Proverbs 14:26

KJV

¶ In the fear of the LORD [is] strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.

KJV (with Strong's)

In the fear {H3374} of the LORD {H3068} is strong {H5797} confidence {H4009}: and his children {H1121} shall have a place of refuge {H4268}.

Complete Jewish Bible

In the fear of ADONAI is powerful security; for his children there will be a place of refuge.

Berean Standard Bible

He who fears the LORD is secure in confidence, and his children shall have a place of refuge.

American Standard Version

In the fear of Jehovah is strong confidence; And his children shall have a place of refuge.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 14:26 profoundly declares that a life lived in reverent awe of the LORD is the ultimate source of unwavering security and assurance. This divine relationship not only bestows robust confidence upon the individual but also extends a protective shelter to their descendants, ensuring a secure haven in times of trouble. The verse encapsulates a foundational principle of biblical wisdom: true safety and peace are found not in worldly provisions, but in a devoted and obedient relationship with God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 14 is part of the "Solomonic proverbs" (Proverbs 10:1–22:16), a collection characterized by concise, often antithetical, statements contrasting wisdom and folly, righteousness and wickedness. Verse 26, like many in this section, employs a synthetic parallelism, where the second clause expands upon or completes the thought of the first. It stands in close proximity to other proverbs emphasizing the benefits of fearing the LORD, such as [Proverbs 14:27](/proverbs/14-27 "Proverbs 14:27 - The Fear of the Lord as a Fountain of Life"), which states, "The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death." This immediate context reinforces the idea that reverence for God is not merely an abstract concept but a practical pathway to life, security, and deliverance from peril. The verse also echoes the broader theme of the book, where wisdom is intrinsically linked to a right relationship with God, as articulated in [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Beginning of Knowledge").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of Proverbs emerged from the ancient Near Eastern wisdom tradition, though uniquely grounded in Israel's covenant relationship with Yahweh. In a world often characterized by instability, tribal conflicts, and natural disasters, the concept of a "refuge" was not merely theoretical but a vital necessity for survival. For the Israelites, God was understood as their ultimate protector and deliverer, a theme prevalent in the Psalms (e.g., [Psalm 46:1](/psalms/46-1 "Psalm 46:1 - God Our Refuge and Strength")). The emphasis on "his children" reflects the patriarchal and communal nature of Israelite society, where family legacy and the well-being of descendants were paramount. Blessings and curses often extended across generations, making the spiritual choices of parents profoundly impactful on their offspring. Thus, the promise of refuge for children would have resonated deeply within a culture that valued lineage and continuity.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 14:26 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book and the broader biblical narrative. Foremost is the theme of the **"fear of the LORD,"** which is consistently presented as the "beginning of wisdom" ([Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord as the Beginning of Wisdom")). This fear is not terror, but a profound, reverential awe and submission to God's authority and holiness, leading to obedience and trust. Secondly, the verse highlights **divine security and protection,** portraying God as the ultimate guarantor of safety and peace in a chaotic world. This security is not just physical but also spiritual and emotional, providing "strong confidence" ([Proverbs 3:26](/proverbs/3-26 "Proverbs 3:26 - The Lord Will Be Your Confidence")). Thirdly, it underscores the **blessing of a godly legacy,** emphasizing that the benefits of fearing the LORD extend beyond the individual to their "children," ensuring a "place of refuge" for future generations, a concept echoed in God's covenant promises throughout the Old Testament (e.g., [Deuteronomy 5:29](/deuteronomy/5-29 "Deuteronomy 5:29 - That it might be well with them and their children forever")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Fear (Hebrew, _yirʼâh'_):** This term (H3374) denotes more than mere fright; it signifies a profound reverence, awe, and respect for God's holiness, power, and authority. It is a moral and spiritual disposition that acknowledges God's supreme sovereignty and leads to obedience and worship. In the context of Proverbs, "fear of the LORD" is the foundational principle for true wisdom and righteous living, distinguishing it from humanistic or secular wisdom.
* **Strong (Hebrew, _ʻôz'_):** The word (H5797) implies inherent power, might, and security. When combined with "confidence," it suggests an unshakeable, robust, and resilient assurance that is not easily disturbed by external circumstances. It speaks to a divinely endowed strength that undergirds the believer's trust.
* **Confidence (Hebrew, _mibṭâch'_):** This term (H4009) refers to a trust, hope, or security. It indicates a firm reliance or assurance placed in something or someone. In this verse, it is a subjective assurance that stems from an objective reality: God's character and faithfulness. It is the opposite of anxiety or doubt, implying a settled state of mind rooted in God.
* **Children (Hebrew, _bên'_):** This word (H1121) broadly refers to sons, descendants, or offspring. In the context of Proverbs, it often highlights the intergenerational impact of parental choices. Here, it underscores that the spiritual discipline of fearing the LORD yields benefits that extend beyond the individual, providing a protective inheritance for their lineage.
* **Refuge (Hebrew, _machăçeh'_):** This term (H4268) literally means a shelter or a place of safety. Figuratively, it conveys the idea of protection, security, and a haven from danger or distress. It implies a secure dwelling or retreat where one can find safety and solace, provided by God Himself.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence:"** This opening clause establishes the prerequisite and the immediate benefit. The "fear of the LORD" (reverential awe and submission) is presented as the very ground or foundation upon which "strong confidence" is built. This confidence is not self-generated arrogance but a divinely-rooted assurance, an unwavering trust in God's character, power, and promises. It implies a boldness and security that comes from knowing one is aligned with the Creator of the universe, providing inner stability amidst life's uncertainties.
* **"and his children shall have a place of refuge."** The second clause reveals the generational blessing that flows from this reverent relationship with God. Those who fear the LORD are identified as "his children," implying a covenantal relationship of belonging and adoption. For these, God Himself becomes their ultimate "place of refuge"—a secure shelter, a sanctuary from danger, distress, and the schemes of evil. This promise highlights God's protective care not only for the righteous individual but also for their lineage, underscoring the enduring legacy of a life devoted to God.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 14:26 effectively employs **Synthetic Parallelism**, where the second line expands upon or completes the thought of the first. The initial statement about "strong confidence" derived from the "fear of the LORD" is augmented by the subsequent promise of a "place of refuge" for "his children," demonstrating the extended, generational blessings of such a life. The verse also utilizes **Metaphor** and **Imagery** by portraying God as a "place of refuge," a concrete image of shelter and safety in a dangerous world. This metaphor evokes a sense of security and divine protection that transcends mere physical safety, encompassing spiritual and emotional well-being. Furthermore, the concept of "strong confidence" can be seen as an instance of **Personification**, where an abstract quality (confidence) is imbued with the attribute of strength, emphasizing its robust and unwavering nature.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 14:26 stands as a powerful testament to the biblical truth that genuine security and lasting peace are found exclusively in a right relationship with God. It echoes the consistent scriptural teaching that God is the ultimate refuge and strength for His people, a theme deeply explored in the Psalms, where the Lord is frequently depicted as a rock, fortress, and deliverer. The verse underscores the covenantal faithfulness of God, who not only protects those who fear Him but also extends His benevolent care to their descendants. This highlights the profound impact of individual spiritual choices on future generations, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a godly legacy. The "fear of the LORD" is consistently portrayed throughout Scripture as the wellspring of wisdom, knowledge, and life, contrasting sharply with the fleeting and ultimately destructive "confidence" placed in worldly pursuits or self-reliance.

