Holy Spirit.
@10
. See
the various deceits men use, of which the love of money is the
root. The Lord will not bless what is thus gotten.
@11
. Parents
should observe their children, that they may manage them
accordingly.
@12
. All our powers and faculties are from God,
and are to be employed for him.
@13
. Those that indulge
themselves, may expect to want necessaries, which should have
been gotten by honest labour.
@14
. Men use arts to get a good
bargain, and to buy cheap; whereas a man ought to be ashamed of
a fraud and a lie.
@15
. He that prefers true knowledge to
riches, follows the ways of religion and happiness. If we really
believed this truth, the word of God would be valued as it
deserves, and the world would lose its tempting influence.
@16
.
Those ruin themselves who entangle themselves in rash
suretiship. Also those who are in league with abandoned women.
Place no confidence in either.
@17
. Wealth gotten by fraud may
be sweet, for the carnal mind takes pleasure in the success of
wicked devices; but it will be bitter in the reflection.
@18
.
Especially we need advice in spiritual warfare. The word and
Spirit of God are the best counsellors in every point.
@19
.
Those dearly buy their own praise, who put confidence in a man
because he speaks fairly.
@20
. An undutiful child will become
very miserable. Never let him expect any peace or comfort.
@21
.
An estate suddenly raised, is often as suddenly ruined.
@22
.
Wait on the Lord, attend his pleasure, and he will protect thee.
@23
. A bargain made by fraud will prove a losing bargain in the
end.
@24
. How can we form plans, and conduct business,
independently of the Lord?
@25
. The evasions men often use with
their own consciences show how false and deceitful man is.
@26
.
Justice should crush the wicked, and separate them from the
virtuous.
@27
. The rational soul and conscience are as a lamp
within us, which should be used in examining our dispositions
and motives with the revealed will of God.
@28
. Mercy and truth
are the glories of God's throne.
@29
. Both young and old have
their advantages; and let neither despise or envy the other.
@30
. Severe rebukes sometimes do a great deal of good. But such
is the corruption of nature, that men are loth to be rebuked for
their sins. If God uses severe afflictions, to purify our hearts
and fit us for his service, we have cause to be very thankful.
@Verse 1
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.
@2
. We
are partial in judging ourselves and our actions.
@3
. Many
deceive themselves with a conceit that outward devotions will
excuse unrighteousness.
@4
. Sin is the pride, the ambition, the
glory, the joy, and the business of wicked men.
@5
. The really
diligent employ foresight as well as labour.
@6
. While men seek
wealth by unlawful practices, they seek death.
@7
. Injustice
will return upon the sinner, and will destroy him here and for
ever.
@8
. The way of mankind by nature is froward and strange.
@9
. 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.
@10
. The evil desires of a
wicked man's heart, lead to baseness in his conduct.
@11
. The
simple may be made wise by punishments on the wicked, and by
instructions to those who are willing to be taught.
@12
. Good
men envy not the prosperity of evil-doers; they see there is a
curse on them.
@13
. 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.
@14
. 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?
@15
. There is
true pleasure only in the practice of religion.
@16
. 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.
@17
. A life of worldly pleasure
brings ruin on men.
@18
. The righteous is often delivered out
of trouble, and the wicked comes in his stead, and so seems as a
ransom for him.
@19
. Unbridled passions spoil the comfort of
all relations.
@20
. The plenty obtained by prudence, industry,
and frugality, is desirable. But the foolish misspend what they
have upon their lusts.
@21
. 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.
@22
. Those that
have wisdom, often do great things, even against those confident
of their strength.
@23
. It is our great concern to keep our
souls from being entangled and disquieted.
@24
. Pride and
haughtiness make men passionate; such continually deal in wrath,
@
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.
@27
.
When holiness is pretended, but wickedness intended, that
especially is an abomination.
@28
. The doom of a false witness
is certain.
@29
. A wicked man bids defiance to the terrors of
the law and the rebukes of Providence. But a good man asks, What
@
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.
