Proverbs 21:4

An high looke, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sinne. Proverbs 21:4 (KJV)

Proverbs is a book of wisdom literature in the Old Testament, traditionally attributed to King Solomon. It offers practical guidance for living wisely and righteously. In Proverbs 21:4 the author draws attention to three negative attributes: a haughty or proud demeanor, an arrogant heart, and the actions of the wicked.

The sin of pride is introduced with the phrases “a high look” and “a proud heart.” These describe an arrogant, boastful attitude and a sense of superiority over others. Scripture repeatedly condemns pride because it exalts the self above God and others, becoming the root of many other sins and hindering our relationship with the Lord and with fellow believers.

The second element, “the plowing of the wicked,” uses the agricultural image of plowing—sowing and cultivating the land—to represent the deeds and efforts of those who oppose God’s ways. The wicked are characterized as people who reject divine wisdom, follow their own desires, and act contrary to God’s moral order.

The verse concludes that all three elements—haughty look, proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked—are sinful and displeasing to God. This underscores the biblical call to humility and righteousness, reminding us that God desires a humble heart and upright actions from His people.

Application: Guard against pride by regularly examining our hearts and attitudes. We must be vigilant not to develop a proud or arrogant stance, but instead cultivate humility, recognizing that every good thing comes from God.

Seek righteousness by aligning our thoughts, attitudes, and actions with Scripture, deliberately avoiding the ways of the wicked and striving to honor God in all we do.

Examine our motives daily. Ask whether our actions stem from selfish ambition or from a desire to please God and serve others, and be quick to repent when self‑interest is revealed.

Depend on God’s grace for transformation. Overcoming pride and wickedness requires the Holy Spirit’s power to change our hearts, enabling us to live in humility and righteousness.

Remember, Proverbs 21:4 teaches the importance of humility, warns against pride and wickedness, and encourages us to live according to God’s wisdom. By applying these truths we grow in our relationship with God and with one another, reflecting the character of Christ in our lives.