Down to Earth But Heavenly Minded

What does Proverbs Chapter 14 mean?

The first verses of this section point out the consequences of wisdom, in contrast to the consequences of foolishness. This echoes other statements in the book of Proverbs (Proverbs 10:8–9; 11:8; 12:13; 13:6). Foolishness, defined as a rejection of God’s truth and instruction (Psalm 14:1; Proverbs 1:7) leads to disaster. It also makes a person vulnerable to further false ideas. Those who wallow in such self-deception should be avoided (Proverbs 14:1–10).

A short segment of verses in the middle of this passage share a theme: the respective fates of the wicked and the righteous. The deceptive nature of sin can make rejecting God seem like a good idea, but the end result is tragedy. Those who follow godliness are at less risk of negative earthly consequences. They are also blessed with an eternal rescue. In either case, that which a person chooses—selfishness or godliness—is repaid to them (Proverbs 14:11–14).

The last, final segment of this chapter covers a broad range of topics. Among these are the importance of self-control, the danger of gullibility, the need to apply justice fairly to all, the benefits of a contented heart, and the cultural value of godly wisdom (Proverbs 14:15–35).

The following chapter continues this long compilation of Solomon’s wise sayings.

Chapter Context
Proverbs 14 continues King Solomon’s wise sayings. In this chapter he discusses a variety of topics such as wisdom and folly, honesty and dishonesty, righteousness and evil, national security and national disgrace, personal security and destruction, the fear of the Lord, generosity, and wise servanthood. This series of astute comments will continue for several more chapters.

Verse by Verse

Verse 1. The wisest of women builds her house,but folly with her own hands tears it down.

Solomon observes a contrast between a wise woman and a foolish woman. The book of Proverbs uses the terms “wise” and “foolish,” generally, to describe those who follow God or reject God, respectively (Proverbs 1:7; 3:5–8). Solomon’s description here refers to women and their influence on the home, though this does not mean home-based interests are the only ones which can be addressed by women.

In this verse, Solomon is not referring to construction but to homemaking. The wise woman blesses her home, her family. Practical examples of this would include things like partnering with her husband in the godly upbringing of their children (Proverbs 22:6; 29:15; Psalm 127:3–5; Ephesians 6:1–4) and facilitating a physically, emotionally, and spiritually healthy environment in the home through things as simple as family hygiene habits, speech patterns, and vigilantly attending to her own relationship with the Lord. A wise woman doesn’t waste money or resources, but instead invests them into her ministry for the glory of God and the benefit of her family and others to whom she ministers. A wise woman is one like the virtuous woman of Proverbs 31, always mindful of the needs of her household and eager to live out God’s call on her life in every season.

The foolish woman, on the other hand, is unconcerned about the needs of her husband and children. She does not honor the Lord nor seek to live out His calling on her life. Rather than build up her family, her actions damage her family.

Context Summary
Proverbs 14:1–10 continues a long series of short, general-case, common-sense statements of godly wisdom. This section focuses on personal diligence, relationship to the Lord, conversation, witness, prudent behavior, and private emotions. Once again, the spotlight focuses on what is admirable versus that which is disgraceful.

Verse 2. Whoever walks in uprightness fears the Lord,but he who is devious in his ways despises him.

Scripture makes it clear that ultimate truth—including that which is good—comes from an understanding of God (Proverbs 1:7). This leads to a relatively simple explanation of what leads to good or evil conduct. An upright person follows a path of righteousness and fears the Lord. A devious person follows a path of sin and despises the Lord. The term translated “uprightness” is also seen in Proverbs 2:13 and Proverbs 4:11 and implies something “straight” or honest. In contrast, the term rendered “devious” means something “lost, perverted, or deviant,” and is seen in Proverbs 2:15 and Proverbs 3:32.

A person’s lifestyle shows whether he is sincerely seeking good, loving the Lord, or is unrighteous and ignores God (John 14:15). Jesus made this distinction clear. He said, “So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit” (Matthew 7:17–18). While we need to be careful not to judge others unfairly (John 7:24; 1 Samuel 16:7), a person’s life eventually reveals whether they are righteous or unrighteous. “Thus you will recognize [false prophets] by their fruits” (Matthew 7:20). If a person reverences the Lord, he will despise sin; but if he despises the Lord, he will love sin. There is no middle ground.

Verse 3. By the mouth of a fool comes a rod for his back,but the lips of the wise will preserve them.

Here, Solomon emphasizes the idea that failing to control one’s words is a recipe for disaster. A foolish person’s uncontrolled, thoughtless words hurt others, who will eventually hurt him. Rods were used in the ancient world for self-defense and as a form of government punishment. The person using careless, hurtful speech eventually faces consequences (James 3:4–6).

Psalm 64:3 compares the tongues of the wicked to swords and their words to arrows. However, following verses say, “God shoots his arrow at them; they are wounded suddenly. They are brought to ruin, with their own tongues turned against them” (Psalm 64:7–8). Their own attacking words come back to haunt them.

On the other hand, a wise person’s controlled and gracious speech keeps them out of trouble. Sometimes, that discretion is simply a matter of knowing when not to speak, at all (Proverbs 10:19). No one has unnecessary reason to harm such a person. Believers ought to employ speech that is far different from the arrogant, rough, biting speech of evildoers. Their speech should resemble that of the Savior. First Peter 2:22 assures us that He never deceived anyone, and Luke 4:22 testifies that all who heard Him “marveled at the gracious words that were coming from his mouth.”

Verse 4. Where there are no oxen, the manger is clean,but abundant crops come by the strength of the ox.

