Proverbs 21 - Meaning, Themes & Application

" The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will. "

Proverbs 21:1 means that God is in control even of powerful leaders and their decisions. Like a farmer directing water in channels, God can guide …

" Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts. "

" To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice. "

" An high look, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sin. "

Proverbs 21:4 means that pride turns even ordinary actions into sin when a person’s heart is against God. A “high look” and “proud heart” describe …

" The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want. "

" The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death. "

Proverbs 21:6 means money gained through lies never truly lasts and brings trouble instead of peace. God warns that cheating in business, padding a résumé, …

" The robbery of the wicked shall destroy them; because they refuse to do judgment. "

" The way of man is froward and strange: but as for the pure, his work is right. "

Proverbs 21:8 means crooked people live in twisted, complicated ways, but honest people walk a straight path and do what’s right. It warns that lying, …

" It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house. "

" The soul of the wicked desireth evil: his neighbour findeth no favour in his eyes. "

" When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge. "

Proverbs 21:11 means people learn in two ways: by seeing others suffer for doing wrong and by listening to wise correction. Mockers only change when …

" The righteous man wisely considereth the house of the wicked: but God overthroweth the wicked for their wickedness. "

Proverbs 21:12 means wise, godly people don’t envy the success of wrongdoers—they see that God will ultimately judge and undo evil. It warns us not …

" Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard. "

" A gift in secret pacifieth anger: and a reward in the bosom strong wrath. "

" It is joy to the just to do judgment: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity. "

Proverbs 21:15 means that people who love God find joy in doing what is right and fair, even when it’s hard. But those who choose …

" The man that wandereth out of the way of understanding shall remain in the congregation of the dead. "

" He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich. "

" The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, and the transgressor for the upright. "

Proverbs 21:18 means that in the long run, trouble meant for honest people will fall on those who cause it. God protects the upright and …

" It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry woman. "

" There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up. "

" He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour. "

Proverbs 21:21 means that when you consistently choose what is right and treat people kindly, God leads you to a full, meaningful life and a …

" A wise man scaleth the city of the mighty, and casteth down the strength of the confidence "

Proverbs 21:22 means that wisdom is stronger than raw power. A wise person can overcome obstacles that seem impossible, even those guarded by powerful people. …

" Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles. "

" Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath. "

" The desire of the slothful killeth him; for his hands refuse to labour. "

" He coveteth greedily all the day long: but the righteous giveth and spareth "

Proverbs 21:26 means selfish people always want more and are never satisfied, but godly people are generous and willing to share. In daily life, this …

" The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination: how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind? "

" A false witness shall perish: but the man that heareth speaketh constantly. "

" A wicked man hardeneth his face: but as for the upright, he directeth his way. "

" There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the LORD. "

Proverbs 21:30 means no plan, clever idea, or advice can beat God’s will. People may scheme, cheat, or push their own way, but God’s purpose …

" The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the LORD. "