What is the meaning of Proverbs 13:23? Abundant food “Abundant food” (Proverbs 13:23a) highlights the generosity of God’s design. • God fills the earth with provision (Psalm 65:9–13; Matthew 6:26). • The phrase affirms that, under normal circumstances, diligent labor yields plenty (Proverbs 12:11; 14:23). • It invites gratitude and responsible stewardship, echoing 2 Corinthians 9:10, where God “supplies seed to the sower and bread for food.” is in the fallow ground The “fallow ground” is land lying unused yet rich with potential. • Untilled soil speaks of opportunity waiting to be cultivated (Proverbs 24:30–34). • Hosea 10:12 urges, “Break up your fallow ground,” underscoring personal responsibility to act on the resources God has placed within reach. • This principle applies beyond agriculture: talents, time, and ideas can remain untapped unless we engage them. of the poor God does not overlook the poor; He sees untapped potential in their plots, skills, and lives. • Poverty is real, yet dignity and capacity remain (Psalm 113:7; Proverbs 14:31). • Scripture shows the Lord as Defender of the needy (Proverbs 19:17) and calls His people to recognize their worth. • The verse assures that even limited means can yield abundance when combined with faithfulness. but without justice Justice is the moral guardrail that allows the poor to benefit from their own fields. • When fairness is absent—through oppression, corruption, or crooked systems—their produce is jeopardized (Isaiah 10:1–2; Amos 5:11–12). • Proverbs 28:3 depicts a “poor man who oppresses the poor,” reminding us that injustice can come from any quarter. • God requires rulers, employers, and neighbors alike to uphold equity so that labor’s reward reaches those who earned it. it is swept away The final warning pictures harvest being whisked off before the owner can enjoy it. • “Swept away” suggests seizure, decay, or loss through neglect (Micah 2:2; James 5:4). • Sin’s ripple effect means that when justice fails, society suffers; stolen abundance benefits no one for long (Proverbs 11:29). • The verse calls believers to active advocacy—protecting the vulnerable so their God-given increase is preserved. summary Proverbs 13:23 affirms that God has embedded plenty even in the humblest circumstances; diligent effort on seemingly unpromising ground can yield rich reward. Yet the verse also warns that, if justice is denied, that reward disappears. The Lord thus calls His people to honor both sides of the equation—work responsibly and defend righteousness—so that every person, including the poor, may enjoy the harvest God intends. |
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