@Verse 1
We should be more careful to do that by which we may get and
keep a good name, than to raise or add unto a great estate.
@2
.
Divine Providence has so ordered it, that some are rich, and
others poor, but all are guilty before God; and at the throne of
God's grace the poor are as welcome as the rich.
@3
. Faith
foresees the evil coming upon sinners, and looks to Jesus Christ
as the sure refuge from the storm.
@4
. Where the fear of God
is, there will be humility. And much is to be enjoyed by it;
spiritual riches, and eternal life at last.
@5
. The way of sin
is vexatious and dangerous. But the way of duty is safe and
easy.
@6
. Train children, not in the way they would go, that of
their corrupt hearts, but in the way they should go; in which,
if you love them, you would have them go. As soon as possible
every child should be led to the knowledge of the Saviour.
@7
.
This shows how important it is for every man to keep out of
debt. As to the things of this life, there is a difference
between the rich and the poor; but let the poor remember, it is
the Lord that made the difference.
@8
. The power which many
abuse, will soon fail them.
@9
. He that seeks to relieve the
wants and miseries of others shall be blessed.
@10
. Profane
scoffers and revilers disturb the peace.
@11
. God will be the
Friend of a man in whose spirit there is no guile; this honour
have all the saints.
@12
. God turns the counsels and designs of
treacherous men to their own confusion.
@13
. The slothful man
talks of a lion without, but considers not his real danger from
the devil, that roaring lion within, and from his own
slothfulness, which kills him.
@14
. The vile sin of
licentiousness commonly besots the mind beyond recovery.
@15
.
Sin is foolishness, it is in the heart, there is an inward
inclination to sin: children bring it into the world with them;
and it cleaves close to the soul. We all need to be corrected by
our heavenly Father.
@16
. We are but stewards, and must
distribute what God intrusts to our care, according to his will.
@17-21
. To these words, to this knowledge, the ear must be
bowed down, and the heart applied by faith and love. To live a
life of delight in God and dependence on him, is the foundation
of all practical religion. The way to know the certainty of the
@
that robs and oppresses the poor, does so at his peril. And if
@
hearts have so much tinder in them, that it is dangerous to have
to do with those that throw about the sparks of their passion.
@
those are not so, who, by folly or other carelessness, waste
what they have.
@28
. We are taught not to trespass on another
man's right. And it is hard to find a truly industrious man.
Such a man will rise. Seest thou a man diligent in the business
of religion? He is likely to excel. Let us then be diligent in
God's work.
@Verses 1-3
God's restraints of the appetite only say, Do thyself no
@
this world are not happiness and a portion for a soul; those
that hold them ever so fast, cannot hold them always, cannot
hold them long.
@6-8
. Do not make thyself burdensome to any,
especially those not sincere. When we are called by God to his
feast, and to let our souls delight themselves, Isa 25:6;
55:2|, we may safely partake of the Bread of life.
@9
. It is
our duty to take all fit occasions to speak of Divine things;
but if what a wise man says will not be heard, let him hold his
@
protection. He is their Redeemer, who will take their part; and
he is mighty, almighty.
@Verses 12-16
Here is a parent instructing his child to give his mind
to the Scriptures. Here is a parent correcting his child:
accompanied with prayer, and blessed of God, it may prove a
means of preventing his destruction. Here is a parent
encouraging his child, telling him what would be for his good.
And what a comfort it would be, if herein he answered his
@
disappointed; the end of his trials, and of the sinner's
prosperity, is at hand.
@Verses 19-28
The gracious Saviour who purchased pardon and peace for
his people, with all the affection of a tender parent, counsels
us to hear and be wise, and is ready to guide our hearts in his
way. Here we have an earnest call to young people, to attend to
the advice of their godly parents. If the heart be guided, the
steps will be guided. Buy the truth, and sell it not; be willing
to part with any thing for it. Do not part with it for
pleasures, honours, riches, or any thing in this world. The
heart is what the great God requires. We must not think to
divide the heart between God and the world; he will have all or
none. Look to the rule of God's word, the conduct of his
providence, and the good examples of his people. Particular
cautions are given against sins most destructive to wisdom and
grace in the soul. It is really a shame to make a god of the
belly. Drunkenness stupifies men, and then all goes to ruin.
