221 A sterling reputation is better than striking it rich; a gracious spirit is better than money in the bank.
2 The rich and the poor shake hands as equals - God made them both!
3 A prudent person sees trouble coming and ducks; a simpleton walks in blindly and is clobbered.
4 The payoff for meekness and Fear-of-God is plenty and honor and a satisfying life.
5 The perverse travel a dangerous road, potholed and mud-slick; if you know what's good for you, stay clear of it.
6 Point your kids in the right direction - when they're old they won't be lost.
7 The poor are always ruled over by the rich, so don't borrow and put yourself under their power.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 22:1-7
Commentary on Proverbs 22:1
(Read Proverbs 22:1)
We should be more careful to do that by which we may get and keep a good name, than to raise or add unto a great estate.
Commentary on Proverbs 22:2
(Read Proverbs 22:2)
Divine Providence has so ordered it, that some are rich, and others poor, but all are guilty before God; and at the throne of God's grace the poor are as welcome as the rich.
Commentary on Proverbs 22:3
(Read Proverbs 22:3)
Faith foresees the evil coming upon sinners, and looks to Jesus Christ as the sure refuge from the storm.
Commentary on Proverbs 22:4
(Read Proverbs 22:4)
Where the fear of God is, there will be humility. And much is to be enjoyed by it; spiritual riches, and eternal life at last.
Commentary on Proverbs 22:5
(Read Proverbs 22:5)
The way of sin is vexatious and dangerous. But the way of duty is safe and easy.
Commentary on Proverbs 22:6
(Read Proverbs 22:6)
Train children, not in the way they would go, that of their corrupt hearts, but in the way they should go; in which, if you love them, you would have them go. As soon as possible every child should be led to the knowledge of the Saviour.
Commentary on Proverbs 22:7
(Read Proverbs 22:7)
This shows how important it is for every man to keep out of debt. As to the things of this life, there is a difference between the rich and the poor; but let the poor remember, it is the Lord that made the difference.