Proverbs 19 Commentary: Wisdom for a Flourishing Life
Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his lips, and is a fool.
Also, that the soul be without knowledge, it is not good; and he that hasteth with his feet sinneth.
The foolishness of man perverteth his way: and his heart fretteth against the Lord.
Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour.
A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape.
Many will intreat the favour of the prince: and every man is a friend to him that giveth gifts.
All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth them with words, yet they are wanting to him.
He that getteth wisdom loveth his own soul: he that keepeth understanding shall find good.
A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall perish.
Delight is not seemly for a fool; much less for a servant to have rule over princes.
The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.
The king’s wrath is as the roaring of a lion; but his favour is as dew upon the grass.
A foolish son is the calamity of his father: and the contentions of a wife are a continual dropping.
House and riches are the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife is from the Lord.
Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.
He that keepeth the commandment keepeth his own soul; but he that despiseth his ways shall die.
He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.
Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.
A man of great wrath shall suffer punishment: for if thou deliver him, yet thou must do it again.
Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.
There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand.
The desire of a man is his kindness: and a poor man is better than a liar.
The fear of the Lord tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.
A slothful man hideth his hand in his bosom, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.
Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware: and reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge.
He that wasteth his father, and chaseth away his mother, is a son that causeth shame, and bringeth reproach.
Cease, my son, to hear the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge.
An ungodly witness scorneth judgment: and the mouth of the wicked devoureth iniquity.
Judgments are prepared for scorners, and stripes for the back of fools.
Proverbs 19, nestled within Solomon's broader teachings on wisdom (Proverbs 10:1), continues to explore practical truths applicable to everyday life. This chapter, like others in the collection, addresses the realities of poverty, the importance of integrity, the dangers of laziness, the necessity of loving discipline, and the consequences of foolish behavior. It is a chapter brimming with insights designed to guide us towards a life that is both successful and pleasing to God. This commentary will delve into the rich wisdom contained within Proverbs 19, offering both scholarly insight and practical application for modern living.
Integrity vs. Wealth (Proverbs 19:1-7)
The opening verses of Proverbs 19 present a stark contrast: integrity versus wealth. Proverbs 19:1 states, "Better is a poor person who walks in his integrity than one who is crooked in speech and is a fool." It's a powerful reminder that character trumps material possessions. While society often elevates the wealthy, true value lies in honesty and moral uprightness. Riches can be fleeting and can even lead people astray, distracting them from the things that truly matter in God's kingdom. The allure of success and recognition from the world can be strong, but it's far better to be poor with integrity than to be rich and deceitful.
The world often favors the wealthy, leading to superficial friendships (Proverbs 19:6-7), while the poor are often overlooked. However, from God's perspective, a person of honorable character, even if "dirt poor," is far more valuable than someone rich but lacking spiritual wisdom. The allure of wealth can blind people, but the wisdom of God provides a clear vision of what is truly important.
Folly is also highlighted. Fools act on impulse, driven by desires rather than truth. When their actions lead to predictable negative outcomes, they often blame God instead of taking responsibility for their own choices (Proverbs 19:3). This highlights the importance of self-control and thoughtful decision-making.
Wisdom, Discipline, and Planning (Proverbs 19:8-21)
This section covers a diverse range of topics, emphasizing the value of wisdom, the consequences of ignoring it, the importance of common sense, and the limitations of human planning. Self-control is presented as a desirable and necessary virtue, both for oneself and for one's children.
Proverbs 19:8 reminds us, "Whoever gets sense loves his own soul; he who keeps understanding will discover good." Indulging in foolish living is ultimately self-destructive. Foolishness leads to ruin and potentially an early grave (see Proverbs 4:10-13). Conversely, acquiring good sense is an act of self-love, leading to God's blessings and success.
Discipline, particularly in raising children, is also addressed. Failure to discipline a child can have dire consequences, potentially leading to their downfall (Proverbs 19:18). Neglecting to correct and guide a child is not an act of love, but rather a form of neglect.
Proverbs 19:21 offers a crucial perspective on planning: "Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand." While planning is important, ultimately, God's will prevails. This does not negate the need for planning, but it reminds us to seek God's guidance in all our endeavors and to be open to His direction, even when it differs from our own. We can plan our schedules as much as we want, but only what God has declared is guaranteed to take place. God did not create us and redeem us to live a plotless, purposeless existence.
Respect for God's Will (Proverbs 19:22-29)
The final verses of Proverbs 19 focus on the importance of respecting God's will and the disastrous consequences of ignoring it. Following the Lord's leading is not a guarantee of worldly success, but it is the most sensible path to take in life. Even those with limited experience can observe the consequences of defying God and learn from those mistakes.
A person who refuses to learn, even someone considered wise, invites difficulty into their life. Continuous learning and a willingness to be corrected are essential for continued growth and avoiding pitfalls. We must believe in the value of seeking God and His mind on all things.
Proverbs 19:26 highlights the importance of respecting parental authority, ordained by God. Disrespecting one's parents is considered a disgrace.
Ultimately, Proverbs 19 calls us to live lives of integrity, wisdom, and submission to God's will. By embracing these principles, we can navigate the complexities of life with greater clarity and purpose, experiencing the blessings that come from aligning ourselves with God's design. Don’t settle for a paycheck, a house, and two cars. That may be the American dream, but God has a dream for you that is bigger. The LORD’S decree will prevail, so seek him and his calling for your life.
Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his lips, and is a fool.
Also, that the soul be without knowledge, it is not good; and he that hasteth with his feet sinneth.
The foolishness of man perverteth his way: and his heart fretteth against the Lord.
Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour.
A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape.
Many will intreat the favour of the prince: and every man is a friend to him that giveth gifts.
All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth them with words, yet they are wanting to him.
He that getteth wisdom loveth his own soul: he that keepeth understanding shall find good.
A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall perish.
Delight is not seemly for a fool; much less for a servant to have rule over princes.
The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.
The king’s wrath is as the roaring of a lion; but his favour is as dew upon the grass.
A foolish son is the calamity of his father: and the contentions of a wife are a continual dropping.
House and riches are the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife is from the Lord.
Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.
He that keepeth the commandment keepeth his own soul; but he that despiseth his ways shall die.
He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.
Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.
A man of great wrath shall suffer punishment: for if thou deliver him, yet thou must do it again.
Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.
There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand.
The desire of a man is his kindness: and a poor man is better than a liar.
The fear of the Lord tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.
A slothful man hideth his hand in his bosom, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.
Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware: and reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge.
He that wasteth his father, and chaseth away his mother, is a son that causeth shame, and bringeth reproach.
Cease, my son, to hear the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge.
An ungodly witness scorneth judgment: and the mouth of the wicked devoureth iniquity.
Judgments are prepared for scorners, and stripes for the back of fools.
Proverbs 19, nestled within Solomon's broader teachings on wisdom (Proverbs 10:1), continues to explore practical truths applicable to everyday life. This chapter, like others in the collection, addresses the realities of poverty, the importance of integrity, the dangers of laziness, the necessity of loving discipline, and the consequences of foolish behavior. It is a chapter brimming with insights designed to guide us towards a life that is both successful and pleasing to God. This commentary will delve into the rich wisdom contained within Proverbs 19, offering both scholarly insight and practical application for modern living.
Integrity vs. Wealth (Proverbs 19:1-7)
The opening verses of Proverbs 19 present a stark contrast: integrity versus wealth. Proverbs 19:1 states, "Better is a poor person who walks in his integrity than one who is crooked in speech and is a fool." It's a powerful reminder that character trumps material possessions. While society often elevates the wealthy, true value lies in honesty and moral uprightness. Riches can be fleeting and can even lead people astray, distracting them from the things that truly matter in God's kingdom. The allure of success and recognition from the world can be strong, but it's far better to be poor with integrity than to be rich and deceitful.
The world often favors the wealthy, leading to superficial friendships (Proverbs 19:6-7), while the poor are often overlooked. However, from God's perspective, a person of honorable character, even if "dirt poor," is far more valuable than someone rich but lacking spiritual wisdom. The allure of wealth can blind people, but the wisdom of God provides a clear vision of what is truly important.
Folly is also highlighted. Fools act on impulse, driven by desires rather than truth. When their actions lead to predictable negative outcomes, they often blame God instead of taking responsibility for their own choices (Proverbs 19:3). This highlights the importance of self-control and thoughtful decision-making.
Wisdom, Discipline, and Planning (Proverbs 19:8-21)
This section covers a diverse range of topics, emphasizing the value of wisdom, the consequences of ignoring it, the importance of common sense, and the limitations of human planning. Self-control is presented as a desirable and necessary virtue, both for oneself and for one's children.
Proverbs 19:8 reminds us, "Whoever gets sense loves his own soul; he who keeps understanding will discover good." Indulging in foolish living is ultimately self-destructive. Foolishness leads to ruin and potentially an early grave (see Proverbs 4:10-13). Conversely, acquiring good sense is an act of self-love, leading to God's blessings and success.
Discipline, particularly in raising children, is also addressed. Failure to discipline a child can have dire consequences, potentially leading to their downfall (Proverbs 19:18). Neglecting to correct and guide a child is not an act of love, but rather a form of neglect.
Proverbs 19:21 offers a crucial perspective on planning: "Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand." While planning is important, ultimately, God's will prevails. This does not negate the need for planning, but it reminds us to seek God's guidance in all our endeavors and to be open to His direction, even when it differs from our own. We can plan our schedules as much as we want, but only what God has declared is guaranteed to take place. God did not create us and redeem us to live a plotless, purposeless existence.
Respect for God's Will (Proverbs 19:22-29)
The final verses of Proverbs 19 focus on the importance of respecting God's will and the disastrous consequences of ignoring it. Following the Lord's leading is not a guarantee of worldly success, but it is the most sensible path to take in life. Even those with limited experience can observe the consequences of defying God and learn from those mistakes.
A person who refuses to learn, even someone considered wise, invites difficulty into their life. Continuous learning and a willingness to be corrected are essential for continued growth and avoiding pitfalls. We must believe in the value of seeking God and His mind on all things.
Proverbs 19:26 highlights the importance of respecting parental authority, ordained by God. Disrespecting one's parents is considered a disgrace.
Ultimately, Proverbs 19 calls us to live lives of integrity, wisdom, and submission to God's will. By embracing these principles, we can navigate the complexities of life with greater clarity and purpose, experiencing the blessings that come from aligning ourselves with God's design. Don’t settle for a paycheck, a house, and two cars. That may be the American dream, but God has a dream for you that is bigger. The LORD’S decree will prevail, so seek him and his calling for your life.