Proverbs 14:1 If you ask what God and the word of God mean by wisdom and folly, the answer will embrace three particulars: on the side of wisdom, these forethought, earnestness, perseverance; on the side of folly, in like manner, these improvidence, irresolution, unsteadiness. Corresponding to thes... [ Continue Reading ]
Proverbs 14:9 I. The various ways in which men make a mock at sin may be summed up under two heads: by their words, and by their actions. We show our scorn and contempt of a thing in our words, when we speak carelessly of it, or laugh at it, or turn it into ridicule. We show it in our actions, when... [ Continue Reading ]
Proverbs 14:12 I. There are ways that lead to death. Each of us has come into contact with beings whom excesses have led to a premature end; others still occupy a place in the world, but their ruined health, their weakened faculties, show that, to use the words of St. Paul, "they are dead while liv... [ Continue Reading ]
Proverbs 14:14 I. The good man's satisfaction arises from the circumstance that he is regulated in his character and conduct by a fixed and stable thing, by principle. In contemplating anything to be done, in all his movements, in all moral questions, his object is to do what is right. In the midst... [ Continue Reading ]
Proverbs 14:23 I. In the text Solomon gives us a lesson which holds good through all matters of life. That it is a short-sighted mistake to avoid taking trouble; for God has so ordered the world that industry will always repay itself. God has set thee thy work, then fulfil it. Fill it full. Throw t... [ Continue Reading ]
Proverbs 14:26 I. Real godliness involves confidence towards God. The reason is that reconciliation with God is complete. In the case of those who really fear the Lord there springs up between them and God a filial friendship. II. Real godliness produces confidence towards men. III. The confidenc... [ Continue Reading ]
Proverbs 14:31 I. Notice some suggestions as to the practice of mercy to the poor. We must not confine our aim either to the sins of the soul on the one hand, or to the sufferings of the body on the other. II. Every one must do his part in the great work of helping those who cannot help themselves... [ Continue Reading ]