Licentiousness takes away the heart that should be given to God.
Take heed of any approaches toward this sin, it is very hard to
retreat from it. It bewitches men to their ruin.
@Verses 29-35
Solomon warns against drunkenness. Those that would be
kept from sin, must keep from all the beginnings of it, and fear
coming within reach of its allurements. Foresee the punishment,
what it will at last end in, if repentance prevent not. It makes
men quarrel. Drunkards wilfully make woe and sorrow for
themselves. It makes men impure and insolent. The tongue grows
unruly; the heart utters things contrary to reason, religion,
and common civility. It stupifies and besots men. They are in
danger of death, of damnation; as much exposed as if they slept
upon the top of a mast, yet feel secure. They fear no peril when
the terrors of the Lord are before them; they feel no pain when
the judgments of God are actually upon them. So lost is a
drunkard to virtue and honour, so wretchedly is his conscience
seared, that he is not ashamed to say, I will seek it again.
With good reason we were bid to stop before the beginning. Who
that has common sense would contract a habit, or sell himself to
a sin, which tends to such guilt and misery, and exposes a man
every day to the danger of dying insensible, and awaking in
hell? Wisdom seems in these chapters to take up the discourse as
at the beginning of the book. They must be considered as the
words of Christ to the sinner.
@Verses 1-2
Envy not sinners. And let not a desire ever come into thy
mind, Oh that I could shake off restraints!
@3-6
. Piety and
prudence in outward affairs, both go together to complete a wise
man. By knowledge the soul is filled with the graces and
comforts of the spirit, those precious and pleasant riches. The
spirit is strengthened for the spiritual work and the spiritual
warfare, by true wisdom.
@7-9
. A weak man thinks wisdom is too
high for him, therefore he will take no pains for it. It is bad
to do evil, but worse to devise it. Even the first risings of
sin in the heart are sin, and must be repented of. Those that
strive to make others hateful, make themselves so.
@10
. Under
troubles we are apt to despair of relief. But be of good
@
know that his neighbour is in danger by any unjust proceeding,
he is bound to do all in his power to deliver him. And what is
it to suffer immortal souls to perish, when our persuasions and
@
quickened to the study of wisdom by considering both the
pleasure and the profit of it. All men relish things that are
sweet to the palate; but many have no relish for the things that
are sweet to the purified soul, and that make us wise unto
@
do, by stumbling at some stone in his path; but gets up, and
goes on his way with more care and speed. This is rather to be
understood of falls into affliction, than falls into actual sin.
@
@
@
The godly in the land, will be quiet in the land. There may be
cause to change for the better, but have nothing to do with them
that are given change.
@23-26
. The wisdom God giveth, renders a
man fit for his station. Every one who finds the benefit of the
right answer, will be attached to him that gave it.
@27
. We
must prefer necessaries before conveniences, and not go in debt.
@
@30-34
. See what a blessing the husbandman's calling is, and
what a wilderness this earth would be without it. See what great
difference there is in the management even of worldly affairs.
Sloth and self-indulgence are the bane of all good. When we see
fields overgrown with thorns and thistles, and the fences broken
down, we see an emblem of the far more deplorable state of many
souls. Every vile affection grows in men's hearts; yet they
compose themselves to sleep. Let us show wisdom by doubling our
diligence in every good thing.
@Verses 1-3
God needs not search into any thing; nothing can be hid
from him. But it is the honour of rulers to search out matters,
@
to suppress vice, and reform his people, is the best way to
@
self-denial. He who has seen the glory of the Lord in Christ
Jesus, will feel his own unworthiness.
@8-10
. To be hasty in
beginning strife, will bring into difficulties. War must at
length end, and might better be prevented. It is so in private
@
word of counsel, or reproof, rightly spoken, is especially
beautiful, as fine fruit becomes still more beautiful in silver
baskets.
