Matthew Henry Commentary Proverbs 10:20

"The tongue of the righteous is [as] choice silver: The heart of the wicked is little worth." — Proverbs 10:20 (ASV)

The belly here stands for the heart, as elsewhere; and whatever fills it, our satisfaction will be accordingly, and so too our inward peace.

Those who would be wise in their later years, must be taught and disciplined when young.

An undutiful child will become very miserable. Let him never expect any peace or comfort.

Friendship in the world is governed by self-interest. It is good to have God as our Friend; He will not desert us.

When a man is self-conceited, rash, and contentious, there is more hope for the ignorant and profligate.

Nothing is gained by evil designs. And many have paid dearly for an unbridled tongue.

We take a wrong course if we set out to relieve those in sorrow by endeavouring to make them merry.

The true way to be happy is to be holy and honest; not to acquire wealth quickly, without regard to right or wrong.

Nothing is more hateful to God than hypocrisy and double-dealing, which are here signified. God delights in those who aim and act with uprightness.

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 will forever be so.

Those who treat an aged mother or a father with contempt or neglect, show their own folly.

Multitudes are brought to ruin by bad company. And all that make themselves wicked will be destroyed.

The plenty obtained by prudence, industry, and frugality is desirable. But the foolish misspend what they have upon their lusts.

Deceit and falsehood bring terrors and perplexities. But those who consult the peace and happiness of others have joy in their own minds.