What does Proverbs 12:26 mean?

Solomon asserts that those who pursue godliness and truth (Proverbs 1:7) can provide genuine help for others. Those who are selfish and ungodly will draw people in the wrong direction. A consistent theme of the book of Proverbs is that godly wisdom is a means to life and success (Proverbs 3:9–12), while rejecting God leads to disaster (Proverbs 10:27; 11:7).

In a world that is morally and spiritually dark, people are easily led astray. Often, modern media portrays sin as glamorous and appealing. The gullible are easily enticed to engage in sinful practices (Proverbs 9:13). However, believers have the Word of God and the Holy Spirit to lead them away from sin and into the paths of righteousness (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Paul exhorted believers to let their manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ (Philippians 1:27) and to "do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world" (Philippians 2:14–15). By leading a righteous life, believers provide light in a dark world. The light illumines the way to Christ and a righteous life for others to follow.