Matthew Henry Commentary Proverbs 10:23

"It is as sport to a fool to do wickedness; And [so is] wisdom to a man of understanding." — Proverbs 10:23 (ASV)

The wicked are ready to part with their money, though they love it, so that they may not suffer for their crimes.

The poor, yet industrious, thrive, though in a simple manner, while those who have great riches are often brought to poverty for lack of judgment.

Those who live in the fear of God will get safety, satisfaction, and true and complete happiness.

Labor of the head or of the hand will yield some good results. But if people's religion consists only of talk and noise, they will come to nothing.

The wicked desire evil for others, but it will return upon themselves.

The wise man's self-knowledge always suggests something appropriate to say to others.

Slanders would not be so readily spoken if they were not readily heard. Sin, if it receives any check, becomes cowardly.

Poverty tells people they must not order or demand. And at the throne of God's grace, we are all poor, and must use entreaties.

Foolish men proclaim to all the folly and emptiness of their minds.

Wisdom is needed to suit our discourse to the occasions.

Only foolish and wicked men entertain themselves by doing harm to others, or tempting them to sin.

A wicked heart disguising itself is like a potsherd covered with the dross of silver.

A bargain made by fraud will prove a losing bargain in the end.

Upon reflection, most will have a better opinion of a faithful reprover than of a soothing flatterer.

It is our great concern to keep our souls from being entangled and disquieted.

Only those who humble themselves shall be exalted and established.