What does Proverbs 14:27 mean?

In this verse Solomon comments further about the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 14:26). This "fear" is not panicked horror, but a reverent, humble respect for God (Exodus 20:20; Proverbs 1:7). That trusting, submissive obedience to God's will produces a lifegiving stream, connecting us to the truthful love of our Creator (John 10:10).

Trusting in the Lord as Savior brings abundant, everlasting life (John 3:16; 4:13–14; 10:10). Also, honoring God results in refreshing, purposeful life. The believer does not wander aimlessly through life (Proverbs 14:15). Instead, he progresses through life like a runner whose eye is on the goal of finishing well. He runs the race with his eyes focused on Jesus (Hebrews 12:1–2). He knows that at the end of life on earth there is life in heaven (2 Corinthians 5:1–10).

By reverently fearing the Lord, a person avoids the natural consequences of sin and evil (Proverbs 12:28; 13:13–14). That security extends beyond earthly life; animals caught in a snare face death, but the believer will never die eternally (John 10:27–28). Jesus told Martha: "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die" (John 11:25–26).