Proverbs 10:3
The LORD does not let the righteous go hungry, but He denies the craving of the wicked.
The LORD
The term "LORD" in this context is derived from the Hebrew word "Yahweh," which is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. In the conservative Christian perspective, this highlights God's sovereignty and His personal relationship with His people. Yahweh is not a distant deity but an intimately involved God who cares for the needs of His followers.

does not let
This phrase underscores God's active role in the lives of the righteous. The Hebrew verb here suggests a deliberate action, indicating that God is not passive but actively ensures the well-being of His people. This reflects the biblical theme of divine providence, where God orchestrates circumstances to fulfill His purposes and care for His children.

the righteous
The "righteous" are those who live in accordance with God's laws and principles. In Hebrew, the word "tsaddiq" refers to individuals who are just, ethical, and in right standing with God. From a conservative Christian viewpoint, righteousness is not merely about moral behavior but is rooted in a relationship with God through faith, ultimately fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ.

go hungry
The phrase "go hungry" implies a lack of basic needs, particularly food, which is essential for survival. In the ancient Near Eastern context, hunger was a common threat due to famine, war, or poverty. This promise assures believers that God will provide for their essential needs, echoing Jesus' teaching in the New Testament that God cares for the birds and will certainly care for His people (Matthew 6:26).

but He denies
The word "denies" indicates a refusal or withholding. In Hebrew, it conveys the idea of restraining or holding back. This action is intentional, showing that God actively opposes the desires of the wicked. It reflects the biblical principle that God is just and will not support or enable evil.

the craving
"Craving" refers to intense desires or longings, often associated with selfish or sinful pursuits. The Hebrew term can imply a sense of greed or insatiable appetite. In a conservative Christian understanding, this highlights the futility of seeking fulfillment outside of God's will, as such desires are ultimately unsatisfying and lead to spiritual emptiness.

of the wicked
The "wicked" are those who live in opposition to God's ways. The Hebrew word "rasha" describes individuals who are morally corrupt and unjust. From a biblical perspective, wickedness is not just about actions but a heart condition that rejects God's authority. This verse serves as a warning that a life apart from God leads to unfulfilled desires and spiritual barrenness.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. In this context, He is portrayed as the provider and sustainer of the righteous.

2. The Righteous
Those who live in accordance with God's will and commandments. In the Hebrew context, "righteous" (tzaddik) refers to individuals who are just and morally upright.

3. The Wicked
Those who live in opposition to God's will. The Hebrew word for "wicked" (rasha) implies guilt and wrongdoing.
Teaching Points
Divine Provision for the Righteous
God is faithful to provide for those who live according to His will. This provision may not always be material but includes spiritual sustenance and peace.

The Consequences of Wickedness
The cravings of the wicked are denied, highlighting the futility of living in opposition to God. This serves as a warning against pursuing selfish desires.

Trust in God's Timing
The righteous are called to trust in God's timing and methods of provision, understanding that His ways are higher than ours.

Contentment in God's Provision
Believers are encouraged to find contentment in what God provides, recognizing that He knows what is best for us.

Pursuing Righteousness
The pursuit of righteousness should be a priority, as it aligns us with God's promises and blessings.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does understanding the character of God as a provider influence your daily trust in Him?

2. In what ways can you pursue righteousness in your life, and how does this align with the promise of provision in Proverbs 10:3?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision in an unexpected way. How did this strengthen your faith?

4. How can the denial of the cravings of the wicked serve as a warning in your personal walk with God?

5. How do the additional scriptures connected to Proverbs 10:3 reinforce the message of divine provision and righteousness?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Psalm 34:10
This verse echoes the promise that those who seek the LORD will lack no good thing, reinforcing the idea that God provides for the righteous.

Matthew 6:33
Jesus teaches about seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, with the promise that all necessary things will be added, aligning with the theme of divine provision.

