Proverbs 11:27

He that diligently seeketh good procureth favour: but he that seeketh mischief, it shall come unto him.

Proverbs 11:27 (KJV)

Context

Proverbs is a book of wisdom literature in the Old Testament, traditionally attributed to King Solomon. Its short sayings guide people in living righteously and wisely. Proverbs 11:27 belongs to a collection that contrasts the outcomes of different actions and attitudes, showing how each choice leads to a corresponding result. This verse is part of a broader pattern in Proverbs that encourages practical, godly living in daily decisions.

Meaning

The first part of the verse says, “He that diligently seeketh good procureth favour.” The Hebrew word translated as “diligently” carries the sense of rising early, indicating eagerness and priority. This is not a casual or occasional effort but a determined, ongoing pursuit of what is good—righteousness, kindness, justice, and integrity. Such a person “procureth favour,” meaning they find acceptance and blessing from God and from others. This favor is not merely human approval; it is also divine blessing, because seeking good aligns a person with God’s character and will. The pursuit itself shapes the seeker, forming habits of virtue that please God and benefit the community.

The second part warns, “but he that seeketh mischief, it shall come unto him.” To seek mischief means to actively look for ways to harm others, cause trouble, or engage in wickedness. The verse teaches that such a person will not escape the consequences. The harm they intend for others will come back upon themselves. This is a principle of reaping what one seeks: our pursuits shape our character and our destiny. The one who searches for evil will find it arriving at his own door, often in ways he did not expect.

Biblical connections

This verse reflects a broader biblical teaching that actions have consequences. Galatians 6:7 states the same principle of reaping what one sows, directly reinforcing the warning here. The principle is not a mechanical law that guarantees every righteous person will be free from difficulty or that every wicked person will face immediate punishment. Rather, it is a general observation of wisdom: a life devoted to good tends to produce good outcomes, while a life devoted to mischief brings harm upon oneself. This wisdom is timeless, applicable to daily decisions and long-term life direction.

Application

This verse encourages us to examine our motives and actions. Are we actively seeking to do good, showing kindness and righteousness to others? Or are we pursuing mischief and engaging in harmful behaviors? By choosing to align our lives with God’s principles and seeking what is good, we can experience His favor and blessings in various areas of life. This includes our relationships, our work, and our inner peace. Seeking good also means prioritizing God’s kingdom and righteousness, as Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount.

It is important to remember that seeking good is not a one-time decision but a daily habit. The word “diligently” reminds us to make goodness a priority, even when it is difficult or when no one is watching. We can start each day by asking God to help us seek what is good and to guard our hearts from seeking mischief. This daily discipline builds a character that naturally reflects God’s love.

Reflection

Consider your own pursuits. What do you spend your time and energy seeking? Do you look for ways to build others up, or do you look for ways to tear them down? The verse calls us to be people who diligently seek good, trusting that God sees our efforts and rewards them with His favor. At the same time, it warns us that seeking mischief will only bring trouble upon ourselves. Let us choose the path of goodness, not only for our own benefit but also to honor God and bless others through our actions and attitudes.