Proverbs 11:18

The wicked man earns an empty wage, but he who sows righteousness reaps a true reward.

Study Bible

The wicked man
The term "wicked" in Hebrew is "רָשָׁע" (rasha), which refers to someone who is morally wrong or guilty. In the context of Proverbs, the wicked man is one who lives in opposition to God's laws and principles. Historically, the wicked were often those who exploited others for personal gain, disregarding justice and righteousness. This phrase sets the stage for a contrast between two types of people: those who live for themselves and those who live according to God's ways.

earns an empty wage
The Hebrew word for "earns" is "עָשָׂה" (asah), meaning to do or make, implying effort or labor. "Empty wage" suggests a reward that is ultimately futile or meaningless. In the ancient Near Eastern context, wages were often paid in goods or currency that held tangible value. However, the "empty wage" here symbolizes the transient and unsatisfying nature of gains acquired through wickedness. This reflects the biblical principle that material wealth or success achieved through unrighteous means lacks true value and fulfillment.

but he who sows righteousness
"Sows" comes from the Hebrew "זָרַע" (zara), which means to scatter seed, indicating an intentional and ongoing action. "Righteousness" is "צְדָקָה" (tsedaqah), denoting justice, rightness, and adherence to God's standards. The agricultural metaphor of sowing suggests that living righteously is a deliberate and continuous process, much like planting seeds that require time and care to grow. In biblical times, sowing was a critical activity for survival, emphasizing the importance and eventual reward of living a life aligned with divine principles.

reaps a true reward
"Reaps" is derived from "קָצַר" (qatsar), meaning to harvest or gather. This implies a future return on the investment of righteousness. The "true reward" contrasts with the "empty wage" of the wicked, indicating a reward that is genuine, lasting, and fulfilling. In the scriptural context, this reward is not merely material but encompasses spiritual blessings, peace, and eternal life. The imagery of reaping suggests that just as a farmer patiently waits for the harvest, so too must the righteous trust in God's timing for their ultimate reward.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Wicked Man
Represents individuals who engage in unrighteous or immoral behavior, seeking gain through deceitful or unjust means.

2. The Righteous Sower
Symbolizes those who live according to God's principles, sowing seeds of righteousness through their actions and decisions.

3. The Concept of Reward
The verse contrasts the temporary and ultimately unsatisfying gains of the wicked with the lasting and fulfilling rewards of the righteous.

4. Agricultural Imagery
The use of sowing and reaping reflects the agrarian society of ancient Israel, where farming was a common livelihood and a metaphor for spiritual truths.

5. The Principle of Divine Justice
This event or concept underscores the biblical theme that God ultimately rewards righteousness and punishes wickedness.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Wicked Gains
The gains of the wicked are ultimately empty and unsatisfying, lacking eternal value.

The Lasting Reward of Righteousness
True rewards come from living a life of righteousness, aligning with God's will and principles.

The Importance of Intentional Living
Just as a farmer intentionally sows seeds, believers must intentionally sow righteousness in their daily lives.

Trust in God's Justice
Believers can trust that God sees their righteous actions and will reward them in His perfect timing.

The Call to Reflect Christ's Character
Sowing righteousness involves reflecting the character of Christ in our interactions and decisions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of sowing and reaping in Proverbs 11:18 challenge you to evaluate your daily actions and decisions?

2. In what ways can you intentionally sow righteousness in your current circumstances, and what might be the potential rewards?

3. How do the additional scriptures connected to this verse reinforce the principle of divine justice and reward?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced the emptiness of pursuing wicked gains. How did that experience shape your understanding of true reward?

5. How can you encourage others in your community or church to pursue righteousness and trust in God's promise of a true reward?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Galatians 6:7-9
This passage echoes the principle of sowing and reaping, emphasizing that God is not mocked and that individuals will reap what they sow, whether to the flesh or the Spirit.

Psalm 126:5-6
These verses highlight the joy and fulfillment that come from sowing in righteousness, promising a harvest of joy for those who sow with tears.

Matthew 6:19-21
Jesus teaches about storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, aligning with the idea of seeking true, eternal rewards rather than temporary, empty gains.

James 3:18
This verse speaks of the fruit of righteousness being sown in peace by those who make peace, reinforcing the concept of righteous living leading to a true reward.