What is the meaning of Proverbs 11:17? A kind man • Scripture never treats kindness as optional. Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind and tenderhearted to one another.” • Kindness flows from a heart that has first tasted God’s mercy (Titus 3:4-5). • Proverbs 19:22 observes, “What is desirable in a man is loving devotion,” showing that God values compassion over ability or wealth. • Kindness is evidence of the Spirit’s work (Galatians 5:22). When we practice it, we mirror the character of Christ who “went about doing good” (Acts 10:38). Benefits himself • God has built the universe so that benevolence boomerangs back to the giver: “Give, and it will be given to you” (Luke 6:38). • Proverbs 19:17 promises, “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and He will reward him for what he has done.” • Benefits may come as – Favor with people (Acts 2:47) – Inner joy and peace (Philippians 4:9) – God’s tangible provision at unexpected moments (2 Corinthians 9:6-8) • Galatians 6:7-8 summarizes the principle: we reap what we sow; sow kindness, reap blessing. But a cruel man • Cruelty is more than harsh words or violent acts; it is any intentional disregard for another’s wellbeing (Proverbs 12:10). • Jesus pictured cruelty in the unforgiving servant who throttled a fellow debtor (Matthew 18:28-30). • 2 Timothy 3:1-3 warns that the last days will be marked by people who are “brutal, without love.” Cruelty is therefore a sign of spiritual decay, not strength. Brings trouble on himself • The same sow-reap law works negatively: “He who sows injustice will reap disaster” (Proverbs 22:8). • Trouble may appear as – Broken relationships (James 3:16) – Loss of reputation and trust (Proverbs 25:10) – Divine discipline: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay” (Hebrews 10:30) • Jesus warned, “In the same way you judge, you will be judged” (Matthew 7:2). Cruel treatment sets in motion consequences that inevitably circle back. summary Kindness is not only right; it is wise. God has woven blessing into compassionate living, so the one who practices mercy ultimately gains. Cruelty, by contrast, digs a pit the perpetrator will eventually fall into. Proverbs 11:17 therefore calls each of us to choose the path of kindness, confident that in doing good to others we secure God-given good for ourselves. |
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