Some proverbs are "contrasting statements" meaning that there is an important difference between the first phrase and second phrase. (See Life Lessons: The Book of Proverbs). In Proverbs 14:14-16 Solomon contrasts three different types of character.

Points to Build On

1. Proverbs 14:14 "The backslider in heart will be filled with his own ways, But a good man will be satisfied from above" (NKJ). "The faithless will be fully repaid for their ways, and the good man rewarded for his" (NIV). "An unprincipled man reaps the fruit of his ways, A good man, of his deeds" (Tanakh).

A major theme in Proverbs is that all actions have consequences. A righteous person shouldn't be discouraged by what appears as temporary success of people who are dishonest and unprincipled. Eventually, everyone must face the consequences of their actions. God rewards those who live by His ways.

2. Proverbs 14:15 "The simple believes every word, But the prudent considers well his steps" (NKJ).

A "simple" person is one who believes every rumor or story they hear or read. Without a biblical world view he is often fearful and unable to sort through fact and fiction. A prudent person considers all information, doesn't jump to hasty conclusions and seeks to find the truth.

3. Proverbs 14:16 "A wise man fears and departs from evil. But a fool rages and is self-confident" (NKJ).

A wise person not only fears the effects of evil, but runs away from evil. A foolish person is arrogant and becomes angry and defensive when faced with anything that contradicts his own self-image.

Application

Consider the three contrasting character traits of Proverbs 14:14-16 .

1. Unprincipled, faithless, reaping bad fruit (lives good actions reaping good fruit)

2. Gullible, not discerning (considers and seeks truth)

3. Angry, arrogant, secure in own ideas (fears and departs from evil)