Introduction
Before getting into the meaning of Proverbs 14:33, here’s different Bible translations:
King James Version
Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known.
American Standard Version
Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding; But [that which is] in the inward part of fools is made known.
World English Bible version
Wisdom rests in the heart of one who has understanding, and is even made known in the inward part of fools.
Proverbs 14:33 Meaning & Commentary
Wisdom rests in the heart of a man of understanding, but it makes itself known even in the midst of fools. – Proverbs 14:33 (ESV)
The word “Wisdom” here is the Hebrew word “Chokmah,” which can also be translated as shrewdness or skill. This verse says that wisdom rests in the heart of a man of understanding. When we have God’s understanding, which He has granted us, we are primed to receive God’s Wisdom. We can see this better explained in The New Testament:
Ephesians 1:17-18 – that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, 18 having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints…
Understanding is more than just knowledge; it is comprehending what we know. For example, we may read and receive knowledge that God loves us, hear it from others, and “know” through study that it is a truth. However, when God reveals it to us personally, we can really “grasp” and understand His love for us. When we look again at Ephesians 1:17-18, we see that Paul was praying for the Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation – in the knowledge of God and that their hearts would be enlighted. We see then that they knew God (had knowledge), but He was praying for them to receive greater wisdom and revelation and that through that, they would have their “hearts enlightened” as well – which speaks of understanding or truly comprehending what they “knew.”
So, when we already have understanding, which is a higher level than knowledge, we can more easily and effectively exercise wisdom – or apply the knowledge and understanding we have to our lives. Furthermore, Proverbs 14:33 says that it (wisdom) makes itself known in the midst of fools. In other words, it is plain to see and evident in the behavior of people who are fools and who are wise.
Application
How can we apply Proverbs 14:33 to our lives?
We need to seek The Lord with all our hearts and, more specifically, seek after knowledge, understanding, and wisdom. Just as Paul the Apostle prayed for the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, we must do the same. However, the “foundation” is to develop a lifestyle of devotion and consecration to God for ourselves. We need to get The Word of God into our hearts, as this is God’s very Word, and it is through this Word that God speaks to us.
We receive wisdom, revelation, and understanding. 2 Timothy 3:15 – and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. As we get God’s Word into our minds and hearts, we grow in knowledge and understanding. However, we cannot stop there – because God’s Word will not bear fruit in our lives without illumination, revelation, and understanding.
In fact, The Bible tells us that “the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life”: 2 Corinthians 3:6 – who has made us sufficient to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. This means that the letter (God’s written Word) does not carry true “life-giving” power in itself – it is The Holy Spirit who gives The Word life and causes it to be effective in our lives. So, we need to not only gain knowledge of God but walk with Him experientially.
As we do this, we need to pray, as Paul the Apostle did – for the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of God. When we do this, we will receive true understanding and wisdom from God and mature from just “knowing about God” to knowing God personally, walking in understanding, and growing in wisdom.
Just as The Bible says about Jesus, we will also grow in wisdom, stature, and favor: Luke 2:52 – And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.
Prayer
Mighty God, Thank You for Your Word. I ask today for the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of God. I pray that my understanding will be enlightened.
I pray for wisdom and ask that you cause me to grow and prosper in every area of my life, just as Jesus did. I ask this now in Jesus’ name. Amen!
