Proverbs 14:34
Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.
Righteousness
The Hebrew word for "righteousness" is "צְדָקָה" (tsedaqah), which conveys a sense of justice, moral integrity, and adherence to God's laws. In the context of ancient Israel, righteousness was not merely a personal virtue but a communal one, reflecting the nation's covenant relationship with God. Righteousness is foundational to the character of God and is expected of His people. It implies living in a way that is pleasing to God, aligning with His will, and promoting justice and fairness in society. In a conservative Christian perspective, righteousness is seen as both imputed through faith in Christ and lived out through the power of the Holy Spirit.

exalts
The term "exalts" comes from the Hebrew "רוּם" (rum), meaning to lift up or elevate. This word suggests that righteousness has the power to elevate a nation, bringing it honor, prosperity, and divine favor. Historically, nations that have embraced principles of justice and moral integrity have often experienced stability and growth. From a biblical standpoint, when a nation collectively seeks to uphold God's standards, it is lifted up in the eyes of God and man, experiencing blessings and influence.

a nation
The phrase "a nation" refers to a collective group of people bound by common identity, culture, and governance. In the biblical context, this often referred to Israel, God's chosen people, but it can also apply to any nation that seeks to align itself with God's principles. The health and prosperity of a nation are seen as directly linked to its moral and spiritual state. Conservative Christian thought emphasizes the importance of national repentance and revival, urging nations to return to biblical values to experience God's blessing.

but sin
"Sin" is translated from the Hebrew word "חַטָּאת" (chatta'ah), which means to miss the mark or to transgress. Sin is the antithesis of righteousness and represents rebellion against God's laws. It is a moral failing that brings about separation from God and leads to societal decay. In the biblical narrative, sin is often depicted as the root cause of a nation's downfall, leading to judgment and destruction. Conservative Christianity stresses the need for repentance and turning away from sin to restore right standing with God.

is a disgrace
The word "disgrace" is derived from the Hebrew "חֶסֶד" (chesed), which in this context means shame or reproach. Sin brings disgrace to a nation by tarnishing its reputation and leading to negative consequences. Historically, nations that have embraced sinful practices have faced internal strife, economic decline, and loss of influence. From a conservative Christian viewpoint, sin not only dishonors God but also brings shame upon a nation, highlighting the urgent need for moral and spiritual renewal.

to any people
This phrase emphasizes the universal application of the proverb. "Any people" indicates that the principles of righteousness and sin apply to all nations and cultures, regardless of their historical or geographical context. The moral and spiritual laws of God are seen as universal truths that transcend time and place. Conservative Christianity holds that every nation is accountable to God and that adherence to His principles is essential for true prosperity and honor.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Solomon
Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His reign was marked by peace and prosperity, which he attributed to following God's laws.

2. Israel
The nation of Israel serves as a historical backdrop for the Proverbs. The nation's history is filled with cycles of righteousness leading to blessing and sin leading to disgrace.

3. The Kingdom of God
While not directly mentioned, the concept of a nation under God's rule is central to understanding the implications of righteousness and sin.
Teaching Points
The Power of Righteousness
Righteousness, derived from the Hebrew word "tsedaqah," implies justice, rightness, and ethical conduct. It is a powerful force that can elevate a nation, bringing it honor and divine favor.

The Consequences of Sin
Sin, from the Hebrew "chatta'ah," signifies missing the mark or rebellion against God's standards. It brings disgrace, not only to individuals but to entire communities and nations.

National and Personal Responsibility
While the verse speaks to nations, it also applies to individuals. Personal righteousness contributes to the moral fabric of society, while personal sin can lead to communal disgrace.

The Role of Leadership
Leaders have a significant impact on the moral direction of a nation. Godly leadership can guide a nation towards righteousness, while ungodly leadership can lead it into sin.

Prayer and Intercession
Believers are called to pray for their nation and its leaders, seeking God's guidance and intervention to promote righteousness and avert disgrace.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the concept of righteousness in Proverbs 14:34 relate to the blessings and curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28?

