Proverbs 23:18

For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off.

For surely there is {H3426} an end {H319}; and thine expectation {H8615} shall not be cut off {H3772}.

for then you will have a future; what you hope for will not be cut off.

For surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off.

For surely there is a reward; And thy hope shall not be cut off.

Proverbs 23:18 offers a profound message of hope and assurance, particularly to those who live righteously amidst a world where the wicked may seem to prosper. This verse serves as a powerful encouragement to maintain a steadfast faith and a hopeful outlook, promising a certain positive outcome for the faithful.

Context

This proverb is part of a larger collection of wise sayings (Proverbs 22:17–24:34) often referred to as "The Sayings of the Wise." It follows closely on the heels of an admonition in Proverbs 23:17 not to let one's heart envy sinners, but rather to be "in the fear of the LORD all the day long." Verse 18 provides the divine rationale for this counsel: the ultimate destiny of the righteous is secure, unlike the temporary success of the wicked.

Key Themes

  • Unwavering Hope: The core message is that hope, when rooted in God's wisdom and righteousness, is not in vain. It assures the believer that their trust and expectation in God will ultimately be fulfilled.
  • Divine Certainty and Justice: "For surely there is an end" speaks to the certainty of a fixed outcome, implying that the transient prosperity of the wicked has a definite, negative conclusion. Conversely, the "expectation" of the righteous is guaranteed by God's unchanging nature and justice.
  • Future Reward for the Righteous: This verse promises a positive future for those who live according to God's ways. It contrasts sharply with the eventual downfall of those who disregard divine wisdom, as seen in Proverbs 24:20, which states that "the candle of the wicked shall be put out."
  • Perseverance and Encouragement: It serves as a strong motivation for believers to persevere through trials and temptations, knowing that their enduring faith will yield a certain, blessed future.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew terms used in this verse add significant depth:

  • "End" (acharit - אַחֲרִית): This word signifies a "latter end," "outcome," or "future." It refers to a definite conclusion or destiny. In the context of Proverbs, it often refers to the ultimate state or destiny of a person or a course of action. It's not just a cessation but a final state of affairs.
  • "Expectation" (tiqvah - תִּקְוָה): This powerful word means "hope" or "expectation," but it originates from a root meaning "cord" or "line." It suggests a strong, binding hope—something that holds one securely, like a rope. It's a confident, well-founded anticipation, not a mere wish.
  • "Shall not be cut off" (lo' tikra' - לֹא תִקָּרֵת): This phrase emphasizes the absolute certainty and permanence of this hope. The hope of the righteous will not be severed, destroyed, or fail. It is a guaranteed outcome.

Practical Application

Proverbs 23:18 offers timeless encouragement for believers today:

  • Foundation for Hope: It reminds us that our hope is not in fleeting circumstances or worldly success, but in the faithful character of God. This divine promise provides a stable foundation for our lives, especially when facing adversity.
  • Motivation for Righteous Living: Knowing that our "expectation shall not be cut off" encourages us to continue living righteously, even when it is difficult or unpopular. Our efforts are not in vain; they contribute to a promised future.
  • Perspective on Suffering: This verse helps us put present difficulties into perspective. Whatever trials we endure, there is a definite, positive "end" to our journey, and our ultimate hope will be realized. This aligns with the New Testament message of hope that "maketh not ashamed" (Romans 5:5).
  • Trust in God's Promises: It reinforces the trustworthiness of God's Word. What God promises, He surely brings to pass. Our confident expectation is a reflection of His faithfulness.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Hebrews 10:35

    Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.

  • Psalms 9:18

    For the needy shall not alway be forgotten: the expectation of the poor shall [not] perish for ever.

  • Jeremiah 29:11

    For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

  • Proverbs 24:14

    So [shall] the knowledge of wisdom [be] unto thy soul: when thou hast found [it], then there shall be a reward, and thy expectation shall not be cut off.

  • Philippians 1:20

    According to my earnest expectation and [my] hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but [that] with all boldness, as always, [so] now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether [it be] by life, or by death.

  • Romans 6:21

    What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things [is] death.

  • Romans 6:22

    But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.
← Back