Wesley Corpus

Chapter XIV Buildeth - Maintains and improves her family and estate. Her hands - By her idleness or sin. A rod - His insolent speeches as they are like a rod, offensive to others, so, they make a rod for their own backs. The crib - The stable is empty of food for cattle, and much more for man. In the same sense cleanness of teeth is put for famine, Amos 4:6. The strength - By their labours, or by diligence in husbandry, which then was principally managed by oxen. Findeth it not - Because he doth not seek it aright. That understandeth - That is honest and pious. His way - Consists not in vain speculations, but in a diligent study of his duty, and of the way to eternal happiness. The folly - The wit of ungodly men, which is really their folly, is employed only in finding out ways of deceiving. Favour - They find favour both with God and men. Bitterness - The inward griefs and joys of mens hearts, are not known to any but a man's self. Right - There are some evil courses which men may think to be lawful and good. The end - The event shews that they were sinful and destructive. In laughter - The outward signs of joy are often mixed with real sorrow. In heart - He who departs from God inwardly. Filled - With the fruit of his ways, the punishment of his sins. Satisfied - From the pious temper of his own heart, which cleaves to the Lord, he shall receive unspeakable comfort. The simple - A foolish man. Looketh - He orders his dealings in the world with due circumspection, not considering so much what other men say as what he ought to do. Feareth - Trembles at God's judgments when they are either inflicted or threatened. Rageth - Frets against God; or is enraged against his messengers. Confident - Secure and insensible of his danger. Foolishly - His passion hurries him into foolish speeches and actions. Wicked devices - One who suppresses his passion, but meditates revenge. Hated - Both by God and men. Inherit - They possess it as their inheritance, holding it fast, and glorying in it. Knowledge - The saving knowledge of God and of their own duty.