Philippians 4:19
Paul assures that God will supply all needs according to His riches in glory, which complements the promise of provision for the righteous.
The Famishing of the SoulR. Wardlaw.Proverbs 10:3
The Lord and the RighteousSkeletons of SermonsProverbs 10:3
Four Conditions of Well BeingW. Clarkson Proverbs 10:2-6
Moral Contrast in Earthly Lot and DestinyE. Johnson Proverbs 10:2-7
People
Solomon
Places
Jerusalem
Topics
Allow, Casteth, Causeth, Craving, Desire, Evil-doers, Famish, Hunger, Hungry, Puts, Reject, Repelleth, Righteous, Soul, Substance, Suffer, Suffereth, Thrusteth, Thrusts, Thwarts, Upright, Wicked
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Proverbs 10:3

     5185   stomach
     5481   proverb
     7150   righteous, the

Proverbs 10:2-3

     8158   righteousness, of believers

Library
The Two-Fold Aspect of the Divine Working
'The way of the Lord is strength to the upright: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.'--PROVERBS x. 29. You observe that the words 'shall be,' in the last clause, are a supplement. They are quite unnecessary, and in fact they rather hinder the sense. They destroy the completeness of the antithesis between the two halves of the verse. If you leave them out, and suppose that the 'way of the Lord' is what is spoken of in both clauses, you get a far deeper and fuller meaning. 'The way
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Folly of Slander. Part 1.
"He that uttereth slander is a fool."--Prov. x. 18. General declamations against vice and sin are indeed excellently useful, as rousing men to consider and look about them: but they do often want effect, because they only raise confused apprehensions of things, and indeterminate propensions to action; which usually, before men thoroughly perceive or resolve what they should practise, do decay and vanish. As he that cries out "Fire!" doth stir up people, and inspireth them with a kind of hovering
Isaac Barrow—Sermons on Evil-Speaking, by Isaac Barrow

The Folly of Slander. Part 2.
"He that uttereth slander is a fool."--Prov. x. 18. I have formerly in this place, discoursing upon this text, explained the nature of the sin here condemned, with its several kinds and ways of practising. II. I shall now proceed to declare the folly of it; and to make good by divers reasons the assertion of the wise man, that "He who uttereth slander is a fool." 1. Slandering is foolish, as sinful and wicked. All sin is foolish upon many accounts; as proceeding from ignorance, error, inconsiderateness,
Isaac Barrow—Sermons on Evil-Speaking, by Isaac Barrow

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

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

Lii. Trust in God.
15th Sunday after Trinity. S. Matt. vi. 31. "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness." INTRODUCTION.--We read in ancient Roman history that a general named Aemilius Paulus was appointed to the Roman army in a time of war and great apprehension. He found in the army a sad condition of affairs, there were more officers than fighting men, and all these officers wanted to have their advice taken, and the war conducted in accordance with their several opinions. Then Aemilius Paulus
S. Baring-Gould—The Village Pulpit, Volume II. Trinity to Advent

The Death and the Raising of Lazarus - the Question of Miracles and of this Miracle of Miracles - views of Negative Criticism on this History
From listening to the teaching of Christ, we turn once more to follow His working. It will be remembered, that the visit to Bethany divides the period from the Feast of the Dedication to the last Paschal week into two parts. It also forms the prelude and preparation for the awful events of the End. For, it was on that occasion that the members of the Sanhedrin formally resolved on His Death. It now only remained to settle and carry out the plans for giving effect to their purpose. This is one aspect
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

The Christian's Hope
Scripture references: 1 Timothy 1:1; Colossians 1:27; Psalm 130:5; 43:5; Proverbs 10:8; Acts 24:15; Psalm 71:5; Romans 5:1-5; 12:12; 15:4; 1 Corinthians 9:10; Galatians 5:5; Ephesians 1:18; Philippians 1:20; Colossians 1:5; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 2:19; Titus 1:2; 2:13; 3:7; Psalm 31:24; 71:14,15. HOPE IN THE PRESENT LIFE That which a man ardently hopes for he strives to realize. If he desires fame, office or wealth he will seek to set forces in motion, here and now, which will bring him that which
Henry T. Sell—Studies in the Life of the Christian