Oxen were essential to farming in Bible times. Farmers used oxen for plowing and hauling. If a farmer did not have an ox, he could not plow his fields and therefore had no harvest. Of course, oxen consume a great deal of food, and they produce a considerable amount of waste. That means a manger—the food trough—and the barn around it needs to be cleaned and stocked often. One must put in unpleasant, menial work to keep the oxen fed and healthy. The reward for that work, however, is something that only the strength of the oxen can provide: a plentiful harvest.

By referring in this verse to the value of oxen, Solomon emphasizes two things. First, animals should be treated appropriately. This is common sense; a well-treated animal is more productive (Proverbs 12:10; Deuteronomy 25:4). Second, hard work pays dividends. No one should expect to realize a profit without earning it. An honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay is a worthy principle. Trying to feed and clean oxen is difficult, but nowhere near so difficult as trying to farm without them.

Verse 5. A faithful witness does not lie,but a false witness breathes out lies.

The statement here closely resembles Proverbs 12:17. The Bible teaches us to be truthful. The book of Proverbs highlights the importance of this concept by frequently contrasting deception and lies from honesty and truth. Most of these references are in the context of legal or courtroom matters: circumstances where deception or dishonesty are obviously disallowed and inexcusable. This provides a subtle contrast to situations like stage acting, sports, games, or war, where there’s a tacit expectation of misleading words or actions. The image of a person who “breathes out” lies is the one who is perpetually dishonest, deceptive, or sneaky.

Often the judge in legal disputes, Solomon was keenly aware of the importance of reliable witnesses. Later in this same book, he assures us a false witness will be punished for lying (Proverbs 19:5). He states further that a liar will perish (Proverbs 19:9). In Proverbs 24:28, he urges: “Be not a witness against your neighbor without cause, and do not deceive with your lips.” In Proverbs 25:18 he compares a person who bears false witness against his neighbor to a weapon. Just as these inflict severe harm on a body, so too do lies severely hurt their victim.

Jesus expects His people to bear honest testimony about Him. He told His disciples, “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Paul, one of Jesus’ foremost witnesses, told Governor Festus, “Most excellent Festus…I am speaking true and rational words” (Acts 26:25).

Verse 6. A scoffer seeks wisdom in vain,but knowledge is easy for a man of understanding.

A “scoffer” (Proverbs 1:22) is someone who arrogantly mocks what they don’t understand: the person who sneers at truth instead of learning from it. “Wisdom” is godly truth (Proverbs 1:7). In that sense, the idea of such a person “seeking” seems self-contradictory. It is, and this is the point being made. The “scoffer” looks to sources other than the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). Scoffers bypass the spiritual path to wisdom because they are proud (1 Corinthians 2:14). They think they can obtain wisdom by applying their mind to life’s mysteries. They blindly accept what they want to hear (2 Timothy 4:3–4) and stubbornly ignore what they don’t like (John 5:39–40), instead of submitting to what’s real (Romans 1:18–20).

However, the wisdom of the world (Colossians 2:8) is no match for the wisdom of God, and scoffers learn the hard way that “God opposes the proud” (1 Peter 5:5). A man who respects God and submits to truth gains knowledge easily. Because he looks to the Lord for knowledge instead of to himself, he is open to what the Lord wants to teach him.

Verse 7. Leave the presence of a fool,for there you do not meet words of knowledge.

Part of obeying God’s will is sharing truth with others. That includes the gospel (Matthew 28:19–20), and it certainly includes people who are not naturally friendly to faith (Romans 5:8). However, God’s will does not include wasting time and resources on those who clearly have no interest (Matthew 7:6). Likewise, a believer cannot and should not disassociate himself with every unbeliever (1 Corinthians 5:9–11). If he did, he would not be able to share the gospel with him. However, a believer should avoid a relationship in which an unbeliever influences him to think and/or act contrary to the will of God (Proverbs 13:20).

A “fool,” in this context, is a person who rejects God’s truth and wisdom (Proverbs 1:7; 10:8; Psalm 14:1). Such a perspective provides nothing of meaningful value. Being careless about the advice of a fool can influence a person to adopt foolish notions. The apostle assures us in 1 Corinthians 15:33 that “bad company ruins good morals.” In 2 Corinthians 6:14–15, he commands, “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever? What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God.” He follows this reasoning with a command, “Therefore go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord” (2 Corinthians 6:17).

Verse 8. The wisdom of the prudent is to discern his way,but the folly of fools is deceiving.

The Hebrew term for “prudent” here is also translated as “shrewd,” which is not an inherently negative trait. Those who are “shrewd” are sensible, aware, and purposeful in their thinking (Proverbs 12:16, 23; 13:16). Jesus advocated a benevolent kind of shrewdness when He commissioned a group of missionaries (Matthew 10:16). The “prudent” person is not rash in his decisions. He thinks things through carefully before deciding. He wants to go where God leads him.

This trait was exhibited by Abraham’s servant, who was on a mission to find a bride for Isaac. He carefully asked the Lord to direct him to the right young lady. He prayed: “O LORD, God of my master Abraham, please grant me success today and show steadfast love to my master Abraham” (Genesis 24:12). When the servant found Rebekah, he “bowed his head and worshiped the LORD and said, ‘Blessed the LORD, the God of my master Abraham, who has not forsaken his steadfast love and his faithfulness toward my master. As for me, the LORD has led me in the way to the house of my master’s kinsman” (Genesis 24:26–27).

However, unlike Abraham’s wise servant, fools—those who ignore godly wisdom (Proverbs 1:7)—rush into situations. It doesn’t occur to them that they might be wrong. Ultimately, though, they discover that their folly has tripped them up.

Verse 9. Fools mock at the guilt offering,but the upright enjoy acceptance.

