Proverbs 14:15 Meaning: Difference between Innocence and Wisdom

Introduction

Before getting into the meaning of Proverbs 14:15, here’s different Bible translations:

King James Version

The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going.

American Standard Version

World English Bible version

Proverbs 14:15 Meaning & Commentary

The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps. – Proverbs 14:15 (ESV)

Sometimes we can be tempted to confuse humility or teachability with ignorance or lack of due diligence. However, this scripture in Proverbs 14:15 tells us that a “simple” person believes everything. The word “simple” is the Hebrew word “pthiy,” which can also mean silly, foolish, or seducible.

So, in the context of this verse, The Bible says that a foolish or silly person will believe everything they hear. As Christians, our beliefs form a large part of our faith in Jesus Christ. Yet, we do not have faith, only – we have a living and active relationship with God. However, Proverbs 14:15 teaches us that it is foolish or silly to believe everything. The world we live in is evolving rapidly, and life is ever-changing. There is always a new “religion” popping up, a new set of beliefs, or a new way of “seeing life.”

When this stems from the culture and not from God’s Word – we can be sure that it is not in line with God’s Word, which is true and righteous. We cannot always escape hearing or seeing things, but we can choose what we believe and give attention to.

The second part of Proverbs 14:15 can be broadly applied to many different areas of life. We should carefully consider our lives – IE: what we are doing in life / where we are going / how we are living our life. There are many potential pitfalls in this world. Jesus prayed to The Father and showed his heart towards us: John 17:15 – I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. We are in this world, and as long as we are – we need to be prudent and carefully consider our steps and manner of living!

Application

How can we apply Proverbs 14:15 to our lives?

Probably the most important and valuable thing we can do is to take God’s Word seriously and make it a priority in our lives: Romans 12:2 -Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

The Bible tells us here not to be conformed to this world – this tells us and teaches us that the “world” is constantly trying to get us to conform to its beliefs. This may look different in our time compared to how it looked in Biblical times, but it is there. When we turn on the TV, go onto the internet, or socialize with non-believers – the world wants to “conform” us to the culture of the world.

When we recognize the truth and reality that the devil is the god of this world, we understand that a lot of what we see around us is not by accident – it is planned: 2 Corinthians 4:4 – In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.

In addition to making God’s Word a priority in both study and application, we need to ensure we are in fellowship with other believers, as we are built up and encouraged by one another – a command which The Bible tells us to maintain: Hebrews 10:25 – not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. We are also challenged to consider our steps and path more carefully as we are inspired by those around us!

Prayer

Mighty God, I pray for wisdom and discernment today. Help me to give careful thought and attention to my steps in this life. I pray and ask that you bring people into my life who can help me grow and improve.

I ask for a passion for Your Word and that you help me apply it to every part of my life. I ask this all in Jesus’ name. Amen!