@13
. See what ought to be the aim of him that is
trusted with any business; to be faithful. A faithful minister,
Christ's messenger, should be thus acceptable to us.
@14
. He
who pretends to have received or given that which he never had,
is like the morning cloud, that disappoints those who look for
rain.
@15
. Be patient to bear a present hurt. Be mild to speak
without passion; for persuasive language is the most effectual
to prevail over the hardened mind.
@16
. God has given us leave
to use grateful things, but we are cautioned against excess.
@17
. We cannot be upon good terms with our neighbours, without
discretion as well as sincerity. How much better a Friend is God
than any other friend! The oftener we come to him, the more
welcome.
@18
. A false testimony is dangerous in every thing.
@19
. Confidence in an unfaithful man is painful and vexatious;
when we put any stress on him, he not only fails, but makes us
feel for it.
@20
. We take a wrong course if we think to relieve
@
precept to love even our enemies is an Old Testament
commandment. Our Saviour has shown his own great example in
loving us when we were enemies.
@23
. Slanders would not be so
readily spoken, if they were not readily heard. Sin, if it
receives any check, becomes cowardly.
@24
. It is better to be
alone, than to be joined to one who is a hinderance to the
comfort of life.
@25
. Heaven is a country afar off; how
refreshing is good news from thence, in the everlasting gospel,
which signifies glad tidings, and in the witness of the Spirit
with our spirits that we are God's children!
@26
. When the
righteous are led into sin, it is as hurtful as if the public
fountains were poisoned.
@27
. We must be, through grace, dead
to the pleasures of sense, and also to the praises of men.
@28
.
The man who has no command over his anger, is easily robbed of
peace. Let us give up ourselves to the Lord, and pray him to put
his Spirit within us, and cause us to walk in his statutes.
@Verse 1
Honour is out of season to those unworthy and unfit for it.
@2
. He that is cursed without cause, the curse shall do him no
more harm than the bird that flies over his head.
@3
. Every
creature must be dealt with according to its nature, but
careless and profligate sinners never will be ruled by reason
and persuasion. Man indeed is born like the wild ass's colt; but
@
remarks to the man, and address them to his conscience, so as
may best end the debate.
@6-9
. Fools are not fit to be trusted,
nor to have any honour. Wise sayings, as a foolish man delivers
and applies them, lose their usefulness.
@10
. This verse may
either declare how the Lord, the Creator of all men, will deal
with sinners according to their guilt, or, how the powerful
among men should disgrace and punish the wicked.
@11
. The dog
is a loathsome emblem of those sinners who return to their
vices,
@ #12
. We see many a one who has some little
sense, but is proud of it. This describes those who think their
spiritual state to be good, when really it is very bad.
@13
.
The slothful man hates every thing that requires care and
labour. But it is foolish to frighten ourselves from real duties
by fancied difficulties. This may be applied to a man slothful
in the duties of religion.
@14
. Having seen the slothful man in
fear of his work, here we find him in love with his ease. Bodily
ease is the sad occasion of many spiritual diseases. He does not
care to get forward with his business. Slothful professors turn
thus. The world and the flesh are hinges on which they are hung;
and though they move in a course of outward services, yet they
are not the nearer to heaven.
@15
. The sluggard is now out of
his bed, but he might have lain there, for any thing he is
likely to bring to pass in his work. It is common for men who
will not do their duty, to pretend they cannot. Those that are
slothful in religion, will not be at the pains to feed their
souls with the bread of life, nor to fetch in promised blessings
by prayer.
@16
. He that takes pains in religion, knows he is
working for a good Master, and that his labour shall not be in
vain.
@17
. To make ourselves busy in other men's matters, is to
@
must repent in earnest, or his sin will be his ruin.
@20-22
.
Contention heats the spirit, and puts families and societies
into a flame. And that fire is commonly kindled and kept burning
by whisperers and backbiters.
@23
. A wicked heart disguising
itself, is like a potsherd covered with the dross of silver.
