Proverbs 18:14 - Printer Friendly

ESV: A man’s spirit will endure sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear?

NIV: The human spirit can endure in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear?

NASB: The spirit of a person can endure his sickness, But as for a broken spirit, who can endure it?

CSB: A person's spirit can endure sickness, but who can survive a broken spirit?

NLT: The human spirit can endure a sick body, but who can bear a crushed spirit?

KJV: The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?

NKJV: The spirit of a man will sustain him in sickness, But who can bear a broken spirit?

Life holds many challenges. Even those who place their faith in Christ are subject to hardships (John 16:33). Trials flare up unexpectedly and test one's faith. This proverb points out the absolute priority of attitude, not circumstances, in determining a person's response to such difficulties. Hard times, disaster, setbacks, insults, illness, tragedy, and persecution can be endured through a positive attitude and a strong faith. That doesn't mean pretending to be happy, nor does it mean assuming things will improve simply because one is optimistic. Yet trust in Christ despite struggles makes such experiences easier to bear. Negative attitudes, weak or absent faith, or pessimism can cause someone to buckle under relatively lesser stress.

It's often said that humanity can endure the loss of anything except "hope," and Scripture echoes that principle (Philippians 4:11–13; 2 Timothy 2:10). This highlights the power of trusting faith in the gospel (Hebrews 6:18–19; 1 Timothy 4:10). Christians can see suffering as temporary, even when it comes in the form of godly discipline. The writer of Hebrews writes that even Christians experiencing correction should "lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees" (Hebrews 12:12).

Christian believers can have a positive attitude even when facing trials, knowing "that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28). Instead of being weighed down by anxieties, the Christian can fully rely on God, knowing He cares (1 Peter 5:7). An example of a positive attitude and a strong faith is seen in Peter. When he was in prison, heavily guarded and awaiting execution, he slept so soundly that an angel had to poke him in the ribs to wake him up (Acts 12:7) before leading him out of the prison.

Proverbs 18:10–15 contrasts true security found in God with the illusion of wealth. As in the prior verses, Solomon explains the value of seeking out deeper understanding. This passage contains two famous biblical statements. One refers to God as a "strong tower," while the other notes that physical struggles are easier to endure than spiritual and emotional trials.

This segment of Solomon's wise sayings includes several well-known and often-repeated remarks. Among these are references to God's "name" as a place of safety, the connection between pride and catastrophe, the value of a godly spouse, and the intimate loyalty of a good friend. As in other parts of the book of Proverbs, these teachings are tied to warnings about the consequences of poor decisions.

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.