21 No ill befalls the righteous,
but the wicked are filled with trouble. – If I think that death is the end of everything, I am tempted to think that this is not always true! But standing back and looking at it from an eternal perspective the example of Jesus’ end on the Cross (which fits my initial doubts) but His Resurrection and Ascension makes the proverb true!
22 Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD,
but those who act faithfully are his delight. – And God’s reaction is that of all wise people!
23 A prudent man conceals knowledge,
but the heart of fools proclaims folly. – this is worth pondering. Is it only true in certain circumstances? I think that it is mainly true when thinking about gossiping and spreading secondhand information!
24 The hand of the diligent will rule,
while the slothful will be put to forced labor. – sadly in modern Western society the slothful are put on the dole!
25 Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, – true!
but a good word makes him glad. – also very true!
26 One who is righteous is a guide to his neighbor,
but the way of the wicked leads them astray. – the comparison here is significant whether the base source of guidance is a parent, a teacher, a friend, a mentor etc.
27 Whoever is slothful will not roast his game,
but the diligent man will get precious wealth. – Show laziness the door! Lift diligence high!
28 In the path of righteousness is life,
and in its pathway there is no death. – Sadly none of us are truly righteous. Thank God for forgiveness and in Christ God accredits His righteousness to His followers!
Prayer: I humbly bow at Your feet Lord Jesus.
As I read it! 