Those who reject God (Psalm 14:1) and godly wisdom (Proverbs 1:7) think it is laughable to seek forgiveness for sin. In most cases, this is because they are indifferent. Perhaps the guilt offering mocks them too; God would not accept it if they offered it with a light attitude (1 Timothy 4:2; Psalm 51:17). Fools call evil good and good evil (Isaiah 5:20).

Making light of sin insults the Savior, who paid the ultimate price to redeem sinners. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:3, “Christ died for our sins.” The apostle Peter points out that the price of our redemption was the blood of Christ (1 Peter 1:18–19). The righteous take a far different attitude toward sin; they abhor their sin and humbly seek God’s forgiveness (1 John 1:9). As a result, they find acceptance with God (Hebrews 4:14–16). Like the prodigal’s father, God welcomes every repentant sinner with open arms, and rejoicing in heaven takes place as a result (Luke 15:7, 20).

Verse 10. The heart knows its own bitterness,and no stranger shares its joy.

No other human being can fully know the pain a person is experiencing (1 Samuel 16:7). Only the Lord knows, and He cares (Hebrews 4:14–16; 1 Peter 5:7). First Corinthians 2:11 asks, “For who knows a person’s thoughts except the spirit of that person, which is in him?” Although we may offer words of comfort and encouragement, it may be best simply to draw alongside a grieving person and be silent (Romans 12:15). We might not understand another person’s pain; we might not even agree that their unhappiness is justified. All the same, other people’s suffering is real whether it’s rational or not, and whether we fully understand it or not.

It is also true that no one can experience another person’s joy. Every person goes through private emotions in his inner being. However, we can, “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15). The church is a fellowship of believers that share a mutual love for God and one another. When one member of the church suffers, all the members suffer; when one member receives honor, all the members rejoice together (1 Corinthians 12:26).

Verse 11. The house of the wicked will be destroyed,but the tent of the upright will flourish.

The contrast in this verse is meant to play on the differences between a temporary shelter and a permanent one. Normally, one would consider a house more durable than a tent. But a “house” built on evil is far weaker than even a “tent” built on godly wisdom (Proverbs 1:7). The strongest, most successful efforts of godless people will eventually come to nothing. What seem to be fragile gains, for those who honor God, will last (Matthew 6:19–21; Proverbs 12:7).

It may appear for a while that the possessions and posterity of the wicked are substantial (Psalm 73:2–3). Whether in this life, or under the Lord’s eternal judgment, those evil things will be carried away. The upright may have few possessions and a limited posterity, but what they have will sprout and blossom like a tree. The Herods were an evil family who ruled during Jesus’ lifetime. They lived in palaces and were wealthy, but their evil ways caused them and everything they had to perish under the Lord’s judgment. Jesus had nowhere to lay His head (Luke 9:58), and He was persecuted (Isaiah 53:3), but those who believe in Him make up “a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages” (Revelation 7:9) and are joint heirs with Him (Romans 8:17).

Context Summary
Proverbs 14:11–14 is a brief section which contrasts the righteous and the wicked. Solomon takes these moments to emphasize the final destinies of the evil and the upright. Those who reject God will come to an inglorious end, but those who submit to His truth will enjoy a glorious destiny. The wicked will get what he deserves, having built a life of sin, but the upright will be rewarded for walking in righteousness. Points made here echo those seen in Proverbs 12:7–15.

Verse 12. There is a way that seems right to a man,but its end is the way to death.

Scripture often warns that human reasoning and human desire can lead to disaster (Jeremiah 17:9). The problem is not that we cannot use reason, or that we can never have right desires. Rather, it’s that we’re too easily swayed by what we desire, not what is true (Proverbs 1:7). Proverbs 12:15 previews this danger: the “fool” is the person who trusts his own thinking over and above that of God (Proverbs 3:5). This verse points out the need for self-examination (2 Corinthians 13:5). Other proverbs note the value in seeking advice and wisdom from godly people (Proverbs 11:14; 15:5).

Even faced with overwhelming evidence, however, a person who is committed to rejecting God can find excuses to do so (John 5:39–40). Left to his own devices, such a man will reject the way of salvation (Hebrews 2:3). He relies on his finite, corrupt knowledge to illumine his way through life (Colossians 2:8). However, he walks in darkness, and unless he comes to faith in Jesus Christ, he will experience eternal death (John 3:36). Isaiah 53:6 confirms, “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way.”

Romans 1:18–32 unfolds the sad story of the heathen’s rejection of natural revelation, the manifestation of God through nature. Verse 18 says God’s wrath “is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.” The rest of the chapter tells where the heathen’s rejection of God’s revelation led them. Although men preferred their own way to God’s way, their choice led to futile, debased thinking; idolatry; physical debauchery; all kinds of unrighteousness; evil; covetousness; malice; hatred of God; insolence; arrogance; murder; strife; deceit; maliciousness; gossip; bragging; rebellion; foolishness; faithlessness; and ruthlessness.

Verse 13. Even in laughter the heart may ache,and the end of joy may be grief.

Earthly happiness is fleeting (Matthew 6:19–21). Appearances can be deceiving (1 Samuel 16:7; John 7:24). Those who laugh, on the outside, might be in deep pain, in their heart. Earthly pursuits will not change this, and any joy they bring is temporary. Even while a sinner laughs, his heart may be sorrowful, and when his joy ends, he experiences grief (Proverbs 10:8; 11:23). Those who put their faith in Christ can rest in knowing their sorrow will be truly healed (Revelation 21:4).

In Ecclesiastes, Solomon tells us where he looked for meaning and satisfaction. Among the places he looked was pleasure, but he did not find any significance or satisfaction there. He concludes his book by exhorting his readers to remember the Lord (Ecclesiastes 12:13). First Timothy 5:6 affirms that “she who is self-indulgent is dead even while she lives.” Real significance comes only from a right relationship with God. The psalmist testifies that God is the source of genuine, lasting delight. He writes: “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore” (Psalm 16:11).

