Old Testament
Proverbs 14:2
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse highlights the importance of integrity and the fear of the Lord.
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Whoever walks in their integrity fears the LORD, but whoever is perverse in their ways despises him.
He that walketh in his uprightness feareth the LORD: but he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the importance of integrity and the fear of the Lord. It suggests that those who live honestly and uprightly show reverence for God, while those who act in a twisted or dishonest manner demonstrate a lack of respect for Him. Integrity is portrayed as a guiding principle that aligns one's actions with God's will. The contrast between the upright and the perverse serves to remind readers that their moral choices reflect their relationship with God. Walking in integrity means making choices that are consistent with God's standards, while being perverse indicates a rejection of those standards. Ultimately, this verse encourages individuals to evaluate their lives and consider how their actions align with their faith and respect for God.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Proverbs 14:2 to your life
To apply this verse, strive to live with integrity in all areas of life. Make decisions that reflect honesty and respect for God. Regularly assess your actions and motivations, ensuring they align with your faith. This will strengthen your relationship with God and guide you in making wise choices.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 14:2 teach about integrity?
Proverbs 14:2 emphasizes that integrity is crucial for a faithful life. It teaches that those who walk in integrity demonstrate a deep respect for God, aligning their actions with His will. This verse encourages individuals to live honestly and uprightly, suggesting that integrity is not just a personal trait but a reflection of one's relationship with God.
How can I apply the message of Proverbs 14:2 in my daily life?
To apply Proverbs 14:2, focus on making choices that reflect honesty and moral uprightness in all aspects of your life. Regularly evaluate your decisions and ensure they align with your faith and God's standards. This practice will not only strengthen your relationship with God but also guide you in making wise and respectful choices.
What is the significance of fearing the Lord in Proverbs 14:2?
Fearing the Lord, as mentioned in Proverbs 14:2, signifies a deep reverence and respect for God. It implies recognizing His authority and aligning one's life according to His principles. This fear is not about being afraid but about honoring God through integrity and moral choices, which ultimately leads to a fulfilling and righteous life.
How does Proverbs 14:2 relate to moral choices in life?
Proverbs 14:2 directly relates to moral choices by illustrating the consequences of living with integrity versus being perverse. It suggests that our actions reflect our relationship with God. Making moral choices that align with integrity shows reverence for God, while perverse actions indicate a disregard for His standards. This verse serves as a reminder to evaluate our decisions in light of our faith.

The Book of Proverbs
Proverbs 1: The Beginning of Knowledge
These are the proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel. They are given to know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, and to receive instruction in wise behavior, justice, judgment, and fairness. They are written to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young. A wise person hears and increases learning, and a person of understanding gains wise counsel. The fear of the LORD is stated as the beginning of knowledge, while fools despise wisdom and instruction.
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