2. In what ways can individual righteousness contribute to the exaltation of a nation?

3. How can believers actively promote righteousness within their communities and nations?

4. What are some modern examples of nations experiencing the consequences of sin as described in Proverbs 14:34?

5. How can the principles in Proverbs 14:34 guide our prayers for national and local leaders?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, illustrating the principle that righteousness exalts a nation.

Psalm 33:12
This verse speaks to the blessedness of a nation whose God is the Lord, reinforcing the idea that divine favor is linked to righteousness.

Romans 1:18-32
Paul discusses the consequences of sin and how it leads to disgrace, paralleling the second part of Proverbs 14:34.
Christian Institutions Useful to the NationWesleyan S. S. MagazineProverbs 14:34
Christian PolitiesW. J. Acomb.Proverbs 14:34
Ministers of Religion to Aid National RighteousnessG. F. Greene.Proverbs 14:34
National ExaltationG. J. Morehead, M.A.Proverbs 14:34
Of the Importance of Righteousness to Civil Liberty and National ProsperityW. Thorburn.Proverbs 14:34
Our National Sins and PenaltiesArchbishop Temple.Proverbs 14:34
Politics and MoralsE. Burke.Proverbs 14:34
Rectitude UpliftingHomilistProverbs 14:34
Religion Promotes Civil WelfareJ. Saurin.Proverbs 14:34
The Advantages of Religion to SocietiesJ. Tillotson, D.D.Proverbs 14:34
The Benefits of RighteousnessH. Melvill.Proverbs 14:34
The Blessings of Religion to a NationBishop Patrick Symon.Proverbs 14:34
The Evil Effects of SinD. Emmons, D.D.Proverbs 14:34
The Glory of a NationJ. B. Romeyn, B.D.Proverbs 14:34
The Harmony of Religion and Civil PolityJ. Saurin.Proverbs 14:34
The Strength and the Reproach of NationsW. Clarkson Proverbs 14:34
Virtue Essential to National ProsperityBishop Newton.Proverbs 14:34
Life ContrastsE. Johnson Proverbs 14:28-35
People
Solomon
Places
Jerusalem
Topics
Cause, Disgrace, Exalteth, Exalts, Goodliness, Lifted, Nation, Peoples, Reproach, Righteousness, Shame, Sin, Sin-offering
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Proverbs 14:34

     5424   nationalism
     5947   shame
     6024   sin, effects of
     8154   righteousness
     8243   ethics, social

Library
A Startling Statement
TEXT: "The wicked shall not be unpunished."--Prov. 11:21. There are very many passages of Scripture which ought to be read in connection with this text; as for example, "Fools make a mock at sin" (Proverbs 14:9), for only a fool would. Better trifle with the pestilence and expose one's self to the plague than to discount the blighting effects of sin. And, again, "The soul that sinneth it shall die" (Ezekiel 18:4). From this clear statement of the word of God there is no escape. Or, again, "Our
J. Wilbur Chapman—And Judas Iscariot

Hollow Laughter, Solid Joy
'Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; and the end of that mirth is heaviness.'--PROVERBS xiv. 13. 'These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be fulfilled.'--JOHN xv. 11 (R.V.). A poet, who used to be more fashionable than he is now, pronounces 'happiness' to be our being's end and aim. That is not true, except under great limitations and with many explanations. It may be regarded as God's end, but it is ruinous to make it man's aim. It is by no means
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Satisfied from Self
'... A good man shall be satisfied from himself.'--PROVERBS xiv. 14. At first sight this saying strikes one as somewhat unlike the ordinary Scripture tone, and savouring rather of a Stoical self-complacency; but we recall parallel sayings, such as Christ's words, 'The water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water'; and the Apostle's, 'Then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone.' We further note that the text has an antithetic parallel in the preceding clause, where the picture is
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Sin the Mocker
'Fools make a mock at sin; but among the righteous there is favour.'--Proverbs xiv, 9. The wisdom of this Book of Proverbs is not simply intellectual, but it has its roots in reverence and obedience to God, and for its accompaniment, righteousness. The wise man is the good man, and the good man is the godly man. And as is wisdom, so its opposite, folly, is not only intellectual feebleness--the bad man is a fool, and the godless is a bad man. The greatest amount of brain-power cultivated to the highest
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

