Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible
Proverbs Ch.4 / 31 Ch.s
PR:4
* Exhortation to the study of wisdom. (1-13) Cautions against
bad company, Exhortation to faith and holiness. (14-27)
#1-13 We must look upon our teachers as our fathers: though
instruction carry in it reproof and correction, bid it welcome.
Solomon's parents loved him, therefore taught him. Wise and
godly men, in every age of the world, and rank in society, agree
that true wisdom consists in obedience, and is united to
happiness. Get wisdom, take pains for it. Get the rule over thy
corruptions; take more pains to get this than the wealth of this
world. An interest in Christ's salvation is necessary. This
wisdom is the one thing needful. A soul without true wisdom and
grace is a dead soul. How poor, contemptible, and wretched are
those, who, with all their wealth and power, die without getting
understanding, without Christ, without hope, and without God!
Let us give heed to the sayings of Him who has the words of
eternal life. Thus our path will be plain before us: by taking,
and keeping fast hold of instruction, we shall avoid being
straitened or stumbling.
#14-27 The way of evil men may seem pleasant, and the nearest
way to compass some end; but it is an evil way, and will end
ill; if thou love thy God and thy soul, avoid it. It is not
said, Keep at a due distance, but at a great distance; never
think you can get far enough from it. The way of the righteous
is light; Christ is their Way, and he is the Light. The saints
will not be perfect till they reach heaven, but there they shall
shine as the sun in his strength. The way of sin is as darkness.
The way of the wicked is dark, therefore dangerous; they fall
into sin, but know not how to avoid it. They fall into trouble,
but never seek to know wherefore God contends with them, nor
what will be in the end of it. This is the way we are bid to
shun. Attentive hearing the word of God, is a good sign of a
work of grace begun in the heart, and a good means of carrying
it on. There is in the word of God a proper remedy for all
diseases of the soul. Keep thy heart with all diligence. We must
set a strict guard upon our souls; keep our hearts from doing
hurt, and getting hurt. A good reason is given; because out of
it are the issues of life. Above all, we should seek from the
Lord Jesus that living water, the sanctifying Spirit, issuing
forth unto everlasting life. Thus we shall be enabled to put
away a froward mouth and perverse lips; our eyes will be turned
from beholding vanity, looking straight forward, and walking by
the rule of God's word, treading in the steps of our Lord and
Master. Lord, forgive the past, and enable us to follow thee
more closely for the time to come.