Proverbs 28
Proverbs 28 emphasizes the contrast between righteous living and wickedness, underscoring the benefits of integrity, justice, and humility. It shows how wickedness leads to downfall, while righteousness leads to stability and prosperity. Themes of justice, leadership, wealth, and trust in God appear frequently throughout the chapter.
Proverbs 28:1-2 (NKJV)
1 The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.
2 Because of the transgression of a land, many are its princes; but by a man of understanding and knowledge right will be prolonged.
The wicked are filled with guilt and fear, which makes them paranoid and anxious even without real threats. On the other hand, the righteous are courageous and bold because they live with a clear conscience and trust in God. When a nation is full of corruption and sin, leadership becomes unstable, leading to frequent changes. However, a wise and just leader brings stability and prolongs peace.
Proverbs 28:3 (NKJV)
3 A poor man who oppresses the poor is like a driving rain which leaves no food.
A poor person who oppresses others is compared to a harsh rainstorm that destroys crops rather than nourishing them. This analogy emphasizes the harm done when those who should understand the struggles of poverty inflict suffering on others in similar situations, worsening their plight instead of offering help.
Proverbs 28:4-5 (NKJV)
4 Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but such as keep the law contend with them.
5 Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand all.
When people reject God's law, they naturally support or align with wickedness, while those who remain faithful to the law oppose evil. People who live in sin are often blind to true justice, but those who seek the Lord have a clear sense of justice and righteousness because their hearts are aligned with God's principles.
Proverbs 28:6 (NKJV)
6 Better is the poor who walks in his integrity than one perverse in his ways, though he be rich.
This verse highlights that integrity is more valuable than wealth. Even if someone is poor, their honesty and righteousness are better than the wealth of someone who gains riches through crooked means. It reminds us that character and morality are more important than material success.
Proverbs 28:7 (NKJV)
7 Whoever keeps the law is a discerning son, but a companion of gluttons shames his father.
A person who follows God's commandments shows wisdom and discernment, bringing honor to their family. However, someone who associates with those who indulge in excess and live carelessly brings disgrace upon their parents by neglecting good values and moral discipline.
Proverbs 28:8 (NKJV)
8 One who increases his possessions by usury and extortion gathers it for him who will pity the poor.
This verse warns against acquiring wealth through unjust practices such as high interest or exploitation. In the end, such wealth will be transferred to those who are kind to the poor, as God's justice favors those who show mercy rather than greed.
Proverbs 28:9 (NKJV)
9 One who turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination.
God does not listen to the prayers of those who deliberately reject His commandments. A heart that ignores God's word cannot expect to have their prayers answered. This emphasizes that obedience to God’s law is a key aspect of having a meaningful relationship with Him.
Proverbs 28:10 (NKJV)
10 Whoever causes the upright to go astray in an evil way, he himself will fall into his own pit; but the blameless will inherit good.
Those who lead others into sin will ultimately suffer from their own wicked schemes, falling into the trap they set. Meanwhile, the innocent and righteous will receive blessings and rewards for their integrity and steadfastness in following God's ways.
Proverbs 28:11 (NKJV)
11 The rich man is wise in his own eyes, but the poor who has understanding searches him out.
Wealth often leads people to think highly of themselves, assuming they have all the answers. However, a poor person with true understanding can see the flaws in the rich man's thinking. This verse highlights that wisdom is not tied to wealth, but to discernment and humility.
Proverbs 28:12 (NKJV)
12 When the righteous rejoice, there is great glory; but when the wicked arise, men hide themselves.
When the righteous are in positions of influence or leadership, it brings joy and honor to society. Conversely, when the wicked gain power, people suffer and seek to protect themselves from the consequences of their corrupt rule.
Proverbs 28:13 (NKJV)
13 He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.
Trying to hide sin only leads to failure and suffering. However, when someone confesses their wrongdoing and repents, they receive mercy and forgiveness. This verse encourages transparency, repentance, and seeking God’s grace.
Proverbs 28:14 (NKJV)
14 Happy is the man who is always reverent, but he who hardens his heart will fall into calamity.
A person who consistently respects and fears the Lord will experience happiness and blessings. On the other hand, someone who hardens their heart, refusing to listen or obey God, will eventually face disaster and downfall.