Verse 14. The backslider in heart will be filled with the fruit of his ways,and a good man will be filled with the fruit of his ways.

A common English expression claims “what goes around comes around.” The meaning of that expression is the same as the lesson of this proverb. The life a person leads determines what results he can expect to experience. It is true that good people can experience myriad difficult circumstances and even persecution (Psalm 9:9–10), and evil people can sometimes appear successful (Psalm 73:2–3). Both are temporary situations, however. Natural cause-and-effect usually brings negative consequences to evildoers and benefits to those who do good. Eternity, without exception, will reward good and punish evil (Revelation 20:11–15).

The phrase “backslider in heart” literally means “a turned-aside heart,” or “a perverse understanding.” This is someone who has rejected God’s wisdom (Proverbs 1:7; 3:5) in favor of their own preferences (Proverbs 14:11–12). As the book of Proverbs often notes, ignoring God increases risks in earthly life (Proverbs 13:21) and guarantees death in eternity (Proverbs 10:29; 11:4).

Galatians 6:7–9 tells us: “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Isaiah 3:9 addresses the backsliders in Judah and pronounces woe to them, asserting: “they have brought evil on themselves.” But the following verse pronounces blessing on the faithful: “Tell the righteous that it shall be well with them, for they shall eat the fruit of their deeds” (Isaiah 3:10).

Verse 15. The simple believes everything,but the prudent gives thought to his steps.

Critics who claim the Bible promotes “blind faith” prove only that they’ve never bothered to read it. This is one of many teachings in Scripture about the need for cautious, reasonable skepticism (Proverbs 14:18; Acts 17:11; 2 Corinthians 13:5; 1 John 4:1). Proverbs 14:15 contrasts the foolishness of gullibility with the wisdom of thoughtfulness (Matthew 10:16). This is a slightly different emphasis than the following verses (Proverbs 14:16–17) which warn against being too quick to judge or act.

The members of the Galatian churches were gullible. Instead of clinging to the gospel Paul had delivered to them, they believed what false teachers told them. The false teachers preached a false gospel that required circumcision and conforming to the law of Moses for salvation. Paul called the Galatians foolish and bewitched because they had begun in the Spirit but had succumbed to the belief that the works of the law were necessary for salvation (Galatians 3:1–3). He urges them in Galatians 1:8–9 to consider accursed every teacher that preaches a false gospel. Today, as in Paul’s day, it is wise to weigh carefully what we see and hear before accepting a teaching. The Scriptures are our only perfectly reliable guide for our path through life (Psalm 119:105; 2 Timothy 3:15–17).

Context Summary
Proverbs 14:15–35 continues Solomon’s wise sayings, once again mostly contrasting the wicked and the upright. He points out that those who do evil, by rejecting God’s wisdom (Proverbs 1:7) are foolish and have no security. Those who do God’s will (Proverbs 3:5) are wise and have unfailing security.

Verse 16. One who is wise is cautious and turns away from evil,but a fool is reckless and careless.

A wise person doesn’t act on pure instinct (2 Peter 2:12), failing to think (Proverbs 14:12). Rather, a wise person gives careful thought to every situation (Proverbs 14:15). Instead of turning into a sinful situation, he turns away from it. A foolish person plunges recklessly into sin. The word translated as “cautious” here is from the same root word as the “fear” connected to “the fear of the Lord” in other verses (Proverbs 1:7). This implies a respect or reverence, in contrast to something careless or arrogant.

Samson foolishly plunged into a reckless situation with Delilah. His thoughtless action cost him defeat, disgrace, and death (Judges 16:4–30). King David played the fool by succumbing to lust for Bathsheba. He summoned her and committed adultery with her (2 Samuel 11:1–5), and then later he killed her husband to cover it up (2 Samuel 11:6–27). David brought many negative consequences upon himself (2 Samuel 12). The Lord Jesus epitomizes wisdom in every situation, including the situation in which one is tempted to do evil. Matthew 4 presents the scene in which the Devil tempted Jesus when Jesus was physically weak after fasting forty days and forty nights in the wilderness. Every time the Devil tempted Jesus, Jesus warded off the temptation by quoting Scripture. Instead of recklessly diving into a compromising situation, a believer should follow Jesus’ example and take the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s Word (Ephesians 6:17). First Corinthians 10:13 encourages, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”

Verse 17. A man of quick temper acts foolishly,and a man of evil devices is hated.

The danger of our temper is that it operates on instinct, not on careful thought. Flying off the handle at the slightest provocation, or for no reason at all, or without exerting self-control shows how foolish a person is (2 Peter 2:12). People controlled by their temper may say things they will later regret or do things that land them in trouble (Proverbs 14:3, 14).

Scripture warns believers to put aside anger (Ephesians 4:31). James 1:19–20 teaches: “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” Fortunately, the Lord can transform an angry heart into a loving heart. He transformed the apostle John from a “son of thunder” into the apostle who appealed for brotherly love (Mark 3:17; Luke 9:54; 1 John 3:11).

A crafty person, who schemes to inflict harm on others is the person with “evil devices.” Such a person can expect to be despised by others, to say nothing of those they harm. This pattern is seen in the workplace, the neighborhood, and even within the family. Those who manipulate or plot to take advantage of other people are seldom liked, and almost never respected.

Verse 18. The simple inherit folly,but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

Contrary to the claims of ignorant skeptics, the Bible does not promote “blind faith.” This is one of many statements in Scripture warning against being naïve or credulous (Proverbs 14:12, 15; Matthew 10:16; 1 John 4:1). The term translated “simple” here is from the root pathiy, meaning someone too easily convinced or unreasonably trusting. The book of Proverbs denounces this flaw many times when encouraging the reader to follow true wisdom (Proverbs 1:4, 22; 7:7; 8:5; 22:3).

