Proverbs 11:18

"The merciful man does good to his own soul, but he who is cruel troubles his own flesh."

Key Reflection

This verse suggests that acts of mercy not only benefit others but also enhance one's own well-being and spiritual state. Conversely, cruelty brings about self-inflicted harm, reflecting the interconnectedness of one’s actions and their consequences on both the recipient and the actor.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Deceitful work -Work which deceives and disappoints the worker; in contrast with the “sure reward” of the second clause. Omit “shall be” and render, “but he that soweth righteousness worketh a sure reward.”

More from Proverbs 11

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 26 27 28 29 30 31 32

Go deeper with Bible.talk - your AI Bible study companion