* [Psalm 91:1-2](/psalms/91-1 "Psalm 91:1-2 - Dwelling in the Shelter of the Most High")
* [Psalm 34:7](/psalms/34-7 "Psalm 34:7 - The Angel of the Lord Encamps")
* [Psalm 112:7](/psalms/112-7 "Psalm 112:7 - He will not fear bad news")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 14:26 offers profound practical wisdom for contemporary life, challenging us to re-evaluate the foundations of our security and confidence. In a world characterized by constant change, economic uncertainty, social unrest, and personal anxieties, where do we truly place our trust? This verse asserts that lasting, unshakeable security comes not from accumulating wealth, power, or human connections, but from cultivating a deep, reverential relationship with God. It calls us to embrace the "fear of the LORD"—not as a paralyzing dread, but as a liberating awe that leads to humble obedience and unwavering trust in His sovereign goodness. When we make God our ultimate refuge, we discover a profound inner peace that transcends chaotic circumstances. Furthermore, the promise of refuge for "his children" serves as a powerful reminder of our spiritual legacy. Our walk with God has generational implications, providing a spiritual inheritance of divine protection and blessing for our families. It encourages us to live lives of integrity and faith, knowing that our devotion to God can create a haven of security for those who come after us, guiding them towards the ultimate source of refuge.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does "strong confidence" mean to you personally, and from what sources do you typically derive it?**
* **How does cultivating the "fear of the LORD" practically manifest in your daily decisions and attitudes?**
* **In what specific areas of your life do you most need a "place of refuge," and how can you intentionally seek God as that refuge?**
* **Considering the promise for "his children," how does your spiritual walk impact your family or future generations, and what kind of legacy are you building?**

