Proverbs 13:21

Evil pursueth sinners: but to the righteous good shall be repayed.

Proverbs 13:21 (KJV)

Context

This saying comes from the book of Proverbs, a collection of wise sayings mostly written by King Solomon. As wisdom literature, Proverbs offers practical guidance for godly living. It often sets two paths side by side: the way of the wise and the way of the foolish. This verse follows that pattern, contrasting the outcome of sinners with the outcome of the righteous.

Meaning

The first half says, “Evil pursueth sinners.” Sin may look attractive for a moment, but it carries its own painful results. Trouble, hardship, and even a guilty conscience chase after those who keep doing wrong. The second half promises, “to the righteous good shall be repayed.” God sees the lives of those who obey Him and will repay them with good. This repayment is a reward of grace, not of debt. It comes to those who do good from a right principle and to a right end, and for the ill they have suffered for righteousness’ sake.

Biblical connections

This principle of divine justice appears throughout Proverbs. For example, Proverbs 11:18 says the wicked earn deceptive wages, but the righteous receive a sure reward. Both verses teach that God’s moral order eventually brings blessing to the upright and trouble to the wicked. This is a recurring theme in Proverbs, contrasting the paths of righteousness and wickedness.

Application

Believers are called to turn away from sin and align their thoughts, words, and actions with God’s commands. Even when evil seems to prosper for a time, they can trust that God’s justice will prevail. This confidence sustains them through trials and keeps them from envy of the wicked. It also reminds us that our good works, done from a right heart, are not forgotten by God.

Reflection

This verse is a general principle of God’s moral governance, not a promise that every righteous person will be free from hardship in every circumstance. It assures us that God is faithful and will ultimately reward those who seek Him. Meditating on this truth encourages patient trust in His timing and His goodness.