◄ Proverbs 11:8 ►
The righteous man is delivered from trouble; in his place the wicked man goes in.
Study Bible
The righteous
In the Hebrew text, the word for "righteous" is "צַדִּיק" (tzaddik). This term is deeply rooted in the concept of justice and moral integrity. In the biblical context, a righteous person is one who lives in accordance with God's laws and commands. Historically, the righteous were often seen as those who upheld the covenant with God, embodying His principles in their daily lives. The righteous are not merely those who perform good deeds but are those whose hearts are aligned with God's will. This alignment brings about a life that reflects God's character, and thus, they are often delivered from trials and tribulations.

is delivered
The Hebrew word for "delivered" is "יֵחָלֵץ" (yechaletz), which conveys the idea of being rescued or snatched away from danger. This term is frequently used in the Old Testament to describe God's intervention in the lives of His people, saving them from peril. The deliverance of the righteous is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing God's faithfulness and protective nature. It reassures believers that God is actively involved in their lives, providing a way out of difficult situations and ensuring their ultimate safety.

from trouble
The word "trouble" in Hebrew is "צָרָה" (tzarah), which can refer to distress, adversity, or affliction. In the biblical narrative, trouble often arises from external threats, such as enemies or natural disasters, but it can also stem from internal struggles, like sin or moral dilemmas. The promise that the righteous are delivered from trouble highlights God's sovereignty and His ability to transform challenging circumstances for the good of those who love Him. It serves as a reminder that while trouble is an inevitable part of life, it is not the final word for those who trust in God.

and it comes
The phrase "and it comes" suggests an inevitable shift or transfer. In the context of this verse, it indicates the movement of trouble from the righteous to another party. This transition underscores the justice of God, who ensures that the consequences of wickedness are not borne by the innocent. It reflects the biblical principle that God will ultimately set things right, rewarding the righteous and allowing the wicked to face the repercussions of their actions.

upon the wicked
The term "wicked" is translated from the Hebrew word "רָשָׁע" (rasha), which denotes those who are morally wrong, guilty, or hostile to God. In the biblical worldview, the wicked are those who reject God's laws and live in opposition to His ways. The fate of the wicked, as described in this verse, serves as a warning and a call to repentance. It illustrates the biblical truth that while God's patience is great, His justice will prevail. The troubles that befall the wicked are not arbitrary but are the result of their own choices and rebellion against God. This serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of aligning one's life with God's righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The Righteous Man
Represents those who live according to God's commandments and seek to align their lives with His will. In the Hebrew text, the word for "righteous" is (tzaddik), which implies someone who is just, lawful, and morally upright.

2. The Wicked Man
Symbolizes those who reject God's ways and live in opposition to His laws. The Hebrew term (rasha) is used, indicating someone who is guilty, criminal, or morally wrong.

3. Deliverance
This event refers to the act of being saved or rescued from danger or trouble. In the context of this verse, it highlights God's intervention on behalf of the righteous.

4. Trouble
Represents the challenges, dangers, or adversities that one might face in life. The Hebrew word (tzarah) is used, which can mean distress or affliction.

5. Divine Justice
The overarching theme of this verse is the concept of divine justice, where God ensures that the righteous are protected and the wicked face the consequences of their actions.
Teaching Points
God's Protection for the Righteous
The righteous can trust in God's protection and deliverance from life's troubles. This assurance should encourage believers to live uprightly, knowing that God is their refuge.

The Consequences of Wickedness
The wicked will ultimately face the consequences of their actions. This serves as a warning to avoid sinful behavior and to seek repentance and transformation through Christ.

Divine Justice and Sovereignty
God's justice is perfect and sovereign. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God sees all and will ensure that justice prevails, even if it is not immediately apparent.

Encouragement in Trials
When facing difficulties, believers should remember that God is faithful to deliver them. This perspective can provide hope and strength during challenging times.

Living a Righteous Life
The call to righteousness is not just about avoiding punishment but about living a life that reflects God's character and brings glory to Him.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does understanding the Hebrew terms for "righteous" and "wicked" deepen our comprehension of this proverb?

2. In what ways have you experienced God's deliverance in your own life, and how does this encourage you to live righteously?

3. How can the assurance of divine justice help you deal with situations where it seems like the wicked are prospering?

4. What practical steps can you take to ensure that you are living a life that aligns with the description of the "righteous man" in this proverb?

5. How do the additional scriptures connected to this verse reinforce the message of God's deliverance and justice?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Psalm 34:19
This verse speaks about the many afflictions of the righteous but assures that the Lord delivers them from all. It reinforces the idea of divine deliverance for those who are righteous.

