Introduction
Before getting into the meaning of Proverbs 13:23, here’s different Bible translations:
King James Version
Much food is in the tillage of the poor: but there is that is destroyed for want of judgment.
American Standard Version
Much food [is in] the tillage of the poor; But there is that is destroyed by reason of injustice.
World English Bible version
An abundance of food is in poor people's fields, but injustice sweeps it away.
Proverbs 13:23 Meaning & Commentary
The fallow ground of the poor would yield much food, but it is swept away through injustice. Proverbs 13:23 (ESV)
The unfortunate truth is that this world has much injustice. This is prevalent in society today and was even the case back in Biblical times. Oppressing the poor or those who cannot defend themselves is unfortunately common in the world.
The Bible says in Proverbs 13:23 that the fallow ground of the poor would yield much fruit. This speaks to the potential of everyone (including the poor) to produce fruit. The phrase “fallow ground” refers to land not cultivated or used for agriculture. In ancient times, fallow ground was often left to rest and rejuvenate, with the expectation that it would yield a bountiful crop when eventually used.
In this context, the fallow ground represents the untapped potential of the poor, who are often denied the resources and opportunities necessary to succeed and thrive. Everyone carries something inside them – gifts, talents, and abilities. We can say that everyone has the seed of potential inside of them. It is also true that many people do not realize their full potential on earth. There could be many factors why this happens – injustice can undoubtedly be a contributing factor.
It can be challenging for poor and oppressed people to break out of the mold they have been placed into and realize their full potential. It is not impossible, but having a “head start” in life, such as being born into wealth or a family that does not have a background of oppression, can make a massive difference. It is sad when poor people, who have just as much potential and ability as others, are suppressed and oppressed – especially when it is done through injustice.
The Bible makes it clear that God is not pleased when He sees the poor being oppressed: Proverbs 14:31 Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.
Application
How can we practically apply Proverbs 13:23 to our lives?
If we come from an oppressed background – whatever the oppression may have been, we need to break out of the oppression and limitations others have placed on us. We do this primarily by renewing our minds with the Word of God. It is by transforming our minds with God’s Word that we can become everything He has destined us to be:
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.
Another powerful principle to break out of limitations is to surround ourselves with people who have achieved what we desire to achieve. The right company of people will inspire and motivate us to achieve more and grow in Christ. It is difficult to stay limited in our thinking and mindset when surrounded by people who think big and desire to achieve more. Likewise, when we stay around people who think small, breaking out of the mold of limitation becomes harder.
Another practical application is to help the needy and the poor however we can, as well as fight injustice in any way we can. There are many poor people in the world, and a helping hand can go a long way for them. Whether we help the poor with material possessions and food or whether we afford them opportunities that they may previously not have had, there are many ways to extend our hand to the poor and needy and be the hands and feet of Jesus to them.
When we consider the poor and needy, God is well pleased with us, as His Word tells us to do precisely that: Proverbs 31:8-9 Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your Word, which challenges and inspires me to always go higher in my walk with You. I ask for a greater hunger for Your Word than ever before. Help me renew my mind with Your Word so that I can fulfill the potential You have deposited in me.
Please give me the wisdom and ability to help those around me who are less fortunate than me. I thank You for the incredible privilege of being Your representative on earth. I pray this all in Jesus’ name. Amen!
