211 The king's heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will.

2 Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the heart.

3 To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.

4 Haughty eyes and a proud heart, the lamp[1] of the wicked, are sin.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 21:1-4

Commentary on Proverbs 21:1

(Read Proverbs 21:1)

The believer, perceiving that the Lord rules every heart as he sees fit, like the husbandman who turns the water through his grounds as he pleases, seeks to have his own heart, and the hearts of others, directed in his faith, fear, and love.

Commentary on Proverbs 21:2

(Read Proverbs 21:2)

We are partial in judging ourselves and our actions.

Commentary on Proverbs 21:3

(Read Proverbs 21:3)

Many deceive themselves with a conceit that outward devotions will excuse unrighteousness.

Commentary on Proverbs 21:4

(Read Proverbs 21:4)

Sin is the pride, the ambition, the glory, the joy, and the business of wicked men.