Proverbs 21:18
This proverb also discusses the wicked being a ransom for the righteous, emphasizing the theme of divine justice and the eventual downfall of the wicked.

2 Peter 2:9
This New Testament verse highlights God's ability to rescue the godly from trials, connecting the Old Testament promise of deliverance to the New Testament assurance.
Sermons
Retributive JusticeC. Bridges.Proverbs 11:8
The Wicked Cometh in His SteadProverbs 11:8
Trouble in its Relation to the Righteous and the WickedD. Thomas, D.D.Proverbs 11:8
The Ways of Honour and of ShameE. Johnson Proverbs 11:1-11
The Pricelessness of IntegrityE. Johnson Proverbs 11:3-5, 8-11, 19, 20, 28, 31
Two Sad Aspects of DeathE. Johnson Proverbs 11:7-10
People
Solomon
Places
Jerusalem
Topics
Delivered, Distress, Drawn, Gets, Instead, Rescued, Righteous, Sinner, Stead, Takes, Trouble, Upright, Wicked
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Proverbs 11:8

     6738   rescue
     7150   righteous, the

Library
The Present Recompense
Chester Cathedral, Nave Service, Evening. May 1872. Proverbs xi. 31. "Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner." This is the key-note of the Book of Proverbs--that men are punished or rewarded according to their deeds in this life; nay, it is the key-note of the whole Old Testament. "The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and His ears are open unto their prayers; the countenance of the Lord is against them that do evil, to root out …
Charles Kingsley—All Saints' Day and Other Sermons

The Waterer Watered
A sermon (No. 626) delivered on Sunday Morning, April 23, 1865, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, by C. H. Spurgeon. "He that watereth shall be watered also himself."--Proverbs 11:25. The general principle is that in living for the good of others, we shall be profited also ourselves. We must not isolate our own interests, but feel that we live for others. This teaching is sustained by the analogy of nature, for in nature there is a law that no one thing can be independent of the rest of …
C.H. Spurgeon—Sermons on Proverbs

Withholding Corn
A sermon (No. 642) delivered on Sunday morning, July 30, 1865, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, by C. H. Spurgeon. "He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him: but blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it."--Proverbs 11:26. If I dared, I should always preach upon the comfortable promises and gracious doctrines of God's Word. I find it most delightful and easy work to expatiate upon those themes of revelation which abound in sweetness, and are full of savor and preciousness …
C.H. Spurgeon—Sermons on Proverbs

The Soul Winner
A sermon (No. 1292) delivered on Thursday evening, January 20th, 1876, at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, by C. H. Spurgeon. "The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise."--Proverbs 11:30. I had very great joy last night--many of you know why but some do not. We held our annual meeting of the church, and it was a very pleasant sight to see so many brethren and sisters knit together in the heartiest love, welded together as one mass by common sympathies, …
C.H. Spurgeon—Sermons on Proverbs

Soul Winning
A sermon (No. 850) delivered at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington, by C. H. Spurgeon. "He that winneth souls is wise."--Proverbs 11:30. The text does not say "he that winneth sovereigns is wise," though no doubt he thinks himself wise, and perhaps in a certain grovelling sense in these days of competition he must be so; but such wisdom is of the earth and ends with the earth; and there is another world where the currencies of Europe will not be accepted, nor their past possession be any sign …
C.H. Spurgeon—Sermons on Proverbs

To Win Souls Requires Wisdom.
Text.--He that winneth souls is wise.--Proverbs xi. 30. THE most common definition of wisdom is, that it is the choice of the best end and the selection of the most appropriate means for the accomplishment of that end--the best adaptation of means to secure a desired end. "He that winneth souls," God says, "is wise." The object of this evening's lecture is to direct Christians in the use of means for accomplishing their infinitely desirable end, the salvation of souls. To-night I shall confine my …
Charles Grandison Finney—Lectures on Revivals of Religion

A Wise Minister Will be Successful.
Text.--He that winneth souls is wise.--Proverbs xi. 30. I PREACHED last Friday evening from the same text, on the method of dealing with sinners by private Christians. My object at this time is to take up the more public means of grace, with particular reference to the DUTIES OF MINISTERS. As I observed in my last lecture, wisdom is the choice and pursuit of the best end by the most appropriate means. The great end for which the Christian Ministry was appointed, is to glorify God in the salvation …
Charles Grandison Finney—Lectures on Revivals of Religion

How to Preach the Gospel.
Text.--He that winneth souls is wise.--Proverbs xi. 30. ONE of the last remarks in my last lecture, was this, that the text ascribes conversion to men. Winning souls is converting men. This evening I design to show, I. That several passages of Scripture ascribe conversion to men. II. That this is consistent with other passages which ascribe conversion to God. III. I purpose to discuss several further particulars which are deemed important, in regard to the preaching of the Gospel, and which show …
Charles Grandison Finney—Lectures on Revivals of Religion

