Key Verse Spotlight
Proverbs 17:5 - Meaning and Application
Understand how this verse speaks to what you're facing and how to apply it today
Translation: King James Version
" Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker: and he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished. "
Proverbs 17:5
Verse in Context
Understanding the surrounding verses prevents misinterpretation:
3 The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts.
4 A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue.
5 Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker: and he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished.
6 Children's children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.
7 Excellent speech becometh not a fool: much less do lying lips a prince.
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See here how great the sin is of those who trample on the poor. Some laugh at their needs, mock their plain appearance, insult them because they are poor, and take advantage of their weakness to hurt them. In doing so, they insult their Maker. They show great contempt for God, who has placed the poor in their condition, cares for them, and can reduce any of us to the same state whenever he chooses. Those who insult their Maker in this way should know that they will be held accountable for it (Matthew 25:40-41; Proverbs 14:31).
See also the danger faced by those who take pleasure in other people’s troubles. If someone is glad when disaster comes, so that he can build himself up on the ruins of others, or enjoys seeing God’s judgments at work, he should know that he will not escape punishment. The same cup will be put into his hand (Ezekiel 25:6-7).
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From This Chapter
Proverbs 17:1
"Better is a dry morsel, and quietness therewith, than an house full of sacrifices with strife."
Proverbs 17:2
"A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part of the inheritance among the brethren."
Proverbs 17:3
"The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts."
Proverbs 17:4
"A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue."
Proverbs 17:6
"Children's children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers."
Proverbs 17:7
"Excellent speech becometh not a fool: much less do lying lips a prince."
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