Not every claim made by other people is true, or worth following. The gullible person accepts lies too easily. This approach gains them nothing but “folly.” That flaw is translated from a word implying more than mere stupidity or error. The root word ‘ivveleth implies a wrong choice that leads one away from God and invites disaster (Proverbs 5:23; 13:16; 16:22; 19:3; 22:15).

The gullible person ignores or rejects God’s Word, so he goes through life aimlessly, making one mistake after another. His mind is occupied with trivialities, and he fails to understand the highest purpose of life: to glorify God and to enjoy Him (Ecclesiastes 12:13). The prudent person is shrewd in a good sense (Matthew 10:16). He accepts God’s Word as his guide, and therefore adds knowledge as he meets life’s challenges (Proverbs 1:7).

A person does not gain full knowledge when he becomes a believer, but he learns to depend upon God’s Word and the Holy Spirit for daily guidance and direction for the future (1 Corinthians 2:14). He grows in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18). To the prudent person, knowledge is like a crown; it enables him to trust God instead of his sinful impulses, and he reigns over temptations and trials. The prudent person is a victor over difficult circumstance instead of a victim of those circumstances.

Verse 19. The evil bow down before the good,the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

Often, it seems evil sits on the throne as king (Psalm 73:2–3; Habakkuk 1:2–4). And yet, from God’s eternal perspective, all evil bows down before the righteous. The complete fulfillment of this awaits the return of Christ to rule the earth (Revelation 19:11–16). At that time, He will subject the nations to His rule (Revelation 12:5). Philippians 2:10 states “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

When Jesus rules Earth, believers will reign with him (2 Timothy 2:12). Also, believers will judge the nations (1 Corinthians 6:2). Psalm 49:14 portrays the humbling of the wicked and the rule of the righteous. This verse states: “Like sheep [the unrighteous] are appointed for Sheol; death shall be their shepherd, and the upright shall rule over them in the morning.”

Verse 20. The poor is disliked even by his neighbor,but the rich has many friends.

A “proverb” is a brief statement of common sense, general wisdom. Often, proverbs give insight into how the world “is,” not necessarily how it “ought to be.” This example points out how poverty and wealth can drive prejudice. It also notes how often people are friendly to the rich only for the sake of their riches. The following verse denounces hatred for one’s neighbor (Proverbs 14:21), and other verses in Scripture condemn the practice of shunning the poor (Isaiah 10:1–2; Proverbs 29:14).

Those struggling with poverty often experience social injustice as their neighbors shun them. The rich, on the other hand, have an easier time finding help and support. Unfortunately, such prejudice is common today, as people snub the poor but play up to the rich to get something from them. Feigned friendship and true friendship are worlds apart.

The apostle James writes against showing prejudicial treatment and condemns the hypocrisy of favoring the rich (James 2:1–9). He cites the occasion in which a man wearing a gold ring and expensive clothing receives far better treatment than a poor man in shabby clothing. When the men enter the believers’ assembly, the rich man is ushered to a good seat, whereas the poor man is told to stand. In condemning this prejudice, he states that God has chosen the poor to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom.

Verse 21. Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner,but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.

Unlike most other works of Scripture, individual statements in the book of Proverbs are often meant to stand alone. That does not mean context never applies. In this case, the neighbor being mentioned is likely the same referred to in the prior verse (Proverbs 14:20). The two statements together imply that it is a serious sin to favor the rich while mistreating those who are poor.

Both pride and stinginess are part of the sin depicted, but hatred may be included also. God made provision in the Law for the care of poor people (Exodus 23:11; Leviticus 19:15; 23:22; Deuteronomy 15:7–8). The word rendered “despises” here is from a root word literally meaning “to show contempt” or “to belittle.” Those who sneer at the poor or fail to care for them sin against the Lord.

The flip side of this issue is the blessing the Lord pronounces on those who show generosity to the poor. The New Testament includes a story of a rich man and a poor beggar. The rich man could have shown kindness and generosity to the beggar, but he didn’t. The beggar had to try to satisfy his hunger by eating scraps from the rich man’s table. The situation differed, however, in eternity. The beggar enjoyed blissful comfort, whereas the rich man was in torment and longed to have a drop of water placed on his tongue (Luke 16:19–31). The point of that parable is not that a person’s eternal destiny depends on how they treat the poor. Rather, it’s that earthly wealth is not a sign of moral conduct.

In the case of this verse from Proverbs, it’s true that those who are generous to the poor frequently benefit from their own generosity. Their reputation and influence can be enhanced, and along with that their own success.

Verse 22. Do they not go astray who devise evil?Those who devise good meet steadfast love and faithfulness.

This verse asks a rhetorical question to emphasize that those who plan to do sinful things are wandering away from truth. Scripture often points out the danger in that choice, both on earth (Psalm 7:14–16; Proverbs 5:22; 11:17) and in eternity (Proverbs 11:23; 12:7; Revelation 20:11–15). In contrast, those who follow God’s goodness more often experience good in this life and have corresponding hope in the next (John 3:36).

The sinner’s thinking is twisted. He thinks deceit and craftiness bring rich rewards, but such thinking is flawed. Plotting evil can bring temporary advantages (Psalm 73:2–3), but it always leads to divine judgment (Psalm 73:16–19). The civilization in Noah’s time plotted evil continually but was swept away in the flood God sent as judgment (Genesis 6:5–7). Noah stood in sharp contrast to that civilization and rode out the flood in the ark God had instructed him to build (Genesis 6:8).

