Proverbs 16:31 The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness. There is no beauty or comeliness like that of holiness. Nothing tends more to adorn or recommend a person. Here holiness is presented under the notion of a most excellent and comely ornament which suits persons of any age or condition. Some think these words are a proposal of the most likely course men can take to prolong their days. Others think that the duty of the aged is here prescribed. We take it thus: "Then is the hoary head more especially an ornament and glory when it is found in the way of righteousness." There is somewhat venerable in old age. 1. The knowledge of the aged may be supposed to be very considerable, by reason of the long time they have had for acquiring it. 2. The virtue and sincerity of the aged is more tried and approved than of those who have but lately set out and engaged in religion. 3. As the virtue and holiness of the aged is more tried and approved through their long standing, so it is more considerable in the degree and measure. There is a double improvement which we may suppose Christians to make, the one by becoming more confirmed and established in their holy religion, and the other by their abounding more in the fruits of righteousness. 4. Such persons are eminent instruments of bringing glory to God and of usefulness to His Church. The more conspicuous the power of goodness in such people, the more God is glorified by them. 5. The hoary head that is found in the way of righteousness is ripe for glory and just ready to enter into it. Infer — (1) The unreasonableness of the contempt that young persons sometimes show to those who are old, even mocking at their infirmities. (2) The reasonableness of the apostolic rule, "Ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder."(3) Persons should make preparation for the honour and comfort of old age, even by choosing the ways of righteousness while they are young. (W. Pierce.) Parallel Verses KJV: The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.WEB: Gray hair is a crown of glory. It is attained by a life of righteousness. |
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