24 He who says to the wicked , "You are righteous ," Peoples will curse him, nations will abhor him; 25 But to those who rebuke the wicked will be delight , And a good blessing will come upon them. 26 He kisses the lips Who gives a right answer .
27 Prepare your work outside And make it ready for yourself in the field ; Afterwards , then, build your house .
28 Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause , And do not deceive with your lips . 29 Do not say , "Thus I shall do to him as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work ."
30 I passed by the field of the sluggard And by the vineyard of the man lacking sense , 31 And behold , it was completely overgrown with thistles ; Its surface was covered with nettles , And its stone wall was broken down . 32 When I saw , I reflected e upon it; I looked , and received instruction . 33 " A little sleep , a little slumber , A little folding of the hands to rest ," 34 Then your poverty will come as a robber And your want like an armed man .
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 24:24-34
Commentary on Proverbs 24:23-26
(Read Proverbs 24:23-26)
The wisdom God giveth, renders a man fit for his station. Every one who finds the benefit of the right answer, will be attached to him that gave it.
Commentary on Proverbs 24:27
(Read Proverbs 24:27)
We must prefer necessaries before conveniences, and not go in debt.
Commentary on Proverbs 24:28-29
(Read Proverbs 24:28-29)
There are three defaults in a witness pointed out.
Commentary on Proverbs 24:30-34
(Read Proverbs 24:30-34)
See what a blessing the husbandman's calling is, and what a wilderness this earth would be without it. See what great difference there is in the management even of worldly affairs. Sloth and self-indulgence are the bane of all good. When we see fields overgrown with thorns and thistles, and the fences broken down, we see an emblem of the far more deplorable state of many souls. Every vile affection grows in men's hearts; yet they compose themselves to sleep. Let us show wisdom by doubling our diligence in every good thing.