Proverbs 28:15-16 (NKJV)
15 Like a roaring lion and a charging bear is a wicked ruler over poor people.
16 A ruler who lacks understanding is a great oppressor, but he who hates covetousness will prolong his days.
A wicked ruler who oppresses the poor is as dangerous as a lion or bear, causing fear and destruction. Leaders who lack wisdom and understanding tend to abuse their power, but those who reject greed and act with integrity will have a long and successful reign.
Proverbs 28:17 (NKJV)
17 A man burdened with bloodshed will flee into a pit; let no one help him.
Someone guilty of murder will be consumed by their guilt and face inevitable consequences, including death or destruction. This verse warns against aiding someone who has committed such grievous sins, as they must face the justice due to them.
Proverbs 28:18 (NKJV)
18 Whoever walks blamelessly will be saved, but he who is perverse in his ways will suddenly fall.
Those who live with integrity and righteousness will experience safety and salvation, while those who engage in corrupt and sinful behavior will experience an unexpected downfall. This highlights the security of a righteous life versus the instability of wickedness.
Proverbs 28:19 (NKJV)
19 He who tills his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows frivolity will have poverty enough.
Hard work and diligence lead to prosperity, while wasting time on empty pursuits results in poverty. This verse encourages a strong work ethic and warns against laziness and distractions that take away from productive living.
Proverbs 28:20 (NKJV)
20 A faithful man will abound with blessings, but he who hastens to be rich will not go unpunished.
A person who is faithful, trustworthy, and patient will be blessed, while someone who seeks to get rich quickly, likely through dishonest or reckless means, will eventually face the consequences of their actions.
Proverbs 28:21 (NKJV)
21 To show partiality is not good, because for a piece of bread a man will transgress.
Showing favoritism, especially for personal gain, leads to injustice. Even small bribes can cause someone to betray their principles. This verse underscores the importance of impartiality and integrity in all dealings.
Proverbs 28:22 (NKJV)
22 A man with an evil eye hastens after riches, and does not consider that poverty will come upon him.
Someone driven by greed and a desire for quick wealth does not realize that their obsession will ultimately lead to poverty. Their lack of foresight and willingness to compromise their values blinds them to the consequences of their actions.
Proverbs 28:23 (NKJV)
23 He who rebukes a man will find more favor afterward than he who flatters with the tongue.
Though giving correction may not be welcomed initially, it often leads to greater respect and appreciation in the long run. In contrast, flattery, though pleasing in the moment, does not have lasting value and can ultimately harm relationships.
Proverbs 28:24 (NKJV)
24 Whoever robs his father or his mother, and says, “It is no transgression,” the same is companion to a destroyer.
A person who steals from their parents and justifies their actions is compared to someone who brings destruction. This verse condemns not only the act of stealing but also the mindset that excuses such behavior, showing a lack of respect and love for one’s family.
Proverbs 28:25 (NKJV)
25 He who is of a proud heart stirs up strife, but he who trusts in the Lord will be prospered.
Pride leads to conflict and division, as a proud person often seeks to elevate themselves over others. In contrast, those who trust in God rather than their own abilities will experience true prosperity and peace.
Proverbs 28:26 (NKJV)
26 He who trusts in his own heart is a fool, but whoever walks wisely will be delivered.
Relying solely on one’s own understanding or emotions is foolish, as it can lead to poor decisions and failure. Those who seek wisdom, especially from God, are protected and guided toward safety and success.
Proverbs 28:27 (NKJV)
27 He who gives to the poor will not lack, but he who hides his eyes will have many curses.
Generosity toward the needy leads to blessings and provision, while ignoring the plight of the poor brings judgment and curses. This verse encourages compassion and responsibility toward those in need.
Proverbs 28:28 (NKJV)
28 When the wicked arise, men hide themselves; but when they perish, the righteous increase.
When wicked people gain power, others often retreat in fear or self-preservation. However, when the wicked fall or are removed from power, righteousness flourishes, bringing peace and security to society.