PROVERBS 14

SUCCESS REQUIRES HARD WORK

Solomon knows that hard work and relationships can often be messy, but that they are necessary. Verse 4 says that the manger is clean without any oxen, but the abundant harvest comes from their labor. Success often requires overcoming challenges and stepping into the mess. 

Although you might have people encouraging you in your pursuit of wisdom, there will be others who are scoffers and seek wisdom only for appearances. Do not remain in the presence of fools, for no words of wisdom will be found there. Simple people who do not consider their ways will believe anything, but the wise are prudent, discerning, and cautious. 

Hard work can bring wealth, but that does not mean the poor are wicked or lazy. The wise person is generous to the poor and blessed by their generosity. Giving to the needy honors God, but oppressing the poor insults God as their Creator.