from πρό and νοιέω; to consider in advance, i.e. look out for beforehand (actively, by way of maintenance for others; middle voice by way of circumspection for oneself):--provide (for).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **pronoéō**, represented by `{{G4306}}`, means **to consider in advance** or to look out for beforehand. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses** in the Bible. This term speaks to the active maintenance for others and the circumspection one has for oneself, often translated as to **provide** for.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical text, `{{G4306}}` is used to highlight both practical responsibility and public integrity. It commands believers to **provide** things honest in the sight of all men [[Romans 12:17]]. This principle is reinforced by the instruction to be **providing** for honest things not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men [[2 Corinthians 8:21]]. The concept is given severe weight in the context of family, stating that if any **provide** not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he has denied the faith [[1 Timothy 5:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the application of this foresight:
* `{{G2570}}` **kalós** (honest): This word for **good** or **honest** describes the nature of the things a believer should provide for, emphasizing that which is valuable and virtuous in appearance and use ([[Romans 12:17]], [[2 Corinthians 8:21]]).
* `{{G1799}}` **enṓpion** (in the sight of): Meaning **before** or in the presence of, this term defines the audience for a believer's foresight. Actions are to be honest not just before the Lord, but also **in the sight** of men [[2 Corinthians 8:21]].
* `{{G3609}}` **oikeîos** (of his own house): Used to mean **domestic** or a relative, this word specifies the primary recipients of a believer's provision, highlighting the importance of caring for those of the household [[1 Timothy 5:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4306}}` is significant, tying forethought to core tenets of faith.
* **Familial Duty as Faith:** The failure to **provide** for one's own household is presented as a denial of the faith `{{G4102}}`, making it a critical component of Christian living. A person in this state **is** considered **worse than** an infidel [[1 Timothy 5:8]].
* **Integrity in Public Witness:** `{{G4306}}` is directly linked to maintaining an honest reputation. Believers are called to **provide** for things that are seen as **honest** by all men `{{G444}}`, which serves as a public testament to their faith [[Romans 12:17]].
* **Foresight in Conduct:** The word's core meaning of considering in advance extends beyond material needs to encompass a proactive lifestyle of integrity. This involves planning one's actions to be honorable **in the sight** of both God and man [[2 Corinthians 8:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4306}}` conveys a crucial aspect of practical faith that involves more than simple provision. It is a call to intentional foresight, demanding that believers actively plan to care for their own families and to live with unimpeachable integrity before the world. Failure to do so, particularly concerning one's own household, is treated as a rejection of the very faith one professes.
TRV