Matthew Henry Commentary Proverbs 10:13

"In the lips of him that hath discernment wisdom is found; But a rod is for the back of him that is void of understanding." — Proverbs 10:13 (ASV)

An honest man may be made a beggar, but he is not honest who makes himself one.

The slothful man talks of a lion outside, but does not consider his real danger from the devil, that roaring lion within, and from his own slothfulness, which kills him.

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.

To render evil for good is devilish. He who does so, brings a curse upon his family.

See what ought to be the aim of one who is entrusted with any business: to be faithful. A faithful minister, Christ's messenger, should therefore be acceptable to us.

Eagerness, with self-conceit, will expose to shame.

Those who oppress the poor by beating down wages, those who 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 undoubtedly, care must be taken in the exercise of charity.

The slothful man hates everything that requires care and labor. But it is foolish to frighten ourselves from real duties by imagined difficulties. This may be applied to a man slothful in the duties of religion.

He who stands in awe of God, and reverences his word will escape destruction, and be rewarded for his godly fear.

Those who indulge themselves may expect to lack necessities, which should have been obtained by honest labor.

Many a man has paid dearly in this world for the transgression of his lips.

A faithful man will not disclose what he is trusted with, unless the honor of God and the real good of society require it.

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.

A gloomy, impatient, unthankful spirit, springing from pride and undue attachment to worldly objects, renders a man uneasy to himself and others.

Those who foolishly continue in wicked ways prepare rods for themselves.

Put those in power who know how to speak effectively.

It shows the vanity of the world, that we are liable to the greatest griefs where we promise ourselves the greatest comfort.