The Desire of the Righteous Granted;
OR, A DISCOURSE OF THE RIGHTEOUS MAN'S DESIRES. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR As the tree is known by its fruit, so is the state of a man's heart known by his desires. The desires of the righteous are the touchstone or standard of Christian sincerity--the evidence of the new birth--the spiritual barometer of faith and grace--and the springs of obedience. Christ and him crucified is the ground of all our hopes--the foundation upon which all our desires after God and holiness are built--and the root …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

How those are to be Admonished who Decline the Office of Preaching Out of Too Great Humility, and those who Seize on it with Precipitate Haste.
(Admonition 26.) Differently to be admonished are those who, though able to preach worthily, are afraid by reason of excessive humility, and those whom imperfection or age forbids to preach, and yet precipitancy impells. For those who, though able to preach with profit, still shrink back through excessive humility are to be admonished to gather from consideration of a lesser matter how faulty they are in a greater one. For, if they were to hide from their indigent neighbours money which they possessed …
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

Sanctions of Moral Law, Natural and Governmental.
In the discussion of this subject, I shall show-- I. What constitute the sanctions of law. 1. The sanctions of law are the motives to obedience, the natural and the governmental consequences or results of obedience and of disobedience. 2. They are remuneratory, that is, they promise reward to obedience. 3. They are vindicatory, that is, they threaten the disobedient with punishment. 4. They are natural, that is, happiness is to some extent naturally connected with, and the necessary consequence of, …
Charles Grandison Finney—Systematic Theology

Jesus, My Rock.
When the storm and the tempest are raging around me, Oh! where shall I flee to be safe from their shock? There are walls which no mortal hands built to surround me, A Refuge Eternal,--'Tis JESUS MY ROCK! When my heart is all sorrow, and trials aggrieve me, To whom can I safely my secrets unlock? No bosom (save one) has the power to relieve me, The bosom which bled for me, JESUS MY ROCK! When Life's gloomy curtain, at last, shall close o'er me, And the chill hand of death unexpectedly knock, I will …
John Ross Macduff—The Cities of Refuge: or, The Name of Jesus

George Muller, and the Secret of His
POWER IN PRAYER WHEN God wishes anew to teach His Church a truth that is not being understood or practised, He mostly does so by raising some man to be in word and deed a living witness to its blessedness. And so God has raised up in this nineteenth century, among others, George Muller to be His witness that He is indeed the Hearer of prayer. I know of no way in which the principal truths of God's word in regard to prayer can be more effectually illustrated and established than a short review …
Andrew Murray—With Christ in the School of Prayer

The Publication of the Gospel
The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it [or of the preachers] P erhaps no one Psalm has given greater exercise to the skill and patience of commentators and critics, than the sixty-eighth. I suppose the difficulties do not properly belong to the Psalm, but arise from our ignorance of various circumstances to which the Psalmist alludes; which probably were, at that time, generally known and understood. The first verse is the same with the stated form of benediction …
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 2

We Shall not be Curious in the Ranking of the Duties in which Christian Love...
We shall not be curious in the ranking of the duties in which Christian love should exercise itself. All the commandments of the second table are but branches of it: they might be reduced all to the works of righteousness and of mercy. But truly these are interwoven through other. Though mercy uses to be restricted to the showing of compassion upon men in misery, yet there is a righteousness in that mercy, and there is mercy in the most part of the acts of righteousness, as in not judging rashly, …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

Thoughts Upon Worldly-Riches. Sect. Ii.
TIMOTHY after his Conversion to the Christian Faith, being found to be a Man of great Parts, Learning, and Piety, and so every way qualified for the work of the Ministry, St. Paul who had planted a Church at Ephesus the Metropolis or chief City of all Asia, left him to dress and propagate it, after his departure from it, giving him Power to ordain Elders or Priests, and to visit and exercise Jurisdiction over them, to see they did not teach false Doctrines, 1 Tim. i. 3. That they be unblameable in …
William Beveridge—Private Thoughts Upon a Christian Life

Proverbs
Many specimens of the so-called Wisdom Literature are preserved for us in the book of Proverbs, for its contents are by no means confined to what we call proverbs. The first nine chapters constitute a continuous discourse, almost in the manner of a sermon; and of the last two chapters, ch. xxx. is largely made up of enigmas, and xxxi. is in part a description of the good housewife. All, however, are rightly subsumed under the idea of wisdom, which to the Hebrew had always moral relations. The Hebrew …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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