Contradiction with Proverbs 21:5
While Proverbs 14:23 suggests that hard work leads to profit, Proverbs 21:5 implies that planning leads to prosperity, not just labor alone.
Proverbs 21:5: The thoughts of the diligent {tend} only to plenteousness; but of every one {that is} hasty only to want.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 9:11
Proverbs 14:23 emphasizes hard work bringing profit, but Ecclesiastes 9:11 suggests that outcomes are also due to time and chance, not solely effort.
Ecclesiastes 9:11: I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race {is} not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.
Contradiction with Matthew 6:27-28
Proverbs 14:23 advocates for labor, while Matthew 6:27-28 suggests that worrying or laboring cannot add to one's life, as God provides for even the lilies.
Matthew 6:27-28: Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?
Contradiction with Luke 10:40-42
Proverbs 14:23 highlights profit from labor, whereas Luke 10:40-42 shows Jesus prioritizing spiritual pursuit over labor, indicating non-physical rewards.
Luke 10:40-42: But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 3:7
Proverbs 14:23 emphasizes personal effort leading to gain, but 1 Corinthians 3:7 presents the idea that growth is granted by God, not human labor alone.
1 Corinthians 3:7: So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.
Paradox #1
Proverbs 14:23 emphasizes the value of hard work and suggests that only effort leads to profit, while mere talk leads to poverty. The potential moral conflict here is that it might seem to undermine the importance of planning, discussion, and thoughtful consideration, suggesting that they are less valuable than immediate action. Some might see this as inconsistent with the idea that careful thinking and dialogue are crucial steps before taking action.