### FAQ
**What does "the fear of the LORD" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: In biblical wisdom literature, "the fear of the LORD" (Hebrew: _yirʼâh YHWH_) does not mean being terrified of God. Instead, it signifies a profound, reverential awe, respect, and humble submission to God's authority, holiness, and majesty. It is an understanding of His supreme power and goodness that leads to a desire to obey His commands and live in alignment with His will. This kind of fear is the "beginning of wisdom" ([Proverbs 9:10](/proverbs/9-10 "Proverbs 9:10 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom")) and the foundation for a truly secure and fulfilling life. It implies a deep trust and devotion, recognizing God as the ultimate source of all good.

**How is "strong confidence" different from arrogance or self-reliance?**

Answer: "Strong confidence" (Hebrew: _mibṭâch ʻôz_) in Proverbs 14:26 is fundamentally different from human arrogance or self-reliance. Arrogance is rooted in an inflated view of one's own abilities or possessions, leading to pride and a disregard for God. Self-reliance places trust solely in human effort or worldly resources. In contrast, the "strong confidence" described here is a divinely-given assurance that flows directly from a reverent relationship with the LORD. It is a humble, unwavering trust in God's character, power, and faithfulness, knowing that He is sovereign and will provide refuge and strength. This confidence is not in oneself, but in God alone, allowing for peace and stability even in the face of adversity, as seen in [Psalm 112:7](/psalms/112-7 "Psalm 112:7 - The Righteous Heart is Firmly Established").

**Who are "his children" promised a place of refuge?**

Answer: "His children" (Hebrew: _bên_) refers to the descendants or offspring of those who live in the fear of the LORD. In the broader biblical context, it can refer to literal children and future generations. The promise highlights the intergenerational blessing that flows from a parent's or ancestor's righteous walk with God. It implies that God's protective care extends beyond the individual believer to their lineage, providing a spiritual inheritance of divine protection and security. This is consistent with God's covenant promises to Abraham and his descendants, where faithfulness was often met with blessings that extended through generations ([Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1 "Genesis 12:1-3 - The Call of Abram")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 14:26 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the embodiment of perfect "fear of the LORD," living a life of absolute reverence and obedience to His Father, even to the point of death on the cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")). In Christ, we find the "strong confidence" that the proverb speaks of, not through our own merit, but through His finished work. He is our unwavering assurance and the solid rock upon which our faith is built ([1 Corinthians 10:4](/1_corinthians/10-4 "1 Corinthians 10:4 - Christ as the Spiritual Rock")). Furthermore, through faith in Jesus, we are adopted into God's family, becoming "his children" ([John 1:12](/john/1-12 "John 1:12 - Becoming Children of God")), no longer by natural descent but by spiritual rebirth. As God's children, Christ Himself becomes our ultimate "place of refuge." He is our shelter from the storms of sin, judgment, and death, offering an eternal sanctuary that no earthly danger can breach ([Hebrews 6:18-19](/hebrews/6-18 "Hebrews 6:18-19 - Our Hope as an Anchor for the Soul")). In Him, we have peace, security, and a hope that anchors our souls, knowing that neither life nor death, nor anything else in all creation, can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord ([Romans 8:38-39](/romans/8-38 "Romans 8:38-39 - Nothing Can Separate Us from God's Love")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 19:23

¶ The fear of the LORD [tendeth] to life: and [he that hath it] shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.

Jeremiah 32:39

And I will give them one heart, and one way, that they may fear me for ever, for the good of them, and of their children after them:

Jeremiah 32:40

And I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from them, to do them good; but I will put my fear in their hearts, that they shall not depart from me.

Proverbs 18:10

¶ The name of the LORD [is] a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

Psalms 115:13

He will bless them that fear the LORD, [both] small and great.

Psalms 115:14

The LORD shall increase you more and more, you and your children.

Proverbs 3:7

¶ Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.