Proverbs 23:25

Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice.

Proverbs 23:25 (KJV)

Context

This proverb belongs to the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, a collection of practical teachings for daily life. The immediate setting is the family, where a child’s character and choices directly affect the hearts of parents. The verse names both father and mother, with special attention to the mother who gave birth.

Meaning

The Hebrew verbs can be read as a promise or as a call: parents “shall be glad,” and they are also invited to rejoice. This suggests both a natural result and a deliberate duty. When a child lives wisely, following instruction and walking in righteousness, the parents’ joy is real and deep. Their gladness is not shallow emotion but is tied to the moral and spiritual health of the child. The joy reflects the child’s whole way of life.

Biblical connections

This verse echoes the fifth commandment to honour father and mother (Exodus 20:12), for honouring parents includes living in a way that brings them joy. It also connects with Proverbs 10:1, which contrasts a wise son who brings joy to his father with a foolish son who brings grief. The principle is consistent: a child’s conduct has power to gladden or sadden the parents’ hearts.

Application

We can ask ourselves whether our lives bring joy to those who raised us. Honouring parents includes respect, obedience, and gratitude, but it also means living in a way that reflects their good teaching. This may involve caring for them in old age, following their godly example, and making choices that uphold the family’s name. It also means ministering to their needs and living soberly and righteously, as the wisdom literature encourages.

The verse also reminds us that wise living blesses more than ourselves. When we walk in God’s ways, our parents rejoice, and the family bond grows stronger. Even when parents are no longer present, a life of integrity continues to honour their memory and their investment in us.

Reflection

Consider the joy that godly character brings. This proverb points beyond the family to a broader truth: wisdom honours God and brings blessing to others. As we grow in wisdom, we reflect the wisdom that is ultimately found in Christ, who honoured His earthly parents and perfectly pleased His Father. Our aim is to live so that both our earthly parents and our heavenly Father can rejoice over us.