Matthew Henry Commentary Proverbs 10:27

"The fear of Jehovah prolongeth days; But the years of the wicked shall be shortened." — Proverbs 10:27 (ASV)

It is wise for young men to dread hearing talk that instills loose and evil principles into the mind.

What pains people take to do mischief to others! But it is digging a pit, it is rolling a stone—hard work; and they prepare mischief for themselves.

Seeking mischief is here set against seeking good; for those who are not doing good are doing harm, even to themselves.

A selfish man not only will not seek out those who need compassion, but will turn away from those who call for his attention.

We must prefer necessities over conveniences, and not go into debt.

When holiness is pretended, but wickedness intended, that especially is an abomination.

The just person abhors the sins of the wicked and shuns their company. Christ exposed the wickedness of people, yet prayed for the wicked when they were crucifying Him. Hatred of sin in ourselves and others is a necessary part of the Christian character. But all who are unholy have a rooted hatred of godliness.

The rational soul and conscience are as a lamp within us, which should be used to examine our dispositions and motives with the revealed will of God.

The lazy man makes no good use of the advantages Providence puts in his way, and has no comfort in them. The possessions of a diligent man, though not great, do good to him and his family. He recognizes that God gives it to him in answer to prayer.

The covetous man lets none of his family have rest or enjoyment. And greediness of gain often tempts to projects that bring ruin.

We must be, through grace, dead to the pleasures of sense, and also to the praises of people.