Following the right path, the path of goodness (Proverbs 2:20; 12:2; Psalm 119:66–68), leads to a significant reward. Those who pursue good experience the unfailing love and faithfulness of God. Jeremiah describes this in Lamentations 3:22–23. He writes: “The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

Verse 23. In all toil there is profit,but mere talk tends only to poverty.

A modern parallel to this proverb is the expression “talk is cheap.” Words are easy, but unless acted upon words rarely lead to anything of value. Ultimately, to accomplish anything, a person must exert effort: there must be action and not just speech. It’s easy to talk all day about what we want to achieve, but if we do nothing but talk, we achieve nothing. Instead of getting paid, the idle talker just gets poor. In almost all cases, success comes only to those who work for it.

Another parallel is the English quip “done is better than perfect because perfect never gets done.” The wisdom given in this verse reminds us that a grand, impressive plan—or a speech about what will be done—is not nearly as effective as actually doing something. If plans, or “mere talk,” never becomes “toil,” then the talk is useless.

Although Solomon championed the cause of those who were poor due to no fault of their own (Proverbs 19:1; 22:22–23), he disdained the laziness that also leads to poverty (Proverbs 6:6–11). The apostle Paul, too, advocated for those who were poor because of circumstances over which they had no control, yet opposed the notion that others should provide for those who refused to work. He received an offering for the poor Christians in Judea who suffered a famine (2 Corinthians 8:1–7). In his second letter to the Thessalonians Paul writes his objection to the lazy. He says: “For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

Verse 24. The crown of the wise is their wealth,but the folly of fools brings folly.

The wise have a lasting, valuable wealth in the form of their wisdom and diligence. This causes others to regard them highly, and often leads to material resources needed to do good. A godly, wise person who is diligent and hardworking (Proverbs 14:23) can give generously to the needy and have opportunities to provide for others. They can use their wealth to serve God.

Fools, however, engage in foolishness. The book of Proverbs notes that real wisdom means following God (Proverbs 1:7; 3:5) and ignoring Him is a type of deliberate stupidity (Proverbs 12:1). Those who turn away from godliness do nothing to enrich the lives of others They squander what they have instead of using it to serve God. They use their resources to advance their wicked plans. When life ends, they will have nothing to look forward to except judgment (John 3:36; Proverbs 10:7). Engaging in foolish thinking just leads to more foolishness (Proverbs 14:18).

Scripture describes a few notably wealthy people who used their riches for the good of others. Solomon was wealthy, and he used his resources to build a peaceful kingdom and a temple of worship (1 Kings 10:23). Joseph of Arimathea was rich, and he asked Pilate for Jesus’ body, which he wrapped in a clean linen shroud and placed in his own tomb (Matthew 27:57–60). Lydia was a wealthy seller of purple cloth, and she opened her house as a headquarters from which Paul and his coworkers could spread the gospel (Acts 16:11–15).

Verse 25. A truthful witness saves lives,but one who breathes out lies is deceitful.

The Bible places a high value on truth. The Ten Commandments include one that commands: “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor” (Exodus 20:16). The New Testament also commands believers to speak truthfully. Ephesians 4:25 states, “Therefore, having put away falsehood, let of each of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.”

Telling the truth in court is especially important. It can save a defendant from the death penalty, or other serious harms. However, a false witness is deceitful, and his false testimony in court may cause an innocent person to receive a death sentence.

A contrast to those who live lives of honesty are those who “breathe out” deception (Proverbs 14:5). This evokes the image of a person whose life is deeply entangled in lies and deception, a person who wallows in dishonesty the way a fish swims in the water.

Our prime example of speaking the truth is our Lord Jesus Christ. “I tell the truth,” He said (John 8:45). He was also identified as the living embodiment of the Truth (John 14:6).

Verse 26. In the fear of the Lord one has strong confidence,and his children will have a refuge.

Reverencing the Lord builds confidence. Neither difficult personal circumstances nor alarming world events can shake the believer’s assurance that God is in control. The word translated “fear” here implies respect and reverence; while it includes some sense of fright or alarm, it does not mean horror, or panic, or terror (Proverbs 1:7). A good example of the difference between these is stated by Moses in Exodus 20:20. There, he both tells the people “do not be afraid,” then encourages the reverent “fear” of God spoken of in proverbs such as this.

In a believer, healthy respect for God and His truth helps a person avoid the consequences of sin in their earthly life (Proverbs 12:28; 13:13–14; 14:27). It also encourages confidence that all wrongs and suffering will be corrected in eternity (Proverbs 10:29–30; Revelation 20:11–15). In Romans 8:28 the apostle Paul writes “that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” Later he lists things that cannot separate us from God’s love. He includes tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger, and sword (Romans 8:31–39). In addition to this assurance, the Bible contains numerous commands not to fear. Knowing that God cares for us, believers can cast all their anxiety on Him (1 Peter 5:7).

Furthermore, the children of the person who reverences the Lord enjoy the Lord’s protection. Scripture is clear that each person is judged for their own actions (Ezekiel 18:4, 20). Children who follow in the footsteps of their parents, however, can anticipate the same judgment (Deuteronomy 5:9–10; 6:4–9). The point made here is that the teaching and example of a God-fearing parent influences the children to reverence God (Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:1–4). When they do so, those children can share in the same confidence as their parents. They know the Lord has everything under control.

Verse 27. The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life,that one may turn away from the snares of death.

In this verse Solomon comments further about the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 14:26). This “fear” is not panicked horror, but a reverent, humble respect for God (Exodus 20:20; Proverbs 1:7). That trusting, submissive obedience to God’s will produces a lifegiving stream, connecting us to the truthful love of our Creator (John 10:10).

