Introduction
Before getting into the meaning of Proverbs 13:15, here’s different Bible translations:
King James Version
Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard.
American Standard Version
Good understanding giveth favor; But the way of the transgressor is hard.
World English Bible version
Good understanding wins favor; but the way of the unfaithful is hard.
Proverbs 13:15 Meaning & Commentary
Good sense wins favor, but the way of the treacherous is their ruin. Proverbs 13:15 (ESV)
Sometimes we see principles in The Bible that are so simple and obvious. The reality is that sometimes we need to be reminded about the basics again! Even in Paul’s letter to The Philippians, he alluded to this: Philippians 3:1 Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you.
We keep ourselves safe by reminding ourselves of the basics and applying them. Proverbs 13:15 is one such verse. It starts by saying that “good sense wins favor.” This is hardly a profound revelation. Instead, it is basic common sense – which is not always too common these days! We know that we can unlock favor from God; however, by acting with good sense, we can also win favor from people.
How hard will it be to win favor with someone when we act foolishly, rudely, or disrespectfully towards them? We need to walk with wisdom and good sense. Often, Wisdom is found in common sense – it is not usually “super-spiritual” but is instead just understanding ourselves and those we are engaging with. Then, applying that understanding well in our lives.
Proverbs 13:15 then says, “the way of the treacherous in their ruin.” Again, this seems obvious – whatever we sow or reap, we will receive back in return: Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. A “treacherous” person is sowing bad seeds, and those seeds will surely bring a harvest of ruin in their lives! It is not God who simply allows destruction to come into some people’s lives and not into others. Our choices and what we speak decide what we reap in our lives! God is impartial – which means that he does not have a different set of “principles” for one person and not the other: Romans 2:11 For God shows no partiality.
Application
How can we practically apply Proverbs 13:15 to our lives?
Our relationship with God is reflected in our relationship with those around us. We cannot say we have favor with God and love Him – yet walk in no favor with other people and do not love people. We need to practice walking in “good sense” toward other people. One of the best and most practical ways to do this is to better understand other people: Proverbs 4:7 The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight. The word “insight” is the Hebrew word “binah,” – which also means understanding.
This means that it is essential to try and understand people. If we can better understand people, how they think, and their perspective – we can engage more effectively with them; and, in doing so, win favor with them. It is believed that many fights, arguments, and disagreements are simply due to misunderstandings. Suppose we practice the habit of trying to understand one another rather than just express our opinions. In that case, we will find it much easier to live in peace (and have favor) with other people: Romans 12:18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.
We also need to ask God for wisdom as often as we can. His wisdom helps us make wise decisions and effectively engage with other people. We also need to evaluate the path that we are walking on often! There is a “way” that leads the treacherous to ruin, however, God desires that we find the way to life: Matthew 7:13-14 “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few”. The good news is that every day is a new day and a new opportunity to chart a new direction in our lives!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your Word, which instructs me in wise living. Thank you for reminding me about the basics of life – my interactions with other people, the decisions I make, and the resulting effects in my life. I ask you today for wisdom.
Help me to make wise decisions in life. I ask for wisdom on how to engage with other people, as well as the ability to understand people better. Help me walk on the straight and narrow path which leads to life all the days of my life. I ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen!
