Proverbs 11:18
The wicked man earns an empty wage, but he who sows righteousness reaps a true reward.
Berean Standard Bible
In The King James Version
The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward.
In Context
17A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself.
19Genuine righteousness leads to life, but the pursuit of evil brings death.
Cross References
Psalms 126:5Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy.
Proverbs 5:22The iniquities of a wicked man entrap him; the cords of his sin entangle him.
Ecclesiastes 10:8He who digs a pit may fall into it, and he who breaches a wall may be bitten by a snake.
Hosea 10:2Their hearts are devious; now they must bear their guilt. The LORD will break down their altars and demolish their sacred pillars.
Galatians 6:8The one who sows to please his flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; but the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
James 3:18Peacemakers who sow in peace reap the fruit of righteousness.
Matthew Henry on Proverbs 11:18
17 The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh. It is a common principle, Every one for himself. Proximus egomet mihi—None so near to me as myself. Now, if this be rightly understood, it will be a reason for the cherishing of gracious dispositions in ourselves and the crucifying of corrupt ones. We are friends or enemies to ourselves, even in respect of present comfort, according as we are or are not governed by religious principles. 1. A merciful, tender, good… Read the whole commentary →