Proverbs 22:4 (NIV)

Proverbs 22:4 (NIV)

> “Humility is the fear of the LORD; its wages are riches and honor and life.”

This verse teaches a cause-and-effect principle of godly living, not a guarantee of material wealth. Here is what it really means, layer by layer:

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1. Humility and the Fear of the LORD Go Together

• Humility is recognizing our dependence on God, not self-exaltation.

• Fear of the LORD means reverence, obedience, and awe—not terror.

• The verse shows these two as inseparable: true humility flows from honoring God above ourselves.

👉 In other words, those who truly fear God do not live proudly or independently of Him.

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2. “Wages” Means Outcome, Not Instant Reward

• The word “wages” points to the result or fruit of a life shaped by humility and reverence.

• Proverbs describes patterns of life, not promises that apply instantly or without exception.

👉 A humble, God-fearing life generally leads to stability, wisdom, and blessing over time.

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3. What “Riches, Honor, and Life” Really Mean

These blessings are holistic, not merely financial:

• Riches: may include material provision, but more importantly spiritual wealth, contentment, and wisdom.

• Honor: respect that comes from integrity and godly character, not self-promotion.

• Life: fullness of life—peace, purpose, and alignment with God’s ways (ultimately eternal life).

👉 God values who you become more than what you accumulate.

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4. What This Verse Does NOT Teach

❌ It does not teach prosperity without obedience.
❌ It does not promise wealth to every humble believer.
❌ It does not support prideful “success theology.”

Instead, it teaches that God Himself honors those who honor Him (cf. 1 Samuel 2:30).