How a Man's Conduct Comes Home to Him
A sermon (No. 1235) delivered on Lord's Day Morning, May 16th, 1875, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, by C. H. Spurgeon. "The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself."--Proverbs 14:14. A common principle is here laid down and declared to be equally true in reference to two characters, who in other respects are a contrast. Men are affected by the course which they pursue; for good or bad, their own conduct comes home to them.
C.H. Spurgeon—Sermons on Proverbs

Godly Fear and Its Goodly Consequence
A sermon (No. 1290) delivered at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, by C. H. Spurgeon. "In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge."--Proverbs 14:26. In the Book of Proverbs you meet with sentences of pithy wisdom, which to all appearance belong entirely to this world, and pertain to the economy of the life that now is. I do not know whether it is true, but it was said that years ago our friends in Scotland had a little book widely circulated
C.H. Spurgeon—Sermons on Proverbs

"Boast not Thyself of to Morrow, for Thou Knowest not what a Day May Bring Forth. "
Prov. xxvii. 1.--"Boast not thyself of to morrow, for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth." As man is naturally given to boasting and gloriation in something (for the heart cannot want some object to rest upon and take complacency in, it is framed with such a capacity of employing other things), so there is a strong inclination in man towards the time to come, he hath an immortal appetite, and an appetite of immortality; and therefore his desires usually stretch farther than the present
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

Work
(Twenty-fourth Sunday after Trinity.) Proverbs xiv. 23. In all labour there is profit. I fear there are more lessons in the Book of Proverbs than most of us care to learn. There is a lesson in every verse of it, and a shrewd one. Certain I am, that for a practical, business man, who has to do his duty and to make his way in this world, there is no guide so safe as these same Proverbs of Solomon. In this world, I say; for they say little about the world to come. Their doctrine is, that what
Charles Kingsley—Town and Country Sermons

The Backslider in Heart.
Text.--The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways.--Prov. xiv. 14. I CANNOT conclude this course of lectures, without warning converts against backsliding. In discussing this subject, I will state, I. What backsliding in heart is not. II. What backsliding in heart is. III. What are evidences of backsliding in heart. IV. Show what are consequences of backsliding in heart. V. How to recover from this state. I. What backsliding in heart is not. 1. It does not consist in the subsidence
Charles Grandison Finney—Lectures on Revivals of Religion

Have Read the Letter which You in Your Wisdom have Written Me. You Inveigh against Me
I have read the letter which you in your wisdom have written me. You inveigh against me, and, though you once praised me and called me true partner and brother, you now write books to summon me to reply to the charges with which you terrify me. I see that in you are fulfilled the words of Solomon: "In the mouth of the foolish is the rod of contumely," and "A fool receives not the words of prudence, unless you say what is passing in his heart;" and the words of Isaiah: "The fool will speak folly,
Various—Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus.

Epistle Lxix. To Brunichild, Queen of the Franks.
To Brunichild, Queen of the Franks. Gregory to Brunichild, &c. Since it is written, Righteousness exalteth a nation; but sin maketh peoples miserable (Prov. xiv. 34), a kingdom is then believed to be stable when a fault that is known of is quickly amended. Now it has come to our ears by the report of many, what we cannot mention without exceeding affliction of heart, that certain priests in those parts live so immodestly and wickedly that it is a shame for us to hear of it and lamentable to tell
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

Epistle xxx. To Eulogius, Bishop of Alexandria.
To Eulogius, Bishop of Alexandria. Gregory to Eulogius, &c. Our common son, the bearer of these presents, when he brought the letters of your Holiness found me sick, and has left me sick; whence it has ensued that the scanty water of my brief epistle has been hardly able to exude to the large fountain of your Blessedness. But it was a heavenly boon that, while in a state of bodily pain, I received the letter of your Holiness to lift me up with joy for the instruction of the heretics of the city
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

