Matthew Henry Commentary Proverbs 10:15

"The rich man`s wealth is his strong city: The destruction of the poor is their poverty." — Proverbs 10:15 (ASV)

A sluggish, slothful disposition makes people poor; it brings them to poverty. And this applies both to the present life and that which is to come.

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.

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 clings closely to the soul. We all need to be corrected by our heavenly Father.

This refers to the common mistakes both of rich and poor, regarding 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.

The one who 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.

The sluggard is now out of his bed, but he might as well have stayed there, considering how little he is likely to accomplish in his work. It is common for men who will not do their duty, to pretend they cannot. Those who are slothful in religion, will not take the trouble to feed their souls with the bread of life, nor to obtain promised blessings by prayer.

It is an offence to God to acquit the guilty, or to condemn those who are not guilty.

Some experience much affliction and have 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.

We must get knowledge, not only into our heads, but into our hearts.

Be patient to bear a present hurt. Be mild to speak without passion; for persuasive language is the most effective to prevail over the hardened mind.

There is true pleasure only in the practice of religion.

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.

Parents must consider the benefit of due correction, and the mischief of undue indulgence.

Eager readiness to believe what others say has always proved harmful. 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 heeding God's word.

The way of sinners is hard on others, and hard on the sinner himself. The service of sin is slavery; the road to hell is strewn with the thorns and thistles that followed the curse.

A wicked ruler, whatever we may call him, this scripture calls a roaring lion, and a ranging bear.