Bible Commentaries
Proverbs 13

Verses 1-25

CHAPTER 13 The Contrast: Advantage and Disadvantage

The contrast in Proverbs concerning the righteous and the wicked is continued in this chapter, showing mostly the advantage of the righteous, illustrating a statement found in the prophet Isaiah: “Say ye to the righteous, that it shall be well with him, for they shall eat the fruit of their doings” Isaiah 3:10 ). Then the contrast: “Woe unto the wicked! It shall be ill with him, for the reward of his hands shall be given him” Proverbs 13:11 ). The righteous eats good by the fruit of his mouth; the transgressor receives violence. There is fatness for the soul of the diligent and nothing for the soul of the sluggard. Righteousness keepeth; wickedness overthrows. While the light of the righteous rejoiceth, the lamp of the wicked shall be put out. These are some of the contrasts.

In Proverbs 13:7 is a statement which may be applied to our Lord: “There is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches.” He who has all the riches made Himself poor for our sake.

Then there is warning against pride. In fact the proverbs abound in these warnings. “By pride cometh contention” Proverbs 13:10 ). To the proud who refuseth correction cometh poverty and shame Proverbs 13:18 ).