@24-26
. Always distrust when a man speaks fair unless you know
him well. Satan, in his temptations, speaks fair, as he did to
Eve; but it is madness to give credit to him.
@27
. What pains
men take to do mischief to others! but it is digging a pit, it
is rolling a stone, hard work; and they prepare mischief to
themselves.
@28
. There are two sorts of lies equally
detestable. A slandering lie, the mischief of this every body
sees. A flattering lie, which secretly works ruin. A wise man
will be more afraid of a flatterer than of a slanderer.
@Verse 1
We know not what a day may bring forth. This does not forbid
preparing for to-morrow, but presuming upon to-morrow. We must
not put off the great work of conversion, that one thing
needful.
@2
. There may be occasion for us to justify ourselves,
@
@
rebukes are better, not only than secret hatred, but than love
which compliments in sin, to the hurt of the soul.
@7
. The poor
have a better relish of their enjoyments, and are often more
thankful for them, than the rich. In like manner the proud and
self-sufficient disdain the gospel; but those who hunger and
thirst after righteousness, find comfort from the meanest book
or sermon that testifies of Christ Jesus.
@8
. Every man has his
proper place in society, where he may be safe and comfortable.
@
kindred's sake; apply to those who are at hand, and will help in
need. But there is a Friend that sticketh closer than a brother,
and let us place entire confidence in him.
@11
. An affectionate
parent urges his son to prudent conduct that should gladden his
heart. The good conduct of Christians is the best answer to all
who find fault with the gospel.
@12
. Where there is temptation,
if we thrust ourselves into it, there will be sin, and
punishment will follow.
@13
. An honest man may be made a
beggar, but he is not honest that makes himself one.
@14
. It is
folly to be fond of being praised; it is a temptation to pride.
@
shower, troublesome for a time; the contentions of a wife are
like constant rain.
@17
. We are cautioned to take heed whom we
converse with. And directed to have in view, in conversation, to
make one another wiser and better.
@18
. Though a calling be
laborious and despised, yet those who keep to it, will find
there is something to be got by it. God is a Master who has
engaged to honour those who serve him faithfully.
@19
. One
corrupt heart is like another; so are sanctified hearts: the
former bear the same image of the earthly, the latter the same
image of the heavenly. Let us carefully watch our own hearts,
comparing them with the word of God.
@20
. Two things are here
said to be never satisfied, death and sin. The appetites of the
carnal mind for profit or pleasure are always desiring more.
Those whose eyes are ever toward the Lord, are satisfied in him,
and shall for ever be so.
@21
. Silver and gold are tried by
putting them into the furnace and fining-pot; so is a man tried
by praising him.
@22
. Some are so bad, that even severe methods
do not answer the end; what remains but that they should be
rejected? The new-creating power of God's grace alone is able to
make a change.
@23-27
. We ought to have some business to do in
this world, and not to live in idleness, and not to meddle with
what we do not understand. We must be diligent and take pains.
Let us do what we can, still the world cannot be secured to us,
therefore we must choose a more lasting portion; but by the
blessing of God upon our honest labours, we may expect to enjoy
as much of earthly blessings as is good for us.
@Verse 1
Sin makes men cowards. Whatever difficulties the righteous
meet in the way of duty, they are not daunted.
@2
. National
sins disturb the public repose.
@3
. If needy persons get
opportunities of oppressing, their extortion will be more severe
than that of the more wealthy.
@4
. Wicked people strengthen one
another in wicked ways.
@5
. If a man seeks the Lord, it is a
good sign that he understands much, and it is a good means of
understanding more.
@6
. An honest, godly, poor man, is better
than a wicked, ungodly, rich man; has more comfort in himself,
and is a greater blessing to the world.
@7
. Companions of
riotous men not only grieve their parents, but shame them.
@8
.
That which is ill got, though it may increase much, will not
last long. Thus the poor are repaid, and God is glorified.
@9
.
The sinner at whose prayers God is angry, is one who obstinately
refuses to obey God's commands.
@10
. The success of ungodly men
is their own misery.
@11
. Rich men are so flattered, that they
think themselves superior to others.
