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: King James Version
" A servant will not be corrected by words: for though he understand he will not answer. "
Proverbs 29:19
Verse in Context
Understanding the surrounding verses prevents misinterpretation:
17 Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.
18 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.
19 A servant will not be corrected by words: for though he understand he will not answer.
20 Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him.
21 He that delicately bringeth up his servant from a child shall have him become his son at the length.
Explore Guided Bible Studies
Structured sessions with notes, questions, and advisor insights
The Beatitudes (5-Day Micro)
A short study on Jesus' blessings and the kingdom way.
Session 1 Preview:
Blessed Are the Humble
6 min
Psalms of Comfort (5-Day Micro)
Short, calming sessions grounded in the Psalms.
Session 1 Preview:
The Shepherd's Care
5 min
Create a free account to save notes, track progress, and unlock all sessions
Create Free AccountBible Guided Commentary
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, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy."
Proverbs 29:2
"When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn."
Proverbs 29:3
"Whoso loveth wisdom rejoiceth his father: but he that keepeth company with harlots spendeth his substance."
Proverbs 29:4
"The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it."
Proverbs 29:5
"A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet."
Proverbs 29:6
"In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare: but the righteous doth sing and rejoice."
Daily Prayer
Get a daily Scripture reflection by email
Start each morning with a verse, a prayer, and a simple next step.
Important Disclaimer: This biblical guidance is not a substitute for professional mental health care. If you're experiencing crisis symptoms, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or seek immediate professional help.
Bible Guided provides faith-based guidance and should complement, not replace, professional therapeutic support.