What is the meaning of Proverbs 15:29? The LORD • “The LORD” (Yahweh) reminds us that the covenant-keeping God of Israel is in view—personal, relational, unchanging (Malachi 3:6). • He is both transcendent and near: “The LORD is in His holy temple” (Habakkuk 2:20), yet “He is not far from each one of us” (Acts 17:27). • His character sets the standard for the entire proverb: holiness that cannot overlook wickedness and love that gladly welcomes the righteous. is far from the wicked • Moral distance, not spatial: sin erects a barrier (Isaiah 59:1-2). • “The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable to the LORD” (Proverbs 15:8); external religion cannot bridge this gap. • Cross references underline the same truth: – Psalm 34:16: “The face of the LORD is against those who do evil.” – Proverbs 28:9: “If anyone turns a deaf ear to the law, even his prayer is detestable.” • Application: unrepentant wickedness severs fellowship; only repentance and faith in Christ remove the separation (Acts 3:19). but He hears • A striking contrast: God’s attentive ear toward another group. • “Hears” implies active listening, favor, and response (Psalm 40:1). • 1 John 5:14 reinforces this privilege: “If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.” • The conjunction “but” highlights God’s moral discrimination—He is not indifferent; He distinguishes between rebellion and obedience. the prayer of the righteous • “Righteous” describes those in right standing with God—justified by faith and walking in obedience (Romans 5:1; Psalm 1:6). • Their prayers delight Him: “The prayer of the upright is His pleasure” (Proverbs 15:8). • Practical encouragement: – James 5:16: “The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail.” – 1 Peter 3:12: “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are inclined to their prayer.” • This is not sinless perfection but a life turned toward God, cleansed by Christ, and committed to His ways (1 John 1:9). summary Proverbs 15:29 draws a sharp moral line: unrepentant wickedness pushes God away, while humble righteousness draws His attentive ear. The verse affirms both God’s holiness and His fatherly responsiveness. For believers, the call is clear—turn from sin, stand in Christ’s righteousness, and pray with confidence, knowing the LORD delights to listen and answer. |
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