@12
. There is glory in the
land when the righteous have liberty.
@13
. It is folly to
indulge sin, and excuse it. He who covers his sins, shall not
have any true peace. He who humbly confesses his sins, with true
repentance and faith, shall find mercy from God. The Son of God
is our great atonement. Under a deep sense of our guilt and
danger, we may claim salvation from that mercy which reigns
through righteousness unto eternal life, by Jesus Christ our
Lord.
@14
. There is a fear which causes happiness. Faith and
love will deliver from the fear of eternal misery; but we should
always fear offending God, and fear sinning against him.
@15
. A
wicked ruler, whatever we may call him, this scripture calls a
roaring lion, and a ranging bear.
@16
. Oppressors want
understanding; they do not consult their own honour, ease, and
safety.
@17
. The murderer shall be haunted with terrors. None
shall desire to save him from deserved punishment, nor pity him.
@18
. Uprightness will give men holy security in the worst
times; but the false and dishonest are never safe.
@19
. Those
who are diligent, take the way to live comfortably.
@20
. The
true way to be happy, is to be holy and honest; not to raise an
estate suddenly, without regard to right or wrong.
@21
.
Judgment is perverted, when any thing but pure right is
considered.
@22
. He that hastens to be rich, never seriously
thinks how quickly God may take his wealth from him, and leave
him in poverty.
@23
. Upon reflection, most will have a better
opinion of a faithful reprover than of a soothing flatterer.
@24
. Here is the wickedness of those who think it no sin to rob
their parents, by wheedling them or threatening them, or by
wasting what they have, and running into debt.
@25
. Those make
themselves always easy, that live in continual dependence upon
God and his grace, and live by faith.
@26
. A fool trusts to his
own strength, merit, and righteousness. And trusts to his own
heart, which is not only deceitful above all things, but which
has often deceived him.
@27
. A selfish man not only will not
look out for objects of compassion, but will look off from those
that call for his attention.
@28
. When power is put into the
hands of the wicked, wise men decline public business. If the
reader will go diligently over this and the other chapters, in
many places where at first he may suppose there is least of
Christ, still he will find what will lead to him.
@Verse 1
If God wounds, who can heal? The word of God warns all to
flee from the wrath to come, to the hope set before us in Jesus
Christ.
@2
. The people have cause to rejoice or mourn, as their
rulers are righteous or wicked.
@3
. Divine wisdom best keeps us
from ruinous lusts.
@4
. The Lord Jesus is the King who will
minister true judgment to the people.
@5
. Flatterers put men
off their guard, which betrays them into foolish conduct.
@6
.
Transgressions always end in vexations. Righteous men walk at
liberty, and walk in safety.
@7
. This verse is applicable to
compassion for the distress of the poor, and the unfeeling
disregard shown by the wicked.
@8
. The scornful mock at things
sacred and serious. Men who promote religion, which is true
wisdom, turn away the wrath of God.
@9
. If a wise man dispute
with a conceited wrangler, he will be treated with anger or
ridicule; and no good is done.
@10
. Christ told his disciples
that they should be hated of all men. The just, whom the
blood-thirsty hate, gladly do any thing for their salvation.
@11
. He is a fool who tells every thing he knows, and can keep
no counsel.
@12
. One who loves flatterers, and hearkens to
slanderers, causes his servants to become liars and false
accusers.
@13
. Some are poor, others have a great deal of
deceitful riches. They meet in the business of this world; the
Lord gives to both the comforts of this life. To some of both
sorts he gives his grace.
@14
. The rich will look to
themselves, but the poor and needy the prince must defend and
plead for.
@15
. Parents must consider the benefit of due
correction, and the mischief of undue indulgence.
@16
. Let not
the righteous have their faith and hope shocked by the increase
of sin and sinners, but let them wait with patience.
@17
.
Children must not be suffered to go without rebuke when they do
amiss.
@18
. How bare does a place look without Bibles and
ministers! and what an easy prey is it to the enemy of souls!