Trusting in the Lord as Savior brings abundant, everlasting life (John 3:16; 4:13–14; 10:10). Also, honoring God results in refreshing, purposeful life. The believer does not wander aimlessly through life (Proverbs 14:15). Instead, he progresses through life like a runner whose eye is on the goal of finishing well. He runs the race with his eyes focused on Jesus (Hebrews 12:1–2). He knows that at the end of life on earth there is life in heaven (2 Corinthians 5:1–10).

By reverently fearing the Lord, a person avoids the natural consequences of sin and evil (Proverbs 12:28; 13:13–14). That security extends beyond earthly life; animals caught in a snare face death, but the believer will never die eternally (John 10:27–28). Jesus told Martha: “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die” (John 11:25–26).

Verse 28.In a multitude of people is the glory of a king,but without people a prince is ruined.

A royal title means nothing without people to rule. People are a leader’s greatest resource. Those followers occupy positions of service, enrich the kingdom, and provide an army to protect it. A prince without people may have an impressive label, but he has no resources if he has no people, and he experiences ruin. This is a wise reminder to those in positions of leadership. Truly worthy employers don’t drive away good workers. Good leaders don’t frustrate and chase away followers. Political leaders who abuse or fail to protect their people eventually have nothing to lead.

First Kings 4:20 reports that King Solomon reigned over a countless number of people. They were “as many as the sand by the sea.” They enjoyed prosperity and were happy (1 Kings 4:20–21). Solomon’s advice here applies to heads of state, company presidents, CEOs and all other leaders alike. Their employees are their greatest asset. Without employees, a company may have a spacious facility, high tech equipment, and well-stocked shelves, but if it loses its employees, its productivity and effectiveness will plummet, and it will go bankrupt.

Verse 29. Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding,but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly.

Once again, Solomon addresses the subject of controlling one’s temper (Proverbs 14:17). The ability to think before speaking or acting is a sign of great maturity. In the context of the book of Proverbs (Proverbs 1:1–7), “learning” leads to “knowledge,” which allows a person the ability to use “wisdom.” Well-developed wisdom becomes “understanding,” which can then be passed on to others. A self-controlled person demonstrates this refined, advanced form of wisdom.

The understanding person weighs a situation carefully (Proverbs 11:14; 14:12; 18:13, 17) and reacts only as the situation warrants (Proverbs 14:15–17). A “fool” is not necessarily a person who lacks intelligence; it’s someone who ignores godly wisdom and makes ungodly choices (Proverbs 12:15). One sign of foolishness is losing his temper at the slightest provocation or at no provocation at all. Reacting from pure instinct (Jude 1:10) without having gathered all the facts leads to embarrassment and a bad reputation.

Psalm 37:8 exhorts us to “refrain from anger, and forsake wrath,” and urges us not to wallow in worry, since it leads to evil. Evil people may distress believers (Psalm 73:2–3), but the Lord knows all about their wickedness and will cut them off (Psalm 37:9; 73:16–18). Colossians 3:8 implores believers to put away anger and wrath. James counsels, “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls” (James 1:19–21). Paul writes in 1 Timothy 2:8, “I desire that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling.” Rather than reacting to others in anger, we should turn to God in prayer and in His Word.

Verse 30. A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh,but envy makes the bones rot.

The Hebrew terms used here suggest a figure of speech; the meaning goes beyond the plain definition of the included words. In literal terms, the verse speaks of a “healthy heart” or a “healing heart” in contrast to “jealousy” or “passion.” The results of these are contrasted as “life for the flesh” or “liveliness of the body” as opposed to “decay of the bones” or “rotting of the substance.” English translations, then, frame this as the difference between having a contented spirit or a jealous one, both of which have an impact on one’s physical health.

Medical research affirms what this verse teaches. A peaceful heart sets aside worry, stress, and anxiety—so far as that is possible. This contributes to a healthy life. Envy, jealousy, angst, and bitterness cause sickness. Envy acts like a cancer, consuming the envious person from the inside. Being content with what we have keeps the heart stable. Being stressed over what we don’t have and envying those who have more than we may raise blood pressure, cause anxiety, ulcers, and mental and emotional stress.

Emotions affect our physical condition. Generally, those who obediently follow Jesus are prone to a healthy life. In part, this is due to avoiding sins which bring natural, physical consequences (Proverbs 13:14). It is also due to lessened anxiety and fear because they are at peace with God. Their conscience is clear, and if they commit their anxious moments to God, they enjoy the peace of God (1 Peter 5:7). Philippians 4:6 tells us not to be anxious about anything, but to pray with thanksgiving. If we pray in this way, the peace of God will guard our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7–8). Isaiah 26:3 says, “You [the Lord] keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”

Verse 31. Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker,but he who is generous to the needy honors him.

Once again, Solomon champions the cause of the poor. Although he was extremely rich (1 Kings 10:23), he had compassion for the needy and warned that treating the poor unfairly was a serious sin—an actual “insult” to God. The key Hebrew term here is ‘ashaq, which also implies fraud, violation, extortion, or taking advantage of others. To treat the needy in an abusive way sneers at God’s creative work. The word translated “insults” in the ESV can also be rendered as “taunts” or even “blasphemes.” The poor, like all other human beings, are created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), and therefore are infinitely valuable (Galatians 3:28).

Job stated, “If I have rejected the cause of my manservant or my maidservant, when they brought a complaint against me, what shall I do when God rises up?” (Job 31:13–14). He further indicates he ought to have his shoulder blade fall from his shoulder and his arm be broken if he has failed to feed and assist the poor and needy (Job 31:16–23).

The better way to treat the hurting and needy is with kindness and charity. The person who generously helps the needy honors his Maker. Helping those who are genuinely poor financially or materially shows reverence for God as the creator of all mankind (Matthew 10:42; 25:40, 45).

