Proverbs 20:4

Solomon uses humour here. The farmer in verse 4 was too lazy to plough his land. When the harvest is due, he gets a bad surprise. There is no food.

Even a stupid farmer knows that he must plough the ground. This farmer was lazy, so he will be hungry.

If we work hard, then we shall have enough food. Work is good. We should not be lazy.

v5 Only a wise man can get water from a deep well.

So only a wise man can understand another person’s thoughts.

v6 Many men say that they are loyal.

But you cannot find a man anywhere who does not tell lies.

v7 A good man lives an honest life.

Because of his life, his children are glad.

v8 A king sits on his throne (royal chair) as a judge.

He does not permit anything that is evil in his court.

v9 Surely nobody can say, ‘My heart is innocent.

My behaviour is always right. My actions are never wrong.’