That gospel is an open vision, which holds forth Christ, which
humbles the sinner and exalts the Saviour, which promotes
holiness in the life and conversation: and these are precious
truths to keep the soul alive, and prevent it from perishing.
@19
. Here is an unprofitable, slothful, wicked servant; one
that serves not from conscience, or love, but from fear.
@20
.
When a man is self-conceited, rash, and given to wrangling,
there is more hope of the ignorant and profligate.
@21
. Good
usage to a servant does not mean indulgence, which would ruin
even a child. The body is a servant to the soul; those that
humour it, and are over-tender of it, will find it forget its
place.
@22
. An angry, passionate disposition makes men
provoking to one another, and provoking to God.
@23
. Only those
who humble themselves shall be exalted and established.
@24
.
The receiver is as bad as the thief.
@25
. Many are ashamed to
own Christ now; and he will not own them in the day of judgment.
But he that trusts in the Lord will be saved from this snare.
@26
. The wisest course is, to look to God, and seek the favour
of the Ruler of rulers; for every creature is that to us which
God makes it to be.
@27
. The just man abhors the sins of the
wicked, and shuns their company. Christ exposed the wickedness
of men, yet prayed for the wicked when they were crucifying him.
Hatred to sin in ourselves and others, is a needful branch of
the Christian temper. But all that are unholy, have rooted
hatred to godliness.
@Verses 1-6
Agur speaks of himself as wanting a righteousness, and
having done very foolishly. And it becomes us all to have low
thoughts of ourselves. He speaks of himself as wanting
revelation to guide him in the ways of truth and wisdom. The
more enlightened people are, the more they lament their
ignorance; the more they pray for clearer, still clearer
discoveries of God, and his rich grace in Christ Jesus. In ver.
@4
, there is a prophetic notice of Him who came down from
heaven to be our Instructor and Saviour, and then ascended into
heaven to be our Advocate. The Messiah is here spoken of as a
Person distinct from the Father, but his name as yet secret. The
great Redeemer, in the glories of his providence and grace,
cannot be found out to perfection. Had it not been for Christ,
the foundations of the earth had sunk under the load of the
curse upon the ground, for man's sin. Who, and what is the
mighty One that doeth all this? There is not the least ground to
suspect anything wanting in the word of God; adding to his words
opens the way to errors and corruptions.
@Verses 7-9
Agur wisely prayed for a middle state, that he might be
kept at a distance from temptations; he asked daily bread suited
to his station, his family, and his real good. There is a
remarkable similarity between this prayer and several clauses of
the Lord's prayer. If we are removed from vanity and lies; if we
are interested in the pardoning love of Christ, and have him for
our portion; if we walk with God, then we shall have all we can
ask or think, as to spiritual things. When we consider how those
who have abundance are prone to abuse the gift, and what it is
to suffer want, Agur's prayer will ever be found a wise one,
though seldom offered. Food convenient; what is so for one, may
not be so for another; but we may be sure that our heavenly
Father will supply all our need, and not suffer us to want
anything good for us; and why should we wish for more?
@Verse 10
Slander not a servant to his master, accuse him not in small
matters, to make mischief.
@11-14
. In every age there are
monsters of ingratitude who ill-treat their parents. Many
persuade themselves they are holy persons, whose hearts are full
of sin, and who practise secret wickedness. There are others
whose lofty pride is manifest. There have also been cruel
monsters in every age.
@15-17
. Cruelty and covetousness are two
daughters of the horseleech, that still cry, "Give, give," and
they are continually uneasy to themselves. Four things never are
satisfied, to which these devourers are compared. Those are
never rich that are always coveting. And many who have come to a
bad end, have owned that their wicked courses began by despising
their parents' authority.
@18-20
. Four things cannot be fully
known. The kingdom of nature is full of marvels. The fourth is a
mystery of iniquity; the cursed arts by which a vile seducer
gains the affections of a female; and the arts which a vile
woman uses to conceal her wickedness.
