211 Good leadership is a channel of water controlled by God; he directs it to whatever ends he chooses.
2 We justify our actions by appearances; God examines our motives.
3 Clean living before God and justice with our neighbors mean far more to God than religious performance.
4 Arrogance and pride - distinguishing marks in the wicked - are just plain 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.