Proverbs 12:8-9 A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised. He that is despised, and has a servant, is better than he that honours himself, and lacks bread. 

‘A man shall be commended according to his wisdom.’ Four examples of commending wisdom: Joseph (Gen. 41:39); David (2Sam. 14:17-20); Daniel (Dan. 5:16) and Paul (2Pet. 3:15-16).

‘Wisdom’ [Hebrew: sekel] insight. Translated as wisdom (12:8; 23:9); understanding (3:4; 13:15; 16:22); and discretion (19:11).

‘But he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised.’ Three examples of being despised: are Hophni and Phinehas (1 Samuel 1:3-2:30). Nabal (1Sam. 25:2, 17) and the prodigal son (Luke 15:15-16).

‘He that is despised, and has a servant, is better than he that honours himself, and lacks bread.’ The poor man who provides for himself is better than the proud who lacks bread.