Verse 32. The wicked is overthrown through his evildoing,but the righteous finds refuge in his death.

Here, Solomon observes a vast difference between the destiny of the wicked and the destiny of the righteous. When a wicked person encounters severe trouble because of his immoral lifestyle, he is helpless; he finds no comfort or suitable help (Proverbs 11:21; 12:13; 13:21). Furthermore, when God judges him, the wicked person has no defense. At the great white throne judgment (Revelation 20:11–15), all the wicked “defendants” will find no hiding place.

In contrast, the righteous experience trials with the Lord alongside them; He helps and comforts them (Matthew 28:20; John 16:33). Psalm 23 explains that the Lord is with the righteous even when they walk through dangers and discouragements (Psalm 23:4). Hebrews 13:5 promises that the Lord will never leave or forsake His people.

The ultimate benefit of pursuing God, and His truth, is eternal salvation. The “righteous,” here, are those who honor and obey God (Proverbs 1:1–9; 1 Peter 2:24; John 10:28). Even in physical death, those who honor God find themselves protected and blessed. The apostle Paul testifies in Philippians 1:21 that for a believer death is gain, and in 2 Corinthians 5:8 he explains that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.

Verse 33. Wisdom rests in the heart of a man of understanding,but it makes itself known even in the midst of fools.

As explained in the book of Proverbs (Proverbs 1:1–7), a person who seeks “learning” eventually accumulates “knowledge,” which allows them to apply “wisdom.” Refined wisdom can be passed on to others and is called “understanding.” Here, we see that reinforced: a person of understanding has wisdom securely stationed in their heart. This implies two things. First, that this wisdom is stable, present, and sure. Second, that wisdom is not in a hurry to draw attention to itself: it is “resting,” not “boiling,” inside the understanding person.

The person with godly understanding does not boast about his wisdom, but it manifests itself in situations and relationships. It becomes clear, especially in contrast to the foolish habit of fools: to brag about their knowledge although they have none.

The biblical term “fool” does not mean someone unintelligent or uneducated. It means someone who ignores godly wisdom and truth in favor of their own biases or preferences (Proverbs 1:7; 3:5; 12:15). A person may claim to be a genius and flaunt extensive degrees and experience, but if they deny the existence of God, they are still a “fool.” Psalm 14:1 exclaims: “The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God.’ They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds; there is none who does good.” Even if masses of people praise a person who falsely claims to be wise, God pronounces them “fools” all the same. The apostle Paul preached on Mars Hill to the intellectual philosophers of Athens, but some of them called him a babbler (Acts 17:18). They showed their foolishness by rejecting Paul’s preaching about Jesus and the resurrection. Indeed, the wisdom of this world is folly with God (1 Corinthians 3:19).

Verse 34. Righteousness exalts a nation,but sin is a reproach to any people.

Laws and government officials are, ultimately, extensions of the people. They are distilled versions of what that culture wants—or, at least, what it tolerates. When a nation is steeped in sin and rebellion against God, there are natural consequences. The strength of a nation might result in military or economic power, but the source of real strength is in the nation’s moral character. Law and government will always turn towards the desires of the people, eventually. The presence of righteous individuals and families makes a nation strong, but wickedness in individuals and families degrades a nation and weakens it.

The book of Judges reveals these truths. When the people of Israel did was right in their own eyes but wrong in God’s eyes, Israel succumbed to her enemies (Judges 2:11–23; 17:6). However, when the people called out to the Lord, He delivered the nation from her enemies (Judges 3:9–11, 15; 4:3, 23–24; 6:6–14; 10:10–16).

Also, in the times of the kings of Israel and Judah, idolatry and rebellion against God caused the northern nation of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah to fall and go into captivity (2 Kings 17:6–8). However, Judah had some good kings and periods of revival, whereas Israel had neither, therefore Judah survived nearly a century and a half longer than Israel before finally falling to the Babylonians (2 Chronicles 36:17–21; Daniel 1:1).

Verse 35. A servant who deals wisely has the king ‘s favor,but his wrath falls on one who acts shamefully.

Most “proverbs,” whether from the Bible or outside it, are common-sense explanations of general wisdom. Even when they appear obvious, they are meant to impart some lesson. The more obvious a statement, the more likely it is that the lesson comes in asking “why” this is the case. In Scripture, those kinds of proverbs are often meant to inspire reflection about our relationship with God. In this case, it’s self-evident that a servant can either please or anger his king; the point is found in examining what that means for us, in our own lives.

One clear application is a reminder that servants—or, in the modern world, employees and followers—should seek to be honorable as they go about their business. Rather than cheating or embarrassing their superiors, they should seek to be diligent and reap the expected rewards (Ephesians 6:5–9). In terms of our service to God, the same is true. A theme of the book of Proverbs is that sinfully ignoring God’s will insults Him (Proverbs 14:31) and leads to negative consequences (Proverbs 14:32).

Joseph wisely advised Pharaoh, Egypt’s king, to store food from a seven-year bountiful harvest that would help Egypt survive the following seven years of famine. As a result, Pharaoh favored Joseph with the position of second-in-command of the nation (Genesis 41). Centuries later, in Persia, the king honored Mordecai for saving his life, but he executed Haman when he learned that Haman plotted to wipe out Queen Esther’s people (Esther 6—7). Also, in Persia, Daniel faithfully served King Darius, but was thrown into a den of lions when he was maliciously entrapped in violating an ungodly law passed by Darius (Daniel 6:12–13, 16). In the end, God delivered Daniel from the lions; Darius honored Daniel but threw his accusers into the same lions’ den (Daniel 6:23–24).

End of Proverbs 14

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