Proverbs 21:24-26 - Homilies By E. Johnson

The process of vice

I. VICES HANG TOGETHER LIKE THE LINKS OF A CHAIN . ( Proverbs 21:24 .) Contempt is born of pride, wrath of contempt, and from wrath scoffing and manifold injuries.

II. IDLENESS LIES IN CLOSE AFFINITY TO MANY VICES . ( Proverbs 21:25 , Proverbs 21:26 ). We have here a brief anatomy of idleness. It is wishing without corresponding exertion. The idle man would rather sit still and starve than set his hand or head to painful toil. He would live by wishing. The effort to rise from the easychair, to take the hand from the bosom, is too great for him; hence he is consumed with vain desires. The hope of enjoyment is out of reach, though not out of sight, for want of exertion. In religion mere wishes, idle prayers, will not bring us good. The knocking and seeking must go with the asking. And again ( Proverbs 21:26 ), in this analysis we are reminded of the selfishness which is at the root of this indolence. In contrast to a habit of coveting for self, we have the hand of the righteous man, who "gives and spares not." Willing labour, surrender of time and thought for others' good,—this, indeed, enriches the soul, and the man who waters others waters himself, and is a "blessing in the land."—J.