Matthew Poole and continuators on Proverbs 13:23

23. Much food is in the tillage of the poor , but there is that is destroyed for want of judgment .

Poor and mean persons by their diligent labours in tillage or other employments, and Gods Blessing upon them oft-times grow rich.

Or, consumed, to wit, in his estate, brought to poverty.

Either 1. For want of discretion and convenient care and diligence in tilling his Land, and in managing his Affairs, which he neglects himself, and leaves to the care of others, whereas poor men are forced by their necessities to look to their own concerns, and to use their utmost diligence in them. Or rather 2. By Injustice, as this Phrase is used, Prov. 16. 8. Ier. 17. 11. & 22. 13. Ezek. 22. 29. Nor do I find it in any other Scripture. By his Frauds, Rapines, and Oppressions, and other unjust and wicked practices, whereby he seeks to enrich himself, as refusing and scorning to get an Estate by honest labours. So this agrees with what is said v. 11.

Marginal references: Ch. 12. 11.; Chap. 21. 4.