The Intercession of Christ
Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us! T he Redemption of the soul is precious. Fools make mock of sin (Proverbs 14:9) . But they will not think lightly of it, who duly consider the majesty, authority, and goodness of Him, against whom it is committed; and who are taught, by what God actually has done, what sin rendered necessary to be done, before a sinner could have a well-grounded
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 2

Some Helps to Mourning
Having removed the obstructions, let me in the last place propound some helps to holy mourning. 1 Set David's prospect continually before you. My sin is ever before me' (Psalm 51:3). David, that he might be a mourner, kept his eye full upon sin. See what sin is, and then tell me if there be not enough in it to draw forth tears. I know not what name to give it bad enough. One calls it the devil's excrement. Sin is a complication of all evils. It is the spirits of mischief distilled. Sin dishonours
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12

Epistle Xlii. To Eulogius, Patriarch of Alexandria.
To Eulogius, Patriarch of Alexandria. Gregory to Eulogius, &c. We return great thanks to Almighty God, that in the mouth of the heart a sweet savour of charity is experienced, when that which is written is fulfilled, As cold water to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country (Prov. xxv. 25). For I had previously been greatly disturbed by a letter from Boniface the Chartularius, my responsalis, who dwells in the royal city, saying that your to me most sweet and pleasant Holiness had suffered
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

How the Kindly-Disposed and the Envious are to be Admonished.
(Admonition 11.) Differently to be admonished are the kindly-disposed and the envious. For the kindly-disposed are to be admonished so to rejoice in what is good in others as to desire to have the like as their own; so to praise with affection the deeds of their neighbours as also to multiply them by imitation, lest in this stadium of the present life they assist at the contest of others as eager backers, but inert spectators, and remain without a prize after the contest, in that they toiled not
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

A Believer's Privilege at Death
'For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.' Phil 1:1I. Hope is a Christian's anchor, which he casts within the veil. Rejoicing in hope.' Rom 12:12. A Christian's hope is not in this life, but he hash hope in his death.' Prov 14:42. The best of a saint's comfort begins when his life ends; but the wicked have all their heaven here. Woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation.' Luke 6:64. You may make your acquittance, and write Received in full payment.' Son, remember that
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

"And These Things Write we unto You, that Your Joy May be Full. "
1 John i. 4.--"And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full." All motions tend to rest and quietness. We see it daily in the motions below, and we believe it also of the circular revolutions of the heavens above, that there is a day coming in which they shall cease, as having performed all they were appointed for. And as it is in things natural, so it is in things rational in a more eminent way. Their desires, affections, and actions, which are the motions and stretches of the soul
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

Spiritual Hunger Shall be Satisfied
They shall be filled. Matthew 5:6 I proceed now to the second part of the text. A promise annexed. They shall be filled'. A Christian fighting with sin is not like one that beats the air' (1 Corinthians 9:26), and his hungering after righteousness is not like one that sucks in only air, Blessed are they that hunger, for they shall be filled.' Those that hunger after righteousness shall be filled. God never bids us seek him in vain' (Isaiah 45:19). Here is an honeycomb dropping into the mouths of
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12

The Royal Marriage Feast.
PART I.--THE WEDDING GUESTS. "And Jesus answered, and spake unto them again by parables, and said, The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come. Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage. But they made light of
William Arnot—The Parables of Our Lord

"Now the God of Hope Fill You with all Joy and Peace in Believing," &C.
Rom. xv. 13.--"Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing," &c. It is usual for the Lord in his word to turn his precepts unto promises, which shows us, that the commandments of God do not so much import an ability in us, or suppose strength to fulfil them, as declare that obligation which lies upon us, and his purpose and intention to accomplish in some, what he requires of all: and therefore we should accordingly convert all his precepts unto prayers, seeing he hath made
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

How Christ is the Way in General, "I am the Way. "
We come now to speak more particularly to the words; and, first, Of his being a way. Our design being to point at the way of use-making of Christ in all our necessities, straits, and difficulties which are in our way to heaven; and particularly to point out the way how believers should make use of Christ in all their particular exigencies; and so live by faith in him, walk in him, grow up in him, advance and march forward toward glory in him. It will not be amiss to speak of this fulness of Christ
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life

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