27 The Lord keeps watch over the spirit of man, searching all the deepest parts of the body.

28 Mercy and good faith keep the king safe, and the seat of his power is based on upright acts.

29 The glory of young men is their strength, and the honour of old men is their grey hairs.

30 By the wounds of the rod evil is taken away, and blows make clean the deepest parts of the body.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 20:27-30

Commentary on Proverbs 20:27

(Read Proverbs 20:27)

The rational soul and conscience are as a lamp within us, which should be used in examining our dispositions and motives with the revealed will of God.

Commentary on Proverbs 20:28

(Read Proverbs 20:28)

Mercy and truth are the glories of God's throne.

Commentary on Proverbs 20:29

(Read Proverbs 20:29)

Both young and old have their advantages; and let neither despise or envy the other.

Commentary on Proverbs 20:30

(Read Proverbs 20:30)

Severe rebukes sometimes do a great deal of good. But such is the corruption of nature, that men are loth to be rebuked for their sins. If God uses severe afflictions, to purify our hearts and fit us for his service, we have cause to be very thankful.