@21-23
Four sorts of
persons are very troublesome. Men of low origin and base spirit,
who, getting authority, become tyrants. Foolish and violent men
indulging in excesses. A woman of a contentious spirit and
vicious habits. A servant who has obtained undue influence. Let
those whom Providence has advanced from low beginnings,
carefully watch against that sin which most easily besets them.
@24-28
. Four things that are little, are yet to be admired.
There are those who are poor in the world, and of small account,
yet wise for their souls and another world.
@29-33
. We may
learn from animals to go well; also to keep our temper under all
provocations. We must keep the evil thought in our minds from
breaking out into evil speeches. We must not stir up the
passions of others. Let nothing be said or done with violence,
but every thing with softness and calmness. Alas, how often have
we done foolishly in rising up against the Lord our King! Let us
humble ourselves before him. And having found peace with Him,
let us follow peace with all men.
An exhortation to king Lemuel to take heed of sin, and to do
duties. (1-9) The description of a virtuous woman. (10-31)
@Verses 1-9
When children are under the mother's eye, she has an
opportunity of fashioning their minds aright. Those who are
grown up, should often call to mind the good teaching they
received when children. The many awful instances of promising
characters who have been ruined by vile women, and love of wine,
should warn every one to avoid these evils. Wine is to be used
for want or medicine. Every creature of God is good, and wine,
though abused, has its use. By the same rule, due praise and
consolation should be used as cordials to the dejected and
tempted, not administered to the confident and self-sufficient.
All in authority should be more carefully temperate even than
other men; and should be protectors of those who are unable or
afraid to plead their own cause. Our blessed Lord did not
decline the bitterest dregs of the cup of sorrow put into his
hands; but he puts the cup of consolation into the hands of his
people, and causes those to rejoice who are in the deepest
distress.
@Verses 10-31
This is the description of a virtuous woman of those
days, but the general outlines equally suit every age and
nation. She is very careful to recommend herself to her
husband's esteem and affection, to know his mind, and is willing
that he rule over her. 1. She can be trusted, and he will leave
such a wife to manage for him. He is happy in her. And she makes
it her constant business to do him good. 2. She is one that
takes pains in her duties, and takes pleasure in them. She is
careful to fill up time, that none be lost. She rises early. She
applies herself to the business proper for her, to women's
business. She does what she does, with all her power, and
trifles not. 3. She makes what she does turn to good account by
prudent management. Many undo themselves by buying, without
considering whether they can afford it. She provides well for
her house. She lays up for hereafter. 4. She looks well to the
ways of her household, that she may oblige all to do their duty
to God and one another, as well as to her. 5. She is intent upon
giving as upon getting, and does it freely and cheerfully. 6.
She is discreet and obliging; every word she says, shows she
governs herself by the rules of wisdom. She not only takes
prudent measures herself, but gives prudent advice to others.
The law of love and kindness is written in the heart, and shows
itself in the tongue. Her heart is full of another world, even
when her hands are most busy about this world. 7. Above all, she
fears the Lord. Beauty recommends none to God, nor is it any
proof of wisdom and goodness, but it has deceived many a man who
made his choice of a wife by it. But the fear of God reigning in
the heart, is the beauty of the soul; it lasts for ever. 8. She
has firmness to bear up under crosses and disappointments. She
shall reflect with comfort when she comes to be old, that she
was not idle or useless when young. She shall rejoice in a world
to come. She is a great blessing to her relations. If the fruit
be good, the tree must have our good word. But she leaves it to
her own works to praise her. Every one ought to desire this
honour that cometh from God; and according to this standard we
all ought to regulate our judgments. This description let all
women daily study, who desire to be truly beloved and respected,
useful and honourable. This passage is to be applied to
individuals, but may it not also be applied to the church of
God, which is described as a virtuous spouse? God by his grace
has formed from among sinful men a church of true believers, to
possess all the excellences here described.
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 17
Chapter 18
Chapter 19
Chapter 20
Chapter 21
Chapter 22
Chapter 23
Chapter 24
Chapter 25
Chapter 26
Chapter 27
Chapter 28
Chapter 29
Chapter 30
Chapter 31
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