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Proverbs 12:14

A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth: and the recompense of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him.

Proverbs 12:14 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, we see a powerful message about the importance of our words and actions. The statement "A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth" highlights the idea that the words we speak have the power to bring about positive outcomes. When we communicate positively, speak kind words, and offer encouragement to others, we are more likely to see good things manifest in our lives. On the other hand, the second part of the verse warns that "the recompense of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him," meaning that the consequences of our actions will ultimately come back to us. This serves as a reminder to act with integrity, kindness, and honesty, as our deeds will ultimately be repaid. By being mindful of the words we speak and the actions we take, we can ensure that we are sowing seeds of positivity and reaping the rewards of our good deeds.

Theological Overview

When examining the theological interpretation of Proverbs 12:14, we see a profound insight into the power of spoken words and the importance of one's actions. The verse emphasizes the idea that our words have the potential to bring about both good and satisfaction in our lives. It suggests that the quality of our speech can directly impact the quality of our outcomes. Additionally, the verse highlights the concept of retribution, indicating that one's actions will ultimately be repaid or rewarded. This serves as a reminder of the universal principle of moral accountability – that the consequences of our deeds, whether positive or negative, will ultimately come back to us. In its essence, Proverbs 12:14 serves as a call to mindfulness in both speech and action, reminding us of the significance of the link between our words, deeds, and the outcomes we experience in life.

Proverbs 12:14 in other translations

American Standard Version

A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth; And the doings of a man's hands shall be rendered unto him.

World English Bible

A man shall be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth. The work of a man’s hands shall be rewarded to him.

Douay-Rheims

By the fruit of his own mouth shall a man be filled with good things, and according to the works of his hands it shall be repaid him.

Geneva Bible (1599)

A man shalbe satiate with good things by the fruite of his mouth, and the recompence of a mans hands shall God giue vnto him.