Letter xxxi (A. D. 1132) to the Abbot of a Certain Monastery at York, from which the Prior had Departed, Taking Several Religious with Him.
To the Abbot of a Certain Monastery at York, from Which the Prior Had Departed, Taking Several Religious with Him. [50] 1. You write to me from beyond the sea to ask of me advice which I should have preferred that you had sought from some other. I am held between two difficulties, for if I do not reply to you, you may take my silence for a sign of contempt; but if I do reply I cannot avoid danger, since whatever I reply I must of necessity either give scandal to some one or give to some other a security
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux

The Poor in Spirit are Enriched with a Kingdom
Theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:3 Here is high preferment for the saints. They shall be advanced to a kingdom. There are some who, aspiring after earthly greatness, talk of a temporal reign here, but then God's church on earth would not be militant but triumphant. But sure it is the saints shall reign in a glorious manner: Theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.' A kingdom is held the acme and top of all worldly felicity, and this honour have all the saints'; so says our Saviour, Theirs is the
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12

The Heavenly Footman; Or, a Description of the Man that Gets to Heaven:
TOGETHER WITH THE WAY HE RUNS IN, THE MARKS HE GOES BY; ALSO, SOME DIRECTIONS HOW TO RUN SO AS TO OBTAIN. 'And it came to pass, when they had brought them forth abroad, that he said, Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain: escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed.'--Genesis 19:17. London: Printed for John Marshall, at the Bible in Gracechurch Street, 1698. ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. About forty years ago a gentleman, in whose company I had commenced my
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

How the Simple and the Crafty are to be Admonished.
(Admonition 12.) Differently to be admonished are the simple and the insincere. The simple are to be praised for studying never to say what is false, but to be admonished to know how sometimes to be silent about what is true. For, as falsehood has always harmed him that speaks it, so sometimes the hearing of truth has done harm to some. Wherefore the Lord before His disciples, tempering His speech with silence, says, I have many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now (Joh. xvi. 12).
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

Letter xv (Circa A. D. 1129) to Alvisus, Abbot of Anchin
To Alvisus, Abbot of Anchin He praises the fatherly gentleness of Alvisus towards Godwin. He excuses himself, and asks pardon for having admitted him. To Alvisus, Abbot of Anchin. [18] 1. May God render to you the same mercy which you have shown towards your holy son Godwin. I know that at the news of his death you showed yourself unmindful of old complaints, and remembering only your friendship for him, behaved with kindness, not resentment, and putting aside the character of judge, showed yourself
Saint Bernard of Clairvaux—Some Letters of Saint Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux

Jesus Heals Multitudes Beside the Sea of Galilee.
^A Matt. XII. 15-21; ^B Mark III. 7-12. ^a 15 And Jesus perceiving it withdrew ^b with his disciples ^a from thence: ^b to the sea [This was the first withdrawal of Jesus for the avowed purpose of self-preservation. After this we find Jesus constantly retiring to avoid the plots of his enemies. The Sea of Galilee, with its boats and its shores touching different jurisdictions, formed a convenient and fairly safe retreat]: ^a and many followed him; ^b and a great multitude from Galilee followed; and
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

How the Silent and the Talkative are to be Admonished.
(Admonition 15.) Differently to be admonished are the over-silent, and those who spend time in much speaking. For it ought to be insinuated to the over-silent that while they shun some vices unadvisedly, they are, without its being perceived, implicated in worse. For often from bridling the tongue overmuch they suffer from more grievous loquacity in the heart; so that thoughts seethe the more in the mind from being straitened by the violent guard of indiscreet silence. And for the most part they
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

"But Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God, and his Righteousness, and all These Things Shall be Added unto You. "
Matth. vi. 33.--"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you." The perfection even of the most upright creature, speaks always some imperfection in comparison of God, who is most perfect. The heavens, the sun and moon, in respect of lower things here, how glorious do they appear, and without spot! But behold, they are not clean in God's sight! How far are the angels above us who dwell in clay! They appear to be a pure mass of light and
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

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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