Old Testament
Proverbs 23:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Don't let your heart envy sinners, but be in the fear of the LORD all the day long.
Compare translations
Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the LORD all the day long.
What Proverbs 23:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse advises against feeling jealous of those who seem to prosper through wrongdoing. Instead, it encourages maintaining a deep respect and reverence for God throughout the day. Envying sinners can lead to negative thoughts and actions, while focusing on the fear of the Lord helps cultivate a righteous life. The fear of the Lord is not about being scared, but about recognizing His power and authority, which guides us to make wise choices. By keeping our hearts aligned with God's values, we can resist the temptation to envy others and instead find contentment in our relationship with Him. This mindset fosters spiritual growth and helps us to live a life that honors God, rather than being swayed by the fleeting successes of those who do not follow His ways.
How to apply Proverbs 23:17 to your life
To apply this verse, focus on gratitude for what you have and seek to grow in your relationship with God. When you feel envy creeping in, redirect your thoughts to God's goodness and the blessings in your life. This practice can help you maintain a heart aligned with His will.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Proverbs 23:17
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Proverbs 23:17
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Proverbs
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 23:17 mean?
Proverbs 23:17 advises against envying those who seem to thrive through wrongdoing. Instead, it encourages maintaining a deep respect for God throughout the day, which helps guide our choices and fosters a righteous life.
What is the meaning of 'fear of the Lord' in Proverbs 23:17?
In Proverbs 23:17, 'fear of the Lord' refers to a deep respect and reverence for God, recognizing His power and authority. This mindset helps individuals make wise decisions and live in alignment with God's values.
How can I apply Proverbs 23:17 in my life?
To apply Proverbs 23:17, focus on gratitude for your blessings and strengthen your relationship with God. When feelings of envy arise, redirect your thoughts to God's goodness and the positive aspects of your life.
Why is it important to not envy sinners according to Proverbs 23:17?
Not envying sinners is important because it helps prevent negative thoughts and actions that can arise from jealousy. By focusing on the fear of the Lord, individuals can cultivate a life of wisdom and righteousness.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.