Matthew Henry Commentary Proverbs 10:21

"The lips of the righteous feed many; But the foolish die for lack of understanding." — Proverbs 10:21 (ASV)

Proper treatment of a servant does not mean indulgence, which would ruin even a child. The body is a servant to the soul; those who indulge it and are excessively gentle with it will find it forgets its place.

This speaks very plainly what many wise and good men feel very strongly, how grievous it is to have a foolish, wicked child.

Those who are truly wise strive that their thoughts, words, and actions should be orderly, sincere, and holy.

To despise a man for his employment or appearance is a sin.

Many a person has caused his own death, or the death of others, by a false or injurious tongue.

Joining together in sin will not protect the sinners.

An estate suddenly raised is often as suddenly ruined.

True repentance and faith will lead the one who relies on the mercy of God in Christ, to follow after righteousness and mercy in his own conduct.

Silver and gold are tested by putting them into the furnace and refining pot; so is a man tested by praising him.

If people are sincerely righteous, the righteous God has pledged that no evil will happen to them. But those who delight in mischief will have enough of it.

The man whose wisdom dwells in his heart, will be found more truly prudent than many who possess shining talents.

When God pursues sinners he is sure to overtake them; and he will reward the righteous.

What should we desire, other than that all our purposes may agree with God's holy will?

Judgment is perverted when anything but pure right is considered.