Proverbs 21:29

29 Righteous people are sure of themselves; the wicked have to pretend as best they can.

Proverbs 21:29 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 21:29

A wicked man hardeneth his face
Against all corrections and reproofs of parents, masters, ministers, and others; he blushes not at sins committed, and is not ashamed of them, but glories in them: or, he "strengthens with his face" ^F12; he puts an impudent face upon his words, and confirms them by his impudence; if he tells the most notorious lies, and says things the most shameful and scandalous, his countenance does not alter, by which he would be thought to have spoken what is right and true; but [as for] the upright, he directeth his way;
or "his ways" ^F13; according to the various reading; the man that is upright in heart, and walks uprightly, he directs his way according to the word of God; and, if he does amiss, when sensible he is ashamed of it, and amends.

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FOOTNOTES:

F12 (wynpb zeh) "roborat vultu suo", Baynus; "in faciebus suis", Montanus.
F13 (wykrd) (ta odouv autou) , Sept. "vias suas", Baynus, Tigurine version, Mercerus, Gejerus.

Proverbs 21:29 In-Context

27 The Lord hates it when wicked people offer him sacrifices, especially if they do it from evil motives.

28 The testimony of a liar is not believed, but the word of someone who thinks matters through is accepted.

29 Righteous people are sure of themselves; the wicked have to pretend as best they can.

30 Human wisdom, brilliance, insight - they are of no help if the Lord is against you.

31 You can get horses ready for battle, but it is the Lord who gives victory.