What does Proverbs 28:19 mean?
ESV: Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits will have plenty of poverty.
NIV: Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies will have their fill of poverty.
NASB: One who works his land will have plenty of food, But one who follows empty pursuits will have plenty of poverty.
CSB: The one who works his land will have plenty of food, but whoever chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty.
NLT: A hard worker has plenty of food, but a person who chases fantasies ends up in poverty.
KJV: He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread: but he that followeth after vain persons shall have poverty enough.
NKJV: He who tills his land will have plenty of bread, But he who follows frivolity will have poverty enough!
Verse Commentary:
This verse uses a contrast with a poetic twist. The Hebrew term translated "poverty" is unique to the Book of Proverbs and means something below a necessary standard (Proverbs 6:11; 10:15; 13:18; 24:34; 30:8; 31:7). The core meaning of the word implies "lacking." The turn of phrase Solomon uses (Proverbs 25:1) suggests that pointless activities take away from one's ability to prepare for the future. Wasting time brings "a lot of nothing," or "extra need." This reinforces other lessons from the Book of Proverbs (Proverbs 12:11) which warn about laziness and encourage a good work ethic (Proverbs 18:9; 19:15).
This does not mean we are never to rest, or enjoy recreation, such that we are always "working." Rest and refreshment are valuable (Exodus 20:9–11; Psalm 127:1–2). But they should not take precedence over responsibilities (Proverbs 26:14). Nor is every use of our time wise or valuable (1 Corinthians 10:23). Worldly pleasure, material possessions, fame, fortune, and recreation can poison our effectiveness, both materially and spiritually.
The industrious farmer enjoys a more abundant harvest and plenty of food (Proverbs 20:4; 27:18). Believers, like alert farmers, are supposed to reap a harvest of souls for God. Jesus told His followers, "Look. I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest" (John 4:35). He also told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest" (Matthew 9:37-38).
Verse Context:
Proverbs 28:13–28 features several lessons about generosity and greed. The passage also notes the importance of integrity and honesty. Some proverbs contained here combine these ideas, speaking of work ethic, fairness, care for the poor, and so forth.
Chapter Summary:
This passage features many direct contrasts. The lessons are attributed to Solomon, later compiled into the Book of Proverbs by men under king Hezekiah (Proverbs 25:1). Common themes in this chapter are work ethic, generosity, fairness, and reputation. Comments on rulers or leaders make up many of the teachings recorded in this section.
Chapter Context:
This continues a list compiled by Hezekiah's men, recording proverbs associated with Solomon (Proverbs 25:1). The collection continues until the end of chapter 29. The lessons in this passage repeat teachings on generosity and the dangers of greed, as well as the damage done by wicked rulers.
Book Summary:
Proverbs is best understood in context with the books of Ecclesiastes and Job. In Proverbs, “wisdom” is given in short, simple, general terms. Ecclesiastes represents wisdom based on observation and experience. This often shows how the general principles of the book of Proverbs don’t apply in absolutely every circumstance. Job represents wisdom based on the experience of suffering and injustice. All three come to the conclusion that God does indeed know best, and the most sensible course of action is to follow His will.
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