Key Verse Spotlight
Proverbs 29:19 - Meaning and Application
Understand how this verse speaks to what you're facing and how to apply it today
Translation: World English Bible — Catholic Edition
" A servant can’t be corrected by words. Though he understands, yet he will not respond. "
Proverbs 29:19
Verse in Context
Understanding the surrounding verses prevents misinterpretation:
17 Correct your son, and he will give you peace; yes, he will bring delight to your soul.
18 Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; but one who keeps the law is blessed.
19 A servant can’t be corrected by words. Though he understands, yet he will not respond.
20 Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
21 He who pampers his servant from youth will have him become a son in the end.
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This verse describes an unprofitable, lazy, wicked servant, one who serves only from fear, not from conscience or love. If anyone has such servants, they should be patient and bear the trouble without losing control. That is the kind of person this verse has in view.
First, no reasonable words will do them any good. They will not be corrected, changed, or led back to their work by gentle warnings, or even by strong rebukes. Even the kindest master may have to use severity with them, because they are unreasonable and will not be moved by reason.
Second, no reasonable words can be drawn from them. They are stubborn and gloomy. Even when they understand what is being asked, they will not answer. Even when their duty is made plain, they will not promise to do better or pay attention to what is wrong. How foolish such servants are, because their silence invites punishment. They could be corrected by words and avoid blows, but they refuse that mercy.
From This Chapter
Proverbs 29:1
"He who is often rebuked and stiffens his neck will be destroyed suddenly, with no remedy."
Proverbs 29:2
"When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; but when the wicked rule, the people groan."
Proverbs 29:3
"Whoever loves wisdom brings joy to his father; but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth."
Proverbs 29:4
"The king by justice makes the land stable, but he who takes bribes tears it down."
Proverbs 29:5
"A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet."
Proverbs 29:6
"An evil man is snared by his sin, but the righteous can sing and be glad."
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