What is the meaning of Proverbs 18:14?

The spirit of a man can endure his sickness

- Physical illness is real and painful, yet Scripture points to an inner strength that can “carry” a believer through it (Proverbs 18:14).

- A heart anchored in the Lord sustains courage even when the body weakens (2 Corinthians 4:16; Psalm 41:3).

- Cheerfulness and faith act like medicine: “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones” (Proverbs 17:22).

- Practical implications:

• Feed the spirit daily on God’s Word (Psalm 119:92).

• Lean on the prayers of others when too weak to pray (James 5:14-15).

• Remember that sickness is temporary in light of eternal life (Romans 8:18).

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but who can survive a broken spirit?

- When the inner person is crushed, even a healthy body feels lifeless; the verse poses the question to show the seriousness of despair (Proverbs 15:13).

- Examples in Scripture: Elijah under the broom tree (1 Kings 19:4-8) and David crying, “Why, my soul, are you downcast?” (Psalm 42:11).

- God’s remedy:

• He draws near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18).

• He revives the contrite (Isaiah 57:15).

• He offers rest for weary souls (Matthew 11:28-29).

- Community matters: “Two are better than one… if either of them falls, the one can help the other up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10).

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summary

Proverbs 18:14 teaches that inner resilience rooted in the Lord empowers a believer to face bodily illness, but a crushed spirit leaves a person defenseless. Guard the heart, nourish the spirit with truth, and rely on God’s presence and His people so that physical trials do not turn into spiritual defeat.