Proverbs 14 - Contrast The Upright And The Wicked Series

28 In a multitude of people is a king's glory, But in the dearth of people is a prince's ruin. Proverbs 14:28 (NASB)

Economic prosperity draws people. Families prosper. People from all over the world will want to be a part of it. But when there is famine or economic depression it brings no glory to the nation. To oppress the people of a land will be a government’s ruin.

29 He who is slow to anger has great understanding, But he who is quick-tempered exalts folly. Proverbs 14:29 (NASB)

A nasty and quick temper can be like a fire out of control, burning everyone in its path. Anger divides people. It pushes us into hasty decisions that only cause bitterness and guilt. Yet anger, in itself, is not wrong. Anger can be a legitimate reaction to injustice and sin. When you feel yourself getting angry, look for the cause. Are you reacting to an evil situation that you are going to set right? Or are you responding selfishly to a personal insult? Pray that God will help you control a quick temper, channeling your feelings into effective action and conquering selfish anger through humility and repentance.

A characteristic of God is that He is “slow to anger”. Therefore by being “slow to anger” you emulate God’s character.

30 A tranquil heart is life to the body, But passion is rottenness to the bones. Proverbs 14:30 (NASB)

Contentment and quietness of heart is a good thing. But if you life is full of hurry and worry it is not a good thing. The Message Bible says:

“A sound mind makes for a robust body, but runaway emotions corrode the bones.” Proverbs 14:30 (MSG)

31 He who oppresses the poor taunts his Maker, But he who is gracious to the needy honors Him. Proverbs 14:31 (NASB)

God has always had a special concern for the poor. He insists that people who have material goods should be generous with those who are needy. Providing for the poor is not just a suggestion in the Bible – it is a command that may require a change of attitude

32 The wicked is thrust down by his wrongdoing, But the righteous has a refuge when he dies. Proverbs 14:32 (NASB)

One person you must always live with is yourself. You know your motives. You know if your heart is pure. The writer of Hebrews says:

“Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a good conscience, desiring to conduct ourselves honorably in all things.” Hebrews 13:18 (NASB)

This should be all of our prayers.

33 Wisdom rests in the heart of one who has understanding, But in the hearts of fools it is made known. Proverbs 14:33 (NASB)

Wisdom comes and stays at the house of those who have understanding. But to the fool there is only a passing hello.

34 Righteousness exalts a nation, But sin is a disgrace to any people. Proverbs 14:34 (NASB)

Just as each person has character – so does a nation. Of course each nation is influenced by its leadership. We must choose righteous leaders in order to have a righteous nation. The sins of our leaders are a disgrace to our nation. Leaders should never be above the law – but be examples of how to keep it.