Proverbs 17

Proverbs 17:31

5. Mut. ter. 40, 45

6. ‘He that oppresseth the poor, reproacheth his maker: but he that honoureth him, hath mercy on the poor.

God is the poor man’s patron, and regards with indignation, every unkindness shewn them as an affront done to himself, who made them what they are. Whoever therefore means to honour God, must shew it in mercy to the poor; and the kindness done to them shall be rewarded by him, who is the friend of their friends, and the enemy of their enemies.

32. The wicked is driven away in his wickedness: but the righteous hath hope in his death.

Proverbs 17:32

Death will make strange alterations. The wicked, who lived thoughtless and careless, will be surprised thereby, and no gifts can bribe, no persuasions delay this executioner of judgment: he shall be driven away in his wickedness, in the midst of his sins; fudden as the whirlwind, and terrible as the thunderbolt, shall the storm of wrath overtake him; his struggles are vain: reluctantly as he parts with earth, go be must, God’s patience is at an end, the last hour is come: but the righteous hath hope in his death, a hope full of immortality, that enables him to rise superior to his fears, and count it his privilege to die: no longing, lingering looks are cast behind on a world he is loath to part with, but gladly he quits a scene of sorrow for eternal joys, a miserable abode on earth for a manhood of glory, and weeping friends for congratulating angels.

33. Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known.

Proverbs 17:33

In the deep recesses of his heart, the wise man stores up divine knowledge and understanding, abidingly fixed on the pursuit, and making no obsession of his gains: but all that is in the soul’s heart drops out at his mouth; he takes a pride in displaying the pittance he is possessed of, and by his vanity discovers his folly.

34. Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.

Proverbs 17:34

Righteousness, valseeth a nation; either the profession and practice of pure religion, which, securing God’s blessing, brings prosperity along with it; or the impartial administration of justice, which contributes greatly to national security and felicity; or the faithful observance of treaties with foreigners without, and honestly and charity exercised by the fellow-subjects within: but sin is a reproach to any people, it offends God, whose support withdrawn, their own vices quickly ruin them, expose them for a prey, and render them despicable in the eyes of their neighbours.

35. ‘The king’s favour is toward a wise servant: but his wrath is against him that causeth shame.

Proverbs 17:35

When kings reign in wisdom, real worth and merit, not favour and partiality, will be the road to distinction; the unqualified, the negligent, and the infamous, will be disgraced; and under the marks of displeasure driven from the Royal presence. Happy the nation that finds such a Monarch!