Introduction
Before getting into the meaning of Proverbs 14:12, here’s different Bible translations:
King James Version
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.
American Standard Version
There is a way which seemeth right unto a man; But the end thereof are the ways of death.
World English Bible version
There is a way which seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.
Proverbs 14:12 Meaning & Commentary
There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. – Proverbs 14:12 (ESV)
When walking with God, we cannot simply rely on our understanding to navigate life. If we do, we are in danger of going astray and missing our way. Proverbs 14:12 speaks about this – someone who follows or goes down a “way” that seems right, but its end is the way to death. This can have multiple applications in our lives – geographical moves, career decisions, relationship choices, etc. These are some of the more common big decisions in life, which can have dire consequences if we do not act in wisdom and with discernment.
One of the most common ones is people who choose to get involved with the wrong people regarding relationships. Someone sees a good-looking guy or girl and decides to get involved with and date that person – which seems like a good idea, but it leads down a horrible and messy path. Usually, there are some evident “red flags,” but these are typically overlooked and ignored because people don’t like to feel that they are making bad decisions. Often, people want others to validate them and agree with their bad decisions rather than challenge them on their decisions.
Proverbs 14:12 is not necessarily speaking about physical death – although it could imply that. This verse also implies stagnation or “death” of a career, a divorce, a broken heart, etc. Also, the verse says that “its end is the way to death,” which implies that the destruction or “death” may not immediately be seen, known, or understood at the time but may only be fully manifest at the end of the road.
This makes it crucial to act with discernment and wisdom and seek godly counsel when making decisions. Not every decision is potentially life-changing – but the bigger decisions we make should be carefully considered and weighed up. Bigger life-changing decisions such as whom to marry, where to live, and which career path to venture down should be given careful attention!
Application
How can we apply Proverbs 14:12 to our lives?
The Bible commands us elsewhere not to trust in our own understanding and intellect, but rather in God: Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. As believers, we are to emulate Jesus Christ, and he came to do the will of the father on the earth: John 6:38 – For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me.
An important truth to remember is that God’s will is not always pleasant and may not necessarily be what we want to do or feel like doing: Luke 22:41-42 – And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, (42) saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” Another important principle is to seek godly and wise counsel – this can protect us from making bad decisions. It provides us a “safety net”: Proverbs 11:14 – Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.
However, above all – God has given us His Holy Spirit and His Word to help us on this journey in life: John 16:13 – When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.
God’s written Word – The Bible should be our daily food, as it is filled with God’s wisdom and His principles and helps us navigate our lives. As The Bible says, it is a “lamp” for us: Psalm 119:105 – Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I thank You that you help me make the right decisions when I take the time to listen to you. I ask for wisdom today and that you give me insight and foresight to see those things I may otherwise be blinded to.
I ask that you surround me with wise counsel. I choose today not to lean on my understanding but to put my trust fully in You. I pray this all in Jesus’ name. Amen!
