Proverbs 23:18

18 That's where your future lies. Then you won't be left with an armload of nothing.

Proverbs 23:18 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 23:18

For surely there is an end
Both of the prosperity of the wicked, which is but for a short time; and of the afflictions of the righteous, which are but as it were for a moment; and therefore there is no reason to envy the one, nor to be fretful under the other; the end to a good man will be peace and prosperity for ever: there is a "reward" F2, as some render it here, for the righteous, though not of debt, but of grace; upon which account they have ground to expect much here and hereafter; and thine expectation shall not be cut off;
or "hope" F3; as an hypocrite's is; for the hope of a saint is well founded upon the person and righteousness of Christ, and is an anchor sure and steadfast; his expectation of grace, and every needful supply of it, while in this life, and of eternal glory and happiness in the world to come, shall not perish; but he shall enjoy what he is hoping, expecting, and waiting for.


FOOTNOTES:

F2 (tyrxa) "merces", Pagninnus, Junius & Tremellius, Piscator, Gejerus; so Ben Melech.
F3 (Ktwqt) "spes tua", Pagninus, Montanus, Mercerus, Gejerus, Michaelis.

Proverbs 23:18 In-Context

16 My heart will dance and sing to the tuneful truth you'll speak.
17 Don't for a minute envy careless rebels; soak yourself in the Fear-of-God -
18 That's where your future lies. Then you won't be left with an armload of nothing.
19 Oh listen, dear child - become wise; point your life in the right direction
20 Don't drink too much wine and get drunk; don't eat too much food and get fat.
Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved.