Proverbs Chapter 12
Words, Deeds, and Destiny
Proverbs 12:1
“Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.”
To love instruction is to love wisdom itself. A wise person humbly welcomes correction and continual learning, knowing that such discipline molds the heart and mind toward godly understanding. A teachable spirit is evidence of spiritual maturity and an acknowledgment that all true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord. The humble man or woman seeks to be taught, corrected, and refined by both Scripture and godly counsel.
Those who despise correction reveal pride and foolishness. To reject rebuke is to despise the very means God uses to bring maturity and blessing. Scripture shows that the rejection of correction brings ruin, while humble submission to instruction brings life. The unteachable heart, like Nabal in 1 Samuel 25:17, 33, is described as brutish—behaving without understanding, refusing to listen, and opposing his own good. As Psalm 32:9 says, “Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee.”
Proverbs 12:2
“A good man obtaineth favour of the Lord: but a man of wicked devices will he condemn.”
A good man, one whose heart seeks righteousness and obedience, finds favor with the Lord. True goodness flows from a life surrendered to God and His Word. Under the Old Covenant, this principle was made clear through blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, as seen in Deuteronomy 27–28. Likewise, in the New Covenant, believers walk in fellowship with God as they walk in the light. “If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: but if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” (1 John 1:6–7).
God’s favor is not earned through works, but it rests upon those who love righteousness. When a man’s heart and deeds align with God’s will, he becomes a vessel of divine favor and peace. By contrast, the man of wicked intentions will be condemned. God not only judges actions but also discerns motives. Wickedness conceived in the heart is fully visible to Him. As Proverbs 15:11 declares, “Hell and destruction are before the Lord: how much more then the hearts of the children of men?”
Martin Luther once expressed this divine harmony between human desire and God’s sovereignty when he prayed, “Fiat mea voluntas—Let my will be done,” and then humbly added, “Mea voluntas, Domine, quia tua—My will, Lord, because Thine.” This shows that a truly good man’s will is one that aligns with God’s.
Proverbs 12:3
“A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the root of the righteous shall not be moved.”
No one can secure their position or legacy through wickedness. Though deceit, manipulation, and injustice may seem to prosper for a time, they are unstable foundations destined to crumble. The man who builds his house upon dishonesty or oppression cannot stand when the storms come. Scripture repeatedly warns of this principle: “For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.” (Psalm 1:6).
By contrast, the righteous have roots that cannot be moved. Their stability comes not from worldly success but from being grounded in God Himself. As Psalm 62:2 declares, “He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved.” And again in John 10:28, Jesus promises, “And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.”
The righteous are anchored in the eternal nature of God’s truth. Their foundation cannot be shaken, because it rests upon the Rock of Ages. Evil is shifting, unstable, and ever-changing, but righteousness endures because it flows from the unchanging character of God. As Psalm 89:19 affirms, “Then thou spakest in vision to thy holy one, and saidst, I have laid help upon one that is mighty; I have exalted one chosen out of the people.”
Thus, the destiny of the righteous is secure, their words and deeds springing from a heart rooted in God’s wisdom, while the wicked build upon sand, ensuring their collapse.
Proverbs 12:4
“A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.”
An excellent wife is the glory and honor of her husband. Her presence in his life is like a royal crown, signifying dignity, success, and blessing. A man may accomplish many things outwardly, yet if his home is in disorder or his marriage is filled with strife, his success is hollow. The true wealth of a man is not in possessions or position, but in the godly character and steadfast love of a wife who fears the Lord. As Proverbs 31:10 says, “Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.” Her excellence brings harmony, stability, and spiritual richness to her husband’s life, exalting him in both reputation and heart.
The Hebrew term translated “virtuous” or “excellent” carries the sense of strength, valor, and capability. It denotes a woman of moral courage and inner fortitude, not merely charm or beauty. She builds her home with wisdom, as Proverbs 14:1 teaches, “Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.” Such a woman truly adorns her husband’s life as a crown adorns a king.
By contrast, the wife who brings shame to her husband and family is described as rottenness in his bones. This speaks not of an external wound but of an inward decay, eating away at his peace, joy, and strength. Shame brought through unfaithfulness, foolishness, or rebellion corrodes a husband’s spirit, just as hidden rot weakens the framework of a house. She deconstructs him from within, robbing him of confidence and honor. What a godly wife builds up, an ungodly wife tears down.
Proverbs 12:5
“The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit.”
The righteous not only act rightly, but they think rightly. Their minds are shaped by the truth of God’s Word, resulting in thoughts that align with His will. This principle reflects Romans 12:2, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” The inner life of a righteous person is not ruled by lust, greed, or pride, but guided by wisdom, humility, and righteousness.
In contrast, the counsels of the wicked are deceitful. Their plans and strategies are designed to mislead, manipulate, or harm others for selfish gain. This deceit begins in the heart, as Jeremiah 17:9 declares, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” Even their careful, deliberate thoughts are tainted with cunning and falsehood, revealing that wickedness begins long before action. Their counsel is poison disguised as wisdom, leading to destruction.
Proverbs 12:6
“The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.”
The wicked use their words as weapons. Their speech is not merely careless but calculated, often plotting harm, false accusation, or destruction against others. The phrase “lie in wait for blood” paints the image of an ambush—violence not necessarily physical, but through deceitful speech meant to slander or ruin. This recalls Psalm 10:7, “His mouth is full of cursing and deceit and fraud: under his tongue is mischief and vanity.”
In contrast, the mouth of the upright brings deliverance. The righteous speak truth, wisdom, and justice, and through their integrity of speech they are preserved. The words of the upright expose lies, defend the innocent, and bring life. Proverbs 15:4 says, “A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.” The godly man’s words bring healing, peace, and refuge.
Proverbs 12:7
“The wicked are overthrown, and are not: but the house of the righteous shall stand.”
The wicked are temporary; their foundations are weak, built upon deceit and selfish ambition. Though they may seem to prosper for a season, their end is destruction. As Psalm 37:35–36 declares, “I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.” Wickedness has no enduring root; it eventually collapses under its own corruption.
In contrast, the house of the righteous shall stand. The home built upon righteousness, faith, and godly order will endure trials, storms, and generations. The Lord Himself is its foundation. Psalm 112:6 says, “Surely he shall not be moved for ever: the righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance.” God’s protection rests upon the righteous and their household. Even when the world trembles, they remain unshaken, for their security is in the Lord.
Proverbs 12:8
“A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised.”
A man’s true honor comes not from wealth, appearance, or worldly influence, but from the presence of wisdom in his life. The man who lives with prudence, humility, and discernment earns the respect of others because his conduct reflects understanding guided by righteousness. As Proverbs 3:35 declares, “The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools.” Wisdom brings a natural commendation, both in this life and in the life to come. Even when men do not recognize it, God Himself commends the wise and honors those who walk uprightly.
In contrast, the man with a perverse heart—one that is twisted, dishonest, or self-seeking—will ultimately be despised. Though such a person may temporarily impress others by manipulation or cunning, the crookedness of his spirit is eventually exposed. His deceit isolates him from genuine respect and favor. The world often rewards the shrewd, but even in this life they are distrusted, and in eternity they will face shame and loss. As Proverbs 11:20 teaches, “They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the Lord: but such as are upright in their way are his delight.”
Proverbs 12:9
“He that is despised, and hath a servant, is better than he that honoureth himself, and lacketh bread.”
It is better to live humbly with sufficiency than to exalt oneself in pride while living in need. A man who is looked down upon or underestimated but has his daily necessities met is better off than one who pretends to be great yet cannot sustain himself. True contentment comes not from reputation but from honest provision.
The verse cautions against the folly of self-promotion and pretense. Pride often drives men to spend beyond their means or live in hypocrisy, seeking admiration rather than integrity. But as Proverbs 15:16 states, “Better is little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble therewith.” To labor quietly, even serving oneself through honest work, is far nobler than maintaining empty appearances.
Some interpreters, such as Matthew Poole, note that “hath a servant” may also be understood as “is servant to himself”—that is, one who labors diligently and earns his living through his own hands. Such a man is independent and secure, though the world may not esteem him highly. Meanwhile, those who honor themselves but lack bread are fools whose pride blinds them to their poverty. As Charles Bridges observed, “Nothing is so despicable as to be proud when there is nothing to be proud about.”
The lesson is clear: humility with sufficiency is better than vanity with want. God honors the humble laborer who walks in truth but resists the proud who live for show.
Proverbs 12:10
“A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.”
Righteousness affects every area of life, even how one treats animals. The godly man shows compassion and care toward his livestock or pets, recognizing them as part of God’s creation and as creatures entrusted to his stewardship. This verse reveals that true righteousness extends beyond human relationships; it encompasses all that God has made. Psalm 145:9 declares, “The Lord is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works.” Therefore, the righteous man imitates his Creator by showing mercy and consideration to the creatures under his care.
This principle also reflects good stewardship. The man who cares for the wellbeing of his animals demonstrates reliability and diligence in all his affairs. As Adam Clarke once noted, this verse was so respected that it appeared on an innkeeper’s sign in Hebrew, reminding travelers to care for their beasts. Such compassion reflects a heart governed by godly virtue.
In contrast, the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel. Even when the wicked seem to show compassion, it is often self-serving, harsh, or insincere. Their kindness masks a deeper corruption. The same heart that rebels against God cannot truly love His creation. Their compassion is twisted, and their mercy, as Clarke said, becomes a cloak for cruelty. Psalm 36:1–2 aptly describes them: “The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes. For he flattereth himself in his own eyes, until his iniquity be found to be hateful.”
Thus, righteousness is proven not merely by great deeds but by consistent mercy in the smallest acts. The godly man reflects the image of God in every sphere of life—home, work, and even in how he treats his animals.
Proverbs 12:11
“He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.”
The diligent worker who labors faithfully in the field will enjoy the fruit of his labor. Hard work under God’s blessing leads to provision and satisfaction. As Proverbs 10:4 declares, “He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.” The man who tills his land applies himself to what is set before him, trusts God for increase, and reaps sustenance for himself and his household.
This principle extends beyond farming to all forms of honest labor. Diligence brings reward because it aligns with God’s created order—man was designed to work, as stated in Genesis 2:15: “And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it.” The one who labors responsibly will find his needs met and his soul content.
In contrast, the one who “follows vain persons” or frivolous pursuits wastes his time chasing fantasies, entertainment, or schemes that bear no fruit. He is devoid of understanding because he neglects the God-ordained principle of labor and reward. His pursuits promise pleasure but produce emptiness. The proud and idle man alike fall into this trap—the proud elevates himself without substance, and the idle seeks comfort without effort. As the old Puritan Thomas Swinnock said, “The proud person is Satan’s throne, and the idle man his pillow. He sits in the former and sleeps quietly on the latter.”
Proverbs 12:12
“The wicked desireth the net of evil men: but the root of the righteous yieldeth fruit.”
The wicked envy the success of other wicked men. They covet the spoil, the profits, or the deceptive gains that others have secured through sinful means. Their hearts burn with the desire to possess what others have wrongfully acquired. In doing so, they reveal both their covetousness and their lack of faith in God’s providence. As Exodus 20:17 commands, “Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s.”
In contrast, the righteous are like trees deeply rooted in God’s soil, yielding fruit in due season. They have no need to envy the wicked, for their fruit springs naturally from the life of God within them. The blessing of the righteous is organic, not stolen or schemed. Psalm 1:3 perfectly mirrors this truth: “And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”
The wicked chase after temporary gains; the righteous simply bear lasting fruit. The difference lies in the root. The root of the wicked is corruption, but the root of the righteous is divine life.
Proverbs 12:13
“The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble.”
The wicked man becomes trapped by his own words. Lies, slander, and deceit form a web from which he cannot escape. His own speech betrays him, exposing his sin and leading to ruin. As Proverbs 18:7 says, “A fool’s mouth is his destruction, and his lips are the snare of his soul.” Sinful speech always returns upon the sinner’s head, for God will not allow deceit to go unpunished.
The old adage remains true: a liar must have a good memory. Once falsehood begins, it must be continually supported, and contradiction eventually unmasks the deceiver. His words, meant to manipulate, become the very snare that destroys him.
In contrast, the righteous come through trouble. Their integrity and honesty serve as protection in adversity. Though they face trials and afflictions, God brings them safely through. The promise of Christ in John 16:33 still holds: “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” The wicked are trapped by their deceit, but the righteous are delivered by their truth.
Proverbs 12:14
“A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompence of a man’s hands shall be rendered unto him.”
Good speech bears good fruit. A righteous man who speaks wisdom, encouragement, and truth will find satisfaction in the results of his words. His mouth plants seeds that return blessing not only to himself but also to those around him. As Proverbs 18:21 teaches, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” The fruit of righteous speech is peace, joy, and favor.
This principle also applies to one’s labor: the recompense of a man’s hands shall be rendered to him. God ensures that every man reaps what he sows. As Galatians 6:7 declares, “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” The diligent and faithful worker will receive his reward, while the lazy and deceitful will bear their loss. God’s system of justice is perfect—His rewards are fitting and His judgments are fair.
The combination of wise words and honest work leads to satisfaction, stability, and divine blessing. The righteous man’s words and deeds align under God’s rule, producing a life of fruitfulness that honors the Lord.
Proverbs 12:15
“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.”
The fool is characterized by pride and self-deception. He trusts his own judgment and refuses correction, convinced that his way is right. This blindness to wisdom is one of the clearest marks of folly. As Proverbs 14:12 warns, “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” The fool cannot discern his own error because he measures truth by his feelings and opinions rather than by God’s Word.
The wise, however, understand the necessity of seeking counsel. They do not rely solely on their own understanding but welcome godly advice and correction. Proverbs 11:14 declares, “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.” Listening to counsel reflects humility—the willingness to admit that one may be wrong and that wisdom is best found in submission to truth. The proud man isolates himself in arrogance, but the wise man surrounds himself with instruction.
Proverbs 12:16
“A fool’s wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame.”
A fool’s temper is quick and public. He lacks self-control and reveals his anger at once, showing immaturity and lack of discipline. His outbursts often expose his pride and make him the cause of strife. Proverbs 29:11 reinforces this truth: “A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.” The fool reacts; the wise reflect.
The prudent man, however, conceals shame. This does not mean he tolerates sin or injustice, but that he exercises discretion, self-control, and patience. Rather than broadcasting offense or retaliating in anger, he handles situations with wisdom, allowing time and understanding to guide his response. His restraint is not weakness but strength. Proverbs 19:11 says, “The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.”
As commentator Allen Ross noted, “It is not so much that the wise man represses anger or feelings but that he is more shrewd in dealing with it.” The prudent man’s composure preserves peace and dignity, whereas the fool’s impulsiveness leads to ruin.
Proverbs 12:17
“He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.”
Speaking the truth is not merely an act of honesty but a declaration of righteousness. Every truthful word aligns with God’s nature, for He is the God of truth. As Psalm 15:1–2 declares, “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.” The righteous person’s speech reflects the integrity of his heart; he testifies to truth both privately and publicly.
By contrast, a false witness brings deceit. Lies corrupt justice, destroy trust, and wound relationships. The Lord detests false testimony, as stated in Proverbs 6:16–19: “These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him… a false witness that speaketh lies.” The liar wages war against both truth and righteousness, aligning himself with the father of lies. As John 8:44 says of the devil, “He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him.”
Proverbs 12:18
“There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.”
Words can wound as deeply as weapons. Some speak rashly, thoughtlessly, or maliciously, and their words cut like a sword—leaving emotional and spiritual scars. The slanderer, the gossip, and the cruel critic use their tongues as instruments of destruction. Psalm 57:4 describes such people: “My soul is among lions: and I lie even among them that are set on fire, even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword.”
How often God’s servants have suffered under such verbal attacks. As Charles Bridges noted, “Many will speak daggers without compunction who would be afraid to use them.” Words can destroy reputations, friendships, and even faith if spoken without wisdom or love.
In contrast, the tongue of the wise promotes health. The words of the godly bring healing to the wounded heart, encouragement to the weary soul, and strength to the broken spirit. Proverbs 15:4 reinforces this: “A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.” Wise speech nourishes and restores because it reflects the heart of God, whose words always bring life.
Proverbs 12:19
“The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.”
Truth endures because it is rooted in the eternal nature of God Himself. The one who speaks truth aligns with the very character of the Lord, whose Word is unchanging and whose promises never fail. As Psalm 117:2 declares, “For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord.” The truthful lip is established because it rests upon that which cannot be shaken—God’s righteousness and faithfulness. Those who love and speak truth will stand firm when lies crumble under the weight of time and judgment.
In contrast, the lying tongue lasts only for a moment. Deceit may triumph temporarily, but its victory is fleeting. Lies are self-destructive, dissolving as soon as they are exposed to the light. Proverbs 19:9 warns, “A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall perish.” The success of deception is short-lived because it is opposed to the eternal truth of God.
G. Campbell Morgan beautifully summarized this contrast: “The lying tongue may continue to utter its falsehood for long years by the calendars of men, but when you place those years by the side of the ages of God, they are as a moment.” Adam Clarke added, “Truth stands for ever, because its foundation is indestructible: but falsehood may soon be detected; and, though it gain credit for a while, it had that credit because it was supposed to be truth.” The history of mankind bears witness to this: lies perish, but truth abides.
Proverbs 12:20
“Deceit is in the heart of them that imagine evil: but to the counsellors of peace is joy.”
Deceit begins in the heart long before it appears in speech or action. Those who plot evil first corrupt their inner life with deceitful intent. Their thoughts are poisoned, their motives twisted, and their plans destructive. Jeremiah 17:9 warns, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” Sin always begins inwardly before it manifests outwardly, and deceitful men live in bondage to their own corruption.
In contrast, those who are “counsellors of peace”—men and women who promote reconciliation, wisdom, and harmony—are filled with joy. Their counsel flows from a heart that delights in peace, not contention. They reflect the heart of Christ, the Prince of Peace, who said in Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”
This verse also implies that godly counsel is often plural in form, found within a community of wise believers. Proverbs 11:14 affirms, “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.” The harmony among such counselors brings mutual joy, for they labor not to divide but to build up. Peace and deceit cannot coexist; one brings destruction, the other brings delight.
Proverbs 12:21
“There shall no evil happen to the just: but the wicked shall be filled with mischief.”
This verse must be understood in light of divine providence and eternity. The righteous are not exempt from trouble—indeed, they often suffer more in this fallen world. Yet “no evil” in this context refers to ultimate harm, not temporary trial. God shields His people from any affliction that would destroy their soul or separate them from His love. Romans 8:28 confirms, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”
The Lord manages both the degree and duration of a believer’s suffering. He permits no trial that will overtake His children beyond what His grace can sustain. 1 Corinthians 10:13 teaches, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able.”
The wicked, on the other hand, are “filled with mischief.” Their sin multiplies sorrow, and their schemes bring ruin upon their own heads. They are consumed by the evil they pursued, becoming prisoners of their own wicked desires. Sin always fills the heart before it destroys the life.
Proverbs 12:22
“Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight.”
Lying lips offend the God of truth. Falsehood is not merely a human flaw—it is a moral outrage against the holy nature of God. Proverbs 6:16–19 lists lying twice among the seven things the Lord hates, underscoring how detestable deceit is to Him. Every lie is an assault on His character, for He is the One who cannot lie (Titus 1:2).
In contrast, those who “deal truly” bring delight to God. Truthfulness is not only about speech but also about conduct and motive. To deal truly means to live in honesty, faithfulness, and integrity in all things. Such a life reflects God’s own truth and brings Him pleasure. Psalm 51:6 declares, “Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.”
The lesson is clear: deceit provokes God’s wrath, but truth brings His favor. To delight the Lord is the highest honor a man or woman can attain, and it begins by walking in truth before Him.
Proverbs 12:23
“A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.”
The prudent man exercises discernment in speech. He knows when to speak and when to remain silent. Wisdom is not found merely in what is known, but in how and when that knowledge is shared. The wise person understands that not every truth must be uttered, especially if it may harm, shame, or discourage others. As Proverbs 10:19 teaches, “In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.”
To conceal knowledge is not deceit but discretion. A prudent man guards his words because he values their weight and their potential effect. His silence is often as valuable as his speech, for restraint reveals maturity of spirit. As commentator Garrett observed, “Someone who is careful in what he says will be equally careful about whom he confides in.”
By contrast, the fool cannot help but reveal his folly. His words flow without thought or restraint, exposing his ignorance to all. As Ecclesiastes 10:14 says, “A fool also is full of words: a man cannot tell what shall be; and what shall be after him, who can tell him?” The heart of fools proclaims foolishness because what fills the heart will inevitably come out of the mouth (Luke 6:45). Fools speak loudly and confidently where wisdom would be cautious and quiet. As Bridges wrote, “They are dogmatic in arguments when wiser men are cautious. They teach when they should be learning.”
Proverbs 12:24
“The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute.”
Diligence leads to dominion, while laziness leads to bondage. The diligent worker earns trust, respect, and advancement because his consistent labor reflects reliability. Hard work opens doors and brings honor. Proverbs 22:29 says, “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.” God blesses the diligent not merely for their labor, but for their faithfulness, for diligence is a mark of character rooted in obedience.
By contrast, the lazy or deceitful man becomes subject to others. His lack of initiative leads to servitude—whether literal or figurative. The Hebrew phrase translated “lazy” can also mean “deceitful,” for idleness and deceit often go hand in hand. As Matthew Poole explained, “They seek to gain by fraud what they either cannot or will not get by honest labour.”
The lazy man refuses to govern himself, and thus he is governed by others. In life and in spirit, diligence brings freedom, while sloth brings bondage. Charles Bridges rightly exhorted, “Christian, be diligent. Spend and be spent in Christ’s service. Your privileges will be enlarged. Your God will be honored. Your crown will be secure.”
Proverbs 12:25
“Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.”
Anxiety weighs heavily upon the heart. Fear, worry, and guilt bend the soul under invisible burdens, producing weariness and despair. As Psalm 38:4 says, “For mine iniquities are gone over mine head: as an heavy burden they are too heavy for me.” The wise recognize that discouragement and depression often stem from the cares of life pressing upon the heart. God’s counsel against this is clear: “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” (Philippians 4:6)
Yet Solomon points to a powerful remedy—“a good word.” Encouragement, spoken with sincerity and wisdom, can lift the heaviest heart. Words of hope, truth, and compassion breathe life into weary souls. As Proverbs 15:23 declares, “A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!”
The Lord Jesus Himself often spoke such words of grace and comfort: “Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee” (Matthew 9:2); “Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole” (Luke 8:48); and “Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more” (John 8:11). Each was a “good word” that healed both heart and spirit. As Clarke noted, “A single good or favourable word will remove despondency.”
Our tongues have power to crush or to comfort. The wise use theirs to lift others toward the peace of God.
Proverbs 12:26
“The righteous is more excellent than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked seduceth them.”
The righteous must choose companions wisely. Friendship exerts great influence, shaping one’s moral and spiritual direction. The proverb teaches that a discerning man considers carefully whom he walks with. As Proverbs 13:20 warns, “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.”
The righteous man is “more excellent” than his neighbor not because of superiority, but because his values and priorities are guided by righteousness. His integrity elevates his life, while the wicked are led astray by their own path of sin. Evil companionship corrupts good character (1 Corinthians 15:33), and the wrong influences can quickly lead even the well-intentioned away from truth.
On the other hand, godly friends strengthen one another in faith, love, and wisdom. Proverbs 27:17 declares, “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.” Wise friendship refines character, while wicked associations dull discernment. The righteous, therefore, must walk with those who walk with God, for “the way of the wicked” always leads to deception and ruin.
Proverbs 12:27
“The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious.”
Solomon paints a vivid and somewhat humorous picture of laziness. The lazy man is so unmotivated that he cannot even finish what he starts. He goes to the trouble of hunting, catching his prey, and then lets it spoil because he is too idle to cook it. His failure is not from lack of opportunity but from lack of follow-through. It is a striking image of wasted effort and neglected reward. As Ecclesiastes 10:18 says, “By much slothfulness the building decayeth; and through idleness of the hands the house droppeth through.”
This verse speaks not merely of physical labor but of spiritual and moral diligence. Many begin a good work—whether in faith, service, or study—but lack the perseverance to bring it to completion. The lazy man represents all who start well but fail to finish because they lack endurance. His hunt yields no benefit because diligence, not opportunity, determines reward. As Ross noted, “Just as one who might hunt but never cook what he finds, so the lazy person never completes a project.”
By contrast, “the substance of a diligent man is precious.” The fruit of hard work, persistence, and follow-through is of great worth. Diligence is not merely a skill; it is a treasure of character. The diligent complete what they begin, value their labor, and find satisfaction in seeing their work bear fruit. As Proverbs 10:4 reminds us, “He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.”
Among the most precious possessions a man can have is a diligent spirit—a will to persevere even when the task is difficult. Talent may open doors, but diligence walks through them and stays the course until the work is done.
Proverbs 12:28
“In the way of righteousness is life; and in the pathway thereof there is no death.”
Here Solomon closes the chapter with one of the most profound declarations in all of Proverbs. True life is found in the path of righteousness, not in sin or self-indulgence. The world, the flesh, and the devil deceive men into believing that righteousness is dull or restrictive, but in reality, it is the only way to life, joy, and peace. Proverbs 11:19 confirms this: “As righteousness tendeth to life: so he that pursueth evil pursueth it to his own death.”
The “way of righteousness” refers not only to moral living but to the path of faith and obedience to God. It is the walk of those who have been made right through faith and live according to His Word. Jesus affirmed this truth when He said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6) Life and righteousness are inseparable because they both flow from Christ, who is the source of eternal life.
The verse continues, “In the pathway thereof there is no death.” For the righteous, death no longer has dominion. While the body may perish, the soul lives eternally in the presence of God. John 11:25–26 declares, “Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.” Thus, the way of righteousness leads to everlasting life, while the path of wickedness leads only to destruction.
Matthew Poole observed wisely: “The practice of justice and godliness, though it expose a man to some dangers and inconveniences in the world, yet it will certainly lead him to life and happiness, whereas the end of all wicked courses is death and destruction.” The temporary sufferings of righteousness are nothing compared to the eternal rewards of walking in God’s way.
Therefore, Proverbs 12 concludes where all wisdom leads—to life through righteousness. The diligent, the truthful, the humble, and the godly walk a path that shines brighter with each step, leading not to death, but to everlasting life in the presence of God.
